Freiburg, Germany, may be close to the French border, but it's still resolutely Germanic. Its half-timbered houses, eco-friendly district and typical Black Forest landscapes are all there to prove it. Find out now what to do in Freiburg im Breisgau for a successful stay.
1. Explore the historic center
If you're looking for something to do in Freiburg im Breisgau, you can't miss its superb historic center, which makes it one of Germany's most beautiful cities. It's made up of a multitude of gässle, the name given to the many narrow streets that abound in the city. And another German name will come in handy: the Bächle, the little water gutters that run along every street in Fribourg's historic center. It's a unique feature of the town, for which it has been famous since the Middle Ages. To discover Freiburg's historic center, there's nothing like getting lost in its aimless alleys.
To book : Explore the historic city of Freiburg by booking this guided walking tour. Visit the Old Town Hall, the Bermuda Triangle nightlife district, the Martinstor and Freiburg Cathedral.
2. Visit the cathedral
Visit Münsterthe Münster, or cathedral, is the city's most emblematic building, and a must-see for those looking for something to do in Freiburg im Breisgau. It's most famous for its very tall tower, which culminates in a spire 116 m high. But the interior is just as interesting, thanks in particular to its superb medieval stained-glass windows. Indeed, Freiburg Cathedral miraculously survived the bombings of the Second World War. The church is open every day, so you can get in free of charge.
To book : We recommend this city tour of Freiburg including a visit to the cathedral.
3. Shop at the Münsterplatz market
On the cathedral squaremünsterplatz is home to Freiburg's delightful market. It's the ideal place to stock up on Baden-Württemberg specialities: dried sausages, cheeses, pretzels and other breads... In particular, you'll find the lange rote, the red sausage, a Freiburg specialty. You'll have no trouble finding them: this is usually the most crowded stand.
What to book: Book this group walking tour of Freiburg's Old Town. Discover the famous Bächle, the twisted Gässle, the mosaics of the Rheinkiesel and the Gothic cathedral.
The article to read: to discover some of Germany's most exceptional places, be sure to read our article on Germany's most beautiful Unesco sites.
4. What to do in Freiburg im Breisgau? Climb to the top of Schlossberg
Freiburg is dominated by a hill right in the center of town: Schlossberg. The name literally translates as "castle hill", as a medieval castle once stood here, but has now disappeared. The hill, however, is still there, rising to 460 m. It's easy to get to the top thanks to a funicular a funicular railway. From up there, you'll not only have a prime view of the city, but also of the Vosges mountains. There's plenty to do on the hill: a panoramic tower offering 360° views, a beer garden, hiking trails..
5. Visit the Augustinermuseum
TheAugustinermuseum is the ideal activity for those looking for culture-related things to do in Freiburg im Breisgau, as it is often considered the best museum in the city. It exhibits an important collection of religious art. In particular, it houses original sculptures from the cathedral. The museum, which opened in 1923, is housed in an old Augustinian convent that has been modernized. Lovers of culture will also appreciate the Museum of Modern Art, the Colombischlössle Museum of Archaeology, or the more original University Museum. The latter, located on the premises of the former University, focuses on student life in Freiburg.
6. What to do in Freiburg im Breisgau? Discover the Vauban district
Freiburg is universally regarded as Germany's ecological capital. It is at the forefront of innovation in this field, thanks in particular to its Vauban district, a low-energy, low-resource eco-neighborhood that has become a model the world over. The site was once a military barracks, which gave rise to the project in the 1990s. The tram-accessible district is car-free.
The article to read: take a look at our article on the best motorhome itineraries in Germany.
7. Lunch on specialties from around the world in a hidden hall
If you haven't read this article on what to do in Freiburg im Breisgau, there's no doubt that you'd miss this hall. And it's well hidden! To find it, go to Grünwälderstraße 4 and push open the discreet little door of this historic building. You'll enter a large hall bustling with stalls offering cuisine from all over the world. After an Afghan speciality as a starter, opt for a Thai dish washed down with a good German beer, before continuing with an Italian dessert. With all these stalls in one place, the atmosphere is always lively but never crowded.
Wondering what to do in Freiburg in the evening? We recommend this guided bar tour. You'll discover five of the most popular bars in Freiburg, famous for its lively nightlife.
8. What to do in Freiburg im Breisgau? Taste the Black Forest
The Black Forest cake, or Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte in German, is certainly the best-known specialty of the Freiburg region. This chocolate and cherry cake topped with chantilly cream is sure to please. All of Fribourg's patisseries offer a version, more or less traditional or contemporary. You'll have no trouble finding one, but the one at Café Schmidt is particularly famous, as is the one at Kolben Kaffee.
To book: This culinary tour of Freiburg will have you sampling delicious regional dishes while learning fascinating historical facts and stories about Freiburg
Must-read article: to plan your trip, be sure to read our article on the best itineraries for visiting Germany.
9. What to do in Freiburg im Breisgau? A trip to Lake Titisee
Just 30 kilometers from Freiburg, Lake Titisee offers a wild and exotic interlude. This glacial lake, almost 2 km long and surrounded by coniferous forest, is a jewel of the Black Forest. It's the place to be if you're looking for something to do in Freiburg im Breisgau that's close to nature.
10. Relax in the Vita Classica thermal baths
The Black Forest region is rich in thermal springs, and those of Vita Classica are among the most renowned. They are located just 25 km from Freiburg, in Bad Krozingen. It's a vast complex offering baths, saunas, massages and other treatments. It's a particularly pleasant activity if you're spending the winter in the Black Forest.
11. Have fun at Europapark
Just 30 minutes from Strasbourg and 40 km north of Freiburg lies Europapark, one of Germany's best family activities and theme parks. With a European theme, it is divided into several universes, each representing a European country, with numerous thrill rides, rides and other attractions.
To book : take advantage of our partner's rates and book here your Europa-Park admission ticket.
Where to stay in Freiburg im Breisgau? Our selection of the best hotels
The range of hotels in Freiburg im Breisgau, and in Germany in general, is of excellent quality. In particular, you'll find some very old and historic establishments, but always impeccably renovated. Among the best neighborhoods in which to stay, the historic city center is generally the traveler's favorite. The Vauban district also attracts its fair share of holidaymakers. Among our selection of the best hotels in Freiburg, our favorites are:
- Zum Roten Bären: this is Germany's oldest hotel, so it's a must for those looking for something to do in Freiburg im Breisgau. It's the perfect example of the charming but well-restored establishment that never sacrifices comfort, which Germany specializes in. It's located right in the historic center and book it here.
- Schwarzwälder Hof : this is anotherhistoric establishment in the center of Fribourg, which you can book book here. Inside, you'll find a beautiful wrought-iron staircase at reception and rooms with impeccable bedding.
- Hotel Barbara : this 3-star hotel is both conveniently located, close to the train station and historic center, and quietly situated. All rooms have been recently renovated, and breakfast is of a high standard. Click here to book your stay.
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