Independent tourism and recreation in the city of Würzburg

Historical information about the city of Würzburg

Würzburg is one of the oldest cities in Bavaria and all of Germany. Located on the banks of the Main River in the historic Franconia region, Würzburg has been an important religious, cultural, commercial and political center of Central Europe for over a thousand years. Today, the city is known for its palaces, university, wine traditions and rich historical heritage.

Ancient history and the first settlements

The territory of modern Würzburg was inhabited in prehistoric times. Archaeologists have discovered traces of Bronze and Iron Age settlements.

In Celtic times, there was a fortified settlement on the Marinberg hill. Due to its favorable position on the Main River, the area became an important trading point between the north and south of Europe.

After the arrival of the Romans, the region entered the Roman Empire’s sphere of influence, although there were no permanent major Roman cities. Nevertheless, trade routes connected German lands with the Roman provinces passed through the territory.

The Founding of the City and Christianization

The first written mention of Würzburg dates back to 704. In the documents, the city appears as "Virteburch".

The Christianization of German lands played a huge role in the development of the city. In the eighth century, the Anglo-Saxon missionary Saint Boniface actively spread Christianity among the Franks.

In 742, the Bishopric of Würzburg was established, and St. Burchard became the first bishop.

From that moment the city began to develop rapidly as one of the most important church centers of the Holy Roman Empire.

Medieval heyday

In the Middle Ages, Würzburg became the capital of a powerful principality-bishopric.

The bishops received not only religious but also secular power. They ruled the vast lands of Franconia and wielded considerable political influence.

During this period, construction was carried out:

• Marinberg Fortress;

• the first urban fortifications;

• monasteries and churches;

• commercial quarters;

• Bridges over Main.

The city became a major trading center due to winemaking, crafts and an advantageous location on the river routes.

Würzburg and the Holy Roman Empire

For many centuries, the prince-bishops of Würzburg played an important role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire.

The city was holding:

• church synods;

• meetings of the nobility;

• diplomatic meetings;

• Imperial visits.

Würzburg was considered one of the most influential spiritual centers of the German lands.

University and the Renaissance

In 1402 the first University of Würzburg was founded.

Although initially short-lived, the university was rebuilt in 1582 by Prince Bishop Julius Echter von Mespelbrunn.

Today it is the famous Würzburg University named after Julius and Maximilian, which is one of the oldest universities in Germany.

Many outstanding scientists have worked here, including:

• Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen;

• Rudolf Virchow.

Baroque Age and Residence Construction

XVII-XVIII centuries were the time of the highest prosperity of Würzburg.

After the destruction of the Thirty Years War, the city was rebuilt and decorated with magnificent Baroque buildings.

The main symbol of the era was:

Würzburg residence

Construction of the palace lasted from 1720 to 1780.

The best architects and artists of Europe worked on the project.

Today, the Residence is considered one of the greatest Baroque palaces in the world and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Napoleonic era

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

After the collapse of the Holy Roman Empire, the principality-bishopric was abolished.

For some time there was a Grand Duchy of Würzburg, associated with Napoleon.

In 1814, the city finally became part of the Kingdom of Bavaria.

XIX century and industrialization

In the XIX century Würzburg actively developed.

There are:

• railways;

• new university buildings;

• factories and enterprises;

• Modern residential neighborhoods.

At the same time, the city retained its importance as a center of winemaking and education.

World War II

The most tragic page in the history of Würzburg was the Second World War.

On March 16, 1945, British aircraft launched a massive bomb attack on the city.

In 20 minutes, about 90% of the historic center was destroyed.

Thousands of residents died.

Particularly affected:

• old town;

• churches;

• residential areas;

• historic buildings.

Surprisingly, many of the main monuments were later restored almost in their original form.

Post-war reconstruction

After the war, a large-scale reconstruction began.

Residents decided to accurately restore the historical appearance of the city.

The following were reconstructed:

• Würzburg residence;

• The old bridge over Main;

• cathedral;

• historical squares;

• old streets.

The work continued for several decades.

Modern Würzburg

Today Würzburg is:

• administrative center of Lower Franconia;

• a large university city;

• one of the main wine centers of Germany;

• a popular tourist destination.

The population of the city exceeds 125 thousand people.

The city attracts millions of tourists every year thanks to:

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites;

• palaces and churches;

• famous Franconian wines;

• university traditions;

• The picturesque valley of Main.

The historical significance of Würzburg

For over 1,300 years, Würzburg has been:

• the spiritual capital of Franconia;

• residence of the prince-bishops;

• university centre;

• an important trading city;

• center of German winemaking.

The history of Würzburg reflects almost all the key stages of German development, from the early Middle Ages and the Holy Roman Empire to modern European history. Today, it is one of the most beautiful historic cities in Bavaria, where medieval traditions, Baroque architecture and university life form a unique cultural heritage.

What is interesting about the city of Würzburg

City of palaces, cathedrals and vineyards

The main pride of the city is the Würzburg Residence, one of the most luxurious palaces in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Magnificent halls, grand staircases and the famous fresco by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo annually attract thousands of tourists from all over the world.

The Marinberg Fortress rises above the city, from where the best panoramas of the Main Valley, the red roofs of the old city and the surrounding vineyards open.

A special atmosphere is created by the Old Bridge over Main, which is often compared with the Charles Bridge in Prague. Here, tourists and locals like to greet sunsets with a glass of Franconian wine.

Capital of Franconian winemaking

Würzburg is considered one of the most important wine centers in Germany.

On the surrounding hills there are famous vineyards, where high-quality white wines are produced:

• Silvaner;

• Riesling?

• Müller-Thurgau;

• Bacchus.

In almost every restaurant you can taste local wines, and numerous wine cellars and wineries conduct tastings all year round.

A young and vibrant university town

Despite its rich history, Würzburg remains a modern and dynamic city thanks to the Julius and Maximilian University of Würzburg.

Tens of thousands of students create a lively atmosphere:

• Cozy cafes work;

• concerts and festivals are held;

• Modern art spaces are opened;

• Gastronomy culture is actively developing.

Paradise for walkers

The compact historical center allows you to explore the main attractions on foot.

Especially nice to walk:

• along the embankments of Main;

• In the old squares;

• among the vineyards;

• Residence parks;

• along narrow medieval streets.

In spring, the city is drowned in flowers, in summer it pleases with open terraces, in autumn it is surrounded by golden vineyards, and in winter it turns into a Christmas fairy tale.

Gastronomy impressions

Franconian cuisine is rich and varied.

Tourists should try:

• Franconian sausages;

• Shoifele (baked pork spatula);

• local cheeses;

• household pretzels;

• traditional desserts;

• famous Franconian wines.
  

 

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

Levels of residence in the city of Würzburg

Hotels 4-5 stars

Such accommodation is suitable for tourists who appreciate a high level of comfort, convenient location and quality service.

Popular options:

• Maritim Hotel Würzburg is one of the most famous hotels in the city on the banks of the Main, next to the Congress Center and the Old Town.

• Best Western Premier Hotel Rebstock is a historic downtown hotel that has been in operation for centuries.

• Schlosshotel Steinburg is a luxurious castle hotel on a hill among vineyards with panoramic views of the city.

Average cost:

• from 140 to 300 euros per night.

Mid-range hotels (3-4 stars)

The most popular option among tourists.

Examples:

• Mercure Hotel Würzburg am Mainufer is next to the Old Bridge and the historic center.

• Hotel Würzburger Hof - near the station and the main attractions.

• GHOTEL Hotel & Living Würzburg is a modern city hotel next to the train station.

Average cost:

• from 90 to 160 euros per night.

Budget hotels and economy hotels

Suitable for short trips and independent travelers.

Popular options:

• B&B Hotel Würzburg

• ibis Hotel Würzburg City

• City Hotel Würzburg

Average cost:

• from 55 to 90 euros per night.

Guesthouses (Pension)

Traditional German accommodation format.

Advantages:

• home atmosphere;

• a small number of rooms;

• opportunity to meet local residents;

• Lower prices compared to hotels.

Cost:

• from 45 to 90 euros per night.

Apartments and apartments

A popular option for families and long-term residence.

There are many available in the city:

• apartments in the center;

• studios near the station;

• Apartments among vineyards.

Advantages:

• own kitchen;

• More space;

• convenience for long journeys.

Cost:

• from 70 to 180 euros per night.

 

Where to go and what to see in Würzburg

Würzburg residence

The main attraction of the city is the Würzburg Residence, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The palace of the XVIII century is considered one of the greatest examples of European Baroque. Special attention of tourists is attracted by the grand staircase, the Imperial Hall and the world's largest ceiling fresco by Tiepolo.

How to get there

• about 15 minutes walk from the central station;

• trams to the Residenzplatz stop;

• Tourist buses stop near the palace.

Marinberg Fortress

On a high hill above Main stands the Marinberg Fortress.

For almost a thousand years it served as the residence of the prince-bishops of Franconia. Today there are museums, ancient bastions and observation platforms with the best panoramas of the city.

How to get there

• walk about 30-40 minutes across the Old Bridge;

• city bus to the foot of the hill;

• tourist bus;

• A taxi from the center takes about 10 minutes.

The old bridge over Main

The old bridge over Main is a symbol of the city and one of the most photographed places in Franconia.

The bridge is decorated with statues of saints and is often compared to the Charles Bridge in Prague. From here there are beautiful views of the fortress Marinberg, the river and the historical center.

How to get there

• It is located in the heart of the city;

• It is easily accessible on foot from almost anywhere in the Old Town.

St. Kilian's Cathedral

Würzburg Cathedral is one of the largest Romanesque cathedrals in Germany.

Construction began in the XI century. Inside you can see works of medieval art, ancient burials of bishops and magnificent altars.

How to get there

• 10 minutes walk from the station;

• It is located in the center of the historical part of the city.

Church of Neumunster

Neumunster is built on the burial site of St. Cylian, patron saint of Franconia.

The temple combines Romanesque style, Baroque and elements of later architecture.

How to get there

• is located next to the cathedral;

• Available on foot from downtown.

Market Square

The heart of city life is the Würzburg Market Square.

Here are located:

• the historical chapel of St. Mary;

• numerous cafes;

• seasonal markets;

• Christmas market in winter.

How to get there

• city centre;

• A few minutes walk from the main attractions.

Stein Vineyards

The Würzburg Stein vineyards are considered one of Germany’s oldest and most famous vineyards.

The hills offer magnificent views of the city and the valley of Main.

How to get there

• walk about 30 minutes from the center;

• city bus;

• bicycle routes.

University Botanical Garden

Nature lovers should visit the Botanical Garden of the University of Würzburg.

There are thousands of plant species from all over the world.

How to get there

• tram or bus from the center;

• About 15 minutes by public transport.

Museum at the Fortress Marinberg

The fortress houses the Meinfrancen Museum, where artworks, archaeological finds and famous works by sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider are collected.

How to get there

• with a visit to the Marinberg Fortress.
  

Events and entertainment in Würzburg

Spring (March-May)

In spring, the city comes to life after winter, summer cafes open, cultural events and the first wine festivals begin.

Easter holidays

The cathedrals and churches of the city host festive services, concerts of sacred music and organ performances.

Spring wine events

The wineries of Franconia begin the season of tasting young wines and open wine cellars for visitors.

Africa Festival

One of the most unusual events of the city is the International Festival of Africa. It is considered the largest festival of African culture in Europe. In the program:

• concerts of musicians from different countries of Africa;

• gastronomic fairs;

• craft markets;

• dance shows;

• art exhibitions.

Summer (June-August)

Summer is the main tourist season of Würzburg.

Mozartfest Würzburg

The most famous cultural event of the city is Mozartfest Würzburg.

The festival has been held annually since 1921 and is the oldest Mozart festival in Germany. Over the course of several weeks, dozens of classical music concerts take place in the Würzburg Residence, gardens, churches and historic halls of the city. Every year the festival is visited by tens of thousands of spectators.

Umsonst & Draussen

A popular open-air summer music festival.

Features:

• free admission;

• rock, pop, indie and alternative music;

• youth atmosphere;

• concerts of local and international performers.

Concerts on the Old Bridge and Main Embankment

In the summer, there are regular:

• Jazz nights;

• performances of symphony orchestras;

• Open concerts in the historic center;

• student music festivals.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is considered to be the best time to explore wine-growing Franconia.

Würzburger Weindorf Wine Festival

One of the most favorite activities of local residents.

In the central square of the city, wine pavilions are installed, where you can taste the best Franconian wines and traditional dishes of the region.

Grape harvest festivals

In September and October, there are numerous wine festivals in Würzburg and the surrounding wine villages.

In the program:

• Tasting;

• fairs;

• concerts;

• festivities;

• Vineyard tours.

University activities

A new school year begins in autumn and the city is filled with student festivals, concerts and cultural events.

Winter (December – February)

Christmas market

The main winter event of the city takes place on the Market Square.

Guests are waiting:

• traditional German sweets;

• mulled wine;

• handmade souvenirs;

• Christmas music;

• holiday illumination.

Advent concerts

In the cathedrals and churches of Würzburg are held:

• organ concerts;

• Choral performances;

• Christmas music programs.

New Year's events

Festivities and fireworks are organized in the city center.

What weather is suitable for a trip to the city of Würzburg

Spring (March-May)

Spring comes early enough. At this time, the vineyards begin to turn green, the parks and gardens of the Würzburg residence bloom.

Air temperature:

• March: +4... +11 °C;

• April: +8...+17 °C;

• May: +12... +23°C.

Water temperature:

• March: +5...+7 °C;

• April: +8... +11 °C;

• May: +13...+17 °C.

Spring is great for excursions, walks in the historic center and visits to vineyards.

Summer (June-August)

Summer is warm and sunny. Due to its location in the valley, the temperature here is often higher than in other regions of Germany.

Air temperature:

• June: +18... +27 °C;

• July: +20... +30 °C;

• August: +19... +29°C.

On some days, the temperature can rise to +35 ° C.

Water temperature:

• +18... +24°C.

Summer is considered a time of music festivals, walks along the embankment of Main and wine festivals.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn in Franconia is especially beautiful thanks to the vineyards, which are painted in golden and red shades.

Air temperature:

• September: +15... +24 °C;

• October: +9...+17 °C;

• November: +3... +9°C.

Water temperature:

• September: +18... +20 °C;

• October: +12... +15 °C;

• November: +7... +10°C.

In autumn, grape harvesting begins and famous wine festivals are held.

Winter (December – February)

Winters in Würzburg are relatively mild compared to eastern Germany.

Air temperature:

• day: 0...+6 °C;

• night: -4...0 °C.

Water temperature:

• +2...+5 °C.

Snow falls regularly, but stable snow cover does not happen every year.

What traditions and customs should be observed in the city of Würzburg

Language of communication

The official language is German.

In everyday life, the inhabitants of Würzburg speak literary German, but among the local population you can hear the Franconian dialect (Fränkisch), which is distinguished by pronunciation and some words.

In touristic places, hotels, restaurants, museums and train stations, many employees speak English.

Even a few simple phrases in German usually elicit a positive response from locals.

Features of communication

Germans appreciate:

• punctuality;

• politeness;

• respect for personal space;

• compliance.

If the meeting is scheduled for 15:00, it is advisable to arrive exactly on time or a few minutes earlier.

During communication, it is customary to use the official form of addressing “Sie” (you) to strangers.

Traditions and customs

Wine traditions of Franconia

Würzburg is one of the centers of German winemaking.

The locals are proud of their wines and vineyards. Visiting wine festivals, tastings and wine cellars is considered an important part of getting to know the culture of the region.

Beer and wine gardens

In summer, open terraces and wine gardens are popular.

Strangers can sit at the same table, which is considered a normal part of the local culture.

Christmas traditions

In December, it is important to:

• Christmas markets;

• Advent calendars;

• festive concerts;

• family meetings.

Rules of conduct in public places

In Germany, much attention is paid to order.

Not recommended:

• Speak loudly on public transport;

• play music without headphones;

• litter

• Smoking in prohibited places.

You should respect others and observe silence.

Clock of silence

In Germany, there are hours of silence.

It is generally recommended to avoid noise:

• after 22:00;

• early in the morning;

• Sundays and holidays.

At this time, it is not customary to listen to music loudly, perform noisy work or arrange parties.

Laws that are important to follow

Crossing the road

Even if there are no cars, many Germans are waiting for a green light.

Switching to a red light is considered a violation and may trigger remarks from locals.

Alcohol

Alcohol consumption is permitted in Germany, however:

• Do not appear in public places in an aggressive or dangerous state;

• It is forbidden to drive a car under the influence.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in many public areas:

• train stations;

• restaurants;

• museums;

• public transport.

Pay attention to special areas for smokers.

Transport tickets

There are often no turnstiles in public transport, but checks are carried out regularly.

Ticketless travel can lead to a large fine.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory, but is welcome.

Usually left:

• 5-10% of the invoice amount in the restaurant;

• a few euros to the taxi driver;

• A small amount of tour guide with good service.

Attitudes to ecology

The people of Würzburg take environmental issues seriously.

Common:

• separate collection of garbage;

• use of bicycles;

• recycling of waste;

• saving water and electricity.

Tourists are advised to follow these rules.

Popular phrases and dialogues with translation for a trip to Würzburg

Greetings

Guten Morgen - Good morning.

Guten Tag - Good afternoon.

Guten Abend - Good evening.

Hallo (hallo) - Hello, hello.

Tschüss - Bye.

Auf Wiedersehen - Goodbye.

Polite words

- 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. I don't speak German.

Können Sie mir helfen? can you help me?

Ich verstehe nicht. I don't understand.

Bitte sprechen Sie langsamer, please speak more slowly.

Wo ist . . . ?) Where is ...?

At the hotel.

Ich habe eine Reservierung. (their habe aine reserve) I have a reservation.

Auf welchen Namen? What name?

Is your breakfast included?

Wann ist Check-out? What time is the eviction?

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 Petrov. - Ivan Petrov.

Administrator

Willkommen in Würzburg (Welcome to Würzburg)

Restaurant and wine bar.

Würzburg is famous for Franconian wines, so such phrases are especially useful.

Die Speisekarte, bitte, please.

Was empfehlen Sie? What do you recommend?

Ich möchte bestellen. I would like to order.

Ein Glas Wein, bitte. A glass of wine, please.

Die Rechnung, bitte.

Restaurant dialogue

Tourist:

Was Empfehlen Sie? (What do you recommend?)

Waiter:

Probieren Sie den Frankenwein (Try French wine)

Tourist:

- Sehr gerne.

Station and transport

Wo ist der Bahnhof? Where's the station?

Wann fährt der Zug nach Frankfurt? ) When does the train leave for Frankfurt?

One ticket to Nuremberg, please.

Wo ist die Straßenbahnhaltestelle? Where's the tram stop?

Ist 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 I pay with a card?

Haben Sie Souvenirs? Do you have any souvenirs?

Ich nehme das. I take it.

At the pharmacy.

Wo ist die Apotheke? Where's the pharmacy?

Ich brauche Medizin. (their brauche medicine) I need medicine.

Ich habe Kopfschmerzen. I have a headache.

Haben Sie etwas gegen Erkältung? Do you have anything for a cold?

Emergency situations

Hilfe! Help me!

Rufen Sie die Polizei! call the police!

Ich brauche einen Arzt. I need a doctor.

Ich habe meinen Pass verloren. I lost my passport.

 

What to try and what souvenirs and gifts to bring from Würzburg

Franconian wine - the main souvenir of Würzburg

The most famous gift from Würzburg is Franconian wine.

Especially popular varieties:

• Silvaner;

• Riesling?

• Müller-Thurgau;

• Bacchus.

A unique feature is the Bocksbeutel bottle - a flat rounded bottle, which is a symbol of Franconian winemaking.

Local wines can be purchased:

• in wine cellars;

• specialized stores;

• directly at the wineries.

Wine delicacies

Tourists often buy:

• wine jelly

• wine vinegar;

• wine candy;

• chocolate with the addition of Franconian wine;

• grape jams.

These products are rarely found outside the region.

Franconian sausages

Popular gastronomic souvenirs:

• smoked sausages;

• domestic sausages;

• Franconian delicacies;

• traditional ham.

For transportation it is better to choose vacuum packaging.

German sweets

From Würzburg they often bring:

• marzipan;

• handmade chocolate;

• Caramel;

• fruity candy;

• Christmas carrots (in the winter season).

Medicines and health products

Germany is famous for high-quality pharmacy products.

The following are popular:

Herbal teas

• chamomile

• fennel;

• mint

• Melissa?

• Sage.

Natural cosmetics

Popular German brands:

• Weleda;

• Dr. Hauschka;

• Kneipp.

Tourists often buy:

• creams;

• oils;

• bath salts;

• skin care products.

Vitamins and mineral complexes

In German pharmacies there is a large selection of high-quality over-the-counter drugs and vitamin complexes.

Traditional souvenirs

Wine glasses and accessories

The most popular are:

• Wine glasses;

• corkscrews;

• wine sets;

• Bocksbeutel decorative bottles.

Souvenirs with the Würzburg residence

Particularly popular are:

• magnets;

• postcards;

• decorative plates;

• calendars;

• Reproduction of historical views of the city.

The main symbol of the city is the Würzburg residence.

 

Rest safety and availability of travel documents for Würzburg

Würzburg is considered one of the safest tourist cities in Germany. The crime rate here is low, and the main risks for tourists are associated with pickpocketing at train stations, trains and crowded places. In the historic center, tourist areas and near the main attractions is usually safe even in the evening.

Documents required

To travel to Germany, it is recommended to have:

• foreign passport;

• Schengen visa (if required for your country);

• health insurance;

• confirmation of accommodation reservation;

• return ticket or confirmation of further route;

• documents confirming financial viability.

It is useful to store electronic copies of documents in a phone or cloud storage.

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 covers:

• emergency medical care;

• hospitalization;

• transportation to a medical institution;

• repatriation;

• accidents.

Emergency services

The main emergency numbers in Germany:

• 112 – ambulance and fire service;

• 110, police.

The number 112 is valid throughout Germany and the European Union, calling is free from mobile and landline phones.

In addition:

• 116117 - Emergency medical care in non-life-threatening cases.

Mobile operators

The main communication operators in Germany:

• Telekom Deutschland

• Vodafone Germany

• O2 Germany

Popular budget operators:

• Aldi Talk;

• Lidl Connect;

• Congstar?

• Blau.

In Würzburg, mobile and mobile internet coverage is very good in almost all areas of the city.

Money and bank cards

The official currency of Germany is the euro (EUR).

Almost everywhere accepted:

• Visa;

• Mastercard;

• contactless payments.

However, small cafes, markets and some family establishments may prefer cash, so it is advisable to carry a small amount of euros.

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 during any 180-day period on a Schengen visa or visa-free entry for the countries concerned. This is known as the 90/180 rule.

For a longer stay, it is necessary to obtain:

• national visa;

• student visa;

• work visa;

• residence permit.