The town of Rothenburg embodies the German Middle Ages like no other, with massive stone town walls studded with 42 towers dating back to the 11th century; half-timbered houses with red-tiled roofs; cobblestone streets and flower-pot-filled window panes: That is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the “Red Fort on the River Tauber” is where fairy tales come true.

At the centre of it all is the christmas market, annually held in Rothenburg for over 500 years and counting.

Itinerary:
09:30: Departure from platform 8
12:51: Arrival in Rothenburg
13:10: Entrance through the Röder Gate & The Old Forge
13:20: Markus Tower & White Tower
13:30: Blade Gate to Castle Gate
13:50: The "Plönlein" or the most famous picture spot in Germany
14:30: Market Square & 220 steps up the Town Hall Tower
15:00: Lunch Break & Free Time
There's a ton more to see in Rothenburg and I'll also upload the tourism board's official brochure, but my recommendation is to wander around and get a little lost. One particular place you have to see is the Christmas shop "Käthe Wohlfahrt".

Culinary Highlight: Rothenburger Schneeballen ("Snowballs" made out of shortcrust pastry)

Return Train: 18:05 from platform 1
There are other connections at 19:05 and 20:05