Things to do in Black Forest
Discover the best attractions and experiences Black Forest has to offer
Historic Monuments
Step back in time with iconic relics and historic sites spread across the Black Forest towns.
Freiburger Münster (Freiburg Cathedral)
Iconic Gothic cathedral with a tall tower; climb for sweeping city views.
Kurhaus & Casino Baden-Baden
Grand neoclassical landmark reflecting Baden-Baden's spa-age elegance.
Schiltach Old Town
Well-preserved medieval lanes and timber-framed houses by the Kinzig River.
Museums
Delve into Black Forest culture, clocks, and rural life through its best museums.
Schwarzwälder Freilichtmuseum Vogtsbauernhof (Open-Air Museum)
Traditional Black Forest farmsteads and rural life showcased in an outdoor setting.
Deutsches Uhrenmuseum (German Clock Museum) – Furtwangen
Extensive clock collection tracing the history of timekeeping.
Augustinermuseum Freiburg
Art and historical artifacts housed in a former monastery in Freiburg.
Religious Monuments
Marvel at grand churches and sacred sites that define the region’s spiritual heritage.
Freiburg Cathedral (Freiburger Münster)
Gothic masterpiece with a soaring tower and stained glass.
St. Blasien Cathedral (Dom St. Blasien)
Baroque-style cathedral famous for its vast circular dome.
Maulbronn Abbey
One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval monastic complexes.
National & Theme Parks
Outdoor thrills and protected landscapes define the region’s top parks.
Black Forest National Park (Nationalpark Schwarzwald)
A vast forest refuge with trails, wildlife, and pristine scenery.
Europa-Park (Rust)
Large theme park with roller coasters, shows, and family attractions.
Steinwasen Park (Oberried)
Family-friendly park with wildlife, slides, and mountain views.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts and historic cores give a taste of daily Black Forest life.
Freiburg im Breisgau – Altstadt (Old Town)
Historic heart with cathedral squares, markets, and cafés.
Baden-Baden – Altstadt
Charming old town with boutiques, baths, and cultural sites.
Schiltach – Old Town District
Picturesque riverside lanes and half-timbered houses.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the region’s scenery and atmosphere without an admission fee.
Hiking in the Black Forest
Explore dense forests, fern-filled valleys, and scenic viewpoints.
Walk around Lake Titisee
Stroll the lakeside promenade and soak in the scenery.
Lichtentaler Allee – Baden-Baden
Pleasant riverside stroll through trees and gardens.
Gastronomy
Taste regional classics crafted from centuries-old recipes.
Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake)
Rich chocolate layers with cherries and cream.
Schwarzwälder Schinken (Black Forest Ham)
Smoked ham served thinly sliced with bread.
Kirschwasser (Cherry Brandy)
Distinctive cherry brandy traditional to the region.
Nightlife
Evening venues range from glamorous casinos to live music bars.
Casino Baden-Baden
Elegant casino with classic ambience and occasional events.
Jazzhaus Freiburg
Vibrant live music venue focusing on jazz and blues.
Festspielhaus Baden-Baden (evening performances)
Iconic concert hall hosting evening shows.
Entertainment
The Black Forest hosts theatres, concerts, and cultural venues.
Theater Freiburg
City theater presenting plays, dance and performances.
Stadttheater Baden-Baden
Cultural venue offering theatre and dance productions.
Festspielhaus Baden-Baden (concerts and operas)
Renowned venue for world-class performances.
Sports
Winter sports, hiking, and mountain adventures abound.
Skiing at Feldberg
Black Forest’s highest ski area with runs and tobogganing.
Schauinslandbahn (Schauinsland Cable Car)
Ride up for panoramic views and alpine trails.
Westweg long-distance hike
Hike across the Black Forest on a classic long-distance route.
Off the Track
Take scenic routes and lesser-known experiences off the beaten path.
Schwarzwaldbahn scenic railway
Heritage train winding through forested valleys and viaducts.
Kaiserstuhl Wine Route
Drive or cycle through volcanic hills with panoramic vineyards.
Schwarzwaldhochstraße (Black Forest High Road)
Iconic scenic drive with breathtaking viewpoints.