Founded in the 12th century, Rothenburg, Germany, (pronounced
ROE-ten-burg) is famous for its art galleries, shops, cafes and pretty hotels.
Situated 100 mi/160 km southeast of Frankfurt, Rothenburg feels like the setting for a fairy tale—it's surrounded by towers, ramparts and walls. (Don't be surprised if various streets look familiar—they're often photographed for tourism posters.)
Visit the town hall and its vaults, Mark's Tower and Roder Arch, the Castle Gate and garden, St. Jacob's Church with its famous Altar of the Holy Blood, the Toy and Doll Museum, and the Medieval Criminal Museum.
St. Wolfgang's Church is fascinating, especially the pagan altars in the cellar. Although Rothenburg is one of the most tourist-laden towns in Germany, it's still worth a visit. Plan to stay overnight, as most tourist buses leave in the late afternoon.
If you want to visit an equally charming town with considerably fewer tourists, try Miltenberg.
