Baden Baden travel guide
© Your Little Black Book - Panorama Baden-Baden
9 August 2023
9 August 2023

Baden-Baden city trip: 24 x wellness, culinary enjoyment and Belle Epoque surrounded by the Black Forest

Fancy a city break surrounded by nature? Then put Baden-Baden in the Black Forest on your list. It's a unique destination for those who love wellness, art, luxury hotels and boutiques, fine dining, and green surroundings. I mainly knew Baden-Baden as a town we pass through on our way to winter sports. Now that I've been there for a city break, it's definitely been added to my list of destinations for that stopover. If only for the fantastic Christmas market around Christmas!

But did you know that Baden-Baden is actually primarily famous as a summer destination? The city is known for its relaxing thermal baths, lush parks, and rich history. In Sisi's time, it was the summer destination of Europe for the rich and famous of the time. This is still reflected in the city's rich architecture and luxurious Belle Époque hotels. Something I personally love! It also has the perfect atmosphere for a romantic city break for two. There's plenty to do and see in Baden-Baden for a nice city trip of two to three nights.

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𝗔 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝗳𝗲́ 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆? @eetcafe_de_reiger is the spot to remember. Cozy, casual, and a seasonal menu. This one was on my list to share for a year and finally it's (almost) asparagus season again! 🤤 Another plus? Prices are very reasonable here! 📍 Eetcafé de Reiger Jordaan, Amsterdam City Center Save this spot for when you're craving warm Dutch traditional dishes in the heart of Amsterdam. And did you hear the same team took over Eetcafé van Beeren? I can't wait to go there too! ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck
A grandma's cookbook. Three Michelin stars. And a beautiful 70s villa in a quiet neighborhood in Bangkok, where you are welcomed as if you were at the chefs' home. The Sühring brothers don't cook based on trends; they cook based on memories. Of their grandmother's farm, of the flavors of their youth in Germany, and of techniques passed down through generations. @relaischateaux invited me to experience Sühring during a solo lunch, and this is truly my ultimate definition of culinary self-care. This was a surprising afternoon in Bangkok, where I ate the best German food I have ever tasted. And that in a city where I normally avoid European restaurants. Well, for @restaurant_suhring, you really want to make that exception. Signature dishes that I still think back to regularly? 🍴 Labskaus with caviar 🍴 Enleta waffle with Pfalz vinegar 🍴 Game pâté 🍴 Dry-aged Duck TIP: When you go to Sühring, reserve seats at the kitchen bar so you have a view of the chefs at work! Follow @yourlbb for more tips you can trust. ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck #prinvited #bangkok #michelin #relaischateaux In this reels, I take you along for fine dining in Bangkok at the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Sühring.
This is one of the best free outings in the spring! Did you know that you can gather (or pick, for the connoisseurs 😉) oysters yourself at various locations in the Netherlands? I’m in Zeeland for a bit this weekend, and if we can make it, we’ll go again. 📍In this video, I show you where you can fill your bucket. Comment *oester* for the comprehensive guide with all the details about all 8 locations + handy tips and rules. Important to know: – Max. 10 kilos per person (≈ 1 bucket) – For personal use only – Do not scoop or scrape the seabed – Go at low tide Handy things to bring: Bucket, screwdriver, boots, work gloves, tea towel, clean clothes, and garbage bags (for the oysters *and* dirty clothes). And of course: bring an oyster knife, lemon, and champagne too 🍋🥂 Because you’ll want to taste something right away, won’t you! The oyster season runs from September to about April / early May, so now that the water isn't so cold, this is the perfect outing. In the full guide, I share exactly where you can easily find them, without much effort. Comment oyster and I'll send it to you right away! Who do you want to go oyster gathering with soon? ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck
𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 These are those few magical weeks each year when the city suddenly feels different. Everything is in bloom and all you want to do is be outside. Coffee to-go in hand, and just head out as soon as the sun shows up. 📍 Bloesempark – Amsterdamse Bos (the classic, yes it gets busy, but totally worth it) 📍 Rijksmuseum 📍 Fruit Garden of West 📍 Westerpark 📍 Jozef Israëlskade 📍 WG site 📍 Nelson Mandelapark 📍 Bos en Lommerplantsoen 📍Amstelpark By mid-April most of the sakura will already be gone, so if you want to catch it: this is your moment. I'll definitely be doing a few more rounds before it's over. ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck _______________________________________________ 🌸 Discover the best places to spot cherry blossom in Amsterdam and enjoy the sakura in full bloom. 🌸
3 x home that has the ultimate green space. Not too big, everything within walking distance, but plenty of nice hotspots!! These services (and what clothing) are in the Netherlands 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘃𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗽 𝗱𝗲𝘇𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲! I have massive spring fever, so it's time for a mini-escape: everything is within walking distance, there are lovely coffee shops, boutiques for shopping, and enough gems to discover in 48 hours ✨ Which city is at the top of your list for a spring getaway? Let me know in the comments & save for your next girls' trip. 🖤 ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck
This is your sign to plan your next weekend brunch with friends in Amsterdam 👀 @ottolenghi_amsterdam is officially open and the new go-to hotspot for flavors of the Levant. Open from breakfast to dinner and I can't wait to go back for a lazy weekend brunch with a table full of dishes and good conversations. Save this one to your Amsterdam Little Black Book 📓! 🖊️ @anne_de_buck ____________________________ Ottolenghi Amsterdam is a new all-day restaurant near Museum Square by chef and entrepreneur @ottolenghi in @mo_hotels @conservatoriumhotel.
Baden Baden travel guide

Baden-Baden center

Baden-Baden Travel Guide: 24 Places to Stay, Taste & Fun

Also nice: you can easily travel to Baden-Baden by train, as I did during my visit for this new travel guide!

4 X Best Hotels in Baden-Baden You Want to Check Into Immediately

Hotel Belle Époque

During our city trip to Baden-Baden we stayed in the beautiful Hotel Belle ÉpoqueThis historic four-star hotel is housed in an impressive 19th-century building and, as the name suggests, fully furnished in the Belle Époque style. The rooms, for example, are furnished with antique furniture, and you'll truly feel transported back in time. Be sure to take your time with breakfast in the morning, as it's delicious and served in the elegant salons. In fine weather, you can also enjoy breakfast on the terrace or in the garden. Although this hotel doesn't have its own spa, there are sunbeds in the garden for relaxing during golden hour after a day out.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Hotel Belle Epoque

Homage Hotel Maison Messmer

Would you like something a bit more modern, but still want to stay in the heart of Baden-Baden? Then this is still a fairly new Homage Hotel Maison Messmer Something for you. Here, luxury and comfort meet in one of the city's most central locations, right next to the Kurhaus building. This hotel also features a beautiful spa with wellness facilities and a good restaurant.

Roomers Baden-Baden

Don't mind being a bit further from the city center if it means staying in a hotel with a fantastic rooftop pool? This stylish five-star hotel is modern and has a younger vibe than the traditional city center hotels. After a day of sightseeing, you can completely unwind at the rooftop pool with city views. In the evening, enjoy a meal at the Asian fusion restaurant. And how about starting your day right in the wellness center? Roomers Baden-BadenYou can also book various treatments here. In short: all the ingredients for a romantic and relaxing weekend getaway for two!

Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa

This is Baden-Baden's most iconic hotel and even if you're not staying here, I recommend popping in and visiting one of the restaurants. Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa Located in the heart of the beautiful Lichtentaler Allee park, this five-star hotel is super deluxe. The stylishly decorated rooms, again with a touch of the Belle Époque, are complemented by a more modern, classic touch. One of the hotel's highlights is its beautiful spa with wellness facilities. I'll definitely stay here again next time I'm in Baden-Baden!

Baden Baden travel guide

The old town of Baden-Baden

Discover culinary Baden-Baden: 11 tips, from authentic restaurants to fine dining and cocktail bars

Shake/Snack Bar

On our first evening in Baden-Baden we take a stroll into town for a drink and bites at Shake/Snack BarA cozy French restaurant with typical Baden and French dishes on the menu. We enjoyed a glass of wine and flammkuchen on the heated terrace. Definitely recommended for lunch, dinner, or just a drink.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Le Bistro

Leo's

If you're looking for a good lunch spot in Baden-Baden, I highly recommend Leo's. They offer delicious à la carte dining, but you can also opt for a very reasonably priced lunch menu. We did, and we had a wonderful meal on the terrace. LEO'S it also looks very cozy and you have come to the right place for dinner or a drink in the wine bar.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Leo's

Café König

Ask a local where to go for the best pastry in town and they'll say without a doubt Café KönigA household name for generations! Unfortunately, it was raining heavily during our visit, so we couldn't sit on the pleasant terrace. From there, it's great to people-watch as they browse the windows of the luxury shops. At Café König, choose something delicious from the display cases and relax on the terrace or in the lounge. Tip: they also make delicious specialty coffees here!

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Café König

Hectors

In the Kurhaus and right next to the beautiful Kurpark you will find the restaurant HectorsHere they serve typical Baden dishes with local ingredients and a more modern twist. In good weather, they have a wonderfully large terrace overlooking the park where you can enjoy lunch, drinks, or dinner.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Hectors

The Garden of France

Fancy some fine dining? Then have lunch at The Garden of FranceAwarded a Michelin star, they serve a daily changing menu that's very affordable for this level of dining. Add to that the excellent wine list, and you have the perfect filling for a culinary afternoon. The food is classic French with a twist. From the amuse-bouches to the homemade bread, everything was incredibly delicious. Lunch is served in the garden room overlooking the park and has a very bright and pleasant atmosphere. Reserve a table by the window and treat yourself, I'd say. You can view the daily changing lunch menu on the website or by the board at the restaurant entrance.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Le Jardin de France

Restaurant RIZZI

Next time I would definitely eat more extensively at RizzyEspecially if you can sit comfortably on the terrace, as we did during the aperitif. In Baden-Baden, you can enjoy an Aperol Spritz with it, just like the locals do. Rizzi's terrace consists of a dining area and a drinks area, and reservations are essential. For dinner and lunch, it combines Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, but with a modern twist. Surrounded by greenery, this restaurant feels like an oasis in the city.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Rizzi

MolKenkur

If you're visiting Baden-Baden, it's a great idea to explore authentic Baden cuisine at least one evening. A good restaurant where you can do just that is Restaurant Molkenkur It's located in the hills just outside the city center. I could go on and on about the menu, but I'll keep it short: order the schnitzel!

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – MolKenkur

Malte's Hidden Kitchen

I unfortunately didn't get to visit this Michelin-starred restaurant during my city break, but it's already on my list of places to eat for my next visit. This restaurant serves a dual purpose: during the day it's a regular coffee shop, and at night it transforms into a fine dining restaurant. The photos I saw online made my mouth water. A good reason to go back for more. Malte's Hidden Kitchen!

 

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Fritz & Felix

If you ask me, there is only one place you want to go for your after dinner drinks in Baden-Baden and that is cocktail bar Fritz & FelixYou'll find this beautiful bar in the chic Brenner Hotel. That's a good reason to pop in. The menu is surprising, and what I really enjoyed was their Black Forest take on well-known classic cocktails, like a Black Forest Martini.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Fritz & Felix

Cafe Lumen

In Baden-Baden, you can enjoy a wonderful stroll through the vast Lichtentaler Allee city park. From the city center, walk all the way to Lichtenthal Abbey, an old monastery that's always worth a visit. The other reason you'll want to walk here is also here. Café Lumen where they have the tastiest cinnamon buns in town!

 

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Kaffeesack. Die Brewbar

Coffee lovers, take note! The nicest and best coffee shop in Baden-Baden is undoubtedly Kaffeesack on Hirschstraße. This is one of the most beautiful streets in the old town, and you'll definitely want to visit it. During your stroll, Kaffeesack your perfect stop for a coffee break with something tasty!

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – KaffeeSack

9 Fun things to do in Baden-Baden and the surrounding area

Visit a thermal bath

A visit to Baden-Baden isn't complete without a visit to a thermal bath. In short, you have two options: with and without swimwear. The most beautiful thermal bath is undoubtedly the Friedrichsbad Baden-BadenHere you can relax in your Adam's costume. We spent an afternoon relaxing in the Caracalla Spa Where a large part of the wellness area is accessible in swimwear. They also have a fairly large outdoor pool, which is wonderful on a sunny day.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Friedrichsbad Baden-Baden

Taste wine just outside the city

Did you know that you can drive through vineyards less than fifteen minutes outside the city? There are several wineries you can visit for a tasting. Sporty types can take a bike ride through the wine region, but unfortunately, because it was raining when we were there, we drove. Luckily, because I wouldn't have missed this. We visited Winery Schloss Neuweier And I've rarely met a winemaker who could talk so passionately about their craft. This winery also houses a simple hotel and a very good restaurant, which has had a new chef since the beginning of this year. The new chef, Jan Hoffmann, previously earned a green Michelin star, and I think he'll do the same at the restaurant at Schloss Neuweier! In good weather, the terrace is beautiful, overlooking the hills where the vines grow. Only have time for a tasting? That's possible in the tasting room!

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – view over the vineyards

Stroll along the Lichtentaler Allee

Lichtentaler Allee city park is a must-see in Baden-Baden. A stroll beneath the lush trees is a must in any season, in my opinion. The park stretches over two kilometers and stretches from approximately the Trinkhalle all the way to Lichtenthal Abbey. Throughout the year, this unique park hosts a variety of events, from concerts to (light) art walks.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Lichtentaler Allee

Visit one of the museums

Baden-Baden isn't a particularly large city, but it offers a wealth of cultural experiences. Think open-air concerts, festivals, culinary events, and the ever-changing exhibitions in the city's numerous museums. The most famous museum is Museum Frieder Burda, which focuses on modern art. Unfortunately, the exhibition was changing while we were there, so that visit is on the agenda for another time. Other smaller museums you can visit include: Fabergé Museum and the experimental museum Staatliche Kunsthalle Baden-Baden.

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Museum Frieder Burda

Watch the sunset on the Merkurberg

After just a short drive from the city center you will reach the starting point of the Merkurbergbahn which takes you to the top of the Merkurberg. From here, you'll enjoy a beautiful sunset and views of the city on a clear day. Haven't tried Baden cuisine yet? Then, after your hike, enjoy a meal at the Merkurstüble restaurant at the top of the mountain.

Shop designer vintage & more

Baden-Baden has no shortage of luxury shops. When it comes to shopping, you can easily bring a well-filled wallet, as you won't find many high-street stores in the city. What I really enjoyed was seeing several designer vintage shops with pre-loved items. From Chanel bags to Hermes scarves, it's always a surprise to see what gems you'll stumble upon in these kinds of shops. So be sure to check out AS Luxury and Vintage of Eppli im Kurgarten.

© Your Little Black Book – AS Luxury and Vintage

Stroll along these Insta-worthy highlights

Baden-Baden's old town offers no shortage of beautiful spots and streets. For example, stroll through the old town to the Panorama Baden-Baden, which offers stunning views of the city. The Rose Society Garden, the narrow alleyways of the old town, the Kurhaus garden with its Trinkhalle, the Ornamental Garden Paradies, the Merkur Hill, and the various squares, such as the one at Hotel Laterne, are also very photogenic and beautiful to see.

© Your Little Black Book – Hotel Laterne

Save the date: the Christmas market

If you're as Christmas-loving as I am, you'll definitely want to remember the Baden-Baden Christmas market. Authentic, with a focus on craftsmanship, uniqueness, and delicious food. And all of this with the beautiful Kurhaus as a backdrop. Check the dates for this year's Christmas market here >>

 

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Discover the Black Forest

Baden-Baden lies at the foot of the Black Forest. Plenty of opportunities for a lovely walk in the woods and forest bathing during a city break. I recently visited the Black Forest myself, and the scenery really surprised me. Curious? Also check out our 5-day (kid-friendly) road trip route to the Black Forest >>

Have fun planning your city trip to Baden-Baden!

© Your Little Black Book – Trinkhalle

© Your Little Black Book – Trinkhalle

© Your Little Black Book – Winery Schloss Neuweier

© Your Little Black Book – restaurant of Winery Schloss Neuweier

© Your Little Black Book – Kurhaus Baden-Baden

© Your Little Black Book – Center Baden-Baden

Baden Baden travel guide

© Your Little Black Book – Café König

© Your Little Black Book – Old Town of Baden-Baden

© Your Little Black Book – Michelin-starred lunch at Le Jardin de France

© Your Little Black Book – cozy beer garden in the old town

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With love,

Anne

In cooperation with Baden-Baden Tourism Board

| PS: Do you know Your Little Black Book's Green PolicyHere you'll find my personal tips on how to travel and live greener, and I'll explain why and how I offset the CO2 emissions from all the trips #teamyourlbb makes.

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