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The Top 10 Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Germany
Germany has amazing attractions to offer tourists, including elegant palaces and castles, meandering rivers, extensive Alps and medieval cathedrals. The contemporary museums and galleries that display the country’s complex history are also top rated tourist attractions in Germany . With a huge list of must see attractions in Germany, it can be hard to decide what to see first. In this article, you will interact with the top ten tourist attractions in Germany you should explore.
1. Sanssouci Palace and Gardens in Potsdam
Sanssouci Palace and Gardens became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, but before that, it was a summer palace for King Frederick of Prussia between 1740 and 1786. Currently, it is not only an old palace but a treasured sanctuary with a wide and beautiful view of Potsdam city.
Visitors place it among the top tourist attractions due to its majestic fountains, well-maintained grounds, exquisite gardens and about 1000 beautiful sculptures. Tourists are free to roam through the breathtaking gardens of the park.
2. Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor) in Berlin
The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin is among the most popular tourist attractions in Germany and symbolises German’s reconsolidation. Carl Gotthard Langhans unveiled the gate’s design, constructed to commemorate France’s loss to Prussian. It is 60 feet tall, with one part that holds statues of Prussian leaders and another part that was an auditorium for delivering speeches during the war period.
Brandenburg Gate represents peace, strength and unity among countries, and each of its sides displays countries that once governed Germany.
3. Cologne Cathedral
This Gothic-style Cathedral of the Roman Catholic religion sits at the centre of traditional Cologne in Germany. It houses the remains of three kings transferred by Emperor Charlemagne to Cologne in 800 AD. Also known as the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Maria, this Cathedral features among the most visited tourist attractions in Germany. Visitors can also access other medieval churches, museums and galleries in this city.
The Cologne Cathedral holds rich historical information on the religious revolution in the 12th century, as it was constructed after Archbishop Konrad von Hochstaden ordered the construction of large churches to replace the small parish churches. It was built after another church in the same location was demolished. During World War 2, it was also demolished but later rebuilt from the salvaged building materials of another collapsed church.
4. Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria
Neuschwanstein Castle, lying on a rocky hill with 19th-century Romanesque architecture, is the most visited attraction in Germany. This palace lies above the Hohenschwangau village near Fussen, a town in Southwest Bavaria. It was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria in honour of Richard Wagner and was also a retreat centre. Tourists began visiting it in 1886 after the king died, and to date, it has attracted over 60 million people.
Among the top attractions in Germany, the Neuschwanstein Castle has been featured in numerous motion pictures: Star Wars Episode 2-Attack of the Clones, the Great Race, the Lone Ranger and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, among others.
5. The Munich Residenz in Bavaria
The Munich Residenz was designed by Domenico dell’Allio and built between 1468 and 1574. It was previously inhabited by the Bavarian monarchs of the House of Wittelsbach. It became a museum in 1905 after the sitting king, Ludwig II, was overthrown by Otto von Bismarck. The Residenz displays Italian architecture and is a top cultural landmark in Germany.
Tourists flock here to see the monument’s magnificent four wings surrounding an innermost yard with numerous beautiful ceremonial rooms. Visitors can view some throne rooms, libraries and an exquisite banqueting room.
You can find more informations in top places to visit in Munich .
6. The Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen
The Rhine Falls are found in Schaffhausen, a city famous for its spectacular bridges, next to the German border. They are the largest falls in Europe and are part of Germany's most breathtaking natural tourist attractions.
Visitors are always awed by this natural wonder, with an average flow of 600 m³/s, 2/3 that of Niagara Falls in the US. Although the Rhine Falls are in Switzerland, visitors can still access this spectacular natural beauty easily from the German border.
Visitors to the Rhine Falls can experience standing high above the waterfall and listening to the vibration and roar of the waves. They can also experience beautiful boat rides to the Rhine Falls Basin, the nearby castles and the magnificent rock at the centre of the waterfall.
7. Hellabrunn Zoo in Munich
Hellabrunn Zoo is famous for its many animals, excellent exhibits and other tourist attractions. This zoo hosts the largest aquarium in the whole of Germany, a butterfly section with numerous species of butterflies and a bird walk section with birds hovering around visitors’ shoulders.
The Hellabrunn Zoo in Munich is the perfect tourist destination for visitors travelling with kids who enjoy viewing different types of animals.
8. Nuremberg Castle
Nuremberg Castle is an old castle located in Nuremberg, Bavaria, Germany. It is found on a hill known as the Castle Hill that faces the Nuremberg historical centre. The castle had undergone several modifications before reaching its current size in 1873. In the last modification, King Ludwig II of Bavaria added an outer zone with about 20 rooms and four towers.
In the present day, the Nuremberg Castle is home to many museums and is on the list of tourist attractions in Germany. The castle is also part of the Dungeon Museum, a torture chamber that displays all the punishment tools used in the Middle Age period in Central Europe.
Visitors will be pleased to learn that this exquisite castle has two restaurants. In one of the restaurants, visitors can order and sit inside or outside, depending on the weather. The second restaurant has a beautiful beer yard with live music every night from May to September.
9. Hohenzollern Castle
Hohenzollern Castle, in Hechingen, a town in the South West of Germany, was constructed in the 12th century and has Roman-inspired architecture. The castle has hosted numerous families in its 800 years of existence. At some point, it was home to the Hohenzollern family, who gifted its name to the German royal family.
Visitors can now visit the castle-turned-museum that provides comprehensive tours throughout the year apart from the Christmas and New Year seasons. The museum has numerous artefacts to offer tourists, including paintings and exquisite wall hangings displaying various biblical scenarios.
10. German National Museum in Nuremberg
The German National Museum in Nuremberg is a top museum that displays three themes in its collection. Visitors can access the Archeological exhibits, Ethnology studies and Middle Age and Early Modern Exhibits. Tourists can also experience numerous exhibitions depending on the time of the year.
Other interesting tourist attractions in Germany include Bonn, Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Weimar. Bonn is a great town to visit because it hosts numerous museums. For instance, visitors can visit the Ludwig Museum, which has the excellent works of popular artists. Munich is also an amazing city to explore, especially the Oktoberfest Fiesta, where artisans display their beer-making skills. Visitors can also explore the Holocaust Memorial Site in Berlin to find out how the people involved in the Second World War lived. Hamburg and Weimar are excellent tourist destinations with numerous parks and interesting transport options.
Germany has diverse tourist attractions to offer visitors all through the year. Its diversity is depicted in its different regions, such as its meandering rivers, flat farmlands and mountainous regions. Germany has a rich history that visitors interested in historical things can explore. Germany is a peaceful and united country governed by its state rules and laws.
From the different top tourist attractions in Germany, it is evident that there is something for every person regardless of age. Adults can visit historical museums, castles, waterfall, medieval cathedrals and vibrant exhibitions. Adults with children can visit zoos, exquisite restaurants and beautiful castle gardens around Germany.
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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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The TOP 100 sights and attractions in Germany
Germany has a wealth of fantastic tourist sights and attractions, which people travel from all over the world to see. But which architectural treasures and places of natural beauty are the most popular? The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) put this question to its international visitors, and more than 25,000 people from around the world chose their personal favourites for 2024.
Find inspiration from the favorites of international users!
1 Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg
2 Europa-Park, Rust
3 Phantasialand, Brühl
4 Nürburgring
5 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
7 Deutschlandmuseum, Berlin
8 UNESCO World Heritage Margravial Opera House, Bayreuth
9 Therme Erding
10 Eltz Castle, Wierschem
11 Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau
12 Lake Constance with Mainau Island and UNESCO World Heritage Site Reichenau Monastery Island
13 Europa-Rosarium, Sangerhausen
16 Theme park Ravensburger Spieleland
18 Black Forest
19 Erlebnispark Tripsdrill mit Wildparadies, Cleebronn
20 UNESCO World Heritage Cologne Cathedral
21 Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg
22 Heidelberg
23 Saxon Switzerland National Park
24 Legoland Germany Resort, Günzburg
25 Berchtesgaden
26 Romantic Road
27 Ulmer Münster
28 Freiburg
30 Charming Tauber valley
31 Würzburg
35 Zugspitze
36 Rügen Island
37 Oktoberfest, Munich
38 Bayern-Park Freizeitparadies, Reisbach
39 UNESCO World Heritage Baden-Baden
40 Nuremberg
41 Frankfurt
43 Garmisch-Partenkirchen
44 Quedlinburg
45 UNESCO World Heritage Berlin Museum Island
46 Lake Königssee, Bavaria
48 Dinkelsbühl
51 Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
52 UNESCO World Heritage Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe
53 Regensburg
54 UNESCO World Heritage Speicherstadt, Hamburg
56 Beilstein
57 Wildpark Bad Mergentheim
58 Stuttgart
59 Eifel National Park
62 Bernkastel-Kues
63 Altmühltal Nature Park
64 UNESCO World Heritage Porta Nigra, Trier
65 Wernigerode
67 Bayreuth
69 Düsseldorf
70 UNESCO World Heritage - Schwerin Residence Ensemble
72 Helgoland Island
74 Wadden Sea National Park
75 Rüdesheim am Rhein
78 UNESCO World Heritage Wartburg Castle, Eisenach
79 Monschau
80 UNESCO Spreewald Biosphere Reserve
81 Usedom Island
82 Hohenzollern Castle, Bisingen
83 Bavarian Forest National Park
84 Linderhof Castle, Ettal
85 UNESCO World Heritage Sanssouci Palace, Potsdam
86 Chiemsee
87 German Alpine Road
88 UNESCO World Heritage Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex in Essen
90 Schwebebahn Wuppertal
91 Lake Tegernsee
92 Roevershagen - Karls adventure village
93 Saarschleife
94 UNESCO World Heritage Pilgrimage Church of Wies, Steingaden
95 Sylt Island
96 Heide Park Resort, Soltau
97 Sinsheim Technology Museum
98 German Fairy Tale Route
99 Autostadt in Wolfsburg
17 of the best things to do in Germany
May 10, 2024 • 9 min read
Experience the best of Germany with these top things to do © Wirestock / Getty Images
For grand castles and gritty industrial architecture, half-timbered taverns and edgy techno nightclubs, head to Germany .
Explore culture-rich cities like Berlin or Hamburg ; dive into the great outdoors by visiting epic mountains and national parks ; or examine to modern history and reminders of a divided past. Here are some of the top things to do across the country.
1. Skate down the runway at Berlin’s abandoned airport
Complete with runway markings, grounded planes and old hangars, Tempelhofer Feld in the south of Berlin is a much-loved spot in the city. The airport stopped operating in 2008 and opened as a park two years later.
Today, it is roller skaters and cyclists who accelerate down the tarmac, while the greenery is used for picnics, community gardens or just to hang out. Look out for the information boards telling the story of the site, including its vital role during the Berlin Airlift from 1948 to 1949.
Local tip: In summer, the airport is a good spot for a barbeque – just make sure you stick to the designated areas.
2. Tap into Germany’s industrial side
The Ruhrgebiet in western Germany was once a global hub for coal mining and metal production. Since its decline, the area has undergone a major makeover – with repurposed industrial infrastructure at the forefront.
Highlights include the Zeche Zollverein , a former coal-mining complex now home to museums, cultural spaces and an outdoor swimming pool; and Landschaftspark Duisburg-North , a decommissioned ironworks with a diving center in the gasometer and climbing walls in the old ore storage bunkers.
Planning tip: For a full list of locations to visit, check out the Industrial Heritage Trail (Route der Industriekultur).
3. Scale Germany’s highest mountain
The Bavarian Alps have fantastic hiking and climbing routes, as well as cable cars that help you gain height a bit faster. The most awe-inspiring of these is the modern Zugspitze cable car on Germany’s highest mountain.
In operation since 2017, this state-of-the-art construction has the world’s longest unsupported rope span and an epic top station perched on the rocky summit. While the journey doesn’t come cheap, the views are spectacular.
Planning tip: If possible, leave time to walk around the Eibsee lake at the base of the mountain. In warmer weather you can also go for a dip in the strikingly blue water.
4. Drive the German Wine Route
The Deutsche Weinstrasse connects vineyards, villages and a number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the attractive Palatinate (Pfalz) region. The 53-mile (85km) route can be done as a road trip and provides a great introduction to the country’s vino.
Renowned for rieslings, this area also produces several other whites as well as an increasing volume of reds. Thanks to a moderate climate, you’ll even spy figs, kiwis and lemons growing here.
Detour: For a lesser-known wine region, head up to Rheinhessen. Here, locally-based company BottleStops offers excellent tours in English.
5. Cross the mighty Rhine in Cologne
One of the best ways to approach Cologne Cathedral is to walk across Hohenzollern Bridge. Take in the city skyline and watch large barges glide along the Rhine below as the famous gothic towers loom ever closer.
In 2008, people started attaching “love locks” to the bridge’s railings. Most are engraved with couples’ names or initials, with the key thrown into the water as a sign of eternal love.
6. Reflect on Nazi history in Nuremberg
The former Nazi Party Rally Grounds are located on the edge of Nuremberg . With many of the imposing structures still standing, such as the Zeppelinfeld Grandstand and the unfinished Congress Hall, the large site is an eerie place to walk around.
Elsewhere, the Memorium Nuremberg Trials examines the process that saw leading Nazi figures answer for their crimes and shaped the future of international criminal law. If not in use, you can visit the courtroom where the trials were held.
7. Gaze at the castle that inspired Walt Disney
Set against a beautiful mountain backdrop, this fairy-tale castle has to be seen to be believed. Said to have inspired Disney, Schloss Neuschwanstein was built as a retreat for “mad” King Ludwig II.
Opened to the public just a few weeks after the king’s mysterious death in 1886, it is now one of Germany’s top tourist attractions and one of Europe’s most visited castles – a far cry from its intended purpose as a private refuge.
Planning tip: As with any major tourist attraction, avoid the crowds by arriving early or visiting outside of peak season.
8. Hit the spa in Baden-Baden
The mineral waters in the Black Forest have long attracted wellness fans to this region, in particular to Baden-Baden . Home to 12 thermal springs, the well-known spa town is perfect for a bit of pampering and luxury. Even celebs love it.
Get started at Friedrichsbad, a grand Renaissance-style building with domed ceilings, elaborate frescoes and a multi-station bathing circuit. Submerge yourself in thermal whirlpools, hot-air baths and cold water before heading to a relaxation room with a handy wake-up service.
9. Try water sports on Sylt, Germany’s glitziest island
Sylt is the biggest of Germany’s North Frisian Islands and a top staycation destination. Sometimes referred to as the "Saint-Tropez of the north" or the "Hamptons of Germany," it has grassy dunes and sandy beaches, as well as upmarket restaurants and hotels that cater to a wealthier crowd.
It is also a water sports hot spot. Thanks to choppy surf off the western coast and calmer waters in the Wadden Sea, the island accommodates both beginners and those with more experience.
Planning tip: Sylt is no secret and can be very busy during the summer months. Book ahead if you plan to visit then.
10. Cycle for cheese in the Allgäu region
Known for its cheese, the Allgäu region is home to alpine dairies, cow-filled meadows and wooden farmhouses. Best explored by bike, you’ll find several routes that pass different producers.
Staples include Bergkäse (mountain cheese) and Allgäuer Emmentaler . Don’t worry if the shops are closed; it won’t be long before you stumble upon a cheese-filled vending machine.
Local tip: Be sure to visit the soft cheese experts at Hoimat in Eschach. The young team behind this small business have created a stylish shop and cafe in a gorgeously restored barn. Embrace your inner culinarian with the best things to eat and drink in Germany .
11. Sip smoked beer in Bamberg
It’s not hard to find beer in Germany, but for something a little different, visit the beautiful Franconian town of Bamberg . Here you’ll discover the local tipple Rauchbier (smoked beer), best enjoyed in a cozy, half-timbered tavern.
According to legend, Rauchbier was invented by accident following a fire in a brewery. Today, the beer is served in many places, but only two breweries still stick to tradition and kiln malt over an open wood fire: Schlenkerla and Brauerei Spezial .
Local tip: Keep an eye out for the beer in dishes such as pork-filled roasted onion served with mashed potato and Rauchbier sauce.
12. Stroll along the murals on the Berlin Wall
There are several locations in the German capital where you can see remaining parts of the Berlin Wall, but the East Side Gallery stands out. The 0.8-mile (1.3km) stretch running parallel to the river Spree is covered in murals created by international artists following the fall of the wall, including Birgit Kind's iconic image of a Trabant (Trabi) car.
Surrounded by many new apartment blocks and office complexes – some complete, some still under construction – this part of town demonstrates the vast scale of redevelopment that has shaped the city since reunification.
Local tip: For a more sober look at the impact of the divide, head to Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer at Bernauer Straße. This outdoor memorial includes another original piece of wall.
Berlin-based writer Barbara Woolsey gives us the intel on the city's famous club scene with How Berlin is ushering in a new era of club culture .
13. Catch a concert at Hamburg’s impressive venue
Standing proudly on a peninsula in Hamburg, the Elbphilharmonie or “Elphi” is an architectural masterpiece. Opened in 2017, the concert hall consists of a new shimmering glass structure sitting atop an old red-brick warehouse.
Check out the program of events or simply head up to the Elbphilharmonie Plaza for panoramic views across the city and along the river. The open-air platform is free of charge and wraps around the entire building.
Local tip: Some harbor boat tours go past the outside of the building, allowing you to see it from a different angle.
14. Visit the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
Located on the outskirts of Munich , Dachau was one of the first concentration camps to be built and later became the first memorial of its kind in Germany. Known as KZ-Gedenkstätte Dachau , you can wander around the site, including the tree-lined camp road and the roll call area – all overlooked by watchtowers.
Permanent exhibitions provide extensive information about the camp and the prisoners, as well as what happened after liberation. Entrance is free and all texts are provided in English and German.
Planning tip: The memorial is easy to reach using public transport from Munich. Take the S-Bahn (S2) to Dachau station and pick up the 726 bus from there. It drops you right outside the entrance.
15. Feel Leipzig’s creative buzz
Fans of Berlin’s edge should also visit Leipzig . The former East German city is constantly evolving and appeals to artists and designers, many making use of empty industrial spaces.
Discover alternative neighborhoods, cool projects and edgy installations, before exploring connections to creative masterminds of the past. Leipzig is where Richard Wagner was born, as well as where Mendelssohn and Bach lived for many years.
16. Go hiking in Saxon Switzerland National Park
Sandstone pinnacles and tabletop mountains create this unusual landscape in the east of the country. Germany’s only non-alpine rock national park, Saxon Switzerland (Sächsische Schweiz) is a haven for sporty types. The best-known spot is the Basteibrücke, a magnificent stone bridge between two towers of rock.
Detour: Easy to reach by car or public transport, the nearby city of Dresden is where you’ll find landmarks such as the Zwinger Palace and the reconstructed Frauenkirche .
Hit the trails with these 6 incredible hikes in Germany .
17. Spend an afternoon in a Munich beer garden
Beer gardens are central to Munich life. As soon as the good weather hits, locals head to their favorite one for a cold beer and a chinwag with friends. You’ll also often see groups celebrating birthdays and other events at the long tables.
While all serve lager by the liter, each garden has a USP. Go to Seehaus in Englischer Garten for drinks by a lake, Paulaner am Nockherberg for a modern in-house brewery or laid-back Biergarten Muffatwerk for some organic grub.
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