Things To Do
in Ettlingen

Ettlingen is a picturesque town located in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Renowned for its charming half-timbered houses and the beautiful backdrop of the Black Forest, it offers a blend of history and natural beauty. The town is easily accessible from Karlsruhe and serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures.

With a vibrant community and rich cultural heritage, Ettlingen is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil yet engaging experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Ettlingen
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ettlingen Castle, exploring its gardens and learning about its history.

afternoon
:

After lunch, stroll through the Old Town (Altstadt), admiring the medieval architecture and visiting the local shops.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the Alb River, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Black Forest, enjoying the scenic trails and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ettlingen City Museum to learn about the town's history and its artistic heritage.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a night at a local bar or café, experiencing the friendly nightlife of Ettlingen.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$4
🏨Hotel night$100
🚌Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful scenery and access to nature.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly local community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent on weekends.
  • English may not be widely spoken in all areas.
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Ich spreche kein Deutsch" - I do not speak German
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?

Places to Visit in Ettlingen

Visit one of these nice places.

Ettlingen Castle

Capture the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.

Old Town Square

A vibrant area with half-timbered buildings, perfect for street photography.

Alb River

The scenic riverbanks provide picturesque views, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ettlingen

Ettlingen offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional and modern dishes to savor.

Ettlingen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Maultaschen

A type of German dumpling filled with meat, spinach, and onions, often served in broth.

Must-Try!

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte

A famous Black Forest cake made with layers of chocolate sponge, cherry filling, and whipped cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ettlingen Market

A weekly market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal breads.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ettlingen experiences a temperate seasonal climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality, so be on time for appointments or meetings.

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Recycling

Recycling is taken seriously; ensure you separate your waste properly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ettlingen is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and keep personal belongings secure.

Tipping in Ettlingen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for exploring the Black Forest and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Beautiful fall foliage enhances the landscape, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland.

Nightlife Guide

Ettlingen at Night

Ettlingen's nightlife is laid-back yet enjoyable, with a mix of bars, pubs, and cafes. Many venues offer live music and events, especially during weekends. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to socialize with locals and fellow travelers.

Hiking in Ettlingen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mutschelbach Trail

A scenic trail that offers a moderate hike with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Schwarzwaldhochstraße

A popular hiking route in the Black Forest, providing stunning panoramic views and diverse flora.

Airports

How to reach Ettlingen by plane.

Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport

Approximately 40 km from Ettlingen, this airport offers both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ettlingen is highly walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. The pleasant surroundings encourage leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Ettlingen is home to a significant student population, thanks to nearby educational institutions.

Retirees

The town attracts retirees looking for a peaceful lifestyle in a charming environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Ettlingen, with local clubs and teams participating in regional leagues.

Handball

Handball also enjoys popularity, with many clubs and community events centered around the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ettlingen is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect Ettlingen to nearby cities, and the train station provides access to regional trains. It's advisable to check schedules, especially during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ettlingen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff for vegan options.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free meals; however, it's best to inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ettlingen has several healthcare facilities, including general practitioners and pharmacies. In case of emergencies, the nearby city of Karlsruhe offers a larger hospital with comprehensive services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide