Written by Celine Fournier, Elsa Holm, Felix Schmidt, Finn Weber, Sandrine Simon
16/09/2025
xDima Zi, Pexels
Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a charming city in Bavaria renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history, largely untouched by World War II. It offers a unique blend of impressive historical buildings, picturesque riverside scenery often called "Little Venice," and a vibrant local beer culture, including its famous smoked beer.
The Old Town (Altstadt) serves as the primary social hub, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, and lively bars where visitors can mingle. Bamberg's numerous breweries and traditional beer gardens are popular gathering spots, embodying a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying local culture. Maximilianstraße also provides a vibrant area with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Top 8 Things to do in Bamberg
Exploring Bamberg involves immersing oneself in its rich history and distinctive architecture, enjoying its vibrant local culture, and discovering its unique culinary traditions, especially its smoked beer.
1. Wander through Bamberg's Old Town (Altstadt)
Walking through the Old Town is the best way to experience Bamberg's charm. You will find a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets, well-preserved medieval and Baroque architecture, and picturesque riverside scenery. It is free to wander and absorb the atmosphere, offering a deep dive into the city's historical layers. Many other key attractions are found within this area. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the buildings and the unique character of the city.
Cost: Free to explore on foot. Guided walking tours are available from approximately €13-€269, depending on the tour type and group size.
Transport: The Old Town is the central area of Bamberg, best explored on foot. Most accommodations are within walking distance.
2. Admire the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall)
The Old Town Hall is an iconic landmark, uniquely situated on an artificial island in the middle of the Regnitz River, connected by two bridges. Its exterior features striking frescoes and a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Rococo architectural styles. This distinctive location and design make it a captivating sight and a popular spot for photographs. You can enjoy its beauty from the bridges and riverbanks.
Cost: Free to view from the exterior. The building also houses the Ludwig Collection, which had a general admission fee of €6 for adults, but the Old Town Hall is undergoing renovation and the Ludwig Collection is closed.
Transport: The Old Town Hall is centrally located in the Old Town and easily accessible on foot.
3. Visit Bamberg Cathedral (Bamberger Dom)
This magnificent Imperial Cathedral, dedicated to St. Peter and St. George, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of Romanesque architecture with Gothic additions. Inside, discover the marble tomb of Emperor Henry II and his wife, Empress Cunigunde, and the only papal grave in Germany, that of Pope Clement II. The famous Bamberg Horseman statue is also found here. You can explore the interior and admire its historical art and intricate sculptures. General access to the cathedral is typically free. Guided tours offer deeper insights into its history and art.
Cost: General entry is free. Guided tours are available for approximately €12 for adults, with reduced rates of €9 or €5 with a BambergCard. Children under 18 enter free with a guided tour.
Transport: Located on Domberg (Cathedral Hill) in the Old Town, it is easily reached by walking uphill from the city center.
4. Explore the Neue Residenz (New Residence) and Rose Garden
This grand Baroque palace served as the residence of Bamberg's prince-bishops. You can visit some of its opulent rooms, adorned with stucco work and antique furniture, gaining a glimpse into regal life. Directly behind the palace lies the exquisite Rose Garden, which is free to enter and offers a breathtaking panoramic view over Bamberg's Old Town and Michaelsberg. It is a peaceful spot to relax, especially when the 4,500 roses are in bloom.
Cost: Entrance to the New Residence is €6 for adults, with reduced tickets at €5. Children under 18 enter free. The Rose Garden has free admission. Please note that credit card payment is often not possible for entrance fees.
Transport: Located on Domberg, next to Bamberg Cathedral. It is within walking distance of the city center.
5. Take a Boat Ride through Little Venice (Klein Venedig)
Discover Bamberg's picturesque 'Little Venice,' a former fishing settlement along the Regnitz River. This charming district is characterized by colorful, half-timbered houses lining the canal. A leisurely boat ride provides a unique perspective of these beautiful riverside homes and bridges. Alternatively, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the riverbanks.
Cost: Boat tour prices vary, but similar river cruises in the region typically start from around €15-€25 per person. Strolling along the river is free.
Transport: Little Venice is located on the east bank of the Regnitz River, north of the Old Town Hall, and is easily walkable from the city center.
Perched atop Michaelsberg Hill, this former Benedictine monastery offers historical significance, serene Baroque terraced gardens, and stunning panoramic views of Bamberg. While the abbey church is currently closed for extensive renovations, the monastery grounds, courtyard, and viewing terrace remain accessible. It is a peaceful retreat and an excellent spot for photographers.
Cost: Access to the abbey grounds, gardens, and viewing terrace is free. Some specific exhibitions within the monastery might have a small fee.
Transport: The monastery is an uphill walk from the Old Town. Alternatively, you can take city bus line 910 from the Central Bus Station (ZOB) to the 'Klinikum Michelsberg' stop. A single bus journey costs €1.90 digitally or €2.10 from the driver.
Bamberg is famous for its distinct smoked beer, Rauchbier, brewed with malt dried over an open flame. Visiting one of the city's traditional breweries or beer gardens, such as Schlenkerla or Spezial, is a must. You can enjoy a tasting of this unique brew and local Franconian dishes. Brewery tours offer insights into Bamberg's rich brewing heritage and process.
Cost: A pint of Rauchbier typically costs a few euros. Brewery tours and tastings vary, with prices ranging from approximately €19 to €43 per person for organized tours.
Transport: Many traditional breweries and beer gardens are located within the Old Town and are easily accessible on foot.
8. Explore the Bamberg Historical Museum
Housed in the historic Alte Hofhaltung complex, adjacent to the Cathedral, the Historical Museum showcases Bamberg’s rich art, history, and cultural heritage. Its diverse collections span from early history to the present, featuring various art and historical testimonies. This museum provides an engaging experience for those interested in the city's development and its past.
Cost: Admission for adults is €8. Students pay €4, and children up to 18 years old enter for free. The BambergCard also grants free entry.
Transport: Located in the Alte Hofhaltung, next to the Bamberg Cathedral, it is easily walkable from the city center.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
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