Old university city of Freiburg im Breisgau (pop 214,000), the southernmost big city of Germany and the one enjoying most hours of sunshine. You are invited to savour the atmosphere of its lovely old town providing the backcloth for the colourful daily market. The gem of the city, however, is the Minster – one of the world’s most beautiful gothic buildings.

The Minster, which took about 300 years to build, takes pride of place as Freiburg's main landmark. Its unique, 116 m tall spire is one of the truly great examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. The highlights of the lavish interior are its high altar and wonderful stained glass.

The Minster Square is surrounded by impressive buildings, the tallest of which is the steep-roofed historical Kaufhaus or merchant's house with its colourfully adorned coat of arms.

Sights worth visiting include the Old and New Town Halls, the House of the Whale (Haus zum Walfisch), with its superb late Gothic portal, the Basle Court (Basler Hof) and the two medieval city gates, which still stand to this day.

The most picturesque views of the Old Quarter can be enjoyed in the Swabian Gate (Schwabentor) and "Island" areas. Miniature streams flow through the streets and alleyways, contributing to the city's unique appearance.