The sheer physical and cultural diversity of this European nation would be difficult to exhaust in a lifetime of visits. Here we’ll take a look at some of the very best places to visit in Germany.
Rich in history and natural beauty, it’s a country that excites and inspires. Picture bustling cities, fairy tale castles, breathtaking forests and historical landmarks. Germany also boasts some impressive tourist statistics, with it being in the top 10 countries most visited globally and Berlin among the most visited cities.
1. Berlin
Once a divided city, modern Berlin is showered with superlatives as an exciting, vibrant capital city offering culture, cuisine, and architecture loved by all who visit, and top of everyone’s list of the best places to visit in Germany.
Its significance as the former division between East and West has left the city with many of Germany’s most famous landmarks, including the Berlin Wall, Holocaust Museum, Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, and Checkpoint Charlie. Museum Island is a must and there’s much more, with zoos, parks and lakes to amuse during the day and fine dining or all-night parties to keep you entertained after dark.
Expect summer days to be warm and wet and visits in the winter and spring to require a coat that keeps out the chill. April and October represent the best chance of staying dry.
2. Munich
Bright blue skies, lakes, and mountains surround the idyllic capital of Bavaria. It’s home to the world-famous Oktoberfest beer festival and an energetic vibe that makes it one of the best cities to visit in Germany. The more prosperous city in the country, Munich is an international powerhouse of research and technology and home to iconic global brands such as BMW and Siemens.
Traditional Bavarian fare such as Schweinshaxe – roasted pig’s trotter – can be enjoyed with copious amounts of the classic local brew Weissbier in one of the city’s Bierkellers. For more sophisticated gastronomy, venture to one of the many glitzy establishments and then make the most of a vibrant night scene offering swanky bars and thumping clubs.
Popular for walks around Marienplatz or the Frauenkirche and for legendary Christmas markets, Munich enjoys cold, dry weather from September through to March. From May to August you can expect temperatures to rise, but these months feature the highest rainfall, so expect to get wet.
3. The Black Forest
Inspiring the Brothers Grimm to create their many legendary fairy tales, the Black Forest is one of the most beautiful and popular places in Germany. It’s where the great outdoors rewards the adventurous, with dense forests, sparkling lakes, and rushing rivers. There’s also hiking trails and cycle tracks aplenty.
The attractive student city of Freiburg and grand old spa town of Baden-Baden are among many picturesque towns and villages in the region. They give a little bit of urban contrast if you’re looking for some retail therapy or pampering. Thrill seekers can get their kicks on the roller coasters at Europa Park, whilst those looking for scenic drives are treated to the visual feasts of the Badische Weinstrasse and Schwarzwaldhochstrasse routes. They’re two of the finest in the whole Black Forest.
Receiving lower rainfall than other parts of the country, the spring and summer months are usually sunny and warm. There’s enough snow in the mountains during the winter months to allow for some action on the slopes.
4. Rhine Valley
Not to be missed on your list of places to visit in Germany, the mighty Rhine between Rüdesheim and Koblenz includes a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is simply breathtaking. Medieval castles perch on cliff tops. Vineyards cling to sloping terraces. Picture-postcard villages appear between forested hillsides. And the river meanders along a stretch known as the Romantic Rhine.
Castles dating back to the 12th century and idyllic towns such as Bacharach are dotted along the river. A cruise is the most romantic and relaxing way to take them all in. Road and rail networks also follow the river, as do scenic trails for those on foot or bicycle. Spring through to early autumn provide the best of the weather for a calm voyage, with the winter ideal for snuggling up in colder temperatures.
5. Heidelberg
Germany’s oldest university city was a favorite with notable 19th-century romantic poets and remains one of the best places to visit in Germany. Beautiful landscapes and striking landmarks such as the Old Bridge, Heidelberg Castle, and Thingstatte allow a journey through a history dating from before medieval times. Meanwhile, modern Heidelberg best enjoyed among the abundant hospitality venues that line the city’s main street, Haupstrasse.
The city plays host to an eclectic mix of cultural events each year. This includes the Ball of the Vampires, the Heidelberg Carnival, Classic Music Festival, and the famous Christmas Market. Temperatures peak in July and August, but winters are generally mild enough to allow some exploring around this beautiful city.
6. The Romantic Road
Awe-inspiring landscapes and chocolate-box towns and villages almost overwhelm you on this captivating drive. It runs for almost 250 miles from Würzburg and ends at Fussen at the foot of the Alps, where Schloss Neuschwanstein, one of Germany’s most famous landmarks – and said to be the inspiration for Disney’s fairy tale castle – rises majestically from the forest.
Along the way, you’re treated to stunning scenery and some of the best places to visit in Germany. This includes the rococo gem and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Wieskirche, the palatial Residenz in Würzburg, and the medieval splendor of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Although easiest to travel by car, the route can be enjoyed by bike or on foot, with GPS data available at romantic road. You’ve got a chance of staying dry in the winter and autumn, but you’ll need to wrap up outdoors.
7. Cologne
Satisfying those with a thirst for history or beer in equal measure, Cologne has been rebuilt following the devastation of World War II. It’s now the cultural heartbeat of the Rhineland area, with its cathedral, a gothic architectural masterpiece, one of Germany’s most famous landmarks.
Today, the city is a beacon of diversity. It offers impressive museums and galleries alongside abundant hostelries serving Kölsch: the popular and refreshing local brew. Carnage ensues throughout Karneval season between November and March. Celebrations are absolutely bonkers and culminate with a parade on Rosenmontag, or Rose Monday.
Summers are pleasant and warm but can get a little crowded, with autumn and spring perhaps best for sightseeing. The festive atmosphere and Christmas markets heat up the cold and chilly winters, so don’t be put off visiting at this time of year.
8. Dresden
Obliterated by bombing during World War II, Dresden has rebuilt its Baroque splendor and elegance to become one of the best cities to visit in Germany. Sitting beside the River Elbe, you can marvel at some of Germany’s most famous landmarks. This includes the stunning Bruehl’s Terrace and the gorgeous Zwinger Palace. Or you can view the city as Canaletto once did from the impressive Augustus Bridge.
The magnificent Dresden Castle dominates the skyline and houses the exquisite treasures of the Green Vault and some of the country’s finest art collections. Enjoy the river on a historic paddle steamboat, take in the opera at the elegant Semperoper or literally drink in the local culture at one of the many bars in Neustadt. Whatever your pleasure, Dresden has something enticing to offer.
The summer is a great time to explore the city by walking or cycling. The warm evenings welcome you with outdoor cinema, festivals, and concerts along the banks of the Elbe. The weather can get chilly in the winter but wrap up and you’ll still enjoy discovering one of Germany’s many jewels.