Little Venice (Klein Venedig)
Tucked along the eastern bank of the Regnitz between the Markusbrücke and Untere Brücke, Klein Venedig is a row of 17th-century fishermen's half-timbered houses that back directly onto the water, their wooden landing stages and flower-draped balconies reflected in the slow current below. It's Bamberg's most quietly romantic corner and still largely unknown to day-trippers.
The Waterfront Walk
The best approach is from the Untere Brücke bridge, walking north along the Fischereistraße embankment so the entire terrace of painted facades opens up in front of you. Each house is slightly different in colour and lean — some have subsided gently towards the river over the centuries — giving the row an organic, unplanned beauty that no architect could have planned.
In late spring the window boxes erupt in geraniums and the landing stages are draped in fishing nets left to dry in the sun, completing a scene that genuinely earns the Venetian comparison. Early morning, before the tour groups arrive, the reflection in the still water is mirror-perfect.
Exploring by Boat
Boat tours of the Regnitz depart from the Geyerswörthsteg landing stage and pass Klein Venedig from the water, which gives you the perspective the fishermen themselves once had. The 50-minute round trip also takes in the confluence of the Regnitz and the Ludwig-Donau-Main Canal, a 19th-century engineering feat that once connected the Rhine to the Danube.
Alternatively, rent a stand-up paddleboard or canoe from the outfitter near the Kettenbrücke and paddle past the facades at your own pace — the river is calm and wide enough for beginners.
More of Bamberg
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Bamberg →
