Karben is a chocolate-box town set on the banks of the River Nidda, with leafy streets and historic architecture giving it a traditional feel. Stroll around the town centre, visit the famous rose garden and dine at cosy German restaurants. Excellent road and rail connections make Karben a great base for sightseeing in Frankfurt.

Things to do

Built in the 18th century, Deutschordensschloss Kloppenheim is a treasured national heritage site. The centuries-old palace has been beautifully restored and will charm you with its green shuttered windows and a terracotta roof. While it’s not open for tours, you’ll get great views of the palace from the street.

Karben is filled with restaurants serving hearty local cuisine from the Hesse region. Enjoy “speckkuchen” bacon quiche, pork sausages topped with sauerkraut and “handkäse” sour cheese flavoured with a raw onion vinaigrette. Wash down your meal with a glass of locally brewed apple cider.

Just outside the village centre, Karbener Rosenhang is filled with fragrant roses and flowering shrubs. The former meadow was transformed into a public garden more than 25 years ago and is maintained by the local community. A stroll along the banks of the River Nidda is a great way to enjoy the beautiful rural scenery.

Getting around

Karben is compact and easy to get around on foot. Karben is served by two railway stations, Gross Karben and Okarben. It’s also served by Line S6 of the Rhine-Main S-Bahn. Frankfurt Airport is a 30-minute drive away.