Are you looking for the best places to visit in Germany?
Then you have come to the right place!
Germany is a country that offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers from all over the world.
From cities like Berlin and Munich to the small villages of the Black Forest, Germany has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.
We have explored many cities in Germany and here we have compiled a list of our personal recommendations for you when coming for the first time to Germany.
Our list includes cities that are popular tourist destinations as well as hidden gems such as some medieval towns that are worth exploring.
Historic Cities and Towns
Germany is replete with destinations steeped in history, each offering a unique window into the country’s rich past.
From the hustle and historical significance of its capital to the festive atmosphere of Bavaria, there’s a city break for every kind of history lover.
Berlin
As the capital city of Germany, Berlin is a hub of culture, history and nightlife.
From the Berlin Wall to the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charly, there is no shortage of top sights in Berlin.
And if you’re looking for a night out, Berlin’s clubs and bars are world-renowned.
Munich
Munich is known for its stunning architecture, rich history and beer gardens. And: Oktoberfest!
The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, including the famous Bavarian National Museum.
And of course, no trip to Munich would be complete without a visit to the Hofbräuhaus, one of the oldest beer halls in Germany.
Frankfurt
Located in the heart of Germany, Frankfurt and close to the Main river, it is the financial hub and our small “Mainhatten”.
Frankfurt is known for its stunning skyline, which features numerous skyscrapers.
Want to know more about Frankfurt:
Cologne
Cologne is our favorite city in Germany – okay, we lived there also for several years.
It is known for its stunning cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as its nightlife.
In Cologne you can enjoy the Rhine river, the chocolate museum or one of many many breweries.
Hamburg
Located at the North sea, Hamburg is our the harbor to the world. The city’s Speicherstadt, the largest warehouse district in the world, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where red-brick facades reflect the city’s trade history.
One of the best “museums” is the Miniatur Wunderland. Make sure to book tickets in advance.
But be aware: Hamburg would not Hamburg without rain. So put an umbrella and rain jacket on your packing list, also when coming during summer.
Looking for a place to stay in Hamburg?
Nürnberg
Nuremberg is a city located in northern Bavaria that is known for its rich history and culture.
What is Nuremberg famous for?
- Nuremberg Castle (Kaiserburg): A stunning 11th-century fortress offering panoramic views and rich medieval history.
- Albrecht Dürer House: Museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous Renaissance artist.
- Christkindlesmarkt: One of Europe’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets. The Christmas market officially opens on the 29th of November.
- Nazi Rally Grounds: A historical site with a museum detailing the Nazi regime and its impact, providing important insights into Germany’s past.
Heidelberg
Heidelberg is a city located in southwestern Germany and the city is synonymous with romanticism.
Trek up to the Heidelberg Castle ruins for breathtaking views of the Old Town and the Neckar River, and explore the ancient University of Heidelberg, which has been a center of learning since the 14th century.
Heidelberg is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the Philosophenweg and the Botanischer Garten.
You can easily explore Heidelbergs hilly terrain with a segway tour.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming medieval town in Bavaria that is often called the “Jewel of the Romantic Road.”
It is a well-preserved walled city that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. The town is full of winding streets, half-timbered houses, and beautiful gardens.
We recommend taking a walk around the town’s walls for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
In Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you can also visit the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum, which is dedicated to the history of crime and punishment in the Middle Ages.
The museum has a fascinating collection of torture devices, weapons, and other objects related to crime and punishment.
Top Destinations in southern germany
Bavaria and the state of Baden Württemberg are two beautiful states in the south of Germany. Both are known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and traditional culture.
Here are our top destinations in Bavaria and Baden Württemberg that we highly recommend visiting:
Bamberg
Bamberg, a picturesque German city in southern Germany, offers a delightful blend of history and charm.
Its Old Town is like stepping into a fairytale with its ancient buildings and cozy streets.
You can’t miss trying the local beer from one of the traditional breweries.
The Bamberg Cathedral is simply breathtaking, and don’t forget to sample the delicious Franconian dishes.
Bamberg has it all for a memorable and charming getaway.
Garmisch-Patenkirchen
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a charming town located in the Bavarian Alps.
It is a popular destination for skiing and winter sports, as well as hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
Visitors can also explore the town’s traditional architecture, local cuisine, and cultural events.
Regensburg
Regensburg is a hidden gem located in the heart of Bavaria. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a city of contrasts, where ancient history meets modern life. With over 2,000 years of history, Regensburg is one of the oldest cities in Germany.
The city is full of stunning architecture, including the Gothic St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Romanesque Porta Praetoria, and the medieval Stone Bridge. We recommend taking a stroll through the Old Town to admire the beautiful buildings and narrow streets.
Stuttgart
As the capital of Baden-Württemberg, Stuttgart is a bustling city that offers something for everyone.
The city is known for its art museums, opera, and two of the world’s best car museums. Stuttgart is also home to the stunning Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden, which is home to over 11,000 animals and 7,000 plant species.
The city is also a great place to shop, with numerous high-end boutiques and department stores located throughout the city.
Top Tourist Destinations in Northern Germany
Overall, the north of Germany is a fascinating region that is full of exciting destinations to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, there’s something for everyone in this part of the country.
Bremen
Bremen is a charming city that is located on the banks of the River Weser.
The city is known for its picturesque architecture, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions.
One of the must-see attractions in Bremen is the Bremen Town Musicians statue, which is based on a popular fairy tale.
Visitors can also explore the historic Schnoor quarter, which is home to a range of artisan shops and cafes.
The city is also famous for its beer scene, and visitors can sample some of the local brews at one of the many bars and pubs in the city.
Lübeck
Lübeck is a historic city that is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
The city is home to a range of historic landmarks, including the Holstentor, which is a 15th-century gate that is one of the most iconic symbols of the city.
Visitors can also explore the historic Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition to its historic landmarks, Lübeck is also famous for its marzipan, which is a sweet almond paste that is a local specialty.
Visitors can sample some of the best marzipan in the city at one of the many cafes and shops in the Old Town.
Göttingen
Göttingen, a historic city in the middle-north of Germany, offers a blend of old-world charm and cultural richness.
Göttingen is known for its churches and the famous Gänseliesel, a bronze statue of a girl with geese, which has become a symbol of good luck and a popular spot for photos.
Want to know what you can’t miss in Göttingen:
top Tourist destinations in western Germany
Western Germany has a lot to offer in terms of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring arts, stunning churches, beautiful nature and culture scenes, these destinations are definitely worth checking out.
Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf is a city that is often overlooked by tourists, but it is definitely worth a visit. It is known for its high-end shopping, nightlife, and excellent dining options.
Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums and art galleries, including the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
Aachen
Aachen is a historic town that was once the capital of the Holy Roman Empire.
It is known for its stunning cathedral, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as its many hot springs.
Visitors to Aachen can also explore the town’s many museums and historic buildings, including the Rathaus, which dates back to the 14th century.
Bonn
Bonn is a charming city that is situated on the banks of the Rhine River.
It is known for its many museums and galleries, including the Haus der Geschichte, which explores the history of post-war Germany.
Visitors to Bonn can also explore the city’s many parks and gardens, including the Botanischer Garten, which is home to over 11,000 plant species.
Koblenz
Koblenz is a city that is situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers.
It is known for its stunning views, historic buildings, and excellent dining options.
Visitors to Koblenz can also explore the city’s many museums and galleries, including the Mittelrhein Museum, which explores the history of the Rhine River.
Harz Mountains
The Harz Mountains are a beautiful mountain range located in the northern part of Germany’s eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt. The mountains are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Visitors can explore the mountains by foot, bike, or even by train. The Harz Narrow Gauge Railway is a popular way to see the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
In addition to hiking and sightseeing, visitors can also go skiing, snowboarding, and even tobogganing during the winter months. The Harz Mountains are a year-round destination that offers something for everyone.
Top City Destinations in eastern Germany
Dresden
Dresden is known as the “Florence of the Elbe” due to its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The city was heavily bombed during World War II, but many of its historic buildings have been restored to their former glory.
Leipzig
Leipzig is a city with a rich musical heritage, having been home to composers such as Bach, Mendelssohn, and Wagner.
The city also played a significant role in the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Saxon Switzerland National Park
Saxon Switzerland National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in the eastern state of Saxony.
The park boasts unique rock formations, deep gorges, and picturesque landscapes that are sure to take your breath away.
Visitors can explore the park by foot, bike, or even by boat. There are several hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
We recommend the Bastei Bridge trail, which offers stunning views of the Elbe River and the surrounding rock formations.
In addition to hiking, visitors can also go rock climbing, canoeing, and even paragliding. There’s something for everyone at Saxon Switzerland National Park.
off the beaten path
If you’re looking for something unique and different from the usual tourist destinations in Germany, we recommend checking out some of the off the beaten path cities. These cities offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that are often overlooked by visitors. Here are some of our favorite off the beaten path destinations in Germany:
Cochem
Cochem is a charming town located in the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany.
It is nestled in the Moselle Valley and is known for its picturesque views and historic landmarks.
Our visit to Cochem was unforgettable, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination in Germany.
Boppard
Boppard is a charming town located in the Rhine Gorge, surrounded by vineyards and forests.
It is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect destination for those looking to get off the beaten path in Germany.
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