Walking the medieval walls of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
The adorable medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber – referring to the Tauber River – dates back to the tenth century.
I had been here as a young child, then again as a young teenager – meaning it had been many, many years since my last visit. Since I was nearby in Würzburg with my younger son, I thought it would be fun to make a return visit. I’m so glad I did!
It was an easy train trip from Wurzburg. We lucked out with weather. It was March, but sunny and warm – definitely not a given for Bavaria.
It’s pretty picture-perfect with its half-timbered houses and colorful squares. The Gothic spires of Saint Jakob’s church are visible throughout the town, and were fun to glimpse from the walls.
The defensive walls have been preserved – remarkably preserved, as evidenced from all the plaques thanking donors from around the world. It was great fun to walk around the perimeter, with great views over the town and its twisting, cobblestoned streets.
My son was a good sport, since medieval ramparts weren’t built for tall young men of contemporary times. But he did get to enjoy the wall walk Quasimodo-style, which felt period-appropriate. Easily said, when I was not the one doing it!
Years ago, I recall going to the medieval torture museum, which made quite an impression on me at the time. We didn’t have enough time on this daytrip, but it will be on my list the next time I’m back.
Honestly, it was just fun wandering these streets and peeking into shop windows.
We also took advantage of the surprising sunshine, and sat out on the lovely town square to have lunch and enjoy the local beer.
This was a great daytrip. Ive been to Bavaria multiple times in the past, but our visit to Würzburg and Rothenburg made me want to return for a longer visit and more exploring to these pretty, fairytale-perfect little towns.
If you’re traveling in Bavaria, be sure to take time to step back into medieval times in adorable Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Very well worth the visit!
