Bamberg: Bavaria’s Gem
Want to visit a smaller German town that will transport you to yesteryear?

Look no further than Bamberg, a true “gem” of a locale in the northern part of Bavaria. With a population of just over 70,000 inhabitants, you’ll get the best of all worlds – small city charm with big city amenities.
Because Bamberg is situated on seven different hills (with a church crowning each), you can be sure that you’ll be experiencing some vigorous walks and hikes as you tour the countryside.

 

As a result, it’s imperative that any traveler wear comfortably footwear when visiting this place; you’ll no doubt be logging many kilometers via the oldest method of human transport. Of course, if you tire of all this “hoofing it”, you can always jump on a railway; Germany is filled with excellent and efficient (though sometimes a bit pricey) transportation options, and Bamberg is no exception.

If you speak very little German, there’s no reason to be concerned when you visit this city. The U.S. Army base located at Bamberg is home to many members of the American military; thus, the Bamberg locals are accustomed to hearing people speak English.

In fact, you’ll probably find that many of the inhabitants know more than a little English, as foreign languages are taught from little up in the German society. Bamberg is one of those lucky towns which incurred virtually no damage during the second World War, as it was not on the “hit list” for Allied bombing raids. Thus, its medieval structures have remained unchanged except for expected restorations and historical additions.

One of the greatest tourist hotspots is the Romanesque-style Bamberg Cathedral, almost a millennium old and almost breathtaking beyond words. Throughout its long history, it has served many purposes and individuals; additionally, it houses the tombs of both Pope Clement II and the emperor Henry II. You’ll be blown away by the art on the exterior and interior of this formidable structure, as well as the marble carving and details.

Plan to take a gander at the Rosengarten (“Rose” garden) located in the Neue Residenz. There, you can take in magnificent cityscapes of Bamberg. Views are also part of the ambiance at Castle Altenburg, located on the highest of the seven hills in Bamberg. Its history is rich and predates the 10th century, though no one is exactly sure when it was constructed. There are plenty of other churches (such as St. Martinskirchen and Jakobskirche) and religious sites in Bamberg to enjoy. Unless you’re planning to stay a while, choose only a couple so you can make the most of your tour. After all your visiting and walking, you’ll no doubt be hungry and thirsty.

If brews are your drink of choice, tempt your taste buds with some smoked beer, something for which Bamberg is known. If that’s not your style, you can always try a different type of potent potable, as there are a handful of breweries throughout the city.

And don’t forget to visit the pubs. With so many opportunities to try new cuisine, you’ll never look at the food at home the same. Be daring and adventurous; after all, German cooking results in dishes which are bold and the textures notoriously hearty, and you might as well introduce your palate to some unusual flavors.