Baden-Württemberg is the third largest of Germany’s federal states, both in terms of area and population which counts 10,835 million inhabitants. It borders Switzerland and France. The state capital is Stuttgart.

In the south western part of Germany, where Baden-Württemberg is located, are plenty of places worth visiting that already attract tourists from all over the world. Whether it’s Heidelberg, the Black Forest or Lake Constance, a voyage through this state means a lot of work – there is much to be discovered! Baden-Württemberg has 60 medicinal spas and health resorts, among them the famous Baden-Baden.

Visit the medieval city of Heidelberg with its castle and old university, discover at Lake Constance how people lived during the Stone Age in buildings built on stilts, climb next to Germany’s highest waterfalls or just be astonished by the sight of the first world wide biggest cuckoo clock. Whether at sea side, in the mountains, in the countryside or in cities worth seeing, visit the south of Germany and get to know its hospitality and cultural life.

The southern epicure's country

Black forest gateau, pretzels, dumplings and pasta squares, all these Swabian specialities are not only known in the region they originate in, but are also favoured throughout the country. For gourmets, numerous top restaurants offer an excellent kitchen with special culinary features. Regardless where you are, whether in the Black Forest, at the lakeside of Lake Constance or in the Neckar Valley, you can savour tasty dishes and friendly service in an elegant ambience whilst enjoying marvellous scenery.
A good wine, for example a Trollinger or Kerner, a beer or schnapps from one of the old private distilleries and fresh spring water might complete your menu.

Land of inventors

Do you like driving a car or taking the bus? You can travel fast and comfortably by car, even  until the end of the world. Did you know that the car was invented in Baden-Württemberg?  Its inhabitant Carl Benz, who lived in Karlsruhe invented in 1886 the Benz patent engine carriage number 1, which actually is our modern car. Cars have radically changed our life. Today there exist worldwide more than one milliard vehicles. Mercedes and also the famous Porsche racers come from Baden-Württemberg.

Magnet for international tourists

Baden-Württemberg, the so-called "Ländle" in which Alemanns, Swabians and natives of Baden, but also many newcomers are resident, is a destination of touristic importance. With more than 40 million overnight stays per year tourism makes about 5 percent of the GDP. 200,000 jobs dependent on tourism and for young people it offers 8,000 traineeships per year.

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