Bamberg

Bamberg is one of Germany's most well-preserved medieval towns, tucked away in the northern part of Bavaria. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its striking architecture spanning from the medieval to the baroque periods. The town's layout, built across seven hills, has earned it the nickname "Franconian Rome."

The centerpiece of Bamberg is its spectacular cathedral, housing the famous Bamberg Rider statue - a mysterious mounted figure whose identity remains a subject of debate even today. The Old Town Hall, curiously built in the middle of a river with bridges connecting it to both banks, is another architectural marvel that captures visitors' attention.

Bamberg is also known for its unique smoked beer, "Rauchbier," which gets its distinctive flavor from drying malt over open fires. The town has a brewing tradition going back nearly 1,000 years, with several historic breweries still operating today.

Wandering through the charming streets of Bamberg feels like stepping back in time. The Little Venice area, with its colorful fishermen's houses right by the water, offers some of the most picturesque views. Meanwhile, the town survived WWII remarkably intact, unlike many German cities, allowing visitors to experience authentic medieval German town planning and architecture.