Sights & Culture

Metzingen’s cultural identity is a blend of its historic Swabian roots and its modern, cosmopolitan role as a shopping destination.

The Main Attraction: OUTLETCITY METZINGEN

It is impossible to discuss Metzingen without starting with its primary draw. What began as a humble factory store for the Hugo Boss company (which is headquartered here) has evolved into a sprawling, open-air outlet mall with award-winning architecture.

• Experience: Unlike a traditional enclosed mall, Outletcity is designed as a city within a city. Visitors walk along clean, pedestrianized streets flanked by sleek, modern storefronts of over 130 premium and luxury brands.
• Significance: It attracts millions of visitors annually from all over the world, fundamentally shaping the city’s economy, infrastructure, and international feel.
• Cultural Impact: While a commercial entity, it has become a cultural sight in its own right, showcasing modern architecture and representing a globalized consumer culture.

The Historic Heart & Wine Heritage

To understand the true soul of Metzingen, one must look beyond the outlets to its deep connection with viticulture. For over 1,000 years, winemaking has been central to the city’s identity.

• Sieben-Keltern-Platz (Seven Wine Presses Square): This is the historical and cultural center of Metzingen. The square is named after the seven large wine presses (“Keltern”) that once stood here. Today, three historic presses remain, hosting key community events and marking the perfect starting point for exploring old Metzingen.
• Weinbaumuseum (Viticulture Museum): Located in the “Hof-Kelter” on Kelternplatz, this museum is dedicated to the history of winemaking in the region. It offers fascinating insights into the traditional tools, techniques, and social importance of the wine trade.
• Martinskirche (St. Martin’s Church): The city’s main Protestant church is a landmark visible from many parts of town. With origins dating back to the early Middle Ages, the current late-Gothic structure stands as a testament to Metzingen’s long history.
• Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall): A picturesque half-timbered building from 1657, the Old Town Hall is a beautiful example of traditional German architecture.

Nature & Recreation

Metzingen’s location offers immediate access to the beautiful landscapes of the Swabian Jura, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

• Vineyard Hikes (Weinberg-Wanderungen): The hillsides surrounding Metzingen are covered in vineyards. Numerous well-marked trails, such as the Metzinger Weinbergweg, allow for scenic walks with stunning views over the city and the Erms Valley.
• Swabian Jura (Schwäbische Alb): For more serious hikers and nature lovers, Metzingen serves as an excellent base for exploring the dramatic cliffs, castles, and caves of this nearby UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Cultural Life & Events

The city’s cultural calendar is heavily influenced by its winemaking traditions.

• Metzinger Weinfest (Wine Festival): The annual wine festival, typically held in early September on the Kelternplatz, is the city’s most important cultural event. Local wineries present their new vintages, and the entire community gathers for live music, food, and celebration.
• Sieben-Keltern-Fest: A larger city festival that combines wine, music, and local traditions.
• Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt): The area around the Kelternplatz and the Town Hall transforms into a charming Christmas market, offering mulled wine (Glühwein), crafts, and festive foods.