Things To Do
in Staufen im Breisgau
Staufen im Breisgau is a charming medieval town perched above the Rhine Valley, surrounded by sun-kissed vineyards and the foothills of the Black Forest. Its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and a hilltop castle ruin give visitors a sense of timeless Baden charm. The town serves as a peaceful gateway to the Kaiserstuhl wine region and easy day trips to Freiburg and other Black Forest highlights.
Visitors can savor local wines, stroll scenic lookout points, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this compact southern German gem.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Staufen im Breisgau and settle into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the half-timbered houses that date back centuries. Grab a coffee and pastry at a local café to kickstart your adventure.
Visit the historic Staufen Castle, perched high on the hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the castle grounds and learn about its intriguing history. After your castle visit, wander through the charming town square and perhaps shop for local crafts.
Savor a traditional German dinner at a restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Enjoy the warm ambiance of the eatery as you indulge in local wines and hearty dishes. End the evening with a peaceful walk through the illuminated town.
Take a refreshing hike in the scenic Black Forest, just a short drive from Staufen. Immerse yourself in nature as you walk along well-marked trails, surrounded by towering trees and babbling brooks. Enjoy a packed picnic breakfast with a view, breathing in the fresh forest air.
Journey back and visit the picturesque town of Bad Krozingen, famous for its thermal baths. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the soothing waters, rejuvenating your body and spirit. Consider indulging in a spa treatment for the ultimate relaxation experience.
Dine at a local bistro featuring gourmet twists on classic German dishes. Experience the warmth of hospitality as you enjoy a multi-course meal paired with local brews. After dinner, take a quiet walk beneath the stars, reflecting on the beauty of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🚆Public transport pass (monthly) | $60-75 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and local crafts | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming medieval town with wine culture
- Stunning views and easy access to the Black Forest and Kaiserstuhl
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Can be crowded during harvest season
- "Guten Tag" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Marktplatz?" - Where is the market square?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern …" - I would like ...
- "Zahlen, bitte." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Staufen im Breisgau
Visit one of these nice places.
A cobblestone square framed by historic timber-framed houses—great in morning light with reflections in the fountain.
A hilltop vantage with sweeping views over vineyards, the town, and the Rhine valley.
Romantic remains on a hilltop offering dramatic sunset and panoramic skyline shots.
Stepped vineyards and winding paths yield colorful lines and golden-hour photography opportunities.
Food in Staufen im Breisgau
Staufen im Breisgau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted pork shoulder served with dumplings and sauerkraut or red cabbage.
Must-Try!
Swabian-style stuffed pasta, often served in broth or with onions and herbs.
Cheesy egg noodles (spätzle) layered with fried onions.
Thin, crispy Alsatian-style pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon or vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market on the Marktplatz featuring seasonal produce, cheeses, bread, and local wines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo.' Use the Sie form for strangers and elders; be punctual and considerate in conversations; keep voice lines moderate in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Staufen im Breisgau
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafés, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common but not required.
Cash is widely accepted, and cards (Visa/Mastercard) plus contactless payments are common; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, warm to hot weather, and lively outdoor cafés. Light layers are handy for evenings and showers are possible.
Harvest season with grape picking, wine festivals, and vivid foliage. Bring layers for breezy evenings.
Chilly but cozy; Christmas markets nearby and warm inns with fireplaces. Pack a warm coat and sturdy shoes.
Blossoms in vineyards and gardens; mild temperatures ideal for walking and cycling. Pack a light rain jacket.
Staufen im Breisgau at Night
Hiking in Staufen im Breisgau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails with panoramic views over the Rhine valley and vineyards.
Scenic forest trails through a dramatic gorge, offering varied terrain for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Staufen im Breisgau by plane.
International gateway about 60-80 minutes by rail or car, with connections to Basel, Freiburg, and regional towns.
Regional airport serving many European destinations, roughly 70-90 minutes away by road and rail.
Major international hub about 3 hours by train or car, offering extensive connections and frequent services.
Regional hub about 1.5–2 hours away by road or rail, convenient for flights within Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Safe, scenic town with schools and parks; family-friendly events are common in summer.
Proximity to Freiburg and local educational facilities attracts students and researchers.
Residents often enjoy the relaxed pace, wine culture, and scenic views.
Seasonal influx of visitors and seasonal labor during harvests.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region features scenic bike routes through vineyards and along the Rhine, suitable for all levels.
Valuable access to the Kaiserstuhl hills and Black Forest foothills with day-long and short options.
Local and regional clubs match community interest and weekly schedules in nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Staufen im Breisgau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options—look for vegetable plates, Käse-, or mushroom-based dishes; ask about daily specials and fresh produce from nearby farms.