Things To Do
in Esslingen

Esslingen, Germany, is a picturesque town located near Stuttgart, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning vineyards. The Esslingen River runs through the town, enhancing its scenic beauty and providing opportunities for outdoor activities. With its charming half-timbered houses and vibrant market squares, Esslingen offers a unique blend of history and modernity.

It is also famous for its rich wine culture and hosts numerous festivals throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day at the Esslingen Market Square, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Church of St. Dionysius, a beautiful Gothic structure.

afternoon
:

After lunch, stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, visiting the Esslingen Castle. Take in panoramic views of the city and surrounding vineyards from the castle grounds.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Swabian restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the Esslingen River, where you can enjoy the illuminated views of the town.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby vineyards, taking in the stunning landscapes and perhaps stopping for a wine tasting session at a local vineyard.

afternoon
:

Visit the Esslingen City Museum to learn about the town's rich history, followed by a relaxing lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a wine bar where you can sample regional wines and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$15-30
Coffee$2-4
🍺Local Beer$3-5
🍕Pizza$8-12
🚇Public Transport Ticket$2-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming medieval architecture and rich history.
  • Excellent local wine and cuisine.
  • Beautiful outdoor spaces and vineyards.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not reach all remote areas.
  • Some attractions may have limited hours during winter.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Esslingen

Visit one of these nice places.

Esslingen Castle

This historic castle offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings, perfect for capturing stunning landscape shots.

Market Square

The heart of Esslingen, featuring beautiful architecture and vibrant market scenes, ideal for street photography.

The Old Town

Wander through the narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses, providing a perfect backdrop for picturesque photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Esslingen

Esslingen is a culinary delight, renowned for its traditional Swabian cuisine and excellent wines. Local specialties reflect the region's agricultural heritage and include hearty dishes that are perfect for any palate.

Esslingen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Maultaschen

A type of German dumpling, often filled with meat and spinach, similar to Italian ravioli.

Must-Try!

Spätzle

A soft egg noodle that is a staple in Swabian cuisine, usually served with cheese or gravy.

Zwiebelkuchen

A savory onion tart, often enjoyed during the wine harvest season.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Esslingen Market

Held weekly in the Market Square, this vibrant market features local produce, artisanal goods, and Street food stalls offering traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Esslingen experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures averaging between -1°C and 5°C (30°F to 41°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; being on time for appointments and social gatherings is highly regarded.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; it's polite to address people formally unless invited to use first names.

Quiet in Public Places

Keeping noise levels down in public transport and cafes is expected, as it is considered respectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Esslingen is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. In case of emergencies, contact local authorities or visit the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Esslingen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 5-10% in restaurants and cafés.

Payment Methods

While cash is widely accepted, many places also accept credit cards; however, always check beforehand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for exploring vineyards and attending local wine festivals.

Autumn

Autumn is harvest season, with beautiful fall foliage and wine harvest festivals showcasing local wines.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the festive Christmas markets create a charming atmosphere, perfect for holiday shopping.

Nightlife Guide

Esslingen at Night

Esslingen's nightlife offers a mix of cozy wine bars, lively pubs, and occasional live music events. The town's wine bars are particularly popular, where you can sample local wines and socialize with both locals and visitors. In addition, there are a few nightclubs that cater to a younger crowd, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Hiking in Esslingen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail to Zell am Neckar

This moderate trail offers beautiful views of the Neckar River and the surrounding vineyards, perfect for a day hike.

Kaiserweg Trail

A scenic hiking path that connects Esslingen with the nearby town of Waiblingen, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.

Airports

How to reach Esslingen by plane.

Stuttgart Airport (STR)

Located about 15 kilometers from Esslingen, Stuttgart Airport is the nearest major airport, offering numerous international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Esslingen is a highly walkable town, with most attractions located within a short walking distance from each other. The Old Town features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, the scenic riverside paths provide pleasant walking routes for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Esslingen attracts many young professionals due to its proximity to Stuttgart and vibrant cultural scene.

Students

With several educational institutions nearby, including universities, there is a significant student population that contributes to the town's lively atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Esslingen, with local clubs and teams attracting dedicated fans.

Handball

Handball is also widely played, with local leagues and schools promoting the sport throughout the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Esslingen is generally manageable, with main roads connecting to Stuttgart and surrounding areas. Public transportation includes buses and trains, making it easy to navigate the region without a car. The town is also bicycle-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Esslingen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; inquire at restaurants for options.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants offer gluten-free options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Esslingen is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and many doctors speak English. It is advisable to have health insurance when traveling.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide