Regensburg
Introduction
You will find Regensburg situated in eastern Bavaria at the confluence of the Danube, Naab, and Regen rivers, marking the northernmost point of the Danube. As the capital of the Upper Palatinate subregion, this city serves as a significant political, economic, and cultural center for its surrounding area.
You can trace the history of the city back to its origins as an imperial Roman river fort. During the era of the Holy Roman Empire, it served as the home of the Perpetual Diet of Regensburg.
Before you go
Before you arrive, consider the deep historical layers that define this Bavarian city. You can trace its origins back to ancient Celtic settlements and a Roman military fortress established at the northernmost bend of the Danube. As you explore, notice how the lack of industrial modernization in the 19th century preserved much of the medieval architecture from the era when it served as a Free Imperial City. The enduring Stone Bridge and the cathedral stand as primary landmarks that have survived centuries of change.
While exploring the city, keep these points in mind for your visit:
- The historic center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The local culture features a prominent beer drinking tradition; be mindful when trying to keep pace with locals.
Getting there
You can reach the city by train via Regensburg Hauptbahnhof, which features traveler-friendly infrastructure including a tourist office and several restaurants. The station serves numerous regional trains, national high-speed ICE and IC long-distance trains, and offers two direct international connections. If you fly into Munich Airport, you can take a direct hourly regional train to the city without traveling through central Munich. Alternatively, from Nuremberg Airport, you can take the U-Bahn to Nuremberg Central Station before transferring to a train toward Regensburg.
For those traveling by road, the city is accessible via the German autobahn network where two autobahns intersect, as well as several major national highways. If you arrive by bus, you will typically reach the large station in Stadtamhof on the opposite side of the Danube. You can also reach the city by boat, as it serves as a starting and ending point for regular river cruises along the length of the Danube.
Getting around
Since the city center is compact and many points of interest are located within a short walking distance of one another, you can easily explore the area on foot. The historic district functions as a pedestrian zone; if you arrive by car, you should use one of the parking garages located around the center. For those preferring to cycle, bicycles are available for rent at the station.
For longer distances, you can utilize the comprehensive public bus network which operates frequently into the night. A specific shuttle bus serves the inner city area. If your journey takes you toward Walhalla, you can also travel by ship departing from the pier near the Stone Bridge.
Where to stay
You can choose from a variety of accommodations depending on your preferred atmosphere and location within the city. For those seeking a central stay, you can find a hostel in the heart of town that offers an in-house supermarket and accommodates guests over the age of 26. If you prefer a more intimate experience, a small and comfortable hotel sits right next to the Regensburg Cathedral, allowing you to reach every point of interest on foot.
Other options provide unique settings near local landmarks:
- Stay at a high-class hotel located on one of the Wöhrd islands in the river Danube, situated near the Stone Bridge.
- Choose a hostel located on the Unterer Wöhrd island in the river Danube.
- Select an apart hotel located near the station and the university.
- Opt for a hotel on the north bank of the river, which provides convenient parking for those traveling by car.
- Find a hotel with easy motorway access just outside the city center.
Food & drink
You can satisfy a wide range of tastes in Regensburg, from quick snacks and traditional brewery fare to international cuisine and high-class dining. For a taste of history, visit the Wurstkuchl at the Stone Bridge to enjoy sausage specialties served by waiters in medieval dress in a riverside beer garden. The city also offers a variety of drinking establishments, including over 350 bars, cafés, clubs, and discos located within walking distance of each other in the inner city.
As a Bavarian city, Regensburg is known for its beer, with three functioning breweries and two brew pubs producing styles ranging from light Pils to heavy Dunkels and locally made Weißbier. You can sample these varieties at several locations:
- Brauereigaststätte Kneitinger for Bavarian specialties
- The Alte Linde or Spital Garten near the Stone Bridge to enjoy a beer in a garden setting
- The Bischofshof courtyard near the cathedral
- Fürstliches Brauhaus, which serves Thurn und Taxis brew
What to see and do
Experience the atmosphere of one of Germany's largest preserved medieval city centers, where you can wander through streets filled with Italian-style merchant houses and towers. Cross the Stone Bridge over the Danube for a panoramic view of the historic district, or explore the nearby area of Stadtamhof. During the summer months, enjoy the lively outdoor cafes that earn the city its nickname as the "northernmost city of Italy."
- Visit the Regensburg Cathedral to admire Gothic architecture and listen to the world-famous Domspatzen boys' choir during Sunday mass.
- Explore the historic buildings, including the Porta Praetoria, a Roman gateway, and the Palace St. Emmeram.
- Discover local history at the Reichstagsmuseum in the Old Town Hall or visit the Scots Monastery to see its unique north portal.
- Savor traditional flavors at the Historic Sausage Kitchen, a riverside tavern dating back to the 12th century.
- Take a ferry from near the Stone Bridge to reach the neo-classical Walhalla memorial on a nearby hill.
- Experience local traditions such as the Christmas Market at Neupfarrplatz in December or the Dult during May and September.
Three days in Regensburg
Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the historic heart of this Bavarian city. You can wander through the streets of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit the Stone Bridge to experience the atmosphere of a former Free Imperial City.
Day two, you can explore more of the local area, perhaps visiting the Regensburg Cathedral or crossing over to Stadtamhof. You can immerse yourself in the history of the region, which was influenced by the Holy Roman Empire and its role as a seat of the Perpetual Diet.
Day three, you can take in the surrounding scenery near the Danube, Naab, and Regen rivers. You can also reflect on the local heritage that dates back through Celtic and Roman periods before your departure from the region.