central germany places to visit

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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 determine the best places to visit in Germany. Vote for the destinations you love below to help shape next year's ranking.

Black Forest

Berchtesgaden, saxon switzerland national park, neuschwanstein, rüdesheim am rhein.

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.

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.

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.

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 lakes and river that make up Berchtesgaden National Park. Start your journey driving the scenic Rossfeld Panoramastrasse road before traveling south to awe-inspiring Lake Königssee and the Eagle's Nest, a mountaintop chalet and beer garden with a dark history. If you enjoy skiing, arrive in winter when Jenner Mountain is blanketed with snow.

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 Old Stone Bridge. Other sights worth visiting include St. Emmeram's Palace and Walhalla, a hall of fame honoring exemplary German-speaking figures throughout history.

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 picture, 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, one of Germany's oldest and largest Christmas markets.

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 Würzburg Residence to the Romanesque Würzburg Cathedral, there are countless buildings worth exploring. Not only can travelers enjoy beautiful architecture, they can expect manicured gardens and parks, such as Ringpark 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 snapping a photo of Würzburg's iconic Old Main Bridge.

Home to Germany's largest cruise port, the Elbe river and numerous 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.

Saxon Switzerland National Park stands out for its collection of unique rock formations. You'll find sandstone structures, which come in various shapes and sizes, scattered throughout the park, along with scenic gorges and the winding Elbe river. Saxon Switzerland's most popular attraction is undoubtedly the Bastei Bridge, which is surrounded by stately formations and provides incredible views of the area. Other fascinating spots worth visiting include Painters' Way (the Malerweg trail), the Elbe Cycle Route and Felsenbühne Rathen, an open-air theater built into the park's rocks.

Leipzig offers an array of attractions and activities (think: various museums, an impressive zoo and top-notch nightlife venues) to satisfy both residents and visitors. Prioritize visits to the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, which celebrates Napoleon Bonaparte's defeat and retreat from the city, and the unique Panometer, a converted gasometer-turned-gallery that features 360-degree art installations. If you're a music lover, also save time for exploring the Leipzig Music Trail and seeing St. Thomas Church, which houses Johann Sebastian Bach's remains.

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).

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 dozens of 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.

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 and Gothic Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. But no visit would be complete without seeing the dreamy rose garden at the New Residence palace.

Primarily known for its winemaking capabilities, Rüdesheim am Rhein is a small village located at the base of the Taunus Mountains in Germany's Upper Middle 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.

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 Rally 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 14th-century fountain and the imposing Imperial Castle, which dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

Located roughly 20 miles southwest of bustling Berlin, Potsdam makes for a perfect day trip. 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 the Museum Barberini and strolling through the charming Dutch Quarter.

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 Koblenz to sights 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).

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.

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Things to Do in Mainz (Germany)

15 Best Things to Do in Mainz (Germany)

Germany’s wine capital, Mainz was founded by the Romans on the left bank of the Rhine and has more than 2,000 years of history. Looming over the Altstadt’s romantic warren of cobblestone streets is the huge Romanesque cathedral, burial place for centuries of ruling Prince Archbishops.

The city’s museums have Roman artefacts discovered beneath the city, like a small armada of 1700-year-old warships now kept in an industrial locomotive shed. In the 1430s the Mainz citizen Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press, and the museum dedicated to him has two of the remaining editions of the Gutenberg bible. Mainz also puts on a big-time carnival, and its televised parade on Shrove Monday pulls in hundreds of thousands of spectators.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Mainz :

1. Mainz Cathedral

With a millennium of history in its walls, Mainz’s immense sandstone cathedral radiates religious and political power.

The design is still mostly Romanesque from the High Middle Ages, but there’s also some Gothic and Baroque design in the chapels and roof.

The interior has the largest set of funerary monuments to Prince-Archbishops in the former Holy Roman Empire.

These monuments represent all phases of European art history, from Gothic to Baroque, as well as the Medieval revival styles of the 19th century.

In the Kettelerkapelle.

In the High Middle Ages six German monarchs, from Agnes de Poitou in 1043 to Heinrich Raspe in 1246 were crowned in the cathedral.

Be sure to see the treasury, rich with centuries of religious art.

2. Gutenberg Museum

The Gutenberg Museum was inaugurated in 1900 on the 500th anniversary of Johannes Gutenberg’s birth, and in 1927 moved into the delightful Renaissance townhouse, “Zum Römischen Kaiser” across the way from the cathedral.

There are quite a few wonders to wow visitors in its galleries, including two of the 29 remaining copies of the Gutenberg bible, the first work that Gutenberg published.

You can also see the earliest known example of woodblock printing, produced in Japan in 770, as well as other highly valuable works printed in the 15th century.

One is “Peregrinationes in Terram Sanctam”, an illustrated travel memoir from a trip to the Holy Land, printed in 1483.

The largest of the four squares around the cathedral, Markt is on the north side and developed with the cathedral in the 10th century.

There’s a market trading here on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday mornings.

You can also go in for a closer look at some of the monuments on the square: The Marktbrunnen (Market Fountain), is a highly ornamented Renaissance fountain, donated in 1526 by the Elector of Brandenburg.

In front of the cathedral is the Gotthardkapelle, a Romanesque palace chapel ordered by Adalbert of Mainz in 1137. Lastly, the Heunensäule is a sandstone column in the centre of the square.

This is one of 42 that was carved for the reconstruction of the cathedral after it burnt down in 1009 but never used.

Only eight are known to survive today in different spots around Germany.

4. Stephanskirche

Atop the highest hill in the old city, Stephanskirche was founded in 990 and has mostly Gothic architecture from the 1300s.

A later extension was the beautiful Gothic cloister, added in the 15th century, with marvellous vaults on its south wall.

And although the style of the building is much as it was in the Middle Ages, the church has come through a difficult 200 years: In 1857 an explosion destroyed the Baroque facade, while the church and its western belfry were only restored in the 1970s after taking damage in the war.

The windows in the choir, famed for their blue tones, were redesigned by Marc Chagall between 1978 and 1985, and there’s nothing to compare to them in Germany.

The church also has some Medieval fittings like an altar table from the 1200s and a sizeable tabernacle from the beginning of the 16th century.

5. Kirschgarten

One of the prettiest scenes in Mainz is this small rectangular square enclosed by tall half-timbered houses.

The square itself dates back to before 1329, while its houses are from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

One, Zum Aschaffenberg is the oldest preserved half-timbered house in Mainz, built around 1500. In front of another fine old house, Zum Beimburg you can find the remains of a stump: This isn’t actually a cherry tree as it is often claimed to be (Kirschgarten means cherry orchard), but an almost petrified oak.

At the centre, bordered by a restaurant terrace, is the Kirchgartenbrunnen, a fountain that has only been here since 1932 and is made with red sandstone repurposed from broken ornamental structures on the Theodor Heuss Bridge.

6. Schillerplatz

A grand tree-lined square, Schillerplatz was already a public plaza in Mainz’s Roman era and was used as a marketplace in the Middle Ages.

The square is fringed by regal palaces in the Baroque and Rococo styles housing state government offices.

There’s a bronze statue of the poet and playwright Friedrich Schiller, put up on his 100th birthday in 1859. But the square’s most striking monument is the nine-metre-high Mainzer Fastnachtsbrunnen, which commemorates the famous carnival celebrations that take over the square on Shrove Monday.

This fountain is a postcard favourite and is decorated with more than 200 bronze figures from Mainz history and local folklore.

7. Rheinufer

If you’re in the mood, you can walk beside the Rhine for hours, from Mainz’s Neustadt in the north to the railway bridge that marks the southern limit of the city in the south.

In summer you won’t have to take more than a few steps before coming to a Biergarten with riverside views, an ice cream stand, or long lawns where you watch one of the world’s great rivers flow past.

On the Stresemann-Ufer beside the Altstadt there’s a lovely perspective of the cathedral, as well as pieces of public art and a remnant of the city’s Baroque fortifications at the red sandstone Templertor.

8. Augustinerkirche

Built between 1768 and 1771, the Catholic Augustinerkirche is a Baroque masterpiece unaffected by the Second World War.

Above the portal on Augustinerstraße look for the group of sculptures depicting the coronation of Mary between Augustine of Hippo and his mother Monica of Hippo.

As the church was funded by wealthy patrons, the interior has almost overwhelming Rococo decoration, glinting with gilded stucco and dramatic frescoes glorifying the life of Augustine of Hippo.

The church’s organ from 1773 is one of the few created by Johann Heinrich Stumm to make it to the 21st century, but there’s also one piece that looks a little out of place: In a niche between the southern side altars is an image of Maria with Child, carved in 1420 and brought here after its church burnt down in 1793.

9. Landesmuseum Mainz

A museum of archaeology, art and culture, the Landesmuseum Mainz has a collection that begins in prehistory and comes right up to the 21st century.

The attraction is in a Baroque former barracks building that was given a modern glass annexe in 2010. If you love Gothic and Renaissance art there’s much to uncover, like a cycle of paintings of Mary by Master of the Housebook, as well as works by Hans Baldung Grien and a stunning painting of Mary with Child by Lorenzo di Credi.

A highlight in the medieval department is a gold and enamel fibula dating to 1000, depicting an eagle an encrusted with sapphires.

The Baroque collection has refined pieces of furniture, like a Rococo writing desk designed by master craftsman Peter Schuß, adorned with gilded carvings and dainty walnut and cherry wood marquetry.

10. Museum of Ancient Seafaring

In the early 1980s the well-preserved remains of several Roman war ships from the 4th century were found during construction work by the Rhine.

These five vessels are the core of this museum’s exhibition and are from two different designs.

There are also full-sized replicas to show what these boats would have looked like 1700 years ago.

There are also models illustration the many types of craft that navigated the Rhine in Roman times, as well as riveting artefacts like a ship’s bronze bow spur from the 200s.

The location also deserves mention as the museum is in the vast former repair hall of the Hessische Ludwigsbahn railway, dating to 1870.

11. Heiligtum der Isis und Mater Magna

When the Römerpassage shopping mall was being built in the late-1990s workers happened upon a sanctuary devoted to Isis and Cybele that had been used until the 3rd century.

A small but diverting museum was later set up in the basement of the Römerpassage around the ruins.

There’s a raised glass walkway, allowing you to look down into the remnants of the sanctuary, which is labelled with information boards.

Along the walls are glass cases full of the interesting finds made on the site.

Among them are some of the hundreds of clay oil lamps discovered here, as well as animal sacrifices, curses inscribed on lead tablets and statuettes of Mercury and Venus.

12. Holzturm and Eisenturm (Wooden Tower and Iron Tower)

The main vestiges of Mainz’s defensive wall are two towers a few hundred metres apart on Rheinstraße.

Both were raised in the 1200s and have a Late Gothic design from the early 1400s.

The pair were damaged in the war but were restored in the 1961 to celebrate Mainz’s 2000th anniversary.

These lofty buildings were used as gatehouses, watchtowers and prisons.

The wooden tower held one of the most famous outlaws in German history, Schinderhannes, who was locked up here after a spree of daring robberies and an escape from jail.

Following 15 months in prison he was guillotined by the French authorities in 1803 in front of a crowd of 40,000.

13. Mainzer Fastnacht

Carnival season in Mainz begins on 11 November and continues right the way through to Shrovetide in February or March.

There are small events happening throughout this time, but the everything ramps up for the days leading up to Ash Wednesday.

Shrove Monday is definitely the day to be in the city, so long as you don’t mind crowds, as 500,000 spectators line the streets for the Rosenmontagszug parade.

There are almost 10,000 participants in the procession that snakes past the sights in the Alt Stadt.

The parade in Mainz is famous for its wit, and floats carry enormous satirical set pieces with an irreverent take on world affairs.

14. 1. FSV Mainz 05

Even though they were playing amateur football just 30 years ago, the local football team has been a constant presence in the Bundesliga since 2010. In 2011 the club moved into the new 34,000-capacity Opel Arena, which is a superb place to watch a football match, with high tiers and a cacophonous noise created by 15,000 standing fans.

The club also infuses local carnival culture into matches: Whenever Mainz score they play the Narrhallamarsch, which is the signature tune of the Mainzer Fastnacht.

If you can’t catch a match but want to see inside the stadium there are multilingual 90-minute tours on Fridays at 17:00, taking you around the dressing room, dugouts, corporate hospitality boxes and the conference room.

15. Spundekäs

If you fancy trying something local, Spundekäs is as authentic as it gets in Mainz.

This is a smooth cheese paste, partly made from quark and seasoned with pepper, salt and sweet paprika.

When you order Spundekäs it will normally come with chopped onion sprinkled on top and with crackers and mini pretzels on the side for dipping.

The perfect match is Riesling or Müller-Thurgau wine, from the surrounding Rheinhessen region.

Another cheese that is a bit more challenging is Handkäse, which is often marinated in vinegar and has a powerful aroma.

15 Best Things to Do in Mainz (Germany):

• Mainz Cathedral
• Gutenberg Museum
• Stephanskirche
• Kirschgarten
• Schillerplatz
• Augustinerkirche
• Landesmuseum Mainz
• Museum of Ancient Seafaring
• Heiligtum der Isis und Mater Magna
• Holzturm and Eisenturm (Wooden Tower and Iron Tower)
• Mainzer Fastnacht
• 1. FSV Mainz 05

Central Germany — Diverse Culture, Rich History, Modern Flair

Central Germany is home to one of Europe’s busiest airports — the Frankfurt International Airport . Most people arriving here enjoy the city’s bustling international vibe. A major industrial and commercial center, Frankfurt is a good place to shop and enjoy some modern European culture.

On the other end of the spectrum is the 850 year old town of Eisenach in Thuringia ( Thüringen ) . It’s recommended that you spend at least two or three days in the town in order to be able to take in all the sites.

This quaint town is the birth place of the composer Johan Sebastian Bach. There are several museums and monuments that will give you more insight into the life of this classical genius. Eisenach’s most famous landmark is the Wartburg Castle located on the ridge above the town. It has been awarded the status of a World Heritage site, and is a beautifully restored example of a typical Middle Age castle.

Historically the Wartburg castle has strong links to the reformation as this is where Martin Luther hid whilst translating the New Testament into German. He took up the guise of a knight in order to be able to complete his work. In the town you can visit Luther House, a tribute to his accomplishments.

The reformation is commemorated throughout Central Germany including museums and monuments in areas throughout Saxony-Anhalt ( Sachsen-Anhalt ) . It was the area where Martin Luther delivered some of his famous speeches speaking out against the oppression of the Catholic Church of the day.

The surrounding hills are covered by the Thuringian Forest . Here you can enjoy kilometers of hiking trails. You may even spot a wild boar as you amble along. Many health and beauty spas in the area offer luxurious pampering. After a long hike you may just decide that it’s worth spoiling yourself with a treatment. ;-)

The Hainich National Park is located in the mountainous area of Thuringia. It is beautiful stretch of continuous forest made up primarily of beech trees. Here you can spot more than 170 bird species and other small forest creatures. There are also several hiking trails in the park which can be enjoyed.

One of Central Germany’s most famous hiking trails is the Rennsteig. It can be enjoyed in seven stages. And there is a tradition whereby hikers carry a small stone in their pocket from beginning to the end, upon which it is thrown back into the water.

Saxony-Anhalt has a rich cultural heritage and is the birthplace of Handel and Telemann, both are composers from the Baroque period. The famous German poet Goethe also spent much time exploring the surrounding, majestic Harz Mountains . If visiting during the summer time you may be fortunate enough to join in on one of the many festivals that pay tribute to these cultural icons.

There are more than twelve different and themed cycling routes in Central Germany. They vary is distance and difficulty and are best enjoyed over several days. For canoeing enthusiasts you can explore the sights by paddling down any one of the region’s main rivers.

Of course, there are also many museums in the region, showcasing everything from car manufacturing to toys and historical and cultural artifacts. Many of the themed cycling or hiking routes incorporate these attractions, so it’s a great way to see the area.

All in all, Central Germany is a wonderful blend of modern industry and traditional culture and has many places of historic interest. Enjoy! :-)

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14 Best Places In Germany To Visit With Kids

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Germany is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, so it comes as no surprise that it offers lots of places to visit with kids! From enchanting castles to whimsical theme parks, this magnificent country has something for everyone young at heart. Take a trip to Berlin to learn about German history or visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen to go skiing. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion through interactive museums or an outdoor hike through the wilderness, Germany caters to every interest. We’ve divided this list by region to make the process easier, and included any tips we have for visiting Germany with kids. Plus, where to stay in cities like Berlin. Let’s delve into some of the best places to visit in Germany with kids and create unforgettable memories together!

Best Places in Northern Germany to Visit with Kids

​​There are plenty of exciting and educational destinations that the whole family can enjoy in northern Germany! From the history of Berlin to the beaches of Rügen Island, the options are simply endless. Keep reading to find out the best places in Northern Germany to visit with kids! 

Photo Courtesy: Michelle Hamilton

Berlin is one of the finest destinations in Germany for a family vacation! Bursting with a blend of history, culture, and entertainment options for little ones, this vibrant city offers a delightful experience.

Families will love Berlin’s range of immersive museums, from the German Spy Museum to the German Historical Museum , the Neues Museum , the Deutschland Museum , and the DDR Museum . Don’t miss a chance to see some vibrant street art on the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall at the East Side Berlin Wall Gallery ! Then, head over to the famous Berlin Zoo , home to around 20,000 animals from all corners of the globe. Or, check out Tierpark Berlin or the Aquarium Berlin .

On Sundays, one must-stop is the Mauerpark Flea Market . While parents delve into vintage treasures and unique trinkets, kids will love exploring this bustling market filled with food stalls and street performers. Finally, families can also visit the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Berlin , explore historical Berlin, or take a day trip to nearby Potsdam.

For more suggestions, read this Fun & Educational 2- to 5-Day Berlin Itinerary With Kids ! 

Where to Stay in Berlin with Kids

Wondering where is the best place to stay in Berlin with kids? The Grand Hyatt Berlin offers spacious and luxurious rooms, an indoor pool, and a spa. Another great choice is the Meliá Berlin , located near popular attractions such as Checkpoint Charlie. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, The Circus Hotel stands out as an excellent choice. Or, for unmatched luxury during your stay in Berlin with kids, look no further than Hotel Adlon Kempinski located next to Brandenburg Gate – one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. Families also love Hotel Palace Berlin , Hampton by Hilton Berlin City Centre Alexanderplatz , and Hilton Berlin . Plus, you can check for rentals on Plumguide or Vrbo ! 

Bremerhaven

One of the best places to visit in Germany with kids is Bremerhaven ! Located on the North Sea coast, this bustling maritime city offers an array of family-friendly activities and attractions! 

The Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8° Ost is a unique museum that allows kids to explore different climate zones from around the world through interactive exhibits and installations. Another highlight is the German Emigration Center . Travel back in time to discover what life was like for emigrants leaving Germany during various periods in history! Little ones will also love the German Maritime Museum , which is packed with impressive ships and captivating exhibitions. 

Animal lovers can’t miss a chance to visit the Zoo am Meer , home to creatures such as penguins, seals, flamingos, polar bears, and more. To do some shopping, visit Fishery Harbor to browse various market stalls and appreciate the old warehouse buildings where fishermen used to buy and sell fish. 

Families can also combine a visit to Bremerhaven with a trip to Bremen. In Bremen, visitors can explore the historic Schnoor district or check out the Universum Science Center .

Rügen Island

When it comes to choosing the best places in Germany for a family vacation, Rügen Island tops the list with its abundant attractions for kids! Located off the northeast coast, this picturesque island in the Baltic Sea offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and exciting activities.

Visit Jasmund National Park , famous for its stunning white chalk cliffs known as Königsstuhl. Kids will be impressed by these towering cliffs and can enjoy exploring several hiking trails leading through dense forests and along scenic viewpoints. ​​For something educational, the Prora Museum Complex showcases remnants of Hitler’s massive beachfront resort complex from World War II, which were later transformed into museums highlighting different aspects of German history.

Then, Prora Beach and Binz Beach are also perfect for building sandcastles or splashing around with your little adventurers. Families can also stroll along the Lift Sellin Pier to visit the beach or grab a bite to eat. Or, for something more exciting, visit Karls Erlebnis Dorf , a popular amusement park filled with thrilling rides, farm animals, and delicious treats. 

Just across the bridge, animal lovers can’t miss the Ozeaneum in Stralsund , an aquarium with underwater creatures from around the world! 

Choose Plumguide to reserve your homestay in Rügen Island here!

Best Places in Central Germany to Visit with Kids

Germany is a land steeped in rich history and wonderful fairy tales, making it an ideal destination for families with kids. In central Germany, the area surrounding Frankfurt offers a plethora of captivating places that will transport you back in time. Here are some suggestions! 

Castles Along the Rhine

One of the best places to visit in Germany with kids is the scenic region along the Rhine River in Central Germany. Here, you can explore a variety of picturesque castles that will captivate their imagination! Located near Frankfurt, this area is home to several impressive fortresses that have stood for centuries. 

Schloss Auerbach overlooks the town of Auerbach from a hilltop and has stunning views of the surrounding countryside from its two towers. To reach the castle, you can climb up a winding route, which won’t be too hard for kids.

Though less well-known than other castles in Germany, Burg Frankenstein may spark your child’s curiosity since it’s believed to be connected to Mary Shelley’s famous novel Frankenstein. Wandering its dark corridors and hidden chambers will transport young ones into a world of mythical creatures and spooky tales. There’s also a restaurant that’s open in the summer.

Finally, Heidelberg Castle is also an impressive example of German Renaissance architecture, though it’s only been partially restored. 

Best Places to Visit in Eastern Germany with Kids

When it comes to exploring Germany with kids, the eastern part of the country offers a plethora of exciting destinations that are both educational and fun. Stay tuned to find out more of the best places to visit in Germany with kids! 

Swiss Saxony

Spend your next family vacation in Germany in Swiss Saxony ! Tucked away in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains near Dresden, this culturally distinct region offers a variety of historic activities and outdoor sights that are guaranteed to keep kids entertained. 

Explore Saxon Switzerland National Park , which has hikes that pass through rock formations, verdant forests, and postcard-worthy landscapes. This includes the 3.9-mile Bastei Bridge & Swedish Holes Loop, where you can cross the iconic Bastei Bridge . Not only does it have amazing views, but it also leads to Neurathen Castle. Then, outdoorsy families can go rock climbing or on a scenic boat ride along the Elbe River for a unique perspective.

Königstein Fortress lets families delve into centuries-old history while enjoying the views from its ramparts. You can also hop aboard the heritage steam train known as Kirnitzschtalbahn for a ride through charming villages and lush greenery. It’s one of Europe’s few remaining narrow-gauge railways! Near Dresden, check out the city of Chemnitz, home to the Botanischer Garten Chemnitz and the Water Castle Klaffenbach .  

Best Places to Visit in Southern Germany with Kids

Germany is an amazing destination for families with children, particularly in the incredible southern region. With its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rich history, this region is teeming with opportunities for kids of all ages. Here are the best places in southern Germany to visit with kids! 

Germany offers many exciting destinations for families with kids, but Munich stands out as one of the best! Renowned for its rich history, impressive architecture, and activities for all ages, ​​this city in southern Germany ensures an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

Marienplatz, the main square, awaits in the city center with its iconic Glockenspiel clock tower. Families can also explore the English Garden , a huge park with lots of green space, a Monopteros for great views, a lake, and even a Japanese Tea House. Plus, for kids who like to go surfing, the waves of the Eisbach River at the entrance of the park attract surfers from all over the world! Munich also has a variety of kid-friendly museums, including the Deutsches Museum , showcasing the wonders of science through interactive exhibits and hands-on experiments. Kids will also love the BMW Museum , where they can see old cars and learn interesting facts about BMWs. Another important landmark is Nymphenburg Palace , which boasts beautiful gardens perfect for a picnic or a peaceful stroll.

Families with young kids will love a visit to the Hellabrunn Zoo , which houses over 14,000 animals, including elephants, penguins, and giraffes. The Sea Life Aquarium is also famous for housing the largest collection of sharks in Germany, which will surely impress your little ones! The aquarium is located within Olympiapark , a sprawling place to explore with your kids or even rent pedal boats for some fun on the lake.

Look for a homestay in Munich through Vrbo here!

Regensburg is a city that shouldn’t be missed when exploring the best places in Germany to visit with kids! Located along the Danube River in Bavaria, this charming UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a variety of activities for children of all interests.

Stroll through the lively Old Town, where kids can enjoy spotting colorful houses and unique landmarks like the Stone Bridge with its 16 arches. Families can also visit the Regensburg Cathedral , known for its Gothic architecture and captivating medieval art. At the Historisches Museum , aka the Museum of History, there are exhibits spanning the Stone Age to today. When the weather is warm, take a boat trip along the Danube River to learn more about the city’s history. Or, if kids are tired of all the historical excursions, take a break at one of the many playgrounds throughout town, like Ritterburg Spielplatz. Plus, just east of the city lies the Walhalla Temple, a replica of the Parthenon. Kids can marvel at impressive statues of historical figures and learn about Germanic mythology!

LEGOLAND® Germany

LEGOLAND® Germany promises endless fun and excitement for the whole family! Located in Gunzburg, this theme park offers an immersive experience where children’s imaginations can come to life. 

One must-see at LEGOLAND Germany is Miniland , which showcases famous German landmarks constructed using millions of LEGO bricks. Kids can marvel at Frankfurt’s financial district or explore Munich’s historical city center all scaled down to miniaturized perfection. In terms of adventures, there are numerous thrilling rides like the Project X roller coaster and Dragon Hunt ride for younger kids. Additionally, families can enjoy live shows performed by talented LEGO characters or take part in interactive workshops where young builders can create their own masterpieces from LEGO blocks.

Pottenstein

Germany isn’t only a treasure trove of history and culture, but it also has numerous attractions for families with children! One hidden gem is the charming town of Pottenstein , located in Bavaria’s Franconian Switzerland region. 

First, explore the famed Teufelshöhle (Devil’s Cave) . This underground adventure will reveal incredible rock formations filled with stalactites and stalagmites. In the summer, kids will also enjoy a trip to Erlebnisfelsen Pottenstein, a fun toboggan run. Those who want something even more thrilling can check out E-Fun-Park Pottenstein , an amusement park with electric go-karts! Or, go rock climbing at Kletterwald Pottenstein . Even if you’ve never tried it before, the instructors are helpful and friendly, and will make your kids feel right at home.

As one of the best places in Germany to visit with nature-loving kids, outdoor enthusiasts can also rent e-bikes or hike through the landscapes surrounding Pottenstein. Want something a bit more historic? Admire the architecture of Burg Pottenstein , the town’s main castle . 

Nuremberg ranks high on the list of family-friendly destinations in Germany! Located in the scenic landscapes of Bavaria, this dynamic city seamlessly combines history, culture, and enchantment to create a memorable family adventure. 

Explore the iconic Kaiserburg Castle , located in the historical city center. The city itself is also surrounded by old Medieval walls, which you can see near Albrecht Dürer’s House . Art lovers can also visit this museum to explore the house and life of one of Germany’s most famous painters! Germanisches National Museum also houses a huge collection of German art and artifacts. Of course, kids will love the Nuremberg Toy Museum , which explores the history of play, from ancient dolls to train sets. Kids will also love the world-famous Nuremberg Zoo. It’s home to over 300 different species, including polar bears, lions, and elephants. When you need something to do indoors, the Tucherland Indoor Playground can keep kids entertained for a few hours. 

Nuremberg also hosts the famous Volksfest , an annual summer festival complete with amusement park rides, carnival games, and more family fun. Families visiting Nuremberg during the holidays can’t miss the Nuremberg Christmas Market, one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for families !

Use Vrbo to reserve your stay in Nuremberg here!

The Black Forest

Germany’s Black Forest boasts stunning landscapes carpeted with lush greenery, towering mountains, and charming villages straight out of a fairytale. Situated in the southwestern region of the country bordering France, this picturesque destination offers a range of unique experiences for little adventurers.

For a sensory experience, The Black Forest offers a variety of “barefoot parks” – designated areas where hikers can walk barefoot to immerse themselves in nature and foster a greater awareness of their surroundings. One popular one for families is in Dornstetten , an adorable town with a market square and a water playground for kids! Located between Hausach and Gutach, The Black Forest Open Air Museum is a popular place to visit from March until November. Families can explore the different farmhouses to learn about life in the Black Forest over the last 400 years. The forest is also home to a number of waterfalls that families can see, including the Triberg Waterfalls, accessible via an easy hike that’s a little over a mile there and back. 

Kids will love riding ​​on alpine roller coasters in the summer, like The Hasenhorn Coaster in Todtnau. No wonder this area is one of the best places in Germany to visit with kids.

Germany is a haven for families traveling with kids, and one destination that stands out is Stuttgart . Located in southwest Germany, this kid-friendly city was once the home of Germany’s medieval counts and kings. Today, it offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures, historic attractions, and a look at Germany’s automobile industry.

The Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden is a must-visit spot, featuring over 11,000 animals from around the world, from lions to giraffes, penguins, and even sea lions. Little car enthusiasts will love The Mercedes-Benz Museum , which showcases an impressive collection of automobiles throughout history. The Porsche Museum is a must-visit too. Here, kids can get up close and personal with the legendary racecar! Kids with a lot of energy can also burn it off at Killesberg Park , with its sprawling lawns and playgrounds. Then, get the best views in town from Fernsehturm Stuttgart, a telecommunications tower turned observation deck and restaurant. Right outside of Stuttgart in Sindelfingen, families can also visit Sensapolis , an indoor amusement park with a climbing wall, science zone, and more. 

There’s also paddle boating on the Neckar River in Tubingen, just south of Stuttgart. 

Save and book your hotel in Stuttgart through the Families Love Travel booking site here! Sign-up is complimentary!

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen easily tops the list of best places to visit in Germany with kids! Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, this Alpine ski town is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts and summer hikers alike, offering outdoorsy families lots to do no matter the season. 

In the winter, Garmisch-Partenkirchen transforms into a wonderland offering various activities such as sledging or skiing , perfect for beginners due to the special children’s area. Tobogganing is also a popular activity for families here, in both the winter and summer. Plus, the area is famous for hosting a beautiful Christmas market in Partenkirchen.

During the summer, venture into Partnachklamm, a gorge just outside Garmisch-Partenkirchen that features dramatic waterfalls and narrow paths perfect for hikers young and old. Kids can also soar above the mountains on the Eibseeseilbahn , a cable car that travels up Zugspitze. If you want to explore more, consider a ride on the Zugspitze Railway, which travels from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Lake Eibsee and provides breathtaking mountain scenery. 

Oberammergau

Families visiting the Garmisch-Partenkirchen area can’t miss a trip to Oberammergau, a charming small town famous for hosting its Passion Play , which takes place every ten years since 1634. Held in an open-air theater, this dramatic performance depicts the final days of Jesus Christ’s life, showcasing elaborate costumes and stage settings created by local artisans. Kids will also love strolling through the cobblestone streets of the town and spotting the traditional homes decorated with murals depicting scenes from famous fairytales by the Brothers Grimm, like Cinderella, Snow White, and Little Red Riding Hood.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most famous castles in Germany, which obviously earns it a spot on our list of the best places in Germany to visit with kids! Situated atop a scenic hill in Bavaria, this enchanting castle will capture the imagination of both children and adults alike.

Kids will immediately notice its architecture reminiscent of their favorite storybook castles. The inside is equally fascinating, featuring ornate rooms with intricate woodwork and vivid murals inspired by medieval legends. One highlight for young visitors is King Ludwig II’s bedroom, decorated in blue tones like Sleeping Beauty’s chambers. For families who want more adventure, nearby trails offer lovely views of the Alps. Take the Tegelberg Cable Car up the mountain for an aerial view of the castle and the Ammer Mountains! 

Or, hop on a boat ride on Lake Forggensee for panoramic views of the castle, alongside Hohenschwangau Castle too!

Use Getyourguide to book your tour of Neuschwanstein Castle here!

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this list of the Best Places in Germany to Visit with Kids! From Berlin to Stuttgart, this European country offers outdoor adventures, historical attractions, and everything else you need for an epic family vacation. Enjoy your trip to Germany with kids!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links do not inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Discover the World

21 Best Places to Visit in Central Europe

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on October 6, 2023

Central Europe is caught between two worlds, the Frankish, Norman, and Mediterranean West and South of Europe – and the mainly Slavic Eastern Europe. At its center is Germany. Only unified into a single nation 150 years ago, its principalities and people have for centuries spread all across this region of Europe, making their influence known.

Today, you’ll find Bavarian villages in Central Europe, old castle towns, grandiose market squares that point to a rich history of trade in the region, as well as glittering old imperial cities with remnants of the Roman Empire still visible.

Dominated by the Alps, the heart of Europe is rich in natural beauty: mountains march around towns, lakes reflect the jagged peaks, rivers carve through villages, and forests sit waiting to be explored.

21. Zell am See [SEE MAP]

Zell am See is a small town situated on the shores of Lake Zell, just south of Salzburg, Austria. The alpine lake is a beautiful spot to enjoy year-round. In the summer months, there are water sports to enjoy and sunbathing, as well as some lovely hikes around the lake. In the winter, there’s excellent skiing in the surrounding mountains.

The town itself boasts the Romanesque St. Hippolyte’s Church, one of the oldest churches in the region – complete with 15th-century tower – plus many streetside cafes and bars, as well as low-cost and high-end accommodation options.

20. Rothenburg ob der Tauber [SEE MAP]

A well preserved medieval town, Rothenburg ob der Tauber sits on the illustrious Romantic Road route through Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. The town itself is a maze of cobbled lanes and wonky houses that make for a quintessentially storybook destination.

The central square of the town is a decidedly romantic setting for the Rothenburger Reiterlesmarkt; this Christmas market is a fantastic place to visit when the season is right, making the town even more magical. Easy to get to thanks to its location on the Romantic Road, you can also stay in charming hotels that make you feel like you’re part of the town.

19. Ljubljana [SEE MAP]

Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia and its largest city to boot. The tree-lined Ljubljanica River – a central part of the capital – turns even more charming in summer, with locals sipping coffee at cafes by the river’s edge and strolling along the banks. Ljubljana is also a vibrant student town with a lively, energetic nightlife and a delightful dining scene.

There are also many historical sights , especially the old town, but the medieval Ljubljana Castle is an icon of the city and provides impressive views across the town. There are also the remains of its Roman city walls. Staying in Ljubljana is easy, with a whole host of affordable lodgings on offer.

18. Innsbruck [SEE MAP]

Surrounded by the imposing mountains of the Nordkette Range, and valleys carpeted in thick greenery, Innsbruck is a beautiful mountain town with an abundance of interesting activities to enjoy in both summer and winter. This Austrian town is made up of the medieval Altstadt (Old Town), with fairytale-esque buildings, as well as a Renaissance-style castle and Baroque cathedral.

In Innsbruck, you can enjoy camping out of town in summer, in which case you’ll get to be right on nature’s doorstep, as well as close to hiking opportunities; or splash out on grander lodgings in the heart of the town.

17. Heidelberg [SEE MAP]

Heidelberg is the oldest university town in Germany. With its attractive Baroque Altstadt, lush forested surroundings, and relaxing riverside, this town is like stepping into times gone by – complete with great student nightlife, of course. The town’s brick-built, partially renovated hilltop castle sits on a site dating back to the 13th century high above the red roofs of the Old Town.

The Philosopher’s Walk is a picturesque, historic walking path on the north side of Heidelberg with vistas across the town. Remnants of the ancient Celtic wall can still be seen here, too. You can even stay in heritage buildings – one dates back to 1592 – or in affordable hostels.

16. Warsaw [SEE MAP]

The capital of Poland is home to a historic Old Town and buzzing local life that makes it well worth a visit. Putting its Communist era and wartime tragedies well in the past, there’s a new lease of life along its cobbled lanes. Walk along the Royal Route for a chance to spot the best historic sights in the city, like the statue of Copernicus and the Holy Cross Church.

There’s also the imposing 1950s Palace of Culture and Science (the tallest building in Poland) and the grand, 16th-century Royal Castle. Accommodation options and transport abound in this lively and fascinating city.

15. Bratislava [SEE MAP]

Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia and actually one of the smallest capital cities in Europe. Even so, there is a lot of history and architecture packed into its core; the medieval and Gothic old town, with its ornate palaces and impressive castle, are a must-see. Mixed with this are Communist-era blocks and Modernist, concrete infrastructure.

Located on the banks of the storied Danube, the streets are busy with stylish boutiques, buzzing bars, and happening cafes. If you’re looking for a place to stay, simply take your pick; there is plenty in Bratislava to fit a variety of travel types.

14. Lucerne [SEE MAP]

Switzerland’s Lucerne sits on the shores of Lake Lucerne, edged by snow-capped mountains. There are magnetic views of the lake to enjoy, as well as a stunning old town to explore with a heap of medieval architecture to marvel at. The Musegg Wall, bordering the old town, dates back to the 13th century, while the amazing, art-filled Chapel Bridge was built in 1333.

You can also admire the 15th-century Hofkirche St. Leodegar or head to the neoclassical Sammlung Rosengart for plenty of Picasso pieces on show. Otherwise, just soak up the upbeat atmosphere that is infectious in the vibrant city of Lucerne.

13. Salzburg [SEE MAP]

Salzburg is an Austrian city that sits on the border with Germany. It comes complete with inescapable and incredible views of the Eastern Alps. Split by the Salzach River, Salzburg is a city of two halves: the Altstadt sits on the left bank of the river and boasts pedestrianized streets with medieval and Baroque architecture; the right bank is Neustadt, the 19th-century, neo-Gothic ‘New Town.’

Many iconic sights can be found in Salzburg , such as the Baroque Domquartier (the Archbishop’s Palace), but it’s probably most famous as the birthplace of prodigious composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

12. Zermatt [SEE MAP]

Set in the Valais Canton, Zermatt is a quintessential Swiss mountain resort that’s popular with skiers. This is where you will find the jagged peak of the famously breathtaking Matterhorn; the sight of this mountain is an iconic image of the region, and it’s also very popular with climbers.

The town itself actually sits at 1,600 meters above sea level, but is still in the shadow of the Matterhorn. While daytime is all about skiing or hiking, Zermatt has a busy main street with plenty of places to eat, drink, and stay, and comes complete with a lively apres-ski atmosphere.

11. Munich [SEE MAP]

Birthplace of the international sensation that is Oktoberfest, Munich is the Bavarian capital, and a city of beer and bratwurst. There’s more to it than eating and drinking in its beer halls, however. At the heart of the Altstadt lies Marienplatz Square, which is overlooked by its centerpiece, the New Town Hall, a soaring, intricate Neo-Gothic masterpiece built in 1874.

There’s also the 12th-century St Peter’s Church and the very pretty Frauenkirche Cathedral, dating all the way back to the 15th century. The Englischer Garten (a venue of Oktoberfest) is a large public park from 1789; it’s an excellent spot for a beer, a snack, and watching the locals go about their days.

See also: Where to Stay in Munich

10. Hallstatt [SEE MAP]

Situated on the western shore of the lake of the same name, Hallstatt is an Austrian gem of a city. It’s all about the location, which boasts the gorgeous, emerald waters of the lake that reflect the alpine hills surrounding it.

In winter, the town is coated with a thick dusting of snow, and skiing is on the cards. In summer, hiking in the hills and water sports become the order of the day. This mountain town boats local cafes and charming shops in beautiful 16th-century houses along attractive alleyways, as well as boutique and more affordable places to stay.

9. Zurich [SEE MAP]

The world center of finance and banking, Zurich is a northern Swiss town that hugs the shores of Lake Zurich. Aside from the serious world of economics and money, it’s an attractive city with a handsome Altstadt at its core.

The city spills out across the Limmat River and comes alive with waterside walkways and magnificent medieval buildings, as well as the 17th-century Town Hall practically hanging over the water. There’s also the interesting old mercantile district of Augustinegasse, complete with ornately carved windows. Accommodation here isn’t always affordable, so be prepared to splash out on boutique offerings or chic digs.

8. Budapest [SEE MAP]

Budapest is the Hungarian capital. Known for being made up of three parts, the town has a lot of history, and can even trace its origins back to Roman times. Relics of Rome can be found in the oldest part of the city, Buda, as well as the even older part, Obuda (literally, “Old Buda”).

Pest is where you will find the newer, 19th-century face of Budapest , complete with its stunning Houses of Parliament, Opera House, and St Stephen’s Basilica. With plenty of affordable, old-world accommodation on offer, staying in Budapest and enjoying its hot mineral baths couldn’t be easier.

7. Krakow [SEE MAP]

Located near the Czech border, Krakow is a southern Polish city with a lot of character to discover. Its medieval center features such architectural delights as the Rynek Glowny – the market square – where you will find the massively impressive Cloth Hall, as well as St Mary’s Basilica.

The city has a rich Jewish history; the former Jewish quarter of Kazimierz, though with a dark WWII history, is now alive with quirky cafes and hipster bars. To learn more about that history, it’s a simple trip from Krakow to the infamous and harrowing Auschwitz.

See also: Where to Stay in Krakow

6. Fussen [SEE MAP]

A Bavarian town close to the Austrian border, Fussen is famous for the many castles that can be found in and around town. There’s the medieval Hohes Schloss, with its white walls and red roofs; amazingly, this has been an important site ever since the Romans built a rest stop here in 47 AD.

The Altstadt of Fussen is awash with 700-year-old Bavarian architecture, making the perfect place for a coffee along its pedestrianized streets. Take a trip from Fussen to the nearby Neuschwanstein, King Ludwig II’s 19th-century fairytale castle that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle.

5. Lake Bled [SEE MAP]

Located in the Julian Alps in northwestern Slovenia, Lake Bled is a scenic spot indeed. One of the best places here is in the lake itself – Bled Island. On the island, which is reachable via a rentable rowboat or a pletna (traditional wooden boat), you’ll find the Church of the Assumption of Mary.

There’s also Bled Castle nearby. But the summer months at Lake Bled are all about enjoying the water, splashing around, swimming, sunbathing, and boating. You can even hike very easily around the lake itself, with many interesting places to stop at along the way – and beautiful views over the lake, too.

4. Jungfrau Region [SEE MAP]

Named after the Jungfrau (or ‘Virgin’) Mountain, the Jungfrau Region is made up of daring mountainous landscape, sheer waterfalls, and impressive glaciers. Jungfrau Mountain itself is a famous peak and towers at 4,158 meters above sea level. The Jungfraubahnen cogwheel train travels to Europe’s highest railway station high above Interlaken where Switzerland is at its most beautiful.

The famous Trummelbachfalle is a collection of ten glacier falls located actually inside a mountain, only reachable via lift. A visit to the town of Wengen is like stepping back in time; its timber houses and charming holiday resorts make it a great base for exploring the region. Ski in the winter or hike in the summer – it’s beautiful either way.

3. Vienna [SEE MAP]

The Austrian capital of Vienna is known for its intellectual and artistic past: it has at one time or another been the home of figures such as Freud, Mozart, Lenin, and Beethoven. There are imperial palaces aplenty in Vienna , giving you an insight into the past of the Austro-Hungarian Empire; there’s the opulent Baroque Schonbrunn Palace – summer retreat of the Habsburg royalty – as well as the lavish apartments at Hofburg.

The 18th-century Vienna State Opera is a beautiful building that shows the importance of art and culture in this historic city. Enjoy heritage cafes, amazing bakeries, stay in budget hostels or high-end hotels, and discover what makes Vienna tick.

See also: Where to Stay in Vienna

2. Berlin [SEE MAP]

The bold and brash German capital is a city that has seen a lot of history, most recently being split between capitalist West and socialist East Germany. But with its turbulent history in the past, this modern-day city has a fashionable street scene, energetic art culture, infamous and very cool nightlife, and plenty of hipster hangouts.

Go and see sections of the Berlin Wall and see graffiti daubed on it at East Side Gallery, or go to the classical archway steeped in history at the Brandenburg Gate. Elsewhere, the Reichstag Building is a marrying of past and present. There are many cool places to stay in Berlin , and many more places to eat, drink, and dance the night away.

1. Prague [SEE MAP]

Prague is the Czech Republic’s stunning capital. Though it’s famous for its nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants to hop around after dark – as well as plenty of places to stay – the city also has a plethora of history to discover.

The beautiful Old Town of Prague is home to the oldest working astronomical clock, the 600-year-old Orloj. Connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town is the pedestrianized Charles Bridge, built in 1402. Prague Castle dates back to the 9th century; this amazingly historic building is now the seat of the Czech president. Understand about Prague’s Jewish history at the old Jewish Quarter, see the oldest synagogue in Europe, and visit the old Jewish cemetery.

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February 6, 2020 at 11:09 am

Zagreb is far more attractive than Ljubljana and Bratislava, but it isn’t on the list…

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Berlin's Top 10 Attractions

Are you on a whistle-stop tour of the capital or just looking for the Berlin Top 10 ? Well look no further, because we've picked the top ten things to see and do in Berlin so you don't have to. The choice of the top 10 Berlin attractions was by no means easy - this city has so much to offer! But here are the top 10 attractions and places you do have to visit in Berlin.

We have information on the Top 10 sights in Berlin in sign language for you here.

Top pick 1: Reichstag & glass dome 

When the decision was made to move the Federal Government to Berlin, it was time to reawaken the Reichstag building from its long years of slumber on the Mauerstreifen, the military zone between the two sides of the Wall. The building has since been completely modernised, and today's visitors to the Reichstag can look out from the building's glass dome to get a bird's eye view of the hustle and bustle in the city. There are also a number of government buildings in the vicinity of the Reichstag, for example the Bundeskanzleramt ( Federal Chancellery ) and the Brandenburg Gate .

Experience the government district and many other highlights from the water with a boat tour:

Tickets for boat tours

Top pick 2: Brandenburg Gate - Berlin's signature attraction

Without a doubt, the Brandenburg Gate is Berlin's signature attraction. Built in 1791, it was just one of many old city gates around the city of Berlin which, at that time, was still a manageable size. The decorative Pariser Platz was laid at the foot of the gate and is now home to many of the city's important buildings, for example, the Hotel Adlon with its wealth of history and the Akademie der Künste (Academy of the Arts).

Top pick 3: Berlin Television Tower (Fernsehturm) - Berlin's highest attraction

The Berlin Television Tower , which is known to locals as the Fernsehturm , and is instantly recognisable from the distance, stand outs of the skyline at 368m, making it the tallest building and by far highest tourist attraction in Berlin. Built in the 1960s, visitors to the tower can enjoy a unique 360° panorama of the city. Tip: Visit the TV Tower with the Berlin Welcome Card and save up to 25 per cent. The Berlin WelcomeCard enables free travelling with all public transport services to the Berlin visitors. With over 200 partners and outstanding discounts the Berlin WelcomeCard offers you a complete „carefree“ package. 

Tickets for TV-Tower & Restaurant Sphere

Berlin Welcome Card

Jurassic World: The Exhibition - Only until August 18, 2024 in Berlin

Jurassic World: The Exhibition is an interactive experience for the whole family. Visitors come face to face with life-size dinosaurs. They can see velociraptors up close, marvel at an impressive Brachiosaurus, stroke baby dinosaurs and meet the most dangerous of all dinosaurs, the impressive Tyrannosaurus Rex.  

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Top pick 4: Humboldt Forum - always a great place to visit

Directly opposite Berlin's Museum Island , a new cosmopolitan forum for culture, art and science is located: the Humboldt Forum . Visible from afar, it covers an area of around 30,000 square metres. The reconstructed baroque palace facades shine in bright quince yellow. State-of-the-art interactive exhibitions await you under one roof and spread over five floors. The world-famous collections of the Ethnological Museum and the Museum of Asian Art are also on display here.

Also take a look around the corner from the Humboldt Forum: The Friedrichswerder Church , built by Schinkel, is now a very special museum, displaying sculptures of classicism in the high neo-Gothic church hall.

Top pick 5: Gendarmenmarkt - Berlin's most beautiful attraction

The Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most stunning squares in the city, located close to Friedrichstraße , Berlin's exclusive shopping street in the central Mitte district. Three of the most impressive examples of architecture in the capital city are to be found here: the Concert House designed by Schinkel and the German and French Cathedrals (the Deutscher Dom and the Französischer Dom ).

Combine your visit to Gendarmenmarkt with a city tour and discover other top sights:

Tickets for Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Top pick 6: Kurfürstendamm - Berlin's most famous shopping street

Extending all the way from the ruins of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church on Breitscheidplatz to Berlin's elegant Halensee neighbourhood, the affectionately termed Kurfürstendamm is the most expensive address in the capital city and home to the most exclusive brands. Europe's biggest department store KaDeWe is also situated on the extension of the Ku'damm, on the street known to locals as the Tauentzien (short for Tauentzienstrasse). You will find many sights and top attractions along this famous shopping street. The little ones will just love the Zoo Berlin , Germany's oldest zoo.

Day-Tickets for Zoo Berlin

Deutschlandmuseum

The immersive history experience! Travel through 2000 years of German history: sneak round a castle, operate Gutenberg’s printing press, dance in the roaring 20s and see the ruins of Berlin after WW2. Finish in the 1990s on a Berlin S-Bahn.

Top pick 7: Charlottenburg Palace

The magnificent Charlottenburg Palace is located just outside the city centre. Built by the Prussian head of state Frederick I around 1700 for his beloved and much-admired wife, Queen Sophie Charlotte, it lies in the middle of a picturesque palace park directly on the River Spree. If you don't fancy a stroll in the park, you can also visit first-class museums and a collection of casts of ancient sculptures directly opposite on Schloßstraße.

Top pick 8: Museum Island 

Berlin's Museum Island is one of the UNESCO world heritage sites and home to the city's most important exhibition centres: the Altes Museum ( Old Museum ), the Neues Museum ( New Museum ) the Bode Museum , the Pergamon Museum and the Alte Nationalgalerie ( Old National Gallery ). The collections in these buildings encompass over 6,000 years of art and cultural history. Unfortunately, the Pergamon Museum is closed for extensive renovation work.

Just opposite Berlin's Museum Island, the magnificent monumental Berlin Cathedral, an important landmark of Berlin whose history dates back to the 15th century, is also located on the Museum Island.

Tip: Visit Berlin's museums with the 3-day Berlin Museum Pass . For €32 (reduced €16), the museum pass guarantees free admission for all Berlin visitors on three consecutive days to many museums. Order now in the visitBerlin-Shop

Tickets for the Museum Pass

Top pick 9: The Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Centre

The Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer ( Berlin Wall Memorial ) is located between the districts of Wedding and Mitte on Bernauer Straße. The large area houses an outdoor exhibition, a documentation centre, the memorial to the victims of the division and the Chapel of Reconciliation. The surviving section of the wall and watchtower enable visitors to get a real feel for the reality of the border facilities. A must see Berlin attraction, not only for visitors interested in Beriln's history.

Get to know more about the Berlin wall at the East Side Gallery .

Top pick 10: Victory Column - magnificent view on Berlin

The Berlin Victory Column is one of the most famous landmarks of the German capital. The 67-metre-high column, crowned by the golden Berlin Peace Angel visible from afar, stands in the middle of the Tiergarten. From the platform you have a magnificent view over the parklands of the Tiergarten and over the whole of Berlin. The Victory Column was erected in the 19th century and originally commemorated Germany's wars of unity. Today it has become a symbol of peace.

From the Victory Column you can walk in the Tiergarten but also walk to the nearby Brandenburg Gate , Potsdamer Platz or the Berlin Reichstag .

More about sights in Berlin:

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Do you know what is planned in the historic centre of Berlin and which new openings are coming up? Find out on our infographic:

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A road trip along the Main River

The Main River is the longest river (entirely in Germany) and flows through central Germany in the states of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg and Hesse before joining the Rhine River near Mainz. Due to its navigability, many towns, fortresses and castles were founded along its shores. The river is also often considered the northern border of southern Germany, with its predominantly Catholic population. These days, it’s a popular touristic route: visitors can visit many of the places along the Main by train, boat, car and even by bicycle (the Main Radweg or Main Bicycle Route). I had the opportunity to embark on a road trip along the Main River. During this trip across the Franconia region, I discovered many picturesque towns, historic and cultural attractions, nature parks and countless vineyards! Here’s my Main River Franconia road trip guide, including the best places to visit along the way:

This Franconia travel guide contains links to three services I often use myself and can recommend: Booking.com (for hotel bookings), Rentalcars.com (for car hire) and GetYourGuide (for easy-to-book tours). If you make a booking via one of these services, I will receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). These commissions help me to maintain my blog and share more travel experiences with you.

Main River (Franconia) road trip route

I kicked off my Main River road trip in Frankfurt-am-Main , before continuing to Aschaffenburg . From there, I followed the river to, amongst others, Miltenberg , Würzburg and Bamberg before ending in Bayreuth . The route crosses a large part of Franconia , a region characterised by its distinct culture and dialect. Historically founded by the Franks,  an ethnic group, Franconia stretches across numerous states.

Best places to visit along the Main River

Aschaffenburg.

Situated in northwest Bavaria, less than an hour’s drive from Frankfurt , Aschaffenburg is famous for its imposing Schloss Johannisburg (castle).

I recommend a stroll around the compact old town, a visit to Schloss Johannisburg and a walk along the walls to the Pompejanum (a 19th century replica of a Roman house found in Pompeii). The views from the Pompejanum of the Main River and the castle are stunning. Then head down to the river bank for a local beer just under the castle, before tucking in for dinner at Zum Fegerer , a terrific Franconian restaurant in the old town. Search for hotels in Aschaffenburg (Booking.com).

Miltenberg is arguably one of the most charming towns along the Main River. Its old town is packed with about 150 gorgeous half-timbered houses, giving it a fairy-tale like appearance.

Don’t miss the Alter Marktplatz (old market square), the views from the hilltop castle ( Burg Miltenberg ), the old town hall (you can’t miss its beautiful red-stone façade) and a stroll across the Mainbrücke (Main bridge). Read more about things to do in Miltenberg .

For a meal, head to the Faust brewery for great local food and beers. I also recommend a stay in one of the two historic inns in Miltenberg: Zum Riesen (one of the oldest inns in Germany) or Hotel Schmuckkästchen (the double room on the second floor has gorgeous views of the old market square). Search for accommodations in Miltenberg .

Located about a 5-minute drive or 10-minute bike ride along the Main River from Miltenberg, Bürgstadt is famous for its wineries. As you enter the village, you’ll soon spot them. The wineries take turns opening to visitors for tastings and food. For an overview of the local wines (and a schedule of the wineries’ opening times), head to the wine store Churfranken Vinothek , located opposite the town hall. They can also help to arrange a wine-tasting in a nearby vineyard up in the hills.

Bürgstadt is also home to the 10th century Martinskapelle (St. Martin’s chapel) with its stunning frescoes. Don’t miss a visit to this chapel – if the doors are locked, inquire at the florist next door or at Churfranken Vinothek .

Bürgstadt can also be reached from Miltenberg by boat (there’s a frequent ferry service). For the active ones, you can hike the Fränkischer Rotwein Wanderweg (Franconian Red Wine Hiking Trail) from Miltenberg.

Henneburg castle

If you love exploring castle ruins, then you shouldn’t miss the imposing Henneburg Castle! Located in the town of Stadtprozelten, near Wertheim-am-Main, this imposing 12th century castle overlooks the Main River.

Wertheim-am-Main

The most northerly town in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Wertheim was founded in the 8th century at the confluence of the Main and Tauber rivers. These days, it’s well-known for its medieval old town and castle. As you exploe the town, look out for the Wertheim Optimist , the colourful symbol of the town.

Climb up to the castle for panoramic views of the town and drop by at the café for a drink/meal while you take in the view. Search for accommodations in Wertheim .

One of the largest cities on the Main River, Würzburg is a vibrant university city with numerous historic monuments. Founded at around the 6th century, Würzburg was heavily damaged during WWII. The locals, mainly women, painstakingly rebuilt the city’s most treasured monuments. The result of their work is simply amazing!

There are lots of things to do in Würzburg. Don’t miss the:

• 18th century Würzburger Residenz palace (inspired by Versailles), a UNESCO World Heritage site,
• Dom (Cathedral) and the adjacent Neu-Munster (New Cathedral). Another church that shouldn’t be missed is the beautiful Käppele in rococo style, located on a hill just outside the city centre,
• Juliusspital winery. Founded in the 16th century, this huge winery has a 250 meter long wine cellar! I can also recommend their restaurant for a meal.
• Haus zum Falken , a public library and tourist info office, with its ornate façade,
• Marienberg fortress, located on a hilltop facing the city,
• Alte Mainbrücke , the old bridge. Get there before sunset, join the locals with a glass of wine (there’s a café on the bridge) and enjoy the sunset!

In addition, I recommend walking the Steinweinpfad , a walking route in the Stein vineyard (one of Germany’s oldest and largest) located near the Central Station ( Hauptbahnhof ).

I recommend spending at least a night here. Search for accommodations in Würzburg .

This small town on the Main River makes for a tranquil stop on this Main River route. Located in the heart of the Franconian wine region, it’s a charming town with a compact old quarter. It’s also a great spot to enjoy activities on the Main River such as kayaking or stand-up paddling.

For a meal, drop by at Schlemmerei . If you plan to overnight here, I recommend the Deutsches Haus Hotel , which also has a lovely café!

Volkach is another charming town in the Franconian wine region. It makes for a lovely stop between Kitzingen and Schweinfurt. A stroll along the Hauptstrasse , with its wine boutiques, cafés and restaurants is a must.

Often listed as one of Germany’s most beautiful towns, Bamberg is a popular tourist destination. The old town was listed a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993 for its well-preserved medieval buildings.

Founded in the 9th century, some of Bamberg’s best-known sights include the Old Town Hall , perched on an island in the river, the 12th century Bamberg Cathedral in Romanesque style, and Michaelsberg Abbey , a former Benedictine monastery. The best thing to do in Bamberg is to simply stroll around its gorgeous streets and soak up the atmosphere.

If you enjoy beer, you’re in for a treat! Famed for its Rauchbier (smoked beer), Bamberg is home to eleven breweries! Every August, Bamberg hosts the Sandkerwa Festival in which beer plays a central role.

Restaurants in Bamberg I can recommend include HENRII and the adjacent Henrietta (terrific pizzas) as well as Hofbrau , for local specialties.

Search for accommodations in Bamberg .

Kulmbach is another beautiful town, located near the confluence of the Red Main and White Main rivers. As you approach the town, you’ll undoubtedly spot its famous Plassenburg Castle atop the hill. This castle has a curious claim to fame: it’s home to the largest collection of tin soldiers in the world! The castle also offers terrific views of the town and the surrounding hills.

Another attraction in Kulmbach is the Bayerisches Brauerei- und Bäckereimuseum (Bavarian Brewery and Bakery Museum), which provides a fascinating look into traditional beer and bread production. Beer has been brewed here for more than 600 years! While you’re there, stop for a beer and a meal at the adjacent Mönchshof Brauhaus (brewery). Kulmbach is also famous for its bratwurst (pork sausage) and this is a great place to try some if you wish.

In the old town, look out for the beautiful Rathaus (town hall), the 14th century White Tower and the 14th century Badhaus (Public Badhaus).

The last place to visit on this Main River road trip route, Bayreuth, is an absolute gem! The city has its origins in the 12th century and experienced its heyday in the 18th century during the reign of Frederik and Wilhemina of Bayreuth. During this time, some of the city’s most prominent monuments were built such as the Margravial Opera House , the New Palace and the Sun Temple at the Hermitage palace . Nowadays, in addition to these famous buildings, Bayreuth is well-known for its annual Bayreuth Festival (a world famous opera festival).

There is a lot to do in Bayreuth. The major attractions include:

• the 18th century Margravial Opera House , one of the most beautiful Baroque theatres in Europe. Book a tour of this opera house for a jaw-dropping experience!
• the 18th century Hermitage complex that consists of various castles, the stunning Sun Temple and exquisite gardens,
• the New Palace ( Neues Schloss ) in rococo style and Hofgarten park,
• the Bayreuth Festival Theatre ,
• Haus Wahnfried or Richard Wagner Museum (the famous composer’s lavish villa courtesy of King Ludwig II, who was a big fan of Wagner’s work. Read more about the famous castles of King Ludwig II ),
• the Franz Liszt Museum (located in the house where he died).

Street art in Bayreuth

As you walk around Bayreuth, you may notice some interesting street art. These were commissioned by the city and produced by famous street artists from around the world.

If you love street art, I can also recommend visiting the Liebesbier Brewery and Liebesbier Urban Art Hotel .

Two restaurants I can recommend in Bayreuth are Oskar and Liebesbier . Search for accommodations in Bayreuth .

Suggested 7-day Main River (Franconia) itinerary

This 7-day/6-night self-drive Main River itinerary takes you past the best places in Franconia as described above. It starts in Frankfurt and ends in either Nuremberg or Munich. If you’re flying into Frankfurt/Munich/Nuremberg, I recommend picking up a rental car at the airport. This route can also be done by train using a combination of national and regional lines. Visit Deutche Bahn for more info.

1 night: Aschaffenburg

1 night: Miltenberg/Bürgstadt

2 nights: Würzburg

1 night: Bamberg

1 night: Bayreuth

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Your article is wonderful! So many interesting and beautiful places to visit in Germany and your pictures are lovely. Would love to visit too!

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You have a taste for history, cities, and the great outdoors, so you’ve made the wise decision to visit Germany. There are plenty of resources out there to help you plan for your trip to Germany, but all the focus seems to be on the big cities of Berl in , Munich , Hamburg , and Frankfurt. To be fair, they are all fantastic cities and you should visit them.

That said, there’s more to this country than these cities. Luckily, this is a big chunk of land, so there is no shortage of things to do in Germany, and although the country in and of itself is not necessarily off the beaten path , getting away from the cacophony of clicking cameras can still be done. So, when compiling this off-the-beaten-path travel guide for Germany, I used a few self-imposed barometers.

• Do Germans instantly speak English even when I speak German?
• Is there evidence that Germans themselves like these destinations?
• Would the average North American not know of this place?

Obviously, everything here is relatively known, but on the whole, I think you’ll find that these recommendations will yield more unique experiences than, say, shuffling through Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin or the beer gardens in Munich. Even better, I still have plenty of traveling to do within Germany and will update this guide accordingly.

Now let’s get to it. These are the 24 places to visit in Germany off the beaten path.

Tip: Looking for more Germany? Check out my top things to do in Germany ,  German language tips , and  how to ride the German train system . Want something more literary? Read chapters from my upcoming memoir on moving to and living in Germany and finding my roots–– There Must Be Order .

Last but not least… If you’re interested in planning a trip to Germany, schedule a consultation call with me !

24 Places to Visit in Germany Off the Beaten Path

Transportation In Germany

Before You Go To Germany

Few places have impressed me in Germany quite like the Ahrtal (Ahr River Valley). Here you get the scenery and wine culture of both the Rhineland and Mosel River (both covered below) without any of the over tourism. (At least, that was my experience over a couple of summer visits.)

On my first visit, I ended up in tiny Walporzheim right off the connecting train from Bonn. My wife and I stayed in a rented apartment right off the Ahrsteig hiking trail and enjoyed impressive, scenic hikes to nearby Kreuzberg and Ahrweiler Markt with vineyards and castles along the way.

Timing was on our side with a wine festival taking place in Ahrweiler Markt, one of the more impeccably maintained old towns I’ve seen in Germany. We kept asking ourselves how we haven’t heard about this town or region before. Of course, there were German travelers, but we didn’t hear a drop of English almost the entire trip. Even when hiking up to Kloster Marienthal, a former convent converted into a winery, drinkers and revelers seemed to stick to a local crowd. I can’t help but wonder how long that will remain the case. It felt like we were drinking wine in Provence without the crowds or blown-up expectations that come with travel almost anywhere in France.

A second visit a few months later confirmed our love for the Ahrtal. This time we ended up in Altenahr for a trail race that climbed familiar hills along the Ahrsteig with views of the Mayschoß Castle we’d visited on our first trip. Although this list is organized alphabetically, the Ahrtal certainly ranks at or near the top of my favorite off the beaten path destinations in Germany.

Baden-Baden

The Black Forest is certainly not off the beaten path, but it’s some of the best hiking in Germany and in one of the sunniest corners of a country that has an otherwise gray reputation. The heart of this region is Freiburg. In Baden-Baden, on the other hand, you can still get a sense of what it’s like to be a local there. I spent mornings heading to the bakery, speaking German, and hearing exclusively German. There is a good chance that most Germans I saw walking around the pedestrian plazas were themselves tourists. After all, “baden” is the verb “to bathe,” so Baden-Baden is incredibly popular for the thermal baths.

You’ll eat well in Baden-Baden, too, and there’s actually a bit of culinary diversity for such a small town. I grabbed a drink at Badener Weinkeller at the edge of the town center while waiting for the AirBnB host. Badener Weinkeller had a great, welcoming atmosphere and a charming patio to enjoy with your beverage.

Weinstube im Baldreit feels hidden off a couple of cobbled side streets with little fuss trying to get your attention. It’s also one of the highest user-reviewed restaurants in town — for good reason. But be sure to make a reservation .

Cafe Beek is a great spot for grabbing an afternoon jolt of caffeine. And though I didn’t have a chance to experience it myself, sources tell me it has the best Kuchen in Germany. When you’re really looking to relax, Caracalla Therme is right around the corner with very clear barriers for those of us looking to go au natural and the rest who prefer to leave a little to the imagination.

Now about the hiking. It’s everywhere around the Black Forest. I did a couple of treks heading south and north of the city to the old castle. You can consult the tourist bureau for more specific instructions, but you can see what I did by clicking here and here .

Whatever you do, plan substantial time to get into that forest. You’ll regret it if you don’t.

See more photos of Baden-Baden and the Black Forest

What can I say? It’s Berlin! You either love it or you hate it. I’ve found there’s very little in between.

Having lived here for nearly the better part of a decade, I’ll do the opposite of what you might expect and keep it brief. Because you’re probably coming to Berlin with some plans in mind already. You probably want to see the Berlin Wall, maybe some World War II history, or maybe you’re a youngin’ and want to go clubbing. (Not my scene anyway, so I couldn’t help you.)

Instead, I’ll give you the spiel I give most people when they ask me what to do in Berlin and why I love this city. First of all, you gotta eat in Berlin. The world is in Berlin. You can find just about every cuisine here alongside regional German eats. So eat up! I’ve written before for other outlets with some suggestions, so check those out. The only other thing I’ll note about food is that it’s a mecca for vegans and vegetarians. If that’s your jam, you’ll eat quite well.

Now besides eating, museums, and all that stuff… Check out the parks. I never get sick of going for a run under Brandenburg Gate, through to the other side (as you do in the legendary Berlin Marathon ), and into Tiergarten. But if you want a proper hike, you can take the S-Bahn out to Grunewald. One of my favorite things to do is run or hike around the forest in the summer and jump into one of the lakes, like Schlachtensee, to cool off and have a beer . It’s quite literally the best.

Few cities in Germany have surprised me quite like Bonn. Even amongst Germans, people aren’t really talking about Bonn — but they should. The Rhineland city was the capital of post-war West Germany until reunification saw the capital move back to Berlin. But during its time as the  Hauptstadt of Germany, Bonn made a name for itself as the UN City with dignitaries from all over the world spending time in the strategic city. All of this is covered at the Haus Der Geschichte museum on Bonn’s UN Campus, an easy tram ride south of the city center.

These days Bonn is better known as the birthplace of Beethoven (the composer, not the enormous dog of cinematic fame), the Rheinsteig hiking trail , and the annual cherry blossom in the spring adding a fresh coat of pink to the Altstadt. Beethoven fans will be pleased to know they can even step into his home (where he lived for the first four years of his life) and take a tour . Even better, you can drink like Beethoven by heading down the street to Marktplatz where  Em Höttche sits next to the Rathaus (City Hall). Legend has it that Beethoven imbibed (and danced) here in the late 18th Century, and indeed, his statue and mug are staples of the bar. Enjoy a beer or hearty German fare on the patio or step inside for a bit of a time trek into the 14th and 15th centuries (the building is said to date back to 1389).

Bonn is not a large city, making it easy to cover a majority of the sights in a day. You can grab a quick coffee at Galestro just around the corner from Münster Platz before heading south down green Poppelsdorfer Alle. The road ends at the Poppelsdorfer Schloss , surrounded by the University of Bonn’s botanical garden . (Bonn is obviously a university town with its historic buildings and visibly younger residents.) If you head east around the garden and back towards the river, you can see some of the most beautiful, intact homes in urban Germany. Then at the Rhine, walk along the promenade to the Alter Zoll with a vibrant beer garden to cement the perfectly German vibe.

Brandenburg

Brandenburg is one of Germany’s 16 states, so I’m cheating a little bit here. But it’s a lesser-traveled state in Germany, though popular with Berliners looking for a quick city escape alongside a lake. I’ll be the first to admit that I had other destinations in mind when I first moved to Berlin. However, the restrictions of the pandemic forced me to look more closely at what’s in my own backyard––and it was truly a blessing in disguise.

First I visited Fürstenberg an der Havel to run a bit of the Märkischer Landweg––a 217-kilometer trail that stretches across Brandenburg all the way to the Polish border. I was impressed by the look of Fürstenberg with its stocky, old homes and cobblestone streets. You can read more about my visit there here . In short, it left me excited to return to Brandenburg as soon as possible, which I did two more times–– Bückow and most recently for a three-day running trip from Templin to Angermünde before finishing in Warnitz . (Video above).

Now I’m singing Brandenburg’s praises. And the thing is, I haven’t even visited the Spreewald yet––arguably the most popular destination in Brandenburg (outside of the capital Potsdam) with its canals cutting through the forest. Trust that I’ll be heading there sooner rather than later.

Detmold and the Teutoburg Wald

Teutoburger Wald, a stretch of forest running through Germany’s Lippe district, had been on my list for a while when I finally made it over to Bielefeld and Detmold (separate trips) for some hiking. Detmold is especially known in tourist circles for its statue, Hermannsdenkmal, celebrating the ancient Germanic victory over invading Roman forces. But there’s more to Detmold than just visiting the statue and hiking Hermannahoehen. It’s also home to Brauerei Strate, a traditional German brewery that expertly brews classic recipes, like Pilsner and Bock, while experimenting to keep up with the craft beer boom.

Read more about Detmold here  and Bielefeld here .

Dresden is a popular destination for World War II history, the Christmas markets (the longest-running in Europe, they say), and to see the reconstructed old town. That said, it’s generally not at the top of any North America’s list for a trip to Germany — though it should be. If you travel during the holiday season, you should, indeed, check out the Christmas markets. The Dresdner Striezelmarkt is the main one you’ll find in the Old Town area, though there are several throughout the city. None of this feels particularly off the beaten path, but this is a firmly German thing to do. I don’t think I heard a lick of English during my time in Dresden and walking around the Christmas markets.

If you want to do something especially unique to Dresden, hook up with Danilo for his Kurt Vonnegut and Neustadt art tours. Literary types might already know that Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse Five was greatly inspired by the author surviving the infamous firebombing of Dresden. Although the book isn’t known by German audiences (why would it be?), Danilo has latched onto it and his tour makes for something unique to anything else in Germany. He also runs an art and neighborhood tour of Neustadt, the hipster slice of town just north of the Alt Stadt (Old Town).

See more photos of Dresden

I couldn’t get through this off the beaten path Germany travel guide and  not talk about my new home — Düsseldorf. Personal bias aside, it really does feel off the beaten path, save German tourists in the summer strolling around the city’s Altstadt. There’s a good amount of spoken English here, too, but some German language skills will still go a long way here, whereas you don’t need to speak a lick of the language traveling in nearby Cologne or Berlin.

Düsseldorf gets its international fame for its fashion industry and its consistent ranking as one of the most liveable cities in the world . Even if you’re like me and look at such rankings with suspicion, I can at least anecdotally offer that Düsseldorf, indeed, is a great place to live. I could go on and on with suggestions on what to do, but I’ll leave you with a handful of my favorite recommendations.

Walk south through the Rheinpark toward Altstadt in the morning. You’ll know you’re there once the footpaths turn to cobbles and things look a bit older as most everything else in Düsseldorf has that rather generic, modern look. The Altstadt isn’t huge, so don’t worry about getting lost or turning down any street that speaks to you. But do make a point to eventually end up on Carlsplatz where on Saturday mornings you’ll find people in market-mode. Grab a coffee at Kaffe Reich and continue wandering around to your heart’s content. You’ve got Bob & Mary (burgers!) and Hausmann’s just around the corner if you start to get hungry.

Come back to the Altstadt at night to try out some of the historic breweries. (This is, after all, with the “längste Theke der Welt” — longest bar in the world.) My favorite is Füchsen on Rattingerstraße. This is essentially the exterior of Altstadt where a local once told me that it’s where the “real Düsseldorfers” hang out. Nowadays you’ve also got a craft beer bar nearby in Holy Craft , which itself is right next to Vente where you can get German cuisine with a modern touch, blended with the city’s primary immigrant cultures — Japanese, Italian and Arabic. (Speaking of Japanese, Düsseldorf has the largest Japanese immigrant population in the world. That means good Japanese eats, like at Na Ni Wa .)

Looking around the city, I have a sentimental place in my heart for Schwan. This place feels like a cozy local restaurant back in the States, but it’s also where I spent many days during my first weeks in Düsseldorf ordering currywurst and Kaffee und Kuchen while using their Internet. The Schwan on Frankenplatz is my spot and you’ve also got VIVU for some modern Asian fusion just down the square. Oh, since we’re here, I have to mention Bellisima for a down-to-Earth, charming Italian family experience.

I better end it there for now — wait! 485Grad has some of the best pizza that has ever touched my lips and burnt the roof of my mouth. Get “El Diablo” for chorizo pizza that will set your heart back, but shoot your level of happiness through the roof.

We’re staying in Thuringia with a look at Erfurt, the state capital. Erfurt makes for an idyllic urban base to explore this often overlooked German state. In Erfurt, you get all the comforts you’d want in traveling to a German city — namely excellent train services to some of the nearby areas that you might want to dive deeper into, especially if you’re a history nerd and want to retrace Martin Luther’s steps from Eisenach to Wittenberg.

The Krämerbrücke (Merchant’s Bridge) is the most popular sight in town — and rightfully so. The medieval bridge (yes, it survived WWII) dates back to the 15th Century and remains a treat to walk around or view from the north. I lucked out by staying at a hotel just steps away from the bridge, so it was easy to get there early in the morning and see it while it was empty save the occasional local passerby.

Another personal favorite was walking by the Domplatz, past the towering Catholic church and up to Glashütte Petersberg for some original Thüringen Bratwurst (the stuff we generally call bratwurst in the States) and evening views overlooking the city. I felt as if I blended right in the locals with everyone from cyclists to canoodling couples enjoying themselves (but not too much) on the edge of the overlook.

See more photos of Thuringia

Hainich National Park

Hainich National Park is right smack dab in the middle of Germany in the state of Thuringia (Thüringen auf Deutsch). What used to be a military training ground for the old German Democratic Republic (GDR) is now 29 square miles of pristine green space, harboring a primeval beech forest. If you’re not a tree-nerd, there’s still plenty of good times to be had in Hainich National Park. I for one opted for a bike ride after getting a unique view of the area via the park’s canopy walk . The walkway itself was built around the natural growth of the beech forest, so your environmentalist heart can rest easy knowing you’re truly there just to admire. (Interestingly, the canopy serves scientific purposes, too, as it allows scientists and researchers access to the treetops and the animals that naturally live there.)

Harz Mountains

The Black Forest and the Bavarian Alps get most of the love when it comes to admiring Germany’s natural surroundings. There’s good reason for that, but the Harz Mountains and Harz National Park deserve just as much celebration. It’s long been a favorite of literary wanderers looking for both inspiration and a pleasant, sometimes challenging jaunt in the refreshing isolation of a thick forest.

Heinrich Heine and Goethe are among Harz’s most famous hikers with the latter drawing on the region’s witch mythology for his classic work,  Faust . It’s a connection the region has embraced, celebrating Walpurgisnacht (the eve of May 1st) on the Brocken mountain where legend says witches celebrate the coming of spring. You can envelop yourself in the history and legends by hiking the Harzer-Hexen-Stieg––a 94-kilometer (58-mile) trail stretching from Osterode to Thale, reaching the top of the Brocken in the middle of the hike. You can read all about the five-day hike in my feature with DW Travel .

Landschaftspark | Duisburg

A number of cities along the German Rhine are closely associated with the country’s industrial past. Germany was not immune to the technological revolution of the late 20th Century that’s still going on to this day and a number of old plants shuttered their doors. Rather than let the old coal and steel production site rot over time, a man by the name of Peter Latz came up with a design that would turn the property into a public park unlike anything the area had seen before. Indeed, it’s unlike anything I had ever seen before. I couldn’t help but imagine what if other cities around the world took on a similar effort because Landschaftspark had clearly become a draw for Germans near and far. On a clear weekend afternoon, you’ll find hikers, cyclists, and even beer drinkers relaxing at one of the restaurants on the outskirts of the industrial site.

See more photos of Landschaftspark

Mittenwald | Bavaria

When people talk about traveling to the Bavarian mountains, they’re generally looking at Garmisch-Partenkirchen and working their way up the Zugspitze. That’s all well and good, but Garmisch-Partenkirchen has, over the years, become an exceptionally popular tourist destination, especially with Americans. When you travel to a foreign country, isn’t part of the point to be surrounded by people who actually live there? For that, you want to head to Mittenwald — just 100 minutes south on the train from Munich . (You even go through Garmisch-Partenkirchen if you feel so inclined to make a stop.)

In Mittenwald you’re enveloped in Bavarian culture — the homes painted with biblical figures, Weißwurst, and perhaps most importantly, the mountains with an absurd array of hiking trails at your disposal. You can take the Karwendelbahn (gondola) up to the Austrian border to hike around, wander around the Kranzberg ski area and work your way down to the neighboring Ferchen and Lauter lakes (lunch lakeside at Gasthaus Ferchensee), and take a jaunt alongside the rock cliff at the Geisterklamm where a hanging, man-made path escorts you over the Leutscher Valley in Austria. (Mittenwald is just a few kilometers from the Austrian border and you can easily hike across, so do take a moment to appreciate the border-free Europe of the 21st Century.)

Mittenwald’s true claim to fame, though, is its violins. Matthias Klotz brought the art to the region in 1685 and the practice has since flourished to the present. (You’ll notice signs throughout town to the workshops of various violin builders who’ve achieved “Geigenbaumeister” status.) The story most locals like to share is that Mozart played a violin with “Made in Mittenwald” etched into the body. Even today a Mittenwalder violin remains a prized possession, like the Gucci of musical instruments. If history is your thing, you can get more of it (in English) at the Geigenbaumuseum.

Schnitzel isn’t a Bavarian invention, but the best damn take on it I’ve had is at Mittenwald’s Gasthaus Römerschanz. Their Blaumantel Lieblingsschnitzel comes baked in a thick layer of cheese with blueberries on top. You might not think it a natural combination, but holy hell, it sure works. Keep it all local by washing down the meal with a Mittenwald beer either at Römerschanz or by heading across the street over to the brewery (I recommend the Jager Dunkel).

Mosel River | Burg Eltz, Beilstein, Ediger-Eller

The Mosel River itself isn’t off the beaten path. That’s made abundantly clear when you reach Cochem and see throngs of tourists––German and international alike––fighting their way through the crowds to take pictures of the storybook old town and walk up to the castle hovering above town. The region’s wine culture has also long been a draw for travelers.

That said, it’s easy to escape the crowds and find off the beaten path destinations along the river. After all, the Mosel River stretches over 100 kilometers (60 miles) from Koblenz to Trier within Germany. Overtourism is certainly a problem, but they’re not crowding up the entire length of the river.

The best time to travel to avoid crowds is late fall just as tourist season is coming to an end. (Note that bus schedules generally change with the start of November.). Moselkern, for example, was pleasantly quiet despite being a healthy hike away from the Instagram-favorite, Burg Eltz. Travel during the late fall and arrive early in the morning for some tourists-free shots of the fairytale castle.

From there, check out tiny Beilstein. I took the train from Moselkern to Cochem where I then boarded a ship for Beilstein. (You could also take a bus.) Beilstein is tiny. You can basically see it all within 30 minutes of walking, but damn if it isn’t an adorable little town. Here you can drink Mosel wine, enjoy the views from lesser-traveled Metternich Castle, and get your Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) fix at Klosterrestaurant & Cafe, a former cathedral converted into a cafe.

After Beilstein, I took the bus a short journey over to Ediger-Eller––a town recommended to me for its wine shops and taverns. And in that regard, it did not disappoint. Check out Weinprobierstube E. Andre and Gutshof Zenz if you want a couple of recommendations so you don’t have to research or think. But there’s plenty more in town and the surrounding area you can easily reach by foot.

Speaking of reaching things by foot, this entire area is connected by the Moselsteig. Twenty-four stages cover the region from Koblenz right to the German border with Luxembourg and France . In fact, hiking from Beilstein to Cochem (and taking the bus back) remains one of my favorite hikes in Germany––wandering through vineyards and forests with elevated views of the surrounding, gorgeous Mosel valley. You also hop on the Moselsteig when hiking from Moselkern to Burg Eltz.

Between the towns mentioned above and hopping on the Moselsteig, you’re bound to find plenty of off-the-beaten-path fun along the Mosel River.

Read more about traveling along the Mosel River .

Monschau — Eifel National Park

Germany has what’s referred to as “premium hiking trails.” These trails are all over the country and are multi-day hikes with plenty of holiday apartments and towns along the way to catch some Zs. The Eifelsteig is one such example with a stop at Stage 3 in Monschau near the Belgian border. I arrived into Monschau by way of the second stage of the Eifelsteig, starting in even smaller Roetgen and hiking the Eifelsteig in and out of Belgium some 17 kilometers to arrive in Monschau.

Trotting over the cobbled streets in between those colorful timber houses, my first thought was that I had never seen a city like this in Germany. Monschau quickly became my favorite small town escape in Europe. It has everything I look for. It’s walkable as a city and has fantastic access to hiking trails. You can hike the next stage of the Eifelsteig over to Einruhr, but if like me you find you’d rather spend more time in Monschau, there are a number of loops that take you from Monschau and into Eifel National Park and back into town. You can find all the hikes you’d possibly need at the city’s tourism website . I for one look forward to returning for the city’s classical music festival, Christmas market, and cycling in addition to more hiking.

Some other recommendations I can put out there include staying at Villadelux where you’re just outside of the town’s central plaza. Villadelux includes a number of apartment buildings, so if you’re lucky, you’ll get one across the street from the main building where you climb a few flights of stairs to get a nice view of the town right outside of your window. The owner also takes the reverse (yet still appreciated) approach to eating recommendations by telling you where not to go. There are a couple of places to avoid on the main square, but “everything else is good.” Indeed, I enjoyed everywhere I ate, including Alter Markt and Mon-Bistro. Get the Reibekuchen (potato pancakes) with smoked salmon at the latter.

See more photos of Monschau and Eifel National Park

Neanderthal Valley

Cycling fans might recognize this small valley outside of Düsseldorf from the 2017 Tour de France. Stage 2 took cyclists around the rolling valley and past the Neanderthal Museum before turning back toward Düsseldorf and out of the country. As the name of the region hints at, our Neanderthal ancestors used to roam around this region. While most scientists believe that our first ancestors came from Africa, it was near the site of the museum (some 160 years ago) that the first Neanderthal remains were found.

Now I’m not typically a museum guy (I feel like I’m exhausted as soon as I walk in), but the museum is worth a visit while you’re out there. Then you have a number of hiking trail options right across the street from the museum to take you around the region. Bring a map and you can easily connect these trails with nearby towns and hop on the train to head back wherever you started. Better yet, make like a cyclist in the Tour de France and do a loop around the region.

See more photos of the Neanderthal Valley

Neckarsteig and the Castle Road

Two things Germany does better than most any other country are castles, and hiking. Why not combine the two with a hike along the Neckarsteig and the Castle Road? The two are technically separate but they complement one another beautifully. You can give yourself a physical challenge and hike the Neckarsteig from castle-to-castle or roll from town-to-town by bike. You’ve also got trains running alongside the Neckar River, connecting the various towns of the region in just a few minutes between stops.

The Castle Road starts off in Mannheim and runs all the way out to Bayreuth in eastern Germany. I started off in Heidelberg because it’s also the first stage of the Neckarsteig and it’s where Mark Twain stays for a few months in  A Tramp Abroad . Now, Heidelberg itself is not off the beaten path with its university roots. You’ll hear plenty of English — American English, even — on the streets as well as Spanish and a dash of French. Still, it serves as an ideal gateway into the Neckarsteig and the Castle Road in the German state of Baden-Württemberg.

After starting off with a detour along the Philosophensweg, I picked up the Neckarsteig trailhead alongside the gardens of Heidelberg Castle. If you’re traveling for castles, you won’t want to miss this mix of ruins and refurbished grandeur. But again, you’re going to be surrounded by tourists from all over the world. They open up at 8 a.m. most days, so go early before the crowds come in. Then, you can start hiking toward Neckargemünd, which itself starts off with a challenging, steep hike straight up a kilometer-long set of stone steps that cut through the forest up to the Königstuhl viewpoint.

Like the Rheinsteig , each stage begins in a town on the river and starts with a fairly significant incline into the woods. This was the case in the following stages from Neckargemäund to Neckarsteinach and Neckarsteinach to Hirschhorn. The first two proved ultimately shorted and more challenging than the longer, easier third stage. You can read more about the stages at the trail’s official site (in German) and the corresponding castles at the Burgenstrasse website (in English) . Ultimately I found that the Rheinsteig has more tourism infrastructure, namely cafes and restaurants along the trail, whereas the Neckarsteig is lesser-traveled and offers a bit more solitude.

Oberstdorf (Allgäu)

Oberstdorf is about as far south in Germany as you can get without it being Austria. This means you get the benefit of looking up at (and hiking among) the German Alps.

I first came here one summer after running a trail race in Sonthofen , a couple of train stops north of Oberstdorf. The scenery is fantastic. That means you’ll have to book early if you want to come here. Hotels fill up and there’s a reason it’s got the nickname “Teuersdorf” or “Expensive village.” You might think about finding someplace just outside of town, like I did, a short bus ride away.

Quedlinburg

Almost any American’s favorite thing about Europe is the opportunity to find villages older than the country they came from. Quedlinburg is one of those villages and quite possibly the most beautiful one I’ve seen in Germany.

I’m lucky enough to have visited twice; once after finishing my hike across the Harz Mountains and a second time one spring for some trail running. Suffice it to say, Quedlinburg does not disappoint if you’re looking for a mix of Medieval village vibes with access to nature.

Read more about things to do in Quedlinburg .

Since we started on the premium trails, we’ll keep going with a shout out for the Rheinsteig. I still have plenty of premium trail hiking to do in the Deutschland, but few multi-day hikes hold a candle to the Rheinsteig. The Rheinsteig stretches over 300 kilometers between Wiesbaden and Bonn, and as of this writing, I’ve done just 5 of the 21 stages. Whereas the Eifelsteig goes through a national park, the Rheinsteig trail goes up and down from town to town along the Rhine river. Almost every stage starts with a steep incline out of town and ends with a decline into your next overnight stop. This means plenty of great, elevated views of the towns along the river as you hike the trail.

In my admittedly limited experience, I can recommend staying in Königswinter where you have the Drachenburg ( Dragon Castle !) hovering over you in the hills of Siebengebirge. Kaub with a hotel stay at Hotel Zum Turm before heading to the twin towns of St. Goarhausen and St. Goar also worked out quite nicely.

There are some towns along the trail that have a bit less going on, but you can get a sense of that during your hotel search and/or by consulting with the Rheinsteig tourist board . Fancying something a bit, well, fancier? There’s a Steigenberger property (a renowned German hotel chain) on Petersberg along the trail. If you’re coming from the south, as I did, there are local trails that allow you to skip the descent into Königswinter and continue onward to Petersberg.

Note that both the Rheinsteig and Eifelsteig are in the German state of Nordrhein-Westfalen, so it’s possible to fit either one into a trip through Western Germany that might have you flying in and out of Frankfurt.

See more photos of the Rheinsteig

Saxon Switzerland National Park

Saxon Switzerland National Park is hardly off the beaten path for German travelers but it’s always something of a surprise for overseas travelers and other non-Germans living in the country. From Berlin, you can get a direct connection to Bad Schandau right on the Elbe River and be in between the ever-popular Bastei Bridge (pictured above) and the thick of Saxony Switzerland National Park.

What’s most surprising is the dramatic landscape. I always describe it as something of a mix of Utah’s Martian landscape and the greenery of the Pacific Northwest. It’s incredible to me just how close this is to pancake-flat Berlin.

I’ve visited the region on three separate occasions, twice staying in Bad Schandau and most recently in Stadt Wehlen. The first time I did some trail running and hiking around the park, including a long run that ended in Schmilka right on the Czech border. If you like beer, do check out Bio-Braumanufaktur. They also have a vegetarian lasagne that just nails the spot after a long day in the forest.

It’s a cliché expression, but there really is no shortage of trails in Saxony Switzerland National Park. If you’re looking to follow something well-marked, then check out the Malerweg (Painter’s Trail). When I did my long run through the park to Schmilka, I was following two stages of the Malerweg.

Schmalkalden

Schmalkalden is half-timbered town wedged into central Germany. They call it the Fachwerkhäuserstadt (half-timbered town) for good reason. I mean, look at it. This is what you expect to see when you visit a medieval German city. The view from Wilhelmsburg Castle says it all.

But there’s more to Schmalkalden than just a pretty postcard view. You can eat well at Restaurant Grünes Tor Zum Hopfengarten (which doubles as a hotel) and get a tasty Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) at Cafe Liebaug next door after spending a day in the woods. Speaking of the woods, Schmalkalden is also enveloped by the Thüringer Wald (forest) with plenty of hiking trails to meander around on. In the video above, you can see some of the trails I hiked and ran north of Schmalkalden and along the fourth stage of the Lutherweg.

Triberg | Eastern Black Forest

Triberg is a Black Forest village wedged firmly into the eastern edge of the region. The Triberg Waterfalls are the main attraction here with paved trails connecting walkers to Germany’s highest waterfalls right from the town center, but it’s also a connecting point for hiking trails, like the long-distance Wasserweltensteig. (That’s “Water World Trail.”)

On my visit, I used it as a base for running up to Mount Kandel ––the second largest in the region. But the town itself served as a relaxing, quiet getaway. Though you best like German food if you’re heading to Triberg. There’s not a ton of options in town beyond traditional German eats, which are good (like at Landgasthof Zur Lilie) but heavy at the same time. It seems Triberg may have seen better times when you walk north back toward the train station with storefronts sitting empty. But there is a large grocery store in town, so if you’re staying at an apartment with a kitchen and you’re looking for some fresh air, Triberg is a great place to kick back for a few days and hit the trails.

I won’t pretend that I knew what or where Usedom was when my friend and food writer, Christie Dietz at A Sausage Has Two , first told me about it, but this island in the Baltic Sea shared with Poland is as popular of a beach travel spot for Germans in the summer as any. But my having been or your lack of knowledge about Usedom isn’t reason enough to go. You go for the Strandkorbs (distinctly German beach seating), seafood, and coastal hiking.

Standing over the Ahlbeck coastline, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re looking out onto an ocean’s horizon with the soft, white sand dusted immaculately as far as you can see. You can hike, paddle in the water, but most importantly, you can eat some of the best fresh fish in Europe. Make a special point to stop by Uwe’s Fischerhütte whose crew was kind enough to let us tag along with their 4 a.m. haul. (Uwe is one of the last of the Strandfischerei (beach fishery) tradition. Stay tuned for a short video featuring Uwe’s story and watch as fish turns to food.)

For more on where to eat in Usedom, check out Christie’s story here , and read more about one of the last beach fishermen in Usedom (video above) here .

My visit was provided by Usedom.de . As always, all opinions are my own.

Transportation in Germany

Germans like to complain about public transportation and that time the Deutsche Bahn (the primary national train service) was late, but the fact of the matter is that Germany has some of the best public transportation in the world. A British expatriate told me in Eisenach that it’s in the German constitution that everyone has access to public transportation. After traveling extensively around the country, I believe it. On the whole, trains are fast and punctual. The long-distance, high-speed ICE trains can be pricey if you wait until the last minute. If you know your plans well in advance, search the “ Sparpreis ” options at Deutsche Bahn’s website. I bought a ticket for as low as €20 from Düsseldorf to Munich planning several months in advance. There are also a number of passes you can sign up for to cover group and tourist travel.

My other suggestion? Go cycling. Eurovelo routes spread across Germany, most cities have some form of bike share, and it’s quite simply one of the safest countries to cycle in. It’s far from perfect — any place in the world with cars is — but drivers on average are much more accustomed to cyclists on the road and are more respectful of their presence. Given the time, you’d be smart to plan a multi-day bike trip across a section of the country.

Do brush up (or start working on) your German language skills if you plan on going outside of the major cities. Germans are just as complicit as North Americans in perpetrating this myth that you don’t need to speak German when you travel in Germany. You don’t need to be able to speak German in the sense that you don’t necessarily need to speak Arabic to get around in Jordan , but it will both enhance your trip and make it more enjoyable.

English will be easy in the likes of Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, but if you decide to go on a long multi-day hike along something like the Rheinsteig — which you absolutely should — you might come across a hotel that doesn’t speak English. You’ll almost certainly find menus without an English translation, so even being able to recognize some foods will be helpful and make the language barrier less frustrating to deal with. Obviously, you’re not going to gain fluency before heading over to Germany, so I do recommend downloading the Dictionary app , which has just about every German phrase I’ve ever had to look up.

Language aside, I do have a few reading recommendations. Beer fans will enjoy Horst Dornbusch’s Prost! The Story of German Beer  and history buffs can take on the massive, but incredibly interesting,  Germany: Memories of a Nation by Neil MacGregor. For a more travelogue-esque take on the country, I’m currently working my way through Simon Winder’s  Germania: In Wayward Pursuit of the Germans and Their History , which still operates as a historic and cultural look on Germany as well.

When it comes to cinema, I can’t recommend enough  Er Ist Wieder Da or  He’s Back! This film is based on a satirical novel of the same time and imagines what if Hitler reappeared in modern European society. It’s a mixture of scripted satire and documentary as Hitler interacts with real Germans. The film very much walks the line of “this is okay” and “this is definitely not okay,” quite possibly crossing it for many viewers.

Tschick is another film I’d recommend that has absolutely nothing to do with World War II and the Nazis. It’s essentially a German take on the “often told coming-of-age story,” but it’s done quite well.

Last but not least, music. Truthfully, I need to dive deeper into this myself, but I’m thinking of two bands/artists off the top of my head — Silbermond and Anna Depenbusch . Silbermond will delight any lover of 90s rock whereas Anna Depenbusch has this charming, occasionally jazzy vibe that I just can’t get enough of. Listen to “Kopf Frei” off her latest album, “Das Alphabet der Anna Depenbusch” and get ready to feel the compulsive urge to whimsically spring about whatever room you’re in.

See more photos of Germany

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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.

SCStock/Getty Images

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

Abdulhamid Hosbas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

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

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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.

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Adventures in Family Travel

9 of the Best Family Vacations in Germany

Europe , Germany / March 10, 2022 by Guest Author / Leave a Comment

Germany is an outstanding country filled with history, culture, and amazing things to do which have made it a destination that continues to be perennially underrated as a place to visit with kids and families. There are plenty of great vacations for families and we’re here to give you the very best of the best in this iconic central European country.

With so many different things to see and do, it can be hard to know which family vacation in Germany is right for you.

From the fairy-tale castles of Bavaria and the Black Forest to the vibrant city life of Berlin, there’s something for everyone in Germany. But with such a vast country to explore, it can be hard to know where to start.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best family vacations in Germany. From historic towns and villages to stunning natural landscapes, there’s something for everyone here. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure.

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When is the best time to visit Germany?

Germany is a great year-round destination, with something to offer every traveler. If you’re looking for summer weather, stick to May through October when the temperatures are lovely and there’s plenty to do outdoors.

Those who want to hit the slopes can ski in Germany from December to April, and visitors who prefer a winter wonderland should visit during Christmas time for the festive markets.

Booking Family-Friendly Accommodation in Germany

When it comes to booking accommodation in Germany for families, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to research the different types of accommodations available to decide which is best for your family. There are many different types of hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals to choose from, so be sure to compare your options and find the one that best suits your needs.

Another thing to keep in mind when booking accommodation is the location. If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation, be sure to choose a location that is away from the city center. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more action-packed vacation, be sure to choose a hotel or apartment that is located in the city center.

Finally, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Many popular tourist destinations in Germany can fill up quickly, so it’s best to reserve your spot as soon as possible.

No matter when you choose to go, Germany is bound to have something amazing and unique to offer – from its vibrant culture and history to its stunning landscapes and world-famous tourist destinations.

Best Family Vacations and Holidays in Germany

All of that said, here are our choices for the best family vacations in Germany.

1. The Black Forest

The Black Forest is a large forested area in southwestern Germany that is home to rolling hills, quaint villages, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also several amusement parks located in the region, including Europa Park one of the largest theme parks in Europe. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and cycling through the forest, while those looking for a more relaxing vacation can enjoy visiting the area’s many spas.

The Black Forest can be reached by car, train, or bus. The most convenient airport (given its size) is in the city of Basel, Switzerland which is located about an hour and a half from the forest. Several trains and buses run between Basel and the Black Forest.

2. The Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps are a picturesque mountain range that offers a wealth of outdoor activities for families, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. There are also plenty of charming villages located in the region where you can relax after a day of exploration.

While you are in the Bavarian Alps you need to visit Neuschwanstein Castle. This iconic 19th-century castle is a must-see for any family vacation in Germany. Kids will love the turrets and winding staircases, while adults can appreciate the stunning architecture and design.

When visiting the Bavarian Alps, there are a variety of accommodation options to choose from. If you are looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a rustic mountain cabin, you will be able to find something that suits your needs. However, if you are looking for a more luxurious experience, there are also several high-end resorts in the area and around Bavarian Forest National Park.

Read A Day Trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle

3. The Romantic Rhine Valley

The Romantic Rhine Valley is a picturesque region in Germany that is home to winding river valleys, majestic castles, and charming villages. This region is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning scenery and wine-tasting opportunities.

Some of the best things to do on the Romantic Rhine Valley include visiting the famous castles such as Burg Pfalzgrafenstein and Burg Rheinstein , going on boat rides down the river, and exploring the charming villages.

There are also many wineries in this region where you can taste some of the world-famous German wines.

There are plenty of things to do with kids in Munich. Some of the highlights include visiting the Deutsches Museum , going to a beer garden, and checking out some of the city’s lovely parks. Kids will also enjoy exploring Marienplatz, the Englischer Garten, the BMW Museum, and the Nymphenburg Palace . If you’re looking for a city break with plenty of things to keep the kids entertained, Munich is a great choice.

Read The Best Things To Do in Munich in One Day

When visiting Munich with your family, it’s important to find a place to stay that will provide you with all the amenities you need. The following are some of the best places to stay in Munich:

• Hilton Munich Park : This hotel is located close to the Englischer Garten and offers great views of the park and the city. It also has a pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
• The Charles Hotel : This luxury hotel is located in the city center next to the Old Botanical Garden and offers free Wi-Fi, a lovely restaurant, a gym, a spa and a swimming pool. Be sure to check their website for special offers for families.
• Aloft Munich : This hotel is located in the city center next to Munich Central Station and offers a breakfast buffet, free Wi-Fi, and a fitness centre.

5. Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming old town located in the Franconia region of Germany.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a special town that is known for its well-preserved old-world architecture and beautiful Christmas markets.

The city walls, castles, museums, and churches are all popular attractions that draw visitors to this charming town. There are also plenty of activities and events to enjoy, such as the Christmas parade, musical performances, and food festivals. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a must-see destination for families traveling to Germany.

There are several ways to get to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The easiest way is to drive there. The town is located about two hours from Frankfurt and Munich. Some buses and trains run from these cities, as well as other locations in Germany.

6. The Harz Mountains

If you’re looking for a great family vacation spot in Germany, the Harz Mountains should be at the top of your list. This range of mountains is located in the central part of the country and offers something for everyone. If you love nature, you’ll love hiking and biking through the forests and valleys here. And if you’re a fan of skiing or snowboarding, you’ll find plenty of slopes to keep you busy.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Harz Mountains are also home to some great cultural attractions. You can visit the German Mining Museum for a look at the region’s mining history, or head to one of the area’s many spas for a relaxing massage or treatment.

No matter what time of year you visit, the Harz Mountains are a great place to spend a family vacation. So if you’re looking for an adventure in Germany, be sure to add the Harz Mountains to your list.

Berlin is the capital of Germany and a city that is full of history and culture. It’s home to many museums, including the Pergamon Museum – one of the largest archaeological museums in the world. There is also a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues located in Berlin.

There are so many things to do in Berlin that all members of your family will find something to suit their interests. For example, only a few minutes away from the center of Berlin is Tierpark Friedrichsfelde which has a wide variety of attractions and entertainment for children.

When looking for a place to stay in Berlin with your family, you will have plenty of options to choose from. Most families prefer to stay in the city center so that they can be close to all the attractions. However, there are also some great options for accommodation located outside of the city center.

Some of the family-friendly hotels in Berlin are the following options Ritz-Carlton, Berlin ; Hotel Adlon Kempinski ; and Leonardo Royal Hotel .

8. Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a city located in the southwestern part of Germany. It is situated on the river Neckar. Heidelberg is known for its castle, Heidelberg Castle . The castle is a mix of styles from Gothic to Renaissance.

Heidelberg also has a lot of other tourist attractions, including the Philosophenweg (Philosophers’ Walk), a famous walking path that goes through the Heidelberg Forest.

The city is also home to the University of Heidelberg, which is one of the oldest universities in Europe.

9. Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a city in the German state of Bavaria, situated on the Pegnitz River and the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal. It is the second-largest city in Bavaria (after Munich), with a population of 535,628 (2013). The urban area also includes Fürth, Erlangen, and Schwabach with a total population of 730,000.

The city is known for its well-preserved old town, especially its medieval buildings and fortifications, as well as for the annual Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas market), which is one of the most popular in Germany.

Nuremberg also played an important role in the history of Germany. The racist and anti-semitic Nuremberg Laws were passed by the Nazi Party in 1935 at a rally in Nuremberg and the Nuremberg Trials which brought Nazi war criminals to justice were carried out here between 1945-49.

The best time to visit Nuremberg is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

These are just a few of the many great family vacation destinations that Germany has to offer. So, if you’re looking for a fun and affordable getaway with your loved ones, then consider planning a trip to Germany. You won’t be disappointed.

Kyle Kroeger

Kyle Kroeger is the owner of ViaTraveler.com. ViaTravelers is a destination travel blog providing the best tips, hacks, and itineraries to help you explore the world. Follow us on Instagram , Pinterest , and YouTube .

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8 of the best places to visit in Germany

May 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan your trip to Germany with this guide to the best places to visit © Westend61 / Getty Images

At the heart of Western Europe  is  Germany , a boundless feast for travelers.

Its endless variety of historic yet cutting-edge cities, romantic forests, and cultural riches can often make the task of planning a visit daunting. It would take a lifetime to see all of this fascinating country’s highlights, so take it slow and make a start with our guide to the very best places to visit in Germany.

1. 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 .

Planning tip:  Make time to visit some of the many wineries and wine bars here. We recommend Bingen’s Weingut Georg Breuer,   Alte Weinstube Zum Hubertus in Koblenz and Zum Grünen Baum in Bacharach.

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 is its magnificent 13th-century Gothic cathedral. The Kölner Dom  is Germany’s largest church, and 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.

Looking for more budget tips? Here's our money-saving guide to visiting Germany

3. 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  on Rügen Island ; and the birdlife and beauty of the Darss-Zingst Peninsula.

Driving in Germany? Here are the best road trips

4. 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. 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.

5. Munich and 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  – the beer festival that starts each year in September – is synonymous with Munich, and is the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Accommodations are booked solid long in advance, so plan ahead.

Time your visit to Munich right with this seasonal guide

6. 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, make 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.

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.

Don't miss Germany's best flavors with this guide to food and drink

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. It's available for varying periods of time, from 48-hours to 6-days, and gives 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.

Explore Berlin one neighborhood at a time with our guide

This article was first published Jun 3, 2021 and updated May 9, 2024.

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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/

More on Germany

The Best 10 Days In Central Europe Itinerary: Prague, Vienna, Salzburg, and Budapest

Exploring Central Europe? This is the ultimate 10 day itinerary.

It takes you to Central Europe’s most illustrious cities: Prague, Vienna, Salzburg, and Budapest. It also gives you day trip options for visiting Cesly Krumlov, Bratislava Slovakia, and/or Austria’s Wachau Valley.

These spectacular Central European cities have emerged from the shadows of superstars like Paris, London , and Rome .

They boast rich and unique histories, remarkable architecture, stunning medieval squares, world class museums, and culinary delights. This 10 day Central Europe itinerary takes you to all the must visit sites, attractions, and landmarks in each city.

This 10 day Central Europe itinerary begins in Prague in the Czech Republic. From Prague, you’ll travel southeast to the elegant city of Vienna Austria.

Then, you’ll head to the fairytale town of Salzburg for a couple days. You’ll finish up in the exciting city of Budapest, basing yourself in the lovely capital of Hungary for the rest of the trip (unless you decided to extend your vacation!)

Here’s a day by day run down of what you’ll see in 10:

• Day 1 : Prague
• Day 2 : Prague
• Day 3 : Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov
• Day 4 : Vienna
• Day 5 : Vienna
• Day 6 : Day Trip to Wachau Valley or Bratislava
• Day 7 : Salzburg
• Day 8 : Salzburg
• Day 9 : Budapest
• Day 10 : Budapest

More Time? Head To Zagreb Croatia

For this road trip or 10 day vacation, you’ll have four bases: (1) Prague (3 nights); (2) Vienna (3 nights), (3) Salzburg (1 night); and (4) Budapest (3 nights).

You can do this Central Europe itinerary by car or high speed train. I give you tips for where to stay in each city.

Overview Of 10 Days In Central Europe

Length of Trip : 10 days or more

Start and End Point : Prague and Budapest

UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Prague Historic Center, Prague Castle, Cesky Krymolov Historic Center, Schonbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, Wachau Valley, Salzburg Historic Center, Budapest Castle District, Danube Embankment Budapest

You can make this Central Europe road trip itinerary shorter or longer, depending on your available vacation time or personal fast/slow travel pace.

You can also reverse the order and start in Budapest and end in Prague. If you want more time in the cities, skip Salzburg, which is some distance from Budapest.

The Best 10 Days in Central Europe Itinerary

Here’s what I think is the best way to explore the classic cites of Central Europe in ten days.

Day 1: Prague, Czech Republic

You kick off your ten days in Central Europe in Prague.

Dubbed the “City of 100 Spires,” Prague is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Prague is synonymous with over-the-top romance and evocative Old World charm.

Having escaped the bombings of the big wars, it’s a historic and well-preserved wonder. You may want to book a 3 hour guided walking tour for an overview of the old town and to get oriented.

Because of this, be prepared for crowds. Prague is not by any means a hidden gem in Europe any longer. And Prague has so many must visit attractions.

1. Prague Castle Complex

On day 1, spend your morning visiting the Prague Castle Complex . Located on Hradcany Hill, the UNESCO-listed Prague Castle dates from the 9th century.

Click here to purchase a skip the line entry ticket. Click here for an entry ticket + 12.5 hour guided tour of the castle.

Czech leaders have ruled there for a 1000 years. The complex is a 1,500 foot long series of courtyards, churches, and palaces.

The old Royal Palace is part of Prague Castle. This was the actual residence of the Czech kings and princes. It still serves as the residence of the Czech President.

Vladislav Hall is a must see beautiful late Gothic hall inside, topped with a vault with intertwined curved ribs. Don’t miss the magnificent sculpture of St. George and the Dragon in a courtyard by the southern wall.

2. St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral is part of the castle complex. It’s the most important religious monument in the Czech Republic. It’s a High Gothic and Neo-Gothic creation.

Inside, there are dramatic ribbed vaults. The centerpiece is Alfons Mucha’s beautiful 1931 Art Nouveau window. The gallery in the Great Spire offers a beautiful bird’s eye view of Prague.

You should also check out what’s hidden underground. Below are the uncovered foundations of two earlier churches and the tombs of the Czech kings and religious VIPs.

A door with seven locks protects the entrance to the Coronation Chamber. This room contains the Bohemian Crown Jewels , which are only displayed every 5 years.

The most valuable piece is the St. Wenceslas crown. It’s rumored to punish by death any thief who puts the crown on his or her head.

3. Charles Bridge

Then, in the afternoon after lunch, stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge. Built in 1357, the bridge has 16 sandstone arches. And it’s effectively an open air art gallery, adorned with bronze sculptures of Czech saints in the bridge’s pillar columns.

At both ends are fortified towers, part of the city’s medieval defense system. You can tour both towers.

4. Old Town Square

The historic Old Town Square is the heart of Prague, were both locals and tourists collide. The square is where many of the main sites and landmarks in Prague are located.

Check out the Astronomical Clock, mounted on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall. If you have time, head into the grand Kinsky Palace .

It’s a Rococo style palace with a delicate pink and white stucco facade. The palace is home to the National Gallery.

4. Tyn Cathedral

Dominating the eastern side of Old Town Square is the stunning Tyn Cathedral , with intimidating twin Gothic spires. In the upper gable, is a statue of the Virgin Mary with a golden halo.

The original Gothic vaulting was destroyed by fire and replaced with Baroque decoration. There are 19 ornately carved altars.

Also step into the opulent St. Nicholas Church , the Czech Republic’s most beautiful Baroque building. There are often classical music concerts in both churches.

In the evening, indulge in the unique Czech cuisines. There are dozens of restaurants in and around the Old Town Square. It’s a good idea to make reservations. Try the Czech beer. It’s cheaper than water!

Day 2: Prague

1. jewish quarter.

Start day 2 in Prague with a visit to the historic Jewish Quarter, the evocative Josefov neighborhood. You can book a 2.5 hour guided tour that includes entry to the synagogue.

The compact Josefov has some of Europe’s most important Jewish sights, including 6 synagogues from the 16th and 17th centuries. Together, they act as museums, providing a history of Jewish customs and traditions.

One synagogue, the Pinkas, is now a moving memorial. It honors Czech Jews murdered in World War II. Just behind the Pinkas is Josefov’s ancient cemetery, with a jumble of grave stones.

Then, head to Our Lady of Victorious Church. Built in a classic Baroque style, it’s home to a statuette of the Christ child. The church is the site of alleged miracles performed after prayers to the Christ child.

Then check out the John Lennon Wall, a hugely popular Prague attraction. When the popular Beatle John Lennon was killed in 1980, the youth of Prague expressed their grief by covering the wall with colorful graffiti.

In Grand Prior Square, you can also admire Grand Prior Palace (a former monastery), the Church of the Virgin Mary, and the monumental Buquoy Palace.

15 minutes away from the square is Petrin Lookout Tower . It’s one of Prague’s most prominent landmarks, inspired by Paris’ Eiffel Tower. You can climb almost 300 steps to the top for jaw dropping views from Petrin Hill.

2. New Town

Then head to New Town Prague. Wenceslas Square is a must see site, created by Charles IV in the 14th century. It once served as an administrative and commercial seat.

This square is home to the newly renovated National Museum . It’s also pedestrian friendly and filled with shops and eateries.

Charles Square is the largest square in the Czech Republic. The two most notable monuments are the New Town Hall and the Church of Saint Ignatius.

Another marque attraction of Prague’s New Town is the Dancing House . Built in 1966, this is the most modern building in Prague. It was designed by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic. The restaurant terrace offers a superb panoramic view of Prague.

If you are looking for something to do in the evening, there area loads of options. You can (1) take a tour of medieval underground Prague ; (2) take in a concert at Lobkowicz Palace ; (3) go on an evening food tour ; (4) tour Prague Castle at night ; or (5) take a Vltava River cruise .

Where To Stay In Prague

Prague has some truly gorgeous hotels.

You can check out the Four Seasons (amazing location), the Mandarin Oriental (medieval luxury), the Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa (Italian flare in the old town), or the Augustine (where monastic austerity meets modern luxury).

The Art Deco Imperial Hotel is in an impressive Art Deco building. It’s adorned with mosaics and hand painted tiles.

The Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague offers a unique Asian themed boutique stay. The BoHo Hotel Prague is a modern design boutique hotel.

Day 3: Day Trip To Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

On day 3, it’s time to day trip to the tiny medieval town of Cesky Krumlov. This quaint UNESCO-listed town is a 2.5 hour drive from Prague. Or, you can book a full day guided day trip tour from Prague .

The bus station is walkable from the town center. The train station is 5 minutes from Wenceslas Square. There’s also only one train per day, so going by train probably isn’t the best option.

You could stay overnight in Cesy Krumlov on day 2 of your itinerary instead of Prague, if you want to see the city early. That way, you take in some of the sites before the day trippers arrive and make the tiny town seems overcrowded.

The best way to admire Cesky Krumlov is to simply stroll around. It’s a town made for wandering and head swiveling.

There’s also a free walking tour that begins at 10:30 am and 2:00 pm daily, given by Wiseman Free Walking Tour . You can also book your own guided walking tour of the old town .

You should probably purchase the Cesky Krumlov Card . It will give you admission to all the town’s major sites: the Castle Tower, the Castle Museum, the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, and other museums and monasteries.

The Pesky Krumlov Castle s the town’s impressive main landmark. There are opulent rooms inside, including a beautiful preserved Baroque theater. You can also climb the tower (162 steps) for some stunning views. Or wander in the castle gardens.

The Church of St. Vitus is also quite lovely. Built in the 15th century, the Gothic church is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the town. It often hosts classical music concerts.

Day 4: Vienna

On day 4 of your 10 day Central Europe itinerary, you’ll make the 3.5 hour drive from Prague to Vienna. Or take one of the frequent high speed Railjet trains. With such a long journey, you’ll only have half a day or so in Vienna on your first day.

Vienna is such a fancy city, a beautiful open air museum really. It’s awash in imperial palaces, grand Baroque architecture, and seriously swoonful museums. It’s one of the best cities in Europe for art lovers .

Vienna is the capital of Austria, the birthplace of classical music, and home to the Habsburg dynasty and its rich heritage. The city center is pedestrian friendly, sprinkled with green parks, and crammed with quaint coffee shops.

And Vienna doesn’t just bask, unblinkingly, in its quaint fin-de-siècle glory. It’s become more hip since the last time I visited, with new and renovated museums, trendy boutique hotels and restaurants, and edgy neighborhoods. It’s cooler than you’d guess.

I’ve written a detailed 3 day itinerary for Vienna , so I won’t repeat it all here. On this day, follow the recommended itinerary for day 1. You may want to get things kicked off with a guided walking tour of the old town .

This will take you to the main sites in the historic center of Vienna: St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, the Rathouse (Town Hall) and the Opera House. Be sure to stroll around the old town and down Graben street.

Indulge in Vienna’s specialty: the Sacher Torte, a delicious concoction of chocolate, cream, and apricot jam. The best places are Cafe Hawelka, Cafe Central, or Cafe Schwartzenburg.

For dinner in Vienna, I can recommend Salonplafond at the MAJK Museum, SIXTA, and Pramerl & the Wolf (Michelen). You can also click  here  to book a classical music concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Day 5: Vienna

On day 5 of your 10 days in Central Europe itinerary, you’ll stay in Vienna.

1. Museum Quarter

Vienna is also overflowing with world class museums. In the morning on your second day in Vienna, head to Museums Quarter for a cluster of them in a hip square teeming with cafes.

The Leopold Museum holds one of the world’s most important collection of late 19th and early 20th century Austrian art. It’s one of the world’s best small museums . Click  here  to buy a skip the line ticket.

2. Kunsthistoriches

Likely the grandest of Austria’s museums, in a sea of riches, is the Kunsthistorisches Museum . Opened in 1891, the Kunsthistorisches is Vienna’s Louvre. The museum is one of the world’s most impressive fine art museums, especially if you love old masters.

Click  here  to pre-book a ticket. Click  here  to book a guided tour of this magnificent museum.

Or, travel with a theme and ferret out Gustav Klimt paintings or Beethoven sites . If you want to pay homage to the mysterious Empress Sisi, visit the Sisi Museum is in the Hofburg Palace.

3. Belvedere Palace

After the Kunsthistoriches, my favorite Vienna museum is the Belvedere Palace . The Belvedere Palace is one of Vienna’s must see attractions and an important UNESCO site for its showy architectural ensemble. It’s also home to Austria’s most famous painting, Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss .

Click   here  to pre-purchase a skip the line ticket to the Belvedere palace. Click  here  to book a 2.5 hour guided tour of the Palace.

The Belvedere’s a haven of Baroque and Austrian art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Its main claim to fame is the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including the world famous The Kiss .

It also boasts masterworks by Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka, two important Expressionist painters.

READ : Complete Guide To Visiting Belvedere Palace

4. Schönbrunn Palace

In the afternoon, head to Schönbrunn Palace, outside Vienna. The palace is a UNESCO-listed site and the height of elegance.

 Be sure to purchase your  tickets online in advance. You can also hop on a guided   skip the line guided tour , book a  guided tour with a historian , or a  dinner and concert evening .

The swishy Renaissance palace was the summer home of the Hapsburg dynasty, the family that ruled the Austro-Hungarian empire for nearly 650 years. You’ll want to check out the palace itself and the extensive garden complex. Be prepared to walk.

Of Schönbrunn’s 1441 rooms, 40 are open to the public via audio guide or guided tour. The “Imperial Tour” takes you into 22 rooms, including the imperial apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and famous wife, Empress Sisi.

5. Staatsoper

In the evening, consider taking in a performance at the State Opera House, the Staatsoper. Vienna is also beautiful just to explore at night on a photo walk.

Or relax at a rooftop bar. If you’re visiting in the winter, the city is magical and lit up with fairy lights and Christmas markets.

READ : Things To Do In Vienna in Winter

Where To Stay In Vienna

Vienna is loaded with both grand hotels and adorable boutique hotels in centuries old neighborhoods.

One of my favorite hotels is the Palais Coburg . It’s a beautiful hotel in a 19th century palace. The lovely  Hotel Sans Souci Wien  is an elegant properly near Museum Quarter with a spa. The  Grand Ferdinand Hotel  is centrally located and has a unique rooftop pool and restaurant.

Of course, you can always check out classics like  Ritz-Carlton ,  Park Hyatt , and the elegant Hotel Sacher Wien .

You should also check out these lovely boutique hotels:  House of Time or  Palais Hansen Kempinski .

Day 6: Day Trip to Wachau Valley or Bratislava

On day 6 of your Central Europe itinerary, get out of the city. Head to either the small town of Bratislava in Slovakia. Or, for a more pastoral experience, head to the verdant Wachau Valley.

1. Option 1: Wachau Valley

The UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley is the verdant heartland of the Austrian Danube , a 24 mile stretch of pure loveliness between Krems and Melk. It’s less than an hour from Vienna. You can visit by driving, biking, or taking the shuttle boats.

You may also want to book a guided day tour from Vienna . Or a full day biking and wine tour from Vienna . I did this one and it was fantastic.

Wachau is an impossibly romantic valley overlooked by castle ruins, fortresses, and sleepy medieval hamlets. They nestle amid terraced vineyards and apricot groves.

The Wachau Valley goes from Krems to Melk. A highlight is the adorable town of Durnstein with craggy castle ruins. Here’s my guide to visiting the Wachau Valley . It covers all the must visit towns, historic attractions, and landmarks in the Wacvhau Valley.

2. Option 2: Bratislava

Bratislava is the tiny capital of Slovakia. It’s a little over an hour from Vienna and a popular Danube River cruise excursion.

Bratislava’s vintage-y old town is filled with pastel colored houses, cobbled streets, quirky bronze sculptures, and the world’s most adorable pastry shop, Konditorei Kormut.

Be sure to buy some honey at Medovy Obchod in the old town, where you can sample the honey yourself. I purchased some delicious vanilla and wildflower honey, along with some beehive candles and Bryndza cheese.

Bratislava also boasts a unique, almost over the top, blue church, the Church of St. Elisabeth. It’s a 10 minute walk from the old town.

Everything about the Art Nouveau church is blue — the interior (with added punches of yellow), the exterior, and even the tiles on the roof. Pretty isn’t usually a word I use to describe churches, but it’s apt here.

Even better, Bratislava is crowned with a historic castle, which is really the iconic spot in the town. Perched on a small hill and about a 15 minute hike, the castle is the best viewpoint over the old town.

Outside, it’s an elegant vision, with Gothic and Renaissance elements. Inside, there’s a museum of history.

Click  here  to book a full day guided day trip tour from Vienna to Bratislava. Or book your own  2 hour guided walking tour  for when you arrive.

Day 7: Salzburg

On day 7, you move from Vienna to Salzburg. It’s a 3:15 minute drive or 3 hours on the high speed train.

Leave early so that you can arrive mid day and have a half day of exploring Salzburg. You may want to book a guided walking tour with a historian to get oriented.

Who doesn’t love Salzburg? Well, possibly those who are allergic to tourists. Salzburg is indeed very touristy. But there is a reason for that.

Beautiful Salzburg is a dream worth dreaming, set on the fast flowing Salzach River. It’s studded with elegant domes and spires and crowned with a doughty clifftop fortress. It’s fairytale swoonful, and one of my favorite small cities in Europe.

Salzburg is synonymous with both Mozart and the Sound of Music . Personally, I’m only a fan of the former; Mozart is life. There’s so much to do in Salzburg, you could be busy for days.

Take in the regal Residenz and tSalzburg Cathedral in the Domplatz. The Residenz is full of opulent state rooms. It also have a collection of European paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries.

Make the steep (but short) hike up to the well-preserved 900 year fortress, Festung Hohensalzburg . Click here to book an entrance ticket.

Or, take a riverside stroll along Elisabethkai. Or book a dinner and cruise down the Salzach River .

Day 8: Salzburg

On day 2 in Salzburg, visit Salzburg’s #1 attraction, the Schloss Mirabell and its lovely gardens. In 1606, Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich built the grand palace for his beloved mistress.

In gratitude, she produced 15 children. Mirabell was given the usual Baroque facelift in 1721.

The interior is exceedingly lavish. The highlight is the Marble Hall, flashy with marble, stucco marble, and gilded stucco. It almost looks like a painting. The hall hosts classical concerts and is a wedding venue — what a backdrop.

Much of the song “Do Re Mi “ from the Sound of Music was filmed in the Mirabell Palace gardens. You may even want to book a classic Sound of Music guided tour . You can also attend a concert at Mirabell Palace .

Hopefully, you’re there when the wisteria and cherry blossoms are in their full glory. The garden also offers fantastic views of Hohensalzburg Fortress.

No trip to Salzburg is complete with a stop into Mozart’s Birthplace. After all Salzburg is synonymous with Mozart. At the museum, you’ll find authentic memorabilia, portraits, and musical instruments.

Or, with the rest of your day, you could book an Austrian food tasting tour . You can walk in the footsteps of Mozart on a guide tour . Or take an architecture tour to take in all of Salzburg’s stunning buildings.

Where To Stay In Salzburg

Salzburg has some fantastic hotels. Check out the Hotel Sacher Salzburg , an extremely elegant boutique hotel on the banks of the Salzach River. The Hotel Bristol Salzburg is a beautiful hotel just steps from Mirabell Palace with an award winning restaurant.

Hotel Goldener Hirsch is another historic hotel just steps from Mozart’s birthplace. The rooms are furnished with antiques in a classic Austrian style.

Hotel Rosenvilla is a luxurious small hotel in the exclusive Aigen district, about a 10 minute walk from old town. Another cool boutique hotel is artHotel Blaue Gans right at the foot of Hohensalzbuerg Fortress.

In the evening, drive or take the high speed train to Budapest. The train takes about 5 hours, so you will arrive in Budapest late.

Day 9: Budapest

Beautifully situated on the Danube River, Budapest has a romantic and exotic reputation. It’s a a hot European city break and dubbed the “Paris of the East.”

Budapest is picturesquely divided in two by the river, with Buda on the west and Pest on the east. It has a sense of expansive grandeur.

Both sides of the city have different personalities and offer different cultural experiences. Buda is charming, classy, and quiet. It’s filled with museums, castles, and elegant homes on cobbled streets.

Pest is wilder and cosmopolitan, and where most of the tourist sites and ruin bars are located. Both are beautiful at night, illuminated by lights and cradled by the Danube.

I’ve written a detailed 3 day itinerary for Budapest . On day 1 in Budapest (day 9 of your Central Europe itinerary), start at the Central Market, where you can grab some breakfast. Cross Chain Bridge and head to the Buda section of Budapest.

There, you can admire Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Buda Castle, and visit the Hungarian National Museum.

Click here for a 3 hour walking tour of the historic Buda Castle district. Click  here  for a guided walking tour of Buda Castle.

2. Chain Bridge

Have lunch in Buda at Cafe Corvin or Baltazar . After lunch, head back across Chain Bridge to explore some of the sights in the Leopold district of Pest, saving the Parliament for the morning of day 2.

Facing Chain Bridge on the Pest side is the gorgeous Gresham Palace . It’s one of the most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings in Budapest.

Or anywhere really. It’s owned by the Four Seasons. But you can walk inside and admire the decor, including a gorgeous Dale Chihuly chandelier.

3. St. Stephen’s

St. Stephen’s Basilica, also known as St. Istvan, is Budapest’s largest church. It’s an eclectic mix of styles, reflecting its many architects.

There’s a viewing terrace at the top with wonderful views of the city. Click  here  if you want to book a classical music concert at beautiful St. Stephen’s.

St. Stephen’s Square, in front of the church, has been transformed from a former parking lot into a pretty public space.

The streets and lanes jutting out from the plaza are home to some of Budapest’s trendiest cafes and bars. You can stop for some gelato at the adorable Gelarto Rosa .

Budapest is renowned for its wine. Most of Hungary’s wines are white.

To the left as you leave St. Stephen’s, you’ll find DiVino’s Wine Bar . Have a cocktail.

For dinner, splash out on Onyx , Budapest’s renowned Michelin-starred beauty in the Gerbeaud building. Alternatively, you could go on a Budapest food tour .

If you’re a night owl, do a pub crawl of Budapest’s “ruin bars.” Budapest is renowned for its unique pubs in the Jewish Quarter where you can “get ruined.” Click  here  to book a guided pub crawl of Budapest’s ruins bars.

Day 10: Budapest

1. parliament.

On your the final day of your 10 days in Central Europe, begin your morning with a tour of Parliament. With its majestic location on the east bank of the Danube River, Budapest’s cream colored Parliament building is easily the most stunning piece of architecture in Budapest.

READ : Must See Attractions on the Danube River

Begun in 1885, it took 19 years to build. Its Neo-Gothic design is a forest of pinnacles and flying buttresses, topped by a Neo-Renaissance egg shaped dome.

Not surprisingly, the glorious pile was inspired by the Houses of Parliament in London . Not only is it the tallest structure in Budapest, it’s actually the largest in Hungary.

If you want to tour the interior — and you should — book a ticket online in advance. The building is open at 8:00 am. Tickets are often sold out.

Then, head to the Pest area, Budapest’s gritty heart. You can book a 4 hour guided walking tour to see the historic sites.

Walk through Vorosmarty Ter, an elegant square in the heart of Pest. It’s named after Budapest’s great Romantic poet, Mihaly Vorosmarty. His massive statue-memorial dominates the square.

Admire Gerbeaud Cafe . Peak inside or grab a cup of coffee. A few yards away, you’ll see the whimsical The Little Princess statue, a photographer’s favorite place. head down the pedestrianized Dek Utca, known as the “Fashion Street.”

The main tourist drag through Budapest is Vaci Utca. It’s very crowded and touristy, but there’s some lovely architecture. This is not the place to stop for a bit to eat. It’s very overpriced.

3. Great Synagogue

The Great Synagogue is a gorgeous building, located in the slowly regentrifying Jewish Quarter of the Erzsébetváros district. Built in a Moorish revival style in 1859, like you’d find at Granada’s Alhambra , Dohany is the largest synagogue in Europe.

Located on Korut Street, New York Cafe isn’t far from the synagogue. Stop here for lunch (reserve ahead). The spectacular cafe was built in the late 19th century in a Renaissance style.

Click  here  to book a skip the line ticket for the synagogue. Click  here  to book a 3 hour tour of Jewish Budapest with a historian.

4. Gellert Hill

In the afternoon, take in the views and relax in a salty soak in the Gellert district. Gellert Hill is a magnificent viewpoint.

Gellert Hill takes more effort to climb than Castle Hill does. But it’s worth it. All of Budapest is before you. Coming down from the hill, you’ll find the bronze Empress Sisi statue near Liberty Bridge.

It’s time for a soak in Budapest’s famed thermal baths. The elegant Gellért Thermal Bath has grand hall is free to visitors, if you want a peak but not a soak. The baths are located near the Danube at the foot of Gellert Hill. They’re only open until 7:00 pm, so be sure to allot sufficient time for a pre-dinner soak.

As an alternative, if you want to visit Heroes’ Square (which I think is overrated), head to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths . It’s an even more elaborate, but crowded, bath house inside an iconic local building.

For post-soak drinks, head to the High Note Sky Bar at the Aria Hotel . Amid fairy lights, you’ll have epic views over St. Stephen’s Basilica and square.

For dinner, you don’t even have to move. Just head downstairs to the Liszt Restaurant , just opened in 2019. It serves up historic dishes with a nouvelle twist.

Where To Stay In Budapest

I love the  Aria Hotel Budapes t   in the historic Leopold neighborhood of Pest and loved it. I admit this part of Budapest felt a bit Parisian.

Some other fantastic options include:  Corinthia Budapest  (look like a chateau), the  Casati Hotel  (chic adults only option), the  Parisi Udvar Hotel  (restored Art Nouveau beauty), and of course the  Four Seasons Hotel in Gresham Palac e .

More Than 10 Days In Central Europe?

If you have more than 10 days in Central Europe, head to underrated city of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, for a couple days. The drive from Budapest to Zagreb is only 3.5 hours (or a more distant 6 hours by train).

Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia. It’s located in the northwest Croatia, along the Sava River.

Underrated Zagreb combines cobbled old street charm with edgy and elegant contemporary themes. And it may not be so underrated anymore. Zagreb is overflowing with museums and cafes, to satisfy both the culture vulture and the flaneur.

The photogenic Upper Town has many of Zagreb’s must see sites — the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Gradec, and St. Mark’s Church.

The church has a stunning patterned tile roof depict the Croatian and Zagreb coat of arms. You’ll also find one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb: Lotrščak Tower.

Past St. Mark’s Church is one of Zagreb’s most iconic attractions, the Museum of Broken Relationships. The museum was the brainchild of Olinka Vistica and Drazen Grubisic. They developed an art exhibition concept that involved displaying the discarded tokens and momentos from failed relationships.

If you’d like to spend more time in Croatia beyond Zagreb, check out my 10 day itinerary for Croatia or my 10 day itinerary for Croatia and Slovenia

I have you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in Central Europe itinerary. You may enjoy these other itineraries for Europe:

• Bavaria Germany
• Croatia + Slovenia
• Southern Spain
• Basque Spain
• Spain: Madrid to Seville
• Spain: Major Cities
• Southern France
• Italy’s Classic Cities
• Italy: Milan to Rome
• Italy: Venice to Milan

If you’d like to need a 10 day itinerary for Central Europe, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on October 28, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Germany Footsteps

12 Unmissable Places To Visit In Western Germany Before You Die 😱

Western Germany, a land of breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and cutting-edge culture, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. This article is your guide to the 12 unmissable places that offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of this region, promising enchanting experiences that are as diverse as they are memorable.

Curating this list wasn’t a task taken lightly. We poured over travel blogs, sifted through countless reviews, and even conversed with locals to ensure the destinations we selected are truly unparalleled.

From the majestic Rhine River to the architectural marvels of Cologne and the hidden gems tucked away in quaint villages, our criteria were simple: places that blend natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural vibrancy.

Introducing these sites, we aim to provide a vibrant mosaic of what Western Germany has to offer. Whether you’re an avid historian eager to tread through the corridors of time, a nature lover keen to explore scenic trails, or a culture enthusiast looking to dive into the local way of life, this list is tailored for you.

Our goal is to demystify the complexity of planning your journey by pinpointing destinations that promise an unforgettable adventure.

Let’s embark on this journey together, exploring the unique allure of Western Germany!

Love Germany?  Click here to download your free guide to ALL of Germany’s Amazing UNESCO sites . See all 52 of them!

Table of Contents

12 Best Places To Visit In Western Germany

Trier merits its place on this list as Germany’s oldest city, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Roman history outside of Italy. The city is home to an amazing NINE! UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Porta Nigra, an imposing Roman gate that serves as a symbol of Trier’s ancient grandeur.

The Trier Cathedral, with its mix of architectural styles, tells the tale of the city’s spiritual and cultural importance through centuries.

Trier’s unique blend of historical depth, including Roman baths and amphitheaters, alongside its vibrant contemporary life, epitomizes the living history museum vibe that few places can match. Here, history isn’t just to be seen but to be felt.

Click here to read our full guide to Trier.

Cochem is not just a town; it’s a journey back into the fairy tales of your childhood. Dominated by the Reichsburg Cochem, a castle reborn from the medieval ashes into a picturesque fortress, the town offers panoramic views that are the epitome of the romantic Rhine landscape.

Cochem’s charm is augmented by its half-timbered houses and winding streets, leading visitors on a merry dance through history and beauty. The Moselle River adds a serene backdrop, inviting leisurely cruises that offer a unique perspective on the valley’s vineyards.

Cochem also serves as a cultural heartland, with wine festivals that celebrate the region’s viticultural heritage, making it a must-visit for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural richness.

Click here to read our full guide to Cochem.

3. Bacharach

Bacharach stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the Rhine Valley, with its storied streets, ancient fortifications, and vine-clad hills. The town’s silhouette is defined by the Stahleck Castle, now a youth hostel, offering travelers the chance to wake up within walls that have echoed with centuries of history.

Bacharach’s beauty is not just in its buildings but in its spirit, with traditions and crafts that have survived the test of time. Its location on the Rhine makes it an ideal stop for explorers looking to delve into the heart of the Rhine’s romantic lore, making it a must-visit for those enchanted by history, nature, and the tales of old.

Click here to read our full guide to Bacharach.

Cologne’s inclusion on this list is secured by its monumental cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the city’s skyline and symbolizes its resilient spirit. But Cologne is more than its cathedral.

It’s a cultural hub, with museums and galleries that span the breadth of human creativity, from the ancient Romano-Germanic Museum to the avant-garde Museum Ludwig.

Cologne’s vitality is seen in its streets, filled with the fragrance of its namesake cologne and the festive spirit of its Christmas markets and Carnival . The city’s openness, diversity, and warmth make it a microcosm of modern Germany, rooted in tradition yet eagerly facing the future. It’s one of my personal favorite cities in Germany.

Click here to read more about visiting Cologne.

5. Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf earns its spot for its pioneering role in fashion, art, and architecture, juxtaposed with its Old Town. The city’s Königsallee is a shopper’s paradise, offering luxury alongside the latest trends.

Meanwhile, the Altstadt (Old Town) tells stories of Düsseldorf’s history over Altbier in the “longest bar in the world.” The Rhine Embankment Promenade exemplifies the city’s lifestyle, blending leisure with beauty.

Düsseldorf’s cultural scene, from the innovative exhibitions at the K21 to the classical performances at the Deutsche Oper am Rhein, showcases the city’s dynamic evolution from industrial powerhouse to a beacon of culture and refinement.

Click here to read more about visiting Düsseldorf.

As the westernmost city of Germany and the site of Charlemagne’s palatine chapel, Aachen bridges cultures, histories, and nations. The city’s cathedral is a UNESCO world heritage site, embodying architectural innovation and the Christian world’s spiritual heritage. It’s one of my personal favorite places to visit in Germany. You can just *feel* the history here.

Aachen’s historical significance as the coronation site for German kings adds layers of historical depth to the experience of visiting. The city’s renowned hot springs, which have attracted visitors from Roman times to the present, offer a unique blend of wellness and history.

Aachen’s commitment to European unity, embodied in the International Charlemagne Prize, reflects its past and aspirations, making it a city where history, health, and a forward-looking spirit converge.

Click here for our full guide to Aachen.

Bonn’s tranquil charm belies its importance as the former capital of West Germany and a center of German culture and politics. The city is indelibly linked with Beethoven, whose birthplace is now a museum celebrating his life and work.

But the cultural tapestry of Bonn is woven with more than just musical notes; it includes a vibrant arts scene, a plethora of museums, and the Rhine’s serene beauty.

Bonn’s role in global diplomacy, as host to several UN institutions, adds to its cosmopolitan allure. The city’s parks and gardens, such as the Rheinaue, offer peaceful retreats, making Bonn a city where history, culture, and natural beauty coexist in harmony.

Click here to read our full guide to Bonn.

8. Monschau

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Eifel region, Monschau is a hidden gem of Western Germany. With its perfectly preserved half-timbered houses and winding river, the town appears lifted from a fairy tale.

Visitors are mesmerized by the historic Red House, showcasing affluent local living from centuries past, and the imposing Monschau Castle, which watches over the town. Local glassblowing artisans and mustards mills add a unique cultural flair, while the surrounding lush nature trails offer outdoor enthusiasts an idyllic setting.

Make no mistake, this isn’t just any town. Monschau is truly beautiful and different to other old towns in Germany. In fact, it’s my personal second favorite town in Germany.

Click here to read more about visiting Monschau.

The strategic and scenic importance of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, is self-evident. The Deutsches Eck and its monumental statue of Emperor Wilhelm I mark the unity and might of Germany.

Koblenz’s history, however, stretches back over two millennia, offering layers of cultural heritage to explore, from ancient forts to picturesque castles. The cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress provides not only a thrilling experience but also panoramic views of the UNESCO-protected Upper Middle Rhine Valley.

Koblenz encapsulates the romantic essence of the Rhine and Moselle, making it an essential stop for those drawn to the allure of rivers, vineyards, and castles.

10. Münster

Münster’s reputation as the “City of Cycling” is indicative of its forward-thinking attitude and commitment to sustainability. However, it’s the city’s rich history, particularly as the site of the Peace of Westphalia, that adds gravitas to its charming streets and gabled houses.

The Prinzipalmarkt, with its historic Town Hall, stands as a testament to Münster’s importance in European history. The city’s university infuses Münster with a youthful vibrancy, complementing its historical roots with a dynamic cultural scene.

Münster’s blend of history, education, and green living exemplifies the contemporary German city that values both its past and its future.

Embrace the allure of Kassel, a city that seamlessly blends art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of the country. While located quite centrally within Germany, Kassel just slides into the list thanks to being in the state of Hessen.

Home to the renowned documenta art exhibition, Kassel exudes a creative energy that captivates visitors from around the globe. Explore the stunning Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting magnificent water features and the iconic Hercules monument overlooking the city.

Dive into history at the grand Wilhelmshöhe Palace, a testament to Baroque splendor and royal opulence. Learn about the famous Brothers Grimm at Grimmwelt.

With its vibrant cultural scene, picturesque parks, and a rich tapestry of architectural treasures, Kassel is a must-visit destination that promises an enchanting journey through art, heritage, and scenic wonders. There’s a surprising amount to do here for a city that’s rarely mentioned outside of Germany.

Click here to read a detailed guide to Kassel.

Xanten is a unique fusion of ancient history and pastoral charm. The Archaeological Park, one of Germany’s largest open-air museums, brings the Roman past to life, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of soldiers and citizens of Roman Germania.

The medieval Xanten Cathedral serves as a landmark of spiritual and architectural significance.

Xanten’s smaller scale does not diminish its appeal; instead, it offers a more intimate encounter with Germany’s layered history, from Rome to the Middle Ages. Its blend of historical immersion and natural beauty, set beside the Rhine, makes Xanten a microcosm of the region’s broader attractions.

Exploring Western Germany offers an unparalleled journey through rich historical tapestry, breathtaking landscapes, and modern innovation. Each location on our list, from the enchanting old towns to the awe-inspiring cities, stands as a testament to the diverse beauty and cultural heritage this region has to offer. As you plan your travels, remember that the true magic of these destinations lies not only in their scenic views and historic landmarks but in the stories and traditions that have shaped them.

Whether you’re a history aficionado, a lover of natural beauty, or a fan of contemporary culture, Western Germany has something special in store for you. Venture beyond the beaten path to uncover the unique charm of each place. These twelve unmissable spots are merely the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable exploration of Western Germany’s heart and soul.

Looking for more information about visiting Western Germany? Find all our guides to Western Germany here or check out our one week itinerary for Cologne here that includes some of the highlights of West Germany. You can also find our list to the best places to visit in Northern Germany here , Southern Germany here and Eastern Germany here .

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon first fell in love with Germany back in 2000 on her first visit. She loves the long history, the picturesque Old Towns, the castles, the food, everything really! Since then, she has visited many times and loves writing about Germany here so you can enjoy it too. In fact, Sharon loves German culture so much that she sent her kids to a German primary school in Australia. She especially loves Berlin and towns with charming Old Towns like Celle and Quedlinburg. Sharon also has a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and understands the nitty gritty of travel planning. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to Germany whether it's your first or tenth time!

Over a period of 25 years in business I spent a great deal of time in this part of Germany, my routine was always the same, land in Frankfurt on a Thursday, drive to Dusseldorf-Benrath on the Sunday along the Rhine Valley Road. Many, many very happy memories of little hotels like the Lorelai in Sank Goar , the Rhine Terrasse at Benrath and my base in Kelsterbach the Columbas which I believe is no longer ther a shame it was a lovely family hotel

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Maps of Germany

Germany, situated in Central Europe , covers a total area of approximately 357,022 km 2 (about 137,847 mi 2 ). This country shares its borders with nine countries: Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, and France , Luxembourg , Belgium , and the Netherlands to the west. The Baltic Sea and the North Sea form the northern maritime borders.

The geography of Germany generally consists of four regions: the North German Plain, the Central Uplands, the Southern German Scarplands, and the Bavarian Alps. The North German Plain is a flat, low-lying area that extends from the country's northern coastline to as far south as the foothills of the Central Uplands; it is a small segment of the North European Plain . The region displays a range of terrain, from sandy beaches and marshlands along the coast to fertile farmlands more centrally located. The North German Plain also incorporates major urban centers, including Hamburg and Berlin.

The Central Uplands : To the south of the North German Plain lies the Central Uplands, which are essentially a collection of several low mountain ranges. The Harz Mountains, the Thuringian Forest, the Black Forest, the Ore Mountains, and the Schwäbische Alb are among the most notable features of this region. The Central Uplands offer an undulating terrain, interspersed with forests, valleys, and rivers. The region forms a watershed divide between the major river systems of Germany, namely the Rhine and Elbe.

The Southern German Scarplands , which encompass the Swabian and Franconian Jura, as well as the Bavarian Plateau, occupy the region south of the Central Uplands. This geographical region, featuring Jurassic limestone plateaus, is characterized by its stepped topography, rolling hills, and extensive forests.

The Bavarian Alps : On the extreme southern edge of the country lie the Bavarian Alps , part of the greater European Alps range. The Zugspitze , the highest peak in Germany at 2,962 meters (about 9,718 feet), resides here. These mountains, renowned for their snow-covered peaks and glacial valleys, are a significant part of Germany's geographical profile.

Bodies of Water : The North Sea and the Baltic Seas, connected by the Kiel Canal, serve as important waterways for international shipping in and around Germany. In the interior, Lake Constance is the largest freshwater lake, bordering Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Lake Müritz is another notable body of water, being the largest lake entirely within Germany's borders.

Rivers : The most substantial rivers in Germany are the Rhine , the Elbe , and the Danube . The Rhine, the longest river in Germany, originates in the Swiss Alps and meanders northwards, and the upper Rhine portion forms a natural border with France before flowing through western Germany and into the North Sea. The Elbe, flowing from the Czech Republic through eastern Germany, also empties into the North Sea. The Danube, the second-longest river in Europe, rises in the Black Forest of southwest Germany and flows eastwards across multiple countries before reaching the Black Sea.

Islands : Germany is also home to a collection of islands , mostly found in the North and Baltic Seas. The largest of these are Sylt, Rügen, and Usedom. Sylt, a part of the North Frisian Islands, is known for its long sandy beaches. Rügen and Usedom, situated in the Baltic Sea, feature popular beach resorts and nature reserves.

States of Germany

Germany (officially, the Federal Republic of Germany) is divided into 16 states ( Lander , sing. Land ) [commonly, referred to as Bundeslander (federal states)]. In alphabetical order, the states are: Baden-Wuerttemberg, Bayern (Bavaria), Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hessen (Hesse), Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania), Niedersachsen (Lower Saxony), Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine – Westphalia), Rheinland-Pfalz (Rhineland-Palatinate), Saarland, Sachsen (Saxony), Sachsen-Anhalt (Saxony-Anhalt), Schleswig-Holstein and Thueringen (Thuringia).

The states are further divided into 401 administrative districts, of which there are 294 rural districts ( Kreise ) and 107 urban districts ( Kreisfreie Stadte ).

[Note: Bayern, Sachsen and Thueringen refer to themselves as Free states (Freistaaten, sing. Freistaat), while Bremen calls itself a Free Hanseatic City (Freie Hansestadt) and Hamburg considers itself a Free and Hanseatic City (Freie und Hansestadt)]

With an area of 357,022 sq. km, Germany is the 7 th largest country in Europe. It is also the 2 nd most populous country in Europe and the most populous member-state of EU. Located in north eastern Germany, in the east of Elbe River is, Berlin – the capital and the largest city of Germany. It is also the most populous city of EU. The city of Frankfurt is the financial center of the country, while the city of Ruhr is the largest urban area in Germany.

Where is Germany?

Germany is located in central Europe. It is positioned both in the Northern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth. Germany is bordered by 9 countries: by Denmark in the north; by Poland and Czech Republic in the east; by Austria in the southeast; by Switzerland in the southwest; by France, Luxembourg and Belgium in the west; and by Netherlands in the northwest.  Germany is bounded by the North Sea in the northwest and by the Baltic Sea in the northeast.

Germany Bordering Countries : The Netherlands , Belgium , Switzerland , Denmark , Austria , The Czech Republic , Luxembourg , Poland .

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Outline Map of Germany

The above blank map represents Germany, a country located in Central Europe.The above map can be downloaded, printed and used for educational purposes like map-pointing activities and coloring.

The above outline map represents Germany, a Central European country. Covering an area of 357, 022 sq. km, it is the 7th largest country in Europe. Germany is also the 2 nd most populous country in Europe and the most populous member-state of EU.

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UEFA EURO 2024 fixtures and results: When and where are the matches?

Saturday, June 15, 2024

Article summary

UEFA EURO 2024 kicked off on Friday 14 June and ends with the final in Berlin on Sunday 14 July. See dates, venues and schedule.

Article top media content

Article body

Check out the full UEFA EURO 2024 final tournament schedule below. All kick-off times are CEST.

When are the EURO 2024 matches?

Group stage.

14 June Group A: Germany 5-1 Scotland ( Munich )

15 June A: Hungary vs Switzerland ( Cologne , 15:00) B: Spain vs Croatia ( Berlin , 18:00) B: Italy vs Albania ( Dortmund , 21:00)

16 June D: Poland vs Netherlands ( Hamburg , 15:00) C: Slovenia vs Denmark ( Stuttgart , 18:00) C: Serbia vs England ( Gelsenkirchen , 21:00)

17 June E: Romania vs Ukraine ( Munich , 15:00) E: Belgium vs Slovakia ( Frankfurt , 18:00) D: Austria vs France ( Düsseldorf , 21:00)

18 June F: Türkiye vs Georgia ( Dortmund , 18:00) F: Portugal vs Czechia ( Leipzig , 21:00)

19 June B: Croatia vs Albania ( Hamburg , 15:00) A: Germany vs Hungary ( Stuttgart , 18:00) A: Scotland vs Switzerland ( Cologne , 21:00)

20 June C: Slovenia vs Serbia ( Munich , 15:00) C: Denmark vs England ( Frankfurt , 18:00) B: Spain vs Italy ( Gelsenkirchen , 21:00)

21 June E: Slovakia vs Ukraine ( Düsseldorf , 15:00) D: Poland vs Austria ( Berlin , 18:00) D: Netherlands vs France ( Leipzig , 21:00)

22 June F: Georgia vs Czechia ( Hamburg , 15:00) F: Türkiye vs Portugal ( Dortmund , 18:00) E: Belgium vs Romania ( Cologne , 21:00)

Did you know...?

As part of UEFA's commitment to making EURO 2024 a reference event for sustainability in sport, venues and matches have been organised in regionalised clusters. This reduces the number of flights taken by teams by 75 per cent compared to EURO 2016, as well as ensuring easier, sustainable transport between matches for supporters.

23 June A: Switzerland vs Germany ( Frankfurt , 21:00) A: Scotland vs Hungary ( Stuttgart , 21:00)

24 June B: Croatia vs Italy ( Leipzig , 21:00) B: Albania vs Spain ( Düsseldorf , 21:00)

25 June D: Netherlands vs Austria ( Berlin , 18:00) D: France vs Poland ( Dortmund , 18:00) C: England vs Slovenia ( Cologne , 21:00) C: Denmark vs Serbia ( Munich , 21:00)

26 June E: Slovakia vs Romania ( Frankfurt , 18:00) E: Ukraine vs Belgium ( Stuttgart , 18:00) F: Czechia vs Türkiye ( Hamburg , 21:00) F: Georgia vs Portugal ( Gelsenkirchen , 21:00)

Rest days on 27 and 28 June

When does the EURO 2024 round of 16 start?

29 June 38 2A vs 2B ( Berlin , 18:00) 37 1A vs 2C ( Dortmund , 21:00)

30 June 40 1C vs 3D/E/F ( Gelsenkirchen ), 18:00) 39 1B vs 3A/D/E/F ( Cologne , 21:00)

1 July 42 2D vs 2E ( Düsseldorf , 18:00) 41 1F vs 3A/B/C ( Frankfurt , 21:00)

2 July 43 1E vs 3A/B/C/D ( Munich , 18:00) 44 1D vs 2F ( Leipzig ), 21:00)

Rest days on 3 and 4 July

When do the EURO 2024 quarter-finals start?

5 July 45 W39 vs W37 ( Stuttgart , 18:00) 46 W41 vs W42 ( Hamburg , 21:00)

6 July 48 W40 vs W38 ( Düsseldorf , 18:00) 47 W43 vs W44 ( Berlin , 21:00)

Rest days on 7 and 8 July

When do the EURO 2024 semi-finals start?

9 July 49 W45 vs W46 ( Munich , 21:00)

10 July 50 W47 vs W48 ( Dortmund , 21:00)

Rest days on 11, 12 and 13 July

When is the EURO 2024 final?

14 July W49 vs W50 ( Berlin , 21:00)

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