A FAIRYTALE DESTINATON
Miltenberg, Germany is a small, very picturesque town located in the state of Bavaria, nestled on the banks of the Main River and surrounded by the forested hills of Bergstrasse-Odenwald Geo-Nature Park.
A real medieval gem and the town that time forgot, where hardly anything has changed in hundreds of years. Many of the streets and alleys feature historical half-timbered houses that are a little quirky and a bit wonky, but authentic and with loads of character.
Miltenberg’s streetscape and scenery make it one of the most photographed places in Germany.
Main Street
The main strip is Hauptstrasse which is the heart and soul of the town, full of medieval charm. Strolling down this 2.5km road is delightful and one of my favourite things to do here. Start from one tower and walk to the other tower, both at opposite ends of the street.
Half-Timbered Architecture
The outstanding feature of Miltenberg is the adorable half-timbered buildings, of which there are about 150. These ancient structures date from as far back as the 14th century and are remarkably very well preserved. I can’t believe they are still standing, even though they are a little crooked. They feature wooden lattice accents and bold colours, giving the town a fairytale appearance, straight out of a storybook.
I think these charming buildings are the absolute highlight of the town.
Tower Gate
Wurzburg Gate Tower
This decorative clock tower is the other historic tower of the town, a lovely medieval landmark dating back to 1378 and built as a defensive structure with a gun platform. Now it serves as a historic monument.
Closed to the public, so you aren’t able to go up the tower.
Giant’s Tavern
Gasthof Zum Riesen, also known as Giant’s Tavern, is thought to be Germany’s oldest tavern. The original building dated from the year 1411, and the current building from 1590 which has some traditional Gothic features.
A unique sign of a Brewer’s Star, similar to the star of David, is hanging out front, which means they are a beer brewer. Giant’s Tavern is also a restaurant and hotel, so you can experience German hospitality.
Famous patrons in the past have allegedly included Emperor Charles V, Winston Churchill, and Elvis Presley.
Lutheran St. John’s Church
Built in 1897 this Gothic revival style church with a tall pointy spire is a red sandstone structure, which was typical of many other buildings in the area.
A centrepiece of Miltenburg, the church tower is visible from miles.
Main River And Bridge
The Main River, a tributary of the Rhine River, invites you to walk along the banks and enjoy the scenery.
Boat rides are offered from the docks, which I recommend for sightseeing. Viewing the surroundings from the water is magical.
St. James Church
Dating from the 13th century, St. James Church is blessed with 2 neoclassical towers with domes atop, which are a showstopper from the river. The red sandstone bricks are typically carved from sources in the region.
This very majestic structure in the centre of the town is a combination of gothic and classicist makeovers over the years.
Castle
The small castle/fortress is Miltenberg Castle, dating from the 12th century and houses an 800 year old Keep. Walk up the hill to the castle and you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the town.
The Miltenberg Castle Museum is found here where you can visit the permanent art exhibit.
Other Things To See And Do
Other places you will find when roaming around Miltenberg are:
- Market Square and fountain
- Museum of the City
- Pharmacy Museum
- Rathaus Old Town Hall
- Food stores and craft shops
- Boat cruises for sightseeing from waterfront kiosk
Medieval Hotels In Miltenberg
If you wish to experience staying in a medieval hotel, these are some great options in Miltenberg:
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