Excursions near Stuttgart: Top Tips for Exploring the Swabian Region

Lauffen am Neckar: Welcome to the town of Hölderlin

Picturesque is the best way to describe the town of Lauffen. The babbling Neckar divides the old town centre into ‘Lauffen Dorf’ and ‘Lauffen Städtle’. The historic Old Neckar Bridge from the 16th century connects these two parts. But what is one of the sights in Lauffen am Neckar? Without a doubt: the Regiswindiskirche church, whose striking tower can be seen from afar. The town’s landmark dates back to the 13th century and sits majestically on a rock above the river. The 11th-century Grafenburg castle on the Neckar island is also something very special. As the only island castle in the Neckar, it has served as the administrative centre since the end of the Thirty Years’ War. In 2006, a museum was also opened in the castle tower. Extra tip: From the castle courtyard, you have a unique view of the Neckar riverside park. The birthplace of Friedrich Hölderlin is well worth a visit during a holiday in Baden-Württemberg. In the Hölderlin House, which is well worth a visit, you can find out more about the life and work of the famous poet in four exhibition rooms. The Old Heilbronn Gate in the town wall and the Old Wine Press with its vaulted cellar are further sights in Lauffen. You can either visit these places yourself or as part of a guided tour. The choice ranges from traditional city tours with 11 stops to costume tours and wine experience tours. Due to its favourable location directly on the Neckar Valley cycle path, the old town of Lauffen am Neckar is a frequent destination for cyclists. Hikers are also often drawn there.

Cities worth seeing in southern Germany: Besigheim an der Enz

Situated high above the Neckar and Enz rivers and surrounded by vineyards, you can recognise the historic town of Besigheim from afar. The towers of the picturesque town skyline hint at Besigheim’s medieval past. In the winding alleyways of the old town centre, you will find beautiful half-timbered houses and numerous Besigheim sights. One of the most famous is clearly the Besigheim Waldhorn Tower. The 29 metre high tower was part of the town fortifications in the 13th century. Between April and October, as well as on public holidays, you can visit the imposing structure on a guided tour of the town. A great idea for excursions around Stuttgart. In the centre of the idyllic old town, you will also find Besigheim Town Hall from the 15th century. Formerly used as a market hall and event venue, it is now home to the town council. The historic façade and the painted stone and wooden walls and stucco ceilings inside are particularly worth seeing. An absolute insider tip is the Dreigiebelhaus Besigheim: the time-honoured building now houses a bookshop with a café. The place invites you to browse and relax. Relaxation is also guaranteed on the banks of the River Enz. Beautiful walking paths and a large water playground next to the historic Enzmühle mill are popular destinations for young and old. In the warmer months of the year, you can look forward to a number of events on the banks of the river. You can get a little more active nearby in the Hesigheim rock gardens. The nature reserve, which is also known as the Swabian Dolomites, is a wonderful place to climb and hike on over 130 routes. With a bit of luck, you may also discover one of the many rare animal and plant species. These can be found in one of the most important geotopes in Germany.

Experience the Middle Ages in Markgröningen

On a tour through the historic old town of Markgröningen, traces of the Middle Ages can be found on almost every corner. Many of the well-preserved medieval half-timbered buildings date back to the 15th century and are also of great importance in terms of art history. It is therefore hardly surprising that the idyllic little town is officially part of the German Half-Timbered Road. You can explore the many Markgröningen sights either on your own or on one of the many guided tours of the town. Here you will learn the most important facts about the history of the small Swabian town at 30 stops. One of the most impressive buildings is certainly the Markgröningen St Bartholomew’s Church. The 13th century church is particularly impressive with its late Gothic choir. The elaborately carved choir stalls, which date back to the 15th century, are also particularly worth seeing. Near the organ, you can admire original medieval wall paintings. These were uncovered during restoration work after the Second World War. Markgröningen Town Hall is also definitely worth a visit during a holiday in Baden-Württemberg. Built in 1441, the ornate half-timbered building is considered one of the first multifunctional buildings of the Middle Ages. In the past, it not only housed the fire brigade, but also stalls for salt merchants, bakers and butchers. On the upper floor there were rooms for the court and town clerk. A particularly large number of visitors come to the town every year at the end of August. This is when the highlight of the event calendar takes place: the Markgröningen Shepherd’s Run. The history of the festival, which is famous throughout southern Germany, dates back to the 16th century. In a race, shepherds and shepherdesses have to cover a distance of 300 steps barefoot across a stubble field. This main attraction is accompanied by the shepherd’s dance, the performance of the play ‘Der treue Bartel’ and the big parade. A large market with around 150 stalls and fairground rides are also part of this popular folk festival.

Baroque residential city of Ludwigsburg

Are you looking for the most beautiful cities in Baden-Württemberg? Then Ludwigsburg should not be missing from your list. In the former royal seat, you will find an abundance of historical places worth seeing. One of these is the famous lakeside palace Monrepos. Built in the 18th century by Duke Carl Eugen, the lakeside castle is one of the most popular excursion destinations around Stuttgart. You can visit the building, hire a pedalo or rowing boat or take part in one of the fantastic summer events. The classical open air of the Ludwigsburg Palace Festival with its fireworks and light shows is a real visitor magnet. Another of Ludwigsburg’s famous sights is the Ludwigsburg Favorite Castle. Picturesquely situated in the Favorite Park, the former hunting and pleasure palace is enthroned in a beautiful recreational area. Here you will not only find beautiful walking paths, but can also experience deer and mouflons in the wild. Finally, the third palace in the group is the historically significant Ludwigsburg Residential Palace. The former ducal residence is now home to various museums and exhibitions. For example, you can admire original stage machinery in the palace theatre. There is also porcelain in the ceramics museum and fashion from earlier times in the fashion museum. For families with children, the interactive ‘Kinderreich’ is the ultimate excursion tip. You will find two of the city’s absolute highlights in the extensive park grounds of the Residenzschloss. The Ludwigsburg Fairytale Garden in the Blooming Baroque has been putting a smile on the faces of young and old since the end of the 1950s. Fairy tales such as Rapunzel, the Frog King and Sleeping Beauty come to life at more than 40 elaborately designed stations. There are also numerous interactive elements that will delight younger visitors in particular. The year-round Blühendes Barock garden show also attracts many visitors to Ludwigsburg. The artistically planted beds and the Sardinian garden with storks and flamingos are just two of the highlights. In autumn, the elite of pumpkin artists also meet here. At the annual pumpkin exhibition, you can discover oversized works of art on a specific theme. Numerous spectacular photo opportunities included! The International Street Music Festival and the Magic of Lights with musical fireworks are also popular events in the Blooming Baroque. The lively centre of the city is home to Ludwigsburg’s market square, with its arcaded houses and historic fountain. The 18th-century Evangelical City Church of Ludwigsburg is also worth a detour. Every Saturday you can listen to organ music and the church tower brass band. There are also regular guided tours up one of the two church towers. The panoramic view over the baroque residential city is unique. During Advent, the Ludwigsburg Christmas market is also held on the market square. This baroque-themed event with around 150 stalls offers a fantastic range of products. Christmas spirit is guaranteed.

In Schiller’s footsteps in Marbach am Neckar

In Marbach, pretty much everything is centred around the town’s world-famous son: the world-famous poet Friedrich Schiller. On the Schillerhöhe, you will find an extensive park that offers a unique view of the Neckar valley. The German Literature Archive and the Schiller National Museum are important sights of the Schiller town of Marbach. The German Literature Archive has a unique collection of valuable sources of literary and intellectual history. These are open to the public in the Museum of Modern Literature. Founded in 1903, the Schiller National Museum is an expression of the great admiration for the German poet. It is therefore no wonder that it is considered a landmark of Marbach. Incidentally, every year on 10 November, celebrations are held on the Schillerhöhe to mark Schiller’s birthday. If you would like to find out more about Friedrich Schiller, you should also visit Schiller’s birthplace. The museum was opened in 1859 to mark the 100th anniversary of his birth and is now run by the Schiller Association. Here you can find interesting information about Schiller’s childhood in Marbach and the history of Schiller worship. After so much literary history, the old town centre of Marbach am Neckar is a wonderful place to relax. You can admire the historic half-timbered houses on a tour of the well-preserved old town centre. You can also admire the medieval town wall and the numerous fountains and towers. Or you can sit down in one of the many cafés and simply take in the historic city centre. Another of Marbach’s sights is located near the town hall: the Upper Gate Tower. As part of the former town fortifications, the tower, which dates back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest buildings in the town. Those who take on the climb up the 95 steps are rewarded with a fantastic view.

Burial chapel gem on the Rotenberg

This burial chapel in Stuttgart is not just a romantic meeting place for couples in love. It is also a popular destination for excursions in Stuttgart. The temple-like burial chapel on the Rotenberg was built by King Wilhelm I. He did this in memory of his deceased wife Katharina von Württemberg. Surrounded by vineyards, you can see the classicist building from afar. From the 411 metre high hill, you also have a unique view of the Neckar valley and the state capital Stuttgart. Inside the Grabkapelle Stuttgart is an impressive domed hall, the chapel room. Here it is worth taking a closer look at the wall niches with the figures of the four evangelists. One floor below is the crypt. This is where the double sarcophagus of Katharina and Wilhelm I is located. The priests‘ and psalmists’ houses were built nearby in the 19th century.

Living history in Esslingen am Neckar

Those who come to Esslingen’s old town centre for the first time are usually pleasantly surprised. The history of the town is a matter of course and is present in the everyday lives of its inhabitants. On a walk through the winding cobbled streets, the lovingly preserved half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages catch the eye. The baroque aristocratic palace and Esslingen’s Old City Hall are also well worth a visit. This prestigious building from the 15th century was once used as a market hall and event venue. The Renaissance façade on the north side of the building is a great photo motif. During a visit, you can admire the astronomical clock and the astrolabe of the town hall. Esslingen’s Gothic churches are also well worth a visit. The 14th century St Dionys’ Church is located on the market square. If you take part in a city tour, you will see more than just the old town. In addition to the medieval choir windows, you can also take a look at the excavations under the town church. If you still haven’t had enough of Esslingen’s sights, there’s more to discover.
You can see them from a completely different perspective on a boat trip. Don’t forget to visit Esslingen Castle when you’re in town. The town’s landmark is one of the most popular excursion destinations near Stuttgart. It was built 700 years ago as a symbol of power and part of the town fortifications. Advent is always a special time in Esslingen. This is when the Esslingen medieval market and Christmas market takes place, which always attracts numerous visitors. The Middle Ages come alive at the 180 stalls and around 500 cultural programme items. Visitors from near and far are delighted by the medieval food and traditional songs. The crafts and spectacular fire artists are also very popular.

Beautiful places in Baden-Württemberg: Off to Schorndorf

A half-timbered town straight out of a picture book – that’s Schorndorf. Surrounded by vineyards, the town lies picturesquely in the Rems Valley. Life takes place on the market square, where the historic market fountain and the historic city hall are located. Modern sculptures provide a striking contrast between the old buildings. The birthplace of Gottlieb Daimler is also worth a visit in the listed old town centre. Schorndorf also owes its nickname ‘Daimlerstadt’ to the famous inventor of the petrol engine. A tour through the streets of the old town centre should also include a stop at the 15th century Schorndorf town church. Here you should definitely visit the Chapel of St Mary, the pulpit and the former altar screens. The tour continues with a visit to Schorndorf Castle. Built in 1538 as the strongest town fortress in the former duchy, the castle now houses the district court, among other things. In the castle park, you can discover remnants of the former town fortifications as well as interesting sculptures that are part of the Schorndorf sculpture tour. After so much sightseeing, you can relax in the popular Oskar Frech SeeBad. The extensive water and leisure landscape with brick lake and sauna garden has plenty to offer for young and old. You can round off your visit to Schorndorf in one of the typical pubs. Winegrowers serve their own wine in these rustic pubs. They also serve Swabian classics such as ravioli with potato salad or boiled meat with sauerkraut. By the way: You can recognise an open broom tavern by the brushwood broom that can be found in front of the house or above the entrance.

Lorch Monastery with falconry & garden delight

Majestically situated on a hilltop overlooking the Rems Valley, the former Benedictine monastery can be seen from afar. Many buildings from the medieval monastery complex have been preserved to this day, including the church, farm buildings, the enclosure and the monastery garden surrounded by a circular wall. Today, the buildings house a nursing home and a diaconal institute. There are also a few very special attractions on the monastery grounds. The Staufer falconry with its owls and eagles fascinates both children and adults. Here you can take part in various courses and experiences centred around birds of prey. Children’s birthday parties can also be organised at the falconry. At the end of September, the historical area invites you on a journey back in time to the Middle Ages. At the popular Staufer market, you can watch jugglers and monks in a small medieval village. There are also craftsmen from various guilds in the colourful hustle and bustle. Extra tip: children under the size of a sword do not pay admission to the market. There is no less going on at the GartenLust fair, which takes place every year at the end of March in Lorch Monastery. Here you will find tips on garden design and garden trends as well as home and garden accessories and furnishings. There is also an interesting supporting programme and culinary delights.

Excursion to the Staufer town of Schwäbisch Gmünd

The legacy of the Hohenstaufen dynasty can be seen almost everywhere during a visit to the historic old town of Schwäbisch Gmünd. In addition to the magnificent patrician houses, the six well-preserved town towers immediately attract attention. One of these is the striking St John’s Tower, which is particularly eye-catching. From the top, you have a great panoramic view of the region. The lively market square, which is shaped like an hourglass, regularly hosts events. These include the horse market, the grocer’s market and the Gmünd Christmas market. Münsterplatz is a little quieter. Here you will find the famous Heilig-Kreuz-Münster, which was built between the 14th and 16th centuries. The cathedral is considered the oldest hall church in Germany and is of great art-historical significance. It is therefore not surprising that it was added to the UNESCO register in 2020. No less worth seeing is St John’s Church. The Catholic town church from the 13th century is a popular photo motif due to its leaning tower. It is also the town’s landmark. One of the more modern Schwäbisch Gmünd sights is the Schwäbisch Gmünd Forum Gold and Silver. The eye-catching building is designed as a golden cube with sloping walls and was built for the 2014 State Garden Show. A special architectural highlight: remnants of the late-medieval fortress wall have been harmoniously incorporated into the building. The Himmelsgarten family park is a worthwhile excursion destination around Schwäbisch Gmünd. There are numerous attractions for young and old. Here you are spoilt for choice with the many attractions. The WELEDA Adventure Centre with garden tours and events, the ‘Himmelsstürmer’ observation tower and the ‘Skypark’ treetop climbing course are all attractions. There is also the forest ball track and many other attractions. The Naturatum adventure forest trail is just as popular with families. Idyllically situated in the Taubental recreational forest, you can learn exciting facts about the local flora and fauna at 33 stations. The family hiking tour, where you can try out the XXL forest ball track, is particularly popular. This trail is also suitable for pushchairs.