Ansbach Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Ansbach? Our travel guide provides an extensive list of places to visit, things to do, and more to make the most out of your vacation to the heart of Franconia.


Ansbach Travel Guide: Explore the Heart of Franconia

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a charming Bavarian town to explore, Ansbach is worth a visit. Located in Middle Franconia, in the heart of Franconia, Ansbach is a city filled with cultural attractions, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Our comprehensive guide will provide you with an extensive list of places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more to make the most out of your trip to this charming German town.

Introduction to Ansbach

Ansbach boasts a rich history, beginning with its founding in the 8th century by the Germanic tribe. The city was also an important center of the Hohenzollern dynasty during the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, Ansbach is home to numerous historical sites, charming architecture, and scenic views.

List of Places to Visit in Ansbach

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ansbach Residence: This former residence of the Hohenzollern dynasty is now a museum with a collection of art and furnishings from the 18th century.
  • St. Gumbertus Abbey: This beautiful Baroque church was founded in 747 AD and features stunning frescoes and a magnificent altar.
  • Markgräfliches Museum: This museum features exhibits on the history of Ansbach, the Hohenzollern dynasty, and local art.
  • Kaspar Hauser Monument: This monument honors the mysterious Kaspar Hauser who appeared in town during the early 19th century and whose true identity remains a mystery.

Natural Attractions of Ansbach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hofgarten: A picturesque garden located behind the Ansbach Residence, the Hofgarten features a beautiful pond, numerous trees, and a stunning fountain.
  • Franconian Lake District: Located just outside of Ansbach, the Franconian Lake District features beautiful lakes, forests, and hiking trails.
  • Windsbacher Forst: Covering an area of over 16,000 hectares, Windsbacher Forst is the largest continuous forest in Middle Franconia and is home to numerous hiking and biking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ansbach

  • Ansbach Hiking Trail: This 11-kilometer trail leads you from Ansbach to the Altmühltal Nature Park, providing you with stunning views of the Franconian countryside.
  • Castle Route: This 77-kilometer trail leads you from Ansbach to Nuremberg, exploring the numerous castles and fortresses along the way.

Best Things to Do in Ansbach: Activities and Tours

  • Brewery Tour: Ansbach is home to several breweries, including the well-known Brauerei Schwarzes Ross. Take a tour and taste some of the best brews in the region.
  • Walking Tour: Explore the historical attractions and beautiful architecture of Ansbach with a guided walking tour.
  • Christmas Market: During the holiday season, Ansbach features a charming Christmas market, complete with vendors selling traditional handicrafts and delicious food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ansbach

Day 1: Explore Ansbach’s historical attractions, including the Ansbach Residence and St. Gumbertus Abbey.

Day 2: Take a hike in the Franconian Lake District and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 3: Visit the Markgräfliches Museum for a deeper understanding of Ansbach’s history and local art.

Day 4: Take a bike ride along the Castle Route to explore the numerous castles and fortresses in the region.

Day 5: Visit Hofgarten for a peaceful stroll through the garden, followed by a tour of the Brauerei Schwarzes Ross brewery.

Day 6: Take a day trip to nearby Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany.

Day 7: Spend the day exploring the Windsbacher Forst with a hike or bike ride along the numerous trails.

Food and Drink Scene of Ansbach

Must-Try Dishes

  • Schäufele: A traditional roasted pork shoulder served with potato dumplings and Sauerkraut.
  • Haxen: Roasted pork knuckle served with bread dumplings and red cabbage.
  • Lebkuchen: Gingerbread cookies with a soft texture. Ansbach is known for its delicious Lebkuchen.

Local Beverages

  • Weissbier: A light, refreshing wheat beer.
  • Rotbier: A beer with a reddish-brown color and a slightly sweet taste.

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

  • Hotel Fantasie: A charming hotel located in the city center with comfortable rooms and traditional Bavarian decor.
  • Hotel Bürger-Palais: A historic hotel that offers rooms with period furnishings and a restaurant serving local cuisine.

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

  • Lebkuchen: Gingerbread cookies with a soft texture. Ansbach is known for its delicious Lebkuchen.
  • Porcelain: Ansbach is home to a porcelain factory that produces fine porcelain dishes and figurines.

Local Culture and Customs of Ansbach

Ansbach is a city proud of its cultural heritage. The residents are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to join in the local festivals and events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Ansbach

The best time to visit Ansbach is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, Ansbach also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Christmas market and the Ansbach Sandkerwa festival held in August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ansbach

Do:

  • Try the local beer and cuisine.
  • Explore the historical attractions and natural beauty of the region.
  • Participate in local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter or leave trash in public spaces.
  • Do not photograph people without their permission.
  • Do not disrespect local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ansbach

Ansbach is a safe city to visit, but it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions while traveling, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Ansbach

Visitors to Ansbach should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and should consult with their doctor regarding any necessary vaccinations before arriving.

Getting to Ansbach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ansbach

The nearest airport to Ansbach is Nuremberg Airport, which is located approximately 40 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Ansbach

Ansbach has a central bus station located in the city center that offers bus links to other cities in the region.

Other Options

Ansbach can also be accessed by car, with good road connections to other cities in the region.

How to Get Around in Ansbach

Ansbach is a compact city with easy walking access to most attractions and amenities. Buses and taxis are available for those who prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Ansbach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: A historic town with beautiful architecture and charming streets.
  • Nuremberg: A bustling city with a rich history and excellent museums.
  • Bamberg: A historic city with stunning architecture and a thriving beer scene.

Conclusion

Ansbach is a charming city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. With numerous cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and excellent restaurants, Ansbach is a destination worth visiting. Whether you’re interested in exploring the museums and historical sites or prefer hiking and biking in the beautiful Franconian countryside, Ansbach has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the heart of Franconia.

View of the old town and St Gumbertus church View of the old town and St Gumbertus church Orangery Orangery Hotel and restaurant ''Schwarzer Bock'' Hotel and restaurant ''Schwarzer Bock'' Colmberg castle Colmberg castle