Summer in Baden-Baden: Art, Culinary Experiences and the Spirit of New Pop
Summer in Baden-Baden is a feeling all its own: vibrant, inspiring and wonderfully unhurried. Whether you simply let yourself drift through the city’s lively atmosphere or retreat into the cool tranquillity of the Black Forest – every day offers a new way to enjoy the season ans all is in close vicinity to THE FLORIS.
Between historic avenues, contemporary art, charming cafés and lush natural surroundings, Baden-Baden reveals its unique rhythm. Visitors can experience open-air culture, inspiring exhibitions and countless opportunities to end the day with a touch of indulgence.
With the SWR3 New Pop Festival, summer reaches its spectacular finale, as the entire city comes alive with music and celebration.
Art Takes Over Baden-Baden: A Summer Gallery in the Open Air
The Kurgarten once again becomes a stage for contemporary art this summer. As part of “kunst findet stadt”, internationally acclaimed artist Tobias Rehberger presents his exhibition “Ui.Ja” from 18 July to 6 September 2026 – right in the heart of Baden-Baden and free of charge.
The open-air exhibition route leads from the Kurhaus along the Colonnades to the Trinkhalle, inviting visitors to discover art at a leisurely pace while strolling through the city. Those who would like to learn more can join one of the public curator-led tours. This way, art becomes a natural part of the Baden-Baden summer experience.
Did you know that the Kurgarten is only a few steps away from THE FLORIS?
Baden-Baden’s Summer of Art: Inspiring Exhibitions and New Perspectives
At the Museum Frieder Burda, visitors can still experience “Competing with Reality – 60 Years of Photorealism” until early August. From mid-August onwards, the museum presents “The Unfolding of Colour. Simon Hantaï”, exploring the French-Hungarian artist’s experimental approach to colour, form and artistic expression.
The Staatliche Kunsthalle Baden-Baden invites visitors to discover contemporary art from new perspectives. The current special exhibition, “Bloom Up! The Language of Flowers”, explores the symbolism, beauty and meaning of flowers through artistic interpretations.
At Museum LA8, the exhibition “Vanitas. The Beauty of Transience” explores a theme that has fascinated artists for centuries: the passing of time, transformation and the question of what remains. Contemporary works show how relevant these ideas continue to be today. The exhibition is on view until 20 September 2026.
The Stadtmuseum Baden-Baden takes visitors on a journey through the city’s history with “2,000 Years in 50 Objects”. Selected exhibits tell the story of Baden-Baden’s Roman origins, its rise as a world-famous spa destination and the people who shaped its identity.
One of the special charms of Baden-Baden is that many of its art venues are located within walking distance of each other. A museum visit can easily be combined with a stroll through the Lichtentaler Allee or a relaxing summer break surrounded by nature.
Open Air Cinema Among Roses
Moon Cinema in the Rose Garden: Films Under the Stars.
Watching a movie beneath the stars, surrounded by roses and the gentle atmosphere of a summer evening – this is the unique experience of the Moon Cinema in Baden-Baden’s Rose Garden.
Throughout August, the open-air cinema by MOVIAC presents 16 carefully selected films in one of the city’s most beautiful settings. The season traditionally opens on 6 August at 9 pm with “The Rose Garden of Madame Vernet” – a perfect start to a magical summer of cinema.
A blanket on the lawn, a warm evening breeze or a chair and a great film under the open sky: the Moon Cinema is one of those special Baden-Baden moments that stays with you.
Great Festival Week: Tradition, Elegance and the Thrill of Horse Racing
The Great Festival Week in Baden-Baden-Iffezheim is one of the most prestigious events in German thoroughbred racing. World-class sport, an elegant atmosphere and the charm of late summer make the race days a truly special experience.
From thrilling races and a close look at the horses in the paddock to culinary delights and relaxed entertainment, the Grosse Woche combines tradition, society and the fascination of horse racing. The celebrations continue beyond the racetrack with the Summer Nights in Baden-Baden’s Kurgarten from 28 August to 6 September.
Race dates 2026:
29 August / 30 August / 1 September / 5 September / 6 September.
Summernights in the Kurgarten
From 28 August to 6 September 2026, the Kurgarten in front of the Kurhaus Baden-Baden once again becomes a captivating summer stage. Surrounded by historic colonnades, old trees and the elegant concert pavilion, music, lights and encounters create a unique atmosphere.
Bands, DJs and live acts bring a diverse soundtrack to the evenings – from pop and soul to funk and summer classics. Regional culinary partners add to the experience with delicious specialities and refreshing drinks.
Whether as a planned evening out or a spontaneous stop during a stroll through the city: the free concerts in the Kurgarten are among the most memorable summer experiences in Baden-Baden.
A Summer Stage Full of Music and Theatre
From 9 July to 21 August 2026, the newly renovated pavilion once again becomes a charming stage for music and theatre. Across 22 evenings, visitors can enjoy a varied programme in a unique setting, accompanied by small culinary treats and drinks from the team at Weinstube im Baldreit.
A perfect summer evening in Baden-Baden: relaxed, inspiring and close to the heart of the city. Performances begin at 7:30 pm, with doors opening at 6:30 pm. Tickets include a welcome drink and small snacks.
Weinstube zum Baldreit – Küferstraße 3 – 76530 Baden-Baden
SWR 3 NEW POP – in the Rhythm of Music
From 17 to 19 September 2026, Baden-Baden once again becomes a meeting place for music fans from around the world. The SWR3 New Pop brings together international newcomers and established artists, with concerts taking place in some of the city’s most unique venues, including the Kurhaus, Festspielhaus and Theatre.
The line-up includes artists such as Gentleman, Clueso & SWR Big Band, Giant Rooks, Charlotte Cardin, Holly Humberstone and Sienna Spiro. Exciting new voices such as FAYAN, ADMT and Luiza add to the festival atmosphere.
A spectacular musical finale to a very special summer in Baden-Baden and from THE FLORIS, the festival locations are all easily accessible on foot. Last-minute tickets are often available from private sellers near the individual venues.
Summer Refreshment: Baden-Baden’s Pools & Thermal Baths
Even in summer, the Caracalla Spa is a wonderful place to relax and it is just around the corner. With slightly cooler water temperatures and a spacious outdoor area, it offers a peaceful alternative to busy outdoor pools.
The Bertholdbad brings the charm of the 1960s back to life. Original details, such as the classic woven sun loungers and the charming refreshment pavilion, create a unique nostalgic atmosphere. Located directly along the beautiful Lichtentaler Allee, it is a true local gem. Open daily from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm.
The Hardbergbad is perfect for swimmers looking to enjoy a few laps and families with children who love larger slides. Set on a hillside in Baden-Baden’s Weststadt district, it combines sport, fun and a beautiful setting. Open daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
For a classic summer day by the water, the Strandbad Sandweier offers a beach atmosphere with a large lawn area and plenty of space to relax. Open daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Whether it’s a thermal bath, a historic swimming pool or a refreshing dip outdoors – Baden-Baden offers wonderful ways to cool down and enjoy the summer.
A Touch of Wilderness: Discover the Black Forest National Park
Looking for something a little more adventurous? The Black Forest National Park is almost on our doorstep, offering countless hiking trails, breathtaking views and charming mountain huts to discover.
Baden-Baden is surrounded by this unique natural landscape, which has always played an important role in the city’s identity as a spa destination. The easiest way to reach the park is by taking the X45 bus to the National Park Centre Ruhestein, where you can receive expert advice on the most beautiful hiking routes and nature experiences.
Follow the trails from one mountain viewpoint to the next and be amazed by the ever-changing scenery: open moorland landscapes, blooming meadows and cool forest paths provide the perfect escape on warm summer days.
The Most Beautiful Sunset
With so many breathtaking viewpoints around Baden-Baden, choosing the perfect place to watch the sunset is not an easy task. The cascading water features at Paradies and the historic Old Castle are both wonderful spots to enjoy the evening light.
But the city’s local mountain, the Merkur, offers something truly special. At 680 metres above sea level, the views stretch across the Rhine Valley all the way to the Vosges mountains. Add a delicious meal or a refreshing drink on the terrace of the Merkurstüble, and it feels like time has slowed down.
For a relaxed journey, simply take the Merkur Mountain Railway and enjoy the view without the climb.
Konrad Knoblauch GmbH