Things to See and Do in Freiburg, Germany 🇩🇪
Freiburg’s charming Old Town and the nearby Black Forest
Freiburg is a vibrant city in southwest Germany, right at the edge of the Black Forest. With its Gothic cathedral, cobbled streets, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s one of the most enjoyable cities to visit in southern Germany.
It’s also the perfect base for exploring the Black Forest, offering great transport links, plenty of hotels, and easy day trips to lakes, mountains, and forest trails.
Schwabentor -Medieval Gate
Why Stay in Freiburg
Perfect mix of city and nature – Freiburg blends lively urban life with quick access to the Black Forest.
Student energy – Home to the University of Freiburg, giving the city a young, vibrant feel with plenty of cafés, bars, and cultural events.
Easy day trips – Reach Titisee Lake, Triberg Waterfalls, or the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse scenic drive in under an hour.
Compact and walkable – The city center is easy to explore on foot, bike, or by tram.
Stress-free travel – Great public transport and laid-back atmosphere make it ideal for travelers who want both culture and nature in one stop.
Getting to Freiburg
By Train: Direct connections from Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Munich, and Basel. The main station is right in the city center.
By Car: Easily reached via the A5 motorway. Having a car is helpful for exploring nearby Black Forest villages.
Getting Around
Getting around Freiburg by tram | Photo by Leonard Richards from Pexels
Freiburg is one of Germany’s greenest cities. Walking and cycling are the norm, and the tram system makes getting around quick and affordable. A day pass costs about €6.
Top Things to See and Do in Freiburg
1. Münsterplatz
Currywurst in hand, sunshine on Münsterplatz — Freiburg at its finest.
Freiburg’s main square is full of life, surrounded by historic buildings and daily markets (except Sundays).
Grab a local snack and admire the Freiburg Minster, the Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline.
2. Freiburg Minster (Freiburger Münster)
The Freiburg Minster with its buzzing market out front
This cathedral is one of Germany’s Gothic masterpieces. Climb the 116-meter tower for panoramic views of the city and the Black Forest.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained-glass windows and medieval art.
3. Merchants’ Hall (Historisches Kaufhaus)
Freiburg’s bright red Renaissance gem, the Merchants’ Hall
Located on Münsterplatz, this 16th-century red Renaissance building symbolizes Freiburg’s trading history.
Its ornate façade makes it one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
4. Schlossbergbahn and Schlossberg Hill
Grapevines, rooftops, and the Black Forest — the view from Schlossberg Hill
Take the funicular railway up Schlossberg Hill for the best views over Freiburg.
At the top, enjoy forest walks, castle ruins, and the Schlossbergturm lookout tower.
5. Wasserterrassen (Water Terraces)
The Wasserterrassen — Freiburg’s go-to spot on a hot day
Cooling off at the Wasserterrassen on a sunny afternoon
A calm spot along the Dreisam River where locals relax and enjoy nature within the city.
It’s perfect for a quiet stroll, picnic, or coffee by the water.
6. Schwabentor
The historic Schwabentor marking the entrance to Freiburg’s Old Town
One of Freiburg’s two remaining medieval gates, Schwabentor marks the entrance to the Old Town.
Its tower mural tells the story of a merchant who tried to buy the city with sacks of sand.
7. Freiburg Old Town (Altstadt)
Freiburg Old Town in Three Words: Canals, Bikes, Boats
Wander through narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and small canals called Bächle.
Legend says stepping into one means you’ll marry a Freiburger — consider yourself warned.
8. Local Markets and Shops
Fresh Finds at Münsterplatz Market
The daily market at Münsterplatz sells local cheese, bread, flowers, and Black Forest honey.
Around the Old Town, browse boutique shops for crafts and souvenirs.
9. Outdoor Adventures
Looking out over Freiburg’s rooftops, grapevines, and the Black Forest beyond
Freiburg is surrounded by nature. You can easily reach hiking trails, lakes, and scenic drives in the Black Forest.
Great day trips include Titisee, Triberg, and Feldberg Mountain, the region’s highest peak.
Where to Eat in Freiburg
Markthalle Freiburg (€) – Indoor market with international food stalls and local favorites.
Hausbrauerei Feierling (€) – Family-run brewery known for craft beers and hearty German food.
Zum Rauhen Mann (€€) – Cozy restaurant serving Swabian specialties like Maultaschen and Sauerbraten.
Dattler Schlossbergrestaurant (€€€) – Elegant dining with panoramic views from Schlossberg.
Schlappen (€) – A student favorite for casual meals, burgers, and beer.
Gasthaus Löwen (€€) – Traditional German restaurant with rustic charm and excellent schnitzel.
Where to Stay in Freiburg
Sweet Welcome: Haribo Goldbären on Arrival
StayInn Hostel (€) – Affordable, central, and great for solo travelers or backpackers.
Hotel Barbara (€€) – Comfortable and close to the train station, perfect for couples or short stays.
Colombi Hotel (€€€) – Luxury five-star hotel with top-tier service in the city center.
Staying in Freiburg means you’re close to everything — and perfectly placed for day trips throughout the Black Forest without losing the comfort and convenience of a lively city.
Freiburg’s Cathedral Market — Where History Meets Everyday Life
Other Places to Visit Around Freiburg
Freiburg makes a fantastic base for exploring the Black Forest. Here are a few nearby places that are worth a visit:
Titisee: A beautiful lake surrounded by dense forest, perfect for a relaxing day out.
Triberg: Known for its stunning waterfalls and cuckoo clocks, Triberg is the quintessential Black Forest experience.
Schwarzwaldhochstrasse: This scenic drive offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Black Forest. It’s especially beautiful in autumn when the trees turn golden and red.
Thoughts
Greenery framing Freiburg’s cathedral roof, with the town and hills stretching beyond.
Freiburg blends old-world beauty, youthful energy, and easy access to nature.
It’s historic without being dull, green without being sleepy, and small without ever feeling boring.
Whether you’re climbing the cathedral tower, sipping local beer under the sun, or taking a day trip into the forest, Freiburg offers the best of southern Germany in one place.
It’s not just a stop in the Black Forest — it’s the smart, scenic, and satisfying place to stay.
