Schwandorf Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural attractions, and must-try foods of Schwandorf. Plan your trip with our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Schwandorf

Located in the heart of Bavaria, Schwandorf is a picturesque town in the Upper Palatinate region of Germany. With its charming half-timbered houses, tranquil parks, and rich history, Schwandorf attracts both locals and tourists alike. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will guide you through the best places to visit, where to eat and stay, and what to do in this charming town.

List of Places to Visit in Schwandorf

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Stadtmuseum - Explore the rich history of Schwandorf with a visit to the Stadtmuseum, showcasing the town’s medieval origins and important role in the salt trade.
  • Bulwark Museum - Located in the historic bulwark, this museum showcases the town’s military history and gives visitors a glimpse into the life of a soldier during the Middle Ages.
  • Schloss Fronberg - This castle dating back to the 16th century houses a museum displaying artifacts from the town’s Celtic and Roman past.

Natural Attractions of Schwandorf: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fronberger Castle Gardens - Take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding Schloss Fronberg and enjoy the stunning views of the castle.
  • Oberer Wöhrd - This park on the banks of the Naab River is perfect for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon under the trees.
  • Eixeber See - A popular spot for swimming and fishing, this lake is surrounded by hiking and biking trails, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Schwandorf

  • Naab Cycle Route - Follow the Naab River on this scenic route that passes through Schwandorf and the surrounding areas.
  • Felsenwanderweg - Take a challenging hike through the beautiful rock formations of the nearby Steinwald Nature Park.
  • Goldsteig Trail - This long-distance hiking trail passes through Schwandorf on its way from Marktredwitz to Passau, offering stunning views of the Bavarian countryside.

Best Things to Do in Schwandorf: Activities and Tours

  • Segway Tour - Explore Schwandorf on a Segway and take in the sights without breaking a sweat.
  • Sailing on the Naab River - Take a guided tour of the Naab River on a sailboat and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
  • Wine Tasting Tour - Sample some of the best Bavarian wines on a guided tour of local vineyards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Schwandorf

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Stadtmuseum and the Bulwark Museum
Day 2 Explore Schloss Fronberg and its surrounding gardens
Day 3 Take a day trip to Steinwald Nature Park and hike the Felsenwanderweg
Day 4 Enjoy a boat tour down the Naab River and dine at a local restaurant
Day 5 Take a Segway tour of Schwandorf and its surroundings
Day 6 Sample local wines on a vineyard tour
Day 7 Relax in Oberer Wöhrd and visit Eixeber See

Food and Drink Scene of Schwandorf

Must-Try Dishes

  • Schweinshaxe - This traditional Bavarian roasted pork knuckle comes with a side of sauerkraut and dumplings.
  • Bratwurst - No trip to Germany is complete without sampling its famous sausages, and Schwandorf’s bratwursts are among the best.
  • Kaiserschmarrn - This sweet dish is a Bavarian take on pancakes, served with fruit and whipped cream.

Local Beverages

  • Bayrisches Bier - Bavaria is known for its delicious beer, with Schwandorf boasting local microbreweries that create unique and flavorful brews.
  • Frankenwein - This wine from the nearby Franconia region is a must-try for wine lovers.
  • Obstler - A type of fruit brandy, Obstler is a popular after-dinner drink in Bavaria.

Where to Stay in Schwandorf: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Gasthof Gierl - This family-run hotel offers cozy rooms and homemade Bavarian cuisine.
  • Das Bärnsteinhof Gesundheits- & Wellnesshotel - Perfect for a relaxing vacation, this spa hotel has everything you need for a stress-free getaway.
  • Schloss Schwarzenfeld - This historic castle-turned-hotel with luxurious rooms and plenty of amenities will make you feel like royalty.

What to Buy in Schwandorf: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bavarian Beer Steins - Take home a piece of Bavarian culture with an authentic beer stein.
  • Dirndl and Lederhosen - Traditional Bavarian attire is a popular souvenir, with local shops offering high-quality options for both men and women.
  • Gingerbread Hearts - These heart-shaped gingerbread cookies decorated with icing are a sweet souvenir to bring home for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Schwandorf

Bavarian culture is deeply ingrained in the daily life and traditions of Schwandorf. Some of the most notable cultural practices in the region include the celebration of Oktoberfest, the wearing of traditional Bavarian clothing such as Dirndls and Lederhosen, and the love of hearty Bavarian cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Schwandorf

The best time to visit Schwandorf is during the summer months between June and August when the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, the fall months of September and October are also a great time to visit, with Oktoberfest celebrations and the changing leaves creating a picturesque backdrop for your vacation.

Do’s and Don’ts of Schwandorf

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, especially the sausages and pork dishes.
  • Do respect the local culture and dress accordingly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Do take advantage of the beautiful hiking and biking trails in the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment while exploring the outdoors.
  • Don’t forget to pack appropriate clothing for the weather, as it can change quickly.
  • Don’t forget to have cash on hand, as some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Schwandorf

Schwandorf is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take the usual precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Schwandorf

Germany has a high level of healthcare with excellent medical facilities. It is always recommended to purchase travel insurance before your trip, and visitors from outside the EU should make sure to have appropriate international health insurance.

Getting to Schwandorf: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Schwandorf

  • Munich Airport - Located 120 km away, Munich Airport is the largest airport in Bavaria and can be easily reached by train or bus.
  • Nuremberg Airport - Located 100 km away, Nuremberg Airport offers flights to a variety of European destinations and can be easily reached by train or bus.

Bus Stations Near Schwandorf

  • Schwandorf Bus Station - Located in the town center, this station provides local and regional bus services.
  • Nuremberg Central Bus Station - This large station is a hub for national and international bus services.

Other Options

  • Train - Schwandorf is easily accessible by train from major cities such as Munich and Nuremberg.
  • Car rental - Visitors can rent a car at the nearby airports or in Schwandorf itself to explore the surrounding countryside at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Schwandorf

Schwandorf is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. However, for those who prefer public transportation, the local bus system is reliable and affordable. Cycling is also a popular option, as the town and surrounding areas have many bike paths and trails.

Where to Go Next from Schwandorf: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Regensburg - Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site just 40 km away to see historic buildings and beautiful architecture.
  • Nuremberg - Known for its historic Christmas markets, Nuremberg is just 100 km away and is a popular destination year-round.
  • Munich - Bavaria’s capital city is just 120 km away and is full of cultural attractions, historic sites, and Bavarian breweries.

Conclusion

Schwandorf is a hidden gem in the heart of Bavaria, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic German culture and the beauty of the Bavarian countryside. With so many sights to see, activities to participate in, and delicious food to eat, Schwandorf is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Germany.