Descend beneath the Neupfarrplatz square into an excavated cross-section of 2,000 years: the foundations of a Roman legionary fortress, the cellars of Germany's oldest documented Jewish quarter (recorded around 1000 AD, razed in 1519), and a Nazi-era ring bunker. A 14th-century hoard of 624 gold coins and the Jewish community's seal ring were found here. It is one of the most affecting and least-touristed experiences in the city — history you literally walk down into.
What to expect
Access is only by guided tour — you gather at the surface and descend a staircase into the excavation, following walkways past Roman walls, Jewish cellar rooms, and the bunker. The guide narrates the 1519 expulsion and the layered archaeology; it runs just under an hour. The space is atmospheric and quiet, a deliberate change of register from the lively squares above. Above ground, a contemporary memorial outlines the lost synagogue.
Cruise lines rarely offer this, which is part of its appeal — it is an independent, insider choice rather than a marked-up excursion. At about EUR 8 booked through the tourist office it is one of the best-value cultural hours in Regensburg, and there is no OTA to inflate it. Book direct at the Rathausplatz Tourist Info.
Good to know
Neupfarrplatz is central, a 10-minute walk from the river berths. Tours run on a fixed schedule (commonly afternoons, Thu-Sat year-round with more days in summer) — buy tickets and confirm the next departure at the Tourist Info, Altes Rathaus, Rathausplatz 4. Limited group size, so reserve on arrival. About an hour underground; plan against all-aboard.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Regensburg — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.