Things To Do
in Rheinau
Rheinau is a scenic border town perched along the Rhine in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, opposite Strasbourg. It blends charming half-timbered houses with the natural beauty of the river and the nearby Black Forest foothills. The town serves as a calm gateway to Alsace and the wider Ortenau wine region.
Life here moves at a relaxed pace, with easy access to outdoor trails, cycling routes, and cross-border day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
On your first morning in Rheinau, you'll settle into your accommodation while enjoying a leisurely breakfast featuring local pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll along the banks of the Rhine, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere and lovely views. This morning is all about acclimating yourself to the rhythm of this picturesque town.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the historic Kloster Rheinau, where you can learn about its rich history and explore its stunning architecture. Wander through the tranquil gardens that surround the monastery, taking in the beautiful landscaping and serene ambiance. Don’t forget to stop by the local café for a slice of authentic Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along the river for dinner, sampling traditional Baden cuisine. Enjoy a glass of local wine while taking in the views of the illuminated monastery across the water. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the Rhine at dusk.
Begin your day with a guided bike tour of Rheinau, which allows you to explore the charming villages and beautiful countryside surrounding the town. With the crisp morning air, you'll ride through vineyards and past quaint farms, seeing the beauty of the Black Forest region. Stop at local farms for fresh produce and homemade goods to enjoy along the way.
After lunch, visit the nearby town of Laufenburg, where you can walk across the historic bridge that connects Germany to Switzerland. The afternoon's picturesque views of the Rhine River and stunning architecture will inspire you as you capture the essence of this border town. Take some time to explore the local shops before heading back to Rheinau.
In the evening, attend a local festival or event if available, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture through traditional music and dance. Enjoy street food offerings and local crafts while mingling with residents and other visitors. If there are no events, opt for a quiet evening at a local bar enjoying a refreshing beer brewed in the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍷Glass of wine in a bar | $6-12 |
| 🚇Public transport ticket (1-ride) | $3-4 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, scenic Rhine-side town with easy cross-border access
- Strong wine and food scene in the Ortenau region
- Limited nightlife within Rheinau itself
- Some services closer to larger towns may require a short drive
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like ...
- "Rechnung, bitte" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Rheinau
Visit one of these nice places.
Riverside promenade with reflective water at sunrise and clear views toward Strasbourg.
Old town streets framed by timber-framed houses, perfect for atmospheric street photography.
Arcades and river silhouettes from the bridge, especially in golden hour.
Food in Rheinau
Rheinau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roast pork shoulder with crackling, a Baden classic often served with dumplings or potato salad.
Must-Try!
Alsace-style flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon, widely available in local eateries.
Onion tart with bacon, enjoyed in autumn with new wine.
Black Forest cake featuring chocolate layers, cherries and whipped cream, a regional favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market in nearby Kehl where you can sample regional cheeses, breads, and produce.
Cross-border markets in Strasbourg offering Alsace specialties like pretzels, tarte flambée, and sausages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments and reservations; Germans value time discipline.
Use Sie for strangers; address elders with proper titles unless invited to use first names.
Cross-border travel is common; show respect for local rules and multilingual signs in German and French.
Safety
Tipping in Rheinau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, tipping is customary but not obligatory; round up or leave about 5-10% for good service.
Most places accept cash, debit cards (EC-Karte), and contactless payments; carry some cash for smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming orchards and vineyards; great for city walks and spring markets.
Warm days ideal for riverfront strolls and cycling; expect occasional rainfall thunderstorms.
Harvest season with wine tastings in the Ortenau; colorful leaves along the Rhine paths.
Cool to cold with festive markets nearby; cozy inns and mulled wine.
Rheinau at Night
Hiking in Rheinau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trail along the Rhine offering views of the river and nearby hills.
Forest trails with varied difficulty and scenic vistas into the Black Forest.
Gentle ascents with panorama views over the Rhine valley and Strasbourg.
Airports
How to reach Rheinau by plane.
Closest international airport across the border in France, about 60-80 km away depending on border crossing; good for connections to Europe.
Regional airport approx. 60-80 km away; offers flights across Europe.
Large international airport located near Basel; about 120-140 km away, with easy rail connections to the Rhine region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The town’s core population with a mix of rural and suburban residents.
People who live in nearby Germany or France and work across borders, common in border regions.
Tourists and day-trippers attracted by Rhine scenery and Alsace proximity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular amateur and local league football across the region.
Extensive bike routes along the Rhine and into the Black Forest foothills.
Water sports on the river with rental facilities in nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rheinau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many German restaurants offer vegetarian options; request seasonal vegetables, potato dishes, or cheese with clear labeling, and consider wine pairing to complement meals.