The Saale-Unstrut Wine Region is home to an exceptional collection of historic towns, charming wine villages, and cultural treasures. Nestled between the Saale and Unstrut rivers, you’ll discover medieval old towns, magnificent castles, renowned wineries, and a vibrant cultural scene. Every destination has its own unique character, offering fascinating history, regional cuisine, and spectacular views across the vineyards.

From our holiday apartment at The Old Vicarage in Rehehausen, you can easily reach the region’s most beautiful towns. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Naumburg Cathedral, explore the wine town of Freyburg (Unstrut) with Neuenburg Castle and the Rotkäppchen Erlebniswelt, relax in the spa town of Bad Kösen, or enjoy the wellness facilities of Bad Sulza. The nearby cities of Zeitz, Merseburg, and Jena also make excellent day-trip destinations.

Whether you are planning a cultural holiday, a wine getaway, or a relaxing weekend break, the towns of the Saale-Unstrut Wine Region offer an unforgettable combination of history, wine, nature, and authentic German hospitality.

Historic Towns, Vibrant Culture & Memorable Experiences

The location of The Old Vicarage makes it the perfect base for exploring some of central Germany’s most beautiful towns. Within a short drive, you can discover medieval streets, impressive architecture, museums, cosy cafés, excellent restaurants, and vibrant cultural attractions. Each town has its own distinctive character:

• Naumburg – History, wine, and UNESCO heritage
• Freyburg (Unstrut) – Vineyards, sparkling wine, and medieval charm
• Jena – Science, nature, and modern city life
• Erfurt – Medieval architecture and timeless atmosphere
• Leipzig – Culture, shopping, music, and urban energy

Naumburg – The City of Towers, Wine & History

Distance from The Old Vicarage: approx. 20 minutes by car
Perfect for: Half-day or full-day trips

Naumburg is the cultural heart of the Saale-Unstrut Wine Region and one of central Germany’s most beautiful historic towns. Medieval architecture, centuries-old wine traditions, and excellent restaurants create a truly memorable destination.

Highlights

Naumburg Cathedral
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s finest medieval cathedrals.

Historic Old Town

Stroll through charming streets lined with:

• Historic townhouses
• Boutique shops
• Cafés
• Beautiful market squares

Nietzsche House

Visit the former home of philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche and learn about his life and work.

Wine Experiences

Naumburg is an excellent starting point for:

• Wine tastings
• Vineyard walks
• Visits to local wine bars and wineries

Our tip:
Start your day exploring the old town, visit the cathedral, and finish the afternoon with a glass of local wine.

Freyburg (Unstrut) – The Heart of the Wine Region

Distance from The Old Vicarage: approx. 25 minutes by car
Perfect for: Half-day trips

Freyburg is considered the heart of the Saale-Unstrut Wine Region, combining vineyards, history, and outstanding culinary experiences.

Highlights

Neuenburg Castle

A magnificent medieval castle overlooking the vineyards and the Unstrut Valley.

Rotkäppchen Erlebniswelt

Discover Germany’s famous sparkling wine tradition through interactive exhibitions, cellar tours, and tastings.

Vineyards

Enjoy scenic walks and vineyard hiking trails with panoramic views.

Historic Town Centre

Browse small boutiques, cosy cafés, and traditional wine taverns.

Our tip:
A perfect afternoon:

Castle → Wine tasting → Dinner at a traditional wine tavern.

Bad Sulza – Wellness, Wine & Relaxation

Distance from The Old Vicarage: approx. 10 minutes by car
Perfect for: Half-day visits

Bad Sulza is the nearest spa town and an ideal destination for relaxation.

Here you’ll find a wonderful combination of:

• Wellness and thermal baths
• Vineyards
• Beautiful nature
• Traditional Thuringian hospitality

Highlights

Toskana Therme

Relax in thermal saltwater pools, saunas, and experience the famous Liquid Sound®.

Thuringian Winery Bad Sulza

Enjoy wine tastings while overlooking the surrounding vineyards.

Spa Gardens & Graduation Tower

Perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.

Our tip:
Bad Sulza is an excellent destination for a relaxing day in every season.

Jena – Science, Nature & Innovation

Distance from The Old Vicarage: approx. 35 minutes by car
Perfect for: Full-day trips

Jena offers a fascinating blend of science, history, and nature. Surrounded by wooded hills and located in the Saale Valley, this vibrant university city has something for everyone.

Highlights

Zeiss Planetarium

One of the world’s oldest planetariums, offering spectacular shows for all ages.

JenTower

Enjoy panoramic views across Jena and the Saale Valley.

Botanical Garden

A peaceful green oasis in the city centre.

Riverfront & Hiking Trails

Numerous scenic walking and hiking routes begin right from the city.

Our tip:
Combine sightseeing with a hike on the surrounding hill trails for unforgettable views.

Erfurt – The Historic Capital of Thuringia

Distance from The Old Vicarage: approx. 55 minutes by car
Perfect for: Full-day trips

Erfurt is widely regarded as one of Germany’s most beautiful historic cities, famous for its medieval atmosphere and beautifully preserved old town.

Highlights

Merchants’ Bridge (Krämerbrücke)

Europe’s longest continuously inhabited bridge lined with charming shops and artisan boutiques.

Erfurt Cathedral & St. Severus Church

A spectacular architectural ensemble overlooking Cathedral Square.

Historic Old Town

Discover:

• Independent shops
• Restaurants
• Cafés
• Historic half-timbered houses

Petersberg Citadel

Enjoy panoramic views across the city from one of Europe’s best-preserved Baroque fortresses.

Our tip:
Erfurt is best explored at a relaxed pace without a fixed itinerary.

Leipzig – Culture, Shopping & City Life

Distance from The Old Vicarage: approx. 60 minutes by car
Perfect for: Full-day trips

Leipzig combines rich history with a vibrant modern atmosphere. The city is famous for music, art, shopping, and excellent gastronomy.

Highlights

Historic City Centre

Explore elegant shopping arcades, cafés, restaurants, and lively squares.

St. Thomas Church

The church where Johann Sebastian Bach worked as cantor for many years.

Monument to the Battle of the Nations

One of Germany’s most impressive national monuments.

Leipzig Zoo

One of Europe’s most modern and highly regarded zoological parks.

Our tip:
Leipzig is the perfect destination if you would like to combine the tranquillity of the wine region with the excitement of a vibrant city.

Which Town Is Right for You?

Our Recommendations

For your first visit to the Saale-Unstrut Wine Region, we recommend:

• Naumburg – The cultural heart of the region
• Freyburg (Unstrut) – Wine, vineyards, and local traditions
• Bad Sulza – Wellness and relaxation

If you are staying for several days, we also recommend taking a day trip to Jena, Erfurt, or Leipzig.

One of the greatest pleasures of staying in the Saale-Unstrut Wine Region is the variety of experiences you can enjoy in a single day—walking through vineyards in the morning, discovering centuries of history in the afternoon, and returning in the evening to the peaceful surroundings of The Old Vicarage.