Baden-Württemberg

Germany
Karl Theodor Bridge showing a river or creek, a bridge and heritage elements
Enter the majestic pinewoods of the Black Forest, relax in spa towns, explore romantic castles and visit busy university towns in this lush southwestern region.

Baden-Wuerttemberg is a picturesque state that upholds some of Germany’s most famous traditions. The region is home to breathtaking scenes of spire-topped churches, mighty castles, wild forests and tranquil lakes. Tour historic theaters and watch a world-class opera, visit lively university towns and follow the route of the world’s first long-distance automobile journey.

The state’s capital, Stuttgart, is a green city that features the renowned Staatstheater and a gallery of modern art. Attend a performance at Germany’s Nationaltheater in the city of Mannheim and see one of the world’s tallest churches in Ulm. The historic university buildings and castle are highlights in Heidelberg, which is situated in the unforgettable Neckar Valley.

To the east of the Rhine Valley you’ll find the magnificent Black Forest. This beautiful woodland contains the renowned 19th-century spa town of Baden-Baden, as well as numerous hiking and biking trails through its gently sloping forests. Ride a riverboat along the Rhine or explore the region’s ski resorts. The Schwäbische Alb features limestone outcrops and beautiful blue lakes. Head to the border with Switzerland to reach Lake Constance (Bodensee), a popular spot with hikers and cyclists. Tour the castles of Wuerttemberg’s dukes and kings and visit the historic manor of the Hohenzollerns.

If you have an interest in automobile history, follow the Bertha Benz Memorial Route, which loops Heidelberg, Odenwald, the Black Forest and the Rhine Valley from Mannheim. First undertaken in 1888, the route spans 120 miles (194 kilometers).

Be sure to stop by the wine-growing region in Kaiserstuhl in Baden to sample the state’s fine wines on a wine-tasting train ride. Try fruit brandies or Black Forest cherry schnapps. Watch expert artisans at the numerous workshops that display the region’s traditional woodcarving mastery.

Baden-Wuerttemberg is easily navigable by train and bus. The rail network is extensive and efficient. The closest international airport is in Frankfurt, which is over 2 hours north from Stuttgart by intercity train. Alternatively, rent a car and explore the region’s well-maintained scenic touring routes.

Popular cities in Baden-Württemberg

Esslingen showing a river or creek and outdoor eating
Stuttgart
Known for Shopping, Museums and Business
Nature and technology, history, festivals and performing arts make this one of the most popular cities in Germany’s Baden-Württemberg region.

Reasons to visit

  • Mercedes Benz Museum
  • Mercedes-Benz Arena
  • Cannstatter Wasen
Altstadt which includes a square or plaza, a city and a fountain
Heidelberg
Known for Historical, Castle and Tours
A romantic Baroque town, Heidelberg is a popular destination right on the River Neckar and hosts one of Europe’s oldest universities.

Reasons to visit

  • Marktplatz
  • Heidelberg Castle
  • University of Heidelberg Old Campus
Muensterplatz showing street scenes and outdoor eating
Freiburg im Breisgau
Known for Historical, Shopping and Business
The jewel of the Black Forest, Freiburg is a major university city in southwest Germany with a laidback charm and beauty of its own.

Reasons to visit

  • Freiburg Main Cathedral
  • Messe Freiburg
  • Muensterplatz
Baden-Baden featuring a park and heritage architecture
Baden-Baden
Venture to sights like Museum Frieder Burda and Theater Baden-Baden as you discover Baden-Baden.

Reasons to visit

  • Caracalla Spa
  • Casino Baden-Baden
  • Theater Baden-Baden
Friedrichsplatz featuring a park, a sunset and a fountain
Mannheim
Known for Shopping, Business and Cafes
This university city set on the banks of the Rhine and Neckar rivers offers cultural diversity, some of Germany’s best art and one of the world's most beautiful parks.

Reasons to visit

  • Luisenpark
  • Mannheim Water Tower
  • Planetarium Mannheim
Constance showing a river or creek and a city
Konstanz
Known for Lakes, Tours and Romantic
Enjoy an enticing blend of atmospheric historical sights, exciting watersports and pretty lakeside scenery in a city that combines them all.

Reasons to visit

  • Mainau Island
  • Konstanz Harbor