visit black forest by train

Black Forest Germany
Rail Journeys

Train passing the Schluchsee in the Black Forest

Black Forest Train Routes

Using the German rail network to get to the Black Forest is a convenient - and ecologically-friendly - way to arrive.

And the options are just as good once you are there.

Not only is there a good network of rail infrastructure to get you around different parts of the region, many towns and villages are participating members of the Konus Guest Card scheme. This allows people staying in most types of accommodation free travel on rail (and bus) routes within the Black Forest.

Getting to the Black Forest by Train

The Black Forest region in the German state of Baden-Württemberg can be thought of as an upright rectangle - and there are major rail routes running along all sides of that rectangle.

To the west , the major Rhine Valley rail route from Basel in Switzerland runs up to Karlsrühe, passing the important Black Forest entry points at Freiburg , Offenburg and Baden-Baden .

To the north , the major rail routes running through Karlsrühe serve the cities of Pforzheim and Stuttgart before heading off in the direction of Ulm and Munich .

To the east , the main train route between Stuttgart and Singen near Lake Constance is a little bit further away from the Black Forest. But it does offer good connections to two important towns on the eastern edge of the southern part of the Black Forest in Donaueschingen and Villingen-Schwenningen. The line actually connects with the Black Forest Railway further south at Immendingen.

To the south , the Upper Rhine Railway runs from Basel in Switzerland along the river, swapping between German and Swiss territory, through to Singen and, eventually, Konstanz .

Getting Around the Black Forest by Train

There are quite a number of rail routes in and around the Black Forest, some of them small local branch lines and others which are quite useful to the visitor.

Black Forest Railway

The Black Forest Railway (or ' Schwarzwaldbahn ' in German) runs from Offenburg in the midwest through to Singen in the southeast of the region. This Black Forest line is one of the popular rail routes for visitors as it traverses the Kinzig valley with its attractive villages, the town of Triberg with its famous waterfalls, and Donaueschingen with the source of the Danube. There is actually another 'Black Forest Railway' - the one referred to here is the Baden one. (The Württemberg Schwarzwaldbahn runs from Stuttgart to Weil der Stadt.)

The Höllentalbahn

This rail connection links east and west in the southern part of the Black Forest. It links three of the main tourist attractions in the region as its route takes it from Freiburg im Breisgau in the east through Titisee to Donaueschingen .

The name translated into English means ' Hell's Valley Railway ', although these days the winding route is somewhat tamer. The entire section between Freiburg and Donaueschingen has now been electrified, following extensive building work on the eastern half of the route.

The Three Lakes Railway

This operates as a scenic branch line off the Höllentalbahn above and links Titisee via the Windgfällweiher reservoir to the Schluchsee (thus the Three Lakes). The 'Dreiseenbahn', as it is known in German, is pictured at the top of the page. An occasional steam train service organised by enthusiasts runs on this railway line.

The Kinzig Valley Railway

This is an unelectrified route from Hausach on the Black Forest Railway route up the Kinzig valley past the timbered old town centre of Schiltach to Freudenstadt .

The Murg Valley Railway

The Murg Valley Railway runs from Rastatt on the main Rhine Valley line up the narrow Murg valley through Baiersbronn to Freudenstadt, where there are links to the Kinzig Valley line above and to the Gäu Railway in the direction of Stuttgart.

Special Rail Tickets

Konus guest card.

Of course, the main ticket that most visitors who are staying in the Black Forest will be concerned with is the KONUS Guest Card. This allows anyone who is staying in around 11,000 establishments in 150 Black Forest communities to travel free on local buses and in second class on regional train services.

This means that express services, such as the InterCity routes, are not included even if they travel through the Black Forest.

It should also be noted that the KONUS card is financed through the tourist tax and thus anyone staying in an establishment where tourist tax is not collected (youth hostels, for example) is not eligible. There are also certain communities which are not included and certain routes included to communities which are not in the scheme (for example, travelling by train out of the Black Forest to Pforzheim).

The KONUS card starts on the day of arrival, is issued by the accommodation (not the train station), and finishes on the day of departure. Thus it cannot be used for arrival journeys but can be used as part of a departure journey.

Visitors are advised to contact their accommodation if they have any questions about whether they will be eligible for a KONUS card.

More information : KONUS Flyer (PDF)

Other Rail Tickets

Other rail tickets of interest to visitors to the Black Forest include the Baden-Württemberg Ticket , a rail pass which allows 24 hours of unlimited travel in the state in second class on regional trains. It costs 24 Euros for one person and increases in 6 Euro increments to a maximum of five people (thus 48 Euros for five people on one ticket).

A similar concept is operated by the Quer-durchs-Land Ticket , which covers the whole of Germany for 44 Euros for one person up to 76 Euros for five people. (This replaces the weekend ticket which had previously been offered by the German railways.)

More information : www.bahn.de

Black Forest

Destinations.

Baden-Baden
Donaueschingen
Freiburg im Breisgau
Freudenstadt

Black Forest Information

Hiking in the Black Forest
Winter in the Black Forest
Spa hotels in the Black Forest
Train Travel
How to get to the Black Forest

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The Black Forest Railway passes through some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe. Think pine forests, rock faces and Hanzel and Gretel-style villages. The Black Forest train is fully included in your Eurail Pass .

Black Forest Lines routes

From Offenburg to Hornberg, the train takes you through grassy fields and past small villages. After that, deep green pines cover the landscape until you reach the shores of Lake Constance (Konstanz).

The Black Forest line operates on the following route:

Offenburg - Konstanz

Facilities and services

Air conditioning
Disabled facilities
Snack trolley

Facilities may differ per train and route.

Additional information

Conditions for eurail pass holders.

Eurail Passes valid for Germany are valid on all Black Forest lines.

Special features

From today's modern trains you view stunning scenery of the genuine Black Forest, shortly interrupted by the many tunnels on this spectacular rail route. Make a pitstop at Donaueschingen to taste the local cuisine and visit the birthplace of the Danube, one of Europe's longest and mightiest rivers.

From the vivid and charming city of Freiburg it is only a one-hour train ride through the impressive Höllental (“Hell Valley”) to the Lakes of Titisee or Schluchsee surrounded by dense and calm forests.

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The Ultimate Black Forest Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Visit

Situated in Germany’s southwest corner, the Black Forest, or Schwarzwald in German, is known around the world for its dark conifer forests, enchanting villages, hiking trails, and thermal spas. Steeped in mystery and myth, the Black Forest is a place in Baden-Württemberg that so many Germans choose when they vacation in their own country. I have been to Schwarzwald a number of times, so I can attest to that. There are countless things to do in the Black forest! I’ve put together Black Forest travel guide featuring everything you need to plan a trip to Schwarzwald, from help creating your own Black Forest itinerary to detailed descriptions of the region’s sights and cultural attractions.

The state of Baden-Württemberg is a perfect travel destination that has something for everyone. A lot of tourists and locals alike flock to the Black Forest to visit Schloss Hohenbaden , hike to the Triberg Waterfalls , and marvel at half-timbered houses in Schiltach . In addition, Schwarzwald is a great place to breathe fresh air, which also provides great opportunities for outdoor exploration. If you want to experience the real Black Forest and live like a local, make sure to get off the beaten track.

The best part of visiting Schwarzwald is that you can’t go wrong with any itinerary because the Black Forest is an expansive area rich in tradition. Visiting the Black Forest is an essential part of any Southern Germany road trip, and definitely one of the best things to do in Baden-Württemberg. In this travel guide, you’ll also find my recommendations and tips for planning the Black Forest itinerary, as well as a starting point for planning your trip to Schwarzwald. Let’s dive right in!

The Ultimate Black Forest Travel Guide What to Know Before You Visit

Where is the Black Forest in Germany?

The Black Forest region in Baden-Württemberg is home to the cuckoo clock, the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales, and the highest non-Alpine Mountains in Germany . Stretching for about 100 miles along the French border from Switzerland to Baden-Baden, the Black Forest is the heart of the country’s timber and the woodworking industry. There are 11 moderate trails in Black Forest National Park ranging from 3.9 to 20.8 miles and about 250 different communities within the regional area.

Why is it Called the Black Forest?

Locally known as the Schwarzwald, the region still conjures up images of wizards, gnomes and witches, something akin to an enchanted forest in a fairy-tale. While the Black Forest is still an area abounding with myths, legends say that the slightly sinister canopy of evergreen trees here was thick and dense that sunlight struggled to reach the forest floor. Hence locals called the forest black.

A Brief History of the Black Forest Region

When the Romans arrived in the region nearly two millenniums ago, the forest was intermingled with both deciduous trees and pines. As people required more and more resources, the density that created the darkness would grow increasingly thinner. The increased use of timber turned the forest wood into an economic resource, sometimes sold, and sometimes used in mining, charcoal, and glass-making industries in other countries.

For example, timber from the Black Forest was used to build foundations for homes on the soft, sandy ground in the Netherlands . In the mid 18th and early 19th centuries, many farmers used the wood to make intricate cuckoo clocks to supplement their income during the winter months. To this day, local cuckoo clockmakers preserve the rich cultural and historical heritage.

Today the Black Forest is one of the best-managed forests in Germany. Sometimes visitors don’t even realize this when they see the rolling green hills and thick woodlands. But as they venture deeper into the national park, they can see the sections where foresting is allowed, and sections where new planting is being done. In some areas, you can still see the plant seedlings in straight rows.

Another thing the Black Forest is known for is thermal spas. Romans were the first who introduced the bathing culture with Europeans who rediscovered the healing springs at the beginning of the 19th century. The natural hot springs in the northwestern corner of the Black Forest including the spa town of Baden-Baden, attract spa enthusiasts from all over the world.

How to get to the Black Forest

Flying to the black forest region.

If you’re coming from the United States or Canada, Frankfurt is the primary airport for this area. There are trains running between Freiburg (Breisgau) Hbf and Frankfurt (Main), as well as trains that connect Karlsruhe, Baden-Baden, and Offenburg to the major cities in Germany by rail.

Alternatively, if you’re already in Europe and coming from within the European Union, consider flying to Basel-Mulhouse airport. The airport sits on the borders of France , Switzerland, and Germany and is much closer to Freiburg im Breisgau. There is a frequent bus connection between Basel Airport and Freiburg.

Visiting the Black Forest by public transport requires a bit of planning. Thus if you’re flying into major cities, you may want to use regional trains to get to the smaller towns on your Black Forest itinerary. If you are opting to take a scenic train ride through the Black Forest, then investing in a Konus card may be a wise decision. This guest card is valid in the registered period of your stay on all local buses and trains. As well as on the trams and buses in Freiburg and Karlsruhe.

Driving in the Black Forest

Of course, the most convenient way to explore the Black Forest is by car. There are plenty of rental companies doing business in Germany, so you can easily pick up your own vehicle at the airport upon arrival. When traveling from Frankfurt, you may want to take Autobahn A5, which runs through Offenburg along the western edge of the Black Forest.

Alternatively, you can take Autobahn A81, which runs through the valley on the eastern side of the region. Both routes can be the starting points for driving to any town in the region and great options if you’re planning a self-drive tour of the Black Forest.

When is the Best Time to Visit Black Forest

Schwarzwald is a year-round jaw-dropping destination that inspires the soul with its beautiful landscape and natural scenery. Depending on your interest, the region offers excellent potential for cross-country-skiing, hiking, and biking.

If trekking is your thing, then summer is the ideal time to visit . Spring comes later to higher elevations. In early March hilltops in the Black Forest are usually covered with snow. If you want to see nature in full swing, consider going in late April or early May.

At the other end, fall is a great time for mountain biking and nordic walking. While you can get a glimpse of vibrant fall foliage in the Black Forest, Schwarzwald also has many fir and spruce trees that do not change color. If you visit in autumn, there is an amazing number of cultural festivals and other traditional festivities in fall.

In winter Schwarzwald sees a lot of snow. If you’re looking for things to do in the Black Forest in winter, the national park offers cross-country and downhill skiing. You can attend a major sporting competition (ski jumping). Or you can see a dog sled race or go snowshoeing or snowboarding. Plus, nothing beats Christmas markets in enchanting chocolate-box towns.

Where To Stay In The Black Forest, Germany

Baden-Baden: Schwarzwaldhotel Sonne Karlsruhe: Hotel Zum Ochsen Durlach Europa-Park: Hotel Bell Rock Freiburg: Hotel Schwarzwälder Hof Bad Teinach-Zavelstein: Hotel Berlins KroneLamm Triberg: Hotel Central Garni Feldberg: Hotel Schlehdorn Gengenbach: Die Reichsstadt Heidelberg: Hotel Zum Ritter St. Georg Gernsbach: Schloss Eberstein Endingen: Zollhaus Lahr: Hotel Restaurant Adler Vogtsburg: Schwarzer Adler Estate Hotel

How to Explore the Black Forest

After my last three trips to the Black Forest, I figured out that the best way to explore is to set up a home base and explore from there. On my recent trip, I stayed in Kirchzarten, which is only a 10-minute drive from Freiburg. The town a number of reasonably-priced hotels as well as vacation rentals. However, if you’re interested in a more rustic experience, the concept of farm stays is quite popular here.

If you don’t have a plan or a travel itinerary, basing yourself in one location will allow you to thoroughly explore the surrounding areas. Such a strategy can go a long way because there are a lot of things to do in the Black Forest. So if you’re short on time, you will still end up somewhere that matters.

I crisscrossed Schwarzwald on my recent trips and there are still places I haven’t seen. To create a perfect Black Forest itinerary you’ll need first to narrow down the list of places you want to visit. If you have more than a weekend, set aside some time for particular points of interest you’ll encounter along the way. But if you have set a specific time to leave the area try to plan more specifically for your days. Keep in mind that wherever you go, you will likely come across a lot of charming places that deserve a stop.

Take A Hike

Obviously, you can’t visit the Black Forest without hiking its numerous trails. The larger cities including Baden-Baden, Freiburg, and Offenburg all have local tourist offices where you can get maps and additional information about shorter routes. Longer routes like Westweg (in the western Black Forest), Ostweg (in the eastern Black Forest), or the Mittelweg (in the central Black Forest) are usually listed on most websites so you can easily plan your Black Forest itinerary.

To plan the itinerary you need first select the area you wish to explore, then choose the route. If you’re using a website planner, it will show all of the trails in that area. Some can show a particular attraction or lodging, as well as trails that lead to that location.

Here are the Most Beautiful Tourist Routes in the Black Forest:

The Schwarzwaldhocstrasse , or the Black Forest High Road, is the oldest tourist route in the Black Forest. It covers high areas in the northern Black Forest, focusing on scenery and panoramic views.

The Schwarzwald Panoramastraße , or Black Forest Scenic Road, offers a very similar experience in the southern parts of the forest. The mountains are higher in the south, so the views may be more spectacular.

The Badische Weinstrasse , or Baden Wine Route, travels through the winemaking region on the west side of the forest. The route includes numerous wineries and renowned restaurants.

The Schwarzwald-Bäderstraße , or Black Forest Spa Route, travels through some of the top spa towns in a region that is known for its phenomenal spa experiences.

The Klosterroute Nordschwarzwald , or Northern Black Forest Monastery Road, visits four spectacular historic monasteries, including the UNESCO World Heritage Maulbronn Monastery.

Other routes exclusive to the Black Forest include the Schwarzwald-Tälerstraße , and the Baden Spargelstraße, or Asparagus Route.

black forest germany best places to stay

Tour routes running through the Black Forest, but not exclusive to it are:

The German Framework Route , red line, featuring stunning half-timbered architecture across the region.

The Hohenzollern Road , which follows the path of the Prussian royalty throughout Baden-Württemberg.

Römerstraße Neckar-Alb-Aare , or Roman Road Neckar-Alb-Aare, traces Roman ruins throughout the area, with excavations and open air museums.

Things to Do in the Black Forest

Visit a castle.

While Schwarzwald is not particularly known for its castles or palaces, the region boasts some outstanding examples, ranging from functioning sites open for tours to mere ruins. Schloß Eberstein near Gernsbach, Karlsruhe Palace , Castle Hohengeroldseck just to name a few.

If you’re looking for the best castles in the Black Forest consider visiting Burg Hohenzollern. Situated in the eastern part of the national park, the Gothic Revival Burg Hohenzollern feels like something out of a fantasy novel. Once the seat of the Prussian kings and Kaisers, the castle offers daily tours in German (or another language) for an added fee.

My American readers may be interested to find within the castle museum a letter penned by George Washington to a Hohenzollern descendant thanking him for his service in the American Revolutionary War.

Go To a Spa

Friedrichsbad and Caracalla in Baden-Baden, mineral thermal bath in Bad Teinach, Paracelsus-Thermae in Bad Liebenzell, and Palais Thermal in Bad Wildbad are among the best spas in the Black Forest region.

Since the Roman era, Schwarzwald has been known for its health retreats and spas. At first, Roman soldiers were sent to recuperate and “take the waters” here. Centuries later the Black Forest was frequented by royalty, the European nobility, and the world’s elite. It was the place to see and be seen both in the summer and in the winter and that feel has permeated the region as it is today.

With more than 400 ranking criteria to determine the overall quality of a spa, there are 17 different sites in the Black Forest to visit. With this in mind, pick a town with a name starting with the word “Bad” (bath) to get a quality spa experience.

Hike To Triberg Waterfall

Located in the town of Triberg, the Triberg Fall is one of the most scenic natural wonders in Schwarzwald. The trail begins right in town. It is well marked and you will need to pay a small entry fee to access the trail. You’ll climb from the foot to the top of the waterfalls on a winding path along the cascading falls, with lookout points to enjoy the view.

black forest germany best places to visit

After a point, the trail branches off in three directions. The main trail loops back into the town. Don’t miss seeing Maria in der Tanne pilgrimage church along the route. The small baroque church is very unique to the Black Forest with an impressive altar and wonderful carved wood doors.

Enjoy The Rides At Europa Park

Europa Park sits in the town of Rust, some 50 minutes from Offenburg. This is Europe’s second most popular amusement park (after Disneyland Paris). Split into 15 country-themed areas, Europa Park features world-class rides in a setting that recreates highlights from around Europe . You can take a Poseidon Water roller coaster ride, have a lot of fun with Cassandra’s Curse – spinning-room dark ride, and check out Russia’s Mir space station. I particularly like Atlantica Super Splash that creates a refreshing spray and genuinely makes you feel like you left Germany!

Visit The Black Forest Open Air Museum

Schwarzwälder Freilichtmuseum Vogtsbauernhof sits between Hausach and Gutach and provides valuable insights into German life in the Black Forest. It’s one of my favorite museums in Germany and I’ve visited it four or five times now and enjoyed every visit. I usually visit with a companion, and it never fails to impress. If you’d like a taste of the history of the region, don’t miss out on visiting this place. Family visitors and adults-only groups will both enjoy this fascinating open-air museum that focuses on different aspects of farm life and different generations.

You can easily spend one full day there because the museum features an extensive collection of farmhouses ranging from 16th to the 18th centuries. In order to understand local life better, you can join guided tours both in German and English. From March to November there are activities and workshops like traditional baking and cooking, folklore, and craft demonstrations. This will be a fun-filled learning experience for kids. Check the timings before you go, so that you won’t miss anything.

Go To a Historic Mine

Did you know that there are amazing medieval mines beneath the Black Forest? In Schwarzwald extensive mining activities took place during the Middle Ages but today nearly all of the mines are closed to production. Several former mine sites have re-opened their doors to visitors after refurbishment. So if you’re into the history of mining technology, you can choose any of the 12 mines in the Black Forest that offer tours ranging from 45 minutes to two and a half hours. Museums-Bergwerk Schauinsland, Mine ‘Frischglück’ in Neuenbürg, Mine ‘Finstergrund’ in Wieden, Mine ‘Teufelsgrund’ in Münstertal and some others offer scheduled tours.

Beautiful Places to Visit in the Black Forest

First things first, there are endless beautiful places to visit in the Black Forest. Every village and town here has unique aspects and something special to see. Wherever you go, you will always find something worthwhile along the way. However, when it comes to planning your own Black Forest travel itinerary, there are some extraordinary locations that you may want to visit in the first place.

Freiburg im Breisgau

This university town is one of the largest in the Black Forest that makes a great base to explore the rest of the region. Freiburg im Breisgau has beautiful historic buildings, picturesque narrow streets, interesting history, the famous Freiburg Munster , and lots of places to eat hearty German cuisine. The best part about Freiburg is that you don’t need longer than a day to see it all. Consider taking a free walking tour or a culinary tour to better understand this adorable town.

With a charming medieval old town and dynamic café culture, Freiburg harmoniously combines the old and the new. The Munsterplatz , or cathedral square, is where the lively open-air market takes place on working days, great for people-watching. The atmospheric Freiburg Munster with its frightening and grotesque gargoyles is worth a visit too. The cathedral is home to the 750-year-old Hosanna bell , as well as the 116-m-high tower that offers scenic panoramic views of the town.

Another great thing to check out in Freiburg, especially for kids, is the Bächle ! These little cobbled water-filled gutters run through the city center. In the summer, waterways attract barefoot kids of all ages to play, splash and have a blast.

Set in the pine-forested Nagold valley, Calw has a reputation for being one of the forest’s prettiest towns. As the birthplace of German novelist, and Nobel Prize recipient Herman Hesse, there’s a museum dedicated to his works. Calw is another stop on the Timber Frame Road so you can expect to enjoy the peaceful and tranquil countryside.

Start exploring Calw with the picturesque market square. Surrounded by 18th-century half-timbered houses, Calw’s square offers a quintessential German experience – think cobbled streets, towering Gothic churches, and of course, delicious beer. The city owes its growth to tourism. Many flock here to see the ruins of Hirsau Monastery , stop by the Tannery Museum, the Monastery Hirsau Museum, and the Farmhouse Museum.

Bad Wildbad

Situated in the north of the forest, Bad Wildbad is a lovely riverfront town where you can take a river walk to try the Palais Thermal baths. The thing I love about Bad Wildbad is that the spa town is much cheaper than Baden-Baden. At the same time if offers amazing spa facilities, a wide range of treatments for health, entertaining cultural events, and cross-country trails on the Sommerberg and around. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a ride on the Sommerberg Funicular Railway, then take the Schwarzwald Treetop Walk .

Breisach am Rhein

The tiny town of Breisach sits on the German side of the Upper Rhine River in the immediate vicinity of Alsace. You can reach Breisach by rail from Freiburg in 30 minutes. Alternatively, there are trains to Breisach from Riegel am Kaiserstuhl, north of Freiburg. To the west, there is Colmar in France. Catch a bus at Breisach Bahnhof bus station to enjoy a 30-minute bus ride.

Baiersbronn

This idyllic mountain resort consists of nine scenic hamlets that are famous as a center of haute cuisine in Germany. It gained fame in culinary circles for the astounding number of Michelin stars awarded to three local restaurants.

Between meals in Schwarzwaldstube (Hotel Traube Tonbach), Restaurant Bareiss, and Restaurant Schlossberg, there are a number of attractions and things to do to keep you entertained.

The impressive ruins of the All Saints’ Abbey (Kloster Allerheiligen), are made even more haunting by their secluded setting and unfortunate history. Since its founding in 1192, parts of the premises have been destroyed repeatedly by fires — in 1470, in 1555, and finally by lightning in 1804. Southwest of Baiersbronn a scenic path leads to the 40-meter tall Sankenbach Waterfalls (Sankenbach-Wasserfälle). Play around with a long wooden lever, which allows visitors to regulate the volume of the waterfall.

Nestled just about 20 minutes away from Offenburg by train, the town of Gengenbach is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, stone fountains, and half-timbered houses. Every street in this chocolate box town seems postcard-worthy. Many buildings here are decorated with brightly painted shutters, flower boxes, and bronze lanterns.

Gengenbach is part of the German Framework Road and definitely looks like a scene out of a fairy tale. If you’re looking for a fantastic Christmas experience, make sure to head to Gengenbach in December. For twenty-four days before Christmas, the town hall becomes a giant Advent calendar, with each of its 24 large windows opening in turn to reveal an elaborate scene.

In fact, Baden-Württemberg was one of the first areas in Europe to host Christmas markets. Gengenbach is a unique place to enjoy a traditional Christkindlesmarkt that isn’t ruined by commercialization or overrun by crowds. Also, don’t miss out on visiting Narrenmuseum Niggelturm, Löwenberg Museum in the former Patrician’s house, and the Rafting and Transport Museum in the former Warden’s House.

There is a number of vineyards surround much of Gengenbach, while hikes in the area range from about 1-13 miles. Shorter walks are available along some of the vineyards close to town. The paths won’t be actually winding through forests, but you’ll have incredible views of the area, as well as the town itself.

The Bottom Line

I hope my Black Forest travel guide has inspired you to visit Schwarzwald one day soon. If you’re still looking for options to add to your itinerary, there are just too many places to include in one post. With so many castles, trails, museums, and postcard-worthy towns, you really can’t go wrong in the Black Forest.

If you’re planning your own fun adventure through a dense and mysterious land, the Schwarzwald Tourism page gives accurate information on literally every town and attraction in the region. Whether you’re obsessed with trip planning or you just want a loose plan, the Black Forest has the rolling hills, thick evergreen forests, and fields dotted with cute guesthouses, farmhouses that won’t disappoint.

Schwarzwald is one of my favorite places in Germany, and I will definitely return. The question is, how many times.

Still have doubts about how to arrange a trip to the Black Forest, what to do, and where to stay? Don’t be shy, leave a question in the comments below. And don’t forget to book your hotels and tour through my links, doing that you help me with running MindTheTravel and writing great travel tips!

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Helen Reynolds

My husband and I lived in Germany many years ago and this took me back. Thank you.

I would love to visit The Black Forest. Your article makes it look like a very interesting place to visit. Thanks for this.

Never knew it was known by Schwarzwald. Seems very exciting! Would love to visit it!

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The Perfect 3-Day Black Forest Itinerary

Last Updated on February 1, 2024

by Paola Drexler

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Even if you only have time for a 3-day Black Forest itinerary, there is no doubt that visiting this gorgeous corner of southwestern Germany is 100% worth it.

In German, the forest is called der Schwarzwald, which references the pine trees’ deep dark green colour, making the forest look almost black.

If you are a fan of the Brothers Grimm fairytales, Harry Potter or just love traditional German towns, this destination will deliver in making your wildest dreams come true.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the Black Forest?

Since the forest’s region is so massive, you might be contemplating how many days to spend in the Black Forest.

Some people only take a day trip to get a quick feel for the area, but I would recommend spending at least 2 days in the Black Forest and even then you can expect your days to be packed and might not get to experience all of the attractions.

However, if you do have an extra day, you will find that 3 days in the Black Forest does give you more time to breathe and enjoy the scenic forest to the fullest. You can even venture outside the area to explore other nearby cities.

As you may well know, the Black Forest is located in Germany’s southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg, spanning the cities of Baden-Baden, Freiburg, Offenburg and Pforzheim. You will also find the Rhine River, which reaches other popular cities like Frankfurt and Heidelberg , in the south and west of the forest.

Although the forest is magical all year round, the best time to visit the Black Forest is during the warmer seasons to ensure you can do all the outdoor activities.

Getting To & Around the Black Forest

You will be happy to hear that it is quite easy to get to and around the Black Forest, whether your preferred mode of transportation is by car, train or other methods.

If you are flying in, you will find that the closest airport depends on where you start your journey. For example, near the French/Swiss/German three-way border, you will have the Basel Airport which has great access from big cities like Frankfurt , Amsterdam and London .

You can also find the smaller Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport on the western side of the forest. The third and probably best option is the Stuttgart Airport, which is the largest of the three and also serves some discount airline carriers.

For those who wish to plan your Black Forest travel itinerary by car, you can rent one at the airport or other available locations, just be sure to reserve in advance.

It’s also a great idea if you want to go beyond the Black Forest and embark on a greater Germany road trip. You can browse rental car options here .

Although exploring by car might be a convenient option, you can also complete your Black Forest trip by train. You can take a direct train from many of Germany’s major cities and it’s also quite accessible from neighbouring countries.

With train routes running alongside the forest, you can explore the different areas on foot and hop on The Black Forest Railway or other railway links to get around the grand forest. You can view schedules here.

Travellers on holiday can receive a free KONUS Guest Card at most resorts, just be sure to register with your host beforehand. This card allows for unlimited access to public transportation in the area.

If you are not eligible for a KONUS card, you can also purchase a SchwarzwaldCard that not only provides bus and train rides but also gives you access to 200 attractions. With this card, you can choose any three days to use it which is perfect for your 3 days in the Black Forest.

3-Day Black Forest Itinerary

Often, when people imagine a traditional German trip, they might think of the wooden half-timbered houses, giant cuckoo clocks and neverending lush green forest.

All of that, including cute red hats, delicious meat cuts, Black Forest cake and so much more can be found in this incredible area. If you are in search of something mystical, you will be sure to find it – whether it be through the magical food or sights.

Day 1 – Klotser Maulbronn, Calw & Baden-Baden

You will begin your journey just outside of Pforzheim, the city that is nicknamed “Goldstadt” or “Golden City.” Should a start in the south be more convenient (e.g. by flying into Basel airport), you can simply reverse the order of the days. Should you have more time at the beginning, consider a visit to Schloss Karlsruhe before beginning, especially if you love grand baroque palaces.

Kloster Maulbronn and Calw

Just a twenty-minute drive from Pforzheim, you will come across Maulbronn where you can visit a historic UNESCO World Heritage Site and well-preserved monastery from 1147 known as Kloster Maulbronn or Maulbronn Monastery.

Over the years it has seen its fair share of success and hardship, but today you can find the town’s police station, town hall and other offices on the grounds.

Make your way down to Pforzheim, where its watchmaking and jewellery history is rich since these businesses date back to 1767.

Now that you are officially in the Black Forest, you will travel deeper into the forest until you reach Calw, which is a tiny town in the northern part of the forest. Here you can see some of the most beautiful medieval houses framed with timber that look just like what you would imagine a typical Black Forest village to look like.

Treetop Walk

Your next stop, at the Treetop Walk, will give you a lovely walkway where you will have the tops of the evergreen trees at eye level and you will see the forest from above. This is more than a typical hiking trail, it’s truly an experience.

The walkway will lead you to the observation tower where you will have a great view of the Black Forest and feel closer to nature than ever.

Baden-Baden Spas and Wine Route

After your treetop adventures, it’s time to head to Baden-Baden where you will get a chance to enjoy the calm side of the forest. If you have ever wondered what it was like to pamper yourself with a relaxing day at a spa during your trip to the Black Forest, well then you can find that out here.

You will also see that although Baden is the name of the region, the word also translates to bathing and the area takes its name seriously.

Baden-Baden is a great place to end your first day. You can check with your accommodations whether they have a spa you can enjoy or you can book a time with a spa nearby, like Caracalla Therme, to take a drink from the Fountain of Youth and enjoy a thermal bath. The town is famous for its thermal water springs which have attracted visitors for centuries.

However, before calling it a day you can indulge a bit more at the Baden Wine Route. Here you can learn all about the vineyards and delicious wine growing in the area. With most vineyards offering wine tastings, you can find out what wine in this part of Germany is all about.

Alternatively, you can end your day exploring more nature in the area, including the lovely Lake Mummelsee and the nearby Allerheiligen Waterfalls.

Day 2 – Freiburg & Titisee

On the second day of your Black Forest road trip itinerary , you will drive south, passing the town of Gengenbach. Depending on the time of year you are visiting the area, you might be able to catch the town’s Fasnacht or carnival festivities where people celebrate with parades and wear costumes.

Black Forest Open Air Museum

The next stop is the Black Forest Open Air Museum in Gutach, where you will learn the history of the town’s iconic wooden farmhouses dating back to the 16th century.

In the immersive experience, you will also get a taste of what life was like in the Black Forest. When you are done at the museum, get back into your car or get the next train towards Freiburg am Breisgau.

Freiburg Cathedral

Once you reach Freiburg, you will follow the alluring church bell chimes beaconing you to the Freiburg Cathedral. To match the mystical and gothic atmosphere enjoy a great view of the city and forest from the top of the cathedral.

During the winter in December, you can find joyous Christmas markets to add some extra magic to your trip. If you are visiting in February you can enjoy the town’s carnival or if you go a few months later you can experience the fun wine festivals.

Just outside of Freiburg, you can also find the Schauinsland cable car which will give you incredible views of the mountains and the forest.

Titisee-Neustadt and Lake

After Freiburg, you will head southeast to discover the stunning Titisee-Neustadt area. On the way to Titisee, you will drive by the Ravenna Gorge, which is a valley carved by the Ravenna River where you will see an extraordinary bridge.

You will continue down the Black Forest route until you come across a charming town with all the authentic Cuckoo clocks you have heard of, along with the region’s most mouthwatering cheese and meat cuts in the shops lining the lake in the city centre of Titisee-Neustadt.

No matter the time of year, you can enjoy the glorious Lake Titisee and the various activities surrounding it. In the warm times, you can swim in it, picnic near the shore or stroll around. In colder times, if the lake freezes, you can even ice skate on it.

You will end your second day strolling the street of Titisee-Neustadt, exploring the region’s delicacies and perhaps enjoying some local schnapps. Or, if you’re still keen to see more incredible nature, head to the nearby Feldberg to enjoy some gorgeous mountain scenery.

Day 3 – Triberg Waterfalls, Burg Huhenzollern, Europa Park & More

To end your 3 days in this enchanted forest with a bang, you will have a few options to choose from. There are plenty of activities to do in the forest for those who enjoy hiking, roaming the wildlife park and outdoor fun things but there are also many day trip adventures nearby.

Triberg Waterfalls

For travellers looking to spend more time in nature, you can head north from Titisee to Triberg to continue your Black Forest road trip.

In the middle of the forest, after a leisurely hike, you will come across the Triberg Waterfalls. If the weather allows it when you reach the falls, you can reward yourself with a refreshing dip into the water and enjoy the impressive waterfalls.

Burg Huhenzollern

After Triberg, just about an hour northeast you will find the magnificent Huhenzollern Castle which comes straight out of a fairytale and is a fantastic place to visit when planning to explore the Black Forest.

While this castle is extremely impressive, you will find it interesting to learn that there were actually two other castles built on Mount Huhenzollern before the current castle. The construction of the first castle dates back to the 11th century and reconstruction for the third castle started around 1850.

Visitors can now tour the castle and imagine themselves as royalty when strolling the rooms and grounds.

Danube River Source

From Titisee, you can travel 30 minutes east to the Danube River in Donaueschingen. The river flows through 10 countries and has become a significant landmark in European history.

If you wish to continue exploring Germany or other countries, you can easily do so on a river cruise on the Danube.

In Donaueschingen, you will also find what is known as the source of the Danube as well as the Fürstenberg brewery.

Europa Park

For those with kids or who are young at heart, you can spend the day in Rust at the amusement park Europa Park.

The theme park is the largest in Germany and after Disneyland Paris the second most popular in Europe. The diverse themes within the park are meant to give most European countries a representation.

No matter where your third day takes you, you will be sure to have a great last day in German’s wonderful Black Forest.

If you’re not interested in the theme park, then consider heading to the gorgeous town of Schiltach, located on the Kinzig River. This is a charming medieval town to visit in the Black Forest.

Where to Stay in the Black Forest

Huber’s Hotel – This 3-star hotel in Baden-Baden is an excellent base for mid-range travellers in the Black Forest. They have single and double rooms on offer, parking is included on-site and there is breakfast available in the mornings.

Hotel Rebenhof – Located about 10 kilometres from the centre of Baden-Baden and overlooking the beautiful wine region, this luxe hotel is an excellent base for those looking for a high-end escape in the Black Forest. They have countless lovely rooms on offer and a number of wonderful amenities to ensure you have the perfect stay.

limehome Baden-Baden Bäderstraße – If you’d like to return to your own apartment after a long day of exploring the Black Forest region, then you’re sure to love this aparthotel in Baden-Baden. They have a range of flats on offer that are fully furnished with everything you may need.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Black Forest hotels!

The Black Forest is sure to enchant all those who get to visit. Now that you’ve planned out what to do in this beautiful area, you can sit back and enjoy the soothing sounds of the Cuckoo clocks while digging into a delicious cherry torte in the mystifying forest.

Are you planning to visit the Black Forest? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Paola Drexler

Paola is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the state of Arizona in the USA, she lived in Germany before moving to the United Kingdom. Paola loves spending her free time travelling in Europe and sometimes ever further afield.

Hi Paola, Could you tell us the best place to stay in the black forest where they make cookoo clocks, we would like to get one for our 50th anniversary, l have checked the clocks on line but would prefer to see them working. l can not walk very far at a time so would prefer to be in the area and check out all the stores

hello Paola, we will be in Vishofen and have 4 days to explore on our own after that. We would like to see picturesque scenery and small towns, not really interested in large cities. The romantic road? the Black Forest? someplace else? Are either of those possible in 4 days by car? Should we take a train to get closer, then rent a car? We need to end up near an international airport to fly to or towards the USA on the 5th day. I wish we knew someone personally that has been to this part of the world, but we do not. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Betsy

Travel To The Black Forest Germany

For those not aware already, Black Forest is a vast forested region in southwest Germany. More specifically, it’s located in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg and occupies a significant portion of it.

Moreover, the region is on the border with France and Switzerland , so it’s accessible from those countries as well.

In this article, we’ll talk more about why it’s worth a visit. Most importantly, we’ll tell you how to reach the Black Forest in Germany by train.

This article was written to educate about Train Travel and was made by Save A Train, The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World .

The Beauty of the Region

The beauty of the region lies in its nature, but also some scenic towns and villages . As for the nature part, the area is, well, filled with forests. That part is self-explanatory. However, there’s much more to it!

The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald as it’s called in German, has many locations with beautiful panoramic views . It’s also filled with stunning river valleys and sunny, gorgeous peaks of the many hills that you can find here.

Additionally, there are plenty of destinations that can be of interest to many people. You can find calm family destinations , couple retreats, and awe-inspiring landscapes for the more adventurous people .

What’s more, you’ll find the whole region gorgeous and fairytale-like all year long! That’s a fact because it looks impressive when it’s sunny, rainy, and when there’s snow . You can see that clearly in most pictures of the area .

Offenburg to Konstanz Trains

Stuttgart to Offenburg Trains

Leipzig to Dresden Trains

Nuremberg to Stuttgart Trains

How to Reach the Black Forest by Train

Reaching the Black Forest by Train is something that you can do in many ways. That’s mostly because of the location of the region and the fact that train travel through Germany is fantastic .

However, that’s not all. You can reach the many destinations in the region from almost any part of Europe. That’s especially true for major cities in countries like France, Switzerland, Austria , Belgium , Italy , and many more.

As for Germany, train travel is made easy as one company – Deutsche Bahn operates it. Various ICE Trains , EuroCity, CityNight, Intercity, and TGV lines can take you to the many areas in the region. You can ride a train to Karlsruhe, Baden-Baden, Freiburg, and Offenburg. These trains go from all major German cities, so visiting the Black Forest by train will be a breeze.

Whatever you decide to do, you won’t go wrong, because visiting the Black Forest can be a magical experience . We are saying this mostly because you can use the scenic train and traverse the entire region. You will experience the most beautiful things the Black Forest has to offer. The Black Forest scenic line operates on the route Offenburg-Konstanz.

Offenburg to Freiburg Trains

Stuttgart to Freiburg Trains

Leipzig to Freiburg Trains

Nuremberg to Freiburg Trains

Visit the Black Forest by Train Whenever You Want!

As you can see, the beauty of the region and the convenience of train travel make this trip a wonderful experience. We highly advise you to visit the most magical area of Germany at least once in your life! However, that trip should be long enough for you to see everything that the Black Forest has to offer!

When you decide to take us up on this offer, feel free to Contact Save A Train . We can help you visit the Black Forest by train and get a truly memorable experience.

Do you want to embed our blog post onto your site, you can either take our photos and text and just give us credit with a link to this blog post , or you click here: https://iframely.com/embed/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saveatrain.com%2Fblog%2Fblack-forest-by-train%2F%3Flang%3Den – (Scroll down a little to see the Embed Code)

If you want to be kind to your users, you can guide them directly into our search pages. In this link, you will find our most popular train routes – https://www.saveatrain.com/routes_sitemap.xml . Inside you have our links for English landing pages, but we also have https://www.saveatrain.com/ru_routes_sitemap.xml and you can change the /ru to /ja or /in and more languages.

Liam Mallari

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A Black Forest fairytale: riding Germany’s ‘hell valley’ railway in winter

The Höllentalbahn is a spectacular line through south-west Germany’s forests and magical towns. Enchanting stop-offs en route include gothic Freiburg and pretty Titisee lake

I n the tucked away Black Forest town of Donaueschingen, the mighty River Danube begins. It rises as a clear, three metre-deep wellspring in the town centre, encircled by a stone basin sculpted with zodiac symbols. From there, the Danube – Donau in German – flows full tilt onwards for 1,771 miles to its mouth on the Black Sea, passing through the great cities of Vienna, Budapest and Belgrade.

There’s so much poetry in that journey from dark woodland to dark water. But while my trip started at this blessed pool, where the Danube begins its course east, I was heading in the opposite direction – into a part of Germany’s south-west with which I was unfamiliar.

Though the Black Forest is feted for its wild spaces, sense of remoteness and sweeping mountains – green in summer, top to bottom with snow-white thickets in the colder months – the region is easy to traverse year-round by boot, bike and Deutsche Bahn national rail. That’s good news for those who love discovering a new place by train, because the most compelling railway line here – the Höllentalbahn – begins in Donaueschingen, before rising 50 miles later in Freiburg, on the Black Forest’s western fringe. One of the steepest routes in the country, the Höllentalbahn has an equally gripping translation: the Hell Valley Railway. And I knew I was going to love it.

It’s a good time for rail travel in Germany. Last summer, Deutsche Bahn launched a monthly subscription ticket for nationwide travel on local and regional routes for €49 , while super saver fares for short distances were priced at €9.90 – and this is set to continue. Car emissions charges have since been increased and passenger numbers on local services have shot up by a quarter, according to Deutsche Bahn. That sense of sustainable value was also apparent on the Höllentalbahn. My entire ride cost €16, but I broke up the 90-minute journey with multiple stops along the way.

Before I boarded, there was time to discover more of Donaueschingen. From the train station, I followed the road to Haus Fürstenberg , walking in the footsteps of the last emperor of Germany, Wilhelm II, a regular visitor to the princely residence. The grounds are filled with oak and birch, and, beyond the tree line, the palace rises like a Loire Valley chateau, its yellow facade crested with a top-hat dome. Inside, there is a stately but fun museum, home to a gilded travelling potty once owned by Napoleon.

Next door, taking over several town blocks, is Fürstenberg Brauerei , a baroque palace of a brewery from the 18th century . It was a touch too early for a pilsner, but Kaiser Wilhelm II loved it so much, the beer became his majesty’s official beverage.

My journey on the Höllentalbahn began shortly after, and following a quick transition from factories to farmland, the railway was soon in the thick of the Black Forest. To forge a straight route through the undulating highlands was impossible in 1901, when the line was completed, so the Höllentalbahn ducks and weaves like a heavyweight boxer. Slow at first, then landing punches as it passes several worthy stops.

The first of these is Titisee, a glacial lake from which, according to legend, newborn babies entered the world. Nowadays, it’s a popular escape for spa tourism from spring to autumn, when visitors come to get their skin buffed baby pink. But as the darkening days segue into the snows of winter, Titisee comes into its own. The lake basin takes time to freeze, but when it does, the style and pace of life on the water accelerate, from leisurely boat cruises that run until late October to ice skating at Christmas and new year, when conditions are just right.

The atmosphere on the lakefront is fiesta-like, with timber-framed cuckoo clock shops, pub landlords proffering foamy steins, and restaurant menus filled with the trappings of the season.

With the lake yet to freeze, I made do with a shoreline stroll, then settled in at Seehotel Wiesler hotel. As I sat on the terrace facing the water, the owner’s son-in-law, Fabian Isele, stopped by to offer wine and local wisdom.

“The best thing to learn about the Black Forest is, nature rules,” he told me. “ Auerhahn [western capercaillie] live on Feldberg mountain. Wolves have returned, just like in a Grimm’s fairytale. So much is still untouched by our hands.”

Reverence for the forest and the creatures within was also apparent the next day in neighbouring Hinterzarten, a short hop away on the train. The highest point on the Höllentalbahn (885m), Hinterzarten is the sort of village best suited to winter. Chimney smoke swirled from old-fashioned farmsteads. Byres stood ready with long-hipped roofs to withstand the wind and snow.

A short walk from the train station, along a broad farm track, lies Ospelehof , one of the oldest steadings in these woods. Martin Braun is a wiry, fourth-generation farmer, dressed in lederhosen, who looks after a butchery, cheese shop, guesthouse and restaurant offering farm tours and raclette feasts in the dairy beneath his house.

The restaurant’s warm basement setting offered respite from the cold and dry chill. Next to a copper kettle for churning out cheese, log benches sported woollen fleeces, and walls were draped with cow hides and framed portraits of Martin’s herd of Highland cattle. “I’ve always been a fan, but the topography is a challenge for them – and for me,” he said. “This is a world of forests, after all.” Together, we ate a platter of cheese intense with garlic from the surrounding wild lands, and claret-red beef salami and ham produced in Martin’s barn smokery. It was terrific.

The most memorable part of the journey arrived that same afternoon, when the rail line crossed a landscape of banded hills scythed by gorges and bridges. From Hinterzarten’s saddle, the train nosedived past waterfall hollows, sweeping us over the stone arches of the Ravenna viaduct, with views over the narrow, deepening Höllental valley – hell, as early German visitors once called it, or Val d’enfer to the French. Contrary to this sense of moving into the Underworld, we hadn’t tumbled out of heaven or Earth. We’d merely plunged 400m.

As the sun started to fade, the Höllentalbahn began its final descent through tunnels and twilight-lit trees, making its final stop at Freiburg station on the edge of the Black Forest. Passengers lurched off into the twinkling lights of the Altstadt, the old town, beneath gothic spires and stone gargoyles, and I happily joined the throng on showpiece Münsterplatz, or Minster Square, enjoying a pilsner and plate of roast goose and dumplings – a Black Forest dream. For many new arrivals, Freiburg is a reverie of a town, and, at this magical time of day, the culmination of my rail journey felt – almost – like a fairytale ending.

Trip provided by Visit Germany . Double rooms at Seehotel Wiesler in Titisee from € 98 B&B and Park Hotel Post in Freiburg from € 149 B&B . Tickets for the Höllentalbahn can be bought online ( bahn.de ). Trains operated by Eurostar , TGV Lyria and Deutsche Bahn connect Donaueschingen and Freiburg to London in under seven hours (from £72, each way) .

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Climbing 650 metres vertically and covering a distance of 149 kilometres, the Black Forest Railway (or Badische Schwarzwaldbahn in German) passes through some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe. Think pine forests, rock faces and dark overhead branches. Please note: this is a regular train doing a scenic route. Your Interrail Pass is valid on this train.

Black Forest routes

Black Forest Lines scenic train routes

From the small town of Offenburg , the train quickly leaves the overhead trappings of urban life behind and glides into pristine outdoor scenery. Grassy fields stretch away from the track as church spires pierce the skyline and small clusters of villages flash past the windows.
From Hornberg the scenery changes as deep green pines cover the landscape and the train passes through tunnel after tunnel and runs between dense, dark foliage.
From Donaueschingen the route runs right down to Singen where it joins the Upper Rhine Railway to continue to the shores of Lake Constance (Konstanz).

The Black Forest line operates on the following route:

Offenburg - Konstanz

Additional information

Conditions for interrail pass holders.

Interrail Passes valid in Germany are valid on all Black Forest lines.

Special features

From today's modern trains you view stunning scenery of the genuine Black Forest, shortly interrupted by the many tunnels on this spectacular rail route. Get off at Donaueschingen and visit the birthplace of the Danube, one of Europe´s longest and mightiest rivers.

Donaueschingen makes a good plac e for a pit stop, about an hour and a half into the route. You’ll find plenty of places to tuck into hearty Black Forest dishes such as the Schwarzwalder Shinken (ham) or Kalbsrouladen (veal roulade).

Facilities and services

Air conditioning
Disabled facilities
Snack trolley

Facilities may differ per train and route.

Operated by:

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The Black Forest Railway

Information in brief

149 km from Offenburg to Singen
the large height difference is bridged by routing the line in loops and through 39 tunnels

Description

The Black Forest Railway connects Offenburg and Singen over a distance of 149 km. The section between Hornberg, Triberg and St. Georgen is particularly interesting. More than 120 years after its opening, the stretch is still regarded as a great feat of engineering. It is now used both by the Deutsche Bahn for its regular services as well as for special trips with nostalgia trains.

The planning and construction of the Black Forest Railway became the ideal for building a mountain railway and the model for the Gotthard, Albula and Bernina railway in Switzerland and railways in Peru, the USA and New Zealand, amongst others.

The masterly achievement consisted in bridging the height difference by means of double loops. Using this construction, the 448 m difference in height between Hornberg and St. Georgen was bridged with 39 tunnels, a viaduct and a maximum gradient of only 2% without any switchbacks. The distance of 11 km as the crow flies was extended to a track length of 26 km.

Cities along the most interesting part of the line

St. Georgen

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Black Forest in 1 Day (by bus & train)

Start / End

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You will be starting off your tour in a small Black Forest mountain town, a short train ride away from Freiburg. From here you tour by bus to see some of the must-see sights: Lake Titisee, the mountain coaster, a waterfall. We tell you exactly which bus to get on what stop to get off to see the most. You will spend 1 night in the Black Forest and 1 night in Freiburg.

We Handle All The Detail
luggage transfers Included
2 hotels & breakfast included
Tour by train and bus
Plenty of time to explore on your own
See the main attractions

This package is ideal if you want to see the top sights of the Black Forest by bus: Freiburg, Lake Titisee, the mountain coaster, a hanging bridge, waterfalls and lots of scenery

Start of your vacation: Lake Titisee area

When arriving in the Black Forest area you will head straight to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Depending on the time of your arrival we recommend exploring Lake Titisee – go for a boat ride or do some shopping. If you prefer to take it slow we show you where to go for a quiet walk in the forest. Or take it easy at the hotel where we treat you to a piece of Black Forest cake and coffee.

Top Sights of the Black Forest

The next day a bus will take you to some of the top sights: Visit the highest mountain in the Black Forest and climb up the sightseeing tower for a 360 degree view. How about a mountain coaster ride or a walk to the waterfall? Today is all about the must-see sights. You get to choose which ones to see and which ones to skip. Your luggage is being transported to the next hotel so you don’t have to carry around anything during your day.

End of your vacation: Freiburg

What’s great about this tour: you get to end your trip off in the capital of the Black Forest – Freiburg. You have plenty of time to enjoy the sunniest city of Germany. With our self-guided audio tour you will explore Freiburg like a local. The next morning we recommend a visit to the farmer’s market in town before getting on a train to your next destination.

Is it for me?

This is a good vacation package if you want to see the top sights of the Southern Black Forest by bus. It can get busy in summer but these sights are a MUST-SEE

Arrival Day

Arrive by train in Freiburg, the capital of the Black Forest . Here you switch to a train to the Lake Titisee area where your first hotel is located at.

Accommodation in the Black Forest:

We work with a cozy family-owned hotel in the middle of a small mountain town and also with a conveniently-located hotel at Lake Titisee. Often you have a choice between both hotels

We will provide you with plenty of options on where to grab a bite to eat in the evening

Day 1: All Day Black Forest Tour

Today you have all day to visit the top sights of the area. There are so many places to visit you might have a difficult time deciding.

We tell you exactly which bus to take to get to the sights. We provide you with a list of sights to see – you get to choose what to see and what to skip.

At the end of the day you will make your way towards Freiburg.

While you are touring we transfer your luggage to your next hotel so you can relax – you don’t have to worry about carrying bags onto the train or bus.

Accommodation in Freiburg

standard hotel

We work with several smaller family-owned hotels in Freiburg located in walking distance to the train station.

Departure Day

You have all morning to explore Freiburg on your own. Store your luggage at the hotel so you don’t have to worry about what time to leave Freiburg.

Then head to the farmer’s market like a local and see for yourself what’s in season. Have lunch in the old town to taste some of the local specialties. We will equip you with a self-guided tour (included) – all you need is a mobile phone so you can download our touring app – no data plan needed.

Good to Know

What's included
2 nights accommodation in 2 different hotels
Double rooms with en-suite bathroom
Breakfast buffet
Welcome Package with all info you need to enjoy your stay
Free travel on Bus and Train
Self-Guided walking tour of Freiburg
Black Forest cake & coffee
Luggage transfer between hotels
Telephone support during your stay
What's excluded
Travel to Lake Titisee
Travel from Freiburg
Lunches and dinners
Entrance fees
Travel insurance. Make sure you have travel insurance covering you against illness, injury, loss or damage to property and cancellations .
Personal expenses such as drinks, tips, telephone calls, extra transfers (such as by taxi or when not included in public transport pass).
Add-on more days
This vacation package is available from June to mid-October.
This package is available for 2+ people
Double Rooms. If you are booking a double room there is one double bed with 2 individual mattresses ( not 2 twin beds ). If you require separate beds we recommend booking 2 separate rooms. In rare cases twin beds are available, please inquire.
Single Rooms. If you are traveling by yourself we charge a single room supplement. You will either be provided with a single room. Or with a double room for single use – based on availability.
Bathrooms. All rooms have private en-suite bathrooms.
Air-Conditioning. Summers can be very warm. Most hotels in Germany do not have air-conditioning. Sometimes hotels can provide a fan for your room. Usually the hotel owners will tell you to sleep with the window open during the night – this is very common in Germany.
Elevators. Please note that our hotels most often do not have elevators – you will have to walk a flight of stairs to get to your room.
Mobile Phone Coverage . Please note that the Black Forest is a mountainous area. Often there is no mobile phone coverage when touring the Black Forest.
Wi-Fi in hotels. All of our hotels have wi-fi but sometimes it can be spotty in your room – depending on the location of your room.
If you require constant online access we do NOT recommend touring the Black Forest.

Where you will be touring

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Keep your Dreams Alive

Black Forest Germany – Your Guide For Free Public Transport

Ah! Black Forest: a piece of Heaven, not only you can find in Dessert Confectionaries but also if you step your foot on the South Western part of Germany. If the piece of pastry writes a poem in your dessert plate, Black Forest Germany sings a song for you. If the layers of chocolaty sponge cake brings thousand smiles on your face, Schwarzwald would bring millions. Come here to taste the authentic Black Forest Cherry cake. To experience World’s largest Cuckoo clock. To watch characters from your childhood stories coming alive while you getting lost in the setting of Grimm’s Fairy Tales.

Train Journey through Black Forest in Winter

Somewhere between “Once upon a time” and “lived happily ever after”, every fairy tale gets coined and children across the world were brought up listening to those enabling them to gain the ability to dream about houses in the deepest of the forest made of cakes. And when in your adulthood, you finally arrive into the land of the origin of Grimm’s fairy tale, it actually becomes quite challenging to take your eyes off the forest because there is no harm for every kid inside us to expect Hansel and Gretel, still living in the woods wave to every train that crosses their path.

Now, if you want to ride one such train and wave them back or choose to drive through the concrete motor road, call is yours 🙂

When people think of Black Forest, the first idea comes to mind is about a roadtrip. For people who doesn’t (or doesn’t like to) drive, it’s really challenging to plan a Black Forest trip. Online information is so rare and all blogs and articles directing towards self drive option that we almost gave up the idea of visiting this fairy tale part of West Germany. Many of my colleagues were looking for partners who can drive and planning to take them along. We didn’t want to compromise our privacy and at the same time looked for a cheap and quick alternative (Read weekend gateway from Netherlands) so started researching deeply and finally it took shape.

You will be surprised if I tell you that most major parts of Black Forest Germany can not only be covered in Public transport but also it’s completely free of cost. In this article, I am going to share with you many such tips using which without any car hire or driving, you can explore Black Forest at ease even on weekends when the public transport schedule is pretty less. I will share you tips on Where to buy Cuckoo clock, Where to eat Black Forest cake, Where to Stay, How to reach from neighbor European countries and many more. So Stay focussed!

Where is it?

Bordered by the valley of Rhine river to the west and south, the Black Forest (Locally known as Schwarzwald) is a mountain region in Baden-Württemberg, southwestern Germany. With multiple picturesque villages, dense evergreen forest, lovely expanse of hills, lakes and waterfalls, its almost a 160KM long region. From little spa town Baden Baden to Lake Constance at Swiss border, Nature has carefully woven this part of Germany for Kid’s bedtime stories.

The name Black Forest comes from the general dark color of the numerous pine trees that grow in this region. As correctly said in lonelyplant, “ Wandering on its many miles of forest trails, you half expect to bump into a wicked witch or huntsman, and might kick yourself for not bringing those breadcrumbs to retrace your tracks. “

Why is it Called Black Forest?

Because of its density. Nothing else unfortunately 🙂

Some say that in long past, the Romans called this region as “ Silva Nigra ” which translates to the black or the dark. During that time, this area was an almost impenetrable region, depressing and scary. Trees were so dense that even in daytime, it was really hard to see through it.

Today it is believed that half of the woods have already been cut down. It’s not dense as its past but still it’s quite beautiful without any doubt.

How To Reach Black Forest?

It’s actually a tricky question. Firstly because there are many places to choose within Black Forest and depending on where you plan to visit, your point of entry will differ. Secondly, if you decide to hire a car and self drive then it’s a completely different story altogether. Mostly people choose Frankfurt Airport because it is served internationally and you can travel here from many places outside Europe. If you are already in Europe, if you prefer coach Freiburg im Breisgau via Flixbus is the best choice. If you prefer to fly, Ryanair and Easyjet serve super cheap flights to Basel and Baden-Baden.

I have listed some major options for you to consider. I have also listed the places that are easily accessible and some possible alternatives so that you can decide for yourself about the best option to reach Black Forest.

From Frankfurt/Stuttgart

If you check distance, Stuttgart will look closer than Frankfurt. But Frankfurt airport serves direct Intercity express (ICE) train to Offenburg which is a starting point of a scenic and dreamy train ride through the Black Forest. If you want to visit the summer capital Baden Baden which is a popular spa town or the historic university town of Heidelberg with Gothic and Renaissance architecture, then also a quick train change Frankfurt runs non stop train to Mannheim. From there you need to change to a regional train and you will reach quite smoothly.

Stuttgart is not that simple. First from Airport you have to take a train to come to Stuttgart central station. From there, it’s identical with that of Frankfurt airport. But you will loose some time and it would cost you more to reach Black Forest. So, I would not recommend Stuttgart as a point of entry to the Black Forest.

Offenburg is my kind of place in the Black Forest. Some popular places nearby are Gengenbach , Hornberg , Hausach and Triberg .

From Basel Mulhouse Freiburg

This airport is called Euroairport because technically it’s in border of three countries. Depending on your Exit gate (which are clearly marked), you can land into Basel (Switzerland), Mulhouse (France) or Freiburg (Germany). From here, you can directly go to Freiburg im Breisgau, probably the most popular entry point of Black Forest (Southern side). Flixbus runs super frequent service in this route. The other option is to take Bus #50 from Airport and come to Basel SBB station (Switzerland). From there, Intercity Express (ICE) runs to Freiburg .

Freiburg is a fantastic base for exploring Black Forest and some guided tours also operate from here. Some major attractions nearby this are Titisee Lake , Lenzkirch , Donaueschingen and Ravenna Gorge .

From Karlsruhe-Baden

Karlsruhe-Baden is the small airport of Baden Baden. Although Baden Baden is sometimes pronounced like synonym to Black Forest, it’s probably not the best choice if you have nature exploration is mind. If you happen to arrive this airport, you need to take airport bus #285 to reach the Baden Baden train station. From there you can continue your journey towards Heidelberg or Offenburg/GengenBack/Triberg.

When to Visit Black Forest?

Again, a tough one because it largely depends on your interest. The good part is . If you are nearby already (Located somewhere in Germany/France/Luxemburg/Switzerland), you simply can come in multiple season to experience Black Forest in different angle.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

The busiest season in Black Forest primarily because of long daylight and warm nights. By statistics, it precipitates the most in this period but with so long day, you can afford to spend some idle time at a cafe or a cuckoo clock shop. However, if you follow my blog which focuses on public transport then chances you will land up into a village where most travelers are. If you want a quiet and peaceful visit, try to avoid this season.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

The hard reality you first have to accept is that Germany and particularly Black Forest region is not famous for Fall colors. It’s definitely warmer than Summer but also becomes very windy so if it rains, you will have a pretty bad time. However, It’s the best time to attend wine festivals or other traditional festivities plus Winery or Harvest tour.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Winter is what makes it perfectly a Black (Rather Black and White) Forest. It snows a lot in this region. Frozen lake is guaranteed and if it’s a strong winter, you can even experience Frozen Waterfalls. Whether you are a nature lover or winter sports ( cross-country and downhill skiing, snowshoeing etc. ) enthusiast. What you need to keep in mind however is that it gets dark pretty quickly (Read 4PM) in Winter. So you need to hit the road 9AM to enjoy sufficient outdoor activities.

Spring (Mar-May)

Technically rainfall is at its minimal during the Spring. In March, there can still be snow so April and May are the proper spring season here in Black Forest. It’s one of the best season to visit to avoid crowd and high season surcharges. In full spring, you can witness spring meadow like a Violet or Yellow carpet over lush green.

We visited in Winter but if I have a second chance, I would choose late Spring to visit the Black Forest. You probably can guess, with such high altitude, full bloom of Spring definitely comes later in Black Forest. So, I would choose May for my second visit because winter holiday goers are gone, summer has not arrived, weather is pleasant, rainfall is minimal and spring is at its fullest.

Transportation in Black Forest

When comes to Black Forest, very few tourist rely on public transport or guided tour. Online articles will tell you that transportation is easy, convenient but will not give your much details. That’s why my main focus would be on travelling Black Forest in public transport. However, there are several options of roaming through Black Forest

I will simply ignore this part because you will find several first hand experience of bloggers online about driving through different parts of Black Forest. Just understand that it’s the most popular and convenient option to explore the Black Forest at your own pace. If you love to drive, Black Forest is the place.

Guided Tour

There could be many but the only one I trusted is conducted by Simone and her team. You can find all the details in their official website . The tour runs from the region of Freiburg and it’s a fantastic way to explore the Black Forest without the headache of driving. They offer Just a Driver tour as well as guided tour. There are plenty of choices depending on how long you want the tour to be. She responds quite fast over emails.

P.S. I have not booked tour with her (Although I enquired her) and I am not at all gaining any commission. It’s my genuine thought after reading multiple reviews about her tour.

Public Transport

Train and Bus rides across the Black Forest are dreamy. Yes, it’s quite low in frequency (Specially on Weekends) but with proper planning, it’s managable. It’s not cheap. It’s FREE 😀 . Of course, not always but continue reading to understand how you can save a hell lot of your travel expense and at the same time not miss any major attractions. Remember for timetable, always use Deutsche Bahn website or app only. You are free to cross check with Google Map or trainline or some third party website but DB website is the final.

If you are familiar with my writing style, you know I always give a downloadable and printable Infographic which you can save in your smartphone or print it out to carry along. This infogrpahic gives you a quick idea about what you can expect if you follow my route in a visual format. Keep it handy when you plan your itinerary or during your visit to the Black Forest.

In Black Forest region, there is a concept of Konus card . If you stay in one such accommodation which falls under a certain region then the accommodation provides you free Konus card (for all members) using which you can roam across entire Black Forest region upto Basel but only in regional train, panorama bus and S-Bahn. So you can not travel for free in high speed IC, ICE, EC, ECE and mountain trains. Here is a list (Not complete exhaustive) of places staying where you can get this tremendous benefit of free transport. This benefit starts from the moment you check in and stays till midnight of your check out day.

Popular Places That Offer Konus Card

Donaueschingen.

Titisee-Neustadt

Popular Places That Do Not Offer Konus Card

Freiburg im Breisgau
Baden Baden

Places To Explore

I will take you along our journey which started from Strasbourg in France. We then arrived Offenburg via train. From there we reached Triberg via extremely scenic Haslach, Hornberg and Hausach. We stayed overnight in Triberg. Next day, we arrived to Titisee and then to Freiburg. Finally we returned to the Netherlands via Basel.

A superb misconception is that Offenburg could be a great place to start exploring Black Forest. Please understand that it neither offers Konus card nor any beautiful scenery. The only thing it does is to offer a dreamy train ride where magic comes into life. So the only place in Offenburg you should visit is the train station. Period.

Explore More in Less Offenburg Town Hall

Photo Courtesy: Study In Germany

We have not stayed here but if we go for the second time, Gengenbach is the place I would choose as our base. Many people say it as the prettiest town in Germany and for a good reason. So, why we did not stay here at the first place? Because for us it was a weekend trip only and Gengenbach is not so well placed from the places we intended to visit. You need at least two nights when you stay at Gengenbach.

From Offenburg, it’s a 5 minutes non stop regional train ride to Gengenbach. If you are looking for places to see, then Gengenbach does not offer many. The beauty lies in its cobblestone street and half timbered houses. The 18th century medieval town is super picturesque. Old houses are preserved perfectly. Just outside the town there is a vineyard too. You can hike (pretty easy and quick) to chapels above the town for gorgeous unobstructed panoramic view.

I have taken the above photo from this link . We took the train to Triberg from Offenburg whose first stop was Gengenbach. Starting from Gengenbach till Triberg, the regional train ride was damn scenic. If you check in to your hotel and get a Konus card, this train ride will be free of cost. So if you have time, feel free to come back and get down at each stops

Hausach/Haslach

The first two train stations crossing Gengenbach are Haslach and Hausach. If you can, don’t even go to toilet during this train journey. With large glass window at both side, I can easily recommend this as a MUST DO if you are in Black Forest. The town of Haslach is not so attractive when you think of a night stay but it is famous for Black Forest Folk Costume Museum.

Hausach is not a place I would recommend to choose as a base of your stay. Nearby towns like Gengenbach/Hornberg/Triberg seem better choice. But as these places are super close, if you get a dreamy accommodation close to nature, then Hausach is a perfect place for nature lover and it also offers pretty scenic hiking. Moreover, it is much less busy than the rest. If you are looking for spots, Husen castle (Mostly ruins) and Open Air Mining museum Erzpoche are there for you.

The above photo is not captured by me.

Hornberg comes next to Hausach and this is the town from where you will get the most promising view of Gutach valley. Even if you are not staying at Hornberg, it’s worthwhile to take a pause here and explore the hiking. Almost like Heidelberg, You can explore a dramatic view of Medieval bridge and the Black Forest railway itself. Also, the partial ruins of Hornberg castle (Which is the largest and oldest in this area) is also a marvelous sight at the valley. I have taken the below photo from this link .

Triberg (Where we Stayed)

Triberg is a perfect base to make your base in your journey exploring Black Forest. It has direct train connection with Offenburg. It serves direct bus to Titisee Neustadt. In the very town centre, you can find traditional costume and of course marvelous display of Mechanical Gigantic Cuckoo clock and the world famous cuckoo clock shop. You can taste authentic black forest cherry cake. Within few minutes of very easy hike, you can reach Germany’s highest waterfall. A little de-route hike and in Winter, you can experience a Frozen lake. If you are interested in Culture, Black Forest Museum is just around the corner.

People say it’s crowded but at last weekend of January, we found it pretty empty. Cafe was empty, shops felt deserted, public transport looked more like private chartered. Hikings were not busy, no disturbance in slow shutter photography so I would disagree with people saying Triberg as crowded in Winter.

Between Gengenbach to Triberg, the train crosses multiple tunnels and when it comes out into light again, magic happens. Deep green meadow with scattered powder like snow and sight of old timber houses made the journey come to and end in a blink. With few other people, we got down at Triberg around 12PM. The host of our accommodation offered a free pick up from the train station. In 10-15minutes he arrived. Although the official check in time is from 2PM, as the apartment was empty he immediately allowed us to check in with no questions asked.

During check in, the host gave us the Konus card. It’s not a real card but a kind of receipt of our stay duration with our names in it in a better quality yellow paper. Along with your passport, if you present this card to ticket checker then you are good to enjoy the benefit. Also, it gave us free entrance to Triberg Waterfalls and a discounted entrance to the Black Forest Museum. However, depending on how many nights you stay, the accommodation collects a city tax per person per night (2,5€) in exchange of this Konus card. You have to pay this to your hotel in cash during check in.

Our host Toby was a really nice guy. From station, it was less than 5 minutes drive but he showed us where to eat Black Forest cake, which way the hike to Waterfalls is, the bus stop and the supermarket and souvenir shops. He even explained how to use public transport (That means which Bus and Train for which destination) network to travel to places throughout the Black Forest. The best part is he also explained in which sense Schonach is better than Triberg. (Put Konus card photo there)

Black Forest Museum

Located at the very centre of Triberg (Just outside one Exit of the Waterfalls) is the Black Forest Musuem, locally known as Schwarzwald-Museum . The museum mainly tells you about the life of Black Forest years ago. It also showcases its traditional culture of craftmanship and of course display and explanation of working of world famous cuckoo clock. Another major attraction of this museum is understanding the history of Black Forest railway lines. You can recall the ceremonies held at the Triberg railway station through paintings, photographs, tickets and congratulation telegrams here.

To be honest, we are nature persons and not that much into museums. I stayed in Amsterdam for two years but haven’t visited a single museum. So, we quickly shifted our focus to a nearby lake suggested by Toby as a secluded lake in this region. Although it was possible to take a bus to ride a single stop but due to nice weather, we preferred walking.

The lake was frozen. There is a small park nearby and some parts are not even fenced so if you wish, you can take a walk (Of course check the ice thickness as you step onto it) on top of the lake. It was fun to watch the swans actually slipped while jumping to the lake from the land. It’s a pretty small lake and strolling along leisurely is a peaceful experience. Plus as Toby mentioned, practically there was only two more people other than us.

The model boat in front of the lake and the colorful houses surrounding it definitely add a vibes to this place. Although, we never heard of this place in any travel blog of Triberg, we could confidently say we liked Burgsee lake even more than our visit to Titisee lake the next day.

House of 1000 Clocks

At the very centre of Triberg, very nearby to the entrance to Triberg’s Waterfalls, you can spot the clock store with the animated Bear Family mounted on the storefront. As you step in, you can immediately recognize their excellence by the greeting of a gentleman made out of wood. It’s a huge 2-storey store having probably the largest selection of Black Forest cuckoo clocks. Not only clocks, you can explore various other souvenirs. However, if your budget is low, this shop still has something for you but I would insist you to visit shops at Titisee. You can visit their online store here .

Tips Before You Buy

If you are looking for authentic German handmade Cuckoo clock, the two basic things you have to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s costly and secondly you need to regularly wound in order for the clock to continue operating. Authentic cuckoo clocks are always mechanical (1-day or 8-day cycle). Battery operated (Quartz) clocks are more fancy, much more cheap, many more animations but one thing you must understand is that they are not authentic cuckoo clock. In most cases, no cuckoo comes out at every hour for Quartz clocks. I found the sound much better in mechanical ones (Because of the Wood I think). However as I am not an expert, you can refer this article which could answer probably all your questions.

If you are after a comparatively cheap quartz variation with cuckoo movement, soothing sound and lots of action, I would say refrain buying from this authentic shop and head to Titisee Neustadt. There are many cuckoo clock shops there who has lots of customized version on top of the authentic mechanics.

Visiting Black Forest without tasting a piece of it would leave your soul unfulfilled especially if you are a sweet-tooth. So, if you want to avoid such karma and don’t want a re-birth because of this sin, having a Black Forest Cherry Cake at the afternoon is a must. Hotel Cafe Adler Triberg im Schwarzwald, as you can understand from its name is a hotel cum restaurant at the very heart of Triberg city centre. It’s pretty close to the Bus stop of Triberg and at a little distance in the opposite side of House of thousand clocks. Along with regular indoor searing, it also offers a terrace.

Toby mentioned that if we are after authentic a slice of Black Forest cake, Cafe Adler is the place. We ordered a Black Forest cake, a truffle cake and coffee. The ordering system I found a little odd. We had to place the order at the sales counter (No payment) then sit anywhere. After serving, we enjoyed but none came for payment. When it’s long enough, we got up to pay at the sales counter then they instructed us to sit and wait. Then immediately someone cleared our table and produced the bill.

If I really be honest, Black Forest Cherry cake at Cafe Adler is the worst cake we had till date. We don’t know if it is because we don’t drink or the specific slice was horrible or it is always like this and the ones we eat in India are not authentic. But we lost interest to try Black Forest cake in Black Forest. Coffee and the Truffle cake were good but I would place Italy at much higher rank in terms of quality.

We spent around 23 hours in Triberg and if you ask me, it’s sufficient time to explore this cute town of Triberg even in Winter. In summer, probably you would need less time because of long daylight. However, if you are travelling by public transport, don’t carry your luggage along. Hiking would be challenging with rucksack and impossible with trolley.

We had a misconception that the World’s largest cuckoo clock is at Triberg. But Toby clarified that it’s actually at Schonach which is around 2.5KM from Triberg. The exact location for Google Map is Eble-Uhren park. Since 1997, it holds the recordfor displaying World’s largest cuckoo clock. The Cuckoo in Schonach chimes twice an hour. Each time, the call comes from pipes 13 feet long. The clock is so big that you can come inside the clock for a tour on its operation and . You can visit their official website here .

Eble-Uhren is a cuckoo clock theme park features one timepiece big enough to walk inside. Every 30 minutes the clock comes to life and you can enjoy the show, so plan to visit on the hour or half hour. Tours are offered in English, German, French, Dutch, Italian and Spanish. Entrance fee is 2 Euro, children under 10 years are free.

Opening hours: Easter to October from Monday to Saturday 9.00 to 18.00 and Sundays from 10.00 to 18.00 November to Easter from Monday to Saturday 9.00 to 17.30 and Sundays 11.00 to 17.00

The above photo was not clicked by me .

From Triberg Railway station, you can board a regional train for a 30 minutes ride to Donaueschingen. Of course, it’s free with Konus card. Technically Donaueschingen is not part of Black Forest but you can consider it as a guardian. In my opinion, if you have arrived till Triberg, pleae do visit here to watch Donauquelle. What the hell is that? You may think. It’s the source of Danube. Goddamn it. The Great Danube which flows 1,700 miles through 10 countries all the way to the Black Sea can be found right here in this small town.

The above photo was not clicked by me . Donaueschingen is a pretty small town and Donauquelle is located right in the centre so there is no problem in recognising it. There is nothing much else to see but as the train station is nearby, you can directly go to the big boy of Black Forest, the Titisee Lake.

Titisee Lake

From Donaueschingen, it’s a 40 minutes train ride to Neustadt(Schwarzw) from where the lake Titisee is walkable. If you skip Donaueschingen and want to come to Titisee directly from Triberg/Schonach, there is a panorama bus which operates at a 2 hour frequency on Weekends. The bus ride is scenic beyond description but I have a complaint that they don’t clean the glass windows well so you may not be able to capture fantastic photos. You will find two different bus numbers if you look for this route online and you may think that you need to change a bus. But, the same bus first changes its number halfway after a halt.

You can take a look at the above timetable which we found in Triberg Bus stop. However, these can always change so if you are reading this article after January 2021, please get up to date from DB website . Otherwise you can get in touch with your accommodation owner.

If you have ever heard the story of the Little Mermaid Ariel or have seen the Disney Classic film, chances are the plot was right here in lake Titisee. People believe that long ago a young man from Freiburg wandered through the original mysterious Black Forest when a scary storm approached. He was completely lost by the storm and blown away to a mountain lake – the Titisee. Then a mermaid Titi saved him and of course they fell in love… You can read the full story here .

When there is a mermaid, there is fantasy. Before coming to Titisee, we had a pretty low expectation but Titisee welcomed us with pure poetry. It’s so colorful, so vibrant and so dynamic that we immediately realised it would have been a blunder if we didn’t come here. Titisee is the place where we had the best Gelato outside Italy. It’s here we bought traditional Bollenhut (ladies’ hat topped with pom-poms). In Titisee, you would find wide range of customized but hand-made Cuckoo clocks at reasonable price. Your choice of souvenir will be so much that it will confuse you what not to take.

Don’t ever think that Titisee is only about the lake. Undoubtedly, the lake is pretty awesome. With dark green pine forest at the background and basking in the touch of soft sunlight, lake Titisee is surely a picturesque destination. However, its beauty lies in its vibrance. It’s a charming and bustling town full of shops, places to eat and activities. In Winter the lake is frozen completely. It’s still possible to ice skate on the frozen lake but we found there were not many enthusiast. But in other seasons, You can take a boat ride on the lake on a cruise ship or you can rent a rowboat, a paddleboat or an electrical boat.

Reserve some time exploring the shops near Titisee. You will find stuffs which cannot be found anywhere in the World. There is an year round Christmas store for Santa lovers from where you can send postcards. Titisee is a great place to have your lunch. From here you can take a direct and scenic train to the capital of Black Forest, Freiburg im Breisgau or go to captivating Ravenna Gorge.

Ravenna Gorge

You might have seen a picture of an arched railway in a snowy settings. That’s Ravenna Gorge. It is a narrow side valley of the Hell Valley, through which the stream Ravenna flows and draws a hiking trail. In summer, people rush here to avoid the intense heat of Freiburg. In Winter, there is a Christmas market (First and Only) located in a gorge, right under the railway track. However if you are here after Christmas then visiting this place is probably not a good idea. Also come here if you are in a tight schedule. Use DB website to plan your journey. From Titisee, it takes around 40 minutes and from Freibug, it takes 1 hour 20 minutes. However in neither case, the journey is direct. You need to change from Train to Bus and then continue.

Freiburg im Breisgau (Capital of Black Forest)

This is probably the most popular place to stay in the Black Forest region. Although technically it falls at the border, it’s a town full of Gothic architecture and colorful as well as heritage buildings combined with modern shopping street. From Titisee Bahnhof, it’s a 40 minutes direct train ride and the journey was super scenic. Actually all train/bus journeys of Black Forest are equally beautiful. You just need to shift your gaze from your mobile to the window.

Freiburg Münster

Freiburg Münster (Some call it Minster) is undoubtedly the most striking churches in the Black Forest and a prominent landmark of the city of Freiburg. Its construction took more than 300 years but the result speaks. It’s open every day from 10:00 to 17:00 and free to enter. You can read more about it from the official website . The exterior is grand and tall but you will be stunned once you step inside. The stained glass windows bear glamorous and historical artwork which in my personal opinion are better than the finishing of Belgian glasswork we saw in Ghent .

Martinstor (Martin Gate)

Schwabentor and Martinstor are Freiburg’s two remaining medieval city gates (there were once five in total). Although these two have survived many wars, nowadays many locals view them as obstacles to the development of a modern transportation system. While it’s useless to comment as an outsider if transportation is actually hampered or not, till the time the ancient history is preserved, as a tourist, Freiburg looks different. All of you have seen the American fast food giant McDonalds but how many of you have seen a McDonalds like this?

I waited to take a picture when a tram passes through this gate. The colorful tram combined with the heritage building is a perfect fusion of the young and the veteran.

Old Town Area and Shopping Street

You will be pleasantly surprised by many open streams flowing through the streets with crystal clear water. Legend has it that if you touch your feet in one such stream, you are bound to marry a local (oops!)

The square encircling the cathedral of Freiburg is a must-see visiting the old city. The main attraction here is the market (Both open air and lined up international shops). The houses are astonishingly colorful and buildings are marvelous to look at.

Freiburg is famous for Market but don’t get confused with the shops of Triberg or Titisee. Those stores sell authentic Black Forest souvenirs but here at Freiburg, you will find mostly international and renowned brands in behind modern glass doors. However, one important thing to note is on Sunday, all these shops are shut. There is no open air market on Sunday too (At least in January)

Basel (Switzerland)

We chose Basel Euroairport as our exit point from Black Forest to the Netherlands. Flight fare was about 23€ per person in Easyjet and we booked around 2 months before. There were two days to reach Basel from Freiburg. If you have to catch flight and do not have time or interest or both to explore Basel, you can catch direct bus from Freiburg im Bresigau to Basel Euro-Airport. We chose this option and booked a ticket via Flixbus. At the bus terminal, there are dedicated platforms for buses running all the way to EuroAirport. Our bus was sharp on time and we reached airport on time. If I remember correctly, only a total of 8 passengers traveled that day.

If you have some time and interest to explore the cute Swiss town Basel, then you can catch train from Freiburg. The main train station is named Basel SBB but if you catch direct train from Freiburg to Basel SBB then you cannot use Konus card as it’s an ICE train. To use Konus, you need to catch local train to Basel Bad Bf. Your Konus validity ends here. A famous landmark of Basel is the middle bridge which is almost equal walking distance from Basel SBB and Basel Bad Bf.

Once you reach Basel, it’s upto you to decide your mode of transport. If you stay one night here, you will get a Basel Card from your hotel which again will make all your transport in Basel free. Otherwise, it’s a small city so it’s possible to walk around. But in case you need to pay to use transport, remember you are in Switzerland so nothing is cheap. I personally felt very little difference between Freiburg im Breisgau and Basel so we skipped visiting Basel. If you are intersted, some key point of interests are Spalentor City Gate, Andreasplatz, Basel Minster, Kunstmuseum Museum and of course walkin along the Rhine river.

I have take the above photo from this link . It’s a wonderful experience to walk across different sides of the Basel Euro airport. The same key ring you can see in France side selling at a much cheaper rate than the Swiss side.

Tips For Buying Cuckoo Clock

If you follow along, I have given an useful link is the House of 1000 clock section of Triberg. But based on my findings and experience, here are some important tips for you

You can find Cuckoo Clocks all over the world but to preserve the art, integrity and standards of fine cuckoo clock making, Vds (Verein die Schwarzwalduhr) is introduced as a standard certificate of Authenticity. So if you are after an authentic traditional Black Forest made Cuckoo clock, check for Vds.
The moment you choose to buy a Quartz clock, Vds does no longer exist because they do not qualify for certification.
Quartz clocks are fancy, sometimes for beautiful to look at, offer you many more actions in much attractive price but they are NOT Traditional.
There are numerous varieties in the design but they are broadly categorized in two major designs – Carved and Chalet. The carved one represent nature and wildlife and the chalet ones represent traditional house with people and pets.
There are some more like Railroad, Modern, Shield, Vintage design but again those are sub category of above two.
Mechanical movements come with 1-Day or 8-Days cycle. 1-Day cycle is much cheaper.
You can decide on Music. Many a times they use Swiss made music box. Although its a foreign part but dramatically enhances the experience.
You can customize animations. Although the fundamental one being the cuckoo coming out of its hiding so sing for you, you can top up with motions of wood cutters, bell ringers, or a even a lover’s kiss as dancers take the stage.
Before leaving the shop, learn how to set it up. It’s not your regular wall clock.

As I mentioned above, remember to collect Tax Refund certificate from your Seller if you are travelling to Black Forest as a Tourist. You will get a hefty amount back at your point of departure.

Unique Buy From Black Forest

I would urge you to please buy a Bollenhut. The Bollenhut is a ladies’ hat topped with pom-poms and has been part of the traditional costume worn by women in the Black Forest. Young unmarried girls wear hats with red pompoms and married women hats with black ones (Although I bought a red one to my wife but who cares 😉 ).

The second most beautiful piece of Black Forest tradition is Dirndls. It’s a traditional costume worn by Females. These Bavarian Folk Costume are still worn by locals on multiple occassion. You can check out a large collection at this website .

Of course, Cuckoo Clock still stays at the top of what to buy at Germany. However, if you are not comfortable in wearing traditional costume or are not in a position to afford it, you can buy a doll wearing it. Locally known as Puppen doll, one of this will surely bring a charm in your showcase. Give photo of Annapurna wearing hat and the doll.

Useful Money Savings Tips

You have arrived this site because you want to explore more in less (Time and Money). So, here are some insider tips for you from our personal experience

Choose your accommodation at a region offering Konus Card. It reduces drastically the cost of transportation. Even if you chose to self drive, you can give it a rest for a day and explore surrounding areas in Train. The train rides are truly marvelous.
Avoid Summer. It’s crowded. It’s super costly. It’s hotter than you think. Even I heard people complaining about not getting a parking spot.
Explore but don’t buy Cuckoo clock at Triberg. Instead buy from Titisee. The same goes for any other souvenir/costume too. Everything in Titisee (Excluding Accommodation) is cheaper compared to rest of the Black Forest.
If you are using public transport try to plan on weekdays. On Weekends, the bus frequency is quite low but if it’s impossible to avoid weekends then also it’s managable but you have to plan very carefully.
Choose Basel/Baden as point of entry/exit. Flight fares are damn cheap.
Book the train from Airport to your place of accommodation as soon as you book your flight. If you book later, chances are that you will be paying much higher price.

When I first heard about Black Forest, my impression was that in Northern India (State of Uttarakhand and Himachal), there are many such similar places so is it still worth visiting? Well, after visiting, I can say it is definitely worth it. It’s not because of the forest or the waterfalls or the lakes but because of the secluded houses by the woods. Those are the ones where the illustration from your childhood fairytale comes alive. If you have ever read Grimm brother’s fairy tale, Black Forest is a must destination for you. Questions? Feel free to ask in the comment section. Any thoughts or suggestions or improvement points for me? Please share in the comment box. Till next time, Wiedersehen.

13 thoughts on “Black Forest Germany – Your Guide For Free Public Transport”

Can you share details of triberg hotel you booked

Hi Kshitij Thanks for dropping by. The name of the Hotel was H-Apartment 1. You can try it directly on Booking.com. The address is 43 Schulstraße, 78098 Triberg, Germany. Let me know if you have any other questions.

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Hi Arka, Your blogs is helpful. Can you suggest how can we travel from offenburg or frieburg to Ravenna gorge brigde by public transport.

Thank you, Neelam

Thanks for dropping by. I won’t recommend travelling to Ravenna Gorge from Offenburg. The best way to travel to Ravenna Gorge by Public Transport is from Titisee but from Freiburg it is doable. From Freiburg you first have to take a train to Hinterzarten (5 Stops – 27 Mins). From Hinterzarten, it is 2.6KM if you want to walk. During Christmas Market season, free shuttle bus runs till Ravenna Gorge. For other times, Some online sources say Bus #7216 runs till Breitnau Hirschenberg from where Ravenna Gorge is 1.4KM of walk but I have not personally verified this.

Hi, enjoyed reading your post, very useful as I don’t drive.

Do you know if the 9 Euro train ticket covers for transport within the Black Forest Region?

Thanks for your comment. Sure you can. However, please note that probably you cannot buy the 9 EURO ticket throughout the year. I think it’s only applicable in Summer season. Also, it is valid on RB trains, RE trains, U-Bahn, S-Bahn, bus and tram.

Hi Arka, Your blog is really helpful. I am planning on staying in black forest for 3-4 days. Since I don’t drive, I’ll be using the public transport. Which place would you recommend as a base for travelling around?

Thanks for your comment. For your requirement, I won’t advice you to stay at a single place. I would recommend you to stay first 2 nights at Triberg and then explore the surroundings. For third and fourth night, I would highly recommend staying at Titisee. On your fourth day, you can spend full ay at Freiburg. It’s a big City and you will love the urban touch after staying 3-4 days in the rural side.

Let me know if it helps.

Hi, i have just 2 full days and I have booked a hotel at Freiburg. Is that okay? Or shall I stay one night at Freiburg and one at Triburg or shall I do a day journey from Freiburg to Triberg?

Thanks for your comment. Freiburg is a great base for Black Forest (And Shopping) but please note that accommodations at Freiburg will not give you Konus Card. So your public transport is not free. Accommodation at Triberg gives you Konus card so your public transport is free. So, if public transport is in your mind, Triberg will save you a lot. If you are looking for a self-drive or guided day tour, then both are the same.

Now, coming to the place itself, Freiburg is more like a big city with shopping street, fancy restaurants, impressive buildings. Triberg is more close to nature with waterfalls, lake, hill-view. You have to decide yourself which one do you prefer.

I would recommend you to stay your first night at Triberg and get the Konus card for two days (It is valid on your check out day also). On your first day, explore Triberg, Haslach, Hausach area. On your second day, come to Titisee and finally arrive at Freiburg for your final stay. In this way, you can explore both places plus take the advantage of free public transport. Don’t do the opposite way.

Hello, nice blog. Do you know if the Germany train pass (10 days) would work for the local public transportation (train and bus) at Black Forest during winter time? If I travel from Frankfurt and stay at Black Forest for 3 nights, where would you suggest as the base for stays? Thanks a lot.

Thank you. That was a detailed post. Yet few questions

a) can you get through the city without knowing German b) For the weekend and if entry point is Freiburg, what do you suggest

Thanks for your comment. Here is your reply

a) Yes of course. We can’t read or speak German. It’s absolutely fine. Not everyone will understand English but most people will. Many a times we used Google Translate to ask a question to local people and you can ask them to type their answer back so that you can translate.

b) Freiburg is a fantastic entry point but remember that if you stay in Freiburg you won’t have the free public transport facility. Also, main market is closed on Sunday so Saturday is your best bet.

Let me know if it helps. If not, ask me again

Comments are closed.

To the Black Forest by train

With ice international.

Quickly to the Black Forest

From € 38 one-way trip with ICE International
Travel time Amsterdam – Black Forest: 5.20 hrs
Tip! Early booking = lowest prices

A trip to the Black Forest should not be without a visit to Freiburg. A ride on the longest gondola in Germany is also lovely. This ride will take you to Schauinsland, a 1,284-metre-high mountain. The hot springs are perfect for relaxation. Bad Wildbad and Bad Herrenalb are located along the Schwarzwald-Baderstrasse and have beautiful spas.

Travel information the Black Forest

With the international train ICE International you can travel directly from Amsterdam Central Station to the Black Forest. Enjoy an active vacation between the mountains or a day out with the family in the beautiful forested areas.

Overview travel time to the Black Forest

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Prices train tickets the Black Forest

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Do you already know what day and time you want to travel? Then choose for a Supersparpreis Europa rate: the best rate for the price-conscious travellers. You will not be able to cancel or rebook the ticket.

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How to Spend a Long Weekend in the Black Forest

Called Schwarzwald in German, the Black Forest is famous for its dense forests, enchanting villages, cascading waterfalls, and thermal spa towns. You might be familiar with it from the Grimm Brothers fairy tales, many of which were written about and inspired by this part of Germany. Or maybe you are a dessert lover in hunt of the famous Black Forest Cherry Cake. Regardless of how you’ve heard about the Black Forest, this mysterious corner of Germany is sure to steal your heart.

A long weekend in the Black Forest is a romantic and alluring getaway, perfect for any type of traveler. There are so many things to do and you can easily explore for 3 days. If you’re looking for a longer visit, I also have a 1 week Black Forest itinerary. You’ll find yourself enamored with the unique scenery, charming cities, and historical attractions found throughout the Black Forest.

While the Black Forest can be visited throughout the year, the best time of the year is in early spring or late autumn. Baden-Württemberg is considered to have the best weather in all of Germany with the most sunny days. The temperatures in spring will be a little bit cooler, but it is quite picturesque with clear skies and blooming trees. Autumn is a lovely time with less tourists but there is still good weather.

What You'll Find in this Article

The Perfect Long Weekend in the Black Forest

About the black forest.

Located in the southwest corner of Germany in the state of Baden-Württemberg, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) refers to a small mountain range characterized by dense pine forests. From Frankfurt, it is about 1 hour driving directly south. The Black Forest is roughly 200 kilometers long and 60 kilometers wide. There is technically a Black Forest National Park, but when most people refer to the Schwarzwald, they are talking about the larger region. It is best known for its enchanting fairytale forests, quaint villages and spectacular scenes of nature (think lakes, waterfalls and mountains).

Traveling in the Black Forest

The easiest way to get around in the Black Forest is by car. There are a couple of predetermined driving routes that you could follow in the Schwarzwald. The first is the Black Forrest High Road (Schwarzwaldhochstrasse in German). This is the oldest tourist route in the Black Forest, visiting a number of famed locations and excellent panoramic scenery. If it is your first time in the Black Forest, this route is an easy choice. The Black Forest Scenic Road (Schwarzwald Panoramastraße in German) covers more of the southern parts of the forest, with similar sweeping vistas and highlighted attractions.

If you prefer to visit the Black Forest with the train, you’ll mainly need to stick to the larger cities which are better connected via rail. Karlsruhe, Freiburg, Baden-Baden, and Offenberg are all well-connected to the Deutschebahn national rail network. From there, you can take regional buses and trains to get to some of the smaller locations. Traveling with the train requires a bit more planning and you won’t be as flexible with where you can go.

Day 1: Baden Baden

To start your long weekend in the Black Forest, Baden-Baden on the north end of the forest is an ideal location to begin. Baden-Baden is a historic spa town that literally translates as “to bathe – to bathe.” The Black Forest is littered with small spa towns, but Baden-Baden is the most well-known. Its origins as a wellness destination date all the way back to the Romans, who were the first to discover the healing waters of Baden-Baden. The waters here are rich in healthy minerals, like calcium and magnesium, and are said to be excellent for the skin, joints and general healing.

Once the summer capital of Europe during the Belle Époque era, you’ll also find stunning architecture in Baden-Baden. The whole city has an upscale vibe to it, with luxury shopping options and elegant boutiques lining the streets of the Old Town. These days, Baden-Baden is a fairly popular destination with domestic and foreign tourists alike, especially Russian tourists. You get the sense that people come here to spend money.

Before spending your afternoon at the spa, walk around Baden-Baden’s city center. You can sample one of the best Black Forest cakes at Café König , which is likely to have a line out the door. Meander along the beautiful Lichtentaler Allee , a riverside walkway that is lined with flower beds, oak trees, and historic architecture. Pop into the Trinkhalle , a 19th century arcade with detailed frescos featuring epic German tales and stories.

Given its deep roots as a wellness destination, relaxing at one of the city’s thermal spas is a must-do activity with your one day in Baden-Baden. I personally love visiting German thermal spas, also called thermal bad in German. It is one of my favorite leisure activities, because it is really relaxing and makes me feel great. There are a few things to know before going however. Firstly, a visit to the thermal bads is a several hour affair. You typically buy access for 2 or 4 hour increments. Most German spas have a variety of amenities available, including hot and cold pools, wet and dry saunas, and outdoor bathing pools. There will almost always be a clothed section and a naked section. Be aware that the naked section is mixed gender.

The two best spas in Baden-Baden are Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Spa. They are conveniently located in the heart of the city. Although Friedrichsbad was opened in 1877, you can actually see the ruins from the ancient Roman baths in the existing spa. Friedrichsbad has stunning historic architecture to admire while you are relaxing in one of their many thermal pools. Unfortunately Friedrichsbad was under renovation during our visit to the Black Forest, and it was closed to the public. Not to worry – Caracalla was an excellent second option! This spa offers a more modern take on the German thermal bad, complete with outdoor Finnish saunas, a swim up bar, and lots of relaxation and meditation areas.

Where to Stay in Baden Baden

Because of its reputation as an upscale destination in Germany, you’ll find that Baden-Baden has a number of beautifully restored 4 and 5 star hotels. There are also a number of wellness resorts in the area, and hotels with their own private spas. We stayed at Hotel Belle Epoque , a 20-room boutique hotel just on the outskirts of the Altstadt. Surrounded by an idyllic mini park, the hotel is an oasis of peace and tranquility in harmony with elegance and nature.

Day 2: Triberg & Schiltach

Continuing your journey south through the Black Forest, your next road trip stop is in the picturesque town of Schiltach. Located in the Kinzig Valley of the Black Forest, Schiltach is genuinely one of the cutest small towns in Germany . Like something out of a story book, you’ll find beautifully restored half-timbered houses, a literal babbling brook in the center of town, and one of the best Black Forest cakes in the whole region.

You can easily wander around Schiltach on foot, and you’ll want to keep your camera ready for all the picturesque little streets and charming homes. Gerbergasse is an especially cute street which deadends at the Schüttesäge Museum where you can see a historic mill in action. The triangular Market Square is the heart of the old town, dating all the way back to the 15th century. There have been a series of fires that have destroyed parts of Schiltach, but the resilient local community always rebuilds. Just around the corner from the old town, pop into Café Bachbeck for a slice of their Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälderkirsch Torte in German).

From Schiltach, drive about 40 minutes south to the tiny town of Triberg. Along the route, you will pass a few shops specializing in cuckoo clocks, such as the House of 1,000 Clocks (Haus der 1000 Uhren in German). I grew up with a cuckoo clock that my parents actually bought together while on a road trip in the Black Forest. These clocks were first invented in the Black Forest in the 18th century, made with locally sourced timber.

Wood is carved with an impressive level of craftsmanship and detail into these masterpieces, depicting forests, nature or small town life. The cuckoo clocks are pretty grand with movable parts like a bird popping out or people dancing. Given the amount of time required to hand carve them, cuckoo clocks are rather expensive, but nonetheless fun to look at!

On the surface, Triberg may not look like much more than a main street with a few restaurants and cafes; but it is actually home to the tallest waterfalls in Germany. Nestled away in the dense forest behind the town, Triberg Falls cascade down multiple levels with mist shrouded trees and footpaths around the sides. They are a pretty spectacular sight to see.

You’ll buy a ticket at the visitor center on the edge of Triberg. From the park entrance, it is a 10 minute walk to the first viewpoint of the falls. From there, you can continue walking up a fairly steep path to the top of the falls, with viewpoints at the various levels along the way. You’ll be able to see lots of birds and squirrels along the walking paths. Some people even buy food to feed the squirrels, so they will get quite close to you.

Where to Stay in Schiltach

Schiltach has an advantageous location in the middle of the Black Forest, making it a good jumping off point and ideal place to book a hotel for a few nights. We stayed at Adler 1604 , a family owned boutique hotel with a lovely restaurant on the first floor. The friendly owners were super kind & helpful with cozy rooms in a historic building. We stayed in the turret room you see in the red building below. I can absolutely recommend this hotel!

Day 3: Freiberg

End your long weekend in the Black Forest in one of my favorite cities in Germany – Freiburg. Often referred to as the capital of the Black Forest, Freiberg im Breisgau exudes the essence of the regional culture, and yet is somehow distinct and defies labels. It is a lively university city with medieval roots and a cool, alternative vibe. I have visited twice and loved it both times.

Start your 24 hours in Freiburg exploring the Old Town. Fuel up with a coffee from the cozy Fili Café . They’ve got good coffee and even better baked treats. Walk around the corner from the cafe to the Whale House (Haus zum Walfisch), a red painted Gothic-style mansion that was the former home of Erasmus of Rotterdam. Dating from the 16th century, the trippy black and white painted doors are a great photo backdrop. As you’re wandering the Altstadt, don’t forget to look down at the tiny water gutters running (called Baechle) which are a unique part of Freiburg’s infrastructure.

Continue your walk towards the Freiburger Münster , a massive sandstone cathedral in the main square. You can climb up the towers for a stunning view of Freiburg from above. Surrounding the cathedral on every day except Sunday is the Freiburg Farmers Market. There are regional fruits and vegetable vendors selling the most in season ingredients, as well cheese, meat and honey stands.

On the north side of the church, you’ll see a row of sausage stands all offering the regional wurst specialty – The Long Red (or Lange Rote in German). This red, skinless, grilled sausage clocks in at 35 cm long, and is beloved by locals. If you’re near the Münster platz around lunch time, you will see lines of patrons waiting at all the stands. Pick up a sausage at whichever stand smells best to you!

The plaza surrounding the church has a few other notable attractions, such as the Historical Merchants’ Hall. This distinctive 14th century building has a beautiful and iconic exterior with marble busts, gold leaf accents and arched details. If the Lange Rote wasn’t quite enough lunch for you, Oberkirch Restaurant is a great al-fresco lunch option. For drinks, Alte Wache is a lovely wine bar facing the cathedral or the stylish SKAJO rooftop bar has some great views over the city.

I think much of Freiburg’s charm is found in the narrow streets and shady squares around the Altstadt, so I would recommend spending your afternoon getting a little lost. Pass through Schwabentor, one of Freiburg’s two stunning city gates, to climb up on Castle Hill where you’ll be greeted with excellent views. Salzstrasse has a great assortment of boutiques and shops featuring local artists and makers. Meander down Niemansstrasse which has a number of places with outdoor seating for a quick snack or coffee.

Freiburg has really good secondhand shopping. Umkleide is one of my favorite secondhand shops because it has a great selection and it is well sorted into unisex categories, like high-waisted pants, sporty trainer jackets and flannel. Another favorite is Kleiderei Freiburg , which is located closer to the university campus. This German chain has both secondhand and upcycled clothing at really good prices.

For dinner, I would highly recommend making a reservation at Wolfshöhle . It is an elegant option for a date night, with its sophisticated modern German cuisine using seasonal ingredients. You can opt for a 5-course tasting menu or an ala-carte option. After dinner, sample some of Freiburg’s famed beer. The bottom-fermented beer “Freiburger Pilsener” is the most common type of beer you’ll see, and Freiburg has a long history of craft brewing. With eight craft beer breweries at present, Freiburg is Germany’s craft beer capital. The Braukollektiv has been brewing tangy craft beer since 2014. You can visit the Bierhandlung beer shop for a craft beer tasting with a trained beer sommelier.

Where to Stay in Freiburg

Compared to Baden-Baden, Freiburg doesn’t have quite as many stylish or boutique accommodation options. Many of them are more historic and a little bit dated. But, Hotel Oberkirch is centrally located with a great view of the cathedral. I mentioned it above with the nice patio as well. For something closer to the train station, we have stayed at the recently opened Courtyard by Marriott . The rooms are spacious and modern, and the amenities are the hotel are good.

Do you have questions about visiting the Black Forest? Comment below!

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the Black Forest

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 30, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The very name Black Forest conjures up images of deep woodlands, traditional deep-roofed farmhouses, cuckoo clocks, and half-timbered villages that look as though they'd stepped out of a book of fairy tales. And, of course the famous Black Forest cherry cake. And you'll find all of these in the rolling landscapes of Baden-Württemberg in Germany's southwestern corner.

The heart of the Black Forest extends southward from Pfortzheim and Baden-Baden, roughly paralleling the Rhine Valley to the lakes near the Swiss border, and its rural farmland, forests, and picturesque villages are connected by roads that climb and curve through a never-ending series of photo-worthy views. Amid these appealing landscapes, you'll find lots to see and do in the Black Forest.

The region itself, with its traditions and unique way of life, is a major tourist attraction. The area most popular with tourists, and where you'll find some of the most beautiful places to visit in the Black Forest, is the stretch along the 150-kilometer-long Black Forest Railway (Schwarzwaldbahn), and Triberg with its famous waterfalls. The southern Black Forest is dominated by the 1,493-meter-high Feldberg, and to the south are the lakes of Titisee and Schulsee, popular family holiday areas with swimming and water sports.

Plan your trip to this beautiful region with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in the Black Forest.

1. Exploring the Black Forest by Car

2. freiburg im breisgau münster and old town, 3. baden-baden spas and gardens, 4. triberg waterfalls, 5. schiltach, 6. black forest open air museum, 7. kloster maulbronn, 8. gengenbach, 9. lake titisee, 10. the augustinermuseum, freiburg, 11. fine dining in baiersbronn, 12. ravenna gorge, 13. black forest christmas markets, 14. black forest cuckoo clocks, 15. europapark, 16. donaueschingen and the source of the danube, organized black forest tours, map of attractions & places to visit in the black forest.

To find some of the best places to visit in the Black Forest, you should explore its countryside by car, following one of the several designated tourism routes. The most popular of these is the Black Forest Ridgeway (Schwarzwald-Hochstrasse), a spectacular route following hill crests through magnificent coniferous forests from Baden-Baden along the Hornisgrinde to the Kniebis plateau at Freudenstadt. The route continues southward from Triberg to Waldshut .

The Black Forest Valley Road (Schwarzwald-Tälerstrasse) begins farther north at Rastatt, home to the sumptuous Schloss Favorite, a former summer residence and pleasure palace for Margravine Sibylla Augusta of Baden-Baden, with the largest collection of early Meissen porcelain in the world. The road follows the Murg valley, past the imposing Schwarzenbach Dam and continuing to Freudenstadt, where it meets the Black Forest Ridgeway. Spa-goers should follow the Black Forest Spa Route (Schwarzwald-Bäderstrasse), a 270-kilometer-long loop of spas, including Baden-Baden, between Pforzheim and Freudenstadt.

One of the great masterpieces of Gothic architecture in Germany, Freiburg im Breisgau Münster was built between the 13th and 16th centuries and is known for its beautiful interior and artworks. Highlights are the 14th-century stained glass in the aisles and the early 16 th -century altarpieces, the one in the University Chapel by Hans Holbein the Younger. The stiff climb up the 116-meter-high tower, built in 1330, is rewarded with sweeping views across the rooftops of the old town center.

Surrounding Münsterplatz , well-preserved old buildings include the arcaded red Merchants' Hall (Kaufhaus) dating from 1532, with stepped gables and oriel windows. Other highlights of the old town include the old Martinstor (St. Martin's Gate); the 13th-century Schwabentor , with its wall paintings and dioramas; the Late Gothic House of the Whale (Haus zum Walfisch); and the Gothic St. Martin's Church , with a beautifully restored interior and cloister. For a bird's-eye view of the Munster and old town, ride the Schlossbergbahn funicular railway to the 456-meter Schlossberg to look down from the Kanonenplatz.

Address: Münsterplatz, 79098 Freiburg im Breisgau

The Josephine Fountain in the Rose Garden, Baden-Baden

The mineral spas that have made Baden-Baden a popular place to visit since Roman times are the focal point of this beautiful old city at the edge of the Rhine Valley. The elegant 19th-century Friedrichsbad and the modern Caracalla Baths sit side by side, and from the beautifully groomed Kurpark (Spa Gardens) the lovely Lichtentaler Allee follows the Oos river for more than two kilometers of arboretum and gardens. The highlight is a rose garden with 400 different varieties, along with pools, fountains, and an Art Nouveau pavilion. Baden-Baden is at the start of the Schwarzwald-Hochstrasse tourist route.

Badenweiler , another spa town farther south in the Black Forest, is not as well known, but is also very beautiful, sitting on a terrace more than 200 meters above the Rhine. Its Kurpark is filled with subtropical plants, and the 11 th -century Schlossberg castle ruins command views across the Rhine valley.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Baden-Baden

A walking path climbs through the steep Triberg forest, stopping at seven different viewpoints overlooking the river as it plunges down 163 meters from pool to pool in a constant white froth. The succession of cascades and waterfalls creates an ever-changing set of views as you climb, and it's worth going all the way to the wooden bridge at the top for the views down into the rocky ravine. The falls are lighted at night, accessible all year, and are a spectacular cascade of ice in the depth of winter.

Another of the interesting places to visit in Triberg is the Black Forest Museum (Schwarzwaldmuseum), with displays focusing on the region's unique traditions and handcrafts.

Picturesque houses and flowers in Schiltach

Without doubt one of the prettiest towns in the Black Forest, Schiltach has been the home of craftsmen and tanners since at least the 13 th century. Surrounded by woodlands and located at the junction of three rivers, it was a natural to become the Black Forest's center for timber rafting. The riverside location was well-suited to tanning hides, and the oldest part of Schiltach, outside the town walls, is made up of closely set timber-framed houses of tanners.

The sloping triangular Marktplatz is surrounded by more half-timbered houses, and it's here that you'll find two of the town's free museums, Museum am Markt and the Apothecary Museum. The Schüttesäge Museum centers on the work at the former sawmill, in operation from 1491 until 1931, with an undershot water wheel more than seven meters in diameter. But the biggest attraction for tourists is the town itself, so be sure to spend some time here on a walking tour.

As you travel through the region, you are sure to see a number of the typical multi-storied farmhouses, with their giant sloping roofs and overhanging eves. To learn more about these, as well as to tour one from its ground-floor barn to its rows of food drying under the attic rafters, stop at the Black Forest Open Air Museum. The focal point of the Schwarzwälder Freilichtmuseum is the Vogtsbauernhof , a traditional self-contained farmstead dating from the 1600s.

The farmhouse and its cottages and outbuildings were brought here from their original sites, and together form a typical Black Forest farming hamlet. Here, you can get a close-up view of farming and building techniques, such as thatching a roof and making cheese, as well as home skills such as weaving and wood-fire cooking. Many of the hands-on programs are suitable for children, and free guided tours in the summer are in English. The on-site café serves traditional Black Forest specialties.

Address: Wählerbrücke 1, Gutach

At the northern edge of the Black Forest in the little town of Maulbronn, stands the Cistercian abbey of Kloster Maulbronn, which was founded in 1147. Its stone and half-timbered buildings comprise one of the most beautiful and best preserved of the surviving German monasteries, and Kloster Maulbronn has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The most outstanding of its many highlights is the porch of the church, known as the Paradise, a masterpiece of the early Gothic style, with cross-ribbed vaults; the beautiful pine and wrought-iron doors are the oldest known in Germany. Be sure to also see the delicate fountain house, with its three-tiered fountain, and the richly carved stalls in the monks' choir.

Address: Klosterhof 5, Maulbronn

Official site: https://www.kloster-maulbronn.de/en/home

The town of Gengenbach sits at the western edge of the Black Forest, its charming Altstadt of stone towers and half-timbered houses gathered around a market square. Forming one side of the square is the 200-year-old façade of the town hall, which is best known for it important role in Gengenbach's Christmas Market .

For 24 days in December, the town hall becomes a giant Advent calendar, with each of its 24 large windows opening in turn to reveal an elaborate scene. Beyond the usual Christmas motifs, these are based on annual themes often suggested by works of great artists or by literature. At 6pm each afternoon, it seems as though the entire town population is in the square to see the window revealed.

You may notice whimsical statues throughout the town, portraying jesters and fanciful figures; you can learn more about these at the Fools Museum Niggelturm , located in a historic tower. Here, you'll see Fasnacht figures, masks, and costumes used during the pre-Lenten carnival celebrations. These Fasnacht hijinks are traditional in other parts of Germany as well but are particularly strong in this region and reach their highlight here. Climb to the top floor of the 136-meter tower for views of the town and surrounding fruit orchards.

The highest lake in the Black Forest, Titisee is one of the most popular places for families, with a wide range of entertainment possibilities. Its shores are a pleasant mix of forests and lodgings, so while there are plenty of places to stay, the lake retains its natural landscape. The Seestraße in Titisee-Neustadt is a promenade, where you can stroll between the shore and a selection of shops and cafes (a good place to stop and sample Black Forest cherry cake). Or take a 90-minute hike on the trail around the lake.

You can bike along the Bähnle-Radweg path or rent nearly any kind of small boat from motorboats to kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and pedal boats. The lake is a bit chilly for most swimmers, but the Badeparadies Schwarzwald is a water park with themed saunas, a spa, waterslides, and 18 pools surrounded by live palm trees.

Housed in the former monastery of Augustinian Hermits, the Augustinermuseum is a bright and lively place filled with artistic and historical treasures of the Black Forest and Upper Rhine regions. No dim showcases here; the building was brilliantly adapted by architect Christoph Mäckler, so the collections are displayed in well-lighted galleries that encourage viewing from different angles.

Specialties are works from the Middle Ages through the Baroque period, along with 19 th -century paintings. Medieval wood sculptures, panel paintings, and original stone figures and stained glass windows from the Munster are highlights.

Address: Augustinerplatz, 79098 Freiburg im Breisgau

Official site: www.freiburg.de/pb/,Len/237748.html

View of Baiersbronn with the Hotel Traube Tonbach in the distance

The nine scenic hamlets that make up the little town of Baiersbronn have gained fame in culinary circles for the remarkable number of Michelin stars awarded to three local restaurants. These three restaurants account for a total of eight stars: three to the Schwarzwaldstube in Hotel Traube Tonbach , three to the Restaurant Bareiss , and two to the Restaurant Schlossberg .

Between meals in these bastions of fine dining, tourists will find other attractions and things to do. The atmospheric ruins of the Kloster Allerheiligen , the Monastery of All Saints, are made even more haunting by their secluded setting and unfortunate history. Since its founding in 1192, the monastery has been destroyed repeatedly by fires — in 1470, in 1555, and finally by lightning in 1804. Southwest of Baiersbronn a wooded path leads to the 60-meter Sankenbach Waterfalls .

Also known as Devil's Valley, the nine-kilometer stretch of road between Freiburg and Hinterzarten descends precipitously into a narrow gorge surrounded by thickly forested and very steep hillsides. The scene is rendered all the more foreboding by the soaring stone arches of a viaduct that hovers 190 feet overhead, carrying the Devil's Valley Railway .

At the bottom of the winding road is the welcoming sight of the Hofgut Sternen , a historic hotel whose former guests included Marie Antoinette as she traveled through here on her way to become Queen of France. In the complex of traditional Black Forest buildings surrounding the inn are a glassblowing studio and a cuckoo clock shop ; you can watch craftsmen working in both of these.

A path leads farther down the valley to the historic St. Oswald's Chapel , the area's first church, built in 1148. For four weekends in December, the steep hillside beneath the stone arches of the viaduct is the site of the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market , one of the hidden gems of the Black Forest.

Christmas decorations in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

December is magical in the Black Forest, when most larger towns have a Christmas market aglow with twinkling lights, and filled with booths selling gifts, holiday decorations, and an array of tempting foods. Some have carousels or other rides for children, and some have kiosks where they can make candles or cookies for gifts.

In Gengenbach , already a fairy-tale village of half-timbered houses, the town hall becomes a giant Advent calendar, a new window opening each evening at 6 to reveal a magical scene. The streets of Freiburg's old center are festooned with tiny twinkling lights, under which cabins sell spicy gingerbread, loaves of fruit-filled stollen, candied fruits, and jelly-filled doughnuts.

Esslingen's medieval center of tall half-timbered houses are the setting for an authentic medieval market, the Mittelaltermarkt . Torches and lanterns light the tents, bread and other foods are cooked over wood fires, jugglers and flame-walkers perform, and craftspeople work with hand tools. Everyone is in period costume, and only crafts and foods authentic to the Middle Ages are sold. It's like stepping back seven centuries.

Read More: Top-Rated Christmas Markets in Germany

Cuckoo Clock at Hofgut Sternen in the Ravenna Gorge

The most enduring — and endearing — example of Black Forest folk art carries a long tradition of fine craftsmanship as well. Their story begins in the 1600s, when poor farmers made additional income by creating woodcarvings from the readily abundant local trees. They carved elaborate clocks with moving figures, and as metal clockworks were expensive, they made these from wood, too. The region soon became known for its meticulously crafted and beautifully carved clocks, and their signature feature, whatever their size or complexity, was the little bird that popped out and said "cuckoo" on the hour.

Among the most popular things to do in the Black Forest is visit a shop where they make the famous cuckoo clocks . Even if you don't plan to bring one home as a souvenir, it is fascinating to see the variety and complexity of these animated clocks, and watch as skilled craftsmen create them. You can see them being made in workshops at Hofgut Sternen in the Ravenna Gorge, in the village of Triberg, and at several other shops.

Not far from Triberg, in Schonach, clockmaker Josef Dold created the World's Largest Cuckoo Clock , which was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records . Its face covers the front of a typical Black Forest house, and inside you can watch the operation of the giant works, which are all carved from wood. A shop in Triberg has since created an even larger one, but you shouldn't miss the opportunity to step inside a house that's a real cuckoo clock!

More than 100 shows and attractions, including themed areas representing 15 different European countries make up Germany's largest theme park . Costumed characters engage with visitors throughout these and the three fantasy-themed areas.

Kids love the Elf Ride, and in Pirates of Batavia, they can search for the mystical Dagger of Batavia on an underground boat ride through an exotic fantasy city. Thrill-seekers can test their courage on a progression of 13 roller coasters. The most hair-raising is the Blue Fire Megacoaster , accelerating from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in only 2.5 seconds and whirring within inches of cliff edges.

Address: Europa-Park-Straße 2, Rust, Germany

Official site: https://www.europapark.de/en

The source of the Danube River in Donaueschingen

The exact source of the Danube River still gives rise to controversy, although it has been "officially" decided by the government of the state of Baden-Württemberg that only the Donabauch spring in Donaueschingen, where the Brigach River begins, can claim to be the source. Previously, the town of Furtwangen claimed it, based on the fact that the Breg, the larger of the two streams that join to form the Danube, begins there at the Bregtal spring.

You can visit the Donabauch spring, suitably enshrined in elaborate iron grill and stonework in the Schlosspark in Donaueschingen, on the eastern fringe of the Black Forest. Schloss Donaueschingen features sumptuous state apartments full of tapestries and period furniture, a Court Library of medieval manuscripts, and a collection of works by 15 th- and 16 th -century Swabian painters.

If you are staying in Frankfurt or Zurich, you can easily visit the Black Forest on an organized day tour. These tours focus on particular highlights of the region and include an expert guide and driver, saving you the time and stress of finding your way between the top sites.

From Frankfurt

The 10-hour Black Forest and Strasbourg Day Trip from Frankfurt visits two beautiful countries in one day. Travel via air-conditioned coach to the famous spa town of Baden-Baden, at the edge of the Black Forest. Once you arrive, you can explore the top attractions on a guided walking tour and learn about the thermal baths. Then cross over the border to France to visit the Alsatian city of Strasbourg, with its UNESCO-listed old town and magnificent cathedral. The tour also includes a ride along the city's picturesque canals.
On the 11-hour Black Forest and Baden-Baden Day Trip from Frankfurt , you'll visit all the same attractions in Baden-Baden before continuing on your comfortable air-conditioned coach for a scenic ride through the Black Forest to the lovely Mummelsee, a popular lake near Seebach.

From Zurich:

The seven-hour Black Forest and Rhine Falls Day Trip from Zurich includes regional culinary and cultural delights, as well as plenty of natural beauty. Hop aboard a luxury coach to visit the town of Titisee-Neustadt, in Germany's Black Forest. Here, you can see how cuckoo clocks are made and try some of the region's famous Black Forest cake. A boat ride on picturesque Lake Titisee is optional. On the return trip, you can admire the tumultuous Rhine Falls, thundering 23 meters into the river below, with plenty of free time for photos.

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Best Things to Do and See in Germany’s Black Forest

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Thinking about visiting Germany’s Black Forest region? With its picturesque landscapes, history, and culture, it’s no wonder this region has become a popular tourist destination. If you’re planning to visit this breathtaking area, you’ve come to the right place!

I lived in this region for a while and loved exploring the towns, nature, and hopping across the border to explore nearby France and Switzerland. This travel guide will provide you with the information you need to start planning an unforgettable trip to the Black Forest.

1 Where Is The Black Forest?
2 Why Visit The Black Forest?
3 What To Do, See And Experience In The Black Forest
4 Tübingen
5 Black Forest Road Trip Ideas
6 Christmas Markets In The Black Forest
7 What’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit The Black Forest?
8 How To Get to the Black Forest?
9 How Long Does It Take To Get To The Black Forest?
10 Can I Take A Day Trip To The Black Forest?
11 Where To Stay In The Black Forest
12 How Can I Get To And Around The Black Forest?
13 Do I Need A Black Forest Card?
14 Can I Camp In The Black Forest?
15 Is Black Forest Cake Really From The Black Forest?
16 Ready to Visit the Black Forest?

Where Is The Black Forest?

The Black Forest is located in southwestern Germany in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The Rhine valley region is to the north, the state of Bavaria to the east, France to the west, and Switzerland to the south. The Black Forest is the place to go if you’d like to eat a meal in 3 different countries in one day!

Why Visit The Black Forest?

The Black Forest is home to the world’s largest cuckoo clock, world-famous Black Forest ham, boozy Black Forest cake, picturesque glacial lakes, waterfalls, mountain peaks, walking, hiking and biking trails, spa towns, quaint villages, bustling university towns, and, of course, a famous forest.

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Called der Schwarzwald in German, the Black Forest area is often associated with the famous Brothers Grimm fairy tales like Hansel and Gretel. The Black Forest region is also famous for its enchanting and dense forest filled with evergreen trees, dreamy castles, historic medieval cities, and towns that will give you the ultimate fairytale feeling.

Germany’s Black Forest is also a highly recommended hiking and skiing destination. You can enjoy a variety of walking paths and hiking trails all year long. During the winter months, the Black Forest transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland.

There are also several high peaks offering stunning views, such as Feldberg to the south and Hornisgrinde to the north, the Danube and Neckar rivers, and trails like the popular Freiburg-Lake Constance Black Forest Trail which takes you to the largest lake in Germany.

There are countless things to do in Black Forest: hiking, cycling, swimming, relaxing at a spa or sauna, experiencing traditional Black Forest history, culture and farm life, exploring quaint villages and towns, enjoying delicious local food and drinks or simply just touring around and taking in the breathtaking scenery.

What To Do, See And Experience In The Black Forest

One of the reasons the Black Forest is such a fun place to visit is because there are so many cute villages and lovely natural areas to explore. Here are just some places to visit when spending time in the beautiful Schwarzwald.

Freiburg im Breisgau

Freiburg is considered the “Capital of the Black Forest” and the sunniest spot in Germany. A popular tourist destination, this laid back city is famous for a mixture of gothic and modern architecture, an historic university, and a beautiful old town filled with cobbled streets and narrow runnels called Bächele, historic buildings, outdoor markets, charming cafes, bikes, and university students. One of the most popular attractions in Freiburg is the Münster cathedral. This impressive Gothic structure dates back to 1200 AD and boasts one of Germany’s largest church bells. You can climb up to the tower for panoramic views of the city or stay on the ground and look for the etching that was once used to measure bread and ensure customers weren’t being cheated.

Another Freiburg must-see is Schlossberg, which offers stunning vistas over Freiburg’s red-tiled roofs. You can reach the top by foot, car or cable car.

And, if you’re in Freiburg on a hot day, head to the Dreisam river to cool down (there are spots where you can wade in the shallow river…so refreshing)!

Click here for our full Freiburg im Breisgau guide!

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a charming town north of Freiburg known for its thermal baths and spas. This city has been a popular destination for thousands of years thanks to its natural hot springs that were believed to have healing powers by the Romans. If you’re looking for luxurious spas and wellness centers, terrific restaurants, and beautiful buildings, add Baden-Baden to your itinerary.

Triberg im Schwarzwald

Triberg im Schwarzwald is a picturesque town located in the heart of the Black Forest region. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, it has become a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Many visitors leave with a new cuckcoo clock.

One of the most popular attractions are the Triberg waterfalls, which cascade down seven levels and are among the highest in Germany. You can walk along scenic trails that wind through lush forests and take in breathtaking views of the falls.

If you want to learn more about the history of this fascinating region, there are also several museums and historical sites to visit, including a traditional Black Forest farmstead that offers a glimpse into rural life in centuries past.

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Staufen is a quaint little town known for its historic architecture, vibrant market square, winding streets, festivals, and charming atmosphere. One of Staufen’s highlights is its beautiful castle, which sits majestically atop a hill overlooking the town. If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding hills that offer breathtaking views of the countryside.

Black Forest National Park

The Black Forest National Park is a must for nature lovers. You’ll find hiking and biking trails that wind through lush forests and picturesque valleys and offer breathtaking views. The the park’s main priority is protecting and preserving nature and wildlife. You might even be able to spot red deer, lynx, wild boar, and many other species in their natural habitat. If you prefer water activities, then kayaking or canoeing on one of the many streams or lakes within the park are also great options.

Feldberg & Schauinsland

These two scenic spots are located near Freiburg im Breisgau. At 1,493 meters above sea level, Feldberg is not only the highest mountain peak in the Black Forest, it’s the highest mountain in all of Germany outside of the Alps. After hiking or taking a cable car to the top you can enjoy panoramic views of the region. During the winter months the area transforms into a true wonderland as the white snow fully covers its slopes–perfect for skiing and other winter activities. Schauinsland is located just outside the city of Freiburg and is easily accessible by car or public transport. It’s an easy and fun day trip from Freiburg. You can explore the many trails that wind through the mountains and enjoy breathtaking views along the way. The area is also home to ski resorts, making it a popular local winter destination for skiing enthusiasts. I once attempted to go skiing there (long story).

Lake Titisee

Lake Titisee is a gorgeous lake in the heart of Germany’s Black Forest known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning scenery, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Easy to reach from Freiburg, it’s a popular tourist destination for both locals and visitors alike.

One of the best ways to experience Lake Titisee is by taking a leisurely stroll around its perimeter. The trail around the lake is approximately 6 kilometers long and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Along the way, you will find several restaurants where you can stop for a bite to eat or grab a coffee while enjoying the serene atmosphere.

This is another great place to cool down during a heat wave!

Calw is an adorable little town located in the northern part of the Black Forest. It’s a hidden gem that’s usually overlooked by tourists. Known for its picturesque half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and fountains, you can spend hours wandering around the cobblestone streets, admiring the architecture, and taking in the relaxing atmosphere. One of Calw’s most famous residents was none other than Hermann Hesse, a Nobel Prize-winning author who was born here in 1877. His childhood home has been turned into a museum dedicated to his life and works. If you’re a fan of literature or just curious about German culture, it’s definitely worth checking out!

Freudenstadt

Freudenstadt is another hidden gem with a picturesque market square, the biggest in Germany. With numerous shops, restaurants and cafes, you can indulge in local treats like Black Forest cake. You can also take a stroll through the nearby Kurpark or relax at one of the town’s many spas. Other must-see landmarks include the Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Friedrichsturm (Frederick’s Tower).

Bad Wildbad

Bad Wildbad is a small town located in the district of Calw in the valley of Enz. It’s widely known as a spa and holiday town, perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing getaway in the Black Forest. It’s also close to Wildsee, a small lake with hiking trails. In the past recent years, there’s also been a rise of outdoor activities and attractions in the mountain of Sommerberg like a treetop walking path, a pedestrian suspension bridge, and a mountain bike park.

Gengenbach is another charming village with picturesque streets and timber-framed houses. It’s also another popular tourist destination. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and you’ll find traditional bakeries selling freshly baked breads and pastries, quaint cafes serving up rich coffee and delicious cakes, and cozy restaurants offering hearty local dishes. And if you’re a wine lover, make sure to visit one of Gengenbach’s many wineries where you can sample some of the finest wines in the region.

Schluchsee

Lake Schluchsee is the highest reservoir lake in Black Forest and the largest lake in the region. Lake Schluchsee is a very popular lake due to its cool waters during the summer and easy-access shorelines. The lake offers different water sports and activities for all tourists and locals alike. Aside from water sports, you can also hire a boat, walk around the lake, or hike up the 18-kilometer long hiking trail, and even view the wonderful scenery at the Riesenbühl Tower.

Mummelsee

Lake Mummelsee is the highest lake in Black Forest, located at 1034 meters above sea level. Along the Black Forest High Road and on the western mountainside of Hornisgrinde, it’s a popular place to take a stroll, ride in a pedalo, enjoy a coffee, or visit the Hornisgrinde lookout tower.

Wutach Gorge

Wutach Gorge offers a stunning natural landscape that will take your breath away. The gorge is formed by the Wutach River and is surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forests. Hiking through the gorge you’ll come across gushing waterfalls, serene pools of water, and unique rock formations.

Black Forest Open Air Museum

The Black Forest Open Air Museum is the first open-air museum in the Black Forest, located in Gutach. It claims to be the most visited open-air museum in Germany with over 250,000 visitors annually. The museum brings you the rural experience of Black Forest. Here you can witness the region’s traditional crafts, housing, culture, and even technology. Aside from that, you’ll also can see numerous farm animals and do some hands-on activities. There are several areas specifically for kids, and there’s a restaurant that serves delicious Black Forest cake (and more). It’s a lot of fun and a great place to spend the day!

Europa-Park in Rus t

Europa Park is the largest theme park in Germany, located between Freiburg im Breisgau and Strasbourg, France. The park has over 18 different themed areas and 13 roller coasters, ranging from kid-friendly ones like the Alpenexpress Enzian which goes through a diamond mine and high-speed roller coasters like the Silver Star. There are tons of indoor activities as well as shows, parades, a 4D cinema, and holiday events for everyone. There’s even a resort which hosts six hotels and a campground for families who want to stay longer.

Castle Hohenzollern

Castle Hohenzollern is an iconic 1000 year old castle located near the Black Forest. It’s one of Germany’s most popular tourist attractions and holds significant historical importance for Germany. It was once home to powerful German emperors who shaped the country’s political landscape during their reigns.

Castle Lichtenstein

Not too far from Castle Hohenzollern is the19th century Castle Lichtenstein. It stands on a rocky cliff that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The castle has been owned by the same family since it was built and has undergone several renovations over the years to maintain its beauty and structural integrity. The castle also features a picturesque courtyard and gardens that are perfect for picnics or leisurely strolls.

Tübingen

Tübingen is a charming university town on the banks of the Neckar River near the Black Forest. One of the town’s most significant attractions is its historic Old Town. Here you can wander through streets lined with half-timbered houses and marvel at the impressive Gothic architecture of landmarks such as St George’s Collegiate Church.

The ancient castle ruins perched high above the town offer breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. You can also visit one of Europe’s oldest universities (Eberhard Karls University) where famous alumni like Hegel and Hölderlin once studied.

Black Forest Road Trip Ideas

If you’ll have a car during your visit to the Black Forest, consider doing one of these beautiful drives.

Black Forest Route / Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwaldhochstraße)

This scenic drive begins in Baden-Baden and ends in Freudenstadt and takes you through charming towns, dense forests, and rolling hills. Along the way you can also visit the Mummelsee.

German Framework Route (Deutsche Fachwerkstrasse)

Also known as the German Timber-Frame Road, this scenic drive runs all the way from the Elbe river in northern Germany to the Black Forest to Lake Constance (Bodensee). It covers seven regional sections which include Saxony, Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Hesse, Thuringia, Bavaria, and Baden-Württemberg – where the Black Forest is located.

As suggested by its name, you can expect to see traditional timber-framed houses as you make your way through several medieval towns and small villages along the way. It’s interesting to see how the architectural style, shapes, and colors differ from one state to the other.

Badische Wine Road (B adische Weinstrasse )

The Badische Wine Road is a route along the foothills of the Black Forest that passes through the wine-growing areas of the Baden Mountain Route, Kraichgau, Ortenau, Kaiserstuhl, Tuniberg, Breisgau and Markgräflerland.

It’s perfect for foodies and wine lovers who want to visit some of Germany’s best vineyards and wine cellars and enjoy local wine and delicacies. Besides picturesque wine-growing villages, you’re sure to make your way through beautiful orchards, meadows, castles, historic small towns, panoramic views, and beyond.

3 Countries In 1 Day: Germany, France And Switzerland

The Black Forest’s prime location in southern Germany makes it the ideal base for those who want to go on a road trip outside of the country. While you’re here you can make the most out of your visit by hopping over the border into France and Switzerland. Yes, you can visit 3 different countries in 1 day!

You can easily cross the French border and visit Strasbourg and Colmar. Or cross the Swiss border and explore Basel (possibly even Zurich, depending on how much time you have).

Christmas Markets In The Black Forest

Christmas markets in and near the Black Forest are unlike any other in the world. This is because the region is especially beautiful during the winter season. Cities, towns, and villages come alive with their own cultural traditions, festive decorations, and culinary specialties, attracting both locals and tourists from all over the world. There are many Christmas markets to choose from but here are some that we recommend:

Stuttgart Christmas Market

One of the oldest and largest traditional Christmas markets in Europe boasting over 300 festive booths, each of which is uniquely decorated. Read more about the Stuttgart Christmas Market here.

Esslingen Christmas Market

Located close to Stuttgart , this is a unique Christmas market with a medieval twist. Experience fun performances, costumes, and handicrafts that will take you back to the Middle Ages. Read more about the Esslingen Christmas Market here.

Tübingen ChocolArt Festival

Perfect for chocolate lovers who want to stock up on sweet treats to give as Christmas gifts, learn about chocolate making or admire stunning chocolate artwork in charming Tübingen. Read more about the Tübignen ChocolAlrt Festival here.

Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market

This is one of the most breathtaking markets because of its location – beneath an historic railway viaduct called Devil‘s Valley Railway and directly surrounded by the Black Forest! It’s straight out of a fairytale when it snows, covering all the wooden stalls in white. Read more about the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market here. You can also visit beautiful Christmas markets outside of Germany, in Colmar and Strasbourg in France and Basel in Switzerland.

What’s The Best Time Of Year To Visit The Black Forest?

The Black Forest is truly a stunning destination year-round. There’s really no wrong answer to this questions because each season offers something unique and you can find plenty to do all year long.

One thing to consider is that the Black Forest’s climate is temperate and the weather varies throughout the year.

The months of December to February can be cold, windy, rainy or even snowy. But they can also be quite cozy and festive because of the Christmas markets all around the region. Also, if you’re fond of skiing, snowboarding, snowshoe hiking, and other snow activities, then winter is the best time for you to visit.

As it slowly gets warmer as winter transitions into spring, the weather can vary daily. It’s a beautiful time of year seeing flowers bloom, trees leafing out, and outdoor seating opening up at restaurants and cafes.

The summer months of June, July, and August are ideal for visiting because you’re likely to experience sunny and warm or even hot weather and little rainfall. It’s the ideal weather if you want to fill your itinerary with outdoor activities like trekking, camping, boating, hiking or swimming.

Do note, though, that summer heat waves have become more common in recent years. And these are also the busiest months for tourism. Expect high transportation and accommodation costs and crowds. Book hotels and sights early for the most options and best prices.

The fall months from September to early November are another great time to visit the Black Forest. You can still engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking, you’ll enjoy cooler weather, and you’ll get to witness the changing of the leaves and vibrant autumnal foliage.

How To Get to the Black Forest?

You can reach the Black Forest by train or car. Trains will get you to many locations in the Black Forest but a car is better if you want to explore beyond the cities and main villages, get off the beaten path or visit the Black Forest National Park.

If you’re flying to Germany and then heading to the Black Forest, consider flying into Stuttgart, which is located just north of the Black Forest. You could also fly into nearby Strasbourg, France or Basel, Switzerland and then take the train or drive a rental car to the Black Forest.

How Long Does It Take To Get To The Black Forest?

The Black Forest covers a big area in the state of Baden-Württemberg. Here’s a list of train travel times from Germany, France, and Switzerland.

Take note that the travel time varies depending on the train station, train schedule, number of stops, and number of train changes. A good place to research train times and purchase train tickets is the official German rail website .

Munich to Baden-Baden: around 4.5 to 5 hours
Munich to Freiburg between 4.5-6 hours
Freiburg to Titisee in the Black Forest: 1 hour
Stuttgart to Freiburg: 2 hours (longer if you take regional trains through the Black Forest)
Basel, Switzerland to Freiburg: 1 hour
Strasbourg, France to Freiburg: 2 hours

Can I Take A Day Trip To The Black Forest ?

Yes, it’s very easy if you’re coming from Strasbourg or Colmar in France; Basel in Switzerland; Freiburg, Stuttgart, Tübingen or Konstanz in Germany, especially if you have a car. If you want to visit the Black Forest National Park, traveling by car is the easiest way to do so.

A more economical way to visit the Black Forest is by train. It might be a bit harder or take a little longer to visit some rural places but you’ll be immersed in the scenic view of the Black Forest!

Where To Stay In The Black Forest

There are a lot of hotels and vacation rentals in the Black Forest region. You can stay in a city like Freiburg or Baden-Baden or you in small towns and villages like Triberg, Staufen, Haslach, Gengnenbach, etc. You can also rent apartments and vacation homes in the rural areas of the Black Forest. We use this site to find hotels and apartments all over Germany.

How Can I Get To And Around The Black Forest?

If flying, consider flying direclty into Stuttgart, the nearest big city to Black Forest. You could also fly into Strasbourg in France or Basel in Switzerland. Then take the train or rent a car and drive to your Black Forest destination.

We’ve driven a rental car through the Black Forest and taken trains. We like the freedom and flexibility you get with a car but taking the train is much cheaper.

We use this site to find the best deals on rental cars in Germany.

If you want to reduce expenses, using the KONUS Guest Card is one of the best ways you can save money while exploring Black Forest. It gives you access to free rides on buses and trains throughout the Black Forest as often as you want while your card is valid.

You’ll receive your KONUS Guest Card when checking into your hotel or apartment. It’ll be valid for the duration of your stay for 2nd class regional transportation.

For more information, visit the official KONUS Guest Card website here.

Baden-Württemberg Regional Train Ticket

If you don’t have access to a KONUS card or are traveling outside of the KONUS area, the Baden-Württemberg regional train ticket is another inexpensive way to travel through the region. This rail pass allows 1 day of unlimited travel in the state on local trains for up to 5 people traveling together. You can purchase this ticket ahead of time or on the day of travel.

For more information, check the official Deutsche Bahn website here.

Do I Need A Black Forest Card?

First, what is the Black Forest Card? After purchasing a 3-day holiday card you can enter over 200 attractions for free! You can even add on skip-the-line admission to Europa-park. Because you can enter so many attractions for free, it’s an easy way to discover hidden gems and attractions in the Black Forest.

Do you need the Black Forest Card? It depends. We always recommend making a list of the things you want to do, adding up the prices, and comparing that to the cost of the card to see if it will work for you.

The Black Forest Card is valid on three days of your choice, and attractions can only be visited once during those three days, so carefully plan ahead to maximize the Black Forest experience.

Get the Black Forest Card here!

Can I Camp In The Black Forest?

Yes, you can camp in the Black Forest. There are a few campgrounds in the area. Places like Muellerwiese, Alpirsbach, Muenstertal, and Freudenstadt offer campgrounds and cabins to stay at. Some include free parking and free wifi, while others include free access to a pool.

Is Black Forest Cake Really From The Black Forest?

Yes! Black Forest cake (also known as Black Forest gâteau and Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte in German) is a local delicacy that originated in, you guessed it, the Black Forest.

It’s a moist chocolate sponge cake doused in Kirsch syrup (cherry liquor syrup), filled and iced with whipped cream, and topped with chocolate shavings and cherries.

It’s a light cake but can taste boozy, depending on who makes it. I’ve had some where you can barely taste the Kirsch…and others where the flavor was super strong.

It’s said that the way the cake is decorated was inspired by traditional costumes of the Black Forest region. Specifically, it’s supposed to resemble a Bollenhut, the hat of a traditional women’s outfit. It’s a formal headdress with a white brim and large, red woolen pom-poms on top.

If you like cherry and chocolate, try a slice of Black Forest cake!

Ready to Visit the Black Forest?

The Black Forest is an excellent destination for exploration, relaxation, and vacation adventure. Whether you want to take in the stunning views, visit historic towns and villages or enjoy local food and drink, you’re sure to make memories to last a lifetime.

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER: Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our Germany Travel Planner answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT: Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS: We recommend using Booking.com since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our accommodation guides for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

TICKETS & TOURS: For guided tours, day trips, private tours, and skip-the-line tickets, Get Your Guide is our go-to!

TRAINS & BUSES: To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System) website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at FlixBus , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

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IMAGES

Black Forest Lines Scenic Train
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Black forest railway source Flickr.com
The Black Forest Railway (Baden-Wurttemberg)
Black Forest Germany

VIDEO

BR 143 DB am Schluchsee, Schwarzwald- 3 Seenbahn rast vorbei
"Lumpensammler" auf der Schwarzwaldbahn
Tunnelfahrten mit dem "Roten Heuler" auf der Schwarzwaldbahn
Famous Black Forest Train. Ride With Me The World's Most Famous Black Forest Railway. #blackforest
Buht Time Bad Jungal Main Gye

COMMENTS

Black Forest by Train
Other rail tickets of interest to visitors to the Black Forest include the Baden-Württemberg Ticket, a rail pass which allows 24 hours of unlimited travel in the state in second class on regional trains. It costs 24 Euros for one person and increases in 6 Euro increments to a maximum of five people (thus 48 Euros for five people on one ticket).
Visiting the Black Forest by train
Visiting the Black Forest by train. Taking the train is the best way to get to, and explore, the Black Forest. The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, in southwest Germany's Baden-Württemberg state, is one of Germany's finest locations for walkers, skiers, cyclists and cake-eaters alike. Covering more than 6000km², the northern reaches of the ...
Black Forest Lines Scenic Train
From today's modern trains you view stunning scenery of the genuine Black Forest, shortly interrupted by the many tunnels on this spectacular rail route. Make a pitstop at Donaueschingen to taste the local cuisine and visit the birthplace of the Danube, one of Europe's longest and mightiest rivers. From the vivid and charming city of Freiburg ...
The Ultimate Black Forest Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Visit
41. Situated in Germany's southwest corner, the Black Forest, or Schwarzwald in German, is known around the world for its dark conifer forests, enchanting villages, hiking trails, and thermal spas. Steeped in mystery and myth, the Black Forest is a place in Baden-Württemberg that so many Germans choose when they vacation in their own country.
The Ultimate Black Forest Itinerary: How to Spend Your Time
Getting to the forest is via train or bus once you land at the airport. As part of your Black Forest train itinerary, you can enjoy amazing sights from Frankfurt. Once at the forest's edge, hire a car and drive to the hotel. Visitors flock here all year round. Among things to do during the Black Forest 3-day itinerary are: 1. Baden Baden Spa
The Perfect 3-Day Black Forest Itinerary
Although the forest is magical all year round, the best time to visit the Black Forest is during the warmer seasons to ensure you can do all the outdoor activities. View of the Black Forest. Getting To & Around the Black Forest. ... With train routes running alongside the forest, you can explore the different areas on foot and hop on The Black ...
Travel To The Black Forest Germany
You can ride a train to Karlsruhe, Baden-Baden, Freiburg, and Offenburg. These trains go from all major German cities, so visiting the Black Forest by train will be a breeze. Whatever you decide to do, you won't go wrong, because visiting the Black Forest can be a magical experience. We are saying this mostly because you can use the scenic ...
A Black Forest fairytale: riding Germany's 'hell valley' railway in
Winter's morning in the Hoellental Train, Black Forest Photograph: ... Deutsche Bahn launched a monthly subscription ticket for nationwide travel on local and regional routes for €49, while ...
Black Forest Lines Scenic Train
Black Forest Lines scenic train. Climbing 650 metres vertically and covering a distance of 149 kilometres, the Black Forest Railway (or Badische Schwarzwaldbahn in German) passes through some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe. Think pine forests, rock faces and dark overhead branches. Please note: this is a regular train doing a scenic ...
The Ultimate Black Forest Travel Guide (Southern)
This is the only Schwarzwald Black Forest travel guide you need to know. We put together tips for getting around, traveling from Frankfurt and Basel-Mulhouse, recommended hotels, and outdoor activities in the most insightful way. Tucked away in the southwest corner of Germany, Schwarzwald the 'Black Forest' is a perfect hideout to detox ...
Black Forest Travel Guide: How to Experience the Beauty ...
One of the best ways to explore the Black Forest is to hop on a train and journey through the picturesque towns, making it easy to see the attractions along the way. ... Black Forest Travel Tips. Creative-AK / Pixabay. Here are some of our favorite tips for visiting the Black Forest in Germany. 1. Bring extra layers regardless of the season.
The Black Forest Railway, South Germany
The Black Forest Railway connects Offenburg and Singen over a distance of 149 km. The section between Hornberg, Triberg and St. Georgen is particularly interesting. More than 120 years after its opening, the stretch is still regarded as a great feat of engineering. It is now used both by the Deutsche Bahn for its regular services as well as for ...
Black Forest in 1 Day (by bus & train)
Black Forest in 1 Day (by bus & train) You will spend 2 nights in the Black Forest - in 2 different hotels to experience 2 locations. Hop on a bus to see the top sights in the Black Forest: swim in Lake Titisee, ride a mountain coaster, stop at a waterfall, take a cable car ride. Your tour ends in Freiburg - we take care of the luggage transfer.
Black Forest Germany
If you check distance, Stuttgart will look closer than Frankfurt. But Frankfurt airport serves direct Intercity express (ICE) train to Offenburg which is a starting point of a scenic and dreamy train ride through the Black Forest.If you want to visit the summer capital Baden Baden which is a popular spa town or the historic university town of Heidelberg with Gothic and Renaissance architecture ...
10 Places To Visit in the Black Forest of Germany
The Black Forest Railway, known for its engineering marvels and scenic beauty, offers one of Europe's most picturesque train journeys. This historic railway line, winding through the heart of the Black Forest, passes through deep valleys, dense woodlands, and charming villages.
Train to the Black Forest
Quickly to the Black Forest. From € 38 one-way trip with ICE International. Travel time Amsterdam - Black Forest: 5.20 hrs. Tip! Early booking = lowest prices. A trip to the Black Forest should not be without a visit to Freiburg. A ride on the longest gondola in Germany is also lovely. This ride will take you to Schauinsland, a 1,284-metre ...
How to Spend a Long Weekend in the Black Forest
About the Black Forest. Located in the southwest corner of Germany in the state of Baden-Württemberg, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) refers to a small mountain range characterized by dense pine forests. From Frankfurt, it is about 1 hour driving directly south. The Black Forest is roughly 200 kilometers long and 60 kilometers wide.
16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the Black Forest
9. Lake Titisee. The highest lake in the Black Forest, Titisee is one of the most popular places for families, with a wide range of entertainment possibilities. Its shores are a pleasant mix of forests and lodgings, so while there are plenty of places to stay, the lake retains its natural landscape.
Best Things to Do and See in Germany's Black Forest
You can reach the Black Forest by train or car. Trains will get you to many locations in the Black Forest but a car is better if you want to explore beyond the cities and main villages, get off the beaten path or visit the Black Forest National Park. ... A more economical way to visit the Black Forest is by train. It might be a bit harder or ...
10 Must-See Places to Visit in Black Forest
The most picturesque places to visit in Black Forest are perfect for a day trip or short vacation. Idyllic landscapes, mystical mountain lakes, thundering waterfalls, authentic old towns and lots of Black Forest culture are waiting to be discovered. ... By public transport, it is best to travel from Oppenau train station (bus line 7125). 6 ...
4 Options For the Perfect Black Forest Road Trip Itinerary
However, there are some famous train rides in the Black Forest that are simply stunning (and are the main event and thing to do for the day in and of itself) and there are a few places that you can easily get to with a train. ... Day 3: Visit The Nearby Black Forest Germany Towns (or France!) There are several towns nearby that you can go and ...
Pompeii: Breathtaking new paintings found at ancient city
A third of the lost city has still to be cleared of volcanic debris. The current dig, the biggest in a generation, is underlining Pompeii's position as the world's premier window on the people and ...
How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
A Mexican drug cartel is targeting seniors and their timeshares. Hosted by Katrin Bennhold. Produced by Asthaa Chaturvedi and Will Reid. With Clare Toeniskoetter and Lynsea Garrison. Edited by ...

Black Forest Train Routes

Getting to the Black Forest by Train

Getting Around the Black Forest by Train

Black Forest Railway

The Höllentalbahn

The Three Lakes Railway

The Kinzig Valley Railway

The Murg Valley Railway

Special Rail Tickets

Other Rail Tickets

Black Forest

Black Forest Information

Black Forest Lines Scenic Train

Black Forest Lines routes

Facilities and services

Additional information

Special features

Change of currency

The Ultimate Black Forest Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Visit

Where is the Black Forest in Germany?

Why is it Called the Black Forest?

A Brief History of the Black Forest Region

How to get to the Black Forest

Driving in the Black Forest

When is the Best Time to Visit Black Forest

Where To Stay In The Black Forest, Germany

How to Explore the Black Forest

Take A Hike

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Here are the Most Beautiful Tourist Routes in the Black Forest:

Tour routes running through the Black Forest, but not exclusive to it are:

Things to Do in the Black Forest

Go To a Spa

Hike To Triberg Waterfall

Enjoy The Rides At Europa Park

Visit The Black Forest Open Air Museum

Go To a Historic Mine

Beautiful Places to Visit in the Black Forest

Freiburg im Breisgau

Bad Wildbad

Breisach am Rhein

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3-Day Black Forest Itinerary

Day 1 – Klotser Maulbronn, Calw & Baden-Baden

Kloster Maulbronn and Calw

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Day 2 – Freiburg & Titisee

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Europa Park

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