Travel Guide to Wurzburg

Discover Würzburg: A harmonious blend of baroque splendor, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty in the heart of Franconia.

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Travel Guide to Wurzburg

Würzburg: The Jewel of Franconia

Würzburg, nestled in the heart of Franconia, is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its stunning baroque and rococo architecture, it is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Würzburg Residence. This grand palace, with its lavish interiors and expansive gardens, is a must-see for any visitor. The city is also renowned for its many beautiful churches, including the Würzburg Cathedral and the Marienkapelle, which stand as testaments to its rich religious heritage. Würzburg is not just about its historic buildings. It is a vibrant city with a lively cultural scene. Visitors can enjoy a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the famous Würzburg Wine Festival, which celebrates the region’s long-standing tradition of wine-making. The city's picturesque location along the Main River also offers ample opportunities for leisurely walks, boat trips, and scenic views. Food lovers will find Würzburg a delight with its array of restaurants serving traditional Franconian cuisine. Don't miss the chance to try the local wine, known for its high quality and unique flavors. For a more modern experience, the city’s bustling shopping streets and markets offer a range of goods from local crafts to international brands.

Local tips in Wurzburg

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds at the Würzburg Residence.
Try the local Silvaner wine, especially at one of the many wine bars along the Main River.
Explore the city on foot or by bike to fully appreciate its charming streets and riverside paths.
Check the local calendar for festivals and events during your stay.
Don't miss the panoramic view from the Marienberg Fortress.

Neighbourhoods in Wurzburg

Altstadt

Residenz

Festung Marienberg

WÜRZBURG – Historic Highlights of Germany

Wurzburger Dom

File:View of the old bridge over Main in Wurzburg 01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:View of Würzburg from the Mainfränkisches Museum - Würzburg, Germany - DSC04515.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:View of the old bridge over Main in Wurzburg 02.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Rape of Europa - Würzburg Residence gardens - Würzburg, Germany - DSC05936.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Panorama of Würzburg - DSC02844.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Würzburg - The Old Main Bridge | ENG: Summer holiday impress… | Flickr

File:Staustufe Würzburg with Regina Rheni - Würzburg, Germany - DSC05214.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Cherry blossom time | Würzburg Residence (Residenz) with the… | Flickr

File:Rape of Persephone - Würzburg Residence gardens - Würzburg, Germany - DSC05930.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Popular Attractions in Wurzburg

Wurzburg, a charming city in Germany, offers a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions for visitors to explore. From the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wurzburg Residence, with its stunning Baroque architecture and beautiful gardens, to the imposing Marienberg Fortress overlooking the city, there is no shortage of must-see sights. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Old Main Bridge, adorned with statues of saints, or visit the impressive Wurzburg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Don't miss out on exploring the quaint streets of the Old Town, lined with charming shops, cafes, and wine taverns, where you can sample the famous Franconian wines. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a vibrant city, Wurzburg has something for everyone.

Marienberg Fortress

Experience the rich history and stunning views of Marienberg Fortress, a top tourist attraction in Würzburg, Germany.
Würzburg Residence

Explore the magnificent Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Baroque architecture and beautiful gardens in the heart of Würzburg, Germany.
Old Main Bridge

Discover the stunning Old Main Bridge in Würzburg, a historical landmark where breathtaking views meet rich cultural heritage.
Court Garden

Discover the serene beauty of Würzburg's Court Garden, a historic garden featuring exquisite flower beds and enchanting topiary in a picturesque setting.
Wurzburg Cathedral

Explore the stunning Würzburg Cathedral, a Baroque architectural masterpiece that enriches the spiritual and cultural landscape of Germany.
Schloss Veitshöchheim

Explore the stunning baroque architecture and exquisite gardens of Schloss Veitshöchheim, a historical gem in Bavaria’s picturesque landscape.
Botanical Garden

Explore the Botanical Garden in Würzburg, a vibrant oasis of natural beauty and tranquility, perfect for relaxation and botanical wonders.
Residenzplatz

Discover the enchanting Residenzplatz in Würzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing baroque architecture and lush gardens.
St Mary's Chapel

Explore the Gothic beauty and spiritual essence of St Mary's Chapel in Würzburg, a timeless tourist attraction steeped in history and artistry.
Japanese Garden

Discover tranquility at Würzburg's Japanese Garden, where nature and culture merge in a beautiful escape.
Marktplatz

Experience the vibrant culture and history of Würzburg at Marktplatz, where local life meets stunning architecture and delicious flavors.
Ring Park

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Ring Park, Würzburg's serene state park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic strolls.
Lower Franconian Museum

Discover the rich cultural tapestry of Lower Franconia at the Lower Franconian Museum, nestled in the historic Marienberg Fortress in Würzburg.
Museum am Dom

Experience the fusion of modern art and cultural heritage at Museum am Dom in Würzburg, a captivating destination for art lovers.
Röntgen-Gedächtnisstätte

Explore the legacy of Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen at the Röntgen-Gedächtnisstätte, Würzburg's homage to the X-ray pioneer and medical innovation.
Klein Nizza (Ringpark)

Explore Klein Nizza, a serene state park in Würzburg's Ringpark, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying nature's beauty.
Four Tubes Fountain

Explore the Four Tubes Fountain in Würzburg, a historical landmark that beautifully blends architectural elegance with local culture and charm.
Neubaukirche

Explore the magnificent Neubaukirche in Würzburg, a Baroque masterpiece and an essential stop for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Maschikuli Tower

Discover the historic Maschikuli Tower in Würzburg, a stunning landmark offering spectacular views and a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
Court Church of Residence Würzburg

Experience the grandeur of the Court Church of Residence Würzburg, an architectural gem steeped in history and beauty.
Bismarckturm

Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at Bismarckturm, an iconic landmark in Würzburg, Germany.
Kilian Fountain

Discover the historic Kilian Fountain in Würzburg, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich culture and heritage.
Martin von Wagner Museum

Explore the Martin von Wagner Museum in Würzburg, a treasure trove of art and science that captivates visitors with its historical and cultural collections.
Grafeneckart

Discover the enchanting Grafeneckart in Würzburg, a historical landmark that showcases the city's rich cultural heritage and stunning medieval architecture.
Franconia Fountain

Discover the Franconia Fountain in Würzburg, a stunning architectural marvel surrounded by lush gardens and rich history, perfect for relaxation and photography.
Star Square

Experience the vibrant ambiance of Star Square, Würzburg's cultural gem with a stunning fountain and rich historic architecture.
Fürstenbaumuseum

Discover Würzburg's rich heritage at Fürstenbaumuseum, a local history museum within the stunning Festung Marienberg fortress.
Schönborn Chapel

Discover the tranquil beauty of Schönborn Chapel in Würzburg, a must-visit tourist attraction blending culture, history, and serenity.
Market Plaza Water Fountain

Discover the stunning Market Plaza Water Fountain in Würzburg, a historical landmark that embodies the city's rich cultural heritage and Baroque artistry.
Carmine Church St Joseph and St Mary Magdalene (Reuer Church)

Experience the tranquility and architectural splendor of the Carmine Church, a hidden gem in the heart of Würzburg's historic Altstadt.
Waterfront Am Main Würzburg

Discover the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture at the Waterfront Am Main in Würzburg, a picturesque escape along the river.
Johann Georg Oegg Monument

Discover the Johann Georg Oegg Monument in Würzburg, a historical landmark that beautifully reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy.
Chronos Fountain

Explore the Chronos Fountain in Würzburg, a stunning historical landmark symbolizing the passage of time and rich cultural heritage.
Häckerbrunnen

Explore the stunning Häckerbrunnen, a historic fountain in Würzburg's Altstadt, showcasing exquisite Baroque artistry and offering a serene escape.
Innenhof Juliusspital

Explore the serene charm of Innenhof Juliusspital, a historic courtyard in Würzburg, perfect for relaxation and cultural discovery.
Blindenmodell Alte Mainbrücke Würzburg

Experience the unique Blindenmodell at Alte Mainbrücke, a tactile journey through Würzburg's history and culture for all visitors.
Kiliansstatue

Explore the Kiliansstatue in Würzburg, a stunning landmark that embodies the city's history and artistic beauty, perfect for tourists and photography enthusiasts.
Hochwassermarken

Explore Hochwassermarken in Würzburg, where history meets nature in a unique showcase of resilience against flooding.
Dreikronenbrunnen

Explore the enchanting Dreikronenbrunnen in Würzburg, a stunning fountain that reflects the city's rich history and artistic beauty amidst serene surroundings.
Barbarossaplatz

Discover the charm of Barbarossaplatz, a historic square in Würzburg, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Ceresbrunnen

Explore the stunning Ceresbrunnen in Würzburg, a historic fountain reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage and artistic beauty.
Kleine Rankpyramide

Explore the serene beauty and unique architecture of Kleine Rankpyramide in Würzburg, a hidden gem for tourists seeking tranquility and inspiration.
Keltensee

Explore the serene beauty of Keltensee in Würzburg, a perfect blend of nature, history, and tranquility for every traveler.
Balthasar-Neumann-Promenade Bastion

Experience the beauty and history of Würzburg at the Balthasar-Neumann-Promenade Bastion, a stunning landmark with breathtaking views.
Gedenkstätte Dürrenberg

Explore the profound history at Gedenkstätte Dürrenberg, a memorial site in Würzburg inviting reflection and remembrance.
Ehemaliges Wohnhaus Balthasar Neumanns

Discover the baroque elegance of Ehemaliges Wohnhaus Balthasar Neumanns in Würzburg, a historic gem reflecting architectural brilliance and cultural heritage.
Barockfiguren

Discover the captivating Barockfiguren in Würzburg, where exquisite Baroque sculptures bring the city's rich artistic heritage to life.
Meilenstein der Zeit

Explore Meilenstein der Zeit in Würzburg: A fascinating monument that embodies the passage of time, inviting reflection amidst scenic beauty.

When is the best time to go to Wurzburg?

Local Phrases

- HelloHallo
  [HAH-loh]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf VEE-duhr-zayn]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNein
  [nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [BIT-tuh]
- Thank youDanke
  [DAHN-kuh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-SHOOL-dee-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht es Ihnen?
  [vee gayt es EE-nen]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und Ihnen?
  [goot oont EE-nen]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [SPRE-khen zee ENG-lish]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-SHTAY-uh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte die Speisekarte sehen, bitte
  [ikh MERK-teh dee SHPY-zuh-kar-teh ZAY-en, BIT-tuh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh ESS-eh kine FLAYSH]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch würde gerne bezahlen, bitte
  [ikh VU-duh gehr-neh beh-TSAH-len, BIT-tuh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [HIL-fuh]
- Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [GAY-en zee veg]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [ROO-fen zee dee po-LEE-tsai]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [ROO-fen zee AI-nen artsht]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh HAH-buh mikh fuh-REERT]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh bin KRONK]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh MERK-teh KOW-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh SHOW-uh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel KOS-tet es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo TOW-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [KERN-en zee den PRICE ZEN-ken]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee SHPAYT ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist eins
  [es ist iens]
- Half past (10)Halb zehn
  [halb tsayn]
- MorningMorgen
  [MOHR-guhn]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [NAKH-mit-tahg]
- EveningAbend
  [AH-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [GEHS-tern]
- TodayHeute
  [HOY-tuh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [MOHR-guhn]
- 1eins
  [iens]
- 2zwei
  [tsvai]
- 3drei
  [dry]
- 4vier
  [feer]
- 5fünf
  [fuhnf]
- 6sechs
  [zeks]
- 7sieben
  [zee-ben]
- 8acht
  [akht]
- 9neun
  [noyn]
- 10zehn
  [tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [voh ist iyn/der]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vas ist dee ah-DRES-eh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [KERN-en zee meer ZAY-gen (owf dair KAR-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kommt dair NOKS-teh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [AI-nuh FAR-kar-teh (nahkh)]

History of Wurzburg

Würzburg's history dates back to the Bronze Age, with evidence of Celtic settlements from around 1000 BC. The city was first mentioned as 'Uburzis' in a document from 704 AD, indicating its early significance as a settlement. It became an important center for the Franks in the early Middle Ages.
The turning point for Würzburg came in 741 AD when Saint Boniface established the Diocese of Würzburg. The construction of the first Würzburg Cathedral began shortly after, making the city a vital religious center in the Frankish Empire. It attracted scholars, clergy, and pilgrims, contributing to its growth and influence.
From the 12th century, Würzburg was ruled by powerful prince-bishops who held both secular and ecclesiastical power. They were responsible for the city's impressive architectural development, including the construction of the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Marienberg Fortress, which served as their residence.
Built between 1720 and 1744, the Würzburg Residence is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Commissioned by Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn and designed by Balthasar Neumann, it features magnificent frescoes by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. The Residence is renowned for its grand staircase, opulent halls, and extensive gardens.
Founded in 1402 and re-established in 1582, the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg is one of Germany's oldest universities. It has been a center of learning and research for centuries, with notable alumni including Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, who discovered X-rays, and Rudolf Virchow, the father of modern pathology.
During the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), Würzburg was a strategic and religious battleground. The city endured multiple sieges and occupations by both Protestant and Catholic forces. Despite the devastation, the city managed to recover and continue its role as a religious and cultural center.
Würzburg was the site of some of the most severe witch trials in Europe during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Hundreds of people, including many children, were accused of witchcraft and executed. These trials were driven by a combination of superstition, religious fervor, and political motives.
The early 19th century brought significant changes to Würzburg. During the Napoleonic Wars, the city was briefly part of the Confederation of the Rhine and later incorporated into the Kingdom of Bavaria in 1814. The secularization process led to the dissolution of the prince-bishopric, ending centuries of ecclesiastical rule.
Würzburg suffered extensive damage during World War II, with an Allied bombing raid on March 16, 1945, destroying about 90% of the city center. The post-war reconstruction efforts were monumental, focusing on restoring historic buildings such as the Würzburg Residence and the Old Main Bridge, while also modernizing the city.
Today, Würzburg is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and educational institutions. It is a key stop on Germany's Romantic Road and attracts visitors with its well-preserved architecture, lively wine festivals, and scenic location on the Main River. The city's blend of historical significance and contemporary charm makes it a unique destination.

Wurzburg Essentials

Würzburg is well-connected by various modes of transport. The nearest major airport is Frankfurt Airport, located approximately 120 kilometers away. From Frankfurt, you can take a direct train to Würzburg, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, Nürnberg Airport is also an option and is about 110 kilometers from Würzburg; trains from Nürnberg to Würzburg take approximately 1 hour. If you are driving, Würzburg is accessible via the A3, A7, and A81 motorways.
Würzburg has a reliable public transport system, including buses and trams operated by WVV (Würzburger Versorgungs- und Verkehrs-GmbH). Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, online, or directly from the driver. For short distances, walking or cycling are excellent options, as many of the city's attractions are close to each other. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for more convenient travel.
The official currency in Germany is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.
Würzburg is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any urban area, it is important to stay vigilant, particularly in crowded places like train stations and tourist attractions. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, so keep your belongings secure. Areas such as the train station and the Mainfranken Theater can be busy and require extra attention to personal items.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which will connect you to ambulance, fire, and police services. The main hospital in Würzburg is the Universitätsklinikum Würzburg. Pharmacies ('Apotheken') are available throughout the city and often have emergency contact numbers listed on their doors for after-hours service. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress smartly, especially when dining out or visiting cultural sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing in religious sites and formal settings. Religion: Do respect religious customs and dress modestly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and be punctual. Don't talk loudly or disrupt other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Franconian wines and dishes. Don't rush meals; dining is a leisurely activity in Würzburg.
To experience Würzburg like a local, visit the weekly markets at Marktplatz and the Bürgerspital Weinstuben for authentic Franconian cuisine. Engage with locals and don't hesitate to ask for their wine recommendations, as Würzburg is famous for its vineyards and wine culture. Explore the lesser-known neighborhoods like the Sanderau or Zellerau for a more authentic experience. Attend events such as the Mozart Festival or the annual wine festivals to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Travel Guide to Wurzburg

Würzburg: The Jewel of Franconia

Local tips in Wurzburg