Upon first glance, Herrenberg is simply a traditional German town. There are old cobblestones, pretty churches, timber houses and green forests (or more technically, the Black Forest) everywhere you look. But take a closer look and you will see the signs of a thriving modern town.
There are no fewer than seven world-famous and multi-national companies that call Herrenberg home. These include computer gurus Hewlett-Packard and IBM and also the pharmaceutical giant, GlaxoSmithKline.
This international presence can also be felt in the gastronomy of this town of 31,000 residents. Cuisines of all nationalities are on offer here. Some of the more popular include the obvious German beer gardens, as well as Indian, Greek, Chinese and Italian cuisine.
But if you’re seeking a more traditional German experience you will not leave disappointed. The Old Town is surely a postcard-perfect snapshot of Frankish timber houses and fountains, narrow streets and many, many stairs. So don’t leave home without your walking shoes for this highly pedestrianized town!
The most unusual tourist sight here is more at home in Russia and Eastern Europe. The beautiful baroque Foundation church is set apart from other more traditional types because of its large onion tower.
The church also houses another of Herrenberg’s main attractions, the Bell Museum or Glockenmuseum. Visitors can learn about the history of bells in music. If you who arrive at the right time (usually the first Saturday of the month) you will be treated to an unforgettable concert of bells at this location.
There is much to do and see in this modern yet medieval town. Days can be spent hiking or biking in the vast nature that surrounds Herrenberg, or shopping at one of the many markets. Nights can be spent at the theater, cabaret, or musical concert.
Whether you’re looking for history, nature, culture or simply souvenirs, Herrenberg will provide it.