Things to do in Old Town Freiburg im Breisgau

With its steeple visible from nearly all over town, it won’t take you long to be drawn to Freiburg’s Gothic cathedral. Construction of Freiburg Munster started in 1200. Building started in a Romanesque style but eventually changed to an elaborate Gothic style. The church became a cathedral in the 19th century and has remained the most important Catholic religious site in the city since. Visit the church to admire its architecture, attend a mass or simply relax in its quiet interior.

Visit this central square outside Freiburg Munster, the city’s main cathedral, to experience a bustling marketplace that takes place every day except Sunday. Muensterplatz’s market hosts up to 160 vendors selling groceries, handcrafted wares and souvenirs. At the northern end of the marketplace you’ll find a dedicated farmer’s market selling the best local produce available. Spend a morning shopping at the market before you explore Freiburg’s historic town center via the streets that lead away from the market.

Immediately next to the New Town Hall you’ll find the historic Old Town Hall, which was destroyed by bombings during World War II. While the decision was made to rebuild, the duties of the town hall relocated to the newer building and the Altes Rathaus became a tourist information center and historic attraction. Visit the Old Town Hall to discover its fascinating period architecture, learn about its history and pick up tourist information to help you navigate your way through Freiburg’s winding streets and diverse history.

The older of Freiburg’s two gates is one of the city’s most iconic structures and a great starting place for exploring the old town. Martinstor (Martin’s Gate) dates back to the very beginning of the 13th century, making it among the oldest remaining structures in the city. Surrounded by period architecture and cobbled streets, the medieval gate is a fantastic photo opportunity. Step back in time as you explore the area around Martinstor.

Don’t miss the Historical Merchants’ Hall on Freiburg’s Minster Square. Standing slightly in front of the buildings on either side, with its red eaves stretching out possessively into the street, the building seems to have the form of one of the hard-dealing merchants who once traded in the courtyard. Supplemented by its bright red color and elaborate exterior decoration, it boldly sets its claim as one of the city’s most important buildings. Spend time in front of it to understand the soul of the city.

One of the last remaining city gates of Freiburg, the Schwabentor stands on most trajectories from the city to the mountain. It is worth a closer look too. Decorated by three waves of artists who each added their own symbolism to the brickwork, the gate offers a unique window onto the self-conception of the people of the area. Stop in the adjacent square, known as the “Square of the Last Barricade of 1848,” a reminder of Freiburg’s past, and admire the sturdy masonry from a distance before approaching for a closer look.

Day or night, rain or shine, the Bertoldsbrunnen stands at the intersection of Kaiser-Joseph-Strasse and Salzstrasse, helping Freiburgers and visitors find their way amid the tangle of streets and tram lines. “Berti,” as he is affectionately called, has stood here since 1965, when he replaced the Fischbrunnen, or Fish Fountain, that was destroyed in World War II.

Named for the order of monks that once lived in this regal building, the Augustinermuseum holds one of Freiburg’s best-loved and most varied art collections. Though the outside retains the 13th-century simplicity of the original monastery, the inside has been completely renovated to display a collection of art ranging from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Wander its halls and staircases and gain a new appreciation for the art of southwestern Germany and beyond.