Worms

The Basics

Former capital of the Kingdom of the Burgundians, once ruled by Charlemagne, and a site of a public clash between Martin Luther and the Catholic Church, Worms ranks among Germany’s oldest cities. Piece together its history as you tour its religious landmarks, from the Jewish Cemetery to its extraordinary cathedral and the 11th-century Worms Synagogue. Visit Worms as part of a Rhine River cruise, or from Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Mainz, or other cities in the region.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Worms played a role in the famedNibelungenlied—a 12th-century epic poem—and its Nibelungen Museum is the perfect place to learn more about the work.

• Wine drinkers should look out for Liebfraumilch, as the semi-sweet white wine hails from the region.

• Worms’ history dates as far back as the Bronze Age, and its City Museum (Museum der Stadt Worms) highlights artifacts and important moments in the city’s past.

How to Get There

Worms is easily accessible from Frankfurt by train in about one hour, with dozens of trains running daily between the two cities. To reach Worms by car, take the A5 to the A67; the 45-mile (72-kilometer) journey takes just over an hour. To see the city by boat, book a cruise—many river cruises have Worms as a stop.

When to Get There

There’s no bad time to visit Worms, though the city will be at its quietest in winter, when many sightseeing cruises do not operate. The city boasts a lively events calendar throughout the year; be sure to research city events prior to your travels.

Events and Festivals in Worms

Worms holds numerous major annual events and cultural and historical festivities. In spring, Worms hosts a Worms in Bloom botanic event and carnival celebrations; in summer, its popular theater festival, Nibelung, and the wine and folks festival, Backfischfest, are held; in September, the city hosts Jewish Culture Days; and the Worms Christmas Market is a December highlight.