Be transported to medieval Germany in Marburg, a small city tucked into the valley of the Lahn River. Largely untouched by world wars and modern urban development, the heart of this historic city is interwoven with maze-like streets with many steps, medieval buildings and traditional half-timbered houses. Visit Marburg’s hilltop castle and check out one of Germany’s oldest Gothic churches. With its extensive university community, Marburg is never short of exciting events, busy cafés and cozy pubs.
Embark on a walking tour around Marburg’s Oberstadt, the pedestrianized cobblestone old town, and admire magnificently preserved architecture. Some of the façades in this hilltop neighborhood have remained unchanged since the 17th century. Strolling amid the streets, you may hear church bells ringing out across the valley. Seek out one of Marburg’s churches. St. Elizabeth’s Church, one of Germany’s most significant Gothic churches, has stunning 13th-century stonemasonry.
Walk to the top of the Oberstadt hill to reach the looming Landgrafenschloss (Landgrave Castle), the city’s impressive 11th-century fort. The castle now contains a museum dedicated to the city’s university and local culture. People-watch from the pretty square that fronts the Rathaus Marburg (Marburg Town Hall). Check out the Kulturzentrum Waggonhalle, an exciting cultural center situated within a repurposed train terminus. You’ll find art exhibitions, theater, live music, flea markets, restaurants and bars in this artistic hotspot behind the main train station.
Explore the city’s Botanical Garden and go on a scenic pedal-boat trip along a stretch of the Lahn River with views of the old university buildings. Climb the Spiegelslustturm tower as evening falls and be rewarded with a magnificent twilight view across the city.
Marburg is approximately an hour away from Frankfurt by car and by train. The nearest international airport is Frankfurt am Main Airport. Marburg is compact and pleasant to explore on foot. The hilltop streets of Oberstadt are also accessible via two lifts. Take a daytrip from Marburg to see the markets in Kirchhain, the fortress in Amöneburg or the traditional castle in Rauischholzhausen.
