Introduction
You may be thinking about planning a trip to Germany soon. With so many options on places to go, how do you narrow it down? There are many popular and famous sites that attract tourists from all around the world. From historical landmarks to modern museums to stunning natural landscapes, Germany has something to enjoy for everyone. Here is a quick guide to help pick the top 10 best places you’ll want to see when visiting Germany for the first time or the tenth time!
As the capital and largest city in Germany, it is no surprise Berlin takes the top spot on this list of must-see places. The city is filled with memorials to its turbulent 20th century history, from the remnants of the Berlin Wall to the iconic Brandenburg Gate to the striking Holocaust Memorial. But Berlin is not stuck in the past, as you’ll realize from its vibrant foodie, music, art, and nightlife scenes. You’ll want to allow several days to experience all this world-class destination has to offer.
2. Neuschwanstein Castle
Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein looks as though it came straight from a storybook scene. The 19th century castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II and served as the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. You can take a guided tour of the castle interior with its intended medieval decor. But the best views come from gazing up at Neuschwanstein perched on the hill against the verdant mountain backdrop or from Marienbrücke bridge with panoramic views over the castle and lake below.
3. Cologne Cathedral
This UNESCO World Heritage site is considered one of the most stunning examples of Gothic architecture in the world and is the most visited landmark in Germany. Construction first began in 1248 but lasted over six centuries until 1880. You can take a guided or audio tour to learn more about the cathedral’s long history and artworks inside as you admire the immense church nave capped with intricate rib vaulting arches reaching 157 feet high. Climb to the top of the twin spires for a bird’s eye view over Cologne’s Old Town. Don’t miss seeing the golden reliquary purported to contain the remains of the Three Wise Men.
4. Heidelberg
Nestled in the valley of the Neckar River, Heidelberg charms visitors with its fairytale 15th century castle ruins, well-preserved medieval old town built of sandstone and timber framed houses topped with red tile roofs, and spirited university atmosphere. Stroll down Haupstrasse pedestrian lane lined with shops, eateries, and pubs often filled with the chatter and song of university students and locals. Take the funicular railway up to the Philosophers’ Walk on the hill facing Heidelberg Castle. The ruined walls, towers, and arches of the castle make for stunning photo backdrops, while the interior houses the world’s largest wine cask.
5. Munich
As the capital of Bavaria and Germany’s third largest city, Munich holds many claims to fame including centuries-old buildings, world-renowned museums, colorful markets, magnificent parks and gardens, and the annual Oktoberfest celebration of beer. But arguably Munich’s most iconic site is the Glockenspiel located in Marienplatz city square. You’ll want to position yourself to watch the engaging mechanical clock with life-size moving figures depicting historical Bavarian events and themes. The experience draws large crowds when it chimes and lights up several times per day. Afterward, you can pick any number of outstanding restaurants, breweries, and cultural sites to enjoy nearby.
6. Rhine Valley
Germany’s most celebrated river, the Rhine, cuts through a gorgeous stretch of rolling vineyard dotted hillsides and pictorial towns stacked up like stair steps along the water’s edge. Castles crown many of the hilltops. Called the Rhine Gorge, this UNESCO World Heritage site composes jaw dropping scenery between the cities of Bingen and Koblenz. You can view it all from a comfortable riverboat cruise or while riding the Rhine Valley railways that often parallel the river. Highlights along the 65 km route include the well-preserved medieval town of Bacharach on the left bank and Burg Rheinstein castle on the right bank.
7. Hamburg
Germany’s second largest city holds a bustling port that connects it to the North Sea. This maritime heritage spawned an urban landscape filled with more bridges than Venice or Amsterdam. You can join guided boat tours on the city’s two rivers and harbor area to admire the scenery and architecture marking the revitalized warehouse district that now brims with dining hot spots and nightlife. Other highlights include St. Michaelis Church, the magnificent early 20th century town hall, and one of the largest model railway displays spanning 1,150 square meters at Miniature Wonderland. Save time to shop and dine around fashionable Gänsemarkt square in the Altstadt.
8. Rothenburg ob der Tauber
This is one of the most enchanting medieval walled towns in Germany, seemingly frozen in time for several centuries. You’ll think you walked onto a movie set as you wander through Rothenburg’s quiet cobblestone lanes revealing one perfectly preserved 16th and 17th century building façade after another. Towering gates mark your entrance and exit with Rödertor probably the most iconic for its clock and double shell decorations representing Rothenburg’s founding legend. Charming boutique stores and eateries beckon you to explore their interiors. Save time to walk atop the fortified stone wall encircling the town, which affords post card-worthy views overlooking red roof tops.
9. Black Forest
The low mountain range in southwestern Germany spanning 160 kilometers creates an idyllic landscape enveloped in wooded hills filled with Norway spruce, pine, and beech trees interspersed with traditional German farm houses and meadows dotted with cows and goats. Here you can try your hand at making the region’s famous cuckoo clock or indulge your sweet tooth with Black Forest cake loaded with chocolate shavings and cream. The many hiking trails invite you to take in fresh mountain air while soaking up endless views of green. You’ll never forget driving the famous Schwarzwald Hochstrasse panoramic road and walking under the region’s iconic waterfalls.
10. Dresden
Sadly bombed nearly to oblivion during WWII, this elegant city has since risen like a phoenix from the ashes to regain its place as one of Germany’s prettiest metropolises. The reconstructed 18th and 19th century elegant baroque and rococo styled buildings glow in pastel shades of lemon, peach, and pistachio lending Dresden the fitting nickname “the Florence of the North.” Nowhere is the post-war revival more visible than at the famous Church of Our Lady with its rebuilt dome and ornate interior. You can also tour famous art collections and stroll along the pedestrian promenade lined by important buildings overlooking the scenic Elbe River.
Conclusion
With its rich history, picture-perfect scenery, and modern cosmopolitan cities, Germany tops many travelers’ bucket lists when planning European vacations. These 10 destinations give you an excellent sampling to the variety of experiences Germany offers visitors. From appreciating some of humanity’s greatest cultural achievements to communing with nature and appreciating sublime landscapes, Germany guarantees an unforgettable travel experience that engages the senses, mind and spirit.