Things to do in Baden-Baden, what attractions to see even if it rains?

Are you planning a trip to Baden-Baden and worried about the weather putting a damper on your plans? Fear not, as this charming city has plenty of activities to offer even if it’s raining outside. From world-renowned spas to awe-inspiring architectural marvels, there’s something for everyone. We had visited during a rainy day and gray sky, and we want to show you what to see in Baden-Baden even if the day seems to be bad. So grab your raincoat and let’s explore, rain or shine!

Baden-Baden is a small town in southwestern Germany that is renowned for its hot springs. The city has been a popular destination for centuries, and many of its visitors come to enjoy the baths. However, visiting Baden-Baden can be just as enjoyable in the rain.

Why is it called Baden-Baden?

Are you curious why the name of this city is Baden-Baden? Well, I can tell you that it’s not because it’s just plain bad, if that’s what you’re thinking. Actually, “Baden” means bath or spa in German, and this town has been known for its soothing thermal baths since Roman times. And the double “Baden-Baden” means “baths-baths,” so it’s kind of like saying “spa town” or “bath town” in English. So, Baden-Baden gets its name from its hot springs and spas, which have been attracting people for thousands of years.

But don’t let the name fool you – there’s nothing bad about this place. With its gorgeous surroundings, elegant architecture, and luxurious spas, Baden-Baden is definitely anything but bad. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed, you might just want to give Baden-Baden a try. 

Why did we visit Baden-Baden?

As part of the roadtrip through Switzerland, Alsace and Germany, we paid a visit to the city of Baden-Baden. This city is very close to the border with France. The day we chose turned out to be rainy and grey. In any case, it gave me great emotion, it was the first time I would visit Germany.

Rain can add a romantic touch to the city, and it can also be a refreshing change from the usual sunny weather. There are many things to do in Baden-Baden, even when it rains.

The time has come to cross into the neighboring country. And I realized that it is just crossing a bridge, literally, there are no customs, there is nothing (very different from the border with the United States). It was something I wasn’t used to, coming from a city that borders the United States.

Already at the moment of crossing, everything began to amaze me, things as simple as road signs: they were in German! For me, it was a total wow (even though I had already visited Vienna). And when we got to Baden-Baden it was still raining, but that didn’t stop us from visiting, on the contrary, we were able to see it from another perspective.

The history of the spa town Baden Baden

The first thermal baths in Baden-Baden were built more than 2000 years ago by the Romans and later, they called it Aquae, as they used the thermal waters for public baths. In the Middle Ages, the margavian of Baden was settled there, for which the site changed its name to Baden.

Baden-Baden’s main attraction is its therapeutic springs, which have been used for centuries to treat various ailments. There are 12 springs in total, with water temperatures reaching 68 degrees Celsius. The most famous spring is Friedrichsbad spa, which was built in 1877 and features a bathing ritual that includes showering, massage with soap and brush, as well as the thermal pool.

Today, Baden-Baden is a popular tourist destination for those looking to relax and rejuvenate.

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What to see in Baden-Baden?

Friedrichsbad and Caracalla spas (baths)

One of the top things to do in Baden-Baden is visiting the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla spas (baths). These two historic bathhouses offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, even on rainy days. The Friedrichsbad is a traditional Roman-Irish bathhouse that has been in operation since 1877. It features 17 different stages, that include hot-air baths, steam rooms, plunge pools, and relaxation areas. Visitors can indulge in mineral-rich thermal water treatments while admiring the stunning neoclassical architecture of the building.

The Caracalla spa is a 4,000-square-meter complex that offers a variety of pools and saunas, as well as wellness treatments such as massages and facials. The highlight of the Caracalla spa is its outdoor pool area with multiple heated pools surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can relax under the raindrops while enjoying hydrotherapy treatments or taking a dip in one of the many warm-water pools.

Both spas are open year-round, making them an ideal attraction to visit during any season – especially if it’s raining outside! Whether you prefer traditional Roman bathing or modern wellness treatments, these Baden-Baden spas offer something for everyone looking to unwind and recharge their batteries amid elegant surroundings.

Baden-Baden Old Town

Baden-Baden’s city center is small but charming, and there are plenty of things to see and do even on a rainy day. Start with a stroll down the pedestrian shopping street Lange Strasse, then visit the historic Stiftskirche Church (or Collegiate Church of St. Peter). If you have time, you can take a tour of one of the city’s museums, such as the Municipal Museum or the Fabergé Museum.

When we arrived at the center, everything was rather desolate. Not a soul in the street, yes, there were some statues that took the place of people. With the rainy and gray day, they gave a somewhat strange effect.

Casino Baden-Baden at the Kurhaus

This “spa town” in the Black Forest is home to one of the oldest and most luxurious casinos in Europe. Even if you don’t gamble, the casino is worth a visit for its opulent decor and grandiose architecture.

The Kurhaus in the heart of Baden-Baden holds a casino over 200 years old and has been frequented by royalty and celebrities from all over the world. Even Marlene Dietrich said it was the most beautiful casino in the world.

Trinkhalle

Trinkhalle is a stunning building that has a 90-metre-long open walkway and 16 Corinthian columns that recall the Roman history of this place.                                     

But Trinkhalle offers more than just a refreshing sip of water. The building now serves as an art gallery, with rotating exhibitions featuring both local and international artists. And if you happen to be visiting on a rainy day, this place is the perfect place to escape the weather while still soaking up some culture.

Beyond its historical and cultural significance, Trinkhalle also provides stunning views of Baden-Baden’s Kurhaus and Lichtentaler Allee park. Take a leisurely stroll through this picturesque area or snap some photos.

Museum Frieder Burda

One of the must-see attractions in Baden-Baden is the Museum Frieder Burda, which houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art. This museum was opened in 2004. Visitors can expect to see works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock. The permanent collection features over 1,000 pieces of art that span different styles and movements from the 20th century. In addition to the permanent collection, there are also rotating exhibitions that showcase contemporary artists from around the world.

One of the highlights of this museum is its incredible location – nestled beneath the Black Forest mountain range, with views overlooking Baden-Baden’s picturesque landscape, this building was done by the architect Richard Meier, and he designed it in a way that it would represent the spirit of the collections shown inside. On a rainy day, visitors can take refuge inside this beautiful museum and immerse themselves in some truly inspiring artwork while enjoying panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Festspielhaus

This opera house, Germany’s largest, hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including ballet, classical music, and theater productions. With its stunning architecture and state-of-the-art technology, guests are treated to an unforgettable experience.

Even if you don’t plan to visit a show, there is still a chance to see the place inside, visitors can enjoy a tour of this remarkable building when no performances are scheduled. These tours offer insight into how this magnificent structure has been able to maintain its reputation as one of Europe’s premier cultural landmarks since it first opened in 1998.

If you have more time to visit outside town center

Merkur mountain

The Merkur mountain and Europe’s steepest funicular railway, are popular attractions in Baden-Baden that offer visitors breathtaking views of the Black Forest. The funicular takes you up to the summit of Mount Merkur, which stands at an elevation of 668 meters. It is one of the best ways to enjoy panoramic views of Baden-Baden and its surrounding areas.

Apart from enjoying nature’s beauty, there are other things to do at Mount Merkur’s summit. You can visit a traditional German restaurant or have fun at a playground for children. The souvenir shop sells unique items that make excellent gifts or mementos for those who want to remember their trip to Baden-Baden permanently.

The old Castle (Altes Schloss)

The old Castle, also known as Hohenbaden castle, offers a unique experience for history buffs and tourists alike. Built in the 12th century on a hill overlooking Baden-Baden, it is one of the oldest castles in Germany and played an important role in the region’s history. Visitors can explore the castle ruins that once were the seat of the Margraves of Baden.

This place has a fascinating history and breathtaking views of the city, the Black Forest and the Rhine plain.

What to eat in Baden-Baden?

We were still downtown when we got hungry, we entered the first place we saw, which turned out to be a kind of sausage shop. The thing is that I didn’t want to eat something very heavy, after so many flammenkuche, and I saw something written like “Wurstensalat mit kartofel” and I only read SALAT and thought it would be something light. Mistake. It was a salad, yes, but with sausages and potatoes! That’s right, it was delicious.

Anecdote that remains for posterity, but in any case it turns into a recommendation, this is a simple and fast German food to try if you spend the day in Baden-Baden.

Although I must say that the price was more than affordable for a well-reported and rich dish. So, it is a more than acceptable option if you have a tight pocket on your way through the Black Forest.

Where to go from Baden-Baden?

There are several great destinations outside of Baden-Baden. Here are some suggestions:

1. Strasbourg, France: Only about an hour away by car or train, Strasbourg is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Visit the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, stroll around the charming Petite France neighborhood, and sample some delicious Alsatian cuisine.
2. Heidelberg, Germany: Known for its picturesque Old Town and the historic Heidelberg Castle, Heidelberg is a great destination for a day trip from Baden-Baden. The journey by car or train takes about 1.5 hours.
3. Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany: Located about an hour away from Baden-Baden, Freiburg is a lively university town with a beautiful Old Town and several museums. It’s also a great starting point for exploring the Black Forest region.
4. Stuttgart, Germany: If you’re interested in cars, Stuttgart is a must-visit destination, as it is the headquarters of Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. The journey by car or train takes about an hour and a half.
5. Basel, Switzerland: Just over an hour away from Baden-Baden by train, Basel is a cultural hub with many museums, galleries, and theaters. The city also has a lovely Old Town and a beautiful riverside promenade.

Frequent questions about Baden-Baden

Saying goodbye to Baden-Baden

At one point, to take refuge from the cold and the rain, we went into an internet café and stayed there for a long time. Suddenly, I read a sign that said, “Der sommer ist da” which means “Summer is here” or something like that, and it was funny to see the window and the atmosphere was rather wintry.

This was the first time I had been to Germany, but it would not be the last.

Don’t miss it, even if it rains!

In conclusion, Baden-Baden has a plethora of attractions to explore even on rainy days. From the luxurious spas to the impressive museums and galleries, visitors can indulge in culture and history while staying dry. Don’t let the rain dampen your spirits – embrace it as an opportunity to discover new hidden gems in this beautiful city. So pack your umbrella and head out to enjoy all that Baden-Baden has to offer!

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