Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria | The Storybook town of Germany

Strolling the cobblestone streets of old Rothenburg ob der Tauber was like diving into the pages of the storybooks that I used to read as a child, or to my daughter when she was a little girl. I had read about the town and saw photos prior to my visit, but seeing it first hand was marvelous. It was like walking into a fairytale.

The town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is located in Bavaria, Germany which is one of my favorite locations in Europe. Many of the towns in Bavaria are filled with colorful half timbered houses, cobblestone streets and flower filled window boxes. The medieval towns in the area are one of the reasons that I fell in love with the state of Bavaria.

Rothernburg is significant for being one of the best medieval towns that has maintained its originality over the centuries. The town is part of the Romantic Road, which is a picturesque scenic route in southern Germany. It is one of the most popular towns in Bavaria to visit, so it is filled with tourists from all over the world.

City Wall and Towers – Rothernburg, like many other medieval towns is surrounded by a wall with towers. What is impressive about their city wall is it is one of three in Germany that is completely intact. You can walk it by climbing the steps to the of the wall and walking the Tower Trail, which is open around the clock. It is an exciting and historic addition to visiting this medieval town.

Mechanical Town Clock – Located in the town square there is an enchanting tower clock that was built in the late 17th century. The clock displays the month, day, hour and minute, as well as a fun mechanical drinking scene on the hour. Nusch, the town mayor of the time, is portrayed drinking over three liters of wine, non-stop, in order to to save the town in 1631. It was very enjoyable and humorous to watch, as it brought many smiles in the town square.

Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Store – If you are a Christmas fanatic then you must step into the Käthe Wohlfahrt store, where it is celebrated all year long. I had already planned on coming in and purchasing a couple of wooden nutcrackers and ornaments, and was overwhelmed but delighted by everything in the store. It is a magical shop, so be sure to make room in your suitcase!

For store information, please visit – Käthe Wohlfahrt Rothernburg

If you were to visit one Bavarian town, which I do not recommend, it should be Rothenburg ob der Tauber. I strongly suggest on visiting as much of Bavaria as possible, but if it you only have time for one, then check out Rothenburg. Spend a lovely day strolling the storybook streets, walk the city wall, watch the mechanical town clock, eat some schnitzel and do not forget to shop at Käthe Wohlfahrt. Most of all, enjoy the best medieval town in Bavaria!

For more information, please visit – Rothenburg ob der Tauber