I tried to cross a small footbridge in Augsburg’s Old City, an indignant duck blocked my way. I merely wanted to continue my walk, but the duck didn’t seem to care. Behind him, another duck led a troop of ducklings from the sidewalk, down a grassy embankment, and into a rushing canal. Once the ducklings were safe, my adversary quacked his approval, did an about-face and joined his family. In a blink, they caught the current and disappeared around the bend.

 
Ducks notwithstanding, Augsburg is one of Germany’s most walkable cities. Even the exploration-challenged can follow color-coded signs for themed routes like “Tour of the Outer Wall,” “History Tour” and “Tour of the Palaces.” It’s a university city as well, and students add their own brand of exuberance to the streets, whether it’s smooching couples filling alleyways with laughter or crowds sitting outside coffee houses and jazz clubs.

Thriving low- and high-tech manufacturing industries have brought affluence to the city; in the evening, impeccably dressed residents take to the streets on their way to gallery openings, plays or fancy restaurants.
Thus Augsburg, long in nearby Munich’s tourism shadow, offers visitors a blend of cosmopolitan flair with old-world charm, of vibrant commercial life with a respect for history.

continue Fuggerei