Black Forest

Germany, Europe

The Black Forest, known for its dense woodlands and enchanting landscapes, is the epitome of fairy-tale Germany. It offers stunning hiking trails, scenic lakes, and picturesque villages renowned for their cuckoo clocks. Visitors can indulge in delightful local cuisine, including Black Forest cake, and explore the town of Freiburg, brimming with culture and history. Outdoor activities such as skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer make it appealing year-round, while its tranquil beauty presents a perfect escape into nature.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Active

Airport

Donaueschingen Villingen

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Black Forest

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Hike the Schluchtensteig Trail

Explore stunning landscapes on this scenic hiking route.

No booking required

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Visit Triberg Waterfalls

Witness Germany's highest waterfalls in a beautiful setting.

No booking required

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Explore Black Forest Open Air Museum

Discover traditional rural life in this unique museum.

No booking required

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Taste Black Forest Cake

Indulge in the region's famous rich chocolate cake.

No booking required

Est. 1 hr

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Ride the Schauinslandbahn

Experience stunning views on this scenic gondola ride.

No booking required

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Explore Baden-Baden's Thermal Baths

Relax in luxurious thermal spas and wellness centers.

Booking required

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Visit Black Forest Villages

Wander through charming villages like Gengenbach and Wolfach.

No booking required

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Take a Scenic Drive on B500

Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Black Forest.

No booking required

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Visit the Cuckoo Clock Factory

Learn about the art of cuckoo clock making.

No booking required

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

•

Family-friendly

Skiing in Feldberg

Hit the slopes at the Black Forest's highest mountain.

No booking required

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Visit Titisee Lake

Relax by the beautiful glacial lake and enjoy water sports.

No booking required

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Experience the Black Forest Railway

Ride this historic steam train through scenic landscapes.

No booking required

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

•

Family-friendly

Explore the Feldberg Nature Reserve

Hike through the diverse flora and fauna of the area.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

10 (#8 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

German

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sauerbraten

Marinated pot roast, slow-cooked. (National dish)

Bratwurst

Grilled sausage, often served with mustard.

Schnitzel

Breaded and fried meat cutlet.

Currywurst

Sausage with curry ketchup, popular street food.

Black Forest Cake

Chocolate cake with cherries and cream.

Phrases to learn

English

German

Hello

Hallo

(Hah-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nein

(Yah / Nine)

Thank you

Danke

(Dahn-keh)

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

(Ent-shool-dee-goong)

How much?

Wie viel?

(Vee feel)