Germany is a beautiful, culturally rich country in western Europe. There are many vibrant places to visit in Germany, which all have a rich tradition of art, literature, and science.
For a country that has a reputation for being expensive, Germany can be surprisingly affordable. It is best known for its beer, sausages, and rich history. But what may not be as well-known is that it’s home to some of the most incredible natural beauty and architectural wonders that are rarely found anywhere in the world.
In recent years, the number of tourists traveling to Germany has been steadily increasing. Of course, some places in your homeland are always worth seeing, but some hidden gems are not so well known.
Read about how to get in shape for trekking.
This article is here to show you the 20 best places to visit in Germany. Keep reading to know all about it.
1. Places to Visit in Germany: Berlin
Berlin-the capital of Germany is the most diverse and historical city in Europe. A visit to Berlin today is like going on a walk in a golden past while preserving the present.
Berlin is associated with World War II and holds the historical event of Germany being divided into East and West Germany by the Berlin Wall.
The Berlin Wall fell in 1989; the city now is vast and unified with lots of attractions to see and cultures to explore.
Berlin’s major attractions are the Berlin Wall, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the Holocaust Memorial, and the East Side Gallery. There are more attractions that we will further elaborate on in the article.
Berlin also has the highest concentration of museums- 170 museums!
Berlin has not only managed to retain its old town and greenery but is also well-known for being home to some of the most fabulous nightlife that you can find in Europe.
Berlin has the best nightclubs in Germany and hosts prominent shows and concerts that invite audiences from all over the world every year.
If you want some quality family time, you can go to the Berlin Zoological Garden or any public park for a picnic. Or, go shopping with your friends at Kurfürstendamm.
If you are a coffee lover, as I am, try the Berlinese coffee at the Mitte.
As you can see, Berlin has something for everyone. And if you are in Berlin just in time for Christmas, you will get to check out some of the biggest Christmas markets in Germany.
2. Places to Visit in Germany: Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate
Visiting Berlin? Start your tour from the Brandenburg Gate.
This sandstone monument was modeled on the Acropolis in Athens and was built in 1791. To date, it is the backdrop to every tourist’s photos.
The Brandenburg Gate is the most iconic structure of Berlin, even though it was once severely destroyed during WWII. Its beauty is enhanced by the structure of the Quadriga- the goddess of victory on a four-horse chariot. The gate’s two sides are decorated by the Doric columns, which the guards once carried.
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3. Places to Visit in Germany: Museum Island
Now that you know that Berlin has numerous museums in its vicinity let me introduce you to Museum Island. It is the spot that you must explore when you are in Berlin, Germany.
Museum Island, also known as Museumsinsel, is a pedestrian-friendly district that is situated between the River Spree and the Kupfergraben.
When you are here, visit the Old Museum which exhibits royal treasures. The island now has a New Museum, National Gallery, and the Bode Museum that preserves antiquities.
Also, check out the Pergamon- historic buildings recreated from the Middle East.
There are more attractions to see on Museum Island, so make sure to keep a day or two to explore this area.
4. Places to Visit in Germany: Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
Cologne- the fourth largest city in Germany, is a center of culture, thermal baths, entertainment, and high-spirited locals.
There are many attractions to visit in Cologne, including the Hohenzollern Bridge, Altstadt (Old Town), and Agnesviertel, but the one major non-miss destination is the Kölner Dom.
Kölner Dom, also called the Cologne Cathedral, is a Gothic masterpiece listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is one of the largest catholic churches in Europe, with 56 pillars around it.
Besides its vastness, the panoramic vistas from the south towers increase the cathedral’s magnificence.
Its interior is also equally magnificent. The gold artworks, including the Reliquary of the Three Kings and the 12th-century stained-glass windows, make a great setting inside the cathedral.
If you plan to visit Cologne in November, attend the Cologne Carnival- one of the greatest festivals in the world.
5. Places to Visit in Germany: The Black Forest
If you want to get away from the blinding lights of the city, the Black Forest is the place to go.
Located in southwestern Germany, the Black Forest takes its name from its densely wooded hills that confine sparkling lakes rivers and flower-filled meadows.
It is a picturesque place that offers natural sights and quaint towns and villages. The forest is a hiker’s paradise and a cyclist’s dream route. Besides, skiing and snowboarding are also popular during the winter season.
However, if you are in the mood to relax, the Black Forest has luxury spa facilities at Baden-Baden and attractive resorts you can rest at. You can also walk around centuries-old abbeys and visit monasteries, vineyards, and fairytale castles.
Another best way to explore the Black Forest is to go on a 70-kilometer driving tour to the Black Forest Panoramic Route.
6. Places to Visit in Germany: Neuschwanstein
If you love fairytales or have a thing for history and scenic beauty, the castle in Bavaria is the place to visit.
Neuschwanstein Castle sits on top of a hill, making it the perfect destination for any traveler to visit. King Ludwig II constructed the castle as a place to stay away from public life. Now, the castle is explored by more than a million people every year.
Take a guided tour to check out the castle’s throne room, singer’s hall, and beautifully painted ceilings.
Since this castle sits in the middle of the Bavarian Alps, you can see some best views of the mountains, Alpine lakes, and the foliage that surrounds the castle.
Neuschwanstein Castle was the inspiration behind the castle of the superhit Disney movie: The Sleeping Beauty.
7. Places to Visit in Germany: The Rhine Valley
The Rhine Valley is named after the most important waterway in Europe, the Rhine. The river flows through Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
The Rhine Valley’s upper-middle section is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has nearly 60 medieval towns and 40 picturesque castles that are waiting to be explored.
8. Places to Visit in Germany: Bamberg
Bamberg is a historic town in Upper Franconia, Bavaria, that was once the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bamberg. It is a beautiful place to visit in Germany.
It has numerous cafes and bars where you can chill. You can try smoked beer in Bamberg’s numerous breweries.
Going to this town makes you feel like you are in the medieval ages. Bamberg was home to popular writers and philosophers like Ernst Theodore Amadeus Hoffman and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel.
But the main reason for visiting Bamberg is beyond that. The town has gorgeous areas to visit along the Regnitz River. There are vibrant fishermen’s houses that work as a colorful background to your pictures.
Bamberg Cathedral, City Hall, and the Old Town Hall are three architecturally pleasing sites to visit. And for some relaxing days out, there is New Residence’s rose garden.
Bamberg has lots of hiking trails like the Seven Rivers Path and Bamberg River Path. You can go on walks at these seven famous hills, each has its old church.
Also, visit the UNESCO site Altstadt to check out elaborate mansions and beautifully preserved half-timber structures.
9. Places to Visit in Germany: Hamburg
Hamburg is situated on the Elbe River’s banks- Germany’s most significant and busiest cruise port. The city is known for its maritime identity and lively nightlife.
Hamburg has bars, clubs, and the best music venues. Visit the Elbphilharmonie complex to check out the two concert halls and a plaza with gorgeous city views.
The sensational band named ‘The Beatles got their big break at the Reeperbahn and changed the world of music forever.
Besides the entertainment areas, you should visit the magnificent neo-renaissance Rathaus, Alter Elbtunnel, and Platen un Blomen Park.
Miniatur Wunderland is another must-visit destination. It is where the world’s largest model railway is kept. Besides, you can also see detailed miniature airports, crowded cities, rural areas, and busy harbors.
Hamburg is also best explored on a boat as it is one of the world’s largest cruise ship terminals.
10. Places to Visit in Germany: Zugspitze Massif
If you want to get the most out of Germany’s natural beauty, visit the Zugspitze Massif (2,950m above sea level). Going up the summit is a great way to enjoy the panoramic vistas of the German landscape.
You can hike to the summit, where you will walk through an 800-meter-long tunnel with viewing windows.
If you are not much of a walker, you can book train tickets or cable car rides to Zugspitze. This way you can enjoy the views all along the way.
If you are staying here, there are many ski resorts where you can go skiing.
11. Places to Visit in Germany: Königssee (King’s Lake)
Königssee (King’s Lake) is a lovely Bavarian lake that is home to popular mountain resorts, and if you are thinking about going to a wellness retreat, this is the place to go.
Many hiking and biking trails are around this beautiful lake.
For a great sightseeing experience, walk to the east side of Königssee to the Malerwinkel and check out the view from there. Or, take a boat ride to the Pilgrimage Chapel of St. Bartholomew, situated on the south end of the lake.
If you want to go on an adventure, visit the Berchtesgaden National Park.
12. Places to Visit in Germany: Rugen Island
Located in the Baltic Sea, Rugen Island is the largest and most beautiful island in Germany, separated from the rest of the nation by the Stralsund. It is connected to Stralsund town by a causeway.
Rugen Island is a favorite to many tourists because of its diverse landscapes and seaside resorts. It also has farmlands, sandy beaches, and lagoons where you can have fun.
If you are in the mood for adventure, go on a hike at the Jasmund National Park. The national park boasts abundant wildlife and scenic beauty. Plus, its chalk cliffs that rise to 161 meters above sea level are also something to see at this national park.
You can also go to the visitor center to get valuable information about the island.
There are plenty of activities like golfing, horse riding, windsurfing, cycling, and hot air balloon trips for more recreational activities.
13. Places to Visit in Germany: Lake Constance
Lake Constance is the third-largest lake in Central Europe situated in the Alps’ foothills, making up the German, Austrian, and Swiss borders.
Lake Constance has beautiful crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery that is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and even sailing in sunny weather.
Many people love hiking and cycling by the lakeside.
If you want to check out what the city holds, explore the historic university city of Konstanz.
14. Places to Visit in Germany: Leipzig
Leipzig, also known as the ‘City of Heroes’ because of its leading role in the 1989 democratic revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall; is one of the best places to visit in Germany.
Leipzig city is full of museums, and historical sites and has a vibrant arts and culture scene.
When in Leipzig, visit the Monument to the Battle of Nations and the Museum of Fine Arts to check out the history of the city and the centuries-old paintings, respectively.
Explore the Leipzig Music Trail and enjoy the performances of Bach’s music at the St. Thomas Church. The church is where Bach performed as a lead composer and is now buried.
The city also has Germany’s oldest botanical garden and one of the largest zoos.
Besides, Leipzig also has top-notch nightlife and even better festivals. Some of the notable festivals are the International Balloon Festival, Bach Festival, and Goth Festival.
15. Places to Visit in Germany: Munich
Munich is the Bavarian capital and is considered one of the most liveable cities in Germany. It is also home to some of Germany’s best food, museums, and parks.
Munich has a reputation for its world-famous Oktoberfest and as an international hub for research and technology. Munich also offers Germany’s best cultural scenario with its dazzling opera houses and theatres such as the National Theatre.
It has a mixture of classic and modern architecture prevalent in its historic churches, royal palaces, shopping centers, and art galleries.
If you are just in time for Christmas, go to Marienplatz- a central square that hosts the famous Christmas market in Munich.
If you are a sports enthusiast, Munich is home to many sports teams ranging from football, and basketball to ice hockey. Get yourself a ticket to watch a game!
Other popular attractions in Munich are the Deutsches Museum (Derman Museum), Hofbrauhaus Brewery, and the picturesque Englischer Garten (English Garden).
16. Places to Visit in Germany: Frankfurt
Visit Frankfurt when in Germany because it is a city of rich culture and history, with an excellent transport system and many green spaces. It is renowned as the financial capital of Europe.
Frankfurt is also a city of high entertainment where you can chill or party hard.
You can go to the Museumsufer, where dozens of museums, including the Städel Museum, are waiting to be explored. Also, go to the Main Tower Observation Deck to check out the views of the city.
For a good day out, explore the beautiful botanical garden of Palmengarten.
17. Places to Visit in Germany: Heide Park Resort
Heide Park Resort of Germany is located in Soltau, Northern Germany. It is Germany’s largest amusement park and an excellent destination for families and anyone who wants to enjoy some time outside.
Though it’s not very close to Berlin, Heide Park Resort is easy to reach Berlin.
Heide Park is an excellent destination for a one-day trip to Germany. You can visit this amusement park with family, friends, and partners.
It surely will be an exciting day for you as there are 40 rides, a horror maze, shopping centers, and many cafes.
18. Places to Visit in Germany: Sanssouci Park and Palace, Potsdam
Sanssouci Park and Palace, Potsdam is a spectacular site that showcases the personal influence of Fredrick the Great and celebrates the infamous Potsdam Rococo. The palace was constructed between 1744 to 1756.
It is a serene place to explore as the parks have a beautiful Baroque flower garden, 3000 fruit trees, and greenhouses. Its large area is filled with trimmed hedges and lawns.
There are several buildings in its vicinity that you can explore, like the Picture Gallery, the Roman Baths complex, and the Chinese House.
Check out the Rococo building that has an elliptical dome in the center. It is famous for its splendid interior designs.
19. Places to Visit in Germany: Dresden
Dresen, known as the Jewel Box for its massive collection of art and architecture before WWII bombings destroyed it, is the capital of the federal state of Saxony. The city serves as a center of government and culture.
Now the city has restored its former glory and invites millions of tourists every year.
Since Dresden is located on the Elbe River’s banks, it is also known as the ‘Florence of Elbe.’ The city has lush greenery and beautiful parks and forests all around.
There are also many museums where you can learn about the city’s history. You can go on a walk at Bruehl’s Terrace and visit a stunning palace complex called Zwinger.
You can also visit the Frauenkirche Cathedral or the Green Vault to check out thousands of precious gems, jewelry, and works of fine art.
Dresden also hosts Europe’s largest Jazz festival known as the Dixieland Festival. So if you have a thing for excellent music, you know where to go.
Check out the biggest music festivals in the world by clicking here.
20. Places to Visit in Germany: Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber
Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is located on the banks of the Tauber River, and it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Germany.
Since the war of 1618, the city of Rothenburg has preserved its medieval charm. With lots of attractions like the Town Hall, Imperial Church, Ratstrinkstub, St.-Georgs-Brunnen fountain, Council Tavern, and St. James Church, it succeeds in standing true to preserving the history of Germany.
The best way to get a timeless experience of this place is by walking the city’s old streets. So join a walking tour or do it alone by picking up a map from the tourism office.
Another good part of Rothenburg is its number of fine restaurants. You can go and try the German beer and snacks.
Also, visit Plönlein- a picturesque spot in the city.
Is Germany safe to travel?
Germany is very safe to travel in. It is the world’s 14th safest country. The country has low crime rates as compared to other Southern European countries.
You can walk around in the cities at night too.
Petty crimes such as pickpocketing are prevalent in tourist hotspots of Germany, just as in any other country, so it is up to you to stay alert of your belongings for your safety.
Read our best tips to stay safe while traveling in South Africa.
Is traveling in Germany expensive?
Traveling in Germany is not as expensive as you think it is.
If you opt for local food from street vendors and live in budget hotels and hostels instead of booking cruises and eating at a fancy restaurant, your visit will be budget-friendly and fun!
Here we have it, the 20 best places to visit in Germany. Let us know how your experience of traveling in Germany was or which place you would like to visit in the comments below.
