Nearly 2,000 years old and with its ancient heart intact, Regensburg gets placed on many visitors’ list of favorite German cities. It’s set on the mighty Danube River, and with its 12th-century stone bridges, 13th-century cathedral, and countless medieval relics on cobbled streets, Regensburg can make yesterday feel like a thousand years ago. Equal parts romantic, historic, and oddly lively (see the bar scene), there is no shortage of things to do in Regensburg.
Like at so many European hot spots, Regensburg’s high season is roughly mid-May to early September. That’s when you’ll get the warmest temperatures, late-night sun, and lively crowds in the city’s many pubs. Travel in the shoulder season (April–May and September–October) for a lower tourist-to-local ratio and slightly better prices. The holiday season can also be a great time to visit to see the city’s Christmas markets and lit-up streets.
Germany’s rail system leaves most other countries shivering with jealousy—you can get to Regensburg from Munich via a 90-minute train ride. Once in the city, it’s incredibly walkable, as much of Regensburg’s core is pedestrian-only (a car will only be an encumbrance). From there, rent bikes to cut down on travel time. Kayaking the Danube can be a fun way to get around, too.
Regensburg has the most bars per capita of any German city—it also has its own Oktoberfest of sorts, the Regensburger Herbstdult, held in September. Regardless of when you arrive, spend some time in one of the city’s many biergartens, sloshing pints and noshing giant pretzels. The coffee scene doesn’t disappoint either: The oldest coffee shop in the country, Cafe Prinzess, dates back to 1676.
