If you’re considering a day trip from Strasbourg to experience the scenic beauty of Germany’s Black Forest and the elegance of Baden-Baden, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into one of the region’s most iconic areas. While I haven’t been on this particular trip myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who’ve taken it, and I can tell you it’s a solid way to see some gorgeous landscapes without the stress of driving.
What we really like about this tour is its small-group setting, which keeps things intimate and allows for more meaningful interaction with your guide. It’s also clear that the guides are knowledgeable, adding context and stories that bring the scenery and towns to life. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the itinerary can feel a bit packed, especially if you want more time at each stop. This trip is best suited for those who want a rundown rather than a leisurely, in-depth exploration.
If you’re after a balanced mix of natural beauty, elegant towns, and local flavors, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy scenic drives, short walks, and sampling regional treats. However, if you prefer to spend more time at a specific site or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider a more tailored experience. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for curious travelers who want a taste of Germany’s Black Forest and Baden-Baden with a comfortable, guided touch.
Key Points
- Small-Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal connection.
- Expert Guide: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the experience.
- Diverse Stops: Mix of towns, lakes, viewpoints, and scenic drives.
- Time Management: About 8 hours, with a structured itinerary that balances sightseeing and free time.
- Price for Value: At $188 per person, it offers access to multiple highlights and comfortable transportation.
- Seasonal Considerations: The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
A Full Breakdown of the Black Forest and Baden-Baden Day Trip
Starting in Strasbourg, this tour sets out early in the morning, with a clear and convenient meeting point in front of the Strasbourg tourism office at 17 Place de la Cathédrale. After a quick safety check (passport or ID required for border crossing), you hop into a modern, fully equipped minivan designed for comfort and ease. Small groups keep the journey intimate, with just up to 8 people, which really makes a difference in how relaxed and interactive the day feels.
Crossing From France into Germany
The drive from Strasbourg into Baden-Württemberg is part of what makes this experience appealing. Traveling in a comfortable van means you get to enjoy the scenery without fatigue, and your guide will share tidbits about the region’s history and culture. The border crossing is straightforward, but travelers should remember to bring their passport or ID card—border checks are now more frequent, especially between France and Germany.
Baden-Baden: A Town of Elegance
The first major stop is Baden-Baden, a town renowned for attracting royalty, celebrities, and wealthy visitors for centuries. The guided tour explores some of its architectural gems along the Lichtentaler Allee, a celebrated park lined with villas and lush gardens. Travelers consistently praise their guides for making Baden-Baden come alive with interesting anecdotes and historical context. One reviewer commented, “Jerome was a great guide. He provided information and took us to places I would never have seen, all while adding a little humor to keep it fun.”
You’ll get a chance to wander for about an hour—enough to take photos, feel the vibe, or grab a quick coffee. Some travelers mention that Baden-Baden’s elegance is strikingly different from Strasbourg, making this a memorable contrast in architecture and ambiance.
Scenic Drive Along Schwarzwaldhochstrasse
After Baden-Baden, the tour continues along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse—the Black Forest High Road. This route offers some of the best viewpoints and belvederes, where you can step out and take in sweeping vistas of the Upper Rhine Valley and the Vosges Mountains in France. The drive is one of the highlights, giving you several chances to appreciate the lush, pine-dense landscapes that give the Black Forest its name.
More Great Tours NearbyMummelsee Lake: Nature and Snacks
Next, you arrive at Mummelsee, the largest, deepest, and highest of the Seven Cirque Lakes in the Black Forest. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed break of about 1.5 hours. Travelers love the opportunity to explore at their own pace. The lake’s circumference is 800 meters, and it sits at 1,036 meters elevation, making it a scenic spot with mountain views and reflections on the water.
At Mummelsee, you might sample some local treats—cured meats, Black Forest cake, or perhaps a warm drink—and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Several reviews highlight how the lake area is charming, and the free time allows for casual wandering or some photos. One visitor noted, “The images we saw were marvelous, and hiking in the Black Forest was perfect!”
Charming Sasbachwalden and the Wine Route
The tour then moves on to Sasbachwalden, a picturesque village famous for its flowering houses and vineyards. The stop here is brief—just about 20 minutes—but enough to stroll through the flower-decked streets and soak in the scenic village atmosphere. Many travelers mention how beautifully maintained the village is, and some describe it as a “flowering jewel” among the vineyards.
Following this, the journey takes you along the Badischer Weinstrasse (Wine Route), Germany’s longest, stretching over 500 kilometers. The route is dotted with small towns, castles, and rolling vineyards, making for a lovely drive back to Strasbourg. Many reviewers find this part of the trip especially appealing if they enjoy rural landscapes and wine culture. You may not have time to stop at every town, but the views and scenery are worth the ride.
Practical Details and What to Expect
- Duration: About 8 hours, with scheduled stops for sightseeing and breaks.
- Transportation: A fully equipped, comfortable minivan, perfect for small groups.
- Included: Guided walking tour of Baden-Baden, viewpoints in the Black Forest, and the scenic drive.
- Not included: Entrance fees, meals, drinks, or personal expenses. Lunch is free for you to choose and enjoy as you like.
- Cost: At $188 per person, the price reflects the convenience of transport, guiding, and multiple highlights—all in one package.
What the Tour Feels Like
From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a standout feature. They’re praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the day engaging. Travelers mention feeling relaxed and well-informed, thanks to their guides’ anecdotes and tips.
The scenery, especially along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse and around Mummelsee, leaves a lasting impression. Many reviewers mention how the lakes and viewpoints give a sense of the Black Forest’s true beauty—intensely green, mountain-draped, and atmospheric.
The small-group setup truly enhances the experience, making it easier to interact with the guide and fellow travelers. It also means that the day isn’t rushed, even if the itinerary is tight. You get a good balance of structured sightseeing and free time, such as at Mummelsee.
Downsides and Considerations
A few travelers find that the itinerary can be a bit busy, especially if you prefer more time at specific spots. The drive between locations is some of the longest parts of the day, which may feel tiring for those not used to full-day excursions. Also, since the tour operates rain or shine, be sure to dress appropriately if the weather turns sour.
Some mention that the shared transport limits flexibility, and that the experience might not be ideal if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of each site. Plus, for travelers with mobility limitations, this tour might not be suitable.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This day trip is ideal if you want a rundown of the Black Forest region and Baden-Baden without the hassle of self-driving. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, scenic drives, and some free exploration time. The small-group format makes it more personal and less rushed, which many find appealing.
However, if you’re seeking a highly flexible or in-depth experience with a specific site, you might prefer to customize your own itinerary. Also, those with mobility issues may find the walking and bus stops challenging.
Final Thoughts
This Black Forest and Baden-Baden day trip from Strasbourg offers a wonderful way to see a mix of natural beauty, charming towns, and luxurious spa vibes in one day. The guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience richer than just a sightseeing drive. The scenery along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse, the lovely lake, and the elegance of Baden-Baden combine to create a memorable outing.
At around $188, it’s a good value considering the transportation, guiding, and multiple highlights included. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural touches, and sampling local treats without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
If you’re looking for an active, engaging, and scenic day out that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this tour could be just what you need.
From Strasbourg: Black Forest and Baden Baden Day Trip
“Jerome was a great guide. He provided information and took us to places I would never have seen , all while adding a little humor to keep it fun. T…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children who can sit through an 8-hour guided trip and enjoy scenic views would likely find it enjoyable. Keep in mind the walking involved and the need for a passport for border crossing.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID card for border checks, comfortable clothing, and weather-appropriate gear since it operates rain or shine. A camera or smartphone for photos is also recommended.
Are there any additional costs I should expect?
Entrance fees for attractions, museums, or monuments are not included, so you might want to budget for any optional extras. Food is also not included, so you can choose what to eat during your free time.
How long is the drive between stops?
The drive between Baden-Baden and Mummelsee, and then to Sasbachwalden, is relatively short but includes some longer stretches—around 1 hour for the main segments—allowing you to enjoy the scenery.
Is the tour accessible for those with limited mobility?
Not really. The tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility due to walking involved at some stops and the nature of travel.
What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, which keeps the experience intimate and engaging.
What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, so it’s best to be prepared for the weather. Some scenic spots might be less enjoyable in heavy rain, but the views and experience generally remain worth it.
In all, this tour from Strasbourg offers a nicely balanced day of scenic drives, cultural sights, and free time, perfect for anyone wanting a taste of Germany’s Black Forest without the hassle of organizing everything themselves.
You can check availability for your dates here:
