Search up ‘fairytale towns in Germany’ and odds are it’ll be Rothenburg ob der Tauber staring right back at you, with its epic stone walls, charming cobbled lanes, and timber-clad houses in every pastel shade.

This dreamy piece of storybook heaven is often considered one of Germany’s prettiest medieval towns… which explains its undisputed status as a topper of Pinterest boards, Instagram wish lists, and starry-eyed Christina day dreams.

It also explains the countless visitors who flock to its photogenic streets every year, for better or for worse making it one of the most visited small towns in Germany.

But what is there to actually do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber? Besides taking photos until you pass out?

Whether you’re in the mood for Christmas, history, or literal torture, this compact town has a museum for it. And plenty of indulgent treats and eats for soothing the soul post-torture museum too. So, from impeccably preserved medieval walls to enchanting monuments and museums, read on for a list of the best things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber!

1. Snap an obligatory photo of the Plönlein

The most photographed sight in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is no doubt the fairytale Plönlein, where a crooked mustard-coloured house perches prettily between two hilly lanes splitting in opposite directions.

It’s dreamy. It’s adorable. And odds are, you’ve seen photos of it before.

That’s why I’ve listed it first in this list of Rothenburg ob der Tauber must-dos. I know there’s zero chance you’re leaving town without a photo here… just beware that it is really just a photo opportunity and one you’ll likely share with hundreds of others if you visit during the day.

PRO TIP: Stay overnight like I did and come here either early in the morning, or later at night to avoid all the day trippers. It’s a much nicer experience without the crowds!

Of course, Plönlein is more than just a pretty face. The history contained in just this one frame is pretty astounding, with the surrounding buildings all ranging from the 14th centuries. The two towers on each side of the famous house (a bit further back up the split streets) are part of the old city walls and there are some more great views over the city walls if you walk further down Kobolzeller Steige.

There are also some very cute shops and cafés around here worth checking out, like Die Büchertruhe bookstore and the Grand Cru – Chocolaterie am Plönlein chocolate shop!

2. Walk the town walls

Next, one of the best free things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a little jaunt along the town’s superbly preserved walls and of course, its many towers and gates.

Rothenburg is one of only three towns in Germany where the old city walls are still intact and I have to say – they’re very impressive. Built around the 12th century to provide defence for the town, these structural studs have managed to even survive WWII bombings (almost) completely unharmed… with the parts that were damaged then reconstructed after the war, so silly tourists like you and me wouldn’t be able to tell the difference anyway!

There are quite a few cool towers and gates to explore along the walls as you scope out the impressive views as well. You’ll surely stumble upon these as you walk through the city, but I’m partial to Klingentor (the Blade Gate) and Markusturm (Markus Tower), so don’t miss them.

3. Visit the main square (Marktplatz)

While lots of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is made up of winding cobblestone streets, when you come to the middle of the city’s main square, or Marktplatz, you’ll be greeted with a wide open space lined with beautiful buildings spanning across centuries and styles.

This beautiful square is dominated by the town hall (Rathaus), which was rebuilt in the Renaissance style in the 16th century after a fire, but still retains some of its original Gothic architecture. For those with the leg strength, you can actually climb to the top of the town hall’s tower for views out across the market square and rest of the city.

As well as the the town hall, Marktplatz is lined with other lovely buildings like the Marienapotheke (one of the prettiest pharmacies you’ll ever see!) and the Ratstrinkstube, or Councilor’s Tavern. Fun fact: the clock tower on this building re-enacts a story about how Rothenburg’s mayor once drank nearly a whole gallon of wine to save the city during the Thirty Years’ War. Isn’t history fun?

There’s also a fountain with a statue of St George in the Marktplatz, and this is where Rothenburg’s charming Christmas market takes place each year!

4. See the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Museum

Listen, I’ve written ad nauseum about the best Christmas markets in Germany and the best Christmas markets in Europe, so it’s no secret I’m a fan of the holidays…

So, little surprise that I consider the German Christmas Museum one of the top things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Yup – over at the Käthe Wohlfahrt Weihnachtsdorf, you’ll find a gorgeous year-round Christmas shop filled with glittering ornaments and tempting trinkets.. but the real treat here lurks behind the shop, where a museum dedicated to all things Christmas can be found.

Inside, you’ll find pretty displays that walk you through more Christmas history than you ever thought you needed to know, like the origin story of decorative baubles or why some parts of Germany have Christmas pyramids instead of trees. So, if you’re a fan of Christmas, be sure to put this on your Rothenburg ob der Tauber bucket list.

5. Check out the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum

Another great museum to check out in Rothenburg ob der Tauber? The (surprisingly huge) Medieval Crime and Justice Museum.

If you want to know the gutwrenching and bloody details of how crime/punishment were handled back in the good old Medieval days, this is your place! It goes in serious detail about what went down, and boasts an impressive collection of artefacts (torture instruments included) that will wow you/make you squirm.

Granted, this museum is a bit morbid, but it’s a very interesting stop… Just don’t eat before coming here like I did. You’ve been warned.

6. Visit the Rothenburg (Imperial City) Museum

And if you want to learn more about the surprising history of Rothenburg ob de Tauber, be sure to head to the Rothenburg city museum.

Located in a former Dominican monastery, there are exhibitions on the history of the town as well as displays where you can see how the monks lived here back in the day. In particular, the monastery kitchen dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest of its kind anywhere in Germany, so it’s quite cool to have a wander through.

There’s also displays on European weaponry through the ages if you’re into looking at old swords or hunting guns that were once apparently used by Marie Antoinette, as well as an exhibit on Jewish history in Rothenburg and a collection of artwork by the British painter Arthur Wasse.

… So, you know, the museum has range. Clearly.

7. Try a schneeball

Looking for unique foodie things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber? Why not sink your teeth into a schneeball (literally translated to snowball in German)?

These delightful looking treats can be found all around town, and consist of fried pastry balls usually covered in chocolate and other toppings. 

I have to admit, I was a little disappointed by the Schneeball I tried, probably because I had such high expectations and it ended up tasting like I was chewing a giant ball of plain pie crust… BUT to each their own. They’re a specialty of Rothenburg, so try one if you’re curious!

8. Enjoy a hearty Bavarian meal

Besides divisive pastry balls, another must-do in Rothenburg is indulging in some classic Bavarian cuisine.

I lived in Munich for years so am no stranger to the delights of the Bavarian culinary scene. Here are some dishes to put on your radar:

• Fränkische Kartoffelsuppe (Franconian potato soup)
• Geräucherte Bratwürst (Smoked Franconian sausages)
• Schweinebraten (Roasted pork)

One especially popular place for a meal in town is Zur Höll, which is conveniently located in the oldest building that Rothenburg ob der Tauber has to offer. Their medieval cellar does look very cool indeed, but until I have a chance to visit for myself, I should also say I enjoyed my Schweinebraten from Hotel Roter Hahn:

For a really cool and potentially spooky experience, join the Night Watchman tour of Rothenburg. You’ll be shown around the medieval alleys and squares under the guidance of a local dressed up as a watchman – who’ll regale you with tales of the city’s history.

I didn’t get to do this on my visit (as the tours aren’t daily during peak season) but I’ve heard great things!

It’s supposedly an awesome and funny way to learn about the city’s rich history, so be sure to give it a try if you’re staying the night. 

10. Scope out the tiny Topplerschlösschen (Toppler Castle)

On the far western edge of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a small and very unique castle called the Topplerschlösschen, which does almost look like it might topple over…

Toppler Castle is basically a small house on top of a stone tower that’s attached to a small bridge, constructed by the mayor of the time, Heinrich Toppler, between 1388 and 1440. There used to be a moat over the pond that surrounded it but the water is long gone now. Still, it’s absolutely adorable, as even if someone just plonked a house on top of a tower in the Sims!

Today it’s filled with furniture from the 16th-19th centuries and you can visit it, but only by private tour with the current owners as its on their private land. Or you could just go for a walk along the Tauber River to get a photo from the outside where you can properly see how weird/cool it looks.

11. Wander around the Burggarten

For more beautiful walks, head to the Burggarten, the gorgeous gardens that used to be part of the city’s castle. While the castle is no longer standing, you can still see some of the gates as you wander through.

And as for the garden itself? When the season’s right, you’ll find a well-manicured delight filled with colourful flowers, neatly trimmed hedges, and shaded pathways. Of course, there are benches strategically placed throughout, providing opportunities to sit and soak in the atmosphere (and gorgeous views!) with optimal ease.

Keep an eye out for the statues depicting the four seasons in the middle of a flowerbed, and a view of the city in the background. It’s definitely one of the best spots to get stunning and unique photos!

12. Check out Saint Jacob’s Church

Just one street over from the Marktplatz and impressive town hall is another structure worth checking out: the church of St James (or St. Jakobs Kirche in German), which boasts a rich history dating back to the 14th century.

Construction here initially began in the 1300s and continued over several centuries, with various architectural styles contributing to its eclectic appearance today. Of course, its impressive tower, standing at over 200 feet tall, is the standout feature that dominates the town’s skyline… though the interior is nice as well, with vaulted ceilings and intricate stained glass windows to admire.

The most famous feature inside the church is the Altar of the Holy Blood, a masterpiece carved by Tilman Riemenschneider in the early 16th century, depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. Inside, visitors can also browse through a renowned collection of medieval and Renaissance art, including sculptures, paintings, and religious artifacts, so well worth a stop when you’re in town.

13. Admire all the gorgeous medieval architecture

To end things on a gloriously vague note, I just have to emphasize again that one of the best things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to really just walk around, taking in the amazing medieval architecture. There’s genuinely not a single ugly street in this town, and getting lost in the many alleyways is the best way to explore!

I’m an especially big fan of the Gerlachschmiede which used to be a blacksmith’s:

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more of the best Rothenburg ob der Tauber activities to the list. Happy and safe travels!