Immersed and relaxed: A city trip to Baden

From November onwards, I recommend that all visitors to spend at least one extra day in Baden. The spa town will soon complete the construction of its newest attraction. But let’s start from the beginning…

Over the cobblestones to the youth hostel

With my little rolling suitcase in hand and hostel pass (no longer available) under my arm I ‘rattled’ from the station straight to the youth hostel. It was a ten-minute journey past cosy restaurants, small squares and historic towers. At the Rebstock Restaurant turn left and cross the covered wooden bridge to the youth hostel. I took a short break at the Rebstock – the Sauvignon Blanc from Aargau tastes excellent.

Over the cobblestones to the youth hostel

With my little rolling suitcase in hand and hostel pass (no longer available) under my arm I ‘rattled’ from the station straight to the youth hostel. It was a ten-minute journey past cosy restaurants, small squares and historic towers. At the Rebstock Restaurant turn left and cross the covered wooden bridge to the youth hostel. I took a short break at the Rebstock – the Sauvignon Blanc from Aargau tastes excellent.

After the Älplermagronen, it was off to the open-air concert

When I arrived at the youth hostel, I fortified myself with a portion of Älplermagronen. After dessert, I was drawn back to the city. But I didn’t get far: Less than a five-minute walk from the youth hostel, I stopped at the Frischluftbar Triebguet. Here, I ended the evening with beer and good music. The famous Grand Casino Baden, which I had really hoped to visit, will have to wait for my next visit to Baden. Incidentally, The Limmat is a wonderful place for a stroll. There are some lovely bars and cafés here. 

One ‘Spanisch Brödli’ please!

I skipped the ‘z’Morge’ in the youth hostel and instead, I opted for a local speciality: Spanish Brödli. The sweet treat featured in the City Card I received when I arrived. The Bäckerei Moser indulged me with a latte macchiato with soy milk to match. 

Did you know that the Spanish Brödli originally comes from Milan? These pastries were particularly popular with the people of Zurich, who regularly came to Baden to use the spa waters. It was forbidden to produce them in Zurich. Fortunately, Switzerland’s first railway line, running from Zurich to Baden, was inaugurated in 1847. The railway line was particularly popular because of the Spanish Brödli, which is why it is now referred to as the Spanish Brödli Railway.  

Soon there will be ‘proper’ bathing again

Baden has attracted spa guests from all over the world for centuries. In recent years, the bathing culture has declined somewhat. The bath district on the Limmat River will finally be reinvigorated as of November, when the new ‘Fortyseven’ public baths opens its doors. Celebrated architect Mario Botta has combined 2000 years of spa culture with a stylish ambience.  

I decided to stroll through the historic spa district anyway and enjoyed a relaxing, and free, foot bath. The atmosphere is truly unique.  

What the hell is this devil’s cellar?

Relaxed after my foot bath, I set off to discover the narrow alleys of Baden. Anyone interested in Baden’s history and culture will get their money’s worth at the Museum Baden. Outside its city walls, Baden offers wonderful walking and cycling paths. A local recommended that I explore the Devil’s Cellar. This forest reserve can be easily reached on foot. It is particularly enticing in autumn and well worth a trip. 

My short trip to Baden Youth Hostel gave me one thing above all: lots of plans for my next stay. Baden, you have so much to offer! With my hostel pass, I’m off to Stein am Rhein Youth Hostel. Stay tuned! 

About me

Adrian here – I’m 28 and appreciate the little escapes from my everyday life. Especially on weekends, I want to get out of the house and experience life besides work. On my trips, the Swiss Youth Hostels appeal to me with central locations, new acquaintances and let’s be honest: reasonable prices ;-)!