Würzburg is a baroque city in Germany’s northwest Bavaria region known as Lower Franconia and lies in the center of the Franconian wine country, one the country’s most important wine regions. It is also the start of the Romantic Road route. If you are a fan of beautiful historic towns, Würzburg should be on your list. With a population of approximately 120,000, the city is closed in by hills on all sides making it seem much smaller and more compacted.
Things to see and do in Würzburg
A historic university town, Würzburg features two main palaces on either side of the Main River. On the right bank behind the old town is the UNESCO-listed Würzburg Residence, a palace of amazing size. On the left bank is the Marienburg Fortress, and between them is a city of astounding churches, chapels and museums.
Würzburg Residence
Built in the 18th century as a home for the local prince-bishops, the magnificent Residenz is one of Germany’s most stunning Baroque palaces. The Residence and Hofgarten (Court Gardens) combined are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are must-see.
Cross the Alte Mainbrücke (Old Main Bridge) and enjoy a “Brückenschoppen”
The “Alte Mainbrücke” is Würzburg’s oldest pedestrian bridge connecting the old town with the Marienviertel and the Marienburg. Along the left bank of the bridge, you will find the “Brückenheiligen”, numerous stone statues of saints, each with their own history and personality. There are also fabulous views east towards St Kilian Cathedral and the Alstadt, and also to the Marienburg Fortress perched high to the west.
The restaurants along the bridge (e.g., the “Alte Mainmühle”) sell “to-go” wine to drink on the bridge. This wine is called “Brückenschoppen” and evolved into the act of drinking a wine “having a Brückenschoppen” which is a classic thing to do in Würzburg. The bridge is usually lined with couples and groups meeting friends and enjoying their wine.
Marienburg Fortress
A permanent landmark on the left bank of the Main, the Marienburg Fortress sits proudly high above the river, in a spot that has been fortified since the 1200s when defensive walls were built around Würzburg’s first church. However, its origin can be traced back to the time when it was a small fort built early in the 8th century.
Würzburg Catherdral of St. Kilian (Würzburger Dom)
The church begun in the 11th century and at more than 100 metres is noted for its extraordinary length, being the fourth-longest Romanesque church in Germany.
One of the great views is from the steps in front of the church back down Domstrasse towards the Old Main Bridge and the Marienburg fortress on the hill beyond.
Altstadt (Old Town)
Exploring Würzburg’s old town is an absolute necessity. Strolling around you’ll find modern boutiques, cafés and restaurants scattered among the historical sights. In the centre of the old town, you’ll find Marienkapelle Church, the bright red chapel that was built in the 14th century.
The Main Square “Marktplatz” – bustles with a permanent green market, that offers fresh vegetables and fruits that are in season, under a glass cover with additional tents and shops on weekends. During the Christmas season it becomes a Christmas Market.
Some other sights you can discover during your strolls would be the Vierröhrenbrunnen (Four Tubes Fountain), the old town hall, and the Grafeneckart. Make sure you also walk through the scenic “Schustergasse”. The entire city is charming and picturesque.
Take a Walk Along the Main
The Main River runs through the city, so do what the locals do and walk along the fortress side for an enjoyable view. You can’t really get lost – once you’ve gone far enough you can just cross or turn around to return home!
Dining
Würzburg is a student town so there are many great cafés and restaurants around. Whether you’re looking for delicious coffee and cakes or want a hearty Bavarian meal – Würzburg has many great options. We always found some great restaurant options during our stay.
Best Time to Visit Würzburg?
We visited Würzburg in December to take advantage of its Christmas market but each of their seasons would have some different appeals, especially the summer months.
Summers temperatures hover around 22 – 25 degrees Celsius (72 – 77 Fahrenheit) and winters range from about 3°C to 5°C so dress warmly!
How many days do you need to visit Würzburg?
Depending on your interests and the time of year you visit, you could easily spend one to three days there at a time.
Getting to and Around Würzburg
Würzburg is located roughly 1.5 hours southeast of Frankfurt am Main, about 3 hours northwest of Munich, and about 4.5 hours southwest of Berlin.
The main train station is within walking distance to the old town. Once you’re at Würzburg, you’ll find that you can wander around to all of the important sights. Most of the main attractions are within easy reach of the old town making it quite walkable.