Things To Do
in Calw

Calw, Germany, is a picturesque town nestled in the Black Forest region, known for its charming half-timbered houses and scenic landscapes. The town is rich in history, being the birthplace of the famous author Hermann Hesse, and features a delightful blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Visitors can explore its quaint streets, historic sites, and vibrant markets.

With its proximity to hiking trails and outdoor activities, Calw offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Calw
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hermann Hesse Museum, where you can learn about the life and works of the famous author. After that, take a stroll through the beautiful old town to admire the half-timbered buildings.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café and then head to the Kloster Hirsau, an ancient monastery with stunning ruins and gardens. Spend the afternoon exploring the peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional German restaurant and enjoy local dishes. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Nagold River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike on the nearby trails, such as the Calwer Panorama Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the Black Forest.

afternoon
:

After the hike, return to town for lunch and visit the Calw Market Square, where you can shop for local crafts and products. Don't miss the St. Paul's Church.

evening
:

For dinner, select one of the cozy bistros in town, and if you’re up for it, enjoy a local beer at a nearby pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍺Beer$3.50
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$2.50
🥐Pastry$1.50
🚍Public Transportation Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historic sites.
  • Friendly locals and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be sparse.
  • Some attractions may have limited hours in winter.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Calw

Visit one of these nice places.

Hermann Hesse Museum

Capture the essence of the author’s life with its picturesque facade and gardens.

Kloster Hirsau

The ruins of this ancient monastery provide a stunning backdrop for photography, especially at sunset.

Nagold River

The scenic riverside offers excellent opportunities for nature photography, particularly during spring and autumn.

Culinary Guide

Food in Calw

Calw boasts a delightful culinary scene with traditional Swabian dishes and local specialties that are not to be missed.

Calw Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Maultaschen

These are large pasta pockets filled with meat, spinach, and herbs, similar to ravioli.

Must-Try!

Spätzle

A soft egg noodle dish that is often served as a side to meat dishes or in a cheesy casserole.

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte

The famous Black Forest cake made with layers of chocolate sponge, cherries, and whipped cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Calw Market

A vibrant market held weekly where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Calw experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions during the summer months. Snow can occur in winter, particularly in January and February.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality, so arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting; use titles and surnames unless invited to use first names.

Quiet Hours

Respect quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 6 AM, to avoid disturbing neighbors.

Safety Guide

Safety

Calw is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to take standard safety precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Calw

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Warm weather and longer days are perfect for exploring the outdoors, with many festivals and events.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage; it's an ideal time for photography and hiking in the cooler air.

Winter

Cold temperatures and possible snow create a picturesque winter landscape, although some trails may close.

Nightlife Guide

Calw at Night

Calw has a quaint but lively nightlife scene, with several pubs and bars where locals gather to enjoy drinks and socialize. While not as bustling as larger cities, the atmosphere is friendly and laid-back. Live music events and occasional festivals add to the charm, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Calw

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Calwer Panorama Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the Black Forest and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Hohes Kreuz Trail

This trail leads to a viewpoint with panoramic views and is well-marked, making it a favorite among hikers.

Airports

How to reach Calw by plane.

Stuttgart Airport (STR)

Located about 45 km from Calw, Stuttgart Airport offers international flights and convenient connections to major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Calw is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short walking distance in the town center. The charming streets are pedestrian-friendly, and the scenic routes along the Nagold River provide a pleasant walk to enjoy the natural beauty.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Germans, with a mix of families and retirees enjoying the peaceful environment.

Tourists

Calw attracts visitors from all over the world, particularly those interested in literature, history, and nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Calw, with local clubs and enthusiastic fans supporting regional teams.

Hiking

Due to its scenic landscapes, hiking is a favored activity, with many trails and organized hiking tours available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Calw is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns, but schedules may be limited. It's advisable to check bus timings in advance, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Calw.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are available in some restaurants, particularly in larger establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Calw is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital providing a range of medical services. Emergency services are reliable, and pharmacies are available for minor health issues. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide