Bamberg: Where Hollywood dreams and movies are born

This 2-hour guided tour in Bamberg, Bavaria, Germany, offers a unique look at the city as a cinematic backdrop for some well-known films and series. Priced at $15 per person, the tour provides an affordable way to combine sightseeing with a touch of film history. The tour begins at the Obere Brücke, near the Altes Rathaus, and is led by a live German-speaking guide who is described as knowledgeable and engaging. It’s also wheelchair accessible, making it a welcoming option for many visitors.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its focus on Bamberg’s film production highlights—from classic cult movies to contemporary series. While the overall duration is just 2 hours, it manages to cover the city’s most cinematic spots and stories, ideal for those interested in both Bamberg’s history and its cinematic credentials. The moderate price and the chance to learn behind-the-scenes stories make this tour stand out among other city walks.

Key Points

• Short and engaging 2-hour guided walk focused on Bamberg’s film history.
• Starting point at Obere Brücke, with a guide holding a picture folder and wearing a “Geschichte Für Alle e.V.” badge.
• Affordable price of $15 per person, with flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights include filming locations for movies like “The Flying Classroom,” “The Sams,” “The Three Musketeers,” and the Netflix series “The Empress.”
• Visit notable sites such as the Aufseesianum, the Pfahlplätzchen, and the Bamberg Residence.
• Guides are praised for their explanations, making the stories behind the scenes accessible and fun.

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Exploring Bamberg’s Film Heritage at the Obere Brücke

The tour begins at the Obere Brücke, one of Bamberg’s most picturesque bridges, right at the entrance of the Altes Rathaus. From this starting point, the guide leads visitors along winding, medieval alleyways that have served as filming locations for multiple movies and series. The guide’s lively narration makes it easy to imagine Bamberg transformed into different eras and settings on screen.

This initial walk introduces how Bamberg’s scenic streets have hosted productions like “The Flying Classroom” and “The Sams,” making visitors aware of the city’s cinematic relevance. The starting point is easy to find, with the guide holding a picture folder that likely displays film scenes and locations.

Visiting the “Samshaus” and the Pfahlplätzchen

From the Obere Brücke, the tour continues to the “Samshaus”, a notable site in Bamberg’s old town that features heavily in the stories of films like “The Sams.” The Pfahlplätzchen—a charming, scenic area—follows as a key stop. Here, visitors can appreciate Bamberg’s picturesque setting, which has been dressed up for movie scenes.

The guide shares stories about how Bamberg’s look is carefully curated for film productions, emphasizing the city’s adaptable medieval charm. These locations are not just visually appealing but also crucial to understanding Bamberg’s filmography.

The Bamberg Residence and Its Cinematic Role

Next, the tour visits the Bamberg Residence, an impressive baroque palace that adds grandeur to the walk. The guide explains how the city’s architecture has been showcased in various productions, transforming Bamberg into settings resembling 17th-century Paris for “The Three Musketeers.” Up to 400 filmmakers reportedly worked in Bamberg during that filming.

This stop highlights Bamberg’s versatility as a film set, combining historical architecture with scenic streets. The storytelling helps visitors see the city through a cinematic lens, understanding how these locations serve double duty as both historic sites and film backdrops.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories of Bamberg’s Movie Production

Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights into how films are made and what it takes to transform Bamberg into different historical or fictional settings. These anecdotes deepen the understanding of the craft behind filmmaking, making the experience more than just a sightseeing walk.

Special attention is given to the filming of “The Three Musketeers”, which turned Bamberg into 17th-century Paris. This production drew as many as 400 filmmakers to the city, leaving a lasting mark on Bamberg’s streets and buildings. Such stories appeal to film enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Bamberg’s Medieval Alleyways and Filming Locations

As the walk progresses through Bamberg’s historic alleyways, visitors see where directors and camera crews have captured iconic scenes. These winding streets, which have remained largely unchanged for centuries, lend authenticity and visual charm to film productions.

The guide emphasizes how Bamberg’s medieval architecture provides a perfect backdrop for period films and series. Walking these streets feels like stepping onto a movie set, with the added context of knowing their cinematic history.

The Craft of Filmmaking in Bamberg

An important aspect of this tour is learning about how the city’s locations are dressed up for film shoots. The guide discusses aspects of set dressing, location selection, and filming processes, giving a behind-the-scenes perspective that enriches the experience.

This educational element is appreciated, as it helps visitors understand the effort involved in turning Bamberg into a cinematic stage. It also highlights Bamberg’s capacity to serve as a versatile backdrop, whether for family films, historical dramas, or series like “The Empress.”

Practical Information and Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a broad range of visitors. It departs from the Obere Brücke, a prominent and accessible meeting point in Bamberg’s old town. The live guide provides explanations in German, and the tour is flexible with booking—allowing reservations with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The price of $15 per person offers good value, considering the depth of stories and locations covered. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to continue exploring Bamberg afterward.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Bamberg

What sets this experience apart is its focus on Bamberg’s film history, combined with its scenic medieval settings. Unlike typical walking tours, this one provides a narrative about how the city has been transformed into a movie set, complete with stories about famous productions.

The guide’s knowledge and engaging storytelling are frequently praised, making this tour both educational and entertaining. It’s a great option for those interested in film, history, or simply enjoying Bamberg’s charming streets with a new perspective.

Final Thoughts on Bamberg’s Cinematic Tour

This 2-hour tour offers an affordable and engaging way to see Bamberg from a different angle—through its connections to film and television. It’s especially suitable for visitors who want a mix of sightseeing and storytelling about how Bamberg has helped shape cinematic history.

While the tour is primarily in German, its rich visual storytelling and the guide’s enthusiasm make it accessible. The inclusion of notable filming locations like the Aufseesianum and the Bamberg Residence enhances the experience.

Considering its positive reviews and moderate price, this tour is a worthwhile addition to any Bamberg itinerary, especially for film buffs or those eager to explore the city’s streets with a cinematic twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What is the starting point of the tour?
It begins at the Obere Brücke in Bamberg, at the entrance of the Altes Rathaus.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is guided in German.

Can I cancel the booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $15 per person.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
You will visit filming locations like “The Flying Classroom”, “The Sams”, “The Three Musketeers”, and the Netflix series “The Empress”, along with key sites such as the Samshaus, Pfahlplätzchen, and the Bamberg Residence.

Is the guide knowledgeable and engaging?
Yes, reviews highlight the guide’s great explanations and ability to make the stories fun and accessible.

Are there other similar experiences in Bamberg?
Yes, there are options like medieval tours, heritage walks, and castle visits, but this film-focus tour offers a unique perspective.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through GetYourGuide, with options to pay later and cancel if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby