The Southern Black Forest, or "Schwarzwald" in German, is a picturesque region known for its dense forests, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. This area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages. From the thrill of LEGOLAND and Europa-Park to the tranquility of thermal baths and the charm of historic towns, the Southern Black Forest promises an unforgettable experience.

With a history dating back to Roman times, the Black Forest is steeped in legends and traditions. It's famous for its cuckoo clocks, Black Forest cake, and the iconic Bollenhut hats. The region's cuisine is a delightful mix of hearty German dishes and local specialties, often enjoyed in cozy, family-run restaurants. Visitors can also explore the area's vibrant festivals and fairs, which offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

Travelers should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, as the Black Forest can be quite unpredictable. It's advisable to pack layers and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the scenic trails and charming towns. The region is well-connected by train and bus, making it easy to travel between destinations. For accommodations, consider using VRBO or Hotels.com for a range of family-friendly options.

Munich Arrival

Day 1: Arrival in Munich

Arrive in Munich in the afternoon. After settling into your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll through the historic city center. Visit Marienplatz, the heart of Munich, and admire the stunning architecture of the New Town Hall. Enjoy a traditional Bavarian dinner at a local favorite, such as Augustiner Bräustuben, known for its hearty dishes and lively atmosphere.

LEGOLAND Germany

Day 2: LEGOLAND Adventure

Travel to LEGOLAND Germany, located in Günzburg, approximately 1.5 hours by train from Munich. Spend the day exploring the park's themed areas, interactive rides, and impressive LEGO models. Kids will love the Miniland and the Dragon Coaster. For lunch, enjoy a meal at the park's Knight's Table restaurant, offering kid-friendly options. Return to Munich in the evening.

Calw and Gengenbach

Day 3: Calw Exploration

Head to Calw, a charming town known for its half-timbered houses and as the birthplace of author Hermann Hesse. Explore the picturesque streets and visit the Hermann Hesse Museum. Enjoy lunch at a local café, such as Café am Markt, offering delicious pastries and coffee. In the afternoon, travel to Gengenbach, a fairy-tale town with a stunning medieval center.

Day 4: Gengenbach Delights

Spend the day in Gengenbach, exploring its cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Visit the Gengenbach Town Hall, famous for its Advent calendar facade. For lunch, try Gasthaus Engel, known for its traditional Black Forest cuisine. In the afternoon, relax at the Gengenbach Thermal Baths, perfect for unwinding with the family.

Europa-Park and Surroundings

Day 5: Europa-Park Excitement

Travel to Europa-Park, Germany's largest theme park, located in Rust. Spend the day enjoying thrilling rides, themed areas, and live shows. Don't miss the Silver Star roller coaster and the enchanting Grimm's Enchanted Forest. For lunch, dine at FoodLoop, a unique restaurant where food is delivered via roller coaster tracks. Stay overnight in Rust.

Day 6: Relaxation and Exploration

After a day of excitement, enjoy a leisurely morning in Rust. Visit the nearby Taubergießen Nature Reserve for a peaceful boat ride through the scenic wetlands. In the afternoon, travel to Schiltach, a picturesque town known for its timber-framed houses and scenic river views. Enjoy dinner at Gasthof Sonne, offering regional specialties.

Triberg and Freiburg

Day 7: Triberg Waterfalls

Head to Triberg, home to Germany's highest waterfalls. Spend the morning hiking the trails around the falls and visiting the Black Forest Museum. For lunch, try Café Adler, known for its Black Forest cake. In the afternoon, travel to Freiburg, a vibrant university city with a charming old town.

Day 8: Freiburg Exploration

Explore Freiburg's historic center, starting with the stunning Freiburg Minster. Wander through the bustling Münsterplatz market and enjoy lunch at Hausbrauerei Feierling, a local brewery with a lovely beer garden. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll through the scenic Schlossberg hill, offering panoramic views of the city.

Rodelbahn Todtnau and Lake Titisee

Day 9: Rodelbahn Thrills

Travel to Todtnau for an exhilarating ride on the Rodelbahn, a summer toboggan run offering fun for the whole family. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Lake Titisee, a popular destination for swimming, boating, and relaxing by the water.

Day 10: Lake Titisee Leisure

Spend a leisurely day at Lake Titisee, enjoying activities such as paddle boating or simply relaxing on the lakeshore. For lunch, visit Seehotel Wiesler, offering stunning lake views and delicious regional dishes. In the afternoon, explore the nearby town of Titisee-Neustadt, known for its charming shops and cafes.

Isla Mainau and Lindau

Day 11: Isla Mainau Gardens

Travel to Isla Mainau, a beautiful island on Lake Constance known for its stunning gardens and floral displays. Spend the day exploring the island's attractions, including the butterfly house and the baroque palace. For lunch, enjoy a meal at Schwedenschenke, offering Swedish-inspired dishes. In the afternoon, travel to Lindau, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Constance.

Day 12: Lindau Exploration

Explore Lindau's charming old town, with its narrow streets and historic buildings. Visit the iconic Lindau Lighthouse and enjoy a leisurely walk along the harbor. For lunch, try Gasthof Alte Post, known for its traditional Bavarian cuisine. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on Lake Constance, offering stunning views of the surrounding Alps.

Neuschwanstein and Munich Departure

Day 13: Neuschwanstein Castle

On your final day, visit the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, a fairy-tale fortress nestled in the Bavarian Alps. Take a guided tour of the castle's opulent interiors and enjoy the breathtaking views from the Marienbrücke bridge. For lunch, visit Schlossrestaurant Neuschwanstein, offering traditional Bavarian dishes. In the afternoon, return to Munich for your departure.

This 13-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration in the Southern Black Forest. From thrilling theme parks to charming towns and scenic landscapes, this trip promises unforgettable memories for the whole family.