Pappenheim is the most striking town in the Altmühl Valley, its castle rising on a rocky spur above the river with views stretching along the limestone cliffs in both directions. The castle complex — a mixture of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements — is partially ruined and partially inhabited; the family has owned it since the 12th century.
The old town below is compact and well preserved, with a market square and a parish church worth visiting. The river here is wide and calm, a popular spot for canoeing. Pappenheim sits roughly midway along the valley cycling route and makes a good overnight stop.