Kelheim Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kelheim, Bavaria with our comprehensive travel guide including top attractions, hiking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Kelheim

Nestled in Lower Bavaria, Kelheim is a charming town in Germany that is known for its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural attractions, and rich history. The town is situated at the confluence of two rivers, the Danube and the Altmühl, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Kelheim is also home to some of the most important archaeological sites in Germany, including the Kelheim Liberation Hall, a legendary monument that commemorates the victory over Napoleon.

List of Places to Visit in Kelheim

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kelheim is a town that is rich in history and culture, featuring many museums and historical sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s past. Below are some of the top cultural attractions in Kelheim:

  • Kelheim Liberation Hall: This impressive monument celebrates the victory over Napoleon and serves as a symbol of German unity. Visitors can climb to the top of the hall for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Archeological Museum Kelheim: This museum showcases the region’s rich archaeological heritage, featuring exhibits that date back to the Stone Age.
  • St. Anna Church: This beautiful church boasts stunning stained glass windows and intricate frescoes, making it a must-visit for those interested in religious architecture.

Natural Attractions of Kelheim: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kelheim is also home to some of the most spectacular natural attractions in Germany. The town is surrounded by beautiful forests, rivers, and hills, offering visitors ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. Below are some of the top natural attractions in Kelheim:

  • Danube Gorge: This scenic gorge is a popular spot for hiking and boating, offering visitors breathtaking views of the Danube River.
  • Altmühl Valley Nature Park: This nature park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
  • Befreiungshalle Kelheim: This stunning monument offers visitors panoramic views of the Danube River and the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kelheim

Kelheim is a paradise for adventure seekers, with numerous hiking and biking trails that wind their way through the region’s stunning natural beauty. Below are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Kelheim:

  • Kelheimer Lavastein-Höhenweg: This challenging hiking trail takes visitors through some of the most stunning landscape in the region, including rocky cliffs and dense forests.
  • Altmühl Valley Cycle Path: This 250-kilometer cycle path takes visitors through some of the most picturesque scenery in Bavaria, including vineyards, castles, and river valleys.
  • Limesweg: This hiking trail follows the route of the ancient Roman Limes wall, taking visitors on a journey through history and culture.

Best Things to Do in Kelheim: Activities and Tours

Kelheim offers visitors a diverse range of activities and tours, from sightseeing and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and recreational pursuits. Below are some of the best things to do in Kelheim:

  • Visit the Liberation Hall Kelheim and enjoy panoramic views of the region
  • Take a boat tour through the Danube Gorge
  • Explore the Altmühl Valley Nature Park, home to diverse flora and fauna
  • Rent a bike and cycle along the Altmühl Valley cycle path
  • Take a guided tour of the Kelheim Archeological Museum

Week-Long Itinerary for Kelheim

To fully experience all that Kelheim has to offer, we recommend a week-long itinerary that includes the following activities:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Liberation Hall Kelheim and explore the town center
2 Take a boat tour through the Danube Gorge and visit the Archeological Museum Kelheim
3 Explore the Altmühl Valley Nature Park
4 Rent a bike and cycle along the Altmühl Valley cycle path
5 Go on a hiking trip to Kelheimer Lavastein-Höhenweg
6 Take a guided tour of the St. Anna Church and visit the nearby historical sites
7 Relax and enjoy a day in the town center, sampling local cuisine and shopping for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Kelheim

Kelheim is known for its traditional Bavarian cuisine, including dishes like sausages, roast pork, and Knödel (dumplings). The town also has a thriving microbrewery scene, producing a wide variety of delicious, locally-brewed beers. Below are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Kelheim:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Schweinshaxe: This traditional Bavarian dish consists of a roasted pork knuckle served with bread dumpling and sauerkraut.
  • Weisswurst: This veal-and-pork sausage is a breakfast favorite in Bavaria and is typically served with sweet mustard and a pretzel.
  • Reiberdatschi: This potato pancake dish is a staple of Bavarian cuisine, served with applesauce or sour cream.

Local Beverages

  • Schneider Weiße: This traditional Bavarian wheat beer is a staple in Kelheim’s microbreweries.
  • Befeater Gin: This award-winning local gin is crafted in Kelheim using unique botanicals and spices.
  • Bergbräu Bier: This local beer has been brewed in Kelheim since the 16th century and is known for its crisp, refreshing flavor.

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

Kelheim offers visitors a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Below are some of the top places to stay in Kelheim:

  • Hotel Jägerhof: This charming hotel is located in the center of town and offers comfortable rooms and friendly service.
  • Pension Simon: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located just outside of town and offers fantastic views of the Danube River.
  • Jugendherberge Kelheim: This hostel is located in a historic building and is ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

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

Kelheim is known for its distinctive local products and souvenirs, including:

  • Hops and beer-related souvenirs
  • Handcrafted pottery
  • Traditional Bavarian clothing (Lederhosen and Dirndls)
  • Locally-made jams and mustards
  • Wooden toys and carvings

Local Culture and Customs of Kelheim

Kelheim has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditional customs and practices that are still celebrated today. Visitors can experience the town’s vibrant culture through festivals, events, and local traditions, including:

  • Fasching: This carnival celebration takes place in February and is marked by parades, costumes, and live music.
  • Maypoles: Every village in Kelheim raises a maypole in May, a tradition that has been passed down for generations.
  • Christmas Markets: The Kelheim Christmas market is one of the most festive and charming events in the region, featuring local crafts, food, and drinks.

Best Time to Visit Kelheim

Kelheim is worth a visit year-round, but the best time to go depends on your preferences. The summer months (June-August) offer the best weather for outdoor activities, while the winter months (December-February) are ideal for Christmas markets and winter sports. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kelheim

When visiting Kelheim, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Below are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beer
  • Do dress appropriately when visiting religious sites
  • Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly “Guten Tag” (good day)
  • Do learn a few German phrases before you go

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment
  • Don’t wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites
  • Don’t be disrespectful to local customs and traditions
  • Don’t forget to carry cash, as not all establishments accept cards.

Safety and Health

Kelheim is a safe and healthy destination for travelers, with a high standard of healthcare and low crime rates. However, it is always important to take reasonable precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding unlit or isolated areas after dark.

Safety in Kelheim

  • Be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night
  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable jewelry
  • Keep important documents and valuables in a safe place

Health in Kelheim

  • Tap water is safe to drink in Kelheim
  • The medical facilities in Kelheim are of a high standard

Getting to Kelheim: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kelheim is well-connected to the rest of Bavaria and Germany, making it easy to access via various modes of transportation. Below are some of the top transportation options for getting to Kelheim:

Airports Near Kelheim

The nearest airports to Kelheim are:

  • Munich International Airport (MUC) - 75 km away
  • Nuremberg Airport (NUE) - 100 km away

Bus Stations Near Kelheim

Buses run regularly between Kelheim and nearby towns, with the following stations close to Kelheim:

  • Kelheim bus station
  • Regensburg bus station
  • Ingolstadt bus station

Other Options

  • Train: The Kelheim train station is connected to towns across Bavaria, including Munich and Nuremberg.
  • Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for visitors who want to explore the region at their own pace.
  • Cycling: The region’s extensive network of cycling trails makes it easy for visitors to explore Kelheim and the surrounding areas on two wheels.

How to Get Around in Kelheim

Kelheim is a small and compact town that is easy to explore on foot or by bike. Visitors can also take advantage of local buses and taxis to get around the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Kelheim: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kelheim is located in the heart of Bavaria, making it easy to explore nearby towns and attractions. Some popular excursions and nearby destinations include:

  • Regensburg: This beautiful UNESCO-listed city is less than an hour away by bus or car, offering stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
  • Ingolstadt: This historic town is also less than an hour away and is known for its beautiful city center, featuring elegant churches and historic landmarks.
  • Walhalla: This stunning monument is located just outside of Kelheim and offers visitors a glimpse into Germany’s rich cultural history.

Conclusion

Kelheim offers visitors a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for travelers to Bavaria. Whether you’re exploring the town’s museums and historical sites, hiking through the region’s breathtaking landscapes, or simply relaxing with a local beer, Kelheim is sure to captivate your heart and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.