Public guided tour: Production of “wood-cased pencils”

Explore the Art of Pencil Making at Faber-Castell in Bavaria

The public guided tour of Faber-Castell’s pencil production in Stein, Bavaria, offers a fascinating look behind the scenes at a world-renowned manufacturer. For just $12 per person, you gain an approximate 2-hour experience that takes you through each step of creating wood-cased pencils, with the chance to see over 500,000 pencils produced daily.

This tour is an excellent choice for those interested in how everyday products are made or for visitors seeking a practical insight into manufacturing. It includes a souvenir and a 15% discount in the castle’s store on the day of the visit, making it a valuable, hands-on experience for fans of stationery or craftsmanship.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price of $12 for a detailed, 2-hour guided tour
• Includes a souvenir and a 15% store discount at Faber-Castell’s castle
• Visits start at Faber-Castell Erleben in Stein, with booking required
• Guided tours available in English and German, with live guides
• Limited physical accessibility due to historic premises, so plan accordingly
• Ideal for families, stationery enthusiasts, and curious visitors

Discover Faber-Castell’s Stein Headquarters and Its Historic Castle

The Faber-Castell headquarters in Stein is more than just a production site—it’s also home to the castle, which offers a range of attractions. The guided tour begins at the Faber-Castell Erleben Visitor Center, where visitors are welcomed and briefed on the day’s activities.

From there, the tour moves to the “Alte Mine”, a notable site that forms part of Faber-Castell’s history. After exploring the castle and museum, visitors are led through the pencil production process at the modern plant, offering a rare look into a thriving manufacturing operation. The tour concludes back at the Faber-Castell Erleben center, completing a well-rounded visit.

Detailed Look at the Pencil Production Process

The highlight of the tour is watching over 500,000 wood-cased pencils being produced daily. Visitors follow each step of the manufacturing journey, which includes raw pencil line, stamping, dipping, and sharpening.

Guides explain how Faber-Castell combines tradition with modern technology to efficiently produce high-quality pencils. The process gives insight into how raw materials transform into finished products, with visitors able to observe the care and precision involved in every stage.

Unique Features of the Guided Tour Experience

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and is led by live guides fluent in English and German. It combines informative narration with visual demonstrations, making it engaging for all ages.

One notable aspect is the souvenir included in the ticket price, which provides a tangible memory of the visit. Plus, guests receive a 15% discount at the on-site store if they shop during the visit, which is perfect for buying high-quality pencils, pens, or related items.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Information: Meeting Point and Booking

The starting point for the tour is at the Faber-Castell Visitor Center, which requires prior booking. The tour ends back at the same location, making it easy to plan your visit.

Since some of the premises are historic and not barrier-free, guests should be prepared for long walks and wear sturdy shoes. There is no mention of transport options, so plan to arrive by car or public transportation.

Booking, Cancellation, and Payment Options

Reservations are flexible; you can book now and pay later, ensuring your plans stay adaptable. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing peace of mind when planning your trip.

The tour’s availability varies, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended to secure your preferred time. The duration is fixed at about 2 hours, making it a manageable activity within a day of sightseeing.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Bavaria

This guided factory tour offers a unique glimpse into the production of a common but intriguing product. The combination of historic sites—like the castle and “Old Mine” museum—with modern manufacturing makes for an immersive experience.

The affordable price, combined with the souvenir and shopping discount, adds value to this tour. It’s especially suited for families with children, stationery fans, or anyone curious about industrial craftsmanship.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience Most?

This tour is ideal for those interested in manufacturing processes or Faber-Castell fans eager to learn about how their favorite pencils are made. The 2-hour duration and guided nature make it accessible for most visitors, although those with mobility concerns should prepare for some walking.

It’s also perfect for educational trips or group visits seeking a practical, engaging activity that combines learning with fun.

The Sum Up: A Practical Look into Pencil Production

Faber-Castell’s guided tour in Stein presents a detailed, affordable experience of pencil manufacturing in a historic setting. It offers visitors the chance to see over 500,000 pencils produced daily, understand the craftsmanship behind their favorite stationery, and take home a souvenir.

The tour’s live guides, museum visits, and factory walkthrough make it an enriching activity, especially for those interested in industrial processes or stationery enthusiasts. The 15% store discount adds a nice bonus for shopping on-site.

While the premises are not barrier-free and require long walks, the overall experience is both informative and practical. This tour suits families, students, and anyone curious about how everyday objects are created.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the guided tour, a souvenir, and a 15% discount at the castle store.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is required to participate in the tour.

Are the guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tours are conducted in English and German with live guides.

Is the site accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?
Since some premises are historic and not barrier-free, visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for long walks.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby