Small but mighty. This lively university city in southwest Germany’s Black Forest is full of attractions, whether you want to stroll the reconstructed, medieval Old Town, catch a SC Freiburg football match at Europa-Park Stadion, or enjoy an epic hike up the Schlossberg hill for stunning sunsets. Families can visit the Planetarium Freiburg or Mundenhof animal park while art lovers can tour Freiburg’s Museum of Modern Art or Augustiner Museum. Unwind with a lakeside stroll around Seepark Freiburg, see an impressive collection of artifacts at Colombischlössle Archeological Museum, or attend the symphony at Freiburg Concert Hall.

For sweeping views of the legendary Black Forest, climb to the top of the Gothic Freiburg Cathedral. You can also unwind at Keidel Mineral Thermal Bath or visit city landmarks like Martin’s Gate, Schwabentor, and Münsterplatz. If the timing’s right, attend a big-name concert at Messe Freiburg or get into the holiday spirit at Europa-Park Christmas Market.