Black Forest Cards
The Black Forest offers two popular discount cards to enhance your visit: the SchwarzwaldCard and the HochSchwarzwald Card. The HochSchwarzwald provides free or discounted access to over 180 attractions across the Black Forest, including museums, thermal baths, adventure parks, and cable cars. It’s perfect for exploring the region affordably but is available only through specific participating hotels. The SchwarzwaldCard Card includes all the benefits of the HochSchwarzwald and adds a free entry day to Europa-Park, making it an excellent option for those planning to visit the park. The SchwarzwaldCard can be purchased online or at select tourist offices, offering even more flexibility and value for travelers.
HochSchwarzwald Card (Red Card):
The Red Card, officially known as the “HochSchwarzwald Card” (High Black Forest Card), is a unique discount pass designed for travelers staying at least two nights in one of the participating hotels or holiday apartments in the southern Black Forest region. The card is provided free of charge to visitors and helps reduce entry costs to dozens of attractions in the area, including free access to certain sites and discounts at others. It is a digital card activated via an app or QR code sent before arrival, allowing the whole family to enjoy its benefits during their stay.
Using the card is simple: it grants one-time free entry to all attractions under the “Inclusive” category, and for “Advantage” attractions, visitors can pre-book and receive discounts of around 20%. The card is valid from the time of check-in until departure, but not all accommodations in the southern Black Forest offer it, so it’s worth verifying in advance. The card is ideal for those looking to enjoy multiple attractions in the region, but it’s not mandatory—travelers who find suitable accommodations outside the program can still have a wonderful time exploring the Black Forest.
SchwarzwaldCard (Black Forest Card):
The Black Forest Card is a fully digital pass. It can be purchased easily through the official website using a credit card, with the card sent directly to your email. You can print the email or show it on your phone to access attractions seamlessly. It’s important to carry an ID matching the name used for the purchase. The card comes in two variations: one includes a full day at Europa-Park, the region’s largest amusement park, and one does not. Opting for the version with Europa-Park offers flexibility, as it allows entry without prior reservations, unlike purchasing tickets directly from the park, which requires booking a fixed date.
The card is valid for three full days, which don’t have to be consecutive, and provides access to bonus attractions even after the main days are used. There are individual and family options available, with the family card covering two adults and up to three children under the age of 17. Choosing the card with Europa-Park access eliminates the need to book in advance and provides a hassle-free experience, making it an excellent choice for families exploring the Black Forest.