Freiburg, with its vibrant and open atmosphere, has become a magnet for students, young professionals, and creative minds alike. The allure lies in its exceptional university and diverse cultural scene, where student clubs, cafés, and bars foster a lively intercultural exchange near the bustling campus, making Freiburg a haven of creativity and culture.
The University of Freiburg stands as a hub of intellectual excellence, with an enrolment of approximately 25,000 students and a staggering 250 courses on offer – over 20 of which are taught in English. A proud home to 23 Nobel Prize winners, this illustrious institution, founded in 1457, consistently garners accolades for its outstanding research and teaching. Its global reputation is further solidified by its ranking among the top 100 universities worldwide.
The younger generation in Freiburg has found solace and inspiration in the proliferation of co-working spaces that dot the local business landscape. These havens of productivity are not only economically advantageous for freelancers, start-ups, and small businesses, but they also foster a sense of community and collaboration. With eight flexible workspaces available, housed in both historic and modern settings, sustainability, community, and innovation are at the core of their ethos.
The cultural scene in Freiburg is an eclectic tapestry that is truly hard to encapsulate. Numerous art and culture festivals punctuate the year, but the crown jewel of summer experiences is undoubtedly the ‘Zelt-Musik-Festival‘. Between July 12 and 30, 2023, this tent and music extravaganza promises a blend of classical, jazz, rock, and pop performances across a range of enchanting venues. Situated seven kilometres from the city centre, it serves as a testament to Freiburg’s dedication to fostering young talent.
E-WERK, an industrial building originally constructed in 1900, has evolved into a beacon of interculturality and fine art. It not only hosts over 400 dance, theatre, music, and fine art events annually, but it also serves as a workspace for 30 artists, the Freiburg acting college, the ‘bewegungs-art’ school of contemporary dance, and the ‘Die Schönen’ musical theatre.
Freiburg’s public spaces are adorned with captivating works of art that are a testament to its vibrant soul. From Henry Moore’s ‘Reclining Figure’ to Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen’s giant ‘Garden Hose’.
Beer Culture in Freiburg
Freiburg’s beer culture is deeply ingrained in its identity, just like its reputation as a renowned wine region with over 200 wine varieties. Alongside traditional breweries like Ganter, Feierling, and Martinsbräu, a vibrant craft beer scene has emerged in recent years. Since 2014, a brewery collective in the Black Forest has been producing their independent family brewery’s “top-fermented hops bombs.” These include stouts, brown ales, and IPAs with catchy names such as ‘Bob,’ ‘Bruce,’ and ‘Dolly.’ These beers can be savored in numerous Freiburg establishments and are available for purchase from various outlets.
Beer enthusiasts visiting Freiburg can also partake in the annual Craftival, a beer festival taking place on July 22 and 23, 2023. Held at the ‘Decker Bier Garage,’ this event showcases the craft and regional beers of microbreweries and beer companies. Alongside the delightful beer selection, visitors can enjoy food trucks and DJs, creating a lively festival atmosphere.
Freiburg’s bar scene is diverse and worth exploring. From relaxed and student-friendly establishments to elegant and chic venues, the city offers something for every taste. One of the most stylish bars is located in a historic vaulted cellar, known as the ‘Hemingway Bar,’ which offers an extensive selection of drinks and spirits. ‘Juri’s Cocktail and Wine Bar,’ near the Swabian Gate, prides itself on being the living room of Freiburg’s old town, providing a relaxing ambiance with fine wines, creative cocktails, and tasting events. For those seeking refined bar and cocktail culture, the ‘One Trick Pony’ basement bar offers its own unique cocktail creations, as well as cocktail courses and tastings.
With its population of approximately 230,000, Freiburg offers a relaxed city life that strikes a natural balance for ambitious individuals. The city provides a wide range of experiences, including outdoor activities, a rich cultural heritage, and a plethora of popular pubs and restaurants. Freiburg embraces the values of freedom and individuality, whether it’s enjoying the scenic Schlossberg, exploring the vibrant weekly market, or taking a leisurely stroll through the city’s charming streets.
How to get to Freiburg
Freiburg is the capital of the Black Forest in the south of Germany. Freiburg is 7.5 hours from London via Paris on the Eurostar.
