Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Despite having a mouthful of a name, the historic town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber was tiny. But it didn’t matter that it was tiny. What mattered was how irresistibly adorable it was, and the fact its medieval façade wasn’t simply a show to lure tourists. This was the stereotypical Bavarian town, and I couldn’t wait to see it.

To our surprise, there was even a convenient stellplatz across the street from the south end of the walled town. With impeccably clean bathrooms, water (100 liters for €1), waste disposal, electricity, and a location just a stone’s throw away from the town, it was a deal at €10/24 hours to park our RV.

When the town was built in the Middle Ages, fortifications were constructed around the perimeter to protect the town from siege. These fortifications have been rebuilt since the destruction from WWII, and now they are free for anyone to roam and explore. Climbing up the primitive steps and strolling on the stone walls along the perimeter of the town made for an unique experience.

Gazing at the elongated, snow-dusted roof tops from the fortifications:

Towers stand at each of the entrances/exits:

Our favorite entrance was from the south end, not far from the stellplatz. It consisted of this round structure:

Crossing the small bridge:

A pano from within the round structure:

Wandering along the fortification and viewing the town from above was fascinating, but the reason why people come to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to admire the quaint architecture on the cobblestone streets. I’ve always loved gingerbread houses and the aura of Christmas. From the stout proportions, to the latticework on the walls, to the itty bitty window shutters, to the warm colors on the walls, all the little details from gingerbread houses never fail to charm me. In Rothenburg ob der Tauber, it felt as if I was walking through a gingerbread town—it was Christmas year-round. There is a reason why this is considered the most romantic road in Germany.

Narrow walkways throughout town:

Jakobskirche, the town’s famous church:

At night, lights illuminate the buildings. I’m sure it would have been more beautiful had there been more snow.

The leisurely stroll from the south end to the north end of the town took approximately 30 minutes. It truly is a tiny town!

Because it was the low season, hardly any shops were open (they were all primarily touristy shops anyway), and only a handful of tourists wandered the streets. This worked well in our favor—fortifications and streets all to ourselves for photography! However, when the days are warmer and longer, locals dress in Bavarian attire and perform local festivities. Whichever season it is, tourists are guaranteed to be charmed by the cute town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.