Rothenburg ob der Tauber – A fairy tale comes true
If you've always wanted to walk through a medieval town where you wonder if a knight is about to come around the corner or a Christmas angel floats from heaven - then Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the right place for you. This city is not only a highlight for international visitors, but also a real gem for those who want to (re)discover Germany.
Welcome to Rothenburg – Germany's Medieval Wonder
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is located in the north of Bavaria and is part of the "Romantic Road", one of the most popular tourist routes in Germany. And yes: it could hardly be more romantic. The old town is like a living museum – completely preserved city walls, cobblestones, half-timbered houses and towers as far as the eye can see.
This city doesn't seem like a place you visit. It feels like a place to return to – even if it's your first time.
Highlights you shouldn't miss
Plönlein – the most famous photo motif
The small half-timbered house with the two branching streets and towers is virtually the postcard motif par excellence. Instagram will love it – so will you.
City Wall TourYou can walk around the city completely on the historic wall - including turrets, viewing platforms and a breeze of knight feeling.
Käthe Wohlfahrt & German Christmas Museum
Christmas – all year round! In Rothenburg you will not only find the largest selection of Christmas decorations, but also a museum that tells the story of the festival. Magical!
Medieval Crime Museum
Not quite as festive, but incredibly exciting. This is about law and order in the Middle Ages – including instruments of torture and sentences that are more likely to be used today ... questionable.
For all those who want to take a deep breath: The Burggarten offers a fantastic view over the Tauber Valley and is ideal for a short breather.
What is the distance between Frankfurt Airport and Rothenburg ob der Tauber?
Not so difficult – if you know how.
Option 1: By train – relaxed & environmentally friendly
- Start: Frankfurt Airport long-distance train station
- Destination: Rothenburg ob der Tauber train station
The journey takes approx. 2.5 to 3 hours and usually requires 2 changes:
- First, take the ICE or RE to Würzburg or Ansbach
- Then we continue with the regional train to Steinach (b. Rothenburg o.d.Tauber)
- And finally with the small regional train directly to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Option 2: CabRide.app – for the last few metres or the full journey in comfort
If you don't feel like making a connection after the train ride, you can simply book a trip from Frankfurt Airport directly to Rothenburg via CabRide.app.
FAQs – Everything you want to know about your Rothenburg trip
How far is Rothenburg from Frankfurt Airport?
About 180 kilometers. By train or car, you need between 2.5 and 3 hours, depending on the connection.
Can I visit Rothenburg in one day?
Yes – but you will regret not having stayed overnight. In the evening, it becomes particularly magical when the day guests are gone and the city comes to rest.
When is the best time to travel?
May to October is wonderful – sunny, colourful, lively. But December has its own magic: Christmas market, glittering lights, mulled wine.
Is Rothenburg family friendly?
Total! Between the city wall, snowballs and the crime museum, even the little ones won't get bored.
Are there good accommodations in the old town?
Yes! From charming inns with wooden beams to modern boutique hotels – often with a view of the market square or the Tauber River.
Do I have to book tickets in advance (e.g. forguided tours)?
Not necessarily, but especially in the high season, it is worth making a reservation for guided tours or special events.
Conclusion: Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Only a train journey away from everyday life
Rothenburg is not a place that you "take with you quickly". It's a place you have to feel. Whether you stroll through the narrow streets, stare into the half-timbered facades while sipping mulled wine or listen to the night watchman - here you will decelerate, enchanted and guaranteed to want to come back.
And best of all, getting there is easier than ever today – directly from Frankfurt Airport by train and CabRide.app. So your adventure begins with a stress-free journey.