Freiburg im Breisgau is a city in the south of Germany. It is mainly known for its Renaissance University, the medieval minster (the only gothic church in Germany which was finished in the Middle Ages) and the beautiful and romantic old town with its unique Bächl. The city is the perfect starting point for any trip into the Black Forest Region.

One of the highlights is the artificially created, water-filled little canals (Bächle) running along the streets. Especially in summer, they are perfect for cooling down your feet after exploring the city. Kids (and also some adults) enjoy building or buying little boats and letting them float in the Bächle. Oh, and by the way, watch your step! A legend says, if you are single and fall in one of the Bächle, you will marry a person from Freiburg!

Heidelberg

A visit to Heidelberg Castle makes an excellent day trip from Stuttgart, Germany.
Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany.
Contributed by Live Travel Teach

Heidelberg is a popular college town in southeast Germany surrounded by forested hills.  In the summer months, you can join the locals for a relaxing picnic or stroll by the river. Be sure to check out the Heidelberg Schloss; an ancient castle turned into an architectural museum.  The funicular departs near the castle and will bring you to a vantage point with a view of the whole city and the colorful hills around.  Head there in the fall for autumn colors or spring for beautiful blossoms everywhere.  You can join a tour or explore on your own, but if you enjoy German beer, you’ll want to check out some of the local breweries and delicious restaurants.  Heidelberg is an hour drive from Frankfurt international and makes a great stop on your way to the more popular Munich.

Stuttgart

Even during the winter months Stuttgart is one of Germany's beautiful cities.
Even during the winter months Stuttgart is one of Germany’s beautiful cities.
Contributed by Alison

Stuttgart may just be one of Germany’s most under-rated cities, but it makes the perfect base for exploring the Baden-Württemberg region. The city’s central train station is a transportation hub and the perfect place to begin countless day-trips within Germany and the neighbouring countries.

But don’t leave town too quickly, Stuttgart has a lively centre filled with things to do in its own right. Pick up your Pick up your StuttCard to save money on museums like the many art galleries, the Mercedes-Benz and Porche museums, and the historical Stauffenberg House. A day at the Wilhelma Zoologisch-Botanischer Garten is a family favourite and don’t forget to enjoy the excellent food-scene.