The Black Forest is far more than just a low mountain range with dense fir forests and charming cuckoo clocks. It is one of the most diverse and exciting holiday regions in Europe and offers wonderful destinations for day tripsWhere else can you hike along historic trails across alpine ridges in the morning, stroll barrier-free through the treetops of giant trees in the afternoon, and end the day with a thrilling roller coaster ride or on the banks of Europe's largest waterfall?
Those who spend their holidays here often face a luxurious dilemma: the selection of fantastic destinations is practically endless. To make your trip planning as easy and enjoyable as possible, we've compiled the region's absolute highlights into the ultimate guide. Whether you're seeking a pure adrenaline rush, want to enjoy the tranquility of nature as a hiker, or are planning a trip for three generations – here are the five places that absolutely must be on your Black Forest bucket list.
1. Europa-Park in Rust: Limitless action and emotions for the whole family
Nestled in the Rhine plain on the western edge of the Black Forest lies a place that sets global standards. Europa-Park in Rust has been voted the best theme park in the world multiple times – and deservedly so. Across a gigantic area, 19 lovingly and meticulously designed European themed areas await you.
From the Icelandic volcanic landscape surrounding the enormous wooden roller coaster "Wodan" to the French quarter with the striking Eurosat – CanCan Coaster; here you immerse yourself in completely different worlds.
Facts & travel information: Europa-Park
- Location: Roland-Mack-Ring 1, 77977 Rust, Baden-Württemberg.
- Category: Leisure and theme park.
- special feature: Over 100 attractions, top-class international shows and first-class, award-winning park catering.
- Target group: Perfect for adrenaline junkies, families with young children, and connoisseurs.
Ticket tips and excursions for all generations
Good preparation is key for Europa-Park. To get the most out of your day and save on your holiday budget, you should definitely buy your tickets in advance. There's now a significant surcharge at the ticket booths on site, which you can easily avoid. You'll find all the current prices, insider tips for saving money, and direct booking links in our detailed overview for Europa-Park Tickets & Prices.
A visit to Rust isn't just for teenagers, by the way. The park is so spacious and beautifully landscaped that it's perfect for multi-generational trips. If you'd like to know how grandparents and grandchildren can enjoy the perfect day together, read our guide: A day at Europa-Park with the grandparents.
2. In the footsteps of the pioneers: Trekking on the legendary Westweg trail
Anyone wanting to experience the Black Forest in its purest, most pristine form must lace up their hiking boots. And there's no better path for that than the... legendary west wayIt is the oldest and probably best-known long-distance hiking trail in all of Germany. It was established in 1900 by Black Forest Association Created by the trail, it guides hikers along the distinctive red diamond from Pforzheim in the north down to Basel in Switzerland in the south.
Facts & travel information: The Westweg
- Track length: Approximately 285 kilometers.
- Altitude: Approximately 8.000 meters of elevation gain.
- Course: Starting in Pforzheim (Northern Black Forest), via the Feldberg (Highest point at 1.493m) to Basel.
- Landscape image: It changes from the swampy raised bogs (Grinden) in the north to the steep, alpine paths in the southern Black Forest.
Stage planning and overnight stay
A complete traverse of the Westweg trail typically takes between 11 and 14 days. You can feel how nature changes with every kilometer you hike. But as breathtaking as the wild gorges and high ridges are, after 20 kilometers of hiking with a heavy backpack, a good night's sleep is invaluable.
Along the route, you'll find fantastic, hiker-friendly accommodations that cater perfectly to the needs of trekking tourists (including drying rooms for wet clothes and hearty hiker breakfasts). To ensure you don't arrive to find yourself locked out after a long day of hiking, we've compiled a list of the best places to stay. Plan your tour perfectly with our guide to the most beautiful accommodations. Accommodation along the Westweg trail.
3. Change of perspective: The Black Forest treetop path in Bad Wildbad
In the northern Black Forest, nestled deep in the wildly romantic Enz valley, lies the traditional spa town Bad WildbadHigh above the city, on the Sommerberg hill, there is a structure that shows you the forest from a bird's-eye view. Treetop Walk Black Forest is an architectural masterpiece made of wood and steel, which meanders gently through the dense treetops of the mixed forest.
Facts & travel information: Treetop walkway
- Location: Sommerberg, 75323 Bad Wildbad.
- Length of the path: 1.250 meters.
- Accessibility: The entire path has a maximum gradient of only 6% and is completely step-free. It is easily accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
- Highlights: The 40-meter-high observation tower features an integrated 55-meter tunnel slide inside.
The treetop walk is an incredibly relaxing experience. Along the way, there are interactive learning stations about the local flora and fauna, as well as small balancing elements high above the ground, which make the whole thing extremely exciting for children too.
At the end of the path, you spiral up the enormous observation tower. From the top platform at a height of 40 meters, you'll be treated to an endless 360-degree view over the green sea of fir trees in the Northern Black Forest. For all the details on how to get there by... Summer mountain railway For ticket prices, please visit our detailed [link/section/etc.]. Black Forest treetop walkway as a tourist destination.
4. Natural force at the border: The Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen
For our fourth highlight, we briefly leave the borders of the Black Forest and look south. Just a stone's throw from the German border and the southern Black Forest, a natural monument of absolute superlatives awaits you in neighboring Switzerland. Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen It is the largest waterfall in Europe and a destination that literally takes your breath away.
Facts & travel information: Rhine Falls Schaffhausen
- Location: Neuhausen am Rheinfall / Schaffhausen, Switzerland.
- dimensions: 150 meters wide and 23 meters high.
- Water masses: In summer, an average of 600.000 liters of water cascade down here. per second over the rocks.
- Reachability: From many places in the southern Black Forest (such Schluchsee or Waldshut-Tiengen) can be reached by car in less than an hour.
The on-site experience
You can hear the rushing water from afar, and on the viewing platforms right by the pool, you can feel the cool spray on your skin. A trip on one of the special excursion boats is an absolute must during your visit.
Several boat lines will take you right up close to the roaring torrents. The most spectacular tour is the "Rock Ride," where daring captains maneuver you through the current directly to the massive, water-swirling central rock. You can disembark there, climb the narrow stone steps, and suddenly find yourself in the middle of the waterfall! Everything you need to know about parking (tip: park at Laufen Castle), boat tickets, and the best time to visit can be found in our comprehensive article about... the Rhine Falls of Schaffhausen.
5. Slowing down by the water: Schluchsee and Titisee
After all the action in amusement parks, long hikes, and roaring waterfalls, it's time for pure relaxation. The two large lakes in the Black Forest – the Titisee and the Schluchsee – are the deep blue heart of the region and offer the perfect backdrop for quiet holiday days.
Facts & travel information: Schluchsee & Titisee
- twitch: Ice Age cirque lake, known for its elegant lakeside promenade, cuckoo clock boutiques and views of the Feldberg massif.
- Schluchsee: The largest lake in the Black Forest (reservoir). An absolute paradise for water sports enthusiasts (sailing, SUP) and those seeking peace and quiet.
- Motorboat ban: Private boats with combustion engines are prohibited on both lakes, which ensures a wonderful silence.
While Lake Titisee scores points with its more urban spa atmosphere, Lake Schluchsee is ideal for nature lovers. You can rent a canoe or a stand-up paddleboard and glide gently across the clear water, or explore the quiet, hidden natural coves on the 18-kilometer circular trail around the lake. On hot days, the excellently equipped outdoor swimming pools on the shore are also very inviting.
Vacation in the Black Forest
Accommodation in the Black Forest
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions for your Black Forest vacation
Is Europa-Park worth visiting even in bad weather or rain?
Absolutely! Europa-Park is designed to be fun in any weather. Many of the major attractions (like the Eurosat – CanCan Coaster, Arthur, or Pirates of Batavia) are completely indoors. In addition, countless top-notch shows await you in huge theaters and ice rinks, where you'll always stay dry. And with the right clothing, even the water rides are great fun in a light drizzle!
Is it possible to hike the Westweg trail in the Black Forest in smaller stages?
Yes, the Westweg trail is excellently connected to the regional transport network (including the Black Forest Railway). You don't have to hike the entire 285 kilometers in one go. Many hikers choose just two or three stages for a weekend. Thanks to the KONUS guest card, which you receive with your accommodation, you can often easily travel back to your starting point (e.g., your parked car) from your destination free of charge by bus and train.
Which currency is accepted at the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen?
The Rhine Falls are located in Switzerland, so the official currency is the Swiss franc (CHF). However, at almost all ticket offices (boat tours, souvenirs) and also at the parking meters, you can easily pay with euros (change is often given in francs) or conveniently use your credit/debit card for cashless payment.
Are there parking spaces directly in front of the treetop walkway in Bad Wildbad?
There are only a very limited number of parking spaces on the Sommerberg itself (directly at the treetop walkway). The best and most relaxed way to get there is to park your car in the valley in Bad Wildbad (e.g., in the parking garage at the spa center) and take the historic Sommerberg funicular railway up from there. It's not only stress-free, but also a fantastic experience!
