Things To Do
in Holzgerlingen

Holzgerlingen is a small, family-friendly town in Baden-Württemberg, just northwest of Stuttgart. It offers a tranquil base with easy access to Stuttgart’s cultural scene and the surrounding Swabian countryside. The town features a historic village center, green spaces, and a welcoming, laag-key atmosphere with handy local amenities.

It serves as a convenient base for day trips to Böblingen, Sindelfingen and the wider Stuttgart region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Holzgerlingen Village
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Holzgerlingen, admiring the charming architecture and local shops. Don't miss the historic St. Martin's Church with its beautiful stained glass windows. Grab a coffee at a local café before heading out for the day’s adventures.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the nearby nature reserves for a peaceful hike. The lush greenery and tranquil environment will rejuvenate your spirit as you immerse yourself in nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the scenic views along the trails.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a traditional German dinner at a local restaurant. Savor regional specialties such as Spätzle or Sauerbraten while engaging with friendly locals. End your day with a leisurely walk under the stars, taking in the peaceful ambiance of the village.

day 2
Day Trip to Tübingen
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Tübingen, a university town known for its picturesque narrow streets and the scenic Neckar River. Begin your visit with breakfast at a riverside café, enjoying the beautiful view of the town. Then, explore the old castle, which offers panoramic views of the surroundings.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon wandering through the vibrant market square and visiting the local museums, including the Musée der Stadt Tübingen. Join a punting tour on the Neckar River to experience the beauty of the town from the water. Don't forget to try some of Tübingen’s famous pastries at a local bakery.

evening
:

Return to Holzgerlingen for a relaxing evening. Consider attending a local event or concert, showcasing the cultural vibrancy of the area. Enjoy a light dinner at home or at a nearby bistro, reflecting on your day in Tübingen.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🍺Local beer$4-7
🛒Grocery basket (basic items)$60-90
🏨One-night mid-range hotel$120-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Stuttgart and the Schönbuch forest
  • Charming village atmosphere with easy day trips
  • Strong Swabian food culture and regional markets
  • Walkable town center and family-friendly amenities
  • Limited nightlife within Holzgerlingen itself
  • Smaller selection of international dining options locally
  • Public transport options require connections to Stuttgart for some destinations
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ich möchte zahlen, bitte." - I would like to pay, please.
  • " wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Holzgerlingen

Visit one of these nice places.

Dorfplatz Holzgerlingen

Central square framed by traditional half-timbered houses and the parish church—great for street photography and golden-hour portraits.

Evangelische Kirche Holzgerlingen and surrounding town center

Historic church tower and nearby architecture provide classic Swabian-town visuals with clean lines and soft lighting.

Schönbuch Forest Edge Lookout

Scenes where the forest meets fields offer atmospheric shot opportunities, especially during early morning or late afternoon light.

Rural fields and rolling hills near Holzgerlingen

Open landscapes with long horizons, ideal for wide-angle countryside photography and sunset silhouettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Holzgerlingen

Swabian cuisine dominates the local dining scene, with hearty, comforting dishes and a focus on regional ingredients. Expect Marktfrische produce, seasonal specialties, and a strong emphasis on traditional flavors, often paired with local beers and wines from nearby Württemberg producers.

Holzgerlingen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Maultaschen

Swabian dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, typically served in broth or pan-fried with onions. A staple find in many traditional taverns.

Must-Try!

Käsespätzle

Egg noodles layered with melted cheese and crispy onions—comfort food classic in Swabian eateries.

Schäufele

Slow-roasted pork shoulder with crispy crackling, often served with sauerkraut or potato dumplings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wochenmarkt Holzgerlingen

Weekly market offering fresh regional produce, bread, cheese, and seasonal specialties in the town center.

Stuttgarter Region Street Food (nearby Stuttgart areas)

Short forays into Stuttgart-area markets and street-food stalls provide global bites and Swabian sweets; great for a casual lunch.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is temperate, with warm summers and cool winters. Spring and autumn are mild with variable rain; summer highs often reach the 20s°C (70s°F), while winter temperatures can dip below freezing with occasional snowfall. Rain can occur year-round, so a light, waterproof layer is handy.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Be punctual for meetings and appointments; Germans generally value on-time behavior.

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone; use formal address (Herr/Frau) unless invited to use first names.

Quiet hours

Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially in the evenings and on Sundays.

Safety Guide

Safety

Holzgerlingen is a safe town with low crime rates. Standard travel safety applies: keep an eye on belongings in crowded places, use well-lit paths at night, and follow local guidelines for road safety when driving or cycling. In case of emergency, dial 112 for medical or fire services and 110 for police in Germany.

Tipping in Holzgerlingen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In restaurants and cafes, rounding up or leaving about 5–10% is customary if service is good. You can hand the tip directly to the server or leave it on the bill. For casual service, small cash tips are often appreciated.

Payment methods

Cards are widely accepted in shops and many restaurants; cash is still commonly used in smaller venues. Contactless payments are common, and mobile wallets are increasingly accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures rise gradually; blooming trees and gardens provide colorful backdrops for photos and walks. Weekends may host local markets and small village events.

Summer

Warm days with longer daylight hours; outdoor cafés and parks are lively. Prepare for occasional showers; carry water and light rain gear for forest visits.

Autumn

Rich foliage and golden light create excellent photography and scenic walks. Harvest-time markets bring seasonal produce and regional treats.

Winter

Chillier with possible frost and light snow; festive lights in town centers and nearby Stuttgart-area events add charm. Layered clothing is essential for outdoor strolls.

Nightlife Guide

Holzgerlingen at Night

Holzgerlingen has a modest nightlife scene centered around family-friendly pubs, cafés, and bars. For more vibrant options, residents typically head to Stuttgart or Böblingen/Sindelfingen for concerts, trivia nights, and breweries. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, local beers, and opportunities for casual socializing rather than large-scale nightlife.

Hiking in Holzgerlingen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Schönbuch Nature Park trails

A network of well-marked trails just outside Holzgerlingen with varied difficulty, wildlife opportunities, and scenic viewpoints.

Böblinger Stadtwald trails

Extensive forested routes suitable for day hikes and woodland photography.

Teufelsweg and rolling Swabian countryside

Gentle to moderate hikes through fields and small forests, offering classic Swabian landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Holzgerlingen by plane.

Stuttgart Airport (STR)

The closest international airport, about a 20–40 minute drive from Holzgerlingen depending on traffic; good connections to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof and regional destinations.

Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

A major international hub about 2–3 hours by train or car; useful for long-haul connections and intercontinental travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Holzgerlingen is highly walkable within the town center, with compact streets, shaded walking paths, and easy access to parks. For longer trips or regional exploration, bicycles and public transport connect residents and visitors efficiently to nearby Böblingen, Sindelfingen, and Stuttgart.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Holzgerlingen attracts families seeking a quiet, safe environment with good schools and parks.

Commuters

Many residents commute to Stuttgart and surrounding towns for work, thanks to well-connected rail and road links.

Retired residents

A portion of the population comprises retirees who value green spaces and a relaxed pace of life.

International residents

As part of the Stuttgart region, the town sees residents and students from nearby universities and companies.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

A popular recreational and amateur sport in the region; local clubs and schools offer pickup games and leagues.

Handball

Common in local sports centers, with community teams and youth programs.

Cycling

Extensive cycling routes through rural lanes and neighboring towns; popular for weekend rides.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally manageable; plan for regular regional trains and bus routes to Stuttgart and surrounding towns. Parking is available in the town center, and regional rail connections offer a convenient alternative to driving. Peak times around Stuttgart can affect routes, so consider public transport for longer day trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Holzgerlingen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for vegetable-focused options, be-ready to customize dishes (e.g., pasta without meat, cheese-heavy dishes), and ask for sides like salads or seasonal vegetables to accompany mains.

Vegan

Choose dishes based on grains, legumes, and vegetables; request dairy-free substitutes for cheese or butter where possible; many places can accommodate with prior notice.

Gluten-free

Many restaurants can adapt with gluten-free pasta, starch-free sides, or meat and vegetable plates; always confirm cross-contamination precautions with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Essential healthcare services are available in Holzgerlingen and nearby towns, including general practitioners, dentists, and pharmacies. For hospitals and more specialized care, residents typically travel to Böblingen, Sindelfingen, or Stuttgart. Health insurance coverage follows national guidelines, and most facilities accept major insurance plans.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide