Top 10 Things To Do in Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is located on the western edge of the Black Forest, right on the border with France. The town is small, elegant and world-famous for its spa culture. Back in the days, even the Romans bathed in the warm thermal waters of Baden-Baden. Later, emperors, artists and aristocrats travelled here to enjoy them. Today, this refined history blends seamlessly with a relaxed, modern lifestyle.

What makes Baden-Baden so special is this unique mix of magnificent architecture, green parks, culture and nature all combined. You can stroll through Baden-Baden’s old town in the morning, visit a museum at lunchtime, hike in the forest in the afternoon and float in the thermal waters in the evening. All thee makes the city ideal for a weekend break or even an extended trip.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning, Baden-Baden never fails to surprise. Below are the top 10 things to do in Baden-Baden that you shouldn’t miss.

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Practical information before the trip

Getting there: Baden-Baden is easily accessible by train, with direct ICE connections stopping at Baden-Baden station. From there, regular buses run into the city centre. If you’re arriving by car, the city can be reached quickly via the A5 motorway.

Getting around the city: Most Baden-Baden attractions are close together and easy to explore on foot. The public transport is regular and reliable.

Best time to visit: Baden-Baden is a great destination all year round. Spring and autumn are perfect for walking and sightseeing. Winter is ideal for bathing in thermal waters and visiting Christmas markets, while summer is great for nature outings and excursions.

The top 10 activities & sights in Baden-Baden

1. Baden-Baden’s old town

Baden-Baden’s old town is the perfect place to start your trip. Narrow streets, elegant boutiques and historic façades shape the character of this charming city. This charm is especially noticeable around Florentinerberg and Sophienstraße.

Here you’ll find:

• cafés with terraces
• small galleries
• classic patisseries

The old town isn’t large, but it’s full of tourist attractions, which makes it ideal for a relaxed stroll with no set plan. Visting the old town is the perfect start to sightseeing in Baden-Baden.

 

2. Caracalla Therme

Ask anyone about the best things to do in Baden-Baden, and thermal baths always come on top of the list. The Caracalla Therme is one of the two most famous and globally renowned spas in the city.

You can expect:

• indoor and outdoor pools with thermal water
• a large sauna area
• steam baths

On colder days, the Caracalla Therme is one of the most popular indoor attractions in Baden-Baden and a must for wellness lovers.

3. Friedrichsbad

The Friedrichsbad is a historic bathhouse that combines Roman and Irish bathing traditions in a fixed ritual. It offers a very different experience from the Caracalla Therme, but one that is no less fascinating.

What to expect:

• over 150 years of history
• impressive architecture
• a calm, almost meditative atmosphere

For many visitors, Friedrichsbad ranks among the most memorable attractions in Baden-Baden.

 

4. Lichtentaler Allee

Lichtentaler Allee is the green heart of the city and one of the most. beautiful places to visit in Baden-Baden. The park stretches for several kilometres along the River Oos, lined with old trees, flower beds and elegant bridges.

Highlights along the avenue include:

• the Frieder Burda Museum
• the Gönneranlage rose garden
• views of historic villas

Whether in the morning or evening, this walk is a highlight of any Baden-Baden guide.

 

5. Frieder Burda Museum

Set within the greenery of Lichtentaler Allee, the Frieder Burda Museum stands out both architecturally and culturally. Inside, you’ll find works by Picasso, Gerhard Richter and many others.

Why it’s worth a visit:

• rotating international exhibitions
• modern architecture
• an unbeatable location

For both art-lovers and for visitors new to art, the visit to Frieder Burda Museum is one of the best things to do in Baden-Baden.

 

6. Merkurberg & Merkurbergbahn

The Merkur is Baden-Baden’s local mountain. A ride on the Merkurbergbahn takes you steeply uphill to panoramic views over the town, the Rhine Valley and the Black Forest.

When you reach the top, make sure to:

• enjoy the view
• take a stroll around
• stop for a meal at the restaurant

A hike to the top of the Merkur is one of the most popular things to do near Baden-Baden, especially for those who love nature.

 

7. Casino Baden-Baden

Casino Baden-Baden is often considered one of the most beautiful casinos in the world. Even if you don’t plan to gamble, the interior alone is worth seeing.

Highlights include:

• magnificent halls
• guided tours
• a historic atmosphere

In the evening, the casino truly comes alive and adds a touch of glamour to your sightseeing in Baden-Baden.

 

8. Festspielhaus Baden-Baden

The Festspielhaus is Germany’s largest opera and concert house. International stars perform here regularly, making it one of the city’s key cultural landmarks.

Good to know:

• opera, ballet and classical concerts
• a high-quality programme all year
• particularly popular in winter

It’s one of the city’s top attractions for culture lovers.

 

9. Nature & hiking around Baden-Baden

The Black Forest begins right at the edge of the city. Many hiking trails start directly within Baden-Baden, making it easy to combine city life with getaways into the nature.

Popular hikes include:

• a hike to the Hohenbaden ruins (Old Castle)
• the Baden-Baden Panorama Trail
• Black Forest walks

These are some of the best things to do around Baden-Baden if you enjoy the outdoors.

 

10. Day trips from Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is also a great base for exploring the region. Many interesting destinations are within easy reach.

Popular places to visit near Baden-Baden:

• the Black Forest High Road
• Gernsbach in the Murg Valley
• Alsace, including Strasbourg

A day trip is ideal if you’re staying longer than a weekend.

Bonus tip: Spa Day at the Badischer Hof – Leonardo Limited Edition

A real spa and wellness highlight in Baden-Baden is the Badischer Hof – Leonardo Limited Edition. This luxurious spa hotel is the best place to relax after a long day full of sightseeing.

What makes it special:

• the only hotel with thermal water pools on site
• historic surroundings
• a quiet, relaxing atmosphere

Perfect for a full spa day or a special treat during your stay – a true insider tip.

And the best part: AdvantageCLUB members get 10% off their stay! Sign up now – it’s quick and free.

Baden-Baden is elegant, relaxed and wonderfully diverse. Whether you’re interested in wellness, culture, nature or cuisine, everything is close at hand. Perfect for a weekend, and even better for a few days.

Book your stay at Leonardo Hotels in Baden-Baden and experience relaxation, culture and enjoyment in one of Europe’s most beautiful spa towns.