Bamberg

Medieval Bamberg enchants as a perfectly preserved episcopal city spread across seven hills, earning UNESCO recognition for its authentic medieval layout. The city's unique smoked beer tradition and baroque architecture create an atmosphere where every cobblestone street tells a story. Gardens, breweries, and the cathedral quarter form a living medieval textbook. **Unique Features:** • UNESCO World Heritage old town with 1,200+ monuments • Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) built on river island • Imperial Cathedral with four towers and papal tomb • Little Venice - medieval fishermen's houses along river • Unique Rauchbier (smoked beer) breweries **Historical Context:** Prince-bishopric power and untouched medieval urban planning **Travel Tips:** • Try Rauchbier at Schlenkerla brewery - an acquired taste • Walk all seven hills for complete medieval experience • Visit rose garden at New Residence for city views • Take evening strolls when buildings are illuminated • Book brewery tours to understand beer traditions • Explore on foot - old town is compact and walkable **Cultural Highlights:** • Nine traditional breweries maintaining old recipes • Sandkerwa festival - Bavaria's largest folk festival • Bamberg Symphony Orchestra performances • E.T.A. Hoffmann literary heritage sites • Traditional vegetable gardening in city plots