Situated in south-west Germany, Baden-Baden is a stunning spa town that’s not too far off the border of France. It’s located at the north-western border of the Black Forest mountain range on the small river Oos, offering some of the most awe-inspiring real estate investments in the whole of Germany. If you’re thinking about purchasing a property here and are interested in learning more about the area before you make the move, here are some of our favourite things to do in Baden-Baden.
About Baden-Baden
Nestled in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Baden-Baden is one of the world’s best-known spa towns, recognised for its mild climate and hot springs. The mineral-rich spas that make it so popular have been used since Roman times. These days, you can enjoy a relaxing spa experience at the 19th-century Friedrichsbad and the modern Caracalla Baths, though you can still visit the remains of the Roman baths.
As well as being the perfect place to come and relax, Baden-Baden is great for sporting enthusiasts. Golf and tennis are both hugely popular in the area while there are many famous horse races that take place during May, August and October at nearby Iffezheim. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Baden-Baden is a haven for walking and mountain climbing – especially throughout the summer months. During winter, the mountain range is covered by snow and transformed into a skiing destination and is frequented by those who love to take to the slopes.
Must-See Tourist Attractions in Baden-Baden
If you’re looking for things to do in Baden-Baden, you’ve come to the right place! We know how important it is when looking for a new property that you’re surrounded by an assortment of activities and amenities. Listed below are some top-rated tourist attractions, many of which we believe must be seen and experienced at least once – if not more – in your life. And with you’re new home being so close, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy these things to do in Baden-Baden.
Lichtentaler Allee
Though it may now be a world-famous attraction, Lichtentaler Allee started life as a narrow track which simply bordered fields and pastures. It’s located in the heart of Baden-Baden and is nearly two and a half kilometres long, providing visitors with plenty to explore. The old footpath which dates back to the mid-17th century can be accessed along the west bank of the Oos river. Boasting more than 300 varieties of trees while also being studded with fountains and sculptures and carpeted with flowers, Lichtentaler Allee truly is a lovely place for a stroll, There’s also the Gönneranlage, which is an Art Nouveau garden that features more than 400 types of roses. Whether you fancy a walk, run or cycle along the Lichtentaler Allee, you’re sure to experience something magical. Allow your mind, body and soul to be enhanced by the charming Lichtentaler Allee, one of the most popular things to do in Baden-Baden.
Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths
For more than 2,000 years, Baden-Baden has been a popular spa destination and was once known as Aquae Aureliae. The Roman bath ruins have been extremely well persevered and are a delight to see. However, if you want to experience what the Romans did, there are more modern options for you. 800,000 litres of water a day feed the sleek modern Caracalla Spa, with the 4,000-square-meter bathing and therapy centre featuring two circular pools, a large central fountain, hot and cold rock grottos, whirlpools, swimming pools and saunas. There’s also Friedrichsbad, which offers a luxurious 17-step spa treatment program in a beautiful 130-year-old Roman-style setting.
Altes Schloss Hohenbaden
Hohenbaden Castle was built in 1102 as was home to the Margraves of Baden from the 11th – 15th century. It offers commanding views over Baden-Baden and the surrounding countryside, providing some sights that need to be seen to be believed. The oldest part of the castle is the upper Hermannsbau, which is complemented perfectly by the newer features – such as the Gothic lower castle which was built in the early 1400s. While you explore the castle’s ruins, be on the lookout for decorative details such as a coat of arms carried by angels.
Merkur Bergbahn (Merkur Mountain Railway)
Merkur Bergbahn is popular among tourists and locals alike. It is Germany’s longest and steepest funicular railway and carries people up to the summit of Merkur Mountain. Exiting at an impressive 2,191 ft high, you can ride a free lift to the viewing platform of the stone Merkur Tower for an even more breath-taking experience. From here, you’ll be able to see the upper Rhine, the mountains of the Black Forest, the city of Karlsruhe and as far as Strasbourg in France on a clear day. At the top of the summit, there’s a restaurant, a children’s playground and plenty of grassy areas, so it really is the perfect trip for the whole family. Simply follow the signposted footpaths to discover additional viewing areas and locate the wildlife reserve.
Museum Frie
The Museum Frieder Burda is dedicated to 20th and 21st-century art, concentrating on classical modernism and contemporary styles. There are approximately 1,000 paintings, sculptures, photographs and works on paper housed here, which is why so many art lovers are so fond of it. Designed by architect Richard Meier, the striking building represents the art collection inside. It has been carefully done in a way so that the natural light enhances the art while the exterior aesthetics complement the landscape of the Lichtentaler Allee Park.
Festspielhaus (The Opera House)
Built in 1998, Festspielhaus is recognised for its impressive size. With 2,500 seats inside, it is the largest opera house in Germany. From highly-acclaimed orchestras to world premiere operas, it’s home to an array of performances from September through to July. Music fanatics love attending te the Festspielhaus, so there’s no wonder that there are so many sell-out performances held here.
