122km (76 miles) NE of Munich, 100km (62 miles) SE of Nürnberg, 114km (71 miles) NW of Passau
Regensburg is one of Germany's best-preserved cities, relatively undamaged by World War II bombings. Despite this, it remains somewhat obscure to many foreign visitors. Even if you don't have time to explore the city's museums or the interiors of its many historical monuments, try to take in the view of the Danube from one of its bridges, especially at sunset.
Regensburg started as a Celtic settlement, called Radespona, around 500 B.C. The Romans later took it over, renamed it Castra Regina, and made it their center of power on the upper Danube. From the 7th century, the town was the center from which Christianity spread over southern Germany. The architecture of Regensburg testifies to its long history and past grandeur, which reached its peak by the beginning of the Gothic era. Its buildings and towers offer an unspoiled glimpse into history, and many of its ancient structures are still in active use today. The best example is the Stone Bridge, built in 1146 on 16 huge arches, in continuous service for more than 800 years.
