Welcome to Empfingen: A Hidden Gem in the Black Forest Region
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Empfingen
Morning:
Breakfast: Start your day at Café Konditorei Schmid, a cozy bakery offering fresh bread, pastries, and coffee. Average cost: €5–€8 per person.
Sightseeing: Visit the St. Martin's Church (Evangelische Stadtkirche), a beautiful Protestant church built in the 15th century. The church features stunning Gothic architecture and peaceful surroundings. Admission is free.
Afternoon:
Lunch: Head to Gasthaus zum Hirsch, a traditional German restaurant serving hearty meals like schnitzel and potato salad. Average cost: €10–€15 per meal.
Activity: Take a leisurely walk through the Empfingen Historical Trail, where you can explore remnants of the old town walls, historic fountains, and charming half-timbered houses. This self-guided tour is free.
Evening:
Dinner: Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at Restaurant Athen, which serves delicious Greek dishes such as gyros and moussaka. Average cost: €8–€12 per meal.
Accommodation: Stay overnight at Youth Hostel Empfingen. Dormitory beds start at €20 per night, while private rooms are available for around €40 per night.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
Morning:
Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at Bäckerei Weiss, a local bakery offering affordable sandwiches and rolls. Average cost: €3–€6 per person.
Activity: Embark on a hike along the Heuberg Panorama Trail, a scenic route that offers breathtaking views of the Swabian Alps. The trailhead is just a short drive or bus ride from Empfingen. Public transportation costs approximately €3 one way.
Afternoon:
Lunch: Pack a picnic using supplies purchased from REWE Supermarket. Average cost: €5–€10 total.
Optional Activity: Visit the Bärenhöhle Sonnenbühl, a fascinating bear cave located near Empfingen. Entrance fee: €8 per adult.
Evening:
Dinner: Return to Empfingen and dine at Pizzeria Da Toni, known for its wood-fired pizzas. Average cost: €9–€14 per meal.
Accommodation: Continue staying at Youth Hostel Empfingen.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Farewell
Morning:
Breakfast: Have breakfast at the hostel or visit Backhaus am Markt, another excellent bakery option. Average cost: €4–€7 per person.
Sightseeing: Explore the Empfingen Museum, which showcases the town’s history, including artifacts from the displaced persons camp era. Admission: €3 per adult.
Afternoon:
Lunch: Try Gasthof zur Post, a family-run inn offering regional specialties like Maultaschen (Swabian dumplings). Average cost: €10–€15 per meal.
Activity: Spend your final afternoon relaxing by the Fils River, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll or simply sit and take in the natural beauty.
Evening:
Dinner: End your trip with a meal at Restaurant Schwanen, a classic German eatery offering schnitzel and other comfort foods. Average cost: €12–€18 per meal.
Additional Expenses That Could Enhance Your Trip
- Car Rental: Renting a car would allow you to explore nearby attractions more easily, such as the city of Tübingen or Lake Constance. Estimated daily rental cost: €30–€50.
- Guided Tours: Consider booking a guided walking tour of Empfingen for €10–€15 per person to gain deeper insights into the town’s history.
- Bear Cave Entry: Visiting Bärenhöhle Sonnenbühl will cost €8 per adult but provides a memorable experience.