Freiburg im Breisgau

Freiburg is a university town on the edge of the Black Forest, and its rhythm is set by the Münstermarkt: from Monday to Saturday, up to 130 stalls fill the square around the minster each morning with produce, flowers and grilled sausages to eat on the spot. Small stone channels called Bächle run along the old-town streets, and local legend says stepping in one means you will marry a Freiburger. At night, students keep the bars and beer gardens lively. It suits anyone who wants a weekend of markets and short walks rather than big sights.