We’re always looking for new ways to make the most of our Deutschland Ticket, and one foggy Saturday in November we finally used it to visit Herrenberg—a small Swabian town I’d seen mentioned now and then but never explored. I’m so glad we decided to visit; the town was even more charming than I expected.

Herrenberg, nestled at the western edge of the Schönbuch Forest in the charming Gäu region of Baden-Württemberg, was founded in the early 13th century by the Counts Palatine of Tübingen and was first mentioned in 1228, when Count Rudolf II stayed at the local castle (castrum nostrum Herrenberc). With its mix of medieval lanes, fountains, and steep stairways (Staffeln), Herrenberg has earned a place on the German Half-Timbered House Road (Deutsche Fachwerkstraße), a scenic route linking some of Germany’s most beautiful half-timbered towns.

After arriving in Herrenberg, we first stopped for lunch at Taschi’s Burger & Bowl, a cozy spot near the train station with creative burgers and fresh bowls—and honestly, some of the best burgers we’ve had in Germany—before making our way toward the Altstadt (old town).

The streets soon narrowed and began to climb, leading us first to the Marktplatz (market square), where the Saturday market was in full swing. Stalls overflowed with flowers, local produce, and bundles of holiday greenery while church bells rang above. The Marktplatz has served as a market square since at least 1276, and despite devastating fires in 1466 and 1635, the rebuilt Altstadt surrounding it remains one of the best-preserved half-timbered towns in Baden-Württemberg.

From the Marktplatz, the Stiftskirche Herrenberg (Collegiate Church) rose above us, perched on the slope of the Schlossberg (Castle Hill) and overlooking the valley below. Built in the late 13th century, it has stood here for more than 700 years, though its hillside location has proven challenging. The gypsum rock beneath the foundation has shifted over time, causing the structure to move slightly down the slope. Centuries of restoration and stabilization have kept the church secure on its hillside foundation, preserving its distinctive Gothic design. Today, the Stiftskirche remains one of Herrenberg’s most striking landmarks—a remarkable blend of medieval architecture and careful preservation.

The church holds the oldest rose window in Swabia and is home to the Glockenmuseum Herrenberg (Bell Museum), where over 30 bells from across Europe ring out during special concerts. The museum is currently closed, but the Stiftskirche remains a historic centerpiece of the town. Locals affectionately call it “die Glucke vom Gäu”—“the hen of the Gäu”—because it seems to watch protectively over the town below.

Higher up the hill, remnants of Herrenberg Castle still mark the landscape. The old stone walls, thick with moss and ivy, line the paths that lead to the Pulverturm (Powder Tower), which once stored gunpowder for the town’s defenses. Beyond it, the trail continues toward the Kanonenbuckel, the summit of the hill where the castle once stood. Today, the lookout offers a peaceful place to pause above the town. The fog kept us from seeing the view, but on a clear day you can look out across the Gäu region and toward the Schönbuch Forest and Swabian Alps in the distance.

Final Thoughts

We came to Herrenberg with no set plan and left wondering why we hadn’t visited sooner. Between its historic Altstadt, welcoming Marktplatz, and quiet paths leading up the Schlossberg, it’s easy to see why the town is considered one of the gems of the German Half-Timbered House Road. Whether you spend a few hours or a full day, Herrenberg is definitely worth visiting.

Location & Getting There

Just 30 km (19 miles) southwest of Stuttgart, Herrenberg makes an easy day trip by car or train. The S1 line and Regional-Express (RE) trains reach the town in about 25 minutes, while driving takes roughly 35 minutes. The journey is fully covered by the Deutschland-Ticket—Germany’s monthly public transport pass that includes regional trains and local transit—making travel simple and affordable. For up-to-date schedules and connections, check the DB Navigator app or the VVS app.

From the train station, it’s only about a 10-minute walk to the old town (Altstadt) and another short climb to the Stiftskirche. The town is compact and walkable, with plenty of cafés, shops, and quiet lanes to explore.

More to See and Do

If you have extra time in Herrenberg, there’s plenty to explore beyond the Stiftskirche. From scenic viewpoints and walking paths to local art and lively markets, the town offers a mix of history, culture, and charm.

• Schönbuchturm (Schönbuch Tower) – A short drive or hike from the old town, the Schönbuchturm offers panoramic views over the Gäu region, the Black Forest, and even the Swabian Alps on clear days. The tower stands on the edge of the Schönbuch Nature Park, a great area for hiking and cycling.
• Fachwerkpfad (Half-Timbered Path) – This self-guided walking trail through the old town features 25 stops explaining the unique styles and construction methods of Herrenberg’s half-timbered buildings—perfect if you love photographing architectural details.
• Jerg Ratgeb Sculpture Path – A public art trail inspired by painter and reformer Jerg Ratgeb, whose 16th-century altarpiece once stood in the Stiftskirche. The route begins at the train station and winds up toward the Schlossberg, featuring sculptures by both local and international artists along the way.
• Local Events & Markets – The Marktplatz hosts cultural events throughout the year—including the Sommerfarben Festival in July, when the square becomes a stage for music, art and comedy, and the Christmas Market in winter. You’ll also find weekly markets on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, filled with flowers, local produce, and friendly faces.
• Nearby Excursions – Tübingen, with its colorful half-timbered houses and riverside charm, is just about a 30 minute drive or train ride away. Bebenhausen Monastery, tucked within the Schönbuch Nature Park, offers peaceful cloisters and centuries of history and is roughly a 30-minute drive from town.

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Have you ever discovered a town that completely surprised you? I’d love to hear your thoughts or questions about Herrenberg in the comments below.