Rottenburg am Neckar can be explored through several themes: Roman finds, ecclesiastical art and history, as well as hiking and cycling routes. When planning your stay, you can first decide whether to focus on museums and buildings or also set aside time for trails through the countryside.
Roman Remains, Churches and Museums
St. Martin’s Cathedral is a three-aisled vaulted basilica. Construction began in 1424, and the tower was completed in 1491. The Sumelocenna Museum has a permanent exhibition on everyday life in Roman Rottenburg, including original excavations from part of the ancient city. A covered, well-preserved Roman bath can be visited near the museum. It measures 18 by 11 metres. Check access conditions before your visit.
SĂĽlchen Church also brings together several aspects: it is a cemetery church, the burial place of the bishops and an archaeological site. Its exhibition area includes uncovered architectural foundations and archaeological artefacts. The church stands above the remains of significant predecessor buildings dating back to the 7th century. The museum section is accessible only as part of a guided tour; check the dates in advance.
The Sülchgau Museum has a permanent exhibition on Further Austria from 1381 to 1806, as well as temporary exhibitions on local history. The Zehntscheuer Cultural Centre presents exhibitions on contemporary art, photography and ethnology. The Diocesan Museum’s collection includes religious art and objects from the 13th to the 18th century. On a walk through the historic old town, you’ll encounter Rottenburg’s medieval, Roman and Austrian history.
Hiking and Cycling Routes
Hiking options include the forests of the Rammert and the Weilerburg viewpoint. In Ergenzingen, a district of Rottenburg, the accessible Adolph Kolping Stations of the Cross trail, around 8 kilometres long, leads to the forest chapel on the Liebfrauenhöhe. Check the trail markings and access conditions in advance.
The signposted Neckar Trail follows the Neckar from its source near Villingen-Schwenningen to TĂĽbingen and passes through Rottenburg. Cycling routes also vary in length and scale: Rottenburg is a junction for three major long-distance cycle routes. The 366-kilometre Neckar Valley Cycle Route runs from Villingen-Schwenningen to Mannheim and passes through Rottenburg. Check the current signage and trail conditions before setting out.
The Neckar in Rottenburg can be used for fishing or canoeing. Before taking part, find out about the relevant providers and safety details. This allows you to consider hikes, longer cycling routes and river activities as different options, rather than combining them into a single route plan.
Wine, Tours and Accommodation
There are vineyards in Rottenburg’s outlying districts. Until the 17th century, the city was an internationally significant centre for wine. Bookable tours include Sunday guided tours, historical city walks and culinary tours. Check dates and booking conditions before your trip.
Alternative places to stay in Rottenburg include two motorhome pitches and a campsite in orchards. Overnight stays in a tipi or a barrel are also possible there. Check availability before your trip.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Weiler, Bad Niedernau, Kirchentellinsfurt, Starzach, Kusterdingen, Ă–schingen, Hirrlingen, TĂĽbingen.
Back to the main travel overview: TĂĽbingen.
