A town of emperors and kings: Regensburg

Visitors thinking a medieval town shaped by 2,000 years of history might be slightly on the quiet side are greatly mistaken: Regensburg is anything but dull. World heritage comes to life in the individual historical buildings but, above all, in the town that they form. Regensburg stands up well against any major city, and not just because it has one of the highest concentrations of pubs in Germany.

A recent love affair and world heritage for millions

It took the people of Regensburg a long time to fall in love with their town's old quarter. As recently as the 1960s there were plans to tear down the historical buildings and replace them with new ones. Nowadays, everyone is delighted that this didn't happen and, since the 1970s, locals have been carefully restoring and preserving their heritage in the old quarter. Their efforts are being rewarded, as millions of visitors descend on Regensburg annually. Few other towns in central Europe can offer perspectives of more than 2,000 years of history whichever way you look. Regensburg has over 1,500 listed buildings; of these, 984 form the 'Old Town with Stadtamhof' ensemble, which became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2006. The old stone bridge, the cathedral and Krauterermarkt square with the Collegiate Church of St. John, the Cathedral Treasury Museum, the castle-like patrician town house 'an der Heuport' and the historic Adler Pharmacy count among Regensburg's most significant architectural monuments, but represent just a few of the vast number of outstanding sights. Other fascinating places to visit are St. Ulrich's Church and Diocesan Museum, the former Cathedral deanery, the squares Dachauplatz, Neupfarrplatz, Alter Kornmarkt, Kohlenmarkt, Zieroldsplatz, Rathausplatz and Haidplatz, Porta Praetoria and the patrician towers.

Art, culture and bars together in a picturesque setting

Regensburg's cultural scene is just as diverse as the treasures of its old quarter, combining traditional and modern elements with influences from around the globe. It includes countless theatre and dance shows, concerts, festivals, exhibitions and other cultural attractions. There is sure to be something for everyone, whether you prefer sophisticated or traditional entertainment, classical or eminently German. The choice of venues is endless too, ranging from hip and modern locations to historical settings or even outdoors in the town's squares. Any number of restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs tucked in among the narrow lanes and alleyways are a great place to spend the evening.

A shopaholic's dream and the world's best mustard

Regensburg is one of only a handful of towns that offers a modern shopping experience in amongst its architectural heritage. A multitude of shops of all sizes sell a wide range of goods. The beautiful pedestrian area in the old quarter is perfect, whether you are looking for international specialities or regional handcrafted products. Excellent shopping opportunities are also available outside the town centre: nearly every district has at least one large shopping mall. The famous sweet mustard is on sale everywhere, but the best place to buy it is the Händlmaier shop in Untere Bachgasse, central Regensburg. There is absolutely no doubt – at least for fans of this time-honoured family brand – that Luise Händlmaier's mustard is the best to be had in the world. No less doubtful is the fact that Regensburg is the best place to visit in the world. Or at least one of the best!