A GEM OF THE FRANCONIA REGION
Würzburg is a gem of the Franconia Region in Germany, popular with local tourists, but not so well known to international travellers. If you have the chance to visit on a trip through the region, or on a river cruise as I did, these are the Würzburg highlights you should see. You can easily cover them in one day, making it a wonderful excursion from nearby cities like Nuremberg or Heidelberg.
About Würzburg
Würzburg is found in the state of Bavaria and straddles both sides of the Main River. A medium sized city, famed for historic Baroque architecture, its local wines and scenic landscape.
The Main River is part of the Rhine and Danube river network through Europe, where cargo and cruise ships travel. Since medieval times Würzburg has been a prominent city, ruled by prince-bishops for hundreds of years. There are several impressive medieval landmarks in Würzburg making them a great reason to visit the city.
Surprisingly, the city today has a young population, due to the 30,000 plus University students that reside here and create a vibrant atmosphere in the small historic city. The University of Würzburg, founded in 1402, is one of the oldest in the country and is where X-rays were discovered in 1895.
Various events are held in Würzburg throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals and markets.
Old Town Streets
Strolling through the charming Old Town streets is a pleasure. It is compact and easy to get around on foot or by tram. To appreciate the city for the first time, take a guided walking tour of the Old Town to see some of the highlights of the centre of Würzburg, an easy walk of 1.5 hours.
Then, explore a little more on your own. This is when you’ll discover some marvellous hidden alleys and nooks, such as cute shops, bakeries and cafes.
Marienberg Fortress
Marienberg Fortress, a huge castle perched high on the left bank of the Main River since the 13th century, houses the Museum für Franken, when in centuries past it was the seat of the Prince-Bishops who ruled the city.
The fortress dominates the skyline and offers fabulous views of the old town across the waterway. Take a walk up the hill or a drive/ride. To enter the fortress you will need to purchase a ticket.
Old Main Bridge
One of the most famous medieval landmarks, the historic Old Main Bridge, Alte Mainbrücke, is a pedestrian bridge, crossing the Main River, lined with statues of saints, bishops and rulers.
Also known as the Old Wine Bridge, it is a popular gathering spot for a glass of the famous Franconian wine of the region, at the little watering hole overlooking the river. This time-honoured tradition is known as Brückenschoppen, whilst admiring views of the fortress, churches and vineyards on the hill.
You can also walk down the steps of the bridge and stroll the river promenade.
Würzburg Cathedral
One of the city’s major landmarks is Würzburg Cathedral, also known as St Kilian’s Church, dedicated to the patron saint of the region. It is a large Romanesque church in the heart of the Old Town which dates from the 11th century. It also has a chapel attached, added in the 18th century.
Inside the church is light and white, with intricate gold detailing.
Free to enter.
Rathaus Square
Located in the Old Town is Rathaus Square, with a large baroque fountain in the middle and medieval Old Town Hall buildings.
The Old Town Hall, Altes Rathaus, has served as the city hall since 1316. A standout landmark of different buildings, with a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles and the striking Grafeneckart Tower which has a tree painted on the exterior.
You can climb the tower for a small fee. You can also visit the public areas inside the main building on weekdays.
Market Square
Market Square, Markt Platz, is a bustling area and a main attraction where regular markets and events are held.
Most notably there is a bright yellow Rococo building called Falcon House, originally a medieval home for priests and now the City Library. Adjacent sits the red and white Gothic St Mary’s Chapel, one of the brightest churches I’ve seen. Opposite sits the Hof Castell Building. All together, a very charming square to visit and when I was here in late November, Christmas kiosks had already been set up.
Lion Bridge
The Lion Bridge, Löwenbrücke, is another historic bridge which spans the Main River, linking both sides of Würzburg. Its highlights are the 4 huge green, bronze lion statues guarding the ends.
Built late 1800’s, the original name is Ludwigsbrücke, named after King Ludwig III.
New Munster Church
Another historic landmark in the city centre is the New Munster Collegiate Church, Neumünster, with an elaborate pink sandstone Baroque facade. Squeezed between 2 houses, the beautiful building caught my attention whilst walking around town. Originally of the 11th century, it was once used as a munitions depot. It also has a small cloister garden you can access.
Free to enter.
Würzburg Residence Palace
The city of Würzburg is renowned for the splendorous Würzburg Residence, an enormous opulent Baroque palace, luxuriously decorated throughout 4 levels in ostentatious style. Anyone with a love of history, art and architecture should not miss seeing Würzburg Residence, one of Germany’s grandest and most beautiful palaces, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I visited the Würzburg Residence with a guided tour group and it was absolutely breathtaking, every room more beautiful than the last. It is most definitely a highlight of the city, and not to be missed.
You can enjoy the different areas of the landscaped gardens outside for free and see the statues, fountains, fruit trees and flower beds. I enjoyed the opportunity to walk and relax in the meticulously kept court gardens.
Read more here.
General Info
- Major airport nearby is Nuremberg (NUE)
- Use Klook to book tours at cheap prices
- Check for local events here
- Book car rental
- Get a German rail pass
- Take a boat trip on the Main River
Pin it, for later!
More of Germany
