Our extended stay in Germany has been a real treat so far — it’s giving us the chance to explore places we’ve been to before, but also to discover new corners or, in this case, revisit old favorites. So, once again, we hopped on a train and headed off to Würzburg, a lovely city in the Bavarian part of Germany, just about two hours away from our place. Perfect for a laid-back day trip without any stress!
Arriving and Strolling Through the Old Town
We arrived around 10 in the morning, and immediately the city’s charm was in the air. Würzburg’s old town is compact, and almost everything worth seeing is within walking distance, which makes it ideal for a leisurely stroll.
The Historic Old Marienbrücke
Our first stop was the Old Marienbrücke — a charming, historic bridge that instantly caught our eye. Built in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, this bridge has witnessed centuries of Würzburg’s history. It’s quite narrow and simple in design but carries a lot of character. Statues of saints and historical figures line the sides of the bridge, adding a touch of grandeur and spirituality. These statues, mostly from the Baroque period, lend the bridge a unique sense of history and artistry, making it feel like stepping back in time.
The Iconic Marienberg Fortress
Just a short walk from the Old Marienbrücke, perched high above the Main River, is the Marienberg Fortress — Würzburg’s most iconic landmark. The fortress dates back to the early 13th century, making it over 800 years old. Originally constructed as a protective stronghold for the city, it has seen many battles and renovations over the centuries.
Today, the fortress offers sweeping views of Würzburg and the surrounding vineyards. The walls and towers still stand strong, and you can wander through the historic ramparts, imagine medieval life, or explore the fortress’s various buildings, including the former royal residence, chapels, and bastions. Inside, there’s also a museum that details the fortress’s fascinating history. It’s a perfect spot to get a sense of Würzburg’s strategic importance during the Middle Ages and beyond.
The fortress is also home to some beautiful gardens, where you can enjoy a peaceful moment overlooking the city and the river below. It’s a fantastic place to soak in the history and the stunning scenery at once.
The Magnificent Würzburg Residence
Next, we made our way to the Würzburg Residence, a true jewel of baroque architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Residence was constructed between 1720 and 1744, making it nearly 300 years old. Its grandeur and ornate details are astonishing — frescoes by Tiepolo adorn the ceilings, and the stucco work is intricately detailed.
A Movie Star in Würzburg
The Residence gained international fame because it was featured in the movie The Musketeers, starring Orlando Bloom and Milla Jovovich. Watching scenes from the film, it’s easy to see why the filmmakers chose this palace — its stunning architecture and grandeur make it a perfect backdrop for a swashbuckling adventure.
We took our time wandering through the Hofgarten, a formal garden with symmetrical layouts, classical statues, and a peaceful atmosphere, which was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The Historic Würzburg Cathedral
After soaking in the opulence of the Residence, we headed over to the Würzburg Cathedral, known locally as St Killian Dom. This impressive church dates back to the 11th century, with its origins rooted in the early medieval period. The current structure was rebuilt after damage during wars in the 17th and 19th centuries, but it still retains its medieval charm.
A Blend of Styles
The interior boasts high vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows that cast colorful light across the nave, and a richly decorated altar. The cathedral’s architecture is a fascinating blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, reflecting its long history and the many renovations it has undergone over the centuries.
Why Würzburg Keeps Calling Us Back
Although this wasn’t a particularly big adventure compared to some of our previous trips to Würzburg, it’s always a pleasure to revisit. We’ve been here four times now, and each visit feels a bit different — more relaxed, more appreciative of the details. Würzburg’s blend of history, architecture, and that unmistakable Bavarian charm makes it a city worth returning to again and again.
A Perfect Bavarian Escape
If you’re ever in Bavaria and looking for a stress-free day trip, Würzburg is a perfect choice. Just hop on the train, enjoy the scenic ride along the Main River, and indulge in a little history, architecture, and good old Bavarian hospitality. Cheers to more adventures in this beautiful corner of Germany!
Psst 🤫!
A secret tip: visit the Christmas Market in December. It’s surely among our favorites in Germany.
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