When looking for the perfect place in Germany to spend our anniversary, I came across the magical town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. As soon as we entered the walled city of Rothenburg, I felt like Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Rothenburg reminds me of a fairy tale storybook in real life. This tiny village is in southern Germany along the “Romantic Road”, which is a route through Germany that takes you to beautiful castles and villages.

This medieval village is surrounded by its original protective wall from the 12th century. The city is also the inspiration for several movies like Harry Potter (which my boys thought was so cool), Pinocchio, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. When you first enter the walls of the city, it feels like you have stepped back in time. There are colorful half-timbered houses, shops, cafes and hotels lined up with cute little signs.

WHERE TO STAY

There are so many cute little hotels inside Rothenburg. It was hard to choose the perfect one, but I absolutely loved Hotel Reichskuchenmeister. It is one of the oldest houses in Rothenburg built in the 12th century. In 1540 the future Emperor Ferdinand I stayed in this house and in 1546 Emperor Charles V. It is in the perfect location in the center of the city and perfect for an overnight stay in Rothenburg. The rooms are historic and decorated with the cutest antique decor. You can even open your window and look out over the beautiful city. From the hotel, it is only a short walk to everything in the city. I also recommend eating here. There is a beautiful outside seating area that is perfect for lunch or a beautiful evening dinner.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

I was so surprised at how much there was to do in this little village. My favorite thing to do was walk around and get lost down all the cute alley ways lined with colorful houses. It truly felt like taking a step back in time. There are so many cute shops and cafes!

You can also walk the entire wall of the city. The view from the top is amazing. Colt loved looking though the little holes where they used to shoot arrows when under attack. There is also a Crime and Justice Museum where you can see all the Medieval weapons and what they did to people that broke the law.

Christmas is everywhere in Rothenburg. We definitely want to come back and enjoy the big Christmas market they have here. They also have a German Christmas Museum and a Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas store. I found the perfect ornament for our tree this year!

There are also several guided tours you can take and learn about the history of the city. We were hoping to go on the Night Watchman’s tour, but it was cancelled that evening. You can join the Watchman as he makes his nighttime rounds. Listen to his tales and catch a glimpse of how people lived a long time ago.

I also suggest checking out the gorgeous St. James Church. This beautiful cathedral was constructed in 1485, and the stained-glass windows and amazing architecture are not to be missed.

And Finally, after all the walking, stop and get a famous Rothenburg snowball! Also know as a Schneeball! We joked about getting one the entire trip! There are also lots of cafes to choose from that offer a variety of food and wine.

WHERE TO EAT

Since it was our anniversary, I decided to book one of the most romantic places to dine in Europe. The Cellar Room at Zur Holl, which dates back to 900. This medieval wine tavern is in the town’s oldest original buildings. They serve amazing German food and a great selection of Franconian wines.

If you come to Germany, you must visit Rothenburg. It is like being in a fairy tale! I can’t wait to visit during Christmas and experience the Christmas market!