Raise your hand if you love picturesque fairytale towns as much as I do. Nestled amidst the stunning Harz Mountains in central Germany, Quedlinburg is just that!
So just how enchanting is Quedlinburg Germany? Very!
In this article, I will share all the top things to do in Quedlinburg, from exploring its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses to soaking up the medieval atmosphere from its many cute cafes.
While living in Berlin, I visited here on a day trip and it took mere seconds to instantly fall in love. And, I know you will too.
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Is Quedlinburg Germany Worth Visiting?
Without a doubt, this charming town is worth visiting! Well, that is if you adore half-timbered houses and visiting places that ooze with charm and have a history that dates back over a thousand years.
If you answered yes, then you’ll, yes it’s worth a visit!
One of the reasons to visit Quedlinburg is to explore its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town called Quedlinburg Altstadt.
What makes it incredibly special is that there are over 2,000 well-preserved half-timbered buildings spanning eight different eras, making it one of the largest collections in all of Germany.
Strolling through these historic streets feels like stepping into a fairytale where every turn reveals another delightful surprise. My camera was in overdrive!
So if you are a photographer, history buff, hidden gems chaser, or simply adore medieval, fairytale European towns Quedlinburg is a destination worth visiting!
10 Top Sightseeing in Quedlinburg
Surprisingly, there is a lot to see and do in this small town, that’s why I’ve chosen to break it up into what to see followed by what to do in Quedlinburg.
1. Old Town Quedlinbug (Quedlinburg Altstadt)
Wandering through the Altstadt of Quedlinburg reminded me of another German fairy-tale town called Monschau, only much bigger. With centuries-old half-timbered houses lining cobblestone streets that twist past quaint shops and cafes.
I couldn’t help myself and tried three cafes that I recommend:
- Käsekuchenbäckerei Vincent: when a bakery has cheesecake in its name, you know they’re good!
- Samocca: a good spot for coffee lovers
- Quedlinburg – Kornmarkt 3: is a unique old ruin with no roof that has turned itself into a cafe (in the am) and bar (in the pm)
The pedestrian-only zone makes exploring even more enjoyable, as there’s no traffic to dodge—just carefree strolls. Despite its size, the Old Town is easy to navigate; even if you try to get lost, the streets somehow loop back to where you began. My tip? Explore every nook and cranny—you never know what hidden gems you’ll discover!
2. Marktplatz Quedlinburg
The lively Marktplatz is the heart of Quedlinburg, where café terraces invite you to relax with a drink while market stalls take over the centre. The energy here is contagious, though it can be challenging to capture a photo without a crowd in the way.
Walk around the square’s perimeter to admire its historic buildings, including the eye-catching Quedlinburger Roland next to City Hall. Don’t miss the bronze statue of The MĂĽnzenberg Musicians, a tribute to the local musicians who made their living performing on the hill opposite the castle.
3. Quedlinburg City Hall (Rathaus Quedlinburg)
Quedlinburg’s Rathaus, with its stunning Renaissance facade, is an architectural gem and one of the prettiest sights I’ve ever seen. Just don’t make my mistake—avoid visiting on a Wednesday when it’s closed, as I missed the chance to peek inside!
4. Quedlinburg Cathedral (Dom Quedlinburg known as MarktKirche)
MarktKirche, or the town’s cathedral, is a soaring Gothic masterpiece from the 10th century. Its towering spires can be seen from afar. And make a great backdrop for town photos.
Over the centuries, the church underwent architectural transformations, resulting in a unique blend of styles. From Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. There are fourteen churches in Quedlinburg, and without a doubt, this is one worth seeing.
- đź“ŤMarktkirchhof 1 | Open daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Free entry, welcomes a donation
5. Goetzsches Mausoleum
After visiting Quedlinburg Cathedral, I headed just a little north and spotted an intriguing building amongst the charming timber-framed houses. This hidden gem, Goetzsches Mausoleum (or Grufthaus Gebhardt), first caught my eye as a perfect photo spot. However, it wasn’t until I returned to Berlin that I learned its deeper story—this Baroque masterpiece, built in 1726, was created to honour the late merchant Christoph Gebhardt.
6. Sternkieker Tower (also known as Lindenbein Tower)
Climb the Sternkiekerturm, an old watchtower, to be rewarded with panoramic views of Quedlinburg’s red-roofed houses and the surrounding Harz Mountains. It’s the perfect vantage point from 42 m.
- đź“ŤWeingarten 1 | Open daily from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | 1 € to get through a turnstile
7. Timberframe Houses
Quedlinburg’s timber-framed houses are a visual delight at every turn. Admire the intricate carvings and colourful facades that adorn these historic buildings, creating a charming backdrop as you explore the town.
8. Cultural Church St. Blasii (Kulturkirche St. Blasii)
Many of the Quedlinburg churches are not in the centre of town, except this one. That’s why it’s making my list. Not to mention how pretty it is inside.
After its renovations, it reopened as a cultural centre where various concerts and exhibitions are held. When you are exploring the Altstadt, pop into this beauty found at Blasiistraße 6. Right outside of the church is a bronze fountain called The Shaft (Schachtbrunnen) of a boy and a dog.
9. St. Nikolai Church Quedlinburg (Niklolaikirche)
The St. Nikolai Church can trace its origins to around 1200 where Romanesque elements can still be found. According to the local legend, a shepherd’s newfound wealth from gold contributed to its financing. That’s why you will see a Baroque statue of a shepherd with his dog on one tower side, earning it the nickname of “shepherd’s church.”
In the 14th century, the church underwent a Gothic transformation, elevating its towers to their present height of 72 m. Another church that shapes the skyline of this charming German town.
How to Visit:
- 📍Neustädter Kirchhof 1
- đź•™Open Monday to Saturday from 10:30 am – 4:00 pm, Sunday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
- Free, welcomes a donation
10. Munzenburg
MĂĽnzenberg, a medieval fortress perched on a hill, offers stunning views of Quedlinburg and its surrounding countryside. While here, you can explore the ancient walls and timbered houses, and also the Church of St. Mary, founded in 986.
10 Things to Do in Quedlinburg
1. Timberframe Museum (Fachwerk Museum im Ständerbau)
Since Quedlinburg is known for its sheer volume of timeframe houses it comes as no surprise that there is a museum dedicated to it.
Housed in a 14th-century building itself, the museum offers insights into the town’s half-timbered architecture evolution from the 14th to the 19th century, alongside the city’s restoration and reconstruction efforts. Architectural lovers take note, this is a must-visit museum!
- đź“ŤWordgasse 3 | Open April to October daily (except Thursdays) 10:00 am – 05:00 pm | 3 € or a family card of 7 € (2 adults, 2 children)
2. Lyonel-Feininger Museum
For art enthusiasts, the Lyonel-Feininger Museum is a must-visit as it’s chock full of 20th-century and contemporary art, with a focus on the renowned artist Lyonel Feininger. This artist was a key figure in Classical Modernism spanning from 1906 to 1955.
- đź“ŤSchlossberg 11 | Open daily from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, closed on Tuesdays | 9 €
3. Klopstockhaus Muesum
Klopstockhaus is the the former residence of poet Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock. Interestingly this was the town’s first museum opened in 1899 and is housed in a building from 1560.
Klopstock’s most famous poetry was called “The Messiah” and it played a role in shaping literary trends for future poets.
- đź“ŤSchlossberg 12 | Open April to October from Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 am – 05:00 pm | 3.50 € or a family card of 8 € (2 adults, 2 children)
4. Castle Museum (Schloss Museum Quedlinburg)
The Schloss Museum within Quedlinburg Castle is undergoing extensive renovations at the time of my visit in late 2023.
Construction is currently transforming the former women’s convent with the hopes that visitors will soon be able to tour the Collegiate Church, cathedral treasury, and other rooms of significance.
I was still able to visit the monastery gardens and the best part is the views overlooking the town’s rooftops. It’s a bit of a climb, but oh so worth it!
- đź“ŤSchlossberg 1
5. Collegiate Church of St. Servatii (Stiftskirche im St Servatius)
The Collegiate Church of St. Servatius, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Quedlinburg, dates back to the 10th century when it was founded by King Henry I as a Palatinate Chapel and later became his tomb. Its Romanesque architecture and medieval treasures provide a glimpse into the era of Germany’s early kings and emperors. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of relics, manuscripts, sculptures, goldsmith works, ivory carvings, and even Europe’s oldest knotted carpet from around 1200.
- đź“ŤSchlossberg 1 | Open daily, except for Tuesdays, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (last entry at 3:00 pm) | 4.50 € (Note: When I visited, I arrived at 3:45 and found the entrance fee was €6—two details that weren’t mentioned on their website)
6. Harz Time Museum (Harzer Uhrenmuseum)
A unique, family-friendly museum in Quedlinburg is Hazer Uhrenmuseum. With an impressive collection of approximately 300 cuckoo clocks, grandfather clocks, and various other timepieces. If you had on your German souvenir list to purchase a cuckoo clock, this would be the place to go!
- đź“ŤLindenstraĂźe 7 | Open daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | 3 €
7. Ratskeller Quedlinburg (Other Restaurant Recommendations)
In Quedlinburg, there is no shortage of restaurants to choose from, most of them serving traditional German cuisine as I found at Ratskeller Quedlinburg, located in a historic cozy cellar beneath the town hall.
I also went to Brauhaus LĂĽdde, a local brewery that is located in the former gatehouse and stables of a large house, now a hotel. But, if you’re looking for something more upscale, Weinstube im Hotel, a Michelin-star restaurant would be my recommendation.
8-10. Quedlinburg Things to Do Recommended by the Tourist Office
The Quedlinburg Tourist office, located on the Marktplatz, has some great information they shared with me. I didn’t have the opportunity to do these next suggestions, but perhaps if it aligns with your interests they sure do look like fun.
8. Hiking in the Harz Area
The Harz area has a comprehensive network of trails, with over 69 km including two national trails being the most popular, the Selketal-Stieg and the Harzer Klosterwanderweg. Serious hikers will be interested in this, as stamps can be collected on a variety of routes.
9. Hard Narrow Gauge Railway
Climb aboard the Harz Narrow Gauge Railway that winds through the scenic Harz Mountains. For routes of this vintage railway and ticket information, go to the Quedlinburg tourist office.
10. Bad Suderode
Visit the neighbouring spa town, Bad Suderode, for a relaxing soak in its thermal baths amongst the Harz mountains.
Hotels in Quedlinburg
Although I personally didn’t experience these hotels, I did see them while visiting for the day and meticulously sifted through ratings and reviews to curate a selection of the best hotels.
- Romantik Hotel am BrĂĽhl: this elegant historical hotel lies in a secluded location just south of the Schlossberg mountain. It’s a perfect blend of original features with contemporary furnishings and is home to the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Quedlinburg. Guests love their beautifully appointed rooms, breakfast, scenic location and onsite restaurant.
- Wyndham Garden Quedlinburg Stadtschloss: situated in a former castle, this chain hotel offers contemporary furnishings with a touch of fairy-tale charm. Guests love its central location and fine wine collection in the Stadtschloss’s vaulted cellar.
- Hotel Zum Bär: this family-run hotel in Quedlinburg sits right on the historic Market Square. A timber-framed building offers comfortable, traditional-style rooms in this budget-friendly 3-star property with a restaurant that serves German cuisine. Guests love the friendly service, location, and breakfast.
How to Get from Berlin to Quedlinburg
Travelling from Berlin to Quedlinburg is super easy. Both the train and car get you there in almost the same amount of time. We elected to rent a car for our Quedlinburg day trip as we were travelling with our dog, and it is a much more comfortable journey for him than by train.
Berlin to Quedlinburg Train (note there are a few options, but I selected the shortest time duration)
- From Berlin’s central train station, Berlin Hauptbahnhof, take the IC2432 Norddeich Mole train to Magdeburg (4 stops in 90 minutes)
- Take the RE11 80500 Thale Hbf to Quedlinburg station (8 stops in 75 minutes)
- Total time is 2 hrs 45 mins
- Book train tickets in advance
By Car
- Rent a car and be sure to select unlimited km when booking
- Using GPS, we took the A2 Autobahn towards Magdeburg, then B6 to Quedlinburg
- Driving time is 2.5 hours (224 km)
- Parking in Quedlinburg: there are several parking lots located near the Old Town. We parked at the lot closest to Sternkiekerturm. Parking is 1 € per hour.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that Quedlinburg has to be on your Germany itinerary. I invite you now to check out these next few articles for more inspiration:
- Other popular day trips by train from Berlin
- 10 German towns and cities near Berlin
- A UNESCO-city road trip to 9 destinations near Berlin
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