Upper Franconia Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich Upper Franconia with this comprehensive tour guide that includes a list of top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scenes, local culture, do's and don'ts, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Upper Franconia

Upper Franconia is a beautiful region located in the northern part of Franconia, Bavaria, Germany. The region is dotted with stunning landscapes, charming towns, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. Upper Franconia is known for its excellent beer, delicious cuisine, outdoor activities, and friendly people. In this tour guide, we will help you explore the best of what Upper Franconia has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Upper Franconia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Upper Franconia is steeped in history and culture, and there are several museums and historical places that reflect the region’s rich heritage. Some of the top attractions are:

  • Bamberg Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bamberg Cathedral is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and houses several valuable artworks.

  • Schloss Thurn und Taxis: A stunning Baroque palace in Regensburg that offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of the Bavarian royalty.

  • Bayreuth Margravial Opera House: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 18th-century opera house is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

  • Coburg Fortress: Overlooking the town of Coburg, the Coburg Fortress is a well-preserved medieval castle that has been transformed into a museum.

Natural Attractions of Upper Franconia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Upper Franconia offers breathtaking natural landscapes that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top natural attractions are:

  • Fichtel Mountains: A popular destination for hiking and skiing, the Fichtel Mountains are also home to several natural springs and beautiful lakes.

  • Franconian Switzerland: A hiker’s paradise, this region is famous for its unique rock formations, deep gorges, and dense forests.

  • The Franconian Wine Country: The rolling hills around the Main River are home to some of the best vineyards in Germany and offer scenic views.

  • The Upper Franconian Forest: This unspoiled region is perfect for nature walks, bird watching, and mushroom picking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upper Franconia

Upper Franconia is home to some of the most scenic hiking and biking routes in Germany. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a leisure cyclist, Upper Franconia has something for everyone. Some of the top trails include:

  • Franconian Switzerland: The region offers several hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. One of the most popular trails is the Franconian Switzerland Panorama Trail, which offers stunning views of the landscape.

  • The Mainradweg: This 600-kilometer cycle path follows the Main River from its source in the Fichtel Mountains to its confluence with the Rhine.

  • The Rennsteig: This 170-kilometer hiking trail runs through the Thuringian Forest and is famous for its panoramic views.

Best Things to Do in Upper Franconia: Activities and Tours

Upper Franconia offers a range of activities and tours that cater to all tastes and interests. Some of the top things to do are:

  • Visit a Beer Garden: Upper Franconia is famous for its beer, and there are several beer gardens and breweries in the region that offer tours and tastings.

  • Explore the Old Town of Bamberg: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town of Bamberg is a maze of winding streets, medieval buildings, and historic landmarks.

  • Take a River Cruise: The Main River offers several cruises that allow you to explore the region’s picturesque landscapes.

  • Visit a Spa town: Upper Franconia is home to several spa towns that offer relaxation and wellness treatments.

Week-Long Itinerary for Upper Franconia

To make the most of your trip to Upper Franconia, we suggest the following itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Explore the Old Town of Bamberg and visit the Bamberg Cathedral.

  • Day 3-4: Hike or bike through Franconian Switzerland and visit the Vierzehnheiligen Basilica.

  • Day 5-6: Visit the spa town of Bad Staffelstein and take a relaxing bath in the thermal waters of Obermain Therme.

  • Day 7: Take a river cruise on the Main River and enjoy the stunning views.

Food and Drink Scene of Upper Franconia

Upper Franconia is famous for its beer, wine, and delicious cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes are:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Franconian sausages with sauerkraut

  • Schäufele (roasted pork shoulder)

  • Franconian potato soup

  • Bamberger Hörnla (potatoes baked with onions and herbs)

Local Beverages

  • Rauchbier (smoked beer) from Bamberg

  • Franconian wine from the Main River Valley

  • Obstler (a spirit made from fruit)

Where to Stay in Upper Franconia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Upper Franconia offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay are:

  • Hotel Nepomuk in Bamberg: A boutique hotel located in the heart of the Old Town.

  • Gasthof Goldener Hirsch in Coburg: A traditional Bavarian guesthouse that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

  • Jugendherberge Bayreuth: A modern and affordable hostel located in the heart of the city.

What to Buy in Upper Franconia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Upper Franconia is known for its specialty products, including beer, wine, and handmade crafts. Some of the best souvenirs to bring back home are:

  • Franconian beer glasses and steins

  • Wine from the Main River Valley

  • Handmade pottery and ceramics

Local Culture and Customs of Upper Franconia

Upper Franconians are proud of their region’s heritage and traditions. These include:

  • The Franconian way of life, which stresses simplicity, honesty, and hospitality.

  • The local dialect, which is a unique blend of German and Franconian.

  • The custom of Kärwa, a harvest festival that is celebrated throughout the region.

Best Time to Visit Upper Franconia

The best time to visit Upper Franconia is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the region is also beautiful in the spring and fall, when the leaves change color and the vineyards are in harvest mode.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upper Franconia

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Take your time to explore the region.

Don’t:

  • Be loud and disruptive in public places.

  • Ignore the safety regulations in outdoor activities.

  • Take pictures of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Upper Franconia

Upper Franconia is a safe region, but it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Some safety tips include:

  • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.

  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.

  • Always follow the rules and regulations of outdoor activities.

Health in Upper Franconia

Upper Franconia has a good healthcare system, but it’s always important to have travel insurance. It’s also important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from sunburn and insect bites when doing outdoor activities.

Getting to Upper Franconia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Upper Franconia is well-connected to other parts of Germany and Europe. Some transportation options include:

Airports Near Upper Franconia

The closest airports to Upper Franconia are Nuremberg Airport and Frankfurt Airport.

Bus Stations Near Upper Franconia

The major bus stations in Upper Franconia are located in Bamberg, Bayreuth, and Hof.

Other Options

You can also travel to Upper Franconia by train or car.

How to Get Around in Upper Franconia

The best way to get around Upper Franconia is by car, as it allows you to explore the region at your own pace. However, there are also public transportation options available, including buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Upper Franconia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time, there are several nearby destinations and excursions that you visit from Upper Franconia, including:

  • Nuremberg, a bustling city with a rich history and culture.

  • Regensburg, a beautiful medieval city on the banks of the Danube River.

  • The Romantic Road, a scenic route that passes through several historic towns and stunning landscapes.

Conclusion

Upper Franconia is a hidden gem in Germany that offers a combination of culture, nature, and adventure. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can explore the best of what Upper Franconia has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Richard Wagner's Festival Theater (Festspielhaus) in Bayreuth Richard Wagner's Festival Theater (Festspielhaus) in Bayreuth Kronach Kronach Kulmbach Market place Kulmbach Market place Theresienstein at Hof Theresienstein at Hof Bamberg: Altes Rathaus ''(old townhall)'' over the river Bamberg: Altes Rathaus ''(old townhall)'' over the river


    Aufseß
    Bamberg
    Bayreuth
    Buttenheim
    Coburg
    Fichtelgebirge
    Franconian Switzerland
    Hof
    Kulmbach