While as one of Germany’s oldest cities Augsburg is rich with historical attractions, seasoned travellers know that the true heart and soul of a destination can be discovered not just in its museums and cultural sites, but through the rich traditions of its gastronomic heritage. And, let’s face it – getting to know this charming Bavarian beauty through a few of its best eateries sounds like quite a tasty proposition, doesn’t it?
Ratskeller
Oozing authenticity and emanating some of the most delicious aromas in the city, you’ll find Ratskeller in an ambient location in the basement of the town hall. With an atmosphere reminiscent of a medieval banquet it can get pretty rowdy, but that just adds to the experience. The menu features mouthwatering traditional Bavarian dishes and a large range of beers, and you can dine outside on the terrace in summer, or visit on one of the themed nights for a healthy helping of fun with your food. If you’re partial to a tipple, call in for their daily cocktail happy hour.
Find it: Rathausplatz 2. Ph: +49 821 31988238. Open seven days 11am-1am (2am on Saturdays).
Berghof
Popular with the hip local youth, Berghof places the emphasis of its typically Bavarian food on a policy of ‘fresh is best.’ Using produce and ingredients direct from local suppliers, the menu changes daily and the earnest staff know the ins and outs of every dish coming out of the kitchen. While it’s slightly out of the city centre, it’s definitely worth seeking it out (tram line 1) to have a drink in the beer garden and sample its huge portions. The traditional German version of the pizza, the Flammkuche, comes highly recommended and the Presskopf (meat pieces in jelly) doesn’t disappoint either. Extremely good value for money and very relaxed – a great summer haunt.
Find it: Bergstrasse 12. Ph: +49 821 9984322. Open seven days midday-2pm, 5pm-midnight.
Bayerisches Haus am Dom
For authentic atmosphere and top quality Bavarian food to match, Bayerisches Haus am Dom has perfected the art of a dining ‘experience’. Within walking distance of many of the city’s most renowned attractions, this cosy, traditional restaurant offers an extensive menu with daily specials and chef’s recommendations. With such unusual dishes as Pancake Soup and Obazda (crushed camembert with herbs and a pretzel), and hearty favourites like Crispy Grilled Pork Knuckle and, of course, the Wiener Schnitzel, there’s something for everyone – as long as you like Bavarian! Sweet treat tip: try the Germknödel – a dumpling filled with plums and vanilla custard.
Find it: Johanisgasse 4. Ph: 49 821 3497990. Open seven days 11am-midnight (11pm on Sundays).
Brauhaus 1516
If you’re up for a casual party atmosphere, pop along for some great beer, good music and outstanding food at Brauhaus 1516. The restaurant is famous for its signature own-brew beer (some of which has quite a kick, so beware) and extensive menu of simple, hearty meals with a contemporary twist. The friendly, welcoming atmosphere is ramped up during the musical events held here on a regular basis – from country to hard core rock ‘n’ roll. If you like your beer cold, your food hot and your music loud – wilkommen!
Find it: Viktoriastrasse 1. Ph: +49 821 4540480. Open every day 9.30am-1am.
Lustküche
For a romantic last (or first, or every…) evening, this lovely low-key restaurant is just the ticket. Situated in the historic Old Town, everything – from the candles and subdued lighting to the super cool lounge music and innovative cuisine – is designed to create an ambience of privacy and romance. And it works. From the unobtrusive entrance, to the creative, constantly changing menu, to the fine wines to accompany every dish, Lustküche is guaranteed to give you a night to remember for all the right reasons. Sweet treat tip: finish off the evening by sharing the speciality dessert of Apricot and Mascarpone Mille Feuille with Cassis Sorbet. Better yet, don’t share…
Find it: Mittlerer Lech 23. Ph: +49 821 7808422. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-10pm, Tue-Sat 11.30am-2pm
Explore Augsburg
If you’re looking to fill in some time before breakfast, lunch or dinner, these tips will help you get to know the city without breaking the budget. After all, there are still plenty more great gastronomic experiences to be paid for…
How to Get to Augsburg
While you can fly from London Stansted direct to Memmingen Airport then take a shuttle transfer to Augsburg, the fastest route is to fly into Stuttgart or Munich, with a flight time of under two hours. A return flight with British Airways from London Heathrow to Stuttgart starts at around £86, while budget carriers like easyJet offer flights from London Gatwick to Munich for even less.
Whatever airport you choose, the fastest and most convenient way to complete the last leg of your journey is with a fixed price shared or private transfer from Shuttle Direct. From Munich Airport the journey takes just over an hour by road.
If you’re travelling to Germany by rail, you can make the journey to Augsburg in an average of 9.5 hours, travelling via Brussels, Heidelberg and Munich. Once you arrive at Munich train station, a convenient Shuttle Direct transfer service can take you the rest of the way.
Where to Stay
Dom Hotel – The elegant Dom Hotel offers the perfect combination of contemporary and traditional, with a stylish décor and refined ambience. In a superb central location walking distance from everything, the hotel is situated in the picturesque cathedral district, with views to the Augsburg Cathedral. The luxury facilities include a relaxing spa and gym, free Wi-Fi and extras like complimentary coffee and minibar drinks.
Steigenberger Drei Mohren – Right in the heart of the action on the beautiful Maximilianstrasse, the historic Steigenberger Drei Mohren offers all the grace and ambience of the past with the most modern accoutrements. With impeccably appointed suites and rooms, an onsite spa and restaurant, and fast and free high-speed Internet, the hotel is just a short stroll from most of the city’s best attractions.
SLEPS Bed & Breakfast – Cheerful, charming and full of character, SLEPS Bed & Breakfast is in the perfect position to explore the best of Augsburg. With private bathrooms, balconies, free Wi-Fi, games room and fantastic buffet breakfast, SLEPS offers far beyond what its tariff suggests.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is the premier provider of transfers from airports, cruise terminals and train stations throughout Europe and North Africa. No matter where you’re travelling to and from, our range of convenient, shared and private services are available to suit any needs and budget. Prebook online via our easy to navigate system and a friendly driver will be there to meet you and transport you to wherever you need to go, quickly and for a fixed price.
