LADENBURG

Ladenburg is a beautiful town situated on the right bank of the river Neckar. It is nestled halfway between Heidelberg and Mannheim, which each are 10 kilometres from Ladenburg. The town is easy to reach by train or car from either of those big cities.

Ladenburg’s history dates back to the Celtic and Roman times and it claims to be the oldest German city east of the river Rhine. Besides being rich in history, Ladenburg is also known for being the home and resting place of Carl Benz. So whether you are interested in cars, love Celtic and Roman history or simply want to enjoy the beauty of this lovely town, Ladenburg should not be missed on your Germany itinerary.

MUST DO IN LADENBURG:

• Visit the Carl Benz Museum and Resting Place: Even if you are not super interested in cars, the Carl Benz Museum is an interesting place to visit while in Ladenburg. The entrance fee is only 5 Euro and you’ll learn a lot about the beginning of the motorcar. Afterwards, you can visit his resting place or his house which are both located in Ladenburg as well.
• Have lunch at Market Square (Marktplatz): Market Square in Ladenburg is absolutely gorgeous. The setting with the old buildings and cobbled streets makes you feel as though you have travelled back in time. Enjoy a good German beer and some yummy food here and take it all in. Afterwards, go for a stroll in the roads surrounding Market Square and see which building is the oldest you can find.
• Rent a bicycle and explore the area: There are several beautiful bicycle routes in and around Ladenburg. Whether you go for a ride along the river, the old city wall or in one of the many parks, there is a lot to explore in Ladenburg.

Recommended by Valerie of Valeries Adventure Time

Read Reviews for these Sights:  Carl Benz Museum

TRIBERG

For a small town of around 5000 people, Triberg in the Black Forest sure has a LOT to offer. Not only is it a typical German town (think cute buildings, colourful houses and more bars, restaurants and cafes than seems physically possible), but there are some genuinely good things to see here. There are plenty of places to stay in the town or nearby, but you could do most of them in one day if you were really motivated.

MUST DO IN TRIBERG:

• The World’s largest Cuckoo clock: This impressive clock is 2 STOREYS high. Yep, it’s the size of an actual building. And it works. You can see the cuckoo and the clock do their thing twice an hour during daylight. There are also many (MANY!) other cuckoo clock shops in Triberg. See it at Schonachbach 27, D – 78098 Triberg
• The world’s smallest Cuckoo clock: This teeny-tiny clock is just 5 inches tall and is actually rather cute- even if you’re not a fan of cuckoo clocks. It fits easily into the palm of your hand and the replicas make a fantastic souvenir – or gift for someone. See it at Hauptstraße 8, 78098 Triberg
• Triberg Waterfalls: Not a fan of cuckoo clocks? The Triberg waterfalls are beautiful and the hike is suitable for able-bodied adults and children. Entrance shuts at 5 pm and costs around 4€. See them at Schönwälder Str. 2, 78098 Triberg

Recommended by Kat from Wandering Bird

Read Reviews for these Sights:  World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock  | Triberg Waterfall

FREIBURG IM BREISGAU

The Bavarian city of Freiburg im Breisgau combines the latest innovations in modern architecture with a well preserved medieval history. Situated on the edge of the Black Forest, Freiburg is known as the “sunniest city in Germany”.  Passing through the 500-year-old Martinsor gates from the bustling modern-day city centre into the medieval squares is like stepping back in time.

MUST DO IN FREIBURG IM BREISGAU:

• Explore medieval Freiburg: As you wander past the frescoed buildings and ancient fountains, inlaid into the cobblestoned streets are mosaic guild crests, denoting the trades of the former occupants of these medieval buildings. The pavements are lined with 11th-century “bachle” gutters, once used as an irrigation system and to fight fires. Don’t be tempted to cool off in the crystal waters streaming through the gutters, however, as legend says if you accidentally step in the Bächle, you will marry a Freiburger. Explore the medieval squares, including Rathausplatz where the 14th-century Old Town Hall is now the Freiburg tourist office. Listen out for the “glockenspiel” chiming the hour at noon. The medieval Augustinerplatz monastery is now a museum exhibiting collections of medieval and baroque artworks. In Munsterplatz you’ll find the 14th-century Merchant’s Hall. Around the roofline, you will notice the ancient coats of arms and statues honouring four Roman Emperors. During the week you can wander the market stalls to sampling the local produce including local delicacies, such as Freiburg wurst.
• Visit Freiburg Munster: The 12th-century Freiburg Cathedral is a dominant feature on the city’s skyline. The 116-metre high open lattice spire of the west tower can be seen from almost any vantage point in Freiburg. The Munster also houses the oldest Hosanna Bell in Germany, which can be heard right across the valley.
• Climb to Schlossberg: Towering over Freiburg is the ancient hill where an ancient fortress once stood. An inclinator car takes you part of the way up the steep incline to  “Schlossberg”, however, you will still have quite a steep hike to reach the top.  Here you can wander through the 11th-century castle ruins and take in the breathtaking panoramic views across the Vosges mountain range. Freiburg is a city with a rich history that offers something for all travellers.

Recommended by Lesley of Empty Nesters Travel Insights

Read Reviews for these Sights: Freiburg Munster  |  Schlossberg

KONSTANZ

Konstanz is the largest city on the shores of Lake Constance, or the Bodensee as it’s known in German. Sitting at the border between three different countries, Germany, Switzerland and Austria, Konstanz is a popular outdoor holiday destination among people from all over Europe. 

This is especially true in the summer, when the weather is great for swimming in the lake and there are lots of other outdoor activities on offer, like kayaking and cycling. Although, it’s also worth coming in the winter for the famous Christmas market, the highlight of which is the “Christmas Ship” moored in the harbour.

MUST DO IN KONSTANZ:

• Imperia Statue and Constance Harbour: The most instantly recognizable landmark in Konstanz, the Imperia Statue was quite controversial when it was erected surreptitiously in the harbour in 1993. Nevertheless, this statue of a provocatively dressed woman holding naked figures of the Pope and the Emperor is still standing after more than 20 years.
• Niederburg District: This charming district in the northwest corner of the old town is the oldest part of Konstanz. Be sure to take a stroll through the narrow streets and look up to marvel at the beautiful buildings, some of which are more than 700 years old.
• Cycling on the Lake: Lake Constance is the perfect place for a cycling holiday, with trails suitable for families as well as hard-core cycling enthusiasts. An obvious choice is to cycle along the lakeside. Or, if you’re feeling more ambitious you could tackle the Donau-Bodensee Radweg, which starts in Ulm and finishes on the shores of the lake in Kressbronn.

Recommended by Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Read Reviews for these Sights:  Imperia Statue  |  Constance Harbour  |  Niederburg (Old Town)

ESSLINGEN

Esslingen am Neckar, or better known as Esslingen is located in Southern Germany about 30 minutes of Stuttgart, Germany. Located on the Neckar River with the imposing Esslinger Burg overlooking the lower town ready to defend and protect its citizens. In the 1st Century AD, Esslingen was a part of the Roman Empire and an important market town and major trade route destination. 

During WWII, Esslingen was spared from destruction after an early surrender in April 1945. Today, Esslingen is well known for its wines, half-timbered buildings, historic churches, and extensive historical importance. 

MUST DO IN ESSLINGEN:

• Stadtkirche St. Dionys: This church is one of the most notable architectural buildings in the Esslingen skyline. The crypt of the church dates back to 700AD, but the current structure is from the 13th century and delights with two towers linked with a footbridge. If you enjoy Gothic art, be sure to peak inside to see the oak choir, stained glass windows, and golden 16th-century tabernacle.
• Esslingen Castle: High above the town and surrounding vineyards is the Esslingen Castle with its towering walls and towers. You’d need to schedule a tour to see the castle in-depth, but you can walk around the interior for free.
• Marketplatz: Don’t miss the market square, especially on Wednesday and Saturday mornings with vendors selling Swabian treats, flowers and produce. The Zweibelfest (onion festival) is also very popular in August. Even without the market and festivals, it is a stunning location with half-timbered historic homes, churches and wine vineyards.

Want to read more about Esslingen and our other favourite places to visit near Stuttgart? Head over to my post with recommendations, where to eat and tips for kids.

Recommended by Chelsea of Pack More Into Life

Read Reviews for these Sights:  Stadtkirche St. Dionys

STUTTGART

The city of Stuttgart may not be at the top of anyone’s travel list, but it should be for good reason. Besides being located in a valley with an international feel to it and a host of things to do and places to day trip from Stuttgart, the city boasts the world’s second-largest beer festival.  It is also home to Mercedes Benz, one of Europe’s most beautiful botanical garden/zoo combinations and is the second-largest city that sources mineral water in Europe.

MUST DO IN STUTTGART:

• Cannstatter Volksfest: Every fall, the city sees millions of people visit, just to enjoy the festival and take part in a long tradition. Along with dozens of beer tents, the festival is also family-friendly and has amusement park rides, animals and a huge variety of food. Luckily for travellers, Stuttgart also hosts a spring festival, which is a more laid back festival (and less beer), but which equally attracts millions of visitors.
• Mercedes-Benz Museum: Stuttgart is the headquarters for Mercedes Benz and the museum is incredible with a collection of vintage cars and a deep history of the automobile industry showcased throughout, the museum is worth spending time learning about not only Mercedes Benz but the importance of the automobile in the past, present and future.
• Schlossplatz: The centre of Stuttgart, right in the heart of the pedestrian walking district is the central square. It boasts a large Baroque-style palace that currently seats the state government.  The surrounding area is very popular in the summer and is also home to the annual Christmas market and other events throughout the year. There is plenty of green space to enjoy the square, or you can go down one of the side streets and meander and shop at hundreds of stores.

Recommended by Diana of The Elusive Family

Read Reviews for these Sights:  Cannstatter Volksfest  |  Mercedes-Benz Museum  |  Schlossplatz

BADEN-BADEN

MUST DO IN BADEN-BADEN:

• Relax at a Spa: An essential excursion is to visit one of Baden-Baden’s famous bathhouses, Caracalla Therme or Friedrichsbad to soak in the thermal water. Caracalla was designed in the spirit of ancient Rome and has both indoor and outdoor pools as well as a large (clothing-free) sauna area upstairs. The other bathhouse, Friedrichsbad, was visited by Mark Twain and involves a bathing circuit of bathing, steaming, scrubs and massage. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in German spa culture, but be forewarned, it’s entirely clothing free.
• Walk the Lichtentaller Allee: One of the loveliest places to enjoy the outdoors is along the Lichentaller Allee, a leafy park that sits parallel to the River Oos. Many of Baden-Baden’s finest hotels overlook this popular park promenade, most notably the luxurious Brenners Park Hotel, one of the most renowned spa hotels in Europe.
• Visit the Kurhaus: The historic Kurhaus is a Belle Epoque venue and former spa complex that was built between 1821 and 1824. It was once the beating heart of the spa world in Baden-Baden and guests would gather here to drink the thermal water, socialize and stroll along the colonnade with its lyrical frescoes that highlight tales from Baden-Baden’s history.

Recommended by Carol of Wandering Carol

Reviews for these Sights:  Caracalla Therme  |  Friedrichsbad  |  Kurhaus

HEIDELBERG

Heidelberg is one of those pretty cities that epitomize what we imagine about Germany. A historic Baroque university town, its old buildings bedecked with shutter-edged windows anchored with overflowing flower boxes, snuggled beneath rolling hills beside the Neckar River. And lording it over all from atop its hill are the romantic ruins of a Renaissance castle. What more could any fairytale prince or princess want?

MUST DO IN HEIDELBERG:

• Wander the Altstadt/Old Town: Most of it was burned to the ground in 1693, so the rebuilt area has a uniform late 17th-century style. See the buildings of the university, one of the oldest in Europe. Visit one or more of the Gothic and Baroque churches. Take a picture of the Haus Zum Ritter, a 1592 burgher’s house now an exquisite hotel, then have a coffee at a streetside terrace in the Kornmarkt.
• Visit the Studentenkarzer, The Student Jail: The Student Jail was designed for university students who broke the rules. The most common infractions were drunkenness, duelling, and pig chasing (probably found hand-in-hand with the booze), and stays could last from a day to a few weeks. The walls are covered with 18-19th-century graffiti. It’s a fascinating place.
• Ride the 19th-century funicular: Ride up the hill for a visit to Schloss Heidelberg/Heidelberg Castle. Parts of it date to the 13th century, but most is the 15th-16th century. Fires, lightning, and more than a few wars over the centuries left it in today’s state of ruin. Wander the grounds, visit the Apothecary Museum, and go down to the cellar to see the Heidelberg Tun, an enormous wine barrel made from 130 oak trees that can
  hold some 220,000 litres of wine.

Recommended by Donna of Nomad Women

Read Reviews for these Sights:  Altstadt/Old Town |  Studentenkarzer |  Funicular  |  Schloss Heidelberg

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO GERMANY

These are a few tours we would recommend for your trip to Baden, Germany.