Freiburg is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Black Forest’ and is the perfect base for people wanting to explore the popular Schwarzwald. The city is known for its old University and noble Minster, as well as its position among numerous wine growing regions and scenic countryside. On top of that it has been proven to be Germany’s warmest and sunniest city! What more persuading do you need to book a trip? Here’s how we spent 24 hours in Freiburg im Breisgau and your quick guide to get the most out of your time.
24 Hours in Freiburg im Breisgau | Your Quick Guide
Getting There
Freiburg’s location in southwest Germany near the borders of France and Switzerland make it an easy place to reach for a short getaway. The closest airports are EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg and Strasbourg Airport. The easiest way to get from these to the city centre is by coach or bus, which take 25 to 50 minutes respectively. You could also get a taxi if you fancied it.
The city is also well-connected by train, with direct services from major German cities like Frankfurt and Munich, as well as nearby international hubs like Basel and Zurich.
Where to stay
For a short stay in Freiburg I would recommend basing yourself in the Altstadt (Old Town). This way you’ll have easy access to the main sights, transport options and restaurants/ pubs. For a quieter experience, consider the surrounding neighbourhoods like Wiehre, known for its picturesque streets and local feel.
Here are a few suggestions of where to stay based upon what you are looking for.
| Accommodation Type | Hotel Name |
| Affordable Option | Hotel am Rathaus |
| Centralised Location | Boutiquehotel Oberkirch im Zentrum |
| Luxury | Colombi Hotel |
Where to eat
Freiburg is known for its Baden cuisine and many restaurants offer local specialties like Flammkuchen and Schäufele. For a taste of local Baden cuisine, try Gasthaus zum Kranz, a traditional eatery which is known for authentic, local dishes. Another great option is Ganters Brauerei, just to the right of the Merchants Hall. For a casual meal, Hausbrauerei Feierling is a must-visit and you’ll be able to sample some incredible craft beer.
If however you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience, head to Wolfshöhle. This place specialises in modern twists on regional flavours. As well as numerous pubs, beer gardens and restaurants, the Münsterplatz Market is another place to enjoy some of the local food, much of it freshly and locally made. I would also recommend heading to a local café, like Café Schmidt, for authentic Black Forest Gateau (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte).
Baden Cuisine Dishes
The Baden cuisine is some of my favourite in Germany. Much of it comes from Swiss or French influence and much of it is hearty, yet tasty. Some regional dishes that I would recommend are:
Flammkuchen: A thin, crispy flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. It is often referred to as the Alsatian tarte flambée. Think of it like the German equivalent of white Pizza.
Schäufele: This is a traditional Baden dish of smoked pork shoulder. Typically, it is served with sauerkraut and potatoes. Whilst it may not sound particularly tasty, trust me. This is great.
Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte): A rich, layered dessert made with chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and cherries. To top it off, a touch of Kirsch liqueur is added. It is one of the best desserts around and well-worth hunting out.
Badischer Wein: Savor the region’s renowned wines, especially the dry whites like Riesling and Grauburgunder. All of these are produced in the Baden wine region.
Maultaschen: This is the German answer to ravioli. Maultaschen consists of small pasta pockets filled with meat, spinach, and spices.
Käsespätzle: Perhaps the tastiest dish on this list. Käsespätzle is made up of handmade egg noodles baked with tonnes of cheese and topped with crispy fried onions. Think of the ultimate mac and cheese, only better.
What to do with 24 hours in Freiburg
24 Hours in Freiburg is plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere of this quaint Black Forest city. The city is centred around its cathedral and many of the main sights are found within the walkable Old Town.
Freiburg Minster (Münster)
You’ll find the Münster in the appropriately-named Münsterplatz (Cathedral square). This is the city’s largest square, and it is also the heart of the Old Town.. This gigantic red sandstone Gothic cathedral is particularly famous for its towering spire that can be seen for miles around. I would recommend heading inside to see the beautiful stained glass windows. Also, if you want an incredible view of the city and surrounding Black Forest, make sure that you climb the cathedral tower.
Münsterplatz Market
The lively market is held daily (except Sundays) and offers everything from fresh produce and artisan bread to handmade crafts and regional delicacies. Make sure that you don’t miss trying the famous Lange Rote, Freiburg’s long red sausage. You can find them at plenty of stalls here.
Around the same square are a number of pretty buildings. You’ll find these painted in various colours with a selection of intricate turrets, rooftops and chimneys. One of the most striking has to be the Historisches Kaufhaus, also known as Historical Merchants Hall. This is another gothic building on the south side of the square, previously known the financial centre of the region.
Schwabentor and Martinstor
Schwabentor and Martinstor, Freiburg’s historic city gates, are iconic, and also impressive, landmarks in the city. Martinstor, the older of the two, features a charming clock tower which is certainly worth seeing for the impressive fortifications. On the other hand, Schwabentor, adorned with a colourful mural, offers a picturesque glimpse into the city’s architectural heritage.
Bächle
The Bächle are narrow water channels that run through the streets of Freiburg. These add a unique and colourful character to the city’s Old Town. Originally, these were built as a medieval water supply system, but now these little streams serve as a distinctive feature of Freiburg’s landscape.
As you walk through the city, you’ll find the Bächle winding along cobbled streets. It has become a local myth that, should you step or fall into one, then you will eventually marry a Freiburger or ‘Bobbele‘ (citizen of Freiburg).
Fischerau and Gerberau
These two lanes are arguably two of Freiburg’s most picturesque thoroughfares. Interestingly, they received their curious names due to the fisherman and tanners that used to live in the houses that previously lined the street during medieval times. Nowadays though, a number of cafes, taverns and small shops can be found in and around this area.
Schlossberg
Schlossberg is a scenic hill offering some of the best views of Freiburg and the surrounding Black Forest. Whether you choose to hike up or take the funicular railway, the summit provides a stunning panorama of the city’s rooftops and the city’s surroundings. Additionally, at the top, you can explore the Schlossberg Park. Here you’ll be able to relax in its green spaces, or visit the ruins of an old castle.
Oberlinden
This vibrant quarter, mostly spared from WW2 destruction, has kept much of the traditional charm of a German city. You’ll find it just off the main street, incidentally my favourite in Freiburg – the stunning Konviktstrasse. With the wisteria canopy, colourful houses and abundance of endearing shops it is not hard to understand why this is such a popular street. The neighbourhood is also home to the Museum für Neue Kunst for any art enthusiasts.
Additional Suggestions for more than 24 hours in Freiburg:
Augustiner Museum: This museum is housed in a former monastery. It showcases a rich collection of medieval and Renaissance art, as well as modern works from the 19th and 20th centuries. Highlights include intricate altarpieces, sculptures, and paintings by renowned artists. It is the perfect place to dive into the rich history of Freiburg.
Seepark: This tranquil park features a beautiful lake, lush gardens, and scenic walking paths. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful stroll, a relaxing picnic, or even a paddleboat ride on the lake
The Black Forest: No trip to Freiburg is complete without seeing the legendary Black Forest. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails, scenic viewpoints, and gorgeous villages, which are perfect for those who like the outdoors. The highest peak in the forest, Feldberg Mountain, is just a 45 minute drive from the city and is perfect for skiing during the winter.
Titisee Lake: This is a stunning glacial lake found just outside Freiburg, around a 40 minute drive. It is perfect for boating, swimming, or simply enjoying a lakeside picnic.
Freiburg’s Weinbaugebiet (Wine Region): You can easily take a wine tour through the surrounding vineyards of the city. Here you’ll be able to sample the region’s renowned wines, especially the whites from the Baden wine region.
Take a day trip to Colmar: Just a short drive away (53 minutes) is the picturesque town of Colmar, France. This has one of the prettiest Old Towns around, with plenty of colourful half-timbered houses. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy the delicious French cuisine.
Visiting Freiburg at Christmas Time
Freiburg has one of the best Christmas Markets in Germany and you’ll find everything you could expect from one. You’ll be able to shop delicate and unique handmade gifts, many of which are perfect decorations. More importantly though, you can enjoy the vast array of Market food and glühwein. One of the nicest things to do is to go ice skating at Seepark, which I always think is best once the sun has set.
Final Thoughts | 24 Hours in Freiburg im Breisgau
Freiburg im Breisgau is an ideal location for a short getaway, or as part of a larger trip to explore the Black Forest. It has heaps of history and arguably some of the best food and drink in the country. Perhaps best of all though, it is underrated by tourists, meaning that it never is too busy. I hope that you found this guide useful and, as always, please let me know if you have any questions.
