Located In Germany's Black Forest Is A Medieval Artsy College Town With A Sunny Disposition

Tucked away in Germany's Black Forest, not too far from the borders of France and Switzerland, Freiburg im Breisgau is a captivating medieval town that seamlessly blends history, art, and youthful energy. Known by many for its sunny disposition, this charming city boasts Germany's warmest climate and a bustling student life atmosphere, captivating its visitors with its fusion of history and vitality. With its picturesque setting and commitment to sustainability, Freiburg has earned a reputation as one of Germany's most livable and environmentally conscious cities.

Freiburg's old town, with its cobblestone streets and Old World architecture, serves as a living testament to its rich past. The city's skyline is dominated by the iconic Freiburg Münster, a Gothic cathedral built between 1200 and 1530. Adding to the city's charm is its network of Bächle, small water-filled runnels that line the streets of the old town, originally used for fighting fires and supplying water. Today, the Freiburg Bächle are used for the Bächle Boat Race, where competitors navigate the canals in handmade, wooden boats.

At the heart of Freiburg's identity is its globally recognized university, the University of Freiburg. The university dates back more than 500 years, yet it is only the fifth oldest university in the country.  The university teaches natural and social sciences and the humanities. Its presence infuses the city with a youthful and intellectual atmosphere, from its lively pubs and restaurants to the environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Freiburg's historic center is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, with the Münster standing as its crowning jewel. With a tower standing at 116 meters tall, once called the "most beautiful tower on Earth" by Swiss art historian Jacob Burckhardt, it offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding Black Forest. Below, the Münsterplatz, or Minster Square, is a hub of activity, hosting a daily market, Münstermarkt, where locals and tourists alike can sample regional specialties and admire the craftsmanship of local artisans. About 130 stalls pop up at sunrise, transforming the square into a bustling place with seasonal events throughout the year.

Despite its deep-rooted history, Freiburg enthusiastically embraces modernity and forward thinking; it is home to numerous museums, studios, galleries, and cultural institutions that showcase both traditional and contemporary art. The Augustinermuseum, housed in a former monastery, displays an impressive collection of art stretching from the Medieval to Baroque period. The Museum für Neue Kunst focuses on works from the 20th and 21st centuries. This seamless blend of history, art, and culture makes Freiburg a truly unmissable and underrated German city.

Many venues around the city, including the university, hold regular sustainability events, and Freiburg's commitment to sustainability is evident in its urban planning and daily life. The city is a pioneer in solar energy and eco-friendly transportation, with an extensive network of bike lanes and a highly efficient public transportation system. The Vauban district, a model neighborhood focused on low-energy homes and a comprehensive transportation network, stands as a testament to the city's dedication to sustainable urban development.

Whether you choose to spend your time in Freiburg itself or exploring the nearby Black Forest, you won't be short of things to do. We recommend beginning your trip by wandering around the Old Town, museums, and cathedral, and exploring the Münstermarkt for lunch. After you've had your fill of medieval architecture, hire a bike from a bike-sharing company like Frelo and follow the FR1, a bike path that follows the Dreisam River. This route will take you through the town via the scenic route, meaning you won't have to stop and wait at traffic lights.

If you want to continue cycling, or swap out your bicycle for some hiking, we suggest heading into the surrounding Black Forest, which provides a stunning setting and a wide array of recreational opportunities and attractions. There are a number of popular cycling routes in and around Freiburg that explore the Black Forest, ranging from easy to expert in difficulty. Radbrücke Elz is a leisurely loop that shouldn't take more than 2 hours to complete, or Freiburg Wiehre has more challenging elevation changes and takes over 3 hours, winding past towns and valleys. If you prefer to travel by foot, Schlossberg Circular Freiburg and Schneeberg and Schönberg are two of the many popular hiking routes nearby. From hiking and mountain biking to skiing in the winter months, Freiburg serves as an ideal base for exploring this picturesque region of Germany.

Freiburg's unique location allows its visitors to experience a delightful blend of art, culture, food, and the outdoors and, much like the nearby city of Strasbourg, is a vibrant tapestry of its architecture and location. After a day of exploring, returning to Freiburg promises a smorgasbord of different culinary options. From traditional German food at Das Blümchen to Mexican food at Yepa Yepa, Freiburg's melting pot of culture, art, and history is exemplified in its dietary diversity. For a Michelin-Star experience, head to Drexlers and enjoy relaxed and modern fine dining made from fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to make a booking, as it is popular and will get busy!