Ever heard of Bamberg? No? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a wild train ride to a place where time travel isn’t a sci-fi fantasy.
Bamberg is a German town where medieval knights could be clanking down the cobblestone streets, and at the same time, you can sip on local beer that tastes like it’s been brewed by wizards.
Let’s dive into this hidden Bavarian gem, where every corner tells a story, every pint has a history, and every visit feels like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Image Credit: Getty Images, fhm. Image Location: Bamberg, Germany
Is it Bamberg or Bamburg?
The spelling of Bamberg is a common mix-up. While it’s easy to slip an extra “u” in there, the correct spelling is Bamberg.
Why Bamberg rocks
- It’s a time capsule of European heritage
- The smoky Rauchbier beer is top-notch
- The architecture is mind-blowing—think Gothic meets Baroque
- And it’s not swamped with tourists, so you can really soak in the vibes
A Bavarian jewel: what is Bamberg, Germany known for?
Bamberg isn’t your typical Bavarian town. Yes, there’s beer and Bratwurst, but there’s also a labyrinth of streets lined with buildings that have stood the test of time, each with a story to tell. Bamberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its well-preserved medieval city center, a rarity in a country where many cities were rebuilt after World War II.
Image Credit: Getty Images, fhm. Image Location: Bamberg, Germany
Bamberg’s architectural wonders: a feast for the eyes
Bamberg is like an open-air museum of architectural styles.
- You’ve got the Bamberg Cathedral, a showstopper with its mix of Romanesque and Gothic vibes, standing proud since the 11th century.
- Then there’s the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) chilling in the middle of the river, like it couldn’t decide which side of the bank was cooler. It’s got this quirky, frescoed façade that looks straight out of an artist’s wild daydream.
- The New Residence (Neue Residenz) with its jaw-dropping Baroque architecture and the Rose Garden is where you get those postcard-perfect selfies.
- And let’s not forget about the little guys—the half-timbered houses in Bamberg’s streets. They might not be as grand as the cathedrals or palaces, but they add a cozy, charming vibe to the town, making you feel like you’ve time traveled.
Bamberg has kept its medieval layout and buildings through thick and thin, wars, and all sorts of history. Exploring it today feels like stepping into a different era, where every corner you turn, you’re hit with a “wow” moment.
Echoes of the past: the ghost of the US Army Base in Bamberg, Germany
The US Army Garrison Bamberg, once a buzzing hub of American military life, is now a chapter of history. Although it closed in 2014, its presence is still felt in the city’s American-style street names and the cultural exchange it fostered.
Altenburg Castle, Bamberg: a throne above the clouds
Sitting way up on Bamberg’s highest hill, Altenburg Castle is like your ultimate medieval lookout point, giving you those epic views. Think back to 1109—that’s when this old gem started its journey from being a tough-guy fortress to a fancy bishop’s pad, and now, it's pretty much the symbol of Bamberg’s never-say-die spirit.
Image Credit: Getty Images, fhm. Image Location: Bamberg, Germany
Where to stay in Bamberg, Germany
The choice of hotels in Bamberg reflects its blend of historical charm and modern comfort. For those intrigued by history, consider staying in the Altstadt, the old city, where hotels are often nestled in beautifully restored medieval buildings.
The bustling city center, near the Maximiliansplatz, is perfect for those seeking boutique hotels with twenty-first-century amenities and easy access to shops and restaurants.
If tranquility is what you’re after, the residential areas around the University of Bamberg offer cozy guest houses with a more laid-back vibe.
Each area in Bamberg has its own atmosphere, so every traveler finds a spot that resonates with their preferences, be it a dive into history or a contemporary urban stay.
Top 10 hotels in Bamberg
- Hotel Nepomuk. Cozy, water-surrounded spot. Ideal for a romantic escape in Bamberg.
- Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg. Royal vibes next to the Old Town—a history lover’s dream.
- Best Western Hotel Bamberg. Comfy and central with a great breakfast to start your day.
- ibis Styles Bamberg. Bright, fun, and easy on the wallet—perfect for a lively stay.
- Boutique Hotel Villa Katharina. Small, serene, with a lovely garden—a couple’s hideaway.
- Hotel Bamberger Hof Bellevue. Elegant with stunning rooftop city views.
- Tandem Hotel. The go-to for cyclists, right in the city’s heart.
- Altstadthotel Molitor. A beautiful mill-turned-hotel, mixing old charm with comfort.
- Hotel Brudermühle. Riverside charm with top-notch Franconian food.
- Hotel Garni Altenburgblick. Affordable and quiet, with scenic castle views.
What to try in Bamberg, Germany: a culinary and brewing to-do list
Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Bamberg, Germany
- Rauchbier. Brewed with smoked malt, this beer is like a campfire in a glass. The best place to try it is Schlenkerla, a legendary historic brewpub in Bamberg.
- Bamberger Hörnla. Nope, not a musical instrument, but a potato with nutty flavor that’s got its own fan club.
- Franconian sausage. Forget what you know about sausages; these little guys are next-level delicious. Pair them with a local beer, and you’re in sausage heaven.
- Bamberg onion. It’s an onion, but not as you know it. Stuffed with minced meat and baked to perfection, it’s a dish that’s both humble and mind-blowingly tasty.
- Kloße. Think of the fluffiest, most comforting dumpling you can imagine—that’s Kloße. Perfect with a meaty gravy or just on their own.
- Obatzda. Cheese lovers, assemble! This Bavarian cheese delicacy is creamy, tangy, and downright addictive. Spread it on some fresh bread, and you’ve got yourself a snack that’s hard to put down.
- Bamberger Zwiebelkuchen. This golden onion pie is a love letter to onions. It’s savory, it’s heartwarming, and it’s the kind of comfort food you’ve been dreaming of on rainy days.
- Prinzregententorte. A cake fit for royalty, with layers upon layers of chocolatey goodness. Perfect for rounding off a hearty Bamberg meal.
- Local Franconian wines. Beer’s not the only star in town. The Franconian wine scene is like a hidden treasure, with varieties that are crisp, refreshing, and perfect for a sunny day in Bamberg. Start with silvaner, a locals’ favorite, and see where it takes you.
Bamberg offers a slice of history so vivid it feels like walking into a 4-D history book, but with way better food and beer. With the Trainline app, your Bavarian adventure is at your fingertips. So, pack your bags, grab your etickets, and let Bamberg blow your mind!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Bamberg, Germany
