Ochsenfurt: Old Town, Wine and Forest Trails
Accommodation in Ochsenfurt
The historic old town of Ochsenfurt is enclosed by an almost complete system of fortifications with numerous town gates and towers. Together with the town hall clock and the figures on the Old Main Bridge, details like these shape the view of the town. You can combine different interests when planning your trip: history in the townscape, forest trails, geological features or wine.
Old Town History and Figurine Clock
The New Town Hall dates from the 15th century. In the Lanzentürmchen, the figurine and moon clock displays Ochsenfurt's coat of arms, the days of the month and the phase of the moon. The figures represent youth, old age and death. Alongside the expansive impression made by the fortifications, this is a single landmark rich in detail.
The Old Main Bridge has its own figures, too. A figure named Thekla has stood on the right bank of the Main since 2012. Opposite is a figure of Saint John of Nepomuk created by Willi Grimm; on the town side stands a second depiction of Nepomuk by Wilhelm Ax. The different names, locations and artists give the bridge an additional cultural touch.
Forest Trails and Rock Formations
In the Ochsenfurt Forest, at the junction towards Ochsensee, you can choose between two route options: a shorter loop along the edge of the forest and back through the woods, or a longer route around Ochsensee. The first option combines the forest edge and woodland, while the second goes around the lake—a practical distinction if you want to choose your loop based on the route you have in mind.
The “Experience Geology” trail near Kleinochsenfurt offers a different nature experience. It leads to the “Würzburger Quaderkalk” quarry, where visitors can explore interesting rock formations. The quarry was designated a National Geotope in 2019. This gives you a choice between a walk through the forest and a closer look at rock formations as distinct points of interest.
Wine Tastings and Guided Walks
Wine tastings with individual winegrowers or at the vinotheque are possible after contacting them by phone in advance. Ochsenfurt Tourist Information organizes wine tastings for individuals or groups, as well as guided walks through the vineyards, also for individuals or groups. Confirm the specific arrangements with the respective providers or the Tourist Information before making your plans. This lets you choose between a tasting and a guided walk as different ways to explore the subject of wine.
More Experiences in the Wider Würzburg Destination
The wider Würzburg destination offers a broader view of the landscape: Würzburg district is set within an intact cultural landscape of vineyards, forests, expansive open countryside and the Main Valley. In Ochsenfurt, the Nixe old-town ferry runs regular sightseeing and ferry trips on the Main from May to October. As seasonal timetables may change, check the latest times before travelling.
In Veitshöchheim, the Main riverfront promenade offers a different experience. Its green spaces feature sculptures by various sculptors. There is also a large adventure playground with play equipment for all ages, including a trampoline and a climbing wall. A barefoot path and a Kneipp footbath for water treading round out the amenities along the promenade.
Those interested in themed trails can explore the approximately two-kilometre-long Sundial Trail in Röttingen. It passes 25 different sundials within and around the town walls. In Sommerhausen, a sculpture park is located above the vineyards in the Siegelswäldchen woodland: seven artists display life-size works on the theme of winegrowers. These examples have clearly distinct focuses, from a walk featuring sundials to art centred on wine.
Choose the Right Focus for Your Holiday Apartment
When choosing a holiday apartment in Ochsenfurt, it helps to first decide which interests matter most during your stay: would you like to focus on the town fortifications, town hall clock and bridge figures, are you more drawn to the forest and geology, or are you planning wine tastings and a guided walk? If you would also like to visit other places in the wider Würzburg destination, the promenade, Sundial Trail and sculpture park can provide additional themed destinations. This way, your choice of location reflects the character of your trip rather than a one-size-fits-all recommendation.
Discover more destinations: Tauberrettersheim, Helmstadt, Veitshöchheim, Gaukönigshofen, Zell Am Main, Hausen Bei Würzburg, Würzburg, Randersacker.
Back to the wider travel overview: Würzburg.
