September 2022
Black Forest: 4-days Travel Script
Fairy-tale castles, dense forests, winding roads, and a touch of mystery – welcome to the Black Forest! This 4-day itinerary follows an unforgettable adventure in Alsace, where we explored picturesque villages, tasted local wines, and soaked in the charm of northeastern France.
Our journey in the Black Forest begins in Rust, the gateway to this enchanting German region and home to Europa-Park, one of Europe’s most exciting attractions. From there, we’ll dive into a world of towering pine trees, charming towns like Titisee, take a day trip to the breathtaking Rhine Falls, and savor traditional German cuisine that will keep us energized for the adventure ahead.
At the end of our Black Forest journey, we’ll return to Frankfurt to drop off the car and catch our flight home. Ready to embark on this adventure? Let’s get started!
Script Overview
- Rust
- Titisee + Rheinfall
- Baden-Baden
Day 1: (Rust - Europa Park)
Pension Marianna: exactly what we were looking for! The apartment was spacious, clean, equipped with a full kitchen, and had a lovely balcony. Additionally, it provided us with a free parking pass for the Europe-Park, which made getting there and parking much easier.
Next point in: 2 km
8:00 – Europa-Park: The park is divided into 15 themed areas, each representing a different European country, such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Greece, and more. In each area, you’ll find attractions, rides, shows, and food that reflect the culture and unique characteristics of that country (For more detailed information about Europa Park, click here).
Tips for Visiting Europa-Park:
- Opening Hours: While the park officially opens at 9:00 AM, it often starts operating earlier. It’s recommended to arrive by 8:00 AM to enter early and avoid crowds.
- Virtual Line Tickets: After entering, head to the Information Desk (located on the right side after the entrance) and request Virtual Line tickets.
How to Activate Virtual Line Tickets:
- Open the Europa-Park app.
- Tap the profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Select “Use Virtual Line” and choose the option to scan printed tickets.
- Use your phone’s camera to scan the tickets, and they will be added to your app.
These are the attractions we chose to experience during our visit to Europa-Park. Before arriving, we mapped out all the options available in each country-themed area and prioritized which rides we wanted to focus on. Since we are big fans of roller coasters, most of our choices were thrill rides, but the park offers attractions suitable for all ages.
On this special day, there were barely any queues, so we managed to enjoy a lot of attractions! If you visit on a busier day, it’s best to prioritize the rides based on your personal preferences.
Germany:
- Voletarium: A breathtaking flying experience over Europe’s most iconic sights, as you sit in chairs that simulate flight.
- Elf Ride: A calm and pleasant boat ride through the magical world of elves.
Italy:
- Ghost Castle: A haunted castle ride featuring skeletons, monsters, and plenty of surprises.
France:
- Silver Star: Known as one of the scariest roller coasters in Europa-Park, this ride reaches heights of 73 meters, speeds of 130 km/h, and accelerations of 4G. It’s also one of the tallest and largest roller coasters in Europe.
- Eurosat Coastiality: A VR-enhanced roller coaster that offers a completely different experience from the regular Eurosat ride.
- Eurosat – CanCan Coaster: Located inside the park’s iconic giant sphere, this indoor roller coaster combines thrilling drops and colorful effects in the dark.
- Euro Tower: A 360-degree observation tower offering stunning views of Europa-Park.
- 4D Magic Cinema: A 4D cinema experience with moving seats and exciting effects (shows start every half hour).
Switzerland:
- Swiss Bob Run: A bobsled-themed roller coaster that mimics a ride through icy tracks, reaching speeds of 50 km/h.
- Matterhorn Blitz: A roller coaster simulating a descent from the Swiss Alps, featuring a charming pre-ride village scene with animated figures.
Greece:
- Water Rollercoaster Poseidon: A thrilling mix of roller coaster and water ride, starting in the Temple of Poseidon and ending with a splash into a water pool.
- Cassandra’s Curse: A sensory-confusing spinning room ride. Not recommended for those prone to dizziness.
Ireland:
- Children’s Attractions: Perfect for younger visitors, this area is worth a visit to enjoy the whimsical setting.
Russia:
- Euro Mir: This roller coaster starts with a calm ascent inside a mirrored building, climbing to 28 meters. It then takes riders on a wild, spinning descent at speeds of 80 km/h.
Luxembourg:
- Restaurant with Food Delivery via Tubes: A unique dining experience where meals are sent to your table through a system of tubes. (We wanted to eat here but ended up grabbing snacks at nearby stalls.)
Netherlands:
- Children’s Attractions: Another delightful area to explore with younger visitors.
Adventure Land & Enchanted Forest:
- A scenic area perfect for strolling but without major attractions.
Scandinavia:
- Fjord-Rafting: An adventurous rafting ride through the scenic beauty of Scandinavia. The inflatable rafts can hold up to six passengers.
Iceland:
- Wodan – Timburcoaster: A high-speed wooden coaster that reaches 100 km/h and climbs up to 40 meters.
- Blue Fire Megacoaster: One of the park’s fastest and most thrilling roller coasters, accelerating to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds, with multiple loops, including the highest loop in Europe.
Portugal:
- Atlantica Supersplash: A roller coaster with a dramatic water splash finale. Expect to get wet! The ride begins in a fortress and plunges 9 meters into the water at speeds of 80 km/h.
Spain:
- Children’s Attractions: Another charming area for younger visitors to explore.
Austria:
- Tiroler Log Flume: A classic log flume ride featuring a thrilling drop on a long water slide.
- Alpenexpress Enzian: Europa-Park’s first-ever roller coaster, built in 1984. This family-friendly ride takes you through a diamond mine and offers an optional VR experience (requires a separate queue).
Next point in: 2 km
18:00 – left Europa-Park: we drove straight to a supermarket in Rust. There are two supermarkets (EDEKA Feißt and Lidl). We were looking for steaks and shrimp, but they weren’t available in the same store, so we split our shopping between the two. Luckily, they’re located right next to each other, so it wasn’t a big deal.
After a long day, we cooked dinner at the apartment and ended the evening with wine from Alsace.
Day 2: (Rust - Rulantica)
Next point in: 2 km
8:00 – Rulantica: A unique indoor water park near Europa Park. It offers a fantastic experience for families, children, and adults, with a wide range of stunning water attractions.
General Information:
- Indoor Park: All attractions are located within an indoor facility, allowing you to enjoy the park in any weather. A perfect experience even in winter.
- Nordic Design: The entire area is designed with a Nordic theme, featuring natural and magical elements that bring the water world to life.
- Attractions for All Ages: A wide variety of rides for children, families, and adults seeking adrenaline-pumping activities.
- Spa & Relaxation Areas: In addition to the thrilling attractions, there are areas dedicated to relaxation, with suites, saunas, and wellness treatments.
Personal Favorite: Vildstrøm- Feeling Like Little Fish
A free-flowing river with wild currents that lets you drift smoothly and quickly, a relaxing experience with elements of adrenaline.
One of the attractions that surprised us was a water slide that starts inside the building and continues outside, accompanied by a current that helps you “glide” the entire way. At first, it seemed pretty normal and not very exciting, but once we discovered the trick – lying on our stomachs and letting the current do the work – everything changed. We felt like a little fish being swept along the open sea! This experience was a complete surprise and became our favorite among all the attractions in the park.
Main Attractions:
- Stormvind: A fast and sharp waterslide that will give you the adrenaline rush you’re looking for.
- Snorri’s Saga: A magical attraction for kids, a slide that takes you into a world of fantasy and imagination.
- Krake: An outdoor slide with a dramatic drop, perfect for those looking for a real challenge.
- Frigg Tempel: A Nordic spa area with saunas, hot pools, and other relaxing facilities for ultimate comfort.
- Striby’s Lagoon: A calm and relaxing lagoon pool, ideal for unwinding after a day of thrilling attractions.
Next point in: 2 km
18:00 – After a full day at the park, we were completely exhausted. Cooking wasn’t an option, so we decided to try something interesting we discovered right near our apartment: Pizza Automat – an automatic machine that makes fresh pizza. We won’t lie, we were skeptical. But the result was a pleasant surprise – the pizza was really tasty and perfectly satisfied our craving.
we wanted to visit The Grill Rust, a well-known grill restaurant in Rust, but fatigue won the battle. If you’re less tired than we were, it’s probably a place worth checking out – unfortunately, We can’t give a personal recommendation since we didn’t make it there this time.
Day 3: (Rust -> Titisee)
Next point in: 7 km
8:00 – Reiß Beck: We started the morning at this cozy café. The interior is beautiful and comfortable, making it a great spot to kick off the day. They offer amazing sandwiches and excellent coffee!
Next point in: 40 km
9:00 – Stiftung WaldHaus Freiburg: We continued the day with a light and scenic circular walking trail located near the Stiftung WaldHaus Freiburg (Forest House). The trail is perfect for families and nature lovers, featuring giant wooden sculptures of mushrooms and forest figures scattered along the path, creating a whimsical and magical atmosphere. There’s free parking available near the Forest House, and the entrance to the trail is free of charge. It’s a great spot to enjoy nature and take some unique photos!
Next point in: 23 km
11:30 –Hasenhorn Rodelbahn Todtnau: The Hasenhorn Rodelbahn in Todtnau offers a thrilling and unique experience! First, you purchase a ticket for an open-air cable car that takes you up to the mountain’s summit, providing breathtaking views along the way. Once at the top, you descend via a mountain coaster—a super fun and exhilarating ride!
Due to the rainy weather during our visit, we had to ride separately instead of sharing a sled. Despite the cold and limited visibility, the experience was still incredibly enjoyable. The excitement of the coaster and the lush forest surroundings made it memorable. However, we highly recommend this attraction on a clear day for the best views and a more comfortable ride. Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather!
Next point in: 22 km
14:00 – Badeparadies Schwarzwald:We spent the rest of the day at the Badeparadies Schwarzwald, a large leisure complex divided into three distinct areas: (for more information click here)
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Galaxy Schwarzwald – A fun water park with exciting slides, perfect for kids and families. It’s lively and energetic, making it a great choice for those visiting with children.
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Palmenoase – A relaxation zone under palm trees with a central pool. While it’s designed to feel like a tropical oasis, for us, it felt more like a family-oriented country club, and we didn’t connect with the vibe as much.
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Wellness & Spa – Our favorite part of the complex! This area features a large indoor pool with outdoor access, a pool bar, various types of saunas, and multiple jacuzzis scattered around the area. The atmosphere is calm and serene, with an age restriction ensuring there are no small children.
Note: Entry to the Wellness & Spa area requires full nudity, but don’t worry! You can wear a towel until you reach the entrance of each sauna or pool. Inside the saunas, towels are also permitted. For us, this area was the highlight of the experience, offering the perfect combination of relaxation and indulgence.
Next point in: 10 km
Schwarzwaldgasthaus Salenhof: A charming hotel near Titisee with an authentic atmosphere, a balcony offering stunning views, and a unique dining concept every evening. The local beer is exceptional and delicious, and while the rooms are small, they are cozy and comfortable.
18:00 – Drive to the hotel in Titisee: We ended the day with dinner and beer at the hotel.
Day 4: (Rheinfall)
Next point in: 70 km
10:00 – Rhine Falls (Rheinfall): are the largest waterfalls in Europe, offering a beautiful and dramatic natural spectacle.
Activities at the Falls:
- Walking Trails: Take a stroll along the scenic paths to enjoy various viewpoints of the waterfalls. (This is what we did, and it was more than enough to fully appreciate the experience.)
- Boat Ride: Get up close to the falls with a boat ride. (€10–15 per adult)
- Visit Schloss Laufen: Climb up to Laufen Castle for a panoramic view of the area. (Entrance fee: €5)
Our Experience:
While the Rhine Falls are undeniably beautiful, we left feeling slightly underwhelmed. Perhaps it was the fact that we had high expectations, imagining something closer to the scale and power of Niagara Falls. The falls are impressive, but the journey there felt disproportionate to the overall experience.
That being said, the area is charming and enjoyable for a walk, even though it’s quite touristy and crowded. In hindsight, I’d recommend visiting the Rhine Falls as part of a broader trip, perhaps on your way through Austria or Switzerland, rather than planning a special visit just for the falls.
Next point in: 70 km
14:00 – Lake Titisee: is a picturesque spot in the Black Forest, perfect for a relaxing visit. Since it was cold, we skipped the usual activities and enjoyed a peaceful walk around the lake with a warm coffee in hand. Even without doing much, the stunning views made it worthwhile!
Next point in: 10 km
17:00 – Drive to the hotel in Titisee: We ended the day with dinner and beer at the hotel.
The next day, we drove to Baden-Baden, but the heavy rain kept us from enjoying any attractions. Our hotel there wasn’t great, so we won’t mention it. The following morning, we continued to Frankfurt to return the car and catch our flight back home.
Best Time to Visit Black Forest:
The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) in Germany is a year-round destination offering diverse experiences in every season. From scenic drives to outdoor adventures and cozy villages, there’s always something to enjoy in this enchanting region!
Spring (March–May):
Spring in the Black Forest is a time of renewal. The trees turn green, flowers bloom, and waterfalls like Triberg come to life. It’s ideal for hiking trails like the All Saints Waterfalls (Allerheiligen Wasserfälle) or visiting charming towns like Freiburg and Titisee. The weather is cool but pleasant, and the lighter crowds make it a peaceful time to explore.
Summer (June–August):
Summer is the best time for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through lush forests, swim in the refreshing Titisee or Schluchsee, or enjoy panoramic views from the Hasenhorn Coaster in Todtnau. You can also bike along scenic paths or relax at lakefront cafés. Be prepared for busier attractions, especially during school holidays, but the lively atmosphere adds to the charm.
Autumn (September–November):
Fall transforms the Black Forest into a golden wonderland. It’s harvest season, so try local specialties like fresh apple cider and Zwetschgenkuchen (plum cake). The cooler weather makes it ideal for scenic drives, visiting wineries near Ortenau, or taking peaceful walks in the forest. Don’t miss the Black Forest Open Air Museum for a glimpse into local traditions.
Winter (December–February):
Winter in the Black Forest is magical. The region’s towns, like Gengenbach and Triberg, host charming Christmas markets with twinkling lights and mulled wine. Snowfall transforms the area into a winter sports paradise, offering skiing, snowboarding, and sledding in Feldberg. For a cozy retreat, enjoy spa treatments in Baden-Baden or savor hearty dishes like Black Forest ham and cake by a roaring fire.
When to Visit for Events and Highlights:
- Christmas Markets (December): Triberg, Gengenbach, and Freiburg host enchanting holiday markets.
- Cherry Blossom Season (April): Perfect for photography and countryside drives.
- Wine Festivals (September): Enjoy tastings in Ortenau and the Kaiserstuhl region.
- Winter Sports (January–February): Feldberg is a top destination for snow lovers.
No matter the season, the Black Forest is a destination full of natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun, the Black Forest promises an unforgettable getaway!
Transport & Navigation
Renting a Car for Your Black Forest Trip and Important Information:
Planning a trip to the Black Forest and considering renting a car? Excellent choice! A car allows you to explore the stunning nature and charming villages in the region at your own pace. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your car rental experience:
Why Rent a Car? Renting a car is an ideal way to travel in the Black Forest, as public transportation doesn’t always reach the smaller villages or hidden gems. Driving offers the flexibility to stop for stunning viewpoints, take scenic routes, and explore local attractions.
Tips for Finding the Right Rental Car:
- Compare Offers: Get quotes from at least 2–4 car rental companies or booking websites. Don’t settle for the first offer you find.
- Check Inclusions: Make sure the price includes key benefits like unlimited mileage, additional drivers, cancellation policies, and zero-deductible insurance options.
- Book Early: In peak travel seasons, availability—especially for larger vehicles—can be limited. Booking in advance not only ensures you get the car you want but often saves money too.
- Consider Vehicle Size: Opt for a car that’s slightly larger than you think you’ll need. It should accommodate your luggage, shopping, and any souvenirs (like cuckoo clocks!).
- Understand the Fine Print: Check if your rental includes extras like GPS, child seats, or winter tires if you’re visiting during colder months.
Important Documents to Prepare:
- International Driving Permit (IDP): While a modern driver’s license (with English translations) may suffice in Germany, many rental companies and local authorities require an IDP. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Credit Card: The main driver must carry an international credit card in their name. Some companies may not release a car without this.
- Booking Confirmation: Bring a printed or digital copy of your reservation, including the terms and conditions.
Before and After Picking Up the Car:
- Inspect the Vehicle: Take photos of the car’s interior and exterior from all angles during pickup and drop-off. This ensures you have evidence of its condition in case of disputes.
- Test the Equipment: Check essentials like the spare tire, fuel level, and onboard GPS (if included).
- Return Policy: Confirm the drop-off location and any associated fees if returning the car to a different location.
- Fuel Policy: Confirm whether the car comes with a full tank and must be returned with a full tank.
Driving in the Black Forest:
- Navigation: Download offline maps or use a GPS device to avoid getting lost in areas with limited cell reception. Apps like Google Maps or Waze work well if pre-downloaded.
- Fuel Stations: Plan refueling stops as rural areas may have fewer gas stations.
- Toll Roads and Emission Stickers: Some countries like Switzerland and Germany require specific stickers for toll roads or city entry. Make sure your rental car is compliant.
Seasonal Considerations:
- Winter Tires: If traveling between November and April, ensure your car is equipped with winter tires, especially if you expect icy or snowy conditions.
- Child Seats: By law, children under 12 years old or shorter than 150 cm must use an appropriate car seat.
How to Save on Car Rentals:
- Cross-Border Rentals: If you’re flying into Basel or Zurich, compare prices on both sides of the border. For instance, the French side of Basel airport (Mulhouse) often has cheaper rental rates than the Swiss side.
- Mileage Limits: While some rentals include unlimited mileage, others may charge for exceeding a daily cap. If your plan involves minimal driving, consider these capped offers to save.
- Insurance Options: Decide between zero-deductible insurance (from the rental company) or reimbursement insurance (via third-party providers). The former is often more convenient but can be pricier.
Final Advice for a Smooth Trip:
- Respect Speed Limits: Germany has strict speed enforcement, even for small infractions. Pay fines promptly to avoid additional charges or legal issues.
- Accidents or Damage: If you damage the car or hit another vehicle, report the incident to the local police and your rental company immediately. Do not leave the scene without exchanging information, as this is illegal in Germany.
- Plan for Comfort: Longer trips are much more enjoyable with a spacious and comfortable vehicle, especially if you’re traveling as a family or group.
Script Costs
- Hotels: $480
- Car Rental: $40 / day
- Gas: $6–$8 / gallon
- SIM Card: $8
- Europa Park: $60 / person
- Rulantica: $44 / person
- Groceries: $5–$15 / day
- Restaurants: $20–$40 / meal
Tools & Extras
Booking: All of our hotels were booked through the Booking website.
Europa Park App:The official app for Europa Park provides a map, real-time wait times for rides, show schedules, ticketing options, and push notifications for updates. It’s a great tool to navigate the park and stay informed throughout your visit. Available on iOS & Android.
Rulantica App:This app for the indoor water park Rulantica offers an interactive map, real-time attraction wait times, details about each ride, ticketing and reservation options, and updates on events. It’s essential for a smooth and enjoyable visit. Available on iOS & Android.
Black Forest Cards: There are two popular types of Black Forest Cards: (For more information about the card, click here)
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SchwarzwaldCard: This is a discounted pass that offers free or reduced-price entry to over 180 attractions in the Black Forest, such as museums, thermal baths, adventure parks, and cable cars. It’s designed to make exploring the region more affordable and convenient. However, this card is available only at specific participating hotels.
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HochSchwarzwald Card: This version includes everything offered by the Standard Card plus a free day at Europa-Park, making it a great choice for visitors planning to experience the park. You can purchase this card online or from select tourist offices, and it provides access to all the attractions included in the Standard Card, with the added benefit of Europa-Park entry.