Discover Regensburg: Germany’s Medieval Jewel on the Danube River

Welcome to Regensburg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities, nestled at the confluence of the Danube, Naab, and Regen rivers. As your tour guide, I'm thrilled to take you through cobbled alleyways, Gothic spires, Roman ruins, and riverside charm. This city, often overlooked by mainstream tourism, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 2,000 years of vibrant history.
 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

The city’s historic and cultural landmarks

Top things to do in Regensburg

Culinary highlights and beer culture

Travel tips and seasonal events

So, lace up your walking shoes and let’s dive into the heart of Bavaria!

🏛️ Table of Contents

A Historical Overview of Regensburg

Top Attractions in Regensburg

Regensburg Cathedral (Dom St. Peter)

Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke)

Old Town Hall & Historical Museum

Porta Praetoria

St. Emmeram’s Abbey and Thurn und Taxis Palace

Regensburg Sausage Kitchen

Exploring Regensburg’s Old Town

Danube River Cruises and Nature Spots

Local Food and Beer Culture

Annual Events and Festivals

Day Trips from Regensburg

Practical Travel Information

Best Time to Visit

Final Thoughts & Travel Tips

📜 1. A Historical Overview of Regensburg

Founded by the Romans around 179 AD as Castra Regina, Regensburg has been continuously inhabited for over two millennia. It flourished during the Middle Ages as a trade and ecclesiastical center, evident in its architectural wealth.

The city’s Old Town, with over 1,000 protected historical buildings, earned Regensburg UNESCO World Heritage status in 2006 — a recognition of its medieval urban landscape.

🏛️ 2. Top Attractions in Regensburg

⛪ Regensburg Cathedral (Dom St. Peter)

The stunning Gothic Regensburg Cathedral dominates the city’s skyline. Construction began in the 13th century, and its ornate spires, stained glass, and detailed sculptures are masterpieces of Gothic artistry.

Don’t miss the Regensburger Domspatzen, one of the world’s oldest boys’ choirs, performing regularly in the cathedral.

🌉 Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke)

Built in the 12th century, the Stone Bridge is an engineering marvel of the Middle Ages and once served as the only Danube crossing for centuries. Walk across this 300-meter marvel for iconic views of the Old Town and cathedral.

Tip: Visit at sunset for stunning photography.

🏛️ Old Town Hall & Historical Museum

Step inside the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) for a glimpse into Regensburg’s past as a Free Imperial City. The historic courtroom and Imperial Diet chambers are remarkably preserved.

Next door, the Historical Museum of Regensburg features Roman relics, medieval artifacts, and even church art.

🏰 Porta Praetoria

Built in 179 AD, the Porta Praetoria is one of Germany’s oldest Roman gates and a fascinating link to Regensburg’s Roman roots. You’ll find it hidden in plain sight near the cathedral.

🕍 St. Emmeram’s Abbey & Thurn und Taxis Palace

Originally a Benedictine monastery, St. Emmeram’s Abbey was transformed into a lavish palace by the Thurn und Taxis family, one of Europe’s richest noble dynasties.

Take a guided tour to explore:

Rococo halls

Private chapels

Coach museum

It’s one of Regensburg’s best-kept secrets.

🌭 Regensburg Sausage Kitchen (Wurstkuchl)

Reputed to be the oldest continuously operating public restaurant in the world, this riverside eatery dates back to the 12th century. Enjoy grilled sausages with sauerkraut and sweet mustard while sitting by the Danube.

Must-Try: A classic six-sausage plate with local beer!

🏘️ 3. Exploring Regensburg’s Old Town

Wander through narrow alleyways and historic courtyards that pulse with medieval charm. The Old Town is a maze of:

Colorful merchant houses

Hidden chapels

Boutique shops

Cozy cafés

Goldene Turm (Golden Tower), a medieval patrician tower house, showcases the wealth of Regensburg’s 13th-century merchant elite.

🚤 4. Danube River Cruises and Nature Spots

Take a Danube River cruise to the nearby Weltenburg Abbey, passing through the dramatic Danube Gorge (Donaudurchbruch). The Abbey is home to one of the oldest monastic breweries in the world!

Other Natural Highlights:

Herzogpark – Peaceful riverside gardens

Max-Schultze-Steig – A scenic walking trail along the riverbank

Inselpark – A small island park with beautiful views

🍽️ 5. Local Food and Beer Culture

Regensburg’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Bavarian heartiness and modern flair.

Local Dishes to Try:

Regensburger Knacker – A smoked sausage specialty

Schweinebraten – Roast pork with gravy and dumplings

Obatzda – Spiced cheese spread served with pretzels

Pair your meals with local brews like Kneitinger, Spital, or Bischofshof — all historic breweries.

🎉 6. Annual Events and Festivals

Regensburg hosts many lively festivals throughout the year:

Regensburger Maidult (May) – A spring folk festival with beer tents and rides

Herbstdult (September) – Autumn’s answer to Oktoberfest

Bürgerfest (June, every two years) – A massive citywide celebration with music, food, and culture

Christmas Market (December) – Held at Neupfarrplatz and Thurn und Taxis Palace, it’s one of Bavaria’s most magical markets

🚆 7. Day Trips from Regensburg

Weltenburg Abbey

Take a boat and hike combo to this riverside monastery, famous for its dark beer and Baroque church.

Walhalla Memorial

Located just outside the city, this Greek-style neoclassical temple honors German cultural heroes. The view over the Danube is breathtaking.

Kelheim and Danube Gorge

Explore caves, gorges, and Bavarian history in this scenic town accessible by river cruise or bus.

🧳 8. Practical Travel Information

How to Get to Regensburg:

By Train: 1.5 hours from Munich, 2 hours from Nuremberg

By Car: Convenient location on the A3 autobahn

By River Cruise: A popular stop for Danube cruises

Getting Around:

The city is best explored on foot or by bicycle. The Old Town is compact, pedestrian-friendly, and filled with photo-worthy moments.

📅 9. Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June):

Ideal weather, blooming flowers, and spring festivals.

Autumn (September–October):

Fewer crowds, warm colors, and beer celebrations.

Winter (Late November–December):

Charming Christmas markets, festive lights, and cozy taverns.

Avoid: August can be hot and packed with tourists.

💡 10. Final Thoughts & Travel Tips

Regensburg combines the depth of Roman history, the elegance of Gothic architecture, and the spirit of Bavarian tradition. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this city offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and exploration.

Travel Tips:

Join a walking tour for deeper insights.

Buy a RegensburgCard for discounted entry to museums and public transport.

Visit early in the morning for the best lighting and fewer crowds.

🧭 Why You Should Visit Regensburg

Regensburg is more than just a city — it’s a living tapestry of over 2,000 years of history with modern charm and friendly hospitality. If you’re seeking a less-touristy but deeply rewarding Bavarian destination, Regensburg is a treasure waiting to be explored.