About Freiburg

The gateway to the Black Forest, Freiburg im Breisgau — simply called ‘Freiburg’ — is famously beautiful. Perched on the banks of the Dreisam River, this red-roofed city has a long history as an intellectual, religious and commercial centre for the Upper Rhine region. The iconic Freiburg Minster, parts of which date back 800 years, has drawn visitors to the city for centuries. It’s within sight of many of the best places to stay in Freiburg, and continues to delight the culture buffs and outdoor enthusiasts who flock to the area throughout the year.

Freiburg’s marvellous old town is appealingly walkable, and guided tours come highly recommended. Begin with the Gothic masterpiece that is the Freiburg Minster, and wind your way through narrow lanes lined with boutiques, cafés, taverns and houses. The Augustinermuseum, the Museum Natur und Mensch and the Planetarium Freiburg all house fascinating exhibits, whilst the charming Munsterplatz is ideal for a coffee and some people-watching in the sunshine.

This is reputedly Germany’s sunniest city, so there should be plenty of opportunity for riverside strolls, boat trips and cycle rides, as well as long, lazy lunches with Baden wines and craft beers. Many travellers see Freiburg as a springboard for adventures in the Black Forest, with hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, bird watching and climbing excursions within easy reach. The best places to stay in Freiburg are clustered around the old town, so we’d suggest returning to spend your evenings in the buzzy bars and eateries of its characterful streets — there’s superb regional fare to savour!

The Best Places to Stay in Freiburg

For Old Town Charm

  • Hotel Oberkirch is fabulously located in Freiburg's old town. Traditional interiors are decorated in warm red and golden yellow tones, with floral wallpapers, sash windows and glittering chandeliers. The fine-dining restaurant serves mount-watering European cuisine, and has an extensive wine list. A romantic, old-school base just opposite the Minster.
  • Hotel Schwarzwälder Hof, run by a friendly family team, is another superb spot in the historic centre. Step off a cobbled lane into an atmospheric restaurant and antique-filled communal areas. By contrast, the large rooms are sleek and understated with clean lines, white-washed walls and patterned headboards. A stylish fusion of old and new, with great family rooms.
  • Kreuz Blume has just eight simple guest rooms, each with crisp white linens, wooden floors and pared-back, minimalist interiors in a heritage building. The intimate size, old town setting and fantastic regional restaurant make this a brilliant city choice.

For Contemporary Style

  • The Alex is a sleek, contemporary hotel with white and cream bedrooms boasting warm blue accents. Cosy up by the fire, or unwind with drinks on the terrace after of a day of exploring. Smart and stylish, this is a top spot for business travellers — complete with conference facilities — as well as for holidaymakers.

For Luxury

  • Colombi Hotel is an elegant grand dame of a hotel with 112 rooms and suites, on the edge of the old town, the best offering uninterrupted views of the Minster. Kick back in sophisticated communal spaces with an evening tipple or two before feasting on sensational cuisine at the Michelin-starred Zirbel and Falkenstube restaurant. Timeless luxury.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg, just across the border in neighbouring France, and journey 50 minutes by car, bus or train from there. Germany's extensive railway network connects Freiburg to other regional hubs, making journeys swift and simple.
  • Baden-Württemburg is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Visit during the summer months for temperatures averaging around 24°C in July and August. You'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays in May or September, although these months are also slightly cooler.

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The best hotels in Freiburg

Hotel Schwarzwälder Hof

Freiburg

A family-run property in the historic centre of Freiburg. The atmospheric restaurant and living areas are filled with antiques and local charm. Contrastingly the rooms are contemporary in style with crisp white linen, parquet flooring and patterned headboards. Well positioned for city exploration.

  • Local exploring - Situated in the heart of Freiburg giving easy access to many of the cities best sights.
  • Great walks - The surrounding mountains provide miles of scenic trails to be explored.
  • Sights nearby - The hotel is a stone's throw from the mediaeval centre of the city
  • Restaurant - Serves authentic regional cuisine
from $104 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Oberkirch

Freiburg

A historic building situated in the heart of the city. Traditionally styled rooms feature charming floral motif wallpaper, sash windows and elegant chandeliers. A fine-dining restaurant serves contemporary European cuisine and boasts an excellent wine-list. Well located for exploring the city.

  • Local exploring - A historic building, right in the heart of Freiburg's old town and within walking distance of some of its main attractions.
  • Great walks - Take a guided city walk and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient town.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the cities famed cathedral located just opposite the hotel.
  • Traditional
from $157 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Kreuz Blume

Freiburg

Charming little hotel in the heart of Freiburg's old town. Kreuze Blume's rooms are spacious and light with simple furnishings that create a comfortable atmosphere. Spend the day exploring the cobbled streets of Freiburg's old town before returning for a delicious evening meal.

  • Local exploring - Located within a charming historic building in town, yet within easy reach of the Black Forest
  • Local markets - Around Christmas, explore Freiburg's Christmas markets.
  • Sights nearby - Freiburg Munster is 100m from the hotel.
  • Restaurant
from $158 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Alex, Freiburg

Freiburg

A sleek, modern hotel just outside Freiburg's historic old town. Contemporary interior design, with chic, comfortable rooms and plush bathrooms. Relax by the fire in the lounge, or sip on a cocktail in the stylish bar. Perfect for those hoping to explore the city in style.

  • Local exploring - A chic contemporary hotel, just minutes from Freiburg’s picturesque Old Town, ideal for a cultural city break.
  • Business meetings - With great conference room facilities and a central location it's well suited to business meetings.
  • Sights nearby - Less than ten minutes walk from Freiburg's picturesque old town.
  • Local markets - Explore Freiburg's daily farmers market in Munsterplatz.
from $158 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Green City Hotel Vauban

Freiburg (Baden-Wurttemburg)

A modern hotel with sustainability at its heart on the outskirts of town. Sleek decor blends contemporary style with eco-friendly elements and the rooms feature plenty of local, natural materials. No restaurant, but a hearty breakfast buffet is offered daily. Perfect for business and leisure stays.

  • Local exploring - Although slightly off-centre, this offers a great base for exploring both Freiburg and further afield
  • Groups - Ideal for groups with connecting rooms, express check-in, and a nearby bar for social evenings
  • Great walks - Stroll through the stunning Black Forest trails nearby and immerse yourself in nature's beauty
  • Sights nearby - Visit the historic Freiburg Cathedral, a marvel of Gothic architecture
from $161 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Schloss Reinach

Freiburg (Baden-Württemberg)

Tucked in Germany’s Black Forest, this historic manor-turned-modern retreat blends charm with sophistication. Interiors pair clean-lined luxury with antique touches, offering a mix of contemporary comfort and timeless style. Indulge in a top-notch spa, fine dining, or relaxed BBQs.

  • Foodies - Savour gourmet regional dishes, wood-fired pizza, and al fresco barbecue delights, paired with wines from nearby vineyards
  • Total relaxation - Unwind with indulgent treatments, a Finnish sauna, and tranquil gardens, perfect for a serene escape in lush surroundings
  • Wine tasting - Wander through scenic Breisach vineyards and enjoy wine tasting with breathtaking views of the Rhine and Black Forest
  • Cycling - Cycle along peaceful trails connecting charming villages, lush forests, and picture-perfect countryside vistas
from $163 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Colombi Hotel

Freiburg

A luxury hotel and spa on the outskirts of the historic Old Town. Light and airy rooms are traditional in style with large windows and magnificent city views. The elegant reception rooms are a glorious place to unwind with an evening tipple, as is the Michelin starred restaurant. Fabulous.

  • Foodies - Foodie heaven with Black Forest cuisine served in the Michelin starred Zirbel and Falkenstube restaurant.
  • Local exploring - A very comfortable base to return to after a day exploring the historic city.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the picturesque Colombi Castle or take a walk round Freiburg's historic centre.
  • Great walks - Within easy access of the Black Forest with its many miles of trails.
from $278 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees