Stunning Old-World Cities That Still Feel Frozen in Time

25. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany: A Fairytale Town

With its medieval walls, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of Germany’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a Brothers Grimm fairytale, with every turn revealing storybook scenery straight from the Middle Ages. The Market Square serves as the town’s beating heart, surrounded by Gothic and Renaissance buildings, while the Medieval Crime Museum offers a fascinating (and sometimes eerie) look into historic European law and punishment. Visitors can climb the Town Hall Tower for breathtaking views or walk along the intact medieval walls, peering down at the rooftops that haven’t changed in centuries. Rothenburg is also famous for its Christmas traditions, hosting one of Germany’s most magical holiday markets. Whether you visit in summer or winter, this timeless village will transport you to another era.