Vacation in the Black Forest

Odon Portillo

Updated: 26 May 2026 ·
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Black Forest Vacation - Much More Than Just Cake and Cuckoo Clocks

Picturesque mountain landscapes, medieval city centers, and clear mountain lakes. This is exactly what (and much more!) characterizes one of Germany's most beautiful vacation destinations - the Black Forest. It's no wonder that it attracts several million visitors from all over Germany and Europe each year to the most popular low mountain range in the country. In addition to the regional cuisine, which ranges from Black Forest cake to traditional snacks, a vacation in the Black Forest also offers great attractions in exciting cities and small, romantic towns in the area. A short vacation in the Black Forest captivates especially with impressive natural spectacles and beautiful hiking trails that provide a perfect basis for active relaxation in nature.

We have sent our travel experts to the Black Forest in Baden-Württemberg to find out which attractions and cities you must see in Germany's largest contiguous low mountain range. We provide inspiration for a very special Black Forest vacation. Furthermore, you will learn what makes the Black Forest region so special for a varied vacation. Whether you're planning a vacation in the Black Forest with children, with a dog, or just the two of you. Welcome to the Black Forest!

See for yourself! Book your short vacation in the Black Forest now.

Key Facts

The Black Forest is located in the southwest of Baden-Württemberg, stretching from the Upper Rhine in the south to the Kraichgau.

Germany's most visited low mountain range covers about 11,100 square kilometers and is home to some of the country's most beautiful cities, regions, and attractions.

The mild climate and gentle breezes make the Black Forest a popular destination for hikers and active vacationers even in summer.

Large parts of the region primarily rely on tourism, which plays an important role in the Black Forest.

Traditions and customs are just as much a part of the Black Forest as the famous Black Forest cake.

It also hosts numerous lakes, including the Schluchsee, the largest lake in the region - perfect for a Black Forest vacation.

Attractions and Popular Travel Destinations

A romantic weekend in the Black Forest, a farm vacation with the kids, or a relaxing break during wellness. The low mountain region is characterized by one thing: variety, variety, and more variety! The range of Black Forest attractions includes imposing castles and palaces, exciting museums, and a UNESCO World Heritage city, as well as kilometers of cycling paths. In short: There is plenty to discover during a vacation in the Black Forest!

Events

The following top destinations received the Travelcircus recommendation seal in 2016:

  • Art and cultural institutions, such as the festival hall, theater, or city museum, which line up along the art and culture mile.
  • The lovingly designed spa garden with the Belle Epoque spa house.
  • The Baden-Baden Casino, which has historically attracted numerous visitors, including Dostoevsky, Marlene Dietrich, and Kirk Douglas.
  • Numerous churches, castles, and historic buildings.
  • The gardens at Florentinerberg or the Dahlia Garden on Lichtentaler Allee.
  • The Frieder Burda Museum.
  • The surrounding Black Forest National Park.
  • Lichtentaler Allee, one of the most beautiful sights in the entire Black Forest.
  • The spa quarter, thermal baths, and recreation options.

Baden-Baden

The 'Summer Capital of Europe' attracted the Romans with its varied landscapes and hot thermal springs. In the 19th century, the former residence city then served as a meeting point for nobility and the affluent bourgeoisie. Even today, tourists can walk in the footsteps of this golden era and discover among other things:

You can discover all of this and more during a vacation in Baden-Baden in the Black Forest. Get informed in advance about attractions and sights in Baden-Baden: Here you will find everything you need to know.

Freiburg im Breisgau

Welcome to Freiburg! Just the historic old town is worth a trip to the Black Forest. Here, vacationers fall for the unique charm, hospitality, and architecture of the Green City.

In addition, there's much more to discover here:

Are you excited to explore Freiburg during your vacation in the Black Forest? Then find all the relevant information about Freiburg here: here.

  • The most famous Freiburg attraction, the Freiburg Minster, which reaches a height of 116 meters.
  • The adjacent Münsterplatz with a variety of historic buildings, including the Wentzingerhaus, Kornhaus, and a fish fountain.
  • The Schlossberg on the edge of the old town.
  • Freiburg's culinary delights, starting with the Long Red sausage.
  • The Black Forest Stadium, home to SC Freiburg.
  • The Freiburg Planetarium.
  • More than 1,800 hours of sunshine per year, making the city an ideal place for renewable energy utilization.
  • The Schauinsland, Freiburg's famous local mountain with the longest cable car in Germany.
  • Thermal baths and outdoor pools for every season.

Baiersbronn

The National Park community of Baiersbronn in the Black Forest, the largest tourism community in Baden-Württemberg, is also a popular destination for travelers from all over Germany. Baiersbronn is known especially for its top-notch gastronomy, which has earned it the nickname 'Star Village' as well as for the multitude of breathtaking natural attractions and activity offerings.

And there's even more to see and discover here:

Do you want to explore Baiersbronn during your vacation in the Black Forest and embark on culinary adventures? Then get informed in advance about the sights and attractions of the Black Forest community: here.

  • The three-starred restaurants 'Schwarzwaldstube,' the restaurant 'Bareiss' (each with 3 Michelin stars), and the restaurant 'Schloßberg' (with 2 Michelin stars).
  • Five Karsees, ice age relics that invite hiking and strolling.
  • The Hauff Fairy Tale Museum, the King's Hammer Museum, and the cultural park Glashütte Buhlbach, as well as the site of invention of the champagne bottle.
  • The Baiersbronn hiking paradise with 550 kilometers of marked hiking trails: the multi-stage paths Seensteig and Murgleiter, nine Himmel paths, experience, and gourmet trails.
  • The Culinary Hiking Paradise with numerous culinary hikes, wild plant inns, and gourmet spots.
  • Since summer 2016, there are 11 marked mountain biking trails in the Baiersbronn hiking paradise, covering over 400 kilometers with up to 30% single trails.
  • Numerous events such as the valley lighting in summer (Buhlbachtal lighting on August 5, 2016) or the classic car rally Baiersbronn Classic at the end of September (September 21-24, 2017).
  • And of course, the Black Forest with the Black Forest National Park.

Badenweiler

Located at the foot of Mount Blauen, Badenweiler offers relaxation options and numerous hiking trails that provide variety. In addition, cultural attractions and sights that are well-known beyond the city limits lure travelers.

What to expect in Badenweiler:

Be surprised by Badenweiler's diversity and experience an unforgettable vacation in the Black Forest in this traditional spa and holiday resort. You can find out more about the city in advance here: www.badenweiler.de.

  • The Badenweiler Kurhaus, which serves as a concert venue and conference center.
  • The Roman bath ruin in Badenweiler, one of the best-preserved thermal ruins north of the Alps.
  • The city's landmark, the ruins of Baden castle, which is best explored along the circular path 'Kaffeemühle.'
  • The Lustschlösschen Belvedere, which you will also pass by.
  • The spa and castle park in Badenweiler, a 22-hectare spa park that is one of the richest in tree species in Germany.
  • The sensory park, which offers amazing experiences at 20 sensory stations.
  • Numerous hiking trails.
  • The Cassiopeia Therme, where you can enjoy thermal water or work out with aqua fitness.

Bad Herrenalb

Active travelers and those seeking relaxation will find relief in the Black Forest town of Bad Herrenalb. Nestled in a picturesque landscape of seven valleys, Bad Herrenalb entices with wellness, hiking trails, and culture.

Here's some of what you can discover here:

All this and much more await you in Bad Herrenalb during your vacation in the Black Forest. You can find out in advance about attractions and all events at: www.badherrenalb.de.

Bad Wildbad

The Black Forest wellness paradise can offer more than just relaxation. It features a varied cultural and leisure program. From hiking tours to retreat periods at the thermal baths, Bad Wildbad provides everything necessary for a diverse vacation.

It also offers:

All of this and more can be discovered here during your vacation in the Black Forest. Find out beforehand at www.bad-wildbad.de.

  • Health-promoting thermal baths, including the Vital Therme and Palais Thermal, considered the most sensual spa in Germany, which has attracted even kings.
  • Further spa facilities from the Royal Spa Theater to the King Karl's Bath Forum.
  • The spa park, established in 1699.
  • The performances of the Rossini opera festival in Wildbad.
  • The Christmas market in the spa park.
  • The New Drinking Hall, a cultural center that reopened in 2014.
  • The 1,250-meter long and up to 40-meter high treetop path in Bad Wildbad.
  • The summer mountain railway, which offers a unique view of the city.

Bad Krozingen

Welcome to Bad Krozingen! Even in this spa town, wellness and relaxation are on the agenda. Additionally, there are also cultural highlights and excursion destinations for active travelers.

During your vacation in the Black Forest, here's what you can discover here:

Want to learn more about Bad Krozingen? Here you can find all the information you need to plan a varied vacation in the Black Forest: www.bad-krozingen.info

Top Destinations in the Black Forest

Music also plays a significant role in the Black Forest. This is reflected in festivals and classical music events. One of the most well-known opera festivals is ROSSINI IN WILDBAD, which has been performed since 1989 in memory of the composer's remarkable spa stay.

Sport program: For active vacationers and fitness enthusiasts, there is also plenty to discover - and experience - in this popular low mountain range. After all, running events, guided hikes, and cycling tours take place throughout the entire Black Forest. How about the autumn race in Bad Krozingen or the Black Forest Marathon in October?

A sea of flowers awaits Black Forest vacationers next year at the small state garden show in Bad Herrenalb around the stream Alb. Season tickets are already available for presale.

Culture is not neglected during a vacation in the Black Forest. Numerous museums and exhibitions, especially in Baden-Baden, invite with a diverse program. Regular A Cappella Nights, swing concerts, and themed evenings occur at the Spa House.

Events

>> Pure relaxation! Here you can find top wellness hotels in the Black Forest.

Accommodation in the Black Forest

A vacation in the Black Forest means variety - in terms of landscapes, culinary offerings, culture, and overnight accommodations. Depending on whether you're heading for a summer or winter vacation in the Black Forest, how much budget you have for your accommodation, and what your vacation preferences are, the region in southern Germany offers numerous opportunities to spend the best time of the year. Whether in one of the many exclusive hotels in the Black Forest, in a holiday apartment, or on a farm.

Hotels

Whether a last-minute trip, weekend getaway, or family vacation in the Black Forest: The region has numerous great hotels available for you. Decide for yourself whether you want to spend your vacation in the Black Forest in a selected wellness hotel with a wide range of relaxation options or head off with the family to a children's hotel in the Black Forest. All accommodations in the Black Forest, however, share one thing: they perfectly complement the landscape, cultural, and culinary diversity of the region with comfort, attentive service, and Black Forest ambiance. First conquer the mountainous landscape while hiking, biking, or skiing in the Black Forest and then allow yourself to be pampered with a hot stone massage.

Vacation Rentals in the Black Forest

A hotel is not always necessary for a vacation in the Black Forest. If you prefer a self-made vacation, one of the many holiday apartments in the Black Forest is just right for you. This form of accommodation is particularly popular among families with children and/or dogs. The advantages of a holiday apartment: you usually have more space available, can organize your day more individually, decide for yourself what to cook together, and are less dependent on closing times. Particularly popular holiday apartments in the Black Forest are located at Feldberg, Schluchsee, and in Freiburg. Here you can go skiing on the Feldberg, hiking at Schluchsee, or enjoy the best wines in a tavern in Freiburg - and then return to your own four walls.

Farm Holidays

If you're vacationing in the Black Forest with children, a farm is the perfect place to be. Boredom is guaranteed not to set in for the little ones here. Especially at the many child- and family-friendly farms in the Black Forest, you will find great accommodations during your vacation in the Black Forest. Here you and your children will learn how life on a farm works and can, of course, participate in the action. Petting animals, feeding them, and using nature for play - a farm vacation in the Black Forest is truly special. Popular destinations are St. Georgen, Schramberg, Triberg, and Königsfeld.

Getting There

The Black Forest is located in the southwest of Baden-Württemberg and can easily be reached by car, train, or airplane. From cities such as Munich, Stuttgart, or Heidelberg, it takes only a few hours to get into the low mountain range. Below are two options to start your vacation in the Black Forest.

Traveling from Munich: It takes about 4 hours by car from Munich to the Black Forest. You can reach Freiburg in 4 hours and 21 minutes, and Baden-Baden in 3 hours and 22 minutes. The fastest route is via the A8.

Traveling from Stuttgart: From the state capital, it takes just under 1 hour to reach the towns in the Black Forest. You can reach Baden-Baden both by train and by car in under 1 hour and 30 minutes. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car along the A8 to get to Bad Herrenalb.