Things To Do
in Esslingen
Esslingen am Neckar is a historic town in Baden-Württemberg, set along the Neckar River just east of Stuttgart. Its well-preserved medieval Old Town is famous for timber-framed houses, narrow lanes, and a lively market square. The surrounding vineyards and rolling hills offer scenic views and easy day trips.
With easy rail access to Stuttgart and a welcoming, compact center, Esslingen feels quintessentially Swabian yet conveniently connected to larger urban experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafes in the historic center of Esslingen. Afterward, embark on a walking tour through the medieval streets, admiring the well-preserved timber-framed houses that date back to the 14th century. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the stunning St. Dionysius Church, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
In the afternoon, head to the Esslingen Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the town, where you can explore its gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Afterward, visit the local market, where you can sample traditional Swabian delicacies and purchase handmade crafts from local artisans. Take a relaxing stroll along the Neckar River, soaking in the picturesque scenery.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Swabian restaurant, where you can savor regional specialties like Maultaschen or Spätzle. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, experiencing the enchanting atmosphere of Esslingen at night. End your evening with a glass of local wine at a cozy wine bar, reflecting on your day's adventures.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting off to explore the nearby vineyards that surround Esslingen. Join a guided tour where you can learn about the local wine-making process and the region's unique grape varieties. Enjoy a morning stroll through the lush vineyards, taking in the breathtaking views of the Neckar Valley.
After your vineyard tour, indulge in a wine tasting session at a local winery, sampling some of the finest wines produced in the region. Pair your wines with a delightful lunch featuring local cheeses and charcuterie, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the vineyard. Spend some time relaxing in the sun or exploring the wine cellar to understand more about the aging process.
Return to Esslingen in the evening and enjoy a casual dinner at a wine tavern, where you can continue to explore local wines and pair them with traditional Swabian dishes. After dinner, take a stroll through the scenic town, perhaps stopping by a local shop for a souvenir. As the night deepens, unwind at a cozy bar, enjoying the vibrant local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-60 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-9 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $95-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic town with well-preserved architecture
- Excellent access to Stuttgart and nearby wine country
- Walkable Old Town and scenic Neckar valley
- Strong sense of local culture and seasonal markets
- Smaller nightlife scene than larger cities
- Limited high-end dining options within the old town
- Parking can be challenging in peak tourist periods
- Some areas are best explored on foot or by bike to avoid traffic
- "Guten Tag" - Hello/Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Esslingen
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful, historic buildings line the square, offering classic Swabian architecture and vibrant morning light for architectural photography.
River views with rolling hills and terraced vineyards; ideal for landscape shots and golden-hour photography.
Elevation spots that capture Esslingen’s skyline with the Neckar Valley as a backdrop, especially stunning at sunset.
Food in Esslingen
Esslingen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and crispy onions; a Swabian staple found in many taverns.
Must-Try!
Swabian ravioli filled with meat, spinach, and herbs; often served in broth or fried with onions.
Lentils cooked with vegetables, served with fluffy Spätzle and sometimes bacon; a comforting winter dish.
Sliced beef topped with fried onions, typically served with potatoes or spaetzle.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers’ market on the market square offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, breads, and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Guten Abend.' Punctuality is valued in both social and professional contexts; plan ahead for meetings and reservations.
Safety
Tipping in Esslingen
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (5-10%) are customary in restaurants if service is good. Round up the bill or leave a few euros for cash transactions when appropriate.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees and gardens; great for walking tours and early vineyard visits.
Warm days with occasional rain; ideal for riverside walks, outdoor dining, and wine-tasting terraces.
Harvest season brings vibrant foliage and seasonal markets; perfect for photography and scenic hikes.
Cool to cold with potential snowfall; festive markets in December and cozy taverns for warming food and drinks.
Esslingen at Night
Hiking in Esslingen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails just outside Esslingen offering gentle climbs and scenic viewpoints over the Neckar Valley.
Flat to rolling trails along the Neckar suitable for easy hikes and leisurely walks.
Airports
How to reach Esslingen by plane.
Closest major international airport with rail connections to Esslingen and easy road access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Stable family-oriented community with good schools and parks nearby.
Many residents commute to Stuttgart or nearby towns for work or study.
Smaller but growing communities from Turkey, Italy, Poland, and other EU countries contribute to a multicultural atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed sport with local clubs and matches in the region.
Active outdoor culture with extensive bike paths along the Neckar and surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Esslingen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Swabian cuisine can be meat-forward, but most taverns offer vegetarian versions of classics like Kässpätzle, Maultaschen with vegetables, and mushroom dishes. Ask for cheese-only Spätzle and vegetable sides; many places accommodate lactose-free and vegan requests with advance notice.