The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is one of Germany’s most beautiful regions — dense pine forests, rolling hills, waterfalls, and charming towns. Here’s how to see the best of it without a car.
Once you’re there, a Deutschland-Ticket covers all local and regional trains to every destination below — no need to buy separate tickets for each trip.
1. Feldberg — skiing in the Black Forest
Feldberg is the highest peak in the Black Forest and the go-to ski destination in the region. If you’ve never skied before, this is a great place to try it for the first time — the slopes are beginner-friendly and lessons are readily available.
- Arrive as early as possible — the slopes close at 4:30 PM and you want to make the most of the day.
- If you’re a beginner, book a 2-hour ski lesson first thing in the morning — instructors are available on-site.
- After your lesson, rent skis and practice on the easier slopes, then ski freely until closing time.
- Equipment rental and a beginner lesson combined costs around €80 — factor this in when planning.
The lifts and slopes close at 4:30 PM sharp. Don’t arrive late — you’ll lose valuable ski time.
Google maps: https://share.google/YiJbZ7zqiLeVYAvfm
2. Konstanz — lakeside city on the Swiss border
Konstanz isn’t technically in the Black Forest, but it’s a short direct train ride from Freiburg and absolutely worth the trip. The city sits right on the edge of Lake Constance (Bodensee), bordered by Switzerland and Austria — the views are stunning.
- Go early in the morning to make the most of the day — there’s a lot to take in.
- Walk along the lakefront and soak in the views of Lake Constance — one of the largest lakes in Europe.
- Take a ferry ride on the lake for a different perspective of the city and the surrounding Alps.
- Explore the old town — the Konstanz Cathedral (Münster) is particularly impressive and worth a visit.
- The fact that you’re standing at the meeting point of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria makes it a pretty unique experience.
3. Triberg Waterfalls — the tallest waterfalls in Germany
Triberg is home to Germany’s highest waterfalls and is one of the most iconic stops in the Black Forest. It’s also the home of the cuckoo clock — so there’s a nice mix of nature and local culture here.
- Walk the trail through the waterfalls — the path winds up through the forest with great viewpoints at every level.
- After the walk, head to the museum café for a slice of authentic Black Forest cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) — this is the real thing, made the traditional way.
- Spend some time in the local museum to learn about the history of the region and the famous cuckoo clock tradition.
- Pick up a cuckoo clock as a souvenir — Triberg is genuinely the best place in the world to buy one.
Google maps: https://share.google/DgWGpZOHeYye53XYp
4. Todtnau Waterfalls and suspension bridge
Todtnau offers a beautiful combination of waterfalls and a suspension bridge with dramatic views over the Black Forest valley. It’s a quieter, less touristy alternative to Triberg — and the suspension bridge adds a fun element to the visit.
- Walk to the Todtnau waterfall — it’s one of the most picturesque in the region, especially after rainfall when the flow is strongest.
- Cross the suspension bridge for panoramic views of the forest and surrounding landscape — the height makes it a memorable experience.
- The combined entry for the suspension bridge and waterfall area costs around €12 per person.
Google maps: https://share.google/a13UnfZAlAOXxdFVC
5. Ravenna Gorge — a hidden trekking gem
Ravenna Gorge (Ravenna-Schlucht) is one of those places that feels like a secret — a deep, narrow gorge with a beautiful trail running through it and a dramatic old railway viaduct towering above.
- Trek through the gorge along the well-marked trail — the path follows the stream through the narrow rocky canyon.
- Look up as you walk — the Ravenna Viaduct arches overhead and is a striking sight, especially in winter when the gorge ices over.
- The trek is moderate in difficulty and takes around 1–2 hours at a comfortable pace.
Google maps: https://share.google/IadXsJgmKPzyhOffp
6. Baumwipfelpfad — treetop walk in Bad Wildbad
The Baumwipfelpfad is an elevated treetop walkway that winds through the forest canopy in Bad Wildbad. It’s a unique way to experience the Black Forest from above — especially great if you’re travelling with kids or want something a little different from regular hiking.
- Walk along the winding elevated path through the treetops — the views over the forest are unlike anything you get from the ground.
- The path ends at a spiral tower with a panoramic viewpoint — a great spot for photos.
- The walk is fully accessible and easy — no fitness requirements, suitable for all ages.
Google maps: https://share.google/MKHNkbhmRCzeu2p4F
7. Heidelberg — castle, old bridge, and a famous monkey
Heidelberg is one of Germany’s most beautiful and historically rich cities — and while it’s a bit further from the Black Forest, it’s easily reachable by train and well worth adding to your trip.
- Visit Heidelberg Castle (Heidelberger Schloss) — the ruins sit dramatically on the hillside above the city and offer sweeping views over the Neckar river and the old town below.
- Walk across the Old Bridge (Alte Brücke) — one of the most photographed spots in Germany, with its twin gate towers and river views.
- Find the famous monkey statue at the entrance of the Old Bridge — according to local legend, touching the mirror in its hand brings wealth and touching its fingers ensures you’ll return to Heidelberg. Give it a try.
- Stroll through the Altstadt (old town) — the main pedestrian street is full of cafés, shops, and beautiful old buildings.
Google maps: https://share.google/bbBX3JEUgMtFJI2gc
Places to avoid
- Titisee
- Ruin castles nearby
- There are a lot of waterfalls, choose the ones given above
March to April → Start of spring, but it can still be cold at times.
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