Klein-Venedig (Little Venice), Bamberg

Little Venice is one of the most charming and widely photographed areas of Bamberg. Stretching along the eastern bank of the Regnitz River, this picturesque row of half-timbered houses once formed the medieval fishermen’s quarter — a lively but humble neighborhood where boatmen lived and worked right by the water. The tightly packed homes, dating largely from the 15th to 17th centuries, feature gabled roofs, wooden balconies, and small gardens that dip directly into the river, creating a postcard-worthy scenes.

Although the nickname “Little Venice” only became popular in the 19th century, the riverside lifestyle it refers to has much older roots. Fishermen here relied on the Regnitz river for both livelihood and transportation, and many houses still include historic boathouses or winches used to hoist small vessels from the water. Life in the quarter was modest, but its residents played an important role in the city’s economy, supplying fresh fish to Bamberg’s bustling medieval markets.

Today, Little Venice has transformed from a working district into a beloved attraction, admired for its atmospheric beauty rather than its industry. The best views can be enjoyed from the Lower Bridge, where the colorful façades ripple in the water below, or from the river itself aboard a gentle sightseeing cruise. During the annual Sandkerwa festival — Bamberg’s spirited folk celebration — illuminated boats float past the riverfront houses in a tradition that revives the historic heart of the neighborhood. The colorful houses can be described in many ways, and it’s up to you to decide what the narrative will be — whatever floats your boat.