Bad Sackingen (German: Bad Säckingen) is a town on the Rhine immediately south of the Black Forest in the district of Waldshut. The town has just under 20,000 inhabitants, but appears much larger. Bad Sackingen lies directly on the Rhine and is a border town. On the other side of the Rhine is Switzerland. Bad Säckingen is an important health resort.
Bad Säckingen has a town centre that is well worth seeing. The dominant building is a large church, the so-called Fridolinsmünster. The minster was originally built in the Romanesque architectural style in the 14th century, but was later rebuilt in the Baroque style.
The Bad Sackingen wooden bridge, which connects Germany across the Rhine with Switzerland, is very well known. A bridge is said to have stood on the site of the present structure for almost 1000 years. The present bridge dates from the late 17th century, but was later renovated and rebuilt several times. In the past, the bridge was a very important crossing of the Rhine. Since 1979, a new wide motorway bridge has existed a few hundred metres downstream. Since then, the Bad Sackingen wooden bridge may only be used on foot or by bicycle. Thousands of people nevertheless use the wooden bridge every day, which is located directly in the centre of Bad Säckingen. On the other side is the town of Stein am Rhein in Switzerland. The Bad Säckingen wooden bridge is the longest covered wooden bridge in Europe (length over 200 metres).
Another sight in Bad Sackingen is the castle and castle park not far from the centre. The 17th century castle houses the Hochrheinmuseum. The castle park appears well maintained. In the little tea house you can have a cup of tea or coffee with a view of the Rhine and Switzerland.
Bad Säckingen sights and attractions top 10
Holzbrücke (Wooden Bridge): The Holzbrücke is a covered wooden bridge that spans the Rhine and connects Bad Säckingen with Stein am Rhein in Switzerland. It is one of the longest covered wooden bridges in Europe and a landmark of the city.
Fridolinsmünster: Dedicated to St. Fridolin, this historic church is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and impressive interior. There is also a remarkable organ in the church.
Trumpeter von Säckingen: This statue near the wooden bridge is a tribute to the famous 19th century poem “The Trumpeter von Säckingen” by Joseph Victor von Scheffel.
St. Friedolin Fountain: This fountain near the church is said to have healing properties and is a popular place for visitors to take a sip.
St. Fridolin’s Chapel: The charming chapel lies in a quiet garden and offers a peaceful place for meditation.
Local History and Fools’ Museum: In this small but interesting museum you can find out more about the history and customs of Bad Säckingen and the surrounding area.
Schönau Castle: The elegant castle is located not far from the city center and invites you to take a stroll through the park.
Krummholz Bridge: Another picturesque bridge in Bad Säckingen, the Krummholz Bridge crosses a canal and is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings.
Historic old town: Stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets of the charming old town of Bad Säckingen with its half-timbered houses and quaint shops.
Waterfront promenade: A leisurely walk or bike ride along the Rhine promenade offers beautiful views of the river and the Swiss Alps in the distance.