27 Fun Things to Do in Regensburg
There's no shortage of fun activities in Regensburg.
Read our guide on the best things to do in Regensburg, Germany. The list includes top-rated activities for all kinds of visitors.
Located just 90 minutes from Munich, the UNESCO city of Regensburg is a stunning European gem that caters to every type of traveler. Whether you're drawn to its traditional architecture, relaxing city walks, sightseeing cruises, Bavarian culture, buzzing nightlife, craft beer, or German history, Regensburg has it all and more. With a plethora of activities to suit all interests and preferences, Regensburg is a must-visit destination. Start planning your trip today and discover the charm of this one-of-a-kind city!
Walk Along the Waterfront
One of our favorite activities in Regensburg was strolling down the Danube River waterfront. This picturesque area links the vibrant Old Town with the city outskirts and surrounding countryside, but you needn't venture far to experience the most stunning views. In fact, the most beautiful part can be found within the radius of the old town.
We don't need to mention that the best time to visit Regensburg's waterfront is around sunset/sunrise, no matter the time of the year.
Head Out on a Boat Tour to Walhalla
If you're looking for a stunning place to visit, Walhalla Memorial is just 12 kilometers east of Regensburg's downtown. This 19th-century monument is a Greek-style temple that offers a scenic view of the Danube River and is bursting with German history. The interior of this impressive building is decorated with busts and statues of notable and influential Germans and German-speaking people who left a significant impact on the country in the past.
Getting there is easy; you can take a bike, bus, or car (which is what we did), but the most fun way to get there is by taking a Walhalla Sightseeing Cruise.
Walhalla Temple is a popular trip from Regensburg.
Check Out Altstadt's Squares
Regensburg's Old Town has several beautiful old squares, each with its unique feel, set of buildings, and history. As the city center is compact, it's worth exploring all of them. There are some other squares, but we believe these are must-see.
Bismarckplatz has several neoclassical buildings like Theater Regensburg and Haus der Musik, two fountains, and a few cafes. It was buzzing with life when we were there.
Neupfarrplatz used to be part of the Jewish Quarter. Today, it's known for its weekly markets, large shopping mall, GALERIA, and beautiful Neupfarrkirche.
Domplatz is known for the majestic St. Peter Cathedral, the most beautiful building in Regensburg.
Rathausplatz is home to Altes Rathaus Regensburg, and nearby Haidplatz has several colorful houses, and concerts are often held there.
Dachauplatz is busy and hectic. Apart from the Historisches Museum Regensburg and Minorite Church of St. Salvator, there is a conveniently located large parking garage.
Emmeramsplatz is basically a large parking lot but has an entry gate to the Thurn und Taxis Place complex.
Visit Document Kepler
Johannes Kepler, an influential scientist, mathematician, and astronomer, discovered the three major laws of planetary motion, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe. He lived only briefly in Regensburg in 1640, as he unexpectedly fell ill about two months after his arrival and died shortly after.
The Kepler-Gedächtnishaus, his former residence, is worth seeing even if you don't plan to go inside. The house, a great example of traditional architecture, is part of a beautiful cluster of uniquely shaped houses. Today, Document Kepler houses a small museum and reminds us of Kepler's groundbreaking work and the era in which he lived.
Marvel at the Grandeur of the St. Peter Cathedral
St. Peter Cathedral is the most dominant structure in the Old Town. The present structure, which has French Gothic architecture, was built between the 13th and 16th centuries, although its history stretches back to 700 CE. Despite the fact that some parts were under scaffolding at the time of our visit, the cathedral with 105-meter towers was pretty impressive.
You can enter for free and see the central nave, vaulted ceiling, intricate paintings, and beautiful stained glass windows. We were a bit disappointed to learn that visitors are not allowed to climb the tower at Dom St. Peter. We did the Frauenkirche in Munich, and it was a fun experience. So it's a bit of a shame, as the views of Regensburg from above must be incredible.
Take a Photo of the David and Goliath Mural
The Goliathstraße is a charming street that links Rathhausplatz with Domplatz. It is home to Goliathhaus, one of the coolest places in Regensburg. The house from the 1200s is known for its epic mural of David and Goliath, which has been decorating the facade since 1573. The mural is hard to miss and makes for one of the best photo spots in the Old Town.
The house stands on the T-junction with Bruckstraße, and you will most likely pass it on your way to Stone Bridge.
David and Goliath Mural is a stunning street art in Regensburg.
Explore the Danube River on Two Wheels
From its historical role as a natural border of the Roman Empire, the Danube has transformed into a cyclist's paradise. Its flat terrain offers a diverse range of cycling experiences, making it an ideal destination for all types of cyclists, including families with kids. The 220-kilometer Donau-Panoramaweg (Danube Panoramic Trail) links Neustadt an der Donau to Passau on the German-Austrian borders, with a stopover at the city of Regensburg after sixty kilometers.
Whether you prefer to rent a bike or an e-bike in Regensburg, this trail allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. And for those seeking a challenge, the region offers a plethora of more difficult trails.
Have a Beer at the Monastic Brewery
About 30 kilometers southwest of Regensburg lies a small village of Weltenburg. It's a 10-minute walk from here along the fast-flowing Danube River to the Weltenburg Abbey. The reward for reaching this beautiful monastery is the location itself.
It is also important to note that the monastery is home to one of the oldest monastic breweries in the world. Here, you can indulge in a fun beer-tasting experience of the local dark lager, a brew that has been perfected over centuries. There is a large beer garden inside the courtyard, so make sure to try it.
Weltenburg can be reached by car or bike or with a scenic cruise from Kelheim that passes through the stunning Danube Gorge.
Weltenburg Abbey is home to the world's oldest monastic brewery.
Learn About Bavarian History
The House of Bavarian History, or Haus der Bayerischen Geschichte: Museum in German, is the best place in Regensburg to learn about the local history. This interactive museum is conveniently located right on the northeast edge of Altstadt, right beside the Danube River. The modern design of this building's exterior is worth seeing, and we enjoyed the difference between the two colliding worlds of contemporary and traditional architecture.
Today, Bavaria is the largest German state, having two thousand years of history and culture. This is the place to go if you want to learn about the Romans or the beginning of the Kingdom of Bavaria in 1806.
There is a small admission, though you can see a free multi-visual panoramic show in the foyer.
Watch the Sunset over the Danube River
Traveling can be exhausting at times. It's moments like strolling down the waterfront, walking over the stone bridge, or sitting on the Danube shores while watching the sunset that makes the hardships disappear. We believe that the best spot to watch sunset (or sunrise) in Regensburg is the whole area between the Altstadt and Stadtamhof. It happened to be a magnificent spring day during our visit, and the shores of the Danube were packed with locals and tourists alike. And the sunset was nothing short of a breathtaking spectacle.
If you're an early bird, consider catching the sunrise in Regensburg to enjoy some serenity bathed in the first sun rays of the day.
The historical Stone Bridge is the best sunset spot in Regensburg.
Take a Guided Tour at Thurn and Taxis Palace
The Schloss Thurn und Taxis, also known as Schloss St. Emmeram, is one of Regensburg's main attractions. This large complex comprises several buildings, such as Thurn and Taxis Palace, St. Emmeram's Basilica, and St. Rupert's Church. Since 1812, the palace has been the residence of the Thurn and Taxis family, a famous German noble family who modernized postal services. It was actually the first place we visited in Regensburg.
We explored the church on our own, but the palace, which has more than 500 rooms, can only be entered with guided tours. The tour was in German, but we had an audio guide to help us understand what we saw.
Discover the Stadtamhof
The UNESCO-designated city of Regensburg consists of two parts: the Altstadt and Stadtamhof. The Altstadt is the Old Town area that is always packed with tourists. Stadtamhof, the other part, is often overlooked by visitors who are pressed for time. This charming district can be easily accessed via the Stone Bridge, presenting a wonderful gateway from the bustling city center. It has adorable streets, medieval architecture, quaint shops, cute cafes, and unique landmarks.
All of this, combined with the beautiful setting along the Danube River, makes Stadtamhof a must-visit destination, especially as you can easily get there on foot.
Stadtamhof is also part of Regensburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Learn About Roman History
While the Regensburg history stretches all the way back to the Stone Age, the first recorded settlement was established here by Romans. This period, known as the Roman era, was a crucial time in the city's history, shaping its culture and architecture. The military camp was built during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius in 179 CE and named Castra Regina.
Apart from the archaeological finds (pottery, coins, jewelry, etc.), there are not many remnants left today you can see by the naked eye. Your best chance is to see Porta Praetoria and the remaining Roman walls in the Altstadt area, the best-preserved Roman attractions in Regensburg. If you are a history nerd, visit Regensburg's Historical Museum to learn more about this era.
Take a Guided Walking City Tour
You can explore Regensburg at your own pace without a guide, but it requires some planning to ensure you don't miss any important sights. If you want to maximize your time in the city without worrying about itineraries, a walking tour is perfect for you. The Regensburg City Walking Tour provides one of the best ways to discover the history, architecture, and main tourist attractions.
Wander Around the Altstadt
The once-important Roman fortress has transformed over the centuries into one of the most charming cities in Bavaria. The Old Town, or Altstadt in German, is a perfect place to walk around. Unlike Dresden and other cities, the city's historical core is well-preserved, as it wasn't heavily bombed during WW2.
The Altstadt is compact, walkable, and full of picturesque houses with medieval architecture, lively cafes and restaurants, buzzing squares, and cobblestone streets. The most important attractions in Regensburg's Old Town are St. Peter Cathedral, Porta Praetoria, Thurn and Taxis Palace, and the Stone Bridge, though this area offers much more. No wonder the Altstadt with Stadtamhof was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006.
Regensburg was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006.
Visit Botanical Garden
If you find the Altstadt area too hectic, crowded, and noisy, Botanischer Garten der Universitat Regensburg may be a place to go. This oasis of greenery with trees, plants, flowers, and herbs is a great place to relax. It is nestled in the southwest corner of the university campus, about 3 kilometers south of the historical part.
The best time to visit Regensburg's Botanical Garden is late spring and early summer, though it's lovely even during the autumn. The best part about the Botanischer Garten der Universitat Regensburg is that it's free to enter.
Walk Across the Stone Bridge
The pedestrian-friendly Stone Bridge in Regensburg is a stunning architectural marvel dating back to the 12th century. This historic bridge, spanning the majestic Danube River, offers stunning views and plays a crucial role in the city's layout. It connects the Old Town with Stadtamhof, serving as the main artery of the city's historical heart. This sturdy structure with massive arches was the only way to cross the river in this area for more than 800 years. It was also a predecessor to the Charles Bridge and other European bridges during this period.
Steinerne Brucke is undoubtedly the main attraction in Regensburg, boasting amazing views and still offering the easiest way to get from Altsatdt to Stadtamhof to this day. Apart from the views, it also serves as a prime example of medieval engineering. No matter your preferences, Regensburg Stone Bridge is a must-see.
Stone Bridge is a must-see for every visitor!
Admire the Art at Ostdeutsche Galerie
If you're into art, head out to Ostdeutsche Galerie. This Neoclassicist building with slanted red columns at the entrance is about a 10-minute walk from Neupfarrplatz. The gallery features a variety of collections, including works by Picasso and Pop artists, as well as pieces by Bavarian painters and Eastern European artists.
There is a small admission fee to Ostdeutsche.
Take a Regensburg Sightseeing Cruise
Regensburg, a city located on the confluence of three rivers-Naab, Regen, and Danube, has a rich history shaped by its waterways. Today, numerous tour companies provide a variety of boat tours starting from Regensburg. The Regensburg Sightseeing Cruise, a 45-minute journey that remains within the city's boundaries, offers a convenient and panoramic way to explore this historic city.
Boat trips are extremely popular in Regensburg.
Learn the Altes Rathaus's History
The Old Town Hall, a fascinating mix of several buildings, is a prominent landmark on Rathausplatz in Regensburg's Altstadt. Its most impressive feature is the 13th-century 55-meter high council tower, a striking example of charming Bavarian architecture.
The Reichsaal, where the perpetual Diet of Regensburg met between 1663 and 1806, adds to the historical significance of the Old Town Hall, making it one of the most important buildings in Europe at that time. To learn more, you can take a guided tour of the Altes Rathaus, which includes a visit to a medieval torture chamber.
Discover Markets at the Neupfarrplatz
Neupfarrplatz is one of the best places you can visit in the historical part of Regensburg. This central square was formerly a Jewish quarter that was demolished in the 16th century, and a new Neupfarrkirche was built in its place. Apart from history, Neupfarrplatz is famous for its local markets. During our visit, an Italian market was held there with stalls selling various kinds of cheese, hams, and other products.
In winter, Christmas markets are held at Neupfarrplatz every year. Needless to say, we do have ambivalent feelings about these events (especially Prague Christmas Markets) as they're incredibly overpriced, though they add to the festive atmosphere.
Every week at Neupfarrplatz, there's a market with local goodies - the cheeses looked fantastic!
Hike to the Hall of Liberation
The 45-meter monument Hall of Liberation, or Befreiungshalle, was one of the most stunning places we visited near Regensburg. It is located on top of the hill in Kelheim, and even though there is a large parking lot at the entrance, walking is the most rewarding way to get there. Hall of Liberation was built by Ludwig I after Germany and its allies defeated Napoleon during the Wars of Liberation (1813 and 1815). By the way, Ludwig I was the grandfather of Ludwig II, the one behind Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace.
The round structure has a stunning interior, dominated by a massive dome-shaped roof. The biggest surprise was that we could climb to the upper parts to enjoy the breathtaking landscape from the viewing platform. The Danube Gorge, which connects Kelheim with Weltenburg Abbey, is a sight to behold. Massive limestone rocks surround this beautiful river valley, offering a unique and picturesque character. The whole area can be explored by boat or on foot.
Salzstadel
Salzstadel was built between 1616 and 1620 after the emperor granted Regensburg the right to trade salt. Back in the day, salt was one of the most valuable commodities and extremely profitable business. The salt was brought to Regensburg from Bad Reichenhall by ships on the Danube River. Funny story, few months later, we visited Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden, where the salt comes from, and it was a great experience. By the way, this region is also home to Konigssee and Eagle's Nest if you need more ideas for your Bavaria itinerary.
Today, Salzstadel is home to a Regensburg World Heritage Visitor Center that is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM and free to enter. The museum is conveniently located in the heart of Regensburg, right next to the Stone Bridge, and easily accessible on foot from the city center. Inside are also exhibits that will take you on a 2000-year-long journey through Regensburg's history. The building is a perfect example of Bavarian architecture, and together with the tower and stone bridge, it makes for a great photo opportunity.
The historical building of Salzstadel looked absolutely stunning during sunset.
Have a Sausage at Historische Wurstkuchl
There are plenty of places in Bavaria where you can try the traditional German bratwurst. Historische Wurstkuchl in Regensburg is among the most famous ones. Located beside the Stone Bridge, this kitchen has been here for more than 500 years and is regarded as one of the oldest sausage kitchens in the world. The original diners were dockworkers and stonemasons who ate here during the Middle Ages, but they are long gone; nowadays, they have been replaced mostly by tourists.
One of the most traditional meals you can order is the sausages on cabbage with homemade mustard and potato soup. We don't find sausages that interesting, as they are common in this part of Europe, including Czechia, so we tried one in Coburg, and that was more than enough for us. Our last tip is that you should be prepared that sausage is just a sausage, and if you're into healthy food, this isn't it.
Enjoy a Picnic on an Island
Regensburg has two cool river islands, Oberer Unterer Wohrd and Unterer Wohrd. While this might come as a surprise, it's actually quite common in many riverside European cities. Oberer Wohrd has Inselpark on the western tip and Jahninsel on the eastern tip, which are perfect for short walks and picnics. Jahninsel offers better views and can be easily accessed from the Stone Bridge via a ramp.
It was a stunning spring weekend when we visited Regensburg, and the islands were buzzing with life. Students, locals, and tourists were everywhere. If you bring some snacks, this is the best picnic spot in Regensburg.
Regensburg has some cool river islands perfect for walks and picnics.
Hop on the Sightseeing Train
One of the easiest ways to experience Regensburg's Old Town is by taking a sightseeing train city tour. This informative 45-minute Regensburg Sightseeing Train City Tour is top-rated for several reasons, but mostly because you get a handy overview of the city's layout and its most important landmarks. You will enjoy panoramic views of the most popular attractions within Old Town from the comfort of your seat, accompanied by an audio guide. If the weather is not on your side, it's also a great activity for a rainy day.
Stay in Regensburg Overnight
By now, it's pretty clear that Regensburg has a lot to offer to every kind of traveler. While you can easily explore the city in less than a day, we do believe it's well worth spending a night in the city. Regensburg's Altstadt has a fantastic evening atmosphere and vibrant culture you would otherwise miss out on.
Thanks to its beauty, popularity, and UNESCO status, Regensburg offers a great range of hotels for all budgets. The best area to stay in Regensburg is the Old Town and the areas that surround it. Some of the best hotels are modern 4-star Novotel Regensburg Zentrum or budget-friendly Hampton By Hilton Regensburg. If you're seeking luxury, the Hotel Goliath am Dom is an obvious choice.
Regensburg is beautiful after dark, so it's totally worth spending a night there.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
