Things To Do
in Straubing
Straubing is a historic Bavarian city on the Danube boasting a well-preserved old town and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to the Gäuboden plain and its timeless Bavarian traditions, including beer gardens and local markets. The town seamlessly blends medieval architecture with riverside strolls, museums, and easy day trips into nearby woodlands.
Visitors can expect a compact, walkable center, friendly locals, and quintessential Bavarian cuisine and culture year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Straubing's historic center. Visit the magnificent Stadtturm, a medieval tower that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. Stop by a local café to savor a delicious Bavarian breakfast of pretzels and coffee.
After lunch, explore the stunning Gothic St. Peter's Church, known for its intricate stained glass windows and impressive architecture. Wander through the picturesque, cobblestone streets, popping into quaint shops and boutiques to find unique souvenirs. Take a break at the Stadtpark, where you can relax and enjoy the lush greenery and serene atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Bavarian beer garden for dinner, where you can enjoy local dishes such as Weisswurst and Schweinshaxe. Engage with locals and fellow travelers while sipping on refreshing German beers. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the Danube River, where the twinkling lights reflect on the water.
Start your day by visiting the impressive Straubing Castle, a historical site that dates back to the 13th century. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and the role it played in the region's past. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the castle grounds, perfect for a peaceful morning stroll.
After exploring the castle, indulge in lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves traditional Bavarian cuisine. Following your meal, visit the local museum, where you can discover exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Straubing. Don’t miss the chance to admire the beautiful artworks and artifacts on display.
In the evening, make your way to the city center to experience Straubing's vibrant nightlife. Choose from a variety of pubs and lounges where you can enjoy live music and mingle with locals. End your evening with a nightcap, reflecting on the memorable experiences of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-70 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚶Local transport day pass | $6-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful historic center with a strong Bavarian character
- Great base for exploring the Gäuboden region and Danube scenery
- Compact, walkable city with good dining options
- Rich cultural calendar and friendly locals
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with larger cities
- Limited high-end dining options compared to bigger urban centers
- Seasonal crowds during festival periods can be busy
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Straubing
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant, colorful square framed by historic buildings and the town hall, perfect for daytime street photography and candid shots.
Scenic river views with bridges and green spaces; a great spot for sunset photography and reflections on the water.
remnants of old fortifications and towers around the old town offering texture, history, and skyline viewpoints.
Gothic and Baroque church exteriors and interiors provide architectural detail and interior lighting opportunities.
Food in Straubing
Straubing Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional veal sausage served with sweet mustard and pretzels, best enjoyed fresh in the morning with a local Weissbier.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted pork with crispy crackling and rich gravy; commonly found in Bavarian taverns and local restaurants.
Crispy-skinned roasted pork knuckle, often served with potato dumplings and sauerkraut.
Cheesy egg noodles layered with caramelized onions; a comforting vegetarian-friendly option in many eateries.
A soft pretzel paired with a Bavarian cheese spread; a perfect snack or starter in beer halls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market in the city center offering fresh produce, cheeses, sausages, breads, and regional specialties; great for tasting local products.
Seasonal stalls along the Danube riverfront presenting snacks, pastries, and quick bites—ideal for a casual lunch or an evening snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A common greeting; use it when entering shops or meeting locals in public spaces.
Being on time is valued in both personal and professional contexts.
Maintain a respectful tone in restaurants and public transport; Bavarians typically value politeness and reserve in crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Straubing
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% is customary when service is satisfactory; in more casual settings you may round the total.
Cash is widely accepted and often preferred in smaller venues; debit/credit cards (EC cards, Visa/Mastercard) are common in larger establishments and tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming parks and gardens; ideal for walking tours and riverside strolls. Rain showers are possible, so bring a light jacket.
Warm days and lively outdoor scenes; enjoy beer gardens, Danube activities, and local festivals such as Gäubodenvolksfest if visiting in August.
Comfortable temperatures and harvest flavors in local cuisine; great for city walks and color-rich photography.
Cold but festive with Christmas markets and seasonal meals; expect possible snow and shorter daylight hours.
Straubing at Night
Hiking in Straubing
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the Danube offering flat, easy-to-navigate sections with river views and gentle overlooks.
Open-field and woodland trails on the Gäuboden plain suitable for relaxed hikes and countryside photography.
Short drives from Straubing to forested parks provide shaded hikes and wildlife observation opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Straubing by plane.
Major international hub about 110-130 miles (180-210 km) from Straubing; connections to most European cities and many international destinations.
Regional airport offering a good selection of domestic and European flights, approximately 85-110 miles (140-180 km) away.
Nearby Austrian airport offering several European routes; convenient for travelers heading to the Danube region, about 80-140 miles (130-230 km) away depending on routing.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial number of residents are families attracted by schools, parks, and a safe environment.
Young professionals and students come for regional employment and accessibility to Bavarian hubs.
A steady stream of visitors year-round, drawn by Bavarian culture, Danube scenery, and the Gäuboden region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport at local clubs and community fields, with matches and junior programs drawing family attendance.
The Danube Bicycle Path and surrounding routes attract casual riders and enthusiasts alike.
Within short drives, nearby Bavarian forests offer opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Straubing.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include Kässpätzle, dumplings with mushroom sauce, salads, and fresh local vegetables. When ordering meat dishes, ask for meat-free versions or sides; many restaurants can adapt dishes to vegetarian preferences.