South Hesse Travel Guide

Plan your trip to South Hesse, Germany with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the region's natural beauty, cultural attractions, hiking and biking trails, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to South Hesse

South Hesse, located in the heart of Germany, is a region steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. As one of the most scenic areas in the country, South Hesse is known for its rolling hills, lush forests, and picture-perfect vineyards. The region is also home to a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its museums, historical landmarks, and vibrant local festivals.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in the local culture, or indulging in delicious regional cuisine, South Hesse has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in South Hesse

If you’re planning a trip to South Hesse, here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt: This historic site is a showcase of Art Nouveau architecture and design. Here you can see buildings designed by the most famous architects of the early 20th century and learn about the city’s cultural history.
  • Wartburg Castle: This UNESCO World Heritage site near Eisenach in Thuringia is where Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and visitors are able to tour the castle grounds.
  • Landgrave Castle: Located in the heart of Marburg, Landgrave Castle is a well-preserved medieval castle that dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers, dungeons, and ramparts, as well as the castle museum.
  • Darmstadt State Theatre: Considered one of the best theaters in Germany, the Darmstadt State Theatre offers performances in a wide range of genres, including opera, ballet, drama, and musicals.

Natural Attractions of South Hesse: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Odenwald Forest: This enchanting forest lies between the Rhine, Main, and Neckar rivers and is a great location for hiking, biking, and picnicking. The Odenwald Forest is home to a variety of flora and fauna and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Vineyards of Rheingau: The Rheingau vineyards, located on the banks of the Rhine River, are considered among the best wine-growing regions in Germany. Visitors can explore the vineyards, sample world-class wines, and enjoy stunning views of the river and surrounding hills.
  • Bergstraße Route: The Bergstraße Route is a scenic drive that takes visitors through the Odenwald Forest and vineyards of Rheingau. Along the way, you can visit charming villages and towns, ancient castles, and other historical sites.
  • Zwingenberg Nature Reserve: This nature reserve near Darmstadt is popular for hiking and bird watching. The reserve is home to a variety of bird species, as well as endangered reptiles and amphibians.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Hesse

South Hesse is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

  • The Rhine Cycle Route: This route stretches over 1,200 kilometers from the Alps to the North Sea and takes in some of the most beautiful scenery in Germany. The route passes through South Hesse and offers stunning views of the Rhine River and surrounding countryside.
  • Bergstraße Cycle Route: This 70-kilometer route takes visitors through the heart of the Bergstraße wine region. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Odenwald Forest and the mighty Rhine River.
  • The Rheinsteig: This 320-kilometer hiking trail runs along the right bank of the Rhine River from Wiesbaden to Bonn and offers some of the best hiking in the region. The trail takes visitors through picturesque villages, historic castles, and beautiful vineyards.

Best Things to Do in South Hesse: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for fun things to do in South Hesse, here are some activities and tours to consider:

  • Wine Tasting Tours: South Hesse is home to some of the best vineyards and wineries in Germany. You can take guided tours of the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process from local experts, and sample different types of wine.
  • Canoeing/Kayaking Tours: The rivers in South Hesse are ideal for water sports enthusiasts. You can take guided canoeing or kayaking tours, explore the natural beauty of the region, and discover hidden spots along the way.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: For a unique way to see the region, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Odenwald Forest, the Rheingau vineyards, and the winding Rhine River from high above.
  • Christmas Markets: During the holiday season, South Hesse is home to some of the most magical Christmas Markets in Germany. You can enjoy hot mulled wine, traditional holiday treats, and browse the stalls selling locally-made gifts and crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for South Hesse

If you have a week to spend in South Hesse, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Frankfurt and transfer to Darmstadt.
  • Day 2: Explore Darmstadt and visit Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt.
  • Day 3: Visit Landgrave Castle in Marburg.
  • Day 4: Take a day trip to Wartburg Castle.
  • Day 5: Explore the Odenwald Forest and Zwingenberg Nature Reserve.
  • Day 6: Go on a wine-tasting tour in the Rheingau vineyards.
  • Day 7: Departure from Frankfurt.

Food and Drink Scene of South Hesse

South Hesse is known for its hearty cuisine and delicious local wines. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Handkäse mit Musik: This is a dish of sour milk cheese served with onions and oil. It’s a specialty in the region and is often served with beer.
  • Rindsworscht: This is a type of sausage made from beef and is usually served with sauerkraut and potatoes.
  • Apfelwein: This is a traditional type of cider made from apples grown in the region.

Local Beverages

South Hesse is a wine-growing region, and the local wines are some of the best in Germany. Here are some local beverages that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Rheingau Riesling: This is a white wine that is grown in the Rheingau vineyards and is considered among the best Rieslings in the world.
  • Grauburgunder: This is a white wine made from Pinot Gris grapes and is grown in the Bergstraße wine region.
  • Weißburgunder: This is a white wine made from Pinot Blanc grapes and is also grown in the Bergstraße wine region.

Where to Stay in South Hesse: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Hesse has accommodation to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some suggested options:

  • Maritim Hotel Darmstadt: This is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Darmstadt, with easy access to the city’s cultural attractions. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a spa and fitness center.
  • Hostel Marburg: If you’re looking for budget accommodation, Hostel Marburg is a great option. It’s located in the heart of Marburg, with easy access to the city’s historical landmarks and has clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Hotel Zum Löwen: This charming guesthouse is located in Bensheim, in the heart of the Bergstraße wine region. The guesthouse has traditional decor and an intimate atmosphere, with clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in South Hesse: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting South Hesse, there are many souvenirs and local products that you can bring home. Here are some ideas:

  • Wine: South Hesse is a wine-growing region, and the local wines make great gifts or souvenirs. You can buy bottles of red, white, and rosé wine at most wineries and liquor stores in the region.
  • Marburg Souvenirs: If you’re visiting Marburg, the city has a range of souvenirs you can buy that are unique to the city. This includes mugs, keychains, and t-shirts with the city’s symbol.
  • Handmade Crafts: Local artisans in South Hesse produce a range of handmade crafts, from pottery to jewelry to textiles. These make great gifts or souvenirs that are unique to the region.

Local Culture and Customs of South Hesse

South Hesse and the surrounding region are known for their unique customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the region:

  • Folk Festivals: South Hesse is home to a number of local festivals, including the Bergstrasse Wine Festival, Marburger Schlossfest, and the Frankfurt Book Fair. These festivals are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Language: German is the official language in South Hesse and throughout Germany.
  • Tipping: It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and bars in South Hesse.

Best Time to Visit South Hesse

The best time to visit South Hesse depends on what you want to see and do. The region is beautiful year-round, but the weather and some of the attractions vary seasonally. Here is a breakdown of the best time to visit for different activities:

  • Summer: The summer months (June to August) are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and wine-tasting tours. The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures around 25°C.
  • Fall: The fall months (September to November) are peak season for wine-tasting tours and festivals, such as the Wine Festival in Bergstraße.
  • Winter: The winter months (December to February) are ideal for visiting Christmas Markets and enjoying winter sports like skiing.
  • Spring: The spring months (March to May) are ideal for hiking and exploring the region’s natural beauty. The weather is mild, with average temperatures around 15°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Hesse

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

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: South Hesse is known for its hearty cuisine and delicious local wines. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of the region’s traditional dishes and beverages.
  • Respect the local customs: South Hesse has its own customs and traditions that are important to locals. Be respectful of these customs when visiting.
  • Take part in local festivals: South Hesse has a range of festivals that are unique to the region. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture by attending one of these festivals.

Don’t:

  • Debate the war: Like many parts of Germany, South Hesse was heavily impacted during World War II. Don’t bring up the war or its aftermath unless initiated by locals.
  • Ignore the etiquette: Germans are known for their adherence to etiquette and social norms. Be mindful of this and follow local customs, such as tipping in restaurants and bars.

Safety and Health

When visiting South Hesse, it’s important to take certain precautions to stay safe and healthy.

Safety in South Hesse

South Hesse is a safe place to visit, with a relatively low crime rate. However, it’s always important to take the usual safety precautions, such as keeping valuable items out of sight and not walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.

Health in South Hesse

South Hesse has a high standard of healthcare, and there are many hospitals and clinics throughout the region. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance before visiting, and if you need medical assistance, contact your insurance provider for guidance.

Getting to South Hesse: Transportation Options and Logistics

South Hesse is easily accessible from various parts of Germany and Europe.

Airports Near South Hesse

The nearest airports to South Hesse are Frankfurt International Airport, which receives flights from all over the world, and Frankfurt-Hahn Airport, which is a hub for low-cost airlines.

Bus Stations Near South Hesse

South Hesse is well-connected by bus, with regular services to Frankfurt, Mainz, and other major cities in the region. You can check schedules and book tickets online through FlixBus or Deutsche Bahn.

Other Options

If you want to explore South Hesse at your own pace, you can rent a car or bike in Frankfurt or other major cities in the region.

How to Get Around in South Hesse

Getting around South Hesse is easy, thanks to the region’s well-connected public transport network. You can travel by bus, train, or tram, with most services running regularly throughout the day and night.

Where to Go Next from South Hesse: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Germany after visiting South Hesse, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Heidelberg: This charming university town is home to one of the most beautiful castles in Germany and a charming old town with narrow streets and Baroque architecture.
  • The Romantic Road: This famous scenic drive takes visitors through some of the most picturesque towns and villages in southern Germany, including Rothenburg, Würzburg, and Augsburg.
  • The Black Forest: South Hesse is just a short drive from the Black Forest, a region known for its dense forests, quaint villages, and traditional spas.

Conclusion

South Hesse is a region of Germany that offers an abundance of natural beauty, culture, and history. From hiking and biking through scenic landscapes to exploring centuries-old castles and tasting world-class wines, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in this part of Germany. So plan your trip today and discover everything that South Hesse has to offer.



    Bensheim
    Erzhausen
    Lorsch
    Michelstadt
    Roßdorf