Best 12 Places to Visit in Germany
In addition to being the EU’s economic engine, Germany also happens to be one of the top destinations in Europe for travellers looking for an authentic, action-packed holiday on the “continent.” Germany’s cities and towns, large and small, are easily accessible because to the excellent network of motorways (autobahns) and an incredibly quick and efficient train service that crisscrosses this central European nation.
Do you intend to have a single metropolitan location as your base of operations? Either Berlin, the majestic capital of the nation, or Munich, a popular historic city, would be great choices.
Or maybe you’re considering taking a road (or rail) journey to some of Germany’s lesser-known must-see locations. Great alternatives include Rothenburg, a mediaeval fortress town with an endless list of things to do, or the lovely spa town of Baden-Baden in the Black Forest.
Germany offers a wide range of breathtaking landscapes and touches on everything. Wherever you look, there is something lovely to see, from the lovely Rhine and Mosel valleys to the magnificent Bavarian Mountains, the amazing shorelines of Lake Constance, and the jagged beaches along the Baltic and North Sea.
This list of the top places to visit in Germany will help you plan your trip to this fantastic European travel destination, whether you’re searching for a vacation filled with amazing cultural experiences or exciting outdoor excursions.
1. Berlin
If you can only visit Germany once, you should plan to stay in Berlin for at least a few days. The capital of the nation is without a doubt one of the liveliest and most lively cities in all of Europe, known as much for its world-class food as for its shopping and entertainment.
Berlin is regarded as one of Europe’s top cultural cities
and is home to many outstanding art galleries and museums that are just waiting to be discovered. On Museum Island, a must-visit place that might take days to explore alone, are some of the best.
After these attractions in Berlin have closed, there are still plenty of enjoyable things to do at night, such as attending concerts by the renowned Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, perhaps attending a Berlin Opera performance, or just strolling the always-interesting avenues and boulevards in the Mitte District, where you’ll find famous landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate.
You should additionally investigate Charlottenburg. There are several lovely parks and gardens there, including the Zoological Garden, and it is typically a little quieter than the crowded Mitte district. Also, the majestic Charlottenburg Palace, which served as the former residence of the Prussian monarchs, can be found there.
2. Munich
Munich is one of Germany’s largest towns and the capital of the state of Bavaria. Its popularity as a tourist destination is largely due to its location on the edge of the breathtaking Bavarian Alps. Munich, which has roots in a monastic settlement that predates the city’s official creation in 1158, is not one of Germany’s oldest cities, but it has had a significant impact on the country’s cultural and political development.
Due to its quick development, the city became a significant hub for trade, the arts, and religion. No visitor can avoid noticing the city’s numerous surviving churches today, including the Peterskirche, a historic inner-city church constructed in the 1300s, the iconic cathedral, the Frauenkirche (also the city’s most recognisable structure), and the sizable Michaelskirche, a Renaissance-era structure.
Munich’s ancient city core is another factor that has helped it become one of the most well-liked tourist attractions in Germany. The pleasure is concentrated around the city’s sizable open plaza, the Marienplatz, making it a treat to explore on foot. The Old and New Town Halls are only two examples of the charming historical architecture that can be seen here and dates all the way back to the Middle Ages.
See the numerous parks and open spaces the city is renowned for, as well as the charming pedestrian districts along the banks of the River Isar. The gorgeous Englischer Garten, or English Garden, the biggest urban public park of its kind in the world, is by far the most well-liked of these.
The city of Munich is so large that it would take more than one day to see everything there is to see. This is in addition to the many other attractions, museums, art galleries, and family-friendly spots that are in the city.
3. Medieval Rothenburg
The old town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the tourism destination in Germany that best captures everything that is good about this amazing country. It is one of Germany’s most charming tiny towns and is a short drive from various large cities, including Frankfurt. It is situated in lovely Bavaria.
Wherever you turn in Rothenburg, as it is more well known, you can find excellent photo chances.
The majority of Rothenburg’s numerous authentic mediaeval structures have been preserved in their original forms because the city, which is elevated above the River Tauber, was spared from the war’s horrors that destroyed so many other historic mediaeval towns and cities.
As a result, magnificent historic buildings like the Rathaus, or town hall, from the 13th century, have mostly survived in their original form. Both the splendid Imperial City Museum, housed in a former convent, and the storied Castle Gardens, which have remained mostly unaltered since their founding in the 17th century, are equally well-preserved buildings.
Try to reserve a night or two of lodging in the historic district of the old town for a great pleasure. After the majority of the day trippers have left, you will then be in an ideal position to explore the spectacular Old Town Walls. Despite the fact that this takes just over a half-hour, Make stops along the road to take in the breathtaking vistas of the ancient town, which are amplified when dusk falls.
Return to the charming Plönlein, which is known for its narrow half-timbered building that divides two similarly lovely lanes surrounded with quaint older buildings, after that. After visiting one of Germany’s most alluring and genuine destinations, you can discover a fantastic restaurant or café patio nearby to unwind and relax.
4. Cologne
Another one of those beautiful ancient German cities that has preserved its past so that future generations might appreciate it is Cologne. Cologne, which was first inhabited by the Romans, has long been a significant religious hub and a destination for travellers.
Today’s top tourist destinations in Cologne are found in and around the Old Town, which is home to 12 iconic historic churches, including the well-known Cologne
Cathedral. Explore this majestic building and the nearby former merchant mansions, many of which are now buzzing with modern trade, including art galleries, boutique stores, and cafés, and plan to spend hours doing so.
The standing of Cologne as a hub of trade and business has never decreased. Visitors from today are still lured to its historic markets and shopping districts to buy things made locally, including clothing, perfumes, and cuisine. In fact, you haven’t truly lived until you’ve tried some of the authentic chocolate manufactured in Cologne, which is sold all over the Old Town.
Discovering Cologne’s historic Roman ruins, majestic Baroque palaces, and innumerable top-notch museums and art galleries are additional enjoyable activities.
Due to its location on the Rhine River, which runs right through the city, the city is also a well-liked tourist destination in Germany. The riverfront serves as a significant point of departure for Rhine river cruises, which can last anything from a few hours to a few days, in addition to being a fantastic place to explore on foot.
5. Koblenz & the Rhine Valley
You will eventually dock in the lovely city of Koblenz if you choose to take one of the increasingly popular week-long river cruises down the Rhine. However you get there, make sure to stop at the gorgeous Deutsches Eck, often known as the German Corner, right away.
You can see the confluence of the Rhine and Mosel rivers, one of the most amazing natural phenomena in
the nation. The enormous Monument to German Unification, a striking equestrian statue of King Wilhelm I, towers over this significant site.
It’s amazing to see these two powerful rivers combine. You might even be able to take in a classical music event on a summer evening if you plan it right. By ascending to the magnificent Ehrenbreitstein Fortress with the Koblenz cable car, one may also get fantastic views of the German Corner and the two rivers.
Also, Koblenz makes a great starting point for tours of the breathtaking Rhine Valley. Because of the significance of the Middle Rhine Valley, often known as the Rhine Gorge, the entire stretch from Koblenz to Mannheim has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll get to experience picture-book Germany, complete with breathtaking scenery that will make you believe it came directly out of a collection of fairy tales.
Many charming mediaeval villages and magnificent old castles are scattered along the river’s banks. Using a convenient hop-on, hop-off day pass on regular ferry routes, they are enjoyable to visit. Choose a longer river trip that visits other Rhine regions if you have more time to see this lovely area of Germany. Exploring on a car or bicycle is also enjoyable.
Regardless of how you get there, the Rhine Valley’s main destinations are the villages of Bingen am Rhein and Bacharach, each of which offers enough adventure to keep you occupied for hours.
6. Baden-Baden and the Black Forest
The charming town of Baden-Baden is well known as the spa centre of Germany. This lovely town in the famed Black Forest tourist region has been the go-to location for the wealthy and aristocracy seeking genuine medicinal spa town experiences for ages because of its temperate temperature and hot springs.
Nowadays, it is happily possible for everyone to visit
what is still recognised as one of Germany’s must-see destinations, and visitors should make every effort to spend at least one day in Baden-Baden.
Of course, no visit to the stunning Baden-Baden should be made without a dip or a paddle in one of its first-rate spas. You should start by going to the town’s renowned Spa Garden, the Kurgarten, which has a history that goes all the way back to the Roman era. The town’s magnificent boutique stores and art galleries, as well as its numerous top-notch restaurants and cafés, have long been the focal point of Baden-cultural Baden’s scene. Visitors throng here to discover these attractions.
The majority of the town’s most notable events and festivals, including anything from pop and classical concerts to the well-liked Christmas Market, are held at the Kurgarten. Also, this area is home to the charming old Kurhaus, a historic resort built in 1824 to imitate a French chateau and renown for its gardens and mediaeval pump room.
Because of its numerous golf and tennis clubs, equestrian activities like horse racing, and other sporting events, Baden-Baden is also well-liked by sports fans. Because of its proximity to the breathtaking Black Forest’s hiking and biking paths, it’s also an excellent location in Germany to visit in the summer. The region is well recognised as a ski resort when the snow falls.
The Schwarzwald-Hochstrasse tourism route, which passes through the most picturesque parts of this lovely area, is the greatest option for anyone looking for a scenic drive out of the city.
7. Nuremberg
The charming mediaeval Old Town neighbourhood of Nuremberg (Nürnberg) today is a monument to both the country’s modern creativity and the deep cultural traditions that have influenced it. The majority of the city’s renowned mediaeval architecture, which had lain unspoiled for decades before to World War 2, needed to be rebuilt after suffering near-total destruction.
And it was decided to rebuild the city’s old core exactly
as it had been before the war, as opposed to demolishing it and building less appealing new structures there in its place. The outcomes are truly breathtaking. In fact, it is difficult for anyone other than an expert to recognise that much of what you currently see in the Altstadt was once primarily debris.
Both history and culture enthusiasts will find enough to like about contemporary Nuremberg. Taking the opportunity to stroll the city’s five kilometres of walls is a must-do on any visit. The walls, which were constructed in the 1300s to protect the old city, are best experienced on the west side of the city and are easily accessible by a network of pathways that are fun to explore, especially if you take the time to climb the old towers that provide a bird’s-eye view of the area.
Once you’ve gotten your bearings, go to Nuremberg Castle, a sizable 11th-century stronghold that features a number of distinct mediaeval structures to tour, many of which are home to museum exhibits and related items.
Additionally, if great dining, shopping, and entertainment are important to you, Nuremberg has it all, from opera and classical music performances to upscale boutique stores and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Are you considering a winter trip to Nuremberg? If you do, you’ll be rewarded with the opportunity to see one of Germany’s best and oldest Christmas markets, dating back to the 1500s.
8. Frankfurt
Frankfurt has been one of Germany’s most significant cities for many years and has long been an independent city-state. This historic former imperial city is a terrific destination to spend a weekend getaway, or even longer if you’re seeking for a base from which to explore the nearby countryside. It has numerous historic buildings, top-notch attractions, and entertaining things to do.
The city is located on the River Main, and it is simple to see remnants of its former prominence as a major
commerce hub, particularly in the stunning Old Town (Altstadt) region.
Wandering the charming Römerberg, a well-kept pedestrian-friendly city plaza noted for its fountain, mediaeval townhouses, appealing boutique stores and galleries, and superb cafés and restaurants with al fresco eating options, are among the highlights. The Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) and several beautiful ancient churches are among the historic structures that can be found in the square.
Frankfurt has its share of contemporary wonders as well. Its financial sector, one of Germany’s top business districts, has enough skyscrapers to give the city the moniker “Mainhattan,” and its ultra-modern convention centres have made it the host of significant international trade exhibitions, such the Frankfurt Book Fair.
You’ll struggle to find a better site to visit in Germany if you include the numerous top-notch museums in the Museumsufer area, which is home to the great Museum of World Cultures and the Museum of Ancient Sculpture.
In order to make sure you don’t miss anything, you might want to think about extending your stay considering the abundance of well regarded hotels in Frankfurt. It also serves as a fantastic starting point for exploring adjacent places like Mainz’s rich past and Heidelberg’s picturesque old town, both of which are perfect for exciting day trips from Frankfurt.
9. Hamburg: The Gateway to Germany
Consider travelling to Hamburg if you want to experience the excellent kindness of Germany’s northernmost residents. The second-largest city in the nation is situated on the River Elbe Estuary not far from the North Sea, which has guaranteed its significance as the nation’s most significant port.
From here, shipping lanes connect to significant inland
rivers as well as lanes that travel around the world. You can watch an endless stream of ships of all kinds coming and going on any given day of the week, day or night, including an increasing number of cruise ships letting off tourists to experience this cutting-edge, vibrant metropolis.
Like these tourists, you should start by touring the sizable Port of Hamburg, a region that spans 100 square kilometres and is well-known for its preserved historic Warehouse District. These once-storage structures are now home to a variety of establishments, including art galleries, museums, and the superb International Maritime Museum, in addition to the neighbouring antique sailing vessels and music halls and entertainment facilities. Don’t forget to take a harbour tour, which provides breathtaking views of the port from the boat.
Another must-do is to stroll through the city’s heart, especially if you do so along the Deichstrasse, which is known for its distinctive architecture and historic townhouses. Here, a network of beautiful bridges crisscrosses the charming historic canals that go to and from the harbour region. If you’re fortunate enough to have more time than a few hours, make sure to visit Miniatur Wunderland, the city’s main family destination and home to the largest train set in the world.
10. Dresden
The historic city of Dresden makes a fantastic home base from which to explore not only the eastern part of the country but also Eastern Europe because it is situated only a few miles from Germany’s border with the Czech Republic. Dresden also makes for a great day trip from Berlin since it is just a two-hour drive or train ride south of the country’s capital.
The city was first settled because of its lush grounds, picturesque location, temperate climate, and accessibility to significant European trade routes. It is located in a low-lying section of the upper Elbe valley. The vast bulk of Dresden’s exquisite city centre, formerly referred to as Germany’s “jewel box” for its fine Rococo, has undergone expansion after centuries of development under the previous Saxon rulers.
Nonetheless, it has been renovated during the last few decades and is once more recognised as one of the nation’s top centres for culture and entertainment. The Frauenkirche, Dresden’s famed cathedral, is the best place to see this extraordinary tale of rebirth.
The magnificent structure, which was constructed in 1743 and was at the time regarded as Europe’s most beautiful Baroque cathedral, was completely destroyed in 1945. Yet, devoted local residents meticulously categorised and conserved every component of the collapsed church, and in 2005 they finally witnessed it reclaim its former splendour. It is an amazing feat of creativity and perseverance.
Nowadays, Dresden is a must-see destination due to its many other restored monuments, including the Neumarkt, the city’s central plaza, as well as its numerous museums and art galleries.
11. Leipzig
Leipzig, which is well-known for its historic fairs and markets, including a wonderful Christmas Market, is well worth include on your vacation plan to Germany. Leipzig has long been a significant centre for trade and commerce, which in turn contributed to its rise as one of the leading centres of art, culture, and education in the nation. It is situated in the Saxon Lowlands amid picturesque scenery at the confluence of the Weisse Elster and the Pleisse rivers and is only a short hour’s train ride from Berlin.
Even today, the city’s long history as a hub of learning and literature is still clearly visible, from its hosting of major book fairs to the German National Library. Due to its rich cultural and musical legacy, Leipzig has grown to be one of the most well-liked tourist attractions in all of eastern Germany. These characteristics have also contributed to Leipzig’s reputation as one of the best towns in Europe to live in.
A walking tour will take you through numerous fantastic shops and restaurants, as well as a lot of attractive parks and green areas, like the city’s lovely botanic gardens, in addition to its beautiful old buildings.
Other sites to see that shed light on Leipzig’s significant role in German history include the enormous Battle of the Nations Monument, which was erected in 1913 to honour Napoleon’s demise 100 years earlier, and the Old City Hall, which is a popular gathering place due to its location in Leipzig’s famed Market district.
12. Düsseldorf
A wonderful urban European holiday may be had in Düsseldorf, which is regarded as one of Germany’s most cosmopolitan towns. After all, it is much closer to Amsterdam than it is to Berlin. Its standing as one of Germany’s top university cities and its rich cultural past both contribute to its reputation as a young, energetic, and stylish destination.
It has a long history of influencing the nation’s artistic and fashion preferences, and it’s a surprisingly
enjoyable place to tour on foot. Pull yourself away from the attractive Marktplatz and spectacular Town Hall (Rathaus) as you begin your sightseeing tour of Düsseldorf in the Old Town neighbourhood (Altstadt) and head for one of the city’s renowned, almost French avenues and boulevards. You’ll be rewarded with some of the finest high-end shopping opportunities in Germany, if not all of Europe, particularly along the opulent Königsallee.
Düsseldorf also has a lot of walking-friendly green spaces. They include the Nordpark, which has a lovely Japanese garden, and the Hofgarten, which encircle the central business district. It takes a lot of time to explore both parks because of their size, but it is time well spent.
Walk along the Rhine Embankment Promenade to complete your trip (Rheinuferpromenade). The many delightful restaurants, cafés, and shops are lit up when night falls, making this picturesque waterside stroll the ideal location to unwind.