Few cities can connect two thousand years of history with vibrant contemporary life as naturally as Regensburg. Located on the Danube, not far from the Czech border, it is an ideal destination for a long weekend. Its historical center is perfect for walks, discovering picturesque nooks, and relaxing in traditional pubs. During Advent, the charm of Christmas markets and music adds to the festive atmosphere better than anything else.
A city with two UNESCO titles
Regensburg boasts two entries on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In 2006, the historic center received this recognition along with the district of Stadtamhof, and fifteen years later, the Roman Danube Limes was added, recalling the former border of the Roman Empire.
The best way to start your walk is at the stone bridge Steinerne Brücke. This medieval structure from the 12th century is one of the most significant monuments in Europe, having represented an important crossing over the Danube for centuries. From the bridge, beautiful views of the river, historic houses, and the towers of the Cathedral of St. Peter unfold.
History lovers can also admire the remains of the Roman camp Castra Regina, including the former city gate Porta Praetoria. For those who enjoy wandering without a fixed plan, the narrow streets, ancient squares, townhouses, and tall towers contribute to the unmistakable character of Regensburg.
Sausages with tradition and a trip along the Danube
A visit to Regensburg is not complete without a stop at Historische Wurstkuchl on the banks of the Danube, where small grilled sausages with sauerkraut and mustard have been served for 500 years.
Regensburg is also worth exploring from the water. A sightseeing boat trip on the Danube offers a completely different perspective and views of the city. You can embark on a shorter circular cruise called Strudelrundfahrt or head towards the monumental Walhalle, a classicist memorial to significant figures in German history, towering over the Danube valley.
Five Christmas markets, five different atmospheres
During the Advent season, Regensburg transforms into one large Christmas city. The historic facades shine with Christmas lights, the air is filled with the scent of spices, roasted almonds, and mulled wine, and stalls with crafts and regional specialties attract visitors in the squares. A great advantage is that the Christmas markets are relatively close to each other, making it easy to walk between them.
The traditional Christkindlmarkt takes place in Neupfarrplatz, offering a wide range of Christmas goods and refreshments. Those who love original gifts should not miss the Lucrezia-Markt, focused on artisanal crafts and creative works. A pleasantly intimate atmosphere is offered by the Advent market at St. Catherine's Church right by the Danube.
The most romantic experience promises the Christmas market at Thurn und Taxis Castle. Thousands of lights, historic backdrops, open fire pits, and traditional crafts create an almost fairytale atmosphere. The fifth place worth visiting is the Christkindlmarkt in Dörnberg Park.
Domspatzen: a reason to stay until Sunday
However, Christmas Regensburg is not just about markets, food, and lights. Regensburg is also a city of music. Here, the Regensburger Domspatzen, a boys' choir with a tradition of over 1,050 years, belongs to the oldest and most recognized boys' choirs in the world. Their Advent concerts in Regensburg are extraordinary events. On Saturday, November 28, 2026, motets and Christmas compositions from the Middle Ages to the present, as well as well-known carols, will resonate once again in the local university hall.
An even stronger moment may come on Sunday. Those who extend their stay can attend mass in St. Peter's Cathedral, during which the Domspatzen sing. In the monumental Gothic space, where the voices carry high under the arches, the music gains a completely different dimension. It is not just a concert, but a fusion of tradition, spiritual atmosphere, and exceptional artistic performance.
Information and offers:
Tourist Information Center
Rathausplatz 4
+49 941 507-4410
tourismus@regensburg.de
www.tourismus.regensburg.de
Christmas markets in Regensburg
Christkindlmarkt at Neupfarrplatz: November 23 – December 23.
Sunday–Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Lucrezia Craft Market: November 27 – December 23 at Haidplatz and Kohlenmarkt
Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Advent market at Katharinenspital: November 23 – December 23.
Monday–Friday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Romantic Christmas market at Thurn-Taxis Castle: November 20 – December 23 (closed November 22).
Monday–Thursday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Christmas market in Dörnbergpark: November 19 – December 20 (closed November 22).
Thursday–Friday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
