Things To Do
in Furth im Wald

Furth im Wald is a picturesque Bavarian town tucked into the Bavarian Forest near the Czech border. Its compact historic center feels like a living postcard, with timber-framed houses, a medieval fortress, and a lively market square. The town serves as a gateway to forested hills, scenic viewpoints, and easy outdoor adventures, all wrapped in approachable German hospitality.

Expect a relaxed pace, a strong sense of regional culture, and good opportunities to sample hearty Bavarian cuisine and local beer.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your journey in Furth im Wald by strolling through the charming town center, where you can admire the historical architecture. Visit the local market to experience the vibrant community atmosphere and pick up some fresh produce. Don't forget to stop by a cozy café for a traditional German breakfast to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a guided tour of the Drachenhöhle, the Dragon Cave, known for its stunning stalactites and underground lakes. The tour provides fascinating insights into the geological history of the region and is sure to captivate any nature lover. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby trails that lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

evening
:

As dusk falls, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can try authentic Bavarian dishes. Immerse yourself in the nightlife of Furth im Wald by attending a cultural event or enjoying live music at a local bar. Cap off your day with a peaceful evening walk along the river as you reflect on your adventures.

day 2
Adventure at the Waldnaab River
morning
:

Kick off your day with a kayak adventure on the Waldnaab River, surrounded by the lush Bavarian Forest. Paddle through serene waters while taking in the stunning natural surroundings, perfect for both beginners and experienced kayakers alike. After the excursion, enjoy a picnic breakfast on the riverbank.

afternoon
:

Continue your outdoor fun with a hike through the nearby nature reserves, where well-marked trails lead you through dense forests and picturesque meadows. Take a moment to appreciate the biodiversity and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Stop for a leisurely lunch at a lakeside café where you can unwind and savor the fresh air.

evening
:

Return to town for a relaxing evening at a local vineyard, where you can indulge in wine tasting paired with delightful regional snacks. The atmosphere is perfect for reminiscing about the day’s adventures and making new friends. As night falls, enjoy the twinkling lights of the town and a tranquil walk back to your accommodation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee in a café$3-5
🍺Beer in a pub$4-7
🛏️One-night mid-range hotel$90-140
🚌Public transit day pass$6-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact, walkable historic center with easy access to nature
  • Warm Bavarian hospitality and hearty cuisine
  • Good base for Bavarian Forest exploration and day trips
  • Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
  • Smaller, seasonal choice of accommodations outside peak times
  • Weather can be variable; plan for rain and chilly evenings
  • "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
  • "Danke" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Furth im Wald

Visit one of these nice places.

Burg Furth im Wald Overlook

Elevated views of the fortress walls and the town, especially stunning at sunrise or golden hour.

Market Square and Town Hall

Colorful facades and the central square provide classic Bavarian street photography opportunities.

Old Town Gate and City Walls

Historic gate structures and sections of the old walls create dramatic compositions.

Narrow Alleys and Timber-Framed Courtyards

Charming passages and stairways with wooden balconies offer intimate, moody shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Furth im Wald

Furth im Wald sits in Bavaria’s rich culinary tradition, where hearty meat dishes, breads, and beer pair with simple, comforting flavors. Expect generous portions, seasonal produce, and seasonal specialties in many taverns and inns.

Furth im Wald Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Schweinshaxe

Crisped pork knuckle served with dumplings and sauerkraut; a quintessential Bavarian comfort dish found in many traditional inns.

Must-Try!

Käsespätzle

Cheese noodles with fried onions; often served with a salad and a dollop of fried onions for extra flavor.

Bratwurst with Sauerkraut

Grilled sausage paired with tangy sauerkraut and mustard; a common street-side or tavern staple.

Dampfnudel

Fluffy steamed dumpling dessert often served with vanilla sauce or fruit compote.

Pretzel with Obatzda

Soft Bavarian pretzel served with Obatzda (a creamy cheese spread) or mustard for a quick snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Furth Wochenmarkt

Weekly farmers market on Saturdays around the town square offering regional cheeses, breads, meats, fruit, and produce.

Market Square Street Stalls

Seasonal street-food stalls and snack corners around the market area offering pretzels, sausages, roasted chestnuts, and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm but not extreme, winters are cold with occasional snow, and spring and autumn bring changing weather and comfortable temperatures. Rain can occur at any time, so layering and a light waterproof jacket are wise year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Politeness

Greet locals with 'Grüß Gott' or 'Guten Tag' and maintain a courteous, friendly tone in conversations.

Quiet Hours and Respect

Be mindful of residential quiet hours, especially at night; keep noise down in lodging areas and late-night venues.

Dress and Manners

Dresses casually for daywear are fine, but modest dress is appreciated when visiting churches or religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Furth im Wald is a generally safe destination with typical travel precautions. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas, use sun protection in summer, and stay on marked trails in the forest. In case of emergencies, dial 112 for help.

Tipping in Furth im Wald

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A tip of 5-10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up the bill for taxi rides is common practice.

Payment Methods

Cash euros are widely accepted; credit and debit cards are common in hotels, larger shops, and restaurants, though some small venues may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming trees; great for outdoor strolls and early museum visits. Pack a light jacket and rain gear.

Summer

Warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for hiking and outdoor cafés. Stay hydrated and watch for sudden summer showers.

Autumn

Cooling temperatures and golden forest colors; perfect for scenic drives and forest trails. Layer clothing and bring a camera for fall foliage.

Winter

Cold with potential snowfall; Christmas markets create a festive atmosphere. Dress warmly and be mindful of icy paths.

Nightlife Guide

Furth im Wald at Night

The nightlife in Furth im Wald is low-key and intimate, centered around cozy pubs, beer halls, and seasonal festivals. Expect friendly crowds, live music at some inns during peak periods, and relaxed evenings rather than high-energy club scenes.

Hiking in Furth im Wald

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Großer Arber Summit Trail

A popular highland hike offering expansive views over the Bavarian Forest; accessible via seasonal routes and nearby towns.

Lusen and Bavarian Forest Trails

Forest trails and boardwalks around the Lusen area with forest habitats, viewpoints, and tranquil scenery.

Goldsteig Trail Segments

Long-distance hiking route passing through the Bavarian Forest region, with various shorter day-portion options near Furth im Wald.

Airports

How to reach Furth im Wald by plane.

Munich Airport (MUC)

Major international hub about 150-180 km away by road; frequent connections across Europe and beyond; accessible by train or car from Furth im Wald.

Nuremberg Airport (NUE)

Regional international airport roughly 100-140 km away; convenient for connecting flights and domestic travel within Germany.

Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG)

Major international airport in the Czech Republic around 170-200 km away; useful for regional travelers and international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Furth im Wald has a very walkable town center with pedestrian zones, a compact historic core, and many sights reachable on foot. Parking is typically available near the edges of the old town, with the fortress and river paths easily navigable by foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Bavarian residents

Aging population and long-standing family roots in the area, with strong ties to regional traditions and cuisine.

Seasonal visitors and hikers

Tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, especially during spring through autumn, contributing to seasonal activity peaks.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport in local clubs and schools; matches and club events are common in the region.

Hiking and Cycling

Outdoor activities are staples of the Bavarian Forest area, with many local trails and bike routes suitable for varied fitness levels.

Transportation

Traffic

The town center is pedestrian-friendly with limited car access in the historic core. Regional trains connect Furth im Wald to Cham and other Bavarian towns, while bus services cover nearby villages. For day trips, driving offers flexibility, but parking near the old town can be limited during peak times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Furth im Wald.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; look for Käsespätzle, potato dumplings with mushrooms, salads, and seasonal vegetables. When in doubt, ask for vegetarian versions of regional dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access includes local general practitioners and pharmacies in town, with hospitals and specialized services available in nearby Cham or Regensburg. In emergencies, call 112; for non-emergency medical advice, local clinics can schedule appointments in Bavarian Forest towns nearby.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide