Things to Do in Speyer Germany

The well-preserved medieval Old Town of Speyer features charming streets, half-timbered houses, and squares, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls and exploration. What I liked most is the town is devoid of huge tourist traffic. It is easy to complete all interesting things to do in Speyer Germany at your pace.

Speyer boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. The city’s history is closely associated with the Holy Roman Empire making it one of the oldest cities of Germany. Its historical significance is evident through its well-preserved architecture, including the iconic Speyer Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a very long time Speyer was a prominent center of politics, culture, and trade.

Speyer in German means: a port in SW Germany, in Rhineland-Palatinate on the Rhine. Speyer is historically known in English as Spires.

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Things to Do Speyer

Here are a list of best things to do in Speyer Germany. Choose among these activities, all worthwhile, if you have less than a day to spare in Speyer. Some of them are absolutely free to do.

1. Domnapf Speyer

In front of the cathedral stands the Domnapf. This is a huge bowl or font which has a capacity of 1560 liters of water. During celebrations, this is filled with local wine of the region, the Palatinate wine.

2. Altpoertel Speyer

The Old Gate (Altpoertel) is the medieval west city gate of Speyer, and is one of the original 68 towers in the old walls and gates. It is one of the few parts that are left of the medieval city walls. The tower narrowly survived the destruction of Speyer in 1689, during the War of the Grand Alliance.

Altportel is credited as the highest city gate in Germany. Besides that it is considered the most important symbol of Speyer.

Altpoertel Speyer

3. Technik Museum Speyer

The museum is stuffed with a wide range of display – technology from the underwater world to space, inside of a submarine, sea cruiser, Jumbo Jet, world’s largest organ, aerospace and amazing naval exhibition, discover a variety of aircraft, classic vintage cars, racing and classic motorcycles, historic fire engines, massive steam locomotives, mechanical instruments, rarities and fashions.

It is interesting to note that the Museum of Technology is housed in a former 1913 aircraft hangar. Kids, especially, will be thrilled to see the good collection of airplanes, vintage automobiles, fire engines, locomotives that were in use once, and automatic musical instruments. A 20-ton U-boat once used to terrorize Allied shipping in the Atlantic attracts the maximum attention.

Just adjacent to this is the Marine Museum with a good collection of historical model ships.

Tickets: 15€ for adults, 11€ for children 15 and less
Timings: Open every day 9 AM to 6 PM.

Technik Museum Speyer Aircraft

4. Sea Life Speyer

This aquarium has a wide collection of exotic marine creatures. Kids get interested in the interactive touch pools. The informative displays offer rich educational material. The Shark Tank here is a highly visited sight, especially during the live feeding sessions. Arrive early to avoid disappointments.

5. Mittelalterlicher Judenhof, Speyer

It is a small museum that showcases a slice of Jewish life in Germany. You can see a very well preserved medieval mikvah (ritual bath). A fragment, partly reconstructed, is all that remains of the Romanesque synagogue.

The Synagogue and Mikva show how these people felt comfortable being in medieval Germany and then, how they re-built again after setbacks until they were ultimately thrown out of their homes. There are five tombstones recovered from their earlier desecration, and a modern statue honoring the “wise men” of Speyer.

Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
Tickets: 2 Euros

Synagogue Speyer

6. Dreifaltigkeitskirche in Spires Germany

It is a late Baroque, Protestant parish church in Speyer, built between 1701 and 1717. The interior is impressive. It is the only elaborate, baroque-style church that still exists in the Rhine-Main-Neckar region. The façade, not original one, is impressive.

Soon after the devastating city fire of 1689, the resilient Trinity Church emerged as a beacon of renewal and faith. The church’s construction took place between the years 1701 and 1717, embodying the dedication of the community to rekindle hope.

Among the ecclesiastical landmarks of Speyer, Trinity Church holds a special distinction as the oldest among the five Protestant churches in the city. Its historic significance and its enduring architectural grace, serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience and devotion that has defined its existence throughout the centuries.

Address: Dreifaltigkeitskirche, Große Himmelsgasse 4, 67346 Speyer, Germany
It is located at a three minutes walking distance from the cathedral (850 m).
Timings: Please do check before you visit. It is different on different days of the week.

Dreifaltigkeitskirche in Speyer

7. Rhineland Carnival

Speyer is known for its vibrant Rhineland Carnival celebrations, attracting visitors with colorful parades, street parties, costumes, music, and lively festivities. Rhineland festival in Germany takes place during the months of end Feb to early March, goes on for a week. The festival starts on a Thursday. The days have unique names:

• Thursday – Old Women’s Thursday
• Friday – Carnival Friday
• Saturday – Carnation Saturday
• Sunday – Tulip Sunday
• Monday – Rose Monday
• Tuesday – Violet Tuesday

Rhineland carnival

8. Speyer Cathedral

The Imperial Cathedral, formally known as the Imperial Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption and St. Stephen (in Latin: Domus sanctae Mariae Spirae), holds a storied history dating back to its consecration in the year 1061. Presently, this architectural marvel stands proudly among UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage listings.

Located at the heart of Speyer, this cathedral’s grandeur is accessible to the public. While it generously opens its doors to all who wish to explore its splendor, it temporarily suspends access during moments of church service, exemplifying its continued role as a place of worship and community gathering. You can read more here: Speyer Cathedral Germany.

9. Historical Museum of the Palatinate

The Historical Museum of the Palatinate is conveniently situated in proximity to the Imperial Cathedral of Speyer. This museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the cultural history of the Palatinate region. Within its walls, visitors can engage with five distinct permanent collections, each offering unique insights into various historical epochs and facets of the area:

• Prehistory: Discover artifacts from the ancient past, shedding light on the early inhabitants and their way of life in the Palatinate.
• Roman Times: Immerse yourself in the legacy of the Roman era, exploring the impact of Roman civilization on the region.
• Cathedral Treasury: Delve into the historical artifacts associated with the Imperial Cathedral, gaining a deeper understanding of its religious significance.
• Modern Era: Journey through more recent historical periods, uncovering the stories and events that have shaped the Palatinate over time.
• Wine Museum: Learn about the Palatinate’s rich viticultural heritage, exploring the traditions, techniques, and cultural importance of wine in the region.

Address: Domplatz, 67346 Speyer, Germany. It is situated across the square from the Speyer Cathedral.
Timings: Open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Sunday – 11.30 AM to 5.30 PM.

10. Schwetzingen Castle

The summer residence of the Electors Palatine, Charles III Philip and Charles IV Theodore, is renowned for its expansive and intricately designed gardens. Notably, the gardens of the castle feature a distinctive mosque-style building. It is credited to be Germany’s earliest structure of its kind. Constructed between 1779 and 1791, the mosque was built during an era when the “Turkish” architectural style was in vogue within Germany. While its original purpose did not entail prayer, the mosque later took on religious roles during certain periods, reflecting its evolving significance over time.

Address: Schloß Mittelbau, 68723 Schwetzingen, Germany. The castle is located 11.9 km from the Cathedral.
Timings: 9 AM to 8 PM in summers (5 PM in winters).
Tickets: Palace Garden Combined Tickets 9 Euros in summer, 7 Euros in winter; 5 Euros in garden.

Interior of Schwetzingen Palace garden Castle

11. Holiday Park Germany

Combining elements of a park and a woodland, the Holiday Park stands as one of Germany’s premier theme park destinations. This dynamic attraction presents a diverse array of entertainment options, featuring a blend of amusement rides, exhilarating roller coasters, water-based adventures, and engaging live shows.

Interestingly, Holiday Park has gained widespread recognition for its iconic Expedition GeForce roller coaster, a thrilling ride that has consistently secured its place in the upper echelons of numerous “best roller coaster” rankings.

Holiday Park Germany is located 10.3 km from the Cathedral.

12. Kunsthalle Mannheim

This modern Kunsthalle Mannheim stands as a vibrant hub for contemporary art, playing host to an array of art collections and temporary exhibitions that embody the artistic essence of Mannheim. Established in 1907, this esteemed institution boasts a diverse collection, encompassing approximately 1,500 masterpieces from an array of artists. Notable luminaries such as Édouard Manet, Paul Cézanne, and George Grosz contribute to the rich tapestry of the museum’s holdings.

Furthermore, the museum underwent a recent transformation with the completion of a new extension building in 2018. This striking addition showcases a significant compilation of works by the acclaimed artist Anselm Kiefer, elevating Kunsthalle Mannheim’s stature as a haven for artistic expression and innovation.

This modern museum is located 18.5 km from the Cathedral.

13. Mannheim Baroque Palace

Initially serving as the primary abode for the Prince-electors of the Electorate of the Palatinate from the esteemed House of Wittelsbach, Mannheim Baroque Palace carries a storied legacy. Today, University of Mannheim uses a section of the palace.

This captivating castle is worth a visit for rich history and also for the impressive array of treasures. You can explore its opulent interiors, adorned with exquisite tapestries, fine furniture, captivating paintings, delicate porcelain, and resplendent silverware. With its doors open to curious minds, Mannheim Baroque Palace offers a glimpse into the past and an immersive experience within its regal confines.

Mannheim Baroque palace is located 18.5 km from the Cathedral.

14. St. Joseph’s Church – Gedächtniskirche der Protestation

If you are keen to visit the Speyer Churches, here is one more, St. Joseph’s Church Speyer.

Standing as a significant Catholic sanctuary within the City of Speyer, St. Joseph’s Church holds the distinction of being the second largest place of Catholic worship, second only to the grand Cathedral.

The commencement of its legacy dates back to June 9, 1912, when the foundation stone was laid with a vision of a sacred haven. Two years later, on November 22, 1914, the revered Bishop of that era, Dr. V. Faulhaber,  officially dedicated it to its divine purpose.

A Munich-based painter named Ronge graced the church with his artistic skills, adorning the altars with meticulously crafted tableaus. The high altar has paintings that illustrates scenes from the formative years of Jesus’ life.

St. Joseph’s Church is located at a driving distance of 1.2 km from the main Cathedral and worth including in the your list of things to do in Speyer.

The impressive facade of St Joseph’s church Spires – Gedächtniskirche der Protestation

15. St. James Pilgrim statue on Maximilianstrasse in Speyer

The St. James Pilgrim statue is a well-known landmark located on Maximilianstrasse, which is a prominent street in Speyer, Germany. The statue depicts a pilgrim holding a staff and a gourd, symbolizing the journey of pilgrims to the shrine of St. James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.

Speyerer has historical significance as a stop along the Way of St. James pilgrimage route, which extends from various parts of Europe to Santiago de Compostela. The statue serves as a nod to this pilgrimage tradition and adds to the cultural ambiance of Maximilianstrasse.

I too stopped to admire and photograph the St. James Pilgrim statue as we explored the city’s attractions and landmarks. It’s a representation of the enduring spiritual and cultural connections that have shaped the city over the centuries.

16. Walk along Speyerer Rheinpromenade

And, to culminate your exploration of Speyer’s finest offerings, consider taking a leisurely walk with ice cream treats along the charming Speyerer Rheinpromenade. This picturesque riverside promenade invites you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Rhine River. In addition to its scenic allure, the promenade is adorned with benches to pause, allowing you to sit back and savor the vistas at your own pace.

Location of Speyer in Germany

Speyer is located on the left bank of the river Rhine. Speyer lies 25 km south of Ludwigshafen and Mannheim, and 21 km south-west of Heidelberg.

How to reach Speyer

Speyer can be reached by train, state transport and by private cars (we did this). The nearest airport is Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Speyer’s main train station is Speyer Hauptbahnhof.

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Indrani Ghose is an Indian Travel Writer and Blogger based in Bangalore, India. She has written for numerous publications across the globe – including Lonely Planet, The National UAE, Whetstone Asia, Deccan Herald. You can follow her on her social media handles Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook to see the wonderful destinations, beautiful offbeat places and get instant updates about them.