Things To Do
in Speyer
Speyer is a city on the Rhine in southwestern Germany with a rich Roman and medieval heritage. Its centerpiece is Speyer Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dominates the skyline. The compact Old Town is walkable and filled with museums, cafes, and riverside views along the Rhine.
The region blends historic architecture with excellent Pfälzer wine culture and easy access to the Pfälzerwald (Palatinate Forest).
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in the heart of Speyer, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the well-preserved medieval architecture. Make sure to visit the iconic Speyer Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and appreciate its grandeur and historical significance.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at a traditional German restaurant, sampling local specialties such as sausages and sauerkraut. Spend your afternoon visiting the Historical Museum of the Palatinate, where you can delve into the region's rich history through fascinating exhibits. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby Old Gate, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
As evening falls, take a scenic walk along the Rhine River, soaking in the peaceful ambiance as the sun sets. Choose a riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can savor fresh fish dishes paired with local wines. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated historic center, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, sampling Speyer's famed pretzels and coffee. Head to the Technik Museum Speyer, where you can marvel at impressive collections of aircraft, trains, and automobiles from various eras. The museum's interactive exhibits make for an engaging experience, perfect for both history enthusiasts and families.
For lunch, try a cozy bistro nearby, offering traditional German fare with a modern twist. Afterward, continue your cultural journey by visiting the Jewish Museum Speyer, which provides insight into the rich Jewish heritage of the region. This museum offers a unique perspective on the history and contributions of the Jewish community in Speyer.
As the day winds down, unwind at a local wine bar where you can sample regional wines from the Palatinate region. Enjoy a light dinner with local cheeses and charcuterie, soaking in the vibrant social atmosphere. If you're lucky, you might catch a live music performance at a nearby venue to round off your evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥖Bakery snack | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Romanesque heritage and UNESCO-listed cathedral
- Compact, walkable center with easy access to wine country
- Great day trips to Pfälzerwald and Rhine valley
- Smaller nightlife compared to big cities
- Some attractions can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Limited high-end dining options within the city center
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / hello
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Speyer
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand Romanesque structure with massive dimensions and dramatic light inside; a must for architectural photography.
A medieval gate offering commanding views of the old town and the Rhine; especially photogenic at sunset.
Scenic riverside walk with boats, bridges, and vineyard scenery; great for sunset shots.
Colorful facades and a charming square ideal for street photography and candid portraits.
Food in Speyer
Speyer Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Palatinate dish: a pig’s stomach stuffed with minced pork, potatoes, and spices, slow-cooked and deeply flavorful.
Must-Try!
Very thin crust topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons; a popular Alsatian-style dish widely enjoyed in Pfalz taverns.
A comforting potato soup often served as a starter in Pfälzer eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, regional specialties, and street snacks.
Seasonal stalls along the river offering pretzels, sausages, and cold drinks during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; a handshake is common in formal situations.
Punctuality is valued; be on time for appointments and reservations.
Ask permission when photographing people in private settings; be mindful in religious sites and private venues.
Safety
Tipping in Speyer
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants; service charge is often included in casual places but not always in fine dining.
Cash is widely accepted, while EC/debit cards and major credit cards are increasingly common; contactless payments are popular in shops and cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with budding vines; ideal for city walks and outdoor cafés. Pack light layers and a rain shell.
Warm days with long evenings; great for riverside strolls and winery visits. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Harvest season and wine festivals nearby; pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and photography.
Cold with possible snow; Christmas markets in Speyer and nearby towns add festive charm. Warm clothing recommended.
Speyer at Night
Hiking in Speyer
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highest peak in the Pfälzerwald with panoramic views; popular hikes and vineyard scenery.
Forest trails around the Hohe Wacht and the Rietburg Tower, near Hambach Castle, offering rewarding viewpoints.
The Palatinate’s highest peak with long, scenic routes; excellent day-trip option from Speyer.
Airports
How to reach Speyer by plane.
Major international hub; about 1.0-1.5 hours by train or car from Speyer.
Regional airport serving European destinations; about 1.5 hours by car or train from Speyer.
Smaller airport with European connections; about 1.5-2 hours by road/train from Speyer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of locals, families, professionals, and students; proximity to the Rhine-Neckar region brings diverse influences.
Visitors attracted by the cathedral, museums, and Pfälzer wine culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team sport in the region; local clubs and amateur leagues are active.
Popular along the Rhine and in the Pfälzerwald; cycle routes and bike rental are common.
Well-supported by nearby trails in the Palatinate Forest and along the Rhine.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Speyer.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Pfälzer taverns offer vegetarian plates such as salads, Käseplatten (cheese boards), and potato-based dishes; ask for vegetarian versions of local dishes and confirm sauces/meats before ordering.