Bing Cave

Bing Cave (Binghöhle) in Streitberg is one of the best-known show caves in Franconian Switzerland, a hilly region of limestone cliffs and castles north of Nuremberg. A level path about 270 m (885 ft) long follows the bed of an ancient underground river past crystal stalactites, slender columns and a hall of brilliant white formations. You explore it on your own after a short introduction, which makes it an easy and fun stop for families.

Where it is and how to get there

Streitberg is a village in the municipality of Wiesenttal, between Bamberg, Bayreuth and Erlangen, roughly 45 km (28 miles) north of Nuremberg. By car, park at lot P5 by the cave exit: you walk about 300 m mostly downhill to the entrance and finish right back at your car. By public transport, take the train to Ebermannstadt and continue by regional bus; check connections in the DB app.

Why it matters

The cave was opened up in 1905 by Ignaz Bing, a Nuremberg industrialist whose company was then one of the world's largest toy makers. A 13-year-old boy named Konrad squeezed through a narrow gap and became the first person to see the cave's inner section. It opened to visitors in 1906 and got electric lighting in 1907. Geologically it is rare: a former river cave that has since dried out.

What you will see

• The Giant Column, over 2 m tall and estimated at up to 150,000 years old
• The Candle Hall, the largest chamber, about 9 m (30 ft) high, with fragile white columns
• Scallop marks on the walls left by the old underground river
• Konrad's Hole, the opening the boy crawled through

Opening hours and tickets (as of October 2026)

The 2026 season runs until November 8. Hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., last entry 4:30 p.m.; from November 2 to 8 it is open daily. The cave then closes for winter to protect hibernating bats.

• Adults €7.50, reduced €6.70
• Children aged 4 to 14 €4
• Family ticket €19.50
• Photo permit €1 (no tripods or video)

An English information text is available, so ask at the ticket desk.

Is it worth visiting?

Yes, especially on a hot or rainy day. Plan 45 to 90 minutes. The cave stays at 9 °C (48 °F) year-round, so bring a jacket. Ceilings are low in places and the passage is narrow, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Combine it with a hike up to the Streitburg or Neideck castle ruins nearby.