This medieval town near Stuttgart has preserved its 15th-century walls and half-timbered houses. The Market Square includes the historic Town Hall and weekly farmers' markets.
Located in southwestern Germany, Waiblingen lies just 15 minutes from Stuttgart by train. In the old town, you can climb the spiral staircase of the 1476 Renaissance Old Town Hall for views across red-tiled roofs, or walk along the preserved 17th-century city walls. The Rems river paths lead you through gardens and past medieval watchtowers, while the weekly farmers' market brings local produce vendors to the historic market square.
Market Square
Step into Waiblingen's market square to find yourself surrounded by carefully restored half-timbered houses from the 1640s. The square comes alive every Wednesday and Saturday morning when local farmers sell fresh produce, flowers, and regional specialties. The Renaissance Old Town Hall dominates the square with its three-story timber frame and decorated facade. You can visit the building's interior during weekday business hours to see its restored wooden staircase and ceremonial hall.
City Walls and Towers
Follow the narrow cobblestone streets from the market square to reach the medieval city walls. Five restored watchtowers mark the corners of the old fortifications. The Hochwachtturm tower opens to visitors on weekends from April to October, offering views across the Rems Valley. Information panels along the wall walk explain the town's defensive system and 17th-century reconstruction.
Walking and Cycling Routes
The Rems river paths give you 8 kilometers of paved trails through Waiblingen. Starting at the old town bridge, you can walk or cycle along both riverbanks, passing through riverside gardens and connecting to longer regional cycling routes. Multiple wooden bridges cross the river, letting you create circular routes. Benches and small parks line the paths, making good spots for breaks.
Getting Around
Trains connect Waiblingen to Stuttgart every 15-30 minutes from early morning until midnight. The train station sits a 5-minute walk from the market square, with clear signs pointing to the old town. Local buses stop at the station and run to all town districts. Buy your tickets from the machines at the station or download the VVS mobile app for digital tickets. The tourist information office next to the Old Town Hall provides free walking maps of the historic center.
Industry and Innovation
While most visitors focus on the old town, Waiblingen's modern side includes the Stihl chainsaw museum, which displays the company's technical developments since 1926. The museum opens Tuesday through Friday, showing how a local workshop grew into a global manufacturer. You'll find the museum in the Neustadt district, a 15-minute walk from the market square.
