Posted by The Baden-Baden Drinking Hall (German: Trinkhalle) is one of the most elegant and historically important landmarks in Baden-Baden. Located directly next to the Kurhaus and the Kurpark, the Trinkhalle reflects the city’s long tradition as a European spa destination. While many visitors walk past it on the way to the thermal baths or the casino, the drinking hall itself is a key sight that explains why Baden-Baden became famous in the first place.
This detailed English travel guide explains what the Baden-Baden drinking hall is, why it was built, what you can see today, and how to include it easily in your sightseeing route.
Tours & experiences in Baden-Baden & the Black Forest
Guided walks, cultural tours, and spa-related experiences in Baden-Baden and the Black Forest:
What is the Baden-Baden Drinking Hall?
The Trinkhalle is a long, open colonnade built in the 19th century to allow spa guests to drink Baden-Baden’s mineral-rich thermal water in a calm, protected environment. At the time, “taking the waters” was a central part of spa culture, and drinking halls like this were essential elements of health resorts across Europe.
Unlike modern spa facilities, the drinking hall was not about luxury treatments. It was about routine, calm, and social interaction. Guests would stroll slowly through the colonnade, drink prescribed amounts of mineral water, and converse quietly.
Where is the Trinkhalle located?
The Baden-Baden drinking hall is located in the Kurhaus quarter, directly next to:
- The Kurhaus
- The Kurpark
- The Casino Baden-Baden
- The start of the Lichtentaler Allee
This central position makes it almost impossible to miss. If you are walking between the Kurhaus, the casino, and the main spa area, you will naturally pass the Trinkhalle.
Why the drinking hall is important for Baden-Baden
Baden-Baden’s identity as a spa town is older than its casinos, luxury hotels, or cultural festivals. The thermal springs were known in Roman times, but the city’s golden age as a European spa destination came in the 19th century.
The Trinkhalle represents this era perfectly:
- Health-focused tourism
- Aristocratic and upper-class visitors
- Structured daily routines centered around wellness
- Architecture designed for calm and elegance
Even today, the drinking hall reminds visitors that Baden-Baden was once primarily a place for health cures, not entertainment.
Architecture of the Baden-Baden Trinkhalle
Length and structure
The Trinkhalle is approximately 90 meters long and consists of a covered colonnade supported by Corinthian-style columns. The roof protects visitors from sun and rain, allowing slow walks in all weather conditions.
The open sides ensure fresh air and views of the surrounding greenery, especially toward the Kurpark.
Frescoes and murals
One of the most distinctive features of the Baden-Baden drinking hall is the series of frescoes painted along the back wall. These murals depict:
- Legends from the Black Forest
- Historical scenes from the Baden region
- Mythical and folkloric themes
The frescoes were not just decoration. They were meant to entertain and educate spa guests during their daily walks.
Classicist design
The architectural style is restrained and elegant, reflecting the classicist taste of the 19th century. There is no excessive ornamentation, which fits the health-oriented purpose of the building.
Drinking thermal water – past and present
How drinking cures worked historically
In the 19th century, spa doctors prescribed specific drinking routines. Guests were instructed:
- How much water to drink
- At what time of day
- How fast or slow to walk while drinking
The water was believed to help with digestion, circulation, and general vitality.
Is the Trinkhalle still used for drinking water?
Today, the Trinkhalle is no longer used in the same medical way as in the past. The focus has shifted toward modern spa facilities such as:
- Caracalla Spa
- Friedrichsbad
However, the Trinkhalle remains a symbolic and cultural element of Baden-Baden’s spa tradition.
The Trinkhalle and the Kurpark
The drinking hall forms a natural transition between the urban Kurhaus area and the green spaces of the Kurpark. Many visitors experience the Trinkhalle simply as part of a relaxed walk.
The Kurpark itself offers:
- Flower beds and seasonal plantings
- Benches and quiet corners
- Views of the Oos River
Combining the Trinkhalle with a Kurpark stroll is one of the most typical Baden-Baden experiences.
Connection to the Kurhaus and Casino
The Trinkhalle stands directly next to the Kurhaus, which houses the famous casino and event halls. This physical closeness reflects the dual identity of Baden-Baden:
- Health and wellness (Trinkhalle, spas)
- Social life and entertainment (Kurhaus, casino)
In the 19th century, spa guests would often combine morning drinking cures with evening social events at the Kurhaus.
Internal link: Casino Baden-Baden
What to expect as a visitor today
Atmosphere
The Trinkhalle is calm, open, and rarely crowded. Even during peak tourist seasons, it feels quieter than nearby attractions.
Time needed
You do not need much time to visit:
- 10–15 minutes for a quick look
- 20–30 minutes if you read the frescoes and enjoy the surroundings
Accessibility
The ground is flat and accessible. The colonnade is suitable for:
- Visitors with limited mobility
- Wheelchairs
- Strollers
Best time to visit the Baden-Baden drinking hall
The Trinkhalle can be visited year-round, but certain times offer a better experience:
- Spring: flowers in the Kurpark
- Summer: pleasant shade on hot days
- Autumn: calm atmosphere and soft light
- Winter: quiet walks, often combined with Christmas market visits
Photography tips
The long perspective of the colonnade makes the Trinkhalle a good photography subject.
- Use symmetry for architectural shots
- Morning or late afternoon light works best
- Include the Kurpark greenery for contrast
How to include the Trinkhalle in a Baden-Baden sightseeing route
Simple walking route (1.5–2 hours)
- Kurhaus & Casino
- Trinkhalle
- Kurpark walk
- Lichtentaler Allee
Extended cultural route (half day)
- Trinkhalle & Kurpark
- Casino or museum visit
- Lunch in the old town
- Thermal bath visit in the afternoon
Nearby sights worth combining
Historical significance beyond tourism
The Baden-Baden Trinkhalle is also a historical document of European health culture. Similar drinking halls existed in many spa towns, but few are preserved in such good condition and such a prominent location.
Its survival reflects Baden-Baden’s commitment to preserving its spa heritage even as tourism trends change.
Common misconceptions
“You have to drink water here”
No. Today, visiting the Trinkhalle is purely about architecture and history.
“It’s just a corridor”
While simple at first glance, the building represents a complete spa philosophy.
“It’s only interesting for spa guests”
Even non-spa visitors benefit from understanding this part of Baden-Baden’s identity.
Conclusion
The Baden-Baden Drinking Hall (Trinkhalle) is not a spectacular attraction in the modern sense, but it is one of the most meaningful sights in the city. It explains the origins of Baden-Baden as a spa town, offers elegant architecture, and provides a calm space in the heart of the city.
If you want to understand Baden-Baden beyond casinos and thermal baths, the Trinkhalle is an essential stop.