Exploring Trains through the Rhine Highlands
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Embark on an exciting journey through some of Europe's most captivating cities, all connected by efficient train networks. From the "Green City" of Freiburg in the foothills of the Black Forest, to the international art metropolis of Basel, each destination offers a unique blend of culture, history, and modern architecture.
Berlin kicks off our itinerary, a bustling metropolis with an extensive public transit system. Explore its vibrant neighbourhoods, iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Television Tower, and indulge in Eastern Mediterranean cuisine at Neni, perched on the rooftop of the stylish 25hours hotel. Then, hop on an ICE train southwest towards Freiburg.
In Freiburg, a bubbly guide in traditional Black Forest dress leads walking tours through the charming old town center, where tiny brooks, or "bächle", wind through the streets and alleyways. Don't miss the city's Münster (cathedral), a notable attraction.
From Freiburg, take the train to Landau and Baden-Baden. These charming towns in southwestern Germany are easily accessible via regional rail connections and offer a relaxing contrast to the bustling city life.
Crossing into France, Strasbourg is your next stop. Reachable in about an hour from Baden-Baden by regional train, Strasbourg boasts an ornate cathedral that serves as the centrepiece of this delightful town.
From Strasbourg, a short TER regional train ride takes you to Mulhouse, home to the Museum of Printed Textiles and the Cité de l'Automobile, featuring the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of Bugatti cars.
Basel, our final destination, is an international rail crossroads with connections to Germany (Karlsruhe, Freiburg), France (Mulhouse, Strasbourg), and Switzerland. This city, known as "the artists' city", is a centre for modern architecture, with remarkable buildings by Mario Botta and Herzog & de Meuron.
Planning Tips
- Use Germany’s Deutsche Bahn (DB), France’s SNCF/TER, and Switzerland’s SBB rail systems for seamless travel between these cities.
- Consider Eurail/Interrail passes if you plan multiple train journeys within a short period.
- Check local transport cards or tourist passes in each city for free or discounted public transit.
This region offers a scenic and culturally rich route fully accessible by train, maximizing urban exploration while minimizing hassle. Whether you choose a linear itinerary like Berlin → Freiburg → Landau → Baden-Baden → Strasbourg → Mulhouse → Basel, or loop back to Berlin, each city promises an unforgettable experience.
Happy travels!
Additional Highlights
- The Monbijou Hotel in Berlin offers a classic boutique experience with a sauna, spa, fitness center, and restaurant.
- Konnopke's Snack Bar in Berlin is famous for its currywurst with homemade fries and curry ketchup.
- In Mulhouse, the Musée Français du Chemin de Fer ("Cité du train") is the world's biggest railway museum.
- Strasbourg, France, is the largest city in the Alsace region and was the first city center in France to be placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.
- Clärchen's Ballhaus in Berlin offers traditional German dinner and dancing.
- The Eurail Global Pass allows unlimited rail travel on the national railroads of 28 countries and offers Saverpass fares for two or more people traveling together.
- Strasbourg's cathedral is an ornate centrepiece of this delightful French town.
Travel to the vibrant city of Berlin, where you can explore its diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks, then embark on a scenic train journey south to Freiburg. In Freiburg, immerse yourself in the city's unique lifestyle, with its charming old town center and traditional Black Forest guide. Afterward, continue your travel to Basel, an international art metropolis and a center for modern architecture, concluding your lifestyle and travel adventure.
