Set along Bavaria’s famed ‘Romantic Road’, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a medieval gem. Nestled in the lush Tauber valley, this fairytale town of brightly-painted half-timbered houses has enchanted travellers for centuries. The old town is well-preserved and very idyllic, with many of the best places to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber housed in pretty heritage residences. Many travellers choose to visit just for the day, but our Gurus recommend immersing yourself in the town’s magic for a little longer if you can.

The ancient city walls which surround Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s medieval heart date back to the 1200s. Despite being extensively bombed during the Second World War, the town has been painstakingly rebuilt, and is brilliant for exploring on foot. Stroll along narrow streets in the early morning or evening when they’re at their quietest, popping into little boutiques or family-owned bakeries. Plonlein Corner is famously picturesque, and excellent small museums include the Imperial Town Museum, the Christmas Museum and the Medieval Crime Museum.

Ascend the Town Hall’s 220-step tower for dazzling views, before ambling out to the moated 14th-century Toppler Castle and surrounding gardens for further panoramas. The design of the geometric flower beds dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, and will fascinate green-fingered visitors. Expect the best places to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber to fill up fast during the winter months when the Christmas market draws a real crowd, and during the summer Wine Festival, which showcases top local produce and some superb musical performances.

The Best Places to Stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

For the Old Town

• Hotel Markusturm is a pretty 13th-century building in the heart of medieval Rothenburg. Guest rooms are bedecked in antique furnishings, and spacious family-friendly options are ideal for groups of guests of all ages. Hearty buffet breakfasts are served each morning and the best of the Old Town is right on your doorstep.
• Hotel Gotisches Haus is a wonderfully romantic choice for a couple’s weekend away. Atmospheric rooms are decorated with antique furnishings, colourful chintz prints and a real sense of warmth. Kick off your day with big breakfasts in the library, with its timber-clad and exposed stone walls, before heading out to explore. Intimate, central and refreshingly understated.
• Burg Hotel, an ivy-clad inn set within the city walls, with red-tiled roofs and flower-filled window boxes, is utterly charming. Unwind in inviting rooms, suites and villas with friends and family, soak up the sunshine in the monastery garden, or hire bicycles to discover the Tauber Valley on two wheels. A property with character in spades.

For Romantic Luxury

• Hotel Herrnschlossen, set within an 11th-century castle, is immensely striking. Country-style guest rooms feature original brickwork, huge sink-into tubs and lovely garden views. Dine in the charming landscaped gardens, immerse yourself in the sauna, and stroll along the verdant paths of the Frankenhöhe Nature Park.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Nuremberg Airport, just 90km away, or to the much larger Munich International Airport. Travel onwards to Rothernburg by train or taxi.
• Bavaria is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit during the summer months (May to September) for temperatures averaging around 23°C. However, this is peak season and the town will be busy with tourists. Travel during the spring or later autumn for fewer crowds, or in the winter for the Christmas markets.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Nuremberg.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Bavaria.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.