Bamberg and the river Regnitz

Bamberg is one of the most charming of Bavaria's medieval towns. It is located very close to the northern end of the Main-Danube Canal, opened in 1992.

The Regnitz is a tributary of the river Main, and one of the providers of water for the new Canal. In this photo you see the river; the Canal itself flows on a parallel course just a few hundred meters to the right.

Bamberg has a wide variety of sights and experiences to enjoy. This photo was taken in the old port, very close to town centre. The handsome stone building behind the two small cranes is the Old Slaughterhouse and Meat Market; and behind this (barely visible in this photo) is "Little Venice", a row of picturesque half-timbered fishermen's houses.

Dominating the skyline to the left is St Michael, the church of what was formerly a Benedictine monastery, accessible on foot by a walk along the river followed by a climb though a vineyard. The monastery brewery (12th century) now houses the Franconian Brewery Museum. The very brave may even venture to taste the town's speciality of smoked beer.

Bamberg may lack the imposing grandeur of Nuremberg or Regensburg, but offers plenty of space, delightful walks, and many fascinating sights to visit. A very lively town, and one not to be missed.