After leaving the ship at Zeil am Main we headed into Bamberg for a walking tour.

Endowed with one of Europe's largest intact old town centres, Bamberg has the magic of the past hanging in the air, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Bamberg is an ancient centre (founded in 902) of imperial and Episcopal power which just like Rome was built on seven hills. More than 2400 listed buildings, winding lanes and an abundance of mediaeval churches make Bamberg a work of art of immense historical value. Surrounded by a lush green landscape, the hills are a typical feature of the town, boasting many spires which can be seen from afar.

Altus Rathus - Precariously perched above the river Regnitz on its own island, the old town hall is connected to the rest of Bamberg by two bridges. Its unusual location is due to a dispute with the bishop where the townspeople were not allowed to build on the mainland, so they created a safe haven from which to rule their city. In documents, the town hall was first mentioned in 1387 and rebuilt between 1461 and 1467 under Gothic influence. The building is decorated in a hodgepodge of styles with allegorical paintings on both sides showing how the Rathaus was created. Observe the decorative balconies, Baroque details and cheeky cherubs.

From Altes Rathaus you can see the Klein-Venedig ("Little Venice") section of Bamberg. This fishermen's district encapsulates the charm of the town with a row of colorful 14 to 17th Century half-timbered houses. These homes were not only residences but also served as workshops where fishermen could mend their nets or process their catch.

The Bamberger Dom (Bamberg Cathedral) was founded in 1004, burned down both in the 11th and 12th centuries, and the current structure was finally completed in the 13th century. It towers over the altstadt (old city) and holds the tombs of Emperor Henry II and Pope Clement II. Look for the mysterious statue of the Bamberger Reiter from the early 1200s which serves as a symbol of the city and join one of the many guided tours and organ recitals. With its four towers, the imperial cathedral of St. Peter and St. George is the most prominent building.

Alte Hofhaltung Palace The Old Court (Alte Hofhaltung) is a Renaissance-style building complex. The Old Courtyard can be entered through the "Beautiful Gate" (Schöne Pforte) of 1573, with sculptures of the Virgin Mary, St. Peter, St. George, St. Henry and St. Cunegonde by Pancras Wagner. The palace shows elements from the late medieval and Renaissance periods.

New Residence on the Domberg was created in two building phases over more than 100 years. From the 1600s is the late Renaissance style and then the 1700s Baroque style. With more than 40 stately rooms, which include precious stucco ceilings, furniture and carpets of the 17 and 18th century. Since 1965 the New Residence has also housed the Bamberg State Library. In the inner courtyard of the New Residence is the Rose Garden, from which you have a beautiful view over the old town of Bamberg.

Centurione I a large bronze sculpture stands near the famous Old Town Hall. It is a partially-formed face of a Roman centurion, inspired by Pompeii, created in 1987.