Independent travel and view of the city of Bamberg!

History of Bamberg

Bamberg is one of the most beautiful and historically significant cities in Germany. It is located in the federal state of Bavaria on the Regnitz River and is considered one of the few major German cities whose historical center was practically untouched during World War II. Due to its unique architecture and rich cultural heritage, the old town of Bamberg was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993.

Early settlements and first mentions

The territory of modern Bamberg was inhabited in prehistoric times. Archaeological finds indicate the presence of Celts and Germanic tribes here.

The first documented mention of Bamberg dates back to 902. At that time it was a small fortified settlement located on seven hills, like Rome.

The convenient position on the trade routes between the north and south of Europe contributed to the development of the city.

Bamberg under Emperor Henry II

The greatest importance in the history of the city is associated with the reign of Henry II.

In 1007 he founded the Bishopric of Bamberg, making the city one of the most important religious centers in Germany.

The emperor sought to create a spiritual center of the empire and actively financed the construction of the city.

• temples;

• monasteries;

• schools;

• palaces.

It was with him that the construction of the famous Bamberg Cathedral began.

After his death, Henry II and his wife Cunigunda of Luxembourg were buried in the cathedral and subsequently canonized.

Medieval heyday

In XI-XIII centuries Bamberg became one of the largest religious and cultural centers of Central Europe.

The city is actively developing due to:

• trade;

• crafts;

• Church influence;

• favorable location on the river routes.

At this time, there were:

• city walls;

• market areas;

• merchant quarters;

• monasteries;

• administrative buildings.

Bamberg gradually became a rich episcopal city.

Renaissance and Baroque

In the XVI-XVIII centuries, the city continued to grow and be decorated with new buildings.

During this period, construction was carried out:

• bishops' palaces;

• luxurious mansions of the nobility;

• administrative buildings;

• Gardens and parks.

Especially significant was the construction of the New Residence – a magnificent palace of princes-bishops.

Baroque architecture today determines the appearance of many areas of the city.

The hunt. n

One of the most tragic pages of Bamberg’s history was the witch hunt in the seventeenth century.

Between 1626 and 1631, it hosted some of the largest witch trials in Europe.

Hundreds of people were executed on charges of witchcraft:

• peasants;

• artisans;

• nobles;

• city officials.

For interrogations, a special building was built - the House of Witches.

Today, these events are seen as examples of religious bigotry and judicial abuse of the era.

Napoleonic era

At the beginning of the XIX century there were serious political changes.

As a result of reforms and secularization of church lands in 1802-1803, Bamberg lost the status of an independent principality-bishopric and became part of Bavaria.

Many churches were nationalized, but the city retained its cultural significance.

XIX century and industrialization

With the development of the railways, Bamberg gained new opportunities for economic growth.

Developed:

• engineering;

• food industry;

• trade;

• brewing.

Local breweries have gained special importance, many of which are still operating today.

By the end of the XIX century, the city became an important educational and administrative center of the region.

First and Second World Wars

During the First World War, Bamberg served as a rear city.

During World War II, the city suffered much less than other German centers. Large-scale destruction of historical buildings was avoided.

Bamberg is considered one of the best preserved medieval cities in Germany.

Post-war development

After 1945, the city actively restored the economy and developed tourism.

Particular attention was paid to:

• preservation of historic buildings;

• restoration of monuments;

• development of education;

• Support for cultural projects.

An important role was played by the University of Otto-Friedrich, which made the city a major student center.

UNESCO listing

In 1993, the historic center of Bamberg was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

This decision was made due to the unique preservation of urban planning and architecture of different eras:

• Romanesque.

• Gothic;

• Renaissance;

• Baroque.

Today Bamberg is one of the most valuable historical cities in Europe.

Bamberg today

Modern Bamberg combines:

• thousand-year history;

• university atmosphere;

• cultural life;

• famous brewing traditions.

The city is known for its attractions:

• Bamberg Cathedral;

• The old town hall;

• New residence;

• “Little Venice” quarter;

• old breweries.

Due to its history, beautifully preserved architecture and the atmosphere of old Bavaria, Bamberg is considered one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in Germany for cultural tourism.

Interesting places for entertainment in Bamberg

UNESCO World Heritage City

The main wealth of Bamberg is its magnificently preserved historical center.

There is practically no modern development, and a walk around the city resembles a trip several centuries ago.

Tourists are waiting:

• medieval streets;

• old squares;

• half-timbered houses;

• palaces and cathedrals;

• Atmospheric cafes and beer.

Bamberg is one of the few major German cities that were almost untouched during World War II.

Architectural beauty

The main decorations of the city are considered:

• Bamberg Cathedral;

• The old town hall;

• New residence;

• Michaelsberg Monastery;

• palaces of prince bishops.

Especially impressive is the Old Town Hall, built right in the middle of the river on an artificial island. It is considered one of the most photographed buildings in Germany.

Little Venice.

One of the most picturesque areas of the city is the Little Venice quarter.

Here are located:

• old fishing houses;

• channels;

• boat berths;

• flowering gardens.

While walking, it feels like you are in Germany and Italy.

The Beer Capital of Franconia

Bamberg is known all over the world for its brewing traditions.

There are many historical breweries in the city and surrounding area.

The main feature of the region is the famous smoked beer (Rauchbier), which is produced only here.

Tourists may:

• brewery visits;

• participate in tastings;

• Get acquainted with the traditions of Franconian brewing.

Gastronomic paradise

In addition to beer, the city is famous for its cuisine.

In local restaurants you can try:

• Bavarian sausages;

• pig steering;

• Franconian dishes;

• homemade cheeses;

• traditional German desserts.

Many establishments are located in historical buildings several hundred years old.

The atmosphere of the student city

Thanks to the University of Otto-Friedrich, the city retains a young and vibrant atmosphere.

They work here.

• cozy cafes;

• bookstores;

• concert venues;

• art galleries.

This makes Bamberg interesting not only for history buffs, but also for young people.

River walks and nature

The Regnitz River flows through the city.

Popular types of recreation:

• boat trips;

• bicycle routes;

• walks along the embankments;

• Rest in gardens and parks.

From numerous observation decks there are beautiful views of the old city and cathedrals.

A Christmas tale

In winter, Bamberg becomes one of the most atmospheric cities in Germany.

Tourists are waiting:

• Christmas markets;

• festive illumination;

• concerts;

• traditional sweets;

• hot mulled wine.

Medieval streets and ancient buildings make the festive atmosphere especially magical.

You will be welcomed in Bamberg. private guides And they'll offer you a copy. individual tours

 

Accommodation options in the city of Bamberg

Hotels 4-5 stars

Suitable for comfortable rest, romantic trips and business travel.

Popular options:

• Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg is located in a former residence of the XVIII century near the historical center.

• Welcome Kongresshotel Bamberg is a modern hotel on the banks of the Regnitz River.

• Hotel Bamberger Hof Bellevue is an elegant boutique hotel in a historic building.

Average cost:

• from 140 to 280 euros per night.

Hotels 3 stars

The most popular category among tourists.

Examples:

• Hotel Nepomuk is located on the river next to the Old Town Hall.

• Altstadthotel Molitor is a cozy hotel in the center of the Old Town.

• Hotel Weierich is near Bamberg Cathedral.

Average cost:

• 90-160 euros per night.

Historic hotels

The peculiarity of Bamberg is a large number of hotels located in ancient buildings.

Popular:

• Hotel Grüner Markt

• Hotel Brudermühle

Here you can feel the atmosphere of the medieval city, while maintaining modern comfort.

Cost:

• from 100 to 180 euros per night.

Guesthouses and boarding houses

A good option for an economical holiday.

Popular options:

• Pension am Michaelsberg

• Pension Tambosi

• Family guest houses in the Old Town area.

Cost:

• 60-100 euros a night.

Apartments and apartments

Renting tourist apartments is widespread in Bamberg.

Advantages:

• own kitchen;

• More space;

• It is convenient for families and long trips.

Cost:

• from 70 to 180 euros per day.

Hostels and budget accommodation

For students and independent travelers suitable:

• Jugendherberge Bamberg is a youth hostel.

• Budget guest houses near the station.

• rooms in private homes.

Cost:

• from 30 to 70 euros per night.
  

Attractions in Bamberg

Bamberg Cathedral

Bamberg Cathedral is the main symbol of the city and one of the most important temples in Germany.

The cathedral was built in the XI-XIII centuries and is known:

• the tomb of Emperor Henry II;

• The famous statue of the Bamberg Rider;

• magnificent Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Transport accessibility:

• It is located on the Cathedral Hill;

• about 15 minutes walk from the railway station;

• There are city bus routes nearby.

Old Town Hall

The old town hall is considered the hallmark of the city.

The building is built on an artificial island in the middle of the Regnitz River and is connected to the banks by picturesque bridges.

Transport accessibility:

• located in the center of the Old Town;

• 10-15 minutes walk from the station;

• It is easily accessible on foot from any part of the historic center.

Little Venice.

Little Venice is one of the most picturesque areas of the city.

Here are:

• old fishing houses;

• river marinas;

• promenades;

• observation decks.

Transport accessibility:

• 5 minutes walk from the Old Town Hall;

• It is included in most tourist routes.

New residence

The new residence is the former palace of the prince-bishops.

Tourists visit:

• luxurious state halls;

• museum exhibitions;

• Rose Garden with panoramic views of the city.

Transport accessibility:

• located near Bamberg Cathedral;

• Available on foot from downtown.

Michaelsberg Monastery

Michaelsberg Monastery rises above the city on one of the seven hills.

It offers the best views of the historic center of Bamberg.

Transport accessibility:

• about 20-25 minutes walk from the center;

• You can take the city bus.

The Old Courtyard (Alte Hofhaltung)

The old courtyard is a medieval complex of buildings next to the cathedral.

Here you can see:

• ancient half-timbered buildings;

• courtyard;

• Museum displays.

Transport accessibility:

• located in the cathedral quarter;

• accessible on foot.

Beer Museum of Franconia

The Franconian Brewery Museum tells the story of famous local breweries.

Visitors can learn:

• History of Franconian brewing;

• Features of Rauchbier smoked beer;

• The old technology of making a drink.

Transport accessibility:

• located in the historical part of the city;

• available on foot or by bus.

Bamberg Brewery

The city is famous for its historic breweries.

Especially popular:

• Schlenkerla;

• Brauerei Spezial.

Here you can try the famous smoked beer, which has become a symbol of the city.

Transport accessibility:

• located in the city centre;

• accessible on foot.

Rose Garden

The Rose Garden of the New Residence is considered one of the best observation platforms in the city.

It is especially beautiful in late spring and summer.

Transport accessibility:

• located on the territory of the new residence;

• accessible on foot.
  

Activities in Bamberg

Spring (March-May)

Easter events

Before Easter, church services, concerts of organ music and festive fairs are held in the city.

Spring markets

The central squares open seasonal markets with local produce, handicrafts and Franconian delicacies.

Gardens and Flowers Festival

In spring, the gardens of the New Residence and city parks, where cultural events and exhibitions are held, are especially beautiful.

Summer (June-August)

Sandkerwa Festival

Sandkerwa is the main event of the year and one of the largest national holidays in Bavaria.

Every August, the historic center of the city turns into a huge festive venue. Every year the festival attracts more than 200 thousand guests. In the program:

• live music concerts;

• traditional Franconian festivals;

• fairs;

• folk entertainment;

• The famous competition of fishermen on the river;

• holiday fireworks.

Summer open-air concerts

In the summer in the historical center, parks and squares regularly take place:

• jazz concerts;

• performances of symphony orchestras;

• rock and pop concerts;

• Student festivals.

Autumn (September-November)

Franconian beer festivals

In autumn, many breweries hold tastings and themed events dedicated to the famous Bamberg smoked beer Rauchbier.

Autumn fairs

The city hosts traditional autumn markets with local cuisine, souvenirs and farm products.

Concert season

Since September, an active theatrical and concert season begins in the historical halls of the city.

Winter (December – February)

Bamberg Christmas Market

The Bamberg Christmas Fair is held annually at Maximiliansplatz Square from late November to 23 December. There are dozens of shopping pavilions with souvenirs, sweets, mulled wine and Christmas decorations.

Advent Market in Sand Quarter

In the old district of the city, an atmospheric Christmas fair of artisans takes place near the Church of St. Elizabeth.

Christmas concerts

During the winter period:

• concerts at Bamberg Cathedral;

• performances of organists;

• Choral festivals;

• Musical evenings in the historic churches of the city.

Christmas nativity

Bamberg is known for more than 400 Christmas compositions and nativity scenes housed in churches, museums and historic buildings of the city.

Weather and the best season to travel to Bamberg

Spring (March-May)

Spring comes gradually, the city blossoms and becomes especially picturesque.

Air temperature:

• March: +4... +11 °C;

• April: +8... +16 °C;

• May: +13 ... +22 °C.

Water temperature:

• from +6 °C to +16 °C.

Spring is considered one of the best seasons for excursions and walks.

Summer (June-August)

Summer is warm and comfortable without extreme heat.

Air temperature:

• +20... +28 °C;

• on hot days up to +30 ... +34 ° C.

Water temperature:

• +18... +24°C.

In summer, major city festivals, concerts and the famous Sandkerwa festival are held.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is characterized by mild weather and beautiful landscapes.

Air temperature:

• September: +14... +23 °C;

• October: +8... +16 °C;

• November: +3... +9°C.

Water temperature:

• from +18 °C in September to +8 °C in November

Autumn is perfect for gastronomic and sightseeing tourism.

Winter (December – February)

Winters are relatively mild for Central Europe.

Air temperature:

• day: -1 ... +5 °C;

• at night: -5...0 °C.

Water temperature:

• +1 ... +4 °C.

Snow falls regularly, but stable snow cover is not always maintained.

Language of communication, traditions and customs in Bamberg

Language of communication

Official language:

• German.

In Bamberg, many residents, especially young people, employees of hotels, museums and restaurants, speak English. However, in small shops, family cafes and markets, only German is more commonly used.

In addition to literary German, locals can speak the Franconian dialect, which differs in pronunciation and some words.

Features of communication

Germans usually:

• polite and restrained;

• respect personal space;

• value honesty and directness;

• They're punctual.

When entering a store, hotel or restaurant, it is customary to say hello.

General greetings:

• Guten Morgen - Good morning

• Guten Tag - Good afternoon.

• Guten Abend - Good evening.

Local traditions and customs

Beer traditions

Bamberg is considered one of the beer capitals of Germany.

When visiting breweries and beer restaurants, it is accepted:

• calmly rest and communicate;

• Be respectful of others;

• Don't abuse alcohol.

A special pride of the city is the famous smoked beer Rauchbier.

Respect for history

Bamberg is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Residents are careful about:

• historic buildings;

• monuments of architecture;

• old streets;

• cultural heritage of the city.

Punctuality

In Germany, it is considered good form to be on time:

• on excursions;

• restaurants;

• meetings;

• Transportation.

Being more than a few minutes late can be considered disrespectful.

Laws and regulations

Documents

Tourists are advised to carry:

• foreign passport;

• visa or documents for the right of stay;

• health insurance;

• copies of documents in electronic form.

Road rules

The following should be strictly observed:

• traffic lights;

• the rules for crossing streets;

• bike lanes.

Cyclists have a great advantage on the roads, so you need to carefully monitor special markings.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited:

• in public transport;

• in most public institutions;

• in many cafes and restaurants;

• in enclosed public spaces.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is permitted but prohibited:

• disturb public order;

• Make noise;

• Be aggressive.

Silence and respect for others

In Germany, hours of silence are strictly observed.

It is especially important to avoid noise:

• after 22:00;

• on Sundays;

• on holidays.

Loud music and noisy behavior can cause complaints from neighbors and even fines.

Ecological culture

The people of Bamberg take the environment seriously.

Copy that:

• sort the garbage;

• use reusable bags;

• Do not litter in public places;

• Take care of parks and historical areas.

Tipping

In restaurants and cafes it is customary to leave tips:

• 5-10% of the invoice amount;

• Or round the amount upwards.

Taxis often round the cost of the trip.

The main dialogues for traveling to Bamberg

Greetings

Guten Morgen - Good morning.

Guten Tag - Good afternoon.

Guten Abend - Good evening.

Hallo (hallo) - Hello, hello.

Auf Wiedersehen - Goodbye.

Tschüss - Bye.

Polite words

Danke (danke) - Thank you.

Vielen Dank - Thank you very much.

Bitte, please.

Entschuldigung - Excuse me.

Ja (me) - Yes.

Nein (Nine) - No.

Useful phrases for communication

Sprechen Sie Englisch? - Do you speak English?

Ich spreche kein Deutsch. (their spreche kine deutsch) - I don't speak German.

Können Sie mir helfen? - Can you help me?

Ich verstehe nicht. - I don't understand.

Bitte sprechen Sie langsamer. (Bitte Sprechen zi Langzamer) - Speak more slowly.

Wo ist...? (in English...?) - Where is...?

At the hotel.

Ich habe eine Reservierung. (their hub aine reserved) - I have a reservation.

Ist Frühstück inklusive? (Ist Frühstück Inclusive?) - Breakfast included?

Wo ist mein Zimmer? - Where's my number?

Gibt es WLAN? - Is there Wi-Fi?

Hotel dialogue

Tourist: Guten Tag. Ich habe eine Reservierung. (Good afternoon.) I have a reservation.

Administrator: Auf welchen Namen?

Tourist: Ivan Ivanov. (Ivan Ivanov)

Restaurant and pub

Die Speisekarte, bitte. - A menu, please.

Was empfehlen Sie? (Your empfehlen zi?) - What do you recommend?

Ich möchte bestellen. I'd like to order them.

Ein Bier, bitte. - One beer, please.

Die Rechnung, bitte. - Check, please.

Restaurant dialogue

Tourist: Was empfehlen Sie? (What do you recommend?)

Waiter: Das Rauchbier ist sehr berühmt. (Smoked beer is very famous.)

Tourist: Dann nehme ich das. (Then I'll take it.)

Station and transport

Wo ist der Bahnhof? - Where's the station?

Wann fährt der Zug? - When does the train leave?

Ein Ticket, bitte. (ain ticket bitte) - One ticket, please.

Wo ist die Bushaltestelle? - Where's the bus stop?

Isst dieser Platz frei? - Is this seat free?

In the store.

Wie viel kostet das? - How much does it cost?

Kann ich mit Karte bezahlen? (can their mit card bezahlen?) - Can I pay with a card?

Haben Sie Souvenirs? - Do you have souvenirs?

Ich nehme das. - I'm taking that.

In an emergency.

Hilfe! - Help me!

Rufen Sie die Polizei! - Call the police!

Ich brauche einen Arzt. - I need a doctor.

Wo ist die Apotheke? - Where is the pharmacy?

Ich habe meinen Pass verloren. I have lost my passport.

Useful words.

Bahnhof is a railway station.

Hotel is a hotel.

Restaurant is a restaurant.

Bier is beer.

Wasser is water.

Kaffee is coffee.

Apotheke is a pharmacy.

Krankenhaus is a hospital.

Polizei is the police.

The museum is a museum.

Kirche is a church.

Rathaus is the town hall.

Eingang is the entrance.

Ausgang is the exit.

Fahrkarte is a ticket.

Food, medicines, souvenirs and gifts in memory of the city of Bamberg

Local food and delicacies

Rauchbier Smoked Beer

The main gastronomic symbol of Bamberg. Beer has an unusual smoked aroma due to drying malt over beech smoke.

Popular brands:

• Schlenkerla Rauchbier;

• Spezial Rauchbier.

This beer is almost impossible to find outside the region.

Franconian sausages

Traditional Bavarian and Franconian sausages:

• Bratwurst?

• Nürnberger Rostbratwurst;

• Smoked sausages from local producers.

Franconian honey

In the vicinity of Bamberg, natural honey of various varieties is produced, which is often sold in farmers' markets.

German sweets

Popular:

• marzipan;

• handmade chocolate;

• Christmas carrots;

• fruity candy.

Useful products and medicines

Herbal teas

In Germany, natural herbal collections are popular:

• chamomile

• mint

• Melissa?

• fennel;

• Sage.

They can be purchased in pharmacies and specialized stores.

German cosmetics

The following are popular:

• Weleda;

• Dr. Hauschka;

• Kneipp.

Especially in demand creams, oils and skin care products based on natural components.

Mineral and vitamin complexes

German pharmacies are famous for the high quality of over-the-counter vitamins and health promotion products.

Traditional souvenirs

Beer mugs

One of Bamberg’s most popular souvenirs.

It can be purchased:

• ceramic mugs;

• glass beer glasses;

• Collective circles with the symbols of the city.

Souvenirs with the image of the Old Town Hall

Particularly popular are:

• magnets;

• postcards;

• calendars;

• decorative plates.

The symbol of the city is considered the Old Town Hall.

Products of local artisans

Souvenir shops sell:

• wooden figures;

• handicrafts;

• decorative ceramics;

• art glass.
  

Rest safety, documents, insurance, telephones, Internet in Bamberg

General security

Bamberg is suitable for:

• independent travelers;

• families with children;

• elderly tourists;

• Evening walks in the historic center.

Even in the evening, most tourist areas are well lit and safe.

What documents are required to have

To travel to Germany, a tourist is recommended to have:

• foreign passport;

• Schengen visa (if required for tourist citizenship);

• health insurance;

• confirmation of accommodation reservation;

• return tickets;

• copies of all documents in your phone or cloud storage.

During walks, it is enough to have a copy of your passport with you, and keep the original in the safe of the hotel.

Health insurance

To obtain a Schengen visa, a health insurance coverage of at least 30,000 euros is usually required.

It is desirable that the policy include:

• outpatient treatment;

• hospitalization;

• transportation to the hospital;

• emergency dental care;

• Repatriation if necessary.

Emergency services

Uniform emergency number in Germany:

112 - Ambulance and Fire Service.

It's also useful to know:

110, police.

Operators usually speak German and often English.

Pharmacies and medicine

Pharmacies are designated with the word Apotheke and the red letter A.

Most pharmacies work:

• Monday to Saturday;

• In large areas, there are pharmacies at night and on weekends.

Large medical facilities are located directly in Bamberg and are accessible to tourists.

Mobile operators

The main mobile operators in Germany:

Telekom DeutschlandVodafone GermanyO2 Germany

Popular budget operators:

• Aldi Talk;

• Lidl Connect;

• Congstar.

Mobile and internet coverage in Bamberg is excellent.

Bank cards and money

Official currency:

• euro (EUR).

Almost everywhere accepted:

• Visa;

• Mastercard;

• Bank cards of European systems.

However, for small cafés, markets, and souvenir shops, it is helpful to have some cash.

How many tourists can stay in Germany

Germany is part of the Schengen area.

For most tourists, there is a rule:

• no more than 90 days in any 180 days on a short-term Schengen visa or visa-free regime for the countries concerned.

A national visa or residence permit is required for a longer stay.