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If you have done the things to do in Germany, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Villingen-Schwenningen.
Villingen-Schwenningen is a land of enchantment, where the vibrant city life meets the tranquillity of nature.
It is an iconic destination that will take your breath away with its awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, Villingen-Schwenningen has something for everyone.
Let’s dive into the wonder-filled world of Villingen-Schwenningen and discover the endless possibilities that await you!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Villingen-Schwenningen:
1. Franciscan Museum
The Franciscan Museum in Villingen-Schwenningen showcases artifacts and artworks related to the history of the Franciscan Order and the local region.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire a collection of religious objects, including statues, paintings, and vestments. The museum also houses a library with thousands of books and manuscripts.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Gothic cloister and the magnificent Baroque church next door.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should also take note of the beautiful location of the museum, situated within the medieval walls of the city. Plan your visit during the annual Schwenninger Fasnet carnival to experience the lively local traditions and costumes.
2. Museum im Ritterhaus
A museum located in a historic building, the Ritterhaus, in Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany.
What to see or do: Explore the history of the region through a variety of exhibits, including artifacts related to local industries like clockmaking, textiles, and woodworking.
Visitors can also learn about the town’s past as a center of witch-hunting in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Don’t miss: The collection of Black Forest clocks, which includes some of the earliest examples of these intricate timepieces.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for special events and exhibitions.
The Ritterhaus is also home to a restaurant serving regional cuisine, so plan to stay for a meal after your visit.
3. Minster of Our Lady
Gothic church located in Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany that dates back to the 14th century.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the church, including its intricate stained glass windows and soaring vaulted ceilings.
Don’t miss: The church’s impressive collection of religious art and artifacts, which includes statues, paintings, and other works dating back to the medieval period.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to climb the tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding town and countryside, and try to visit during one of the church’s regular concerts or cultural events for an unforgettable experience.
4. Stadtbibliothek Villingen-Schwenningen (City Library)
The Stadtbibliothek Villingen-Schwenningen is a modern public library located in the city center of Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a large collection of over 100,000 items, including books, magazines, and digital media such as e-books and audiobooks.
The library also offers various events such as readings, lectures, and workshops for all ages.
Don’t miss: The library’s unique architecture is worth experiencing, with its bright and spacious interior, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and impressive vistas of the surrounding town.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of the library’s free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating areas to relax and enjoy a good book or browse the web.
Don’t forget to bring your library card if you’re interested in checking out any materials. The library also has a cafe serving warm drinks and snacks.
5. Historischer Stadtrundgang (Historic Town Tour)
A guided walking tour through the historic town center of Villingen-Schwenningen, a charming town in the heart of the Black Forest.
What to see or do: The tour covers over 1,200 years of history and includes landmarks such as the majestic city gates, the clock tower, the city hall, and St.
Nikolaus Church. You’ll see beautifully preserved half-timbered buildings, narrow winding streets, and the town’s defensive walls.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Market Square, where you can see the ornate fountain and historic buildings that once served as trading houses and guild halls.
You can also visit the Franziskaner Museum, which showcases the town’s history and culture.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour covers a lot of ground and includes some cobblestone streets.
6. Theater on the Ring
A modern theater located in Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany.
What to see or do: Watch a wide range of performances like plays, musicals, concerts, and ballets at this state-of-the-art theater.
Theater on the Ring offers a diverse program featuring local and international artists, making it a cultural hub of the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss an opportunity to witness a show at the largest theater in the Black Forest. The theater features a capacity of 1,000 seats, providing an unforgettable experience to every visitor.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on a performance.
Additionally, check the theater’s program in advance to see if there are any shows or events that coincide with your travel plans.
Finally, grab a drink at the adjoining bar and restaurant before or after the show for a complete experience.
7. Witch’s Hole Mill
Witch’s Hole Mill is a historic water mill located on the Brigach River in Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the mill and view the functioning water wheels, gears, and flumes that power the millstones. The mill produces its own flour, which is available for purchase.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the museum on the upper level of the mill, which features exhibits on the history of milling and the local area.
Insider travel tips: – If possible, visit the mill during its bi-annual “milling days” when the mill operates at full capacity and there are additional activities and demonstrations.
8. Wilderness Trail
The Wilderness Trail is an adventurous hiking trail in the Black Forest, Germany, suitable for experienced hikers.
What to see or do: The trail offers stunning views of the Black Forest, including panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, waterfalls, caves, and rugged landscapes.
You will also see a diverse range of flora and fauna, including Black Forest deer.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the Wilderness Trail is the breathtaking Hirschgrund Zipline Area, where you can soar above the treetops at heights of up to 50 meters.
Insider travel tips: – Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.
9. Monastery Courtyard and Church
The Monastery Courtyard and Church is a complex of historic buildings located in the heart of Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning Baroque-style church with its ornate interior decoration and impressive frescoes. Take a stroll through the peaceful Monastery Courtyard, which features beautiful flower gardens and a tranquil pond.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch one of the concerts or events that are frequently held in the church, showcasing the incredible acoustics of the building.
Insider travel tips: It’s worth timing your visit to coincide with one of the open-air markets or festivals that take place in the Monastery Courtyard throughout the year.
Check the local event calendar for details.
Also, if you’re interested in history, be sure to take the guided tour of the complex to learn more about its fascinating past.
10. Schwenningen Bog
A nature reserve located in the city of Villingen-Schwenningen in Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a walk on designated trails through the bog and observe unique plant and animal species. There is a tower that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The boardwalk path that leads through the heart of the bog. It offers a unique perspective of the flora and fauna present in the bog.
Insider travel tips: It’s important to wear appropriate footwear, as the bog can be muddy and wet. Visitors should also bring binoculars to get a closer look at the wildlife.
The best time to visit is in the summer months when the bog is at its most vibrant.
11. Alte Kanzlei (Old Chancery)
Alte Kanzlei is a historic building located in the heart of Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany that has been converted into a cultural center.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibitions and events held in the building, which showcase local art, music, and theater. The courtyard of the Alte Kanzlei also hosts a variety of festivals and concerts throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive mural painted on the façade of the building, which depicts the history of Villingen-Schwenningen.
Insider travel tips: The Alte Kanzlei is a great place to visit on a rainy day, as many of the events and exhibitions are held indoors.
Check the schedule ahead of time to see what’s on during your visit.
12. Tannenhof Black Forest Inn
A cozy inn situated in the heart of the Black Forest in Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany.
What to see or do: Take advantage of the surrounding natural scenery by going for a hike or bike ride in the nearby forest.
Visit the historic town of Villingen-Schwenningen, which is known for its beautiful architecture and museums, including the clock museum and the German phono museum.
In the wintertime, enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the nearby slopes.
Don’t miss: The delicious traditional German cuisine served in the Tannenhof restaurant. Be sure to try the local specialty, Black Forest cake, for dessert.
Insider travel tips: Book a room with a balcony to enjoy a stunning view of the Black Forest. The inn also offers spa treatments, such as massages and sauna sessions, for a relaxing experience.
13. Solemar (Thermal Spa)
Solemar is a thermal spa located in Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany. The spa offers a range of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam baths, and relaxation areas.
What to see or do: Take a dip in the thermal pools with temperatures ranging from 32-37°C, relax in the spacious saunas and steam baths, or simply unwind in the lush surrounding gardens.
Don’t miss: The amazing rooftop pool with stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the week as it can get quite crowded on weekends.
14. Brigach Spring
Brigach Spring is the source of the Danube River, located in the town of Villingen-Schwenningen in southern Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the crystal-clear water of the Brigach Spring bubbling up from the ground and flowing into a small pond.
There is also a small park area surrounding the spring where visitors can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to dip your feet in the cool, refreshing water of the Brigach Spring.
You can also follow a short walking trail that leads to the convergence of the Brigach and Breg rivers, where the Danube River officially begins.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit in the morning when the light is best for photos of the spring’s vivid blue-green water.
15. Villinger Carnival
Annual carnival celebration in Villingen-Schwenningen, a city in southwest Germany.
What to see or do: Experience the lively, colorful and cheerful atmosphere of the Villinger Carnival. Join the costumed parade and enjoy the music, dancing, and traditional figural caricatures.
Don’t forget to try the local sweets, such as “Fasnetsküchle” (carnival donuts) and “Bärentatzen” (bear claws).
Don’t miss: The Narros, symbolic figures wearing wooden masks and costumes, which are an integral part of the Villinger Carnival. Villinger’s Narrenturm (Fools Tower), which houses a museum dedicated to the carnival, is also worth a visit.
Insider travel tip: Visit the carnival on “Schmotziger Donnerstag” (Dirty Thursday) or “Fasnachtssonntag” (Carnival Sunday) for the biggest celebrations. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance as the carnival attracts thousands of visitors every year.