Think a trip to Germany ends when you’ve been clubbing in Berlin and hiking in Bavaria? Not so fast! While major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt attract a vast majority of tourists, exploring Germany’s smaller cities can be equally rewarding and brimming with youthful energy.
Cities across Germany’s regions prioritize what young people value: vibrant nightlife and entertainment, art, and sustainability—all intertwined with centuries-old traditions. This invigorating juxtaposition makes exploring these cities truly special.
Wend your way through the arty alleys of Bremen
‘Expressionism’ is not a term typically associated with architecture, yet a stroll down Bremen’s Böttcherstrasse will leave you in awe. The traditional red brick melds with undulating structures that exude surreal charm. This transformation is thanks to coffee magnate Ludwig Roselius, who envisioned this beautiful street.
From Böttcherstrasse, it’s a quick walk to the Schnoor district, a historical gem with winding alleys and quaint boutiques, presenting a lively atmosphere perfect for mingling.
Commune with art’s past and present in Saarbrücken
Approximately ten percent of Saarbrücken’s population comprises students, thanks to it being home to the prestigious Universität des Saarlandes. This youthful energy energizes the city’s entertainment scene, with live music offering everything from jazz at Jules Verne to rock at Garage.
Inspired by Saarbrücken’s baroque architecture? Don’t miss the Moderne Galerie, showcasing an impressive collection of Impressionist art, including works by Monet and Renoir, housed in a remarkable building designed to house ‘degenerate’ art once deemed unacceptable by the Nazi party.
March to the beat of the coolest drummer, in Leipzig
Leipzig is a city that even the most apathetic Berliners recognize as cool. Known for its creative spirit, Leipzig has been a historical hub for youth movements, notably the peaceful protests in 1989 that paved the way for German reunification.
The Museen im Grassi features collections that span centuries, with the Museum für Musikinstrumente leading the way, showcasing Leipzig’s five centuries of musical heritage and over 9,000 items of historical instruments.
Flirt with adventure in the hills above Freiburg im Breisgau
From a bird’s-eye perspective, Freiburg resembles a mini Rio de Janeiro, with its rolling green mountains dotting the landscape with beautiful houses and captivating medieval architecture. This fairytale atmosphere extends beyond the city into the enchanting Black Forest.
Hikers can begin their adventure at Freiburg’s Schwabentor, a historic 13th-century gate. From here, you can hike up to the lookout tower at Schlossberg. For those seeking greater challenges, continue on a 25km hike to Kandel mountain—renowned for its myth of a witch and her eerie companions.
In conclusion, whether or not you encounter a witch, the inviting cafes in Freiburg provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation after a day of exploration.
