21 Dreamy Things to Do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany with Kids
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During our tour of Germany, we totally fell in love with Rothenburg! This charming little town not only has all the gorgeous architecture we have come to expect from this part of Europe, but it also has a ton of interesting and unique attractions that are fun for the whole family. So whether you are visiting for a day, or spending a weekend here, there are so many incredible things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany to keep you busy.
Is Rothenburg ob der Tauber Worth Visiting?
Most definitely YES! The must-see town of Rothenburg is named after its location on the raised flatlands overlooking the Tauber River. In German, Rothenburg ob der Tauber means “Red fortress above the Tauber.”
Today, Rothenburg is known worldwide as being Germany’s best-preserved medieval walled town. So whether you are a history buff, are into gorgeous architecture, love a good Christmas Market, or are just looking to cross this magical town off your bucket list, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is definitely worth visiting!
Fun Fact: Rothenburg has appeared in several movies! For one, it was the inspiration for the village in the 1940 Walt Disney movie Pinocchio. Filming was also done in Rothenburg for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (2010) and Part 2 (2011).
The Best Things to Do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany with Kids
Depending on how much time you have, your budget, and what your family likes to do, you can choose a few items, or try to conquer the entire list. Either way, we are pretty sure that you will fall in love with Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
1. Wander Rothenburg’s Old Town
We found that one of the best things to do in Rothenburg was to walk around and explore the shops and streets. After all, the town with its colourful houses, cobblestone lanes, and pretty squares, is the main attraction!
Rothenburg is also quite walkable. Most of the attractions we mention in this guide are all within a 15-20 minute radius. So once you are within the city walls, there is no need to worry about driving or public transportation!
And since Rothenburg is relatively small, you could explore most of the city in 2-3 hours. Of course, if you are interested in learning more about the town as you stroll, a guided walking tour may just be the thing!
2. Explore the Tower Trail (Turmweg)
Another great way to see the town is to explore the Tower Trail. This route takes you up and along Rothenburg’s famous fortification walls, and into the many restored towers.
With 42 out of the 70 original towers still standing, the Tower Trail covers about 2.5 miles (4 km) and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. But if you are short on time, you will find stairs throughout the Old Town that serve as both entrances and exits from the Tower Trail.
Walking along the covered walls not only gives you an opportunity to see the city from above but there are also information plaques inside, giving you information on Rothenburg’s history. You will also get a beautiful view of the rolling hills and vineyards of the Tauber Valley outside of the town’s gates.
We found the Tower Trail to be quite safe for families with younger children. There are railings, and small openings for the kids to look through. The walkways are quite narrow in some places, however, so it may be tricky to maneuver if the trail is busy.
The Tower Trail is open 24 hours a day and is completely free to use.
3. Visit The Historical Vault Museum
Located under the Rathaus (Town Hall), the Historical Vault Museum features 12 ancient dungeons that give you a peek into what life was really like during the Thirty Year War.
The museum showcases military equipment like ancient weapons, uniforms, flags and other artifacts. You will even learn about where one of Rothenburg’s mayors died.
You will also be given the opportunity to see the Imperial Dungeon, which is one of the twelve and is considered Rothenburg’s oldest prison. The Imperial Dungeon houses a guardhouse, a torture room and three jail cells.
Entry to the museum is through a low, narrow passage that’s dark, wet and cold, presumably helping visitors to imagine how it may have felt to be led to a cell here. Of course, this may also make things a little hard to handle for the kids in your family, so just be aware.
The museum is open daily from April 1st to November 1st, and on weekends only during the rest of the year. Entry fee – adult €4, child (6-10 years) €2.
Address: Marktplatz 1, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Mon-Sun: 10 am – 5 pm
Website
4. Climb the Tower at the Rathaus
One of the best things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to climb to the top of the Rathaus tower. Located on the west side of the Marktplatz, the Rathaus is a pretty impressive building.
If you look closely, you may notice that the Rathaus is actually a mix of 13th-century Gothic and 16th-century Renaissance styles. This fascinating blend of architecture is actually due to reconstruction efforts after a fire destroyed part of the building in 1501.
Just a heads up, there are 220 steps to the top, and it actually gets pretty narrow and steep near the top. The climb might not be good for younger kids.
The tower costs €2.50 per person and is open seasonally. Be sure to check the website in advance to see if and when it’s open!
Address: Marktplatz 1, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Times: Seasonal Hours – check the website for times.
Website
5. Watch the Ratstrinkstube Clock Chime the Hour
Marktplatz is located in the heart of Rothenburg ob der Tauber and is the main square. As one of the busiest parts of town, this is where you will find the Rathaus (City Hall), many restaurants and shops, the Rothenburg Tourist Office, a farmers’ market in the summer, as well as the Ratstrinkstube, or Councilor’s Tavern.
The Ratstrinkstube’s clock tower chimes every hour on the hour between 10 am and 10 pm. Although not as grand as Munich’s glockenspiel, this one also tells a story.
The small windows next to the clock’s face open up and characters are seen drinking their steins of beer, reenacting the legendary story of the brave mayor who drank nearly a gallon of wine in order to save his city. Crowds typically gather each hour to watch the clock do its thing, so you may want to come early to grab a good spot!
Address: Marktplatz 1, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Times: Hourly from 10 am – 10 pm
Website
6. Get an Instagram-Worthy Photo at Plönlein
Plönlein is the most photographed location in Rothenburg. This picturesque intersection of two streets is iconic and instantly recognizable (just Google Rothenburg and you’ll see!).
The term Plönlein translates to a “small square at a fountain”. As such, Plönlein refers to the yellow half-timbered crooked house with its fountain. The tower on the left, the Siebersturm, leads to the Spital quarter, and the tower on the right, the Kobolzeller Tor (built in 1360!), opens towards the Tauber Valley.
The yellow house, along with the two towers of the old city wall, make for a gorgeous Instagram-worthy photo! But with all the tourists that flock to Rothenburg daily, it’s pretty difficult to get a picture of this infamous square.
Your best bet on capturing the perfect photo is either early in the morning, or early evening after all the tour buses leave.
Address: u. Schmiedgasse, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Website
7. Explore the Burggarten
Once the location of the Stauferburg Castle, the Burggarden, or Castle Garden, now marks the spot where the castle once stood. Even though the castle was destroyed in the mid-1300s, the gardens still provide one of the most beautiful places in Rothenburg to relax and admire the views.
The Burggarten is less than a 10-minute walk from the Marktplatz, making it pretty accessible from anywhere in town. Once you enter through the Burgtor (Castle Gate) and turn to the left, you’ll find some incredible views of the Old Town and the Tauber Valley.
Aside from the views, the main attraction at the Burggarten is the formal 17th and 18th-century gardens. The gardens feature eight sandstone sculptures that represent the four seasons and the four elements.
The Castle Garden is definitely one of the best FREE things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. And because it is a public garden, it is open 24 hours a day.
Add to this the fact that there are fewer crowds in the garden as compared to within the city walls, and you have the perfect place to enjoy a snack, let the kids run around for a bit, or just enjoy some downtime.
Address: Alte Burg, 91541, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Website
8. Take the Night Watchman Tour
One of the most popular guided tours that you can take in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, is the Night Watchman tour. This unique tour is family-friendly, with a slow pace that makes it easy enough for both the very young, and the older adults who may have some mobility issues, to follow along.
The Night Watchman tour is roughly an hour long, and takes you from the Marktplatz, through the cobblestone streets and past the enchanting buildings inside Rothenburg’s city walls.
The tour is led by the night watchman, who is dressed in traditional medieval attire. As the group strolls around town, the watchman recounts historical stories, and legends, even adding in a few humorous anecdotes.
The cost of the tour is €9 for adults and kids under 12 are free. The Night Watchman Tour lasts for 1 hour and starts at Marktplatz every Friday and Saturday night at 8 pm for English speakers. The German language tour begins at 9:30 pm in the same place.
If you are interested in taking the tour, no reservations are needed. Just make sure to show up on time at the meeting point in Marktplatz! Of course, if you are interested, you can reserve a 1-hour Private Night Watchman Tour as well.
9. Admire the Double Bridge
The Double Bridge is another one of Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s popular landmarks. First built in the 1330s, and later refurbished in the 1750s, the bridge spans the Tauber Valley River connecting Rothenburg to the town of Leuzenbronn.
The Roman-styled double bridge is unique, in that it is literally two stone bridges stacked one above the other. The arches are quite photogenic, and the views of the Old City and the countryside from the bridge are incredible.
The Double Bridge is only a ten-minute walk from the Plönlein, so easy to get to if you are strolling through Rothenburg.
Address: 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Website
10. Check out St. James’s Church
Europe is definitely known for its incredible cathedrals, so it should come as no surprise that Rothenburg is also home to one. The St. James Church dates back to 1485 and is a must-see when visiting Rothenburg.
Located in the heart of town, this Gothic-styled church took an astonishing 170 years to build and is most known for its famous Holy Blood altarpiece. Built by Tilman Riemenschneider in the early 16th century, the altar depicts scenes from The Last Supper.
In addition to the Holy Blood Altar, St. James Church is also home to some incredible stained glass windows, as well as a second noteworthy altar. The Twelve Apostles Altar was completed in 1466 by Friedrich Herlin.
You can either take a guided tour of St. James Church or have the option of taking an audio guide to learn more about the church as you explore the church at your own pace. The cost to enter the church is €2.50 per person.
Address: Klostergasse 15, 91541, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Mon-Sat: 10am-6:30pm, Sun: 11am-6:30pm
Website
11. Try a Schneeball
You can’t go to Rothenburg without trying a Schneeball (‘snowball’). This local specialty treat consists of a ball of fried pastry, covered in either icing sugar, chocolate, or other fun toppings, and sometimes even filled with Marzipan.
These cookie-like treats have existed in Rothenburg for over 400 years, and we found them to be absolutely fantastic! We tried the classic icing sugar Schneeball (which was my fave), and one covered in chocolate.
Just a heads up, make sure that you have some napkins! They were quite messy to eat, but filling and delicious!
12. Venture to Toppler Castle
Toppler Castle is another iconic landmark in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Previously a weekend house for the town’s legendary mayor, Heinrich Toppler, the castle is a house perched on a medieval tower.
Built in 1388, this castle with its unique architecture can be found in the Tauber Valley and accessed via the Double Bridge. Toppler Castle is about a 30-minute walk from the Castle Gardens.
The castle is open year-round but is closed in November. The cost to enter is €3.
Address: Taubertalweg 100, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Fri-Sat: 1 pm – 4 pm
Website
13. Brave the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum
Definitely one of the more unique things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to go to the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum. However, we would not recommend this attraction for younger children, as the subject matter is quite gruesome.
This intense museum covers over 1,000 years of crime and punishment history in Europe. Head down into the vaulted cellar where you will find the heart-stopping collection of torture devices like racks and thumbscrews.
The museum also has an interesting exhibit that talks about public humiliation, complete with a collection of shame masks. So if you are interested in the history of the Middle Ages, then you are bound to find the documents about the church and the law, the inquisition hears, and even the witch hunts, to be incredibly fascinating.
The Medieval Crime and Justice Museum is self-guided only. The information signs at each of the exhibits are conveniently posted in both German and English.
The cost is €8 for adults, €5 for students, €4 for children ages 6+, and free for children under 6.
Address: Burggasse 3-5, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Times: April – October from 10 am – 6 pm
Website
14. Make a Wish at the Georgsbrunnen
Located in the Marktplatz, the St. George Fountain is a wonderful spot for taking pictures, letting the kids splash their hands on a hot day, or just people-watching in the square. The 400-year-old fountain, depicting St. George fighting a dragon, is actually quite large holding 26,417 gallons of water.
Built in 1446, this fountain was one of the most prominent landmarks in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. As a result, if you happen to be visiting during the winter, the town often puts up a glass facade to protect the pillar and statue from the cold.
Does Georgsbrunnen look familiar?
Fun fact: A replica of the statue can be found in the German Pavilion in Walt Disney World, Orlando!
15. Get into the Christmas Spirit at Kathe Wohlfahrt’s Rothenburg Christmas Store and Museum
It doesn’t matter what time of the year you find yourself in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, nothing will get you into the Christmas spirit more than a visit to the German Christmas Museum and Christmas Store!
Tucked inside a beautiful Christmas store just around the corner from the Marktplatz, the museum takes you on a journey through the history of Christmas, and how the holiday’s traditions and decorations have evolved throughout the years.
And the store is definitely a Christmas wonderland! From the moment you enter, you will be greeted with an explosion of Christmas decorations, ornaments, nutcrackers, and even a 16-foot-tall revolving Christmas tree! It truly is a sight to behold!
The museum is relatively inexpensive to visit, and won’t take up too much time. The cost is about €5 per adult, €2 for children, or €11 for a family. You can even take a guided tour!
Note that entry into the Christmas store is free, so you can shop for souvenirs, ornaments, and unique Christmas decor without having to pay an entry fee. Both the museum and the Christmas village are open year-round and are located in the same building.
Address: Herrngasse 1, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: 11am-4:30pm
Website
16. Learn More About Local History at the RothenburgMuseum
Located in the former Dominican convent, The RothenburgMuseum should definitely be on your list of things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This museum covers eight centuries of Rothenburg’s history and features paintings, antique weaponry, home decor, and more.
But one of the biggest attractions that this museum has to offer, has to be the preserved Dominican monastery kitchen. The oldest of its kind in Germany, the kitchen once used by Dominican nuns actually dates back to 1260!
It is also quite interesting to note, that the outer walls of the museum are actually made up of the last remains of the oldest city wall in Rothenburg from the 13th century.
Daily operating times change seasonally. Entrance fees are €5 for adults, €4 for students, €3 for children 6-18, and free for children under 6.
Address: Klosterhof 5, 91541, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Times: Daily from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm (April – October)
Website
17. Wander Through the Spital Bastion Gate
Located on the southern side of the city, the Spital Bastion Gate is to the left of the Plönlein. The rounded gate houses a few canons and has an area for visitors to walk up into the citadel, as well as around the base.
Completed in 1537, it is considered the newest portion of Rothenburg’s fortification walls. The lettering on the gate’s arch says “Pax intrantibus – Salus exeuntibus”, meaning “Peace to those who enter and health to those who leave”.
Address: Spitalgasse 55, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Website
18. Visit the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market
What would a fairy-tale town like Rothenburg ob der Tauber be, without an equally dreamy Christmas Market? Every year beginning at the end of November, Rothenburg sparkles with twinkling Christmas lights, decorations, and vendors selling delectable Christmas treats.
Known as the “Reiterlesmarkt,” this traditional German Christmas Market takes over Rothenburg’s Marktplatz square. Expect to find wonderfully decorated stalls filled with delicious culinary treats, local crafts, gift items, ornaments, and of course, Glühwein!
Address: Marktplatz 1, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Website
19. Go Shopping in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Strolling through the streets of this magical town may be enough for some, but for us, one of our favourite things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is shop! We don’t necessarily spend a fortune, but wandering in and out of all the incredible little boutiques is an absolute joy.
Some of the best things to buy in Rothenburg ob der Tauber include medieval-themed gifts, Christmas ornaments and decor, Franconian wine, unique teddy bears, and my favourite, homemade ceramic houses. Prices in most of the shops are on the steep side, but if you find a unique treasure, it may be totally worth it!
20. Attend a Festival in Rothenburg
Although Rothenburg’s Christmas Market is by far the most popular event, the city does hold a number of other festivals throughout the year.
One of the most popular events is the Master Draught Festival (Meistertrunk) held every year in May on the Pentecost weekend.
The festival retells the story of when the city was conquered by the troops of General Tilly during the Thirty Year War. Rothenburg was narrowly saved from destruction by the city mayor Nusch.
As the story goes, Nusch impressed the enemy general Tilly by drinking 3 1/4 litres in one shot. This story is not only reenacted by theatre groups throughout the year but it is also depicted by the clock tower animatronics in the Marktplatz!
Fun fact: The Master Draught Festival was added to the UNESCO German list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2014.
The second most popular event held in Rothenburg is the Imperial City Festival. In essence a ‘Renaissance Fair,’ Rothenburg transforms back into a medieval town during the first weekend in September.
During this festival, you are sure to find tons of historical re-enactment groups. On Friday evening, there’s even a torchlit procession accompanied by fireworks!
Both of these popular Rothenburg festivals are family-friendly and free to visit.
21. Go for a Hike in the Tauber River Valley
One of the best places to go for a walk, hike or bicycle ride in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, is in the Tauber Valley. Just a few minutes’ walk from the city center, will take you out through the city gates and into lush vineyards, meadows, fields, and even forests.
There are approximately 13 different trails accessible from just outside of Rothenburg. So depending on how much time you have, whether you have kids in tow, and what difficulty level you are up for, you will have a few routes to choose from.
How to Get to Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is located near the centre of Germany, in northern Bavaria. It is considered a popular day trip from Munich, Frankfurt Stuttgart and Nuremberg.
There are several different ways to get to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Depending on your time, budget and who is travelling with you, driving, taking the bus or train, or hopping on an organized tour are the best options.
Driving to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Driving to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is by far the easiest and most convenient option. The problem is parking once you have arrived. More on that later.
Here are the approximate driving times from the nearest major cities:
- Munich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber – 243 km – 2 hours 15 minutes
- Frankfurt to Rothenburg ob der Tauber – 182 km – 1 hour 50 minutes
- Stuttgart to Rothenburg ob der Tauber – 149 km – 1 hour 34 minutes
- Nuremburg to Rothenburg ob der Tauber – 80 km – 1 hour 15 minutes
🚗 Need to rent a car? Find the best car rental prices here.
Taking Public Transportation to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Germany has a first-class public transportation system. As such, it should be pretty easy to find the perfect route to get you to Rothenburg.
Unfortunately, since Rothenburg ob der Tauber is such a small town, the only direct train service is from Steinach or Ansbach. This means if you are coming from one of the bigger cities, you will need to transfer.
For instance, it takes just over two hours by train from Frankfurt to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. But just a heads up, there is no easy route from Munich!
You can find the best train routes available on the Deutsche Bahn website.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Organized Tours
A third option, which is actually really great, is to take a guided tour. Hop on a coach bus for an organized day tour from either Munich or Frankfurt.
Many of these tours take care of everything from meals, to attraction tickets, depending on the tour.
Click on the links below to find all the details you need to book your tour:
- Day trip to Rothenburg and Nördlinger from Munich
- Day trip to Rothenburg from Frankfurt.
- Day trip to Heidelberg and Rothenburg from Frankfurt.
Or check out even more Rothenburg Germany day tour options.
Public parking in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Unfortunately, the Old Town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is mostly vehicle-free. This makes staying overnight a little inconvenient as you may have to unload your luggage at your hotel, and then drive outside of town to park.
On the plus side, they are numerous public parking lots located just outside the city walls. The lots are easy to find and the cost to park is not outrageous.
Parking costs approximately €1.20 per hour between 8 am and 6 pm, with the ticket machines accepting both cards and coins. The best parking can be found on the outskirts of the old town, in parking lots like here and here.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany?
Although many people plan day trips to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, we would recommend at least spending the night in this charming little town. In fact, spending at least two days here will give you all the time you need to truly experience the town’s magic.
The extra day will allow you more time to explore some of the unique museums, wander the colourful streets, try some of the incredible restaurants, and experience everything Rothenburg has to offer both during the day and at night.
And if you are looking for just one good reason to spend the night in Rothenburg, it’s so you can experience the town without the crowds, and perhaps take those Instagram-worthy photos you were hoping to get!
Is One Day Enough Time in Rothenburg ob der Tauber?
Although you can probably see almost everything in Rothenburg ob der Tauber in one day, we would definitely say that it is not enough time to fully enjoy all the awesome things this little Bavarian town has to offer.
The disadvantage of a day trip to Rothenburg is that you are visiting during the busiest time. Paired with a tight schedule, you will find yourself rushing through the attractions, rather than going at a relaxed pace.
In our opinion, one day in Rothenburg is enough to decide if you should plan a return trip for a weekend getaway!
When is the Best Time to Visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber?
Honestly, this fairy-tale town is magical no matter what time of the year you visit. However, there are certain perks to visiting Rothenburg at certain times of the year.
The summer is when you will find the best weather in Rothenburg. The streets are filled with blooming flowers, and the farmer’s market in Marktplatz is in full swing. Summertime is also the busiest time of year to visit Rothenburg, with the narrow cobblestone streets crowded with day-tripping tourists.
The fall in Rothenburg is an incredible time to visit. Not only is the weather a little cooler, but there are fewer crowds to deal with. One of the biggest perks of visiting Rothenburg in the Fall is when the Tauber Valley is ablaze with the vibrant colours of the changing leaves.
Winter/Christmas time in Germany is pure magic. Although the cold weather and snow are pretty much expected, it’s undeniable that it adds to the town’s charm! From the end of November until the end of December you will also find Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s Christmas market in full swing. Besides, a nice hot cup of Glühwein will warm you right up!
Where to Stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
So if you have decided to take our advice and spend the night in Rothenburg, we have put together a list of the best places to stay. We would definitely recommend choosing accommodations that are within the city walls.
Unfortunately, many of the hotels in Rothenburg have smaller rooms that cannot accommodate families. So although there are quite a few gorgeous hotels in town, we have decided to focus our list on the best places to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber for families.
One word of advice, be sure to book your accommodations in advance, as the best guesthouses are small and fill up quickly!
Family-Friendly Hotels
- Hotel Rappen Built in 1603, this gorgeous hotel is only an 8-minute walk from Marktplatz. Fully renovated and with family rooms that can accommodate four people, this hotel is a lovely choice. Your stay also includes free breakfast and onsite parking.
- Hotel BurgGartenpalais This hotel is located between the Marktplatz and the Burggarten. Able to accommodate four people in their family room, the hotel also offers onsite parking and free breakfast. Be sure to check out their beautiful rose garden and outdoor terrace!
- Tilman Riemenschneider Located in a 16th-century building, and just a quick two-minute walk from St.James church, this beautiful property features a restaurant serving Franconian food, a fitness area, and onsite parking.
- Hotel Uhl With beautiful views of the Tauber River, this hotel is only about a 5-minute walk from Marktplatz. Enjoy the attached restaurant that serves Franconian specialties as well as the dessert counter serving Schneeballen. Hotel Uhl not only provides free breakfast and onsite parking, but they also offer bicycle rentals for guests to explore the surrounding area.
- Akzent Hotel Schranne This family-run hotel is located just 10 minutes from St. James church in the heart of Rothenburg. Enjoy Bavarian and Franconian specialties served out on the scenic terrace near the Old Town walls. Onsite parking and breakfast are available for a fee.
- Hotel-Gasthof Goldener Greifen Located close to both the Marktplatz and Plönlein, this 640-year-old hotel is a real gem. Each morning, they serve a delicious German breakfast in their attached restaurant. Free parking is included with your stay.
🛎️ See the complete list of Rothenburg ob der Tauber Hotels here.
Where to Eat in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
As always, one of our family’s favourite ways to experience a new place is through food. Whether it’s a regional meal, a traditional dish, or just a popular treat, we love to try as much as we can!
From cafes to fine dining restaurants, and everything in between, there are a wide variety of restaurants in Rothenburg ob der Tauber to choose from. Here are our top recommendations for the best restaurants in Rothenburg ob der Tauber that you really should try:
Zur Höll: This charming restaurant is one of the most popular places to eat in Rothenburg. The cozy little restaurant is actually located in one of the oldest buildings in the city. Not only is the food good, but the service is also exceptional. You will definitely need to make reservations in advance if you want to experience this gem.
Klosterstuble: Located in a beautiful old hotel, this restaurant is a must-try. With quaint historical vibes and a delicious menu blending Franconian and Bavarian dishes, you are sure to find a dish you can’t resist!
Alter Keller: Serving German specialties, local wine and comfort food, this charming family-owned restaurant does not disappoint. Just off the beaten path, Alter Keller still gets quite busy, so a reservation is recommended.
Backerei Striffler: Not a restaurant, but a cute little cafe that is definitely worth mentioning. If you are looking to try a few schneeballen, or indulge in some German cakes and pastries along with your afternoon coffee, then this is the place to go! Right off the main square, they even have some outdoor seating available.
Altfränkische Weinstube Hotel: This gorgeous wine bar is filled with plenty of old-world charm. Between the antique decor, a fireplace and candlelight, it’s a perfect place for a romantic evening or a cozy family dinner. Serving Bavarian and Franconian comfort food, the menu is filled with delicious options.
Vito: If you are craving Italian food, head over to Vito’s. Located right by the Weisser Turm, this restaurant boasts housemade pasta, a delicious array of pizzas, and meat dishes to suit every appetite.
Reichskuchenmeister: With an incredible outdoor terrace overlooking St. James church, this restaurant is popular in the summertime. The menu includes many Franconian dishes, game meats, soups, salads, burgers, and an incredible list of flammkuchen.
Tips on How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Rothenburg
Visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber is actually pretty simple. However, we have a few tips that will help you to navigate the city a little easier, as well as a few pointers on how you can make your visit even better.
- There is actually more than one city named Rothenburg in Germany! If you are planning to visit, make sure you are headed to the right one! Always search for Rothenburg ob der Tauber!
- Spend the night. We can’t say it enough! Although you can see the city in a day, an overnight stay allows you to see the town without the crowds, and enjoy a slower-paced visit.
- Try to book a hotel with included parking. If you are driving to Rothenburg for an overnight stay, try to book a hotel with included parking. It makes it easier, especially if you are travelling with younger kids.
- Save some money by visiting in the off-season. Not only will you find Rothenburg ob der Tauber to be less busy in the shoulder seasons, but accommodations will be less expensive and easier to come by.
- Many shops are closed on Sundays. Just as in much of Europe, Germany generally shuts down on Sundays. Because Rothenburg is very tourist-oriented, you will find some shops and attractions open. You should check the various websites before visiting, to avoid disappointment.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany – FAQs
YES! Rothenburg ob der Tauber is absolutely worth visiting with kids. With all the incredible history and things to see and do, you really need to add this magical place to your Germany itinerary.
Not only is Rothenburg rich in medieval history, but it is also situated at the north end of the aptly named ‘Romantic Road’. As one of the prettiest towns in Germany, Rothenburg’s picturesque streets and stunning architecture are a huge reason why tourists flock to the town every year.
In German, Rothenburg ob der Tauber means “Red fortress above the Tauber”. This means that Rothenburg is named after its location on a plateau overlooking the Tauber River.
During the Middle Ages, Rothenburg was actually Germany’s second-largest city, with an impressive population of 6,000. But today, Rothenburg is considered the country’s most preserved medieval town.
YES! Many people do not realize that Rothenburg is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site due in part to the fact that the town is a living, working, double-walled Medieval city.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany with Kids
With so many incredible things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you will definitely want to spend a couple of days exploring this amazing and magical town.
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