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Visit Wittenberg

Visit Wittenberg – Your Wittenberg Travel Guide

Famous for Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation, tiny Wittenberg is a handsome, cobblestone town with a huge history. VisitWittenberg will help you to get the very best from your trip to this momentous destination.

Not many towns can claim to have changed the course of history, but Martin Luther’s 95 Theses of 1517 are widely taken as the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, with seismic repercussions for Europe and Christianity. The town’s full name is Lutherstadt Wittenberg, in honour of the theologian’s influence.

Today Wittenberg has four UNESCO world heritage sites, mainly connected to Luther, and the town is an attractive mix of medieval and Renaissance buildings, cobbled pavements, and pretty little streams running alongside the streets. In 2017, the town celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Reformation and there was a large renovation of the key attractions over the preceding decade, so it is currently in peak condition.

Wittenberg is small and you can see most of the highlights in a day. It makes a great day trip from Berlin or Leipzig. But you may also decide to stay overnight, so you can take advantage of a local restaurant and get to see everything properly.

What Should I See In Wittenberg? What Are Wittenberg’s Must-See Attractions?

Most of Wittenberg’s star attractions are based around Martin Luther and his fellow reformers, but there are a few surprises. And, really, the town is just a nice place for a cold beer on a sunny afternoon. It has a laid-back feeling. There’s an outdoor market.

It’s possible to see the highlights within a day but we recommend two if you want to give the Lutherhaus museum its due, and to explore the little courtyards and hidden gardens off the main road.

Here are some of the key central attractions for a first-time visit to Wittenberg:

• One of the doors to the Schlosskirche (All Saints’ Church) is where Martin Luther is reputed to have nailed his 95 Theses on 31 October 1517. The original door was destroyed in the 18th century and replaced with the massive bronze version you can see today, and the entire church itself was recently restored to its current splendour. Luther himself is buried here.
• The twin towers of St Mary’s (Stadtkirche Wittenberg), the oldest building the Wittenberg, mark out this landmark building where Luther himself used to preach. For many, this is the mother-church of the Reformation, and it is now a UNESCO world heritage site.
• The Renaissance Melanchthon House is a beautiful UNESCO-status museum dedicated to Luther’s fellow reformer Philipp Melanchthon. This offers an insight into Reformation-era life in Wittenberg. There is also a pretty herb garden behind the building.
• The final of four UNESCO sites in Wittenberg is The Luther House, where Martin Luther and his wife Katharina von Bora lived. This is now the world’s largest museum of the history of the Reformation.
• Luther 1517 – Wittenberg 360° is Yadegar Asisi’s huge 50×250-ft panoramic cinematic recreation of 16th-century Wittenberg, and an entertaining introduction on the subject.
• Tucked off the main drag is the courtyard and house where painter Lucas Cranach the Elder lived and worked. There’s a charmingly wobbly façade and exhibition, and a friendly restaurant opposite with outside tables, where you can get a good look at the buildings while you have a beer.
• Perhaps the most surprising building in Wittenberg is the Hundertwasserschule. All the trademarks of the infamous Austrian artist and architect are present, with the bright colours and free-flowing forms. A big smile of a building.
• Another surprising exhibition is the House of Everyday History which brings a big dose of GDR-era nostalgia. The museum recreates 20th century interiors and includes guest appearances from the East German children’s favourite Unser Sandmännchen .
• Wittenberg is a 30-minute train journey from Leipzig. Home of Bach and other German musical giants, and home to Auerbachs Keller, where Mephistopheles takes Faust. Get Your Guide offers a big rang of Leipzig tours and activities.
• Wittenberg is also a speedy 45 minute’s away from Berlin on the train, where you can take part in practically endless tours and activities. See Get Your Guide for recommendations.

Where Should I Stay In Wittenberg?

As always, the cost of hotels always depends on location, budget, and time of year. Expect to pay 100€ as a baseline for a 3-star hotel. You can expect to pay around 140€ for the upper bracket and around 80€ for somewhere cheaper.

Use Booking.com to get a detailed breakdown of each property and genuine guest reviews. You can reserve online with no upfront fee and pay when you check out. Free cancellations are also available.

Check Wittenberg Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Here is our selection to get your started:

• Best Wittenberg Luxury Hotel: Best Western Soibelmanns Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Best Wittenberg Rental Apartment: Designapartment
• Best Wittenberg Family Accommodation: Design & Chill #Altstadt #Beamer
• Best Wittenberg Mid-Range Hotel: Altstadt Gästehaus
• Best Wittenberg Business Hotel: Martas Hotel Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Best Wittenberg Budget Hotel: Hotel Luther Birke Wittenberg

How To Get To Wittenberg

Wittenberg does not have an airport, so you would most likely catch the 40-minute high-speed ICE train from Berlin. Unfortunately, you will need to travel into central Berlin first if you fly into Berlin Brandenburg Airport, adding an extra 35 minutes to the journey. This international airport is well served by budget airlines, with daily flights from all over Europe.

There is also Leipzig-Halle Airport, which is about 105 minute’s away from Wittenberg by train (in total). Again, this requires you to travel into Leipzig itself and change. Leipzig-Halle offers a ragbag of routes, including London Stansted with Ryanair. You can see arrivals and departures on the airport’s website .

Once you arrive at Lutherstadt Wittenberg train station, there is a short walk to the town itself. It is well signposted.

You can find cheap flights to Wittenberg with 12go . A single search will show you all available prices and times for your dates. Change the search options as required.

How To Get A SIM Card In Wittenberg

You should automatically be able to use your existing phone plan in Germany, if you have a contract registered in any EU country, at no extra charge – but check with your provider before you travel.

If your contract is UK-based, you should still be able to use your existing plan in Germany, but there will most likely be an extra usage fee. Again, check with your provider for the latest prices before you travel.

If you are travelling from outside of the EU, you have a number of possible options. If you have already bought a SIM in another EU country, this should also work in Germany. Otherwise, you could buy an eSIM online or a pre-paid SIM via Amazon before you arrive. But, as you cannot test these in advance, you may end up wasting your money.

Instead, we recommend you get a German SIM card directly from a branch of Constar, O2, Telekom, or Vodafone. They can talk you through the best deals and make sure everything is working properly. Many young Germans speak excellent English, so you should be able to find someone who can help you.

It means you will have to travel town centre without a connection, but you are bound to save money if you do.

You’ll need your passport to buy a SIM. Also, make sure your phone is unlocked before you travel.

There is a Vodafone shop at Collegienstraße 82 in Wittenberg, and the Arsenal shopping centre includes a Telekom store and a generic mobile vendor selling Congstar, O2, and Vodafone contracts, so you can compare deals. See the map below.

Travel Insurance For Wittenberg

Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Other German Cities You Can Visit From Wittenberg

Wittenberg lies almost equidistant between Berlin and Leipzig, which themselves make a great base for day trips to Potsdam and Dresden respectively. This makes it handy to chain these different destinations and spend a couple of days in each.

Check prices and timetables for buses and planes with 12go and book instantly online. Trains can be booked via the Deutsche Bahn website .

• Berlin : If you’re staying in Germany’s vibrant capital, Wittenberg makes an excellent day trip, especially as it is less than an hour away by high-speed train. But the opposite is also true – Wittenberg can be a relaxing hub from which to visit Berlin and Leipzig.
• Dresden : You can also reach stately Dresden within a couple of hours from Wittenberg, via Leipzig. A miracle of reconstruction, the city oozes grandeur.
• Dessau : A mere 30 minutes from Wittenberg, Dessau is a small cultural town, perhaps most famous for the handful of Bauhaus buildings that remain there.
• Leipzig : A mere 30 minutes from Wittenberg, Leipzig has been hyped as “the new Berlin” for well over a decade. Once you get to know the city, it is easy to see why. Post-industrial and creative, it retains a thrilling sense of possibility.
• Potsdam : It is necessary to travel via Berlin to reach Potsdam, but the entire trip can be done in less than 90 minutes and the rewards are considerable. The town itself is very pretty but the major attraction is the palace of Sanssouci, the summer palace of Frederick the Great.

Wittenberg Map

Plan your Wittenberg visit with Wittenberg map of Wittenberg’s attractions, restaurants, sightseeing and hotels.

Each type of landmark has a different colour marker on the map:

• YELLOW: Wittenberg Sightseeing
• GREEN: Wittenberg Transportation
• BLUE: Wittenberg Hotels
• PURPLE: Shopping In Wittenberg

Click on a marker and it will give you the name of the landmark, with a brief description and links for more information and directions. You can pan, scroll, and zoom around the map, or use the + or – buttons in the bottom left of the map to zoom in and out.

Click on the icon in the top left corner for an index of every location, sorted by category. Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want. Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.

Each category is on a different layer, which can be switched on and off. So you can just see the Hotel or Restaurant pins, for example.

If you are using the map on your phone, open the Visit Wittenberg map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

Start Planning Your Wittenberg Trip Now!

:: Find available Wittenberg hotels on Booking.com – you can usually reserve with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out and, if necessary, cancel for free.

:: Find flights to Berlin Brandenburg Airport with 12go – a single search shows times and prices from all available airlines for your trip, saving you time and money.

:: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

• Harz Mountains
• Quedlinburg
• Wernigerode
• Harz Fairy Tales
• Berchtesgaden Area
• Berchtesgaden Town
• Eagle's Nest
• Hitler's Berghof
• Obersalzberg
• Braunau am Inn
• Wartburg Castle
• Martin Luther
• Hogan's Heroes
• Colditz Castle
• Flights to Germany

Martin Luther and the 95 Theses

This sleepy little town in rural eastern Germany doesn't look like the center of a revolution. But the events that played out here in the 16th Century shook the foundations of Christendom.

• What to see
• Getting there

It was here in Wittenberg, Germany, that Martin Luther lived and preached, and on October 31, 1517, he nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church. The Protestant Reformation had begun.

Visitors come here from all over the world to see the places where these historic events took place. This could be a good day trip from Berlin; it's about one hour on the IC train. But to see everything without having to rush, I would recommend spending at least one night here.

What to See in Wittenberg

For such a small town, there is a lot to see:

• The town itself. A charming collection of 16th Century houses and a striking market square.
• The Castle Church . It was on the doors of this impressive church that (allegedly) Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses. Luther's grave is inside.
• The Town Church . Another beautiful Medieval church where Luther preached many sermons.
• Luther's Residence . Martin Luther lived in this converted cloister with his family for many years. Now a museum.
• The Oak Tree  planted where Luther burned the Papal Bull.
• Lucas Cranach's Home  and art studio. This artist documented much of the Reformation with his portraits and woodcuts.

Other things to see:

• The Castle Museum , in the castle part of the Castle Church building. History of Wittenberg, from prehistoric times through the middle ages and later as a Prussian garrison town.
• Philip Melanchthon's House , on Collegienstrasse. Luther's friend and fellow theologian, who contributed enormously to Lutheran doctrine.
• An East German nostalgia museum,  Haus der Geschichte , on Schlossstrasse. Rooms furnished in '50s, '60s and '70s DDR style.
• An interesting second-hand shop on Mittelstrasse, crammed with German Army items, WWI to the present.

The town's official name is Lutherstadt-Wittenberg , and this is definitely Martin Luther Central! Everywhere you turn, there's a spot associated with Martin Luther's life.

The shops carry everything you could imagine associated with their most famous resident: books, posters, mugs, statues...even Martin Luther socks! In spite of that, it's really a pleasant little town and crammed with interesting history.

Martin Luther socks.  People have been asking about the  Martin Luther socks  with "Here I stand" on them. You can find them online from these companies:

English version:

• Concordia Publishing
• Old Lutheran

German version (Hier stehe ich):

• Luthersocke

I haven't heard any feedback about these yet.

The Town of Wittenberg

Wittenberg is designed for easy walking. The old town is long and narrow, and flat, laid out along two parallel streets: pedestrian-only  Collegienstrasse  (which turns into Schlossstrasse), and  Mittelstrasse .

Most of the historical sights are along Collegienstrasse and Schlossstrasse.

A stream runs along the main street, partially underground. Half way along, the street opens out into an attractive square, or Markt, with a statues of Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon.

Pretty pastel-colored buildings, many from the 16th and 17th centuries, line the streets and there are a number of inviting restaurants serving hearty German cooking. During warmer weather, many of the restaurants have tables on the sidewalk, great for relaxing and people-watching.

The  Tourist Information Office  is located at the western end of Schlossstrasse across the street from the Castle Church. You can get maps of the town, as well as information on all the local activities.

This is a good pace to book a hotel if you don't have reservations. Open daily (except in winter). They also have a smaller office in front of the train station with more limited hours (closed Saturday afternoons and Sundays). www.wittenberg-information.de.

Castle Church

This is the famous church where Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door. Luther gave some of his sermons in this church and now is buried just under the pulpit.

The church was severely damaged twice during wars in the centuries following the Reformation, but it was rebuilt each time.

The doors you see now were put up in the 19th century (the original wooden doors are long gone, with the Middle Ages). The current doors are made of bronze and are engraved with all ninety-five theses.

I t is called the Castle Church because it is part of a church-castle complex.

The castle tower rises high above Wittenberg and you can climb the winding stone stairs for a great view of the town. Open daily from noon to 4:00. On the Schlossplatz, at the end of Schlossstrasse.

Something cool : English services will be conducted at either the Castle Church or the Town Church, Wednesday through Saturday. 

You will be able to sing Luther's most famous hymn,  A Mighty Fortress is Our God  in English, in the church where he sang it. The hymn is sung at every English-language service. Check for scheduling on the website:  www.wittenberg-english-ministry.com .

Enjoy a beautiful version of A Mighty Fortress...

Town Church

This is a lovely old church (the Stadtkirche), very large, with its double towers reaching high above the town. It is just behind the Markt on Kirchplatz.

Martin Luther preached many sermons in this church, and he and Katharina von Bora were married here. Their marriage is re-enacted annually in a popular festival. All of his children were baptized in the church.

A large painting by Lucas Cranach the Elder is above the altar showing Luther receiving the cup at the Last Supper.

Martin Luther's Residence

One of the first buildings on the left on Collegienstrasse as you enter the old town is the large cloister that Martin Luther used as a home.

The Luther family, wife and six children, and various students and visitors lived in the central part of the building. He was given the building by one of the aristocrats supporting his movement.

The building is now a museum, open daily, and maintains Luther's living rooms in their original state. This is where Luther sat with his family and friends in the evenings, discussing a wide range of subjects from the sublime to the earthy (yes, earthy, not earthly!)

Martin Luther was known for his rather blunt way of speaking as well as for his eloquence. Students were allowed to be present during these evening discussions; they took notes and later published thousands of his comments in a book called  "Table Talk" . To read a sampling of his sayings, see  Martin Luther Quotes .

Inside the museum are some interesting artifacts from that period, including one of the chests used for collecting money for indulgences, an "indulgence" letter itself, and the pulpit that Martin Luther used for preaching.

Lucas Cranach 's fascinating painting of the  Ten Commandments  is located on wood panels in the refectory of Martin Luther's home. The Wicked Deeds are presented quasi-cartoon style for the faithful to ponder.

Lucas Cranach's House

Lucas Cranach the Elder painted many of the well-known figures of the Reformation, as well as the local princes and princesses, and his paintings, drawings and woodcuts are in museums all over Europe.

His house on Collegienstrasse is now a museum and his artist studio behind the house has some interesting exhibits.

Cranach was not only one of the most accomplished and prolific painters of the 16th century, he was also the mayor of Wittenberg and owned a pharmacists shop that is still doing business as a pharmacy (or Apotheke) in Wittenberg!

Luther's Oak

In 1520, Martin Luther's supporters piled up a stack of writings of Church doctrine and set them on fire. Luther threw in the Papal Bull, the document threatening him with excommunication unless he recanted his writings.

In 1830, an oak tree was planted on the spot where all this allegedly took place. The tree is at the corner of Am Hauptbahnhofstrasse and Collegienstrasse on the way in from the train station, just before you enter the old town.

Wittenberg Tours

English tours : the Tourist Office can arrange English tours for groups, but the regular daily tours are in German. They do have do-it-yourself audio tours in English for rent. In addition, they have a "cell phone tour", where you call a certain number and extension at each sight, and hear information about it in English, for only a connection fee. More info on English tours .

New tour for 2024:   Luther, Castles & Oktoberfest Tour. This is a comprehensive, 11 day tour of Luther's places (Wittenberg, Eisleben, Wartburg Caste, and Erfurt), combined with a Rhine River Cruise, visits to Rothenburg, Neuschwanstein, Munich and Oktoberfest.

Given by the director of the Wittenberg English Ministry. September 15-25, 2024. 

See Luther, Castles & Oktoberfest Tour for details and booking.

Wittenberg Festivals

Medieval faires.

Twice a year the town of Wittenberg turns into a medieval village, with music, costumes, hearty peasant fare, plenty of wine and beer, and medieval dancing, juggling and processions.

• Luthers Hochzeit, or  Luther's Wedding , is a celebration based on the wedding of Luther and Katharina von Bora which takes place in June each year.
• The  Reformations Fest  is another Medieval Faire, with additional classical concerts, plays, seminars and special church services. This takes place for several days around October 31 every year (the date the 95 Theses were nailed up).

There is also an annual Pottery Fair in September, where local potters display their wares in the main square.

Wittenberg University

There has been a university here since Martin Luther's time, located on Collegienstrasse. Parts of the structure date back to that period, and Luther himself worked within these walls. Quotations of his are displayed on the walls in the entrance hall.

Travel Tips

Hotels in wittenberg.

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There are several charming, older hotels in the heart of the old town, conveniently located and loaded with ambiance:

• Hotel Brauhaus Wittenberg , located on the Markt, is an actual brewery, as well as a hotel and a beer garden. They say Martin Luther himself was a regular in their tavern, the Goldener Adler. www.brauhaus-wittenberg.de  More info and booking .
• Schwarzer Baer , at Schlossstrasse 2, www.stadthotel-wittenberg.de.  More info and booking .
• Alte Kanzley, Schlossplatz 3-5. www.alte-canzley.de.  More info and booking .

Travel to Wittenberg

Wittenberg is located on the Elbe River in eastern Germany,  62 miles (100km) southwest of Berlin  and it's about  one hour by train  from both Berlin and Leipzig.

The  train station  is just to the east of the old town, about a ten minute walk. If you come by train, take a left on the street in front of the station (Am Hauptbahnhofstrasse) and follow that until the street ends near a traffic circle. See maps below.

The famous oak tree is to the right of the circle. Turn right and you will be on the main street of the old town, Collegienstrasse. Most of the main sights are on this street. The Castle Church (Schlosskirche) is at the far end, and you will pass Luther's house, the old University, Melanchthon and Cranach's houses and the Markt. The Town Church (Stadtkirche) is on the parallel street, Mittelstrasse. It has enormous towers; you can't miss it.

Map of Wittenberg

Map data (c)  OpenStreetMap  and contributors,  CC-BY-SA

More Martin Luther...

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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wittenberg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 30, 2022

The lovely old university town of Wittenberg – officially known as Lutherstadt Wittenberg – is well-known as the birthplace of Martin Luther's Reformation. Located on the north bank of the River Elbe in the southern foothills of the Fläming range, it was here that Luther, a local resident and preacher, famously nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church (Schlosskirche), an event that ultimately marked the beginning of the Protestant Reformation.

Little surprise, then, that Luther's legacy is evident everywhere in Wittenberg and is much celebrated by its townspeople and visitors. The town boasts a number of excellent cultural sites and events, including a first-rate professional theater, as well as an open-air theater. Musical performances and events such as the popular Wittenberg Renaissance Music Festival are also big tourist draws.

Find the best places to visit in this charming town with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Lutherstadt Wittenberg.

1. The Castle Church (Schlosskirche)

2. meet the instigator of the reformation at lutherhaus museum, 3. meander through the marktplatz, 4. get outdoors at fläming nature park, 5. visit the historic parish church of st. mary, 6. travel back in time at luther 1517 - wittenberg 360°, 7. melanchthon house, 8. cranach house, 9. take a stroll around piesteritz workers' estate, 10. learn about wittenberg's past at the museum of town history, 11. let the kids run wild at wittenberg zoo.

The lovely Late Gothic Castle Church (Schlosskirche), built in 1500 as All Saints Church, is now better known as the Reformation Memorial Church due to its ties with Martin Luther. It was to the church's original wooden doors that Luther nailed his famous 95 Theses in 1517.

Although the original doors were destroyed during the Seven Years War, the present bronze replacements, installed in 1858, bear their Latin text. Inside are life-size alabaster statues of Electors Frederick the Wise and John the Constant of Saxony-Wittenberg, the tombs of Luther and fellow Reformer Melanchthon, and the Early Renaissance monument of Elector Frederick III from 1527. On the columns of the nave are life-size figures of Luther, Melanchthon, and other Reformers.

Be sure to visit the church's unusual rounded tower with its extensive views over the town. Admission is via guided tours only, which are available from the Info Center. English language services are held regularly (check their website for schedules). Regular concerts and music programs are also held and are well worth attending.

Address: Wilhelm-Weber-Straße 1, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Official site: www.schlosskirche-wittenberg.de/index.php/en/

Lutherhaus, or "Luther House," is where Reformer Martin Luther lived from 1508 to 1546. It was built in 1504 and originally used as a house by Augustinian Hermits. An addition, the Augusteum, was added in 1598 and served for a time as a boarding school. Lutherhaus was later converted into a museum dedicated to the Reformation in 1883, and is the world's largest museum devoted to this important religious movement.

The museum's focal point is Luther's living room, the "Lutherstube," which has been meticulously preserved in its original condition. This room remains the same to this day, although the museum gradually grew its collection to include displays of Luther's writings and prints, his medals, university lectern, pulpit from St. Mary's Church , and a number of valuable paintings. Guided tours are available (advance booking is recommended).

Address: Collegienstraße 54, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Wittenberg's old market square, the Marktplatz (Marketplace) has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 and is home to numerous important historic buildings and tourist attractions. One of the most interesting is the handsome Old Town Hall (Rathaus), built in 1540 and notable for its four Renaissance gables and Late Gothic windows. Also worth seeing is the 16th-century balcony over its entrance.

The building is also known for its rich decoration, including allegorical figures and columns and a statue of the goddess Justitia with scales and sword. Immediately adjoining the Town Hall are the Market Fountain from 1617 and early 19th-century bronze statues of Martin Luther and fellow Reformer, Philip Melanchthon.

Address: Kirchpl. 2, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Wittenberg is also an important destination for nature lovers thanks to the Fläming Nature Park (Naturpark Fläming). Established in 2005 and covering an area of 824 square kilometers, this large area of outstanding natural beauty (one of six in the state) consists of important elements of the Fläming low mountain range, of which Wittenberg is a part, and protects a diverse mix of old forests, scenic meadows, and farmland.

Whether you're hiking or biking, or simply doing a driving tour of the area, a good place to start your sightseeing adventure is the visitor center in Jeber-Bergfrieden , a pleasant half-hour drive northwest of Wittenberg. From here, you can gather information regarding the park's many well-marked nature and hiking trails (some suitable for all levels of fitness), as well as details of biking trails, tours, and rentals, along with popular driving routes.

It's easy to spend the best part of the day exploring the park, which encompasses a number of old fortifications, including Zerbst Castle . There are also many historic villages and towns to explore ( Coswig is a must-visit), many of them set against some of the most attractive countryside to be found in this part of Germany.

For those with the time (and the energy), just a little farther north is the equally attractive High Fläming Nature Park (Naturpark Hoher Fläming). Covering an area of 827 square kilometers, it also boasts a good visitor center and plenty of opportunities for fun outdoor activities.

Address: Schloßstraße 13, 06868 Coswig (Anhalt)

The oldest building in Wittenberg – and quite possibly the most important – is the aisled Gothic Parish Church of St. Mary (Stadtkirche St. Marien). Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, the church is famous the world over as the place where Luther frequently preached, and has been dubbed the "Mother Church of the reformation."

Notable features include the building's twin octagonal spires, constructed in 1558 in Renaissance style, and its winged altar from 1547 designed by Lucas Cranach the Elder. Also of interest is the richly decorated font from 1457, an organ noted for its fine tone, and a number of paintings by Cranach. It's also known for its many Renaissance epitaphs and tombs, including that of the Reformer Johann Bugenhagen, who died here in 1558.

Guided tours of this extensively renovated and extremely well-preserved church are available. Also of interest is the adjoining Chapel of the Holy Body (Kapelle zum Heiligen Leichnam), constructed in 1377 in brick-built Gothic style and notable for its strikingly slender tower.

Address: Kirchplatz 20, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Created as part of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation Martin Luther so famously sparked, Luther 1517 provides a fascinating and extremely realistic portrait of the times. What you'll experience is in fact a single huge painting, or cyclorama, a once common form of entertainment in the 19th century.

This remarkable artwork stretches completely around a rotunda's curved interior wall, presenting an incredible panoramic view of Wittenberg just as it would have appeared the day Luther nailed his famous thesis to a church door. In addition to incredibly detailed depictions of the town's most recognizable buildings, you'll also see the key characters involved in the drama, including Luther and fellow Reformers Philipp Melanchthon and Justus Jonas.

It's an extraordinary artwork, and one you'll want to linger in front of just to catch the many remarkable details that so vividly portray this important historical event.

Address: Lutherstraße 42, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Official site: www.wittenberg360.de/en/

Not far from Lutherhaus is Melanchthonhaus (Melanchthon House), the former home of Luther's friend and fellow Reformer, Philip Melanchthon. Built in 1536, this three-story building with its Late Gothic windows and Renaissance gables was Melanchthon's home and workplace until he died in 1560.

Now an important memorial museum, a highlight of a visit is the chance to view its lovely 16th-century garden with its pump, stone table, herb garden, and old yew trees, all surrounded by a stretch of the old town walls. Other highlights include documents and artifacts once owned by Melanchthon, as well as a large portrait of him by Lucas Cranach the Younger.

Address: Collegienstrasse 60, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Cranach House (Cranach-Haus) was the home of the famous German artist Lucas Cranach the Elder, who lived in Wittenberg from 1505 to 1547. Court painter to the Elector of Saxony, he also became burgomaster of Wittenberg and owner of a pharmacy in the town. Widely considered one of the most accomplished 16th-century artists, he was responsible for painting portraits of many figures connected to the Reformation, as well as local aristocrats.

Now a museum, this finely preserved medieval house and its studio boast numerous artifacts relating to Cranach's career. The courtyards around the home are also worth exploring and include quaint shops and a café. Budding artists are also encouraged to enquire about the museum's regular painting classes (including fun workshops for kids).

Address: Schlossstraße 1, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Official site: http://cranach-stiftung.de/en/

Wittenberg is home to a variety of interesting more modern architectural styles, in particular numerous fine examples from the 20th century. One of the highlights of a walking tour of the town's architecture is Piesteritz (Werksiedlung Piesteritz), a residential area constructed in 1916 to house workers from its industrial areas. Seven styles and sizes of homes were built, with those higher up the pecking order getting the larger abodes (though great pains were taken to ensure the quality was equal for all residents).

A small garden plot was also provided, and pleasant tree-lined pathways built to ensure a communal atmosphere. The estate has recently been completely refurbished and makes for an enjoyable stroll around what was one of Europe's most successful housing projects.

Another notable piece of architecture is the brightly colored Dr. Seuss-like Hundertwasserschule , redesigned and renovated by the famous artist from Austria Friedensreich Hundertwasser in 1999. The school has an interesting visitor center with details of the building's history, along with information relating to the artist.

Address: Schillerstraße 22a, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

To the south of the Schlosskirche stands the Schloss , the old Electoral residence dating from 1525. The arsenal of this impressive structure is now home to the Museum of Town History (Museum für Stadtgeschichte).

Highlights of a visit include seeing exhibits detailing the development of the town, as well as historical archives and an impressive collection of natural history and ethnographic artifacts from prehistoric times to the middle ages.

Address: Zeughaus, Arsenalplatz, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Although one of the smallest zoos in Germany, Wittenberg Zoo (Tierpark Wittenberg) is a great place to let the kids blow off some steam. Situated in a pleasant park-like setting, the zoo offers plenty of exotic species to enjoy.

Highlights include an impressive collection of birds, from regional owls to parrots and parakeets from the tropics. In addition to its large collections of monkeys and meerkats, there's also a fun petting zoo where kids are encouraged to interact with a variety of cute domesticated animals (a deer-feeding station is also available).

A recently added aquarium exhibit with a number of large tanks with local and exotic species of fish and reptiles is also worth a visit. The zoo has also made a name for itself as a center to treat injured wildlife before releasing it back into the wild, and kids will enjoy learning how staff nurse their furry friends back to health.

Other fun things for children to do in Wittenberg include visiting the Science Center futurea , which has a number of interesting displays related in particular to the study of chemistry, and the Alaris Butterfly Park , where guests of all ages can enjoy a walk through a magnificent tropical greenhouse that houses some 140 species of these fascinating creatures (an on-site café is also available).

Address: Pfaffengasse 8, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Easy Day Trips : A pleasant one-hour drive from Wittenberg and you're in Potsdam , famous as the seat of Prussian royalty for centuries, and home to the elegant imperial palaces and gardens of Sanssouci. Also an hour away, Brandenburg an der Havel is acclaimed not only for its beautiful and historic Old Town (Altstadt), but also its position as the gateway to over 3,500 lakes and more than 6,700 kilometers of waterways all just waiting to be explored. Travel just a tad farther, and you'll find yourself in the country's capital of Berlin , famous for its majestic Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island, one of the most important groupings of cultural attractions in Germany.

Medieval Times : Germany has done a tremendous job of preserving (or in some cases, rebuilding) its vast catalogue of medieval buildings. Some of the best examples can be found in the old Bavarian Imperial City of Rothenburg ob der Tauber (usually just Rothenburg), one of the most beautiful small cities in the country. Located on Germany's famous "Romantic Road" tourist route, Rothenburg is home to everything from medieval old town walls to the fairytale-like Plönlein, or "Little Square."

Highlights of the ancient city of Nuremberg include its majestic Nuremberg Castle, a magnificent medieval structure that can trace its roots all the way back to the early 10th century. Another top place to visit is lovely Lake Constance , an area of outstanding natural beauty dotted with exquisite old towns and countless medieval castles.

Germany's Top Attractions : Germany is home to some of Europe's top attractions, many of which are responsible for drawing huge tourist crowds to the cities or regions in which they're located. In Cologne , visitors flock from far and wide to see Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), one of the largest churches in Europe and a masterpiece of 13th-century Gothic architecture. Over in the huge historic Port of Hamburg , it's the world's largest model railroad, Miniatur Wunderland, that draws the crowds, while in the beautiful Black Forest region ... well, here it's all about the magnificent countryside and historic communities, like the spa town of Baden-Baden .

More on Germany

• The Top Things To See...

The Top Things to See and Do In Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

The historic town of Wittenberg, Germany, is best known as the birthplace of reformer Martin Luther. Understandably, of the many sites making up the city skyline, several are closely related or dedicated to the legendary son of the soil. Additionally, Wittenberg’s old town oozes historic charm and culture. Let’s find out why this town should be your next stop.

1. lutherhaus museum.

The building that served as the residence of Martin Luther from 1508 till he breathed his last in 1546 is today a museum. Visitors flock to this museum to see where the reformer lived and worked, participated in the famous Table Talks, spoke to the people and ate his meals. The other sections of this building house a wide range of artifacts that tell the story of how he lived his life, including his Bible, paintings, manuscripts, documents and more.

2. Wittenberg Market Square

Wittenberg market square, the beating heart of the city, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. The highlight of this square is the stunning 16th century Rathaus with its four Renaissance gables, Gothic windows and ornate facade. Next to the Rathaus, look out for Market Fountain built in 1617 and statues of Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon. This square is a great place to mingle with the locals, grab a meal, shop and people-watch.

3. Castle Church

The Castle Church is unparalleled in historical importance. It is on the door of this church that Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses on 31st October 1517. Though the original door was destroyed, a bronze replacement was installed in 1858. It is also the final resting place of the great reformer as well as fellow reformer Philipp Melanchthon. The church offers guided tours to visitors.

5. Melanchthon House

Melanchton House is a celebration of the life and work of famous humanist and reformer , Philipp Melanchthon. This 16th century house is where he lived with his family, worked and hosted poetry contests, until he passed away. The building’s architecture is eye-catching thanks to its Late Gothic windows and Renaissance gables. The museum houses documents and artifacts owned by or related to the reformer. Highlights include a massive, restored portrait of Philipp Melanchthon by Lucas Cranach the Younger and an original salary receipt drawn out to Melanchthon for his work as a professor. The museums offers interesting games and expeditions designed for children.

6. Hundertwasserschule

The Luther-Melanchthons-Gymnasium school, designed by famous architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is a splendid building. The school offers group and individual tours, in the course of which you can see special elements of the unique architecture as well as learn everything you want to know about the school. You can also pick up a souvenir to remember your time in Wittenberg.

7. Cranach House and Courtyard

Gifted German artist Lucas Cranach the Elder resided in this house for several years in the 16th century. Together with publisher Christian Döring, he operated a printing press here, which published September Testament by Martin Luther. In 1517-18, Cranach expanded his work in the courtyard of Schlossstrasse 1, a hop away from the house, and did business with wax, paper, paints etc. Both the house and the courtyard are open to the public. From November to March, the attraction is closed on Mondays. Please look up the opening times for different times of the year before planning your trip.

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• 1.2 By train
• 1.3 By plane
• 2 Get around
• 6.2 Mid-range
• 6.3 Splurge
• 8.1 Camping
• 8.3 Mid-range
• 8.4 Splurge

Wittenberg is a town in Saxony-Anhalt , Germany . The official name is Lutherstadt Wittenberg for its close connection of the town with Martin Luther's Protestant Reformation . It was here that in 1517, according to the legend, Martin Luther posted his famous 95 Theses on the portal of the Schlosskirche . While historians doubt this particular part of the tale, it is certain that Luther disseminated his Theses from Wittenberg. In 2017 the town celebrated the 500th anniversary of the event. Luther Memorials in Wittenberg are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other historical people with a close connection to Wittenberg are Luther's fellow reformer, Philipp Melanchthon, and the painter Lucas Cranach der Ältere.

Wittenberg should not be confused with the much smaller town of Wittenberge in northwestern Brandenburg .

• Tourist Information , Schlossplatz 2 , ☏ +49 3491 - 49 86 10 , fax : +49 3491 - 49 86 11 , [email protected] . M-F 10:00-16:00, Sa 10:00-14:00 .  

Get in [ edit ]

No matter which transport you use, the two closest hubs are Berlin and Leipzig/Halle. If you aren't in the vicinity yet, you will likely pass through one of them.

By car [ edit ]

The A9/E51 motorway passes west of Wittenberg. Use one of the exits Klein Marzehns, Köselitz, or Coswig (Anhalt). The town lies at the crossing of the main roads B2 and B187.

By train [ edit ]

Hourly ICE trains on the Leipzig - Berlin line stop in Wittenberg in both directions. The ride takes 40 minutes from Leipzig Hbf or 45 from Berlin Hbf. As a slower but cheaper option you can also use RE trains, which also run about hourly. The ride takes 1 hr 15 min from Berlin, 1 hr 5 min from Leipzig, or 1 hour from Halle .

By plane [ edit ]

Berlin Airport ( BER  IATA ) and Leipzig/Halle ( LEJ  IATA ) are the closest airports. Of these two, Berlin offers the widest range of international options.

Get around [ edit ]

Most of the Altstadt (Old City) is pedestrian only. All the major historical sites are within easy walking distance.

• Vetter Bus . Operates five bus lines in Wittenberg. ( updated Jul 2023 )

See [ edit ]

• Museum für Stadtgeschichte , Schlossplatz 1d , ☏ +49 3491-43349-20 . Tu–Su 09:00-17:00 . Historical museum of the town.  

• Archeological Exhibition , Alte Canzley, Schlossplatz 3 . Tu–Su 08:00-18:00 .  

Do [ edit ]

• Organ-at-Three , Schlosskirche . May - Oct: Tu at 15:00 . Organ music played on the historic Ladegast Organ of the Schlosskirche. Admission free; donations welcome .  
• Guided tours , Schlossplatz 2 ( starting point: tourist information opposite of Schlosskirche ). Daily 14:00 (duration 2 hours) . May be cancelled if less than 10 participants show up. Adults €8, children €5 .  

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ], budget [ edit ].

• Kartoffelhaus Zum Schwarzen Bär , Schloßstraße 2 , ☏ +49 3491 419868 .  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Athos Griechisches Restaurant , Am Alten Bahnhof 1 , ☏ +49 3491 414080 .  
• Il Castello , Schloßstraße 3 , ☏ +49 3491 414547 .  
• 51.8664 12.6441 1 [dead link] Tante Emma's Bier & Café Haus , Markt 9 , ☏ +49 3491 414547 , [email protected] . M 09:00-17:00, Tu-Su 09:00-24:00 .  
• [dead link] Restaurant von Bora , Collegienstraße 54a, 06886 Lutherstadt , ☏ +49 3491 628 6565 . M closed, Tu Su 11:00-18:00, W-Sa 11:00-23:00 . Modern German cuisine with Mediterranean influences ( updated Jan 2020 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• Brauhaus Wittenberg , Markt 6 , ☏ +49 3491 433134 .  

Drink [ edit ]

• Charles Bar , Markt 7, 06886 , ☏ +49 170 5961274 . ( updated Jan 2016 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Camping [ edit ].

• Marina-Camp-Elbe , Brückenkopf 1 , ☏ +49 3491 454-0 .  
• DJH Jugendherberge Lutherstadt Wittenberg , Schlossstraße 14-15 ( Next to Schlosskirche. Take bus 300 or 304 from main station to Schlossplatz ), ☏ +49 3491 - 50 52 05 . Check-in: 15:00 . Youth hostel inside the castle. €18 + €3.50 for bedclothes (in a shared dorm room) .  
• Stadthotel Schwarzer Bär , Schloßstraße 2 , ☏ +49 3491 4204344 , [email protected] .  
• Brauhaus Wittenberg , Wallstraße 7 , ☏ +49 3491 433130 .  
• Luther-Hotel , Neustraße 7-10, 06886 Lutherstadt , ☏ +49 3491 4580 , fax : +49 3491 458100 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 10:00 . 159 guest rooms (141 double rooms, 11 single rooms, 6 family rooms and 1 suite) ( updated Oct 2017 )
• Best Western Stadthotel , Collegienstraße 56/57 , ☏ +49 3491 4250 , [email protected] .  
• Alte Canzley , Schloßplatz 3-5 , ☏ +49 3491 429190 , [email protected] .  

Go next [ edit ]

• Dessau (35 km west), more parks of the "Garden Realm", Bauhaus school of architecture and the model housing estate of Törten, museum of Junkers aircraft factory; 35 minutes by train.
• Torgau (50 km southeast), another place closely linked with Martin Luther and the Reformation; 1 h 10 min by train via Falkenberg.
• Köthen (60 km west), former residence of the petty state of Anhalt-Köthen, where Johann Sebastian Bach worked and Samuel Hahnemann created homeopathy; 1 h 35 min by train via Halle.
• Leipzig (70 km south), 30 minutes by hourly high-speed train.
• Potsdam (70 km) and Berlin (100 km northeast), 40 minutes to Berlin main station by hourly high-speed train.
• Halle (80 km southwest), one hour by local train.
• Eisleben (110 km southwest), the town where Luther was born and died and the other half of the Luther World Heritage Site; no convenient public transport link.

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10 Amazing Things to Do in Wittenberg Germany

Nestled along the enchanting banks of the Elbe River, in the heart of Germany, lies a town that exudes history, culture, and an undeniable charm.

It’s Wittenberg Germany! The Lutherstadt Wittenberg with its cobbled streets and well-preserved medieval architecture, is a place where time itself seems to slow down. It invites you to step back into a world where Martin Luther once walked, igniting a reformation that would change the course of history.

History buffs, seekers of off-the-beaten-path, and faith and religious travellers will find this town a real gem to visit. I know I did! I took a quick train ride from Berlin and in less than an hour I found myself in the most wonderful place. Castle, churches, and colourful medieval buildings all within a charming Altstadt.

Join me as I share the top Wittenberg things to do! Trust me, it’s nothing short of extraordinary delight.

Table of Contents

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Is Wittenberg Germany Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, visiting Wittenberg is worth it!

While most travellers might have never heard of this picturesque town, or overlook it in favour of more well-known destinations, that would be a mistake.

Wittenberg is exactly the kind of town I seek out when travelling. It’s quiet, non-touristy and offers a more intimate and immersive experience.

Here, history unfolds before your very eyes as you wander along the cobblestone streets that Luther himself walked. Even if you are not a religious or history fanatic, it’s a cute town oozing with charm.

It offers cozy cafes, lovely shops, an impressive square and buildings and is surrounded by beautiful green spaces.

Visiting Wittenberg is like stepping into a living storybook, where every colourful building exudes character. There is a tiny stream running along the street that adds to its peacefulness.

So, if you’re looking for an easy day trip by train from Berlin that offers history, culture, and an authentic German experience, Wittenberg is an absolute must-visit.

History of Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Before going to Germany’s Wittenberg I didn’t know too much about its history.

The main reason I added it to my list of day trips from Berlin was its UNESCO status. It was added to the UNESCO Heritage list for Germany due to the birthplace of Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation.

Once I arrived and learned more from the Tourism Office on what to do in Wittenberg Germany. That’s when I learned more about how this humble town played a pivotal role in shaping the course of Christianity and Western thought.

So here’s what I learned.

It was here, in 1517, that Martin Luther boldly posted his 95 Theses on the doors of All Saints’ Church (Schlosskirche), sparking the Protestant Reformation. As you stand before this historic church today, you’ll find it adorned with doors made of bronze, each inscribed with Luther’s theses—an artistic tribute to the birth of a new religious era.

But Wittenberg’s historical stories are more than just Luther’s legacy.

The town boasts a rich heritage, reflected in its well-preserved medieval architecture which I adore. And, it once served as a vibrant center of learning and culture during the Renaissance. The renowned Wittenberg University, founded in 1502, attracted luminaries like Philipp Melanchthon and Lucas Cranach the Elder, whose contributions to art and scholarship continue to leave their mark.

Walking through the town’s streets, you’ll notice plaques with names and dates of those dedicated to Luther and his contemporaries, so many that it makes the curious traveller left wanting to know more about the impact of their ideas throughout history.

10 Things to Do in Wittenberg Germany

The best thing to do in Wittenberg is simply to wander the Old Town. Walk up Collegienstraße and then return on Jüdenstraße. Be curious, walk into tunnels between the buildings as there are some surprises you’ll find.

This list of 10 things to do can all be found in the Altstadt. Happy exploring!

1. All Saints’ Church (Schlosskirche) + Wittenberg Castle (Schloss Wittenberg) + Wittenberg Tower

Let’s start with the most famous and must-see site – the Wittenberg Castle Church and Tower. Designated a Germany UNESCO World Heritage site, this is an all-in-one attraction that sits on the edge of Wittenberg’s Altstadt.

Pay homage to history by visiting the church where Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses. Don’t miss the iconic doors with Luther’s theses engraved in bronze. And, it is now his final resting place in this early 1500s Gothic church.

The 15th-century castle underwent a complete restoration and now houses a permanent collection of Christian art.

Lastly, is the stately castle tower which dominates the skyline of this gorgeous town. The best part is you can claim the 299 steps (yes, I counted) to admire the views of the surrounding countryside and Altstadt.

[ Insider’s tip: if you are expecting to get great photos with a DSLR camera, don’t be. There is black netting that blocks your camera lens. Your phone camera lens is small enough to sneak through.]

• 📍Schloßpl. 1, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• 🕝 Monday to Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM, Sunday 11:30 AM – 5 pm
• 🎟️ Prices vary from €3 to €10.50
• I recommend checking the website💻 Wittenberg Castle Church, Castle & Tower for the exact times and costs as the church, castle and tower have different opening times and prices.

2. Luther Garden (Luthergarten)

From the Wittenberg Tower, I spotted a beautiful garden that I needed to explore. Around the back of the castle lies the Luther garden with trees and plants from around the world. They are meant to symbolize global unity and the spread of Luther’s ideas.

It’s a peaceful spot with winding walking trails and benches to give your feet a rest.

3. Cranach Courtyard (Cranach-Hof)

Wander through the courtyard where Lucas Cranach the Elder, a renowned painter of the Renaissance, had his workshop. Visit the museum dedicated to his art.

The Cranach house is a secret little spot if you didn’t know about this courtyard you are likely to miss it. It’s quiet and a great spot for photos of the half-timber framed houses. There is also a small cafe in the courtyard but was closed the day I was visiting.

📍Schloß Str. 1 Insider’s tip: this is a courtyard that is accessed through the tunnel

4. Wittenberg Market Square (Wittenberger Marktplatz)

The heart of Wittenberg! This attractive square is surrounded by colourful historical buildings. There’s an impressive Rathaus or Town Hall, Clack Theatre, and Science Center museum.

You’ll also notice two bronze statues: a dedication to Martin Luther and Philipp Melanchthon (a close partner to Luther in the Reformation).

Enjoy local cafes and shops, and take in the atmosphere. This is a great spot for photos, including in front of the Wittenberger Weltkugel, which is a mirrored ball reflecting the buildings around the square.

5. St. Mary’s Church (Stadtkirche St. Marien)

Admire the stunning architecture of this church where Martin Luther preached. It is known as the oldest building in Wittenberg and this UNESCO-listed site is referred to as the “Mother Church of the Reformation”.

I especially loved walking the perimeter of the church as it acts like a secret little courtyard (called Kirchplatz) as it’s tucked behind the town’s buildings.

It’s also here that you will find the Chapel of the Holy Corpse (or Fronleichnamkapelle), donated in 1368, to serve as a cemetery chapel.

• 📍Kirchpl. 2
• 🕝 Monday to Saturday 11 AM – 5 PM, closed on Mondays (or if you’re lucky like me, I was able to go inside)
• 🎟️ €2 | Public tours are held every Friday and Saturday at 2 PM

6. Holzmarkt

A charming little public square and fountain that leads you to Kirchplatz and St Mary’s Church. It’s the perfect spot to grab something to eat or drink. Choose from a cafe, gelato shop or restaurant and relax.

📍Collegienstraße, 11

7. Wittenberg University

Visit the modern-day university founded in 1502, which played a vital role in the Renaissance and the development of Protestant theology.

I visited the courtyard only and found it interesting to see a timeline of universities in Europe. Although Wittenberg University isn’t the oldest, it is close to it.

📍Collegienstraße 62

8. Melanchthon House

Explore the home of Philipp Melanchthon, a close friend of Luther and an important figure in the Reformation. The museum showcases his life and works.

• 📍Collegienstraße 60
• 🕝 Monday to Sunday 10 AM – 6 PM, Closed Wednesdays
• 💻 Melanchthon House

9. Luther House (Lutherhaus)

Step into Luther’s world by touring his former residence, which is now a museum filled with artifacts and exhibits related to his life and the Reformation. It’s considered the largest Reformation history museum in the world.

In the courtyard of the Luther House, the “Swords into Plowshares” monument symbolizes the goal of international peace and the bronze statue of Katharina von Bora. This is free and accessible to visit.

• 📍Collegienstraße 54
• 🕝 Monday to Sunday 9 AM – 6 PM
• 🎟️ €6 [ Insider’s tip : current renovations of the museum means it is partially closed and will be closed permanently on October 31, 2023, for 1.5 years]
• 💻 Luther House

10. Bunkerberg

The last thing I did was visit Bunkerberg, which is a small hill with several vistas. It was a former above-ground bunker from the Second World War. Now it features a lovely treed park in front of Luther House with walkways leading to various cool reflective surface vistas that offer views of the surrounding area.

What to Do in Wittenberg Germany (that I didn’t)

I spent the day in Wittenberg and it was enough time to see and do everything on my list of 10 things to see in Wittenberg Germany. But what I didn’t have time for, or wasn’t of interest to me was the following:

• Panorama LUTHER 1517 – offers an immersive experience called “Wittenberg in Reformation times” which runs until October 2024
• Tourist train that goes through the Altstadt (leaves from Wittenberg Tourism Office)
• Wittenberg Zoo – founded in 1928
• Elbe River and Elbe Bridge – a scenic spot for walking trails

From Berlin to Wittenberg

Where is Wittenberg Germany

Wittenberg Germany is approximately 90 km (56 miles) southwest of Berlin. It falls within the state of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany and is almost smack dab in the middle of Berlin and Leipiz.

Berlin to Wittenberg

The most convenient way to reach Wittenberg from Berlin is by train. With regular services departing from Berlin’s Hauptbahnhof (central train station). The journey takes less than an hour. My train ticket cost me €19.80.

When you arrive at Wittenberg train station exit left opposite the car park. Simply follow the footpath for about 15 minutes until you reach the Altstadt of Wittenberg. You could also take the city bus, but I chose to walk.

If you prefer the flexibility of a road trip, you can also reach Wittenberg by car, following the A9 Autobahn, and arriving in just over an hour.

More Day Trips

After you’ve explored the top attractions in Berlin- like the vibrant energy of Alexanderplatz , the artistic expressions found at the East Side Gallery , the fun weekend flea markets and the impressive Unter den Linden boulevard- it’s time to explore beyond Berlin.

• Potsdam , where you can explore opulent palaces, enchanting gardens, and the historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site
• Quedlinburg is a town frozen in the Middle Ages with cobblestone streets and over 2,000 half-timbered houses.
• Leipzig , boasts a rich cultural scene, with connections to famous figures like Bach and Goethe.

As a Holidaymaker

Wittenberg is one of nine UNESCO gems as part of my curated road trip , starting and ending in Berlin. Be sure to give it a read!

Creator, Founder of Dream Plan Experience

She specializes exclusively in European travel and crafting unforgettable day trips within her home province of Ontario, Canada.

She has been travelling to Europe for over 35 years and has lived abroad in Germany twice. Revisiting countries and exploring them extensively to create in depth travel itineraries, destination guides and helping travellers plan their trips to Europe through her customized services.

She also is a co-partner in a woman-led company that offers luxury retreats in Europe offering immersive cultural experiences.

Top Things to Do in Wittenberg, Germany - Wittenberg Must-See Attractions

Things to do in wittenberg, explore popular experiences, tours in and around wittenberg.

Wittenberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

Lutherstadt Wittenberg Private Guided tour

Explore Leipzig in 1 hour with a Local

Private City Leipzig Tour

Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

first electrical carriage in town - guided City Tours - Leipzig

Leipzig Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

Private AR-Ghost Hunt across the old cemetery "Friedenspark"

Leipzig private tour - Half day

Leipzig Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

Top attractions in wittenberg.

Other Top Attractions around Wittenberg

What travellers are saying

• Castle Church
• Luther 1517
• Lutherhalle/Lutherhaus
• Stadtkirche
• Hundertwasserschule
• Luthergarten
• Alaris Schmetterlingspark Wittenberg
• The Market Square

About the author:

After 4-1/2 years of covering European travel topics for About.com, Durant and Cheryl Imboden co-founded Europe for Visitors (now including Germany for Visitors) in 2001. The site has earned "Best of the Web" honors from Forbes and The Washington Post .

For more information, see About Europe for Visitors , press clippings , and reader testimonials .

1st inset photo: 1879 woodcut after Lucas Cranach. 2nd inset photo: Klizsch/TourismusRegion Wittenberg. 3rd, 11th inset photos: TourismusRegion Wittenberg.

Germany Travel Guide

Wittenberg Germany: 1-day Itinerary

The charming old town of Wittenberg is famous as the site of the Martin Luther Reformation . It is located on the banks of the Elbe in the state of Saxony – Anhalt , Germany .

How to spend 1 day in Wittenberg Germany

In this 1-day itinerary in Wittenberg , discover the main attractions of the city.

Day 1 in Wittenberg

Start the day by visiting Markt square , where the city hall ( Rathaus ) and the statue of Martin Luther ( Lutherdenkmal ) are located.

Head to Stadtkirche St. Marien , known for being where Martin Luther often preached.

The Schlosskirche is another prominent attraction in the city, known as the Memorial Church of the Reformation . Also popular, is the Lutherhaus , a site converted into a museum dedicated to the Reformation . Near the Lutherhaus you will find the museum Luther 1517 – Wittenberg 360 ° .

Things to see

• Lutherdenkmal
• Stadtkirche St. Marien
• Schlosskirche
• Luther 1517 – Wittenberg 360 °

Day 1 Itinerary Map

Sights in Wittenberg

1. markt square.

The Markt square  is a central square in Wittenberg where the  Rathaus and the Martin Luther Statue ( Lutherdenkmal ) are located.

Marktplatz, 06886

2. St Marien

St Marien is the place where Martin Luther preached often. It is the oldest building in the city, built between the 13th and 15th centuries.

Kirchpl. 12, 06886

3. Schlosskirche

The Schlosskirche is known as the Reformation Memorial Church , where the 95 theses of Martin Luther were set.

The act was called the beginning of the Protestant Reformation .

Schlosspl. 1, 06886

4. Lutherhaus

The building was originally built in 1504 as part of the University of Wittenberg . Between 1508 – 1546 it was the home of Martin Luther .

The place was converted into a museum dedicated to the Reformation . The first exhibition took place in 1883. It is the largest museum about the Reformation in the world.

Collegienstraße 54, 06886

5. Piesteritz

The Piesteritz is a residential area built in 1916 to house workers from its industrial areas.

Piesteritz,06886

Wörlitz is a town and a former municipality in the district of Wittenberg . It is located 24 km from Wittenberg .

Where to stay in Wittenberg

1. hotel-pension am schwanenteich.

The Hotel-Pension Am Schwanenteich is centrally located just steps away from the ARSENAL – Einkaufszentrum shopping mall and a 9-minute walk from the Lutherhaus Museum .

The cozy rooms have a flat-screen TV and a work desk.

The hotel has a restaurant known for its first-class cuisine and varied menus.

Töpferstraße 1, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

2. Hotel Alte Canzley

The Hotel Alte Canzley is a historic hotel located in the center of Wittenberg opposite the Schlosskirche Lutherstadt Wittenberg church.

All rooms have a TV, kettle, coffee maker, and minibar.

In the oldest part of the building is located the restaurant, officially recognized as an organic restaurant since 2004.

Schloßpl. 3, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

3. Best Western Soibelmanns Lutherstadt Wittenberg

The Best Western Soibelmanns Lutherstadt Wittenberg is located next to the Lutherhaus in the city center.

The rooms are elegantly decorated and feature a TV, work desk, kettle, coffee maker, and minibar.

The hotel has spa facilities and a sauna.

Collegienstraße 56-57, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

4. Luther-Hotel Wittenberg

Luther-Hotel Wittenberg is located in a charming building right in the historic center of Wittenberg .

All rooms are equipped with a TV, work desk and minibar.

The hotel has a sauna.

Neustraße 7-10, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

5. Ringhotel Schwarzer Baer

Located just steps from the famous Wittenberger Marktplatz , the Ringhotel Schwarzer Baer offers great value for money.

All rooms have a flat-screen TV and a work desk.

The hotel has a restaurant that serves regional cuisine.

Schlossstraße 2, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

6. Hotel Luther Birke

Hotel Luther Birke Wittenberg is located 6.7 km (4.1 miles) from the center in a renovated historic building that was once a knight’s mansion.

Rooms offer park or garden views and are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a work desk.

The hotel has a restaurant and a bar.

Am Teich 1, 06889 Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

7. Hotel “Brauhaus Wittenberg”

Located in the heart of Wittenberg , the Hotel “Brauhaus Wittenberg” offers excellent value for money.

The rooms are cozy and have a flat-screen TV.

Markt 7, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

Shopping in Wittenberg

1. arsenal wittenberg.

Arsenal Wittenberg is a mall located in the city center. The mall houses stores such as Bonita, Gerry Weber, and others.

Arsenalplatz 1, 06886 Wittenberg, Germany

Plan your Trip

Wittenberg  has easy train access from various cities in  Germany . Famous cities nearby:  Leipzig , Berlin .

Leipzig – 71.5 km (44.4 miles)

Berlin – 111 km (68.9 miles)

Dresden – 172 km (107 miles)

Potsdam – 81 km (50.3 miles)

Book a Train Trip

Book Your Trip

Book your accommodation.

Book your hotel with Booking.com as they consistently provide the cheapest and lowest rates.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights to Germany by using  Momondo . Momondo is a flight search engine that searches a lot of different airlines, including many of the budget carriers.

Book a Train Ticket

Check the train routes and schedules with Omio . Omio is an authorized Deutsche Bahn ticket seller, which compares and combines transport options for complete flexibility.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, and cancellations. It’s a protection in case anything goes wrong. You can book your travel insurance with Travelexinsurance.com .

10 Suggested Itineraries for Germany + Top Destinations

German States Map

German States and Regions

Explore Wittenberg

Plan your trip to wittenberg: best of wittenberg tourism.

Essential Wittenberg

Wittenberg Is Great For

Art & history.

Eat & drink

• martas Hotel Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Best Western Soibelmanns Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Brauhaus Wittenberg
• Hotel Schwarzer Baer
• Cranach Herberge
• Wittenberger Kartoffelhaus
• WittenBurger
• von Bora Restaurant
• Restaurant Luther Birke Wittenberg
• Castle Church
• Lutherhalle/Lutherhaus
• Stadtkirche
• Luther 1517
• The Market Square

• Biberach an der Riss
• Friedrichshafen
• Ludwigsburg
• Schwäbisch Hall
• Sigmaringen
• Villingen-Schwenningen
• Hohenzollern Castle
• Lichtenstein Castle
• Füssen
• Neuburg an der Donau
• Bad Tölz
• Berchtesgaden
• Eichstätt
• Garmisch-Partenkirchen
• Kochel am See
• Oberammergau
• Reit im Winkl
• Andechs Monastery
• Benediktbeuern Abbey
• Ettal Abbey
• Linderhof Castle
• Nymphenburg Palace
• Ottobeuren Abbey
• Lake Constance
• Starnberger See
• Altmühltal Nature Park
• Bavarian Forest National Park
• Fichtelgebirge
• Franconian Switzerland
• Karwendel Alpine Park
• Görlitz
• Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Schmalkalden
• Wartburg Castle
• Buchenwald Memorial Site
• Alpine Road
• Romantic Road
• Jakobsweg - Bavaria
• Mainau Island
• Saxon Switzerland National Park
• Thuringian Forest
• German Sights
• Saxony-Anhalt

Wittenberg, Germany

Where is wittenberg.

Wittenberg is a town of 50,000 inhabitants in Saxony Anhalt that is renowned for its role at the heart of the Protestant Reformation at the start of the 16th century.

Since 1922 the town has been known as 'Lutherstadt Wittenberg' - it was here that Martin Luther took the famous stand of nailing his '95 theses' to the church door.

Sites related to Luther and to his colleague Philip Melanchthon are listed, along with those in nearby Eisleben, as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

How to get to Wittenberg

Closest airport to wittenberg.

Saxony-Anhalt does have its own small airport at Magdeberg - currently unused by scheduled services - but by far the most convenient place to fly into is Berlin for the choice of destinations and frequency of flights.

Distance to Leipzig-Halle Airport: 77km Distance to Berlin-Brandenburg Airport: 116km Distance to Hannover Airport: 233km Distance to Erfurt-Weimar Airport: 237km

Leipzig-Halle Airport is the closest but only has a restricted international selection (not counting summer sun holiday destinations).

Train station at Wittenberg

Wittenberg has a number of railway stations within the town boundaries, but the principal is called Lutherstadt Wittenberg Bahnhof, which is served by InterCity trains from Berlin, Leipzig , Dortmund and Munich . The main railway station is probably a 20 minute walk from the tourist information office in the centre of the town.

The other useful train station is Lutherstadt Wittenberg Altstadt, which is served by hourly regional trains in the direction of Dessau. This is much closer to the old town.

Where to stay in Wittenberg

The main UNESCO sights in the town are clustered around a compact area between the train station and the castle church. Most of the hotels are in this area, although independent visitors should book as soon as is possible for town centre hotels as organised tours to the town make the accommodation very popular.

Wittenberg accommodation map

If you know when you are planning to go but haven't decided on accommodation, then use the map below to get an idea of which properties are available and to compare prices during the period you wish to travel.

Enter your proposed dates and use the '+' to zoom in on a location and reveal more properties. Click on the price above a property to see more information.

( Please note that this selection will also include some guesthouses, pensions and self-catering apartments for those who are interested in that form of accommodation !)

Check accommodation availability in Wittenberg

Alternatively, if you would like a list of properties available on your proposed dates of travel, use the search box below to find accommodation:

History of Wittenberg

While Wittenberg is best-known for being one of the centres for the Protestant Reformation, it does have a history both before and after those events.

It was once the residence of the rulers of the region - the Dukes of Saxe-Wittenberg - and was later renowned for its university, which was so well-known in those days that it was the location for Hamlet's studies in the Shakespeare play.

Its position on the Elbe River also made it an important location for tradesmen and markets.

The first use of the name Wittenberg is towards the end of the 12th century, although archaeological sites prove that the area had been settled thousands of years before.

Within a century the town had become the residence of the Saxe-Wittenberg ruling family, one of the many squabbling small states in this part of Germany created by inheritance and dynastic arguments. The settlement also obtained its town charter and around 50 years later the right to hold a market.

The statelet also became the Electorate of Saxony (also sometimes termed Upper Saxony) with Wittenberg as its capital. Electorate meant that the rulers of the town had a vote in the election of a Holy Roman Emperor, a very prestigious position in the Middle Ages.

The original ruling family died out and the Electorate passed into the hands of the Wettin dynasty, who controlled much of what is now Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia.

It was members of this family who started the contruction of the Wittenberg castle as their residence and the castle church of All Saints, which became famous through the later actions of Martin Luther. They also founded the University of Wittenberg for the study of law, theology and medicine, later also to feature heavily in the history of Protestantism.

Martin Luther and Wittenberg

Since the 1920s Wittenberg's official title has been 'Lutherstadt Wittenberg' - literally 'Luther Town'.

Not only did Martin Luther spend much of his life here, but his actions in the town against the traditional church were central to the growth of the Reformation and Lutheranism.

Luther came to Wittenberg near the start of the 16th century and took up a position in the theology faculty, a faculty he later chaired.

His first and major action during his time in Wittenberg was to write the document that became known as 'the 95 Theses'.

At that time, the church was trying to raise money for rebuilding St Peter's Basilica in Rome. One of the ways that they attempted to do this was by selling what were called 'indulgences'. Essentially, what you could do was buy (in the form of a donation to the church) forgiveness for sins that you may have committed.

Martin Luther wrote to his superior, the Bishop of Mainz, protesting against this practice. Allegedly, he nailed a copy of his arguments against the sale of indulgences to the doors of the castle church in Wittenberg although some current historians believe that this action never took place. (The church door visitors see now are replicas from the 19th century - the originals were burned during fighting during the Seven Years' War.)

But it was not until the 95 Theses were translated into German that the protests which would result in the Lutheran Reformation really took off. Luther himself became a tremendously popular preacher who drew large crowds from around Europe. As his personal popularity and support for his beliefs grew, he became a threat to the established church who sent him orders to recant his teachings or face excommunication.

Luther's response was to burn the letter along with other religious writings that he disapproved of on what is now the site of the 'Luther Oak' in Wittenberg. He was promptly excommunicated and went into hiding at Wartburg Castle in Thuringia disguised as a young nobleman ('Junker Jörg').

After his exile in hiding, Luther emerged in Wittenberg once again to become a moderate force in the Reformation where more radical believers were pushing even further against the religious and social structures at the time. He rejected the violent attempts to overthrow the 'natural order' of society which resulted in the Peasants' War and the defeat of the radicals.

Martin Luther preached in the Church of St Mary (the 'town church' as opposed to the 'castle church') in Wittenberg and held the first mass in German there. Luther's marriage to Katharina von Bora, a former nun who he had helped escape from a convent, was also celebrated in the church.

He lived in Wittenberg in the former 'Black Monastery', now known as the Luther House and where there is a Luther Museum with exhibits and some of the rooms that Luther used to spread his teachings.

Martin Luther died in nearby Eisleben where he had been born but his body was returned to Wittenberg and he was buried in the Castle Church.

Wittenberg After Luther

Martin Luther was not the only important Protestant to have lived in Wittenberg. Another theologian, Philip Melanchthon (born as Philipp Schwartzerdt), was a principal collaborator of Luther's and the two are considered to be the founding fathers of Protestantism. His former house can also be visited and his tomb is also in the Castle Church.

Another important personality of the Reformation was the Upper Saxony court painter Lucas Cranach the Elder. He supported Luther and painted scenes which interpreted the new beliefs. The altar in the Church of St Mary is by Lucas Cranach the Elder. His work was followed by his son, Lucas Cranach the Younger, who also worked in the city.

Although it remained the centre of the German Reformation, Wittenberg suffered in the religious wars that followed by losing its status as the residence of the rulers of the area.

Like many cities in the area it was also hit by bouts of the plague and by subsequent wars - the Seven Years' War was when much of the old City Castle and Church were destroyed.

In Napoleonic times it was occupied by the French and was again damaged badly, this time by the Prussian Army, who took control of the city after the defeat of Napoleon.

It became a garrison town and, later, an industrial centre. From the 19th century onwards, its status as a memorial to the events of the German Reformation began to be recognised and nowadays tourism is a main factor in the economy of the town.

The Luther Decade started in 2008 and reached its culmination in 2017 - the 500th anniversary of the year that Martin Luther posted the 95 Theses on the church door.

Other towns and cities on the Elbe river

Dresden is renowned for its baroque and rococo architecture and picturesque Elbe River setting. Visitors will discover historic landmarks, such as the Dresden Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, and the Semperoper Opera House, which have been restored after the devastating bombing in World War II.

Meissen is a small town in eastern Germany, known for its porcelain production. The Meissen Porcelain Manufactory remains one of its main attractions. The Albrechtsburg castle overlooking the Elbe river is another major historical sight. Meissen is the centre of a winegrowing area with the vineyards along the Elbe valley.

Tourist Office in Wittenberg

The Wittenberg tourist office is situated near the Schlosskirche at the opposite end of the old town to the main train station. The tourist office is open seven days a week with shorter opening hours at the weekend. Website : www.lutherstadt-wittenberg.de

© GermanSights.com

A Road Trip through Luther Country – Introduction and A Visit to Wittenberg, Germany

From berlin to eisenach, germany – the former east germany.

This region of Germany, referred to as Luther Country, is located in what was once known as East Germany. Since reunification in 1990, many of the scenic towns and villages have come to life with tourists from around the globe as these destinations are home to some of the world’s most significant cultural contributions to music, literature, art, architecture, and theology.

As we headed southwest into the countryside, after a 2-night stay in Berlin, we were greeted by picturesque medieval towns and villages with parks and gardens, storybook castles and palaces, stunning landscapes with forests, and well-preserved artifacts and documents with over a thousand-year history.

Map of Germany

Martin Luther

One of the best-known figures from this part of Germany is Martin Luther, the famous theologian who provoked and led the Protestant Reformation in 1517. The trail and accomplishments of his life, from birth to the time of his death, can be traced throughout the region. And this year marks the 500 th Anniversary of the Reformation, so there’s no better time to travel to Luther Country. With special exhibits, events and festivals, and added infrastructure to support the influx of tourists, it’s the perfect time to plan your trip. Luther Country is also very affordable, more so than other parts of Europe, especially with the strong US Dollar to the Euro exchange rate.

Martin Luther statue in Wittenberg

Preparations for the Quincentenary

Luther Country

Luther pilgrims have flocked to this part of Germany for hundreds of years for religious pursuits, however, many travelers, particularly Americans, have never considered exploring this beautiful region of the country.

Perhaps it’s the uncertainty of visiting destinations not well-publicized or possibly the images of the former GDR (German Democratic Republic) and life behind the Iron Curtain under Soviet rule from history books and film documentaries, but whatever the reason, the former East Germany has had few American tourists, compared with visitors from other countries. We were astounded at the statistics as this is a fascinating and beautiful place to travel to. There is also a renewed vibrancy, especially with the younger generations, and a strong-willed desire and spirit to move forward. With a rich history, and yes, a complicated one, Luther Country is an extraordinary destination to visit with its many gifts and surprises the region has to offer.

The Marktplatz

Beyond Martin Luther

A visit to Luther Country is not just for those seeking to follow in the footsteps of Martin Luther. As we learned, there’s so much more to experience. Luther’s contributions to the world went far beyond the Protestant and Catholic churches of that time. He not only altered the course of religion when he nailed his 95 theses on the door of The Castle Church in Wittenberg in 1517, but also changed mankind forever with a cultural revolution and a focus on education and promoting the self-worth of the individual in society. This set everything in motion to further develop the historical significance of the region as well as create a thriving environment for famous musicians and composers such Bach, Brahms, Liszt and Wagner and the poets Goethe and Schiller, the Renaissance painter Lucas Cranach the Elder, and the world-famous Bauhaus school of design.

The famous door at The Castle Church

Our route through Luther Country began with a few days in the lively and vibrant city of Berlin. We’ll be covering Berlin in a separate article. If you’re thinking about a visit to the city, plan to stay at least several days, as it’s quite large and spread out with many different neighborhoods to explore. It’s the perfect place to start your Luther Country journey and while there, arrange to see The Luther Effect, an exhibit at Martin-Gropius-Bau that will run through November 5, 2017. We were given a preview tour while in the city and it was very impressive.

Setting up The Luther Effect

Following our time in Berlin, we then headed south, visiting six towns lying primarily in southeast and central Germany, beginning in Wittenberg.

Located in Saxony-Anhalt and situated on the Elbe River, Wittenberg is a 1 ½ hour drive southwest of Berlin. Spared from much of the damage of World War II, many of Wittenberg’s original buildings and churches remain today. Step back in history to medieval times as you walk the cobblestone streets lined with colorful 16th-century houses and the pedestrian-only Collegienstraße and Schlossstraße . Visit Der Marktplatz (the market square), the main center of activity in town, where there are many restaurants, outdoor cafés and shops. And just behind the square, you’ll find St. Mary’s, the Town Church, with it’s late Gothic architecture and two tall mid-14th century towers that are visible from the historic center of town. This is the church where Martin Luther preached his first sermon in public and is known to be the oldest building in Wittenberg.

The colorful streets of Wittenberg

Narrow canals through the city

Sightseeing tram

St. Mary’s Church

Take several hours to explore Lutherhaus, Martin Luther’s former home and museum where you’ll learn much about the life of this famous theologian and scholar who was responsible for setting in motion a cultural and religious revolution.

Renovations at Lutherhaus

Statue of Katharina von Bora – Luther’s wife

Another noteworthy museum to visit is the Philipp Melanchthon House. Melanchthon was Luther’s intellectual partner and colleague and also played a large role in the transformation of religion and education at that time. They are both buried in The Castle Church (also known as All Saint’s Church). The tower of this imposing church can be seen from almost every vantage point in Wittenberg. Take time to explore Lucas Cranach’s home and art studio, wander through the Luther Garden just behind the historic part of town, and new for this year is Luther 1517, a 360-degree panorama artwork created by internationally renowned artist and architect Yadegar Asisi.

Melanchtonhaus

Castle Church tower

Inside Castle Church

Castle Church pulpit

Cranach House courtyard

Luther Garden

Exterior of the Panorama

Inside the exhibit

A rendering of the original work by Yadegar Asisi

Regional cuisine, which includes traditional bratwurst and pork and sauerkraut, can be found on most menus, especially in hearty portions at the Brauhaus Wittenberg . The only brewery in Wittenberg (and they operate a hotel), The Brauhaus is a lively gathering place, particularly outdoors in Der Biergarten in the warmer months. This courtyard, Beyer’s Court, is also home to the famous monument from Renaissance times, known as the “Virgin pipeline.” This tap, built in the 16 th century, is still supplied by a spring north of town. It is the same water source that provided water untainted by the bubonic plaque that swept through much of the town in 1527 and was believed to be carried in the open canals.

Brauhaus Wittenberg

Another local favorite is Zum Schwarzen Baer . Quaint and cozy, this wood-paneled restaurant with a rustic atmosphere, is known for its excellent food and unique potato-based dishes served in cast-iron skillets. Be sure to sample the local wines on the menu, such as a dry or traditional late harvest Riesling, and one of the Schwarzbier , or traditional black beers.

Zum Schwarzen Baer

Hearty fare at Zum Schwarzen Baer

Take Road Trips to Eisleben and Dessau

While visiting the city’s attractions may only take a day or two, Wittenberg is a great base to use for visiting nearby Eisleben, another important stop in Luther Country, and Dessau, the home of the original Bauhaus school of design.

Known as Lutherstadt Eisleben and located between the Harz Mountains and the Elbe River, this is one of the oldest towns in the region and the birthplace of Martin Luther (1483). Gaining World Heritage status by UNESCO, it’s also the town where he spent much of his life and then died in 1546, so you can visit his birth house ( Geburtshaus ) and death house, as well as important churches, such as the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul where he was christened.

Eisleben’s market square

Luther’s Birth House

Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

Walk the narrow cobblestone streets of this quaint town and then stop in the medieval town square where a statue of The Reformer Martin Luther presides. Before heading back to Wittenberg, enjoy lunch in one of the local restaurants, such as the Restaurant Grafenresidenz in Hotel Graf von Mansfeld. If you visit mid-September, make plans to attend Eisleben Wiesenmarkt, an annual event and the biggest folk festival in Central Germany.

The towers of St. Andrew’s Church

Visiting St. Andrew’s Church

Dinner at Restaurant Grafenresidenz

Simple and clean lines

Austere in appearance, inside and out, this building was once home to free-spirited students that lived together, worked together, and played hard together. It’s been said that this was the inspiration for the hippie movement or Bohemianism that took place in America’s liberal arts colleges 50 years later. 2019 marks the centenary of Bauhaus and a new museum is being built in nearby Weimar. There is also a Bauhaus museum in Berlin, for those interested in this school of thought and modern architecture.

Party time at Bauhaus

Where to Sta y

The Luther-Hotel Wittenberg is centrally located in the town center. A comfortable 3-star superior hotel, they offer parking for their guests in a garage, so you can leave the car and walk everywhere in town. (Parking is difficult to come by otherwise.) The restaurant serves a traditional German breakfast in the morning with a wide array of savory selections such as meats and cheeses and breads, along with fruit, cereal, and yogurt. We also had dinner at the hotel one evening enjoyed a few lighter dishes (such as fish and less hearty meats) than we found at several of the local restaurants.

Dinner at Luther-Hotel

Travel tip – Once you leave Berlin and head into the smaller towns and countryside, many people speak English, but not always fluent English. As a courtesy, and to make your travel through Luther Country go smoothly as planned, it’s a good idea to learn some basic words and phrases in German and to download a free translator app such as Google Translate or a paid conversational app, iTranslate, where you can speak into the app and it verbally translates or you can converse between parties using text. As an alternative, bring along a compact dictionary and phrase book like the ones published by Lonely Planet, Eyewitness, or Rick Steves.

You also may want to hire a private guide. As we wrote in this article , understanding your surroundings and the historical and cultural significance of every place you visit and everything you see, enriches your overall travel experience. If you have any questions about finding a great guide in these towns, we’d be happy to answer your queries. Please send us a message through the Contact form .

Look for our future articles about Berlin and the towns and villages on our travels through the former East Germany and Luther Country.

This content is protected under International Copyright Laws. Pratesi Living provides this content to its readers for their personal use. No part (text or images) may be copied or reproduced, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of PratesiLiving.com .  All rights reserved.

Disclosure – We worked with the German National Tourism Board on this trip. The opinions expressed regarding our experience are our own.

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About the author.

Gwen Pratesi

Gwen Pratesi is a James Beard Foundation Award Finalist in Journalism and an award-winning travel writer. She is the author and owner of PratesiLiving.com with her husband and a regular contributor to the Travel section of U.S. News & World Report. She also freelances for other publications including The Points Guy, USA TODAY, Cruise Critic, Travel + Leisure, Garden & Gun, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Reader's Digest, Forbes Travel Guide, Smarter Travel, TripAdvisor, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Magazine and World Travel Magazine. Her work has also been featured on MSN, Yahoo!, Business Insider, and SheKnows. Gwen chronicles her love of international travel and experience as a professional home cook on PratesiLiving.com, where she shares the stories of some of the world's most sought-after destinations and cruise lines, highly regarded chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, wine and spirits producers and culinary artisans. She and her husband are enjoying the coastal lifestyle in Florida with their Tibetan Terrier, Rhythm.

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Germany / Switzerland GTI SIGNATURE TOUR

Oct 6-17, 2025.

Experience the Reformation on a GTI Signature Study Tour to Germany and you'll see Scripture in a new light.

View Itinerary »   Register Now »

What to Expect

The Reformation of the sixteenth century brought not only profound changes to European society and culture, but also and more importantly, it brought sweeping theological changes to the church that have continued to influence the Evangelical movement to the present day. Were these changes the mere inventions of a few medieval monastics or were they a divine movement to recover the gospel handed down to us by the apostles? What is the gospel anyway? What does it mean to be saved? What does it mean to be a Christian? These questions among others were at the heart of the Reformed movement.

Our trip to Germany and Switzerland will explore the lives and theologies of four major reformers of sixteenth-century Europe. We’ll begin with Martin Luther, the reformer of Germany, whose faith and work are often credited with initiating the Reformation. We’ll then travel to Switzerland and study the life of Huldreich Zwingli of Zurich, who was the reformer of German- speaking Switzerland. While in southern Germany and Switzerland, we’ll also investigate the Anabaptist movement, which is sometimes overlooked as an influential movement within the Reformation. The life and work of Balthasar Huebmaier, a leader of the Anabaptists, will be studied. We’ll then finish our tour with a trip to Geneva, to study the life and works of John Calvin, whose prolific writings on theology and the Bible are still relevant for the church today. This trip is bound to enlighten us and strengthen our faith in the gospel and the mission of Jesus Christ in the world.

Listen to Our Podcast

Your leader.

Rich Liverance

Assistant general manager, gti tours.

Richard Liverance comes to GTI with an extensive background in biblical and Near Eastern studies as well as faith-based travel. He is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and the Master’s Seminary, earning both a Master of Theology in Bible Exposition and a Doctor of Ministry in Expository Preaching. He served as a pastor for 25 years in churches throughout the United States, teaching both Old and New Testament studies. Rich then was privileged to serve the Economic Mission of the State of Israel at the Israeli consulate in Los Angeles, connecting Christian leaders and the travel industry in North America to Israel through the Israel Ministry of Tourism. Most recently, he completed a Masters in Archaeology and Near Eastern Studies at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and now serves as the Assistant General Manager of GTI Tours.

The Details

Departure from the usa.

Each person will arrange their own flights to arrive in Berlin by October 7th.

Arrival in Berlin, Germany

Arrive in Berlin and transfer to hotel on your own. If you would like help, GTI can assist with options. Enjoy a free day once you arrive to rest, relax or explore the city. A group dinner and orientation will happen in the evening. Overnight in Berlin.

Berlin/Wittenberg

Today, we will meet our tour guide and embark on a journey of some of the best highlights Berlin has to offer. We'll visit the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of union and peace, as well as the magnificent “Reichstag,” where most the important decisions are made by the German government. Access permitting, we'll explore this beautiful building with a guide and take a walk around the spacious glass-dome, enjoying a fantastic view of the city. We'll stroll down the boulevard known as “Unter den Linden,” and visit the picturesque Museum Island, which marks Berlin’s historical center. Located here is one of the capital’s most famous buildings, the Berlin Cathedral. We'll also visit the Berlin Wall Museum and Check Point Charlie. The final stop of the day is the city’s most beautiful plaza, the Gendarmenmarkt, which is framed by the German and French cathedrals. In the afternoon, we'll leave Berlin and depart for Wittenberg. Dinner and overnight in Wittenberg.

Wittenberg/Eisleben/Weimar

We will begin the day exploring Wittenberg. When it comes to Luther, there is no city that is more important than this one. The legend of the 95 theses nailed to the door of the Castle Church has been told across the world. We'll visit this famous door, as well as the Luther House, the Town Hall, the historic center and the Town and Parish Church of St. Marien, the oldest building in Wittenberg. Then, we'll proceed to Eisleben, where Luther was born and died. During a tour of Eisleben’s town center we'll see the Church of St. Peter and Paul, St. Andrew’s Church, and the Old Town with its charming historical buildings. In the late afternoon, we'll drive to Weimar for dinner and overnight.

Buchenwald/Eisenach

We'll start the day with a solemn visit to the Buchenwald Concentration Camp and a discussion of the Holocaust. This camp was used between 1937 and 1945 when it was liberated by the Americans. In the afternoon, we'll travel to Eisenach. Here, we'll visit the Wartburg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Luther found refuge here during his exile and translated the New Testament from Greek into German. Take a look at the room where he lived and worked. Dinner and overnight in Eisenach.

Eisenach/Coburg/Nuremberg

Today, we'll stroll the city of Eisenach and see the Luther House and St. Georg’s Church, where Luther preached while he was “on the run,” and where later, in 1685, Johann Sebastian Bach was baptized. Afterwards we'll continue to Coburg. The Veste Coburg is one of the largest and most well-preserved, medieval, castle complexes in Germany. In 1530 Luther took refuge here for six months. After exploring the fortress, we'll take a walk through the Old City. Driving south we'll reach the city of Nuremberg. According to Luther, Nuremberg was “the eye and ear of Germany”. In those days, it was a center of media, with 21 printing houses, which were important to the spread of the Reformation. We'll walk through the historic center and visit sites such as the Albrecht-Dürer-House and the churches St. Lorenz and St. Sebald. Dinner and overnight in Nuremberg.

Augsburg/Neuschwanstein/Fuessen

In the morning, we'll travel to Augsburg. It was here in 1518, at St. Anna's Church, that Luther met the papal legate, Cardinal Cajetan, who demanded that Luther submit to the pope. The city was also site of the Diet of Augsburg in 1530, where the Augsburg confession was presented, which outlines the nature and teachings of Luther's theology. In the town hall, the Peace of Augsburg was signed in 1555, which legalized the practice of the Reformed/Lutheran faith in Germany. From Augsburg, we'll travel to Fuessen and visit the 19th-century Neuschwanstein Castle of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Dinner and Overnight in Fuessen.

Lake Constance/Schaffhausen/Waldshut

After breakfast, we'll drive to Lake Constance and board a ship at Lindau for our cruise between the borders of Germany and Switzerland. We'll dock in Konstanz and then board our bus for Schaffhausen where we'll visit the Rhine Falls before heading to Waldshut, where Balthasar Hubmaier was baptized and became a leader of the Anabaptist movement. Dinner and overnight in Zurich.

Today, we'll study the life and ministry of Huldreich Zwingli, the Reformer of German-speaking Switzerland. We'll visit the Lindenhof for a view of the city and a discussion of Zurich's early history. We'll visit St. Peter's Church and the Grossmuenster Cathderal; both important sites of the reformation in Zurich. We'll also visit two Anabaptist sites, including the Felix Manz Memorial and the grotto of Baeretswil, where early Anabaptists gathered for worship. We'll discuss the theological and social conflicts between the Anabaptists and Zwingli during the Reformation. Dinner and overnight in Zurich.

Luzern/Lauterbrunnen/Trachselwald/Bern

After breakfast, we'll drive to Luzern and discover this beautiful city in the heart of the Swiss Alps. We'll visit the Kappellbruecke and the Weinmarkt before heading to Lauterbrunnen for lunch and a breathtaking view of the Alps. After lunch, we'll visit the Trachselwald Castle, where early Anabaptists were imprisoned before heading to Bern and a tour of the Old City. Dinner and Overnight in Bern.

Leaving Bern, we'll travel to Geneva, the city of John Calvin and the Reformation of French-speaking Switzerland. We'll visit the International Museum of the Reformation and spend time in Saint Peter’s Cathedral, where Calvin preached. We'll also view the archaeological site beneath the Cathedral. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Reformation Wall and then overnight in Geneva.

Depart from Geneva for the USA

This morning we'll say good-bye to Switzerland and board our flights back home to the US and Canada.

Flight Details

We crafted this a ground-only study tour so you can tailor it to be the European trip of your dreams. Booking your flights to Germany allows you to fly from any airport with any airline and use points or frequent flyer mileage. Fly early, stay late, and explore other parts of Europe. Enjoy the amazing Reformation Study Tour with GTI in Germany and then have the flexibility to explore other beautiful locations. We are here to help you with suggestions if you need them, so give us a call.

Why GTI Tours?

All inclusive.

More than simply a statement about pricing, “All Inclusive” describes GTI’s holistic approach to facilitating purposeful travel and experiential learning in cooperation with our Ministry Partners.

Biblically Focused

Your tour leader, study materials, and even itinerary are biblically focused, creating a journey that will draw you more deeply into God’s Word with each step you take.

Experiential Itinerary

Each stop on your itinerary is selected because it provides an experience than brings meaning and emotional significance to the information you will be learning.

All Expenses Covered

There’s no need to worry about wasting time and money haggling or being surprised by hidden costs. Except for souvenirs and optional upgrades, every part of your trip is covered.

Online Registration

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Online Tour Journal

Friends and family can receive daily updates of text, photos, audio, and video from you and other participants to keep up with where you are and what you’re learning via the GTI Online Tour Journal.

Backpacks and Gear

We take care of everything so you can stay focused during your Study Tour, including providing you with a hydration backpack, study guide, plug adapter, and even a flashlight (when the trip calls for it).

Local Guides & Drivers

We have spent years developing relationships with experienced guides and drivers because they are an integral part of a study tour. And if you already have a trusted guide/driver you prefer that’s ok too!

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