Rothenburg ob der Tauber Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria, Germany)

The fairytale ambiance of the Old Town itself is Rothenburg ob der Tauber's main attraction, and appeals to the child in every tourist. History and archaeology buffs will be in their element when they realise that if a building was constructed in the 19th century, it's considered fairly new!

Apart from the major tourist attractions, such as the ancient town walls and gates, the Rathaus (Town Hall) and other glories, there is much of interest tucked away in odd corners, often being based around the Market Square (Marktplatz). The Rossmuhle (Horse Mill), the Old Forge and Jagstheimer Haus are all examples of these gems.

From high points in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the town's best known attractions are the picturesque high gables of the colourfully painted ancient buildings, famed for their narrow chimneys and high red roofs. The best place to see the full vista is from the Rathaus Tower, although its 241 steps might discourage the less energetic visitor!

Rathaus and Tower

Address: Marktplatz 1, Central Altstadt, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, DE
This magnificent Gothic Town Hall, with its Renaissance frontage and 50-metre / 165-foot tall tower, was built in mainly in the 16th century and looms over the Old Town, giving the best views ever of the colourful roofs and charming townscape. The vaults of the Town Hall contain creepy dungeons and a small museum.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free, charge for tower

Town Walls and Gates

Address: Altstadt, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, DE
The ancient town walls of Rothenburg ob der Tauber have enclosed the Old Town since they were built in the 14th century, and are still in an amazing state of preservation. At approximately 2.5 km / 1.5 miles in length, they have several defensive towers with great views and horseshoe-shaped city gates with massive crewel stones. The best vistas are to be found at the top of the eastern tower (Roderturm) and on the western side of the walls, where you can enjoys views of the Double Bridge named the 'Doppelbrucke', Tauber Valley and the scenic trail leading to St. Peter und Pauls Kirche.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Rothenburg Castle (Toppler Castle) and Gardens

Address: Taubertalweg 98 / 100, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, DE
Tel: +49 09861 7358
Perched high above the town, Rothenburg's castle is the second to have been built on this site. The first, constructed in 1070, was destroyed by an earthquake in 1356 and rebuilt in 1388 by order of the town's most famous Lord Mayor, Heinrich Toppler. Since then the castle has been known as Toppler Castle and is approached through its beautiful landscaped gardens.
Open hours: December to October, Friday, Saturday and Sunday - 13:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children and students

The Old Forge

Address: Central Altstadt, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, DE
The historical Old Forge is a charming medieval half-timbered building with a long history as a blacksmith's forge. Known locally as the 'Gerlachschmiede', the Old Forge is an especially distinctive building, being known for its high roof and extremely ornamental facade, which is traditionally German in character and set on a sharp street corner.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Jagstheimer Haus

Address: Marktplatz, Altstadt, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, DE
The Jagstheimer Haus was built for a Lord Mayor of the town in 1488, and has a scenic courtyard and magnificent half-timbered gable with an oriel window. In 1513, Emperor Maximilian I was the house's most prominent guest amongst many who had stayed here. This is acknowledged as one of the loveliest buildings in the town and although now privately owned, its exterior is well worth a look for its beauty.
Open hours: not open to the public
Admission: free