WHAT TO DO IN FREIBURG, GERMANY

Freiburg is a German university city out of the main English speaking tourist flow that runs Munich to Berlin and yet central in Europe.

It is a beautiful, walkable city on the edge of the Black Forest known for being in the sunniest corner of the country.

The university and its students keep it vibrant and cultural. It is a good base to explore this region with day trips to the nearby spa towns and the numerous hiking opportunities of the forest nearby.

Start with walking around the old town with its historic buildings and relaxing squares.

Go to the Cathedral square in the morning to see the farmer’s market and eat a sausage from the stands there.

Explore the side streets and step over the Bächle, the tiny water rills along many streets which are unique to Freiburg.

See the iconic Martin’s Tor (one of the former city gates) with the McDonalds in it.

Then head up the Schlossberg (Castle hill). There are stairs and an elevator at Schwabentor (another former city gate) that head up. The mountain is an extension of the black forest and is terraced.

At one level there is a beer garden with views of the whole city. The next level up is Cannonenplatz with seats and views as well. Further up is a lookout tower to climb.

The city itself is pretty relaxing, so to “do stuff” you need to leave town for a bit.

If you like a good walk, head down to the river and start walking. My favorite direction is east toward the forest. You can walk for miles along the river. In the summer the banks are a popular hangout.

The city itself is pretty relaxing, so to “do stuff” you need to leave town for a bit.

If you like a good walk, head down to the river and start walking. My favorite direction is east toward the forest. You can walk for miles along the river. In the summer the banks are a popular hangout.

Stühlinger is the other side of the train tracks and mainly a student area. More little neighborhood cafes here.

Gunterstal is the end stop on the green line going south. It is almost a self-enclosed village of its own with expected charm.

Where to Eat in Freiburg

I’ve got a whole post at Grounded Traveler of places to eat in the Freiburg old town for more detail.

The best food for a quick lunch is at the Markthalle, a food court of many ethnic food stands right near the center.

If you want something more upscale try the Schloß Cafe. An old hunting lodge on a hill with great views, although a bit of a walk from the center.

You Can’t Visit Freiburg Without Eating…

Flammkuchen. It is a thin crispy dough with cream sauce and toppings. So a bit like a pizza, but not. The classic toppings of onion and bacon are from just over the river in Alsace France. A lot of places in town serve it and most will put just about anything you want on it.

Best Place for a Night on the Town in Freiburg

Hit up Niemannstrasse near the University. There are a number of bars and cafes that are open late. In summer sitting out side is an easy and enjoyable prospect.

Flammkuchen. It is a thin crispy dough with cream sauce and toppings. So a bit like a pizza, but not. The classic toppings of onion and bacon are from just over the river in Alsace France. A lot of places in town serve it and most will put just about anything you want on it.