tourist information freiburg im breisgau

The 12 best things to do in Freiburg, Germany’s greenest city

Jan 7, 2022 • 9 min read

Freiburg's open-air market is one of many rewarding stops in this famously sunny city © AscentXmedia / Getty Images

With the enviable claim to fame of being Germany’s sunniest city, Freiburg is also one of its most eco-friendly.

Ever since a protest by residents in 1975 halted the construction of a nuclear generator on nearby farmland, the city has been a beacon of sustainability and citizen-led action. From cycle paths to communal gardens, and from a town hall clad entirely in solar panels to a tangible enthusiasm for local produce and outdoor pursuits, everything in this youthful University town is done with a conscience.

But Freiburg still showcases everything there is to love about Germany's smaller cities, from brightly painted half-timbered houses lining a cobblestone square to rowdy breweries serving up full beer mugs and huge schnitzels and ornate medieval gates guarding the walled city.

If you’re looking for a German getaway where it's easy to keep on top of your carbon footprint, look no further. Here's our pick of the top things to do in Freiburg.

Pedal along the Dreisam

Freiburg is a paradise for cyclists, with more than 400km (250 miles) of dedicated bike paths that crisscross the town and its flanking forests and villages. In fact, with twice as many bikes as cars, you'll feel like the odd one out if don't follow the lead of locals and saddle up. You can rent a city bike using the convenient Frelo bike-share scheme, and drop it off at any of dozens of parking stations scattered throughout the Freiburg area (rates start from €1 for 30 minutes).

Look out for the blue bicycle logo that marks the route of the FR1, a dedicated bike highway that straddles the Dreisam River. Starting in the old town, this lovely transect sails past community gardens, the old football stadium, sculpture parks, the Mundenhof animal sanctuary and plenty of street art. Take a pit stop at Cafe Extrablatt and fuel up on their popular weekend buffet breakfasts or grab a coffee before you pedal on your way.

Cheer on the local soccer team at the SC Stadium

Freiburg doesn't take itself too seriously, until the local football (soccer) team runs onto the pitch that is. If you happen to be in town when SC Freiburg are playing, try to snag tickets to a game. It's quite an experience – not only for the supercharged atmosphere, but also to check out the team's admirable commitment to sustainability.

Germany’s first completely solar-powered football ground, Europa Park Stadium was completed in late 2021 after the Bundesliga club outgrew their old home ground. The 37,000 seat stadium is fitted out with charging spots for electric vehicles, e-bikes and e-scooters and has almost 4,000 bicycle parking spots, and it's on track to become climate neutral.

If you can’t score tickets, don a red scarf and join supporters at a local pub – Heimliche Kneipe (Secret Pub) and O'Kelly's Irish pub both attract a sporting crowd.

Fly high in the Schauinslandbahn cable car 

Climb aboard the Schauinslandbahn , Germany’s longest loop cable car, and glide to the top of  1,220m (4212ft) Schauinsland – the name translates, appropriately, to "look into the country." The 10-minute ride is breathtaking, but the views are even better from the top. Admire the panorama, visit the mining museum or walk amongst the pines and soak up the fresh mountain air.

Adventure lovers can cruise downhill on the 8km (5 mile) off-road scooter track , one of Europe’s longest. When it’s time to warm up, there’s nothing better than cozying up near the crackling fire as you take in the superb snowy views of the Rhine Valley from Die Bergstation restaurant (the fondue comes highly recommended).

Dip your toes in the Bächle

Wandering through the medieval old town, make sure you keep your feet dry or you might end up marrying a local, or so the local folklore goes. The watercourses that happily single travelers need to avoid are Freiburg's "Bächle" – long, open runnels flowing with clean water that run along many of the town’s streets.

These historic channels served as drainage in medieval times but and after the introduction of modern sewer systems, they were preserved as a nostalgic reminder of Freiburg's long history. Most importantly, the flow of clean water from the Dreisam helps cool the urban microclimate, so don’t be afraid to slip off your shoes and dip your toes in the cool water. Who knows, you might just find a new spouse!

Shop sustainably in the Sedan district

You won't find any of the big brands in this charming shopping district just south of the old town. Instead, the focus is on small-scale sustainable shopping. While you explore, order a coffee at Elephant Beans , where direct-sourced beans are roasted on-site, or grab a bite to eat at social enterprise Strandcafe, where traditional recipes are prepared by refugees using regional organic produce.

When it comes to the shopping, stop in at Glaskiste , a wholesome supermarket with a strict no-plastic policy, for local produce. Just around the corner, you’ll find beautiful organic clothing at Zündstoff’s corner boutique.

Make four-legged friends at Mundenhof

Animal lovers and families with kids in tow will love the Mundenhof animal sanctuary, set on 38 hectares of open greenery. You can get close to over 30 species of free-roaming domestic animals, including camels, horses, goats and cattle from all over the world. The sanctuary also has an extensive program caring for endangered animals such as bison, long-tailed macaques and gibbons.

Visitors can accompany the keepers on their daily feeding rounds from 2:30pm from March to October, and kids will also love getting their hands dirty in the educational on-site petting zoo known as KonTiKi. All the hay and grain needed to feed the animals is grown on the surrounding land – this is how every zoo should operate! Best of all, entry is free, but donations are welcome.

Sip Black Forest wine in a pop-up wine tavern

Freiburg offers rich pickings for wine lovers. Many of the region's vintners produce their wines in small batches that are hard to sell to restaurants or supermarkets. Instead, they set up their own pop-up wine taverns in garages, cellars and lounge rooms, and serve their wine alongside simple German fare. But there's a catch – these straussenwirtschaften (seasonal wine taverns), are only permitted to open for 16 weeks of the year, so they hang a big broom out front when they’re open for business.

Locals go pretty wild around April when spargelsaison (white asparagus season) begins – there’s nowhere better to try this tender delicacy than at Griestal-Strausse , a local winery in the hills outside Freiburg. Outside of asparagus season, try the kürbiscremesuppe (pumpkin cream soup) or the flammkuchen , a crispy, pizza-like cheese-topped bread typical of the region.

Explore Vauban’s utopian society

Wandering through the progressive suburb of Vauban offers a glimpse of how far-reaching environmental consciousness is here. The first clue is the lack of cars, with parking spots replaced by communal green spaces. Then you'll notice that the houses are all low-energy buildings, using solar cells or woodchip-fuelled generators for power.

Then, there are the co-op supermarkets, organic cafes, cute playgrounds and the community petting zoo. As you wander, you'll spot rooftop gardens, food-sharing pantries, organic waste digesters, conflict-resolution workshops and bike paths. Decide for yourself if this is a glimpse into Europe's bright future, or a one-off utopian dream!

Visit Freiburg's bustling produce market

At the heart of the city, Münsterplatz (Cathedral Square) is dominated by a 13th-century gothic tower and the 11th-century Freiburger Münster and filled by a daily farmers market, except for Sunday. Exclusively reserved for produce from the region, the market proudly displays delectable fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese and cold meats, crafts and flowers.

Don’t leave without trying the legendary lange rote (literally "Long Red") – a crispy, 35cm (14in) pork sausage doused in mustard. Get here early to sample a piece of the famous käsekuchen (cheesecake) from Stefans ; just look out for the bright yellow van.

Take in the views from Schlossberg

Wherever you are in Freiburg, you can see the mountains and the forest rising outside town, but there’s no better vantage point than the top of the tree-covered hill known as Schlossberg ("Castle Hill"). Rest your legs and jump into the cable car, which will whisk you up to a cozy beer garden in three minutes, or work off last night’s schnitzel and take an hour-long hike to the summit, stopping for a refreshing German ale en route.

At the top, push on and climb an extra 400 steps to reach the top of the observation tower, perched above the trees with panoramic views of the Black Forest, the Rhine plain and the old town below. In winter, the trees are often dusted with snow, while summer promises epic sunsets. At the end of July, Schlossberg transforms into a giant stage as live bands and DJs take over the beer garden and surrounding areas for the annual Schlossberg Festival.

Get wet to cool down or warm up in Freiburg

Whether you come to Freiburg in summer or winter, make sure you pack your swimsuit. When the weather is hot, join the locals as they cool off in the Dreisam river in the town center, or dip in the Opfinger or Dietenbachsee lakes, just a short tram ride out of town.

When it’s too cold or wet for sightseeing, warm your bones in the therapeutic waters of Keidel Mineral Thermal Spa . Mineral-rich thermal water from a local spring will leave you feeling rejuvenated while back and neck jets release your tight muscles. There’s also a sauna, but it's communal and clothing free, as is the German tradition. Visit mid-week to avoid the crowds. 

Raise a glass to Freiburg's beer brewing history

German beer is renowned for its purity and flavor thanks to the Reinheitsgebot, an ancient beer law that limits brewers to using only four ingredients: malted grains, hops, water and yeast. Taste the results for yourself at Ganter Brewery and Feierling Brewery , which have been keeping locals refreshed since the 18th century.

Both breweries are still run by their respective families, and a tour of Ganter is a great way to learn more about how they balance tradition with modern technology. End with a beer tasting and snacks in the beer garden. You’ll either be horrified or thrilled to hear they offer a very special local drop, Weir – a half beer and half wine concoction. Prost!

You may also like: These next-level German cities are wells of youthful energy Top 12 things to do when you visit Germany Top 10 national parks in Germany

Freiburg is on our 2022 Best of Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Things to Do in Freiburg (Germany)

15 Best Things to Do in Freiburg (Germany)

Wreathed in vineyards in Baden-Württemberg, Freiburg is a Medieval university city on the edge of the Black Forest. The minster has to be the first thing you see in Freiburg, and you’ll want to view this Gothic marvel and its marvellous tower from every angle.

The city is one of Germany’s most liveable, and the green movement was born in the 1970s. Now Freiburg is both a stronghold for the Green party and one of the most sustainable cities on the planet. Freiburg is also a jumping off point for the Black Forest, and you can catch a cable-car from the south of the city to the summit of Schauinsland mountain at 1,284 metres.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Frieburg :

1. Freiburg Minster

Begun as a Romanesque church in the 13th century, Freiburg’s awe-inspiring minster would take another 300 years to complete.

Despite the destruction wreaked around Münsterplatz in 1944, the minster came through with only minor damage.

In 1869 the Swiss historian Jacob Burckhardt described the 116-metre tower as the most beautiful in the world, and it’s hard to disagree.

For three years after it was completed in 1330 the tower was also the highest in the world and is a hollow, highly ornamented mass of tracery and pinnacles.

The amount of artistry on the facade alone is astounding: The tympanum and archivolts on the portal have 418 stone figured carved at the end of the 1200s.

Inside, see Hans Baldung Grien’s Renaissance altarpiece and scale that tower to reach the viewing platform at 70 metres.

2. Münsterplatz

Surrounding the minster is a cobblestone pedestrian square, ringed by historic monuments and scene of a market that trades every day of the week except Sundays.

The square was almost totally flattened by bombs in 1944, but along with the minster one of the buildings to come through intact was the Wentzingerhaus on the southern margins of the square.

This late Baroque mansion was built in 1761 by painter, sculptor and architect Johann Christian Wentzinger and now holds a small museum about the city.

And as for that market, there are 96 regional produce stalls on the north side, and 65 on the south side selling anything from exotic spices to handicrafts.

At the foot of the minster are snack bars selling freshly cooked food like a long, Freiburg style wurst in a toasted bun.

3. Historical Merchants’ Hall

Also on the south side of Münsterplatz is a magnificent Renaissance building constructed as a market storehouse.

The hall is impossible to miss for its crimson facade and glazed patterned tiles on its bay windows.

In its current format, with crow-stepped gables and arcade on the ground floor, the building dates to the start of the 1530s.

The four statues above the access balcony on the facade depict three Holy Roman Emperors, Maximilian I, Charles V and Ferdinand I, as well as Philip I of Castile, son of Maximilian I who died before his father and so never became emperor.

Under the bay windows check out the coats of arms of the five dominions under the control of the House of Habsburg . These, along with the statues were carved by the Renaissance artist Hans Sixt von Staufen.

4. Freiburg Bächle

You can’t spend any time in Freiburg without dodging one of the little waterways in grooves in the Old Town.

These are fed by the Dreisam river and are called Bächle.

They were first recorded in the 1200s and in Medieval times they had a few uses, like helping to fight fires, providing local trades like tanners with water but were also open sewers.

The system of channels adds up to 15.5 kilometres, 6.4 of which is underground.

Now they’re a quaint fixture in the city and help to cool things down in summer.

The legend also goes that if you accidentally step into one you will end up marrying someone from Freiburg.

5. Augustiner Museum

On Augustinerplatz a former Augustinian monastery has been converted into a stylish gallery for art from the Middle Ages to the Baroque.

In the gallery upstairs are works by German Renaissance masters like Matthias Grünewald, Lucas Cranach the Elder and Hans Baldung Grien, as well as paintings from the Speyer Altarpiece by Master of the Housebook.

Original Medieval stained glass from Freiburg Minster is presented on two levels, and a trove of wooden Medieval sculpture is also shown on the upper floor.

Downstairs, the chancel of the abbey church has been reserved for Baroque sculptures, statuettes, paintings and altars, and has solemn carved figures arranged in rows along the pillars.

6. Schwabentor

The younger of Freiburg’s two Medieval gates went up in the middle of the 13th century and is close to the oldest crossing on the Dreisam River.

The tower is three storeys high and built from red sandstone.

The staircase tower and half-timbered extensions are a little later, from the 16th century.

On the town side you can see a Baroque painting from 1672 of a merchant.

This soon became the subject of a legend about the city about a merchant who tried to buy Freiburg with sacks of what he thought was gold but had been replaced with sand and pebbles by his wife.

Above the keystone on the city side of the arch is a Romanesque carving of Boy with Thorn, a motif that goes back to Ancient Greece.

7. Schlossberg

Protecting Freiburg from the east is a 456-metre hill in the Black Forest.

As a handy strategic position Schlossberg was fortified from as early as the 1000s, and though these structures are now in ruins efforts have been made to bring them to life.

One of the main draws now is the Schlossbergbahn, a funicular railway that opened in 2008 and lifts you from the foot of the hill to the top in three minutes flat.

At the summit is the Schlossbergturm, which was erected in 2002 and grants a panoramic view of the city.

And if you follow the line of defences to the southwest side there’s a scenic terrace at Kanonenplatz where you can gaze across a vineyard to the minster.

8. Rathäuser

Freiburg’s New Town Hall and Old Town Hall are in the same compound on the picturesque Rathausplatz.

The Old Town Hall is on the north side and is in the Renaissance style, dating to the end of the 1550s.

On the curved cable above the clock you can make out the double eagle of the Holy Roman Empire, while Freiburg’s various ruling families down the years are honoured with coats of arms tracing the outline of the gable.

The Old Town Hall now houses Freiburg’s tourist office, so you can go inside.

The New Town Hall, is next door, and rather than being a whole new building, it’s actually two Renaissance burgher houses joined together by an arcade.

Stop by at 12:00 when the glockenspiel chimes in the connecting section.

9. Martinstor

The older of the two city gates is on the southwest side of the Old Town and has stood here in some form since 1202. The first record of the Martinstor is from 1238, but analysis of the timbers has shown they’re a little older.

The gate was an anchor for the Medieval fortifications, but when the French military engineer Vauban redesigned the city’s ramparts in the 1600s it became obsolete.

The lower third of the gate’s tower is all original, while the upper floors date to the turn of the 20th century and were capped with a Late Gothic style roof.

On the city side of the passageway there’s a grim reminder of justice in days gone by, as a plaque commemorates three women burned as witches in the city in 1599.

10. Haus zum Walfisch (Whale House)

This elegant early Renaissance house was ordered by Jakob Villinger von Schönenberg who was the Grand Treasurer to the Holy Roman Emperor.

The house goes back to the 1510s and over the next hundred years accommodated some important personalities.

The Dutch humanist Erasmus visited between 1529 and 1531, while Emperor Ferdinand I used the house around 1562-63. And if you happen to be a fan of art horror director Dario Argento you’ll know the Whale House as the setting for the dance school in Suspiria from 1977.

11. Mundenhof

Baden-Württemberg’s largest animal park is in over 38 hectares on an estate dating back to the 9th century.

In the past the Mundenhof was agricultural land, but over the last 100 years has been bought by the city and turned into a recreation area, and there’s still a peaceful rural ambience in the park.

The zoo opened in 1968, and differs from most as it is a non-profit enterprise that is free to enter and relies on donations.

Most of the animals are native, domestic and working species, kept in open paddocks.

But there are also gibbons, macaques, brown bears, alpacas, llamas, yaks, emus and ostriches.

A former stables has become an aquarium and terrarium, while during the summer the park is nesting ground for storks.

12. Markthalle

Just around the corner from Martinstor is a culinary attraction best described as an international food court.

There are over 20 stalls preparing specialities from all over the world, so you can try Italian, Chinese, Argentine, Japanese, Indian, Brazilian or Middle Eastern cuisine.

Or since you’re in Germany you can go for something a little more local like Frikadellen (pan-fried meatballs) or Freiburg-style wurst.

The champagne bar adds a festive atmosphere on weekend afternoons, and in the evenings the hall books live music and DJ sets.

13. Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery)

When Johann Christian Wentzinger passed away in 1797 he left estate to the city on the one condition that his grave would be looked after forever in Freiburg’s Alter Friedhof.

And for that reason the cemetery, which was in use from 1683 to 1872 has been more or less untouched.

Coming here is as much a cultural activity as it is a walk in peaceful nature on the north fringe of the Old Town.

All of Freiburg’s wealthy and noble citizens form the period are buried here, and their tombs and gravestones are works of Baroque and Neoclassical art.

Apart from Wentzinger, you’ll come across historical personalities like Mirabeau’s brother, the father of 19th-century painter Anselm Feuerbach and Felix Mendelssohn’s daughter-in-law.

14. Seepark

At this 35-hectare park in the west of Freiburg you’d never guess that until just 35 years ago you’d be standing in the middle of a gravel quarry.

The Seepark grew in stages from the early 1980s and was at the heart of Freiburg’s plans for the 1986 Landesgartenschau (Federal Garden Show). One third of the park’s area is taken up by a lake, which has a jetty where you can rent pedal boats in summer.

In 1990 a 3,600-square-metre Japanese garden was created to symbolise Freiburg’s partnership with the city of Matsuyama.

The Seepark is also equipped with a viewing tower, mini golf course and eco-station.

15. Schauinsland

On Freiburg’s southern horizon is a Black Forest mountain 1,284 metres tall.

Schauinsland is only ten kilometres from the Old Town and is go-to day out for its cable car.

The Schauinslandbahn is the longest cable car in Germany, running for 3.6 kilometres and with a vertical ascent of more than 700 metres.

Normally you won’t have to wait more than a minute for a cabin to arrive, and the journey to the top takes 15 minutes.

The Schauinslandbahn runs in winter and summer, but does close down in adverse weather conditions.

At the mountain summit you can look west to the rounded Vosges and south to the jagged northern peaks of the Alps.

15 Best Things to Do in Freiburg (Germany):

• Freiburg Minster
• Münsterplatz
• Historical Merchants' Hall
• Freiburg Bächle
• Augustiner Museum
• Schwabentor
• Schlossberg
• Haus zum Walfisch (Whale House)
• Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery)
• Schauinsland

Tourist Information Freiburg

In den historischen Gemäuern des Alten Rathaus befindet sich heute die Tourist Information. Gerne stehen wir Ihnen hier für Fragen zur Verfügung, versorgen Sie mit einem Stadtplan und Broschüren oder informieren Sie über Veranstaltungen in Freiburg während Ihres Aufenthaltes. Kommen Sie gerne herein! Die auffällige, sandsteinrote Fassade wird Ihnen den Weg zu uns weisen.

HINWEIS : Aufgrund des temporären Beherbergungsverbot bleibt die Tourist Information im November geschlossen. Wir sind jedoch zu unseren Telefonzeiten (Montag - Freitag: 09:30 bis 17:30 Uhr) für Sie erreichbar!

Beschreibung

Unsere Angebote und Leistungen

•    Auskünfte über die Stadt und den Schwarzwald •    Zimmervermittlung •    Prospekte, Souvenirs •    Wander- und Radkarten •    Gutscheine für Tickets und Souvenirs

•    Reservix- und Eventim-Veranstaltungen •    Stadtführungen •    Theater Freiburg •    Europa Park •    SchwarzwaldCard •    Museums-PASS Musées •    WelcomeKarte •    Fernbus    

Gratis WLAN Unser Service für Sie in der Tourist Information: Kostenfreier Zugang ins Internet per WLAN. Einfach einloggen und lossurfen!

Rathausplatz 2–4

79098 Freiburg

Tourist Information Freiburg

Today, the Tourist Information office is located within the historic walls of the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall). We are available here to answer any questions, provide you with a city map and brochures or tell you about events taking place in Freiburg during your stay. Please stop by! Just look for the striking red sandstone facade.

Beschreibung

Our offers and Services

•    Information about the city and the Black Forest •    Accommodation service •    Brochures, souvenirs •    Hiking and bike maps •    Vouchers for tickets and souvenirs   

•    Reservix and Eventim Events •    Guided city tours •    Theater Freiburg •    Europa Park •    SchwarzwaldCard •    Museums-PASS Musées •    WelcomeKarte •    Fernbus     

Free Wi-Fi Our service for you at the Tourist Information office: Free Wi-Fi Internet access Just log in and start Surfing!

Rathausplatz 2–4

79098 Freiburg

Germany Footsteps

Top 19 Things To Do In Freiburg Im Breisgau [Don’t Miss Them!]

Going on a trip to Freiburg im Breisgau and want to know all the best things to do in Freiburg im Breisgau? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best Freiburg tourist attractions to plan your ultimate trip.

Located at the foot of the Black Forest, Freiburg im Breisgau is the perfect place to head to both start your exploration of this area and enjoy the delights of this pretty city. With a long history, a charming Old Town and the Black Forest right there, there is a lot to enjoy about Freiburg.

We loved exploring this city and found it very charming.

Freiburg is also the perfect place to base yourself for a few days (or more) while you explore the surrounding region but make sure you don’t miss out of exploring this city as well. This is where this guide can help!

Below, you will find our full Freiburg travel guide with everything you need to know about the best places to visit in Freiburg im Breisgau as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate vacation in Freiburg. There is also a handy map of all the things to do Freiburg Germany offers.

You’ll also find special sections on things to do in Freiburg Germany in winter and a full itinerary for a Freiburg day trip as well as what works if you are travelling with kids.

Traveling to Germany?  Click here to download your free Germany Trip Planning checklist .  We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

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Table of Contents

A Brief History Of Freiburg Im Breisgau

With a population of around 230,000 people, Freiburg Im Breisgau is located in the southwest of Germany in the state of Baden-Württemberg by the famous Black Forest and the Dreisam River. Known as Germany’s sunniest city, this is a beautiful place to visit.

It also has a long history having been founded just over 900 years ago in 1120 by the Dukes of Zähringen as a free market town. Its name, Freiburg, comes from this with “Freie Burg” meaning Free Castle.

However, the first reference of people living in this location is found in a document in 1008, and trade routes used to pass near here.

In 1091, Berthold II of Zähringen built a castle on what is today Schlossberg to control the trade routes. This resulted in a settlement growing at the foot of the castle in the Old Town area which became Freiburg.

In 1218, the Zähringer’s died out and the Counts of Urach came into power changing their name to the Counts of Freiburg. This was not a popular move and a new council constitution formalised the rights they had under the Zähringen which lead to councillors from 24 of the old ruling houses ruling Freiburg and yearly council changes, although the Counts were still in power.

There were many feuds between the Counts and the councillors. In fact in 1299, there was a brief battle between the citizens of Freiburg and Count Egino II and his brother-in-law, Conrad of Lichtenberg, the Bishop of Strasbourg after the citizens didn’t like the new demands from the Count.

The citizens won, but the Bishop was killed and the citizens had to pay a yearly reparation for this.

Eventually, the citizens of Freiburg were able to free themselves in 1368 by paying the Counts and choosing to move under the House of Habsburg for protection.

There were ups and downs of this decision. Freiburg had to support the Habsburgers in the wars again the Swiss Confederacy. In 1386 at the Battle of Sempach, their side lost and most the Freiburg nobility were killed. This lead to the guilds taking over the city council.

In 1520, Freiburg became an important Catholic centre after it did not take part in the Reformation.

The German Peasants War came to Freiburg in 1525 when 18,000 peasants captured Freiburg for a short time.

The first witch hunts took place in 1536 and unfortunately continued whenever the city needed scapegoats, like in 1564 when about a quarter of the city’s population died from the Black Death. It reached its peak in 1599 and there is a plaque today on the old city wall where the burnings took place.

There were many changes in the coming years after conflicts and war found Freiburg under the control of many different people including the Austrians, Swedes, Spanish, French and various closer neighbours as well. The Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648) was particularly devastating for Freiburg. At the start, there were around 10,000 – 14,000 citizens in Freiburg. By the end, there were only 2,000.

From this time until 1805, Freiburg was either occupied by the French or the administrative centre of Further Austria which was a Habsburg territory. At the end of this time, it became part of the ruling house of Baden.

During World War II, Freiburg was badly damaged with the majority of the Old Town destroyed by Allied bombing. A few buildings did survive like the Münster. The Old Town was rebuilt to its Medieval plan.

Today, Freiburg is a popular tourist and conference destination. It’s also a regional business and shopping hub. Technology production also plays a part in the local economy.

Top 16 Things To Do In Freiburg Im Breisgau Germany

Here are the best things to see in Freiburg Germany. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe. If you only have one day to visit Freiburg tourist attractions, find our one day Freiburg places to visit itinerary below.

Note that I sort these top things to do in Freiburg Germany based on geographical location starting with the central Old Town and Freiburger Münster and then listing the closest Freiburg things to do while working our way further away. The order isn’t based on what I think are the most important attractions.

Many museums are closed on Mondays.

Altstadt (Old Town)

Freiburg’s Old Town is a charming place to wander and explore. Make sure you have some time on your list of the best things to do in Freiburg Germany to just wander and enjoy.

The Old Town dates back to before Freiburg’s founding in 1120, although it was largely rebuilt after World War II.

It’s an interesting mix of old and new and architecture styles which somehow works very well together. It didn’t feel as “museum-like” as some other Old Towns we have visited while still having some gorgeous areas and buildings which added to its charm.

The best way to explore the Old Town is on foot. It’s much better for pedestrians than many Old Towns in Germany and I didn’t feel we had to keep dodging vehicles.

You’ll find many of the Freiburg visiting places coming up are in the Old Town, and you can see a lot of worthwhile attractions here.

It’s in a pretty spot as well, bordered on one side by the Dreisam River and another by Schlossberg Mountain. The main train station is also located by the Old Town.

Freiburger Münster (Cathedral)

Located in the central Münsterplatz, you won’t want to miss Freiburg’s 13th century Münster. Even set against the gorgeous Old Town, it has an impressive presence.

It took 300 years to build this Romanesque church which withstood even the battering Freiburg took in World War II. At the time of its completion in 1330, it had the highest tower in the world.

It makes for quite a sight both inside and outside with beautiful stained glass windows once paid for by the Medieval guilds and an amazing Renaissance altarpiece by Hans Baldung Grien.

The outside is elaborate with many carvings, gargoyles and spires. You won’t want to miss the tower which starts off square and becomes octagonal with a 116 metre high spire. It’s possible to see to France from here on clear days.

The church is free with a small fee to climb the tower to the 70 metre viewing platform. The tower has limited opening hours.

The area around the cathedral is a market daily except Sundays.

Museum Für Stadtgeschichte (City History Museum)

Located on Münsterplatz, if you want to learn more about Freiburg’s past, you’ll want your next stop to be at the Museum Für Stadtgeschichte (City History Museum).

Its home was built by the sculptor, Christian Wentzinger, in 1761. There is a great staircase and ceiling fresco so be sure to look up. I also enjoyed the models of the city from around 1600 and 1700.

There’s also some photos of the city pre World War II that you can compare to after the bombing raid and today. Such a change!

On level 1 are some activities as well as exhibits which were great for keeping the kids interested. They could do a puzzle, stamp a coin and get an idea of how hard it would have been to get all the materials up high to build the church via lifting stone with a pulley. These activities are also good for keeping adults interested 🙂

The museum is mostly in German apart from some random parts that have been translated. Unfortunately, I didn’t have phone reception on the lower levels that made translating via the Google translate hard.

However, there is enough of interest and the entry price is low enough that I feel this museum is worth the admission even if you don’t speak German. It’s a smaller museum, but it has a good collection to help you understand more about Freiburg’s past.

I recommend you visit this one of the Freiburg im Breisgau things to do at the beginning of your journey to give a great appreciation to everything else as you walk around.

This museum is shut Mondays and has a small fee.

As you walk around the Old Town, you won’t be able to miss Bächle, the little waterways that flow through the streets.

These were created in 1170 from the Dreisam River to provide industrial and cleaning water to the town as well as a way to stop fires, although they were also used as open sewers.

These days, there are still 15.5 kilometres of these channels, some of which are underground. They help keep things cool and add to the Medieval atmosphere. Note that if the weather has been dry, they may not contain water though.

Be careful not to step into one unless you want to marry someone from Freiburg! The legend goes that this is what will happen if you do. My six year old did so watch this page to see if it comes true 😀

Augustinermuseum

Art lovers will not want to miss the Augustiner Museum particularly if you are looking for things to do in Freiburg on a rainy day as this is a great option.

This museum showcases work from the Middle Ages to the 19th century in a former Augustinian monastery. The building itself has been well renovated making a great home for this collection.

The collections include a great Sculpture Hall with masterpieces by Renaissance artists Hans Baldung Grien and Lucas Cranach the Elder as well as paintings by masters like Matthias Grünewald and the Master of the Housebook.

You can also find original stained glass from Freiburger Münster here.

Entry is by admission and the Augustiner is shut on Mondays.

Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square)

One of the most charming areas to visit in Freiburg is Rathausplatz or Town Hall Square. It’s a great spot to take a time out from exploring, have a drink and soak in the atmosphere.

Don’t miss the Old Town Hall which dates back to the 16th century and is built in the Renaissance style in red. It’s now home to the tourist office so you can take a look inside. Look for the double eagle of the Holy Roman Empire above the clock as well as the coats of arms along the gable which belong to Freiburg’s ruling families.

The New Town Hall is a pretty step-gabled design dating back to the 19th century. It is actually two Renaissance burgher houses that were joined together.

You can also take a look at the medieval Martinskirche church.

Markthalle (Market Hall)

When you start feeling hungry, consider heading to Freiburg’s historic market hall. Here, you can find what amounts to an international food court.

There are over 20 stalls to chose from that pump out some great food from sushi to Argentine to Indian or Middle Eastern. Of course, since you have come all the to Germany, you could also eat something more local with their local wurst (sausage).

Whatever you pick, you can have a great meal here in an historic place. On Friday and Saturday evenings, there can be live music or a DJ as well as a champagne bar, and it opens until late.

It is quite cramped inside with a lot of action.

It’s closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Martinstor (City Gate)

There are two city gates you can still visit in Freiburg. This is the older of the two and can be found on the southwest side of the Old Town. A gate was first positioned here in 1202.

This gate was once part of Medieval fortifications but when the fortifications changed in the 1600s, it was no longer required.

The lower third of the gate is original with the upper part added at the start of the 20th century. Look out for the plaque on the Old Town side of the tower. This plaque is in memory of the victims of the witch trials. This site is where three convicted women were burnt in 1599.

However, mostly this gate was used as a prison for debtors.

Schwabentor (City Gate)

The other remaining gate, Schwabentor, dates back to the 13th century. You can see a mural of Freiburg’s patron saint, St George, slaying a dragon on its front.

It’s three storeys high and there are several other pictures as well. You can see a 1672 Baroque painting of a merchant and a painting of the “Boy of Thorn”.

This boy is drawn with a big head, an unhappy expression and no neck. He’s pulling a thorn from his foot and it’s thought that this is a reminder to residents to not stray from the right path.

Today, a tram runs under this tower.

Museum Für Neue Kunst (Museum Of Contemporary Art)

Once art lovers have finished at the Augustinermuseum, they’ll want to head three minutes walk south to the other art option .

It takes off where the Augustiner finishes and highlights 20th century expressionist and abstract art with work by painters and sculptors.

It calls a Neo-Baroque building home which was built in 1902. Initially, it was an extension to the Female Educational and Etiquette Institute of the Adelhauser Neukloster.

Today, this museum has a regional focus with many works from artists in the region including Julius Bissier who was born in Freiburg.

This museum has an entry fee and is closed on Mondays.

Colombischlössle/Archäologisches Museum (Archaeological Museum)

Inside a beautiful 19th century mansion, Colombischlössle, this museum has quite a grand marble entrance and cast-iron staircase. Built for the Countess Maria Antonia Gertrudis von Zea Bermudez y Colombi around 1860, it has a playful Gothic Tudor style. It’s surrounded by beautiful gardens, fountains and sculptures. Even without the museum, it’s worth a visit.

However once you go inside, you’ll be glad you did. You’ll find treasures from the Stone Ages to the Celtics to the Romans and on to the Middle Ages.

This is a great way to learn more about this region of Germany.

Closed on Mondays, there is a small fee to enter.

Schlossberg (Castle Hill)

Schlossberg is right behind the Old Town and the forested peak can’t be missed as you are exploring the city.

At 456 metres high, you can walk up Schlossberg from a path opposite the Schwabentor or take a ride up on the Schlossbergbahn (funicular railway). The railway is a fun way to go and gets you to part way up the peak in three minutes.

There are longer trails from here for serious hikers with some great options, as well as short walks for sightseers who want some great views.

At the top of Schlossberg is the Schlossbergturm (Schlossberg Tower). There are fantastic views from here across the city including of the Münster and the Black Forest.

A strategic position, Schlossberg was fortified by at least the 1000s. These structures are in ruins today.

We had a great couple of hours wandering round here, checking out the views and enjoying nature. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic lunch while you look over the city.

The park area and tower are free. The cable car has a fee.

Click here to read our full guide to visiting Schlossberg.

Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery)

For a different type of attraction, head to Alter Friedhof, just a short walk from the Old Town.

This cemetery was the final resting home for Freiburg’s citizens from 1683 to 1872. Today, it is considered a natural monument.

This cemetery has been left untouched thanks to Johann Christian Wentzinger. When he passed away in 1797, he left his estate to the city on the condition that his grave would be looked after forever. And so it has!

It’s a surprisingly nice place for a stroll. The wealthy citizens have gravestones that are works of Baroque and neoclassic art.

In the middle of the cemetery is St. Michael’s Chapel which was built in 1720. The cemetery itself is enclosed in high walls which help give it a secluded feel well away from the city.

The cemetery is open daily and entry is free.

Seepark (Lake Park)

When it comes to things to do near Freiburg Germany, this option is just a few kilometres northwest of the Old Town. It’s one of the most popular green areas in Freiburg and the perfect place to head to feel like you’ve escaped the city without going far.

In addition to the park itself, there is a swimming lake, pool, pedal boats, mini golf, playgrounds and restaurants. It’s a great place to give the kids a run around.

This 35 hectare park was once used for agriculture although the gravel soil did not work well for growing grain. In the 1920s, a gravel company moved in to mine sand and gravel. This was shut in the 1970s.

In 1986, the area was converted to host the State Horticultural Show. Since then, parts have been added to build the great park it is today.

Seepark is open daily and entry is free.

Black Forest

If you are looking for day trips from Freiburg, this is sure to be your top pick! Germany’s Black Forest surrounds Freiburg so it’s easy to visit and should be on your must-do list.

The best way to explore the Black Forest is by foot on a hiking trail so I suggest you pick one and get hiking. Some choices near Freiburg are:

• Schauinsland – This is an easy place to explore from Freiburg being just ten kilometres from the centre of Freiburg. It’s on public transport and you can even take Germany’s longest cable car to the top. It’s covered below for its winter sports but you can also come here in the warmer months and there are many hiking trails. Click here for more details about visiting this destination.
• Titisee Lake – Not just a fun name, this lake is home to a great trail around the lake which is about 7 kilometres. It’s a beautiful spot. There are also water sports, lake-front pool, kayaks, a wellness centre and more. It’s easy to get to via train or car. Read more here.
• Oberkirch wine hike – This trail is for people who would like to combine wine tasting with hiking and seeing more of this area. This seven kilometre walk starts and finishes in the Old Town of Oberkirch and takes you through local vineyards. Find more information here.

Europa Park

For the ultimate answer to which places to visit near Freiburg Germany, consider a day of fun at Europa Park. Just 35 kilometres from Freiburg, this park is like a mini version of Europe all in one huge theme park.

There are rides, shows and great theming with the different areas of the theme park being modelled after different European countries.

It’s quite an experience and a great way to mix up what you are doing on your Germany trip particularly if you have kids.

Read our full review of Europa Park here including lots of tips for a super fun visit.

Fun Things To Do In Freiburg In Winter

While most of the Freiburg Germany things to do listed above are possible in winter time, there are also some fun things to do in Freiburg which are especially for the winter months.

Freiburg Christmas Market

If you are visiting Freiburg at Christmas time, you won’t want to miss the Christmas market.

Taking place at both Münsterplatz and Rathausplatz, make sure you get to both markets. There are over 120 stands with art and crafts, gifts, local food and, of course, mulled wine.

There’s also an antique wooden ferris wheel and activities such as cookie making for kids and candle making.

The market runs for about a month in the lead up to Christmas.

Winter Sports

Freiburg can be used as a great jumping off point for winter sports. An easy place to go to fit in some skiing or other winter sports is 1274 metre high Schauinsland, just ten kilometres from the centre of Freiburg.

On weekends and holidays, there is a dedicated sledding run with a lift that is lots of fun. There is also cross country skiing or you can ski or snowboard. Find more information here .

There are also many other ski areas nearby.

What To Do In Freiburg In One Day 

Only have one day in Freiburg? What a shame! But it’s ok, it’s still worth going to Freiburg if you only have one day. In fact, you can see most of the things to do around Freiburg Germany in a day.

I recommend you:

• Start the day at the Old Town at Münsterplatz
• Explore Freiburger Münster (Cathedral), both inside and out. It generally opens early
• Learn more about the city’s past at the Museum Für Stadtgeschichte (City History Museum) which opens at 10am
• Head to Augustiner Museum to enjoy the art collection
• Have lunch at Markthalle
• Take some photos at insta-worthy Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square)
• Walk through the city gates at Martinstor and Schwabentor
• Take the Schlossbergbahn (funicular railway) up Schlossberg and climb the Schlossbergturm (Schlossberg Tower) for great views over Freiburg
• Visit the Colombischlössle/Archäologisches Museum (Archaeological Museum)
• If you have the time and inclination, you can also visit the Museum Für Neue Kunst (Museum Of Contemporary Art) or walk through Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery)

Note that none of the museums open on Mondays. If you visit on a Monday, still walk around the Old Town past these museums so you see more of this great area. You can also visit Seepark or do part of a hike from Schlossberg.

Freiburg Attractions Map

Best Place To Stay In Freiburg Im Breisgau

When it comes to where to stay in Freiburg, there is a great range of hotels and other accommodation options. You won’t have any problem finding somewhere to stay.

Below, I’ve listed a few different places to consider depending on what type of accommodation you are looking for.

If you want more options, you can use this map to help you find hotels and home rental accommodation around Freiburg.

BEST – Colombi Hotel Review

Located in Freiburg’s Old Town, the Colombi Hotel is just moments from Rathausplatz and close to many of the best Freiburg attractions. It’s opposite Colombi Park and Castle, home to the Archaeological Museum.

There are a range of a room types from singles to doubles and suite options. All are elegant, well furnished, have air conditioning, flat-screen TV and free internet. Toiletries, bathrobes and slippers are provided. Suite options also have living areas in the rooms for extra comfort and class.

There are a range of facilities at the Colombi Hotel including a fine dining restaurant, Zirbelstube, and multiple other dining options. There is also an on-site bar, a great indoor pool, gym, sauna and spa. Parking is available on-site for an extra fee.

This is the best pick in Freiburg for elegance and luxury.

Click here to see the latest prices now.

VALUE –  Best Western Premier Hotel Victoria Review

If good value is what you want in your Freiburg accommodation, consider the Best Western Premier Hotel Victoria. Also located opposite Colombi Park, you can explore Freiburg’s Old Town attractions easily from here.

This 4 star hotel has a range of room types which are soundproofed and include flat-screen TV, mini bar and seating area. They range from single size to family options with suite rooms that have a living area with sofa bed for up to two kids. All rooms are modern and comfortable.

Free welcome drinks are also provided with tea and coffee complimentary in the lounge. There is a sauna and massage and beauty treatments are offered at an extra charge. There is an exercise room, and breakfast is available for a fee.

You’ll also find the Hemingway Cocktail Bar on site and a rooftop garden you can enjoy. Parking is available nearby for an extra fee.

You don’t have to feel guilty with a stay at the Best Western Premier Hotel Victoria thanks to it being environmentally friendly with solar panels and sole use of green energy.

SOMETHING DIFFERENT – Hotel Zum Schiff Review

For something a little different, you could stay away from the centre of Freiburg at this hotel with its own winery and distillery. You’re a few kilometres from the Old Town but there are bus stops nearby to get you there.

There are single, double and triple rooms on offer here which come with air conditioning, wifi, flat-screen TV, minibar and toiletries. They also have seating and desk areas and have a good amount of space. They are a bit dated, however.

Where this hotel shines is their outdoor space. There is a great garden area. There is also a restaurant on-site and you can dine inside or out. You’ll want to stop by the bar to try the wine and spirits produced here. Breakfast is available as well as a sauna and solarium.

Click here to see all our recommendations for the best hotel in Freiburg.

If you have kids and would prefer to day trip to Freiburg from the Black Forest, read our review here of Feldberger Hof. Or if you are just interested in Europa Park, read our full review of the Europa Park hotel, Castillo Alcazar, here.

How To Get To Freiburg Im Breisgau

We travelled to Freiburg by hire car which made it very easy to get here. It’s simple to find and navigate.

You can hire a car to get you there by clicking here.

There are regular trains and buses here. You can find timetables and all your options here.

Or you can find all the train timetables here and discount train passes here.

The closest international airport to Freiburg is Basel Mulhouse in France near the Swiss border. It’s about an hour by bus away or faster in a taxi ( which you can book here ). You can find flight prices and options here.

Once in Freiburg, we explored most of the time on foot. Most places listed above are in walking distance of each other. For attractions further away, we used our car but public transport options exist.

Freiburg With Kids

Freiburg is a great place to visit with kids. It’s in a beautiful part of the country with plenty of outdoor activity nearby with the Black Forest.

We visited here with our three kids aged 6 – 12 and they enjoyed running round the Old Town (and following the Bächle), taking the funicular railway up Schlossberg and, of course, visiting Europa Park.

I also have an extra thing to do in Freiburg for families here which my kids enjoyed.

Located just a ten minute drive from the Old Town, Mundenhof is the perfect Old Town timeout for families. This large animal park is located on a 38 hectare estate which dates back to the 9th century. It’s the largest zoo in Baden-Württemberg.

There is a good range of animals from water buffalos to llamas to farm animals. It is more of a big farm than the traditional lion-tiger-elephant zoo.

There are activities like wagon rides and camel rides especially in the school holiday period. We found it a relaxing afternoon with our kids.

A really cool thing about Mundenhof is that entry is free. There is a 5 euro parking fee which helps support the zoo. It’s always open.

Final Words

I hope you have found this guide to Freiburg things to see useful and that you have as good a time exploring Freiburg im Breisgau as we did.

It’s a very charming city with some nice attractions and a great Old Town, and I’m sure you will love it too.

Read more guides to visiting Southern Germany here . You can also find our full guide to accommodation in Freiburg here or read this guide to nearby Heidelberg here , Titisee here or Baden-Baden here. You can also check out our favorite Black Forest places here.

Related Articles:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon first fell in love with Germany back in 2000 on her first visit. She loves the long history, the picturesque Old Towns, the castles, the food, everything really! Since then, she has visited many times and loves writing about Germany here so you can enjoy it too. In fact, Sharon loves German culture so much that she sent her kids to a German primary school in Australia. She especially loves Berlin and towns with charming Old Towns like Celle and Quedlinburg. Sharon also has a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and understands the nitty gritty of travel planning. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to Germany whether it's your first or tenth time!

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Top 15 things to do in freiburg, germany.

I’ve got to be honest, at this point, 1 year ago, I had not even heard of Freiburg.

In fact, it was only when I mentioned to a close friend (who studied German at University and knows the country like the back of her hand) that I was planning to travel in the Black Forest area of the country, that the name Freiburg first even entered my lexicon.

But enter it did and, assured by her how brilliant, green and charming this small university city (official known as Freiburg im Breisgau and located in the Baden-Württemberg region) was, Freiburg quickly worked its way into my plans… and boy / girls am I glad it did!

For Freiburg, quite simply, proved to be an absolute treat.

With just about everything you want from a lovely German city, this history-filled, forest-surrounded, beer hall-loaded destination quickly shot its way into my heart and up my top German destinations list.

In fact, I’ve recently named Freiburg as one of the 50 best places to visit in Western Europe – yes it’s that good!

So if you’re planning a trip to this Black Forest beauty, then read on to discover my list of the 15 best things do in Freiburg as well as my top travel tips for the city.

Related Posts

• Ultimate Travel Guide to Heidelberg, Germany
• How to Travel from Frankfurt to Strasbourg
• Complete Guide to Visiting Berlin on a Budget

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#1 See the City Gates

First up on this list of the top things to do in Freiburg is to check out this historic city’s gates.

Yes like many old cities in this part of Germany, Freiburg was once a walled city and large gateways helped protect the population, as well as make clear the entrances, exits and boundaries of the city.

Seeing the City Gates is a good introduction to the historic nature of this town, and strolling the cobbled streets between them is another delightful walk back through time, as some parts date as far back as 1202!

The most famous, and probably impressive gate in my opinion is Martinstor (Martin’s Gate in English), which is clearly marked on Google maps if you’re looking to find it.

#2 Enjoy a Beer Hall or 2!

And as you wander along those cobbled streets of Freiburg, there’s no question one of the top things to do is to stop off and enjoy a stein or 2 (that’s a huge German beer for the initiated) in once of the city’s many beer halls.

Not that I like to perpetuate any stereotypes, but this is a student city after all!

My favourite had to be Biergarten Brauerei Feierling for the record – this is the genuine, authentic, local real deal!

#3 Marvel at the Cathedral

The Freiburg Munster , which is the Cathedral in the heart of this city, is an absolute masterpiece and stopping to marvel at it in the central square is certainly one of the top things to do in Freiburg.

The Gothic religious icon, with its famous square tower, has beautiful Black Forest views from the top, as well as an impressive chiming show seemingly hourly!

The nearby beautiful and historic Merchants Hall is also worth a snap.

You can also enjoy drinking or eating around both these buildings, especially in the summer months, which is very fun and no way as near as expensive as you’d think!

#4 Climb the Observation Tower

But if you really want the best views of the Black Forest, then forget the church tower, it’s all about climbing the Observation Tower, which lies just beyond the city gates, on top of a hill located right next to the city.

Known as the Aussichtsturm Schlossberg , which means the Castle Tower, this 35m towering giant sits atop of Castle Hill (unsurprisingly) and offers the most epic of views!

Do not miss it!

Either you can climb the hill and the tower, as I did, stopping at the Kanonenplatz viewing area on the way and perhaps the Kastaniengarten for a stein on the way down!

Otherwise, if you’re not up to the walk, the Schlossbergbahn or funicular can carry you up there.

#5 Take a Dip in the River

This is probably one of the summer, but it looked absolutely idyllic!

Seeing so many locals swimming in this River Dreisam , which runs through Freiburg, definitely convinced me it was safe and around the bridge known as Kronenbrucke , seemed to be the most popular place for it.

If you don’t fancy a river dip, them some fountain fun in the city centre may suffice instead!

#6 Relax in the Seepark

Another great outdoors number to enjoy when you’re in this city, and absolutely one of the best things to do in Freiburg, is head to the massive Seepark.

In fact, this is where I spent my first evening after arriving in the city, strolling around, having a pretzel (obvs!) and enjoying a beer with a view of the lake.

Strolling, boating and people watching are the top things to do here as it offers a great slice of local life that you shouldn’t miss, even if it is a little way out of the centre.

That said, Seepark is handily very near the Airbnb I recommend at the end of this article.

#7 Stroll the Japanese Garden

And within the Seepark is also the lovely Japanese Garden.

However this place is so cute, I really thought it warranted its own mention on this list, especially given the story of how it came to be here.

Freiburg is actually twinned with the Japanese town of Matsuyama and this garden was built in the 1990s by the Japanese landscape architect Yoshinori Tokumoto as a gift for Freiburg’s citizens.

How lovely is that!

The park is open from 9am to 5pm, is free to enter and is wonderfully peaceful.

#8 Hike in the Black Forest

And sticking with the nature theme, but perhaps leaning towards a rather more wild version of it, you simply cannot come to the city of Freiburg and fail to take in the mighty Black Forest that sits all around it.

A day’s hiking is the best way to enjoy this landscape in my opinion, with tons of trails within easy reach of the city.

The 2 free hiking apps – AllTrails and Komoot – both list a ton of great walks to choose from.

#9 Join the Crowds at Titisee Lake

If you like your nature served in a rather more leisurely fashion however, then instead of heading for a hike, why not head out of Freiburg for a fun day in the Black Forest town of Titisee.

This place is very popular with locals, especially during holidays and weekends, there’s even a fairground here, but the jewel in the crown is the Titisee Lake – the perfect place to cool down in summer.

#10 Eat Trad German Food

And while you’re out with the locals, you may as well gorge yourself on delicious German food too!

Pretzels are the go-to snack in this part of Germany and, of course, they are big on the bakeries here as well – with all the amazing breads and cakes you can think of.

I tried some sweet bread thing with raisins and almonds when I was here that was particularly delicious… and I’m not even into sweet things!

You also can’t miss trying some yummy sauerkraut either and, if you’re a meat-eater too, it seems fair to say no trip to Germany is a trip to Germany without eating a lot of sausage.

One Bratwurst to-go please (need to find meat-eating travel companion to review this option for me).

#11 Discover the Epic Veggie / Vegan Restaurants

But fear not fellow plant-eating people, the great news is that Freiburg is a really progressive city (it’s one of the most environmentally-savvy in Germany too) and there are tons of fabulous vegetarian and vegan restaurants too.

Can we thank the students for this?

Actually, I was lucky enough to have a few German friends who live in this part of German and who all – knowing I don’t touch the sausage – recommended Adelhaus to me as a great plant-based option.

#12 Take in the View from Schauinsland

We’re back on the day trips now and probably the perfect option for your second day in Freiburg and, the option ALL my German friends recommended to me, was to drive out to Schauinsland and take in the view.

A mountain in the Black Forest, reaching up to 1,284 m above sea level, taking the cable car up to the top is definitely one of the highlight things to do while you are in Freiburg.

#13 See Ravenna Gorge & Bridge

Another option, slightly closer to the city is to head out and see the Ravenna Gorge and Bridge in the Black Forest.

There are several trails in this part of the landscape, which means it’s a great hiking and sightseeing combination that can often be paired with nearby Titisee as well.

It’s most likely you will need your own vehicle, or a friend with one, to enjoy this, but if you have either of those then you’re good to go!

#14 Discover the Hochburg Ruins

Of all the places I discovered around Freiburg, I have to say this was my favourite.

Yes the Hochburg Ruins, which I actually just stumbled across by chance after driving across the French border, were an utterly delightful find.

The sort that can only be so delightful when you have no idea they exist, no expectations and they turn out to be one of the most memorable places you went!

Despite not being in any of the guidebooks, discovering this spot was a real treat, not only for the views and insta-worthy shots, but also for the history and sense of the unknown.

#15 Experience the Freiburg Christmas Markets

And finally on this list of the top things to do in Freiburg, we come to the Freiburg Christmas Markets.

Having visited the city in the summer, I actually can’t claim to have experienced these myself, but time your visit right, or time it for this very reason, and there’s absolutely no reason you should miss one of Germany’s most amazing festive features.

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When to Visit Freiburg

There’s no question, in my mind at least, that there’s 2 crucial times to visit Freiburg.

One, as you may be unsurprised to learn, is in December, when the aforementioned Christmas Markets are in their full splendour.

The other time I recommend visiting is when I did – in the summer months.

At this time, the warm long days offer amazing opportunities for hiking and sightseeing in the daytime, followed by balmy evenings in those wonderful beer gardens.

Because Freiburg is not a hugely popular destination for international tourists, the summer months also shouldn’t be too crowded.

Given Freiburg’s location in the Black Forest area, I also imagine Spring and Autumn here (with the changing of the season in full force) is also pretty spectacular.

How Long to Spend There

As a small city, a couple of days is plenty of time to explore Freiburg.

In other words, this is a perfect weekend break, or a short stop, enroute to some other bigger destinations like Bavaria or the French Alsace wine region where you’re likely to spend more time.

I spent 3 nights in Freiburg and found it exactly the right amount of time.

Arriving late on day 1, I had enough time left in the day to enjoy a beer in Seepark and get to know the residential area around my cute Airbnb.

Day 2 I spent a full day exploring the city and the Observation Tower.

And then on day 3, I headed out into the forest for some hiking.

Where to Stay in Freiburg

So as I mentioned above, I stayed in a rental apartment in Freiburg, which was ideal for me as a budget traveller and was situated in a residential area with lots of green spaces around.

Quiet and local and near a few good parks, I could also walk into the city from this place, or get the tram on the way home, making it the perfect balance of budget and comfort for me.

For these reasons, I always recommend staying in rental properties when visiting German cities and VRBO is my go-to website for this.

Check out this top-rated apartment , close to the centre of Freiburg as well as a great range of shops, restaurants, cafes and parks if you’re looking to do the same. Sleeping up to 3 people, it’s very well-equipped, has easy access to public transport and is very spacious… an all-round winner!

If you prefer to stay in a hostel however, then the only official hostel in the whole Black Forest area is near Freiburg – how perfect is that!

If you want to spend your time hiking or doing more outdoors stuff in the Black Forest, as opposed to being based in a city, then this hostel could be the option for you.

It gets great reviews and can be booked at an excellent price here .

Finally, if you want to be right in the heart of the action, and experience a bit more comfort and privacy, then I highly recommend The Alex Hotel . I love the modern decor, the fabulous service and the excellent breakfast at this place!

How to Get to Freiburg

If you’re enjoying a European road trip, Freiburg is easy to navigate your way to by car along the excellent German motorways.

I’d say most travellers head here either from the large German cities of Frankfurt or Stuttgart, the Swiss cities of Basel or Zurich, or the French city of Strasbourg , which is just across the border.

From most of those cities you can also get numerous trains to Freiburg if you’re using public transport, or buses if you’re on a tight budget.

As always, I use Trainline to book my trains across Europe, because they make everything so easy and straightforward and offer excellent prices and easy e-tickets.

When it comes to bus travel in Europe, I love Flixbus, who I’ve used many times and can’t recommend enough given their insanely good prices, free wifi, comfort and safety.

Check out Flixbus for all your European bus travel, including to Freiburg, here .

What to Pack

And finally, here my list of the top 4 packing essentials you shouldn’t head to Freiburg without.

#1 A Good Camera – No doubt you’re going to be snapping like crazy with these amazing forest views and need to ensure you have a good camera to do this city justice. I love my Sony A6000 , which is light, compact and great for travel.

#2 Decent Walking Shoes – No point coming to Freiburg and not being able to enjoy this beautiful historic city on 2 feet. Get prepared therefore and ensure you have a decent pair of walking shoes – these cross trainers from New Balance are ideal (and totally stylish) for the job.

#3 Light Waterproof Jacket – Whatever the time of year, you have to remember this is Germany after all, a country in which the heavens can open at any point! Don’t get caught out there and ensure you have a good lightweight and waterproof jacket with you. This North Face one is perfect.

#4 Compact Hiking Day Pack – I never go on any day trips without a sturdy backpack to ensure I’ve got room to carry everything I need and that the weight is equally distributed across my back and shoulders, This super featherweight Kompressor from Marmot is my go-to, because it folds down to nothing and is water-resistant.

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So there is it, my list of the 15 best things to do in Freiburg.

Have you been to this wonderful German city?

Did you like it as much as me?

What was your favourite thing to do there?

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Best Things to Do in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  disclaimer policy.

Planning to explore the Black Forest region of Germany? Don’t miss out on the beautiful city of Freiburg im Breisgau!

I lived in Freiburg for several months when I taught for a college study abroad program and absolutely love the area. We return to visit Freiburg and the Black Forest whenever we can.

Here are the top things to do and see in Freiburg, Germany.

• 1 What To Do And See In Freiburg Im Breisgau
• 2 Why Visit Freiburg Im Breisgau
• 3 When Is The Best Time To Visit Freiburg Im Breisgau
• 4 Where Is Freiburg Located On a Map?
• 5 How To Get To Freiburg
• 6 Where To Stay In Freiburg Im Breisgau
• 7 Day Trips From Freiburg im Briesgau
• 8 Next Steps For Planning Your Trip:

What To Do And See In Freiburg Im Breisgau

Freiburg is a lovely town to explore for a day or two. Even if you only visit Freiburg on a day trip, you can see quite a bit. Here are the best sights to add to your itinerary. We also share ideas for day trips at the end of this guide.

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TIP: if you have our Germany Travel Planner be sure to check out the interactive planning map so you can see where the best sights are located. Seeing where these sights are on the map, along with our up-to-date photos and tips, makes planning your trip SO much easier. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Freiburg Münster (Freiburg Cathedral)

The Freiburg Münster is the city’s most popular landmark. This Romanesque church dates back to the 13th century and took 300 years to complete. The tower along with the exterior of the cathedral is incredibly ornate and artistic.

One of its most noteworthy architectural features is its 116-meter (360-feet) tower with 16 bells, famously described by Swiss historian Jacob Burckhardt as the most beautiful spire on earth. It is also the only church tower in Germany completed during the Middle Ages that has remained intact with no damages from the war. 

The inside of the cathedral is equally captivating with its intricate stained glass windows, tall columns, and high altars. It is definitely worth visiting as it’s a symbol of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Right in the heart of Freiburg’s Altstadt (Old Town), you can’t miss it.

Münstermark t ( Freiburg Cathedral Market Square)

Münsterplatz, the area surrounding the Freiburg Münster, is a vibrant pedestrian square filled with historic buildings, bustling shops, and busy cafes. Every day of the week except Sundays , the Freiburg Cathedral Market (Münstermarkt) is open from 7:30 am until 1:30 pm. 

The market features over 100 different stalls with farmers and artists selling everything from local produce, handmade crafts, and traditional regional food. It’s a must-see when visiting Freiburg!

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

Freiburg Altstadt ( Old Town )

Freiburg’s Altstadt is a picturesque area with cobblestoned narrow streets, important historic monuments, boutiques and shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, and lots of charm. One of my favorite things to do when I lived here was simply wander around the Altstadt after I finished teaching for the day.

You’ll also find the Freiburg Cathedral, town halls, Martin’s Gate, and many more landmarks we’ll discuss below. Freiburg’s Old Town is also bordered on the east by the Dreisam River and Schlossberg Mountain, making it easily accessible to other beautiful parts of the city. 

With everything that there is to see in this area, we highly recommend going on a walking tour of Freiburg’s medieval old town to not miss out on anything!

Rathausplatz

Rathausplatz is home to the Old Town Hall and New Town Hall of Freiburg. The Old Town Hall (Freiburg Rathaus) was built in a typical Renaissance style before it was reconstructed later on with three new wings and a red sandstone facade. It also houses the Tourist Information Office on the ground floor.

The New Town Hall, on the other hand, is composed of two Renaissance burgher houses that are joined together by a gabled column entryway. The whitewash facade features large bay windows and balconies. 

Rathausplatz turns into a magical wonderland during the holidays as it hosts the Freiburg Christmas Market. If you’re visiting during Christmas time, don’t miss the chance to sip on some mulled wine while enjoying the festive atmosphere of the square.

Wondering what the Christmas season in Germany is like? Check out our guides on the best German Christmas markets , German Christmas food and traditions , and how to celebrate Saint Nicholas Day.

Freiburg Bächle

The Bächle running through the streets of Freiburg are one of the most interesting features of the city. They are essentially small water-filled channels or gutters that run along the streets and alleyways, mainly in the Altstadt.

They were originally used for a variety of purposes like supplying drinking water to households and providing water for firefighting. Now, they’re an iconic feature of the city landscape and a fun way to keep cool during the summer months. You can even catch kids splashing or playing with little boats on the waterways.

Fun fact: there’s also a popular local legend that says that any single person who accidentally stumbles into a Bächle will marry a Freiburger.

Historisches Kaufhaus ( Historical Merchants’ Hall )

Located on the south of Münsterplatz, the Historical Merchants’ Hall (Historisches Kaufhaus) is an eye-catching dark red building with access balconies, large bay windows with colored tiles, and decorative sculptures.

It used to be a custom office and market storage during the medieval times at the peak of Freiburg’s history as a trading center. Now the space is used as a prestigious venue for important events and occasions.

Schwabentor (Swabian Gate)

The Schwabentor (or Swabian Gate in English) is one of the remaining old city gates built in the 13th century. The gate tower is three stories high with interesting features like half-timbered extensions and a Baroque painting of merchants facing the side of the town. On the exterior side, you can also find a painting of Freiburg’s city patron, St. George, depicted as a dragon slayer.

Martinstor ( Martin’s Gate )

Martinstor (Martin’s Gate) is the older of the two medieval gates of the city’s old fortifications. Like Schwabentor, it once served as an entrance to the medieval city and is now an important historic monument. 

It has very distinctive architectural features like the twin towers on its roof and the arched entryway. Next to this archway, you’ll also stumble upon a small detail: a tablet commemorating the burning of witches in Freiburg in 1599.

Schlossberg (Castle Hill)

Schlossberg (also known as Castle Hill) is a hill overlooking the city of Freiburg. The hill is covered in trees and lush greenery, making it a great spot for those looking for a dose of nature. There are lots of walking trails leading to the summit so it’s also a popular place to watch the sunset over the city.

To get to the top you can hike up via the trails or take the funicular railway called the Schlossbergbahn (Schlossberg railway). The railway takes you to the top of the almost 1,500-foot hill in just 3 minutes. 

Aside from strolling in the Schlossberg recreation area or grabbing a drink at the beer garden, you can also head on to the Schlossbergturm, an observation tower with over 150 steps leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the city and region.

Seepark Freiburg

Seepark Freiburg is a sprawling park within Freiburg’s city limits. The park area has a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and gardens, picnic areas, playgrounds, and some restaurants and a beer garden. 

The park is a good place for anyone looking for recreational activities like swimming and renting pedal boats in the summer, biking around the lake, playing football or frisbee, and even trying out mini golf in the park’s course. For something more calm and relaxing, you can picnic or read by the lake and visit the Japanese garden with a small waterfall.

Dreisam River

The Dreisam river flows through Freiburg and offers opportunities for peaceful walks along the riverbank. If you’d like to explore outside of the Old Town, follow the walking path along side the Dreisam! One thing I always enjoyed doing when I lived in Freiburg was cooling off in the Dreisam on hot days. There are several areas that are shallow and perfect for wading. If you’d rather not get in the water, you can enjoy the view from a bench or take a picnic and sit on the grass.

Augustiner Museum

Augustiner Museum is a former monastery that now runs as an art and culture museum. The museum showcases a wide range of artworks, sculptures, altars, and artifacts from the Middle Ages to the Baroque era. 

Some of the highlights include the works of medieval stonemasons, original stained glass windows from the Freiburg Cathedral, and educational exhibits on Freiburg’s history and folklore.

Messe Freiburg

Messe Freiburg is a large event venue and exhibition center that’s known for hosting a lot of different trade shows, conferences, and cultural events in the city. There’s all sorts of events happening frequently from food festivals, tech fairs, flea markets, and everything in between. There’s also a concert hall so music festivals and theater performances are also held here. Make sure to check out all of the events and performances on their official website !

Mundenhof is known as the largest animal park in the state of Baden-Württemberg. This park is home to a diverse range of animal species. Many of the animals kept here are mainly breeds of domestic animals and livestock from all over the world. 

One of the best things is that visitors can interact with the animals in a completely natural setting since they are kept in open paddocks where they roam freely. It’s definitely one of the top activities to do if you’re traveling with kids and want an educational but fun experience.

Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery)

Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery) is a burial ground located in the outskirts of Freiburg. Built in the 17th century, it’s one of Germany’s oldest cemeteries that has been preserved as a whole. It serves as the final resting place for many individuals from Freiburg’s past so it holds a deep historical significance for the city.

Why Visit Freiburg Im Breisgau

Freiburg is known as the capital of the Black Forest and Germany’s sunniest city. It’s worth visiting for its important medieval landmarks in the Altstadt (Old Town), the stunning views from Schlossberg and nearby Schauinsland, and its amazing location near Switzerland, France, and other towns in the Black Forest region. If you’d like to visit 3 countries on your trip to Germany, go to Freiburg!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Freiburg Im Breisgau

The best time to visit Freiburg depends on your preferences, but generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities (especially swimming in lakes) and festivals, while winter is great for winter sports and Christmas markets. I’ve been in Freiburg during every season and it’s a wonderful city to visit any time of year.

Where Is Freiburg Located On a Map?

Freiburg is located in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwest Germany. It sits on the western edge of the Black Forest, and because it serves as one of the main entry ways into the region, it’s pretty easy to get to.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner , and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

How To Get To Freiburg

Airports near freiburg.

If you’re planning to visit Freiburg right after arriving in Germany, it’s easiest to hop on a fast train from Frankfurt or Stuttgart airports. Alternatively, you could fly into a closer airport in France or Switzerland.

• Frankfurt Airport (2 hours away via ICE train)
• Stuttgart Airport (2 hours away)
• EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (50 minutes)
• Strasbourg Airport (1 hour)

Getting to Freiburg By Train Or Bus

You can easily travel all over Germany by train. Busses are also an option, but personally, I prefer the train. Even though Freiburg is in the southwestern corner of Germany, it’s easily reached by public transit from all over Germany, France, and Switzerland.

If you’re traveling from German cities like Stuttgart or Frankfurt, you can take a fast ICE/IC/EC train and reach Freiburg in about 2 hours. If you’re coming from smaller towns in the Black Forest, you’ll likely take a regional train to Freiburg. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe, there’s a good chance you’ll go through Strasbourg, France or Basel, Switzerland.

The best way to find train tickets for travel in Germany is through the official German rail website . You can also book tickets to or from other European countries, as long as your trip starts or ends in Germany.

Freiburg Hauptbahnhof is the main train station. To get to your accommodation you can walk, take the tram or hop in a taxi.

Getting To Freiburg By Car

If you’re renting a car , you can drive to Freiburg by taking the A5, which runs north-south parallel to the Rhine from the Swiss border in the south and goes all the way up to Frankfurt am Main.

You can also rent a car in Freiburg for a couple days if you’d like to explore the Black Forest but don’t want a car for your entire trip. While you can get to many locations in the Black Forest via train or bus, having a car gives you flexibility and enables you to get off the beaten path. We rent our cars here.

Where To Stay In Freiburg Im Breisgau

Freiburg is one of the best places to make your home base when exploring the Black Forest region. There are a lot of accommodation options available from luxury hotels to aparthotels with kitchens to budget-friendly family accommodations.

We recommend staying within or around the city center to be closest to all the main landmarks in the area. If you plan to take the train on day trips, make sure you can easily and quickly get to the train station on foot or by tram. If renting a car, make sure there’s easy parking.

#1 Top Pick : Zum Roten Bären Listed as Germany’s oldest guesthouse, this fairy tale yet modern hotel has both cobblestone street views and courtyard views and is located in the Old Town just steps from the Schwabentor (old Swabian Gate) and near the Münster cathedral. Click here to check availability and price!

• Park Hotel Post – Housed in a stately 19th-Century Art Nouveau-style building, Park Hotel Post is a 4-star hotel located in Freiburg city center. This classy hotel offers elegant rooms with literary and cultural themes and modern facilities.
• Boutiquehotel am Stadtgarten – Located right across Stadtgarten and within walking distance of the Freiburg Cathedral, this accommodation is perfect for those looking for boutique hotels with a casual atmosphere and modern facilities.
• Aparthotel Adagio Access Freiburg – This apartment-style hotel has over 150 rooms with modern features including kitchens, living rooms, and flat screen TVs. It’s a great place for families looking for spacious rooms.
• FourSide Hotel Freiburg – Located a bit further away from the center, this hotel is great for those looking for a more budget-friendly option. The trendy hotel features chic rooms with colorful decorations and modern amenities.

For more options, check out our guide to the best hotels in the Black Forest.

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Day Trips From Freiburg im Briesgau

Schauinsland.

Schauinsland is a mountain at the edge of the Black Forest, around 30 minutes from Freiburg. It has an elevation of over 4200 feet, which can be reached via the Schauinslandbahn, the longest cable car in Germany.

From the cable car, you can see views that stretch across the Rhine Valley to the Vosges Mountains. Once you reach the summit, you can see more of the Black Forest and even all the way to the Alps. Schauinsland is also the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts looking to do activities like hiking, biking, Nordic walking, paragliding and winter sports.

Ravenna Gorge

Ravenna Gorge is another great day trip from Freiburg, as it’s only a short drive away (30 minutes). This gorge is a breathtaking natural attraction, characterized by its steep cliffs, lush greenery of the Black Forest, and crystal-clear waters.

One of the highlights is the Ravenna Bridge, an arched stone bridge that spreads across the gorge. During the Christmas season, this area transforms into one of the most beautiful places in Germany. The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market takes place right beneath the historic railway viaduct, making for a surreal winter wonderland view with all the wooden stalls and Christmas decorations.

For more information on the best Christmas markets in Germany, read our full guide here .

Europa Park

Europa Park is the largest theme park in Germany. It’s about a half hour drive from Freiburg. The theme 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. 

Black Forest Towns

If you’d like to explore the Black Forest while in Freiburg, you have lots of wonderful day trip options. Some must-visits include an open-air museum, the old resort town of Baden-Baden, Triberg for cuckoo clocks and the Triberg Waterfalls, and the charming small towns of Staufen and Gengenbach.

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 historic rural experience of the Black Forest. Here you can experience the region’s traditional crafts, housing, culture, and even technology. 

It’s also very interactive with different hands-on activities and areas specifically for kids. Make sure to check out the restaurant to try a slice of Black Forest cake!

Lake Titisee

​Lake Titisee is around 35 minutes away from Freiburg. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning scenery, and outdoor recreational opportunities. You can easily spend an entire day walking the trail around the lake, admiring the views, and then stopping by at any of the restaurants or cafes by the lake. If it’s hot outside, go for a swim in the lake!

Basel, Switzerland

Nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is a quaint riverside city with lots to offer. It’s around an hour away by car or train and could make a great starting point to exploring the rest of Switzerland. Some of the city’s most important landmarks include the Basel Minster, the medieval streets of the Old Town, the Zoo Basel, and Kunstmuseum Basel.

Colmar, France

If you want to venture outside of Germany, then Colmar, France is a great option since it’s only around 1 hour away. This French city is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered medieval and early Renaissance buildings. Canals and waterways run through the town, earning it the nickname “Little Venice.”

Next Steps For Planning Your Trip:

• Start planning an unforgettable trip to Germany here !
• Book a personalized travel consult or itinerary review with Cate .
• Join our friendly Facebook group .

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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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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.

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• Black Forest Germany
• Freiburg im Breisgau

Freiburg, Germany

Freiburg im Breisgau is an eminently livable city in southern Germany with easy access to neighbouring countries and to the outdoor activities and sights of the nearby Black Forest.

It is frequently called Germany's 'sustainable city' and, taking advantage of the sunny location near the Rhine river in Baden-Württemberg, it is renowned for its ecological initiatives, vineyards and university life.

But it has plenty to attract the tourist as well, with the alleys and historic houses of medieval Freiburg clustered around the base of the Minster (commonly referred to by visitors as 'Freiburg cathedral').

Where is Freiburg im Breisgau?

Freiburg is on the western edge of the Black Forest and situated close to the Rhine river in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwest Germany.

Getting to Freiburg

Freiburg actually has its own airport, although EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg is nearly 50 kilometres away and over the border in France. (The closest major international airport would be Zurich in Switzerland.) The city lies on a major rail link which runs north-south between Basel and Karlsruhe. The train station also connects into the Black Forest towards Titisee and Donaueschingen. Drivers will find the easiest connections via the nearby A5 motorway up and down the Rhine valley while the route to the east across the Black Forest is on a B road.

What to do in Freiburg

Freiburg celebrated its 900th anniversary as a city in 2020 and the pedestrian zone in the old town is full of fascinating buildings with ties to the important moments in the history of the settlement.

But Freiburg is not just a city concerned with its past. It has an international reputation as the 'green city' of Germany and a trip out to the Vauban district will reveal the 'Solar Settlement', a community developed on solar power which is designed to create more energy than it uses.

Freiburg is also closely connected to the Black Forest and has its own favourite mountain recreation area almost on its doorstep, with the Schauinsland cable car and observation tower offering stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

The history of Freiburg

The history of the city of Freiburg goes back to the early Middle Ages and one of the noble German families, the Dukes of Zähringen. Previously there had been a castle on the hill behind the historic city centre (the Schlossberg) but the settlement at the foot of the hill was granted full town rights in 1120 by one of the last of the line.

Freiburg (literally 'free fortified town ') became a prosperous settlement from the charter which granted rights to a market and from the silver mines in the nearby Black Forest.

The last of the Zähringer rulers started the construction of Freiburg Minster, the colossal religious building at the heart of the city. After his death in the early 13th century, the town was ruled by the Counts of Freiburg, who were so disliked by the city merchants that they purchased their independence and immediately signed up with the growing Hapsburg empire.

As the substantial income from mining on the Schauinsland dwindled, Freiburg slowly came to rely on its reputation as a centre of culture and learning. Freiburg university had been founded in 1457 and the rich merchants had encouraged arts and architecture.

The city switched hands many time during the religious and political upheavals which convulsed the continent of Europe from the 1700s for the next two centuries. As a 'front-line' city on the border between France and Germany, Freiburg was a frequent target of sieges and, at one point, the population declined to a couple of thousand inhabitants.

The Napoleonic era saw Freiburg incorporated into the new Duchy of Baden, and the city slowly prospered in the following decades with improvements in infrastructure and increasing industrialisation.

Freiburg was bombed by both German and American planes in the Second World War but, although there was substantial damage and loss of life in the city, the historic minster remained standing.

These days Freiburg is a prosperous city of around 200,000 inhabitants. Around 30,000 of the local population are students and the city university is one of the oldest in Germany.

The city has a reputation for involvement in environmental and social issues and visitors can experience this for themselves with the extensive public transport system or a trip out to the sustainable quarter of Vauban.

The old city of Freiburg

One of the big pleasures of Freiburg city's old town is wandering around the compact pedestrian zone. Those arriving by train into Freiburg Hauptbahnhof just have a short walk across the railway bridge into the city centre.

One of the most popular destinations in the old town is Freiburg Münster, the cathedral with the massive but elegant spire at the heart of the medieval city centre.

The Münster, or Minster in English, took centuries to build, starting out in the Romanesque architectural style and finishing up in as a classic example of ecclesiastical Gothic.

Visitors can climb part of the 116-metre high spire for fabulous views out over the city.

It is surrounded by a square which is used as a market on certain days and by one historic building after another. Many of them have been restored after the severe bombing damage from World War II.

Most walking tours, either independent or guided, will start from the Tourist Information office, which is located in Rathausplatz and is reached on the way to the Minster.

Somewhat confusingly, there is an Old Town Hall (' Altes Rathaus ') and a New Town Hall (' Neues Rathaus '), with the new one (white) being in a slightly older building than the old one (red). Both house local government offices, with the Tourist Information office located on the ground floor of the Old City Hall.

Moving away from the Minster towards the Schwabentor, a clock tower in the former defensive wall around the city, the Schneckenvorstadt is another popular destination in the old town.

Here is where the dyers and tanners worked in the Middle Ages, kept away from the more prosperous parts of the city because of the smell. The waters of the Dreisam River were diverted into channels for their use, forming the Freiburg 'Bächle' (' little streams ') that are a feature of this quarter and which give rise to the nickname 'Little Venice'.

A short walk uphill from the Schwabentour is the Schlossberg, the site of the original fortifications which led to the foundation of the city. The hill offers great views over the old town and is a perfect spot to relax with a local beer under the trees.

Schauinsland mountain

The Schauinsland cable car rises to almost 1300 metres from a valley station that can be reached by tram or bus from the city centre of Freiburg.

The mountain (the name literally means 'take in the countryside') offers stunning views back down into the city and across the Rhine valley, as well as panoramas of the other Black Forest mountains and valleys.

The cable car was opened in 1930. It was renovated in 2013 and is the longest in Germany, covering a distance of 3600 metres.

It is now a favourite day trip with locals and their families who fancy a short hike to a mountain restaurant or a trip up the observation tower. Visits can also be made to a farmhouse museum and a mining museum.

Vauban and the Solar Settlement

Vauban is a district south of Freiburg's inner city. It was once the site of an army barracks and, in the 1970s, became a centre for squatters and housing campaigns.

Redevelopment of the area took place at the beginning of the 21st century and building projects that had an environmental concept were favoured.

One of the most well-known developments is the 'Sun Ship' - a combination of retail and housing structure that relies on solar energy. It is part of the 'Solar Settlement', which aims to produce substantially more energy than it consumes.

The redevelopment of the Vauban district was also deliberately favourable to family housing, and the area now has one of the highest proportions of children in a German city.

Where to Stay in Freiburg

Those looking for a Freiburg hotel room can try one of the options below. Those who prefer self catering apartments or bed-and-breakfast accommodation may prefer to check the apartment and room availability on the map below the hotel listings.

Top-rated hotels in Freiburg

Try one of these highly-rated hotels near the centre of Freiburg:

Check accommodation availability in Freiburg

Check the availability of all kinds of accommodation in Freiburg im Breisgau, from apartments to guesthouses and hotels, with this city map. Zoom in and out using the '+' and '-' signs and use the search box to choose appropriate dates. Click on the price to see more details about the accommodation.

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DESTINATIONS , EUROPE , GERMANY

Unmissable things to do in freiburg, germany.

Sunny Freiburg im Breisgau has a lot going for it. Hugging the western edge of the Black Forest, this university city has a compact Old Town (Altstadt), a show-stopping Cathedral and more cafes and restaurants than you can shake a stick at.

I used Freiburg as a base to explore the Black Forest but quickly discovered that it was a lovely destination in its own right.

Make the most of your visit with my guide to the best things to do in Freiburg, Germany. Whether you are spending just a day here or are using the city as a base for visiting the surrounding area, it’s packed with tips, including places to visit, how to get there, where to eat and where to stay.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

How I Visited (and what I thought)

Make no mistake. Freiburg isn’t a fairy-tale town in the mould of Bacharach or Rothenburg ob der Tauber . But what the city lacks in the absence of wonky half-timbered houses it makes up for a superb cathedral, affordable restaurants, excellent microbreweries and its proximity to the Black Forest.

I visited Freiburg im Breisgau as a solo traveller in August. It was hot and sticky with the mercury nudging 30 degrees.

Given the choice again, I would visit in spring or autumn when temperatures are more comfortable for sightseeing. I also fancy seeing the fall foliage lighting up the adjacent Black Forest.   Winter in Freiburg can be cold and snowy and the city is home to its famous Christmas market.

I stayed here for four nights in Friedrich Boutique-Apartments . This was enough time to explore the city at a leisurely pace and take a few day trips to the Black Forest, including Schauinsland and the Hell Railway to Titisee.

A Potted History of Freiburg im Breisgau

Freiburg im Breisgau is tucked into the southwest corner of Germany, close to its borders with France and Switzerland. It has a population of around 230,000.

The clue to Freiburg’s origin is in its name. It was founded and chartered as a free market town in 1120 by the dukes of Zähringen.

From the early 13 th Century to the 18 th Century it passed hands between the counts of Urach, the mighty Habsburgs, the Bauernbund (Peasants’ and Farmers’ League), the Swedes, the Bavarians and the French. In 1806, Freiburg was returned to the ruling house of Baden.

Allied bombing raids in 1944 destroyed much of the city’s Old Town. However, a handful of historic buildings survived, including the Münster. The Old Town was rebuilt, sticking faithfully to its medieval plan.

My Favourite Things to Do in Freiburg im Breisgau

Hit the ground running with my pick of the bunch. You should be able to cover all these attractions in one relaxed day, but I have included a few bonus destinations later in this guide if you are lingering longer.

Here’s a map to help you on your way. For an interactive map and to send it to your smartphone, click here or on the image itself.

You can use this as a self-guided walking tour of Freiburg . Without any deviations, the total distance is just around two miles .

1. Admire the two town halls of Rathausplatz

Freiburg im Breisgau has not one but two town halls, both of which face Rathausplatz.

Adorned with a double eagle reminding us of the four centuries of Habsburg rule, the red Old Town Hall is on the right. The two-tone New Town Hall, once the site of Freiburg’s university, is on the left.

Mosaic coats of arms representing Freiburg’s sister cities are embedded in the cobbles in front of the town hall buildings. These include Padua in Italy , Isfahan ( Iran ) and Madison (USA).

Rathausplatz is the former cloister of the neighbouring Franciscan Church of St. Martin. At its centre is a statue of Berthold the Black, a medieval monk falsely credited with inventing gunpowder.

2. Float your boat along one of the city’s bächle

Freiburg is famous for its bächle , the narrow canals that have run down most of the city’s streets since medieval times. 

Over the centuries, these “stream-lets” (as their name translates) have stopped fires from spreading and have been a water source for the city. Today, youngsters – and the young-at-heart – like to sail little boats along the bächle . When I visited during a summer heatwave, they were bone dry.

Local legend says that if you fall into a bächle , you will marry a Freiburger. I did and I haven’t. All I got for it was a busted foot!

3. Take a look at the former house of Desiderius Erasmus (House of the Whale)

Rotterdam-born Desiderius Erasmus (1469 – 1536) was a philosopher and humanist who studied extensively abroad to avoid persecution for his views. He lends his name to the Erasmus Programme, a European exchange initiative designed to enable students to gain experience in another country.

Erasmus once lived in the House of the Whale (Haus zum Walfisch) at Franziskanerstrasse 5. This building is embellished with a gruesome gargoyle with a goitre dangling from her neck, one of the many whimsical statues in Freiburg.

4. Marvel at the grandeur of Münsterplatz

When you reach Münsterplatz, twirl around and do a 360-degree tour.

This is Freiburg’s beating heart, dominated by the majestic Münster . Examine the gargoyles adorning the side of the cathedral and try to spot the “mooning” gargoyle.

With your back to the cathedral’s gargoyles, look at the Historical Merchant House (Historisches Kaufhaus). Dating from 1532, this was Freiburg’s customs and trading centre.

The grey building next to the Historical Merchant House houses the City History Museum.

Further to the left is the Alte Wache , a former police station turned wine bar.

A market is held in Münsterplatz every morning except for Sundays. It is at its most lively on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

5. Gorge on the glory of Freiburg Cathedral (Münster)

The lacy spire of the Münster piercing the sky 380 feet above Münsterplatz is one of Freiburg’s most iconic sights. Whilst it is no match for Cologne Cathedral or Berlin’s Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, visiting the cathedral is unmissable even if you have only a day in Freiburg.

Officially called the Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady, work started on this Gothic sandstone cathedral in 1200. It was one of the few buildings in Freiburg to survive the devastation of World War II.

The cathedral’s original stained glass windows date from the 13 th and 14 th centuries, each marked with the seal of the merchant who sponsored it (these were removed and stashed away during WW2). A 12th-century triumphal crucifix dangles over the choir.

Opening hours : These vary from day to day. Check the current opening hours for Freiburg Cathedral here .  

Admission cost: It is free to visit the cathedral. However, a small charge applies to visiting the choir and chapels. In my view, this is €2 well spent and you receive a useful leaflet as part of the deal.

6. Walk along the prettiest streets in Freiburg’s Altstadt

Two of Freiburg’s prettiest streets lie in the heart of the Altstadt. Although the Old Town dates back to the 12 th Century, it was largely rebuilt after World War II bombs levelled 80% of the city centre.

Many of the houses on bächle -lined Schusterstrasse are labelled with mosaic seals, denoting the purpose of the building. Although the houses’ labels date from the Middle Ages, the mosaics are more modern.

Konviktstrasse is another typical Freiburg street. This picture-perfect lane takes its name from a convent and is draped with sweet-smelling wisteria in springtime.

At the end of Konviktstrasse is Salzstrasse where you’ll find the city’s original hotels and pubs.

7. Say “hello” to Freiburg’s crocodile

Formerly the territory of tanners and millers, Freiburg’s industrial quarter has been transformed into a canal-side district. It is home to a few appealing restaurants with beer gardens and the city’s resident crocodile.

8. Stop by Swabian Gate (Schwabentor)

Double back to one of Freiburg’s two surviving gates. Schwabentor is named after the Swabians who were the Freiburgers’ rivals back in the day.

Salt mining was a growth industry in the 13 th Century and the painting on the arch of the gate is of a merchant with his wagon groaning with salt kegs. Below this painting is a small figure pulling a thorn out of his foot, a stern reminder to the city’s residents to steer clear of the “thorns” of sinful living.

9. Take in the views from Castle Hill (Schlossberg)

Once the site of a French 18th-century fort, Schlossberg looms above the eastern end of Freiburg’s Old Town. This hulking fortress, which could garrison 150,000 soldiers, was all but destroyed when the French retreated.

Today, Schlossberg is hugely popular for its unbeatable views of Freiburg and hiking trails of different lengths. If you are short on time, turn right when you exit the funicular and walk five minutes to Kanonenplatz for the best view of the Münster and the forests and vineyards beyond.

Although you can take the path opposite the Schwabentor to hike up to Schlossberg, I recommend riding the Schlossbergbahn (funicular railway). Find out more here .

10. Visit the Old Cemetery (Alter Friedhof)

It may not be everybody’s cup of tea but the Old Cemetery was one of my favourite places in Freiburg.

Alter Friedhof is one of the oldest cemeteries in Germany that have been preserved in their entirety. It was the final resting place for Freiburg’s deceased between 1683 and 1872 and was rededicated as a park after its closure. There are around 1200 tombstones

It is a peaceful and fascinating place for a stroll.  Some of the stone sculptures are wonderfully expressive and some of its gravestones are works of Baroque and Neoclassical art.

Built in 1720, St. Michael’s Chapel (Michaelskapelle) is in the middle of the cemetery. This was badly damaged in World War II but was faithfully reconstructed according to the original plan.   

11. Try the local brew

It’s gotta be done. There’s a very good reason why Germany is very famous for its beer. It is so good.

I’m more of a wine person but you can’t beat a refreshing glass of beer in a biergarten on a hot summer day.

12. Order a slice of Black Forest Gateau

I am certainly a cake person. For one of the best slices of cake in your life, don’t leave Freiburg without trying Black Forest Gateau.

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cherry Cake) is layers of chocolate sponge base sandwiched with kirsch-soaked cherries and whipped cream, topped with more cream, cherries and chocolate flakes. What’s not to like?

11. Visit one (or two) of Freiburg’s museums

If you are looking for a rainy-day activity in Freiburg or want to learn more about the city, make a beeline for one or both of these museums.

City History Museum (Museum Für Stadtgeschichte)

This museum tells the story of Freiburg and has a model of medieval Freiburg circa 1590 and another from the early 1700s. There’s also a wooden model of the cathedral.

Most of the display information is in German only.

The museum is on Münsterplatz and is open from Tuesday to Sunday. There is a modest admission fee.

Augustiner Museum

Housed in a former Augustinian church, this museum displays local fine art and medieval artefacts. Artistic highlights include works by Lucas Cranach the Elder and The Fall of Man , an exquisite Renaissance wooden sculpture.

The museum is on Augustinerplatz and is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Admission fee applies

Exploring the Black Forest & Beyond

Frieburg im Breisgau is a marvellous base for exploring Germany’s Black Forest and the Alsace region of France. These are my favourite day trips.

12. Ride the Schlauslandbahn Cableway

Freiburg’s own little mountain offers the best view of the Black Forest if you don’t have a car.  Rising to 4,213ft (1,284m) above sea level, Schauinsland is one of the highest peaks in the Black Forest.

The Schauinsland Cableway, Germany’s longest two-way cable car system, whisks you 746 metres to the top station. The journey takes 20 minutes.

Pick up a map with suggested walking routes (Wanderkarte) before you board the cable car. These trails vary in distance between 2.5 km and 8.8 km. Although the information is in German you can scan a QR code for English language information.

How I got to Schauinsland from Freiburg

Schauinsland is 6 miles south-east of Freiburg’s city centre

From Freiburg, I took tram #2 (direction Günterstal) to Dortstrasse and transferred to bus #21 (direction Horben), alighting at Schlauslandbahn. The total journey time was around 30 minutes

The Schlauslandbahn operates year-round. However, it is closed for scheduled maintenance twice a year. You can check for updates here .

13. Take the Hell Valley Railway to Titisee

I’m always on the lookout for a scenic train ride when I am travelling and was delighted to stumble upon the Hell Valley Railway (Höllentalbahn).

Don’t let its name put you off. Linking Freiburg and Donaueschingen, it is one of the best ways of seeing the Black Forest without a car. It is also one of the steepest railway lines in Germany, travelling from an altitude of 278 m to 885 m during its 66-mile route.

Trains leave Freiburg Hauptbahnhof every half hour. Check train times and prices here .

Against my better judgment, I stopped in Titisee , a wildly popular lakeside resort but one that is completely lacking in charm. For the first time in years, I caught someone trying to short-change me.

The lake is Titisee’s one redeeming feature and I recommend a there-and-back walk along its western edge.

Stopping in Hinterzarten on the return journey was a better decision. This pretty and tranquil village is famous for its ski jumping.

The town’s friendly Tourist Information office gave me a free map with a short walking trail.

14. Take a day trip to Colmar, France

Looking for all the world like it has been lifted from the pages of a child’s storybook, Colmar is an easy day trip by train from Freiburg. Thanks to its compact size, it is easy to explore Colmar in one day with time left over to sample delicious Alsace cuisine.

The journey time by train is around two hours.

15. Visit Strasbourg, France

With a change of train at Offenburg, you can be in Strasbourg in 1 hour and 20 minutes.

This is one of the prettiest cities in France. Think candy-coloured, half-timbered buildings and meandering canals and you’ll have the measure of the place. Its historic city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to one of the most magnificent cathedrals in France.

Like Colmar, you can hit the highlights of Strasbourg in a day.

Getting There and Getting Around

Getting there.

High-speed trains from other German cities and beyond stop at Freiburg’s Hauptbahnhof. The train station is 15 minutes on foot from the centre of town. You can check train times and prices here .

• Cologne 3 hours 20 minutes
• Frankfurt 2 hours 10 minutes
• Zürich 1 hour 45 minutes
• Strasbourg 1 hour 20 minutes

Basel (BSL) and Strasbourg (SXB) are the closest major airports to Freiburg im Breisgau.

Flixbus operate bus services to Freiburg.

Freiburg is off the A5 Frankfurt to Basel autobahn that cuts through the Rhine Valley . It is an hour’s drive from Basel or Strasbourg.

Getting around

Freiburg’s city centre is very walkable. You can walk from one end of the Altstadt to the other in under 20 minutes.

The excellent tram and bus system is useful for reaching outlying attractions (e.g. Schauinslandbahn).

Where to Stay in Freiburg

As befits a major city, there is a wide range of accommodation choices in Freiburg. Just check that your hotel or apartment has air conditioning if you visiting during the toasty summer months.

There is something for every traveller but here’s my pick of the bunch:

Mid-range – Friedrich Boutique-Apartments

I stayed in this centrally-located aparthotel. Spacious and comfortable, the apartment’s well-equipped kitchen included an all-important washer-dryer and dishwasher. The staff could not have been more friendly.

>>> CLICK HERE FOR CURRENT PRICES

Here are a few other places that I had my beady eye on that might suit other travellers:

Mid-range hotel – Hotel Rappen am Münsterplatz

Stay right in the thick of things in this 3-star hotel overlooking the cathedral. It has a bar and restaurant with an outside terrace on the square and there are reduced rates for solo travellers .

Splurge – Colombi Hotel

Treat yourself to a stay in Freiburg’s only centrally-located 5-star hotel. It has all the bells and whistles that you would expect from a luxury hotel including a swimming pool, spa and fitness centre and a classy bar and restaurant.

Its rooms are elegant and spacious and sometimes there are free upgrades to a swanky suite.

Recommended Places to Eat

Thanks to its large student population, Freiburg is a great place to grab a plate of no-nonsense, affordable German grub. Here are a few places that I tried and loved:

Martinsbrau

Address: Kaiser-Joseph-Strasse 237

This is the place to go in the Old Town for schnitzel washed down with a glass of this microbrewery’s excellent beer. Book ahead or expect to queue for 30 minutes or more.

Address: Merianstrasse 8

If you’ve had your fill of sausages and schnitzel, try this cosy Vietnamese restaurant with outside seating. My meal was excellent and the service was friendly. They don’t serve alcohol but the mango iced tea was sublime.

Solo Travel to Freiburg

Freiburg im Breisgau has something for every solo traveller and most places of interest are within walking distance of the city centre and free or cheap. In my view, it’s a good choice for first-time solo travellers . Its lively student population keeps things real, with affordable microbreweries and restaurants that serve some of the best beer on the planet. Accommodation should not break the bank. Freiburg is well-connected by rail, offering quick and easy access to other destinations in the region and beyond. This is considered to be a safe destination for those travelling alone. The city has a low crime rate and is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere.   However, as with any destination, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. Solo travellers should take standard safety precautions , such as keeping valuables safe and avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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Nøisense / Choked by Gum / Blank! - Record Release

Cafe atlantik, freiburg im breisgau.

Finally!! Nøisense bringt ihr erstes Album raus! Was ist so besonders daran? Die fünfköpfige Band verleiht ihren eigenen Songs einen speziell klingenden Sound: ein Mix aus Rock, Blues und Funk, gepaart mit ein paar geilen Riffs aus dem Metalbereich. Nur so entsteht der volle und warme, aber auch teilweise brachiale Sound von Nøisense. Dieser Sound geht und bleibt nachhaltig im Ohr! !Warnung: Die Texte enthalten Sarkasmus und Ironie mit Tiefgang! Attention please: Wer sich unbedingt eine Scheibe sichern will, kauft sich direkt mal eine Karte im Vorverkauf für die geilste Releaseparty des Jahres im Café Atlantik! Mit ihrer aktuellen Platte „die Richtung stimmt" bleibt die Freiburger Punkrock-Band Choked by Gum ihrem Credo „die Welt ist schlecht, das Leben bleibt schön" treu, und stehen weiterhin für verspieltes und schnelles Schlagzeug im Wechsel, selbstverliebte Basslinien und arrhytmische Gitarrenriffs. Getragen von Front bis drei Stimmen; rau, kratzig, geschrien und zum Scheitern verurteilte Gesangslinien. Punkrock, Ska-Einlagen, Pop und Hardcore in den Mixer gepackt ergeben Mixed-Punkrock zum lauschen, tanzen und eins aufs Auge. An diesem Abend mit dabei sind Blank! – eine vierköpfige Punk-Kapelle aus Freiburg. Irgendwo zwischen Punkrock, Hardcore und Sonstigem angesiedelt, beschäftigt sich Blank! mit persönlichen und gesellschaftlichen Themen, alles in allem aber immer eines: direkt, wütend, ehrlich und mit dem Idealismus, der einem bleibt, wenn sonst nichts geht.

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Cafe Atlantik Schwabentorring 7 79098 Freiburg im Breisgau

Cafe Atlantik Schwabentorring 7 79098 Freiburg

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