Nördlinger Ries: A Bavarian Crater of Cosmic Proportions
Explore a massive meteorite crater in Bavaria, Germany, with medieval towns, unique geology, and stunning landscapes.
The Nördlinger Ries is a vast impact crater in Bavaria, Germany, formed approximately 14.8 million years ago by a meteorite strike. Today, it's a picturesque landscape dotted with medieval towns and offering a unique geological experience.
A brief summary to Nördlinger Ries
Local tips
- Walk the Nördlingen city walls for a complete circuit of the historic town.
- Visit the RiesKrater Museum in Nördlingen to learn about the crater's formation and see a moon rock.
- Explore Harburg Castle, perched above the town of Harburg, for a glimpse into medieval life.
- Hike or bike through the Geopark Ries to discover the unique geology and landscape of the crater.
- Look for buildings constructed with local stone; they contain millions of tiny diamonds created by the meteorite impact.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Munich, take a train to Donauwörth, then transfer to a regional train to Nördlingen. From Nördlingen station, you can take bus 200 to reach various points within the Nördlinger Ries. The bus fare is approximately €2.50. A Bayern Ticket may offer cost-effective travel within Bavaria.
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Driving
From Munich, drive towards Nördlingen via the A8 and B25. The drive is approximately 133 km and takes around 1.5 hours. Parking is available outside the city walls of Nördlingen. Be aware that parking within the old town may be limited.
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Walking
From Nördlingen train station, it's a 15-minute walk to the RiesKrater Museum in the old town. Follow Bürgermeister-Reiger-Straße, turn right onto Krippenweg, and follow the path to the Deininger Tor. Enter the old town and walk to the medieval barn building housing the museum.
Discover more about Nördlinger Ries
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kriegerbrunnen
6.7 km
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Dennenloher See
24.9 km
Discover tranquility at Dennenloher See, the Franconian Lake District's smallest lake, offering swimming, fishing, and scenic beauty amidst forests and the horticultural wonders of Schloss Dennenlohe.
Dinkelsbühl
26.9 km
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Schanzmauer 12 Tower
33.5 km
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Schlosskirche Thürnhofen
33.7 km
Explore the serene and historic Schlosskirche Thürnhofen, a peaceful evangelical church in the heart of Feuchtwangen, perfect for reflection and cultural immersion.
St. Ulrich und Afra
36.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical significance of St. Ulrich und Afra, a captivating Catholic church in the heart of Feuchtwangen.
Evangelische Kirchengemeinde Feuchtwangen
36.1 km
Experience the rich history and tranquil beauty of Evangelische Kirchengemeinde Feuchtwangen, a serene retreat in the heart of Bavaria.
Burgstall Schlösslesberg
55.7 km
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Sebaldpl.
56.9 km
Discover the historical charm and vibrant culture of Sebaldplatz in Schwäbisch Gmünd, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Spitalbastei
61.0 km
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Rossmühle
61.3 km
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Cabbage Tower
61.3 km
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Glocke A. u. K. Thürauf
61.4 km
Experience Franconian charm in the heart of Rothenburg ob der Tauber at Glocke A. u. K. Thürauf, a historic hotel, inn, restaurant, and winery nestled in the picturesque Plönlein.
Röderbastei
61.5 km
Explore the Röderbastei, a stunning historical landmark in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval history.
u. Schmiedgasse 16
61.5 km
Experience the enchanting charm of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's historic Schmiedgasse, where medieval architecture and vibrant culture await.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bavarian Railway Museum e. V.
6.2 km
Discover Germany's railway heritage at the Bavarian Railway Museum in Nördlingen, home to an impressive collection of locomotives and railway vehicles in a historic depot setting.
Deining Gate
6.4 km
Explore Nördlingen's medieval past at the Deininger Gate, a historic landmark and gateway to the town's enchanting Altstadt on the Romantic Road.
Burgruine Niederhaus
11.6 km
Explore the medieval Burgruine Niederhaus in Ederheim, Germany: a historic castle ruin offering stunning views and a glimpse into Swabia's past, nestled in the scenic Kartäusertal.
Geotop Glaubenberg - Geopark Ries
12.1 km
Explore Geotop Glaubenberg in Geopark Ries: Witness the impact of a meteorite, discover unique geology, and hike scenic trails in this extraordinary landscape shaped by Earth's history.
Marktplatzbrunnen
13.9 km
Explore Harburg's historic Marktplatzbrunnen, a charming fountain surrounded by Bavarian culture, shops, and delightful eateries.
St. Barbara
14.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of St. Barbara, a stunning Evangelical church nestled in the charming town of Harburg, Bavaria.
Fürstliche Burgschenke & Schlosshotel Harburg
14.0 km
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Harburg Castle
14.1 km
Explore one of Southern Germany's best-preserved medieval castles, offering a glimpse into centuries of history and stunning views along the Romantic Road.
Harburger Märchenweg (Fairytale pathway)
14.1 km
Discover a world of enchantment on the Harburger Märchenweg, where classic fairy tales come to life amidst the stunning backdrop of Harburg Castle and the picturesque Bavarian countryside.
Steinerne Brücke
14.1 km
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Katzenstein Castle
21.9 km
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Egauursprung
22.4 km
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Käthe-Kruse-Puppen-Museum Donauwörth
23.7 km
Discover the enchanting world of handcrafted dolls at the Käthe Kruse Museum in Donauwörth, celebrating the legacy of a pioneering German artist and her timeless creations.
Airbus Helicopters - Sehenswürdigkeiten
23.8 km
Discover the innovative world of Airbus Helicopters in Donauwörth, where cutting-edge technology meets fascinating aviation history.
Liebfrauenmünster
23.9 km
Explore the stunning Gothic architecture and rich history of Liebfrauenmünster, a must-visit Catholic church and tourist attraction in Donauwörth.
Essential places to dine
Landgasthof Demharter
49.8 km
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Restaurant Grünholder Stuben
51.5 km
Experience authentic German flavors at Restaurant Grünholder Stuben in Gablingen - a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts!
Gasthof Adler
53.6 km
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M14 - Die Genussmanufaktur
53.8 km
Discover culinary excellence at M14 - Die Genussmanufaktur in Zusmarshausen: gourmet burgers, artisanal pizzas, and delicious desserts await you!
Bräustüberl Zusmarshausen
53.9 km
Discover authentic Swabian cuisine at Bräustüberl Zusmarshausen - where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Posthalterei Betreiber GmbH und Co. KG
53.9 km
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Restaurant & Biergarten im Flair Hotel Zum Schwarzen Reiter
55.0 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Restaurant & Biergarten im Flair Hotel Zum Schwarzen Reiter in Horgau - where tradition meets taste.
Wirtshaus Strasser
55.9 km
Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Wirtshaus Strasser in Gersthofen - where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
Restaurant Gasthaus am Lohwald
57.4 km
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Restaurant Hirblinger Hof
59.4 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Restaurant Hirblinger Hof in Augsburg-Oberhausen – where tradition meets flavor.
Gasthof Zum Adler Inh.Reinhold Prösel
59.6 km
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Restaurant Wirtshaus Frau Huber
60.0 km
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Restaurant BCA
60.1 km
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Restaurant Bayerischer Löwe
60.3 km
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Restaurant Deuringer Hof
60.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hostel Castle Wernfels
41.7 km
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Deuter Sport GmbH
55.7 km
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Action Gersthofen
57.2 km
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MIET & CREATE
57.7 km
Explore the charm of second-hand shopping at MIET & CREATE, where vintage treasures and unique finds await every visitor in Neusäß.
Cinice Trendstore
58.0 km
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Flair Finesse, Mode - Accessoires - Mehr
59.5 km
Flair Finesse in Neusäß offers stylish clothing and unique accessories, perfect for fashion enthusiasts and tourists seeking trendy finds.
Mix-Shop - Geschenke und mehr... -
59.5 km
Explore the eclectic Mix-Shop in Augsburg, where unique gifts, home goods, and delightful finds await every visitor.
Dehler [Ausrüstung & Outdoor], Ulrich Dehler
59.7 km
Discover top-quality gear and expert advice at Dehler Outdoor Sports Store in Neusäß for all your camping and outdoor adventures.
![Dehler [Ausrüstung & Outdoor], Ulrich Dehler](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/ShoppingImages/f3480113-d18e-4193-8769-6e01e516b8aa)
Depot
59.8 km
Explore Depot in Stadtbergen for unique gifts, stylish home décor, and an unforgettable shopping experience that captures the essence of local culture.
Franconia Decor GmbH
59.8 km
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Mix-Shop & Postagentur
60.3 km
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Rothenburg O.D.T
61.1 km
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Hasi's Laden
61.3 km
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mister*lady
61.4 km
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Spitzweghaus
61.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
UnfassBar Cocktails
28.3 km
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Araunerskeller Weißenburg
34.7 km
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Irish Pub Ansbach
46.7 km
Immerse yourself in Irish culture at the lively Irish Pub Ansbach, where friendly vibes, delicious food, and great drinks await.
Cocktailbar Na Und
51.6 km
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LIDU BAR
59.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and exceptional drinks at LIDU BAR, Augsburg's must-visit destination for nightlife enthusiasts.
Liquid Corner
61.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Liquid Corner in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where exceptional drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Irish Pub Murphys Law Bistro - Augsburg
61.4 km
Discover the authentic taste of Ireland at Murphy's Law Bistro in Augsburg, where every dish tells a story and every drink is a celebration.
Alex´Pub
61.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Alex´Pub, Rothenburg ob der Tauber's top bar for crafted drinks and live entertainment amidst historic charm.
Dideldum e.V.
61.4 km
Discover the charm of Dideldum e.V., a cozy bar in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where traditional German drinks meet a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Better Together
61.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and friendly camaraderie at Better Together, a charming bar in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, perfect for unwinding with great drinks.
Württemberger Hof
61.5 km
Discover the charming Württemberger Hof in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where traditional German drinks meet a cozy ambiance perfect for relaxation.
Chico Diaz Salsaborrr
61.5 km
Chico Diaz Salsaborrr: A vibrant bar in Rothenburg ob der Tauber offering an unforgettable blend of culture, music, and delicious drinks.
Paula’s Biergarten
61.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local brews at Paula’s Biergarten in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the perfect spot for relaxation and fun.
Reichsstadt Vinothek
61.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Rothenburg ob der Tauber at Reichsstadt Vinothek, where local wines and charming ambiance await.
MUCHO AMOR Café & Bar
61.8 km
Discover Mucho Amor Café & Bar in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where delightful cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await every tourist.
