✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
Greetings Explorers! Immerse yourselves in Lauf An Der Pegnitz, a hidden gem within Germany.
Nestled in the heart of Bavaria like a pearl in a oyster, Lauf an der Pegnitz invites visitors to dive headfirst into a lively and enchanting world that combines the best of nature, history, and culture.
A stroll through this charming town is like a journey through time, with cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and world-class museums that offer a glimpse into the fascinating stories and legacies of the people who have lived here for centuries.
Whether you’re a culture vulture, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxed and authentic Bavarian experience, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see in Lauf an der Pegnitz that will leave you enchanted and craving more.
Lauf an der Pegnitz is known for its beautiful medieval old town, featuring well-preserved half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets, making it a charming tourist destination.
This historical town is often compared to the picturesque old town of wiesbaden in Germany or even augsburg due to its architectural charm and rich heritage.
1. Burg Lauf
Burg Lauf is a medieval castle located in the town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, in the Franconian Switzerland region of Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s multiple levels, including the chapel, armory, and dungeons, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the castle’s towers.
The castle also features a museum with exhibits on the castle’s history.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a walk around the castle’s beautifully landscaped gardens, and check out the castle’s impressive collection of historic weapons.
Insider travel tips: Take the time to visit the charming town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, which features colorful half-timbered houses, picturesque streets, and a lively weekly market.
And, if you’re visiting in the winter, don’t miss the town’s popular Christmas market, which features traditional Bavarian crafts and foods.
2. St Marienkirche
St Marienkirche, also known as the Church of St. Mary, is a beautiful late Gothic church located in the historic Bavarian town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the impressive vaulted ceiling and intricate stained glass windows of the church.
The high altar, noble tomb, and pulpit are also must-see features.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a closer look at the church’s restored 15th-century frescoes, which depict scenes from the life of Jesus and Mary.
The neo-Gothic style organ, built in 1900, is also worth seeing.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the summer, attend one of the church’s organ concerts for a truly unique and enjoyable experience.
Additionally, make sure to take a stroll through the charming town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, which has many historic buildings and picturesque streets worth exploring.
3. Stadtmuseum Lauf
Stadtmuseum Lauf is a history museum located in Lauf an der Pegnitz, Germany that showcases the historic and cultural heritage of the city and its surrounding areas.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the exhibits featuring various aspects of Lauf’s history, including the city’s development, politics, commerce, and religion.
The museum also showcases local art, culture, and crafts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the exhibits featuring the famous Nuremberg-based artist, Albrecht Dürer, who lived in Lauf in the early years of his life.
The museum also has a unique collection of artifacts from the former Jewish community in the area.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check out the guided tours, which are offered in English, German and French for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
The museum is closed on Mondays and entry is free on the first Sunday of every month.
4. Stadtbrunnen
Stadtbrunnen is a beautiful and historic fountain located in the heart of Lauf an der Pegnitz, a charming town in Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: View the impressive architecture of the fountain, which depicts four figures representing the town’s history and industries.
Take a stroll around the picturesque square and explore the nearby shops and cafes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the daily water show, as the fountain’s design allows for changing shapes and patterns of water.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Stadtbrunnenfest, a lively festival celebrated in honor of the fountain and its history.
For the best photo opportunities, come early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
5. Pegnitzwiesen-Reserve
A nature reserve in the town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, Germany.
What to see or do: Explore the beautiful natural surroundings, including meadows, forests, and wetlands.
Walk or bike along one of the many well-maintained trails, or take a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: The observation tower, which provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Be sure to also keep an eye out for the various bird species that call the reserve home, including woodpeckers, kingfishers, and herons.
Insider travel tips: Bring insect repellent, particularly during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be abundant in the wetter areas of the reserve.
Additionally, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather conditions, as many of the trails can be muddy or slippery after rainfall.
6. Laufer Mühlenfest Museum
A museum showcasing the history and significance of mills and milling technology in Lauf an der Pegnitz.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits and displays that illustrate the processes of milling, including the grinding of grains, production of flour, and operation of milling machinery.
Admire the restored mill machinery and learn about the important role mills played in the development of the local economy.
Don’t miss: The guided tour that provides unique insights into the history of the museum and its exhibits.
The tour takes visitors through various working areas of the mill and highlights the technologies that contributed to the development of the milling industry.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the operating hours of the museum before visiting.
To avoid crowds and get a more personalized experience, plan your visit during weekdays or off-peak hours.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes to navigate the museum’s uneven floors and staircases.
Additionally, the museum is located in a picturesque town, so consider combining your visit with a walking tour of the town’s historic attractions.
7. Altdorfer Hof
Historic Hotel in the town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, Germany
What to see or do: Enjoy the picturesque town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, explore the nearby Hersbruck Switzerland Nature Park, go hiking or biking on numerous trails in the area.
Don’t miss: The hotel’s signature restaurant “Zum alten Schlosswirt”, known for its authentic regional cuisine and impressive wine list.
Insider travel tips: Take a stroll through the hotel’s scenic garden, or book a room with a private balcony overlooking the town.
Stay during the town’s annual festival in September, featuring live music, food, and traditional Bavarian costumes.
8. Rosenaupark
Rosenaupark is a spacious and serene urban park located in the town of Lauf an der Pegnitz in Germany.
What to see or do: – Take a leisurely stroll along the well-maintained walking paths.
Don’t miss: – The impressive Rosenauschlössl, a manor house situated within the park.
Insider travel tips: – Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal in the shady groves.
9. Stadtbibliothek Lauf
Stadtbibliothek Lauf is a public library in the town of Lauf an der Pegnitz in Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: The library offers a wide range of literature for people of all ages, including books, magazines, newspapers, and audio and e-books.
It also hosts regular events and exhibitions, such as readings, lectures, workshops, and movie nights.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the library’s beautiful architecture and design, which includes colorful stained-glass windows and a spacious atrium with a glass roof.
Insider travel tips: – You can easily reach the library by foot or bike from the town center.
10. Heimatmuseum Röthenbach bei Lauf
Heimatmuseum Röthenbach bei Lauf is a local history museum located in the town of Röthenbach bei Lauf, near Lauf an der Pegnitz in Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of the town and the surrounding area.
You can view objects and displays that range from prehistoric times to the present day, including local crafts, household items, and agricultural tools.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the museum’s replica of a prehistoric burial chamber that was discovered in the area.
The museum also has a collection of old bicycles, tricycles and a Penny-Farthing.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.Visitors can combine this trip with a hike or walk through the beautiful surrounding countryside.
Moreover, the museum can be reached easily by train or car from Nuremberg.
11. Schloss Neunhof
Medieval castle located in Lauf an der Pegnitz, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s dungeon, gateway, chapel, kitchen, and treasury.Take a guided tour to learn about the castle’s history, architecture, and legends.
Don’t miss: Admire the magnificent Renaissance portal and the ornate stucco ceilings in the Knights’ Hall.Also, check out the collection of antique weapons and armor.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the summer, attend the castle festival and watch knight tournaments, jugglers’ shows, and musical performances.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as there are many stairs to climb.
12. Evangelisches Gemeindezentrum Lauf
Evangelisches Gemeindezentrum Lauf is a church community center located in Lauf an der Pegnitz, a picturesque town in Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: The center hosts regular church services and events for the local community, including concerts, lectures, and social gatherings.
Visitors can attend a service or participate in one of the many events hosted here.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, which is home to many historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and scenic walking trails.
Be sure to also check out the local bakeries and cafes, which serve up delicious German pastries and coffee.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in local history, be sure to check out the nearby castle ruins of Burg Lauf, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
If you’re visiting during the summer, you may also want to attend one of the many music festivals that take place in the area.
Finally, be sure to bring a camera – the streets of Lauf an der Pegnitz are lined with colorful traditional buildings that make for great photo opportunities.
13. Christuskirche Lauf
Christuskirche Lauf is a historic Lutheran church located in the picturesque town of Lauf an der Pegnitz in Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can step inside the church and admire the stunning architecture, including the intricate stained glass windows and wooden altar.
The church also hosts regular services and concerts throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a stroll around the town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, which is known for its charming cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and picturesque riverfront.
Insider travel tips: The town is also home to several delicious restaurants and bakeries that serve up traditional German fare and pastries.
If you’re visiting during the holiday season, be sure to attend the town’s Christmas market, which is held in the shadow of the Christuskirche and features vendors selling handcrafted gifts and tasty treats.
14. Altdorfer Kirchweih
Altdorfer Kirchweih is an annual 10-day festival held in Lauf an der Pegnitz, Bavaria, Germany to celebrate the city’s patron saint, St. Martin.
What to see or do: At Altdorfer Kirchweih, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of carnival rides, games, food, and drinks.
The festival also features live music and traditional Bavarian dances.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the festival is the parade on the second Sunday, during which St. Martin’s statue is carried through the streets and through the decorated marketplace.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and to secure a table in one of the festival’s beer tents.
Be sure to try some of the traditional Bavarian dishes, such as roast pork and sausages, along with a cold glass of beer.
Also, don’t forget to bring cash as many vendors do not accept credit cards.
15. Schloss Diepersdorf
Schloss Diepersdorf is a stunning castle located in the town of Lauf an der Pegnitz, in the state of Bavaria, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle, including its beautiful ballroom, kitchen, and chapel.
The castle is also surrounded by a large, well-manicured garden which is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet picnic.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the castle’s impressive collection of antique furniture and art.The intricate wood carvings and ornate chandeliers are particularly impressive.
Insider travel tips: The castle is easily accessible by public transportation, so visitors can save money by ditching their car.
The castle is open to the public year-round, but spring is the best time to visit when the flowers are in bloom.
16. Note: Some of these attractions are located in the nearby towns of Röthenbach and Altdorf
Toy Museum
What to see or do: See a collection of toys from the Middle Ages to modern times, including famous German toy brands.
Don’t miss: The dollhouses, including a replica of a 17th-century Nuremberg house.
Insider travel tips: Allow plenty of time to explore the four floors of exhibits.The museum can get crowded, so visit early in the day.