Baden-Baden – World-famous spa town with flair and history

Baden-Baden, located on the western edge of the northern Black Forest, is considered one of the most elegant and traditional spa and cultural towns in Europe. The city combines Roman heritage, neoclassical architecture, modern wellness luxury and a rich cultural life – embedded in a picturesque landscape.


History of Baden-Baden – From the Romans to World Heritage

Already the Romans used the hot thermal springs in Baden-Baden. Around the year 69 AD they founded the settlement Aquae Aureliae and built spacious thermal baths, the remains of which can still be seen today in Roman Bath Ruins Museum can be seen.

In the 19th century, Baden-Baden experienced its heyday: The city became a meeting place for the European aristocracy and high society. Famous guests such as Emperor Wilhelm I., Queen Victoria, Dostoyevsky, Bismarck and many more made the city the “Summer capital of Europe“. Luxurious hotels, the magnificent Kurhaus, the Casino and extensive parks were created during this time.

Since 2021 Baden-Baden is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Great Spa Towns of Europe” – an association of historically important spa towns on the continent.


Sights in Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden offers a mixture of history, nature, wellness and culture at the highest level:

  • Kurhaus & Casino Baden-Baden: One of the most magnificent casinos in Europe in a neoclassical building – once described by Marlene Dietrich as “the most beautiful casino in the world”.
  • Lichtentaler Allee: A 3 km long historic promenade with magnificent villas, plane trees, art installations and direct access to museums and galleries.
  • Caracalla Therme & Friedrichsbad: Modern thermal bath vs. Roman-Irish bathing experience – both fed by the natural hot springs.
  • Frieder Burda Museum: Art museum with modern architecture in the park, internationally known for works by Gerhard Richter, Picasso and Neo Rauch, among others.
  • Ruins of the old Hohenbaden castle complex (Old Castle): Fantastic view over the Rhine plain and a fascinating example of medieval castle architecture.
  • Baden-Baden Festival Hall: Germany's largest opera and concert hall with top-class productions and international reputation.


Baden-Baden today – wellness, culture and lifestyle

With approx. 55,000 inhabitants Baden-Baden is a comparatively small city – but one with a global reputation. It attracts visitors from all over the world seeking relaxation, wellness, culture, or exclusive shopping opportunities.

The city also hosts major events such as:

  • International classic car meeting
  • SWR3 New Pop Festival
  • Baden-Baden Summer Nights
  • International horse racing at the Iffezheim racecourse


Baden-Baden is a place that is uniquely Tradition and modernity, Wellness and world culture, Natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair united.