Ellwangen Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque region of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, lies the charming town of Ellwangen. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate any traveler.

History buffs will be enthralled by the rich historical heritage of Ellwangen. The town boasts an impressive history that dates back over 1,200 years. Begin your journey by exploring the Ellwangen Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. As you wander through its ancient halls and courtyards, you'll feel as though you've been transported back in time.

For those seeking a cultural experience, Ellwangen has a vibrant arts scene that is sure to impress. The Ellwangen Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Marvel at the intricate frescoes adorning the abbey walls and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the abbey church. If you're lucky, you may even catch a performance by the renowned Ellwangen Abbey Choir.

Nature lovers will find solace in the natural beauty that surrounds Ellwangen. Take a leisurely stroll along the idyllic Jagst river, which winds its way through the town. Explore the nearby Ellwanger Berge, a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and lush forests. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on one of the many scenic trails that crisscross the area, offering stunning views and a chance to reconnect with nature.

No visit to Ellwangen would be complete without indulging in the local culinary delights. The town is known for its traditional Swabian cuisine, which features hearty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Treat your taste buds to a culinary journey and savor regional specialties such as Maultaschen (Swabian ravioli) or Spätzle (egg noodles) served with tender, succulent meats.

Alternative names: Population: 24.5 thous. (2019)Area: 49.21 mi²Elevation: 1437 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 48°57'40"N, 10°7'51"E

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Baden-WürttembergGermany

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Ellwangen Top Attractions

Ellwangen Attractions - What to See and Explore

Ellwangen offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Alamannenmuseum Ellwangen, St. Vitus, Mary's Church, Schloss ob Ellwangen. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum
Alamannenmuseum Ellwangen
The Alamannenmuseum Ellwangen in Ellwangen was opened in 2001 and provides a lively overview of 500 years of Alamannic history from the early Middle Ages with finds from all over southern Germany.
Historical place • Church • Sacred and religious sites
St. Vitus
The Basilica of St. Vitus Ellwangen is a late Romanesque vaulted building from the 13th century. This sacred building, which characterizes the townscape, has served as the Catholic parish church for the core city of Ellwangen since secularization.
Church
Mary's Church
St. Mary's Church in the center of Ellwangen is a Catholic church built in 1427 as a city church for the city parish of Ellwangen and today belongs to the parish of St. Vitus.

Architecture • Forts and castles
Schloss ob Ellwangen
The castle ob Ellwangen served from 1460 as a residence and seat of power for the prince princes of the Ellwangen prince provostry and from 1802/1803 to 1842 as an electoral or royal residence.
Church
Protestant church
The baroque Stadtkirche Ellwangen is a Protestant church in the city center of Ellwangen that characterizes the cityscape of Ellwangen.
Sacred and religious sites • Church
Schönenbergkirche
The Schönenbergkirche, also known as the pilgrimage church "Zu Unserer Lieben Frau", is located on the 530 meter high Schönenberg near Ellwangen and is an important church building in the region of East Württemberg.
Church
Antoniuskapelle
The Chapel of St. Anthony in the Ellwangen district of Schrezheim is famous for its faience altar, which comes from the Schrezheim porcelain manufactory and is one of the most important works of faience art.

Day trips

Ellwangen – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Ellwangen, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Karacho, Vogelherd Cave (Niederstotzingen), Bayerisches Eisenbahnmuseum (Nördlingen).

49 milesW
Amusement, Amusement park, Amusement ride
Karacho
Karacho in Germany is one of the most modern and exciting attractions at the Tripsdrill amusement park. This electrifying rollercoaster is a real treat for adrenaline lovers, offering speed, acceleration, and incredible maneuvers that take your breath away.
28 milesS
Nature, Natural attraction, History museum
Vogelherd Cave, Niederstotzingen
The Vogelherd Cave, nestled in the city of Niederstotzingen in Germany, is a prehistoric archaeological treasure trove that has been instrumental in understanding the lives of early humans. Discovered in 1931, this cave has yielded some of the oldest and most...
18 milesSE
Museum, Specialty museum
Bayerisches Eisenbahnmuseum, Nördlingen
Nestled in the heart of the charming Bavarian town of Nördlingen, the Bayerisches Eisenbahnmuseum (Bavarian Railway Museum) is a must-visit destination for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich...
29 milesN
Gothic architecture, Church
St. James's Church, Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Nestled in the heart of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a picturesque town in Bavaria, Germany, stands St. James's Church (St. Jakobskirche), an architectural gem that beckons visitors with its rich history and stunning design.
44 milesSW
Forts and castles
Hohenneuffen Castle
Perched atop the craggy cliffs of the Swabian Jura in Germany, Hohenneuffen Castle is a majestic ruin that offers a window into the region's medieval past. This fortress, dating back to the 1100s, commands a strategic position with panoramic views that sweep across the...