Pocket Guide: Visiting Breisach, Germany

Located on the Rhine River sits the small town of Breisach, well-known as the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Despite 85% of the town being flattened during World War II, it has been successfully restored. Today it’s a quaint town with cobblestone streets lined with pastel-painted houses, shops, and cafes, plus a cathedral and medieval prison tower. 

Explore Breisach’s cobbled streets stopping in at shops, and sampling traditional fare at cafes and restaurants. Visit the “Hagenbachturm” (Hagenbach Tower), the medieval prison tower, and the town’s iconic landmark, St. Stephansmünster (St. Stephen’s), a beautiful Romanesque-Gothic cathedral. 

Take a scenic drive through the area’s mountain landscape to the Black Forest. Visit a local workshop to witness a cuckoo clock-making or glass-blowing demonstration, see how Black Forest Cake is made or take a forest stroll. 

Given its proximity, make time to visit the Alsatian town of Colmar. Discover the storybook charm of its streets lined with medieval, Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Pay a visit to the fine arts museum and shop for regional wines.  

Viking visits Breisach on its 8-day Rhine Getaway and 8-day Christmas on the Rhine river journeys.

Viking is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and during this time has accumulated more than 250 awards including, most recently, the #1 Ocean Line and #1 River Line in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 “World’s Best” Awards.