Nestling at the foot of the foothills of the Black Forest, Baden-Baden is a green jewel with a discreet charm. Renowned for its hot springs, mild microclimate and sometimes almost tropical vegetation, it attracts jet-setters in search of relaxation as well as lovers of heritage and well-being. So what is there to do and see in Baden-Baden? From elegant establishments to refined boutiques and enchanting landscapes, discover the must-sees in this article.
1. The Caracalla Spa, the jewel in the town's crown
The thermal baths of Baden-Baden are the jewels in the town's crown, offering a unique experience thanks to their natural springs. Discovered by the Romans over 2,000 years ago for their healing properties, these waters continue to attract wellness enthusiasts. Every day, 800,000 litres of spring water flow into the various pools of the Caracalla thermal baths, at temperatures ranging from 18 to 38°C. Inside, you can relax in the rock grotto or in the baths, while the outdoor facilities allow you to take full advantage of the soothing green surroundings. There's no doubt that Baden-Baden is a great choice for a relaxing romantic getaway.
No wonder Baden Baden is one of the 11 UNESCO-listed spa towns in Europe where you can go to warm up in autumn.
2. What to do in Baden-Baden Visit its historic centre
You can't visit Baden-Baden without stopping off at the Kurhaus, the very heart of the town's cultural life! Built in the 19th century by Karlsruhe architect Friedrich Weinbrenner in a classical style, it stands on the site of the old Promenade. Around the Kurhaus, you'll find many symbols of the city, such asthe Trinkhalle and the Greco-Roman chapel. You can also take a stroll through the Kurpark, one of Baden-Baden's most beautiful parks.
Discover the most important places to see in Baden-Baden on this guided walking tour. Along the way, you'll see landmarks such as the Caracalla Baths.
Read also: Top 10 destinations for wellness holidays
3. Take the Merkurbergbahn, Baden-Baden's iconic funicular railway
The Merkurbergbahn is Baden-Baden's iconic funicular railway that takes you up the Merkurberg hill. Over a distance of around 2 kilometres, it takes you to the top station, perched at an altitude of 370 metres, with a gradient varying between 23 and 58%. The climb, which takes around five minutes, is a pleasant, family-friendly experience. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the funicular also gives hikers and nature loverseasy access to the trails and unspoilt nature of the Merkur.
4. Visit the Brahms House
The house where Johannes Brahms spent several summers between 1865 and 1874, the period during which he composed his first and second symphonies, was saved from demolition by the creation of the Brahmsgesellschaft in 1966. The following year, the Baden-Baden society acquired the house, restored it and set up a museum in the composer's former living quarters. Today, the Brahmsgesellschaft has around 340 members, whose subscriptions ensure the running and preservation of this place dedicated to the memory of the musician.
5. What to do in Baden-Baden Enter the Russian Church in Baden-Baden
TheRussian Church of Baden-Baden, or Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord, was built between 1880 and 1882 by the architect Belzer, at the request of the aristocratic Russian holiday community. In pure Byzantine style, this small church is distinguished by its golden bell tower, which glows in the sunlight. Inside, magnificent icons adorn the walls, accompanied by the singing of Orthodox choirs. If you wish to attend, masses are celebrated on the 1st, 3rd and 4th weekends of the month, Saturdays at 5pm and Sundays at 10am.
Read also: What to do in Germany The 17 most beautiful places to visit
6. See the Roman bathing ruins of Baden-Baden
Located beneath Römerplatz and accessible from Steinstrasse, these 2,000-year-old Roman ruins have been fully restored to reveal Baden-Baden's exceptional history. The Romans were already aware of the relaxing virtues of its thermal waters, and set up one of the region's first bathing facilities here. Discovered in 1847, these remains today provide fascinating evidence of the town's past and are well worth a visit.
Read more: 3 reasons to go on holiday in Baden-Württemberg this year!
7. Stroll along the Lichtentaler Allee
Stretching from the heart of Baden-Baden to the Lichtentaler district, this wide avenue is one of the most beautiful in the city. According to legend, it was laid out in 1655 to link the town with the Cistercian monastery of Lichtentaler and planted with oak trees. Two and a half kilometres long along the River Oos, it offersa picturesque walk along an old path dating back to the 17th century. Along the way, you'll also pass through a botanical park with over 300 species of plants, as well as charming little green spaces dotted along the way.
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8. What to do in Baden-Baden Visit the museum dedicated to the works of Pierre-Karl Fabergé
Opened in Baden-Baden in 2009 thanks to Russian billionaire Alexander Ivanov, the Fabergé Museum is entirely dedicated to the works of Pierre-Karl Fabergé and his famous workshop. Originally from St Petersburg, this jeweller is best known for his sumptuous imperial Easter eggs. The museum presents an exceptional collection of gold and silver jewellery, made with precious stones, that once delighted Tsar Nicholas II and his family. Among the museum's other treasures are the Rothschild Fabergé egg, a rare silver decanter in the shape of a rabbit, and the very last Easter egg created by Fabergé in 1917, in gold and diamonds.
Worth knowing: From 1885 to 1917, the House of Fabergé was the official supplier to the Russian imperial court, and these treasures reflect all the refinement of that era.
Read more: Our 10 favourite UNESCO sites in Germany
9. Hohenbaden Castle, an impressive vestige of the town's history
Perched to the north of Baden-Baden, towards Ebersteinburg, Hohenbaden Castle, also known as the Old Castle, is one ofthe region's most emblematic monuments. Built in 1102, it was the residence of the Margraves of Baden until a fire four centuries later reduced its buildings to near ruins. Today, the remains offer visitors an exceptional panorama of the Rhine valley, and on a clear day, the blue line of the Vosges mountains can be seen on the horizon. The ruins of the knights' hall are home to an impressive wind harp. It is also the ideal starting point for walks around Baden-Baden.
If you're a thrill-seeker, we recommend this guided tour of the ghosts, counts and rumours of Baden-Baden. You'll discover the dark past of Solms Castle, the legend of the mermaids in the pond and the arsenic in the thermal water, and what the grey lady lost in the old castle.
10. Enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of Baden-Baden and its surroundings from the New Castle
The New Castle, which dates back to the 15th century and is more recent than the Altes Schloss, was once the residence of the Margraves of Baden. Built on the Florentinerberg hill in 1388 and completely renovated in 1847, this listed building is now owned by Kuwaiti investors. Although the castle is not open to visitors, it is still a splendid site: its terrace offers an exceptional panoramic view of Baden-Baden and its surroundings.
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11. What to do in Baden-Baden Have a drink at the Trinkhalle, lined with flowers
The Trinkhalle, literally "the drinking hall", is located right next to the casino and is 90 metres long and lined with flowers. Built around 1840, it is nevertheless reminiscent of Roman architecture. At the end of the 19th century, it was used for drinking cures, hence its name. Its elegant Corinthian columns support fourteen frescoes by Götzenberger, illustrating local legends and the surrounding forest landscapes. There's also a charming tea room, which is particularly pleasant when the sun is out.
If you're a fan of anecdotes, you'll lovethis guided tour! You'll find out what the Mummy King does in the Trinkhalle, meet Romy Schneider in the spa complex and discover the history of grave robbers in the Stourdza chapel.
12. Visit the Frieder-Burda-Museum
The Frieder-Burda-Museum, located on Baden-Baden's Lichtentaler Allee, was designed by architect Richard Meier. We were attracted to this institution as much by its contemporary architecture as by the wealth of its collections. It houses the private collection of local collector Frieder Burda, and features a vast selection of modern classical and contemporary art. Among the works on display are a number of German Expressionists and some by Picasso.
See also: Top 8 itineraries for visiting Germany
Where to stay in Baden-Baden?
Baden-Baden offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all types of visitor. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel in the heart of the city, a spa for a wellness break, or a cosy, intimate guest house, each option allows you to make the most of the city's spas, parks and cultural attractions.
Here are our top addresses for accommodation in Baden-Baden:
- The most romantic: Hotel Der Kleine Prinz
Bookable herethis hotel has been entirely designed around the theme of Saint-Exupéry's Little Prince. It's a truly romantic work of art! Each room and suite is unique: pastel decor, leopard bedroom, etc. The location is central and ideal for your visits. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a place to pamper yourself, this hotel is well worth a visit.
- The most luxurious: Maison Messmer Baden-Baden
Bookable herethis 5-star hotel next to the Kurhaus is one of the city's leading hotels. Worldly and elegant, it has its own spa area, with a magnificent bath illuminated by its skylight. An establishment that lives up to the city's reputation.
- A well-located option: the Heliopark Bad Hotel zum Hirsch
Bookable right here, this 4-star hotel is housed in a richly decorated 17th-century mansion. It is close to many sights, including the Fabergé Museum and the Frieder Burda Museum. The elegant rooms are decorated in an Art Nouveau style and come with free Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. Pets are welcome at an additional cost.
What to see around Baden-Baden
Located on the outskirts of Baden-Baden, the convent of Lichtenthal was founded in 1245 by Margrave Irmengard as the burial place of the Margraves of Baden. Despite its turbulent history, punctuated by wars and looting, the monastery was never destroyed. Cistercian nuns have lived here for 777 years, praying and working according to the rule of Saint Benedict. The monastery's Gothic chapel houses the tombs of the margraves, testifying to the rich historical and spiritual heritage of this place.
What to do in Baden-Baden in winter
In Baden-Baden in winter, the town is transformed into a veritable treasure trove of charm and relaxation. Here are a few ideas for making the most of it!
- Take advantage of the famous thermal baths to warm up and relax in the heated indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and caves.
- Walks through the Kurpark and along the Lichtentaler Allee are magnificent in the snow, with their tree-lined avenues, sculptures and fountains creating an almost fairytale atmosphere.
- Winter is also the time to savour local specialities in the elegant tearooms and cafés, particularly around the Kurhaus.
- For a panoramic view, the Merkurbergbahn funicular railway takes you to the top of the Merkurberg, offering a panoramic view of the Rhine Valley and the snow-capped mountains.
- The Russian Church in Baden-Baden, with its Byzantine architecture and icons, is particularly warm in winter, and the sound of Orthodox choirs adds a magical touch.
- In December, the Baden-Baden Christmas Market (one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany) and concerts at the Kurhaus create a unique festive atmosphere. You can book this guided tour "Baden-Baden at Christmas" to discover the winter magic of Baden-Baden at Christmas.
- For nature lovers, the forests around the town offer snow-covered hiking trails, while refined boutiques offer souvenirs and handcrafted gifts.
To find out more, read our article What to do and see in the Black Forest in winter? The 10 must-sees.
Book in advance below the trendiest activities to do during your stay in Baden-Baden:
