germany tourist places list

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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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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• Germany Bucket List: 28 Best Places to Visit in Germany

Situated in the heart of Europe, Germany is mostly known for its World War II history and although history and culture are definitely one of the highlights of the country, Germany actually has many more things to offer.

You can visit stunning cities like Berlin, Munich, or Cologne, explore natural wonders like the Black Forest, Rhine Valley, or the Bavarian Alps, attend the famous Oktoberfest or wander around the magical Christmas markets.

There are just so many amazing places to add to your Germany bucket list! From beautiful small towns and peaceful countrysides to fairytale castles and lively cities, here are the absolute best places to visit in Germany.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Best Places to Add to Your Germany Bucket List

Are you looking for the most beautiful places in Germany? Don’t worry, I got you covered! In this article, you will find the best places to visit in Germany together with a bunch of useful recommendations about the best things to do in each location, how much time to spend there and lots of other insider tips. Let’s get into it!

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

No Germany bucket list is ever complete without visiting the German capital city, Berlin. Spending a weekend in Berlin is a good start but if you have more time, you can easily spend a week in the city without getting bored.

Summer is definitely the best time to visit Berlin when the temperature is ideal for strolling around the city. If you don’t mind the freezing temperatures, winter is another great time for visiting as you can find some of the best Christmas markets in Europe in Berlin.

Visiting the most famous landmark in the city, the Brandenburg Gate, is a real must on every Berlin itinerary. This impressive 26 meters (85 ft) high Neoclassical structure that was once part of the Berlin Wall got severely damaged during WW II. After the wall was demolished in 1989, Brandenburg Gate became the symbol of freedom, and later on, it was completely restored in 2000.

Although the Berlin Wall (a concrete barrier that physically divided the city into East and West Berlin) was demolished, you can still find a few sections scattered around Berlin.

The longest surviving section is called East Side Gallery which boasts stunning artworks from more than 100 different artists. With its 1.3 km (0.8 miles) length, East Side Gallery is now the longest open-air gallery in the world.

Other great things to do in Berlin include visiting the Reichstag (Parliament) building, admiring the Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral), paying your respect at the Holocaust Memorial, and seeing the sunset from the top of the TV Tower Berlin.

If you want to escape the bustling city life, you can relax at one of the many beautiful parks in the city or visit the Botanical Garden or the Berlin Zoo.

Recommended by Soumya from Stories by Soumya  

One of the prettiest places to visit in Germany is the historical town of Potsdam. Filled with beautiful palaces and gardens, Potsdam makes an amazing day trip from Berlin.

The palaces and parks of Potsdam include an elaborate complex of more than 150 historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries and several sumptuously-landscaped parks.

The most iconic of these monuments is the Sanssouci Palace which is often referred to as the Versailles of Prussia. It’s a sprawling royal mansion in the middle of an expansive terraced garden so the nickname sounds quite right. Additionally, Sanssouci is also the birthplace of the magnificent European art form, Friedrichian Rococo. This makes Potsdam a fascinating stop for every art and culture lover.

Apart from visiting Sanssouci Palace, there are many other interesting  things to do in Potsdam . Exploring Potsdam’s New Palace, taking a stroll through the historic center that includes the Old Market Square, and marveling at the red brick houses of the Dutch Quarter are some of them.

The best time to visit Potsdam is between April and October when the temperatures are pleasant and the parks are green and verdant. It is easy to get there by either bus or car from Berlin. The journey takes less than an hour.

3. Marienburg Castle, Hannover

Recommended by Fiona from Travelling Thirties

There are many well-known castles around Germany such as Neuschwanstein Castle and Eltz Castle. However, Marienburg Castle is just as beautiful and looks like it is straight out of a fairytale but it doesn’t have the same crowds of tourists. Adding this beautiful castle to your Germany bucket list is definitely a great idea!

Marienburg Castle is located 30 km (18 miles) from Hannover in a small city called Hildesheim. If you are using Hannover as a base, you can take the train or the bus to Nordstemmen train station. From here the castle is 2.7 km (1.6 miles) and while it is possible to walk, it is easier to take a taxi.

Built between 1858 and 1867 by King George V as a gift to his wife, Queen Marie, the castle was intended as a romantic summer residence. However, King George V and Queen Marie were only able to live in the castle for a year as King George V was exiled to Austria.

No one lived in the castle again until 1945 and because of this, it is one of the most well-preserved castles in Europe.

During your stay, you can visit the staterooms, the private rooms of the Royal family, and the kitchen. The most beautiful room in the castle is the Queen’s library, however, unfortunately, you cannot take photos there.

When planning your visit, allow 3-4 hours. Your visit inside the castle (and up the tower if visiting in the summer) will take you a few hours but you will want to allow some time to sit in the old horse stable which has been converted to a restaurant and to explore the forest that surrounds the castle.

Marienburg Castle is one of the best places to visit in Germany, especially during the autumn when the leaves are in bright colors.

Recommended by Maria from EuropeUpClose

Hamburg is a must-see place in Germany and such a fun city to visit. It’s a favorite destination among German tourists which is not yet discovered by many international tourists. It’s just a matter of time though, so it’s recommended to get there while it is still a hidden gem.

Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city after Berlin but before Munich. And here are some more fun facts about the city: Do you like the Beatles? Hamburg is the place where they performed for the very first time on stage and had more hours on stage than in any other city.

Another interesting one: Hamburg is the capital of coffee in the world. It is one of the largest port cities in Europe, so Hamburg has always been a city with flourishing trade, but coffee is one of its main markets. Every 7th cup of coffee consumed has been through the port of Hamburg.

Although Hamburg is a port city, it is not located on the ocean. The city still has a very maritime feel, as it is surrounded by water – the stunning Elb river and the smaller Alster. If you like water sports, you definitely need to add Hamburg to your Germany bucket list! Another must is a boat tour around the Hamburg harbor, which is an incredible feat of engineering, timing, and organization.

Recommended by Katja from Places and Notes

Sylt , the northernmost German island with a very distinctive shape is also the largest and most popular island of the North Frisian islands group in the Wadden sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has a reputation of being the place for the rich and famous, but even if you do not fall into this category there are plenty of reasons why you should visit this island.

Due to its proximity to Denmark, it offers a unique mix of German traditions and Nordic landscapes. One can get to Sylt either with a ferry from the mainland or from Danish Rømø island, but you can also arrive with a regional train or a car train via Hindenburgdamm causeway. There is a smaller airport on the island as well.

Sylt is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Germany and although it’s only 38 km (24 miles) long and 13 km (8 miles) wide, it has an incredible network of cycling and walking paths. Bringing or renting a bicycle is one of the best ways to get around the island!

As for accommodation, there are a lot of expensive hotels but also lots of affordable apartments and campsites. You can see most of the island during a weekend visit, but for a better experience, five days are recommended.

Depending on the season, the best things to do include swimming and water sports such as surfing and kite surfing, cycling and long walks, soaking up the sun while lounging in one of the traditional beach furniture called “Strandkorb”, indulging in one of the beach spas, eating out in fancy restaurants and more.

The best place for cycling is the remote and mostly uninhabited Ellenbogen in the north. You should not miss the cliffs in Morsum and Kampen, climbing up the highest dune Uwe Dune, relaxing on the beaches in Rantum, Hörnum, and Kampen, and strolling around the island’s largest town, Westerland.

6. Düsseldorf

Recommended by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best places to visit in Germany is the city of Düsseldorf. This lovely city is really worth visiting if you like art, history and German culture. The city is also amazing to visit because there is a lot to do and see and there are many events happening throughout the year.

Düsseldorf is located in the western part of Germany close to the border with the Netherlands and Luxembourg in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. In fact, it is the capital and second-most populous city of that state.

One of the best things to do in Düsseldorf is go to the old town. This is a small part of the city that has amazing architecture which is lovely to see. Furthermore, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs here.

Another great thing to do while you are in Düsseldorf is climbing the tallest structure of the city. The Rhine Tower is 240 m (787 ft) high and has an observation deck from where you can see the city of Düsseldorf. Also, there is a restaurant with spectacular views.

When you are in Düsseldorf you should also check out one of the museums in the city. There are so many to choose from! A great one is Museum Kunstpalast, which has a very diverse collection.

Even though there are a lot of things to do and see in the city, you can visit most of them in one day. However, if you want to explore the many museums in more detail, then a bit more time is recommended.

Recommended by Nichola from Family Hotel Expert

Cologne is a fantastic city for a break because it is packed full of culture, history, and wonderful places to eat and drink so you should definitely put it on your Germany bucket list. There is so much to do in Cologne you will want to stay as long as possible in this welcoming city.

Start at the Farina Museum, the world’s oldest fragrance house. Here you can find out about the history of perfume and try some out for yourself, including the original cologne recipe from the 18th century.

If you’re here on your family holidays to Germany (or even if you’re not visiting with kids), head out to the fantastic Cologne Zoo which is so well looked after and filled with interesting and lovely animals.

There’s also the NS-Documentation center for a darker side of Cologne’s history, but nonetheless, one that we shouldn’t forget. Visit this former Gestapo prison for a disturbing glimpse into the past and some of Germany’s darkest days.

Mix the history with a trip to the Lindt chocolate factory here in the city where you can learn about the story of this sweet stuff and also get to sample some for yourself. There’s a great cafe here to stop and have some more treats.

The modern art gallery of Museum Ludwig is also a wonderful place to lose yourself for an hour or two. Stay in one of the great family hotels in Cologne – there’s so much to do here, come for a weekend but you’ll without a doubt wish you had a longer stay.

8. Eltz Castle

Recommended by Maartje from The Orange Backpack

As one of the  most beautiful castles in Europe , Burg Eltz is a place not to miss when visiting Germany. The medieval castle is located on a beautiful spot in the forest and a picture-perfect gem to see, both from a distance and up close.

The castle’s origins date back to the 13th century when it was constructed for the Eltz noble family. It is one of the few castles in the world still owned by its original family.

The castle is divided through three branches of the Eltz family: the Kempenich, Rodendorf, and Rubenich branches. The parts of the Rubenach and Rodendorf families are open for visitors.

The location of Burg Eltz is what makes it such a fairytale picture. It’s built on a rock in a valley, surrounded by the Eltz forest. The best way to arrive at the castle is by leaving your car in the parking area and walking through the forest to the castle. The first view of the fairytale castle after the winding walking trail is the most stunning picture of Eltz.

The courtyard can be visited without a ticket but you’ll need to buy one for the guided tour to visit the castle. You can’t walk around at your own pace but need to join one of the tours. Your guide will tell you more about the castle, its owners and history.

9. Bacharach

Recommended by Paulina from Paulina on the Road

Bacharach is one of the cutest small towns in the Rhine River Valley that offers the most scenic views in the area. The village is about one and a half hours from Frankfurt and 15 minutes away from Bingen.

This beautiful stretch of Rhine is surrounded by castles and small towns. These towns made their money historically by collecting the tolls extracted from vessels passing by.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Germany because of the scenic views, the popular white wines harvested from the vineyards, friendly locals, historic buildings, big old castles, cobblestone streets, and more.

Bacharach offers fantastic eating and drinking experience and it is also a great place to enjoy a cruise down the Rhine river and take in the castles situated along its banks. If you want to appreciate each of its beauty spots, you must take out more than two days for the trip.

You can experience architecture dating back to historical eras and you can enjoy so much in this village including visiting the Burg Stahleck, a 12th-century castle which is a picturesque location. You can also see the Lorelei Valley and the quaint town of Bacharach down the castle.

Other exciting things to do include visiting the Saint Peter’s Church, witnessing Vineyards and wineries. You must also check out the view from Loreley Plateau by going straight through the end of it from where you can see all the valley below.

Recommended by Summer from Standby for Summer

Mainz is a Medieval town located 22 km (14 miles) from the Frankfurt airport. Frankfurt is a modern city known for banking and finance, while Mainz is laid-back and situated in the heart of the German wine country.

This town is worth exploring because of its rich history, wine production, and colorful architecture. It has a population of over 200,000 people and the Old Town resembles a fairytale village. Pastel colors and half-timbered buildings are prevalent throughout the Marktplatz and cobblestone streets pave a path to the Rhine river.

The Romans founded Mainz in the 1st century BC, and it was under their control for several hundred years. They built a six-towered Catholic Cathedral of St. Martin and St. Stephen, and it was renamed the Mainz Cathedral. Construction began in AD 975, but it mostly dates to the 11th-13th centuries. It is located in the Marktplatz and is close to the Gutenberg Museum.

Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press, was from Mainz, so a museum was built in his name. Visitors love learning about the history of the printing press and comparing the different printing techniques used throughout Europe.

While there is a lot of history in Mainz, it is also the capital of the biggest wine region in Germany. The Rheinhessen valley is made of soft rolling hills and produces excellent Riesling. Other popular wines from this region include Liebfraumilch, Pinot Noir, and Dornfelder.

There are several wine taverns in town, and locals are excited to host wine tastings for visitors. Mainz is not the most well-known city in Germany but it should definitely be added to every wine enthusiast and history lover’s Germany bucket list.

11. Frankfurt

Recommended by Paul from KarsTravels

Over 700.000 inhabitants make  Frankfurt am Main  the fifth-biggest Großstadt (metropolis) of Germany. Its famous skyline, dominated by skyscrapers explains the city’s nickname Mainhattan .

Frankfurt am Main, or Frankfurt for short is the main financial center of Germany and is known for the yearly book fair, the Frankfurter Buchmesse. Easy to reach by plane, high-speed train (ICE), or car, Frankfurt has a lot to offer for city explorers.

Most of the (architectural) highlights can be discovered during a 90 minutes sightseeing cruise along the river Main. The downstream cruise offers the most complete overview of the city. If you have more than a day to spend in Frankfurt, a day-long cruise is warmly recommended.

Not all travelers are fond of German cuisine, since most dishes are high in calories and quite heavy on the stomach. Do try Frankfurt’s famous drink though: apple cider. The most famous water landmark of Frankfurt, the skyscraper Westhafen Tower, resembles an apple cider glass. Its façade contains 3500 glass triangles.

A good dish to go along with apple cider is pumpkin soup ( Kürbissuppe ). Apfelweingaststätte Atschel is one of the oldest and most beloved cider restaurants in Frankfurt, a bright star in the apple cider sky of Frankfurt.

12. Baden-Baden

Recommended by Amber from Thessaloniki Local

If you’re looking for a restorative, relaxing holiday, Baden Baden is an ideal destination and one of the top places to visit in Germany for this purpose. This gorgeous spa town – whose name means “bath bath” – has been specializing in leisure for centuries.

Particularly aristocratic leisure – this is also the place for high culture, like Opera, and more idle indulgences, like baccarat. Spending a weekend in Baden Baden in winter is a perfect combination of spa time and culture.

Of course, the highlight of a stay in Baden Baden is the famous baths. There are two choices: the historic Friedrichsbad, where one will have a 17 – step experience including a thorough brushing down with soap and soaks in many pools, culminating in a round pool under a high coffered dome. The Friedichsbad is strictly textile-free.

The Caracalla baths, on the other hand, are a contemporary facility you can enjoy in a bathing suit. There are also fantastic outdoor pools to have a great time year-round.

By night, the opulent Kurhaus is the place to be. There are cultural events throughout the year, but the main attraction is the casino. Even those who don’t gamble will enjoy the singularly luxurious ambiance of this classic casino, where high-stakes games unfold in silence under gilded ceilings.

By day, one can stroll along the banks of the river Oos, or hike in the Black Forest. The Altes Schloss Baden Baden is a fine destination, with splendid views. In town, the Trinkhalle is the chic promenade of choice, followed by the Lichtentaler allee. One can enjoy Kaffee und Kuchen – the German ritual of afternoon coffee and cake – at the same cafe where Franz Liszt and Leo Tolstoy once enjoyed theirs.

13. Black Forest

Recommended by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

The Black Forest, also known as Schwarzwald in German, is located in the region of Baden-Württemberg, in the southwest of Germany. Not only associated with cuckoo clocks, black forest cakes, and the Grimm’s fairy tales, it is also known for the dense pine forests, punctuated with thermal spa towns and glacier lakes.

It is often said that the forests are dark and so dense that it is difficult for the sun to seep through the woods. Naturally, for this reason, the region got its name, Black Forest. It is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country and a must on every nature lover’s Germany bucket list.

The Black Forest is truly a year-round destination as it offers excellent hiking trails, cross country skiing, and biking adventures. Spring is still cold in the Black Forest, so if you are looking for warm or comfortable weather conditions, it is recommended to visit the Black Forest during summer or autumn.

Allow 3 to 4 days to explore the forest and start your adventure from Freiburg through Baden Baden. There are plenty of things to keep one occupied for weeks in the Black Forest.

While there are many interesting tourist routes for driving, make sure to drive Hochstrasse, one of the most popular routes in the Black Forest. Be sure to explore Triberg town and Triberg waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe.

14. Freiburg im Breisgau

Recommended by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Freiburg im Breisgau is located in an enviable location close to the French Alsace Region and Swiss borders and on the edge of the Black Forest. Freiburg receives some of the best weather in Germany making it a city to get out and explore. There are many  things to do in Freiburg  for the whole family.

The Bachle is unique to Freiburg. It is a series of small open waterways that flow through the city. The Freiburg Minster has been standing since the 12th century, not even the war could destroy it. If you’re lucky, one of the weekly markets will be taking place around the walls of the cathedral.

You can take a cable car from the city center to Schlossberg hill. From the top of the hill, you will get some fantastic views of the city stretching into the surrounding mountains.

The Mundlehof is an open-air zoo and green zone where people can go for a walk and eat. If you are a football fan, Freiburg S.C plays in the Bundesliga and has a stadium near the city center

Food in Freiburg has a German and French feel. One should always try the Flamkussen , which is a regional specialty. Freiburg is a lively city when it comes to eating out with many cafes, bars, and restaurants. The Martins Brau Brewery in the city center brews its own beer and serves freshly cooked meals.

You can take a day trip to Titisee or Basel and you can easily reach some of the most beautiful cities in France like Colmar or Strasbourg in under an hour from Freiburg im Breisgau. Freiburg is a university town which gives a young feel because something is always happening.

15. Tübingen

Recommended by Emma from Travel On A Time Budget

If you’re looking to visit an architectural gem and a place that’s home to one of Germany’s oldest universities, then head for Tübingen . It’s an ideal day trip from Stuttgart because it takes only an hour by train but it’s also perfect for an overnight stay.

Tübingen is a lovely town to potter around and soaks in the main sights. Most of these are centered on its historic old town which is littered with old timbered buildings with colored façades and pretty cobbled streets.

The 15th century St. George’s Collegiate Church, with its impressive stained-glass windows, can be found here. It was apparently one of the first churches to convert to the Protestant movement. The main square also features a 15th-century old town hall (Rathaus) with its astronomical clock, on the opposite is the Neptune Fountain.

Off of the main square, there are some quaint and utterly enchanting small streets with tiny little streams flowing down the sides. There are also some restaurants alongside the water where you can stop for a bite to eat.

Overlooking all this is Schloss Hohentübingen, the town’s castle. Built on high ground, the castle walls afford sweeping views over the surrounding countryside.  There’s also an archaeological museum on the grounds.

Finally, a trip to Tübingen would not be complete without a short stroll along the Neckar river. There are picturesque postcard views of colorful half-timbered houses that form a row along the banks of the river.

If you would like to see them you should head to the Eberhart Bridge. At this beautiful spot, you’ll also find the Plantanelle, a wide sycamore framed promenade, which is perfect for an afternoon stroll.

16. Hohenzollern Castle

Recommended by Steve from Austria Direct

Hohenzollern Castle is set in a spectacular position at the edge of the Swabian Alb mountains in the southern Germany state of Baden-Württemberg. The fortification is built on a limestone outcrop in the farmland to the south of Stuttgart and is named after and still owned by the descendants of the former German imperial family.

The castle is about an hour’s drive from the city of Stuttgart and is just off the main road which leads south to the town of Singen and the Swiss border. There are several large car parks to help deal with the estimated 350,000 visitors annually. Visitors can walk up to the castle or take a regular shuttle bus service.

Views from the castle gardens and battlements take in the entire panorama of the surrounding countryside and visitors can purchase an entrance ticket to explore some of the ornate rooms in the castle interior. A visit to the castle rooms and exterior during a day trip from Stuttgart would also leave time to explore one of the attractive towns, like Tübingen, in the area south of the city.

Although the Hohenzollerns were once Emperors of Germany and the family is one of the most famous historic dynasties in Europe, the current castle was only built in the 19th century. In much the same way as Neuschwanstein Castle in neighboring Bavaria, the remodeling of the family ruins was part of a romantic concept that harked back to an idealized time of knights and ladies as they were portrayed in Germanic legends.

17. Neuschwanstein Castle

Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle is a true bucket list experience and it has to feature on the top of your Germany bucket list. The castle is located in a small town called Hohenschwangau in Bavaria, close to the German-Austrian border.

You can easily visit Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich or Innsbruck as a day trip but if you want to properly explore the area, it’s best to stay for a few days in one of the nearby towns.

The construction of the castle began in 1868 at the request of King Ludwig II but unfortunately, it has never been fully finished as the funds of the project were cut after the king’s death.

Two months later the castle was opened up to the public and it quickly became the most visited landmark in the whole country. Legend has it that the castle even served as an inspiration for Walt Disney when creating the famous Disney castle!

Neuschwanstein Castle sits atop a hill at the foot of the Bavarian Alps and it takes around 30-40 minutes to reach the castle by foot from the center of Hohenschwangau.

Cars and bicycles are not allowed on the road but if you’re not keen on walking that much (especially uphill), you can choose to take a shuttle bus instead. The bus will drop you off at Marienbrücke which is one of the best viewpoints at Neuschwanstein Castle and from there you can reach the castle within 10-15 minutes.

It’s important to know that it’s not possible to buy an entrance ticket directly at the castle so if you want to go inside, you need to purchase a ticket from the ticket office in Hohenschwangau in advance. The castle can only be visited with a guided tour and an adult ticket costs €15.

18. Zugspitze

Recommended by Izzy from The Gap Decaders

The mighty Zugspitze stands at 2,962 meters (9,718 ft) above sea level and is Germany’s highest mountain. Fondly known as ’the top of Germany’, the Zugspitze lies to the south of Germany’s famous mountain town, Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

You don’t need to be a hardy hiker or expert skier to  visit the Zugspitze which is certainly one of the most beautiful places in Germany. Just hop on the quaint but magnificently engineered cog-wheel train or take a ride on the uber-cool cable car, all the way to the summit.

If you want to do both – and why not – take a slow ride up on the train from Eibsee station to the Zugspitzplatt at 2,600 meters (8,530 ft). Not quite at the top, but this not-to-be-missed stop gives you the chance to stand on an actual glacier!

The glacier can be seen below the snow, glistening blue-green in the crisp sunlight and cooling the mountain air. You can also enjoy sledding here, as well as a hot chocolate from the bar, whilst wrapped in a rug.

From here, there is a small cable car to the summit, where the views across the Alps are absolutely incredible. The panoramic viewing platform gives you the opportunity to see the entire mountain range, spreading across 207,000 square km (80,000 square miles) – the views are breathtaking. It will be cold and windy at the top all year round, so wrap up warm.

The main cable car from the summit will take you all the way down to the Eibsee, revealing the gorgeous blues and greens of this beautiful lake. Once you reach solid ground again, look back and be in awe of Mother Nature and her creation.

19. Lake Eibsee

Recommended by Hailey from Diary of a Wanna Be World Traveler

Lake Eibsee is a gorgeous lake located in Bavaria, Germany. Since the lake is located at the base of the Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, you get amazing views while visiting.

You want to arrive at the lake fairly early, not only because it gets busy, but because the water is the calmest in the morning revealing beautiful reflections of the Zugspitze Mountains.

The Hotel Eibsee has a parking lot available between 5 am and 10 pm for you to park for a small fee. If there is no room here then right across the street is the Zugspitze which has a ton of paid parking. If you don’t have a car there are public transportation options as well.

In the early morning, you may experience some fog, which usually clears up by 9 am. Hiking all the way around the lake, about 8 km (5 miles), will take about 2 hours. There are a few hills that you will have to walk up but nothing crazy. Hiking boots are always recommended though, especially if you decide to climb some of the rocks.

Swimming is allowed year-round at the lake, but of course, gets very cold in the winter. Paddleboats, motorized boats, paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes are available to rent from Hotel Eibsee.

If you are a guest at the hotel some of these items can be rented free of charge. Keep in mind the shoreline is very rocky, bring water shoes if you can as some of the rocks can be sharp.

Capture the gorgeous views or spend the day on the water, there is so much to do at Lake Eibsee. No matter when you visit, it will definitely be a great addition to your Germany bucket list!

20. Linderhof Castle

Recommended by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Linderhof Castle situated in the German state of Bavaria is the most charming small-sized castle in Germany. It’s an easy day trip from Munich, the capital of Bavaria, as it’s only 95 km (59 miles) from Munich. You can easily get to Linderhof Castle  either by car or public transport.

Linderhof Castle is one of the grandiose and majestic royal palaces of Ludwig II, the ‘Mad King’ of Bavaria, which was built in the 19th century. The ‘Mad King’ of Bavaria is the same king who also dreamed and got the Neuschwanstein Castle built. The king’s desire was to create places that reflect his own fantasy world where he could escape from reality.

As for the Linderhof Palace, King Ludwig II’s dream was to realize a palace in Linderhof similar to his favorite palace, the Palace of Versailles in France. His dream could not be fulfilled due to financial restrictions.

Nevertheless, the palace coming to life is still one of the dreamiest castles on earth. Both the exteriors and interiors of his fairytale palace are opulent and splendid. The ostentatiously costly and luxurious interiors are indeed breathtaking.

When walking around the glamorous and glitzy halls of the Linderhof Palace, you will feel like a princess, as if you were under some kind of magic spell. Especially, when you are in the dazzling and shining Hall of Mirrors. The mirror effect of this room is exceptional, as you can witness an endless reflection of mirrors. It’s pure magic!

But the magic is not over. The prime attraction inside the castle is the Venus Grotto. Here, you can find the Mad King’s shell-shaped gilt boat with Amor, the god of love, on the top of it. The boat is resting now in a small lake surrounded by a waterfall and a dreamlike fresco in an artificial dripstone cave inside the castle.

Not only is this postcard-perfect castle awe-inspiring but everything around it. The palace is surrounded by meticulously maintained parks, tranquil little lakes, green forests, and dramatic mountains. Linderhof Palace is surely a place that needs to feature on everyone’s Germany bucket list!

Last but not least, the key highlight outside is the spectacular waterworks just in front of Linderhof Palace, which perfectly complements the beauty of the castle. The ‘Mad King’ of Bavaria was definitely was top-notch in bringing magical and dreamlike places to life that visitors from all around the world cherish today.

Recommended by Steph from A Nomads Passport

Munich is located in Southern Germany and it’s the Bavarian capital. Thanks to the city’s rich history and location, it is one of the best places to visit in Germany. There is a seemingly endless amount of things to do in and around the city regardless of the time of the year.

In spring or summer, you can visit festivals and in fall all October festivals including the Octoberfest on the Theresienwiese take place. Moreover, as winter takes hold of the city, more and more Christmas markets pop up around the city and ring in the holiday season.

Some of the best things to do in Munich are exploring the vast English Garden in the city center and taking the elevator up the tower of the New City Hall from where you will have an incredible view over the city and the Alps in the distance.

Stroll over the Viktualien market with its permanent food booths and enjoy a Bavarian wheat beer in one of the famous beer halls.

If it rains, you are bound to find a museum to explore. Some of the best ones are the toy museum in the Old City Hall building, the German Museum, and the BMW World.

Some of the best events in Munich have no set yearly schedule, so always check out the small advertisements when you are in subway stations. If you keep your eyes open, you are bound to find out about great local events and festivals that are happening while you are in the city.

Due to the vast array of things to do in and around Munich, there is no maximum amount of time you can spend in the city without finding new things to do. The bare minimum you should spend in Munich is 3 days. Therefore, it is perfect for an extended weekend.

22. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Recommended by Sharon from Exploring Our World

Step back into the world of Medieval Germany with a visit to delightful Rothenburg ob der Tauber. If you love visiting fairytale towns, you definitely need to put it on your Germany bucket list!

This small town in Bavaria boasts an old town with half-timbered buildings and a maze of cobblestone lanes. Stone towers decorate the skyline and you can imagine people gathering centuries ago in the market square and conversing with friends over steins of beer.

The stone wall around old Rothenburg miraculously survived the World War II bombing, so it’s the original and authentic wall built-in 1142. Enter and climb up through one of the six gates. You can walk a section of the wall or go all the way around the town, which is about 4 km (2.5 miles).

As you make your way, you look down at the red roofs of the buildings that lie along the Tauber River. You’ll see why the town’s name fits, as it means “Red Castle Above the Tauber.” The jumble of wooden gables and steeples makes for fascinating views anywhere along the wall.

One of the best things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is just wandering around the town and enjoying the colorful stores and restaurants. Take an hour to tour the Medieval Crime Museum, which features means of torture and punishment through the centuries.

Rothenburg is famous for its quaint shops that offer gifts of food and wine and specialty items. Most well-known is the festive Christmas shop open year-round and the teddy bear shop also makes a fun stop.

While German food and beer is easy to find, also be sure to sample Rothenburg’s featured pastry, the Schneeball. This is deep-fried dough shaped like a snowball and covered with powdered sugar or chocolate. Your warm memories of the colorful world of Rothenburg will stay with you for a long time.

23. Schwabach

Recommended by Martina from PlacesofJuma

A real insider tip among the most beautiful places in Germany is the lovely Schwabach in Bavaria. The small town of about 40,000 inhabitants is famous above all for the production of gold leaf, which is sold worldwide and is also omnipresent in many buildings in the old town.

Five companies still master the traditional craft of gold beaters, and even famous landmarks such as Buckingham Palace in London, Orthodox churches in Ukraine, palace domes in the Emirates, the Sultan’s Palace in Brunei, and many other attractions worth seeing around the world have already been decorated with Schwabach gold leaf.

Of course, the historic old town of Schwabach is also decorated with gold: the town hall with its golden roof, for example, is one of the most important sights of this town. But you can also marvel at the famous Schwabach gold leaf in the Golden Hall, which is decorated with 14,000 sheets of Schwabach gold leaf, and on the high altar of the town church.

It is also interesting to visit the city museum, where you can find fascinating exhibitions on various topics. For example, this museum presents Europe’s largest egg exhibition with over 10,000 specimens. Another part of the city museum is dedicated to model trains, another part to the history of the city and the gold-beating trade.

Schwabach’s cozy market square invites visitors to linger, with many stores and good coffee houses in the beautifully restored half-timbered houses. The 300-year-old fountain in the center of the square also contributes to the pretty townscape.

24. Nuremberg

Recommended by Rose from Where Goes Rose

Without a doubt one of the prettiest places in Germany is Nuremberg. Located in Bavaria, a region of Germany known for being historical and traditional, its timber-framed houses, churches, and castle are straight out of a fairytale!

There are many  things to do in Nuremberg including browsing for gifts and deli goods at the Handwerkerhof Market and admiring Weinstadel, a beautiful period building once used as a wine cellar and overlooking the river.

You can also browse Market Square, visit Lorenzkirche (the main church) dating back to 1250 and visit Schöner Brunnen translating as ‘beautiful fountain’. Legend has it that your wishes will come true if you turn the golden ring on the fountain three times.

A somber yet important thing to do in Nuremberg is to visit the Documentation Center, used as the Nazi party rally grounds. This is an important place to learn about the events which shaped the last century.

Nearby, you can take a more enjoyable excursion: hiring a pedal boat and exploring Großer Dutzendteich, a large boating lake surrounded by nature.

An optimum amount of time to spend in Nuremberg is 2-3 days. On summer evenings, sit in Tiergartnertor Platz and enjoy a classic Hugo cocktail made from prosecco and elderflower cordial.

25. Pottenstein

Recommended by Elliot from TheTravelKind

Nestled in the heart of the Fränkische Schweiz in Southern Germany, at the meeting point of three stunning valleys is the charming village of Pottenstein.

It is easily reached by car, and there are bus connections from Pegnitz, Bayreuth, and Forchheim. It is a popular spot for weekends trips, and often longer stays for those who truly want to immerse themselves in the surrounding nature.

The town is engulfed by iconic limestone stacks. The unique geology has attracted sport climbers since the introduction of redpoint climbing by Kurt Albert and Wolfgang Güllich, but also appeals to many hikers.

A multitude of gentle to moderate walking trails starting from Pottenstein meander through the dense forest, including an easy route that follows the Püttlach stream through Bärenschlucht, to Tüchersfeld, and back again.

For those seeking something a little less strenuous, a visit to the Teufelshöhle is another way to access the fascinating geology. The 1,500 m (5,000 ft) long cave is the largest in the Fränkische and can be explored by guided tours.

Lastly, the Fränkische is renowned for its surplus of breweries. Next to the Säger Abenteuer Minigolf is one such local brewery; Sägerbräu (the season starts 1st April). Minigolf is always better with a Seidla after all!

26. Meissen

Recommended by Kami from Kami and the Rest of the World

Meissen , the picturesque town located in the Saxony region, is a perfect day trip from Dresden. To get here you can take the train, bus or go for a boat cruise on the Elbe river.

The town is known for its world-famous porcelain (that’s where the first porcelain manufactory in Europe was) but there are so many more Meissen attractions. Be sure to visit Albrechtsburg – the impressive castle with one of the oldest German cathedrals attached to it.

Meissen castle looks fine from the outside but the interiors are truly jaw-dropping. Visiting Albrechtsburg feels like traveling back in time into the Middle Ages. The lower part of Meissen is where the Old Town can be found. It’s charming with winding lanes, cobbled streets, numerous cafes and small shops, colorful houses, and red rooftops.

Since the town is located on a hill there are plenty of viewpoints – some of the best are from the terraces of the restaurants near the castle. You can try here delicious local food and enjoy lovely views of Meissen.

When discovering Meissen start with the visit to Albrechtsburg and continue to the lower part of the town – this way you will avoid climbing steep stairs and lanes (you can get to the castle level by elevator).

27. Dresden

Recommended by Milos from Happy Frog Travels

Dresden is a paradise for architecture lovers so for them it is definitely one of the top cities to visit in Germany. There is no other place in the whole country with such a rich architectural heritage. Great examples of Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, Modernist, and Postmodernist styles are all over the place.

Cool, modern and contemporary architecture complete the feast. Dresden was an important city in the past, and all these historical layers are remnants of those times.

Dresden was the capital of the Saxon Kingdom for almost 400 years. Most of the sites from that period are in the city center. The Dresden Castle was the seat of the royal family. The Zwinger Palace, however, was the royal orangery and garden, part of the new castle that was never built.

Two magnificent baroque churches are nearby: the Dresden Cathedral and Frauenkirche. Finally, Dresden hosts one of the world’s most renowned opera houses, the Semperoper.

Dresden is much more than the historical center. Indeed, the unique modern architecture is on both sides of the River Elbe. The best architecture from socialist times is south of the center, with Prager Street as its centerpiece.

Three contemporary buildings stand out. Yenidze is an oriental-inspired former cigarette factory. Kunsthof Arcades, on the other hand, is a group of patios with art installations. The Ufa Cinema Palace is a quirky deconstructivist building. There is no way you’ll get bored in Dresden!

28. Saxon Switzerland National Park

Recommended by Alina from World of Lina

A bit less than an hour from Dresden is the Bastei Bridge – the ultimate highlight of the Saxon Switzerland National Park.

Bastei Bridge is a sandstone bridge spanning over a group of almost 200 meters (650 ft) tall rock needles. It was built in 1851 with the single purpose to let tourists admire the landscape of the National Park from different viewpoints. Who would have known back then that the bridge itself will be the main tourist attraction of the park one day!

Besides this breathtaking bridge, there are even more places in Saxon Switzerland waiting to be explored. Nearby, for example, is the open-air museum Neurathen Castle. Once one of the largest rock castles in the region, only very few parts of the rooms, passages, and cisterns are left nowadays.

Another remarkable attraction near the bridge is an area called Schwedenlöcher (Swedish Holes). This gorge-like valley is the perfect place for everyone who loves to hike in unspoiled, lush nature.

If you want to see even more of the national park, visit the famous rock arch named “Kuhstall”. It’s a 30-minute drive from the Bastei Bridge and is located in another beautiful hiking area.

There you also find a very unusual attraction called “Himmelsleiter” (heaven’s ladder). The name’s not really fitting tho because it’s a very narrow ladder between rocks leading on top of the rock arch. It’s a very scary climb but the view from the top is just stunning.

Planning a trip to Germany?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Germany. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• 22 Best Things to Do in Berchtesgaden, Germany
• 3 Day Berchtesgaden Itinerary: A Long Weekend in Berchtesgaden, Germany
• Lake Königssee, Germany: Best Things to Do + Tips for Visiting
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle
• How to Find the Best Neuschwanstein Castle Viewpoints

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4 thoughts on “Germany Bucket List: 28 Best Places to Visit in Germany”

What an amazing list. There’s so much I want to see and do in Germany, thank you for the inspiration!

Yes you are so right, there are so many beautiful places in Germany! Can’t wait to go back next year.

Beautiful post! Rothenburg looks like a dream. I can’t wait to travel to Europe again and add some of these spots to my bucket list!

Thank you so much Summer! I totally feel the same way!

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in Germany

Located in the heart of Europe, Germany today maintains the continent’s most powerful economy. However it is probably best known for its World War II history and the country’s even more recent times when it was split into East and West; everybody knows about the Berlin Wall, which came down less than 30 years ago. There’s a load of culture, natural beauty, and much older history to discover in this large European nation.

You’ll find much of this in Bavaria, southern Germany , where you can soak up the Bavarian Alps, explore some truly charming medieval towns, and get involved in the infamous Oktoberfest. In the north, you can explore beaches and old port towns from the Hanseatic period .

Map of Germany

Berlin wows with its famous clubs and huge museums, as does Frankfurt with its skyscraper-laden cityscape. Plan your trip to this fantastic European travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Germany.

17. Regensburg

Lying at the spot where the Danube, Naab and Regen rivers meet, Regensburg in Bavaria is one of the oldest towns in the whole of Germany and a very popular tourist destination. Founded by the Romans in 179 AD, it boasts almost two thousand years of history, with its remarkably well-preserved medieval old town the star of the show.

Here you’ll find loads of fine architecture and important historical landmarks, with countless churches, chapels and monasteries dotted about its ancient streets. Of its many tourist attractions, the gorgeous Gothic cathedral and impressive 12th century Stone Bridge should not be missed out on; they represent the best of the area’s art, architecture and engineering.

Renowned for its historical and architectural treasures, Regensburg also has a laidback, youthful feel, as well as a lively cafe and bar culture. It is this easy-going atmosphere that has regularly seen it referred to as the ‘northernmost city of Italy.’

16. Hamburg

Located on the banks of the Elbe River , just a hundred kilometers from the North Sea, Hamburg has long been one of Europe’s busiest and most important ports. Once part of the Hanseatic League , it is now Germany’s second-largest city and is noted for its maritime identity and pulsating nightlife.

Much of life in the city and its history, culture, and heritage is linked to the canals and waterways that weave through town. Next to the harbor, for instance, you can find the strikingly modern Elbphilarmonie concert hall and old brick warehouses . One of the city’s main landmarks is its beautiful Neo-Renaissance Rathaus.

Hamburg is also famed for its seedy red-light district, where you can find live music venues, cool cocktail bars, and trendy clubs. It is actually here on the Reeperbahn that The Beatles got their big break and forever changed the world of music.

15. Rugen Island

Favored for its remarkable landscapes and romantic seaside resorts, Rugen Island has flourished as a popular tourist destination since the 18th century. Located in the Baltic Sea as part of the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Rugen Island is the largest island in Germany, connected to the mainland by the Rugen Bridge and Rugen Causeway.

Charming villas, historic old towns and beautiful beaches all draw tourists to Rugen Island, but the star attraction is the Jasmund National Park , famous for its unique chalk cliffs rising 161 meters over the sea. Of these majestic cliffs, the largest is known as Konigsstuhl, or King’s Chair. Legend has it that in ancient times, a newly crowned king would climb to the top of this cliff and sit in a chair to demonstrate his power.

Another notable feature of Rugen Island is Cape Arkona , East Germany’s northernmost tip, where tourists can visit an old lighthouse, remnants of a Slavic castle and a picturesque fishing village.

Among the island’s many seaside resorts, a few most popular include Binz, Sellin, Gohren and Sassnitz. Tourists will find a wide variety of recreation here ranging from golf to horse riding, cycling, windsurfing and hot air balloon trips.

Rugen Island can be reached by car across Germany’s longest bridge, by train and ferry service. Within the island, buses run between all major towns. Many of the main attractions are car-free, so walking and cycling are good alternatives. A great way to explore Rugen Island is by its steam-powered train, called Racing Roland.

14. Lake Constance

The third-largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Constance is nestled in the foothills of the Alps straddling the German, Austrian and Swiss borders. It is made up of three main parts, with the Obersee – or ‘Upper Lake’ – connected to the Untersee (Lower Lake) by Seerhein – a small section of the Rhine River.

Long a popular place to go, Lake Constance is blessed with crystal clear waters and a mild and sunny climate, as well as lots of gorgeous scenery. This makes it ideal for swimming, sunbathing and sailing. Cycling along its serene shores and hiking in the surrounding vineyards and orchards are popular pastimes.

Besides the ample recreational activities, the lake is also noted for the picturesque towns and villages hugging its shores. On the German side, visitors can delight in exploring the lively and historic university city of Konstanz and the idyllic island town of Lindau .

On the Swiss side, phenomenal views of the lake can be enjoyed from atop the 2,500 meter high Santis Mountain. Bregenz, in Austria , is famed for its floating stage that hosts concerts and operas in the summer.

13. Bamberg

Widely considered one of Bavaria and Germany’s most attractive towns , Bamberg is built over seven hills, with various canals and the Regnitz river running through it. It was once the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bamberg, and, for a brief period, the center of the Holy Roman Empire , so wealth poured into its streets, with architectural marvels erected around town.

As such, history and heritage can be found wherever you go. The narrow medieval streets of Altstadt are particularly enthralling to explore. Here you’ll find an impressive Romanesque cathedral and centuries-old Rathaus. The twin spires of Michaelsberg Abbey and the turrets of Altenburg Castle can be spied nearby.

Nowadays, Bamberg is a very pretty and pleasant place to visit and is home to an abundance of pavement cafes, bars and restaurants. Many of these serve its famous smoked beer, which can also be sampled in the numerous breweries scattered around town.

12. Cologne

It may have been nearly destroyed from heavy bombing during World War II, but Cologne today is one of the largest cities in Germany and a major European metropolis. Situated on the Rhine River in the German federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Cologne offers several interesting tourist attractions , a buzzing nightlife, stylish hotels , and a stellar arts and culture scene.

The city’s informal symbol, the Cologne Cathedral , a stunning Gothic church that claims to contain the gifts of the Magi mentioned in the Bible is must visit. Moreover, the Twelve Romanesque Churches are magnificent examples of medieval architecture.

As a leading culture center in the Rhineland area, Cologne boasts an outstanding collection museums. Two of the most important include the Wallraf-Richartz Musem for its fine medieval art, and the Farina Fragrance Museum, which details the history and production of the city’s famous perfume, Eau de Cologne.

Every year, Cologne hosts one of Europe’s largest Carnival festivals, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors, and filling the streets and pubs with costumed people, music and dancing. However, even outside of festivals, tourists will find no shortage of nightlife choices in this city of many pubs, bars and clubs. Cologne is known for its unique beer, called Kolsch, which is served cold and fresh in every bar in town.

11. Leipzig

The largest city in Germany’s federal state of Saxony, Leipzig is often called the City of Heroes for its leading role in the 1989 democratic revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall. Leipzig is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene shaped by famous music composers like Bach, Richard Wagner and Felix Mendelssohn. Tourists today can enjoy performances of Bach’s music at the St. Thomas Church where Bach once served as choir leader and is now buried.

In addition to numerous museums and historic sites like the Old Town Hall, the city boasts several of Germany’s oldest and most impressive structures such as the Napoleonic Monument to the Battle of the Nations and Reichsgericht, the former high court of the Reich.

One of Europe’s largest town squares, the Augustusplatz, is situated at the central campus of the city’s university, which is the second-oldest university in Germany. What’s more, Leipzig is home to Germany’s oldest botanical garden and one of the country’s largest zoos.

Leipzig is host to a number of annual festivals such as the Bach Festival , the world’s largest Goth festival and an international balloon festival. For nightlife, tourists will find a variety of pubs, bars and dance clubs within the city, especially along the street of Karl-Leibknecht-Strasse, nicknamed “Karli.”

10. Nuremberg

Once the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire and home of several German kings, Nuremberg is now the second-largest city in Bavaria and acts as an important economic, cultural and social center.

Due to its wealth and prestige, arts, architecture and culture have long flourished in the city. Marvelous museums, gorgeous Gothic churches, and an impressive imperial castle can be found dotted about its medieval old town. Much of its historic center was rebuilt and restored following the heavy bombing campaigns that destroyed most of Nuremberg in WWII.

Many people now associate the city with the infamous Nuremberg Trials ; however, its rich art and cultural scene, interesting historical sights, and fantastic cuisine and nightlife make it a popular place to visit. It also hosts the largest Christmas Market in Germany, where visitors can buy gingerbread and local handicrafts and sample traditional sweets and gluhwein.

9. Black Forest

Named after the dark, dense woods that cover its valleys, hills, and mountains, the Black Forest is nestled in the southwest corner of Germany. One of the most picturesque and popular places to visit in Germany, it is home to lots of natural sights and charming towns and villages.

Tucked away amidst its confines are gushing rivers, sparkling lakes, and flower-filled meadows, as well as a myriad of lovely hiking trails and cycling paths that take you past stunning scenery. The sunniest and warmest part of the country lends itself perfectly to outdoor activities, with skiing and snowboarding available in the winter months.

The forested mountain range also has its fair share of historic towns. Freiburg – the ‘Jewel of the Black Forest’ – and the spa town of Baden-Baden attract the lion’s share of visitors. In addition, centuries-old abbeys and monasteries can be found here and there, as well as scenic vineyards, fairytale castles , and modern ski resorts.

As one of the largest Baltic seaports in Germany, Lubeck is located in the country’s northern-most state, Schleswig-Holstein. Founded in 1143, Lubeck served for several centuries as the capital seat of the Hanseatic League . Although it was the first German city to be bombed and damaged during World War II, Lubeck still retains much of its medieval architecture, making it a popular tourist destination.

Dominated by seven Gothic churches, the city’s Old Town presents an attractive setting of romantic medieval architecture intertwined with modern day infrastructure. A walk through the old, narrow streets offers views of historic sites like the stunning cathedral, the 12th century Town Hall, the famous Holstentor (the old city gate) and the house of Thomas Mann, the 1929 winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature.

The bustling streets of Huxstrasse and Fleischhauerstrasse are lined with restaurants, art galleries, book stores and souvenir shops. A stroll along the city’s harbor allows tours of old Hanseatic warehouses and old shipping vessels now fashioned into museums.

Lubeck is well known for its production of the confection, marzipan . Local legend says that marzipan originated in Lubeck during a time of famine when almonds and sugar were the only available staples. The city also boasts its own wine specialty called Rotspon, which can be found in every shop of Lubeck.

7. Romantic Rhine

Stretching between the cities of Bingen and Bonn, Germany, the Middle Rhine flows through a dramatic geological formation called the Rhine Gorge. This region features a spectacular landscape dotted with medieval castles , picturesque villages and terraced vineyards.

Tourism flourished here after aristocrat travelers brought much attention to the area during the Romanticism period of the 19th century and the area became known as the Romantic Rhine. The inspiration behind poems, painting, operas and legends, the Romantic Rhine today is a major tourist destination in Germany.

A journey through the Romantic Rhine presents splendid views of medieval castles perched on nearly every hillside. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, these castles range from ruins to fortresses and majestic palaces. One of the most well-preserved is the Marksburg Castle while other significant ones include Stolzenfels, Pfalzgrafenstein, the Electoral Palace and the Stahleck Castle, which offers overnight accommodation.

Bathed in color and history, the charming villages along the Rhine Gorge provide excellent sightseeing opportunities as well as cafes, shops and hotels. The town of Bacharach is particularly beautiful in its setting of half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets and terraced vineyards.

The region’s most famous natural attraction is the Lorelei, the deepest and most narrow section of the Rhine Gorge, which features a large, treacherous rock that caused several boating accidents prior to the 19th century. Because of its unique echo, the rock inspired a legend that claims a beautiful siren sat upon the summit, luring sailors to their deaths.

The best way to experience the Romantic Rhine is by a riverboat cruise . However, there are also highways and trains that run along both sides of the river. Additionally, tourists can explore the beautiful region by scenic walking trails and cycling routes .

Before it was severely damaged from World War II bombings, Dresden was known as the Jewel Box because of its lavish collection of stunning art and architecture. After many years, the city has restored much of its former glory. The capital of the federal state of Saxony, Dresden is one of the largest urban districts in Germany, serving as an important center of government and culture.

Dresden offers several interesting landmarks such as the beautiful plaza of Bruehl’s Terrace and the magnificent palace complex known as the Zwinger . The Old Town also contains a number of historic sites like the stunning Frauenkirche cathedral . Impressive art galleries and museums abound in the city, particularly the Green Vault, which houses thousands of exquisite precious gems, jewelry pieces and fine art works.

An important culture center, Dresden boasts many cultural institutions of which the Semper Opera is most widely esteemed. The city plays host to several annual events that include Europe’s largest Jazz festival, the Dixieland Festival.

Amid the bustling city, open green spaces like the Big Garden offer outdoor leisure activities and relaxation while the River Banks presents summer sports, barbecues, concerts and outdoor cinema. Getting around the city center is easy by walking, cycling and bike taxis.

5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Renowned for its magnificent medieval old town, its well-preserved architecture, and charming cobbled streets, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most popular stops along Germany’s Romantic Road. Rothenburg is also famous for the stores that carry Christmas items all year round and for having an outstanding Christmas market each December.

Overlooking the banks of the Tauber River, the Franconian town looks very much as if it has just emerged out of a fairytale. Beautiful old buildings can be found within its ancient walls. Be sure to visit the Town Hall , the seat of city government since medieval times. Climb the steps of the 13th-century hall’s tower for stunning views of the city.

Remarkably, it was actually Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s outstanding beauty that spared much of the town from being destroyed in WWII. The US Secretary of War called off bombing raids to protect and preserve its history and heritage.

Nowadays, however, its picture-perfect nature means that Rothenburg ob der Tauber can get quite crowded. It is well worth staying the night, as when evening falls, most tourists depart, and peace and romance returns to its lovely lamplit streets.

4. Heidelberg

With historic treasures like the medieval Old Bridge, the Heidelberg Castle , the Church of the Holy Spirit and the Knight St. George House, it is no wonder that Heidelberg is a popular tourist attraction . The city center’s main street, Haupstrasse, is packed with pubs, restaurants, open-air cafes, hotels and shops selling the likes of beer steins, cuckoo clocks and German sausages.

Not far from the Old Town is Thingstatte, an outdoor amphitheater, originally constructed by the Nazi regime to promote propaganda events. Today, this intriguing site is the scene of concerts, celebrations and other special events.

Home to Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg’s long academic history can be retraced along the Philosopher’s Walk , a scenic footpath often walked by many earlier philosophers and professors. Likewise, the city’s arts and history can be experienced in its many theaters, galleries and museums that include the Carl Bosch Museum, Palatinate Museum and Bonsai Museum.

The city hosts several lively annual festivals and cultural events such as the Ball of the Vampires, Carnival, Classic Music Festival, International Easter Egg Market and Christmas Market.

Set in a scenic spot at the foot of the Alps, Fussen is the last stop on the Romantic Road and can be found right in the south of Bavaria, just a kilometer from the Austrian border. While the enchanting town is well worth exploring in itself, most people visit for the three fairytale castles that lie nearby.

Although Hohenschwangau and Hohes Schloss look impressive with their prominent hilltop positions, arresting architecture, and imposing turrets and towers, the real showstopper is Neuschwanstein Castle . Commissioned by King Ludwig II, the one-time royal retreat looks so magical that Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle was modelled on it.

Fussen has a quaint, well-preserved old town that is home to pretty, pastel-colored buildings and the 9th century St. Mang’s Abbey. The nearby hills and mountains also have countless nature trails for visitors to explore, which boast breathtaking views.

Best known as the origin of the world famous Oktoberfest , Munich is a major international hub for research and technology. The capital of the state of Bavaria, Munich is Germany’s most prosperous city, boasting research universities, global companies like BMW and state-of-the-art science museums such as the Deutsches Museum.

However, Munich is not all business. This vibrant city offers one of Germany’s best culture scenes, presenting several sophisticated opera houses and theaters like the National Theater. The city center is an attractive blend of classic and modern architecture, teeming in historic churches, medieval walls and royal palaces as well as bustling shopping centers and art galleries.

Munich’s neighborhoods also offer their share of lush green spaces, which include the English Garden , one of the world’s largest public parks. Munich is home to sports teams consisting of basketball, ice hockey and a championship football club.

Munich’s Oktoberfest began in 1810 with a royal wedding celebration. Today, this famous beer festival draws millions of visitors every year to take part in the revelry that involves several gigantic beer tents, delicious Bavarian food, fun competitions and millions of liters of beer. No matter what time of year tourists visit, they can experience Munich’s beer gardens and beautiful beer halls.

A federal state and the capital city of Germany, Berlin is widely associated with its World War II history and former division of East and West Germany by the Berlin Wall during the Cold War. Since the fall of the historic wall in 1989, Berlin today is now a vast, unified city diverse in ethnic groups and abundant in sightseeing attractions , culture and nightlife.

Many tourists are drawn to Berlin’s famous historic structures, which include the Brandenburg Gate , Reichstag and the Holocaust Memorial . Although most of the Berlin Wall was demolished, there are some portions still standing near Checkpoint Charlie and the Reichstag .

Berlin is respected for its high concentration of museums , namely Museum Island , which comprises a collection of museums that house impressive relics, temples and even reconstructed villages from many of the world’s ancient civilizations.

See also: Where to Stay in Berlin

However, a visit to Berlin is not all about history. With two zoos, swimming lakes, public parks and dozens of nightlife venues, Berlin offers plenty for everyone in the family. The city also hosts annual festivals such as the Long Night of the Museums, Carnival of Cultures and the glamorous Berlin Film Festival.

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Reader interactions.

October 29, 2019 at 7:20 pm

I just spent two weeks in Germany and can’t wait to return. Travelled by train, so many beautiful sights to see. Rothenburg was a favourite. Oktoberfest was so much fun! I now have a new list of cities to visit.

January 28, 2019 at 9:17 am

I love Dresden and went to Koblenz, Cologne and Aachen last year. I love travelling with Deutsche Bahn too but it’s just so expensive – even compared to back home in the UK. Still, train travel is definitely my favourite mode of transport.

November 4, 2018 at 7:19 am

Neuschwanstein for sure! Though, all of these places look like beautiful places to visit. I’d like to travel the world someday and overcome my anxiety that has held me back all my life. My wonderlust is still very strong and prominent! Germany is a beautiful country and I would like to visit as many cities, towns and villages there as possible!

December 19, 2017 at 7:47 am

Nuremberg should have been included in the list.. A very nice place. I think most of the places in Germany are really worth seeing.

May 16, 2017 at 5:42 am

February 18, 2017 at 2:42 pm

It will be my first time in Germany this April and will be in Munich. I’m planning day trips and therefore would realy considering comments about places to visit. But would definitely go to Baltic sea.

December 14, 2016 at 2:32 am

Berlin is one of the best cities I have visited so much to see

November 16, 2016 at 7:18 am

I can not believe Nuremberg is not on this list. Great history, architecture, museums and the best bratwurst on the planet,

September 18, 2016 at 9:45 am

I definitely like the northern parts. Last week I came back from vacation in Darss and I have to say it was really amazing.

March 17, 2016 at 1:15 pm

One of the fastest growing pilgrimage sites does not make this list, but Augsburg is quickly becoming a major pilgrimage site in Eastern Bavaria. The church on the main square, St. Peter am Perlach holds the image of Our Lady Untier of Knots whom the world would not know too much about unless it were for Pope Francis. Having visited the shrine a few times, I can tell you she is beautiful and a very powerful intercessor!

December 7, 2015 at 3:48 am

You definitely forgot Hamburg. It is one of the most beautiful cities in germany. At least at the top 3 in germany. My list is, okay i live in hamburg, its my number one but for tourists i think you must see the capital.

1. Berlin 2. Hamburg 3. München 4. Köln

November 21, 2015 at 2:40 am

I believe that Regensburg should also be on this list – right on the Rhine and beautiful…

July 20, 2015 at 6:08 pm

I visited Munich, beautiful city, the Marienplatz is amazing.

June 15, 2015 at 2:22 pm

Heidelberg is the best in my opinion…I lived there for 6 and a half year’s.

March 24, 2015 at 1:22 pm

I believe that Nuremberg should be sitting right in the middle of this list. Certainly a more beautiful city than Berlin.

October 18, 2014 at 8:11 pm

Good list, it will help during my visit to Germany. I like Germans & Germany.

September 23, 2014 at 2:40 pm

August 24, 2014 at 12:07 pm

Good list, HOWEVER, I would consider Hamburg a much nicer overall city than Cologne or Leipzig. Cologne is basically famous for its dome and Leipzig has some nice architecture, but in Hamburg almost every part of town is worth seeing and is a great shopping destination.

In general, all the typical old university towns are worth a visit: Freiburg, Heidelberg, Bonn, Tuebingen, Marburg and Konstanz come to mind.

July 1, 2014 at 10:39 am

Germany is my dream country. Its my prayers to visit Germany.

May 19, 2013 at 10:09 pm

Great list!

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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

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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

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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 

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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

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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

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“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 

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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

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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.”

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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

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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.

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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.

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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Top Attractions

Top 10 Attractions in Germany

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Planning a trip to Germany and want some advice on what to see and do first? Here is a list of the top ten attractions and sights in Germany that no traveler should miss.

Neuschwanstein Castle

 Christopher Larson / TripSavvy

The world's most famous castle, Neuschwanstein , is nestled in the Alps in  Bavaria . It seems to come straight out of a fairytale; in fact, Walt Disney drew inspiration from it for "Sleeping Beauty." Neuschwanstein (which translates to new-swan-stone) is the most photographed building in all of Germany.

King Ludwig II designed his dream castle in 1869 and instead of an architect, he hired a theatrical set designer to realize his vision. Take a tour through the flamboyant castle's interior. Highlights include a gaudy artificial grotto, the Throne Room with its giant crown-shaped chandelier, and the lavish Minstrels' Hall.

Europa-Park

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Europa-Park , Germany's largest amusement park, recently unseated Neuschwanstein as the most visited site in Germany. It may not have the romance of the castle, but it does have mind-blowing rides, lands modeled on the different countries of Europe , and a mouse mascot that may remind you of someone else.

Brandenburg Gate

 Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

More than any other landmark, the Brandenburg Gate ( Brandenburger Tor ) is the national symbol for Germany. Built in 1791, it was simply meant to mark the end of the boulevard, Unter den Linden. But the gate has had an eventful history.

The gate is crowned with the winged goddess of victory riding a four-horsed chariot — which was stolen by Napoleon’s soldiers and taken back to France as a trophy in 1806. After Napoleon was defeated, Victory was returned to her throne in Berlin.

Brandenburg Gate has also had more controversial toppers like the Nazi and Soviet flag. During the cold war, when Berlin was divided in two , the Brandenburg Gate stood between East and West Berlin. It was the location of US President Ronald Reagan's 1987 iconic speech, where he demanded, "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”

After the wall fell in 1989, the Brandenburg Gate became the symbol of Germany's reunification .

Oktoberfest

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It might be a cliché, but it is an essential German experience of eating sausage and sauerkraut and drinking Oktoberfest beer. Oktoberfest , the world's largest fair, has over 6 million visitors annually. Celebrate in 14 different beer tents and enjoy Bavarian “Schuhplattler," alphorn players, and yodelers.

If you aren't in town for the fest (or one of the smaller, more local beer festivals ), visit the Hofbräuhaus in Munich , the most famous beer hall in the world. This Bavarian institution has defined gemütlich (“comfy”) since 1589. Wash down Bavarian specialties and giant pretzels with beer that is only served in a Mass (one-liter glass).

Cologne's Cathedral

Christopher Larson / TripSavvy

Cologne's Cathedral ( Kölner Dom ) is one of Germany's most important architectural monuments and the third tallest cathedral in the world. It took over 600 years to construct this Gothic masterpiece. When it was finally finished in 1880, it was still true to the original plans from 1248.

When Cologne was leveled by bombings in World War II, the Cathedral was the only building that survived. Standing tall in an otherwise flattened city, some said it was divine intervention. A more realistic explanation is that the cathedral was a point of orientation for the pilots.

In any case, the cathedral still stands next to the city's train station and beckons visitors from around the globe.

City of Trier

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On the banks of the Moselle River lies Trier , Germany's oldest city . It was founded as a Roman colony in 16 B.C. and became the favored residence of several Roman emperors.

Nowhere else in Germany is the evidence of Roman times as vivid as it is in Trier. Highlights of the city are the Porta Nigra, the largest Roman city gate north of the Alps, and the Cathedral of Trier, which houses a holy relic that draws many pilgrims: the Holy Robe, the garment said to be worn by Jesus when he was crucified.

Black Forest

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If you imagine Germany with rolling hills, small villages, and lush forests, visit the Schwarzwald (Black Forest), where you can experience it all. The vast expanse of hills, valleys, and forests stretches from the posh spa town Baden-Baden to the Swiss border, covering an area of 4,600 square miles.

Walking, biking, or driving — there are many scenic routes that will lead you to tiny villages, such as Freiburg with its long red sausage, wineries, and old-world monasteries.

Two of the most recommended tours are the Wine Road and the German Clock Road, which traces the history of the cuckoo clock. For Christmas, visit Gengenbach which becomes the world's largest advent calendar house.

But remember: No visit to the Black Forest is complete without a piece of Black Forest Cake, with chocolate, cherries, cream, and a good dash of cherry schnapps.

Dresden Frauenkirche

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The Dresden Frauenkirche, the Church of Our Lady, has a moving history: In World War II, when air-raids wiped out the city center of Dresden , the grand Frauenkirche collapsed into a 42 feet high pile of rubble. The ruins were left untouched for over 40 years as a reminder of the destructive powers of war.

In 1994, the painstaking reconstruction of the church began, almost completely financed by private donations. In 2005, the people of Dresden celebrated the resurrection of their Frauenkirche.

The Romantic Road

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The Romantic Road is Germany's best scenic route . It leads you through a region that boasts quintessential German scenery and culture, castles , charming medieval towns surrounded by walls, half-timbered houses, historic hotels, and restaurants that offer hearty German food and great beer.

Highlights along the Romantic Road: the picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber , the best-preserved medieval town in Germany, and the end point at castle Neuschwanstein.

German Christmas Markets are the embodiment of the holiday season. Bundled up visitors sip Glühwein beneath strings of lights as they shop amongst the wooden stalls, picking up beautifully handcrafted gifts . There is a Christmas tree and singing and so much wonderful food.

One of the best Christmas markets is in Nuremberg. The market opens in November, turning the city into a magical winter wonderland. Stroll through this open-air market with its 180 wooden huts festooned with red and white cloth, lights, and fresh garlands.

There is also a Christmas market just for kids, featuring a steam train and nostalgic carousels. A magical moment for young and old is the procession, where over 1,500 Nuremberg kids join in a lantern procession parading up to the castle on the hill.

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The 27 Best Places to Visit in Germany

• David Angel

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 Concentration Camp 

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 Museum   

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; Lübeck. 

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 that 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, Naumburg, Torgau, 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, with part of the city – Zgorzelec – on the Polish side.

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 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, Goslar

See Also: The 13 Most Beautiful Streets In Quedlinburg

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.   

See Also: Visiting Naumburg Cathedral – One OF The great German Cathedrals

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 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 southeast 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 (321 steps up the hill 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 a two-hour 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.

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Germany top sights to see: 100 beautiful places you must see

Germany's most beautiful sights include fairytale castles and palaces , imposing cathedrals, historic old towns, but also modern buildings of modern times and unique landscapes such as the Wadden Sea or the Alps. We went in search of Germany's top 100 sights and traveled the entire country from north to south and from west to east. The result is the ultimate overview of the top 100 sights for an unforgettable road trip through Germany.

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Germany’s top 10 sights at a glance

What’s in Germany to do? Here you can find our top 10 sights at a glance.

• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Hamburg harbor
• Lake Eibsee
• Neurathen Rock Castle with Bastei Bridge
• Dresden Church of Our Lady
• Eltz Castle
• Hamburg Speicherstadt
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber Old Town

Map: Germany’s top sights

Our interactive map shows you Germany’s top 10 sights at a glance.

[mapsmarker map=”75″]

1. Zugspitze – the TOP sightseeing attraction

At 2962 meters, the Zugspitze is Germany’s highest mountain and a top thing to do in Germany in 2022 according to our survey. At least once in your life, you should stand on the roof of Germany.

The Zugspitze summit can be reached on foot on six routes (all hikes to the Zugspitze). If you don’t want to hike through high alpine terrain, take one of the three mountain railroads that lead comfortably to the summit.

Do you want to experience a real micro-adventure? Then stay overnight on the Zugspitze in the Münchner Haus and enjoy the summit, which is completely crowded during the day, and almost deserted.

2. Lake Königssee

Königssee in the Berchtesgadener Land region of Bavaria is ranked just behind Zugspitze as the second top place to see in Germany. The mountain lake is reminiscent of the deep fjords in Norway or the rugged mountains of Canada. It’s no wonder, then, that the region counts some 3.5 million overnight stays each year. A boat trip across the Königsee is a top attraction and should not be missed on any trip.

Tip : By boat, you can reach the famous pilgrimage chapel of St. Bartholomä and the idyllically situated Obersee , which was connected to the Königssee a long time ago.

3. Castle Neuschwanstein

The fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle in the Allgäu region near Füssen (Schwangau) is one of the most visited sightseeing spots in Germany and is world famous – really a top thing to do in Germany!

Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by Bavarian King Ludwig II in 1869 (like so many other castles) and romanticizes the Middle Ages. A guided tour of the imposing walls is an activity you must do. Be sure to book the tickets in advance on the Internet!

Incidentally, Neuschwanstein Castle served Walt Disney as a model for his fairy-tale castle at the Disneyland Resort in California.

The no less famous Honenschwangau Castle is also within sight, picturesquely situated between Alpsee and Schwansee . Here you can find the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria.

You can read even more tips about Füssen here with Christina from CitySeaCountry.

⭐ Recommended travel guides

You can find the 100 most beautiful sights in Germany here. For more details, we recommend one of the following travel guides. What you can use for sure is Easy German Phrase Book : Over 1500 Common Phrases For Everyday Use And Travel ( get it here* ). Also the Lonely Planet Germany 10 guide ( buy here* ) is fantastic.

4. Port of Hamburg

The Port of Hamburg is the largest seaport in Germany and lands far in front of the list of our top things to do in Germany. To get an overview of the Port of Hamburg, for example, a harbor tour is a good idea.

In addition to the Speicherstadt, which is a sight in its own right, the St. Pauli Landing Bridges are part of the port area. This is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hamburg, for us one of the best places and most beautiful cities in Germany.

5. Lake Eibsee

Lake Eibsee at the foot of the Zugspitze is without a doubt one of the most beautiful lakes in Germany and a popular destination all year round. In our survey, the Eibsee even lands far in front.

You can walk once around the Eibsee. The tour is also easy for families with children. In summer, the Eibsee is a popular swimming lake. Definitely a wonderful thing to do in Germany!

6. Rock castle Neurathen with Bastei bridge

The rock castle Neurathen with the Bastei bridge from 1851 in Saxon Switzerland near Dresden is another sight that landed far in front in our survey. The entire region is worth seeing and will captivate you.

In Saxon Switzerland, day trippers, hikers, and climbers enjoy the beautiful landscape here. After all, around 1200 kilometers of marked hiking trails lead through deep forests, past bizarre rock formations, and through mystical valleys.

7. Dresden Frauenkirche

Built from 1726 to 1743, the Dresden Frauenkirche (website) is one of the most famous and magnificent houses of worship in the country and is considered one of the largest sandstone buildings in the world.

The Frauenkirche was severely damaged in World War II during the devastating Allied air raids on Dresden. In the GDR, the ruins were considered a memorial against the war.

After reunification, the church was rebuilt and solemnly consecrated in 2005. Since then, the Dresden Frauenkirche has once again become one of the top things to do in Germany. From the dome, you have a great view over Dresden.

8. Castle Eltz

Mystical castles and palaces can only be found in Scotland? Far from it! Eltz Castle ( Website ) is located in Rhineland-Palatinate in the beautiful valley of the Elz River and is exactly what you would imagine a knight’s castle to be.

The castle is one of the most famous fortifications in Germany (and one of the top Instagram motifs), which is why it’s also on our top sights list.

Eltz Castle was built on a hill in the 12th century and was never conquered by force. In 1920, a fire destroyed large parts of the complex. However, the castle was restored with much attention to detail. Today, the castle is open to the public and takes you back to a bygone era.

Tip: Book a guided tour with a detour to the treasury!

9. Hamburg Speicherstadt

The Speicherstadt in Hamburg is the largest historic warehouse complex in the world. The area has been a listed monument since 1991 and on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 2015, along with the neighboring Kontorhaus district . What’s to see in the Speicherstadt? The latter is characterized by large buildings in the brick expressionist style, for example, the Chilehaus.

Hamburg is one of the most exciting cities in Germany anyway – but Speicherstadt is a very special highlight that you should not miss.

Here are some more fun things to do in Hamburg. Read our other article.

10. Rothenburg ob der Tauber Old Town

Rothenburg ob der Tauber (among the top sights in Rothenburg) is without a doubt one of the most beautiful half-timbered towns in Germany. What to see in the medieval old town? It’s world famous for its winding alleys, towers, and half-timbered houses. A walk through Rothenburg immediately gives you a feeling of what life must have been like in the Middle Ages.

There are no modern buildings in the historic town center. The old town is therefore often used as a film set for historical film productions.

Tip : Rothenburg is one of the highlights of the so-called Romantic Road from Würzburg to Füssen (413 kilometers). It is worth planning a longer trip through the beautiful region.

11. Cologne Cathedral

Probably the most famous landmark of the Rhine metropolis Cologne is the Cologne Cathedral . The Roman Catholic church is one of the largest cathedrals in the Gothic architectural style and one of the most important sights in Germany. By the way, the construction of the Cologne Cathedral began as early as 1248, but the building was not completed until 1880.

Since 1996, Cologne Cathedral has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most famous sights in the cathedral itself are the Epiphany Shrine , which houses the alleged bones of the Magi, and the Cathedral Treasury in the vaulted cellar.

Here you can find an overview of the most important sights and secret places in Cologne.

12. Brandenburg Gate Berlin

Berlin is always exciting and constantly changing. No other major German city has more cosmopolitan flair than Berlin.

Berlin never sleeps and if you are into culture, partying and long neighborhood nights, you will lose your heart to Berlin.

One of the top places to go on your Berlin trip is of course the world-famous B randenburg Gate , the only one of the once 18 city gates still standing.

Here we tell you even more sights in Berlin . Read our extra article about the capital of Germany.

13. Mainau Island

Lake Bodensee (lake Constance) (to the top sights at Lake Bodensee) is more popular with vacationers than almost any other region in Germany. One of the top highlights is Mainau Island, which you can reach by boat or on foot from Constance via a bridge.

The island is known as the island of flowers . The plants in the botanical garden are magnificent. In addition, the climate on the island is so special that Mediterranean plants grow here. Also worth seeing are the Deutschordensschloss and the elaborately designed Schlosskirche St. Marien . Learn more about Mainau Island here.

Tip : Nearby is the Reichenau , the largest island of Lake Bodensee. Reichenau and the Reichenau Monastery are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. So it’s a good idea to combine the island of Mainau with the nearby Reichenau.

14. Königsstuhl Rügen

The chalk cliffs on the island of Rügen are a highlight on any trip to Germany. Over a length of 15 kilometers, the imposing cliffs on the Jasmund peninsula (where there is also a national park of the same name) rise high out of the sea.

The top attraction on the rugged coast is the so-called Königsstuhl (royals chair). The walls here drop almost 120 meters steeply. On the Königsstuhl there is a viewing platform from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view.

15. Bamberg Old Town

Bamberg – also called the “secret capital of beer” – has the l argest preserved historic city center in Germany . The worth seeing old town with the Old Town Hall, the Bamberg Cathedral, and the Rose Garden, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.

It’s simply fun to stroll through the beautiful alleys of the old town. While you’re there, be sure to make a detour to Little Venice . This great sight is located on the Regnitz River, which flows into the Main River, and its beautiful waterfront houses are reminiscent of the original in Italy.

A highlight is the Bamberg Sandkerwa in August. This well-known folk festival has a long tradition in Upper Franconia. From fishing on the river, to live music and culinary highlights, there is something for everyone at the festival.

16. Castle Hohenzollern

The imposing Hohenzollern Castle ( Website ) in Baden-Württemberg is one of the top destinations. When you see the fortified castle for the first time with your own eyes, you will inevitably feel transported back to a time long forgotten.

By the way, Hohenzollern Castle is the ancestral castle of the Hohenzollern dynasty, which once ruled large parts of the country.

17. Danube Breakthrough

The Danube Breakthrough near Kelheim is one of the most famous things to do in Germany. You can take a boat from Kelheim to the Danube breakthrough near Weltenburg . The famous narrow passage of the Danube valley is definitely worth a visit.

Tip : Be sure to make a detour to the Weltenburg Monastery (with beer garden) and the Kelheim Liberation Hall . In addition, the famous Walhalla – an imposing hall of fame on the Bräuberg – is nearby.

18. Sanssouci Palace

The state of Brandenburg is known for its many castles. The most famous is Sanssouci Palace . It was originally just a small rococo-style summer palace built under King Frederick II between 1745 and 1747 and later expanded.

The palace is also known as the “ Prussian Versailles ” because of its magnificent architecture, modeled after the palace near Paris. Today, Sanssouci Palace, with its beautiful rococo architecture, magnificent interior, and impressive location, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Potsdam – and therefore cannot be left off our list of top attractions in Germany.

19. Spreewald

The Spreewald south of Berlin in Brandenburg is a unique landscape in Central Europe, with a 1,575-kilometer network of natural and artificial waterways, wet meadows, small fields, and semi-natural lowland forests.

What you should definitely do in the Spreewald is take a boat trip. Or grab a canoe or SUP and head out yourself – an unforgettable experience.

20. Lüneburg Heath

The Lüneburg Heath is an incomparably beautiful destination in Germany. Even as a teenager, I was enthralled by this landscape (yes, I actually did a multi-day bike tour through the Lüneburger as a teenager).

The Lüneburg Heath is particularly popular during the flowering season (usually from early August to mid-September). Then large parts of the land are colored purple. For photographers, the Lüneburg Heath is a real highlight at this time, somewhat reminiscent of the world-famous lavender fields in France .

But visitors to the Lüneburg Heath also have a lot to offer at other times of the year. In spring, early risers are treated to breathtaking sunrises. In May, the white cotton grass blossoms. In autumn, mystical fog welcomes you over the moors. Winter spoils visitors with the purple blooming snow heath.

The landmark of the Lüneburg Heath is the Wilseder Berg , with 169 meters the highest elevation of the Lüneburg Heath and the entire North German Plain.

21. Brocken

The mountains in the Harz National Park (one of the top things to do in the Harz) are not as high as in the Bavarian Alps, but they still offer visitors great distant views and numerous exciting Mirko adventures.

The top highlight is the Brocken, at 1141 meters the highest peak in the low mountain range, which straddles the states of Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt. The Brocken (also called “Blocksberg”) is thus the highest mountain in all of northern Germany. From the summit, you have a fantastic view of the national park.

So it’s clear: The Brocken is a must-do on your trip through the homeland. On the forest-free lookout peak, there is often a harsh climate – comparable to the climate in Scandinavia. 300 foggy days a year are counted here on average.

By the way, people used to be hellishly afraid of the Brocken. Namely, the Brocken ghost lives on the Brocken. This is no joke! The Brocken ghost was first described in 1780. It is an optical effect. When the hiker’s shadow falls on the fog, this oversized shadow seems to float in the air.

You can hike the Brocken on foot (bicycles or e-bikes also work) or take a leisurely ride to the summit on the steam-powered Brockenbahn ( Website ). The train ride on the Brockenbahn is a real highlight and unforgettable fun for young and old.

22. Herrenchiemsee Castle

On the largest island in Lake Chiemsee is the New Herrenchiemsee Castle ( Website ). The builder here was also King Ludwig II, who had a view of Versailles Palace near Paris in France during construction. After the death of King Ludwig II in 1886, however, most of the complex remained unfinished.

Today the King Ludwig II Museum is located in the castle. Every year the Herrenchiemsee Festival takes place in the large hall of mirrors. Don’t miss a guided tour of the castle.

23. Frankfurt Skyline

The only German city with a real skyline is Frankfurt am Main – it’s an amazing thing to do in Germany!  “Mainhatten” is home to 15 of the 16 skyscrapers (buildings at least 150 meters tall) in Germany. The tallest building in the city is the Commerzbank Tower with a height of 259 meters (with an antenna of 300 meters).

In addition, Frankfurt is home to Germany’s second tallest television tower, the Europaturm , which is 337.5 meters high. Incidentally, the highest TV tower in the republic is in Berlin at 368 meters.

Frankfurt also has a great old town that you shouldn’t miss. In our article about the best sights in Frankfurt we tell you even more.

24. Zeche Zollverein 

The Zeche Zollverein (Coal Mine Industrial Complex) – located between Essen and Gelsenkirchen – is also known as the “ Eiffel Tower of the Ruhr “. Coal was mined at the Zeche Zollverein colliery from 1851 to 1986. Today, there is much to discover on the huge site, as well as exciting museums and great restaurants.

The site is open around the clock and admission to this impressive industrial park is free. There are regular events on the site ( Website ).

25. Quedlinburg Old Town

Welcome to the Middle Ages: Quedlinburg on the Bode River in the Harz Mountains of Saxony-Anhalt takes you back to a bygone era. The old town (UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994) is without a doubt one of the coolest things to do in Germany.

Quedlinburg was first mentioned in a document in 992. You can see the age of the beautiful city. You stroll through cobbled streets past beautiful half-timbered buildings.

26. Helgoland “Lange Anna”

Helgoland is one of the most famous North Sea islands and Germany’s only high sea island. A visit to Helgoland will stay with you forever. Top sights on the island include the 48-meter high surf pier “ Lange Anna ” (long Anna), the Lummenfelsen , an impressive cliff overlooking the Lange Anna, and the cliff Bread Hörn .

You can reach Helgoland by ship, which sails to Helgoland daily from the mainland from various ports.

27. Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg

The Miniatur Wunderland ( Website ) in Hamburg is one of the most visited attractions in the country . There’s plenty to see on the world’s largest model railroad.

On about 1500 square meters, 15 kilometers of track are laid, on which more than 1000 trains with over 10,000 wagons are on the move. By the way, the longest train measures 14.51 meters. In reality, this corresponds to a train length of almost 1.3 kilometers.

More than 250,000 little figures “live” in the impressive model world, going to work, having fun or arguing. If you look closely, you’ll also find residents here and there, tucked behind a tree for a shepherding session. A visit to Miniatur Wunderland is an unforgettable experience for the young and old. Our experience shows that especially boys and their fathers can spend a lot of time in the miniature world. 

28. Reichstag Building Berlin

Just a stone’s throw from the Brandenburg Gate is the imposing Reichstag building. Long lines regularly form in front of the entrance. A visit to the huge glass dome with a great view over the Spree metropolis is part of the Berlin mandatory program.

The Reichstag was completed in 1894 and looks back on an eventful history. The sad climax was the Reichstag fire on February 28, 1933, which the Nazis took as an opportunity to suspend the essential basic rights. Today, every child learns in school how badly this story ended.

The German Bundestag has been meeting in the Reichstag building since 1999.

29. Regensburg Old Town

Regensburg should not be missing on any round trip through Germany. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval city center and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Top sights include the 12th-century Stone Bridge and the imposing 13th-century Gothic Regensburg Cathedral .

In any case, Regensburg is one of the most exciting cities in Germany.

30. Moselschleife

This brings us to the next top sight: the Moselschleife (Moselle Loop Bremm). The river winds through the valley in several loops.

At some viewpoints , the loop looks particularly impressive and offers every photographer a great photo motif. The most famous view is the one from Calmont to the Moselschleife near Bremm. On your tour of Germany, this motif should definitely not be missed.

31. Munich Marienplatz

Munich is always worth a visit. A highlight in the Bavarian capital is the central Marienplatz with the New Town Hall . The New City Hall was built in three sections between 1867 and 1909 and is one of the most impressive buildings we have ever seen.

Every day punctually at 11 and 12 o’clock – from March to October also at 17 o’clock – a very special spectacle takes place on the Marienplatz. Suddenly, all the people on Marienplatz stop, whip out their smartphones, and stare tensely upward at the 85-meter-high Town Hall Tower . The onlookers – mostly tourists from all over the world – eagerly await the famous carillon , which shows two important events from Munich’s city history.

Here we tell you even more tips and things to do in Munich for an unforgettable trip to Bavaria. You should also go to the English Garden in Munich for sure.

32. Externsteine in the Teutoburg Forest

The Teutoburg Forest (affectionately known as “Teuto”) is an impressive low mountain range shared by Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia. You can go hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even rock climbing here. Or are you more the water rat? Then grab a canoe and take on the Weser, Lippe, Bega, Werre, Else, Ahr, Ems, Emmer, Diemel or one of the larger dammed waters in the Teuto.

A little adventure is a ride in a hot air balloon over the Teutoburg Forest.

Especially worth seeing are the Externsteine . This striking sandstone rock formation is unique in Germany. You have a particularly beautiful view of the Externsteine from the Wiembecketeich, in which this highlight is reflected in the water.

33. Porta Nigra Trier

The city of Trier is a piece of Italy in the middle of the homeland. Did you know that the city was founded by the Romans (most likely in 16 BC)?

According to legend, Trier is even much older. Supposedly, a son of the Assyrian king Ninus founded the city 1300 years before the birth of Rome. An inscription from 1684 on the Red House testifies to this.

In Trier, you can admire well-preserved Roman monuments such as the famous Porta Nigra (an impressive city gate), an old stone bridge over the Moselle, the remains of Roman bathhouses , and even an amphitheater .

Other highlights include the Trier Cathedral (the oldest Episcopal Church in Germany) and the Liebfrauenkirche .

It’s just incredible what great sights you can admire with us, isn’t it?

34. Schnoor Quarter Bremen

Is Bremen already on your list of top travel destinations in Germany? If not, it’s about time! Bremen is absolutely worth seeing and impresses with an exciting history. The landmark of the city is the famous Bremen Town Musicians . You can’t miss them during a visit.

Particularly exciting is the Schnoor district with the ancient little houses, the winding streets, and the many small stores.

Of course you should also visit the top things to do in Bremen, that are waiting for you, besides the Schnoor.

35. Saar Loop

The view of the Saar loop in the morning

It could be called the Horseshoebend of Germany: The Saarschleife. Here you see it in the morning – isn’t it beautiful? This place is a wonderful thing to do in Germany! We were totally overwhelmed during our first visit

The Saarschleife in the beautiful Saarland is a must-do! The fantastically beautiful winding of the Saar is often compared to the famous Horseshoe Bend in the USA (Arizona). Located directly at the loop and the best view you have from the tree top walk Saarschleife. The Saar Loop is a unique natural wonder that should not be missed on any trip through Germany.

36. Aachen Cathedral

Aachen Cathedral (also known as the High Cathedral of Aachen) is a superlative building. The imposing house of worship was built between 795 and 803 – a brilliant achievement of the builders.

Of course you should also visit the top sights in Aachen. This incredible city needs definitely a stroll around.

37. Geierlay Suspension Bridge

The Geierlay suspension bridge transports you to faraway Nepal in one fell swoop. Namely, the bridge was built on the model of the so-called Nepalese suspension rope bridge and is now one of the top excursion destinations in Hunsrück .

Opened in 2015, the suspension bridge runs 360 meters at a height of up to 100 meters over the Mörsdorfer Bachtal. Until 2017, the Geierlay suspension rope bridge was the longest suspension rope bridge in Germany.

38. Triberg Waterfalls

One of the most impressive natural monuments in Germany is the Triberg Waterfalls , located in the Black Forest . The waterfalls fall – albeit over several steps – a total of about 163 meters into the depth.

The waterfalls are one of the top tourist attractions in the Black Forest, and the infrastructure is accordingly well developed. Next to the waterfalls, an asphalted and illuminated path leads along. In addition, there are several bridges from which you can look down on the waterfalls.

39. Heidelberg Old Town

Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany and an absolute must-see. The dreamy charm of the Neckar city in Baden-Württemberg has fascinated people for centuries and has already inspired many famous poets and thinkers, earning Heidelberg the nickname “ City of Romanticism “. The crowning glory is Heidelberg Castle ( Website ), one of the most famous castle ruins in Europe.

The former residence of the Electors of the Palatinate was partially destroyed by Louis XIV’s troops in 1689 and blown up by the French four years later. A fire in the summer of 1764 led to further destruction. Since then, the ravages of time gnawed at the complex. Towards the end of the 19th century, small parts of the imposing castle complex were restored.

Today, Heidelberg and Heidelberg Castle are among the absolute top sights in the Federal Republic. The city and castle are world-famous and attract about a million tourists – many from abroad – every year.

A side note: During World War II, the Americans were considering dropping an atomic bomb on Heidelberg. However, Nazi Germany surrendered two weeks earlier – and so this catastrophe on German soil did not happen. Hiroshima in Japan was chosen as a “substitute target”.

40. Kaiserburg Nuremberg

The Kaiserburg (Imperial castle) ( Website ) is the central landmark of Nuremberg, the second largest city in Bavaria. Over the centuries, the fortress has served as a defensive structure, imperial residence, imperial castle, and was the Hohenzollern burgrave’s seat. This makes the Kaiserburg one of the most historically and architecturally significant castles in Europe.

The Kaiserburg is located on the Felsenberg . From this location, you have a great view of the entire city.

In our article about Nuremberg we tell you even more great sights in Nuremberg.

41. Valhalla

In the Valhalla near Regensburg, important German personalities are honored with marble busts and memorial plaques. The memorial is definitely one of the most significant sights in Germany.

42. Wartburg Castle

The imposing Wartburg Castle has been one of the most beautiful sights not only since its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. Built around 1067 by Louis the Knight high above the city of Eisenach , the huge fortress, which has undergone many changes over the centuries, is now a popular destination.

Incidentally, it was at Wartburg Castle that Martin Luther produced his German translation of the New Testament in the fall of 1521.

43. Lister Ellenbogen Sylt

The island of Sylt is a vacation paradise and one of the top travel destinations. In the summer vacations and in the high season, the flow of tourists on the island does not stop.

Sylt is the largest German island in the North Sea, the most popular and best known to boot. The shape of the island is so distinctive that the outline alone as a sticker identifies the Sylt fan.

The north of the island is a very special sight: the Lister Ellenbogen is a 1.2-kilometer-long peninsula that is a nature reserve and home to birds and seals. You’re also standing at the northernmost point of Germany here, by the way.

44. Holsten Gate Lübeck

Have you ever been to Lübeck ? If not, it’s definitely about time. Lübeck was the capital of the Hanseatic League in the Middle Ages. If you walk through the old town today, you will be enchanted by the many old buildings in the brick Gothic style.

A very special highlight is the Holsten Gate , which made it onto our list of the top sights in Germany. Completed in 1478, Lübeck’s landmark is known far beyond the city limits. The Holsten Gate once served as protection for the city. Today, the Holsten Gate is a universally popular photo motif among tourists.

And you know what? You really have to try the famous Lübecker Marzipan.

45. Erfurt Cathedral

Erfurt Cathedral is one of the most important houses of worship in the republic. Anyway, the capital of Thuringia is always worth a visit. The oldest preserved synagogue in Central Europe awaits you. From the lofty Petersberg Citadel, you have a great view of the city.

46. Dresden Striezelmarkt

The Dresden Striezelmarkt is Germany’s oldest authenticated Christmas market and an absolutely extraordinary thing to do.

More than 230 stalls are located in Dresden. Advent was first celebrated here with a market in 1434. Striezel, by the way, are the predecessors of the famous Dresden Stollen. This is offered everywhere and of course the famous handicrafts from the Erzgebirge.

47. Bernkastel-Kues Old Town

Bernkastel-Kues is one of the most popular things to do on the Moselle. We were completely overwhelmed by the little place and are happy that Bernkastel-Kues made it to the list of top sights in Germany.

48. Nuremberg Christmas Market

A classic at Christmas time is the world-famous Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt ( Website ). The first record of the market, which was probably called “Christkendleinsmarck” in the past, dates back to 1628.

Today, almost 200 merchants offer their wares, of which the most famous are probably the Nuremberg gingerbread and typical Christmas tree decorations. The “ Nürnberger Zwetschgenmännla ” are also popular. The famous Nuremberg Rostbratwurst provides the perfect snack in between. By the way, the wooden stands decorated with red and white striped cloth give the Christkindlesmarkt its nickname “little town of wood and cloth”.

In our extra article you can find Germany’s most beautiful Christmas markets.

49. Hexentanzplatz Thale (Bode Valley)

The Hexentanzplatz (“witches’ dancing place”) Thale in the Harz mountains is a very special place. When you look down into the Bode Valley from above, you’ll be left speechless.

So far we had only seen such a force of nature in the USA, here the Black Canyon came to mind as a comparison. Not for nothing is the Bode Valley near Thale also called the “Grand Canyon of the Harz”. A visit to this great thing to do in Germany is a must-do.

50. Rakotz Bridge

The Rakotz Bridge in Saxony is one of the most photographed motifs in Germany. So it’s no surprise that the structure, also known as the “Devil’s Bridge,” made it into the top 100 sights in our poll.

51. Devil’s Wall (Harz Mountains)

The next sight is as spectacular as it is legendary. The Devil’s Wall near Blankenburg in the Harz Mountains reveals with its name how powerful and whacky this place is at the same time. Arriving at the Devil’s Wall, you will gaze in awe at this huge rock formation.

Since 1833, the Devil’s Wall rock formations have been protected. Since 1935, the area near Weddersleben has been the Teufelsmauer nature reserve. By the way, it’s the second oldest in Germany.

52. Imperial Castle of Cochem

The Reichsburg Cochem in Rhineland-Palatinate is fantastically situated above the beautiful Moselle valley and is one of the most famous castles in Germany. The fortress looks back on a long history. The complex was probably built around the year 1100 or in the first half of the 12th century.

Tip: Sign up for one of the rustic knights’ banquets .

53. Europa Park Rust

Europa-Park Rust attracts almost six million visitors every year, making it Germany’s number one theme park.

Covering an area of almost one million square meters, you’ll find more than 100 rides in 18 themed areas, plus several shows. The park also includes six hotels, a campground and a movie theater. Adrenaline junkies love the amusement park because of the fast roller coasters.

54. Monument to the Battle of the Nations

Leipzig is considered hip and many compare the up-and-coming city in Saxony to post-reunification Berlin. Clearly, a stop in Leipzig should not be missing on any round trip through Germany.

One highlight is the Monument to the Battle of the Nations in the southeast of Leipzig. With a height of 91 meters and an area of four hectares, the Monument to the Battle of the Nations is one of the largest monuments in Europe.

55. Old town of Monschau

The town of Monschau in the Eifel region has quite rightly made it to the list of top sights. Nestled on the banks of the Ruhr River, Monschau resembles a painting. The quaint Monschau Castle is the icing on the cake.

56. BMW Welt Munich

BMW Welt (BMW Welt)( Website ) in Munich has more than three million visitors each year – about twice as many as Neuschwanstein Castle. After its inauguration in the fall of 2007, BMW Welt quickly became a landmark in the Bavarian capital.

Customers don’t just come to BMW Welt to pick up their brand-new BMW. Rather, BMW Welt is one of the most popular destinations in all of Bavaria. Car fans get their money’s worth at the car temple with its adjoining museum. Among other things, the BMW Museum exhibits historic vehicles from the BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce brands. But you will also find vehicles from motorsports and exciting car studies.

57. Mountain Park Wilhelmshöhe

The Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe with the medieval-looking Löwenburg is an impressive sight in Kassel. Our readers also put Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe at the top of our poll.

58. Imperial Cathedral of Speyer

The Imperial Cathedral of Speyer is the largest preserved Romanesque church in the world. The cathedral itself is relatively plain – but the sheer dimensions will leave you speechless. It’s really a top thing to do in Germany!

Another great destination is Weimar . In addition to Weimar Classicism , the city is famous for the Bauhaus movement, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Both Goethe and Schiller lived in the city, which is commemorated today by monuments and museums.

The landscaped garden Park an der Ilm , designed by Goethe, is also one of the city’s top sights, as is the baroque palace Schloss Belvedere .

60. Maars in the Eifel

Volcanoes do not exist in Germany? Far from it. The Eifel is an impressive volcanic area and even the largest in Central Europe. Even if the last volcanic eruption was a long time ago, it is bubbling deep under the earth. The maars and the maar lakes are particularly impressive.

61. Residenz München

The Residenz in Munich is the largest inner city palace in Germany. Bavarian dukes, electors, and of course kings stayed here. A visit to the Residenz is a beautiful thing to do that you must see on any trip to Munich.

62. Völklinger Hütte

Definitely, a top highlight in Saarland is the Völklinger Hütte World Heritage Site . The former ironworks was shut down in 1986 and is now an important industrial monument. Since the 90s, cultural events, festivals, and concerts have also been held there. In addition, numerous exciting areas of the old plant can be visited – super impressive!

63. Burghausen

In Burghausen on the Bavarian-Austrian border, you can see a very special highlight: the longest castle complex in the world . Burghausen Castle is located above the picturesque old town and, at 1051 meters, is considered the longest castle complex in Europe.

In the Guinness Book of Records , Burghausen Castle even holds the title of “longest castle in the world”. From the fortress, you have a great view over the city.

A side trip to Burghausen with a visit to the imposing fortress is definitely worthwhile. On the ridge, battlements and towers line up seemingly endlessly. At the foot of the fortress lies the listed old town with its small alleys and beautiful squares.

Incidentally, excavations indicate that the castle hill was inhabited as early as the Bronze Age (from about the 16th century BC). The oldest parts of the castle, which had an important military significance for centuries, probably date back to around 1025. A massive expansion of the castle complex took place in view of the approaching Turks from 1490.

Tip: At Christmas time, Burghausen Castle attracts visitors to a very special Christmas market in Bavaria with the Burgweihnacht .

64. Wernigerode Old Town

The old town of Wernigerode in the Harz Mountains is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany and is therefore rightly on our top list. You can expect many beautiful half-timbered houses, which are typical for the region. A very special highlight is the imposing town hall.

65. Ulm Cathedral

The Ulm Cathedral should not be missing from any must-see list. Sure, the Ulm Cathedral, completed in 1890, is after all Germany’s largest Protestant church. At 161 meters, the church tower rises higher into the sky than Cologne Cathedral , which reaches a height of 157 meters.

The foundation stone for this imposing building was laid in 1377.

66. Residenz Würzburg 

The Residenz Würzburg (Würzburg Residence), a magnificent Baroque palace, is one of the most important residence buildings in Europe and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981. The Residenz is the top sight in Würzburg and also makes it onto our list of the top 100 highlights in Germany.

67. Schwerin Castle

Schwerin Castle ( Website ) in Lake Schwerin is quite rightly on our top sightseeing list. The grandiose complex was built as a castle in the 10th century and developed over the centuries.

The foundation walls from the Slavic castle rampart can still be visited by the public today. Incidentally, Schwerin Castle has been home to the parliament of the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern since 1990.

A walk through the magnificent palace garden is highly recommended. Here you will also find an orangery, a grotto, and an estate.

68. Thermal Bath Erding

Thermal Bath Erding ( Website ) is not just any spa: Therme Erding – only about half an hour from downtown Munich – is the largest spa in the world .

In the huge spa, you’ll find 35 saunas and steam baths and almost as many pools and water basins on an unimaginable 180,000 square meters. In addition, there are more than 20 slides at Therme Erding.

69. Görlitz Old Town

Görlitz , on the Saxon-Polish border, impresses with a well-preserved old town and is rarely missing from lists of Germany’s most beautiful places. Particularly worth seeing is Peterskirche (St. Peter’s Church) with its two imposing towers.

In Görlitz, you will stroll through narrow cobblestone streets and past beautiful houses from different eras. There are a total of about 4,000 listed buildings in Görlitz.

So it’s no wonder that Görlitz is also used again and again as a historical film set. Many films, including major Hollywood productions, have been shot in the city. The inhabitants affectionately call their city “Görliwood”.

70. Titan RT Suspension Bridge

With a length of 483 meters, the Titan RT has been Germany’s longest suspension rope bridge since 2017. The bridge in the middle of the Rappboden Valley in the Harz Mountains takes you over the Bode reservoir on dry feet.

From the bridge, you look 100 meters into the depth. Even in the evening, crossing the bridge is a highlight. Thanks to the bridge lighting, the crossing is possible even after sunset (open all year round and daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm).

For adrenaline, there’s a zip line that lets you zoom across the bridge as free as a bird- a really cool thing to do!

71. Tübingen Old Town

Tübingen is located in Baden-Württemberg and is for us one of the most beautiful cities in Germany – and apparently, our readers think so too.

We were totally fascinated by the city. Because of the many students, Tübingen is quite an alternative and has a great flair. The old town has many beautiful half-timbered houses and is a wonderful thing to do in Germany!

72. Fortress Ehrenbreitstein

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress in Koblenz is one of the most imposing fortresses in the country and thus one of the most important sights. Built in the 16th century, the fortress was blown up by French revolutionary troops in 1801.

Between 1817 and 1828, the citadel was rebuilt into one of the most extensive fortification systems in Europe. The fortress was used militarily by the Prussian army until the end of the First World War in 1918.

After the end of World War I, the complex was actually supposed to be demolished (for the lasting weakening of the German Empire). It was only thanks to U.S. General Henry Tureman Allen and retired Lieutenant Colonel Eduard Hüger that the fortress was not destroyed, citing its cultural value.

73. Limburg an der Lahn Old Town

Limburg an der Lahn impresses with an exceedingly beautiful old town as well as the cathedral. You will also find remains of the old city wall. A special highlight is the 600-year-old Lahn bridge. We liked Limburg very much.

No wonder Limburg made it into the top sights in Germany.

74. Drachenburg Castle

Built between 1882 and 1884, Schloss Drachenburg ( Website ) rises majestically above Königswinter (south of Bonn). The fantastic view over the Rhine valley and the imposing architecture make Schloss Drachenburg a true experience. The castle could also appear like this in the series “Game of Thrones”, couldn’t it?

By the way, Drachenburg Castle (which, by the way, was never a real castle, but rather a villa) has an exciting history. The nephew of the builder once wanted to convert the castle into a hotel, and a later owner wanted to build an amusement park around the castle. Nothing came of either plan.

Later the castle was used as a Christian boarding school and the art hall as a chapel. From 1942, the castle housed an elite National Socialist school, which fell under American fire. After the war, the Reichsbahndirektion Wuppertal moved in. In the 1960s, the imposing building was left to decay.

It was not until 2010 that the completely restored facility was reopened to the public.

75. Wismar Old Town

Wismar in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is fantastically beautiful and a top tourist destination in Germany. The Hanseatic city delights with a long history and a pretty old town with many historic buildings. In addition, Wismar has a vacation feeling: after all, the city is located directly on the sea.

It’s an unforgettable experience to stroll through the small harbor with colorful boats. For us, it’s clear: Wismar should not be missing on any round trip.

76. Mercedes-Benz Museum Stuttgart

Car fans can’t miss a trip to Stuttgart to the Mercedes-Benz Museum ( Website ). In the futuristic building, you can learn everything about the history of the automobile and the Mercedes-Benz brand.

On an area of 16,500 square meters, you can see countless vehicles and more than 1,500 exhibits. The museum sends you on a journey back in time to the year 1886 and brings you back to the present.

Tip: Car fans should definitely also make a detour to the Porsche Museum ( Website ) in Stuttgart.

77. Hermann Monument

In terms of nature, NRW has a lot to offer. For example, there is the Teutoburg Forest, made famous by the battle between Romans and Germanic tribes in 9 AD. Today, the Hermann Monument , which commemorates the battle, is one of the top attractions in the Teutoburg Forest.

78. Lichtenstein Castle

Lichtenstein Castle is often referred to as the “ fairytale castle of Württemberg “. Around the year 1390, Lichtenstein Castle was built on this site. In 1567, however, the castle lost its status as a ducal seat and fell more and more into oblivion.

In the course of the romanticization of the Middle Ages, Wilhelm Count of Württemberg, later Duke of Urach, decided to build a castle in the style of a knight’s castle on the site of the long-decayed castle. The present castle was then built between 1840 and 1842. Wilhelm Count of Württemberg died at Lichtenstein Castle on July 17, 1869.

Celle is the southern gateway to the Lüneburg Heath . The town, which was first mentioned in a document in 985, delights with its picturesque old town with over 400 half-timbered houses.

Particularly outstanding is the Hoppener Haus with its rich carvings. Another highlight is Celle Castle .

80. Goslar Old Town

Cobbled alleys and cute half-timbered houses – this and much more await you in Goslar , one of the most worth seeing cities in Germany. The picturesque old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enchants its visitors with an incomparable flair.

The city, located in the Harz Mountains in Lower Saxony, looks back on more than a thousand years of history. Among the top sights of the medieval trading metropolis are, in addition to the beautiful half-timbered buildings , the many old churches and here, in particular, the stave church , the remains of the medieval city fortifications and, of course, the Kaiserpfalz (imperial palace of Goslar) built between 1040 and 1050 under Henry III.

81. Kyffhäuser Monument

The Kyffhäuser Monument is one of the attractions in the Harz Mountains that you should definitely visit. The huge monument stands on the walls of the former Kyffhausen Imperial Castle. Emperor Wilhelm I is standing on a huge horse. By the way, this monument was designed by Bruno Schmitz, who also built Leipzig’s Monument to the Battle of Nations.

82. Golden Hall Augsburg

Augsburg is the capital of Swabia and endlessly rich in history and culture. Augsburg is one of the oldest cities in the country and is well worth a visit. In the beautiful old town, there is a lot to discover and marvel at.

One of the most famous sights of Fuggerstadt with the worldwide unique water management system is the Golden Hall in the city hall . The hall is considered one of the highlights of Renaissance interior design in Germany. Its ceiling is covered with gold leaf and there is no shortage of magnificent gold jewelry elsewhere.

83. Museum Island Berlin

Another top highlight in Berlin is the Museum Island , which is one of the most important museum complexes in Europe with its five museums.

On Museum Island, you’ll find the Altes Museum (old museum) (opened in 1830 as Prussia’s first public museum), the Neues Museum (new museum), the Alte Nationalgalerie (old national gallery), the Bode Museum (which gained sad world fame in 2017 for the “Gold Coin Heist”) and the Pergamon Museum . The James Simon Gallery , which only opened in 2019, serves as a visitor center.

For those interested in culture, Museum Island is one of the most important sights in Germany. You can easily spend two to three days in the exciting museums.

84. Corvey Castle and Monastery

Other highlights in the Teutoburg Forest are Corvey Castle and Monastery . You can expect an impressive monastery from the 9th century with a baroque castle with an old library. The complex is considered one of the most important monastery complexes from the Middle Ages and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

85. Loreley

You’ve probably heard of the Loreley before, right? The Loreley is a 132-meter-high slate rock, from which you have a dreamlike view of the Rhine. On the Loreley there is a viewing platform – and of course a statue of the mermaid Loreley.

According to the tale, the Loreley is a kind of mermaid who captivates the Rhine boatmen with her song and beauty. The latter are then killed by the dangerous current and the rocky reefs in the Rhine. A pretty grim story, isn’t it?

86. Phantasialand

With around two million visitors a year, Phantasialand (website) in Brühl near Cologne is one of the most visited amusement parks in Germany, making it into our top sightseeing list.

Thrilling thrill roller coasters, water slides, and countless other rides in various themed worlds await you at the huge amusement park.

87. Munich Oktoberfest

The world’s largest folk festival can’t be left off our list of top sights. The Munich Oktoberfest attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. Tip: By the way, the Munich people go to the Wiesn – and it really always means “Wiesn” and never “Wiese” (meadow) (that would be the High German and thus completely wrong way of speaking in Bavaria).

As a visitor, you should only appear at the Oktoberfest in traditional costume – at least if you don’t want to stand out from the crowd.

At the Oktoberfest, Bavarians, “Preißn” (for a real Bavarian, all North or East Germans and actually all foreigners are “Preißn”) and people from all over the world celebrate more or less peacefully (beer flows in vast quantities) in traditional Bavarian costume (ladies wear dirndl with blouse and apron, men wear lederhosen paired with shirt and janker).

In recent years, real hype about traditional costumes has developed. From mid-September to early October, trains and buses are teeming with people in traditional costumes.

Oh yes: If you prefer it cozy, a detour to the Oide Wiesn is worthwhile.

88. Wadden Sea National Park

The Wadden Sea National Park in Schleswig-Holstein is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You should definitely book a mudflat hike and go exploring. On every island and in every city by the sea, you can book a hike at the tourist information.

With over 4,000 square kilometers, the nature park is the largest between the North Cape and Sicily.

89. Museum and Visitor Mine Rammelsberg

You are enthusiastic about industrial monuments? Then the facilities of the Rammelsberg Museum and Visitor Mine ( Website ) in Goslar are right up your alley. Rammelsberg was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites back in 1992.

Rammelsberg looks back on a long history. Long ago, copper ore for bronze production and silver were mined at Rammelsberg. Silver coins were already in circulation in Goslar in the late 10th century. Over the centuries, the site was continually expanded and modernized. Finally, in 1906, the plant switched from steam and water power to electricity. The mine closed its doors in 1988.

Today, visitors can immerse themselves in the underground world and admire a piece of German industrial history.

90. Stade Old Town

Island romance in Lower Saxony – that’s what Stade offers. The small town inspires by a great old town with a lot of half-timbered houses. Especially worth seeing is the old Hanseatic port of the city from the 13th century. Be sure to explore Stade from the water – you can even do that with a Venetian gondola.

91. Sigmaringen Castle

What must-do to see in Germany? Sigmaringen Castle ( Website ) – Germany’s second largest city castle – is definitely one of them! The impressive Hohenzollern Palace was once the princely residence and administrative seat of the Princes of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen and is now a popular tourist attraction.

A guided tour through the grandiose halls of the centuries-old magnificent building is highly recommended.

92. Herrenhäuser Gardens Hannover

Let’s face it: Hannover is not necessarily on the top of the list for many tourists (especially from abroad) when it comes to looking at an exciting destination in Germany. However, the capital of Lower Saxony certainly enchants with a beautiful old town with many half-timbered houses . The market square is particularly worth seeing.

The Herrenhäuser Gardens are also a highlight in Hannover. The imposing gardens, which are among the most important baroque gardens in Europe, look back on a long past.

In 1638, Duke Georg von Calenberg had a small kitchen garden with several buildings laid out. In 1665, George’s son Johann Friedrich came to power and commissioned a palace. In the course of this, the garden was rebuilt and extended. The result is the Herrenhäuser Gardens , which are well worth seeing.

93. Coburg Old Town

Coburg’s Schlossplatz (among the top sights in Coburg) is home to several sights and landmarks of the city. On the south side of the square is Ehrenburg Castle . The magnificent building, which today houses the state library among other things, was the residence castle of the Dukes of Saxe-Coburg since the 16th century.

Around 25 historically furnished rooms can be visited on guided tours of Ehrenburg Castle – these include the first flush toilet on the European continent and the first functioning elevator.

94. Residenzschloss Ludwigsburg

The Residenzschloss Ludwigsburg (Ludwigsburg Castle) ( Website ) is a huge baroque building and one of the top attractions you should definitely see. By the way, the palace is one of the largest baroque buildings in Germany. Ludwigsburg Castle was commissioned by Duke Eberhard Ludwig von Württemberg. He allowed himself a real magnificent building here.

During a guided tour through the impressive complex, you can visit the chapel, the theater, and the gallery. The latter is particularly impressive. In the duke’s time, this is where people dined at a long table. The gardens are also appropriately pompous.

95. Fulda Old Town

Fulda is especially known for its well-preserved Baroque Quarter with its 18th-century castles, churches, palaces, parks, and gardens. Stroll through the beautiful streets and soak up the flair of times long past.

The St. Salvator Cathedral in Fulda and the many beautiful half-timbered houses are also particularly worth seeing.

96. Old Town of Hannoversch-Münden

The historic old town of Hannoversch-Münden totally inspired us. Here we stood speechless in front of the town hall. The facade with the lion heads looks impressive.

Fortunately, we also experienced the Glockenspiel (carillon). Be sure to go inside the lower town hall as well. Here you’ll find great paintings about the city’s history.

97. Dokumentationsstätte Regierungsbunker

The Dokumentationsstätte Regierungsbunker (Government Bunker Documentation Site) ( Website ) in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler in northern Rhineland-Palatinate should not be missing from any top sightseeing list.

This impressive museum of German post-war history is absolutely worth seeing. Before our Ahr Valley trip, we honestly had never heard of the documentation site. And because we were so impressed, we don’t want to withhold this tip from you.

The nuclear bunker was state secret number one for a long time. The bunker was built during the Cold War and was intended to provide protection for the German government in the event of an atomic bomb attack. The bunker was designed to hold over 3000 people. Today, there is still an exciting museum that takes you back to a time long gone. A side trip to Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler is a must on any trip through Germany.

98. Old Town of Saarburg

What should definitely not be missing on a trip through Germany is a side trip to Saarburg . The old town is simply wonderful. The absolute highlight is the waterfall. Yes, you heard right. There is an impressive waterfall in the middle of the town.

All around you will find numerous cafes and restaurants where you can take a break. There is nothing like it in Germany, maybe not even in the world.

99. Hun Ring Otzenhausen

The next sight is no less impressive: The Hunnenring near Otzenhausen in the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park is a mighty Celtic fortification (but it has nothing to do with the Huns).

Today, stone walls up to ten meters high have been preserved, making it a particularly impressive destination.

100. Historical-Technical Museum Peenemünde

The last top sight is the Peenemünde Historical-Technical Museum on Usedom . During World War II, the infamous V2 rocket was constructed in Peenemünde. Today, an impressive museum bears witness to that time. A visit is unforgettable.

Germany at a glance

• 3.4 trillion euros gross domestic product
• 83 million inhabitants
• 357,386 square kilometers in area
• 33,400 kilometers of rail network
• 13,100 kilometers of highways
• 2,389 kilometers of coastline
• 1949 Year of foundation
• 237 inhabitants per square kilometer
• 46 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

4 cities with more than 1 million inhabitants ( Berlin , Hamburg, Munich, Cologne)

So there you have it, the top 100 sights in Germany that our readers think you must do. We are also amazed every time at what great highlights there are to discover in Germany. We are excited to see which great places we will discover in our home country in the near future.

Florian Westermann

Florian is a travel journalist, photographer and co-founder of the travel blog Phototravellers . "Photography and the mountains are my passion. I've been to North America countless times, but I'm also fascinated by the Nordic countries, Italy and of course our home country Germany." By the way, here you can find my online photography course .

1No comments

Hello Mr. Westermann thank you for your perfect explanation, i live in Germany and i always look for places to visit since im not german and dont know the places,. i Live in Bamberg and i was happy to see it was on ur list and it is beautiful. have a good day

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 25 Best Things to Do in Germany

25 Best Things to Do in Germany

Forested and hilly, the country of Germany , or Deutschland if you prefer, brings back memories of long walks in beautiful forests and visiting castles. In my younger days I’ve spent a lot of time in the country and really enjoyed all of it. Although when my parents made us do long walks on rainy days I remember being rather cranky.

Germany has a long and rich history and I’m sure you have heard of names like Albert Einstein, Ludwig van Beethoven and Karl Marx… but besides the cultural aspect of the country I’m sure many will also be envisioning a beautiful busty blond girl in traditional clothing that serves you half a liter of beer and a plate of bradwurst mit sauerkraut:P

But let’s get on with the top 25 things to do in Germany !

1. Hohenschwangau, southwest Bavaria: Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)

Like a fairytale castle, the Schloss Neuschwanstein rises up above the Bavarian woods. In fact, the Bavarian ‘schloss’ served as a blueprint for the castle in Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty, and you will understand exactly why, given that its Germany’s most photographed building.

The castle is exquisitely designed, both in terms of architecture, and with respect to the regale adornment both on the exterior and within the interior. Ludwig II of Bavaria is responsible for commissioning the castle in the mid-nineteenth century to serve as a retreat, and due to his love for classical music conceived by Richard Wagner, he dedicated the castle to the composer.

Book a day trip from Munich: Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day

2. Berlin: Berlin Wall

On August 13, 1961, a dramatic turn of events shaped the cityscape of Berlin for many years to come. The Berlin wall, which was erected to impede the escape of East Berliners from the Soviet-regulated East German state, from that day forward served as a mainstay of disunity, fear, and of universal oppression.

Today, the remaining fragments of the Berliner Mauer are nothing more than graffiti-covered lengths of concrete and dilapidation, but still, the sight is enough to attract visitors by the thousands, irrespective there’s nothing attractive about it.

Recommended tour : Guided Bike Tour of the Berlin Wall and Third Reic

3. Berlin: Erholungspark Marzahn

The German authorities ambitiously undertook the creation of Erholungspark Marzahn, a public park in Marzahn, and it was completed in 1987. The result being a rather unique combination of an oasis of tranquility combined with cosmopolitan beauty, and all within a bustling urban reality.

The Chinese garden, which was completed exclusively by local landscape architects and artisans, represents the largest garden of its kind outside China. A visit to the gardens will allow you to witness ponds, pavilions, watercourses, traditional architecture, as well as ceremonies which are symbolic of countries such as Italy and Korea. Certainly a marvelous work of art that ought to be experienced by every visitor to Berlin.

4. Berchtesgaden : Berchtesgaden National Park

The Berchtesgaden National Park is representative of nature devoid of much disturbance by the human hand. In essence, the national park is a haven of lush forests, crystal clear lakes, steep rock faces, rolling meadows, and sleepy little villages.

Trails that are clearly indicated wind through the gorgeous scenery while they brim with opportunities for cycling, hiking, and Nordic walking. And do be sure to see lake Königssee, which rivals most Norwegian fjords for sheer beauty, the only difference being that the lake is far cleaner.

Book online : From Salzburg: Berchtesgaden and Königssee

5. Aachen: Aachen Cathedral

Finalized in 935, Aachen Cathedral, also referred to as the “Imperial Cathedral”, is the oldest cathedral in all of northern Europe. Between 936 and 1531, the establishment served as the church for the coronation of 30 German kings in addition to 12 German queens.

It was originally inspired by churches which were found in the Eastern Holy Roman Empire, and was developed throughout the Middle Ages while being further adorned by subsequent authorities thereby making it a complex and sophisticated masterpiece of architecture. It has inspired many other German constructions and is perhaps even more impressive in that it was chosen to be the final resting place for the eminent medieval ruler, Charlemagne.

6. Schleswig-Holstein: Sylt

The unusually named Sylt tends to epitomize much about Germany that people frequently feel is lacking – serenity, shifting sand dunes, nail-biting surf, a laid-back atmosphere, picturesque lighthouses, and plenty of sunshine.

Frequently referred to as the “St. Tropez of the North”, Sylt, which lies on an elongated piece of land on Germany’s northern coast overlooking the North Sea, is seen to be a fine combination of exuberant nature and world-class glamor, where high-class boutiques together with bustling restaurants and tranquil coves witness wave upon wave of tourists throughout the summer months. If nothing else, the vistas are enthralling.

7. Rhineland-Palantinate: Burg Eltz

Many who have visited Burg Eltz in Rhineland-Palantinate say that it’s Germany’s most beautiful castle and it typifies what historical courtyard romanticism should be about. It’s certainly true to say that the castle makes for a dazzling impression, and it is among the very few medieval fortresses in Europe to have remained completely intact.

The conical towers rise up gratifyingly from the lushness of the Elzbach valley, and the elaborate Gothic ornamentation is more than worthy of an arduous walk up the hill. Interestingly enough, the castle comes with a good number of 15th century lavatories that are fully flushable, which is in stark contrast to the sophisticated and enchanting Versailles which has none.

8. Herreninsel: Schloss Herrenchiemsee

King Ludwig II of Bavaria had the intention of creating a Royal Palace in the midst of Bavaria’s largest lake when he acquired Schloss Herrenchiemsee in 1873. It’s not a surprising choice either, given that the venue is most thoroughly breath-taking.

Schloss Herrenchiemsee, which translates to “New Palace”, was the king’s final and most grandiose project, draining more effort and money than either of his other two castles. Representing the epitome of overabundance, luxury, splendor, and vanity, and whilst being modeled on Versailles, the castle overflows with gold and really should not be missed, even for the wonderful setting for the palace alone.

Suggested tour : Herrenchiemsee Palace and Boat Trip Day-Tour

9. Würzburg: Würzburg Residence

Because of the Archbishop Johan von Schonborn’s insatiable and deeply curious requirements for a splendid construction, based on his obstinacy alone, the marvelous Würzburg Residence, which is in the Baroque architectural style, was completed.

Among those involved in its planning were the most distinguished architects from Germany, France, and Austria, and finally an imposing U-shaped palace was conceived, together with its 300 rooms. The luxurious innards are to be witnessed to be believed and the well-groomed gardens stretch around the palace in an all-encompassing fashion. The residence is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Related tour : Würzburg: Sightseeing Train Tour

10. Upper Middle Rhine Valley

The Middle Rhine Valley has for centuries facilitated cultural transitions between the north and the Mediterranean, acting as one of the most significant routes for transport in Europe. Yet it’s the upper 40 mile (65 km) stretch that has provided a limitless source of stimulus for artists.

Abundant in sun-drenched vineyards, historic towns, and idyllic castles, the area very aptly reflects the harmonious relationship that people can have with their surroundings. To experience and witness the area from the finest vantage point, it’s prudent to discover it by boat, and ideally aboard the last of the Rhine’s remaining paddle steamers – Goethe.

11. Saxony: Dresden Elbe Valley

Towering castles, bucolic villages, historic centers, magnificent churches, and colossal bridges all dot a small 12.5 mile (20 km) stretch of the Dresden Elbe Valley, where the natural and cultural values combine together, making it the ideal weekend getaway.

The valley is filled with unpretentious beauty while simultaneously being a throng of dramatic events, which work together to make it a stimulating and yet soothing landscape that offers plenty of interest to all its visitors. In spite of the tragic 1945 allied bombings, Dresden still represents a wonderful blend of culture, politics, education, and economics, thereby making a terrific base for traveling throughout the Elbe Valley.

Recommended tour : Dresden: Segway Tour Along the Elbe and Old Town

12. Köln (Cologne): Köln Dom (Cologne Cathedral)

Though Cologne Cathedral was under construction for around 600 years, the curious thing about it is that every added detail emulates the original design. In 1996, UNESCO added the cathedral to the World Heritage List, and for good reason as the construction is something of a masterpiece of engineering.

The cathedral sits on the site of a Roman temple from the 4th century, and houses three golden-crowned skulls which are thought to be from the Three Magi. The elaborate decoration of the cathedral and imposing façade invariably strike the unsuspecting visitor with awe.

Take a tour : City Highlights with Local Guide

13. Bavaria: Wies Church

Wies Church, which stands humbly in the midst of nowhere in particular, tends to pose questions among its visitors as to why it should have been erected in such a solitary place. Nevertheless, driven forth from the initial curiosity, upon entering the whitewashed building, they are often left speechless.

Where once a dilapidated wooden figurine stood – a crying portrait of the Scourged Saviour – now rises in its place a divine palace in all its fervent glory. And needless to say, fully deserved of its UNESCO status. The acute clash between the raw outer surroundings and the amazingly ornate interior serves to ignite the spiritual and uniquely aesthetical experience.

14. Berlin: Museumsinsel (Museum Island)

This cluster of 19th century buildings in the neoclassical style, which is regarded as among the world’s momentous museum complexes, is settled on the tip of an island in the Spree River. The museums, of which there are five, host splendid collections of ethnological and historical wares as well as a congregation of art pieces, including Byzantine and Late Antique works in addition to a variety of sculptures. The sheer vastness of the assemblage ensures that there is something for everyone.

15. Regensburg: Old Town of Regensburg

Regensburg was founded by the Romans in 179 A.D. and is now a thriving cultural and trading center. The old town bears witness to a plethora of exquisite marks of a wonderfully prosperous history, and as such, it has been bestowed with UNESCO World Heritage honors.

A stroll through the town provides for a sensory experience of German artistry and romanticism. Brilliantly preserved and entirely unscathed by countless wars, it’s not so much an urban hub as it is an outdoor museum. Countless monastic ensembles and churches make up a large part of the area, together with patrician houses and towers. Once there, it’s easy to imagine that you’ve embarked on a journey throughout the Middle Ages.

Useful tour : Regensburg: Sightseeing Train Tour

16. Potsdam: Sanssouci Park

Sanssouci (sans souci – without worries) Park in Potsdam was originally a simple terraced garden utilized by Frederick the Great as a way for him to relax from his royal burdens. However, the King realized that the location offered a magical ambience, after which, he arranged a sizable residence to be established, which more latterly was followed by one venue after another.

Thus, the original orchard was transformed into an extensive park, together with luxuriant palaces and lavishly landscaped gardens. Today, Sanssouci Park represents a sophisticated place which is fit for a taste of relaxation in a particularly royal style.

17. Quedlinburg: Old Town of Quedlinburg

Quedlinburg’s roots date back to the 9th century to the time of the Carolingian Dynasty. The town originally consisted of nothing more than a number of tiny villages, but today, these tiny villages make up a maze of cobblestoned streets that lead visitors past decorative exteriors of old-day tenements, multi-colored houses with small flower-laden gardens, and magnificently picturesque temples. There’s plenty of historical value and romanticism to be found in the Old Town of Quedlinburg.

18. Weimar: Weimar Museums

Once the stomping ground for the likes of Nietzsche, Liszt, Bach, Goethe, Schiller, and more, these days, Weimar is a hotbed for a tourist swarm with an intellectual orientation. The number of exquisite museums in Weimar reflects an atmosphere of real anticipation.

The 1,000-year-old town might not have you in raptures on account of its stunning architecture, but as the center for German Enlightenment, it will more than likely stimulate your mind and is certainly worthy of an extended visit.

19. Bamberg: Schlenkerla Brewery and Tavern

If you’re arriving in Germany for the beer and you’re not arriving in time for the Oktoberfest, then Bamberg’ Schlenkerla Brewery will definitely compensate you in every which way. You may think that going all the way to Franconia in order to get a few glasses of good barley beer is rather ill-advised, but if you’re keen on the concept of enjoying a smoke beer that’s been tapped directly from the barrel, a wooden barrel that is, then Bamberg, and in particular Schlenkerla, is the ideal choice.

Otherwise, however, the town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in that it has exerted a major architectural influence upon the country as a whole, and it’s also southern Germany’s Center of Enlightenment. Plenty enough reason to make the journey now?

Highlighted tour : Bamberg: 1.5-Hour Guided Beer Tour

20. Maulbronn: Maulbronn Abbey (Kloster Maulbronn)

Founded in 1137 by Cistercian monks, Maulbronn Abbey is among the best maintained medieval monastic complexes to be seen north of the Alps. Legend has it that during a lengthy journey from Alsace, the monks stopped to water their mules. Whilst there, they became enchanted with the place and opted to establish a settlement (in English, Maulbronn means “mule-well”).

The diligence of the monks brought the awareness of Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, who then welcomed the monastery under his auspices, which in turn led to a wealth of funding. Although development thrived, the Reformation halted the proceedings and the Maulbronn residents were rejected from the monastery.

Trier has a 2,000-year history which makes it the oldest town in the country. Nevertheless, it’s not merely worthy of exploration given its age. The town was home to no less than six different Roman emperors and has thus inherited an impressive array of ancient remnants, many of which are perfectly preserved.

The most impressive example is the Porta Nigra (Black Gate), which was once an important element within the city walls. The picturesque town of Trier is nestled into the Moselle river valley, and is crowned with a myriad of pastoral villages and vineyards. The hospitality and cuisine to be enjoyed is something never to be forgotten.

22. Rust: Europa-Park

As you’d likely expect, Europa-Park offers terrific fun while simultaneously providing an unobstructed and pleasurable learning experience. Located within the heart of a top-notch resort, the theme park resembles a pocket-sized version of the European continent.

Take a ride at the Silverstone Race Track in a Formula 1 racing car, visit the Russian MIR space station, enjoy freshly baked bread from the “Quartier Francais”, or pleasure from the charms of some of Italy’s hot spots. There’s truly something for everyone here, irrespective of age or gender.

Book online : Rust: Europa-Park Entrance Ticket

23. Berlin: Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)

It could be argued that the Brandenburg Gate is simply a gate like any other large gate in the world, and that’s true in terms of the superficial aspect. Nevertheless, there is a story behind this particular gate.

At one time, when the infamous Berlin Wall still stood in all its concrete glory, the 197 ft. (60 m) tall Brandenburg Gate, which was located towards the end of Unter den Linden, represented a part of the physical division and mental obstruction between the east and west sides of the city. Quite on the contrary, these days, the Gate is much more a towering symbol of unity and peace, not only for the German peoples but the world over.

24. Munich: BMW Museum

The structure of the BMW Museum in Munich is representative of cutting-edge architectural work, together with its distinctive configuration as a futuristic silver bowl. Once you enter into the dynamic interior, you’ll rapidly begin to realize that there’s a lot more to BMW automobile manufacturing than simply prestige.

It’s an artistic creation, a means of expression, and ultimately the product of a world where inspiration meets reality. Though you may not yet have much idea about the world of the motor car, upon leaving the BMW Museum in Munich, you’ll have a far deeper appreciation for the trade.

25. Hamburg: Modelleisenbahn Miniatur Wunderland

Upon making a visit to the Modelleisenbahn Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg, you’ll be treated to 6.84 miles (11 km) of train track which winds around the huge floor space and travels through Scandinavia, the Swiss Alps, the U.S. and a variety of German destinations.

Everything is in great detail, from the trains themselves to the stations that the trains visit, to the trees that line the tracks. The $12.5 million enterprise is the largest in the world and without doubt deserves plenty of tourist attention.

Skip-the-line : Priority Entrance: Miniatur Wunderland

25 Best Things to Do in Germany:

• Hohenschwangau, southwest Bavaria: Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)
• Berlin: Berlin Wall
• Berlin: Erholungspark Marzahn
• Berchtesgaden: Berchtesgaden National Park
• Aachen: Aachen Cathedral
• Schleswig-Holstein: Sylt
• Rhineland-Palantinate: Burg Eltz
• Herreninsel: Schloss Herrenchiemsee
• Würzburg: Würzburg Residence
• Upper Middle Rhine Valley
• Saxony: Dresden Elbe Valley
• Köln (Cologne): Köln Dom (Cologne Cathedral)
• Bavaria: Wies Church
• Berlin: Museumsinsel (Museum Island)
• Regensburg: Old Town of Regensburg
• Potsdam: Sanssouci Park
• Quedlinburg: Old Town of Quedlinburg
• Weimar: Weimar Museums
• Bamberg: Schlenkerla Brewery and Tavern
• Maulbronn: Maulbronn Abbey (Kloster Maulbronn)
• Rust: Europa-Park
• Berlin: Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)
• Munich: BMW Museum
• Hamburg: Modelleisenbahn Miniatur Wunderland

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The Best Cities in Germany to Visit

 The 14 Best Places to Visit in Germany in 2024

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What are the best destinations in Germany to visit in 2024 ? Discover the top-rated places to visit in Germany , the 14 Best Places you need to visit in Germany .

Germany is one of the most visited countries in Europe along with France , the UK and Italy . This is probably because Germany offers such a diverse and authentic variety of landscapes and destinations.

Germany is the perfect destination for unique experiences in Europe with its magnificent castles , beautiful wild beaches and incredible hidden gems .

Germany is a must visit destination not only for history and nature lovers, but also foodies. Do you expect to drink beer and eat sausage every day? Forget the clichés. Germany is the second European country with the most starred restaurants, just after France .

Which German unmissable destinations will you add to your wish list? Here is a selection of the best destinations in Germany .

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Germany and discover the Very Best Places in Germany to Visit .

The capital of Bavaria is one of Best Cities to Visit in Germany .

Known for the beauty of its Market Place and its gigantic events such as the Oktoberfest , Munich mixes tradition and modernity and attracts more and more travellers every year.

During your stay in Munich you simply cannot miss a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle , ranked among the most beautiful castles in Germany and the most beautiful castles in Europe .

Located near the Austrian border, the castle is accessible from Munich by car or by booking a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich.

This year discover one of the most beautiful destinations in Germany by booking your flights and accommodation at the best price.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Munich.

  Where to stay:  " Motel One München-Campus " we love its organic and fairtrade breakfast buffet.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg Ob der Tauber is definitely one of our favourite destinations in Germany .

Much like Hallstatt in Austria , it is a real postcard town, beautiful and magical like a snow globe being waved.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is also similar to the sublime city of Colmar in France.

These cities were saved from bombardments and therefore, have retained their charming historic centres and their traditional shops, giving them a unique and authentic atmosphere.

This beautiful medieval town in Bavaria is a must-see destination for travellers on the Romantic Road, a route that runs through the most beautiful destinations in Germany and which you have ranked among the best road trips in Europe .

Book your flights to Stuttgart or Frankfurt and set off by car or train to explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Extend the magic and book your room in a city centre as well as your tours and activities , such as a day trip to Rothenburg from Frankfurt .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Frankfurt (1h30 by car) or Stuttgart (1h45).

  Where to stay:  “ Romantik Hotel Markusturm ” located in a medieval tower.

3. Mannheim

Mannheim  is one of your top-rated places to visit in Germany . It is an exciting city of experiences at the heart of the Rhine-Neckar metropolitan region. There’s always something going on here.

Pure zest for life, enjoyment, a multicultural flair and a jam-packed event calendar await travellers. Known as the city of squares,  Mannheim  impresses with a host of architectural treasures: the baroque palace, a historic water tower and an Art Nouveau square.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Mannheim.

  Where to stay:  " Syte ". Centrally Located in Mannheim.

In northern Germany, Bremen is one of the Best Places to Visit in Germany . It is a pretty town easy to reach by plane, car or train. Did you know that 'Beck' beer is brewed in Bremen?

Come and discover the brewery and treat yourself to a lager on one of the city's many terraces.

We have selected for you the best tours and activities in Bremen, such as a private tour to get to know its dark side and exciting criminal history.

Take a selfie in front of the statue of musical animals, the symbol of the city; a donkey is surmounted by a dog itself surmounted by a cat, itself surmounted by a rooster. That rings a bell, doesn’t it? Come to Bremen and re-live your childhood memories and the tales of the famous Brothers Grimm.

Come and discover the hidden treasures of one of the most beautiful German cities by booking your flights , accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Bremen .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Bremen or Hamburg (1h30 by car, 2h30 by public transport).

  Where to stay:  " Monopol Boutique Hotel " located in our guest's favourite part of Bremen.

In western Germany Bonn is not only renowned for its quality of life but also for one of its most famous inhabitants, the composer Beethoven.

Bonn, one of your best places to visit in Germany , is perfect for travellers seeking a well-balanced mix of history and shopping.

Do not miss to visit the gold and pink Town Hall, just one of the many Gothic buildings in the city.

Did you know that Bonn is only 20 minutes by train from the city of Cologne ? Don’t hesitate, book your flights to Bonn as well as your accommodation , tours and activities , such as a private tour with a local to discover the city like a resident.

  How to get there:  Book your flights to "Cologne Bonn Airport"

  Where to stay:  " Motel One Bonn-Beethoven " a perfect location which serves a fair trade and organic breakfast buffet.

Berlin is of course one of the Best Destinations you need to visit in Germany .

It is a must for a city break suitable for all tastes: families, electronic music enthusiasts, shopping addicts, young people, lovers, history buffs or simply travellers wishing to discover one of the most dynamic capitals in Europe.

Visit the famous TV Tower , treat yourself to a coffee break on the Reichstag rooftop or a river cruise to discover the most beautiful monuments of Berlin.

Book your flights to Berlin as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Berlin.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Berlin.

  Where to stay:  " Aspria Berlin ". Equipped with a fitness centre, swimming pool, gigantic spa and massage rooms.

Cologne is one of the Very Best Places in Germany to Visit . It is also the German Christmas capital , a city entirely dedicated to this magical moment of the year.

That being said, Cologne is very pretty in spring and summer with its flower beds and parks such as the "Hiroshima-Nagasaki Park".

Don't miss a selfie in front of the Cologne Cathedral which has become one of the city's symbols over the years.

Although more than 90% of the city was destroyed during World War II, unlike other German cities, it has been rebuilt almost identically.

Come and discover Germany’s 4th largest city by booking your flights and accommodation at the best price in Cologne.

Discover the best tours and activities in Cologne, such as a Street Art Bike tour to discover the street art scene in Cologne.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Cologne-Bonn Airport.

  Where to stay:  The most incredible hotel in town is certainly " 25 hours Hotel The Circle ".

When the morning sun rises over the famous silhouette of the Old Town and the Elbe sparkles with light, even Dresdeners themselves cannot contain their enthusiasm.

Saxony’s state capital is one of the Best Places to Visit in Germany . It boasts a unique collection of historic buildings, outstanding art treasures and its own distinctive character.

The city owes its description as ‘ Florence on the Elbe’ to the charming combination of the riches to be found in its art collections and the Italian influence on its architecture built under Augustus the Strong.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dresden Airport. 

  Where to stay:  Book your stay at the " Bildelberg Bellevue Hotel Dresden "

This city in the Moselle region is one of the oldest in Germany and one of the Top-Rated Places to Visit 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.

  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.

Erfurt  is one of your favourite destinations to visit in Germany . It is a wonderful city that you can explore at any time of the year.

At Christmas time, this city is just amazing and its Christmas market is ranked among the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Germany .

Erfurt is also one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Europe with its splendid half-timbered houses and many buildings of the period.

Book your flights to Erfurt as well as your hotel or apartment at the best price and stay in one of the best destinations in Germany .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Erfurt or to Leipzig (1h30 by car) or Frankfurt (3h30).

  Where to stay:  “ Mr. & Mrs. President ", located in the city centre.

Essen  is the most exciting big city you may not have heard of before.

  Germany 's third greenest city, Capital of Culture 2010, European Green Capital and pulsating metropolis in the heart of the Ruhr region. Hardly any other German city stands for so many exciting contrasts.

Here, urban trendy districts meet historic old towns, high culture meets street art, lush green meadows and forests meet the incomparable charm of the spoil heaps of former collieries.

Explore the green south along Baldeneysee and the Ruhr valley or the urban north with its industrial culture and the old colliery settlements. 

Experience your very own personal contrast programme in one of Germany's most exciting metropoles . 

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to  Düsseldorf Airport (20 min).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Essener Hof ". Stay in the heart of Essen.

12. Heidelberg

Heidelberg is probably Germany’s most beautiful destination . This city located in southern Germany is world famous for one of the most beautiful castles in Europe .

Heidelberg is a historical city but also a young city: one in six inhabitants is a student.

Discover the historic centre of Heidelberg and explore its castle ranked among the Best Castles in Germany by taking the funicular to the top of the hill.

Heidelberg could be ranked among the best car-free destinations in Europe as the use of the bicycle has been favoured and encouraged by the local authorities for many years.

No other destinations combine the historic character of a city like Edinburgh , the eco-friendliness of Amsterdam and the dynamism of a student city like Montpellier .

In short, there are many reasons to book your flights to Heidelberg as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Heidelberg, such as a " Craft beer and street food tour ".

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Frankfurt and reach Heidelberg by car (50 min) or by train (1 hour).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Panorama " is located in the centre of Heidelberg.

13. Nuremberg

Nuremberg is, along with Munich , one of the main cities in Bavaria, and one of the Best Places to Visit in Germany . 

You can easily reach Nuremberg from Munich by booking online a " Visit of the historic Nuremberg on a full-day excursion from Munich by train ". 

If Nuremberg is a city to be discovered all year round, this beautiful medieval city is even more magical at Christmas with its illuminations and its Christmas market, ranked among the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany .

Book your flights to Nuremberg or Munich (1h30 by car) as well as your accommodation and tours in activities in Nuremberg.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Nuremberg or to Munich and reach Nuremberg by car (1h30) or by public transport (3h). 

  Where to stay:  “ Novotel Nuernberg Centre Ville ”.

14. Tuebingen

This beautiful city, located just 1 hour by car or train from Stuttgart , is certainly one of the most beautiful and underrated destinations in Germany .

Tübingen is one of the oldest cities in Germany but also one of the cities most populated by young people, thanks in particular, to its important university.

Be sure to visit Hohentübingen Castle and take a pedal boat ride on the Neckar River. To end your day, you can enjoy a local beer on one of the many cafes and restaurants terraces in the beautiful historic centre.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Stuttgart and reach Tübingen by car (25min) or by public transport (1h).

  Where to stay:  “ Hotel Am Schloss ” for its magnificent views over the old town and the castle.

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Must Places To Visit In Germany

The brandenburg gate.

The Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg

Nymphenburg Palace

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Museum Island

The Rhine Valley

Zugspitze Massif, Bavaria

Best of Greece

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Cologne Zoological Garden

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Beethoven Monument

Cologne’s Love Locks Bridge

Art Museums in The Kunstareal District

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What Is the Best City in Germany to Visit? 7 Must-See Places

E urope is home to stunning landscapes, picturesque castles, and vibrant towns, and one of the best countries to visit on your tour of Europe is Germany. It’s one of the top tourist destinations in the world, with over 12 million tourists in 2021 alone. Part of the joy of planning a Germany vacation is deciding which cities to explore.

Finding the best city in Germany is challenging, as there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful country. Knowing your interests and researching is the best path toward a memorable vacation for you and your family.

The good news is that you’ve discovered the best German tour guide to help you explore Hamburg, Bavaria, and everything in between. Continue reading to find the best places to visit in Germany today!

Hamburg is an impressive German city located on the Jutland Peninsula. It’s an excellent spot to add to your list of German cities to visit during your time in Deutschland. It’s also home to some of the best coffee shops in Germany, making it perfect to pick up your coffee and explore the city’s sights and attractions.

It’s also home to a significant number of street fairs and festivals. The Hamburg Christmas Markets are among the best in Europe, making Hamburg a top destination if you want to visit Europe for the holidays. It’s a city you’ll want to return to in the future for a sophisticated and urban experience.

Berlin is the capital of Germany and one of those constantly changing cities. You’ll find many impressive sights to explore and see in Berlin. The Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, and the East Side Gallery are the top tourist attractions.

It’s also a city known for its food scene. You’ll love your time in Berlin if you’re a foodie, and there are fantastic food options for all diets and food restrictions. Berlin is famous for its burger options, with tasty burger restaurants dotting the entire city.

No trip to Germany is complete without exploring the capital for a day or two. It’s a cultural hub for Germany with an extensive history. Work to master German before your trip to meet exciting people, make friends, and enjoy unique experiences with the locals.

Cologne is most famous for its impressive Gothic cathedral that towers over the rest of the city. The city’s origins started as a Roman outpost during their battles with the Germanic tribes, and it has blossomed into a stunning cultural city. It’s the cultural hub of the Rhineland region.

The Cologne Cathedral is the first stop to make during your visit to this stunning German city. The climb is challenging, but the views at the top are worth the effort (and possibly swear words) on the journey.

The Belgian Quarter is worth experiencing if you enjoy the bar scene while traveling. It’s home to countless bars and restaurants, making finding what suits your personality easy. Visit the famous museums in this part of town to complete your Cologne experience.

4. Nuremberg

Nuremberg is filled with history, picturesque architecture, and colorful streets to explore while enjoying your holiday in Germany. It’s also famous for its gingerbread, so prepare your stomach in advance to chow down on traditional German sweets before putting your exploring shoes on.

History buffs should visit the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds to learn more about Germany’s history before and during World War Two. Art lovers will also be happy in Nuremberg with a visit to the Neues Museum Nuremberg. It’s home to some of the most impressive art exhibits in Europe.

Take time to explore local restaurants to taste authentic German cuisine. Nuremberg has a wonderful restaurant scene, providing an excellent way to refuel and wind down after a long day of exploring. Remember to enjoy a stein of cold German beer before turning in for the night.

6. Heidelberg

Heidelberg is one of the smaller German cities on this list, but visiting this stunning city on your German vacation is worth your time. Heidelberg Castle is the prime tourist destination in this town, so make sure to check it out during your first day in the city.

The Philosopher’s Walk is another experience you won’t want to miss when your travels bring you to Heidelberg. View the Neckar River during your walk before looking for the top restaurants in the city to fill your stomach with tasty German cuisine.

The architecture combined with the rolling hills makes Heidelburg a fantastic stop if you want a small city filled with culture. It’s one of the best places to visit in Germany for a different experience than in larger cities like Cologne, Berlin, and Hamburg.

7. Freiberg

Freiberg is another smaller city to add to your list of the best cities in Germany. It’s a small town located on the edge of the Black Forest, with close proximity to France and Switzerland. It’s one of the most stunning cities in Germany to explore and experience.

It’s a vibrant area to visit when checking out cities in Germany. The city is home to a laidback and impressive university and is loaded with history. It’s also one of the warmest and sunniest cities in Germany, making it the perfect destination for planning a German vacation.

The Art Museum should be one of your first stops after arriving in Freiberg. The historic center is also worth checking out if you want to try quaint coffee shops and refuel on food. You’ll enjoy an authentic German experience during your visit to Freiberg.

Find the Best City in Germany Today

Planning a visit to the best city in Germany is an excellent way to see more of the world and learn about a vibrant culture. Large cities like Berlin and Hamburg provide a cool vibe with many restaurants and bars to check out, while Nuremberg offers more history and architecture. Visit Freiberg for a quaint, small-town vibe steeped in art and history.

Traveling is a fantastic way to learn about the world and different cultures. Use our Travel guides and articles to plan your next vacation today!

This article is published by NYTech in collaboration with Syndication Cloud.

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