Things to Do in Black Forest, Germany

The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a legendary region in southwestern Germany, stretching across Baden-Württemberg from the Rhine Valley to the Swiss border. This enchanting area is renowned for its dense, dark coniferous forests that inspired countless Brothers Grimm fairy tales, traditional cuckoo clocks, and the famous Black Forest cake. The region encompasses charming spa towns like Baden-Baden, picturesque villages with half-timbered houses, and pristine natural landscapes dotted with crystal-clear lakes and cascading waterfalls. Beyond its storybook charm, the Black Forest offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and wellness retreats. Visitors can explore over 23,000 kilometers of hiking trails, discover traditional craftsmanship in local workshops, relax in world-class thermal spas, or drive the scenic Black Forest High Road. The region's unique combination of natural beauty, rich traditions, and modern amenities makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in one of Germany's most iconic landscapes.

Top Things to Do in Black Forest

Black Forest Hiking

Explore the extensive network of well-marked hiking trails that wind through dense forests, past pristine lakes, and up to scenic viewpoints. Popular routes include the Westweg long-distance trail and shorter family-friendly paths around Lake Titisee. The trails offer stunning views of the Rhine Valley and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Booking Tip: Many trails are free to access, but consider hiring a local guide for €50-80 per day for specialized routes. Spring through early fall offers the best weather, though winter hiking with proper gear can be magical. Download offline maps and check weather conditions before heading out.

Cuckoo Clock Workshop Visit

Visit traditional workshops in Triberg or surrounding villages to witness the intricate craftsmanship behind the region's famous cuckoo clocks. Many workshops offer demonstrations of the carving and assembly process, and some provide hands-on experiences where visitors can create their own timepieces. These family-run businesses often span multiple generations of clockmakers.

Booking Tip: Workshop visits typically cost €10-25 per person, with hands-on experiences ranging €50-150. Book in advance, especially during peak summer months. Look for workshops that offer English-speaking guides and authentic handmade clocks rather than mass-produced souvenirs.

Baden-Baden Spa Experience

Indulge in the world-renowned thermal spa culture of Baden-Baden, home to natural hot springs that have attracted visitors for over 2,000 years. The historic Friedrichsbad and modern Caracalla Spa offer different experiences, from Roman-Irish bathing rituals to contemporary wellness treatments. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties for various ailments.

Booking Tip: Day passes range from €16-25 at Caracalla to €25-39 at Friedrichsbad. Book treatments in advance, especially on weekends. Note that some areas require nude bathing (common in German spa culture). Visit weekday mornings for a more peaceful experience.

Scenic Drive Black Forest High Road

Navigate the famous Schwarzwaldhochstraße (Black Forest High Road), a 60-kilometer scenic route that connects Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt. This mountain road offers breathtaking panoramic views, stops at traditional Black Forest farms, and access to numerous hiking trails and viewpoints. The route passes through charming villages and offers glimpses of traditional Black Forest architecture.

Booking Tip: Car rentals start around €30-50 per day; fuel and parking add €20-30. The route is free to drive but allow a full day for stops and photo opportunities. Best visited May through October for clear mountain views. Consider staying overnight in Freudenstadt to fully enjoy the journey.

Lake Titisee Activities

Enjoy the pristine waters and surrounding forests of Lake Titisee, one of the Black Forest's most beautiful natural lakes. Activities include boat rentals, swimming in designated areas, lakeside hiking, and winter ice skating when conditions permit. The charming town of Titisee-Neustadt offers traditional restaurants, souvenir shops, and easy access to hiking trails.

Booking Tip: Boat rentals cost €8-15 per hour for pedal boats, €20-35 for electric boats. Swimming is free but water is cold even in summer. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially in summer. Winter visits offer a magical snow-covered landscape but limited water activities.

Getting There

The Black Forest is easily accessible from major German cities and international destinations. The main gateway is Stuttgart Airport (1.5 hours by car to central Black Forest), while Frankfurt Airport is about 2.5 hours away. By train, frequent connections run from Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich to key towns like Baden-Baden, Offenburg, and Freiburg. The region is also well-connected by the German Autobahn system, with the A5 providing the main north-south access route along the Rhine Valley.

Getting Around

A rental car is the most convenient way to explore the Black Forest, offering flexibility to reach remote villages and scenic viewpoints. The region has an excellent public transportation network including regional trains, buses, and the KONUS guest card (free with accommodation) providing unlimited public transport access. Many hiking trails are accessible by public transport, and bike rentals are available in most towns for exploring local areas and dedicated cycling paths.

Where to Stay

Baden-Baden

Freiburg

Titisee-Neustadt

Triberg

Freudenstadt

Badenweiler

Food & Dining

The Black Forest culinary scene celebrates hearty regional specialties alongside modern German cuisine. Traditional dishes include the famous Black Forest cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte), Black Forest ham, spätzle, and wild game dishes. Local restaurants range from rustic gasthofs serving traditional fare to Michelin-starred establishments in Baden-Baden. Don't miss trying regional wines from Baden, local schnapps, and dining at traditional Black Forest farmhouses that offer authentic regional experiences with locally-sourced ingredients.

When to Visit

The Black Forest is beautiful year-round, with each season offering unique experiences. Spring (April-May) brings blooming flowers and mild hiking weather, while summer (June-August) offers the warmest temperatures and longest days, though it's also the busiest period. Fall (September-October) provides stunning autumn colors and harvest festivals, making it ideal for photography and cultural experiences. Winter (December-March) transforms the region into a winter wonderland perfect for Christmas markets, winter sports, and cozy spa visits, though some mountain roads may require snow chains.

Insider Tips

Purchase a Black Forest guest card (KONUS) through your accommodation for free public transportation throughout the region

Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service (typically 2:30-5:30 PM), so plan meal times accordingly

Cash is still preferred in many small villages and traditional establishments, so carry euros as backup to credit cards

Things to Do in Black Forest