5 Highlights in Coburg

Michael Wigge

As a travel journalist and speaker, I have traveled to many countries, such as in ‘Ohne Geld bis ans Ende der Welt’ (ZDFneo), and explored a wide variety of places and cultures.

During my trips to Germany, such as ‘Auf dem Tretroller durch Deutschland’ (Deutsche Welle TV), and also as a motivational trainer and speaker, I had the opportunity to stop in Coburg from time to time – a town full of history, culture and unique experiences.

As an expert in low-cost and slow travel, I’d like to present my personal top highlights in Coburg.

From festivals to culinary delights and historical discoveries – here are five reasons why you shouldn’t miss Coburg this year. 

And let my challenges inspire you!

The Coburg International Samba Festival, which takes place every year on the second full weekend in July, attracts around 150,000 visitors to the Franconian town on the river Itz.

Originally an idea of three friends and organizers over 30 years ago, the festival has developed into one of the largest outside Brazil. With around 3,000 sambistas, it is now known far beyond the town’s borders and is an important figurehead for Coburg.

In the summer months, the open air summer sponsored by HUK-COBURG takes place in Coburg every year with several concerts of various musical genres, groups and soloists.

The HUK-COBURG open air summer attracts national and international artists to the town every year. From pop and rock to hip-hop, there is something for every musical taste.

Coburg bratwurst is a regional specialty that you should definitely try when you visit the town. Its special recipe and history as well as its unmistakable taste make it a must for gourmets.

What would Coburg's market square be without the bratwurst roasters in their smoky stands?

The Coburg bratwurst is a culinary specialty that is known far beyond the borders of the town. To pay it due homage, there is even a tour of the town dedicated entirely to the sausage. The Coburg bratwurst roaster tells an entertaining story about his guild.

At Ehrenburg Palace, an important historical landmark, visitors can follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria, who had a close connection to this town. The meeting between Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria and Queen Victoria in 1863 is documented by a memorial plaque, a remarkable testimony to royal history.

However, Victoria’s connection to Coburg goes far beyond this meeting. When Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in 1840, Coburg became a regular place of residence for the royal couple.

The reconstruction of these historical moments allows visitors to take a fascinating journey into the past and recognize the importance of Coburg as a place of royal encounters and historical events.

Weblink in English: Ehrenburg Palace

Your challenge: Visit Ehrenburg Palace and look for clues to Queen Victoria’s presence on a guided tour, in particular the historic water closet.

The Christmas Market in Coburg usually ends one day before Christmas Eve. So what are you waiting for? Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere and let yourself be enchanted by the anticipation of the festive season!

You can find more information about the Coburg Christmas Market here.

Your challenge options:

Mulled wine challenge: Set off in search of the most unusual mulled wine on the market. Take a picture of yourself and share it on social media to see which mulled wine photo gets the most likes!

Food challenge: Try at least three different local specialties on offer at the Coburg Christmas Market. Rate your favorites and recommend them to friends and family.