This Sunny German City Should Top Your Summer Travel List
In the verdant forests of Baden-Württemberg, the city of Karlsruhe brims with eye-catching architecture, cruisy cycleways, countless green spaces, trendy cafes, bars, and beer gardens. This summer, soak up the sun in one of Germany’s warmest cities.
A Young but Vibrant City
Founded in 1715, Karlsruhe is relatively young by European standards. Located on the upper plain of the Rhine River, this neo-classical city is set amid the Vosges Mountains, the Palatinate Forest, and the Black Forest in the state of Baden-Württemberg. Karlsruhe is a hub for technology, science, and media, and houses the German Federal Court of Justice. The arts and outdoor living are integral to daily life here, and the natural playground of Baden-Württemberg offers endless hiking, cycling, and outdoor adventures.
Ideal Weather for Exploration
Karlsruhe enjoys average summer temperatures of 20°C and around 140 days of sunshine each year. The city’s pleasant weather and abundant green spaces make it perfect for exploration on foot. Start at the Karlsruhe Palace, where you can stroll around the ‘princely pleasure gardens’ or visit the Badisches Landesmuseum (State Museum of Baden) located inside the palace. For a panoramic view of Karlsruhe’s neo-classical design, climb the palace’s central tower.
Discover the 'Fan City'
From the palace, 32 streets and avenues fan out precisely, earning Karlsruhe the nickname, fächerstadt or ‘fan city’. This layout impressed former US president Thomas Jefferson, inspiring the design of Washington, DC. Wander down the central avenue through the beautifully landscaped Schlossplatz, where locals gather for an Aperol spritz. From mid-August to mid-September, Schlossplatz hosts the Schlosslichtspiele Light Festival, transforming the palace and square into a vast canvas for art.
Exploring Marktplatz and Beyond
At Marktplatz, the central square, colorful buildings compete for attention alongside the baroque-era Church of the Holy Ghost, the city hall, and the Karlsruhe Pyramid, built over the tomb of the city’s founder, Karl Wilhelm III. Enjoy the floral fragrances from market stalls as you relax at a konditorei (pastry shop) with a slice of Schwarzwälder kirschtorte (Black Forest gateau).
As evening falls, visit Wilma Wunder for a unicorn cocktail, then head to Eigenart for a fine dining experience with Mediterranean-influenced dishes and excellent German wines. For a unique nightlife experience, check out Parkdeckzehn P10, a beach bar on top of a car park, or The Door, a hidden cellar bar with creative bird-themed cocktails.
Green Spaces and Cultural Highlights
Karlsruhe’s green spaces are perfect for morning walks. The historical Karlsruhe Botanical Gardens are filled with exotic plants and stately architecture. The neo-classical Staatliche Kunsthalle (State Art Gallery) showcases seven centuries of art, best viewed from its garden setting. North of the city, the forests of Waldstadt offer serene natural escapes.
In July, don’t miss Das Fest at Günther-Klotz-Anlage Park, one of the state’s biggest open-air events, featuring music, performance, arts, and the German Skateboard Championships. A pre-festival event, Das Fest Am See, takes place a week before on the park’s lake shore.
Embrace the City on Two Wheels
Karlsruhe’s love for cycling is reflected in its extensive network of cycleways. Rent a bike or e-bike from KVV points and explore the city’s widely signposted NaturRADtour. For longer rides, venture beyond the city on routes like the Rhine Valley Way or the Black Forest Way, delving deeper into beautiful Baden-Württemberg.
Karlsruhe’s blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities makes it an ideal summer destination. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant streets, enjoying its festivals, or cycling through its scenic landscapes, Karlsruhe promises a memorable experience.
