Hotels in Metzingen

Metzingen's history dates back to the 11th century, with its official town charter granted in the 13th. For centuries, it was a quiet agricultural community known for its wine and fruit growing. The town's destiny changed dramatically in the 20th century with the rise of the textile industry. Local companies like Hugo Boss, founded here in 1923, turned Metzingen into a hub of clothing manufacturing. The innovative concept of opening factory outlet stores directly to the public in the 1970s transformed the local economy and put Metzingen on the international map. Today, the town is synonymous with Outletcity Metzingen, a sprawling complex housing over 100 designer and brand-name stores offering significant discounts year-round. Beyond the shopping bags, the historic town center (Altstadt) around the Stadtkirche St. Bonifatius offers a picturesque contrast with its well-preserved buildings. The town serves as a gateway to the scenic Swabian Alb, a low mountain range perfect for hiking and exploring castles like the nearby Hohenneuffen.

Best Time to Visit Metzingen

The best time to visit Metzingen depends on your priorities. For optimal shopping weather and to avoid the largest crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These months offer mild temperatures and colorful scenery, perfect for combining shopping with exploring the surrounding Swabian Alb. Summer (July and August) is peak tourist season; the weather is warmest, but the outlet stores can be very crowded, especially on weekends. Winter, particularly November and December, is magical with festive Christmas markets in the region, though days are short and cold. Major sales events at Outletcity, like the Summer and Winter Sales, draw huge crowds. The town is a year-round destination due to the indoor nature of shopping, but for a more balanced experience of shopping and local exploration, late spring or early autumn is ideal.

Where to Stay in Metzingen