Things To Do
in Steinen
Steinen is a small municipality in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, nestled in the foothills of the Black Forest near the Swiss border. The village blends timber-framed houses, green valleys, and a tranquil rural atmosphere with convenient access to Basel and Lörrach. Its location makes it a perfect base for day trips to cross-border cities and scenic hikes, while offering quiet, locally brewed charm.
Visitors can enjoy countryside walks, regional cuisine, and easy exploration of nearby towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in fresh pastries and coffee. Stroll through the charming streets of Steinen, admiring the half-timbered houses that tell stories of the past. Visit the nearby Evangelische Kirche, a stunning church that showcases the region's architectural heritage.
After a delightful morning, head to the Steinen Museum to learn about the local history and culture through fascinating exhibits. Enjoy lunch at a traditional German restaurant, sampling local dishes such as Schnitzel or Bratwurst. Spend the afternoon wandering the quaint shops, where you can find handmade crafts and local specialties.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in the town square for a relaxing dinner, soaking in the ambiance of the historic surroundings. Choose a restaurant that offers regional wines, allowing you to taste the flavors of the surrounding vineyards. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Steinen at night.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before setting off for a nature walk in the nearby Black Forest. The morning air is crisp and refreshing as you follow the well-marked trails, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of wildlife. Pause at a viewpoint to take in the breathtaking vistas of the rolling hills and valleys.
After your morning hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the designated areas, relishing the tranquility of nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the forest further, perhaps trying your hand at birdwatching or identifying various plant species. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a short trek to the nearby waterfall, where you can cool off in the mist.
Return to Steinen in the early evening, where you can refresh yourself at your accommodation. Treat yourself to dinner at a local tavern, where the menu features seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding farms. As night falls, consider joining a guided night walk to experience the forest's nocturnal wonders.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Lunch or dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to Basel and the Black Forest
- Scenic landscapes and countryside charm
- Cross-border day trips to Basel and Weil am Rhein are convenient
- Limited nightlife within Steinen itself
- Smaller town amenities compared to larger cities
- Weather can be rainy in shoulder seasons
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like to order/have...
Places to Visit in Steinen
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic Baden architecture with timber framing and a historic church set against a lush backdrop.
Cobbled lanes and colorful façades ideal for street photography and seasonal scenes.
Riverside vantage points offering glimpses of Basel’s skyline and the crossing of the Rhine.
Sunrise silhouettes over the Black Forest foothills with expansive valley views.
Food in Steinen
Steinen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swabian-style stuffed pasta pockets, often served with broth or fried with onions; widely available in local inns.
Must-Try!
The iconic Black Forest cake with chocolate layers, cherries, and whipped cream; a common treat in cafés across the region.
Roasted pork shoulder traditionally served with sauerkraut or potato dumplings; a regional specialty.
Egg noodles or dumplings, frequently served as a side or main dish with cheese (Käsespätzle) or gravy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small farmers market offering regional produce, bread, cheese, and prepared foods on market days.
Cross-border market nearby with fresh produce, snacks, and Swiss specialties when available.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments; greet with a friendly Guten Tag or Hallo; a handshake is common in formal interactions.
Respect quiet hours and local norms; use polite language in stores and restaurants; maintain a courteous demeanor.
Safety
Tipping in Steinen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is typical if service is good.
Cash is still common in small shops and markets; credit/debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional showers; long daylight hours support outdoor hikes, river walks, and al fresco dining.
Harvest season with colorful foliage; wine country activities and scenic walks become especially rewarding.
Cool to cold; possible snow in the higher elevations; cozy cafés, Basel’s winter markets, and riverside strolls still enjoyable.
Mild temperatures and budding landscapes; ideal for hiking, gardens, and outdoor markets.
Steinen at Night
Hiking in Steinen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike to the Blauen mountain offering expansive regional views.
Scenic forest and stream valley walk through Kandertal with varying difficulty.
Forest trail along the Wehra river featuring woodland scenery and lookout spots.
Airports
How to reach Steinen by plane.
Major international airport serving Basel, Mulhouse, and Freiburg; about 20-40 minutes by train or car from Steinen.
Large international hub about 1.5-2 hours by rail or car; excellent for long-haul and regional connections.
Regional airport with several European connections; travel time by car around 1.5-2 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-time Baden-Württemberg families with many cross-border commuting neighbors from Basel.
Steinen attracts families and retirees seeking a tranquil rural lifestyle with city access.
Some expatriates and international residents drawn by proximity to Basel and cross-border opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across clubs and schools; local matches can be enjoyed at nearby stadiums.
Extensive cycle routes along the Rhine and into the Black Forest.
Many family-friendly and challenging trails in the Black Forest foothills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Steinen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetable dishes, salads, K ässpätzle, or Maultaschen made with spinach.