Posted by Bad Säckingen is a historic spa town on the southern edge of the Black Forest, directly on the Rhine River and the border with Switzerland. The town is best known for its picturesque old town, the famous wooden bridge (the longest covered wooden bridge in Europe), and its long tradition as a spa and health resort.
Compared to mountain villages like Todtmoos or Bernau, Bad Säckingen feels more urban and elegant, while still offering easy access to nature. This extended English travel guide covers sights, history, activities, accommodation, day trips, and practical travel tips in detail.
Tours & experiences around Bad Säckingen (GetYourGuide)
Looking for guided city tours, Rhine experiences, or day trips in the Black Forest and Upper Rhine region?
Where is Bad Säckingen?
Bad Säckingen lies in Baden-Württemberg, in southwest Germany, directly on the Rhine River. The river here forms the natural border between Germany and Switzerland. On the opposite bank lies the Swiss town of Stein (canton Aargau).
- Approx. 35 km from Basel
- Approx. 60 km from Freiburg
- Directly on the Rhine cycle route
The location gives Bad Säckingen a special character: it combines Black Forest foothills, Rhine landscapes, and cross-border Swiss influences.
Why visit Bad Säckingen?
Bad Säckingen is ideal for travelers who enjoy historic towns, riverside walks, and relaxed cultural sightseeing. It works well for short city breaks, spa stays, and as a base for exploring both the Black Forest and northern Switzerland.
- Beautiful old town with baroque and medieval elements
- Famous wooden bridge over the Rhine
- Spa town tradition and wellness facilities
- Excellent cycling and walking routes along the river
The Wooden Bridge (Holzbrücke)
The wooden bridge of Bad Säckingen is the town’s most famous landmark. Built in the 13th century and rebuilt several times, it stretches over 200 meters across the Rhine and is considered the longest covered wooden bridge in Europe.
Walking across the bridge is one of the highlights of any visit. From inside, small windows offer views of the river, the old town, and the Swiss side.
- Pedestrian-only bridge
- Free access
- Connects Germany and Switzerland
Tip: Visit early in the morning or in the evening for the best atmosphere and fewer people.
Old Town of Bad Säckingen
The old town is compact, elegant, and easy to explore on foot. Colorful houses, narrow streets, and small squares create a calm, almost Mediterranean feel on sunny days.
Münster St. Fridolin
The Münster St. Fridolin dominates the old town skyline. This baroque cathedral is dedicated to Saint Fridolin, the town’s patron saint.
- Baroque interior
- Important regional religious site
- Located directly next to the Rhine
Fridolinsmünster Square
The square around the cathedral is one of the most pleasant places in Bad Säckingen. Cafés and benches invite visitors to take a break and enjoy views of the river.
Bad Säckingen as a spa town
The “Bad” in the town’s name reflects its long tradition as a spa and health resort. Since the 19th century, Bad Säckingen has attracted visitors seeking relaxation, clean air, and therapeutic treatments.
Today, the spa tradition continues with:
- Wellness hotels
- Thermal and health facilities
- Kurpark (spa park) walks
Walking & cycling along the Rhine
Bad Säckingen is perfectly located for riverside walks and cycling tours. The Rhine promenade and nearby paths are flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
Popular activities include:
- Short evening walks along the river
- Cycling sections of the Rhine Cycle Route
- Crossing into Switzerland for circular routes
Related Black Forest & region guides (internal links)
Day trips from Bad Säckingen
St. Blasien
The cathedral of St. Blasien with its huge dome is one of the most impressive sights in the southern Black Forest.
Basel (Switzerland)
Basel is an easy day trip by train or car. The city offers museums, old town streets, and Rhine river walks.
Southern Black Forest villages
Villages like Bernau, Todtmoos, and Todtnau are within easy reach and ideal for hiking and nature days.
Events & culture
Bad Säckingen hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, seasonal markets, and spa-related festivals. The town is also closely associated with the novel “Der Trompeter von Säckingen”, which helped shape its romantic image.
Where to stay in Bad Säckingen
Accommodation in Bad Säckingen ranges from classic spa hotels to guesthouses and modern apartments. Staying near the old town or the Rhine is especially convenient.
Hotels in Bad Säckingen (Booking.com)
Compare hotels, guesthouses, and apartments in Bad Säckingen.
Food & local cuisine
The cuisine in Bad Säckingen reflects both Baden traditions and Swiss influences. Restaurants range from traditional taverns to modern cafés.
- Swabian and Baden dishes
- Fish from the Rhine region
- Cakes and pastries in cafés
- Cross-border Swiss specialties nearby
More: Eating in the Black Forest
Getting to Bad Säckingen
Bad Säckingen is easy to reach by train via Basel and Waldshut. The town is also well connected by road. Public transport works well for town sightseeing, while a car is useful for exploring the Black Forest.
More tips: Getting around Germany
Best time to visit
- April–October: best for sightseeing, cycling, and walking
- Summer: warm weather and lively riverside atmosphere
- Winter: quiet spa-town mood and Christmas markets
Climate & safety
Bad Säckingen has a relatively mild climate compared to higher Black Forest regions. The town is very safe and well suited for relaxed travel.
Conclusion
Bad Säckingen combines history, river landscapes, and spa-town elegance in a compact and relaxed setting. With its famous wooden bridge, charming old town, and excellent location on the Rhine, it is one of the most attractive small towns in the southern Black Forest and a strong addition to any regional itinerary.