Searching for the best things to do in Freiburg, Germany?
AKA the warmest city in Deutschland and it has the most adorable old town to go with all of those sunny days.
We’re talking an ancient cathedral, towering city gates, delightful winding streets draped in vines and even burbling channels that run along the city streets.
Plus, it’s nestled into the rolling foothills of the enchanting Black Forest, green meadows and dark pines abound in this portion of the southwest of Germany.
The charming little city of Freiburg has something for everyone, let’s get stuck in!
All about Freiburg
This clean, green city started off as a market town made up of free citizens, joining trade routes between the Mediterranean and the Rhineland.
The Freiburgers stayed as independent as they could. They actually bought their freedom as a town from the ruling nobles in the 1400s, an impressive feat for the Middle Ages.
The Albert-Ludwigs-Universität opened in 1457, marking the beginning of Freiburg’s reputation as a university town, just in time for the Renaissance.
Thanks to the influx of merchants and some handy silver mines up the road, Freiburg im Breisgau grew steadily until about the 16th century.
Then centuries of tumultuous wars and conflict occurred between the Germans and the French (the city lies quite close to the current border with France).
Freiburg was even intermittently part of the Austro-Hungarian empire between invasions.
Eventually, Europe sorted itself out and Freiburg went on to blossom into the current charming spot we see today.
These days, Freiburg is known as a green and sunny university town. Vehicles are banned in the city centre and instead you’ll see oodles of locals on their bikes, plus jumbo bike parking zones.
The district of Vauban, formerly home to a French army base, has been converted into a massive green living experiment with thousands of people living in low emission, renewable energy powered homes.
The river Dreisam that runs just outside the old town has a dedicated bike path which will take you through the stunning countryside around the city, including street art and the rolling green meadows that the south of Germany is known for.
Now that we’ve discovered Freiburg’s backstory and got a feel for the vibe of this eco-friendly cist, let’s get into our list of the 10 best things to do in Freiburg, Germany.
Looking for another adorable spot to explore? Bamberg’s best walking tour is waiting for you
1. Explore the adorable old town of Freiburg
Head straight for the charming medieval centre of Freiburg, authentically restored after bombing in the Second World War destroyed much of the Old Town surrounding the Münster.
The pedestrian zone of Freiburg stretches just under half a square kilometre so you’ll have plenty of room to stroll around, just be mindful of the trams that wind their way through the city centre.
On your way through the city, you might spy some adorable little channels running along the streets, burbling away with fresh water.
These are called Bächle and there’s a legend that if you accidentally step in one, you’re destined to marry a Freiburger, so tread carefully!
Or go around stomping in them if you’re really liking the city so far.
Way back, these were designed for supplying water to the townsfolk and for fighting fires, in the warmer months, you might spot children setting sail to paper boats.
Now they’re undeniably charming pieces of Freiburg’s heritage.
Stop by the delightful Martinstor (Martin’s Gate), a former fortified entry into the city which has undergone numerous renovations over the years.
Its current form dates from 1901 and was widened to fit trams through its passage, I just adore the design of the tower against the half-timbered townhouses around it.
You’ll find a brother gate – the Schwabentor – over at the southeast corner of the Old Town, this short and stout gate also has a stunning outlook over the rolling green meadows of the Black Forest valleys that surround the city.
The city gates are some of the best places to appreciate the city’s history.
On the way, you’ll probably pass the Augustiner Museum, which hosts both religious and regular artwork inside a restored monastery church.
While you’re over near Schwabentor, don’t miss Zum Roten Bären, which lays claim to being the oldest pub in Germany, dating from before Freiburg’s founding in 1120.
The red and white façade still welcomes in weary travellers to this day and stands in one of the most beautiful places in the old town.
Your next stop is the ever charming Konviktstrasse. If you visit at the right time of year, it will be beautifully draped in luscious green vines, making for a scene worthy of a postcard.
There’s even a drinking fountain partway along if you’re in need of a drink bottle refill.
Next up, we’re headed to what’s been called “the prettiest tower on earth”, it’s Münstertime!
2. Check out the Freiburg Minster, spire climb optional!
The red sandstone Freiburg Cathedral is a serious sight to behold, topped with a lacey intricate spire in a dramatic show of Gothic architecture.
On my two visits to Freiburg which were 9 years apart, I have never seen this church spire without scaffolding on it.
She’s been standing since 1330 so I understand that everyone wants to give her the extra support that she needs.
Building the church itself began in 1200 and the structure wasn’t finished completely until 1513.
This grand old lady somehow came through multiple bombings in WWII unscathed, even though much of the surrounding Old Town was destroyed.
While you’re standing outside, take a wander around the wall and admire some of the 91 gargoyles which surround the church.
Their main purpose is drainage so that rainwater can’t damage the cathedral walls, but they’re also intended to scare away any evil spirits just like they did in medieval times..
See if you can spot the one that is “mooning” the city hall, said to be the result of an unpaid stonemason showing what he thought of the councillors!
Fun fact: The Münster has always been owned by the citizens of Freiburg rather than the Roman Catholic Church and went over 600 years without a bishop, both highly unusual for a church of this grandeur and reputation.
Head inside to admire the interior, stopping first to admire the stunning portal doors, surrounded by colourful figures in biblical scenes.
Inside, its decked out with colourful stained glass windows, all original and spanning the centuries of worship. Luckily, they were removed and kept safe during the destruction of WWII.
The main altar was created by Hans Baldung, a second altar by and there are quite a few artworks to spot inside, including a large silver crucifix which dates from the 12th century.
If you’d like to climb the tower and admire the intricate latticework of the tower up close and personal, admission is 5€ per adult. Double check the opening times of the tower before you go to make sure its open!
Keep in mind that you’ll need to be up to climbing 330 steps to enjoy the views.
Personally, I like the view from the Schlossberg better so you can appreciate the Minster as well as the panorama back over the city.
3. Check out the Münsterplatz market
Hungry after wandering around admiring gargoyles and lacy spires?
Well in good news, you might have noticed the delicious offerings of the market stalls on your way into the Minster.
The market stalls are open from 7:30am to 1:30pm every day except Sundays, so aim for a morning visit for the widest variety.
Make like the locals and stop by for some farm fresh produce or stop by a bratwurst stand for Freiburg’s traditional sausage – the Lange Rote or Long Red.
These sausages are over 30cm long and you’ll be asked if you want yours with or without onions (Zwiebeln in German), you’ll find a few bratwurst stalls selling them around the market.
Definitely a hearty morning snack to help you conquer the rest of this list.
You’ll find stalls selling all kinds of trinkets alongside fresh produce and flowers, over 130 stands in total. Spending some time shopping here is one of the top things to do to start your morning in this small city.
If you would like to purchase some fruit or vegetables, you’ll just need to point to what you’d like the stall owner to bag up for you, rather than handling the produce yourself.
You’ll find the delightful deep red Historical Merchants’ Hall (Historisches Kaufhaus) on the other side of the market square; I love the multi-coloured spires and statues of knights on the facade – practically from a fairy tale.
It houses different events during the year like musical performances and business conferences.
After more magnificent markets? You’ll find plenty in my perfect 3 day Munich itinerary
4. Admire the rest of Freiburg’s delightful historic buildings
Beyond the stunning city gates that you’ve already been introduced to, this delightful German city has more adorable architectural stops to take in.
Luckily most of the city center was restored after the damage of WWII and so retains its historic charm.
As you stroll through the winding alleyways and passages, you’ll notice many of the buildings retain their traditional guild symbols, showing the crafts of artisans who once lived there.
Along with the occasional gargoyle or statue adorning a doorway, find your favourites by wandering the streets of the Altstadt.
Make your way over to the pink-edged St. Martinskirche or St Martin’s Church, over in the Rathausplatz, encompassing not only a church but also a convent.
The convent is the only section that survived a direct hit with a phosphorus bomb so you’ll see the interior of the church is almost exclusively modern.
On the edges of the square, we find the buildings that the square was named for – the ruby-hued Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and the tower-topped Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall).
The red sandstone Old Town Hall houses Freiburg’s tourist information center on the ground floor so feel free to stop in if you’d like a free map.
The New Town Hall’s inner courtyard can be entered free of charge, you might even find a wedding or two taking place while you’re there.
There’s actually a bridge connecting the two buildings to one another so the councilors can stroll between their picturesque offices as they like.
Somewhat confusingly, the Old Town Hall is actually newer than the New Town Hall, the buildings chopped and changed from courthouse to town hall as Freiburg grew from a big town to a city over the years.
On the far side of the square, you’ll spot another red Gothic stunner, the gold-accented Haus zum Wahlfisch (House of the Whale).
Once a home for the world-renowned scholar Erasmus of Rotterdam (one of the most influential philosphers of the 15th century), stop and admire the Gothic detailing over the main door.
Construction finished in the 16th century and it’s now used by a bank for offices, not as glamorous as it used to be!
Back over towards the main train station, you might spot a fancy looking house up on a small hill.
This tan sandstone “mini-castle” is the Colombischlössle, home to an archaelogical museum holding treasures from the Stone Age through to the Middle Ages. Admission is very reasonable at 4E per adult and you’ll get to wander around the former home of a countess.
Note: While Freiburg is a very safe city, sometimes there can be some *interesting* behaviour in the Colombi House gardens, particularly after dark. If this is the case when you visit, the little castle can easily be admired from afar.
5. Enjoy delicious Swabian cuisine in a traditional setting
Freiburg lies in the heart of Swabia, a region that has its own proud culinary traditions and I’ve got a few suggestions for you to try out some old-fashioned hospitality.
The charming Gasthaus Zum Kranz serves up delicious Baden specialities like Maultaschen and Käsespätzle, along with classics like pork knuckle and schnitzel, a great place for cooler weather.
Plus it’s located on the winding Herrenstrasse in the Old Town so you won’t have far to walk.
Over at the historic Sichelschmiede tavern, try to nab a seat out in the beautiful beer garden and order a plate of Sauerbraten (the German answer to a pot roast) or Jägerschnitzel (schnitzel topped with creamy mushroom sauce). The best way to sample the delights of Schwabian cuisine, perched up in the city’s historic buildings.
Order yourself a locally brewed Ganter beer for bonus Freiburg points, the brewery actually lies just over the Dreisam if you’d like to sample more of their selection.
6. Take in the cheerful atmosphere at the Fischtreppe and join the locals having a beer
The Fischtreppe, or Fish Steps, were installed originally to help fish swim up the Dreisam River but are now a beloved destination in the warmer months for local residents.
Young and old come to this series of large stone steps built into the river to soak in the water and enjoy a drink in the sunshine with friends.
The views are just lovely in the sunshine looking back up the Dreisam and to the foothills of the Schwarzwald beyond.
Entry is free and you’re welcome to bring alcoholic drinks with you but don’t forget to take your rubbish with you to keep it beautiful for the next set of visitors.
Nip into any supermarket on your way to grab supplies for your picnic, or just stop by on your way to a warm eatery if you’re here in the chilly months.
You’ll find the Fischtreppe just a bit down river from the Schwabentorbrücke, the perfect place for both locals and visitors.
If it’s too chilly to dunk your feet at the Fish Steps, head on over to the delightful canal on Fischerau and Gerberau, often referred to as Klein Venedig or Little Venice.
Lined with colourful buildings, cute cafes and welcoming bars, you’ll find somewhere to stop for Kaffee and Kuchen or a refreshing cocktail whatever time of day you visit.
You’ll even find a swish tapas bar down here, nestled into the old buildings lining the canal instead of the fishermen that this street was named after.
You might even spot an infamous crocodile in the burbling waters, though the ducks swimming around don’t seem too bothered by it.
While you’re in the area, pop over to Adelhauser Neukloster.
This gigantic fire-engine red building has housed convents, a girls’ school and a museum, I think it’s just stunning to snap some photos of.
And odds are, you’ll have completely to yourself, even for sleepy Freiburg, this one’s a fair way off the tourist path.
Top Tip: In the mood for a cocktail? If you’re a fan of elderflower, try ordering a Hugo. A delightful spritz made with prosecco, elderflower syrup, soda water and mint leaves – perfectly refreshing after a big day of sightseeing.
Even better, they’re often advertised at budget prices during happy hour at the bars.
7. Climb the Aussichtsturm on Schlossberg
The Schlossberg (Castle Hill) is the large, tree-covered hill just east of Freiburg’s Old Town, providing a peaceful, green playground for its citizens.
If you’re feeling energetic, there are oodles of walking paths that will take you up to the summit, bring shoes with grip for the leafy paths. They can be slippery if it’s been raining, and many aren’t paved.
Alternatively, if you’d prefer the less strenuous way up, head over to the Stadtgarten and you’ll spot the Schlossbergbahn.
An automated funicular railway waiting to take you to a shaded terrace about halfway up the hill, a one-way ticket is 3€, 6€ for a return ticket.
You’ll find a restaurant – Dattler – on the same terrace if you’d like some refreshments, complete with a beer garden enjoying a lovely outlook back over the city.
Hiking on further, you’ll spot the silver Aussichtsturm or Observation Tower providing breathtaking views over the city and back into some of the Black Forest valleys.
The vista back over the Altstadt is just delightful, particularly when you spot the Minster’s spire and the top of the Schwabentor.
Be warned the 153 steps are a bit narrow and it does shake with multiple people on it, this tower isn’t for those who struggle with heights.
If you’d like to further explore the top of the Schlossberg, you’ll be able to find the ruined walls of the castle that gave this mountain its name, along with plenty of Freiburgers getting their exercise in.
8. Head out for aquatic fun at Seepark Freiburg
Another favourite of the locals, Flückigersee lies roughly 2km to the west of the city centre and is an ideal swimming spot if you’re here in the warmer weather.
There’s also a biergarten set up here over spring and summer just next to the Japanese Garden, ready and waiting to serve up a fresh stein of beer and salt dusted pretzels.
Double check the opening hours if it’s late autumn or early spring, the beer gardens normally only stay open while the weather is friendly.
Formerly a quarry that’s been converted to a 10 hectare lake out in West Freiburg, this is part oasis and part sporting complex for residents of the city.
You’ll spy locals running or strolling around the perimeter of the lake, there’s an observation tower you can climb for a view over the lake and back towards the city.
Too chilly for an outdoor dip? The Westbad Swim Centre is just next door to the lake and has all the heated aquatic options you could need.
There’s even a Japanese garden on the other side of the lake, complete with cherry blossoms if you happen to be here at the right time of year.
Bonus points if you bring a picnic to enjoy on the rolling green spaces surrounding the lake, perhaps a stop to skip if the weather is cold when you visit here.
In the middle of winter, many of the trees will be bare and the gardens won’t be as pleasing to the eye.
9. Try Schwarzwälderkirschtorte – the famous Black Forest Cake
You can’t come to the Black Forest and not try a slice of the hard to say but easy to eat Schwarzwälderkirschtorte, that famous chocolate, cherry and whipped cream concoction.
Chocolate sponge is combined with layers of cherries and whipped cream, then topped with more cherries and shaved chocolate on top.
Though, the authentic version comes with a decent slug of cherry liquor (Kirsch) that you may not be expecting so proceed with caution if you’re expecting a sober cafe experience!
The liquor is usually swapped out for cherry syrup outside of Germany but here in the Black Forest, kirsch is considered a local speciality and therefore essential for an authentic slice.
You’ll find this cake for sale by the slice at a few cafes around town, try Kolben Kaffee or Konditorei-Café Schmidt for a classic take on this sweet treat.
Of course, both offer a selection of other cakes if you’re not feeling a boozy afternoon tea.
10. Take a day trip out into the stunning Black Forest
This option has you headed out of the city into those stunning green hills studded with adorable farmhouses and dark pines.
It’d be remiss of us to come down to Freiburg and not go see the picturesque surrounds, the city perches on the edge of the Black Forest.
There are a few different choices on where I’d recommend going, depending on whether you have access to a car or are sticking to public transport.
The Schauinslandbahn is the longest round trip cable car in Germany and will bring you up to the summit of the Schauinsland mountain – also the source of Freiburg’s silver supply.
Easily reached within about 15 minutes by car but public transport will require a train change.
For a lovely taste of Black Forest scenery on one of the prettiest train rides in Germany, take the Höllentalbahn through to Titisee.
You’ll pass over little villages, stunning gorges and valleys and pop out at a popular bathing lake which has plenty of souvenir and ice cream shops to keep you occupied.
In the cooler months, many of the shops at Titisee are closed down so consider destinations further along the line like Donauschingen.
A day ticket for two will cost you 18.24€, don’t forget to grab some bakery treats to keep you going on the train trips!
11. Cycle out to a feel-good animal sanctuary
Freiburg is pretty much a cyclist’s paradise with hundreds of kilometers of dedicated cycle paths, so why not join in the fun?
The one of a kind Mundenhof Animal Park takes a holistic approach with large enclosure for the resident animals and the rest of the park is dedicated to growing feed for them.
There’s everything from woolly pigs and miniature goats through to brown bears and meerkats. There’s even a special section just for the kids called Kontiki where they can get up close to the animals.
Entry is free but there is a parking fee of $5, donations are gratefully received.
There’s even a restaurant out here so no need to remember to bring your own snacks with you.
The Animal Park is about a 30 minute cycle from Freiburg along the Dreisam bike path, the Mundenhof turnoff is clearly signed on the way.
You can hire a bike from any of the Frelo stations scattered around the city, though be careful to double check the tyres and brakes before you head off.
You can also reach Mundenhof via public transport or car.
You’ve reached the end of this guide to the best 11 things to do in Freiburg Germany
From browsing fresh flowers to climbing church spires, we’ve covered the best 10 things to do in Freiburg and I hope you’ve gained a few ideas of what you might like to see in this charming city.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Bächle when you’re wandering the idyllic city streets and sniffing out the best Lange Rote.
I’d love to hear from you in the comments if you’ve visited this atmospheric little city and how you found it, don’t forget to send this to a friend who’s taking you to Freiburg.
Wondering where else to visit in Swabia? Try the ancient Maulbronn Monastery!
Pin it for later!
More travel inspiration awaits!
10 responses to “The 11 best things to do in Freiburg Germany for 2023”
Love this 😍
Europe has history that the US just doesn’t. Thanks for sharing this cute town, adding it to my bucket list now!
Such a cute little town 🙂
Everything looks beautiful, but I would like to do the Schlossberg. Then I would follow it up with a piece of Black Forest cake. That would be the perfect vacation for me.
I’d love to learn about the history more on a walking tour and then have a drink at the oldest German pub! What a cool under-the-radar city!
Thanks Matt, it’s such a great little city if you ever find yourself in SW Germany!
You’re so very welcome! Freiburg definitely has oodles of history, though the US looks totally amazing too!
I couldn’t agree more! Such a charming spot and practically unheard of amongst other tourists!
That sounds like my perfect day in Freiburg too! The view from the Schlossberg is just lovely, a stunning part of the world.
Thanks Rachel! Absolutely a hidden gem and very charming, I could sit in a beer garden and watch the world go by all day long in Freiburg, sounds like a fabulous day!