Leisure & excursions
in Karlsruhe
Leisure time becomes an experience here
Karlsruhe offers numerous leisure activities for every taste! Whether sporting activities, relaxing hours in nature or exciting cultural and adventure offers - here you will find everything you need for a varied time in the fan-shaped city. Let yourself be inspired and discover what Karlsruhe has to offer in terms of leisure time!
Fit & active in Karlsruhe and the region
Whether active in nature or in the city, Karlsruhe has impressive things to offer: A mild climate with around 1800 hours of sunshine per year, 102 km of cycle paths, 12 swimming pools, around 1000 hectares of green spaces and over 135 cultural institutions - boredom is a foreign word in the fan-shaped city! From hiking and cycling to swimming or strolls through Karlsruhe's parks and gardens. Here are your leisure tips for Karlsruhe!
Karlsruhe likes to celebrate - all year round!
Be inspired by great art and exciting cabaret, music and light installations, as well as festivals of all kinds and celebrate with us!
Day trips from Karlsruhe to the region
Karlsruhe's location in southwest Germany makes it the perfect starting point for numerous day trips. This is where the Black Forest, Alsace, the southern wine route and the Alb Valley meet and open up a wide variety of excursion options, ranging from nature experiences to cultural highlights.
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The Northern Black Forest presents itself at its best with its beautiful and traditional towns such as Baden-Baden and Gernsbach. Popular excursion tips here include Eberstein Castle and the spa town of Bad Wildbad.
City of GernsbachGernsbach
More about GernsbachThe climatic health resort of Gernsbach (160 - 984 m), beautifully situated in the Murg Valley, offers ideal conditions for a relaxing excursion. Situated at the transition to the narrow and wooded part of the Murg Valley, Gernsbach has a lot to offer: The historic old town with its picturesque half-timbered houses, fountains and well-preserved town fortifications invite you to linger. One of the most famous buildings in the region is the Old Town Hall, a sandstone building constructed in the late Renaissance period. Also worth seeing are the two town churches, the Zehntscheuern and the only fortified tower still standing today, the Storchenturm.
Eberstein CastleEberstein Castle
More about Eberstein CastleEberstein Castle, located near Gernsbach in the Black Forest, is an impressive medieval castle that offers a magnificent view over the castle's own vineyards and the Murg Valley. The history of the castle dates back to the 13th century. There is a first-class restaurant in the castle, which delights with regional and seasonal dishes. The surrounding vineyards invite you to take a walk, and the castle itself is home to a winery that offers fine wines from the region. Guided tours of the castle and wine tastings are offered regularly.
Tourism Bad WildbadBad Wildbad
More about Bad WildbadBad Wildbad in the northern Black Forest is a royal spa town with a centuries-old spa tradition and is known for its breathtaking nature. One highlight is the Black Forest treetop walk, an impressive, barrier-free path that winds its way through the treetops and is crowned by a viewing tower with spectacular panoramic views. In addition to the treetop path, the Sommerberg also offers a variety of hiking trails and the opportunity to take the Sommerbergbahn cable car to the summit. The Vital Therme, a modern facility with indoor and outdoor pools, and the historic Palais Thermal, which is known for its Moorish architecture and luxurious bathing experiences, provide relaxation.
© Baden-Baden Kur & Tourismus GmbHBaden-Baden
More about Baden-BadenBaden-Baden, the elegant spa town at the foot of the Black Forest, is known for its luxurious thermal baths, first-class cultural facilities and picturesque surroundings. The Caracalla-Therme and the historic Friedrichsbad offer soothing thermal baths that have been attracting guests from all over the world for centuries. Culturally, the magnificent Festspielhaus, one of the largest opera houses in Europe, delights with top-class concerts and theater performances. The sophisticated Lichtentaler Allee invites you to stroll through well-tended parks and along the Oos river. The Casino Baden-Baden is one of the oldest and most beautiful casinos in Europe and exudes an elegant atmosphere. On the Merkurberg, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the city and the gentle mountain landscape.
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Alsace, located on the German-French border, enchants visitors with its charming half-timbered houses, vineyards and a unique blend of German and French culture. The cities of Strasbourg, Wissembourg and Lauterbourg with their historic old towns, which look like something out of a picture book with their cobbled alleyways, colorful half-timbered houses and flower-decorated balconies, are definitely worth a day trip. At Fleckenstein Castle or the Ecomusée d'Alsace, the largest open-air museum in France, visitors can experience a piece of Alsatian history up close.
© Fotolia 24776941Strasbourg
More about StrasbourgStrasbourg, the capital of Alsace and seat of the European Parliament, impresses with its Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the charming La Petite France district with its half-timbered houses and canals. A walk along the Ill river or a boat trip offer picturesque views of the old town. The historic old town center "Grande Île" was declared a World Heritage Site in 1988 and invites you to linger with its numerous small stores, typical bistros and cozy cafés. In the Palais Rohan, visitors will find museums dedicated to the art and history of the region.
Wissembourg
More about WissembourgThe former winegrowing and artisan town has remained a warm and historic town that invites you to take a stroll along the Lauter river or through the cobbled alleyways along the town wall. Discover Wissembourg's rich religious heritage and eventful history. The Gothic abbey church of St. Peter and Paul is one of the most important buildings and is one of the largest churches in Alsace. The Salzhaus, a medieval building that reflects the town's rich history, is also well worth a visit. The vineyard and orchard area is ideal for exploring on foot or by bike.
Lauterbourg
More about LaterbourgLauterbourg, the easternmost town in France, is idyllically situated on the Rhine and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and charming buildings. The parish church of St. Arbogast is an architectural highlight that offers insights into the local history. Walks along the Rhine and Lake Lauter invite you to relax in nature. The border town in the north-eastern corner of Alsace was once a fortress. However, not much is left of the town wall. It dates back to the 15th century and had 15 towers at the time; today, only the butcher's tower (French: Tour des Bouchers) and a few remains of the wall remain. The butcher's tower served as a prison until 1761. The historic town hall and the traditional half-timbered houses give the town a special flair.
Fleckenstein Castle
More about Fleckenstein CastleFleckenstein Castle in Alsace is an impressive rock castle perched high on a sandstone cliff and offers fascinating insights into the Middle Ages. Its strategic location near the Franco-German border made it an important defensive structure for centuries. Visitors can hike through the ruins, climb the old towers and enjoy the magnificent view of the Vosges mountains. The Knights' Trail, an interactive circular route that introduces families and children to the history of the castle in a fun way, is particularly popular.
Ecomusée d'Alsace
More about the Ecomusée d'AlsaceThe Écomusée d'Alsace is a living open-air museum in Alsace that brings visitors closer to the traditional life and crafts of the region. In a faithfully reconstructed Alsatian village, historic half-timbered houses, workshops and farms provide an authentic insight into rural life in past centuries. Numerous presentations and craft demonstrations - from pottery to blacksmithing - bring Alsatian culture to life. Visitors can taste traditional dishes, listen to old stories and take part in seasonal festivals. The Écomusée offers a unique journey through time and is ideal for families and culture vultures.
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The Southern Wine Route offers numerous attractions that combine nature, history and enjoyment. Speyer impresses with its imposing cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic city center. In Landau, the Reptilium, a large terrarium that offers exciting insights into the world of reptiles and amphibians, is a delight. Nature lovers should pay a visit to the Silz Wildlife and Hiking Park, where native animal species can be observed in a natural environment. The Staufer town of Annweiler am Trifels is known for its Trifels Castle, which has a rich history and offers a magnificent view over the Palatinate. At the southern end of the wine route, the German Wine Gate in Schweigen-Rechtenbach marks the start of the picturesque wine route and invites visitors to sample wines and regional specialties.
© KTG Karlsruhe Tourismus GmbHSpeyer
Speyer, one of the oldest cities in Germany, impresses with its imposing imperial cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city's landmark. A stroll through the historic old town takes you past charming half-timbered houses and the picturesque Altpörtel, one of the highest city gates in Germany. The Historical Museum of the Palatinate offers exciting exhibitions on the history and culture of the region. The city is located directly on the Rhine, where promenades and boat trips invite you to relax. Speyer combines Roman heritage and medieval splendor.
City of Landau in the PalatinateReptilium Landau
The Reptilium Landau, Germany's largest reptile zoo, fascinates visitors with an impressive variety of exotic animals. Here you can experience snakes, lizards, crocodiles and many other reptile species up close. The regular feedings and demonstrations are particularly exciting and provide an insight into the behavior and lifestyle of these fascinating animals. A walk through the tropically designed enclosures and terrariums allows visitors to observe the animals in their natural environment. The Reptilium Landau combines education and adventure and is an ideal excursion destination for families and animal lovers.
Daniela TrauthweinSilz Wildlife and Hiking Park
In the Silz Wildlife and Hiking Park, visitors can observe native wild animals such as deer, wild boar and mouflons in their natural environment on the extensive hiking trails. The park offers interactive experiences, including animal feedings and a petting enclosure that particularly delights children. Educational trails provide information about the flora and fauna of the region and make the visit an educational and entertaining experience. With its shady paths and idyllic picnic spots, the Silz Wildlife and Hiking Park is a wonderful place to spend time in nature and leave the stress of everyday life behind.
© Verein Südliche Weinstrasse Anweiler am Trifels e.V.The Staufer town of Annweiler am Trifels
The Staufer town of Annweiler am Trifels is picturesquely situated in the Palatinate Forest and is a magnet for history buffs and nature lovers. The imposing Trifels Castle, which once housed the imperial jewels and is closely linked to the story of Richard the Lionheart, towers above the town. A visit to the castle not only offers exciting insights into medieval history, but also a breathtaking view of the Palatinate landscape. The historic old town of Annweiler invites you to stroll around with its half-timbered houses, winding alleyways and cozy cafés.
![Weinberg_Durlach_©_KTG_Karlsruhe_Tourismus_GmbH_Foto_Andrea_Fabry_063]()
![Weinberg_Durlach_©_KTG_Karlsruhe_Tourismus_GmbH_Foto_Andrea_Fabry_063]()
© KTG Karlsruhe Tourismus GmbHGerman Wine Gate
The German Wine Gate in Schweigen-Rechtenbach marks the southern beginning of the German Wine Route and is a landmark with symbolic character. The monumental archway was built in 1936 and marks the start of one of the most beautiful wine regions in Germany. Visitors can climb the Weintor and enjoy a magnificent view of the surrounding vineyards and the picturesque landscape of the Southern Palatinate. Inside the gate is a restaurant offering regional wine specialties and typical dishes. The German Wine Gate is an ideal starting point for wine lovers and connoisseurs to explore the numerous wineries and picturesque villages along the wine route.
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If you want to experience nature actively, the Alb Valley is just the place for you. Hiking, cycling, mountain biking, Nordic walking or cross-country skiing - sports and nature enthusiasts get their money's worth here. But the Alb Valley also has a lot to offer in terms of culture. In addition to beautiful old towns, the valley attracts visitors with historical landmarks such as the magnificent Ettlingen Castle or the monastery ruins in Bad Herrenalb and Frauenalb. The thermal spas in Bad Herrenalb and Waldbronn invite you to enjoy a relaxing day of wellness.
© Tourismusgemeinschaft Albtal Plus e. V. | Photo: Matthias HangstBad Herrenalb
Bad Herrenalb, idyllically situated in the northern Black Forest, is a popular spa town that combines relaxation and nature experiences. Known for its thermal springs, the Siebentäler Therme offers wellness and relaxation in a modern ambience. The spa park with its well-tended paths, flowerbeds and babbling brook invites you to take relaxing walks. Those interested in culture can visit Herrenalb Monastery, an impressive monastery ruin from the 12th century. Surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, Bad Herrenalb is also an ideal starting point for hikes and bike tours through the picturesque Black Forest landscape.
© LeupolzEttlingen
Ettlingen, located on the edge of the northern Black Forest, enchants visitors with its historic old town full of charm. The magnificent Ettlingen Castle is a cultural center and is home to the town's museum as well as regular concerts and theater performances. A stroll through the old town takes you past picturesque half-timbered houses, the baroque town hall and the idyllic Alb river, which winds its way through the town. The town church of St. Martin and the market hall are other popular places to visit. Surrounded by hiking trails and natural beauty, Ettlingen offers a perfect mix of culture, history and nature experiences.
© Kurverwaltungsgesellschaft mbH WaldbronnWaldbronn
Waldbronn, located in the Alb Valley and close to Karlsruhe, is a charming spa and recreation destination known for its Albtherme spa. The spa offers wellness and relaxation with thermal baths, saunas and spa facilities, ideal for a break from everyday life. Waldbronn's spa gardens are ideal for relaxing walks and are a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike. Nature lovers can enjoy the numerous hiking and cycling trails around Waldbronn, which lead through the gentle hills of the Alb Valley. In addition, events and markets attract visitors all year round to the municipality, which delights with its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to nature.
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The excursion options in the Kraichgau region are diverse. The impressive Maulbronn Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, fascinates visitors with its well-preserved medieval architecture. Bretten attracts visitors with its historic old town and the Melanchthon House, while Bruchsal delights with the magnificent Bruchsal Palace and the German Museum of Music Automatons. The Kraichtal Observatory offers unique insights into the stars and celestial bodies, ideal for amateur astronomers and families. Visitors can find pure relaxation in the Thermen & Badewelt Sinsheim, where a tropical ambience and diverse sauna landscapes invite you to spend relaxing hours.
State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-WürttembergMaulbronn Monastery
Maulbronn Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries north of the Alps. The former Cistercian abbey impresses with its Romanesque-Gothic architecture and numerous historic buildings, including the monastery church, the cloister and the impressive monastery gate. Visitors can stroll through the old walls and feel the unique atmosphere of times gone by. The monastery is also famous for its centuries-old pond farming, which was part of the monastery's engineering skills. Cultural events and guided tours take place regularly, offering insights into the life of the monks and the history of the abbey.
© Thomas RebelBretten
Bretten, picturesquely situated in the Kraichgau region, delights visitors with its historic old town and rich cultural heritage. Known as the birthplace of Philipp Melanchthon, Martin Luther's companion, Bretten is home to the Melanchthon House, an important museum that sheds light on the life and work of the reformer. The town wall and the tanners' quarter bear witness to the town's medieval past and invite visitors to explore. The market square with its impressive town hall and surrounding half-timbered houses is a popular meeting place. A highlight is the annual Peter and Paul Festival, which transforms the town into a medieval setting and attracts many visitors.
Martin HeintzenBruchsal
Bruchsal, located in the heart of Baden, is best known for the magnificent Bruchsal Palace, an impressive baroque residence with lavish gardens and the German Museum of Music Automatons, which delights visitors with its unique collection of mechanical musical instruments. The historic prince-bishop's residence impresses with its magnificent halls and ornate frescoes. The old town has charming squares and the little baroque church of St. Peter, which is well worth a visit. The Belvedere, a pavilion with a beautiful view, and the lively cultural program with concerts and exhibitions make Bruchsal a versatile destination.
Kraichtal ObservatoryKraichtal Observatory
Idyllically situated in the Kraichgau region, the Kraichtal Observatory offers visitors a fascinating view of the vastness of the universe. Equipped with modern telescopes and astronomical equipment, the observatory invites visitors to enjoy exciting observations of the sky and lectures. The regular guided tours and astronomy evenings, where experts explain the wonders of the starry sky, are particularly popular. The surrounding rural ambience ensures minimal light pollution and optimal viewing conditions.
Thermen & Badewelt SinsheimThermen & Badewelt Sinsheim
Thermen & Badewelt Sinsheim is a wellness and adventure pool that delights visitors with its tropical atmosphere. Under an imposing glass dome, palm trees, turquoise lagoons and comfortable lounging areas offer pure relaxation. The Vitalbad & sauna area attracts visitors with themed saunas such as the Koi sauna and the Cinema sauna, which offer unique experiences. The palm beach and the vitality spa with mineral-rich pools ensure well-being and relaxation. With a wide range of wellness treatments, soothing baths and seasonal events, Thermen & Badewelt Sinsheim is the ideal place to escape from everyday life and pamper body and soul.
City trips in the region
There are other beautiful cities in the region around Karlsruhe that are well worth a day trip!
Situated directly on the Neckar, Heidelberg is a popular excursion destination with its famous castle ruins and historic old town. Mannheim impresses with its Luisenpark and baroque palace. Around 130 kilometers south of Karlsruhe is Freiburg, which is well worth a visit with its medieval old town, Freiburg Minster and typical streams. Nearby Rastatt with its baroque residence and Heilbronn to the north-east of Karlsruhe, which is surrounded by idyllic vineyards, are also ideal destinations for a day trip.
Leisure & adventure parks in the region
There are numerous leisure and adventure parks around Karlsruhe that are perfect for a family outing!
Europa-Park, Germany's largest theme park, is located in Rust and offers entertainment for the whole family with thrilling rollercoasters and leisurely themed rides. Cleebronn is home to the Tripsdrill adventure park, which not only offers rollercoasters and water attractions, but also a wildlife paradise with numerous animal species. The Mehliskopf on the Black Forest High Road offers fun all year round with a wide range of outdoor activities, such as the popular bobsleigh run. For adventures at lofty heights, the Fun Forest Kandel is perfect, where treetop trails provide thrills and climbing fun.
