Located near the junction of the Brigach and Breg rivers, Donaueschingen lies within the Black Forest in the German state of Baden-Württemberg. It was first recorded as “Esginga” in the 9th century and was later granted to Heinrich von Fürstenberg, whose family has played a prominent role in the town’s history ever since.
Things to do in Donaueschingen
One of the town’s most magnificent buildings is Schloss Donaueschingen, a French Historicist-style castle that was built around 1723 for the Fürstenberg family. Join a guided tour to explore its period-furnished rooms, which reflect Renaissance, Rococo and Empire styles. Marvel at the beautiful entrance hall and the 15th-century Florentine fireplace or combine your visit with a performance as part of the Donaueschingen Music Days.
Adjacent to Schloss Donaueschingen is the Donauquelle, a natural spring that was once thought to be the source of the Danube River. It is marked by an elegant fountain and a map illustrating the countries through which the Danube flows. East of Donaueschingen is the actual start of the Danube, where the Brigach and Breg rivers meet before flowing 2,811 kilometres to the Black Sea.
Art enthusiasts can visit the Museum Art.Plus, which occupies a Neoclassical building established in 1841 as the Donaueschingen Museum Society. It hosts changing displays of contemporary artists (both group and solo exhibitions), as well as musical concerts, readings and cultural events. Museum Art.Plus lies on the edge of a picturesque park with leafy walking trails and duck-filled ponds.
Getting around Donaueschingen
Donaueschingen is around an hour’s drive from Freiburg im Breisgau and 1.5 hours from Stuttgart Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect to the Donaueschingen railway station and the town is small enough to explore on foot.