You can’t help but love Wurzburg, Germany; we certainly do. It is a small town that is steeped in history and culture that happily sits on the banks of the Main River. Visitors can easily spend at least two days discovering its many charms. This 1300 year old city offers museums, cultural sights, an internationally renowned university and ample lodging, restaurants and wine tasting venues. Although nearly destroyed in World War II, Wurzburg has rebuilt itself to its former glory.

Must-See Sights in Wurzburg

Marienberg Fortress
Set atop a hill, with stunning views of the lower town of Wurzburg, the Marienburg Fortress is surrounded by vineyards and hiking trails. It was once a Celtic stronghold, but in 1253 became home to the Prince Bishops of Bavaria. You will want to tour the castle, and visit its Fürstenbau museum.

The “Fürstenbau” – Museum
The restored “Fürstenbau” (Prince Bishops residence) of the Fortress “Marienberg” houses not only the renovated living quarters, but also the city history department of the “Mainfränkisches Museum”. Be sure to view the gold jewelry collection and liturgical vestments. Of special interest are two models of the city: Würzburg in 1525 and Würzburg in 1945.

The Residence of the Prince Bishops
When the Prince Bishops decided to live among the people, they built the over-the-top Rococo palace, now called The Residenz and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We were thoroughly mesmerized  by the gilt, the ornate mirrors, the flamboyant frescoes and tapestries. The works of famous artists such as Tilman Riemenschneider, Balthasar Neumann and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo can also be seen inside. And unbelievably, much of the Residence has been restored from the ravages of war.

St Kilian’s Cathedral
Construction of this cathedral, an exquiste example of German Architecture, began in 788 and was completed in 1188. It is the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany and was intially consecrated in the presence of Charlemagne and reconsecrated in 1967. The cathedral was heavily damaged by fire in 1945, but as with other historical buildings in Wurzburg, it was rebuilt and fully restored by 1989.

The Old Main Bridge
Built in 1133 and rebuilt in 1553, this bridge reminds us of the Charles Bridge in Prague. With six huge statues of  saints in niches on each side of the thoroughfare, this pedestrian / bike bridge is memorable .

Town Hall
The only surviving Romanesque secular building in Wurzburg, Wenseslaus Hall, inside the tower of the Town Hall, dates to the 13th century. Be sure to go to the top floor to view the detailed model of Wurzbrug in ruins after the bombing in 1945. It is a grim reminder of the horrors of war.

Market Square
The heart of this city is surrounded by shops and cafes as well as Mary’s Chapel, a gothic church in a Rococco town. The House to the Falcon is a beautiful, patricain house facing the square.

The Juliusspital
Built in 1576, the Juliuspital was one of the first large-scale charitable institutions in Germany. The hospital is still in use and is supported by its 163 hectare vineyard and wine production. We had a wonderful tour of the grounds including the Rococo pharmacy followed by a wine tasting. The restaurant is really great; it is authentic and the food is delicious.

Where to Stay in Wurzburg

Novotel Wuerzburg 4-star
We stayed at this modern hotel located just blocks from the Residenz and walking distance to the city center. We were impressed by the friendly and efficient staff and the spacious rooms. We recommend it!

Hotel Wurzburger Hof 3-Star
Located near the train station and the wonderful Juliuspital, this hotel is charming and comfortable. All rooms are individually decorated and equipped with bath/shower, cable-TV, minibar and telephone.

Where to Eat in Wurzburg

The Old Main Mill (Alte Mainmuhle)
We had a delicious lunch here, enjoying many of the Franconian specialties of the house. From sausages to gourmet cuisine, you are assured a delicious meal at Alte Mainmuhle.

Weinstuben Juliuspital
Dinner at the Wienstuben Juliuspital was a real treat. We enjoyed the specialty wines as well as a wonderful, traditional schnitzel dinner.