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Frankfurt and the Black Forest

Frankfurt loop through the Black Forest and Heidelberg by rail

Illustration of Frankfurt and the Black Forest

Railbookers operates this 8-day, 7-night rail trip through Germany, starting and ending in Frankfurt with stops in Baden-Baden and Heidelberg, on Deutsche Bahn trains. After two nights in Frankfurt exploring at your own pace, day 3 brings a scenic train ride to Baden-Baden in the heart of the Black Forest, where day 4 is free to choose between the Caracalla Spa's thermal waters or the Black Forest's hiking trails. On day 5 the train to Heidelberg passes through more Black Forest scenery, and two nights there let you explore Heidelberg Castle, perched above the Neckar River, and the cobbled Old Town. The trip closes with a final train back to Frankfurt. Unlike some Railbookers itineraries, this one includes no guided tours, only rail, hotels and breakfast, which suits independent travellers who prefer to set their own schedule in each town.

What to know before you look closer

  • The included list covers only rail travel, hotels and breakfast; there are no guided tours, so all city exploring, the Black Forest hike and the Caracalla Spa visit are at your own arrangement and cost.
  • Hotels are chosen from a list of 15 accommodation options across Frankfurt, Baden-Baden and Heidelberg, so the specific hotel depends on what is booked.
  • The evidence does not list current departure dates for this itinerary; confirm timing with Railbookers before booking.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Frankfurt

    Your Journey Begins in Frankfurt

    Welcome to Germany! Upon arriving in Frankfurt, you'll check into your hotel for a two-night stay and have the day to relax and recover from your journey. Frankfurt's modern skyline and historic architecture make it a fascinating city to explore at your leisure.

  2. Day 2overnight: Frankfurt

    Frankfurt

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning before setting out to discover Frankfurt at your own pace. Take time to explore the scenic riverfront, stroll through charming neighborhoods, or relax at one of the city's many cozy cafés. You may wish to visit one of Frankfurt's renowned museums or browse the shops along the Zeil. In the evening, savour a traditional meal at a local Apfelwein tavern.

  3. Day 3railovernight: Baden-Baden

    Frankfurt to Baden-Baden

    After breakfast, take a scenic train journey from Frankfurt to Baden-Baden, nestled in the heart of the Black Forest. Once you settle in at your hotel, you'll have the afternoon to wander through the charming streets of Baden-Baden, famous for its luxurious spas and beautiful parks.

  4. Day 4overnight: Baden-Baden

    Baden-Baden

    Spend the day at your leisure in Baden-Baden. Consider visiting the Caracalla Spa for a relaxing soak in the healing thermal waters or exploring the magnificent Black Forest, known for its dense woodlands and picturesque hiking trails.

  5. Day 5railovernight: Heidelberg

    Baden-Baden to Heidelberg

    Board the train to Heidelberg this morning, admiring the breathtaking landscapes of the Black Forest along the way. Heidelberg is a romantic town boasting a stunning castle, the Old Bridge, and the picturesque Altstadt (Old Town), all wonderful options to explore once you settle in.

  6. Day 6overnight: Heidelberg

    Heidelberg

    Delve into the history of Heidelberg as you wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town. Don't miss the Heidelberg Castle, perched high above the city, providing panoramic views of the Neckar River and the surrounding area.

  7. Day 7railovernight: Frankfurt

    Heidelberg to Frankfurt

    Return to Frankfurt via train today for your last night in Germany. Use this opportunity to explore any remaining sites or revisit your favorite spots in the city.

  8. Day 8rail

    Your Journey Ends in Frankfurt

    Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and continue with your travels. If you'd like to extend your journey to another city, just ask your Rail Expert and we can help you make all the arrangements.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 3A scenic train journey from Frankfurt to Baden-Baden, arriving in the heart of the Black Forest.
  • Day 4A day at leisure in Baden-Baden, choosing between the Caracalla Spa's thermal waters or the Black Forest's hiking trails.
  • Day 5The train from Baden-Baden to Heidelberg runs through the sweeping landscapes of the Black Forest.
  • Day 6Heidelberg Castle sits high above the city with panoramic views over the Neckar River and the Old Town below.

Included

  • Rail travel in standard class throughout
  • 3 nights total hotel accommodation with breakfast in Frankfurt
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Baden-Baden
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Heidelberg

Questions travellers ask

Is train travel included on this trip?
Yes. Rail travel in standard class is included throughout, on Deutsche Bahn trains linking Frankfurt, Baden-Baden and Heidelberg.
Which train is used?
Deutsche Bahn, including InterCity Express (ICE) service.
Is the trip guided or independent?
It is independent. The included list covers rail, hotels and breakfast only, with no guided tours, so all sightseeing, the Black Forest, Heidelberg Castle, the Caracalla Spa, is at your own pace.
What hotels are used?
The trip draws from 15 accommodation options, including the Hilton Frankfurt City Centre and Sofitel Frankfurt Opera in Frankfurt, and Der Kleine Prinz and Belle Epoque in Baden-Baden.
How much walking or hiking is involved?
Day 4 offers an optional hike on the Black Forest's hiking trails, and Heidelberg Castle sits high above the Old Town; beyond that, sightseeing is on foot at your own pace.

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