13 Stunning Photo Spots in Regensburg, Germany for Instagram
Regensburg is one of those places that feels like it was designed with photographers in mind. On our December visit for the Christmas markets, I couldn’t help but notice that every corner seemed to be begging for a photo (or ten). From medieval bridges to pastel buildings, the best photo spots in Regensburg, Germany are scattered all over the city. If you’ve ever wanted to find the prettiest Regensburg photography locations, this guide has you covered.
Whether you’re here for the history, the bratwurst, or the festive lights, Regensburg has it all. I visited with my husband, mom, and sister, and despite the cold, we had the best time wandering from one charming corner to the next. The best Instagram spots in Regensburg are easy to reach on foot, which means no stress about transportation—just a lot of walking and maybe a few glühweins to warm up. Here’s where to capture photos, the best times to visit, photo framing ideas, and the exact photo location on Google Maps.
This post may contain affiliate links.
Map: Best Photo Spots in Regensburg, Germany
Here is your cheat sheet for a list of the best photo spots in Regensburg, Germany for Instagram. In the map below, purple numbers correspond to the top photo locations, and green bed icons correspond to my hotel recommendations.
One quick recommendation: make sure you get an eSim in advance so that you can easily navigate Regensburg.
1. Old Stone Bridge
2. Panoramic View of Regensburg
3. View of Regensburg down Stadtamhof
4. St. Peter’s Cathedral
5. Historische Wurstkuchl
6. Brückturm-Museum
7. Regensburg Old Town
8. New Parish Church (Neupfarrkirche)
9. Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)
10. Regensburg by Drone
11. Schloss St. Emmeram (Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn und Taxis)
12. Schloss Palace Emmeram Park Gazebo
13. Schloss Palace Emmeram Park Lake
1. Old Stone Bridge
One of the most iconic landmarks in the city, the Old Stone Bridge dates back to the 1100s and was once one of the most important crossings over the Danube. Standing here offers the perfect shot looking back at Regensburg’s colorful Old Town, framed by St. Peter’s Cathedral’s spires. It’s definitely one of the best photo spots in Regensburg (and probably one of the most photographed).
When to Visit: Early morning is best before the bridge gets packed with pedestrians.
Google Maps Location: Here
2. Panoramic View of Regensburg
The top panoramic view of Regensburg is from the north side of the river, across from the Old Stone Bridge. You’ll get the full sweep of pastel buildings lined up along the Danube, with the cathedral towering in the background.
We visited in December, so the city had a cozy, winter glow, but this is one of the best Regensburg photography locations year-round. The contrast between the colorful buildings and the river makes a great photo whether it’s sunny or overcast.
When to Visit: Go whenever fits your schedule.
Google Maps Location: Here
3. View of Regensburg down Stadtamhof
While you’re still on the north side of the river, head up Stadtamhof for another great view looking back at the city. You’ll get the charming foreground of the colorful buildings along the street, with the cathedral rising behind it. We even lucked out with a festive Christmas tree right in the shot. If you want fewer cars in the background, you might have to wait a bit, but it’s worth the patience.
When to Visit: Go earlier in the day before the area fills up.
Google Maps Location: Here
4. St. Peter’s Cathedral
St. Peter’s Cathedral is one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in all of Germany. It’s easily one of the best photo spots in Regensburg just based on its sheer grandeur alone. While the exterior steals the show, the inside is also beautiful if you have time to step in. We mostly focused on the outside since I loved the architecture.
Recommended Tour: City tour through Regensburg via train
When to Visit: Morning, but doesn’t need to be sunrise-early.
Google Maps Location: Here
5. Historische Wurstkuchl
This spot isn’t just about the photos, though the riverside view and cute building are definitely photo-worthy. It’s also about the sausage. This is the oldest continuously open sausage kitchen in the world, dating back to the 1100s. Pro tip: the sausages are smaller than we expected, so maybe don’t share.
When to Visit: During the shop’s opening hours. To plan your stop at this kitchen, check out the hours here.
Google Maps Location: Here
6. Brückturm-Museum
The peach-colored face of the Brückturm-Museum makes it one of the most charming photo spots in Regensburg. It’s also home to a museum about the history of the Old Stone Bridge, which is interesting to pop into if you have the time. For the best composition, shoot from across the street and frame the Old Stone Bridge through the museum’s archways. The soft colors, architecture, and bridge all come together for a really unique shot that feels quintessentially Regensburg.
When to Visit: Earlier in the morning for the fewest people around the bridge.
Google Maps Location: Here
7. Regensburg Old Town
Regensburg’s Old Town is basically one giant photo op. Narrow cobblestone streets wind past old buildings, with quirky doorways, clock towers, and little alleyways that you just have to photograph. It’s easily one of the best photo spots in Regensburg simply because it never stops being cute.
If you’re hoping for empty streets, head out first thing in the morning. But honestly, it’s just as charming with the hustle and bustle of the day. Some of my favorite shots have locals bundled up walking through, giving it a lively feel.
When to Visit: Early for empty streets, but it’s lovely anytime.
Google Maps Location: Here
8. New Parish Church (Neupfarrkirche)
This church anchors Neupfarrplatz, one of the main squares in Old Town. During December, it transforms with the Regensburger Christkindlmarkt surrounding it, which adds a ton of festive charm to your photos. The simple white of the church contrasts beautifully with the colorful market stalls. Even outside the holiday season, Neupfarrplatz is a lively square surrounded by shops and cafes, and the church adds a historic focal point to it all.
Recommended Tour: Regensburg Christmas Market Tour With A Professional Guide
When to Visit: During the Christmas market for festivities or early for emptier shots.
Google Maps Location: Here
9. Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)
The Old Town Hall is one of those spots where I wished I had arrived earlier, but even with people in the shot, it was beautiful. The yellow building, old clock tower, and medieval vibes all come together for the perfect framing. It’s also historically significant as the venue for Roman assemblies. A photo here is basically mandatory on your trip to Regensburg.
When to Visit: Aim for an early start to avoid the rush.
Google Maps Location: Here
10. Regensburg by Drone
If you have a drone, Regensburg looks incredible from above. The aerial perspective captures the medieval layout of the city, the curve of the Danube, and the spires of St. Peter’s Cathedral all in one frame. For the best composition, make sure to include the Old Stone Bridge crossing the river with the cathedral rising in the background.
When to Visit: Sunset gives the city a beautiful warm glow, but it’s beautiful any time of day.
Google Maps Location: Here (Approximately)
11. Schloss St. Emmeram (Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn und Taxis)
The Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn und Taxis is one of the top photo spots in Regensburg, Germany. It’s held at Schloss Thurn und Taxis, which just so happens to be the largest inhabited palace in the world. We learned all about Prince Johannes and Princess Gloria and how after the Prince’s death, the family turned a tax crisis into an opportunity by opening parts of the palace to the public. Now it’s home to museums, a soup kitchen, and this dreamy Christmas market.
The setting is seriously impressive. From the former Benedictine cloister to the twinkle-lit courtyard, everything feels steeped in history. Even if you’re not into history, you’ll appreciate the vibe. Think traditional craft stalls, flickering torches, cozy fire pits, and local artisans showing off handmade gifts.
Food and drinks here are worth your time (and euros). We tried mulled wine, grilled sausages, and fluffy pastries while warming up near a fire barrel.
There is an entrance fee, so bring your euros and plan ahead. Prices for the Christmas Market vary based on day and time, so check their website in advance. You can buy tickets at the entrance (which is what we did) or online in advance.
When to Visit: If you’re visiting for the market, go before sunset so you can see it both in daylight and all lit up after dark. You’ll want photos of both.
Google Maps Location: Here
12. Schloss Emmeram Park Gazebo
This phot spot and the next are both located within the grounds of Schloss Palace, so you can knock out spots 11-13 in one visit. This little gazebo is tucked in the park, and especially when it’s lit up at sunset, it’s one of the best photo spots in Regensburg. It’s a little off the main Christmas market path, but totally worth it.
When to Visit: Anytime, but sunset is extra magical to enjoy the glow of the lights.
Google Maps Location: Here
13. Schloss Emmeram Park Lake
Just past the gazebo, the small lake reflects the trees beautifully. Whether you’re here in winter with the twinkle lights or in summer with green foliage, it’s a peaceful little corner of Regensburg. We stopped here on our way out of the market and were glad we did. It’s such a pretty way to end your photo walk.
When to Visit: No need to time this one; it’s rarely crowded.
Google Maps Location: Here
Where to Stay in Regensburg, Germany
Here are my recommendations on where to stay in Regensburg, Germany:
- Bohemian Hotel Regensburg for a charming, historic hotel in the heart of Old Town Regensburg.
- Elements Hotel for a boutique hotel stay with modern amenities.
Regensburg might not be the most famous city in Germany, but it delivers when it comes to photogenic spots. From medieval bridges to old-timey buildings to the Christmas market glow, it’s a city that you have to explore with a camera in hand. The top Regensburg photography locations are scattered all over, so wear comfy shoes and give yourself time to wander. Whether you’re here for just one day or a few, you won’t run out of pretty places to capture.
Read More:
If you enjoyed this post on top photo spots in Regensburg, Germany for Instagram, check out some of the posts below!
1 Day in Regensburg, Germany in December
4 Festive Must-Visit Regensburg Christmas Markets
Visiting Szechenyi Baths in Winter: 16 Best Things to Know (Budapest, Hungary)
