Augsburg cathedral and the Hofgarten park

You can see it from far and wide in Augsburg: the city's cathedral and its two bell towers (62 m) rise majestically above the surrounding buildings. The cathedral's beginnings reach back into the 8th century, and today, the main Catholic church in the city is an impressive building that displays a range of architectural styles from different eras. Inside, it houses a collection of stained glass from 900 years. The graceful Marian window in the north aisle dates from the 15th century, but the five striking windows of prophets in the nave are even older. They date from the 12th century and are among the greatest works of Romanesque art in Germany. There is so much to see in the cathedral, and it's worth taking part in a professional tour to make sure you don't miss anything. Classic tours are not the only option available - visitors can also use tablets and smartphones to explore the building virtually.

To many people, the cathedral is more than just a stop on a sightseeing trip: it is also an oasis of peace and quiet. Every day, its doors are open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and it welcomes anyone who wants some time to talk to God.

If you would like some more beauty, head to the neighbouring Hofgarten park. Once part of the prince-bishop's palace complex, it is now open to the general public, but it is still something of a secret. Laid out during the Baroque and Rococo periods, it contains a lovely fountain and a water-lily pool with ornamental fish and little turtles. If you have time to spare, have a look at the "public bookcase" and then relax on one of the benches dotted around the park.

Afterwards, tourists are always welcome at a traditional restaurant right beside the cathedral: Bayerisches Haus am Dom specialises in Bavarian cuisine at excellent prices. The spot is famous for its generous portions, so it's the perfect place for anyone who has worked up a real hunger. It also has its own beer garden that is open in the summer months.

News, prices and opening hours are all available here. 

Getting here:

Leave Augsburg's main station, turn left and walk (northwest) for 170 m until you reach Frölichstrasse. Go right and follow Frölichstrasse for 600 m. Go right when you reach Volkhartstrasse, and after 68 m, go left at Kasernstrasse. Follow Kasernstrasse for 130 m. The street's name changes to Beim Hafnerberg. After about 50 m, there is a gate that gives access to Fronhof. Hofgarten park is located on the left. To get to the cathedral, stay on Fronhof and go through the arch at no. 8. Stay on the path and cross the park. Turn left at Hoher Weg after 260 m. The entrance to the cathedral is located on the left after 40 m