Regensburg's Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke) is a medieval masterpiece built in just about eleven years, from 1135 to 1146, spanning the Danube to link the Old Town with the Stadtamhof district — one of the oldest surviving stone bridges in Germany. Its 16 arches stretch roughly 309 metres and were a key reason the Old Town of Regensburg was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006. Following a major restoration completed in 2018, the bridge is permanently closed to cars and, as of 2026, is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, making it a relaxed vantage point over the river and the medieval skyline. You can walk across it any time, free of charge — a highlight of any visit to Regensburg.
The 'Bruckmandl' figure perched at the bridge's apex, gazing toward the cathedral — legend says it depicts the bridge builder who wagered with the cathedral's master builder over which structure would finish first.
The Bridge Tower (Brückturm), the last survivor of three original towers. It houses the Brückturm Museum on Danube shipping history, and climbing it rewards you with sweeping views over the Old Town.
The panorama from the deck — the spired cathedral, the riverside Old Town on one bank, and the picturesque Stadtamhof on the other.
The medieval engineering of the 16 stone arches, with some piers resting on oak-log foundations driven into the riverbed — a showcase of 12th-century skill.
The Salzstadel (a ca. 1620 salt store, now the World Heritage visitor centre) at the bridge's foot, and next to it the 'Historische Wurstkuchl' sausage kitchen, said to have served as the bridge's construction office.
Good to know
RulesThis is a pedestrian and bicycle bridge — no cars, buses or taxis. Cyclists can pass quickly, so keep to the side and don't block the walkway while taking photos.
SeasonThe Bridge Tower (Brückturm Museum) is generally open April to October, daily 10:00–18:00, and may be closed in winter. Check current opening times if you want the tower's viewpoint.
SafetyThe bridge deck is old, uneven stone and can be slippery in rain, frost or snow. Wear comfortable shoes and watch your footing.
MannersAcross the bridge, Stadtamhof is a residential quarter. Keep noise down and avoid photographing private homes or doorways — respect the etiquette expected in a UNESCO World Heritage area.
CautionThe bridge, Old Town and sausage kitchen draw crowds, so mind your belongings and carry bags in front. Ignore unofficial 'tour' touts or aggressive donation requests away from the official Tourist Information at Rathausplatz.
SeasonRegensburg makes an easy day trip — about 1.5 hours by regional train from Munich or Nuremberg. A Bayern-Ticket or Deutschland-Ticket keeps costs down, and early morning or dusk beats the midday summer crowds for photos and strolling.
Practical info
From Regensburg Hauptbahnhof it's about a 15-minute walk along Maximilianstraße through the Old Town to the bridge's southern foot. The bridge itself is a public crossing, free and open at any hour; the tower museum and tower climb are accessed via the Salzstadel (World Heritage visitor centre) and run roughly April to October. Fees and opening hours can change, so confirm the latest details on the official site before visiting.
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