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Best places to visit in germany.

Full of culture, lively locals and great beer, Germany is home to many captivating travel destinations. Whether you're looking to soak up art, architecture and history or imbibe at Oktoberfest, this country appeals to a variety of tourists. U.S. News weighed factors like sights, food, culture, accessibility and value, in addition to expert and traveler opinions, to create the best places to visit in Germany. Vote for the destinations you love below to help shape next year's ranking.

Neuschwanstein

Garmisch-partenkirchen, black forest, berchtesgaden, rüdesheim am rhein.

Germany's capital city is akin to Paris and London in that you just can't visit the country without going. Like many large cities, Berlin offers something for everyone, from a lively nightlife scene to restorative green spaces. Those looking take in the arts can explore the impactful East Side Gallery (on the Berlin Wall) or visit the more traditional art galleries at Museum Island. Berlin also pays homage to its ominous past with powerful and humbling attractions. Must-visit historical sites include the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.

Visitors flock to Munich every fall to take part in Oktoberfest, a two-week-long ode to Bavarian traditions featuring Germany's best beers and bratwurst. But Munich, one of the largest German cities, offers so much more than just this festival. The city is home to beautiful gardens, exquisite churches and engaging museums worth exploring. Wander around Munich's charming neighborhoods and spend some time in Marienplatz, a central square that's home to the world-famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel and hosts a popular Christmas market.

Though Neuschwanstein Castle was never meant for visitors, it has become one of Germany's most popular tourist attractions. King Ludwig II commissioned the castle as a place of refuge from public life. Today, more than 1 million people stroll through the property every year. The castle's Romanesque Revival-style is certainly romantic; in fact, it inspired Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. But what elevates this castle to bucket list status is its unbelievable setting, perched in the Bavarian Alps. From the castle, travelers can get an eyeful of the surrounding mountains, Alpine lakes and striking foliage (especially during fall).

This scenic mountain town in the Bavarian Alps calls to adventure-hungry travelers. In winter, Garmisch-Partenkirchen draws skiers looking to hit the slopes and learn about the Winter Olympics that were held here in 1936. In summer, hikers descend upon the town hoping to climb Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak (the summit is also reachable via cable car). Other can't-miss attractions include Lake Eibsee and Partnachklamm, a narrow gorge characterized by steep rock walls and roaring rapids. Meanwhile, if you're looking to unwind, take a stroll through Historic Ludwigstrasse or explore the grounds of Linderhof Palace and Park.

One of the best places to see Germany's natural splendor is the fairy-tale-inspiring Black Forest. This section of Baden-Württemberg encompasses more than 2,000 square miles of enchanting waterfall-filled forests, rolling hills and lengthy valleys dotted with half-timbered villages. A great introduction to the Black Forest is driving along its scenic namesake highway (Schwarzwaldhochstrasse); be sure to start or end your journey in the spa town of Baden-Baden to benefit from its thermal springs. You'll also want to save time for visiting gorgeous natural wonders like the picture-perfect Triberg Waterfalls, Lake Titisee and the Feldberg, the Black Forest's highest peak.

Dresden is made for architecture enthusiasts. The city, which is located in eastern Germany near the Czech border, features remarkable facades and edifices adorned with ornate architectural details. Though you'll have your pick of stunning structures, make sure you visit the Dresden Zwinger (a Baroque-style palace) and Dresden Royal Palace (a Renaissance landmark where the Fürstenzug, the world's largest porcelain mural, resides). If you prefer modern architecture, head to Kunsthofpassage to gaze at its quirky buildings, one of which has singing drainpipes. And those visiting during festive season can't miss Striezelmarkt, Germany's oldest and largest Christmas market.

For a memorable vacation in the Bavarian Alps, visit Berchtesgaden. This destination, which sits on the Austrian border, captivates visitors with its massive peaks, cascading forests, deep valleys and Alpine lake and river that make up Berchtesgaden National Park. Start your journey driving the scenic Rossfeld Panoramastrasse before traveling south to awe-inspiring Lake Königssee and the Eagle's Nest, a mountaintop beer garden. If you enjoy skiing, arrive in winter when Jenner Mountain is blanketed with snow.

First-time visitors to this historic German city should make a beeline for Cologne Cathedral – this breathtaking example of Gothic architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city's most popular landmark. Meanwhile, travelers with a sweet tooth should make time in their schedule for a tour of Cologne's Chocolate Museum. Other activities include relaxing on the lawn at Rheinpark, exploring Cologne's Old Town, cruising the Rhine River and taking in spectacular city views from a cable car. Visit in February or March when Cologne's annual Carnival celebration takes place, an event featuring festivities like masked balls, parades and parties.

Go off the beaten track on your next getaway by heading to this Bavarian city in southeast Germany. Boasting centuries-old architecture and a prime location along the Danube River, Regensburg is known as one of Germany's oldest and best-preserved medieval cities. Most of Regensburg's top attractions can be found in the city's UNESCO-listed Old Town, including landmarks like St. Peter's Cathedral, Haidplatz Square and the Stone Bridge. Other sights worth visiting include the Thurn und Taxis Palace and Walhalla, a hall of fame honoring exemplary German-speaking figures throughout history.

This city in southwestern Germany is well known for housing the country's oldest university. However, its good looks and superb location along the Neckar River also make it a great destination to enjoy old-world character and a small-town ambiance. To see as much of this beautiful city as possible, take a long stroll through Heidelberg's old town and across its picturesque Old Bridge. Then, ride the funicular railway to Heidelberg Castle, and continue on to Königstuhl for impressive views. Additional must-see sights to add to your vacation itinerary include the Philosopher's Walk, Heidelberg Zoo and the Student Prison at Heidelberg University.

Boasting elaborate churches and palaces around every corner, Würzburg is a photographer's paradise. From the Baroque-style Residence Palace to the Romanesque St. Kilian Cathedral, there are countless buildings worth exploring. Not only can travelers enjoy beautiful architecture, they can expect manicured gardens and parks, such as Ring Park and the University of Würzburg's Botanical Garden, along with numerous vineyards and estates offering wine tastings (Würzburg is located in Germany's Franken wine region). When you're not sipping on delicious vino, consider visiting the grand Marienberg Fortress or snapping a photo of Würzburg's iconic Old Main Bridge.

Primarily known for its winemaking capabilities, Rüdesheim am Rhein is a small village located at the base of Germany's Rhine Valley. While you'll surely want to spend the majority of your time here sampling Rüdesheim am Rhein's famous riesling, you should save time for other activities as well. The restaurant- and market-lined Drosselgasse alley is a perfect place to hear live music, and you'd be remiss to skip the one-of-a-kind Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet during your trip. Another worthwhile activity is a castle cruise along the Rhine River.

Frankfurt is best known as the financial capital of the eurozone thanks to it housing the European Central Bank, but don't assume the city is nothing more than a concrete jungle. Frankfurt doubles as a tourist-friendly destination with all kinds of attractions. Here, you'll find the Frankfurt Museum Embankment, a riverside perimeter that comprises more than a dozen museums, including the popular Städel Museum. Other noteworthy sights include the city's colorful old town, the Main Tower observation deck and the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden.

Located less than 22 miles southwest of bustling Berlin, Potsdam makes for a perfect daytrip. The city offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere complete with parks and eye-catching historical landmarks. The city's most popular attraction, Sanssouci Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so breathtaking that it is often compared to Versailles. The palace's name means "without a care," so plan on spending unhurried hours there taking in its splendor and the surrounding grounds. You'll also want to save time for visiting Cecilienhof Country House – where the historic Potsdam Conference took place – and strolling through the charming Dutch Quarter.

Home to Germany's largest cruise port, the Elbe river and hundreds of canals flowing through the city center, Hamburg is a great place to explore by boat. But for those on foot, many top attractions are clustered in the heart of the city, including the Alter Elbtunnel and Planten un Blomen park. Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth visiting, offers Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway system that enraptures visitors of all ages. Plus, Hamburg is a haven for music lovers with its impressive Elbphilharmonie complex, which features two concert halls and a plaza with sweeping city views.

The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is a must-visit destination due to its well-preserved history (both medieval and more recent). The city's darker World War II connections are on display at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rallying Grounds and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials museum. Go further back in time with a visit to the vast, all-encompassing Germanisches Nationalmuseum, which includes artwork from prehistoric times to today. Then, wind your way through old town's endearing streets, where you'll find half-timbered houses, a four-story fountain and the imposing Imperial Castle, which dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

Head to this small medieval city in northern Bavaria to feel as if you've stepped back in time. Bamberg is famous for housing notable Enlightenment-era writers and philosophers like E.T.A. Hoffmann and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Plus, Bamberg boasts a gorgeous location along the Regnitz river and a collection of exquisite architectural beauties, including the Romanesque Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. But no visit would be complete without seeing the dreamy rose garden at the New Residence palace.

Upon first glance, Lübeck might look like any other mid-size German city. However, this northern destination with Nordic beauty holds plenty of historical significance, so much so that UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site. Between the 12th and 16th centuries, Lübeck was considered one of Europe's most important trading ports. The city still remains a hub for maritime commerce with its location on the Baltic Sea. After learning more about Lübeck's maritime roots at the European Hansemuseum, travelers can check out the stately Holsten Gate in the city's charming old town or explore its many waterways during a boat tour.

Sitting on the banks of the Rhine River about 80 miles northwest of Frankfurt, Koblenz is overlooked by the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This idyllic setting is an added bonus to the city's strong cultural offerings, which range from institutions like the DB Museum Koblenz and the Ludwig Museum to monuments like the German Corner. You should also make time for a ride on the Koblenz Cable Car, which offers panoramic views of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Plus, with access to both the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is an excellent destination for a river cruise (many routes take travelers past vineyards, castles and more).

Situated about 10 miles east of Germany's border with Luxembourg, the country's oldest city draws history buffs in droves. Trier was founded by Romans in 16 B.C. and is filled with some of the best-preserved ruins from that era. Must-see Roman relics include St. Peter's Cathedral, Porta Nigra, the Basilica of Constantine and the Imperial Baths. When you need a break from learning about Trier's ties to the Roman Empire, explore old town's colorful Hauptmarkt square, visit Karl Marx's birthplace or take a scenic boat tour along the Moselle river.

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8 top places to visit in Germany in 2024

Feb 23, 2024 • 5 min read

No highlights list of Germany would omit Oktoberfest in Munich © FooTToo / Getty Images

The heart of Western Europe , Germany is a boundless feast for travelers.

Its endless variety of historic yet cutting-edge cities; dark, romantic forests; and cultural riches can often make the task of planning a visit daunting. Yet though it would take a lifetime to take in all of this fascinating country’s highlights, you can get a good start indeed with this guide.

Here are eight of the very best places to visit in Germany.

1. The Baltic Coast

Northern Germany’s Baltic Coast represents a side of the country not many visitors anticipate. The indented southern coast of the Baltic Sea hides great swathes of pure sand, susurrating pines and pristine nature sanctuaries. Highlights include the former Hanseatic power Stralsund, a classic of red-brick Gothic gabled architecture; the sheer cliffs of Jasmund National Park ; and the birdlife and beauty of the Darss-Zingst Peninsula .

2. Cologne 

Cologne (Köln) is known for its liberal climate and its wealth of historic sights. Taking its name from the Romans (who founded it in the first century CE as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium), it’s been a major center of German history for centuries.

The most tangible symbol of Cologne’s importance and the essential sight? Its magnificent 13th-century Gothic cathedral, the Kölner Dom , Germany’s largest church, which was also Europe’s highest building until eclipsed by the  Eiffel Tower . Other must-see historical and cultural attractions include the  Römisch-Germanisches (Romano-Germanic) Museum and the sublime collection of 13th- to the 19th-century European art at the  Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud . 

Planning tip:  Pick up a  KölnCard  at the  Cologne Tourist Board office (adjacent to the cathedral) or at any KVB or DB ticket machines. A 24-hour individual ticket (€9) gets you unlimited public transport and up to 50% off at many cultural attractions, restaurants and shops. 

3. The Middle Rhine Valley (the Rhine Gorge)

As the Rhine , Germany’s second-longest river, flows south from Koblenz , it cuts a gorge through a gasp-inducing landscape of vineyards and castles. The stretch between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, known as the Oberes Mittelrheintal (Upper Middle Rhine Valley) is so special it won UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2002.

A land heavily contested over the centuries, the Oberes Mittelrheintal harbors wonderful castles like  Pfalzgrafstein ,  Burg Rheinstein ,  Burg Reichenstein and Koblenz’s mighty Festung Ehrenbreitstein .

Of the many wineries and wine bars you might visit, we recommend Bingen’s Weingut Georg Breuer,   Alte Weinstube Zum Hubertus in Koblenz and Zum Grünen Baum in Bacharach .

4. Erfurt and Weimar

The proximate central-German cities of  Erfurt and Weimar represent an astonishing concentration of cultural achievement and historic significance. Erfurt, capital of Thuringia , has one of Germany’s loveliest medieval centers, while Weimar stands tall as the capital of the eponymous 20th-century Republic, and before that the home of cultural luminaries such as Bach, Goethe, Schiller and Nietzsche.

Erfurt’s essential sights include its  cathedral , where Martin Luther was ordained, and the vast, baroque Zitadelle Petersberg . In Weimar, you’ll have to find time for the Goethe-Nationalmuseum , in a building that was the author’s home of 50 years; the UNESCO-listed Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek ; and the modernist treasures of the Bauhaus Museum , which also originated here.

5. Munich & the Bavarian Alps

Munich (München), the capital of the Free State of Bavaria (Freistaat Bayern) is the city most visitors associate with “classic” German culture – for while Germany is in fact a patchwork of cultures and dialects, it’s often the Bavarian model of Bierkellers , Bratwurst and Lederhosen that outsiders have in mind. Munich is no cliché, though: Germany’s third-largest city is a center of high-tech manufacturing and cutting-edge culture, as well as the gateway to the magnificent Bavarian Alps . 

Essential sights and experiences include the  Residenzmuseum , the former palace of Bavaria’s ruling Wittelsbach dynasty; the museum-packed  Kunstareal district; and the gracious 17th-century Schloss Nymphenburg . An easy drive south of Munich lie the forested mountains, photogenic villages and ski- and spa-resorts of the beautiful Bavarian Alps .

Planning tip:  Oktoberfest , synonymous with Munich, is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Accommodation is booked solid long in advance, so plan ahead.

6. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Perhaps the most enchanting village along the entire 400km (250 miles) of the Romantic Road ,  Rothenburg ob der Tauber (meaning “above the Tauber river”) is a wonderfully preserved example of a medieval German village. Strict heritage protection ensures that every turn reveals meandering cobbled lanes, glimpses of the intact city walls and venerable churches. Make time to see the local treasures collected in the  Reichsstadtmuseum , housed in a former Dominican convent, and the  Alt-Rothenburger Handwerkerhaus , where weavers, potters and other craftspeople ply their trade as they have done for over seven centuries.

7. The Black Forest

Bordering France and Switzerland , the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a vast woodland of more than 6000 sq km (2316 sq miles). From its spruce-swaddled slopes to deep valleys broken by silvery lakes and traditional villages and farmsteads, this diverse rural playground just begs to be explored by car, cycle or foot.

If you’re pressed for time, a drive along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse ( Black Forest High Road ) from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt unfurls a series of gorgeous vistas. If you have more time, consider hiking the 40km (25-mile)  Panoramaweg or the 12km (7.5-mile)  Feldberg–Steig to the forest’s highest peak. Population centers you should definitely include on your visit include Triberg, with its waterfall and cuckoo clocks; the laid-back university town of Freiburg ; and Alpirsbach, with its 11th-century Benedictine monastery .

Planning tip: While travelers are naturally drawn to the Black Forest’s great outdoors, it would be a mistake to overlook the region’s excellent cuisine. There’s Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest gâteau), of course – while lesser-known specialities include venison Baden-Baden , smoked Schwartzwalder Schinken (ham) and skinless lange rote (long red) sausages from Freiburg.

No list of German highlights would be complete without the country’s capital and dynamic cultural engine room. Germany’s most populous city,  Berlin is a bountiful beast of a place, with some of the country’s definitive museums, dining, art and – perhaps above all – nightlife.

Boisterous Berlin has long had a bohemian streak. While you should definitely make time to for cultural highlights like the Mies van der Rohe–designed Neue Nationalgalerie and the treasure trove that is Museumsinsel (Museum Island), those seeking a party will surely find it in iconic venues like  Berghain and  Pratergarten , where beer and bonhomie have flowed together since 1837. As ever, Berlin’s party people continue to innovate . 

Planning tip:  Before you hit town, get yourself a Berlin Welcome Card online. This six-day, all-inclusive ticket (adults €169; children aged 3–14 €85) gives you unlimited rides on public transport, free entry to more than 30 top attractions plus up to 50% off entry to over 150 more, as well as other benefits.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated February 2024

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Germany for Breathtaking Mountains, Medieval Towns, and Moving Historic Sites

From moving landmarks to charming villages, these are 20 of the best places to visit in Germany, according to experts.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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Germany is filled with charming small towns, exhilarating cities, enchanting castles, historic landmarks, and famous festivities — notably Oktoberfest and the Christmas markets . With 16 states, from Bavaria to Bremen, there are a lot of different ways to vacation in Deutschland. That might look like bopping around to hilltop villages on a road trip or plopping down in a vibrant metropolis and going on some interesting day trips. Need some inspiration ahead of your first (or next) trip to the land of bratwurst and beer? We asked Liam S. Dunch, product manager, Europe at Abercrombie & Kent , and Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato , to share their top picks. Scroll on for the best places to visit in Germany.

Related: 12 Best Small Towns in Germany, From Charming Medieval Villages to Idyllic Mountain Escapes

1. East Side Gallery

Abdulhamid Hosbas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Once a symbol of oppression — and an enduring reminder of Germany’s turbulent past — the concrete barrier that used to divide Berlin now serves a vastly different purpose thanks to the creation of the East Side Gallery. Artists transformed the largest remaining section of the Berlin Wall into an open-air art gallery with colorful, thought-provoking graffiti murals.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

One of the most beautiful small towns in the world , Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an endlessly charming village along Germany’s fabled Romantic Road in the Franconia region of Bavaria. Its cobblestone lanes, half-timbered houses, churches, medieval walls, and towers look like they were plucked from a storybook.

3. Courtroom 600

Eye Ubiquitous/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Many people who visit Germany want to gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events of the 20th century. “Not only does a trip to Courtroom 600 means the chance to step inside the room where Nazi leaders were tried for their unspeakable crimes, but visitors can also watch real footage of the Nuremberg trials and learn about the legacy of the verdicts,” explains Dunch.

4. Bach-Museum Leipzig

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Dunch urges lovers of classical music to make the pilgrimage to Leipzig, where Johann Sebastian Bach composed most of his major works and spent the last 27 years of his life. The Bach-Museum Leipzig houses a collection of instruments, original manuscripts, and other memorabilia related to the German composer. 

5. Baden-Baden 

Werner Dieterich/Getty Images

European aristocracy (including Napoleon III and Queen Victoria) have decamped to Baden-Baden, a historic spa town on the edge of southwestern Germany's Black Forest, since the 19th century. This Belle Époque resort town retains its glamorous reputation and wellness credentials, continuing to entice well-heeled travelers with thermal baths and high-class spa hotels such as Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa .   

6. Museum Island

“I always tell first-time visitors to Berlin to check out Museum Island,” says Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato . Situated in the middle of the Spree River, this architecturally stunning cultural complex houses five magnificent museums: Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and Pergamon Museum. 

7. Schloss Proschwitz

Daniel Schäfer/picture alliance via Getty Images

Schloss Proschwitz is a beautiful 18th-century, neo-baroque castle in the district of Meissen with elegant interiors and gardens. The estate also plays host to Saxony's oldest private winery, which invites visitors for cellar tours and tastings.  

8. Hofbräuhaus

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The most famous of the many beer halls in Munich, Hofbräuhaus takes patrons back in time to an era when tokens were used to pay for steins and shares the tradition of gemütlichkeit (geniality) with visitors from around the world through live music, warm hospitality, and homemade Bavarian food.

9. Meissen's Porcelain Museum

Wolfgang Kaehler/Light Rocket via Getty Images

“The medieval town of Meissen has produced fine figurines and crockery since 1710,” explains Dunch. The Meissen Porcelain Museum tells the story of Meissen porcelain through a collection of more than 2,000 objects — including ornate tables used in the royal courts of Europe in the 18th century, vases, candle holders, and intricate animal figurines. 

10. Neuschwanstein Castle 

Keren Su/Getty Images

One of Germany’s most famous and frequented attractions, Neuschwanstein Castle welcomes a whopping 1.4 million visitors each year. Travelers come from all over to gawk at the fairy-tale medieval palace and far-reaching views from atop a dramatic rocky hilltop in the Bavarian Alps. Quinn recommends booking timed-entry reservations to avoid waiting in lengthy lines.

11. Linderhof Palace

Juha Huiskonen/Getty Images

And you don't have to go far to see another stately residence. Instead of (or after) fighting the crowds at Neuschwanstein Castle, Dunch suggests visiting nearby Linderhof Palace. “It’s easy to see why this idyllic fantasy ‘hunting lodge’ was Ludwig II’s favorite getaway.”

Yasonya/Getty Images

Set on the shores of Lake Constance in Bavaria, Lindau attracts travelers with its harborfront charm and scenic views. On the itinerary? Catch sight of Switzerland across the water as you stroll the streets, check out the lighthouse, pause along Seepromenade to snap photos of the 12th-century Mangturm watchtower, and embark on a kayak excursion.  

13. Spreewald Biosphere Reserve

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Tucked between Berlin and Dresden, the UNESCO-listed Spreewald Biosphere Reserve is a unique inland delta along the Spree with waterways and woodlands. It’s an idyllic setting for kayaking along the channels and soaking in the natural beauty of the area. 

14. Porsche Experience Center Leipzig

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Sports car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Porsche Experience Center Leipzig , a state-of-the-art factory and test circuit. Ready to go full-throttle? After the tour and a brief history lesson, accelerate, brake, and drift on an adrenaline-pumping drive on the circular track.   

15. Zugspitze

Achim Thomae/Getty Images

Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, rises 9,718 feet above sea level and stands out as a top spot for high-altitude fun and year-round recreation. The Wankbahn cable car operates from April to October, bringing visitors to Mount Wank for a homemade breakfast at Sonnenalm and far-reaching panoramas. Hiking is also popular during the warmer months, while winter brings opportunities for skiing, tobogganing, and glacier tours.

16. Baiersbronn

Baiersbronn, a quaint village in southern Germany between Strasbourg, France and Stuttgart, is the culinary capital of the Black Forest with seven Michelin-starred restaurants and even more that have earned other culinary awards. “It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch on a drive through this scenic region,” says Quinn. 

17. Therme Erding

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The largest thermal bath complex in Europe, Therme Erding , located just 30 minutes northeast of Munich, draws upwards of 5,000 visitors each day. The giant water slides, wave pool, and lazy river are a hit with kids. Prefer relaxation? There’s also a classic spa and sauna area just for adults. 

18. Titisee-Neustadt

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Nestled within the Black Forest in southwest Germany, Titisee-Neustadt is a local’s getaway on the lakeshore that’s beloved for family fun and access to nature. During the summer, active types love to hit the scenic trails and climb Hochfirst Mountain, while winter means skiing and sledding. Bringing the kiddos? Head to Badeparadies Schwarzwald, an indoor water park with slides, mineral pools, and saunas. 

19. Europa-Park

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Travelers of all ages will have a blast at Europa-Park , a theme park in Rust, Germany with over 100 rides — including 13 thrilling roller coasters — plus a water park, live shows, restaurants, bars, hotels, a camping site, and even a wellness spa. Looking for something unique? The resort area is also home to Eatrenalin , an experience that combines fine dining with theme park technology for a totally immersive meal.

Felix Hörhager/picture alliance via Getty Images

There are plenty of naturally beautiful places to visit in Germany, but few are as stunning as Eibsee. Sitting at the base of the Zugspitze, this pristine lake is filled with crystal-clear water and surrounded by alpine peaks that make it a favorite destination for boating and hiking.

The 27 Best Places to Visit in Germany

Medieval villages, valleys, vineyards, palaces; our guide to Germany's best places to visit.

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Welcome to my guide to the best places to visit in Germany, drawn from a great many visits to the country going back four decades.

Germany is an astounding country, one I can never let go of and which will never let go of me either. Its cultural wealth never ceases to surprise me.

It has everything from the chocolate box villages of the Black Forest and Rhineland to the cutting edge of Berlin. And then there are its landscapes, from the lush Mosel to the snowy beauty of the Bavarian Alps in the far south.

I’ve been extraordinarily fortunate to have been visiting Germany for 40 years, including many visits to my best friend from my university days who is from Hamburg.

We have also made numerous trips across the border from our base in Prague over the last few years.

So I hope you enjoy my guide to the best places to visit in Germany and that it gives you lots of inspiration.

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In Germany: Our Top 25 Picks

1. berlin   .

Germany’s capital Berlin is one of the great cities of Europe.  It’s gritty rather than pretty, a large urban sprawl that once spanned East and West. The former Prussian capital has a few grand buildings and landmarks like the iconic Brandenburg Gate, but above all Berlin was shaped by the 20 th century and two of its three main conflicts.  

The result is one of the most compelling cities in Europe, indeed the planet. It’s bursting with creativity, with flourishing arts, outstanding museums, and nightlife. You’ll also discover superb architecture, from the Jewish Museum to its World Heritage-listed Modernist housing estates.  

Above all, it’s one of the best places in Europe to visit for anyone with an interest in 20th-century history and the Cold War.  The Berlin Wall is the obvious place to begin, but several excellent museums also show what life was like for the millions living behind it.   

Berlin is also one of the best places in the world to enjoy Turkish food! We often stick to Turkish food there, as it’s some of the best we have eaten outside Turkey.  

Don’t miss – Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall and East Side Gallery, Museum Island, Holocaust Memorial, the Reichstag, The Topography of Terror, the Jewish Museum, Checkpoint Charlie Museum, DDR Museum, the Stasi Museum, the Berlin Spy Museum 

Nice to see – Kulturforum, East Side Gallery, Schloss Charlottenburg, Berliner Dom, Glienicke Bridge (Bridge of Spies), Gendarmenmarkt, The Topography of Terror, Hohenschönhausen Memorial, Olympiastadion 

Best neighbourhoods to explore – Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, Tiergarten 

How many days – 3-4 days minimum 

Best day trip – Potsdam, Havelland, Spreewald and Sachsenhausen  

See also : Berlin Landmarks and Photographing Berlin

2. Neuschwanstein Castle and Füssen  

The fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most recognisable symbols of Germany. ‘Mad’ (extravagant is a much kinder word) King Ludwig decided to build the Castle in 1869 in the foothills of the Alps. It was an enormous undertaking which, sadly, wasn’t completed when he died in 1886. 

Unsurprisingly it’s on many people’s Germany bucket list. It’s one of the most lavish historicist (medieval influenced) castles of the 19 th century, and its location surrounded by forests and mountains is nothing short of astounding.  

Don’t Miss: The interior, which can only be visited on a guided tour.  

Nice to see:   Nearby Hohenschwangau Castle and the pretty town of Füssen  

Good to know: Unfortunately they don’t let you take photos inside.

How Many Days : One 

Day trips: Oberammergau village 

3. Potsdam  

Potsdam is the most popular day trip from Berlin, an easy one-hour trip on the S7 train from the centre.   The small city is the former Prussian royal seat, and its World Heritage-listed Baroque parks, gardens, and palaces are spread out over a large area.

The city centre is also full of stunning buildings, from a mosque-inspired pumping station to one of Karl Friedrich Schinkel’s finest churches.  You could comfortably visit Potsdam’s main attraction, spectacular Sanssouci Park, in a day. But you may find yourself wishing you had a little longer.   

Don’t Miss : Sans Souci Park and Palace, including Neues Palais and Chinese House; Nikolaikirche; Dutch Quarter; Brandenburg Gate; Schloss Cecilienhof 

Nice to see: Museum B arberini, Alexandrowka Russian Colony, Filmmuseum Babelsberg, Lindenstrasse Memorial, and the ‘Mosque’ Pumping Station 

How Much Time Do You Need: Most visitors only spare one day, but you could easily spend three days in Potsdam. 

Best time to visit Potsdam: You can visit Potsdam throughout the year. We’ve been in May and October, both of which were ideal. 

4. Munich   

The Bavarian capital Munich is one of Europe’s great cities, and one of the more traditional of the major German cities.  It’s a city with many layers of history to uncover. The Wittelsbachs ruled the city and Bavaria for 800 years, leaving a vast legacy from Gothic churches to the Rococo Residenz Palace. Many of the main sights are within a short walk of the Marienplatz.   

Munich is also the city of the Oktoberfest beer festival, with traditional lederhosen costumes and all. At the other end of the scale, it’s a technical powerhouse, as the Deutsches Museum and BMW Museum demonstrate.  

Munich makes an outstanding base for day trips across  Bavaria and into Austria.  

Don’t Miss – Marienplatz, the view from St Peter’s Church Tower; The Residenz, Hofbräuhaus; Oktoberfest; English Garden; Frauenkirche; Deutsches Museum; Nymphenburg Palace 

Nice to see – BMW Museum, Olympic Stadium, Tower and Park; Lake Starnburg; Bavarian State Opera; White Rose Memorial; Teddy Bear Museum; Glockenspiel; Museum for Unusual Collections.  

How many days – a few days and use it as a base to see some of the most beautiful places in Southern Germany. 

Best day trips – Dachau Concentration Camp, Landshut, Fussen, Nuremberg, Lake Eibsee, Salzburg, Regensburg, Augsburg 

5. Rothenburg ob Der Tauber and the Romantic Road   

For many visitors, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, in northern Bavaria, IS Germany. The Plönlein, the junction of two medieval streets with a crooked yellow house, shouts,’’ GERMANY’’ louder than any other image of the country, so it’s top of many people’s lists of places to visit in Germany.   

Much of Rothenburg is like this, full of fairytale medieval architecture, with half-timbered houses, fortified town walls, brick-gabled townhouses, essentially the whole works.   

Rothenburg is one of the main stops on the Romantic Road, which runs north to south from Nuremberg to the Alps. It passes through many more small historic towns and villages, including Dinkelsbühl, an hour to the south.    

Don’t Miss – Plönlein, Town Wall Walk, Town Hall Tower, Marktplatz, Night Watch Man Tour, Jakobskirche 

Nice to see – Double Bridge, German Christmas Museum, Middle Ages Criminal Museum  

How many days – Two 

Best day trips – Nuremberg, Schwäbisch Hall, Würzburg, Dinkelsbühl 

6. Dresden  

Dresden is one of Germany’s culturally richest and architecturally most beautiful cities. Its skyline of Baroque towers and spires was long considered one of the finest in Europe, and it held some of the outstanding art collections on the continent.    

In February 1945 the city was destroyed by an intensive Allied bombing raid and ensuing firestorm. Everything was painstakingly rebuilt, culminating in the completion of the iconic Frauenkirche church in 2005.  

Dresden is a little off the beaten path for English-speaking tourists, but one of the most rewarding cities in Germany to visit.  There are a whole host of places to visit nearby, in eastern Saxony and around the Czech border, so it’s somewhere you could easily linger for a while. 

Don’t Miss – Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, Residenzschloss, Albertinum Gallery, Brühlsche Terrasse, Grünes Gewolbe, and a paddle steamer trip from the old town to Pillnitz Palace  And climb the tower of the Kreuzkirche, another of the Baroque churches in Dresden , for exceptional views of the city.

Nice to see – The Grosser Garten, Schloss Moritzburg, Military History Museum, German Hygiene Museum, Neustadt, Dresden Zoo, and a show at Semperoper one of Germany’s most famous opera houses. The Stasi Museum Dresden is also one of the best in the former East Germany.  

How many days – three days is enough to see the city – you’ll need more time to see the attractions nearby. 

Best day trips – Pirna (don’t miss the DDR museum), Meissen, Radebeul, Bautzen , Bad Schandau, the Bastei Bridge , Saxon Switzerland, Leipzig, Chemnitz, Freiberg.  You can also get to Prague in 2 ½ hours by bus or train.  

7. Cologne (Köln)  

Cologne is one of the ‘big four’ cities of Germany (along with Berlin, Munich and Hamburg). It’s on the doorstep of the Ruhr industrial area but has long been a city with a strong reputation in the arts and media. 

The city is over 2,000 years old and was an important Roman centre second only to Trier. It’s best known for its astonishing Gothic cathedral, which took over 600 years to build, and has twelve superb Romanesque churches, all of which precede it. 

Cologne is also home to one of the best Christmas markets in Germany, and the best Lent Carnival celebrations in the country. The city lets its hair down on Rosenmontag, the Monday before Ash Wednesday, and the beginning of Lent, with a parade through the centre.  

Don’t Miss Cologne Cathedral and the Shrine of the Three Kings; Gross St Martin Church; Römisch-Germanisches Museum; St Gereon’s Church; Köln-Triangle Panorama; Kolumba   

Nice To See: St Ursula’s Church and the other Romanesque churches in the city; Schnütgen Museum; Käthe-Kollwitz Museum; Museum Ludwig 

How Many Days – two to three days ideally 

Best Day Trips – Bonn, Düsseldorf, Brühl, Aachen, Monschau 

8. Rhine Valley   

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley, between Rüdesheim and Koblenz, is one of Europe’s most famous and beautiful landscapes.   For 40 miles (65 km) the Rhine winds its way through a steep-sided gorge. Medieval half-timbered villages, forests, hilltop castles and vertiginous vineyards complete the scene.  

A few myths and legends along the way helped it become one of the focal points of the early 19 th century Romantic Revival, its castles restored, making the Rhine Gorge one of the most popular early European tourist destinations. 

Sit back with a glass of local Riesling and take a boat cruise along the river, or perhaps hike to some of the amazing viewpoints in the hills above.  

Don’t Miss – Rüdesheim, Bacharach , Boppard, Oberwesel , Braubach , and Marksburg Castle ; St Goar , the Loreley Cliff, and Rheinfels Castle; Pfalzgrafenstein Castle ; at least one Rhine River cruise and plenty of local wine. 

Nice to see – Kaub, Koblenz, Bingen, Lahnstein and the ‘Feuding Brothers’ Castles near Kamp-Bornhofen 

How many days – 3 or 4 minimum – a week if you want to take things slowly 

Best day trips – Cologne, Limburg an der Lahn 

9. Mosel Valley   

The Mosel Valley isn’t as renowned as its neighbour the Rhine, but it’s a beautiful part of Germany and every bit as worthy of your time. 

It has many similar elements to the Rhine Valley. There are many small half-timbered villages, most surrounded by steep vineyards and overlooked by a ruined medieval castle. Yet the landscape is more open and spacious than the Rhine Gorge, with breathtaking views at every bend of the river. 

The Mosel is a wonderful place to slow down, with great walks, easy riverside cycling, and scenic boat trips. If you take time to enjoy the excellent wine, you could easily spend a couple of weeks there. 

Don’t Miss – Cochem , Beilstein , Traben-Trarbach, Bernkastel-Kues, Burg Eltz.  

Nice to see – Ediger-Eller, Zell, Bremm, Alken 

How many days – 3 days  

Day Trips: Trier, Luxembourg, Maria Laach Abbey, Rhine Valley 

10. Hamburg  

Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city. Along with Berlin it has long been one of the most vibrant and progressive cities in the country. 

It’s a great port city, once one of the mainstays of the Hanseatic League, with a worldliness and famously liberal attitudes born out of centuries of being a maritime melting pot. 

Its vast warehouse district, the Speicherstadt (‘Spice City’) bears witness to this, and its port on the River Elbe is a must-see. It’s the third largest in Europe, and has recently been joined by the superb Elbphilarmonie Concert Hall.  It’s also Germany’s musical and theatre capital.  

I’ve always appreciated Hamburg’s progressive side. It has long been strongly supportive of the LGBTQ community, with the St. Georg district full of popular gay bars. An old law from 1999 that made it possible for gay couples to unofficially marry long before the rest of Germany made it legal. 

It’s also renowned for its red-light district around the Reeperbahn. It was in the clubs around there that The Beatles learned their skills which made them the biggest band in the world a few years later. 

Don’t Miss: The Speicherstadt warehouse district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Expressionist Chilehaus building; a tour of or concert in the Elbphilharmonie; St Michaelis Church; Miniatur Wunderland, the largest model railway system in the world; Rathaus (city hall); a harbour boat trip ( hafenrundfahrt ) from St Pauli-Landungsbrücken; Hamburg’s restored oldest street, Deichstrasse;  and follow in the footsteps of the Beatles, who honed their craft in clubs around the infamous Reeperbahn.  

Nice to see – Take a walk along the Elbe River;  Alster lakes and park; St Nicholas Church Memorial; Kunsthalle; U-Boot Museum; International Maritime Museum; Planten und Blomen Park; Cold War Submarine 434;  Övelgonne city beach. 

Best neighborhoods to explore – Shabby and chic St. Pauli, Lively Schanzenviertel brimming with bars and vintage shops, Ottesen former working-class neighbourhood now one of Hamburg’s most popular quarters. St Georg – trendy district and LGBQT hub.  

How many days do you need?   Two days bare minimum. You can see a lot of the sites in a day but we recommend spending two days or more so you can explore the neighbourhoods in Hamburg. For popular sites like the Miniatur Wunderland, you will need to book in advance.  

Best day trips: the riverside village of Blankenese; Ratzeburg; Luneburg Heath in July and August. 

Top tip – If you don’t want to do a boat cruise a cheaper option and very popular with tourists is the HVV ferry No. 62, from Landungsbrücken to Finkenwerder. The single ticket costs €3.60.  

See also: One Day in Hamburg

11. Leipzig   

Leipzig has become one of the hippest cities in Germany in recent years. As rents have risen in Berlin, so many young creative people have moved out, many to Leipzig, which has benefited and become more vibrant. The green, hip vibrant city is often called the next Berlin.

Hugely important in the history of music it was home to Wagner and Bach. Saxony’s coolest city is home to young creatives who have moved from the fast-gentrifying Berlin.   

Leipzig has a hugely important role in music. Johann Sebastian Bach was choirmaster at the Thomaskirche for many years, and Felix Mendelssohn and Richard Wagner were also from the city.   

Leipzig played a massive part in the peaceful revolution which brought down the Berlin Wall and Iron Curtain in 1989.

A monument stands outside the Nikolaikirche, commemorating where it began with Monday evening prayer meetings and, later, candlelit processions. 

Within weeks of the 40th anniversary of the German Democratic Republic’s establishment, the state which spied on its own people was critically undermined 

Don’t Miss – The Old Guildhall of Leipzig and Leipzig Museum of Local History; St Thomas Church (Thomaskirche); St Nicholas Church (Nikolaikirche); Museum in der Runden Ecke (shows how the secret police of the DDR, the Stasi, worked); Auerbachs Keller (a historic restaurant made famous by Goethe who placed some scenes of “Faust” there); Coffe Baum, one of the oldest coffee houses in the world, founded in 1711 

Nice to see – Monument to the Battle of the Nations; Maedler Passage, Porsche factory tour (must book in advance); Grassi Museum  

Best day trips – Colditz, Lutherstadt-Wittenberg, Weimar, Erfurt, Dresden 

12. Görlitz  

Görlitz is one of the hidden gems of Saxony and eastern Germany, one of the few cities in the region to escape wartime destruction. It’s on the Polish border is a hidden gem of Germany.  

It has become more widely known in recent years thanks to having been the location for Wes Anderson’s movie The Gr a nd Bud apest Hotel . The stunning Art Nouveau Kaufhaus (department store) was the setting for this, and is in the process of being refitted for its original purpose, but still open for tours in the meantime. 

This is one of the main draws, but Görlitz has much more. Its architecture – from the 15 th to 19 th centuries – has survived unscathed, from medieval town towers all the way through to the Kaufhaus. 

Its treasures also include the gorgeous Untermarkt, one of the loveliest squares in Germany, with its magnificent Old Town Hall. It has three fine medieval churches and a wealth of discoveries across 500 years of history to be made. 

Don’t Miss – Wandering the streets of the historic old town; Obermarkt (Upper Market), Dreifaltigkeitskirche, (Holy Trinity Church);  Untermarkt (Lower Market) and Old Town Hall; self-guided tour of all the film locations, including the Kaufhaus Department Store; St. Peter and Paul’s church and Sun Organ; Reichenbach Tower for panoramic views of the city.  

Nice to see – Rathaus tower; Barockhaus Museum; cross the old bridge into Poland  

Tip – Cross to the river to Zgorzelec, the Polish part of the town, for a feast at the marvellous Miodmaliny restaurant 

How many days – Two days will give you plenty of time to see the main sights and wander the charming streets 

Best day trips – Bautzen, Zittau, Bad Muskau   

13. Lübeck  

You’ve heard buildings or places being described as a symphony in stone. Well, without a suitable word to alliterate with, the northern German city of Lübeck is a symphony in brick. 

Brick has rarely been so beautiful.   Lübeck was one of the leading lights of the mercantile Hanseatic League, growing mightily wealthy on the back of trade with partner cities as far apart as Bruges, Bergen and Tallinn.  These riches are reflected in its astonishing architecture, from its iconic city gate to its vast churches.  

The city was also home to two giants of German literature, Thomas Mann and Günter Grass. There are museums dedicated to both, well worth seeking out. 

Don’t Miss – Holstentor, Salzspeicher salt warehouses, Rathaus (Town Hall), Petrikirche (St Peter’s Church), Marienkirche, Hanse Museum, St Anne Museum Quarter 

Nice to see – Buddenbrookhaus, Günter Grass Haus 

How many days – two or three 

Best day trips – Travemünde and its superb beaches; Schwerin Castle; Hamburg; Wismar 

14. Wismar, Stralsund and the Baltic Coast  

The Baltic coast of north-east Germany, in the province of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, is relatively unexplored by English-speaking visitors. Which is a pity as it’s one of the most intriguing parts of the country. 

The Baltic is where many Germans go to the seaside.  You’ll find some of the country’s best beaches in the region, and also some of the finest small cities. The Hanseatic League was the region’s trading powerhouse during the Middle ages, and several cities in the area were members.   

These include Wismar, on the western edge, and Stralsund. They both have outstanding brick Gothic architecture, particularly the Rathaus (Town Hall) in Stralsund and Nikolaikirche in Wismar.       

Don’t Miss – Rügen Island, Sellin Beach, Wismar, Stralsund (and its striking waterfront Ozeaneum), Usedom 

Nice to see – Rostock and Warnemünde beach 

How many days – one day for Wismar, two days for Stralsund 

Best day trips – Schwerin Castle 

15. Trier  

Trier is the oldest city in Germany, one of the most important regional capitals of the Roman Empire, ruled over its northern lands. 

Trier has some of the outstanding Roman monuments in Europe and was also the first place in the region to embrace Christianity – its Cathedral is also the oldest in Germany. 

Its Old Town is stunning, with an array of wonderful half-timbered houses from late medieval times. Trier is now a relatively small provincial city in the far west of the country, but it’s well worth the journey off the beaten path to discover it.

It’s very underrated, and also makes an excellent base for forays along the Mosel River or into nearby Luxembourg.      

Don’t Miss – Porta Nigra , Kaiserthermen,  Amphitheatre, Constantine’s Basilica, Rheinisches Landesmuseum, Trier Cathedral ,  Liebfrauenkirche, Marktplatz   

Nice to see – Roscheider Hof Open Air Museum, St Matthias Church, Toy Museum, Karl Marx Museum 

How many days – 2 

Best day trips – It’s an easy short from Luxembourg. Nearby Saarburg is a gorgeous small town with a castle and a waterfall running through the centre.   

Top Tip – Trier has a wonderful Christmas market. 

See also: 26 Best Things to do in Trier

16. Bavarian Alps: Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Zugspitze  

This part of the Bavarian Alps is only a few miles east of Neuschwanstein Castle, but over an hour’s drive away, and longer by bus. It’s one of the most famous parts of Germany and most visited. It also staggeringly beautiful.

The area around Garmisch-Partenkirchen is breathtaking, with clear green alpine lakes, dark forests, roaring waterfalls and stunning peaks including Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze, which you can ascend by train and cable car via Eibsee lake. 

There are also a few man-made treasures to be found here. The small town of Oberammergau – has many gorgeous houses painted with frescoes, and famously, every 10 years stages a Passion play dramatising the last few days of Jesus’ life. 

The nearby town of Mittenwald is another beauty, with more beautifully painted buildings. And if you have time, try to see Linderhof Palace, another of the extravagances of King Ludwig II. 

Don’t Miss – Garmisch-Partenkirchen; Zugspitze train and cable car; Mittenwald; Linderhof Palace; Oberammergau; Partnachklamm gorge; Lake Eibsee 

Nice to see – Walchensee lake, Kirchdorf Wamberg 

How many days – three or four 

Best day trips – Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau Castle, Innsbruck  

17. Berchtesgaden and Lake Königssee

Even in the Bavarian Alps the Berchtesgadener Land stands out. According to one legend some angels accidentally dropped all the wonders of the world there. It’s one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe , around the small magical alpine town of Berchtesgaden, in southern Bavaria about 20 miles south of Salzburg.  

The scenery first: the mountain setting is spectacular, especially Königssee Lake and Watzmann, the second highest peak in Germany. If you’re there on a clear day, it will blow you away. 

Secondly, there’s the Hitler connection. The genocidal dictator was very taken with the scenery, and had a complex built for him at Obersalzberg with one of the best views in the region. He spent much of his time there, so there will always be a taint of his toxic legacy. 

Must See – Königssee Lake, Eagles Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), Salzbergwerk (Salt Mine), St Sebastian Church in Ramsau; Obersalzberg Documentation Centre; Rossfeld Mountain Road 

Nice to see – Hintersee lake 

How many days – three or more, depending on how much hiking you plan to do 

Best day trips – Salzburg is a quick bus trip 

18. Bremen  

Bremen is one of the most underrated cities in Europe , one I’ve long admired having spent a lot of time in Hamburg and this part of northern Germany.  There’s a lot to see, much of it in a small area around the splendid Marktplatz (main square), including the Statue of Roland from 1404 and the World Heritage-listed Town Hall (Rathaus).  

My favourite part of the city is the Schnoorviertel, a former fishermen’s (and red-light) district, its cottages now home to restaurants and boutique shops.   Also check out the red-brick Expressionist architectural wonders of Böttcherstrasse, and the Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum, dedicated to an artist who deserves to be far more widely known than she is. 

Don’t Miss – Marktplatz, Statue of Roland, Musicians of Bremen statue, Rathaus (Town Hall), Schnoor district, St Peter’s Cathedral, Böttcherstrasse, Kunsthalle  

Nice to see – Roselius-Haus Museum, Botanika 

How many days – one or two 

Best day trips – Bremerhaven Emigration Museum, Hamburg, Cuxhaven beaches, Jever, Worpswede, East Frisian Islands 

19. Regensburg  

Regensburg is in a relatively quiet part of Germany, between Nuremberg and Passau in south-east Bavaria. This isolation may well have proved its salvation: it avoided the destruction wrought elsewhere, and is the best-preserved, most beautiful Gothic city in Germany.  

The superb Cathedral is the obvious place to start, with its splendid west front, twin towers and fine medieval stained glass. 

The entire Old Town (Altstadt) is a World Heritage Site, and my advice is to wander as much of it as time allows. It’s wonderfully preserved, and often the best part of visiting somewhere like this is making your own discoveries, spotting a stunning architectural detail to which no guidebook would ever direct you.    

Don’t Miss – Dom St Peter (Regensburg Cathedral, Old Stone Bridge, City view from cross the Danube, Old Chapel, Thurn und Taxis Palace, Goliathhaus  

Nice to see – Museum of Danube Shipping, Regensburg Museum of History 

Best day trips – Landshut; Walhalla Monument; Nuremberg; Sail down the Danube to Passau a beautiful Baroque city  

20. Bamberg  

Bamberg is one of the most beautiful small cities in Europe, a wonderfully preserved city in Northern Franconia whose entire Altstadt (Old Town) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Altstadt. Many start at the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), a stunning building straddling two bridges over the River Regnitz. The most famous view is of the medieval timber-framed part, but the sides of it are decorated with remarkable Baroque-era frescoes. 

The rest of the riverside, including the Little Venice row of houses, is also picturesque, and just up the hill the area around the Cathedral (Dom) is packed with places to see, including the opulent Neue Residenz, once home to the powerful prince-bishops of Bamberg. 

Don’t Miss – Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), Cathedral, Bamberg History Museum, Klein Venedig (Little Venice), Ober Pfarre Church, Neue Residenz, and a glass of the local smoked beer  

Nice to see – Diocesan Museum, St Michael’s Monastery, Brewery Museum 

How many days – two – you should stay at least one night to really appreciate it 

Best day trips – Nuremberg, Bayreuth, Coburg, Pottenstein 

21. Nuremberg  

The former Imperial city of Nuremberg (Nürnberg) is one of the best cities to visit in Germany. The iconic Kaiserburg Castle dominates the Old Town, with its streets of half-timbered houses and soaring church spires. 

Nuremberg is packed with museums, including the house where Albrecht Dürer, a colossus of late medieval art, lived for almost 20 years. It’s full of picturesque streets, three outstanding medieval churches and one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe . 

Nuremberg’s history took a dark turn in the 1930s when it was chosen as the site for the Nazi Party’s infamous propaganda rallies.  The Nuremberg Nazi sites in the city suburbs offer a fascinating insight into the country’s past. 

Add in Nuremberg’s gastronomic gift to the world, the famous bratwurst sausage, and one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and you have one amazing city to discover.     

Don’t Miss – Nuremberg Castle (Kaiserburg), Old Town, Dürer House, Weissgerbergasse, Fembo House Museum, Toy Museum, Nazi Party Rally Grounds, St Sebald’s Church, Frauenkirche, Henkersteg (Hangman’s Bridge), Christmas Market   

Nice to see – DB Museum, Nuremberg Trials Memorial, German National Museum, Art Bunker 

How many days – 2 or 3 

Best things with kids – Toy Museum, Zoo, Playmobil, DB Train Museum 

Best day trips – Bamberg, Regensburg, Bayreuth, Würzburg, Ansbach. Charming town of Lauf an der Pegnitz.

See also: One day in Nuremberg , 2 Days in Nuremberg

22. Black Forest   

The Black Forest (Schwarzwald), in the Baden-Württemberg region of south-western Germany, has long been a hugely popular draw for visitors.  

This is the chocolate-box rural Germany of cuckoo clocks, traditional half-timbered villages, centuries-old farmhouses, flower-laden balconies, lush green valleys, deep dark forests, cows grazing, and enchanting fairy tales.  Not to mention a certain chocolate and cherry cake.  

Freiburg im Breisgau is the main gateway to the Black Forest, and worth at least a day of your time. The region has some great drives, and it’s also worth incorporating some hikes into your itinerary too. 

Don’t Miss – The gorgeous towns of Schiltach, Gengenbach, Haslach, and Calw; the prettiest in the Black Forest;  Triberg Falls and the world’s largest cuckoo clock in Triberg; the Schwarzwaldhochstrase spectacular driving route;  Gutach Black Forest Open-Air Museum; hiking in the Black Forest National Park; Freiburg im Breisgau 

Nice to see – The famous spa town of Baden-Baden, Titisee Lake, Maulbronn Kloster  

How many days – you could easily spend a week or more there. 

23. Quedlinburg  

Quedlinburg is half-timbered heaven, a gorgeous medieval and Renaissance town with around 1,300 half-timbered buildings (Fachwerkhäuser). That’s more than anywhere else in the country. 

There are enough things to do in Quedlinburg to keep you there for at least a couple of days. Begin at the Castle, gradually working your way around the Old Town. There are some exceptional Romanesque churches in Quedlinburg , in a region (Saxony-Anhalt) especially rich in them. 

Quedlinburg is also an excellent base for making your first forays into the Harz Mountains, including on the superb local narrow-gauge railway.   

Don’t Miss – Altstadt (Old Town), Castle, St Servatius Church and Crypt, Steinkeikerturm for the view, Half-Timbered Museum, St Benedikti Church 

Nice To See – Klopstock Museum, St Blaise Church, Lyonel Feininger Gallery 

How many days – two minimum 

Day trips – Wernigerode, Brocken Mountain, Harz Mountains Railway (Selketalbahn branch), St Cyriakus Church in Gernrode 

24. Naumburg Cathedral   

N aumburg Cathedral, in the eastern German region of Saxony- Anhalt, is one of the great German cathedrals. It’s one of six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the region, and a compelling enough reason to go out of your way and include it in your Germany itinerary.   

Much of Naumburg Dom was built on the cusp of the transition between late Romanesque and early Gothic architecture.  

Most of the church, including one of the two sets of twin towers, was built in the earlier period. The choir dates from the first phase of Gothic building, and includes the outstanding series of twelve sculptures of the founders of the Dom. One of these is the remarkably vivid figure of Uta von Ballenstedt, one of the most famous statues in Germany.   

How many days – one 

Best day trips – Leipzig, Halle an der Saale 

25. Saxon Switzerland  

The Saxon Switzerland National Park is an amazing landscape of soaring sandstone rock columns and forests, a continuation of the Bohemian Switzerland and similar ‘rock cities’ further afield across the border in the Czech Republic.  

The river Elbe has helped carve this unique landscape of stunning rock formations, with little canyons, flat-top mountains and picturesque villages like Kurort Rathen. 

Our advice is to combine it with the Bohemian Switzerland over the border. The gateway village of Hřensko is gorgeous, and it’s close to the most popular landmark in the region, the Pravčická Brana rock arch. 

Don’t Miss – Bastei Bridge, Königstein Fortress, Bad Schandau, Kurort Rathen  

Nice to see – Lichtenhainer Waterfall; Kuhstall cave arch and viewpoint; Hřensko  

Best day trips – Dresden, Bautzen, or across the border to the Bohemian Switzerland National Park including Hřensko and Pravčická Brana 

26. Aachen & Aachen Cathedral 

The Dom (Cathedral) of Aachen is one of the greatest churches in the world. Part of it – the Pfalzkapelle, or Palace Chapel – was completed in 800 for Charlemagne, the Frankish king and first Holy Roman Emperor.  

It later became a pilgrimage destination in the 12th century when Charlemagne, who was buried there, was declared a saint. The Cathedral had already acquired other prestigious relics, such as the loincloth worn by Christ when crucified. To see everything, we recommend joining a guided tour. 

The streets around the Cathedral are also worth exploring, and the impressive late Gothic Rathaus also definitely warrants a visit. 

Don’t Miss – Aachen Cathedral, Domschatzkammer (Cathedral Treasury), Rathaus (Town Hall) 

Nice to see – Centre Charlemagne, Suermondt Ludwig Museum, Ludwig Forum  

How many days – One day 

Best day trips – Monschau, Eifel National Park; Valkenburg and Maastricht in the Netherlands 

Top tip – Aachen Christmas market is wonderful 

27. Passau 

Passau, often referred to as the “City of Three Rivers,” is a stunning Bavarian town situated at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. It is also a hugely popular Danube River Cruise stop.  

Passau is in the south-east corner of Germany, close to the Austrian and Czech borders. The city grew rich from trade, much of it in salt from nearby Bohemia, and its wealth is reflected in some of the finest Baroque architecture in this part of Europe.  Much of Passau had to be rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1662.   

Don’t Miss – St Stephen’s Cathedral  (Dom St Stephan), which has the world’s largest organ; the views from Veste Oberhaus, Oberhaussmuseum, Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), Passauer Glasmuseum 

Nice to see – the Danube cycle path, Roman Museum, Heavenly Ladder (32 steps to Mariahilf Monastery  

How many days – Two ideally, but you’d get around the main sights in a single day. 

Best day trips – Linz, Austria is just an hour away by train; Regensburg; and the gorgeous Czech town of Cesky Krumlov is less than two hours’ drive away. 

Best Places To Visit In Germany – Final Words

Germany is an exceptional country to visit, and I’m so fortunate to have been doing so for over 40 years. It has some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe , particularly the Bavarian Alps and Rhine Valley.

Germany also has some of the most compelling cities in Europe. Whether you’re discovering Berlin landmarks or looking up in awe at Cologne Cathedral, there are several lifetimes worth of amazing places to see.

Many of you will be drawn to the half-timbered medieval towns like Rothenburg, Bacharach or Rüdesheim .

And at the other end of the spectrum, there is so much 20th-century history to explore in Germany. The Nuremberg Nazi SItes take you back to one of the darkest times in the century. And places like the Stasi Museum Dresden are a reminder that, for many, the bad times didn’t end there.

And if you’re more curious about the former East Germany, check out my guide to the best places to visit in Eastern Germany .

It’s one of the most fascinating countries in the world to visit. And one of the most rewarding.

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

Discovering Deutschland: The Best Places to Visit in Germany

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If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring grand castles, basking in rich culture and history, or indulging in some of the world’s best beer, Germany is the place to be . With a myriad of breathtaking landscapes, bustling cities, and quaint towns, it’s a place where old-world charm meets modern elegance.

• Germany, Europe’s second most visited country, has a unique blend of historical wonders and modern innovation.
• The country is renowned for iconic sites such as Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
• From the lively atmosphere of Berlin to the romantic landscapes of the Rhine Valley, Germany offers a varied travel experience.

Beholding the Magnificence of Berlin

Berlin, the country’s capital, is a city of rich history and vibrant life. Don’t miss the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall’s remnants, a stark reminder of the city’s turbulent past. Meanwhile, the Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site housing five world-renowned museums. It’s truly a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts.

Bavaria: Castles, Beer, and Beautiful Landscapes

Bavaria is Germany’s picture-perfect region. Here, you’ll find the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, perched atop a rugged hill, overlooking the serene Hohenschwangau valley. Bavaria is also home to Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival. A journey along the Romantic Road is a must-do, showcasing medieval towns and pristine countryside.

The Romantic Rhine Valley

The Rhine Valley, with its steep vineyards, ancient castles, and charming towns, is postcard-perfect. A river cruise on the Rhine is the best way to soak in the beauty of this region. Don’t forget to sample the local Riesling wine!

Heidelberg: A Blend of Romance and Academia

Heidelberg is a quintessential university town, renowned for its baroque architecture and romantic setting. The Heidelberg Castle, overlooking the Old Town and the Neckar River, is a sight to behold. Wander around the Old Town, with its narrow lanes and historic buildings, for a leisurely day.

Maritime Charm of Hamburg

Hamburg, Germany’s gateway to the world, is a city of canals, bridges, and elaborate buildings. The Elbphilharmonie, a stunning concert hall, and the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district are among the must-see sites in the city.

Germany, with its mesmerizing blend of old and new, is sure to leave you enchanted. As American travel writer Rick Steves says, “”Germany is a beautiful combination of deep history and modern innovation, offering visitors a chance to explore ancient castles, picturesque villages , and bustling cities.”” Pack your bags, and let Germany weave its magic on you!

Black Forest: Germany’s Enchanted Woodland

For nature enthusiasts, the Black Forest is a paradise. The region offers some of the best hiking trails in Germany, winding through dark fir forests, serene lakes, and charming villages. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Triberg Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in Germany, or the quaint town of Baden-Baden, famous for its thermal spas.

Leipzig: City of Music and Art

Leipzig, often known as ‘the new Berlin’, is a buzzing city with a thriving arts scene. It’s famed for its musical heritage – as the city where Johann Sebastian Bach spent a large part of his life and where Felix Mendelssohn established Germany’s first musical conservatoire. The city is also home to Spinnerei, a former cotton mill turned art hub, where artists create, exhibit, and sell their works.

Nuremberg: Stepping Back in Time

Nuremberg, a city steeped in history, offers a fascinating glimpse into Germany’s past. Visit the Nuremberg Castle, a symbol of the city, and explore the Old Town with its half-timbered houses and gothic churches. The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a museum on the site of former Nazi party rallies, provides insight into one of the darkest times in human history.

Frankfurt: The Manhattan of Germany

Frankfurt, known for its impressive skyline, is a bustling metropolis with a lot to offer. The city is the financial heart of Germany, hosting the European Central Bank. Don’t miss the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden, or the Städel Museum, one of Germany’s preeminent art institutions. And for a taste of traditional Frankfurt, visit the cider taverns in the Sachsenhausen district.

German Cuisine: Beyond Bratwurst and Beer

German cuisine is hearty and diverse, with each region having its specialties. Try bratwurst, a type of German sausage, or pretzels in Bavaria, Sauerbraten (pot roast) in Rhineland, and fresh seafood dishes in the northern regions. Don’t forget to taste German beer and wine – with over 1,300 breweries and vineyards along the Mosel and Rhine river, there’s plenty to sample!

Kevin Erickson, your experienced travel guide , hopes that this journey through the captivating landscapes, historic landmarks, and unique culture of Germany inspires you to pack your bags and explore the country yourself. Remember, the best travel experiences often come from veering off the beaten path and making your unique journey.

What is the best time to visit Germany?

Germany can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on your activities. For sightseeing and city tours, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal, while winter is perfect for Christmas markets and skiing.

What are some must-try foods in Germany?

Bratwurst, pretzels, Sauerbraten, and currywurst are must-try dishes. Don’t miss the local beers and wines, and try a piece of Black Forest Gateau in its place of origin!

Is Germany expensive to visit?

Germany is relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries. Costs can vary depending on the region and the type of travel experience you prefer.

Do I need to know German to travel in Germany?

While it’s always helpful to know a few phrases in the local language, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas in Germany.

What are some local customs I should be aware of?

Germans value punctuality, so be on time for any appointments. When eating, it’s polite to say ‘Guten Appetit’ before starting. Always use formal addresses (‘Sie’ in German) unless invited to use the informal ‘du’.

• German National Tourist Board
• Rick Steves’ Europe
• Official Website of Neuschwanstein Castle

This post is also available in: English

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Germany

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 26, 2022

History, culture, and natural beauty perhaps best describe the essence of vacationing in Germany. With its many historic cities and quaint small towns, along with an abundance of forests and mountains, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing unique places to visit in this beautiful part of Europe.

Those wanting to sightsee or experience the arts should head to the larger metropolitan areas such as Munich, Frankfurt, or Hamburg. For those looking for recreational activities, consider a visit to places such as the majestic Bavarian Alps, the Black Forest, or the Rhine Valley.

Lovely old cathedrals and grand palaces are everywhere. And in the smaller towns and villages, some boasting still-intact original medieval Old Towns (Altstadt), many centuries-old traditions are still practiced, including traditional Christmas markets, festivals, and fairs.

At the cultural heart of Germany is the capital, Berlin. Home to many fine museums and galleries, this vibrant city makes for a great base from which to explore the many other delights the country has to offer. And for nature lovers, there's a whole world of possibilities in Germany's great outdoors.

For ideas and recommendations to help plan your travels, be sure to read our list of the top tourist attractions in Germany.

1. Berlin's Brandenburg Gate

2. cologne cathedral (kölner dom), 3. the black forest, baden-württemberg, 4. the ultimate fairy-tale castle: schloss neuschwanstein, bavaria, 5. miniatur wunderland and the historic port of hamburg, 6. the rhine valley, 7. berlin's museum island, 8. munich's marienplatz, 9. bamberg and the bürgerstadt, bavaria, 10. zugspitze massif, bavaria, 11. the island of rügen, mecklenburg—western pomerania, 12. königssee (king's lake), bavaria, 13. rothenburg ob der tauber, bavaria, 14. sanssouci park and palace, potsdam, 15. insel mainau: the flower island of lake constance, 16. the berlin wall, 17. reichstag building, berlin, 18. the old town (altstadt) in nuremberg, 19. dresden frauenkirche, 20. frankfurt's main tower.

Modeled on the Acropolis in Athens and built for King Frederick William II in 1791, the monumental sandstone Brandenburg Gate in Berlin's Mitte district was the city's first Neoclassical structure. It measures an impressive 26 meters in height, which includes the Quadriga , the spectacular four-horse chariot carrying the goddess of victory perched atop this spectacular building.

Its six huge columns on each side of the structure form five impressive passages: four were used by regular traffic, while the center was reserved for the royal carriages. Huge Doric columns also decorate the two buildings at each side of the Gate, once used by toll-collectors and guards.

Undoubtedly Berlin's most iconic structure, it's hard to believe that the majestic structure you see today was severely damaged during WWII. It was also once part of the infamous Berlin Wall and, for a few decades, was symbolic of the division of Berlin into East and West.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Berlin

The towering Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Mary, is located on the banks of the Rhine and is undoubtedly Cologne's most impressive landmark. This masterpiece of High Gothic architecture is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Construction on this most ambitious building project of the Middle Ages started in 1248 and reportedly took over 600 years to complete.

As imposing as its façade, the cathedral's magnificent interior covers an area of 6,166 square meters and boasts 56 huge pillars. Above the high altar is the Reliquary of the Three Kings, a 12th-century work of art in gold that was designed by Nicholas of Verdun to house the relics of the Three Kings brought here from Milan.

Other highlights include the panoramic views from the South Towers , the 12th- and 13th-century stained glass in the Three Kings Chapel , and the Treasury with its many precious objects, all of which survived largely intact after WWII. For some of the best vistas over the city and river, climb the 533 steps to the viewing platform in the South Tower. A small entrance fee is required.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Cologne

The beautiful Black Forest with its dark, densely-wooded hills is one of the most visited upland regions in all of Europe. Situated in the southwestern corner of Germany and extending 160 kilometers from Pforzheim in the north to Waldshut on the High Rhine in the south, it's a hiker's heaven.

On the west side, the Black Forest descends steeply to the Rhine, crossed by lush valleys, while on the east, it slopes more gently down to the upper Neckar and Danube valleys. Popular spots include Germany's oldest ski area at Todtnau, the magnificent spa facilities of Baden-Baden , and the attractive resort of Bad Liebenzell.

Other highlights include the spectacular Black Forest Railway . It's centered on Triberg with its famous falls, and Triberg itself, home to the Black Forest Open Air Museum .

The best way to catch them all? Grab a map of the Black Forest Panoramic Route, a 70-kilometer driving tour that takes in the very best views over the region, along with its top historic attractions, including stunning castles and numerous medieval towns and villages.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in the Black Forest

The quaint old town of Füssen , situated between the Ammergau and Allgäu Alps and a popular alpine resort and winter sports center, is a good base from which to explore nearby Neuschwanstein Castle. This spectacular old fortress is widely recognized as one of Europe's most famous and picturesque royal castles.

King Ludwig II of Bavaria built this many-towered and battlement-covered fantasy fortress, famous as the inspiration for Walt Disney's iconic theme park castles, from 1869-86. A variety of tour options are offered, including guided tours of the sumptuous interior taking in the Throne Room, the Singers' Hall – and some of the country's most spectacular views.

Official site: www.neuschwanstein.de/englisch/tourist/index.htm

In the heart of the historic Port of Hamburg, the magnificent Miniatur Wunderland , the world's largest model railway, is an attraction that appeals equally to young and old alike. Boasting more than 9.5 miles of model railway track, this massive scale model includes sections dedicated to the USA, England, Scandinavia, as well as Hamburg. It also incorporates around 1,300 trains, more than 50,000 microscopic lights, and in excess of 400,000 human figures.

It's not unheard of for guests to spend many hours exploring this fascinating world, with its remarkably detailed miniature airports, complete with planes that actually take off, as well as crowded cities, quaint rural scenes, and bustling harbors. For a memorable experience, book one of the behind-the-scenes tours, an especially fun thing to do at night.

Speaking of harbors, be sure to explore the vast Port of Hamburg while you're here. Covering 100 square kilometers, this huge tidal harbor is home to one of the world's largest cruise ship terminals, and is known as the Gateway to Germany. To make the most of your visit, note that the harbor is best explored by tour boat.

Afterwards, visit the harborside promenade , a lovely pedestrian route, and the Warehouse District . This historic district is famous for its continuous lines of tall brick-built warehouses.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Hamburg & Easy Day Trips

The Rhine is not only Europe's most important waterway, it's also the most beautiful. With a total length of 1,320 kilometers, this magnificent river stretches from Switzerland through Germany all the way to The Netherlands.

While there are many places in Germany to enjoy this majestic river, the lovely Upper Middle Rhine Valley section, designated a UNESCO World heritage Site, is probably the most popular spot for tourists to visit. Here, this often dramatic 65-kilometer stretch of river boasts more than 40 castles and some 60 picturesque medieval towns all just waiting to be explored either by river cruise or by car.

Looking for a great place to begin your Rhine Valley adventure? The historic town of Bingen , where the river cuts through a deep gorge before entering the Bacharach valley, is a good place to start.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Rhine Valley

Berlin's world-famous Museumsinsel, or Museum Island, lies between the River Spree and the Kupfergraben, a 400-meter-long canal off the river. This excellent attraction includes many of the city's oldest and most important museums.

The heart of this pedestrian-friendly district is the Old Museum . Constructed in 1830, it was designed specifically to exhibit the royal treasures. Soon after, the land behind the museum was set aside for art and the "knowledge of antiquity."

Between 1843-55 the New Museum took shape, and the National Gallery was added in 1876, along with the Bode Museum , built in 1904 and home to collections of antiquities. Another highlight of a walking tour of these spectacular points of interest is the Pergamon with its recreated historic buildings from the Middle East.

But be warned: there's so much to see among these amazing museums that you can't possibly cram it all into a single day.

Germany's third biggest city, Munich (or München in German) has plenty to offer the adventurous traveller. The capital city of the state of Bavaria can trace its roots all the way back to the 12th century when a monastery was established here, and quickly grew into the region's most important place of trade and commerce.

Central to this rise was Marienplatz , the large square where traders from across Bavaria would meet to conduct business, and where locals would congregate to shop and watch medieval jousting tournaments. These days, this vast square still draws crowds of people, but for different reasons: they're here for sightseeing or possibly to enjoy a visit to one of square's trendy cafés and restaurants, or to shop in its unique boutique stores.

The points of interest for tourists are plentiful. Here, you'll find both the "new" and "old" town halls, the Neues Rathaus and Altes Rathaus, where much of the city's history was written. Both are attractive and worth a visit. Other landmarks include the tall monument to the Virgin Mary, the Mariensäule built in 1638, as well as the elegant Fischbrunnen , a 19th-century fountain with its bronze figures.

For a truly memorable experience, why not consider a visit in winter? If so, you'll be rewarded with the chance see the Marienplatz come alive with a spectacular display of lights and ornaments during the annual Christmas Market . Other winter festivals are held here, too, including the ancient, month-long Fasching carnival. Held each January to February locals and visitors alike partake in fun dances and events that have been held here for centuries.

Visit Marienplatz at any time of year and you'll still have fun. From March through to October you can witness the Neues Rathaus' famous glockenspiel perform its merry dance, its mechanical figures thrilling viewers thrice daily in a performance that has been enjoyed since 1908.

Location: Marienplatz, 80331 München, Germany

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Munich

Located in the valley of the Regnitz, where the river divides into two arms, sits Bamberg. This old imperial city is the most important town in Upper Franconia, and is one of the best preserved of Germany's many charming old towns. It's also one of the best to explore on foot.

Your walking tour should begin in its old episcopal quarter, home to the 13th-century cathedral and the old Benedictine abbey of Michaelsberg . It's between the two river branches that you'll find spectacular Bürgerstadt , a small borough of Bamberg that contains the Grüner Markt , an excellent pedestrian zone which is home to the 17th-century Baroque church of St. Martin .

To the north is the New Town Hall , or Neues Rathaus, built in 1736. But perhaps the town's most important structure is the Old Town Hall , built on top of the Obere Brücke (Upper Bridge).

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Bamberg

Part of the Wetterstein mountain range, the Zugspitze massif straddles the frontier between Germany and Austria and is surrounded by steep valleys. The eastern summit, at 2,962 meters, is crowned by a gilded cross and can be reached by the Bayerische Zugspitzbahn , a cog railway, or by cable car.

Another great way to enjoy this area of outstanding natural beauty is aboard the Tiroler Zugspitzbahn , a railway that runs to the Zugspitzkamm station at 2,805 meters. From here, the journey can be continued via a cable car to Zugspitz-Westgipfel Station at 2,950 meters. Be sure to sample a meal at the excellent panoramic restaurant located here.

A highlight of the journey is the chance to walk through an 800-meter-long tunnel, complete with viewing windows, to the Schneefernerhaus station at the top of the Bavarian cog railroad. From here, you can ascend the eastern summit with its viewing platforms. And thanks to the many ski resorts located nearby, Zugspitze is a wonderful German destination to visit in winter.

Rügen is the largest and most beautiful of the German Baltic islands. Separated from the rest of Germany by the Strelasund, it's linked to the mainland town of Stralsund by a causeway. The island's beauty stems from its diversity of landscape, including everything from flat farmland and forest-covered hills to expansive sandy beaches, lagoons, and lovely peninsulas.

A fun thing to do here, especially for outdoor enthusiasts, is to pay a visit to the Jasmund Peninsula , which in places reaches heights of 161 meters. Here, you'll find Jasmund National Park, popular among nature lovers for its abundance of wildlife, with notable species found here, including rare white-tailed eagles.

Another draw are the island's beautiful Stubnitz beech forests, part of Königsstuhl National Park. One of the most dramatic parts of the island's scenery can be enjoyed where these dense old forests come to a dramatic end on the Königsstuhl (King's Chair), a sheer chalk cliff plunges down to the sea from a height of 117 meters.

There's also a great visitor center here, which offers plenty of valuable information regarding all aspects of the island. Another must see is the little old resort town of Putbus , seat of the Princes of Putbus and with numerous Neoclassical buildings and parks.

The lovely Bavarian lake of Königssee is one of the great beauty spots of the region of Germany referred to as Berchtesgadener Land. Also known as the King's Lake, this area near Salzburg is a hiking and biking paradise thanks to its vast network of trails.

One of the most popular things to do is follow the attractive footpath located along the east side of the Königssee to the Malerwinkel. Also known as Painters' Corner, it's notable for its superb views over the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Another equally attractive sightseeing option is taking a boat trip to the 17th-century Pilgrimage Chapel of St. Bartholomew , at the south end of the lake, and to walk from here to the Obersee. Berchtesgaden , at the end of the Deutsche Alpenstrasse, is perhaps the best-known tourist town and one of the most popular mountain resorts in the Bavarian Alps.

Also of note here is Berchtesgaden National Park. This place of outstanding natural beauty has, since 1990, been designated a UNESCO Word Heritage Site.

The old Franconian imperial city of Rothenburg is one of the most attractive places to visit on Germany's famous Romantic Road tourist route. Located on the steep banks of the picturesque River Tauber, it's notable for its walls and towers, untouched since the Thirty Years War of 1618.

This completely preserved, picture-perfect medieval town offers endless charm. One of the most popular things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to join a walking tour. For those who prefer to be their own guide, get started by picking up a map from one of the tourism offices located in the town.

There are no end of opportunities to explore, with individual buildings of note including the imposing 13th-century Town Hall (Rathaus) and the wonderful Ratstrinkstube , or Council Tavern, built in 1466 with its interesting clock. Also worth seeing is St.-Georgs-Brunnen fountain , built in 1608 near the end of Herrngasse; St. James's Church , with its fine high altar dating from 1466; and the Imperial City Museum .

Simply walking the old streets past these beautiful buildings is a timeless experience, especially if it involves the Plönlein , one of the town's most picturesque spots. And after all that adventure, end your visit at one of the many fine restaurants dotted around the town.

If traveling in winter, be sure to include a stop here for the traditional Christmas Market, which draws crowds from across the country and even further afield.

Spectacular Sanssouci Park, laid out between 1744 and 1756, is considered the most celebrated example of Potsdam Rococo. Reflecting the personal influence of Frederick the Great, the park includes a lovely Baroque flower garden, more than 3,000 fruit trees, and numerous greenhouses. It's a pleasure strolling around this huge park, especially the straight-as-an-arrow, two-and-a-half-kilometer-long avenue, shielded on each side by trimmed hedges, perfect lawns, and gorgeous gardens.

A number of park buildings are worth exploring, too, in particular the Picture Gallery with its many works of art. Other must-sees here include the exquisite Chinese House , an extremely elaborate garden pavilion, and the wonderful Roman Baths complex.

Sanssouci Palace itself, a single-story Rococo building with an elliptical dome in the center and a circular room at each end, is notable for its spectacular interior decor. This is especially evident in its large oval Marble Hall and sumptuous apartments.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Potsdam

Insel Mainau, the spectacular Flower Island on beautiful Lake Constance, covers an area of 110 acres and attracts many visitors to its beautiful parks and gardens, luxuriant with semitropical and tropical vegetation.

Access to the island is by boat, or via a pedestrian bridge connecting it to the mainland, so be sure to allow a little extra travel time in addition to the two or more hours needed to properly explore this stunning property. Ample public parking is available on the mainland, some with electric vehicle charging stations.

Another highlight is the 18th-century Schloss, notable for its lovely White Hall, the old defensive tower, and the gatehouse.

Official site: www.mainau.de/en/welcome.html

While not exactly the most picturesque of places, what's left of the Berlin Wall is one of those attractions that any visitor to Berlin simply must see. Built in 1961, the wall was the most visible manifestation of the Cold War mentality that existed after WWII, and by the time it was torn down in 1990, it extended some 155 kilometers.

Thankfully, all that remains of the wall today are small graffiti-covered sections, stark reminders of the more than 70 people who died trying to escape from the East. Sections of preserved wall include a short stretch at infamous Checkpoint Charlie , as well as a section at Humboldthafen opposite the Reichstag Building on which the victims of the wall are listed.

Also of note is the excellent Berlin Wall Exhibition , with its permanent exhibits relating to the Berlin Wall, and the Berlin Wall Memorial .

The seat of Germany's government, the Reichstag (Reichstagsgebäude) is once again one of Berlin's most-visited attractions. Constructed in 1894 in Neo-Renaissance style, it infamously burned down in 1933 and remained in ruins until after German reunification, when it was rebuilt in its former glory.

One change that was made was to the building's massive Kuppel, its central dome. Instead of a traditional wood or metal dome, a decision was made to use glass, transforming the space into a major tourist attraction in the process.

From here, visitors can enjoy great city views, which are even more dramatic at night. If planning to enjoy the view in the evening, try to catch a spectacular sunset from the on-site Rooftop Restaurant. The Reichstag also makes for a stunning backdrop for summer concerts and light shows. English language guided tours are also available.

Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011, Berlin, Germany

Official site: www.bundestag.de/en/visittheBundestag

The historic city of Nuremberg (Nürnberg) has long held a reputation as one of Germany's most important, and oldest, cultural, spiritual, and commercial centers. If visiting, you'll want to spend the bulk of your time exploring the city's "Altstadt," or Old Town area.

Although largely destroyed during WWII, the medieval structures were painstakingly rebuilt and look today much as they would when originally constructed. Ringed by five kilometers of city walls, the Altstadt is wonderful to explore on foot, especially if you're able to take the time and let your curiosity lead you.

Highlights include Nuremberg Castle, an imposing medieval stronghold built in the 11th century, which dominates the Old Town. Most impressive are its old towers, the oldest of which, the Pentagonal Tower, was constructed in 1040, and the 13th-century royal quarters.

Other notable features of the Old Town you'll come across include the Hauptmarkt, a centuries-old market square popular for its exquisite old fountain. Also located here are the original town hall, built in the early 1600s, and numerous old merchants' homes.

The city of Dresden is home to another remarkable story of reconstruction after the destruction of WWII. Here, in the old city center, you'll find the elegant Frauenkirche, a magnificent church that was, when built in 1743, considered one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in all of Europe.

Looking at it today, it's hard to believe that the church was completely destroyed during the war. But thanks to the hard work and diligence of local city folk, what remained was carefully catalogued and stored until reconstruction began after German reunification.

The fully restored interior is equally impressive, with a particular highlight being the rebuilt high alter, which looks today exactly as it did when the church was originally built. Be sure to also take the opportunity to visit the church dome for its superb city views. Check the attraction's website for details of upcoming concerts and events, as well as for its regular service schedule (visitors are always welcome).

Address: Georg-Treu-Platz 3, 01067 Dresden, Germany

Official site: www.frauenkirche-dresden.de/home

While Germany is especially well-known for its many magnificent historic structures, the country is also making a name for itself in the world of modern-day architecture. One of the best examples can be found in Frankfurt, a former Imperial City that's fast becoming one of the most important financial centers in Europe.

Now known as "Mainhatten," a nod to both its river setting and the many skyscrapers that now grace its skyline, the city's business district feels distinctly North American. By far the most impressive structure, though, is the architecturally pleasing Main Tower. Standing 240 meters tall and with no less than 56 stories, the tower's observation platforms offer unparalleled views over the city and the Main River.

And if a fear of heights isn't a problem, book a table for an evening meal at the Main Tower Restaurant and Lounge for a spectacular sunset view (reservations recommended). Be sure to check out the boutique shops and artworks on the ground level floors of the tower, too.

Address: Neue Mainzer Str. 52-58, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Official site: www.maintower.de/en/

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27 Top Tourist Attractions in Germany

Germany is a fascinating place to visit. Cities like Berlin, Cologne, Dresden, and Frankfurt ooze culture and history. While the stunning mountains, lakes, valleys, and forests of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Saxony will take your breath away.

Plenty of small towns and villages boast impressive castles and cathedrals that will seduce you with their charm. While the gastronomy and beer in every region will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

For the tourist, Deutschland – as the locals call it – spoils you for choice. In fact you could spend an entire month in the country and still barely scratch the surface of all the things to do in Germany.

Clearly, you won’t be able to see everything during your visit. But after reading our top tourist attractions in Germany, you should have a clearer idea of where you might want to go.

27. Quedlinburg

North of the Harz Mountains National Park is the charming, picturesque town of Quedlinburg. As visitors walk along the cobblestone streets, they will have the opportunity to view over 1,000 half-timbered houses.

Since the town suffered minimal damage during the World Wars, it is one of the few destinations in Germany that retain its quaint, historic style.

It also has an impressive castle ruin, while its main landmark is the St. Servatius Church. Dating back to the 11th century, it is one of the oldest churches in Germany. It is notable for possessing several valuable works of art and the tomb of King Henry I – the first German monarch.

Quedlinburg was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. It also boasts a rich cultural heritage that incorporates several traditional festivals and events. These include the Quedlinburg Festival of Music and the Quedlinburg Christmas Market.

Visitors can also check out the Münzenbergmuseum and sample the local cuisine. Traditional dishes such as ‘Harzer Roller’ and ‘Harzer Käse’ are well worth trying.

26. Speicherstadt in Hamburg

Speicherstadt is a historic warehouse district in Hamburg . It possesses one of the largest collections of brick buildings in the world. It is also defined by an intricate network of canals and its distinctive red brick architecture.

Built-in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these warehouses stored goods such as coffee, spices, and textiles.

In 2015, the Speicherstadt and the nearby Kontorhausviertel became UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This was in recognition of their exceptional representation of early modern architecture and urban planning. It was also a result of their historical significance as a centre of international trade.

Today, Speicherstadt is a vibrant neighbourhood full of museums, restaurants, cafes, and shops. It attracts tourists with its unique architectural style and colourful history. Visitors can take a guided tour of the warehouses and learn about their history and use.

As well as the warehouses, the Miniatur Wunderland resides here. It is the largest model railway in the world and is another popular tourist attraction.

25. Römer in Frankfurt

The Römer is a historic building complex in the city center of Frankfurt. It comprises a row of half-timbered buildings that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

One of the most famous landmarks in the city, The Römer was originally built as a town hall. It was also a residence for Frankfurt’s wealthy merchants. Today, the buildings are used for various purposes. These include a venue for city council meetings, offices for the city administration, and a cultural center.

You can admire the beautiful half-timbered architecture and the intricate carvings and sculptures on their facades. The Römerberg – the square in front of the Römer – is a popular gathering place. It is also the site of many cultural events, such as the annual Christmas market.

As a symbol of Frankfurt’s rich history, The Römer offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. Providing a stunning contrast to the modern skyscrapers and financial institutions for which Frankfurt is also famous.

24. Volkerschlachtdenkmal in Leipzig

Leipzig is a major city in Saxony, and it is also home to one of the largest monument in Europe. The Volkerschlachtdenkmal, or Monument of the Battle of the Nations, was built to remember the Battle of Leipzig in the Napoleonic Wars.

During the battle, more than 100,000 soldiers perished. Although the battle took place in 1813, the monument wasn’t unveiled until 1913. Today, the monument is accompanied by a museum exhibit explaining more about the battle and the Napoleonic wars of the 19th century.

23. Old Town Hall in Bamberg

Bamberg is a historic city in Bavaria , and it is home to a number of fascinating architectural landmarks. None is so interesting or important as the Old Town Hall, or the Altes Rathaus.

Legend says that the city’s bishop wouldn’t allow the residents to build a town hall on existing land, so they decide to construct the building in an unexpected spot. The Altes Rathaus is perched on the middle of a bridge spanning the Regnitz River, and the interior is decorated with remarkable frescoes.

The building was constructed in the late 13th and early 14th centuries with a Gothic façade. It also has a large hall and a striking tower.

Considered to be one of the most beautiful town halls in Germany, tourists can go on a guided tour of the building. During this, you will learn about its architectural and historical significance.

You will also be told some incredible tales, legends, and stories about it. One of which relates to the Bamberg Rider. This is the ghost of a knight who died in a duel and who allegedly still haunts the building.

22. Harz Mountains

One of the highest mountain ranges in Germany is the Harz Range, a region populated by picturesque, traditional homes, snow-covered peaks and peaceful rivers.

The Grimm Brothers, who famously wrote many of the world’s most popular fairy tales, based some of their stories in the Harz Mountains.

With a limited number of tourists, the Harz Mountains are slightly off the beaten track, offering activities like hiking to the summit of Brocken, the tallest peak, or riding an authentic steam train through the mountains and valleys.

21. Aachen Cathedral

Located near the border with Belgium and the Netherlands , the Aachen Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in northern Europe.

Construction on the cathedral began in the eighth century, and the design is a combination of Carolingian and Gothic styles. The cathedral was built by the king Charlemagne, and countless coronations were held there in centuries past.

Visiting today, some of the most fascinating things to see are the incredible bronze Wolf Doors from the ninth century and the golden mosaics in the Palatine Chapel.

Sylt is a stunning North Frisian island located in the North Sea. The largest of the North Frisian Islands, it’s known for its beautiful sandy beaches and wild dunes. However, its main attraction is the Wadden Sea National Park. Sylt is one of the most popular islands, although its northern location means it is not as accessible for travelers as other German tourist attractions.

Sylt boasts endless beaches, not to mention gorgeous sand dunes and traditional lighthouses. A short walk from thatched roof cottages and open fields, you can make a splash at the beach and stay in a contemporary hotel suite. Renting bicycles and tour the island that way is also a popular thing to do in SyIt.

In addition to its natural attractions, Sylt is also known for its traditional architecture. This includes its characteristic red-roofed houses. It also incorporates the ‘Kampen House’ style, found in the village of Kampen.

19. Saxon Switzerland National Park

Not far from the city of Dresden is the Saxon Switzerland National Park, a sprawling park near the scenic Elbe Sandstone Mountains. The park crosses over into the Czech Republic, but the Czech side is known as the Bohemian Switzerland National Park.

The national park is known for its unique sandstone formations, rock towers, and deep valleys. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering opportunities for hiking, climbing, and sightseeing.

The park is named after the country of Switzerland because of its similarities to the Swiss Alps. The sandstone formations in the park developed over millions of years through erosion and weathering. They are now a source of inspiration for artists and photographers.

One of the most popular sights in the park is the Bastei Bridge, a sandstone bridge that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the park’s many trails, including the Malerweg. This scenic course leads through the park and is named after the painters who were inspired by the area’s beauty.

18. Schwerin Castle

Schwerin Castle is a historic palace located in the city of Schwerin. It is one of the most important examples of 19th-century Romantic architecture remaining in Germany.

Located on an island in the city’s lake and surrounded by a beautiful park, it has a rich history that dates back to the 9th century. Over the years, it served as a residence for several dukes and grand dukes of Mecklenburg-Schwerin for many generations.

The present building was constructed in the 19th century and showcases a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its design incorporates towers, turrets, and decorative elements that give the castle its distinctive character.

Schwerin Castle is a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the castle can admire its beautiful architecture. They can also explore its interior and learn about its rich history through exhibits and displays. The castle’s beautiful gardens and parks also provide a tranquil space for visitors to relax.

17. Rugen Cliffs

Located on the Pomeranian coast, within the Baltic Sea, the Rügen Cliffs are a feature of Germany’s largest island.

To get to them, you will have to head to Rügen island in northeast Germany. But once you are there, you should be wowed by its stunning coastal scenery.

It includes high chalk cliffs like The King’s Chair, which has a viewing platform and visitors center that showcases exhibits on Rügen nature.

The cliffs are a popular tourist destination which offers access to pristine sandy beaches, hiking trails, and birdwatching opportunities. It is a part of Jasmund National Park, which is renowned for its primeval beech forests and white-tailed eagles.

The nearby seaside resort Sassnitz features a fascinating museum within the former submarine HMS Otus.

16. Berchtesgaden

Nestled in the southeast part of the country, near the Austrian border, lies Berchtesgaden. Known as one of Bavaria’s most beautiful regions, it features stunning alpine scenery. It is also a haven for those who enjoy winter recreational activities like hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

In addition to these activities, Berchtesgaden is also home to several historic sites. These include Konigsee lake and the Kehlsteinhaus on top of Berchtesgaden. Also known as the ‘Eagle’s Nest’, it was a former mountain the retreat of Hitler. Even after the end of World War II, the structure was saved and now operates as a museum.

Berchtesgaden is also famous for its salt mines. Should you book a tour of them, you will be able to view an operation that has been going on for thousands of years.

15. Reichstag in Berlin

The capital city of Berlin is filled with historic buildings, but one of the most important is the Reichstag.

Although originally dating back to the 19th century, the Reichstag got a major renovation in the 1990s after being severely damaged in WW2. Following the end of the Cold War, Berlin was chosen as the overall capital, and the Reichstag became the official seat of government in Germany.

It now boasts an incredible glass dome that offers views over the city and looks stunning when illuminated at night.

14. Hohenzollern Castle

The neo-Gothic Hohenzollern Castle is perched on a bluff overlooking two small towns at the foothills of the Swabian Alps.

Not far from the town of Hechingen in central Germany, this popular tourist destination is known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. It also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The castle has a rich history. For many years it served as the ancestral seat of the Hohenzollern family, who played a significant role in German history.

It has undergone several renovations and reconstructions over the centuries, and today, visitors can explore its well-preserved interiors. This includes grand halls, bedrooms, and chapels – which will blow you away with their lavish decor and ornate detail.

13. Zugspitze

Zugspitze is the highest mountain in Germany. Located in the Bavarian Alps near the border with Austria, it soars to a height of 2,962 meters (9,718 feet). Its summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Although the peak is a world-renowned spot for serious skiers, a trip to the top is worthwhile whatever the season. From a lake at the base of the mountain, hop aboard the Zahnradbahn, a cogwheel train that heads partway up the mountain. Then, it’s onward on the cable car called the Eibsee-Seilbahn. At the summit, it is possible to view the landscape of four countries at once.

In addition to its scenic beauty, Zugspitze is also home to a research station and several hotels and restaurants. They make it a convenient base to explore the surrounding mountain range.

12. Nuremberg Christmas Market

German Christmas markets are known the world over, and arguably the best of all is found in the Bavarian city of Nuremberg .

The Christkindlesmarkt is held annually in Nuremberg’s old town, and it has been in place since the 17th century.

The market is famous for its traditional atmosphere and festive decorations. It comprises elaborate wooden stalls, lights, and festive music.

Visitors can browse and purchase a wide range of seasonal holiday gifts, including handmade crafts, toys, and seasonal treats. Additionally, the market offers a range of food and drinks, including mulled wine and gingerbread.

The Nuremberg Christmas Market takes place in the weeks leading up to Christmas. It is one of the most popular things to do in Germany and a highlight of the city’s holiday festivities.

11. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

A true storybook village brought to life is Rothenburg ob der Tauber . Straight from the pages of a fairy tale, this Franconian town has a remarkably well preserved medieval center.

Overlooking the Tauber River, many of the churches and residences date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. A highlight of the town is the Market Square, which is flanked on one side by the 13th century Town Hall Tower.

It is also famous for its Christmas market, which is held annually and features traditional stalls selling gifts, food, and drinks.

Visitors can also take guided tours of the town’s impressive fortifications and ramparts. From them, you will also observe stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

10. Black Forest

The Schwarzwald, or Black Forest, can be found in the southwestern corner of the country. The name comes from the thick tree canopy, and the forest is a mecca for those who love beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation.

Hiking, swimming in chilly Alpine lakes and mountain biking are popular things to do, but the Black Forest also has some urban alternatives. Within the forest are several towns and cities. Baden-Baden is a world-famous spa retreat perfect for relaxation, and Freiburg is a bustling university town with amazing cuisine and nightlife.

9. Romantic Rhine

The Romantic Rhine is a picturesque stretch of the river Rhine in western Germany known for its incredible scenery and charming villages.

This section of the river extends from Bingen to Koblenz. It carves its way here through steep vineyard-covered hills topped with countless castles and ruins.

The river has been an important trade route into central Europe since ancient times and a string of small towns has grown up along the banks. Constrained in size, many of these old towns retain a historic feel today.

Additionally, the Romantic Rhine is famous for its scenic boat rides. These offer a fabulous way to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.

8. Frauenkirche in Dresden

The Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) is a Lutheran church in Dresden. It is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and is known for its stunning baroque architecture. Notable features of it include its distinctive dome and towers.

The original church was constructed in the 18th century. On completion, it was heralded as one of Europe’s most impressive religious buildings. However, the church was destroyed during World War II and lay in ruins for decades.

In the 1990s, a major effort was launched to restore the church to its former glory. It was finally re-opened in 2005 after a meticulous rebuilding process.

Today, the Frauenkirche is a symbol of Dresden’s resilience. It is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions , attracting visitors from all over the world.

Lindau is a pretty town in southern Germany. It is situated on an island, on Lake Constance (Bodensee), near the Austrian border.

The city is connected with the mainland by bridge and railway and has about 3,000 inhabitants. Full of medieval and half-timbered buildings, Lindau is quite a popular tourist attraction.

One of its main focal points, its twee harbor features a Bavarian Lion statue, while its stone lighthouse showcases lake and mountain views.

The town is also noted for its Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings. An annual event that brings Nobel Prize winners and young scientists together.

6. Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is an iconic 16-day festival held annually in Munich from late September to the first weekend in October. It is the world’s largest beer festival and attracts millions of visitors from every continent.

The festival features beer tents, traditional German food, music, and rides. It also features other activities like parades and competitions.

Oktoberfest has its roots in the celebration of the marriage of King Ludwig I of Bavaria to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen in 1810. It has since evolved into a world-class international event.

Many visitors wear traditional German attire to enter into the spirit of things. For men, this involves dressing in lederhosen. For women, it requires putting on dirndls. All of which add to the festive atmosphere.

See also: Where to Stay in Munich

5. Cologne Cathedral

Easily the greatest Gothic cathedral in Germany, Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) has been Cologne’s most famous landmark for centuries. It is one of the largest and most famous structures of its kind in Europe. The cathedral was built over the 12th and 13th centuries. But its construction was interrupted and not completed until the late 19th century.

It is known for its twin spires, visible from much of the city. It is also noted for its elaborate stained glass windows, which date from the 14th to the 20th century.

The cathedral houses many important works of art. One of which is the Shrine of the Three Kings. This is said to contain the bones of the Three Wise Men, which goes a long way to explaining why it is such a popular attraction.

4. Holstentor in Lübeck

Holstentor is a historic city gate in Lübeck. It was built in the late 15th century and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

The gate is considered a masterpiece of brick Gothic architecture. It is now a museum showcasing the history of Lübeck and the Hanseatic League.

Completed in 1464, this stunning Gothic building is part of Lübeck’s medieval city fortifications. It is one of a couple of city gates you can visit – the other being the Citadel Gate.

Because of its two captivating round towers and arched entrance it is regarded as a symbol of Lübeck . Together with the old city center (Altstadt) of Lübeck it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Germany.

3. Heidelberg Old City

Located in the Neckar river valley, Heidelberg is one Germany’s most popular tourist destinations. During WWII, the city was almost completely spared by allied bombings which destroyed most of Germany’s larger inner cities. As a result, Heidelberg has retained its baroque charm of narrow streets, picturesque houses and picturesque bridges.

The city’s most iconic landmark is the Heidelberg Castle, a Renaissance-style fortress perched atop a hill that overlooks it.

Other prominent attractions include the Philosophers’ Walk, a scenic path along the river, and the Church of the Holy Spirit. The latter is a Gothic-style church with a unique tower. You will want to take plenty of photos of it.

The old city is a beautiful area to walk around and offers a glimpse into Heidelberg’s rich and colorful history.

2. Brandenburg Gate in Berlin

The Brandenburg Gate is a famous monument in Berlin.

It was built in the late 18th century and was originally intended as a symbol of peace. The gate is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Germany and represents the country’s reunification.

It stands 26 meters tall and is adorned with classical Greek-style sculptures. Over the years the Brandenburg Gate has been the site of many historic events. These include the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

See also: Where to Stay in Berlin

Today, many people come here to see it , have their photograph taken by it, and recall where they were when that consequential moment in time happened.

1. Neuschwanstein

The ultimate fairytale castle, Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century palace located on a craggy hill that overlooks the village of Hohenschwangau in Bavaria.

Built by the command of King Ludwig II to be a retreat, it was intended to evoke the romance of the Middle Ages. The king was declared insane when the castle was almost completed in 1886 and found dead a few days later.

Today, the castle is one of Europe’s most beautiful examples of Gothic Revival architecture. Its stunning design and scenic location in the Bavarian Alps have inspired countless works of fiction. Most notably, it is featured as the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.

Visitors to Neuschwanstein can only enter its interior by partaking in a guided tour of it. If you choose to do so, you will get to see its ornate decor, furnishings, and murals.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Germany

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Reader interactions.

October 28, 2019 at 4:46 am

My hometown Wuerzburg is lovely too

May 2, 2017 at 4:45 pm

I live in Germany, Dortmund and I love visiting the city and others around, each time I visit a new city I learn something new. God bless Germany and it’s people

April 28, 2017 at 2:38 pm

germany is amazing

March 15, 2017 at 11:27 pm

Last year I have visited Finsterwalde and I was so amazed. It’s also called Die Sängerstadt.

February 23, 2017 at 2:38 pm

15) It was called the Reichstag but after WW2 it was renamed to the Bundestag.

November 19, 2016 at 6:24 pm

I just visited Germany. Munich is an impressive city. But what I liked the most was visiting the Alps. Going up 10,000 feet in a cable car was awesome. The small towns are as amazing as the big cities. Everything is beautiful.

November 15, 2016 at 10:39 am

I obtained my PhD degree from Germany, and I visited many German cities when I was a student there. To my mind, Heidelberg is the most beautiful one, it is totally different from others.

March 23, 2015 at 3:20 pm

I would love to go to Germany one day

July 27, 2014 at 12:59 pm

Another highlight in Germany is the river the Mosel, beautiful villages and a wine growing area. Also the insane King Ludwig had more castles built in the south of Germany that are very much worth a visit.

July 18, 2014 at 1:42 am

I love Germany and hope to travel to there.thanks alot!

June 2, 2014 at 2:21 am

Visited five times now and always end up going back to cologne…beautiful city

March 12, 2014 at 9:48 am

one of the most enjoyable countries in the worl. love the food and the beer,my wife loves the wine. going back for my third time,speak English only but no problem getting around.i use the bahn to travel,rented an apt. in dusseldorf,hotels in Frankfurt berlin,so many places I have to see of my homeland.my grandparents came from Germany,near mainz and vienna

October 1, 2013 at 2:42 am

I have two year training in Footwears technology at permasan GERMANY.I found GERMANY a most beautifull country.German are very friendly and beautyfull by heart and soul,they are unforgetable for me.

August 6, 2013 at 4:52 am

I am really lucky to visit this beautiful country in 2012 September. The people, its places all are amazing and accommodative !!!!! I just cannot forget all about it.

June 25, 2013 at 9:46 am

Germany is a beautiful country,I would like to visit.

May 31, 2013 at 6:00 am

my fav. were the rugen hills they are beautiful. I want to visit germany

March 27, 2013 at 4:16 am

Another highlight in Germany is the river the Mosel, beautiful villages and a wine growing area.

Also the insane King Ludwig had more castles built in the south of Germany that are very much worth a visit.

November 1, 2012 at 9:00 pm

love germany i went there and it is awesome i just love it <3

October 16, 2012 at 8:09 pm

Woah! I like Rugen Cliffs!

October 5, 2012 at 1:58 am

German is a very interesting country.. so just want to visit it 0nce!!!

October 4, 2012 at 9:46 am

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the pics of germany…..i will hopefully visit Germany one day! 🙂

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Which is the most beautiful German state? 20 Best Places To Visit In Germany: ⬛🟥🟨Unveiling the Beauty of Deutschland

Which is the most beautiful German state? The Bavarian state in Germany is often considered the most beautiful, boasting picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and the stunning Bavarian Alps.

Germany, a country steeped in history and culture, offers a myriad of fascinating destinations for travelers. From the vibrant city life to the serene natural landscapes, Germany has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the must-visit places to visit in Germany , offering insights and recommendations for an unforgettable journey through Deutschland.

🌟 Important Information About Germany

• Continent:  Europe
• Country:  Germany
• Capital Of Germany:  Berlin
• Population:  8.32 crores (2021)
• Currency:  Euro
• National Animal Of Germany:  Black Eagle
• National Sport Of Germany:  Football (soccer)
• President Of Germany:  Frank-Walter Steinmeier
• Dialling Code:  +49
• Official Language:  German

1: Brandenburg Gate

2: museum island,  3. the berlin wall, 4: cologne cathedral, 5: the rhine, 6: miniatur wunderland, 7: st. michael’s church, 8: marienplatz, 9: frauenkirche, 10: the black forest, 11: massif zugspitze, 12: the island of rügen, 13: kings lake aka königssee, 14: sanssouci palace and park, 15: mainau island,  16: neuschwanstein castle, 17: berlin zoological garden, 18: gendarmenmarkt, 19: heide park resort, 20: tierpark hagenbeck, 🚊 how do i buy train tickets in germany, 🏃🏻‍♂️ how do i get around in germany, q. which part of germany is the most beautiful, q. what is the number 1 tourist attraction in germany, q. which part of germany should i visit first, q. where should i go on holiday in germany, q. what is the best time to visit germany, q. is it necessary to speak german to travel in germany, q. how efficient is public transportation in germany, q. are credit cards widely accepted in germany, q. what culinary delights should one try in germany, 😇 conclusion, ✉ which place on the list of the best places to visit in germany is your favorite let us know in the comments..

📝 List of 20 Places To Visit In Germany

If you’re interested in knowing about things to do in Germany and where to go on your tour to Germany, read on.

If you are confused about what to see in Germany, we suggest you start with the iconic Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. The sandstone monument was built in 1791 and is recreated after the Acropolis at Athens.

Nonetheless, this 18th-century classical building makes a stunning photo backdrop. Additionally, don’t forget to include it on your list of winter travel destinations in Germany.

• Where:  Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin, Germany
• Timings:  NA
• Entry Fee:  Free
• Nearby Best Places To Eat:   Hopfingerbräu am Brandenburger Tor, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer,  India Club Berlin, Mama trattoria Berlin Mitte, Sra Bua

Also Read:   Place To Visit In Austria

There’s no question that Museum Island Berlin is one of the best locations in Germany, as well as the infamous Museumsinsel aka Museum Island, is among its many gems.

• Where:  Berlin
• Timings:  10 AM to 6 PM
• Entry Fee:  Approx. INR 1,400/- per pax
• Places To Eat Near Museum Island:  Jolly, Zum schwarzen Ferkel, Restaurant Dae Mon, Aposto, Cowei.

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Without a visit to the famous Berlin Wall, the list of  places to visit in Berlin Germany  i s incomplete. Many of the parts of the Berlin Wall have been well maintained and some are even covered in colourful graffiti.

It’s among Germany’s most well-known tourist destinations. Visit the War Memorial in Berlin and the Berlin Wall Exhibition.

Where:  Berlin Timings:  NA Entry Fee:  NA Places To Eat Near The Berlin Wall:  Restaurant Slate Berlin, Alpenstück Restaurant & Bakery, Factory Kitchen Berlin, Yarok, East Side Gallery

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One of the unique  places to visit in Germany  is the Gothic architectural masterpiece, the Kölner Dom. It is one of Europe’s biggest Catholic churches occupying 6,166 square meters of area with 56 massive pillars.

The 56 pillars that surround it boast even more of the place’s beauty. The view of the city from the South towers further enhances the place’s value. The interiors display magnificent gold artwork as well as a coloured-glass window from the 12th century.

• Where:  Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany
• Timings:  6 AM to 9 PM
• Entry Fee:  INR 240 (Approx)Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant
• Places To Eat Near Cologne Cathedral:  Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, Hanse Stube, Lederer, konrad Restaurant, Gaffel am Dom GmbH

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The Rhine Valley, Europe’s most important and beautiful water, appears on every list of best places in Germany to visit. The  German river names,   Rhine  flows through Switzerland, Germany as well as the Netherlands.

Along the river’s length are approximately sixty medieval towns and 40 castles that are just awaiting exploration. It is among the top family-friendly destinations in Germany.

• Where:  Rhine
• Timings, Cologne:  NA
• Entry Fee:  Free
• Places To Eat Near Rhine River Germany:  Reichenstein Castle, Schönburg, Restaurant Café Rosenberger, Restaurant Burg Klopp, Rhein-Hotel & Stübers Restaurant Bacharach

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Your list of  German  cities is incomplete, without the very chic Hamburg city being included. Moreover, make sure you are on your ride here enjoying the world’s largest model railway attraction Miniatur Wunderland.

• Where:  Kehrwieder 2-4/Block D, 20457 Hamburg, Germany
• Timings:  From 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. 
• Entry Fee:  INR 1,200 /- per person
• Places To Eat Near Miniatur Wunderland:  Deichgraf Restaurant, Restaurant Schoppenhauer, Kinfelts Kitchen & Wine – Restaurant Hafencity, VLET in der Speicherstadt, Ristorante Vincenzo

Built in 1762, this Baroque-style church is one of Hamburg’s most prominent churches. The church houses a 132-metre-high tower that an elevator will reach.

At the top, there is also a viewing platform, which gives tourists spectacular views of the city scenery.

This must be visited as it is one of the city’s most significant landmarks in Hamburg as well as Germany’s most beautiful churches.

• Where:  Michaelisplatz 2, 31134 Hildesheim, Germany
• Timings:  From 9 a.m. to  8 p.m
• Places To Eat Near St. Michael’s Church:  Restaurant Mykonos, Restaurant Die Insel, Gaststätte Paulaner im Kniep, Mongolia Asia-Restaurant, Pans Kitchen Food & More

Also Read :  Cities In Spain

In the heart of this historic city is perhaps the most beautiful and famous attraction in Munich, Marienplatz aka Marien Square. The Newtown Hall, Clock Tower, Historic Buildings, etc. These several attractions here are beautiful in Germany.

The best time to visit is 11 am or midday particularly if you want to experience the ring of the Glockenspiel bell. As well as seeing a re-enactment of 32-lifesize estimates of recent Bavarian events.

• Where:  Marienplatz, 80331 München, Germany
• Timings, Germany:  24X7
• Places To Eat Near Marienplatz:  Ratskeller, Wildmosers Restaurant-Cafe am Marienplatz, Sasou, Donisl, Cafe Glockenspiel GmbH

The famous Catholic Church named Frauenkirche is another prominent tourist attraction in Munich. Although, this is one of the city’s most-known landmarks and can handle up to 20,000 people at a time.

Visitors will ascend the steps of the towers of the church and enjoy stunning views of the city and its scenery.

• Where:  Munich, Germany 
• Timings:  10 am to 12 pm, 1 pm to 6 pm 
• Entry Fee:  Free, donations are accepted Suggested Read: Hitler’s Abandoned Sanatorium In Germany Also Strikes Terror Into People’s Heart
• Places To Eat Near Frauenkirche:  Augustiner an der Frauenkirche, Coselpalais – Restaurant & Grand Café, Kurfürstenschänke – Historisches Gasthaus, Edelweiss – Alpenrestaurant, DRESDEN 1900 Museumsgastronomie

The enchanting Black Forest is one of the most fascinating as well as beautiful  places to visit in Germany .

Moreover, this heavily wooded hill is among the top-rated destinations in Germany and is a perfect place to enjoy panoramic views, luxury spas, hiking, trekking, etc.

• Where:  Timings in Baden-Württemberg: NA 
• Entry Fee:  NA
• Places To Eat Near Black Forest Germany:  Gasthaus Sonne Neuhäusle, Restaurant Schlossberg, Restaurant Bareiss,  Restaurant Klosterstüble, Restaurant Schwarzwaldstube im Hotel Traube Tonbach, Jaipur.

The perfect way to appreciate the natural wonders of Germany is by visiting the Massif Zugspitze.

Although, this eastern summit at 2,950 meters above sea level is a stunning place to enjoy clear stunning views of the German scenery. Also, it is one of the best  tourist places in Germany .

• Tip:  Book tickets for Zugspitze trains and cable car rides here. 
• Where:  Zugspitze, Germany 
• Timings:  From 8:45 AM till 4:15 PM 
• Entry Fee:  INR 4,600 (Approx)
• Places To Eat Near Massif Zugspitze:  Gletscherrestaurant Sonnalpin, Zugspitze, Iglu-Dorf Zugspitz, Restaurant Drehmöser 9, Zugspitze (Bayerische Zugspitzbahn Bergbahn AG)

Rügen is not only Germany’s largest island but also its most stunning. The island’s beauty derives from its varied landscapes, flat farmlands, hills, trees, sandy beaches, peninsula, and lagoons.

Tour also the old town of Putbus which houses many classical parks and buildings.

• Where:  Rugen, Germany Coast 
• Timings along the Baltic Sea:  NA 
• Places To Eat Near Island Of Rügen:  Gastwirtschaft am Markt, Restaurant Strandhalle, Restaurant Daheim, Restaurant Am Meer, Schillings Restaurant

This magnificent lake in Bavaria is a treat for sore eyes. Although, the lake can either be explored through a boat ride aboard a 17th-century boat via its stunning walkways. Even the lake is home to popular mountain resorts where you can stay while on the way. It’s one of the best things to do in Germany.

• Where:  Bavaria
• Timings (Boat):  8 am to 5 pm Length of boat tour: 2 hours
• Entry Fee (Boat Tickets):  INR 1,000/- per person
• Places To Eat In Kings Lake Aka Königssee:  Restaurant Seehaus am Königssee, Gaststätte Echostüberl, Fischerei St. Bartholomä, Gaststätte St. Bartholomä, Jenner-Kaser, Franz Graßl

Also Read:   Places To Visit In London

Sanssouci Park and Palace are next on the list of beautiful  places to visit around Germany . Around the years 1744 and 1756, the whole creation of the park and palace took place.

The park is spread over a wide area and highlights a rich category that includes not just a flower but also a fruit garden. There are more than 3000 fruit trees in the park which make it special.

The field is surrounded by hedges clipped and a well-tended lawn. Besides the natural buildings, there are also several park buildings, such as the Picture Gallery, the Chinese House, and the Roman Baths complex, which further add to the beauty of the place.

This particular landmark honors the beauty of the infamous Potsdam Rococo.

• Where:  Maulbeerallee, Potsdam 14469, Germany 
• Timings:  10 AM to 4 PM Entry fee: INR 1,500/- per person
• Places To Eat Near Sanssouci Palace:  Mövenpick Restaurant Zur Historischen Mühle, Chi Keng, Assaggi, Dragon, Quendel

Also recognized as Lake Constance Flower Island, Mainau Island is one of the most scenic and exclusive  places to visit in Germany.

Spread around a total area of 110 acres, this is fully covered in vivid hues of flowers and the aroma adds further to the place’s fervor.

The mixture of the beautiful parks as well as the gardens along with the natural and semitropical vegetation adds to the place’s beauty.

This island can be explored via boats which will make it a memorable trip  While there, visit the Schloss from the 18th century, known for its beautiful White Wall, which stands tall as a protective tower.

• Where:  Baden-Württemberg, Germany 
• Timing:  10 AM to 7 PM 
• Entry Fee:  INR 650/ – per person (Average)
• Places To Eat Near Mainau Island:  Restaurant Comturey, Restaurant Schwedenschenke, Mainau, Ko’Ono Hotel und Restaurant, Restaurant Volapük

However, Germany is known around the world for its variety of castles and nearby architecture. It is assumed that the Neuschwanstein Castle is the legacy left behind by the famous German King Ludwig II.

It stands tall above the German Mountains and is a reference to any fairytale that one has heard of that location. The countryside around the castle is too good to miss.

It is perched on the scenic and elegant town of Hohenschwangau and is renowned all over the world for the impressive drawbridges and towers that further adorn the castle’s elegance.

• Where:  Neuschwansteinstraße 20, 87645 Schwangau, Germany
• Timings:  8 AM to 5 PM 
• Entry Fee:  INR 1030 (Approx)
• Places To Eat Near Neuschwanstein Castle:  Schlossrestaurant Neuschwanstein GmbH & Co. KG, Cafe-Bistro im Schloss Neuschwanstein, Restaurant Kainz, Cafe-Restaurant Allgau, Reith-Alpe Schwangau

If you are looking for  places to visit with children in German y, then you can add  Berlin Zoological Garden  to your list. This is one of Germany’s oldest as well as the most popular zoos.

In 1844 the zoo opened its gates to the public covering an area of around 86.5 acres. In addition to the zoo and aquarium, the animal feedings draw the visitors’ attention here.

Berlin Zoological Garden is one of Europe’s most famous zoos, and should certainly be on your list.

• Where:  Hardenbergplatz 8, 10787 Berlin, Germany
• Timings:  9 am to 6 pm 
• Entry Fee:  INR 1170 /- Per person
• Places To Eat Near Berlin Zoo:  Fishermans – DAS Fischrestaurant, Seaside – Fish & Seafood Bar, Cao Cao, Schleusenkrug, ROCA

It is another one of those places on a trip to Germany that one should not miss. It is a Berlin public square famous for its three majestic buildings, namely the German and French cathedrals as well as the Konzerthaus in Schinkel.

Additionally, one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Germany is the Gendarmenmarkt Christmas market, where you can shop if you’re thinking about visiting in November or December.

• Timings:  11 am to 10 pm 
• Entry Fee:  NA
• Places To Eat Near Gendarmenmarkt:  Augustiner am Gendarmenmarkt, Fishermans – DAS Fischrestaurant, ERDINGER am Gendarmenmarkt, Brasserie Am Gendarmenmarkt, Quchnia

Heide Park Resort   is another  beautiful spot to explore in Germany . It is a massive Soltau theme park occupying an area of about 210 acres.

It has some fun and exciting trips to enjoy for families. However, the location is a perfect destination for a day out on one’s journey to Germany, with over 40 attractions and a horror laser.

• Where:  Heide Park 1, 29614 Soltau, Germany
• Timings:  10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 
• Entry Fee:  INR 2700 (Approx)
• Places To Eat Near Heide Park Resort:  Restaurant Capitol, Wirtshaus des Admirals, places to eat near Heide Park Resort, Hot Dog Freestyle, Pizza Scream

This is a  Hamburg zoo  which is a perfect  place to visit in Germany with your family or children . This fun place is not just a zoo, but a lovely park with interesting buildings that you might notice when walking around here.

Moreover, In this zoo in Hamburg animals from all the continents have found a home. Apart from this diverse park which houses various animal species, there is also a tropical aquarium to visit.

• Where:  Lokstedter Grenzstraße 2, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
• Timings:  From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Places To Eat Near Tierpark Hagenbeck:  Restaurant Flamingo Lodge, Restaurant Charmant, Restaurant Augila, Innerluck, Restaurant Dubrovnik

Also Read:   14 Unique Places To Visit In Switzerland

In Germany, there are various ways to purchase train tickets. Here are a few choices:

• Online: The Deutsche Bahn website allows you to buy train tickets online. Additionally, you can purchase tickets online on the Eurail website .
• Deutsche Bahn App: You can buy tickets and download the Deutsche Bahn app on your smartphone.
• In Person: from a train station, you can purchase train tickets in person from a travel agency or kiosk.
• Third-Party Websites: Websites like Omio, Trainline, and Rail Europe are examples of third-party platforms where you can buy train tickets.

You might wish to think about getting a BahnCard if you want to take trains frequently. Discounts on train tickets and other advantages are provided via the BahnCard.

Here are a few helpful low-cost travel tips for exploring Germany.

• Germany has a well-developed transportation system, including trains, buses, trams, and taxis.
• The Deutsche Bahn (DB) railway system is reliable, connecting almost every city in Germany.
• Renting a car for travel on the renowned German Autobahn is an option.
• Buses offer an affordable way to explore Germany, with extensive networks extending beyond borders.
• Carpooling is popular, facilitated by apps like BlaBlaCar and Mitfahren.de.

Public Transportation Apps:

• Citymapper is available in German cities like Berlin, Cologne, Dortmund, and Hamburg.
• Other useful apps for travel include Omio, L’tur, FlixBus, and Eurolines, covering train, bus, and plane options.

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Places To Visit In Germany

When making travel plans to Germany, many questions come our mind. Some of the most often-asked questions are addressed below.

A. The Bavarian Alps showcase Germany’s breathtaking beauty, offering stunning landscapes and alpine wonders.

A. The Cologne Cathedral stands as Germany’s top tourist attraction, a Gothic masterpiece with cultural and historical significance.

A. Start your German adventure in Berlin, the vibrant capital with a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity.

A. Explore the romantic charm of the Black Forest or the coastal serenity of Rügen Island for a memorable holiday in Germany.

A. The best time to visit Germany is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and attractions are less crowded, offering an enjoyable travel experience.

A. While English is widely spoken, learning a few German phrases can enhance your travel experience and interactions with locals.

A. Germany’s public transportation system is highly efficient, known for punctuality and extensive coverage, ensuring convenient travel.

A. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, providing a convenient payment option for travelers.

A. Indulge in traditional German dishes like bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels, and don’t miss sampling regional specialties like Black Forest cake and sauerkraut.

Germany, with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offers an enticing tapestry of experiences for every traveler. From the bustling streets of Berlin to the fairytale landscapes of the Black Forest, each destination unfolds a unique story. Embark on a journey through these Places To Visit In Germany and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

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Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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Germany: The perfect destination with beautiful nature and cultural attractions for every taste

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50 Best Places to Visit in Germany

Set off on a mesmerizing journey through Germany, a country that seamlessly blends rich history, cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes.

Get ready to unravel the best places to visit in Germany , where each stop unveils a new story in the country’s past and present.

From the vibrant cityscape of Berlin to the enchanting fairytale city of Rothenburg, each destination offers a unique experience.

Explore the magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle perched high in the Bavarian Alps, soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Cologne’s bustling markets, or immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the Rhine Valley’s vineyards and medieval castles.

Or, how about summiting Germany’s highest mountain, the impressive Zugspitze, or discovering the fascinating history of Nuremberg’s well-preserved Old Town!

1 – Hamburg

Discover the dynamic city of Hamburg, where urban flair meets historic charm.

Located on the scenic Elbe River, this bustling metropolis is known for its vibrant harbor and maritime heritage. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iconic Speicherstadt is home to gorgeous red-brick warehouses and trendy shops, cafes and museums.

Stroll through the lively St. Pauli district and the famous Reeperbahn entertainment district for some of the best nightlife in town.

Immerse yourself in the local culture as you visit the fish market, explore the sprawling Planten un Blomen or take a leisurely boat tour through the city’s beautiful canals.

With all these unique and beautiful points of interest Hamburg is one of the best places to visit in Germany.

• Hamburg tours

See also: Fun things to do in Hamburg

2 – Berlin

Uncover the captivating history and modern vibrancy of Berlin, an ever-evolving city that seamlessly blends the past and present.

Journey through time and visit the ruins of the Berlin Wall , a symbol of the unified city and the triumph of freedom.

Stroll along the famous Unter den Linden boulevard, lined with historic buildings such as the Brandenburg Gate and the majestic Berlin Cathedral.

Discover Berlin’s distinctive art scene by exploring innovative galleries and street art tours in the trendy neighborhoods of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain.

Enjoy a variety of gourmet delights on a food tour or soak up the energetic atmosphere of the city’s renowned nightlife.

• Berlin tours

See also: Fun things to do in Berlin

3 – Munich

Explore the rich Bavarian culture and picturesque landscapes of Munich, a city brimming with old-world charm.

Absorb yourself in Munich’s royal heritage with a visit to the gorgeous Nymphenburg Palace and its magnificent gardens.

Discover Marienplatz, the historic center of the city, where the towering Gothic spire of the Church of Our Lady provides a striking backdrop.

You won’t want to miss the lively atmosphere of the annual Oktoberfest , the world’s largest beer festival. Top it off by indulging in traditional Bavarian cuisine with a food tour in charming beer gardens dotted around the city.

Relax in the peaceful English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks, or enjoy the city’s famous art and science museums.

• Munich tours

See also: Fun things to do in Munich

4 – Heidelberg

Situated in the Neckar Valley, Heidelberg exudes a romantic atmosphere with its picturesque location and captivating architecture.

The city is known for its old Heidelberg Castle , which stands majestically on top of a hill and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Stroll through the enchanting streets of the Old Town to find beautifully preserved buildings, charming shops and cozy cafes. Explore the famous Heidelberg University, one of Europe’s oldest educational institutions, and immerse yourself in its rich intellectual heritage.

Embark on a tranquil cruise along the Neckar River and take in the stunning scenery and the quaint riverside villages that dot it.

• Heidelberg tours

5 – Überlingen

Escape to the idyllic town of Überlingen on the shores of Lake Constance.

Discover the locale’s rich history by exploring its well-preserved medieval center. Relax on the picturesque lakeside promenade and enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps beyond.

Visit the impressive St. Nicholas Cathedral and admire the charming harbor area dotted with boats.

Überlingen’s quiet location, charming architecture and proximity to the natural beauty of Lake Constance make it a perfect retreat.

6 – Frankfurt

Experience the vibrant pulse of Frankfurt, a thrilling confluence of commerce and cultural richness, a place where the cosmopolitan meets tradition.

Venture on foot through Frankfurt’s lively streets with a walking tour , uncovering its history and culture.

For art connoisseurs, a visit to the renowned Städel Museum is a must. A repository of European art, the museum’s collection is a mesmerizing journey through centuries of creativity. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the city’s performing arts scene with a world-class show at the Frankfurt Opera House.

Between exploration, step aboard a river boat for a serene boat tour along Frankfurt’s arteries, or embark on a memorable day trip. Let yourself be enchanted by the romance of the Rhine Valley with its steep vineyards and medieval castles, or experience the charm of Heidelberg , a town steeped in rich history and academic legacy.

No Frankfurt sojourn would be complete without savoring the city’s culinary delights. Indulge in Frankfurt’s famous Apfelwein, a refreshing cider, and tuck into hearty local dishes that combine familiar flavors with unexpected twists, reflecting the very essence of Frankfurt – a delightful blend of the contemporary and the traditional making it one of the best places to visit in Germany.

• Frankfurt tours

See also: Fun things to do in Frankfurt

7 – Füssen

Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Bavarian Alps, Füssen captivates visitors with its fairytale charm and natural beauty.

The city is the gateway to the majestic Neuschwanstein Castle , the dreamy fortress that inspired Walt Disney’s famous Sleeping Beauty castle.

Uncover the area’s rich history and stroll through Füssen’s medieval Old Town with its cobbled streets and colorful facades.

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Hopfensee, surrounded by scenic mountains, or enjoy a hike through the nearby Ammergau Alps.

Füssen is also known for its traditional Bavarian craftsmanship and is an ideal place to shop for intricately carved woodwork and beautiful Alpine souvenirs.

• Fussen tours

8 – Baden-Baden

Indulge in the epitome of luxury and relaxation in Baden-Baden, undeniably one of the best places to visit in Germany.

This enchanting town nestled amid the picturesque landscapes of the Black Forest offers a serene retreat like no other. Submerge yourself in the healing waters of the thermal baths, where rejuvenation awaits.

Explore the opulent surroundings of the UNESCO-listed Lichtentaler Allee, a stunning park adorned with vibrant gardens. Experience the excitement of the Baden-Baden Casino, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious gambling establishments.

Baden-Baden’s harmonious blend of natural beauty, refined elegance and culture makes it an irresistible destination for discerning travelers.

• Baden-Baden tours

9 – Cologne

Delve into the enigmatic blend of ancient Roman history and vivacious art culture in Cologne, a city that exudes a distinct charm.

At its heart, the Cologne Cathedral  pierces the skyline, casting a formidable silhouette. Explore Cologne’s Old Town , where you’ll find Romanesque churches dotting the landscape, including the Basilica di Gros San Martin and St. Gereon’s Basilica, each resonating with rich heritage.

Stroll through the Belgian district’s avant-garde art galleries, trendy boutiques, and pulsating nightlife, symbolizing the city’s modern edge. The Rhine Promenade offers a picturesque retreat with the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge as the backdrop.

Embark on a walking tour to fully appreciate Cologne’s layered history or saddle up for a bike tour for an engaging exploration. And when in Cologne, a visit to Königswinter and a traditional beer tasting experience are a must. Another highlight is the city’s vibrant carnival, which injects a splash of color, music, and celebrations into the urban fabric.

• Cologne tours

See also: Fun things to do in Cologne

10 – Devil’s Bridge, Kromlau

Nestled within the leafy expanses of Kromlau Park, the Devil’s Bridge or Rakotzbrücke is an architectural wonder.

Its unique construction creates a perfect circle with its reflection in the waters beneath, creating a mesmerizing optical illusion.

Though crossing the bridge is not permitted to preserve its structure, visitors can marvel at its mystic beauty from the park’s numerous trails.

Especially enchanting in the fall, when the fiery foliage creates a dramatic backdrop, the Devil’s Bridge is a magical testament to the harmony of man-made structures and nature.

Read more: Most Beautiful Places in Europe

11 – Regensburg

Step inside a medieval masterpiece as you explore the enchanting city of Regensburg.

Stroll through the well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site decorated with quaint squares and narrow cobbled streets.

Admire the tall spire of Regensburg Cathedral, a magnificent example of Bavarian Gothic architecture. Visit the 12th-century stone bridge that spans the Danube and admire breathtaking views of the city.

Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural scene and stop by the historic Thurn und Taxis Castle, which houses an impressive art collection.

Regensburg also has a buzzing beer culture, where you can enjoy traditional Bavarian brews in cozy gardens and historic inns.

• Regensburg tours

12 – Bayreuth

Enjoy a cultural pilgrimage to Bayreuth, known for its connection with Richard Wagner and the annual Bayreuth Festival.

Visit the prestigious Margravial Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s finest Baroque theatres. Stroll through the gorgeous New Castle, a gorgeous mansion surrounded by magnificent gardens.

Immerse yourself in the city’s musical heritage at the Richard Wagner Museum and discover the composer’s life and work. Walk through picturesque courtyards and experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Old Town, adorned with elegant buildings and enchanting squares.

Bayreuth’s rich cultural and musical legacy makes it a must-see for afficionados.

13 – Stuttgart

Set off on an intriguing journey through Stuttgart, the cradle of Germany’s automotive genius.

Behold the grandeur of the Mercedes-Benz Arena and the legacy held within, an homage to an iconic symbol of German engineering.

Hop aboard a sightseeing bus tour and navigate the city’s wonders, from the sprawling Stuttgart Castle to the verdant oasis of its surrounding gardens. Engage your senses with a walking tour , savoring the city’s tangible vibrancy.

Explore the city’s vinous side with a wine tour and tasting , a tribute to Stuttgart’s flourishing viticulture.

With its fusion of historical heritage, innovation, and natural beauty, Stuttgart offers a travel experience to fascinate any wanderer.

• Stuttgart tours

See also: Fun things to do in Stuttgart

14 – Leipzig

Leipzig is a city whose heart beats to the rhythm of music and cultural vivacity.

Embark on an enlightening walking or city tour , tracing the steps of great composers and artists who once called this city home.

Cruise along Leipzig’s waterways on a scenic boat tour , absorbing the city’s picturesque charm. Pay homage to the city’s artistic legacy with a visit to the Leipzig Opera House and Leipzig Kunsthalle, both guardians of Europe’s priceless artistic heritage. Round off your visit by exploring the acclaimed Leipzig Zoo , a paradise of biodiversity.

Delve deeper into the city’s literary heritage at the German National Library, which houses a vast collection of books and manuscripts.

Make a stop at Leipzig’s trendy districts, such as Plagwitz and Suedvorstadt, which are brimming with galleries, boutiques and cozy cafés.

• Leipzig tours

See also: Fun things to do in Leipzig

15 – Rothenburg

Get lost in a fairytale world as you stroll the enchanting streets of the perfectly preserved medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Walk along the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views of red-roofed houses, cobbled streets and picturesque squares.

Explore Rothenburg’s impressive Town Hall, decorated with intricate Gothic details.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Christmas Museum, which showcases the city’s rich holiday traditions.

• Rothenburg tours

16 – Dresden

Dresden, the Florence of the Elbe, enchants with its artful melding of cultural grandeur and architectural marvels.

Revel in the opulence of the Semperoper and the revitalized Frauenkirche , both enduring symbols of Dresden’s resilient spirit.

A walking tour through Dresden’s old town is a voyage through time, where every corner whispers tales from its checkered past. A boat tour along the Elbe promises tranquil moments amid nature’s splendor, while a visit to the enchanting Pillnitz Castle unveils Baroque brilliance.

Finally, satiate your gastronomic curiosity with a food tour , sampling Dresden’s hearty cuisine that warms both body and soul.

• Dresden tours

See also: Fun things to do in Dresden

17 – Würzburg

Discover the fascinating combination of history and wine in the charming city of Würzburg.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the architectural wonder of the Würzburg Residence is a stunning Baroque palace with beautifully manicured gardens.

Discover the medieval charm of Marienberg Fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city.

Visit historic vineyards in the Franconian region of Würzburg, enjoy tastings in traditional wineries and immerse yourself in the local wine culture.

With its rich history, scenic location on the River Main, and renowned wine heritage, Würzburg offers a great experience for travelers.

• Würzburg tours

18 – Lübeck

Step into the medieval world of Lübeck, a city steeped in Hanseatic history and architectural splendor.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, featuring Gothic brick architecture and charming gabled houses.

Admire the iconic Holsten Gate, a large gate that once guarded the city’s entrance. Wander through narrow streets and hidden courtyards to discover charming cafes, boutiques and the famous marzipan shop ‘Niederegger’.

Lübeck’s rich maritime history, delicious cuisine and quiet waterfront promenades create a unique atmosphere that captures the essence of this charming city making it one of the best places to visit in Germany.

• Lübeck tours

19 – Düsseldorf

The dynamic atmosphere, arts scene and scenic location on the Rhine make Düsseldorf an attractive destination for anyone.

Embark on a walking tour through its alluring streets, soak up the ambiance of the old town and witness the Rhine’s tranquil majesty on a serene boat tour .

Stroll down the fashionable Königsallee boulevard, lined with exclusive boutiques and trendy cafés.

Experience the city’s unique beer culture with an immersive tasting tour , raising a glass to Düsseldorf’s signature Altbier, and savor the gastronomic scene, which combines international and traditional Rhineland cuisine.

• Düsseldorf tours

See also: Fun things to do in Düsseldorf

20 – Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a city steeped in medieval charm and significance.

Embark on a walking tour through the city, exploring the quaint Nuremberg Old Town with its half-timbered houses that seem to have sprung straight from a fairy tale.

A Nuremberg beer tasting is another must, with tastings unveiling the depth of its brewing tradition. For family travelers, a visit to the Playmobil FunPark adds a delightful chapter to their Nuremberg story.

History, art and gastronomy combine to make Nuremberg an unforgettable experience.

• Nuremberg tours

21 – Berchtesgaden

Soak up the breathtaking natural beauty of Berchtesgaden, nestled in the Bavarian Alps.

Explore the majestic Berchtesgaden National Park with its pristine lakes, lush forests and towering mountains. Visit the Kehlsteinhaus, once the retreat of Adolf Hitler and now a historic site with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Go on scenic hikes, take a boat trip on Lake Königssee, or visit a fascinating salt mine.

With its stunning scenery and outdoor opportunities, Berchtesgaden is a nature lover’s paradise.

22 – Koblenz

Discover the charming city of Koblenz at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers.

Admire the monumental Deutsches Eck where rivers meet, and visit the imposing Ehrenbreitstein Fortress perched on a hill overlooking the city.

Stroll along the picturesque riverside promenade and wander the charming streets of the Old Town. Ride the cable car across the Rhine to the fortress and enjoy panoramic views.

Koblenz’s scenic location, rich history and friendly atmosphere make for a fascinating experience.

• Koblenz tours

23 – Rhine

Journey through the enchanting Rhine Valley, a tapestry of verdant vineyards, quaint towns and majestic castles.

Embark on a walking tour and biking tour through its scenic landscapes, or opt for a tranquil boat tour along the Rhine River, basking in the beauty of landmarks like the legendary Lorelei Rock.

No visit to the Rhine Valley is complete without indulging in the region’s liquid gold – the beer. Join a beer tasting tour to sample unique regional brews. The Rhine Valley, with its romantic vistas and rich cultural heritage, is a traveler’s treasure trove.

• Rhine tours

24 – Weimar

Enter the cultural capital of Germany and explore the charming city of Weimar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the famous Bauhaus art movement.

Discover German literature and philosophy by visiting the homes of great writers such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Friedrich Schiller.

Explore the Grand Duke’s opulent palaces and manicured gardens, including the impressive Weimar City Palace. Explore the Bauhaus Museum and immerse yourself in the avant-garde world of modern design and architecture.

Take a walk through the idyllic Park an der Ilm, an oasis of calm, and soak up the city’s enchanting atmosphere.

• Weimar tours

25 – Rügen

Discover the natural wonders of Rügen, Germany’s largest island in the Baltic Sea.

Experience the dramatic chalk cliffs of Jasmund National Park that have inspired artists and writers throughout history.

Explore the charming seaside resorts of Binz and Sellin with beautiful beaches and elegant villas.

Rügen’s pristine nature, enchanting towns and unique coastal beauty make it a hidden gem for nature lovers and beach vacationers.

26 – Freiberg

Known as the “Silver City”, Freiberg is a hidden gem with a centuries-old mining history.

Unearth the city’s fascinating heritage at the famous Freiberg Mining Academy and unravel the mysteries of precious minerals and gems at the Terra Mineralia museum.

Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town and admire the splendor of Freiberg Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece with intricate Gothic details.

Freiberg’s glittering past, cultural richness and breathtaking scenery offers an incredible experience for the curious explorer.

• Freiberg tours

27 – Black Forest

The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, is an enchanting region where picturesque villages nestle amid dense, dark woodlands. Start your journey with a hike along one of the numerous trails, where the whispering pines and gurgling brooks create a soothing symphony of nature.

Explore the charming town of Baden-Baden, known for its thermal baths and stunning architecture, or indulge in a slice of the legendary Black Forest gateau in Triberg. Don’t miss the mesmerizing Triberg Waterfalls, one of the highest in Germany.

With its mystical forests, quaint towns, and culinary delights, the Black Forest presents an enchanting slice of Germany’s natural and cultural richness.

28 – Konstanz

Experience a unique blend of German and Swiss influences in the charming city of Konstanz on Lake Constance.

Explore the well-preserved old town with charming squares, medieval buildings and bustling markets. Visit the beautiful island of Mainau, known as the ‘Island of Flowers’, and enjoy its vibrant gardens and picturesque landscapes.

Take a leisurely boat trip on Lake Constance and admire the surrounding landscape.

The cultural heritage, scenic beauty and proximity to the Swiss border make Konstanz a unique destination on any journey to Germany.

• Konstanz tours

29 – Freudenburg

Freudenberg, with its half-timbered houses and rustic charm, is a living image of a picture book village.

Stroll through the historic Old Town of Alter Flecken, where 17th-century houses form an enchanting uniform sight. Visit the nearby Freudenberg Technical Museum for interesting insights into historical machinery and technology.

Discover the town’s natural side by exploring the parks or hiking the idyllic country surrounding the city.

From the cobbled streets of the Old Town to the leafy trails, Freudenberg is a tranquil retreat.

30 – Potsdam

On the outskirts of Berlin, discover Potsdam, a historic city brimming with royal homes and gardens.

Explore the magnificent UNESCO-listed Sanssouci Palace and its stunning landscape, and make a stop by the Dutch Quarter, a district of red-brick houses and quaint shops.

Visit the historic Cecilienhof Palace, where the Potsdam Conference took place after World War II.

Potsdam blends royal splendor, serene scenery and historical significance to offer visitors an enchanting experience.

• Potsdam tours

31 – Soltau

Located in the scenic Lüneburg wilderness region, Soltau is a gateway to nature and family fun.

The famous Soltau Toy Museum displays a collection of fun toys from different eras. For a thrilling experience, visit the popular Heide Park Resort, an exciting amusement park with rides and attractions.

Those looking for a more relaxing excursion can take a leisurely hike or cycle through heathland and soak up the natural beauty.

The tranquil atmosphere, scenery and family-friendly attractions make Soltau an attractive destination for all ages.

32 – Lindau

Experience the idyllic beauty of Lindau, a picturesque island town on Lake Constance.

Explore the well-preserved medieval center with its charming cobbled streets and historic buildings, or admire the iconic harbor entrance with its Bavarian lion sculpture and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding Alps.

Visit the impressive Lindau Lighthouse and climb to the top for panoramic views.

With its quiet location, lakeside promenade and stunning architecture, Lindau is the perfect place for relaxation.

• Lindau tours

33 – Quedlinburg

Travel back in time in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Quedlinburg, known for its incredibly well-preserved medieval architecture.

Wander the narrow streets of the Old Town, lined with half-timbered houses and charming cobbled squares. Visit the magnificent Quedlinburg Castle and discover its fascinating history.

Admire the Romanesque Church of St. Servatius and its impressive treasures.

Quedlinburg’s rich heritage, importance and romantic atmosphere make it a must-see for history and culture buffs.

34 – Bielefeld

As you wander through the verdant splendor of Bielefeld’s botanical gardens, the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage becomes palpable.

Bielefeld, a city vibrantly adorned with the charms of scenic landscapes, boasts the medieval fortress, Spalenburg with panoramic views of the city, and contrast the experience with a visit to the Bielefeld Museum for modern and contemporary art.

From its ramparts, the panoramic city views are a visual feast. Balance the historical charm with the contemporary allure of the Bielefeld Museum, a showcase of modern art that stands in delightful contrast to the city’s antiquity.

35 – Zugspitze

Your heart will race as you ascend Zugspitze, Germany’s loftiest peak, via an electrifying cable car ride.

With each altitude gain, witness the undulating contours of mountains and valleys expanding like a magnificent quilt beneath you. Down at the mountain’s foot, the Bavarian charm of Garmisch-Partenkirchen village offers a delightful retreat.

Zugspitze, with its fusion of majestic landscapes and adrenaline-fueled exploits, is a sanctuary for nature devotees and thrill-seekers alike.

36 – Bamberg

Traversing Bamberg’s Old Town feels like leafing through a living history book.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Upper Franconia exudes an architectural symphony that blends medieval and Baroque periods in a harmonious ensemble.

By the serene waters of the Regnitz and Main rivers, the whimsical Little Venice district offers an enchanting stroll.

With a heady mix of historical richness, romantic vibes, and famed breweries, Bamberg extends a tempting invitation to history aficionados and beer enthusiasts alike.

• Bamberg tours

37 – Baden-Württemberg

In Baden-Württemberg, every element of nature, history, and cuisine interweaves to create a rich tapestry of experiences.

Venture into the Black Forest’s heart, where villages nestle among dense woods and scenic hiking trails wind through the landscape.

Visit Stuttgart, the state’s capital pulsating with energy and home to the world-renowned Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museums. Also, allow the Rhine Valley’s wine-producing regions to charm your palate with their delectable vintages.

• Baden-Württemberg tours

38 – Friedrichshafen

In Friedrichshafen, a picturesque town caressed by the gentle waves of Lake Constance, the Zeppelin Museum narrates the city’s aviation tale.

Visit the museum to learn about Friedrichshafen’s soaring history and the famous Zeppelin. Stroll along the lakeside promenade, admire the beautiful scenery and feel the fresh breeze.

Explore the historic Friedrichshafen Castle and beautiful castle church. Friedrichshafen’s idyllic location, leisure opportunities, and innovative legacy make it an attractive destination for relaxation and discovery.

39 – Bonn

The melodious heritage of Bonn comes to life in the home-turned-museum of Ludwig van Beethoven, whose birth imbued this city with unparalleled musical significance.

Visit Beethoven’s House, a museum dedicated to the life and work of the famous composer.

Amid the picturesque milieu of the Old Town, historic edifices coalesce with quaint squares and churches, adding layers of charm to your explorations. At the Rhine promenade, let the river’s serene beauty envelop you in tranquility.

Bonn is for lovers of music, culture, and idyllic river views.

40 – Rostock

Rostock is a vibrant city on the Baltic Sea with a true maritime atmosphere.

Explore the historic Old Town with its charming gabled houses, Gothic churches and lively squares. Visit the impressive Rostock Town Hall and climb the tower for panoramic views.

Discover the vibrant waterfront, stroll the boardwalks and admire the bustling harbor.

With its maritime heritage, lively markets and beautiful beaches, Rostock is an attractive destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture and coastal charm.

• Rostock tours

41 – Schwerin

Schwerin is one of Germany’s best places to visit , where captivating landscapes and architectural splendor create an enchanting atmosphere.

Visit the majestic Schwerin Castle, set on an island in Lake Schwerin, which stands as one of the country’s most stunning landmarks. Wander through the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes.

Embrace the tranquility of the surrounding lakeside promenade and take in the breathtaking views of the water.

Schwerin’s romantic ambiance and grandeur make it one of Germany’s treasures.

• Schwerin tours

42 – Mainz

Dive into the cultural and historical depths of Mainz, a city seated regally by the Rhine.

Explore the picturesque Old Town with well-preserved half-timbered houses and lively squares. Visit the impressive Mainz Cathedral , a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

Make a stop at the Gutenberg Museum , dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the famous printing press.

With its historic importance and riverside charm, Mainz is worth an inclusion on any itinerary.

• Mainz tours

43 – Hanover

Hanover unveils itself as a city of contrasts where urbanity converges with verdant parks and cultural heritage.

Visit the lush Herrenhausen Gardens, known for its stunning Baroque design and colorful flowers.

Make a stop at the impressive New Town Hall , an architectural masterpiece that offers panoramic views from its dome.

Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Sprengel Museum, where modern and contemporary works are exhibited.

A journey to Hanover offers a deep-dive into German heritage.

• Hanover tours

44 – Bremen

Steep yourself in the maritime legacy of Bremen, a city echoing with Hanseatic history.

The Bremen Town Musicians statue, a city emblem, stands as a testament to local folklore. The well-preserved historical center houses the magnificent Town Hall and the revered Roland of Bremen statue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that can only be explored in a fascinating walking tour .

Meander through the charming Schnoorviertel neighborhood, marked by its narrow alleys and captivating half-timbered houses. At the German Maritime Museum, you’ll be immersed in a riveting narrative.

The amalgamation of seafaring heritage, medieval splendor, and cultural vibrancy makes Bremen a truly intriguing destination.

• Bremen tours

45 – Meersburg

Welcome to Meersburg, a quaint town cradling Lake Constance’s shores.

The meticulously maintained Meersburg Castle, poised atop a hill, affords breathtaking panoramas of the lake.

Wander through the Old Town’s captivating alleyways, historic edifices, and inviting cafes. The Zeppelin Museum, telling the compelling story of airships, offers another point of interest.

Meersburg’s picture-perfect setting, idyllic vistas, and historical allure combine to create an haven for relaxation and exploration.

46 – Kiel

Step into the vibrant maritime rhythm of Kiel, a bustling city on the Baltic Sea’s edge.

Navigate the waters of Kiel Fjord, indulging in sailing and boat tours that encapsulate the city’s spirit. The Kiel Maritime Museum provides a fascinating insight into the city’s past.

Walk along the waterfront, a vibrant ribbon of cafes, eateries, and lively markets.

The harmonious fusion of coastal allure, sailing traditions, and dynamic maritime festivities makes Kiel a highly attractive destination for travelers seeking a themed adventure.

47 – Trier

Step into the living history books by exploring the ancient city of Trier, which boasts an impressive collection of Roman ruins and medieval architecture which will only be unveiled on a walking tour .

Trier Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magnificent structure that combines Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque elements. Admire the iconic Porta Nigra, the best-preserved Roman gate north of the Alps.

Explore the sprawling Imperial Baths, an architectural wonder that once served as a public bath. Immerse yourself in the rich Roman heritage at Trier’s Roman Amphitheater and the beautiful Roman Bridge over the Moselle.

Stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, lined with cozy cafes, boutiques and pretty squares.

• Trier tours

48 – Bastei Bridge

Suspended high above the Elbe River in the Saxon Switzerland National Park, the Bastei Bridge is a marvel of natural beauty and architectural wonder.

Marvel at the panoramic vistas of the rugged sandstone formations, verdant forests, and the meandering river below.

Venture through the park’s hiking trails to explore more of the captivating landscapes.

With its otherworldly views and serene environment, the Bastei Bridge provides a memorable journey into Germany’s raw and stunning natural beauty.

49 – Sylt Island

With its breathtaking beaches and pristine nature, the island of Sylt is truly a northern gem.

Experience the unique ecosystem of the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea, or explore the island’s picturesque villages and rolling dunes on a leisurely bike ride.

Enjoy the island’s delicious cuisine, especially the fresh seafood, or relax at one of the many luxury spa resorts.

With its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, the island of Sylt offers a delightful seaside retreat.

• Sylt Island tours

50 – Wismar

The Hanseatic city of Wismar on the Baltic Sea is a prime example of Gothic architecture.

Explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buildings such as St. Nicholas’ Church and Wismar’s Old Market Square are beautifully preserved brick Gothic buildings.

Visit the city harbor, a charming place to relax with views of historic ships and gabled houses. Learn more about the city’s maritime history at a local museum, or take a scenic drive along the German half-timbered route.

Combining architectural treasures with maritime charm, Wismar is a fascinating destination.

Final thoughts

Germany’s best places to visit offer a captivating tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

From the iconic landmarks of Berlin and the fairytale charm of Rothenburg to the majestic castles of Bavaria and the scenic wonders of the Rhine Valley, each destination holds its own unique allure.

Whether you find yourself wandering the bustling streets of Cologne or exploring the serene landscapes of the Zugspitze, Germany’s diverse regions promise unforgettable experiences at every turn.

With its long-standing heritage, vibrant cities, and picturesque vistas, Germany stands as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a truly remarkable journey.

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• 26 Places To Visit In Germany In 2024 That Will Compel You To Stay Here Forever

23 Mar 2023

Natural beauty, culture, and history are perhaps the best adjectives to describe the essence of a quintessential German vacation. With its small towns, historic cities, magnificent mountains, and enchanting forests, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking places to visit in Germany.

26 Best Places To Visit In Germany

The popular cities to visit in Germany include the likes of Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich, all exhibiting century-old traditions and values. The best places to visit in Germany are covered in this list!

• Brandenburg Gate
• Museum Island
• The Berlin Wall
• Cologne Cathedral
• Miniatur Wunderland
• St. Michael’s Church
• Marienplatz
• Frauenkirche
• The Black Forest
• Zugspitze Massif
• The island Of Rügen
• Kings Lake Aka Königssee
• Sanssouci Palace And Park
• Insel Mainau
• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Berlin Zoological Garden
• Gendarmenmarkt
• Heide Park Resort
• Tierpark Hagenbeck
• Kunsthalle Museum
• The Bürgerstadt And Bamberg
• Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

26 Places To Visit In Germany In 2023

If you are curious about what to do and where to go on your trip to Germany, continue reading.

1. Brandenburg Gate

Image Source

If you are wondering what to see in Germany, we recommend you start with the historic Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. Built in 1791, the sandstone monument is modeled after the Acropolis in Athens. This 18th century neoclassical monumnet makes for an amazing backdrop for pictures. Do add it to your list of places to visit in Germany.

Where: Berlin

Timings: NA Entry fee: Free

Must Read: 10 Best Hotels In Germany: Epitomes Of Royalty, Elegance, And Home-Like Comfort

2. Museum Island

Berlin is without a doubt one the best places in Germany. And among its many treasures is the infamous Museumsinsel aka Museum Island. This pedestrian-friendly district is among the best places to visit in Germany.

Where: Berlin Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM Entry fee: Approx. INR 1,400/- per person

3. The Berlin Wall

Your list of places to visit in Germany is incomplete without a visit to the iconic Berlin wall. Among the most popular Germany tourist attractions, some of Berlin Wall’s sections have been well preserved and some are even covered in colorful graffiti. Also, visit the Berlin Wall Exhibition and Berlin War Memorial.

Where: Berlin, Germany Timings: NA Entry fee: NA

Suggested Read: 9 Best Germany Beach Resorts For A Refreshing Beach Vacay

4. Cologne Cathedral

Image Source A Gothic architectural masterpiece, the Kölner Dom is among the best places to visit in Germany. It’s one of the largest Catholic churches in Europe covering an area of 6,166 square meters with 56 huge pillars. The 56 pillars around it boast of the magnificence of the place even further. The panoramic view from the south towers accentuates the importance of the place even further. The interiors have spectacular gold artworks and a stained-glass window dating back to the 12th century.

Where: Cologne Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM Entry fee: INR 240 (Approx)

5. The Rhine

Image Courtesy: publicdomainpictures.net

The most significant and beautiful water in Europe, the Rhine Valley features on every list of places to see in Germany. The Rhine river flows through Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands. There are nearly 60 medieval towns and 40 castles along the stretch of the river, just waiting to be explored.

Where: Rhine, Cologne Timings: NA Entry fee: Free

Suggested Read: Germany Honeymoon Guide: Where To Go, What To Do, When To Go

6. Miniatur Wunderland

Your list of cities to visit in Germany is incomplete without the inclusion of the very chic city of Hamburg. Make sure you visit the world’s largest model railway attraction aka Miniatur Wunderland on your trip here.

Where: Hamburg, Germany Timings: 8 AM to 9 PM Entry fee: Approx. INR 1,200 /- per person

7. St. Michael’s Church

This Baroque-style church was built in the year 1762 and is among the most famous churches in Hamburg. The church houses a 132-meter high tower which can be accessed by an elevator. There is also a viewing platform at the top, offering the visitors amazing views of the cities landscape. This is must visit when in Hamburg, it’s among the most important landmarks in the city and the most beautiful churches in Germany.

Where: Hamburg, Germany Timings: 9 AM to 8 PM Entry Fee : Free

8. Marienplatz

Perhaps the most beautiful and popular attraction in Munich, Marienplatz aka Marien Square is located in the heart of this historic city. There are many attractions here such as the New Town Hall, Clock Tower, Historic Buildings etc. The best time to visit is 11 AM or noon especially if you want to hear the Glockenspiel bell ring. As well as see a re-enactment of historic Bavarian events by 32-lifesize figures.

Where: Munich,Germany Timings: 24X7 Entry Fee : Free

9. Frauenkirche

Another popular tourist attraction in Munich is the famous Catholic Church called Frauenkirche. it’s among the most recognized landmarks in the city and can accommodate up to 20,000 people at a time. Visitors can climb the steps of the church towers and catch some spectacular views of the city and its skyline.

Where: Munich, Germany Timings: 10 AM to 12 PM, 1 PM to 6 PM Entry fee: Free, donations welcome

Suggested Read: Hitler’s Abandoned Sanatorium In Germany Still Strikes Fear Into People’s Heart

10. The Black Forest

Image Credit: Marvball for Pixabay

One of the most captivating and incredible places to visit in Germany is the enchanting Black Forest. This densely wooded hill is among the top-rated Germany destinations and a great place to enjoy panoramic views, luxury spa, skiing, trekking, and more etc.

Where: Baden-Württemberg Timings: NA Entry fee: NA

11. Zugspitze Massif

The best way to enjoy Germany’s natural beauty is by visiting the Zugspitze Massif. At 2,950 meters above sea level, this eastern summit is a spectacular location to enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views of the German landscape. Tip: You can book train tickets to Zugspitze and cable car rides here .

Where: Zugspitze, Germany Timings: 8:45 AM to 4:15 PM Entry fee: INR 4,600 (Approx)

Suggested Read: 10 Extraordinary Things To Do During Your Summer Holidays In Europe

12. The Island Of Rügen

Rügen is not only the largest but also the most beautiful island in Germany. The beauty of the island stems from its diverse landscape, flat farmlands, hills, forests, sandy beaches, peninsula, and lagoons. Also visit the old town of Putbus housing many neoclassical parks and buildings.

Where: Rugen, Germany along the Baltic Sea Coast Timings: NA Entry fee: Free

13. Kings Lake Aka Königssee

Image Credit: kordi_vahle for Pixabay

This lovely Bavarian Lake is a treat for sore eyes. The lake can either be explored through its beautiful walkways via a boat ride aboard a 17th-century vessel. The lake is also home to famous mountain resorts where you can stay during your trip.

Where: Bavaria Timings (boat): 8 AM to 5 PM Boat tour duration: 2 hours Entry fee (Boat tickets): INR 1,000/- per person

Suggested Read: 14 Essential Europe Travel Tips For The First-Timers Taking A Euro-cation

14. Sanssouci Palace And Park

Next on the list of the amazing spots to visit around Germany is the Sanssouci Park and Palace. The entire construction of the park and palace took place between the years of 1744 and 1756. The park is spread across a large area and showcases a rich designation of not just a flower but a fruit garden as well. The park has over 3000 fruit trees which makes it unique. The area is covered by trimmed hedges and a perfectly maintained lawn. Apart from the natural buildings, you will also find a number of park buildings like the Picture Gallery, Chinese House, and the Roman Baths complex which further add to the beauty of the place. This specific landmark celebrates the beauty of the infamous Potsdam Rococo.

Where: Maulbeerallee, 14469 Potsdam, Germany Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM Entry fee: INR 1,500/- per person

15. Insel Mainau

Image Credit: Tommy_Rau for Pixabay

Also known as the Flower Island of Lake Constance, the Insel Mainau is one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in Germany. Spread around a total area of 110 acres, this is completely covered in vibrant hues of flowers and the sweet smell further adds to the fervor of the place. The combination of the beautiful parks as well as the gardens along with the tropical and semitropical vegetation is what adds to the beauty of the place. The island can only be accessed via boats which is an experience in itself. While there, visit the 18th century Schloss which is known for its amazing White Wall, which stands tall as a defensive tower.

Where: Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany Timings: 10 AM to 7 PM Entry fee: INR 650/ – per person (average)

16. Neuschwanstein Castle

Germany is known around the world for its plethora of castles and the architecture surrounding them. The Neuschwanstein Castle is believed to be the legacy left behind by the popular German King Ludwig II. It stands tall atop the German Alps and is a testimony to every fairytale that one has heard of that place. The landscape around the castle is too good to be missed out on. It is perched upon the beautiful and quaint town of Hohenschwangau and is known worldwide for the magnificent drawbridges and turrets that adorn the beauty of the castle even further.

Location: Schwangau Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM Entry fee: INR 1030 (Approx)

Suggested Read: 10 Castles In Germany That Look Straight Out Of A Fairytale

17. Berlin Zoological Garden

If you are looking for places to visit in Germany with kids, then you can add Berlin Zoological Garden to your list. It is one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Germany. Covering an area of around 86.5 acres, the zoo opened its gates to the public in 1844. Other than the zoo and aquarium, the animal feedings attract the attention of the visitors here. Berlin Zoological Garden is one of the most popular zoos in Europe, and should definitely be on your list.

Where: Berlin Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM Entry fee: INR 1170

18. Gendarmenmarkt

Gendarmenmarkt is another one of those places that one shouldn’t miss on a trip to Germany. It is a public square in Berlin which is known for its three magnificent buildings namely the German and French cathedrals and Schinkel’s Konzerthaus. And if one is planning a trip to Germany in November or December then they can even shop at the Christmas market in Gendarmenmarkt, which is one of the most popular ones in Germany.

Where: Berlin Timings: 11 AM to 10 PM Entry fee: NA

19. Heide Park Resort

Another amazing place to visit in Germany is the Heide Park Resort. This is a huge theme park in Soltau covering an area of around 210 acres. It has some exciting and thrilling rides for families to enjoy. With over 40 rides and a horror maze, the place is a great attraction for a day out on one’s trip to Germany.

Where: Soltau Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM Entry fee: INR 2700 (Approx)

20. Tierpark Hagenbeck

This is a zoo in Hamburg which is a great place to visit in Germany with family or kids. This fun place isn’t just a zoo but a beautiful park with interesting buildings which one might encounter while walking around here. Animals from all the continents have found a home in this zoo at Hamburg. Other than this diverse park which houses different species of animals, there is a tropical aquarium too for one to visit.

Where: Hamburg, Germany Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM Entry fee: INR 1,560

Suggested Read: These 20 Hotels In Berlin For Your Vacay Exude Ultimate Comfort And Luxury

21. Kunsthalle Museum

One of the largest museums in Germany, Kunsthalle Museum is an interesting art museum. Founded in 1850, the museum has a great collection of European art from the Middle Ages till the present times. The museum holds temporary exhibition which are a delight for art lovers. If you are one of them, then drop here for a tour.

Where: Hamburg, Germany Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM Entry fee: INR 306

Other Cities To Visit In Germany

Other than the above mentioned popular attractions, these are a few towns that one can add to their list of places to visit in Germany.

Last but not the least on the list of places to visit in Germany with family is the beautiful town of Weimar. It is located in the eastern part of Germany. This town is also famous for being home to some of the most popular artists like Bach and Goethe. Many tourists visit this place to see and witness the place that the famous poet Goethe spent his life in. Others come to see the traumatizing remains of the Buchenwald concentration camps.

Best time to Visit: June to August Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days

Suggested Read: Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle Is A Roman Architecture Beyond Comparison

23. The Bürgerstadt And Bamberg

One of the best parts of traveling in Europe is visiting its charming old towns and cities. Among all places in Germany, we recommend the valley of Regnitz, where on one side is the charming old town of Bürgerstadt and on the other is the old imperial city of Bamberg.

24. Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Among the most attractive places in Germany, the old Imperial City of Rothenburg remains virtually untouched since its thirty-year war of 1618. Preserving its medieval charm, the attraction houses the Town Hall, St. James Church, City Museum, and Imperial Church. The city of Rothenburg doesn’t necessarily require any kind of introduction, right? But, have you heard of the Rothenburg ob der Tauber? Located on the picturesque banks of the river of Tauber, the Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most beautiful tourist spots to visit in Rothenburg. The place is an ode to the history of this place and the country of Germany. The walls along with the towers are completely untouched and pristine. The best way to enjoy here is by walking down the streets. If possible, visit Plönlein which is one of the most picturesque sites around the town.

Best time to Visit: December Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Berlin You Can’t Afford To Miss On Your Germany Trip

When it comes to exploring the cities in Germany, Lindau is a must include in the list. The charming streets and the passageways are not just filled with history and tradition but have spectacular views as well. It is also often known as the Garden of Eden and lies on the shores of the popular Lake Constance. The half-timbered buildings along with the Alpine vegetation further add to the beauty of the place. If your trip is scheduled around summertime, you can charter a boat to admire the beauty of Switzerland, Austria and even the Alps across the lake.

Best time to Visit: May to September Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days

26. Dresden

This city is located along the banks of the Elbe River and add to the fervor and the mystique beauty of the place around. It is also often known as the ‘Florence of Elbe’ and is known for its lush greenery, picturesque location along with the parks, and forests around. Apart from that, you will also be able to experience the beauty of the Baroque architecture and the wide range of museums that will help you learn about the rich history of the place. Majority of the landmarks that date back to the time of the Second World War were rebuilt and reconstructed to bring them to their former glory.

Best time to Visit: May to October Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days

Further Read: Of Castles And Lakes: An Imperious Family Trip To Germany And Austria

There is no dearth of places to visit in Germany. From stunning landscapes to charming attractions, this country has everything. So, what are you waiting for? Explore it all on a customised trip to Germany with your loved ones. Book now!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Germany

Is Germany expensive to visit?

If you calculate the overall expenses then Germany is not an expensive place to visit. But if you opt for cruises then your budget might exceed your expectations. There are various things to do in Germany even if you want to travel on a budget.

Which is the cheapest city in Germany?

One of the cheapest cities in Germany is Leipzig where you can pay the least rent for your abode. Apart from this, Bochum, Jena, Siegen, and Kiel are some of the other cities where you can live on a shoestring budget.

Is it safe to visit Germany during covid times?

The German Government has recently issued a notice stating that it has removed all the restrictions that were put up to contain covid from spreading. Although, you are required to do a covid test 24 hours before departure. On arrival, the restrictions have already been lifted, therefore quarantine and testing for covid is not required.

Is living in Germany expensive?

If you compare Germany with other European countries then it is not an expensive place to live. The living expenses in Germany usually touch 850 Euros every month and are easily manageable for most people.

What is Germany famous for?

Beer and cars make Germany the most popular country not only in Europe but also in the world. Besides this, you will see around 300 varieties of bread which will be difficult to find anywhere else in the world.

Which city in Germany has the best weather?

Some of the best weather cities in Germany are Mainz, Berlin, Furth, Magdeburg, Frankfurt am Main, Offenbach am Main, and Karlsruhe. Germany includes several fun places that offer amazing experiences during different seasons.

Is Berlin expensive to visit?

The daily costs to visit Berlin. Berlin is by far the cheapest capital city in Western Europe, so it’s a great place for budget-minded backpackers and anyone wanting a great deal. Berlin has world-class museums, cheap food, crazy nightlife, and affordable accommodation.

Is Leipzig worth visiting?

A day trip to Leipzig is well worth it. Leipzig is known for its universities. I have never seen a university that is made mostly of glass. The history of the town is also very important especially during the DDR.

Is it safe to travel to Germany?

Germany is a very safe country. Crime rates are very low compared to southern European countries, and law is strictly enforced. It is ranked 14th in the ranking of world’s safest countries. Petty crime, like bag snatching and pickpocketing, is a serious problem around tourist areas and on public transport.

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17 most beautiful places in germany.

Germany is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes and landmarks you’ve ever seen, from the majestic Black Forest to the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein. You might not know as much about these places as other destinations you’re considering, but in our opinion, it’s well worth a visit to Germany to see some of these incredible sights. 

In today’s guide, we’re going to be introducing you to 17 of the most beautiful places in Germany , so come along for the ride and discover some of Germany’s loveliest locations! If you are planning on spending some time in Germany then you will want to read through this 7-day Germany itinerary.

Visiting other destinations in Germany? Check out our guide to traveling in Germany that includes information on many popular destinations like Berlin and Munich , plus Oktoberfest in Munich . Going outside of Germany? Here’s our Europe travel guide .

Table of Contents

Discover These Beautiful Places In Germany

1. the black forest.

The Black Forest, located in southwestern Germany, is a picturesque region that beckons with its deep, dense woods, traditional half-timbered houses, and serene lakes. It’s a haven for those of you who love the outdoors, offering a plethora of hiking trails, ski slopes, and scenic routes for both cycling and driving.

You’ll find charming villages along the way, where time seems to move at a leisurely pace, and the air is filled with the scent of traditional Black Forest cake—a delightful concoction of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream.

The region is steeped in folklore and tradition, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the heart of Germany.

2. Lake Königssee

Nestled in the German Alps, Lake Königssee is a gem that captures the essence of natural beauty with its emerald-green waters and surrounding dramatic mountain peaks. This lake, located in Berchtesgaden National Park, Bavaria, is renowned for its serene atmosphere and crystal-clear water, making it one of the cleanest lakes in Germany.

As you glide across the lake on one of the electric boats, you’ll be mesmerized by the echoing sound of a trumpet or flugelhorn played by the boatmen, demonstrating the lake’s remarkable acoustics against the steep rock walls. The journey takes you past the iconic St. Bartholomä, a pilgrimage church with red onion domes that sits picturesquely on the lake’s edge against the backdrop of the Watzmann mountain.

For the adventurous souls, hiking trails abound, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore the area’s lush flora and fauna. Lake Königssee is not just a destination; it’s an experience that connects you with the tranquility and majestic beauty of nature.

3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fairy-tale town that seems to have sprung straight from the pages of a storybook, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant history. Situated in Bavaria, Germany, this town is a standout on the Romantic Road, captivating visitors with its picturesque beauty and timeless charm.

As you walk through the Plönlein, the town’s most photographed spot, you’re greeted by half-timbered houses and the iconic forked road, a scene that looks like it hasn’t changed in centuries. The town wall encircles Rothenburg, offering a unique vantage point for stunning views over the rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

Make sure to explore the Christmas Market if you’re there during the holiday season; it’s like stepping into a real-life winter wonderland. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a testament to the enduring allure of historical preservation, inviting you to wander, discover, and be enchanted by its old-world beauty.

4. Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle, perched atop rugged cliffs in the Bavarian Alps, is a vision of fairy-tale splendor that has inspired awe and wonder in the hearts of visitors from around the globe. Commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century, this castle was intended as a personal refuge for the reclusive king but has since become a symbol of romantic architecture and the inspiration behind Disney’s iconic Cinderella Castle.

As you approach Neuschwanstein, the first glimpse of its soaring turrets and intricate facades against the backdrop of the lush, green mountains is truly breathtaking. Inside, the castle is just as impressive, with lavish rooms that reflect Ludwig’s fascination with medieval legends and his penchant for opulence.

The throne room, adorned with gilded details and majestic murals, and the Singers’ Hall, inspired by the legends of Richard Wagner’s operas, are standout features. Exploring Neuschwanstein Castle is like stepping into a different era, where the line between history and fantasy blurs, offering a glimpse into the dreams of a king who sought to escape the confines of reality.

You can get to the castle in just a short journey from Munich by train.

» Take a tour : Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castle Day Trip from Munich .

5. The Rhine Valley

The Rhine Valley in Germany is a captivating blend of natural splendor and rich cultural heritage. This picturesque region stretches along the Rhine River, offering views that seem to have leapt out of a landscape painting, with steep vineyards, quaint medieval towns, and numerous castles dotting the hillsides.

One of the highlights of the Rhine Valley is the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its approximately 40 castles and fortresses that have inspired countless artists, poets, and composers over the centuries.

A cruise along this part of the river offers a serene way to take in the sights, with the Lorelei Rock standing as a sentinel, echoing the myth of a siren who lured sailors to their doom with her enchanting song.

The Rhine Valley is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a delight for the palate. The region is famous for its Riesling wine, produced from grapes that thrive in the unique microclimate and terroir of the valley’s slopes. Visiting the charming wine villages and partaking in a wine tasting.

6. Eibsee 

You might not have heard of Eibsee before, but once you’ve seen photographs of this peaceful Bavarian lake, we think it will be high on your list of places to see in Germany. 

Part of the appeal of Eibsee as a lake is how clear the waters are. The lake itself reflects the Alpine scenery and makes for absolutely stunning photographs. 

However, visiting Eibsee lake . isn’t just about taking in the view. You can also go fishing or kayaking, or even swim in the calm, clean waters.

Alternatively, once you’ve seen the lake, you can go and explore the tranquil town of Eibsee, which is an excellent retreat from the busy city.

7. Bamberg 

You might hear Bamberg referred to as ‘the Rome of Germany’, and that’s because of the city’s historic architecture. 

If you want to see why Bamberg has been named a UNESCO world heritage site, you should head to the Old Town, where you can see buildings (including the cathedral) dating all the way back to the 13th century! 

The River Regnitz passes through Bamberg, as do many streams, making Bamberg the ideal city to spend a day simply observing the surroundings from the comfort of one of the city’s plentiful beer gardens (the perfect opportunity to try some authentic German beer)!

8. Quedlinburg 

Quedlinburg may not be as well-known as some other towns in Germany such as Heidelberg or Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but it’s definitely the place to go for vibrant colors, historical buildings and amazing scenery. 

Quedlinburg is yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and unlike some of the other UNESCO sites on this list, it has a relatively small population of 24,000.

This means that it’s an ideal place to stop and catch your breath if you’ll be visiting several major cities during your time in Germany. 

Speaking of major cities, Quedlinburg is not far from Munich, so if you’re heading to Munich for Oktoberfest, Quedlinburg should definitely be on your itinerary.

9. The Moselle Valley

If you planned a trip to Germany with the intention of sampling some German beer and wine , the Moselle Valley is another place to add to your list of destinations. 

Not only is the Moselle Valley home to some romantic vineyards and equally romantic traditional taverns, but you can also see some beautiful castles and picturesque villages in this area of south-western Germany. 

The Moselle Valley has also been an integral part of German history for over 2000 years due to its diverse influences when it comes to culture, so you can learn a lot from a day in this area of Germany, too.

10. Bavarian Forest National Park

We’ve mentioned Bavaria a couple of times already throughout this guide, and that’s because so many of Germany’s most beautiful places are within the Bavarian region.

This includes the famous Bavarian Forest National Park , which is well worth a visit if you enjoy spending time in nature. 

The Bavarian Forest National Park is Germany’s oldest national park, which makes it interesting from the outset.

It’s a wild and rugged forest, made even more so by a storm in 1983 which caused significant damage which officials declined to have repaired to maintain the natural environment. 

Not only does the Bavarian Forest National Park provide some enchanting views, but it’s also a great place to spot some unusual wildlife, from the three-toed woodpecker to the pygmy owl!

11. Sylt 

Sylt doesn’t get as much attention as some of the other beautiful places in Germany because it’s not directly on the mainland, although the island is connected by a causeway to the rest of the country.

This island is one of the Frisian Islands , and its natural beauty has been maintained by its relatively solitary location. 

From Frisian-style houses to beaches that look like they should be on postcards, Sylt is the perfect destination for a peaceful day trip and one of Germany’s best-kept and most beautiful secrets.

12. Mittenwald 

If you’re going to be passing through Garmisch-Partenkirchen during your stay in Germany, you should make a point to visit Mittenwald. 

Mittenwald is nestled between the Bavarian alpine peaks, but the mountainous scenery isn’t the only reason Mittenwald is considered one of the most beautiful places in the country. 

The architecture of this picturesque town includes cobbled stone streets, old churches, and buildings painted in a rainbow of colors. 

Additionally, Mittenwald is the perfect destination for music lovers because one of the town’s claims to fame is its manufacture of stringed instruments, mainly cellos and violins.

If you want to learn more about Mittenwald’s connection to the music scene, the Mittenwald Violin Crafting Museum should be at the top of your itinerary. 

13. Wurzburg Residence 

Wurzburg Residence is a Baroque palace that was built starting in 1720, although the building task was so immense that construction was not completed until 1744.

Those twenty-four years of building were definitely worth it, though, because the French-style architecture and stunning gardens have marked this palace as one of Germany’s most beautiful places. 

Not only that, but Wurxburg Residence carries huge historical significance since its construction was ordered by Prince Bishof of Wurzburg Johann Phillip Franz Von Schonborn. 

14. Ramsau 

Yet another beautiful Bavarian location, Ramsau is a quaint, picturesque village located in the Bavarian alps. With a population of just 1,800, this is a peaceful, hidden gem of a town. 

There might not be as much to do in Ramsau compared to some of the larger towns and cities on this list, but you won’t get bored of exploring this village.

Not only is it the home of Watzmann mountain (the third tallest mountain in the country), but you can spend hours just strolling through the streets and taking in the gorgeous alpine setting, stopping at some of the town’s cozy taverns and restaurants on your way.

15. Lichtenstein Castle 

Lichtenstein castle, located in the Swabian Jura of southern Germany, is one of the most famous castles in the whole of Germany, and you only have to look at it to see why it’s earned this reputation. 

Not only does the Gothic Revival architecture look like an image from a fairytale, but this fairytale is one you can experience first-hand because the castle is open for public visits despite being privately owned. 

The castle was built in the 1840s, but it was recently restored in 2002 so it looks as good as it did when the bricks were first laid in the 19th century. 

16. The Harz National Park

In addition to the Bavarian Forest National Park, we think that everyone who visits Germany should consider going to the Harz National Park. 

This forest looks genuinely enchanted, and the folklore surrounding this part of Saxony-Anhalt and Lower Saxony helps to maintain its mysterious and magical ambiance. 

Whether you choose to take a stroll through the forest or ski down the mountains (Harz National Park is home to Brocken , which is the tallest mountain in the north of Germany) you’ll have plenty of opportunity to see the local fauna and flora, especially the numerous butterfly species. 

17. Hohenschwangau 

Another stunning castle, Hohenschwangau is indisputably one of the most beautiful buildings in the whole of Germany, so it takes the final spot on our list. 

Like Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenshwangau dates back to the 19th century, and it’s considered one of the most visually appealing castles in the country not just because of its architectural features but because of the surrounding area, in which you can see forests, lakes and mountains all within the same view. 

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all the beautiful places in Germany.

If we could, we would have added dozens more because there’s seemingly no end to both the natural and architectural beauty that Germany has to offer. 

With that being said, we hope that you’ve managed to take some travel inspiration from our top 17 beautiful places in Germany and that you’ll be able to see at least a few of them when you next visit the country!

Be Prepared For Travel

Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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• Travel Resources

25 Amazing Places to Visit in Germany

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: November 29, 2019

Categories Germany , Travel Inspiration

Home / Europe / Germany / 25 Amazing Places to Visit in Germany

There are lots of interesting and beautiful places to visit in Germany but for some reason, it’s quite an unexplored and underrated country by international tourists. 

I think this list is a great start when planning your   trip! The places aren’t ranked in any particular order, and they’re just numbered as a reference to the list of 25 Amazing places to Visit in Germany. 

I traveled around Germany by car and drove across the country from North to South and from West to East, and I love it! 

1. Lichtenstein Castle

One of my favorite castles in Germany is Lichtenstein Castle in the Baden-Württemberg state. It’s a great example of a place frequently visited by local tourists, but not so much by international tourists. 

But it’s well worth a visit, and visitors can go on a guided tour inside the castle for just 8 Euro. 

2. Lake Schrecksee

This fantastic lake lies right next to the Austrian border in Bavaria, and it’s the highest Alpine in the whole country. A fair warning though, the hike is quite exhausting, so make sure to bring snacks, good shoes, and a happy mood. 

Photo: Shutterstock

3. The Mosel Valley

Germany might not be the first country you think of when mentioning wine, but the Mosel Valley is renowned and has some excellent wines to offer. Besides the vineyards, it’s very picturesque, lush and charming as well. 

Don’t miss to visit the Moselle Bend and Cochem castle! 

This lake is beautifully located at the foot of Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze. Eibsee is located in Bavaria, and can easily be reached from Munich or Garmisch-Partenkirchen. 

5. Burg Eltz

If you want to visit a genuine castle in its original form, then Burg Eltz is one of the best places to visit in Germany. It has been in the same family for at least 33 generations, and thankfully it has been spared from wars and bombings during World War II.

The medieval castle was built in the 12th century and is located in a valley above the Moselle river. 

Schönau am Königssee is one of the most famous places to visit in Germany, but the nearby Obersee is equally stunning, if not even more beautiful thanks to its unspoiled nature. 

There are also fewer tourists here, and it’s a lovely area to go hiking. 

7. Blautopf

About 30 minutes driving from the German city Ulm, you can be amazed by the ridiculously blue water of Blautopf.

8. Rugen Island

White beaches and turquoise blue water might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Germany, but Rugen island is a great exception, and it’s a popular destination for Germans to go during summer. 

The beaches on Rugen Island are stunning, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Germany for a nice beach vacation. 

9. Quedlinburg

A quaint village with some classic old German architecture that is located in the central part of the country. What makes Quedlinburg even more special is the fact that it is designated a World Heritage Site status by Unesco. 

10. Neuschwanstein Castle

Perhaps the most famous attraction in all of Germany, and rightly so. I’ve been to many castles and fortresses around the world, but none have been as majestic as the Neuschwanstein Castle , which makes perfect sense when you learn the history behind “the Mad King”. 

Neuschwanstein is also the real-life Disney castle that inspired Walt Disney and his creation of the Cinderella castle. 

• Neuschwanstein Castle

11. Saxon Switzerland

The name of this place is a bit confusing because it is indeed located in Germany, and not Switzerland. But anyhow, Saxon Switzerland is a real gem filled of beautiful landscapes. 

12. Miniatur Wunderland

This is one of the best places to visit in Germany if you’re traveling with kids, but the Miniatur Wunderland is quite fun for everyone. It’s the largest miniland theme park in the world, and there are plenty of famous sites to see in a miniature version. 

The Minatur Wunderland is located in Hamburg. 

Photo: Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

13. Görlitz

Often mentioned as one of the most beautiful German towns, and the city of Görlitz has more than 3500 architectural monuments that are well-preserved from the last 500 years. 

14. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

This charming town is part of the Romantic Road in Germany, and it’s a well-preserved historical town. Rothenburg ob der Tauber attracts visitors from all over the world, and it was founded already during the Middle Ages. 

Don’t forget to try the local delicacy known as Schneeball. 

In the northern part of the country, 1.5 hours from Hamburg lies the old Hanseatic city of Bremen. The old area of Schnoorviertiel is one of the most charming areas I’ve seen in Europe, and it’s well worth a visit. 

But the other parts of the city are nice too, and if you’re looking for a good hotel I suggest Radisson Blu Bremen . 

16. Saarschleife

Saarschleife lies 1 hour south of Trier and has some impressive nature to admire. 

17. Schiltach

Schiltach is one of many charming villages in the Black Forest region. It was founded in the 11th century, and there are many well-preserved houses from various time periods. 

18. Rakotzbrücke

Also known as the Devils Bridge, located in the Kromlau Park, known for its rhododendron flowers. Rakotzbrücke is a spectacular arch bridge that has an even more interesting story behind it. According to the legend, it is said that the devil helped finished the bridge. 

19. Meersburg

Meersburg is a beautiful city in Southwestern Germany at Lake Constance, and the name of the city actually translates as the “Castle on the Sea”.

It’s a lovely destination where restaurants and cafes are lined up along the boardwalk. The city itself is quite charming as well, and is home to two castles and several half-timbered houses. 

Trier was founded by the Celts already in the 4th century B.C but was later conquered by the Romans. It is sometimes referred to as the oldest German city. 

Porta Nigra is one of the most famous attractions in Trier. 

21. Saalfelder Feengrotten

Known as the most colorful cave grottoes in the world, formed some 440 million years ago. It’s an exciting place to explore in the central-east part of the country. 

22. Geierlay

Want to walk across Germany’s longest suspension bridge? Then you should visit Geierlay, which is located just 45 minutes driving from Burg Eltz.

From the parking lot, you will have to walk for about 20-30 minutes, but it’s an easy hike, and the reward of seeing the bridge and views makes up for it. 

23. Köln

Köln, or Cologne as the city is known in English is one of the most populous German cities, and it is home to the Kölner Dom, which is one of the most iconic buildings. 

24. Black Forest

The Black Forest is one of the best places to visit in Germany if you like to spend time outdoors. There are many hiking trails available with various difficulty levels.

Another fun fact about the Black Forest is that it was here that the famous German sagas originated, such as Hansel and Gretel. 

The German capital is one of the trendiest cities in the world right now, but it’s also a historic city. It was here that the Berlin wall divided West and East after World War II. 

Top 10 Best Places to visit in Germany

These are my 10 favorites. Do you agree? Share your own favorite places to visit in Germany in the comment section below.

• Lichtenstein Castle
• Saxon Switzerland
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Black Forest
• Rugen Island

More Places to Visit in Germany

• Schönau am Königssee
• Tübingen
• Würzburg

Best Places to Visit in Germany for Christmas

German Christmas markets are renowned worldwide, and rightly so, nobody does Christmas better than the Germans with their Glüwhein and cozy markets that will give the best Christmas vibes. 

Some of the most famous German Christmas markets can be found in Dresden, Berlin, Nuremberg, Cologne, Bremen, and Leipzig. 

Book Your Trip

So, now that you know about all these beautiful places to visit in Germany, it’s time to book your trip!

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Germany is an underrated destination where you can spend weeks or even months. If you know some more beautiful places to visit in Germany, feel free to share in the comment section!

20 fascinating places to discover in Germany

Posted: November 10, 2023 | Last updated: November 10, 2023

Rhine Valley

Considered one of the most beautiful rivers on the European continent, the Rhine stretches over 1,200 kilometres (746 miles) from Switzerland to the North Sea. Its valley , more precisely the Rhine Gorge, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional beauty.

Located on the banks of the Tauber River, Rothenburg is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. In addition to Marktplatz and the town hall, stop by Plönlein, an iconic site straight out of a fairy tale. Rothenburg is also a must-see for those planning to travel the German Romantic Road.

Historic port of Hamburg

Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city after Berlin. Renowned for its beauty, the historical port of Hamburg continues to operate, playing a key role in the country’s waterway network. Hamburg’s port is not only a gateway to Germany but also a commercial and cultural destination, home to the remarkably designed Elbphilharmonie concert hall .

Black Forest

Surrounded by mountains, Germany’s mythical Black Forest is located in the country’s southwestern Baden-Württemberg region. While portrayed as mysterious in the Grimm brothers’ fairy tales, Black Forest National Park offers wonderful strolls through dense vegetation. Surrounded by numerous spa towns, it’s also a popular destination for a relaxing getaway.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Located in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, the enchanting Neuschwanstein Castle is the stuff of dreams and believed to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty . The castle was built in the 19th century for Ludwig II, a reclusive and eccentric king who wanted to retire from public life but died before construction was completed. Several excursions to this legendary castle are available from both Munich, located less than two hours away by car, and Hohenschwangau.

Berchtesgaden National Park

Berchtesgaden National Park was founded in 1978 to preserve this beautiful Alpine area. Indeed, Berchtesgaden is Germany’s only alpine national park. Its wild landscapes and steep trails are home to a host of various plants and animals, including many species of butterflies, deer, and eagles.

Rügen Island

Nestled in the Baltic Sea off the coast of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Rügen is Germany’s largest island. Visitors will find the beautiful Jasmund National Park, several idyllic beaches, pristine cliffs, and other attractions. A popular luxury destination, Rügen Island is ideal for nature lovers.

Munich is both the capital of Bavaria and the third-largest city in Germany. Marienplatz, the city’s central square, is famous for its neo-Gothic architecture, especially once its Christmas markets open during the holiday season. In addition to its many museums and Oktoberfest beer gardens, Munich is an excellent starting point for excursions into southern Germany.

Eltz Castle

Eltz is one of the few castles in Germany that still belongs to the original family. In fact, 34 generations have lived there over the past 850 years. Open to the public from April to November, the castle that inspired Walt Disney’s setting for Cinderella (and its theme parks) is located in the heart of the Eltz Forest at the foot of the Elzbach River.

For a taste of history and culture, Berlin is an essential stop on any trip to Germany. Shaped by the conflicts of the 20th century, the country’s official capital has many landmarks to visit, such as the poignant Holocaust Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, and the fascinating East Side Gallery.

With its old walled city featuring beautiful cobbled streets and an imperial castle, Nuremberg is an undeniably magical destination. It’s also the former Nazi regime rally grounds, where a major battle took place in 1945 and German leaders were tried in 1946. Bavaria’s second-largest city attracts numerous history buffs every year.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a spa town in southern Germany, not far from the Black Forest. Its therapeutic waters flow from springs located more than 2,000 metres (6,500 feet) below ground. The city’s many spas offer all kinds of wellness experiences, such as taking a dip in Roman baths or the Salina Sea Salt Grotto.

Bastei Bridge

Located in southern Germany’s Saxon Switzerland National Park, Bastei Bridge is an impressive 305-metre (1,000-foot) rock formation created by erosion more than one million years ago. The view of the Elbe Valley is simply incredible.

Schwerin Castle

This sublime palace with more than 650 rooms is also the seat of the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern parliament. Discover Schwerin Castle ’s fabulous baroque gardens and orangery during your visit. Less than two hours by car from Hamburg and two and a half hours from Berlin, this German attraction is well worth the trip.

Bavarian Forest National Park

Open since 1970, the Bavarian Forest National Park is mainly composed of spruce and silver fir trees and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lynx, bears, and wolves. Germany’s first and largest official national park is located in the highlands along the Czech border. Its most famous attractions include the Großer Rachel, Großer Falkenstein, and Lusen peaks as well as Rachelsee Lake.

Nestled on the Rhine River and famous for its chocolate museum and 2,000-year-old historical district, Cologne is also known for the festive spirit of its carnival. Visit its beautiful cathedral and enjoy a good Kölsch, the city’s classic beer.

In addition to attracting Mercedes-Benz and Porsche enthusiasts with its automobile expertise, Stuttgart is sure to please art lovers and students with its museums and impressive library. This capital of the Baden-Württemberg region is also very green, featuring plenty of parks and outdoor public spaces. What’s more, Stuttgart hosts one of Germany’s largest Christmas markets during the holiday season.

Famous for its legendary sausages, Frankfurt sits on the Main River in central Germany and serves as an important national financial hub. Its most popular attractions include the Goethe House, Römerberg town centre, and the Städel Museum. Frankfurt is also home to one of Europe’s largest airports.

Home to the royal line of the House of Hanover, this city on the Leine River is also the capital of the German state of Lower Saxony. In addition to the lush Herrenhäuser Gardens, featuring the Berggarten and Georgengarten, Hanover also hosts one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in Germany.

Considered one of the country’s most charming cities, Heidelberg borders the Neckar River in southwest Germany. A 14th-century university, Renaissance castle, and Gothic church are just some of the magical places to visit. Surrounded by green hills, lesser-known Heidelberg deserves a place on your itinerary.

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Discover the Best Secret Spots in Germany.

The 13 Best Hidden Gems in Germany

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Discover the Best Hidden Gems in Germany, the top-rated off the beaten path destinations in Germany .

From Wuppertal to Sylt visit the lesser known secret destinations in Germany that you've probably never heard of.

Magical Secret Spots in Germany and the  Best Germany Hidden Attractions are waiting for you.

Germany overflows with beautiful medieval cities, incredible landscapes and unspoiled nature. If you want to think outside the box, check out a selection of some of the best hidden gems in Germany .

Germany will unveil her most beautiful secret destinations : untold wild beaches, incredible secret cities where the metro soars through the air, undderrated destinations in Germany  that seem straight out of a snow globe or a children's story.

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Germany and discover Wuppertal, Ladenburg, Freudenberg,...some of the best hidden gems of Germany .

Rhineland Palatinate

This city in the Moselle region is one of the oldest in Germany, it is also one of the Best Secret Spots in Germany .

You will see many remains of its Roman era, such as the “Porta Nigra”, a huge fortified gate which is one of the symbols of the city of Trier.

Trier is also a great destination for a romantic city break or for Christmas shopping when the town becomes a magical destination, a perfect destination to celebrate Christmas with the family or simply to take a stroll in the Christmas market .

Book your flights to Trier or Luxembourg as well as your accommodation at the best price and discover one of the Most Amazing Hidden Gems to Visit in Germany .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Trier airport or via Luxembourg airport, located 40 minutes by car from Trier.

  Where to stay:  “ Vienna House Easy Trier ” is a 4-star hotel particularly appreciated by travellers.

2. Wuppertal

North Rhine - Westfalia

Just 30 minutes by car or train from Düsseldorf Airport, Wuppertal may be one of the less known destinations in Germany but it worth the trip.

120 years ago, this industrial city was the first to make the futuristic choice of a subway suspended in the air. Still in operation, this 13-kilometre monorail is one of the symbols of Wuppertal, one of your Best Hidden Gems in Germany .

You will feel like you are in an amusement park, flying over the rivers and parks of Wuppertal on board this original and very rare form of public transport in Europe.

Book your flights to Düsseldorf as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Düsseldorf or book your accommodation directly in Wuppertal .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Düsseldorf (30 min by car, 50 min by public transport).

  Where to stay:  " Park Villa ", is a 4-star hotel located in the historic heart of the city.

3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

This is one of our favourite cities in Germany. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is what you might call a postcard town in Germany .

Everything is beautiful, authentic, traditional, colourful, charming. Rothenburg is really one of the Best fairy tale destinations in Germany .

The city is beautiful at any time of the year, but we recommend that you visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber in spring or in December.

Awarded as one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, you will experience a moment of pure magic by booking your accommodation at the best price in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Nuremberg (1 hour by car, 2 hours by train) and discover one of the most beautiful hidden gems of Germany .

  Where to stay: " Hotel Reichs-Küchenmeister ” is a historic 4-star hotel located in the heart of the medieval old town. 

Bremen is a port city located in the north of Germany . Despite being one of the largest cities in the country, it remains a hidden gem for travellers looking for off the beaten path destinations to visit in Germany .

Thanks to the port, Bremen is a rich city with a very pretty historic centre surrounded by medieval ramparts.

Travellers also like the "Marktplatz", the market square on which stands the "Rathaus", the former town hall which now houses a restaurant offering more than 500 German wines.

Book your flights to Bremen and your accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Bremen, such as a walking tour of the medieval Schnoor neighbourhood .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Bremen or Hamburg (1h30 by car - 2h by train).

  Where to stay:  “ Monopol Boutique Hotel ”, one of our bestsellers in Bremen.

5. Ladenburg

Baden-Württemberg

Considered by historians to be one of the oldest cities in Germany, the city of Ladenburg is one of the best hidden gems of Germany .

Ladenburg is no longer the most important city in the region today as it is surrounded by very important cities such as Mannheim or Heidelberg; however, it remains one of the most beautiful secret cities in Germany and is worth the trip for a city break outside of the big cities or for a short afternoon excursion.

If you want to stay nearby, book your accommodation at the best price in Heidelberg , one of the Best Places to Visit in Germany .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Mannheim Airport (10 min) or Frankfurt Airport (1h).

  Where to stay:  Located 10km from Ladenburg, " Hotel Panorama " is located in the centre of Heidelberg.

This charming town in Bavaria was voted by the Germans as Germany's most pleasant city to live in . They love their city and it's a safe bet that you too will fall in love with Bamberg one of the Best Secret Spots to visit in Germany .

Bamberg is located just 40 minutes by car or train from the city of Nuremberg .

Come and walk among the baroque style houses and medieval churches of this city which, like Rome or Lisbon , is built on 7 hills.

Bamberg has remained intact over the centuries and has even been spared the bombings of WWII because it had no significant industry.

Do you want to make your stay unforgettable? Book your tours and activities in Bavaria, such as a “ 2-hour guided walking tour of Bamberg ”.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Nuremberg (50 min by car, 1 hour 30 minutes by public transport) or Frankfurt (2 hours).

  Where to stay:  Our best seller in Bamberg is the " Best Western Hotel Bamberg Nichtraucherhotel ".

7. Freiburg Im Breisgau

Located at the foot of the Black Forest mountains, this town is one of the largest in this fabulous region.

You will quickly feel very comfortable in Freiburg im Breisgau, one of the Best Hidden Gems in Germany , because its historic centre is on at human scale and so very charming.

In addition, the city is one of the pioneers in environmental conservation and also one of the leading university cities in Germany.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Basel Airport in Switzerland, just a 50-minute drive from the city of Freiburg im Breisgau.

  Where to stay:  The " Hotel Barbara " is an elegant hotel located in the heart of Freiburg im Breisgau.

8. Freudenberg

This magnificent city is one of the Epic Places in Germany most Germans dont know about .

How not to fall under the spell of these astonishing half-timbered houses which all seem identical and yet are all different.

Most of them were built in the 17th century after a terrible fire that ravaged almost the entire town of Freudenberg.

Book your flights to Cologne Airport and hop in your rental car to explore Freudenberg. You can book your hotel at the best price in Cologne or decide to stay one or two nights in Freudenberg .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Cologne (50 min by car).

  Where to stay:  “ Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft ” for its value for money and its incredible baroque and wacky decoration.

9. Bastei Bridge

Saxon Switzerland National Park - Lohmen

Located to the east of the very pretty city of Dresden , Saxon Switzerland National Park is one of the Best   Hidden Gems of Germany .

These incredible rock formations, called “Bastei”, attract travellers each year who follow unique destinations. This landscape is the natural result of water erosion over millennia.

Sensing the tourist interest of this site, already coveted by painters in the 19th century, the authorities have built a stone bridge that crosses the rock formations and allows travellers to  discover one of the Best Secret Spots in Germany .

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Dresden , such as a " hike through the national park in Saxon Switzerland from Dresden ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Dresden and drive 2 hours to Lohmen.

  Where to stay:  " Hotel & Ferienwohnungen Ettrich " offers a wonderful view of the Elbe and the Bastei rock formation.

Sylt Island

How many people know that Germany has islands? Not one or two but ten islands!

Wild, unspoiled, often car-free and eco-friendly, these islands are perfect destinations for travellers who want to breathe and discover  off the beaten path destinations in Germany .

Sylt is the largest of the islands with an area of almost 100 km2. It is large enough to accommodate every weekend of the year as well as in July and August, the Hamburgers who flee the city to enjoy a few days at the beach with family or friends.

The easiest way to reach Sylt is to book your flights to Hamburg and to travel by car or train to Westerland via the Danish island of Rømø. Are you lost? Some companies like KLM offer direct flights to Sylt Airport.

Book your flights and your accommodation at the best price and enjoy an unforgettable holiday on one of the most beautiful German islands.

  How to get there:  Book your direct  flights  to  to Sylt or go through Hamburg (by plane or car).

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Miramar " for its terraces with sea views. A 5-star hotel for an unforgettable stay on the island of Sylt.

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site for the beauty of its historic centre, Wismar is still one of the underrated destinations in Germany , although increasingly trendy with travellers who think outside the box.

Did you know that Wismar was, a century ago, a city occupied by the Swedes? 

It became a German city again in 1903. The inhabitants are not resentful of this Swedish occupation, since each year they celebrate the end of summer, a typical Swedish holiday in the port of Wismar.

Wismar has an airport, but you are more likely to have direct connections by booking your flights to Lübeck or Rostock Airport, which is an hour by car or train from Wismar.

Book your accommodation at the best price in Wismar and treat yourself to a German-Swedish getaway in a multicultural city.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Wismar or Lübeck or even Rostock (1 hour by car).

  Where to stay:  The " Denkmal 13 " hotel is a favourite among travellers who have stayed in Wismar. 

Cochem, this charming German town crossed by the Moselle is one of the Best Hidden Gems of Germany .

Located a 1.5-hour drive from Cologne , it is the perfect destination for a getaway from the big cities. The Moselle is a region renowned worldwide for the quality of its wines.

Cochem is a perfect choice for a gastronomic, historical or simply romantic stay in one of the Best Secret Places in Germany .

Book your flights to Cologne Airport and set off by train or car to explore Cochem and its sublime castle overlooking the Moselle valley.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Frankfurt (1h30 by car) or Bonn / Cologne Airport (1h30). Allow 2:30 if you take public transport.

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Zehnthof " This family-run hotel offers beautiful, spacious rooms in the historic heart of the city of Cochem.

Bavaria is one of the most beautiful regions in Germany. Germany’s most incredible castles are in Bavaria as well as some of the most beautiful German cities .

Do not miss a visit to Lindau but especially the island of Lindau, a small island on the shores of Lake Constance which is home to the historic centre of Lindau.

Close to the border with Switzerland, Austria and Liechtenstein, you will be spoiled for choice for your landing spot.

Book your flight and accommodation at the best price in Lindau and your tours and activities in Bavaria, such as a " Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle " and discover one of the Best Secret Towns in Germany .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Zurich Airport (1h by car) or Basel (2h by car). 

  Where to stay:  The " Hotel Garni Brugger " has a relaxation room, steam room and sauna.

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