Baden-Baden

The enchanting spa town of Baden-Baden is located close to the French border, next to the magical Black Forest. Although the area is fantastic in any season, winter elevates its allure. In just a few minutes from Baden-Baden, snow turns the Black Forest into a winter fairy tale, offering chances for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the many well-maintained trails.

Ride the historic Merkurbergbahn (cable car) up Merkur Mountain to see breathtaking views and explore the numerous winter hiking routes. Alternately, climb up to the castle ruins of Schloss Hohenbaden, which stand above the hills just above the town. There are many Christmas markets to visit in December in the city. You can meander around Lichtentaler Allee Park before reserving a seat at one of the small cafés nearby for some traditional chocolate truffles. Alternately, explore the late-Gothic Stiftskirche church before seeing the magnificent collection of modernist and expressionist artwork at the Museum Frieder Burda. Baden-Baden is a spa town with a lot to offer as well. Take a hot bath in the Caracalla Spa in the winter, visit Friedrichsbad's Roman baths, or explore a salt cave for a salty sea breeze.