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Narrow alleys, cobblestones, and right in the middle, the historic marketplace, considered one of the most beautiful in Franconia. It’s no wonder Miltenberg is also called the “Pearl on the Main.” It’s a true insider tip for a short trip in Bavaria. TRAVELBOOK presents a selection of the most beautiful places in the market town.
The district town of Miltenberg is located on the southern edge of the so-called “Main Triangle,” between Aschaffenburg, Wertheim, and Obernburg. The town combines the typical features of a historic market town with the natural surroundings of the region: It is surrounded by vineyards, lies directly on the Main River, and borders the forests of Spessart and Odenwald.
The Most Beautiful Places in the Market Town of Miltenberg
Marketplace with “Schnatterloch”
One of Miltenberg’s most famous sights is the old marketplace, also known as “Schnatterloch.” Here, charming half-timbered houses line up, including the Miltenberg Town Hall. Many of the buildings on the marketplace date back to the 16th and early 17th centuries. According to the Tourism Association Spessart-Mainland e.V., numerous half-timbered houses from the period after the Thirty Years’ War have also been preserved. The former “Schnatterloch,” which gave the square its name, was located at the former city boundary and referred to a hole in the tower through which rainwater flowed into the Main. Today, in addition to the historic buildings, the marketplace also features wine taverns, inns, and small shops.
Also interesting: Tips for a Visit to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bad Kissingen
Mildenburg
For those who want to explore further after strolling through the old marketplace, a climb to Mildenburg is worth the effort. It takes about 15 minutes to reach via narrow alleys and steep stairs. Once at the top, a wide view over Miltenberg opens up, which can be particularly enjoyed from the various rest areas around the castle. Since 2011, the complex has also been accessible as a museum: In addition to works from the 17th to 19th centuries, contemporary art is also presented there.
Inn “Zum Riesen”
Another piece of Miltenberg’s city history is the inn “Zum Riesen.” First mentioned in documents in the mid-12th century, the inn itself claims to be the “oldest princely hostel in Germany.” Not without reason: Prominent guests such as Charles IV or King Ludwig the Bavarian have stayed here. The inn is still in operation today, offering Franconian dishes and accommodations. From the outside, the inn, with its classic Franconian half-timbered construction, also serves as an authentic photo backdrop.
Parish Church St. Jakobus
Visible from afar and an integral part of Miltenberg’s cityscape is the Catholic Parish Church St. Jakobus. With its distinctive towers, it is also considered a landmark of the city. Not only is the building impressive from the outside, but inside, there are numerous elements from various eras, including Gothic, Baroque, and Classicist elements. Just about a 5-minute walk away is the Main Riverbank. From here, you can also enjoy a great view of the city’s panorama from a slightly different perspective.
Main Cycle Path
For those who want to combine their city trip with some exercise, a bike tour on the Main Cycle Path is ideal. The route follows the river from its source in the Fichtel Mountains, through Kulmbach, Bamberg, Würzburg, and Aschaffenburg, to its confluence with the Rhine in Mainz–a total of about 600 kilometers. A stop in Miltenberg can easily be included. For a shorter ride, start directly here and cycle the approximately 30 kilometers to Wertheim. The path mostly runs flat along the Main, lined with vineyards and forests, perfect for breaks and small detours.
Traveling to Miltenberg
Miltenberg is easily accessible by car. The journey is via the A3 or A81 highways, depending on the direction, through the Wertheim or Großostheim exits, and then continues on federal and state roads into the Main Valley. Traveling by train is also straightforward. Regional trains run regularly between Aschaffenburg and Miltenberg, and there are connections to Darmstadt and Heilbronn.
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