Schlossberg: Freiburg's Castle Hill
Discover Freiburg's captivating blend of history and nature atop the Schlossberg, offering panoramic views, walking trails, and a tranquil escape just minutes from the Old Town.
Rising dramatically behind Freiburg's Old Town, the Schlossberg (Castle Hill) offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and panoramic views. Once the site of a fortified castle dating back to the 11th century, the Schlossberg boasts remnants of baroque walls, the Bismarck Tower, and the Kanonenplatz (Cannon Square). Today, it's a beloved recreational area for locals and tourists alike, offering walking trails through shady forests, stunning sunsets over the city, and a chance to escape the urban bustle. Reach the summit on foot for a moderate hike or take the convenient Schlossberg Railway funicular. At the top, the Schlossberg Tower provides unparalleled 360-degree views of Freiburg, the Black Forest, and the Rhine Valley, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
A brief summary to Schlossberg
- Freiburg im Breisgau, DE
Local tips
- Take the Schlossberg Railway for an easy and scenic ascent, especially if you have limited mobility or are traveling with children. The funicular offers stunning views and drops you off near the main attractions.
- Visit the Schlossberg at sunset for breathtaking views of Freiburg and the surrounding Black Forest. The sky ablaze with color creates a truly unforgettable experience.
- Explore the various walking trails on the Schlossberg, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Hiking maps are available at the tourist information center in the Old Town Hall.
- Combine your visit with a meal or drink at the Dattler Schlossberg Restaurant or the beer garden at the summit. Both offer stunning views and a chance to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
- Check the operating hours of the Schlossberg Railway in advance, especially during off-season or holidays. Consider purchasing tickets online to avoid queues.
Getting There
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Walking
From Freiburg's Münsterplatz (Cathedral Square), head east towards the Schwabentor gate. Just before the gate, you'll see a path leading uphill, opposite the gate. Follow this well-marked path through the woods. The walk is a moderate climb and takes approximately 30-40 minutes to reach the top. Follow signs for Schlossbergturm (Schlossberg Tower).
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Public Transport
From Freiburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take tram line 2 (direction 'Günterstal') or line 3 (direction 'Hugstetten'). Get off at the 'Schlossberg' stop. From the tram stop, follow the signs leading uphill towards the Schlossberg. The walk from the tram stop to the Schlossberg entrance takes about 15-20 minutes. Tram single fare is approximately €2.50.
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Funicular
The Schlossbergbahn funicular departs from the Stadtgarten, near Leopoldring. The funicular whisks you up the hill in just a few minutes, depositing you near the Dattler Schlossberg Restaurant and the Kanonenplatz. From there, it's a short walk to the Schlossberg Tower. A one-way ticket costs €3.50 for adults and €2.80 for children (6-14 years). A round trip ticket costs €6.00 for adults and €4.50 for children.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Schlossbergring in Freiburg. The Schlossberggarage (Schlossberg Garage) is located at Schlossbergring 14, offering parking close to the Schlossberg. Parking fees at the Schlossberggarage are approximately €18.00 per day. From the garage, follow signs for the Schlossbergbahn or the walking paths leading up the hill.
Discover more about Schlossberg
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2. Schlossbergsteg vom Schwabentor zum Greiffenegg-Aufzug
0.3 km
A modern bridge in Freiburg providing access to the historic Schlossberg, offering panoramic views and a journey through history.
Schlossbergbahn
0.4 km
Ascend to breathtaking views of Freiburg and the Black Forest with the Schlossbergbahn, a modern and accessible funicular railway offering a swift and scenic journey to the historic Schlossberg.
Schwabentorsteg
0.4 km
Cross the Schwabentorsteg for a scenic connection between Freiburg's Old Town and the Schlossberg, with views of the historic Schwabentor.
Karlssteg
0.4 km
A unique pedestrian bridge connecting Freiburg's Karlsplatz and Stadtgarten, known for its innovative design and serene pathway.
Augustinerpl.
0.5 km
Experience Freiburg's vibrant heart at Augustinerplatz: history, culture, and community converge in this lively square.
Augustinerplatz
0.6 km
Experience the heart of Freiburg at Augustinerplatz, a vibrant square blending history, culture, and lively atmosphere in the city's charming Old Town.
Augustinerpl. 2
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture and historical charm of Augustinerplatz, a central hub in Freiburg brimming with local flavors and beautiful architecture.
Adelhauser Kirche
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Explore Freiburg's Adelhauser Kirche: A historic church born from medieval convents, offering a glimpse into the city's spiritual past.
Black Forest Tours
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Explore the scenic beauty and rich heritage of the Black Forest with guided tours that reveal its hidden gems and enchanting landscapes.
Chabad Lubawitsch Freiburg e.V.
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Explore Chabad Lubawitsch Freiburg e.V., a vibrant synagogue in the heart of Freiburg that connects visitors with Jewish culture and community.
Kaiser-Joseph-Straße 229
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Experience the heart of Freiburg on Kaiser-Joseph-Straße: a vibrant blend of shopping, history, and culture in a charming pedestrian zone.
Rathausplatz
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Experience the vibrant heart of Freiburg at Rathausplatz, a historic square brimming with stunning architecture, lively markets, and cultural events year-round, offering a true taste of the city's charm.
St. Martinskirche
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Martin's Gate
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Martinstor
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Discover Freiburg's medieval past at the Martinstor, a historic gate blending ancient architecture with modern city life on the bustling Kaiser-Joseph-Straße.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kanonenplatz
0.2 km
Explore the scenic beauty and vibrant culture of Kanonenplatz in Freiburg im Breisgau, a perfect blend of history and modern charm.
Aussichtsturm Schlossberg
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views and scenic hiking at the Aussichtsturm Schlossberg, a must-see attraction in Freiburg im Breisgau.
Kleiner Kanonenplatz
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views from Kleiner Kanonenplatz, a serene observation deck in Freiburg im Breisgau, perfect for relaxation and scenic photography.
Wasserplatz - Hochbehälter Schlossberg
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Explore the enchanting Wasserplatz - Hochbehälter Schlossberg in Freiburg im Breisgau, a beautiful blend of nature and history with breathtaking views.
Schlossbergsteg
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and historical allure of Schlossbergsteg, a must-visit landmark in Freiburg im Breisgau.
galerie konviktstrasse 3
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Explore contemporary art at Galerie Konviktstraße 3, a vibrant gallery in Freiburg im Breisgau showcasing local and international talent.
Konviktstraße 17W
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Schlossberg
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking views of Freiburg and the Black Forest from the iconic Schlossberg observation deck, a perfect blend of nature and history.
Konviktstraße
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Erzbistum Freiburg
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Experience the stunning Gothic architecture and rich history of Erzbistum Freiburg, a cultural gem in the heart of Freiburg im Breisgau.
Konviktskirche
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Konviktskirche, a stunning Gothic church in the heart of Freiburg im Breisgau.
Schwabentor
0.4 km
Explore the historic Schwabentor, Freiburg's stunning medieval gate, and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
Oberlindenbrunnen
0.4 km
Explore Oberlindenbrunnen, a historical fountain in Freiburg im Breisgau, offering beauty and cultural charm in the heart of the city.
Stadtgarten Freiburg
0.5 km
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Maus
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Essential places to dine
Dattler
0.3 km
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Wolfshöhle
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Kreuzblume
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Restaurant Lichtblick Freiburg
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Restaurant Löwengrube
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Zum Schwabentörle
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Löwen
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Zum Kranz
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Gasthaus Zum Roten Bären
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La Cicogna
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Enoteca
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Sichelschmiede
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Heiliggeist Stüble am Münster
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Tialini
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Adelhaus
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Filotimo Concept Store
0.4 km
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Luxury Second Hand & Outlet
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SiRiPiRi
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Paris Passion
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Freiburgs Finest Flagship Store
0.5 km
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Blaue Lilie
0.5 km
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Fräulein Smilla
0.5 km
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Schwarzwaldmarie-Freiburg-Kuckucksuhren-Souvenirs
0.5 km
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Abstein – Living & More
0.6 km
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G-Star RAW Store
0.6 km
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GALERIA Freiburg am Europaplatz
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BUTLERS@home24 Freiburg Salzstraße
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Breuninger Outlet Freiburg
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Nespresso Boutique Freiburg
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Breuninger Freiburg
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Alter Simon
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One Trick Pony
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Bardobar - Freiburg im Breisgau
0.4 km
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Juri's Cocktail & Wine Bar
0.5 km
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Black Forest Bar Academy
0.5 km
Discover the art of bartending in Freiburg im Breisgau at the Black Forest Bar Academy – where mixology meets creativity!
Sonderbar Freiburg im Breisgau
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and vibrant events at Sonderbar Freiburg im Breisgau, a welcoming gay bar for everyone to enjoy.
Henry’s Bar Freiburg
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Henry's Bar Freiburg – a cocktail haven offering exquisite drinks and a perfect venue for events.
Flamingo
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Freiburg at Flamingo, where delicious cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Schwarzwald Bar
0.7 km
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Die Schachtel
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Freiburg at Die Schachtel, a cozy pub offering friendly service and a lively atmosphere for all.
Riva Bar - Freiburg im Breisgau
0.8 km
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Schlappen
0.8 km
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Der außergewöhnliche Bruder Wolf
0.8 km
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Maria
0.8 km
Maria Bar in Freiburg: Enjoy American and vegan delicacies in a lively atmosphere with creative cocktails and late-night fun.
Oscar Wilde‘s Irish Pub & Whiskey Bar
0.9 km
Discover the authentic Irish pub experience at Oscar Wilde's, offering delicious food, a cozy atmosphere, and an extensive whiskey selection in Freiburg.
