Rothenburg Old Town

candid Germany tips

 

Why
Rothenburg Old Town
is special

Rothenburg has the best preserved and most photogenic old town in Germany. Its half-timbered buildings and narrow, winding cobblestone streets are so charming that some tourists have actually suspected that it was designed by the likes of Walt Disney.

Rothenburg Old Town
tips & insights

Setting

The town is built on a geological spur rising high about the Tauber River below. This strategic location aided its defense during conflicts in the Middle Ages.

During World War II

Parts of Rothenburg were bombed. But fortunately, the lion's share of old town suffered minimal damage, thereby preserving the buildings for future generations.

Walls

Rothenburg is almost totally surrounded by fortified walls. You can climb and walk along them.

Driving in Rothenburg Old Town

Don't. It's easy to explore Rothenburg on foot and many areas are pedestrian-only zones.

Rothenburg's visual appeal
created its major weakness

In the summer, daytrippers flood the old town from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. I recommend staying overnight so you can enjoy the other 18 hours when the old town is relatively quiet and relaxing.

Romantic Road

A large percentage of the tourists who come to Rothenburg are on their Romantic Road trip. Click the "Romantic Road" link on the large map below to view my web page on that popular themed route.

Pronunciation

Phonetically, Rothenburg is Roe'-ten-burg

  

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