Stone Bridge (Regensburg)

The Stone Bridge in Regensburg (Steinerne Brücke) is the oldest surviving bridge in Germany and, together with the cathedral, the city's most famous landmark. Built in the 12th century, it carries walkers and cyclists across the Danube from the medieval Old Town to the Stadtamhof district. Both are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Old Town of Regensburg with Stadtamhof," and the bridge offers one of the best views of the cathedral spires anywhere in town.

Where it is and how to get there

Regensburg lies in eastern Bavaria where the Danube reaches its northernmost point. It is a popular day trip from Munich or Nuremberg by train; regional services are covered by the Deutschlandticket. From Regensburg Hauptbahnhof, it is roughly a 20-minute walk through the Old Town to the bridge. Note that Deutsche Bahn is rebuilding the line between Obertraubling (near Regensburg) and Passau in the second half of 2026, so check the DB Navigator app for replacement buses if you travel from that direction. Drivers should park in a garage on the edge of the Old Town and walk in.

A medieval marvel

The bridge was built in only about eleven years, probably between 1135 and 1146, helped by an exceptionally hot, dry summer that lowered the river. Soon afterward, King Louis VII of France and his army crossed it on their way to the Second Crusade. For centuries it was the only bridge over the Danube between Ulm and Vienna, which turned Regensburg into a major trading hub of the Holy Roman Empire. It also inspired later stone bridges, including the Judith Bridge in Prague, predecessor of the Charles Bridge.

The bridge survived wars and floods: Swedish troops blew up an arch in 1633, and retreating German forces dynamited two piers in April 1945. After a major restoration from 2010 to 2018, it is now closed to cars and buses.

Things to see

• The arches: Of the original 16 arches, 14 are visible today, stretching about 310 meters (1,010 ft) across two arms of the river and an island.
• The Bruckmandl: A small stone figure at the bridge's highest point, shading his eyes as he gazes toward the cathedral. Legend says the bridge builder raced the cathedral builder and made a pact with the devil to win. The current statue dates from 1854.
• Bridge Tower: The only one of three original towers still standing. You can climb it for views over the rooftops; buy your ticket from the machine in the stairwell.
• World Heritage Visitor Center: Housed in the historic Salt Store beside the bridge, it presents nearly 2,000 years of city history with models and interactive displays. Admission is free, and free guided tours are available in English and German.
• Historic Sausage Kitchen (Wurstkuchl): Right next door, this traditional eatery serves grilled sausages with sauerkraut and sweet mustard.

Opening hours and tips

The bridge is open to pedestrians 24/7 and costs nothing to cross. As of October 2026, the Visitor Center is open daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (closed October 14). The flat, paved surface is fine for wheelchairs and strollers, with only a gentle rise toward the middle. Come early in the morning for quiet photos, or at sunset for the best light on the Old Town.

Is it worth visiting? Absolutely. Allow an hour to cross the bridge, climb the tower, visit the free exhibition, and wander into colorful Stadtamhof on the north bank before heading back for sausages by the river.