Discover Regensburg: A Guide to the City's Top Attractions
Regensburg, a historic city in Germany, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city, located at the northernmost point of the Danube River, is a cultural hub with beautiful churches and aristocratic houses dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries.
Walking tours, both self-guided and professional, are a great way to explore Regensburg's old streets and historic buildings. The city is also a favorite stop for river cruises and offers easy access to the Black Forest and other southern German attractions.
Discover the highlights of Regensburg with our guide to its top attractions.
1. Regensburg Cathedral
Regensburg Cathedral, also known as St. Peter's, is a Gothic masterpiece and the finest of its kind in Bavaria. Its twin spires and stunning stained glass windows are particularly noteworthy. The cathedral is also home to the world's largest hanging organ and the renowned boys' choir, the Domspatzen. The adjacent Cathedral Treasury showcases centuries of religious artifacts.
2. Old Stone Bridge
The Old Stone Bridge offers panoramic views of Regensburg and the Danube. This medieval bridge, now pedestrian-only, is a marvel of engineering. Nearby, the Bridge Tower Museum, housed in the bridge's last remaining tower, displays historical exhibits, while the Porta Praetoria, a Roman gate, and the historic Sausage Kitchen are also worth visiting.
3. Old Cornmarket and Old Town Hall
The Old Cornmarket area is the heart of Regensburg's Old Town, featuring the Roman Tower and the Herzogshof. The Old Town Hall, with its historical apartments and medieval courtroom, is a highlight, as is the nearby Regensburg Museum of History and Kepler House.
4. St. Emmeram's Abbey: Schloss Thurn und Taxis
St. Emmeram's Abbey, part of the Palais Thurn und Taxis, is a former Benedictine monastery with a rich history. The palace houses museums showcasing Neo-Renaissance rooms, a carriage collection, and the Princely Treasure Chamber. The site also hosts concerts and a traditional Christmas market.
5. Scots Monastery
The Scots Monastery, built by Irish monks, is a Romanesque architectural gem. The Scottish Doorway is a highlight, and nearby St. Ulrich's Church houses the Diocesan Museum with sacred art from the 11th century onwards.
6. Museum of Bavarian History
The Museum of Bavarian History offers multimedia experiences and exhibits on Bavarian culture, language, and sports. The Natural History Museum Eastern Bavaria is also notable for its geological displays and nature trail.
7. Walhalla, Donaustauf
Walhalla, a temple honoring notable German-speakers, is an impressive Neoclassical monument with stunning views. A boat trip from Regensburg to Walhalla is a popular excursion.
8. Hall of Liberation, Kelheim
The Hall of Liberation commemorates the wars of German liberation and features statues and inscriptions from Ludwig I. Audio tours are available.
9. The Old Chapel (Alten Kapelle)
The Old Chapel, Bavaria's oldest Roman Catholic Church, boasts a Baroque structure with Rococo elements and a unique organ blessed by Pope Benedict XVI.
10. Regensburg Museum of Danube Shipping
The Regensburg Museum of Danube Shipping features museum ships and exhibits on Bavaria's shipping history. Nearby, the Regensburg Golf Museum offers insights into the sport's past.
11. Art Forum East German Gallery & St. Ulrich
The Art Forum East German Gallery displays modern art from Eastern Europe, while St. Ulrich houses a collection of Christian art.
12. Herzogspark
Herzogspark, a riverside park with botanical gardens and historical features, is a serene spot for a stroll.
13. Regensburg Museum of History
The Regensburg Museum of History highlights the city's Stone Age and Roman past, with a vast collection of artifacts and medieval weapons.
14. Document Niedermünster
Document Niedermünster offers a glimpse into Regensburg's ancient history with artifacts from Roman and medieval times discovered beneath the Niedermünster Church.
Where to Stay in Regensburg for Sightseeing
For luxury stays, consider the Grand Hotel Orphee or the riverside Sorat Insel-Hotel Regensburg. Mid-range options include Hotel Goliath am Dom and Best Western Premier Novina Hotel Regensburg. Budget travelers can opt for Ibis Regensburg City or Hotel-Restaurant Wiendl.
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Explore nearby attractions such as Nuremberg and Bamberg, or take a scenic drive along the Romantic Road. For city adventures, visit Berlin, Frankfurt, and Düsseldorf for their rich history and vibrant cultural scenes.