Hostel am Ostentor

A stay in Regensburg is a step back in time. The Bavarian city's UNESCO-listed centre is one of the best-preserved medieval clusters in all of Germany, with hundreds of monuments, romantic balconies and fairytale towers lining its winding streets. The Danube cuts a calm path through the bustling city and lush green parks. Roman architectural influences are everywhere, so it's easy to see why it's sometimes called 'Italy's northernmost city'. For all its history, Regensburg is a contemporary place with a big student population and the highest concentration of bars in any German city.

Some Regensburg hostels are right in the heart of the old town, so you're just moments away from the many historical attractions. You can stay in a place with parquet floors and communal pianos, perfect for an impromptu singalong. Look for a Regensburg hostel with common rooms or an outdoor terrace if you're looking to meet new people. Self-catering facilities are handy if you don't want to eat out every night.

Regensburg is home to Roman, Romanesque and Gothic buildings. Its old town and Stadtamhof, just across the river, are where you'll find most of the medieval and Roman architecture. Stroll along their cobbled streets and sip coffee in the bustling squares to soak up the history. Haidplatz is a triangular square in the centre of the old town, and has buildings and arcades dating back to the 1500s. For a day trip, Nuremberg is around an hour away by train, and its old town dates back to 1100. Treat yourself to some bratwurst or local delicacy Fränkische Schäufele (a pork dish) while you're there. 

St Peter's Cathedral is a must-see in Regensburg. It's Bavaria's only Gothic cathedral, with impressive gargoyle-covered walls and ornate stained-glass windows. The 12th-century, 16-arched Steinerne Brücke (Stone Bridge) links the old town to Stadtamhof, and the fact it's still standing after more than 800 years is a true wonder of medieval engineering. Linked to the bridge's success is the nearby Historic Sausage Kitchen, which has been selling wurst for 900 years. 

Munich International Airport is the closest place to fly into. It'll take around 90 minutes from there to Regensburg by train, or you can catch the shuttle. The city's main train station, Regensburg Hauptbahnhof, is right in the centre. Walking or cycling are the easiest ways to get around the narrow streets, although you can catch a local bus if you prefer.