Baden-Baden: exploring a spa town in Germany

Located in southwestern Germany, about an hour from Strasbourg, Baden-Baden is a lovely and verdant spa town. We were charmed by its pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. 

The thermal baths of Baden-Baden, such as the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Spa, which covers over 5000 m², are world renowned. The healing and relaxing properties of the thermal water, which is drawn from 12 local hot springs at a temperature of 68 °C (154 °F), are unparalleled. 

Being a popular resort town, Baden-Baden, also offers several nature walks, such as Lichtentaler Allee. This pedestrian path runs along the river Oos for about 3 km, and is lined with beautiful villas, high-end hotels and spas, like Brenners Park-Hotel and Villa Stéphanie.

This peaceful path is the perfect place for a relaxing riverside stroll, shaded by lush trees. It’s also ideal for a bicycle trip along the protected bike lanes running parallel to the pedestrian path. 

About halfway along Lichtentaler Allee, you’ll find the Gönneranlage – an elegant garden complex with walkways lined with flower beds and a wide variety of roses. Take a break on a bench in the shade of an alcove or a pergola, like we did.

In the 19th century, Baden-Baden was known as the summer capital of Europe. This period left its mark on the city in the form of an extraordinary architectural and cultural heritage. This can be seen in buildings such as the Kurhaus, which houses the famous casino, a jewel of the Belle Époque style. 

Another architectural gem is the Trinkhalle, a 90-meter-long gallery lined with a Corinthian colonnade. The gallery, which was built in the 19th century, is adorned with 14 stunning frescoes depicting tales and legends from the Black Forest. 

The old town, with its steep and picturesque streets, only adds to the charm of the city.

The panoramic viewing terrace by Schloßbergstraße offers a splendid view of the Stiftskirche (Collegiate Church), Baden-Baden’s old town, and the surrounding area. 

If you’re in need of some refreshment after climbing up to the viewing point, there are fountains with drinking water (keep an eye out for the ones labeled Trinkwasser) all around the old town. 

Since 2021, Baden-Baden has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. A well-deserved recognition for a town that has succeeded in preserving and highlighting its incredible heritage.

Getting to Baden-Baden

By car 

The journey by car between Strasbourg and Baden-Baden takes about an hour.

There are several parking garages available: Parkhaus Festspielhaus or Parkhaus Kurhaus (which is closer to the city center, but more expensive).

By train  

Traveling by train, you can reach Baden-Baden from Strasbourg in about an hour and 15 minutes. Baden-Baden train station is located 4.5 km from the center of town, but there are several buses running directly from the station to the center (Leopoldsplatz). 

By long-distance bus

From place de l’Étoile in Strasbourg, you can take a bus to Baden-Baden train station in a little over an hour.