Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Basel and Freiburg im Breisgau
Basel, Basel-City and Freiburg im Breisgau, Baden-Württemberg are neighboring cities in Switzerland and Germany that offer a great mix of cultural and outdoor activities. A road trip between these two cities takes approximately two hours, and along the way, travelers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Swiss and German countryside. The halfway point is Neuenburg am Rhein, BW, which is a great place to stretch your legs and explore the local shops and restaurants.
Top 5 Things to do
Basel Minster Cathedral
Basel Minster Cathedral is a must-visit attraction in Basel. This stunning red sandstone building dates back to the 12th century and is one of the city's greatest landmarks. Visitors can climb the cathedral tower for amazing views of the city and the Rhine river. Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire the intricate stained glass windows and impressive organ. Interesting Fact: The Basel Minster Cathedral is the highest church tower in Switzerland.
Vitra Design Museum
Design enthusiasts will love the Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rhein, Germany, just outside of Basel. The museum has an impressive collection of furniture, lighting, and industrial design items by renowned designers. The building itself is a work of art, designed by Frank Gehry. Visitors can take an audio tour to learn more about the exhibits and their designers. Interesting Fact: The museum has a collection of over 20,000 design objects.
Freiburg Münster
Freiburg Münster is a stunning gothic cathedral in the heart of Freiburg. The cathedral's 116-meter tower is one of the highest in Germany and offers incredible views of the city and the Black Forest. Visitors can also admire the cathedral's impressive stained glass windows and intricate sculptures. Interesting Fact: Freiburg Münster took over 300 years to complete.
Black Forest National Park
Nature lovers will enjoy hiking through the Black Forest National Park, a protected area of pristine forest in southwestern Germany. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including red deer, wildcats, and lynx. Visitors can hike along well-marked trails and stop at designated lookout points for stunning views of the forest. There are also several visitor centers with exhibits and information about the park's ecology and history. Interesting Fact: The Black Forest is named for its dense, dark evergreen trees that block out sunlight.
Marktplatz
Marktplatz is the central square in Freiburg, surrounded by charming medieval buildings and vibrant outdoor cafes. Visitors can shop at the famous Freiburger Münstermarkt, a daily market with local produce, flowers, and crafts. The square is also home to the historic Kaufhaus, a distinctive red sandstone building built in 1532, which now houses a museum and cultural center. Interesting Fact: The Kaufhaus is the oldest and largest hall building in Germany.
In conclusion, a road trip from Basel to Freiburg offers a mix of cultural and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore stunning cathedrals, admire world-renowned design, hike through pristine forests, and soak up the local culture in charming town squares. The trip takes approximately two hours, with the halfway point of Neuenburg am Rhein, BW providing a great stopover point for rest and refreshment.