Imagine a modern day fairytale town with a medieval twist.

Cobblestone streets, colorful houses and an intact defensive wall dating from 1200 that you can actually walk on. Quirky primitive punishment instruments, making you grateful for being alive. And a museum bringing the Christmas spirit to holidays enthusiasts all year round.

I don’t know about you, but i don’t need more reasons to visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber!

Stopping here on the way back home from our Austrian roadtrip was by no means a random choice. 🙂

If you drop by in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, here is what we enjoyed the most. Just try to not get lost in the charming alleys, in which case prepare for some adventure.

WHAT TO VISIT

• Röderturm + city walls
Climb up to the observation tower. Then stroll along the old defensive walls for the best view of the city.

The only battle you’re gonna have now is with other tourists coming from the opposite direction.

• Medieval Crime museum
Discover instruments of torture over the last 1000 years, medieval legal texts and even guidance on witch trials.

At the end of the tour you’re gonna see life with new eyes. And in our case, with a huge sigh of relief to see daylight after getting out of the dungeon.

• German Christmas museum
For an extra holiday flavor, step into the Christmas museum. Shopping paradise? Checked.

WHERE TO STAY

• Hotel Merian Rothenburg
Rothenburg is packed with lovely accommodations, so you won’t have a hard time finding one. As you might have noticed, we always opt for something a bit out of town for more space and quietness. Hotel Merian was perfect for what we wanted, and within walking distance to the city walls. Loved our little weekend nest!

WHERE TO EAT

• Zur Hoell
One of the best rated restaurants in town offers meaty German classics in the oldest building of Rothenburg.

• Don Gallo
If it was not surprising enough, eating fantastic Mexican food in Germany is just another thing you can do here.

THE CHRISTMAS SPELL

Time to leave this enchanted place behind, not before deciding to come back on Christmas.

We will wander through the festive markets, indulge in pretzels, roasted chestnuts and maybe a bratwurst or two, savor the mulled wine, immerse ourselves in the magical atmosphere of this timeless town. Just trying to imagine how it looks in winter sets my imagination on fire. 🙂

Until then, Rothenburg, auf Wiedersehen!