Things To Do
in Korbach

Korbach is a historic town in northern Hesse with a well-preserved medieval center and timber-framed houses. It sits along the Eder River and serves as the gateway to the Sauerland hills. The town blends Hessian charm with easy access to forests, trails, and scenic viewpoints.

In the old market square you can explore historic churches, museums, and welcoming inns.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Korbach's historic center. Marvel at the stunning half-timbered houses and the impressive St. Elizabeth's Church. Stop by a quaint café for a traditional German breakfast, complete with fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Korbach Local History Museum to delve into the rich history of the region, showcasing artifacts from the Stone Age to modern times. Take a walk to the nearby marketplace, where you can experience local culture and perhaps pick up some handmade crafts. Wrap up the afternoon with a visit to the town's famous clock tower, offering panoramic views of Korbach.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant that specializes in Hessian cuisine, enjoying dishes like Handkäse mit Musik. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the town's illuminated streets, soaking in the atmosphere. End your evening at a cozy pub, enjoying a local beer while chatting with friendly locals.

day 2
Nature Walks in Kellerwald-Edersee National Park
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes. Explore the well-marked trails that weave through lush forests and past serene lakes, taking in the fresh air. Look for local wildlife as you wander, with chances to spot deer and various bird species.

afternoon
:

After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch by the picturesque Edersee lake, where you can relax and enjoy the views. Spend the afternoon engaging in outdoor activities like kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake. Alternatively, take a guided nature tour to learn more about the park's unique flora and fauna.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head back to Korbach and freshen up at your accommodation. Treat yourself to dinner at a lakeside restaurant, savoring seasonal dishes and fresh fish from the Edersee. Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the waterfront, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee/tea$3-5
🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant$15-25
🛍️Groceries (weekly)$40-70
🍷Bottle of wine (mid-range)$12-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and charming old town
  • Close proximity to nature and hiking trails
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Smaller selection of international dining options
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ich möchte das bitte." - I would like this, please.
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Korbach

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Hall and Obermarkt

Picturesque half-timbered houses framing the market square, especially atmospheric in morning light.

St. Nikolai Church (Nikolai Kirche)

Historic church with a brick façade and tower views over the rooftops.

Castle Waldeck viewpoints near Korbachtal

Rugged hillside views toward the Edersee and surrounding forests; great sunset shots.

Eder River Promenade

Scenic riverside paths with reflections of old town houses.

Culinary Guide

Food in Korbach

Korbach sits in Hesse where hearty, seasonal dishes and regional produce prevail; expect comforting, filling meals with an emphasis on potatoes, herbs, and pork dishes, alongside fresh bakery items and local beverages.

Korbach Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grüne Soße (Green Sauce)

Herb-packed sauce traditionally served with potatoes and boiled eggs; best enjoyed with fresh herbs from regional gardens.

Must-Try!

Kartoffelsuppe

Hearty potato soup with vegetables and bacon, a comforting staple in Hessian inns.

Rippchen mit Kraut

Pork ribs with sauerkraut, a traditional hearty dish often found in local taverns.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Korbacher Wochenmarkt

Weekly market in the Obermarkt offering fresh produce, baked goods, cheese and regional specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Korbach experiences a temperate central European climate with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer highs around 22-26°C, winters often below 5°C with possible snowfall; rainfall is spread fairly evenly through the year, so a light waterproof layer is handy.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Be on time for appointments and trains; Germans value punctuality.

Greetings

Greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo' and a handshake; use 'Sie' for strangers.

Quiet hours

Maintain quiet in residential areas after 10 PM.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in Korbach. Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and keep valuables secure. Use licensed taxis or official transport late at night; emergency numbers: 112 for emergencies (fire/medical) and 110 for police.

Tipping in Korbach

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% is common in restaurants and cafés; not obligatory but appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; most places also accept cards and contactless payments; some smaller shops may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with occasional thunderstorms; long daylight hours ideal for outdoor strolling and hikes; carry a light rain jacket for sudden showers.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; comfortable for city walks and countryside photo walks.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow; festive markets in nearby towns; crisp landscapes and long nights.

Spring

Moderate temperatures and blooming trees; great for city and nature photography.

Nightlife Guide

Korbach at Night

Korbach has a modest nightlife scene with a few bars and pubs in the city center; nearby Willingen and other Sauerland towns offer larger choices and occasional live music; expect beer gardens in good weather and relaxed evenings.

Hiking in Korbach

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Burgwaldsteig Trail

A scenic long-distance trail through the Burgwald forest with varied terrain and viewpoints.

Edersee Circular Route

Popular trail around the Edersee reservoir offering water views and forest scenery.

Willinger Summit Trails

Accessible day hikes from Willingen with panoramic upland views and forest paths.

Airports

How to reach Korbach by plane.

Kassel-Calden Airport (KSF)

City airport serving regional and some international flights; about 50-70 km from Korbach with rail or road connections.

Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Major international hub about ~120-150 km south; easy rail or car transfer.

Paderborn Lippstadt Airport (PAD)

Regional airport about 140-180 km west; connect via road and rail.

Getting Around

Walkability

Korbach's historic center is highly walkable, with compact streets and a pedestrian-friendly market square. Outskirts and some surrounding villages require bus or car access; parking can be available near the old town but limited in peak hours.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families with children

Many local families; good schools and parks; family-friendly events in the market square.

Traditionally minded locals

Appreciate Hessian culture, gastronomy, and regional festivals.

Students and commuters

Access to nearby Kassel and university towns; active in the town's social scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Popular at clubs and local pitches; matches can be seen in town or nearby Willingen.

Cycling

Many routes along Eder River and through the hills; cycling is common in good weather.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Near Willingen during winter; day trips for winter sports.

Transportation

Traffic

Korbach has moderate traffic with a well-connected road network via B252 and B251, and regional trains linking to Kassel. Public transport is reliable but less frequent on weekends; during peak tourist seasons, expect occasional congestion on main routes heading to Willingen and Edersee.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Korbach.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in local inns, especially Grüne Soße, salads and hearty potato dishes. Ask for cheese or egg-based plates, and request meat-free versions of traditional dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible in Korbach with the Kreiskrankenhaus Korbach and several general practitioners. For emergencies, call 112; national health insurance covers most services; pharmacies are widely available in town.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide