U.S. travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative test to visit Germany, making now an excellent time to explore the southwest state of Baden-Württemberg, where 85 top gastronomic venues await.
Baden-Württemberg’s reputation as a food-lover’s destination is supported by its many Michelin-starred restaurants and Bib Gourmand recognitions. Beyond fine dining, the region is celebrated for its beer, schnapps and wines produced across diverse landscapes from lake shores to sun-drenched vineyards.
Baiersbronn Essen © Ulrike Klumpp
Around Lake Constance, sample local wines such as Müller-Thurgau and Blauburgunder (Pinot Noir) grown on the lake’s slopes. Olgaberg on Hohentwiel mountain is noted as Germany’s highest vineyard. Nearby breweries produce crisp European pale ales and traditional wheat beers. On the UNESCO-listed island of Reichenau, monastery gardens yield cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuce—ideal for enjoying a fresh summer salad in a scenic setting.
Deep in the Black Forest, the small town of Baiersbronn and the surrounding national park region boast an exceptional concentration of culinary talent with 11 Michelin-starred restaurants. Highlights include The Schwarzwaldstube at Hotel Traube Tonbach (3 Michelin stars), Restaurant Bareiss at Hotel Bareiss (3 Michelin stars), the newly starred 1789 at Traube Tonbach (1 star), Schlossberg at Hotel Sackmann (1 star), Le Pavillon at Hotel Dollenberg in Bad Peterstal-Griesbach (2 stars), and Werner’s Restaurant at Hotel Schloss Eberstein in Gernsbach (1 star). Alongside these haute cuisine addresses, the region is home to numerous Bib Gourmand establishments that showcase excellent local dishes in more intimate settings.
© Weinberge Stuttgart TMBW
More than 130 local producers supply fresh regional products, from smoked wild salami and seasonal vegetables to apple juice from orchard presses and artisanal goat cheese. Spend your days exploring the natural beauty of the park and your evenings savoring carefully prepared meals that reflect local traditions and ingredients.
For active food and drink experiences, cycle the Baden Wine Cycle Path through vine-covered hills or discover fruit brandies from “schnapps fountains” along the Schnapps Distillery Trails in Sasbachwalden. Beer lovers can follow the Beer Hiking Trail in Ehingen and taste award-winning brews at five local breweries. Whether you seek refined tasting menus, hearty regional fare, or scenic vineyard routes, Baden-Württemberg offers a rich culinary landscape well worth a visit.