Ciara and I arrived in Rothenburg ob der Tauber by train from Stuttgart, a journey that was as seamless as it was scenic. With just one easy transfer, we found ourselves stepping into what felt like a living postcard, a town untouched by time. While the German countryside wasn’t as dramatic as, say, the descent from Kleine Scheidegg to Wengen, it was still a serene and beautiful way to begin our adventure. Before we knew it, we were wandering through cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses, each corner of the town exuding medieval charm.
Having explored Rothenburg, I can confidently say that this is a town that can be easily experienced over a normal weekend. I say “normal” as opposed to a 4-day weekend that you frequently get if you’re fortunate enough to be stationed in Europe. For those kinds of weekends, I’d recommend somewhere like Barcelona, Kos (Greece), Italy (especially in the winter), or even somewhere north like Henningsvær in Norway.
Why visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Visit Rothenburg if you want to experience a cozy, medieval town that’s been immaculately kept. Do like Ciara and I did and walk hand in hand among half-timbered houses lining the cobblestone streets of a historical town. Make your way to the iconic Plönlein, Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s most famous photo motif, and snap a few photos for your family back home. Enjoy a cappuccino in the marktplatz just before nightfall and then go on a ghost tour with the town executioner.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a town you visit when you have just enough time to escape your city but not enough time to snowboard in the Dolomites. It’s a place you fall more and more in love with as you walk alongside centuries of history. Long story short: visit this place if you want to say, “hey, I’ve been there” every time you catch a glimpse of a postcard from a German old town.
What to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
One of the biggest highlights of this town is the lack of cars within the old town. So, for that reason, the main activity I suggest is simply walking around and admiring the sights. Rothenburg is like Rome in a sense that you’re basically inside a giant, outdoor museum. Everywhere you look, there’s another fascinating piece of history right in front of you, and then another piece just behind that.
1. Walk on the City Wall
The Old Town city wall stretches for about four kilometers, and visitors can walk the entire length if they wish. Plan on about two and a half hours to complete the entire thing, or just walk portions of the wall like Ciara and I did.
We started our walk near the northern edge and followed the wall toward the Gallows Gate. From above, we admired the sea of red rooftops that seemed to roll endlessly before us. It felt like floating above a medieval world, with each timbered house and winding street telling its own story.
2. Admire one of the 42 towers and 6 gates
Back in the 16th century, Rothenburg was known for its mesmerizing skyline. Fast forward 500 years and not a lot has changed. When we woke up from a restful night at the picturesque Romantik Hotel Markusturm, our first stop was the Gallows Gate, conveniently located nearby.
The massive stone archways supporting towering spires above them were awe-inspiring. I imagined knights passing through these gates centuries ago, preparing for battle just beyond the thick wooden doors. From there, we made our way to the northern flank of town to see the Hangman’s Tower and Powder Tower—one once home to the town executioner, the other a storage site for gunpowder. The history embedded in these walls is truly tangible!
3. Take photos at Plönlein
Plönlein is likely the reason you decided to visit Rothenburg in the first place. This small place by the fountain (the literal translation of the word) showcases a postcard setting with a yellow half-timbered house, a small fountain, and two of the city’s towers in the background. It’s the image that graces countless postcards and travel guides, and seeing it in person is like stepping into a storybook.
If you’re wondering if that yellow house looks a tad crooked, you’d be correct. And, if you’re wondering why you keep thinking of Pinocchio while you’re here, you’re not alone. That’s because Plönlein’s architecture was chosen by Walt Disney to establish a European medieval scene for the Pinocchio animation!
4. Marvel at Jacob’s Church
Usually, it’s towering gothic steeples that draw me toward historic churches, but with Jacob’s Church, it was something else. Instead, what caught my eye was the massive archway that stretched over one of the streets! I was blown away to see that cars were still driving under this 14th century church.
Just above the archway, a magnificent stained-glass window filters light into the interior, adding to the ethereal beauty of this 14th-century landmark. The craftsmanship and architecture is truly breathtaking here.
5. Stroll to The Double Bridge
While Rothenburg’s Old Town is captivating, venturing just outside its walls offers a fresh perspective. Ciara and I wandered south to the Double Bridge, which provides a stunning view of the town from below. The old town sits perched above the Tauber Valley, its colorful buildings forming a striking contrast against the lush greenery.
While you might mistake the double bridge for an aqueduct given its Roman architecture appearance, the real story is a bit more entertaining. In fact, the reason for the double bridge is due to the original bridge being too short! So, rather than tear it down and start over, the planners simply built another bridge over the first bridge to safely cross the Tauber river.
6. Enjoy the View from the Taubertal
To fully appreciate Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s beauty, you have to step back and take it all in. The best place to do that? The Taubertal. Walk to The Taubertal and admire the entire town of Rothenburg at least once during your visit.
Ciara and I stood on a quiet hillside overlooking the town, debating whether this was the most beautiful view in Rothenburg. Below us, the modest Kobolzell Church sat peacefully, while above us, Rothenburg’s picturesque skyline seemed almost surreal. It was one of those moments where time stood still, and we just breathed it all in. Be sure to check out the castle garden while you’re here as well!
7. Explore the Medieval Crime Museum
I always thought Iron Maiden was just the name of my uncle’s favorite band growing up. Well, thanks to Rothenburg’s Medieval Crime Museum, I was scared straight with the facts. At this museum, visitors can see stretching benches, thumb screws, shame masks, and even a frightening chair with over 100 spikes on it used to extract confessions from those charged with crimes. The spookiest part? The Iron Maiden torture device: an upright casket with iron spikes on the inside.
As eerie as the Medieval Crime Museum may be, it’s also incredibly informative. It’s not just a collection of medieval torture devices—it’s a testament to the evolution of law and justice over the centuries. Walking through the exhibits, Ciara and I saw instruments once used to extract confessions and punish criminals. Everything from spiked interrogation chairs and thumb screws to “simple” shame masks. It’s a sobering reminder of how justice was once carried out and how far society has come. Today, instead of thumb screws and iron maidens, we have courts, judges, and legal representation–much better I’d say!
8. Go on a Tour with the Night Watchman
One of Rothenburg’s most atmospheric experiences is the Night Watchman Tour. As dusk settles over the town, an authentically dressed night watchman—complete with a lantern and horn—guides visitors through Rothenburg’s narrow streets, recounting eerie legends and medieval history. The flickering light, the sound of echoing footsteps on cobblestones, and the watchman’s deep voice create a truly immersive experience.
While Ciara and I didn’t get to do this ourselves (we were too busy enjoying some of the best Mexican food in Germany—yes, in Rothenburg of all places), we wish we had. If you’re looking for a way to see the town in a completely different light—literally—this tour is a must.
9. Eat the Best Mexican Food in Germany…seriously
By far, Restaurant Don Gallo is the best Mexican food I’ve had in all of Germany. Four of the chefs are from Mexico and they even have culinary degrees! The al pastor was decadent and the quesabirria was extremely tender and flavorful. Even the margaritas were delicious, though they could’ve been a tad bigger for what we paid. Overall though, Ciara and I would happily return here again and again.
Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
For an unforgettable stay in Rothenburg, consider staying within the Old Town. Sure, there are hotels outside the city’s walls for better prices. But, you’ll have a more authentic experience if you remain near the action. This was the same advice Ciara and I received when we considered a trip to Marrakech, and it was the best advice we received.
With that, here are three hotel options that cater to different budgets while ensuring a memorable experience:
3-Star Hotel: Hotel-Gasthof Goldener Greifen.
A cozy and historic guesthouse that makes you feel like you’re truly part of Rothenburg’s past. With charming timbered interiors and a warm, family-run atmosphere, it’s an affordable yet immersive way to experience the town.
4-Star Hotel: Romantik Hotel Markusturm (our favorite).
This was our choice, and it couldn’t have been better. Staying here felt like stepping back in time, but with all the comforts of home. The hotel’s old-world charm, complete with timber beams and antique furnishings, made it a highlight of our trip. You’ll love the authentic “skeleton” key they’ll give you for your room as well!
5-Star Hotel: Hotel BurgGartenpalais.
For those wanting a luxurious experience, this elegant hotel offers beautiful suites and a prime location near the town’s top attractions. It’s the perfect blend of historic charm and modern indulgence.
Final Thoughts on Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Rothenburg ob der Tauber isn’t just a place you visit; it’s a place you experience. From walking along the centuries-old city wall to sipping cappuccinos in the Marktplatz, every moment feels like walking through a fairytale setting. And the cherry on top is the bomb Mexican food at Restaurant Don Gallo–trust me.
Ciara and I left with full hearts, countless photos, and an ever-growing love for Germany’s romantic old towns. If you’re looking for an enchanting weekend escape, then Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a perfect candidate.
A memorable and fun experience ❤️
Wow! What a wonderful blog! I want to go there tomorrow!