Rastatt (district) — Landkreis in Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Geography and neighbours

Rastatt lies on the eastern bank of the Rhine plain and includes lowland and rising terrain toward the foothills of the Black Forest. It directly borders several other German districts and a French department to the west. The district entirely surrounds the independent city of Baden-Baden.

• Karlsruhe (district) to the north
• Calw to the east
• Freudenstadt to the southeast
• Ortenaukreis to the south
• Across the Rhine to the west lies France, specifically the French department Bas-Rhin

History and cultural highlights

The area has a long history as part of the Baden territories and the Upper Rhine cultural landscape. The town of Rastatt preserves baroque and 18th‑century military architecture, reflecting its past as a fortified residence. The district's towns and villages retain historic centers, churches and civic buildings that illustrate regional development from the early modern period through industrialisation.

Economy and transport

Rastatt's economy mixes agriculture, medium-sized manufacturing and services. The Rhine plain provides fertile farmland, while good road and rail links connect the district to Karlsruhe, Strasbourg and wider European networks. Cross-border commuting and trade with neighbouring French areas are important features of the local economy.

Administration and municipalities

As a Landkreis, Rastatt is responsible for regional planning, schools, social services and infrastructure across multiple towns and municipalities. The district council and administration coordinate policies that balance urbanised corridors, smaller market towns and rural communities.

Significance and practical notes

Rastatt occupies a strategic position on the Upper Rhine, combining heritage tourism, cross-border ties and industrial activity. Visitors often use the district as a base to explore the Black Forest, Baden-Baden’s spas and nearby French cities. For official information, local services and municipal contacts consult district resources and travel guides.