A WELL TRAVELED PAIR
Rothenburg: A Real Life Fairytale Town
by Katie McCabe | @awelltraveledpair | November 2nd, 2017
Rothenberg ob der Tauber is a charming fairytale-like town located along the Romantic Road in Germany. This well-preserved medieval city will transport you back in time with its captivating ambiance. Even though we only spent one day in this quaint little place, it sure did leave a mark on our hearts forever. Here are five things not to miss when visiting Rothenburg.
Wander the Streets
When visiting Rothenburg, it is easy to get blissfully lost in its narrow roads, and be sure to do so. It is window shopping at its finest here in this tiny German town. Pastry shops, holiday stores, and handmade clothing boutiques line the streets with their intricate signs and inviting window displays. We happily spent hours wandering around, peeking into one adorable shop after the next.
Plönlein Square
The most beautiful, and photographed, area of Rothenburg is hands down Plönlein. This picture-perfect square attracts millions of tourists looking to get a glimpse of what has now become the heart of Rothenburg. Two of Plönlein's most notable attractions are the yellow gingerbread-like house and the charming clock tower, both sitting in the center of the main square. It's no surprise Plönlein is the most popular attraction in Rothenburg, it is absolutely stunning, and should not be missed.
Night Watchman's Tour
Back in the Middle Ages, local watchmen would patrol Rothenburg's streets throughout the night hours to keep the residents safe. Today, tourists join a local watchman actor as he takes them on his nightly rounds, while providing an entertaining and funny show. The Watchman Tours are at 20:00 nightly from mid-March until late December or early January, and cost €7 / per person. Children under 12 years of age are free. Check out the website for more information.
Eat a Schneeball
A schneeball, also known as a snowball, is a shortcrust pastry rolled into ball form and baked into a cookie consistency. A traditional schneeball is then rolled in powder sugar, causing those who indulge in this tasty treat to be covered in confectioners' sugar, hence the nickname 'snowball'. Around town, local pastry shops offer their own version of the schneeball. Some filled with marzipan, others rolled in chocolate and topped with nuts. Whichever one you fancy, I'm sure you won't be disappointed with this sweet snack.
Christmas Festival
Every year, Rothenburg has one of the prettiest Christmas markets in the world. This makes visiting during the holidays an extra special time to experience Rothenburg. Even if you can't visit during the holidays, the Christmas shops in town are open year-round, and are filled with numerous holiday decorations and sweets. Be sure to stop by and pick up a beautifully hand crafted ornament for your tree, or a sweet treat for friends and family.
Special Note:
When traveling to Rothenburg, be sure to go to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, as there are a few different Rothenburgs in Germany.