Bamberg or Rothenberg?

I do not have enough time to see both these cities but both sound fantastic. I have enough time to spend a day and and a night in either but which one? Could someone please suggest.

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a bit chalk and cheese, really, IMHO.

I prefer Rothenburg, which is a small town and not really a city. It is more touristy, but has walls you can walk around under the roofed over top. it%26#39;s got more kitsch, but for me the big plus is the Nightwatchman and- i%26#39;ve found- better hotels.

But purely a matter of taste, I guess.

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They%26#39;re completely different places. Bamberg is a real German city, very nicely preserved, unique and authentic. Rothenburg is a tourist destination where thousands of international tourists crowd the streets and almost everyone speaks English. Even so, Rothenburg is extremely worthwhile.

Your best choice is to find a full day for each one.

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We liked Rothenburg better, especially in the off season. If you are going in the high season and hate crowds, choose Bamberg. Both are well preserved. Both are very nice.

Regards, Gary

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Bamberg has a beautiful and historic inner Altstadt (old city) surrounded by a thriving modern day German city. I find this more intriguing (and have spent time in both B. and R.) because it depends less on the almighty tourist. The food and beer are great, too! However, it took me longer than an overnight visit to truly absorb all it had to offer.

For a one night visit, there is nothing wrong with a stay in Rothenburg, so long as you realize it is a city frozen in time, and restored to its medieval state. Going when the tour buses have left and you can explore on your own makes it worthwhile, since you are planning to spend the night. Early in the morning before the tour buses arrive, you can explore every nook and cranny without the crowds. Of course, do take the Nightwatchman%26#39;s walking tour, too. Touristy but rewarding is my opinion.

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I wish I had enough time for both! However thanks for the replies and based on the info:taking into account we will be there during Xmas which I assume is sort of the off season and we have a limited amount of time and therefore a small confined place will make sigthtseeing easier, I think Rothenberg sounds like it might be the option for us on this trip. Hopefully next time we wil get to Bamberg.

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We visited both last December. Our pictures:

Rothenburg:

…smugmug.com/gallery/…433656478_iwoYP

Bamberg:

…smugmug.com/gallery/…433579617_FpWtT

Both are great that time of year. You can not lose.

Regards, Gary