Munich is full of places steeped in history. But there are also historical gems outside the state capital . If you travel up the Danube from Munich, you will end up in a city that towers so magnificently over the river that it is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Danube”: Neuburg an der Donau. Around 90 kilometers north of the state capital , one of Germany’s best-preserved Renaissance towns awaits you . With only around 30,000 inhabitants, the town is not particularly large, but all the more impressive for it – especially because of its living history.
A Bavarian castle spectacle
Photo: Shutterstock
The panorama of Neuburg is dominated by its greatest attraction: the residential castle. It sits enthroned on a Jura rock directly above the Danube. The facade in the inner courtyard is world-famous and should not be missed. It is decorated with elaborate sgraffito paintings depicting biblical scenes.
The castle houses one of Europe’s most important galleries of Baroque art, the State Gallery of Flemish Baroque Painting. Here you can see masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens and Anthonis van Dyck.
The castle chapel dates back to 1543 and is the oldest Protestant church building in Bavaria. The English Garden is also worth a visit: directly below the castle is a spacious park, ideal for walks along the riverbank.
The Upper Town: A journey through time on foot
Photo: Shutterstock
Neuburg is divided into the Lower Town and the historic Upper Town. When you step through the Upper Gate, you will almost immediately feel transported back to the 16th century. Here you will find Karlsplatz, one of the most beautiful squares in Bavaria. It is lined with the Adelspalais and the imposing town hall. The Hofkirche is also one of the most interesting monuments in Neuburg. It marks the transition from the Renaissance to the Baroque period.
But Neuburg an der Donau is not only worth a visit for history lovers. The city is known for its nationally renowned festivals. The Neuburg Castle Festival takes place every two years. During this festival, the entire old town is transformed into a lively Renaissance spectacle with mercenaries, jugglers, and historical crafts. It is considered one of the most authentic historical festivals in Germany.
Tens of thousands of spectators are also attracted by the Danube swim every year. Neuburg is home to the Danube swim, the largest winter swim in Europe. Thousands of brave souls plunge into the ice-cold Danube. And for those who want to get active but shy away from the cold, the beautiful Danube Cycle Path passes Neuburg.