Things To Do
in Reutlingen
Reutlingen is a mid-sized city in Baden-Württemberg at the foot of the Swabian Jura, known for its textile history and a compact, characterful old town. It has a dramatic skyline anchored by the spire of Marienkirche and the hilltop ruins of the Achalm. The city is a convenient base for exploring the Swabian Alb's castles, caves and hiking trails while offering good regional food and an approachable, local vibe.
Reutlingen also hosts students and light industry, giving it a mix of relaxed small-city life and pragmatic German efficiency.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Marktplatz, where you can enjoy a fresh breakfast at a local café and admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll to the Reutlingen Cathedral, marveling at its impressive Gothic design and intricate stained glass windows. Don't forget to capture some photos of the iconic Jakobskirche, which stands proudly in the heart of the city.
In the afternoon, explore the charming streets of the Altstadt (Old Town) and discover hidden gems like the ornate Town Hall and the charming half-timbered houses. Visit the local shops for unique souvenirs and perhaps a traditional Swabian lunch at a cozy restaurant, sampling local dishes like Maultaschen or Spätzle. As the sun begins to set, make your way to the nearby Pfullinger Tor, an ancient city gate that offers a glimpse into Reutlingen's historical past.
As evening falls, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local brewery, where you can savor traditional German cuisine paired with locally brewed beers. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Echaz River, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful reflections of the city lights. End your day with a visit to a local bar or café for a nightcap, immersing yourself in the vibrant local nightlife.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to the Swabian Jura, a stunning natural reserve just a short drive from Reutlingen. Spend your morning hiking through lush forests and rolling hills, taking in breathtaking views from the various lookout points. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this beautiful landscape.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Continue your hike along well-marked trails, perhaps heading towards the famous Lichtenstein Castle, where you can admire the fairy-tale architecture nestled in the hills. Capture some photos of the picturesque scenery and the castle itself, which offers a glimpse into the region's history.
Return to Reutlingen in the evening and unwind at a local restaurant where you can enjoy a well-deserved dinner featuring seasonal ingredients. Reflect on your day's adventures while savoring a glass of local wine or beer. If you're up for it, take a stroll through the town's illuminated streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular café) | $3-4 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5L) at a pub | $3.50-5 |
| 🎫Regional train single ticket | $3-8 |
| 🚕Taxi flag fall / short ride | $4-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable old town with authentic Swabian character
- Excellent access to Swabian Alb hiking, caves and nature
- Lower cost and calmer pace compared with Stuttgart or Munich
- Good regional food traditions and lively markets
- Limited nightlife and fewer international dining options compared to larger cities
- Some attractions and shops close on Sundays
- Public transport to more distant tourist sites may require planning
- Hilly terrain can be challenging for visitors with limited mobility
- "Hallo / Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Danke (schön)" - Thank you (very much)
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist die Haltestelle / der Bahnhof?" - Where is the bus stop / train station?
- "Die Rechnung, bitte." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Reutlingen
Visit one of these nice places.
The hill with castle ruins overlooking Reutlingen offers sweeping panoramic views of the city and the Swabian Alb—great at sunrise or sunset.
The church's Gothic spire and the lively market square present classic urban scenes, good for architectural and street photography.
A quirky, photogenic claim to fame—capture the alley's narrowness and the surrounding timber-framed buildings for unique shots.
Pleasant riverside scenes with reflections, old mills and greenery—ideal for tranquil nature/urban blends.
Short drives to ridgelines, waterfalls and caves produce dramatic landscapes and seasonal color, especially in autumn and spring.
Food in Reutlingen
Reutlingen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Large filled pasta pockets (meat, spinach or vegetarian fillings), served sliced in butter, in broth or pan-fried; try them at traditional Gasthäuser and lunch counters.
Must-Try!
Handmade Spätzle tossed with melted regional cheese and fried onions—comfort food available in most Swabian restaurants.
Lentils stewed with vegetables and sausages, served with Spätzle; a classic Swabian dish especially popular in cooler months.
A hearty roast beef topped with fried onions, often served with potatoes or Spätzle—common on local menus for meat-eaters.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A regular market on the central square selling fresh produce, cheeses, sausages, breads and seasonal specialties—great for sampling local flavors and buying picnic supplies.
Look for Brötchen, pretzels (Brezeln) and regional pastries at local bakeries; sausage stands and small food stalls appear near transit hubs and events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punctuality is valued—arrive on time for appointments. Use formal address ('Sie') with people you don't know unless invited to use first names or 'du.'
Observe Ruhezeiten (quiet hours) in the evenings and night, and expect many shops to be closed on Sundays; plan grocery shopping accordingly.
Strict recycling rules are observed—separate paper, plastic, glass and organic waste. Littering is frowned upon and fines are possible.
Germans value personal space and orderly queues—avoid loud or intrusive behavior in public.
Safety
Tipping in Reutlingen
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants and taxis. In cafés you can round up or leave a euro or two; tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
Cards (Visa, MasterCard) and contactless payments are widely accepted, but many smaller shops and markets prefer cash (Euro). Carry some cash for farmers' markets, small bakeries and older establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make it ideal for hiking and photography; some higher trails can still be chilly and muddy, so bring layers and good shoes.
Warm, pleasant days perfect for outdoor dining, biergartens and extended hikes; expect daytime highs in the mid-20s°C (70s–80s°F) and occasional thunderstorms.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage on the Swabian Alb create excellent hiking conditions and photo opportunities; some businesses slow down after the tourist season.
Cold temperatures, possible snow on the Alb ridges—city life continues normally but pack warm clothing; some rural attractions or trails may be inaccessible due to snow.
Reutlingen at Night
Hiking in Reutlingen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short uphill walk from the city center to the Achalm ruins with panoramic views—good for a quick nature escape and photography.
A scenic hike to a major waterfall in the Swabian Alb near Bad Urach; includes forest trails and viewpoints—suitable for half-day trips.
Explore karst caves and trails near Sonnenbühl for unique geological scenery and guided cave tours.
A network of circular trails of varying length and difficulty across the Alb—well-marked and ideal for day hikes or multi-day treks.
A longer hike to the Hohenneuffen castle plateau (a short drive from Reutlingen) offering historical ruins and sweeping views of the Neckar valley.
Airports
How to reach Reutlingen by plane.
About 35–45 minutes by car or ~45–60 minutes by regional train/bus; the most convenient international airport for Reutlingen with frequent connections.
Budget airline airport further away (~1.5–2 hours by car); may be useful for low-cost connections but requires longer ground travel.
Major international hub approximately 2–2.5 hours by train or car; offers many long-haul and international flights with direct rail connections to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longtime residents with strong regional traditions and Swabian dialect influence.
Hochschule Reutlingen and nearby universities bring students and an international academic presence, energizing cultural life.
Many families live in town while commuting to larger employment centers like Stuttgart; practical services and schools reflect this demographic.
A diverse mix of residents from Turkey, Eastern Europe and other countries contribute to multicultural shops, eateries and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport—locals follow regional and national clubs, and amateur teams are widespread.
Handball has a strong following in Baden-Württemberg with active local clubs and youth programs.
Outdoor recreation like hiking, trail running and mountain biking are extremely popular due to the proximity of the Swabian Alb.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reutlingen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of classics (cheese Spätzle, mushroom Maultaschen). Specify 'vegetarisch' and check menus—farmers' markets have plenty of produce for DIY meals.
Vegan options are growing but still limited in traditional places; look for vegetarian cafés, Asian restaurants or larger supermarkets for plant-based alternatives and vegan pastries.
Gluten-free choices are available in some restaurants and bakeries, but cross-contamination can occur—ask explicitly for 'glutenfrei' and consider buying packaged gluten-free items from supermarkets.
Halal-certified restaurants are limited; find international eateries in the city or buy halal meats from specialized shops. Many restaurants can serve vegetarian or fish dishes as alternatives.