Town of Bamberg: Germany’s Hidden Gem Unveiled 2024
Town of Bamberg: Germany's Hidden Gem Unveiled 2024
It has already been 11 years since we lived in Munich, Germany. So far we have already managed to visit a large part of this wonderful country – we have seen beautiful lakes and waterfalls, but also the cities with the main attractions. Apart from this general article about Germany, we also wrote about every city, lake and small town we visited and German restaurant ideas. If you want to know more about these beautiful places, we invite you to read the other articles about Germany.
Table of Contents
Germany Map
Informations
Language: The official language is German.
Currency: Euro
Food Prices: Meal in a cheap restaurant=14 EUR, Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant=50 EUR
You can find more information about the visa here.
Things to do
Bamberg Cathedral
Bamberg Cathedral is a church in Bamberg, Germany, completed in the 13th century. The cathedral is under the administration of the Roman Catholic Church and is the seat of the Archbishop of Bamberg. Since 1993, the cathedral has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Town of Bamberg”. It was founded in 1002 by King (and later Emperor) Heinrich II (Henry II) and consecrated in 1012. With the tombs of Henry II and his spouse Cunigunde, the cathedral contains the remains of the only imperial couple that was canonized. With the tomb of Pope Clement II (1005–47) it also contains the only papal grave in Germany, and north of the Alps.
Altes Rathaus
The landmark is built into the Regnitz River, with the Upper and Lower Bridges (originally a private bridge) leading away from it. Inside, the Ludwig porcelain collection belonging to the museums of the city of Bamberg is on display, one of the largest of its kind in Europe.
Neue Residenz Bamberg
The New Residence is a multi-wing, listed building on Cathedral Square in Bamberg, Upper Franconia. From 1604 it was the bishop’s residence of the Bamberg prince-bishops and replaced the old court on the other side of the square in this function. Today the sandstone complex houses the Bamberg State Library and State Gallery. From the rose garden of the New Residence you have a view of St. Michael’s Church and the roofs of the town.
Bamberg old town
A centre of imperial and episcopal power for almost a thousand years, and often referred to as the Rome of Franconia, Bamberg stands on seven hills surrounded by beautiful countryside. Dominated by its imperial cathedral, the town is a unique and superbly maintained masterpiece of urban design, uniting medieval and baroque architecture. Bamberg’s well-preserved old town comprises three historical districts – the episcopal town, the island town and the market gardener’s town. All three are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and provide a fascinating example of how central European towns were built up around the basic layouts established in the early Middle Ages. Bamberg was given special status as far back as 1007, when Heinrich II was building the town into a centre of episcopal and sovereign power, making it the centre of the newly founded diocese and turning it into a second Rome.
Old Court
The precursor to the Old Court was the Castrum Babenberg and the former palace of Emperor Heinrich II. After the foundation of the bishopric in 1007, it was also used as the bishop’s residence. Following the Cathedral fire in 1185 a single-storey palace was built on this spot, which replaced in the 16th century with a splendid German renaissance building. The “Beautiful Gateway” by sculptor Pankras Wagner catches the eye: it depicts a relief of the Mother of God, St. Peter, St. George, St. Kunigunde and St. Heinrich as well as personifications of the rivers Main and Regnitz. The gateway leads into the romantic inner court which is lined with half-timbered buildings.
Michelsberg Monastery
Michelsberg Monastery (also Michaelsberg) is a former Benedictine abbey in Bamberg in Bavaria in the Archdiocese of Bamberg. After its dissolution in 1803, the premises were used for the United Katharinen and Elisabethen Hospital, which was relocated there. This retirement home is still there today.
Klein-Venedig
Schloss Seehof
Schloss Seehof is a Schloss (palace) in Memmelsdorf, Bamberg, Germany. It was built from 1684 to 1695 as a summer residence and hunting lodge for Marquard Sebastian Schenk von Stauffenberg, Prince-bishop of Bamberg.
Our Lady's Parish Church
The church, which is called “Upper Parish” by the locals, is Bamberg’s only purely gothic church. The simple nave was added 50 years after the late gothic choir whose foundations date from 1375 and the upper choir which is supported by flying buttresses. The wedding portal is a striking feature with its gothic statues. The church interior with a nave and two aisles contains baroque furnishings. The painting “The Ascension of Mary” by Tintoretto is a particularly valuable work of art. Picture credits: Peter Eberts, Bamberg
St. Martin's Church
St. Martin’s Church or St. Martin of Tours Church may refer to any one of a number of churches. These are mostly dedicated to Martin of Tours
Altenburg Castle
The Altenburg is a castle that sits on the tallest of the seven hills of Bamberg, southern Germany, overlooking the town. It is located in Upper Franconia, a region in the state of Bavaria, and dates back to at least 1109.
Franconian Brewery Museum
Out of love for brewing tradition and pure, fresh beer, master brewers founded the support association “FränkischesBraumuseum in der Bierstadt Bamberg e.V.” through beer history. With over 1,850 exhibits, we show you living beer culture and the exciting journey from straw to glass. You can marvel at the following authentic departments: brewhouse, malthouse, fermentation and storage cellar, ice cellar, cooperage, filtration and barrel and bottling.
Gärtner- und Häckermuseum
When Bamberg received the title of “World Heritage Site” in 1993, the reason for this was the unique cultural landscape of the inner-city garden areas. The open-air museum in Bamberg’s gardening town is the only museum in southern Germany that is dedicated to the commercial inner-city life of vegetable and wine gardeners, their culture and history. Housed in a typical gardener’s house from 1767, it invites visitors to get to know what it was like to be a gardener around 1900.
Where to stay
A good night’s sleep is particularly important when you are travelling. Germany offers its guests a host of luxurious, charming and also out-of-the-ordinary accommodation.
Whether in the heart of the city, near the lake or surrounded by nature – Germany’s hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses guarantee a relaxing and invigorating stay.
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Luxury hotels we recommend in Bamberg: Hotel National, Altstadthotel Messerschmitt, Hotel Villa Geyerswörth.
Where to eat
Traditional Food and
Desserts to try in Germany
Wurst- There are an estimated 1,500 varieties of sausage in Germany. These are prepared in many different ways and include a range of ingredients and unique spice blends.
Rouladen – This typical German dish consists of bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles wrapped in thinly sliced beef or veal which is then cooked.
Spätzle is especially popular in the south of the country. These soft egg noodles are made from wheat flour and egg and are often topped with cheese (Käsespätzle) and roasted onions.
Eintopf – means ‘one pot’ and refers to the way of cooking rather than its contents. That said, most recipes contain the same basic ingredients: broth, vegetables, potatoes or pulses, and pork, beef, chicken, or fish.
Sauerbraten (meaning ‘sour’ or ‘pickled’ roast) is one of the country’s national dishes. You can make a pot roast by using many different types of meat, which you marinate in wine, vinegar, spices, herbs, and then season for up to ten days.
Kartoffelpuffer are shallow pan-fried pancakes made from grated or ground potatoes mixed with flour, egg, onion, and seasoning.
Kartofflelknödel is the German term for potato dumplings. Potatoes serve as the base for the dumplings, but you can add any spices and croutons you like.
Maultaschen are small sheets of dough filled with various ingredients. Some people like ground beef, while others add smoked meats, including sausages. You can also add onions and herbs to your dumplings.
Of course, all travel enthusiasts and everyone who loves to try new foods have heard about these foods, but these foods are specific to Germany and you must try them when you are here: pretzel, pork schnitzel, potato salad, fried potatoes, currywurst.
Black Forest cherry torte – Alternating layers of rich chocolate cake, cherries, and whipped cream are topped off with more cream, maraschino cherries, and chocolate shavings for a luxurious finish.
Stollen is an authentic German Christmas food. It dates back to the 16th century, and it is most popular in Dresden. It is a flatbread with dried and candied fruits. You can also add chopped or whole nuts and then top the bread off with powdered sugar.
Restaurants
Kachelofen-The inn has existed for over 40 years and is known for its excellent Franconian cuisine such as hearty meat and pan-fried dishes, fish and delicacies. But vegetarian dishes such as fresh mushroom or asparagus dishes and vegetable strudel can also be ordered. Local and freshly tapped beers such as Kellerbier or Rauchbier, as well as exquisite Franconian wines from excellent winemakers, are also offered.
The Pelikan – Franconian-Asian cuisine
Salino – crispy wood-fired pizza in Bamberg
The Eckerts – eating like on a ship – with a view of the Hainpark
Restaurant at the theater: Hoffmann’s steak and fish
Brasserie Bamberg: Sports bar with Franconian cuisine
Domterrassen – With Greek classics, as well as a variety of starters and a selection of meat and fish dishes, the cathedral terraces bring Mediterranean flair to Bamberg. Vegetarians don’t miss out here either and can, for example, enjoy a typical Greek moussaka without any meat. A regularly changing weekly menu with seasonal and regional accents brings all sorts of variety. A special highlight is the view of Bamberg Cathedral.
Efendi – Turkish specialties at Wilhelmsplatz
Cocoon – the finest Asian cuisine and a modern ambience
Saving Tips
- CHOOSE YOUR AIRPORT WISELY: If you’re flying from North America, you’re likely to find the best flight deals into Frankfurt, home to Germany’s largest international airport. However, Frankfurt is five hours away from Berlin and almost four hours away from Munich. Since train tickets can be pricey and gas is expensive, it may be worth paying a little extra to fly closer to your destination.
- TRY A LOW-COST AIRLINE: Consider low-cost airline options from the US to Germany, including Norwegian Airlines.
- Get city tourism cards – Most of the major cities in Germany offer city tourism cards. These include free admission to major museums and attractions, discounts on restaurants, and usually unlimited public transportation. If you plan on seeing a lot, these cards can save you money.
- Get transportation day passes – If you’re going to be using public transportation a lot in a city, get a day pass. Paying for single rides adds up quickly.
- SEASON” SAVINGS: If you can, try to visit Germany in June or September. You’ll find better deals during these months and the weather is still usually very pleasant.
- Book your train early – Trains in Germany are expensive but you can get a saver ticket that is around 40-50% off the standard fare if you book at least a week in advance.
- You can get online for free and make use of the free Wi-fi. Many cafes and renowned chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks offer free Wi-Fi in Germany, as do the various municipal buildings, libraries, parks, and some museums.
- Look out for free museum days – Most museums in Germany offer free admission on certain days or evenings.
- KEEP AN EYE ON SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: Public school in Germany has five main school holidays: winter holidays, spring break, summer holidays, autumn holidays and Christmas holidays.
- Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours or Big Bus tours
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Viator and Get Your Guide : the best activities in town!
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Shopping
Shopping in Bamberg means shopping and strolling in the picturesque old town streets. Bamberg’s pedestrian zone impresses with its balanced coexistence: branches of fashion houses can be found here as well as small and fine boutiques and specialist shops. But shopping in Bamberg is not just shopping in the old town: traditional market days and farmers’ markets in the Bamberg region invite you to enjoy healthy things; The farm-gate sales outlets in the gardening city with their fresh vegetables and flowers are unique.
In Bamberg’s old town, traditional shops and well-known brands invite you to stroll and shop. You can also enjoy the unique atmosphere of the world heritage city. Shopping experiences also await you in Bamberg Land.
Make discoveries at the antique market or shop for healthy local produce at the numerous farmers’ markets: Bamberg’s market days offer a variety of experiences.
Bamberg Shop – From beer mats to nativity scene guides: If you are looking for souvenirs or Bamberg guides, our shop is the right place.
Getting Around
There are a wealth of options when it comes to avoiding driving in Germany. With an effectively nationalized railway network, crossing the country by train means buying a ticket from Deutsche Bahn. At the local level, Germany’s states manage buses, trams, metro networks, suburban trains, and ferries. Public transportation systems in Germany are safe, efficient, and fairly easy to use. As a result, some German cities are starting to shake off the stereotype of being a car-loving nation. Across the country, 30 million passengers use public transportation in Germany on an average day.
There are a wealth of options when it comes to avoiding driving in Germany. With an effectively nationalized railway network, crossing the country by train means buying a ticket from Deutsche Bahn. At the local level, Germany’s states manage buses, trams, metro networks, suburban trains, and ferries.
Modes of public transport in Germany:
S-bahn (city rapid rail), and, as the name suggests, is the fastest form of public transportation.
U-Bahn is the German version of the metro.
Tram – They travel on rails alongside regular roads and have multiple stops within city center areas.
Buses are the mainstay of many German towns and cities, linking further-afield places and operating into the night when the other forms of transport stop running (although S-Bahn and U-bahn trains typically run all night over the weekend in larger cities).
Regional trains are either RB (Regionalbahn), with multiple stops, or RE (Regionalexpress), which are faster and have fewer stops.
Week ticket (Wochenkarte) are valid within specified zones for a week.You can also purchase tickets that are valid for longer (e.g. a month pass) but these usually have to be purchased from an official at the ticketing office.
Group day ticket (Gruppentageskarte) While tickets in Germany generally don’t come cheap, the group day ticket actually offers great value for money if you are travelling in a group of three or more. Usually valid for groups of up to five people, they give unlimited travel for a day or 24 hours within specified zones.
If you are required to validate your ticket it will be printed with something along the lines of “Bitte entwerten” (please validate). To validate it, push your ticket into the slot of one of the validator machines (Entwerter), which you can usually find next to the ticket machines or on the station platform.
In general, there are three types of train services in Germany connecting major urban areas: Intercity-Express (ICE): high-speed trains that reach speeds up to 320km/h. ICE trains have first-class seating and a dining car. Intercity (IC): express trains. IC trains have first-class carriages and usually also have catering services of some kind. EuroCity (EC): Intercity trains with scheduled stops outside of Germany. Not all Intercity-type trains that travel outside of Germany are EC trains, however.
International trains
Germany lies right in the middle of Europe, counting nine different countries as neighbors. As a result, there are plenty of direct international trains running from German train stations. Deutsche Bahn’s high-speed service, the ICE, runs a number of international routes from countries like: Austria, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy, Poland.
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Getting here
There are a total of 36 international airports in Germany, ranging from smaller airfields only operating a few routes and airlines, to mega complexes such as Frankfurt and Munich that transport tens of millions of passengers per year.
In total, there are 16 international airports, 12 of which are considered major airports with over 50,000 passengers. With more than 500,000 aircraft movements and 70 million passengers per year, Frankfurt Airport is the largest in the country.
Airlines are mainly divided into the areas of passenger transport, freight transport, charter flights and ambulance services. By far the largest German airline is the formerly state-owned Lufthansa, which has been fully privatized since 1997.
Frankfurt Airport is the busiest in Germany. Munich Airport, which transported 46,3 million passengers in 2018, is the second busiest, and 24,28 million passengers puts Düsseldorf Airport into position three.
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