Oktoberfest will be in full swing in Munich in the days leading up to our wedding! If you’re planning to travel to Germany a bit earlier, it’s a fun and iconic way to start your trip. Just a heads up — it’s a very popular event, so if you’re hoping to go, make sure to book your table reservations well in advance. Facebook groups can be super helpful for tips, and last-minute openings!
Just minutes from Lichtenfels, Obermain Therme is Bavaria’s warmest and largest natural saltwater spa. Think steaming thermal pools, bubbling whirlpools, and a whole sauna world to melt away jet lag. Perfect for a lazy afternoon of pure vacation mode. Must get here via taxi or car.
Nightclub in Lichtenfels!! Open late!
Just outside Bad Staffelstein, the Staffelberg is the Obermain valley’s crown jewel. A moderate hike takes you past wildflower meadows and up to panoramic views of the entire region—spot the basilica, Banz Abbey, and even Lichtenfels in the distance. From Lichtenfels, it’s about 10 minutes by car or a 4-minute train ride to Bad Staffelstein. From there, you can walk to the trailhead in about 20 minutes, or take a short taxi ride. At the summit, reward yourself with a cold drink or hearty Franconian dish at the mountaintop inn.
Located in Lichtenfels and walking distance from most accommodations. Minigolf for only 4 euro!
Perched high above the Main River, Kloster Banz is a former baroque Benedictine monastery with sweeping views of the Obermain valley. Built in the 17th century, it’s now a cultural and conference center, but visitors come for the ornate architecture, peaceful grounds, and photo-worthy panorama. From Lichtenfels, it’s about 10 minutes by car or a 4-minute train to Bad Staffelstein followed by a short taxi or uphill hike.
A MUST do!! Just outside Bad Staffelstein, this giant outdoor “soccer meets mini golf” course is a blast for all ages. Approx 12 euro per person. It’s only 10 minutes by car from Lichtenfels, or hop on a quick 4-minute train to Bad Staffelstein and take a short taxi or 25-minute walk from the station.
Bike around Lichtenfels - you can even take a bike from Lichtenfels to Klosterlangheim. Use Google Maps to find local bike paths and trails.
Explore one of Kat's favorite cities. Just 25 minutes away, Bamberg is a storybook town with cobblestone streets, riverside houses, and a cathedral on a hill. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site—basically, the world agrees it’s gorgeous. Wander “Little Venice,” snap a pic at the Old Town Hall, and don’t leave without trying the famous smoked beer (rauchbier). The train from Lichtenfels to Bamberg is very quick — about 25 minutes on a direct regional train (RE or RB). Trains run frequently throughout the day, usually every 20–30 minutes.
About an hour from Lichtenfels, Nuremberg combines storybook streets with serious history. Explore the medieval old town and Imperial Castle, then visit the sites of the Nuremberg Trials that shaped post–World War II justice. Along the way, sample the city’s famous mini bratwursts and spiced gingerbread (Lebkuchen)—local traditions dating back centuries. You can get there in about 1 hour by car or take a direct regional train from Lichtenfels (around 1 hour 10 minutes) straight into Nuremberg’s city center.
Take a day trip to Nurnberg and visit this world renowned zoo. Tickets start at 15 euro