Esslingen

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Esslingen's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Esslingen's Old Town, known for its medieval buildings and charming streets. Don't miss the beautiful Market Square with its bustling atmosphere and local shops.

afternoon
:

Visit the Esslingen Castle for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding vineyards. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the quaint cafes and shops in the area.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a traditional German dinner at a local restaurant. Sample regional dishes while soaking in the picturesque night lights of the Old Town.

day 2
Visit the Esslingen Castle
morning
:

Kick off your day by hiking up to the Esslingen Castle, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The castle's historic architecture makes for great photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

After exploring the castle, make your way back down and visit the nearby wine museum. Learn about the region's winemaking history and enjoy a wine tasting session.

evening
:

Dine at a local winery and indulge in authentic Swabian cuisine paired with fine local wines. The cozy ambiance makes for a perfect evening experience.

day 3
Relax by the Neckar River
morning
:

Spend a serene morning walking along the Neckar River, enjoying the peaceful views and fresh air. Take time to appreciate the natural surroundings and maybe spot some wildlife.

afternoon
:

Find a riverside café for lunch, where you can savor local specialties while enjoying the scenery. Afterwards, rent a paddleboat for a fun afternoon on the water.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a leisurely evening stroll along the riverbank. The twinkling lights reflecting on the water create a romantic atmosphere.

day 4
Discover Local History
morning
:

Begin your day at the Esslingen City Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich history and culture. Allow yourself to get lost in the fascinating exhibits.

afternoon
:

Visit the St. Dionysius Church, renowned for its stunning architecture and artwork. Spend some quiet time reflecting in this beautiful space.

evening
:

Have dinner at a restaurant featuring traditional German fare. Engage with locals and learn more about their experiences in Esslingen.

day 5
Wine Tasting Experience
morning
:

Start your day by visiting one of the local vineyards in Esslingen. Take a guided tour to learn about the wine production process and its significance in the region.

afternoon
:

Participate in a wine tasting session, sampling a variety of local wines. Pair your tastings with regional cheeses for a delightful culinary experience.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a vineyard restaurant with panoramic views of the vineyards. Savor your meal while watching the sunset over the vineyards.

day 6
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Esslingen Art Gallery, which features contemporary art exhibitions. Enjoy the unique pieces and gain insights from the local art scene.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch in a nearby café before heading to a local theater. Check the schedule for an afternoon performance or show.

evening
:

Wrap up your cultured day with a meal at a restaurant known for its artistic décor. Discuss the day's highlights over a glass of local wine.

day 7
Nature and Parks
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Esslingen Castle Gardens, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscaping. Perfect for a relaxing walk while enjoying blooming flowers.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Kesselstadt Park for a picnic lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's trails and enjoying its serene environment.

evening
:

As evening falls, find a cozy spot in the park to watch the sunset. Consider bringing a snack and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

day 8
Local Festivals
morning
:

Check the local calendar for any festivals happening during your visit. Start the day by immersing yourself in the festivities and local culture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the live music, food stalls, and various activities that the festival offers. Take time to connect with locals and other visitors.

evening
:

Experience the festive atmosphere as the celebrations continue into the night. Find a spot to enjoy the fireworks or evening performances.

day 9
Photography Expedition
morning
:

Take your camera and head to the scenic viewpoints of Esslingen. Capture the beauty of the old buildings and the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Explore lesser-known corners of the city, perfect for candid photography. Join a guided photo walk if available, to learn tips from a local photographer.

evening
:

As the golden hour approaches, find a picturesque location for sunset photographs. Enjoy dinner afterward, relishing the day’s captured memories.

day 10
Music and Nightlife
morning
:

Start the day by exploring the city center for any local music events or open-air concerts scheduled for later. Visit local shops and cafés for a relaxed morning.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with live music, setting the perfect mood for the day. Look up venues that host afternoon performances for a varied musical experience.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Esslingen by visiting some local bars or clubs featuring live music. Dance the night away, immersing yourself in the local music scene.

Discover Esslingen

Read more in our Esslingen 2024 Travel Guide.

Esslingen Travel Guide