Things To Do
in Calw
Calw is a picturesque town in the Black Forest region of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, known for its timber-framed houses and hilltop setting. It sits along the Nagold River, offering a charming blend of medieval streets and scenic views. Calw is famous as the birthplace of Nobel laureate Hermann Hesse, whose legacy lingers in museums and local culture.
Visitors can enjoy intimate retreats in cafés, strolls along cobbled lanes, and easy access to nearby nature trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through Calw's charming historic center, where half-timbered houses line the cobblestone streets. Stop by the picturesque Marktplatz, where the bustling atmosphere and local vendors offer a glimpse into daily life. Don't forget to visit the stunning Nikolauskirche, a beautiful church showcasing Gothic architecture.
Indulge in a traditional German lunch at a local café, savoring regional dishes while soaking in the quaint ambiance. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Hermann Hesse Museum, dedicated to the famous author and his connection to Calw. Spend the later part of the afternoon wandering through the serene gardens at the Kloster Hirsau, enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to experience authentic Swabian cuisine for dinner, perhaps trying the famous Maultaschen. After your meal, take a peaceful evening walk along the Nagold River, enjoying the reflections of the town lights on the water. End your day with a nightcap at a local wine bar, where you can sample regional wines and unwind.
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting off for a nature hike in the beautiful Black Forest. The trails around Calw offer stunning views and rich biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to capture the lush landscapes and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch in one of the many scenic spots along the trail, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the various marked trails, or opt for a guided tour that delves into the region’s flora and fauna. If you're lucky, you might stumble upon a charming forest café for a refreshing drink.
Return to Calw in the evening to freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local eatery known for its forest-inspired dishes. After dinner, visit a nearby local brewery to sample some of the regional beers, learning about the brewing process from the friendly staff. Conclude your evening with a relaxed stroll through the town, admiring the illuminated streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way ticket (local transport) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic charm and compact size; easy to explore on foot
- Easy access to Black Forest nature and hiking trails
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Can be crowded in peak tourist seasons in the old town
- "Guten Tag" - Hello
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
- "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Calw
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of the old town with timber-framed houses and the Rathaus overlooking the market lanes.
Gothic-inspired church and narrow lanes lined with colorful half-timbered facades.
Scenic riverside paths with reflections of historic buildings and gentle water features.
Ruins of Kloster Hirsau set amid pine and beech forests offering atmospheric light for photography.
Food in Calw
Calw Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swabian ravioli filled with minced meat, spinach and onions; served in broth or fried with onions.
Must-Try!
Egg noodles with melted cheese, crispy onions, and often topped with chives.
Smoke-cured Black Forest ham, commonly served in thin slices with bread or as part of platters.
Black Forest cake made with cherries, cream and chocolate shavings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market at Marktplatz with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, pretzels and regional specialties.
Pretzels, Bratwurst, Flammkuchen and seasonal snacks near the Marktplatz on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; shake hands when meeting and maintain polite tone.
Swabian culture values punctuality and a reserved, respectful demeanor in public spaces.
Be respectful in churches and during local ceremonies; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Calw
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but modest; rounding up or 5-10% for good service is customary in restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards and contactless payments are increasingly common in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise gradually; flowers bloom in the Altstadt gardens and countryside paths are ideal for walks.
Long daylight hours, pleasant temperatures, and outdoor dining; expect occasional showers.
Rich foliage and cool air; perfect for scenic village walks and harvest meals.
Chillier days with possible frost and snow; festive lights in the old town and cozy cafés.
Calw at Night
Hiking in Calw
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 5-8 km loop through forest and historic sites close to Calw.
Easy to moderate riverside hike with scenic viewpoints along the Nagold.
Moderate day hike with forest scenery, streams and panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Calw by plane.
Major international gateway roughly 60-90 miles (about 1 hour to 1.5 hours by car) from Calw, with frequent European and intercontinental connections.
Regional airport about an hour’s drive away, offering several European routes and convenient transfer options.
International airport serving Basel, Mulhouse and Freiburg; farther but accessible by rail or car for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families enjoy a safe town with good schools and parks.
Calw attracts retirees who appreciate the slower pace and natural surroundings.
Students and workers who commute to larger cities for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and informal pitches; community teams provide active weekend schedules.
Well-signed routes in and around the Black Forest foothills for road or off-road riders.
Extensive network of well-marked trails suitable for all levels nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calw.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options such as Käsespätzle, Maultaschen in vegetable broth, or salads.