Offenburg Travel Guide

Explore Offenburg, a city in the Black Forest region of Germany, with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, eat, stay, and how to get there.


Introduction to Offenburg

Offenburg is a small city located in the Black Forest region of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. It is popular among tourists for its picturesque countryside landscapes, cultural and historical attractions, and outdoor activities. The city is easily accessible by car, train, or bus, making it a convenient destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Offenburg

Offenburg has an array of cultural and natural attractions that cater to different interests. Here are some of the must-visit places in Offenburg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Museum im Ritterhaus is an art and cultural history museum housed in a 13th century building that served as a former commandery of the Teutonic Knights. The museum showcases an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts from the region’s history.
  • The Salmen cultural center hosts exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances, making it a popular destination for those interested in the arts.
  • The Stadtgarten, a public park with a rose garden and a lake, also has a historic tower that offers panoramic views of Offenburg.

Natural Attractions of Offenburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Ortenau Wine Route, a scenic driving route through the vineyards of the Ortenau region, offers breathtaking views of the countryside and a chance to sample the local wines.
  • The Black Forest National Park is a natural paradise with hiking and cycling trails that traverse through forests, waterfalls, and serene lakes. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • The Europa-Park, located in Rust, is a theme park that attracts visitors from all over the world who want to experience thrilling rides, diverse cultures, and tasty food.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Offenburg

Offenburg is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, and there are many hiking and biking opportunities in the area. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Baden Wine Route, a 160 km biking route through vineyards and small towns, offers breathtaking views of the natural scenery and a chance to taste the local wines.
  • The All Saints Waterfalls, located in the Black Forest region, is a picturesque hike through the mountains with several waterfalls en route.
  • The Black Forest Adventure Trail, a 90 km hiking route, takes you through beautiful valleys and hills, leading to charming villages, and stunning vistas of the region.

Best Things to Do in Offenburg: Activities and Tours

Offenburg offers a range of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Offenburg:

  • Join a wine tasting tour of the region’s vineyards and learn how the local wine is made, from grape to bottle.
  • Take a guided walking tour of the city with a knowledgeable local guide who can show you the hidden gems and cultural highlights of Offenburg.
  • Participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports like kayaking and swimming in the nearby lakes and rivers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Offenburg

If you have a week to spend in Offenburg, here is an itinerary that lets you experience the best of the city and nearby areas:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Offenburg, check into your hotel, and take a walking tour of the city center.
Day 2 Visit the Museum im Ritterhaus and the Salmen Cultural Center. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Stadtgarten park and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.
Day 3 Take a day trip to the Black Forest National Park and explore its hiking trails and serene lakes.
Day 4 Bike the Baden Wine Route, stopping at local vineyards to taste the region’s famous wines.
Day 5 Take a guided tour of nearby Strasbourg, France, and visit its famous Gothic cathedral and charming streets.
Day 6 Visit the Europa-Park for a day of thrilling rides and diverse cultures.
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the city’s local food and culture, perhaps with a bike ride or hike in the nearby countryside.

Food and Drink Scene of Offenburg

Offenburg is known for its local gourmet cuisine and its wine culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages of the city:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maultaschen, a traditional Swabian dish of meat-filled pasta dumplings served in a broth or with potato salad.
  • Flammkuchen, a thin-crust pizza-like dish with a layer of crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
  • Black Forest ham, a smoked ham that is a regional specialty in the Black Forest region.

Local Beverages

  • Local wines, including riesling, pinot blanc, and spätburgunder (pinot noir) are a highlight of the region.
  • Baden-Baden beer, a crisp and refreshing beer made in the nearby town of Baden-Baden.

Where to Stay in Offenburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Offenburg has a range of accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Offenburg:

  • Hotel Liberty is a centrally located hotel with comfortable and modern rooms and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine.
  • Hotel Union is a budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms and friendly staff.
  • Pension Vier Jahreszeiten is a charming guesthouse with cozy rooms and a peaceful garden.

What to Buy in Offenburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Offenburg offers a range of souvenirs and local products to bring home as gifts or to remember your trip. Here are some of the best things to buy in Offenburg:

  • Wine from the nearby vineyards, including local specialties such as spätburgunder and Baden wine.
  • Black Forest ham, a regional specialty and a perfect addition to any charcuterie board.
  • Handmade crafts, including pottery, wood carvings, and textiles made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Offenburg

Offenburg has a warm and friendly culture influenced by its location in the Black Forest region. Local customs include:

  • Greeting people with a handshake or a nod, and using formal titles such as “Herr” or “Frau” when addressing someone unknown.
  • Taking time to enjoy local food, wine, and company of friends and family.
  • Celebrating the local festivals such as the Fasching carnival and the Christmas markets with traditional music and dance.

Best Time to Visit Offenburg

Offenburg is a year-round destination with different experiences to offer during the different seasons. The best time to visit Offenburg is:

  • Spring (April to June) when the countryside is in full bloom and the weather is mild and pleasant.
  • Summer (July to September) when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities such as hiking and biking are at their best.
  • Fall (October to December) when the landscape turns into a colorful array of reds and yellows, and the wine harvest and the traditional Christmas markets begin.

Do’s and Don’ts of Offenburg

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Offenburg:

Do:

  • Try the local wine and gastronomy.
  • Take your time to enjoy the quaintness of the city and the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, including using formal titles and greeting people courteously.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Be loud or unruly in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Offenburg is a safe destination with a low crime rate, but it is always a good idea to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Offenburg

  • Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas.
  • Take extra precautions when driving on rural roads and mountain passes due to the narrow and winding roads.
  • Be aware of the local weather conditions and dress appropriately for outdoor activities.

Health in Offenburg

  • Germany has high healthcare standards, and Offenburg has good medical facilities. It is always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
  • Always practice good hygiene and wash your hands frequently while traveling.
  • Be aware of the local risks, such as ticks and mosquito-borne diseases, and take necessary precautions.

Getting to Offenburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Offenburg is easy to reach by car, train, or bus. Here are the different transportation options available:

  • Airports: The closest international airports to Offenburg are the Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden and EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, which are both about one hour away by car or train.
  • Train: Offenburg has a train station with connections to major German and European cities. The train network is efficient and punctual, making it a good option for travel within Germany and Europe.
  • Bus: There are several bus lines that connect Offenburg with other cities in Baden-Württemberg and Europe. Eurolines and Flixbus are two popular bus companies serving Offenburg.

How to Get Around in Offenburg

Offenburg is a compact city that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. However, if you need to get around the city or beyond, here are the available transportation options:

  • Public transport: Offenburg has a local bus network that provides connections to nearby towns and villages. The bus network is efficient and punctual, making it easy to get around.
  • Car: Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the surrounding countryside. However, be aware that some rural roads can be narrow and winding.
  • Bike: Offenburg is a bike-friendly city with several bike rental options available. Biking is a great way to explore the city center and the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Offenburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Offenburg is a convenient base to explore the Black Forest region and neighboring cities. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring:

  • Strasbourg, France: Located just an hour’s drive from Offenburg, Strasbourg is a beautiful city with a mix of French and German culture, famous for its Gothic cathedral and beautiful old town.
  • Baden-Baden: This spa town, located just an hour’s drive from Offenburg, is a popular destination for its thermal baths, casino, and stunning Belle Époque architecture.
  • Freiburg: This historic university town, located just 45 minutes by train from Offenburg, is a great destination for its charming streets, Gothic cathedral, and famous farmers’ market.

Conclusion

Offenburg is a charming and picturesque city located in the heart of the Black Forest region of Germany. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and range of activities and attractions, Offenburg makes for a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Whether you are interested in the cultural heritage of the region, the natural landscapes, the local gastronomy, or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, Offenburg has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and get ready to fall in love with this hidden gem in Germany.

Schloss Ortenberg near Offenburg Schloss Ortenberg near Offenburg Burg Ortenberg Burg Ortenberg The intersection of Fischmarkt and Steinstraße. Steinstraße is behind and to the left of the camera's point of view The intersection of Fischmarkt and Steinstraße. Steinstraße is behind and to the left of the camera's point of view