May be a siily question but what is the difference between Rothenburg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber or are they th eone in the same
Maybe yes and maybe no. There are several Rothenburg in Germany. The Rothenburg that is popular with R Steves is ob der Tauber - meaning Rothenburg over the river Tauber. Generally on this site Rothenburg does mean Rjothenburg ob der Tauber. However looking for train schedules etc. than it needs to be ob der Tauber so not to be confused with other Rothenburg.
Frank, The Rothenburg recommended by Rick Steves is definitely Rothenburg ob der Tauber. When asking for directions or train connections, you must mention this name in full, for there is another Rothenburg.
There are also two Frankfurts and they are on oppisite sides of the country so be careful when setting your GPS if driving or buying tickets if traveling by train .