✓ Find the best offers on your Stays on 🏡 booking.com
✓ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips on 🛵 GetYourGuide | on 🛵 Klook
There are great many things to do in Germany, and so are in Franconian Switzerland.
Nestled in the heart of Bavaria lies a natural wonderland known as Franconian Switzerland.
Explore stunning landscapes that resemble a canvas painted by a master artist, where towering cliffs, serene river valleys, and winding paths make up the backdrop for unforgettable adventure.
Whether hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, cycling alongside shimmering rivers, or savoring local delicacies and flavorful brews, Franconian Switzerland always leaves visitors mesmerized and eager for more.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Franconian Switzerland:
1. Pottenstein Castle
Pottenstein Castle is a historic castle located in the Franconian Switzerland region of Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the castle and its exhibits, which detail the history of the castle and the surrounding area. From the top of the castle, there are panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: The castle’s courtyard, which often hosts concerts and events during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the castle is located on a hill and requires some walking to reach.
2. Rabenstein Castle
A medieval castle located in Franconian Switzerland, Germany, that dates back to the 12th century.
What to see or do: Enjoy a guided tour of the castle interiors and admire the historical architecture and artworks. Walk around the castle grounds and enjoy the scenic view of the surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: Visiting the castle’s chapel, which is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic architecture in Germany. Also, check out the castle’s well-preserved medieval defense system, including the drawbridge and walls.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit during the summer months to enjoy the castle’s outdoor concerts and festivals. Wear comfortable shoes as the castle’s grounds involve some walking.
Finally, make sure to bring a camera for capturing the stunning views.
3. Devil’s Cave
Devil’s Cave is a limestone cave situated in Franconian Switzerland, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the cave with a guided tour. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes and takes you through narrow passageways and past underground waterfalls.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive stalactites and stalagmites formations, as well as the largest underground waterfall in Franconian Switzerland.
Insider travel tips:
4. Gößweinstein Castle
Gößweinstein Castle is a medieval fortress located in the town of Gößweinstein in the Franconian Switzerland region of Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s Gothic architecture, which includes towers, a chapel, and a courtyard. The castle also houses a museum featuring exhibits on the castle’s history and the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the castle’s chapel, which is home to a famous wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary, said to have healing powers.
The chapel is a popular destination for pilgrims.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, attend a medieval dinner hosted by the castle. Dress up in period costumes and dine on traditional food while entertained by musicians and performers.
Additionally, the castle offers guided tours in English for non-German speakers.
5. Binghöhle
Binghöhle is a limestone cave located in the Franconian Switzerland region of Germany, and is a popular tourist attraction.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, which lasts about one hour, and see its impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations.
Don’t miss: Make sure not to miss the cave’s largest chamber, known as the Dom, which is over 10 meters high and houses a stunning array of formations.
Insider travel tips: – Wear appropriate footwear as the cave can be wet and slippery.
6. Tüchersfeld Waterfall
Tüchersfeld Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall located in the Franconian Switzerland region of Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike through the scenic forest trails to reach the waterfall and enjoy the serene surroundings. The waterfall itself is about 20 meters high and is surrounded by lush greenery.
Don’t miss: Take a dip in the natural pool below the waterfall during the warmer months. This is a great way to cool off and enjoy the beauty of the waterfall up close.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the hike to the waterfall can be a bit steep.
7. St Mary’s Chapel Obertrubach
St Mary’s Chapel is a beautiful and historic church located in the picturesque town of Obertrubach, set among the rolling hills of Franconian Switzerland in Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the chapel’s impressive Romanesque architecture, beautiful frescoes, and intricate stained glass windows. The chapel also features a small museum with exhibits on the history and art of the region.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of St Mary’s Chapel is the ornate altar, which dates back to the 15th century and features intricate carvings and gold leaf accents.
Insider travel tips: – While the chapel is a popular attraction, it is still an active church, so be respectful of any services or ceremonies taking place.
8. Leienfels Castle
Leienfels Castle is a ruined fortress located in the Franconian Switzerland region of Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle ruins and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle complex includes multiple buildings, towers, and walls, all of which tell the story of the castle’s history.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the castle’s well-preserved gateway, which features a beautiful Gothic arch and intricate carvings. The castle’s impressive tower is also worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the castle is situated on a steep hillside and can be challenging to navigate.
Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view at one of the castle’s many vantage points. if possible, visit the castle during the off-season to avoid the crowds.
9. Nuremberg Toy Museum
The Nuremberg Toy Museum is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of toys and games in Nuremberg, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can view a vast collection of toys which date back to the 18th-century. The museum displays various types of toys from dolls and stuffed animals to model cars, trains, and planes.
There is also an exhibition displaying the evolution of board games and puzzles through the ages.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the display of antique toys that were produced in Nuremberg. Some of the most notable pieces include old-fashioned rocking horses, hand-crafted wooden soldiers, and tinplate toys.
Insider travel tips: The museum is easily accessible by public transport. Take the U-Bahn to Lorenzkirche station and then walk for ten minutes to the museum.
10. Basilica of the Fourteen Holy Helpers
A Baroque church located in the village of Bad Staffelstein, Franconian Switzerland, Germany.
What to see or do: Visit the Basilica of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Admire the beautiful interior decoration, which includes intricate frescoes and sculptures.
Attend a religious service or concert in the church.
Don’t miss: The Fourteen Holy Helpers, the patron saints of different ailments, who are depicted in the church’s artwork. Also, make sure to see the impressive organ that dates back to the 18th century.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule ahead of time to attend a service or concert in the basilica. Consider visiting during the annual pilgrimage in August, which includes a procession and other festivities.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful decorations inside the church.
11. Fantaisie Palace
A historic palace located in the Franconian Switzerland region of Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: – Walk through the lush gardens surrounding the palace and admire the intricate Baroque architecture.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes from the palace’s terrace.
Insider travel tips: – The palace can get crowded during peak tourist season, so consider visiting during the off-season for a more relaxed experience.
12. Greifenstein Castle
Greifenstein Castle is a medieval castle located in the heart of Franconian Switzerland in Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved walls, towers, and gatehouse. Inside the castle, there is a museum featuring various exhibits about the castle’s history.
The castle also boasts a stunning view of the surrounding forest and hills.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the castle’s impressive drawbridge, which is still in operation today. Also, take a stroll through the castle’s beautiful gardens.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about the castle’s history, you can take a guided tour or download an audio guide for a self-guided tour.
The castle is closed during the winter months, so plan your visit accordingly.
Lastly, make time to explore the surrounding Franconian Switzerland region, which is known for its scenic landscapes, charming villages, and delicious local cuisine.
13. Burggarten Bamberg
Burggarten Bamberg is a stunning garden situated on a hillock in the region of Franconian Switzerland, near Bamberg, Germany.
What to see or do: The garden boasts a colorful arrangement of flowers and shrubs, making it a feast for the eyes. Stroll around the garden paths and take in the sights and scents of nature.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys from the terraced garden. You can also explore the ancient castle ruins adjoining the garden.
Insider travel tips: Visit during spring or summer to witness the garden in full bloom.
✓ You on Insta? 👍@triplyzer✓ Find the best offers on your Stays on 🏡 booking.com
✓ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips on 🛵 GetYourGuide | on 🛵 Klook
