Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
We were a bit surprised to find so many fun things to do in Freiburg, Germany. Now we are sharing our list to help fellow travelers discover all the sights, too.
We were lured here by the beautiful Black Forest but were equally excited about the historic places in Freiburg Old Town. Of course, any trip to Freiburg would not be complete without local fare, so we made room in our itinerary to eat classic German food!
Best Things To Do in Freiburg, Germany
The first time we even heard of Freiburg, Germany was when we were housesitting in Basel, Switzerland.
We were looking for an easy and entertaining day trip. One where we could enjoy the beautiful spring weather, see a few historic sights and have an affordable meal. (Basel is so expensive! ) So, on a warm and sunny day, we set off to discover some of the fabulous Things To Do in Freiburg.
Our list includes top Freiburg activities that can be experienced in one day. At the end of the post, we include a helpful Freiburg, Germany Map of Sights.
Save, Pin or Bookmark this Freiburg Travel Guide to plan your trip to Europe!
#1 Visit the Freiburg Munster
Officially called the Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady, it sits at the center of Freiburg Old Town, so you really can’t miss it! The incredibly detailed Gothic cathedral was built from 1200 to 1330. Visiting the Cathedral should be at the top of your Freiburg to-do list.
The spire reaches 380 feet into the sky and hanging inside are 19 bells (the oldest date to the year 1285). Although Freiburg was heavily bombed in 1944, the structure suffered little damage. The church is one of the free things see in Freiburg!
Cathedral Market
The Munstermarkt takes place in the square surrounding the church, Munsterplatz. One of the fun things to do in Freiburg is to peruse the market goods.
Flowers, produce and hand-crafted toys are sold from stalls on both sides of the Cathedral. On the north side of the church there a long row of vendors selling tasty German sausages.
While shopping – and eating – don’t miss the blazing red Historical Merchant’s Hall. It’s one of the most beautiful buildings in Freiburg and it sits on the south side of the square. The market is open every morning except on Sundays.
#2 Explore the Freiburg Old Town
The city was established as a ‘Fortified Town of Free Citizens’ (a loose translation of the name Freiburg) in the year 1120.
Although various rulers and wars have left their mark here, a preserved (and in some cases re-created) Old Town occupies the center today. Exploring the ancient cobblestone lanes is one of the top Freiburg things to do.
Old Town Freiburg Sights
The historic Old Town is small and walkable, making Freiburg sightseeing simply enjoyable. During our visit we literally stumbled onto many attractions, but we are listing the ones you really shouldn’t miss.
Freiburg Schwabentor
The Schwabentor Tower – or the Swabian Gate – has stood in Freiburg since the year 1250 as part of the city’s fortifications. The gate features a striking clock and two interesting paintings.
On the side of the tower that faces towards town, there is a picture of a traveling merchant. This image also comes with a legend.
According to the tale, a man came to Freiburg to buy the town with two barrels of gold. However, when he arrived, he found out his wife had taken the gold and filled the barrels with sand!
On the outside of the tower facing away from the city is a painting of St. George, the Patron Saint of Freiburg. Inside the Schwabentor Tower is a small museum, Zinnfigurenklause, that features small figurines.
Martinstor
The Martinstor Tower – or Martin’s Gate – is another one of the remaining Freiburg city gates. It officially dates to 1238, but research proves that the beams are even older, possibly from the year 1202. The tower no longer features a painting (it was removed in 1951), but there is a clock and a plaque commemorating the burning of three witches in 1599.
Freiburg Rathaus
The Old Town Hall and New Town Hall sit next to each other on a pleasant square, Rathausplatz. The New Town Hall was built in the mid-1500s as a duplex house. It was used by the university for 300 years and in 1901 became the New Town Hall.
The bright red Old Town Hall has been owned by the city since the 14th century and features several coats of arms. Part of the famous Freiburg Christmas Market is held on Rathausplatz. In fact, there are several fantastic European Christmas Markets that take place around the region!
Augustiner Museum
Visitors looking for things to do in Freiburg on a rainy day can add the Augustiner Museum to their trip itinerary. The small museum is housed in an old monastery and features art works from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. There is a small fee to enter.
Freiburg Bachle
One of the unusual things to do in Freiburg, Germany is to look for the Bachle – which are man-made water channels.
Running along the Old Town lanes, the narrow ditches of streaming water date to the 13th century. The flow was diverted from the Dreisam River as a source of water to battle fires and provide drink for livestock.
When the use for the bachle became obsolete, residents fought to keep the unique system of irrigation. Today, the water is said to keep the town cool in the summer. Kids play with boats and, according to legend, anyone who steps in the water is destined to marry a local!
#3 Hike in the Freiburg Black Forest
Freiburg is nestled at the base of Schlossberg (or Castle Hill), on the western edge of the German Black Forest. Which means Freiburg hiking is only steps away from the historic Old Town. These trails often lead to scenic viewpoints and castle remains.
However, one of the best things to do is hike to (and up) the Schlossbergturm. This 114-foot-tall observation tower provides stunning 360-degree views over the region.
Freiburg Old Town Hike to Scholossbergturm
We took a break from sightseeing and started our hike near the Schwabentor Tower. Most of the trails were not marked, but there were picture plaques of the Schlossbergturm with arrows to guide our way.
More Things To Do in the Freiburg Black Forest
Visitors who prefer not to hike, but still want to walk in the Black Forest, can take the Schlossbergbahn, a funicular railway that links the Old Town to the forest.
On the other hand, those who want a deeper Black Forest experience can take the nearby cable car to the top of Schauinsland mountain. From the gondola, there are expansive views across the Rhine Valley.
Freiburg Attractions for Nature
Other places to visit for a dose of nature are Colombipark, Stadtgarten, Seepark and the Freiburg Botanical Garden.
#4 Stroll the Old Freiburg Cemetery
Although some may think visiting a cemetery is spooky, visiting the Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery) is definitely one of the top Freiburg, Germany things to do. The cemetery was used for local burials from 1683 until 1872.
The gravestones range from simple and modest to detailed sculptures. Both the history and the art are what makes the cemetery one of the Freiburg tourist attractions today.
We took our time strolling through the plots and looking for dates on the longstanding headstones. We noted how some were crumbling and covered in moss and other graves were in pristine condition.
While we were at Alter Friedhof, we noticed many locals enjoying the cemetery as a park by walking their dogs and having picnic lunches.
#5 Drink Beer at a Freiburg Brewery
When in Germany, drink beer. When is Freiburg, drink Freiburg beer! It’s even better if you can consume it outdoors in a classic German beer garden. On our quick trip, we managed to sample beers from three breweries. Someone has to do it, right?
Hausbrauerei Feierling
Feierling Brewery first opened in 1877 near the current location on Augustinerplatz – and the brew master is a 4th generation Feierling. The beer is brewed in-house (tours are available), but the main feature of Hausbrauerei Feierling is the spacious and lively Biergarten.
Ganter Brauereiausschank
The Ganter Brewery is a family-run business that was founded in 1865. The brewery, where they also offer tours, is on the outskirts of town and can be easily seen from the top of the Schlossbergturm. However, there is the Ganter Brewery Bar located on Munsterplatz where guests can get a taste in a wonderful setting.
Martin’s Brau
Martin’s Brew opened in 1989 in the Markthalle. In addition to the standard beers produced at Martin’s Brau, they also make small-batch, seasonal specialties.
#6 Eat German Food
What goes best with German beer? German food, of course! And there are many Freiburg restaurants serving delicious, hearty German meals. Some of the menu items we were searching for were Brezels (soft pretzels), Spatzle (noodle dish), Flammkuchen (thin pizza) and Sausages with Kraut.
What To Eat in Freiburg
We coordinated our sightseeing to be at the city center cathedral at lunchtime. We joined both tourists and locals for one of the locally famous ‘Lange Rote’. A foot-long sausage served in a baguette with sautéed onions.
In the early evening, we snacked on brezels while sipping our beers. When we were ready for dinner when we sat down at Martin’s Brau.
Disappointed to see that Flammkuchen was not on the menu, we opted for the local Spatzle (with bacon, onions and beer sauerkraut). We added farmhouse sausages (because when in Germany there is no such thing as too many sausages) and it was delicious!
Freiburg Map of Sights
Use this Google Map to find an online version of our Top Things To Do in Freiburg, Germany Map below.
Tips for your Trip to Freiburg, Germany
We have shared our top tips for what to see in Freiburg – but we have a few more important details for your visit.
Planning a Trip to Freiburg
Using our list, it is fairly easy to sort out what to see and do in the city. However, as you make your travel plans, you will need to keep track of all the trip details. We recommend using our Trip Planning Printables to get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Germany!
Tourist Information
If you want additional ideas of what to do, make the Freiburg Tourist Information Office your first stop. It’s located in the Old Town Hall on Rathausplatz.
Best Time to Visit Freiburg
There are reasons to visit in every season, but we have some info about what kind of weather you can expect throughout the year.
Summer
Summertime is warm and wonderful! Visitors will be able to enjoy all of the outdoor activities. Such as strolling the old town, hiking in the hills and drinking in outdoor beer gardens. But there is a chance of rain throughout the summer months – so be sure to bring a raincoat and travel umbrella.
Spring and Autumn
The shoulder seasons are spring and autumn – but we think it’s a great time to travel to Freiburg! The weather is cooler, but not cold – which we think is ideal for exploring (especially hiking).
Wintertime
While it does get quite cold during the winter months, it can still be a fantastic time to visit. In fact, one of the great things to do in Freiburg in winter is go to the fun Christmas markets!
How To Get to Freiburg, Germany
We took the Basel to Freiburg train and saved money by purchasing a Regional Day Ticket. The train took about one hour. There is a faster ICE train, but it is not included with the Regional Day Ticket. A visit to Freiburg can also be added on to a Trip to Colmar or Strasbourg, France!
Freiburg Airport
Looking for an airport near Freiburg, Germany? The EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL) is the closest at 29 miles away in Saint-Louis, France. Read our hints for finding the best fares on airline tickets and then hop on SkyScanner.
Freiburg Train Station
The main station is located west of the Old Town, but within easy walking distance. Well-connected to other cities, day trips from Freiburg are easy to organize.
Where To Stay in Freiburg, Germany
Visitors staying for longer than one day will find many places to stay in Freiburg close to the city center. Use our tips for finding the best hotels and great Airbnb’s before you book your trip!
Freiburg Hotels
Check to see if there are rooms available at these highly-rated properties. Motel One Freiburg, Colombi Hotel, Hotel Oberkirch – or start searching on Booking.com.
What You Will Need for Your Trip to Freiburg
Whether spending one day in Freiburg or staying for an entire week, there are a few items you will want to have. We share more hacks on our Travel Packing page. For now, grab your FREE Packing Checklist!
The Right Shoes
Flip flops are fine for an Old Town tour. If you are planning on hiking the trails in the Black Forest, be sure to bring a good pair of travel shoes.
Travel Camera
This area of Germany is gorgeous! For your trip, upgrade to a real camera that takes exceptional photos. We always travel with our trusty Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens.
Day Pack
Whether you travel with a backpack or suitcase, a versatile day bag is always a good idea. We like to use small backpacks to stow all our everyday travel items. Read the reviews in our post on the Best Travel Day Bags.
Start planning your trip to Germany! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Visiting More Top Cities in Germany?
- Get our complete Guide to Berlin
- See the absolute Best of Munich
- Find all about What To Do in Frankfurt
- Use our top tips for Things To Do in Dusseldorf
- Don’t miss the historic sights of Dresden
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
