Harburg Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Harburg, Germany. Learn the local culture, do's and don'ts, and how to get there.


Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Germany that is rich in history and culture? Look no further than Harburg, located in the Bavarian Swabia region of Bavaria in central Europe. In this comprehensive guide, we will highlight everything you need to know about this charming town, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

Introduction to Harburg

Harburg is a small town in the northernmost part of the Bavarian Swabia region. It is known for its well-preserved medieval castle, which sits high atop a hill overlooking the town. The town itself is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by rolling hills and farmland. Harburg has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages and offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Bavarian culture.

List of Places to Visit in Harburg

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or adventure, Harburg has something to offer every visitor. Here are some of the top places to visit in Harburg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Harburg Castle: This well-preserved medieval castle dates back to the 11th century and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle now houses a museum showcasing the history of the castle and the region.
  • St. Michael’s Church: This beautiful church was built in the mid-18th century in the Baroque style and features ornate frescoes and stucco work.
  • Harburg Town Hall: This charming building dates back to the 16th century and features a traditional Bavarian facade.

Natural Attractions of Harburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Donauwörth-Ingolstadt-Koenigsbrunn Bike Trail: This popular bike trail runs through Harburg and offers stunning views of the scenic countryside.
  • River Wörnitz: This meandering river is perfect for a leisurely paddle in a canoe or kayak.
  • Harburg Forest: This dense forest offers scenic hiking trails and is home to a variety of wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Harburg

Harburg is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of hiking and biking trails that wind through picturesque countryside. Some popular routes include:

  • Harburg Castle Trail: This 5-kilometer trail takes hikers through the lush forest to the castle, offering stunning views along the way.
  • Riesalpentrek: This challenging 12-kilometer trek takes hikers to the highest peak in the region, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Lech River Bike Trail: This popular bike trail stretches over 430 kilometers through the Bavarian region and offers stunning views of the Lech River and surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Harburg: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Harburg offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors, including:

  • Harburg Castle Tour: Take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its rich history and the life of the medieval nobility.
  • Traditional Bavarian Cooking Class: Learn how to cook traditional Bavarian dishes, including schnitzel and spätzle, in a hands-on cooking class.
  • Brewery Tour: Get an inside look at how traditional Bavarian beer is brewed and sample some of the region’s finest brews.

Week-Long Itinerary for Harburg

To get the most out of your visit to Harburg, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore Harburg Castle and the town’s many historical sites.
2 Take a leisurely bike ride along the Donauwörth-Ingolstadt-Koenigsbrunn Bike Trail.
3 Hike the Harburg Castle Trail and enjoy the stunning views.
4 Discover traditional Bavarian culture with a cooking class.
5 Take a relaxing paddle down the River Wörnitz.
6 Take a brewery tour and sample the region’s finest beer.
7 Explore the surrounding countryside on the Lech River Bike Trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Harburg

No visit to Harburg would be complete without sampling the local cuisine and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Schnitzel: A traditional Bavarian dish consisting of thinly pounded pork or veal, breaded and fried until crisp.
  • Spätzle: A type of soft egg noodle often served with stews, sauces, or sautéed meats.
  • Kaiserschmarrn: A sweet, shredded pancake typically served with fruit compote or apple sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Bavarian Beer: Bavaria is famous for its beer, and Harburg is no exception. Be sure to try some of the region’s finest brews, including lagers, wheat beers, and pilsners.
  • Apfelschorle: A refreshing drink made by mixing apple juice with sparkling water.

Where to Stay in Harburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Harburg offers a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget or preference. Here are some of the town’s best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Burg-Hotel: This charming hotel is located just steps away from Harburg Castle and offers comfortable rooms and stunning views.
  • Landgasthof Adler: This traditional Bavarian guesthouse features cozy rooms and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine.
  • Hostel Harburg: This budget-friendly hostel offers dormitory-style accommodation and is located in the heart of the town.

What to Buy in Harburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make sure to bring home a piece of Harburg with you by picking up some local souvenirs and products. Some popular items include:

  • Dürnbrack pottery: Handmade pottery crafted in a nearby village using traditional techniques.
  • Harburg Castle souvenirs: Pick up a postcard, keychain, or other souvenirs featuring the iconic castle.
  • Bavarian beer: Bring home a few bottles of your favorite Bavarian beer as a tasty reminder of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Harburg

Harburg is deeply rooted in traditional Bavarian culture, with a strong focus on family, community, and heritage. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including:

  • Dress conservatively: While there is no strict dress code, it is recommended that visitors dress conservatively when visiting churches or other religious sites.
  • Respect for elders: Elders are highly respected in Bavarian culture, and visitors should show proper respect and deference to older individuals.
  • Stand to greet others: When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to stand and shake hands.

Best Time to Visit Harburg

The best time to visit Harburg is between May and September when the weather is mild and pleasant, and many outdoor activities are available. The town also hosts several festivals and events during this time, including the annual Harburger Schlossfest (Harburg Castle Festival) in July.

Do’s and Don’ts of Harburg

When visiting Harburg, keep in mind these do’s and don’ts to ensure a respectful and enjoyable trip:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and drinks.
  • Take time to explore the charming town and surrounding countryside.

Don’t:

  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Show up late for appointments or meetings.
  • Assume that everyone speaks English.

Safety and Health

Harburg is a safe and welcoming town, with low crime rates and high levels of public safety. However, visitors should still take basic precautions, such as locking doors and windows and avoiding walking alone at night. In terms of health, Harburg has well-equipped hospitals and medical facilities, and visitors should have no trouble finding quality healthcare if needed.

Safety in Harburg

  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Avoid walking in unlit areas alone at night.
  • Follow basic traffic rules and signals, especially when biking or driving.

Health in Harburg

  • Obtain proper travel insurance before your trip.
  • Bring any necessary medications with you, as some prescriptions may not be readily available in Harburg.
  • Practice basic hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and drinking bottled or filtered water.

Getting to Harburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Harburg is easily accessible by a variety of transportation methods. Here are some of the most common ways to get to Harburg:

Airports Near Harburg

  • Munich Airport: Located approximately 130 kilometers from Harburg, Munich Airport is the closest major airport.
  • Stuttgart Airport: Located approximately 160 kilometers from Harburg, Stuttgart Airport is another nearby option.

Bus Stations Near Harburg

  • Nördlingen Bus Station: Located approximately 10 kilometers from Harburg, Nördlingen Bus Station offers connecting bus routes to the town.
  • Donauwörth Bus Station: Located approximately 25 kilometers from Harburg, Donauwörth Bus Station also offers connecting bus routes.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car can be a convenient option for those who prefer to explore the countryside at their own pace.
  • Train: While there is no train station in Harburg, nearby towns such as Donauwörth offer connections to major cities like Munich and Stuttgart.

How to Get Around in Harburg

Harburg is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. However, renting a bike is also a popular option for those who want to explore the surrounding countryside. Taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk or bike.

Where to Go Next from Harburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Harburg is surrounded by charming towns and picturesque countryside, making it an excellent base for exploring the region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring:

  • Augsburg: This vibrant university town is located approximately 65 kilometers from Harburg and offers a rich cultural and culinary scene.
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: This well-preserved medieval town is located approximately 90 kilometers from Harburg and is known for its picturesque half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and charming town square.
  • Donauwörth: This historic town is located approximately 25 kilometers from Harburg and offers a variety of historical and cultural attractions, including the town’s Baroque-style church and Town Hall.

Conclusion

Harburg is a charming town with a rich history and culture that encompasses everything Bavarian. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, history, or cuisine, Harburg has something to offer every visitor. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to this hidden gem in Bavaria and that you leave with many wonderful memories.

Harburg Castle and old town Harburg Castle and old town Harburg Castle Harburg Castle Stone Bridge Stone Bridge Marketplace Marketplace St. Barbara and Herz Jesu church St. Barbara and Herz Jesu church