Ansbach, the residential town
Ansbach awaits its visitors with a unique blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Travellers can be enchanted by the warm hospitality, the culinary delights and the unmistakable atmosphere.
Ansbach, a picturesque town in Bavaria, Germany, has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally founded as a Benedictine monastery in the 8th century, the town developed into an important political and cultural centre over the course of time. It was once the residence of the Margraves of Brandenburg-Ansbach and the Hohenzollern dynasty also played an important role in the town’s history.
An important historical figure in Ansbach is the legendary foundling Kaspar Hauser, who lived here from 1831 to 1833, was allegedly murdered in the Hofgarten (according to others, he fatally injured himself) and is buried in Ansbach’s town cemetery.
Today, Ansbach is known for its well-preserved old town centre with narrow streets and historic buildings. Particularly worth seeing is the beautiful Residential Palace, a magnificent example of baroque architecture that was once the seat of the margraves. The Hofgarten, an extensive park with beautifully landscaped gardens, invites you to take a stroll and relax.
St Gumbert’s Church, an impressive 12th century church with a striking tower, is another of the town’s sights. The church is known for its ornate stained glass windows and well-preserved organ. The Margrave Crypt and Crypt of St Gumbertus are also located here.
In culinary terms, the Franconian town offers a variety of restaurants and cafés serving local specialities such as Franconian sausages and regional beers. The annual Ansbach Kerwa and Christmas market are popular festivals where visitors can enjoy traditional dishes and entertainment.
Places of interest in Ansbach
The sights in Ansbach can be easily discovered on a tour of the town. Here you can follow in the footsteps of the margraves and discover the history of Kaspar Hauser.
One of the top sights in Ansbach is the Residenz, which is located outside the old town centre. I learnt a lot about the life of the margraves and the town of Ansbach on an exciting guided tour of the museum.
At Christmas time, the small town of Ansbach in Franconia is transformed into a cosy, Christmassy place. Stroll through the Christmas market in Ansbach, admire the artisan nativity scene and experience a Christmas concert - this is how the festive season can begin.
Find an accommodation
Boutique Hotel & Bio Wirtshaus Schwarzer Bock
Hotel Residenz
DAS HÜRNER
Travel information for Ansbach
Arrival in Ansbach
By aeroplane
The nearest major airport is in Nuremberg. It is around 50 km to Ansbach, and the journey takes around an hour by underground and train (change at Nuremberg main station).
Other airports are: Stuttgart 170 km away, Munich 200 km away and Frankfurt 205 km away.
By train
Ansbach has a railway station on the Nuremberg-Stuttgart and Munich-Würzburg lines. IC, regional express and regional trains stop here.
By car
The A6 motorway passes by the town. There is also the option of travelling via the B13 federal road.
By bike
The Burgenstraße cycle path runs through Ansbach. This leads from Rothenburg ob der Tauber via Ansbach to Roth near Nuremberg.
The Altmühltal cycle path is not far away.
On the way in Ansbach
On foot
The historic centre of the old town is very small, just 1 kilometre from one end to the other. Many streets are pedestrianised. All important sights can be easily reached on foot.
Public transport
Ansbach is part of the Greater Nuremberg public transport network and several buses run through the city centre.
Parking inAnsbach
Parking spaces are available in the city centre at various price levels. For example, there is free parking at the sports centre or at the exhibition grounds. From there, it takes about 10 minutes to walk to the city centre.
Other car parks are subject to a charge and can only be used for a limited time. Prices vary depending on the car park zone. Parking fees can also be paid using a smartphone. Simply install the EasyPark app. You can log in to the app without registering using a PayPal account or credit card, enter your licence plate number and park immediately.