Straubing
Straubing Sights: Discover the City's Best Spots
Straubing, the charming Gäubodenstadt in Lower Bavaria, surprises visitors with an impressive variety of historical and cultural attractions. The Straubing sights range from mediaeval churches and splendid townhouses to modern museums. Wondering which highlights you simply shouldn't miss on your visit? This comprehensive guide introduces you to the 15 most important Straubing sights and gives you valuable insider tips for an unforgettable stay.
The historic Straubing sights in the city centre
The heart of Straubing is the historic Stadtplatz, one of the most beautiful squares in Bavaria. Many of the most important Straubing sights are concentrated here in a compact area.
The Stadtplatz as an architectural gem
The Stadtplatz impresses with its harmonious unity and the splendid townhouses from various eras. The Gothic and Baroque façades tell stories from over 800 years of the city's history.
- Gothic townhouses from the 14th century
- Baroque façades from the 17th and 18th centuries
- Historic inns with traditional Bavarian architecture
- Lovingly restored bay windows and wall paintings
💡 Tip: Visit the Stadtplatz early in the morning, when the warm light shows off the historic façades particularly beautifully.
Basilica of St. Jakob – a Gothic masterpiece
The Basilica of St. Jakob is undoubtedly one of the most significant Straubing sights. The Gothic building from the 14th century houses art-historical treasures of European standing.
- Famous stained-glass windows by Jakob Acker (around 1400)
- High altar with late Gothic carvings
- Tomb of Duke Albrecht I of Bavaria-Straubing
- Impressive vault paintings from various eras
The church is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Guided tours take place every Saturday at 2:00 pm.
Straubing sights: experience museums and culture
Straubing boasts an impressive museum landscape that brings the history and culture of the region to life. Culture enthusiasts should definitely visit these Straubing sights.
Gäubodenmuseum – Roman history up close
The Gäubodenmuseum is one of the most important archaeological museums in Bavaria. Here you'll find spectacular finds from the Roman era that document the region's rich history.
The Roman treasures of Straubing
- Roman treasure of Straubing: over 100 objects made of bronze and silver
- Ceremonial armour of Roman soldiers: unique helmets and greaves
- Face masks: mysterious cult objects from the 2nd/3rd century
- Horse harness: splendidly decorated equipment of Roman cavalry units
- Coin finds: over 1,000 Roman coins from various eras
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission costs 5 euros for adults.
💡 Tip: Use the museum's free app for an interactive tour of the exhibition.
City Museum in the Herzogsschloss
The City Museum in the historic Herzogsschloss presents 700 years of Straubing's history. From mediaeval craft guilds to modern industrial development, you'll learn everything about the city's development here.
- Guild history and craft traditions
- Models of the mediaeval city fortifications
- Documentation of the Gäuboden folk festivals
- Rotating special exhibitions on regional themes
Straubing sights: discover sacred buildings
Alongside the Basilica of St. Jakob, Straubing is home to further remarkable churches and monasteries, which are among the most significant Straubing sights.
Carmelite Church of the Holy Spirit
The Carmelite Church from the 14th century impresses with its simple elegance and well-preserved Gothic interior.
Ursuline Convent and Church
The Baroque Ursuline Convent with its magnificent convent church was built in the 17th century. The Rococo interior and the ceiling paintings by Cosmas Damian Asam make it an artistic gem.
- Frescoes by Cosmas Damian Asam
- Baroque high altar with gilded carvings
- Historic convent complex with cloister
- Museum on the history of the Ursulines in Straubing
Green oases: parks and local recreation in Straubing
Among the more relaxing Straubing sights are the city's beautiful parks and green spaces. Here you can unwind after sightseeing.
Stadtpark with rose garden
The Stadtpark invites you to linger with its magnificent rose garden and old trees. Over 200 different rose varieties bloom here, especially in summer.
Danube riverbank and promenade
The Danube promenade offers wonderful walking paths along the river. From here you have a beautiful view of the old town and the towers of the historic churches.
- Cycling and walking paths along the Danube
- Playgrounds for families with children
- Boat landings for Danube cruises
- Beer gardens with river views
💡 Tip: In good weather, it's worth taking a Danube cruise as far as Regensburg or Passau.
Modern Straubing sights and leisure tips
Alongside the historic attractions, Straubing also offers modern Straubing sights for families and active holidaymakers.
Straubing Zoo
Straubing Zoo is particularly popular with families. Over 1,700 animals from all over the world live in natural enclosures spread across 18 hectares.
Highlights at the zoo
- Lion and tiger enclosure with underwater viewing
- Danube Aquarium with native fish species
- Petting zoo with goats and sheep
- Playgrounds and picnic areas
- Catering with regional specialities
The zoo is open all year round. Opening hours vary by season.
Spa and wellness
The Aquatherm Straubing offers relaxation after an eventful day. The modern spa complex features various pools, saunas and wellness areas.
Culinary Straubing sights: enjoyment and tradition
Among the special Straubing sights are also the traditional inns and breweries offering Bavarian cosiness and regional cuisine.
Traditional breweries
Straubing has several long-established breweries that have been brewing beer according to old traditions for generations.
Gäubodenvolksfest – Bavaria's second-largest folk festival
Every year in August, Straubing transforms into the setting for the Gäubodenvolksfest. With over one million visitors, it's the largest folk festival in Bavaria after the Oktoberfest.
- Festival tents: six large festival tents with live music
- Fairground rides: over 120 attractions for all age groups
- Stalls and stands: traditional craftsmanship and treats
- Processions: historic Gaufest parade on the first Sunday
- Concerts: performances by well-known Bavarian musicians
💡 Tip: Book your accommodation for the Gäubodenvolksfest as early as spring, as hotels fill up quickly.
Day trips around Straubing
The area around Straubing offers further interesting Straubing sights and destinations, perfectly suited to day trips.
Weltenburg Abbey
Just 30 kilometres from Straubing lies the famous Weltenburg Abbey on the Danube. The Baroque abbey church and the monastery brewery are popular destinations.
Egg Castle
The Renaissance Egg Castle near Bernried today houses a hotel and restaurant. The castle grounds, with their English landscape park, are freely accessible.
- Castle park with rare tree species
- Chapel with Gothic frescoes
- Restaurant with fine dining
- Wedding and event venue
📍 Discover more: Explore further recommendations for Straubing on our city page.
Conclusion: Straubing sights for every taste
Straubing surprises with an impressive variety of attractions and experiences. The Straubing sights range from mediaeval churches and museums to green parks and modern leisure facilities. Particularly impressive are:
- The historic old town with its picturesque Stadtplatz
- The Gäubodenmuseum with its unique Roman treasures
- The Basilica of St. Jakob as a Gothic masterpiece
- The zoo as a family attraction
- The Gäubodenvolksfest as a cultural highlight
Plan at least two days for your visit so you can explore the most important Straubing sights at a relaxed pace. The city offers suitable attractions for every taste and every age.
Frequently Asked Questions about Straubing sights
Which Straubing sights should you definitely visit? The absolute must-sees include the Basilica of St. Jakob, the Gäubodenmuseum with its Roman treasures, the historic Stadtplatz and Straubing Zoo.
How much time do you need for the most important Straubing sights? You should allow at least a full day for the main attractions. With museum visits and a relaxed stroll through the city, two days are ideal.
Are there any free Straubing sights? Yes, the Stadtplatz, the Danube promenade, the parks and viewing the churches from outside are all free. Guided city tours are also sometimes offered free of charge.
When is the best time to visit the Straubing sights? Straubing is appealing all year round. The period from May to September is particularly lovely. The famous Gäubodenvolksfest takes place in August.
Are the Straubing sights family-friendly? Absolutely! The zoo, the parks and many museums offer special programmes for children. Most attractions are accessible without barriers.
Markus Wagner
