One of my favorite and lesser known areas in Germany is Idstein. Littered with brightly colored houses, this city has a wonderfully whimsical feel. It honestly appears to be straight out of a German fairytale book. If you are looking for an easy day trip, embark on a journey around the half timbered houses of Idstein.
Altstadt
The best area to start exploring in Idstein is the Altstadt. I love stopping here first as the colorful town center is always full of life. On weekends, you will often find music artists performing as visitors munch on pastries and cake from the local cafes.
As this is the center of town, it is also a great information hub for your visit. The tourist information center (inside the Killingerhaus) is our go to spot for details about local hikes, events and activities.
Tip: Kids love climbing onto the Altstadt’s golden chairs and splashing their hands in the nearby fountain.
Schiefes Haus
One of the most famous buildings in Idstein is the Schiefes Haus. With bright yellow window sills that pop against its blue exterior, this ‘crooked’ house is certainly a sight to behold. Given that it sits atop an office building, the house itself is not open for tourism. It is, however, a great photo spot.
Tip: The orange building beside the Schiefes Haus is Idstein’s town hall.
Killingerhaus
Built in 1615, the Killingerhaus is one of the Atlstad’s most ornate houses. The beautiful house is covered in delicate and colorful carvings that leave visitors in awe.
As previously mentioned, this is a great place to gather tourist information. The coolest part, however, is it’s museum! Climb up the spiraled wooden staircase to explore each level of the house and learn about the city’s history.
Our favorite parts were the old waffle presses, firefighter gear and a giant family tree of royals. Plus, we enjoyed having a birds eye view of the Altstadt.
Tip: If the museum door is closed, ask the front desk to buzz you inside. We did this and were provided entry after presenting our CovPass-App (COVID-19 vaccination proof for Europe).
Try a Sweet Treat
Before you exit the Altstadt, make sure to try one of the local cafes. There are quite a few lining the streets, but we always enjoy Bäckerei Huth Café Ungrad and Löwen Café.
Our favorite place to grab a warm drink on a cold day is Bäckerei Huth Café Ungrad. If you aren’t interested in cake or pastries, however, you can also find gelato nearby.
Kanzleitor
This large stone bridge leads from the Altstadt to the Hexenturm and Residenzschloss. It is a nice spot to stop and take pictures on your walk around town.
Hexenturm
This slate and quartzite ‘witches tower’ measures 42 meters tall and is located on the highest point in Idstein.
While it is referred to as the ‘witches tower,’ the building actually has nothing to do with witches at all. Instead, the Hexenturm served as a watchtower from 1449-1779.
Climbing this tower, however, will make you feel as if you are in a fairytale. Twisting tunnels, steep stairs and even a few ladders await guests who dare to visit the ‘witches tower.’
You’ll truly feel as though you’ve been transported back in time as you ascend the Hexenturm. Make sure to take a peek outside on each level and take your time at the top! The views are well worth the trek.
Tip: If the tower is locked, ask the visitor center to check out the tower’s key (Also note that dogs are not allowed inside the tower).
Residenzschloss
The Residenzschloss and it’s gardens, Schlossgarten, can be found across from the Hexenturm. While we have never visited the inside of the castle, it is still very beautiful from the gates.
Note: We have visited many times and always found the castle to be locked. We are unsure if you can enter the grounds for a tour.
Unionkirche
Unionkirche is one of the most unique churches I have viewed in Germany. One feature that makes it stand out is it’s beautiful ceiling.
When visitors step inside the church, instead of viewing a ceiling that is painted, guests find themselves marveling at various individually framed paintings.
Each canvas depicts a scene of the Gospel from the New Testament.
After observing the ceiling, I like to admire the towering marble columns and arches that circle the church.
Be sure you do not miss the hidden coffins during your visit! They can be found down a small staircase at the front of the church (to the right of the stage).
Hours: Daily from 0900-1630
Harry von de Gass
This statue is of a famous Idstein resident, Harry Seegebarth. While Harry held many jobs during his life in Idstein, his most notable was sweeping the streets. At this job, Harry was recognized for his over the top outfits and singing as he swept. His jolly disposition was enjoyed by many. After his passing, residents raised money to have a bronze statue created in his honor.
Fun Fact: The statue is placed near a manhole cover because Harry tended to sweep dirt into the sewer shafts.
Stroll the Streets
The center of Idstein is a great starting point for visiting the major tourist attractions, but I encourage you to stroll down the side streets and explore.
Idstein is packed with colorful and charismatic half-timbered houses. Wandering the cobblestone streets won’t leave you disappointed. From cat figurines climbing the walls to tilted houses, there is something fun around every corner.
Grab a Meal
While there are many great restaurants in Idstein, our favorite place to grab a meal is Idsteiner Brauhaus. Their portions are absolutely massive and their alcohol is delicious. It’s the perfect spot to relax with your family after a long day of exploration.
If you are curious about what to try, our favorite starters are the pumpkin soup (seasonal) and spundekas (a regional favorite).
For the main course, Kenny recommends their breakfast platter with Riesling to drink. If you want to try a local item, however, opt for the sausage salad with their seasonal Apfelwein.
Tip: Try their in house beer (made by a master brewer)! The beer is unique in that it is ‘cloudy’ from being served immediately without filtration.
Fun Fact: Idsteiner Brauhaus is located inside what was once Idstein’s fire station.
Parking
Parking is fairly affordable and easy in Idstein. Click for directions to our favorite parking garages:
Looking for day trips in Germany? Check out these Blogs:
Geierlay Suspension Bridge: Everything You Need to Know
Why You Need to Visit Germany’s Bird Castle – Vogelburg Guide
Everything You Need To Know For The Perfect Edelweiss Lodge Vacation in Garmisch, Germany
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