Kim McMahill

Bamburg was founded in 902. This medieval-looking city is home to the Cathedral of Holy Roman Emperor Heinrich II which houses the tomb of Pope Clement II. The city is also known for its Old Town Hall situated on a twin-arched bridge over the Regnitz River and its specialty smoked beer, which is an interesting flavor that is probably an acquired taste.

Nuremberg is probably most well-known for being home to the post World War II Nuremberg Trials. But, what many people might not know is that it also has a wonderfully-preserved medieval walled-city. Every time we’ve visited, we find some sort of fun and interesting festival, crafts fair, or flea market in progress. It may not be on anyone’s bucket list, but it is a surprising city to visit.

Wűrzburg was heavily damaged during World War II, but has since been completely restored, including its imposing Bishops Residence. The city is also a major wine-making center, surrounded by Franconian vineyards and it is home to one of Germany’s oldest and largest vineyards.

Heidelberg is Germany’s oldest university town, and it's home to the magnificent Heidelberg Castle, situated over 300 feet above the Neckar River. Heidelberg is a charming and beautiful city filled with stunning baroque architecture.

Located at the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers, Koblenz is a traditional German country town with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and wood-beamed houses.

The highlight of this small town was the 1,000-year-old imperial castle perched on a hilltop overlooking the town and the Moselle River.

Bernkastel was an unexpected surprise since we happened to visit during its annual wine festival. I always associated Germany with beer, but I have a new respect for its wines and endless vineyards.

Built amid deep gorges cut by the Alzette and Pétrusse rivers, Luxembourg is the capital of the tiny European nation of the same name. The ruins of medieval fortifications in the foreground and modern buildings housing a number of important official European functions in the background make this a fascinating city to explore. We also had the privilege to visit the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial located not far from the city. This memorial to over 5,000 American soldiers, who lost their lives during World War II, most during the Battle of the Bulge, was a deeply moving experience.

Regensburg is one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities, and the oldest city on the Danube. Walking through its cobble-stone streets makes you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, and a glimpse of the Gothic spires of St. Peter’s Church leave you in awe.

Nuremberg is Germany’s second largest city, and most notable as the site for the post-World War II Nuremberg trials. But, what may be a surprise is that it is also a stunning medieval city surrounded by 13 th century walls. Within the walls are half-timbered houses, beautiful cathedrals, statues, cobble-stone streets, and quaint little shops selling local-made handicrafts.