Things To Do
in Tübingen

Tübingen is a picturesque university town in southern Germany, renowned for its charming medieval architecture and vibrant student atmosphere. Located on the banks of the Neckar River, it boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to one of Germany's oldest universities, the Eberhard Karls University. The town is characterized by its narrow alleys, historic buildings, and the iconic Hölderlin Tower.

With an array of cafes, shops, and cultural sites, Tübingen offers a perfect blend of history and modernity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Tübingen's History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tübingen Castle, where you can explore its museum and enjoy panoramic views of the town.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the Old Town, visiting the Market Square and the beautiful St. George's Church, followed by a leisurely lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Swabian dinner at a local restaurant and take a scenic boat ride on the Neckar River at sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Museum der Universität Tübingen (MUT) to see fascinating exhibits on the local history and art.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon hiking up to the nearby Schönbuchturm for stunning views and nature trails.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a night out at one of the local pubs, enjoying live music and the vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Cup of coffee$3
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel (per night)$100
🍺Beer in a bar$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Lively student atmosphere with numerous events
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Can be crowded during university events
  • Public transport options may be limited
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?

Places to Visit in Tübingen

Visit one of these nice places.

Tübingen Castle

Offers stunning views of the town and the Neckar River, perfect for capturing panoramic shots.

Hölderlin Tower

A historic landmark that is particularly striking at sunset, making for a great photography opportunity.

Market Square

The lively heart of Tübingen, featuring colorful buildings and bustling market activities, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tübingen

Tübingen offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Swabian cuisine and a variety of local dishes. Must-try items include Maultaschen, Spätzle, and regional wines.

Tübingen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Maultaschen

A traditional German dish similar to dumplings, filled with minced meat, spinach, and herbs.

Must-Try!

Spätzle

Soft egg noodles often served as a side dish, typically accompanied by a rich sauce or cheese.

Zwiebelrostbraten

A flavorful roast beef dish topped with crispy onions, usually served with Spätzle.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tübingen Market

Held every Wednesday and Saturday, this market features local produce, artisanal foods, and regional specialties.

Neckarinsel Street Food

A popular spot for grabbing quick bites from various food stalls offering everything from bratwurst to vegetarian options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tübingen experiences a temperate oceanic climate with warm summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and August, while the driest are usually February and March. Snowfall is common in winter, adding to the town's charm during the colder months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is the typical greeting in Germany. It's polite to greet everyone present when entering a room.

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality highly. Always arrive on time for meetings or social events.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal, and it's customary to keep hands on the table (but not elbows).

Safety Guide

Safety

Tübingen is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. The local police are approachable and helpful, ensuring a safe environment for both residents and tourists.

Tipping in Tübingen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill in restaurants and cafes, with a tip of about 5-10% appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Tübingen is beautiful, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather, perfect for exploring the town and enjoying the Neckar River. Expect lively outdoor markets and events.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and it's an excellent time for hiking. The town hosts wine festivals celebrating the harvest.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, with occasional snow. The Christmas market transforms the town into a festive wonderland.

Nightlife Guide

Tübingen at Night

Tübingen's nightlife is lively and diverse, driven largely by its student population. The town features a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs ranging from relaxed beer gardens to vibrant dance venues. Popular spots include the historic pubs in the Old Town and nightclubs that often host live music and DJ events. Many places offer special student discounts and themed nights, making it an affordable and fun experience.

Hiking in Tübingen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Schönbuch Nature Park Trails

These trails offer various hiking paths through beautiful forests and landscapes, suitable for all levels of hikers.

Swabian Jura Mountains

Located a short drive away, these mountains provide challenging hikes with breathtaking views and unique geological formations.

Airports

How to reach Tübingen by plane.

Stuttgart Airport (STR)

Located about 30 kilometers from Tübingen, Stuttgart Airport is the nearest major airport, offering international flights and convenient transport links to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tübingen is highly walkable, with its compact Old Town filled with narrow streets and pedestrian zones. Most attractions, cafes, and shops are within a short walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. The scenic paths along the Neckar River also offer pleasant strolls, enhancing the overall experience of the town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant demographic, Tübingen is home to a large student population due to its university, contributing to the town's vibrant culture.

Families

Families are also prevalent in Tübingen, enjoying the town's safe environment, parks, and educational institutions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Tübingen, with local clubs attracting many fans and community engagement.

Basketball

Basketball has a growing following in Tübingen, with local teams competing in regional leagues and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tübingen is generally manageable due to its small size, but parking can be challenging in the Old Town. Public transportation options include buses and trains, connecting Tübingen with nearby cities. The local bus network is reliable, and many students and residents prefer cycling or walking to navigate the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tübingen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes, and you can find numerous salads and pasta options.

Vegan Options

While less common, some eateries cater to vegan diets with plant-based dishes and alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Tübingen has a well-developed healthcare system with several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies available throughout the town. The University Hospital Tübingen is one of the leading medical institutions in Germany. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and English-speaking medical personnel are often available, especially in larger facilities.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide