Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Funicular · Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg
Merkurbergbahn
Funicular from 1913 that climbs the Merkur hill, 669 metres high, on slopes of up to 54%. At the top there is an observation point over Baden-Baden, the Rhine valley and the northern Black Forest, as well as forest trails.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Merkurbergbahn
Merkur is the hill that dominates Baden-Baden from the east, at 669 metres. The name comes from a Roman votive stone dedicated to the god Mercury, found at the top. To ascend, the town has the Merkurbergbahn, a funicular opened in 1913, closed in 1967 and reopened in 1979.
The line is about 1.2 km long and overcomes 370 metres of vertical rise, with sections up to 54% gradient, making it one of the steepest funiculars in Germany. The trip passes through the forest and takes only a few minutes.
At the top there is an observation tower and terraces with views over the town, the Rhine plain and, on clear days, the Vosges in France. Marked trails leave the Merkur into the forest, and the hill is also a starting point for paragliding.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 2 hours, including the ascent, the viewpoint and a short walk. With a longer trail, half a day.
Best time
Clear-sky days, so the view reaches the Rhine plain. Late afternoon offers good light over the town. The funicular usually operates year-round but can stop for maintenance: check before you go.
How to get there
The lower station is about 2 km east of the center. Take the city bus that goes to the Merkurbergbahn from Leopoldsplatz or Augustaplatz.
Tip
If the day is cloudy in the valley, the view may be obscured: check the weather before you go. A good option is to take the funicular up and walk down through the forest on a marked trail.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Merkurbergbahn
How long does the ascent take?
A few minutes. The line is about 1.2 km long and climbs 370 metres through the forest.
What is at the top of Merkur?
An observation tower, terraces with views over the town and the plain of the Reno, a restaurant, and waymarked trails in the forest.
How do you get to the funicular station?
By city bus from the centre. The lower station is about 2 km east of the Leopoldsplatz.