Attractions and Places To See in Kelheim - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Kelheim include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The town is uniquely situated at the confluence of the Danube River and the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal, offering scenic views and diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries, impressive monuments, and the dramatic Danube Gorge. The region provides opportunities to experience both historical significance and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see in Kelheim
- The most popular attractions is Weltenburg Monastery, a religious building dating back to around 600 AD. It is home to what is considered the world's oldest operating monastic brewery, established in 1050.
- Another must-see spot is Hall of Liberation, Kelheim, a man-made monument commissioned by King Ludwig I. Situated on Michelsberg hill, it offers panoramic views of the Danube and surrounding region from its viewing terrace.
- Visitors also love Danube Gorge (Weltenburg Narrows), a gorge characterized by impressive cliffs. Boat trips through the gorge are a popular way to experience this natural feature.
- Kelheim is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and viewpoints. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient city gates to scenic river landscapes.
- The attractions in Kelheim are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 5600 upvotes and 3100 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Weltenburg Monastery
Highlight • Religious Site
If you want to dive deeper into the monastery, then you should take part in one of the very informative guided tours. But you have to sign up ten days in advance.
The conclusion of your visit to the monastery then forms a stop in the monastery tavern. Special specialty is the self-brewed beer Welternburger Baroque Dark.
All information about the monastery and the tavern can be found at kloster-weltenburg.de and klosterschenke-weltenburg.de.
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View of Prunn Castle
Highlight • Viewpoint
At the castle you can see the permanent exhibition "Prunn Castle and the Nibelungenlied" as well as the interior of the castle.
Information about opening times and admission prices can be found here: schloesser.bayern.de/deutsch/schloss/objekte/prunn.htm.
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View of Kelheim's city gates
Highlight • Viewpoint
In front of the Altmühltor there was a spacious gatehouse, which was demolished in May 1875. This created a spacious space between the gate and the former bridge over the Altmühl. The Mittertor is the western entrance gate to Kelheim's old town and part of the former city fortifications. On its north side, the Donautor bears the first city coat of arms with the city gate and the Bavarian Wecken and, like the Altmühl- and Donautor, allows entry into the old town.
From the 15th century, the Donautor was the seat of the paving duties. If you drive along the Danube Cycle Path, Kelheim is well worth a visit.
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Riedenburg Old Town
Highlight • Settlement
riedenburg.de
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Tatzlwurm Bridge, Essing
Highlight • Bridge
The striking architecture is worth seeing and the crossing by bike is in a good mood.
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Charbonnières-les-Bains Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
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Danube Gorge (Weltenburg Narrows)
Highlight • Gorge
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Beehive Rock Formation
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Hall of Liberation, Kelheim
Highlight • Monument
Opening times (ticket sales until 5:15 p.m.): Monday to Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A small restaurant in the immediate vicinity also invites you to linger.
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Kuchlbauer Tower (Hundertwasser Tower) and Beer Garden
Highlight • Monument
The Kuchlbauer Tower was built according to the artist's designs. For him, straight lines were something ungodly and so a beautiful 35-meter-high tower was created that captivates every viewer.
On a brewery tour you will not only be introduced to the art of brewing, you will also be given insights into the life of the legendary wheat beer dwarves or the secret of the Last Supper. A tour always ends with a beer tasting.
You can find more information here:
regensburg-bayern.de/erleben/sehenswuerdigkeiten-um-regensburg/hundertwasser-turm.
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Other adventures in Kelheim
Tips from the Community
One might think that a dragon is winding its way from one bank to the other here. But what you see here is not a creature sprung from a fantasy novel, but a wooden footbridge that connects the two riverbanks of the Main-Danube Canal. With its 193 meters in length, it can proudly claim to be one of the longest wooden bridges in Europe. Beautiful views of Essing, the Randeck castle ruins, and the river landscape are guaranteed from the bridge. And with a little luck, a ship will pass under the bridge just as you are standing on it enjoying the view. On the other side are the Klausenhöhlen caves, which are part of the Altmühltal archaeological park and served as a dwelling for Neanderthals. During the construction work of the Main-Danube Canal, the crossing to the other bank was interrupted. Since this could not remain the case, the construction company Rhein-Main-Donau AG had to come up with something. The plan was that an almost 200-meter-long bridge should be built in the unique landscape of the Altmühl valley. In the end, the unusual bridge construction by architect Richard Johann Dietrich was chosen, which is characterized by a special lightness and a curved design. After seven years of planning and development work, and with the help of engineering and modern timber construction technology, the unusual bridge structure could be realized. https://www.herzstueck.bayern/attraktion/holzbruecke-tatzlwurm-200e691cf1
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A magnificent bridge was built over the old Danube here. It leads to the island pool. Very beautiful.
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Planned by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, realized after his death with significant changes and opened in 2010.
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Kehlheim has some city gates worth seeing. From there you have a beautiful view of the city. Kehlheim has a beautiful old town with Renaissance facades. And it has lots of pubs and beer gardens.
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You must have seen that. The tower was not built the way Hundertwasser had actually planned it. Should be 70m high. But the church tower with 54m was of course the limit. And unfortunately Hundertwasser died in the planning phase. The project was completed by Peter Pelikan, Hundertwasser's architect.
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Great view of the Liberation Hall and the Danube breakthrough
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We went there especially to admire Abensberg in all its glory and Christmas lights. It's also worth visiting the city like this.
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Imposing buildings If you are in Kelheim you have to see it! There are also many beautiful hiking and biking trails that leave from there!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-see natural features in Kelheim?
Kelheim is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. The Danube Gorge (Weltenburg Narrows) is a highlight, characterized by impressive 131-foot cliffs and best experienced by boat. The Altmühl Valley, one of Germany's largest nature reserves, offers delightful scenery for hikers and cyclists. You can also witness the unique confluence of the Danube River and the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal.
Which historical landmarks should I visit in Kelheim?
Don't miss the Hall of Liberation, Kelheim, an impressive monument offering panoramic views from Michelsberg hill. Explore Kelheim's medieval past by visiting the Mittertor, Altmühltor, and Donautor city gates. The Wittelsbach Castle, located by the Danube, also holds significant historical importance as the birthplace of Duke Ludwig I.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions in Kelheim?
Yes, Kelheim offers several family-friendly options. Boat trips through the Danube Gorge are popular and enjoyable for all ages. The Weltenburg Monastery, with its historic setting and brewery, can be an interesting visit for families. Many viewpoints, like the View of Kelheim's city gates, are also accessible and offer scenic spots for a family outing.
What cultural sites can I explore in Kelheim?
The Weltenburg Monastery is a significant cultural site, dating back to the 600s and housing the world's oldest operating monastic brewery. You can also visit the Einsiedelei Klösterl (Hermitage Klösterl), a unique hermitage carved from a cliff-side cave. For history enthusiasts, the Archaeological Museum Kelheim and the Orgelmuseum in the Franziskanerkirche offer insights into the region's heritage and art.
What outdoor activities can I do near Kelheim's attractions?
The region around Kelheim is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking and cycling trails, including the Donau-Panoramaweg and the Altmühl Valley cycle path. For mountain biking, explore the MTB Trails in Kelheim. Cyclists can enjoy various routes like the Altmühl-Danube Tour or the Weltenburg Tour, detailed in the Cycling in Kelheim guide.
Are there any easy hiking trails near Kelheim?
Yes, there are options for easy hikes. The Altmühl Valley is generally suitable for walkers, and you can find trails that offer gentle terrain. While specific easy routes aren't detailed here, the region's extensive network of paths means you can often find shorter, less strenuous sections, especially along the riverbanks or within the Altmühl Valley Nature Park.
What is the best way to experience the Danube Gorge?
The best way to experience the wild and romantic Danube Gorge (Weltenburg Narrows) is by boat. Cruises depart from Kelheim multiple times a day, offering splendid views of the impressive cliffs and natural beauty with bilingual commentary.
How long does it take to visit Weltenburg Abbey?
A visit to Weltenburg Abbey can vary. You might spend an hour exploring the church and baroque courtyard, or longer if you choose to enjoy a meal and the famous beer at the monastery tavern. Guided tours are also available, which would extend your visit.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Kelheim?
The Hall of Liberation, Kelheim is wheelchair accessible, with a lift available to reach the viewing terrace for panoramic views. The Riedenburg Old Town is also noted as wheelchair accessible, offering a charming historical setting. Additionally, the Charbonnières-les-Bains Bridge is listed as wheelchair accessible.
What are some hidden gems or unique spots in Kelheim?
Beyond the main attractions, consider a scenic 30-minute walk from Kelheim's port to the Einsiedelei Klösterl (Hermitage Klösterl), an ancient hermitage hewn from a cliff-side cave with a small chapel and beer garden. The Tatzlwurm Wooden Footbridge in Essing is another unique spot, one of Europe's longest wooden bridges, offering beautiful views and connecting to the Klausen Caves.
What do visitors enjoy most about Kelheim?
Visitors frequently praise the combination of historical significance and natural beauty in Kelheim. The stunning views from the Hall of Liberation, the unique experience of a boat trip through the Danube Gorge, and the charm of the Weltenburg Monastery are often highlighted. The opportunity for hiking and cycling in the picturesque Altmühl Valley also receives high acclaim.
Are there good places to eat or drink near the main attractions?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The Weltenburg Monastery has a popular monastery tavern known for its self-brewed beer. Near the Hall of Liberation, there is a small restaurant. Kelheim's old town, particularly Ludwigplatz Square, features various cafés and restaurants, perfect for a break.
Most popular routes in Kelheim
Most popular attractions in Kelheim
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