Germany’s Romantic Road: Day Trip Munich To Rothenburg
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Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a beautiful medieval town located in Bavaria, Germany, known for its well-preserved medieval old town, colorful half-timbered houses, and historic sites. It’s easy to take a Munich to Rothenburg day trip on your own or with an organized tour group.
How To Get to Rothenburg From Munich
Munich to Rothenburg By Train
You can take a train from Munich Hauptbahnhof (the main train station) to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The journey typically involves transferring trains at least once, usually in Würzburg or Nuremberg. The total travel time is around 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the connections. Check the schedule on the Deutsche Bahn website or use a mobile app like DB Navigator for real-time information and ticket booking. Walking from the Rothenburg Train station to Old Town Rothenburg will take about fifteen minutes.
Munich to Rothenburg By Car
Driving from Munich to Rothenburg is also an option, especially if you prefer flexibility and want to explore the surrounding countryside. The distance is approximately 340 kilometers (about 211 miles), and the drive takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Take the A9 and A7 highways northward from Munich towards Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This journey also gives you the opportunity to drive on some of the speed-limit-free federal controlled-access highways in Germany commonly called the Autobahn.
Parking in Rothenburg
If you're driving to Rothenburg, keep in mind that parking within the old town can be limited. There are several parking lots outside the walls where you can leave your car and walk into the town center. Follow signs for "Parkhaus P1" or "Parkplatz P2" for convenient parking options. Parking for the day is reasonable and shouldn’t cost you more than €3-5.
Rothenburg Guided Tour
Because of the long travel distance, we decided to take a guided tour from Munich to Rothenburg. Our day trip from our partner Viator also included a stop at Harburg Castle. The trip included transportation by bus, free time for sightseeing in Rothenburg, a guided tour of Harburg Castle, and a knowledgeable guide who filled the bus ride with interesting facts along the way. This option is convenient if you prefer a hassle-free experience with a knowledgeable guide. Tour tickets are not substantially more expensive than round-trip train tickets.
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Things To Do in Rothenburg
There are so many great things to do in Rothenburg, Germany. Use this list to build a one-day Rothenburg itinerary or to organize your free time during a visit on a guided tour.
Walk the City Walls
Rothenburg's medieval walls are remarkably well-preserved, offering fantastic views of the town and surrounding countryside. You can take a leisurely stroll along the walls and enjoy the scenery. It’s completely free to climb a wall and start exploring.
Explore the Old Town
Wander through the cobblestone streets of the old town and admire the charming architecture. Don't miss the Market Square (Marktplatz) with its Renaissance Town Hall and the beautiful St. James's Church (St. Jakobskirche). Every charming street begs you to take a photograph. There are plenty of shops selling local wares and souvenirs to explore as well.
Visit the Christmas Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Rothenburg is famous for its Christmas traditions, and the German Christmas Museum (Deutsches Weihnachtsmuseum) provides insight into the history and customs of Christmas in Germany. The museum is located inside the Christmas shop so even if you decide to skip the museum it’s worth a visit to shop in the expansive Christmas store. Museum entrance is just €5.
Explore Rothenburg Town Hall and Climb The Tower
Map: Google Maps
Inside the Town Hall (Rathaus) you can see historic artifacts and admire the intricate architecture. The grand staircase is of particular note.
You can also climb the stairs of the Town Hall Tower (Rathausturm) for panoramic views of Rothenburg and its surroundings. The climb is worth it for the breathtaking vistas, plus it only costs €1.50.
Visit the Medieval Crime Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Explore the Medieval Crime Museum (Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum) to learn about medieval justice, crime, and punishment. It's housed in the former Criminal Court building. Admission is €9.50 with discounts for kids, students, and families.
Try Schneeballen
Indulge in a local treat called Schneeballen, which translates to "snowball." These pastry treats are made by deep-frying dough and dusting them with powdered sugar or chocolate. My schneeballen in the photo above was vanilla-flavored. They’re big enough to share, but also easy enough to eat on your own. There are also smaller, bite-sized versions. This local treat is available in many bakeries located throughout old town.
Visit the Rothenburg Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Learn about Rothenburg's history as a free imperial city at the Imperial City Museum (Reichsstadtmuseum), housed in the former Dominican monastery. The expansive collection contains gold coins, Marie Antoinette’s hunting rifle, musical artifacts, and much more.
Relax in the Gardens
Map Castle Garden: Google Maps
Map Convent Garden: Google Maps
Take a break from sightseeing and relax in one of Rothenburg's beautiful gardens, such as the Castle Garden (Burggarten) with some of the best views of the Rothenburg skyline and surrounding valley. Also of interest is the Convent Garden (Klostergarten), located in an enclosed portion of the former monastery that is now home to the Rothenburg Museum. The Convent Garden has a vast collection of plants, herbs, spices, and even poisons!
Visit the Rothenburg Plönlein
Map: Google Maps
One of the most picturesque spots in Rothenburg, Plönlein is a small square surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses and overlooked by the Siebers Tower and Kobolzell Gate. It's probably the most famous spot in Rothenburg, perfect for taking postcard-worthy photos.
St. James's Church (St. Jakobskirche)
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This 14th-century Gothic church is known for its impressive altar by Tilman Riemenschneider, the Holy Blood Altar. Precious religious artifacts and original stained glass adorn the interior of the church. The church charges a small entrance fee to help with the upkeep of the historic structure.
Nightwatchman Tour in Rothenburg
This is one of the best things to do in Rothenburg at night and a fun thing to do with kids in Rothenburg during your visit.
Taking a nightwatchman tour in Rothenburg is a unique and memorable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the town's medieval atmosphere while learning about its history, folklore, and legends.
During the tour, you'll be guided through the cobblestone streets of the old town by a costumed nightwatchman carrying a lantern. The nightwatchman will regale you with fascinating stories, anecdotes, and historical facts about Rothenburg's past, providing insights into life in the Middle Ages and the role of the night watchman in maintaining order and security.
The tour typically lasts around an hour and covers key landmarks and points of interest in the old town, including the Market Square, Town Hall, and city walls. It's a leisurely-paced walk suitable for all ages, and the engaging storytelling of the nightwatchman ensures that you'll be entertained throughout the experience.
You can book a tour in advance online with our partner: Get Your Guide.
Christmas Markets in Rothenburg
Visiting Rothenburg at Christmas is purely magical. The Rothenburg Christmas markets located in the medieval old town are some of the best Christmas markets in Germany.
The main Christmas market in Rothenburg is held in the Market Square (Marktplatz), surrounded by the town's half-timbered houses and historic buildings. The square itself is transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, decorations, and stalls selling mulled wine and roasted almonds.
The Rothenburg Christmas market typically runs from late November to December 23rd, aligning with the Advent season.
The market features numerous stalls selling a wide variety of traditional handicrafts, gifts, Christmas decorations, and culinary delights. You'll find everything from hand-carved wooden ornaments and colorful ceramics to handmade candles and festive wreaths. Be sure to sample local specialties such as gingerbread cookies (Lebkuchen), roasted chestnuts, hearty stews, and warm mulled wine.
One of the highlights of the Rothenburg Christmas market is its dazzling display of decorations and lights. The historic buildings and cobblestone streets are adorned with festive illuminations, creating a magical backdrop for holiday festivities and evening strolls.
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Maps of Rothenburg
Map: Google Maps
Self-Guided Walking Tour Map [PDF]: Rick Steves
Color Map and Guide: Rothenburg Tourist Office
Best Restaurants in Rothenburg
Whether you’re looking for the best biergarten in Rothenburg, the best brewery in Rothenburg, or just a great authentic German meal Rothenburg has plenty of great restaurants to choose from.
Ratsstube
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Situated in the heart of the old town, Ratsstube offers a dining experience in a historic setting. The menu features a mix of traditional German dishes and international flavors, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.
Gasthaus Goldener Greifen
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Housed in a beautifully restored medieval building, Gasthaus Goldener Greifen serves authentic German cuisine including some “old recipes from the grandmother’s cookbooks.” The restaurant's rustic ambiance and hearty dishes make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Local beers like Greifen-Dunkel and regional wines are also available.
Zur Höll
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
With a history dating back to the 13th century, Zur Höll is one of Rothenburg's oldest restaurants. You’ll dine along stone walls, wood beams, and historic fixtures in one of the oldest buildings in Rothenburg. The restaurant serves classic Franconian dishes, including schnitzel, sausages, and hearty stews.
Restaurant Alter Keller
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Located in the vaulted cellar of a historic building, Restaurant Alter Keller is known for its romantic ambiance and gourmet cuisine. The menu features creative interpretations of traditional German dishes, paired with an extensive wine list.
Glocke Weingut und Hotel
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Combining a winery, hotel, and restaurant, Glocke Weingut und Hotel offers a unique dining experience in Rothenburg. Guests can enjoy regional wines paired with seasonal dishes in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Brot & Zeit
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
This local bakery offers delicious baked goods, coffees, and affordable sandwiches. It’s a great place to visit if you’re running low on time and want to maximize your local sightseeing without spending time sitting in a table-service restaurant. They also have a wide selection of Schneeballen.
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When Is The Best Time to Visit Rothenburg?
Deciding when to visit Rothenburg is an important part of your trip planning. To ensure a pleasurable visit try the less busy times of year.
Rothenburg is a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak summer months and around Christmas. To avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon when many day-trippers have left. Alternatively, visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for a quieter experience.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Germany!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber vs. Rothenburg
What is the difference between Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Rothenburg? Are they the same place?
Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Rothenburg are the same place; however, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the full official name of the town.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber translates to Rothenburg above the Tauber, referring to its location on a plateau overlooking the Tauber River. The addition of "ob der Tauber" helps distinguish Rothenburg from other towns with similar names in Germany.
In casual conversation or travel literature, you might encounter both versions of the city name.
