Discover Durlach

Durlach: the ‘Mother of Karlsruhe’

If you visit Karlsruhe, you should definitely make a detour to Durlach. The district is considered the ‘mother of Karlsruhe’, because before Margrave Karl Wilhelm founded the castle and the fan city of Karlsruhe in 1715, Durlach was the residence of the Margraves of Baden-Durlach. The Karlsburg is still reminiscent of this time. With its winding streets, half-timbered houses and small squares, Durlach has retained its historical charm and is one of the most popular excursion destinations in the region.

Hotels in Durlach

Karlsburg and Pfinzgau Museum

The heart of Durlach is the Karlsburg, a baroque castle that was the long seat of the margraves. Today it is a cultural centre and home to the Museum of Pfinzgau, which offers exciting insights into the city and regional history.

Turmberg – Karlsruhe local mountain

The Turmberg is the landmark of Durlach and one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the region. From here you can enjoy a panoramic view over the Rhine plain to the Vosges and the Black Forest. Particularly romantic is a visit to the sunset.

• Turmberg railway: One of the oldest funicular lifts in Germany takes visitors comfortably up the mountain.

• footpaths: Sporty guests climb the more than 500 Turmberg stairs.

• gastronomy: On the summit there are restaurants and wine taverns serving regional cuisine.

Historic Old Town and Basel Gate

A stroll through the old town of Durlach is an experience: small boutiques, cosy cafés and historic half-timbered houses characterise the picture. The Basel Gate, a well-preserved city gate from the Middle Ages, is reminiscent of the former fortification.

Culture & Events in Durlach

Durlach is much more than a historic district – it thrives on its festivals and events:

• Durlach Old Town Festival – once a year, the streets are transformed into a big festival with music, cuisine and regional specialities.

• Christmas market Durlach – is considered one of the most atmospheric in the region, with handicrafts, mulled wine and glossy lights on Schlossplatz.

• Concerts and exhibitions – Karlsburg and Turmberg are regular venues for cultural highlights.

Pleasure & Culinary

Durlach is a paradise for connoisseurs. Baden classics are served in the traditional inns: Flammkuchen, roast with spaetzle or a glass of Baden wine. If you like it more modern, you will find international cuisine and fine restaurants. Small wine taverns and cafés also invite you to linger – perfect for a break while strolling around the city.

Leisure & Nature around Durlach

The Turmberg is not only a vantage point, but also a starting point for hikes and bike tours through the vineyards and the Black Forest. Families enjoy walks through the green areas or a sporty afternoon on the Turmberg stairs.

Hotels in Durlach

If you are looking for accommodation in Karlsruhe-Durlach, you will find a wide selection:

• Hotels in Durlach - ideal for city travelers and business people who want to stay centrally.

• Business apartments – with a kitchen and modern facilities, perfect for long-term guests.

• Apartments – cosy and flexible, especially for families and individual travellers.

Thanks to the excellent connection via the tram, the nearby Karlsruhe main station and the A5 motorway, Durlach is easily accessible. Thus, the charming old town can be combined with a stay in the entire Nordbaden region.

Experience Durlach is worthwhile

Whether a walk through the old town, a visit to the Pfinzgau Museum, the view from the Turmberg or an evening at the Old Town Festival, Durlach combines history, culture, enjoyment and joie de vivre. For city travelers, business guests and holidaymakers Durlach is an ideal starting point to discover Karlsruhe and the Nordbaden region.