Freiburg is an ancient university town on the western edge of the Black Forest in south western Germany. Because of its culture, history, proximity to both France and Switzerland, its use as a gateway to the Black Forest and its historical city center and University, Freiburg is a major tourist destination.
This historical city has long been considered one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, and the government has also given it an award as one of the warmest cities in the country. This is because it is surrounded by some of the finest Black Forest mountain ranges. To the south and west lie the Tuniberg, Schonberg and Kaiserstuhl ranges and on the east lie the Bromberg and Rosskopf ranges.
Because of its location and climate, Freiburg is a year-round attraction. In early spring, the town usually bursts into bloom while the surrounding mountain peaks remain covered with snow. In winter there is ample skiing available. As it is one of the main wine regions in Germany in the fall, the smell of new wine fills the narrow streets.
Freiburg City
Freiburg is a very old city, founded in 1120 by Duke Konrad of Zähringen as a free market, hence the “Frei” in its name. In 1457 the University of Freiburg was founded, and is one of the oldest and most respected universities in Germany. Having grown together, the University and the town are deeply intertwined, with the main campus lying next to the historical city center.
The largest square in Freiburg is the Munsterplatz, where there is a market every day except Sunday and is home to the imposing cathedral, the Freiburg Munster, founded in 1200.
Shopping, Eating and Drinking
In Freiburg shopping is leisurely, even on the weekends. The main shopping centers are in the Altstad, a pedestrian area and the Munsterplatz. There are numerous little alleys leading off these areas, where the old town can be explored and enjoyed.
Another central square in the old city is the Augustinerplatz which has numerous restaurants and bars. The local brewery has a beer garden overlooking the square. In the old city the traveler will come across little canals running along the streets, called “Bachle”, something unique to Freiburg. These miniature canals have pure water running thru them and provide natural cooling and pleasant gurgling sounds.
Freiburg Sights
Freiburg’s famous landmark is its cathedral, the Munster. Visit its 116 meter spire for a panoramic view of the city. The University, with its campus in the historic city center gives a cosmopolitan air to the city. West of the Munsterplatz there are some more historic sights, the Bertholdsbrunnen fountain and the pleasant Rathausplatz. On the outskirts of the old city lies the “Place of the Old Synagogue”, a square that contained a synagogue until it was destroyed on the “Night of Broken Glass” in 1938.
Freiburg Hotels
Freiburg is well served by numerous hotels, with many in the city center itself. From five star luxury hotels to three star economy and pensions, travelers will have no trouble finding the hotel that suits their budget.
Around Freiburg
Freiburg is the gateway to the Black Forest and is surrounded by many quaint and historical towns. The Schauinsland Cable Car runs more than two miles to the summit of Schauinsland, a mountain within the city’s confines and is a spectacular way to view the city. For children and the young at heart, 20 miles to north is the “Europa Park”, a theme park which also contains Europe’s longest roller coaster ride.
This part of the black forest is also one of Germany’s major wine areas, and to the west of Frieburg, the whole area is covered in vineyards. The town holds a wine festival every year for four days at the Munsterplatz where over 300 different wines are offered for sampling.
Getting to Freiburg
Freiburg is very accessible with Stuttgart, Zurich and Strasbourg international airports all nearby. It has very good train connects to Basel, Baden-Baden and to Stuttgart. By road, Freiburg can be reached by the A-5 Autobahn from Baden-Baden or the A-3 from Zurich.
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