Vlaky: Marburg an der Lahn - Gießenod $ 10.57

Marburg is a well-hidden gem in the heart of Germany, offering visitors an exciting historical and architectural trip with breathtaking panoramas. From its beautiful university to its Romanesque style churches, Marburg has plenty of incredible sights to offer. Here is a list of must-visit historical and architectural sites, as well as what to eat, when traveling in Marburg.

Marburg Castle: This castle has one of the oldest and longest medieval palaces in the country, and it will take you back to the era of the Middle Ages. With breathtaking views of the city from its terrace, Marburg Castle is one of the most popular sites to visit. Located in the Marburger Schlossviertel, it is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM for an entrance fee of 8€. For a unique experience, take a guided tour!

St Elizabeth’s Church: Also known as the Elisabethkirche, this church is one of the most remarkable monuments of the 13th century. Inside, visitors can explore its beautiful stained-glass windows and Gothic statues, making it an essential destination for art and architecture lovers. Located in the center of Marburg, the church is considered to be one of the oldest Gothic churches in the world. Daily visits are from 12 PM to 5 PM with an entrance fee of 2€. 

Marburg University: Dating back to the 16th century, Marburg University is one of the oldest universities in the world. It is one of the top institutions in Europe, and its name is connected to many historical figures such as Karl Marx, Max Weber, and Paul Ehrlich. Tour the university and explore its breathtaking buildings, historic library, and gardens.

Landgrafenschloss: The Landgrafenschloss is a Renaissance-style castle located on the outskirts of Marburg. Its stunning architecture and interiors make it a unique destination. It was once the royal residence of the Landgraves, and it contains a beautiful hall, showcases, and galleries. Admission is 10€ and it is open from Tuesday-Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM. 

What to eat: Marburg has a wide array of traditional dishes to offer, such as “Rote Grütze” (red berry pudding), “Tarte Flambee” (flammkuchen) and “Kartoffelklöße” (mashed potato dumplings). For a refreshing treat, try some regional specialties such as “Marburger Kulturbrötchen” (a type of sweet bread) or “Marburger Mozartkugeln” (a local dessert).

Transport: Getting around Marburg is fairly easy with the city's public transport system, consisting of buses, trams, and ferries. The city is also served by the main train station, Marburg Hauptbahnhof, which is located near the city centre. 

Historical Sites: Marburg has many monuments and sites of historical significance. Take a stroll in the Old Town to see some of the city's old buildings, or visit some iconic sites such as the Marburg Schloss (castle) or the old city walls. 

Marburg is an enchanting city with a wealth of historical and architectural sites. Its old buildings, picturesque castles, and stunning views make it a great destination for travelers. With its pleasant attractions, delicious local food, and accessible transport system, Marburg is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

The quaint university town of Giessen (or Gießen) is located in central Germany and is an excellent destination for those seeking to explore historical and architectural sites. With an abundance of impressive museums and famous landmarks, Giessen is the perfect spot for those keen to delve into Germany’s rich culture and past. Here’s a list of top attractions to explore while visiting the city: 

Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt: This is a renowned Art Nouveau building complex located in the Giessen suburb of Darmstadt. It is a must-visit site for those interested in modernist architecture, with two chateaus, seven museums, and a major art school. Entrance to the complex is free, and it is open every day from 10am to 6pm.

Lollar Castle: Located in the town of Lollar, ten minutes away from Giessen, Lollar Castle is a 600-year-old medieval fortress, built in the 14th century. Visitors can admire stunning views from atop the castle walls, as well as the historic displays contained within. Admission is free and opening hours are from 9am to 5pm daily.

St George's Church: Giessen’s main church was constructed between 1840 and 1848 and is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture. Within the church, visitors can see a wide range of religious symbols and artwork, including the impressive Baroque altar. Entrance is free and it is open 6am to 6pm daily.

Rittermuseum Giessen: This is a museum dedicated to medieval weapons and artifacts from the region. It is free to enter and open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

Liebig-Museum: Named after the 19th-century chemist Justus von Liebig, this museum was established in 1900. It is dedicated to the city’s history and displays artifacts from prehistoric times through to modern day. Entrance is free and it is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1pm.

Schlosspark Biebrich: The Biebrich Palace Park is a beautiful landscaped park with a lake, cafes, and a restored castle. A great place to relax, the park is free to enter and open daily from 7am to 9pm.

Traditional Food and Drinks: To experience the best of Giessen’s cuisine, visitors should try a range of traditional specialities such as Bergische Kaffeetafel, Printen, and Bratapfel. A selection of German beers and wines are also available to sample in the city’s many bars and cafes.

Giessen is without a doubt an immensely rewarding place to visit, and every visitor will no doubt enjoy exploring its fascinating sites and sampling its delicious fare.