Why I Recommend This Journey

Unlike many German cities, much of Regensburg's medieval center survived the Second World War, giving it one of the best-preserved historic old towns in the country. The Stone Bridge, built in the 12th century, is still in use today. The cathedral is one of the finest Gothic churches in Bavaria. And the city has a lively, youthful energy thanks to its large university population — it never feels like a museum piece.

Getting There

Direct trains run from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Regensburg Hauptbahnhof, with the journey taking around 1 hour 30 minutes. Services run frequently throughout the day. The station is a short walk from the old town.

Suggested Itinerary

1. Morning

   Walk from the station to the Steinerne Brücke (Stone Bridge), one of the oldest bridges in Germany. Cross to the northern bank for the classic view back across the Danube to the old town and cathedral.

2. Late Morning

   Explore the Altstadt on foot. Visit Regensburg Cathedral (Dom St. Peter), one of Bavaria's finest Gothic churches. Walk through the Domplatz and into the narrow medieval lanes surrounding it.

3. Lunch

   The Historic Wurstkuchl beside the Stone Bridge has been serving grilled sausages since the 12th century — it's one of the oldest restaurants in the world and an essential Regensburg experience.

4. Afternoon

   Visit St. Emmeram Palace (Schloss Thurn und Taxis), a magnificent complex that has been the home of the Thurn und Taxis family for centuries. The guided tour of the state rooms is excellent. Then explore the Porta Praetoria, the remains of a Roman gateway.

5. Late Afternoon

   Walk along the Danube promenade and explore Haidplatz, one of the most beautiful squares in Bavaria. Stop for coffee and cake at one of the outdoor cafés before catching your train back to Munich.

My Favorite Moments

Sitting at Haidplatz with a coffee and a slice of cake on a sunny afternoon, watching the square fill with students and visitors. It's one of the most beautiful public spaces in Bavaria and feels completely authentic — not a tourist set piece but a living part of the city.

Food & Drink

The Historic Wurstkuchl is non-negotiable — six grilled sausages with sauerkraut and sweet mustard, eaten at outdoor tables beside the Stone Bridge. For a more substantial meal, Historische Wurstküche or Zum Neuen Römer on Haidplatz are both excellent. Regensburg also has a good café culture — Café Orphée near the cathedral is a beautiful Art Nouveau space worth visiting.

Practical Tips

• The Historic Wurstkuchl gets very busy at lunchtime — arrive early or be prepared to queue
• St. Emmeram Palace tours run at set times — check the schedule in advance
• The old town is compact and entirely walkable — no need for public transport
• Regensburg is excellent in all seasons, including winter when the Christmas market is one of Bavaria's best
• Danube boat trips operate in summer — a pleasant way to see the city from the water