Best Places to Visit in Germany

At the heart of Western Europe is Germany, a boundless feast for travelers. Its extensive variety of historic yet modern cities, romantic forests, and cultural richness can make planning a visit seem daunting. Therefore, it is advisable to take a slow approach and start with this 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 an astonishing landscape of vineyards and castles. The stretch between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, known as the Oberes Mittelrheintal (Upper Middle Rhine Valley), is so remarkable that it received UNESCO World Heritage status in 2002.

This land, heavily contested over the centuries, houses beautiful castles like Pfalzgrafstein, Burg Rheinstein, and Burg Reichenstein, along with the impressive Festung Ehrenbreitstein in Koblenz.

Planning tip: Be sure to visit some of the many wineries and wine bars in the area. Recommended spots include Bingen’s Weingut Georg Breuer, Alte Weinstube Zum Hubertus in Koblenz, and Zum Grünen Baum in Bacharach.

2. Cologne

Cologne (Köln) is celebrated for its liberal climate and rich historical sights. Founded by the Romans in the first century CE, this city has played a vital role in German history for centuries.

The most tangible symbol of Cologne’s significance is its magnificent 13th-century Gothic cathedral. The Kölner Dom is Germany’s largest church and was also Europe’s tallest building until surpassed by the Eiffel Tower. Other essential attractions include the Romano-Germanic Museum and the exquisite Wallraf-Richartz Museum, showcasing a sublime collection of 13th to 19th-century European art.

3. The Baltic Coast

Northern Germany’s Baltic Coast offers a strikingly different experience. The unique southern coast of the Baltic Sea features beautiful sandy beaches, whispering pines, and pristine nature sanctuaries. Noteworthy highlights encompass the historic town of Stralsund and the breathtaking cliffs of Jasmund National Park on Rügen Island, renowned for its diverse birdlife.

4. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fairy-tale village along the Romantic Road that offers a remarkably preserved medieval atmosphere. Visitors will appreciate the meandering cobbled lanes, intact city walls, and historic churches. Explore local treasures at the Reichsstadtmuseum and the Alt-Rothenburger Handwerkerhaus, showcasing various traditional crafts.

5. Munich and the Bavarian Alps

Munich (München), the capital of Bavaria, embodies “classic” German culture, famous for its beer gardens, bratwursts, and lederhosen. However, Munich is much more than clichés; it serves as a hub of high-tech manufacturing and cutting-edge culture while being the gateway to the stunning Bavarian Alps.

Key attractions include the Residenzmuseum, the museum-rich Kunstareal district, and the elegant Schloss Nymphenburg. A drive south of Munich leads to picturesque villages and breathtaking mountain scenery.

6. Erfurt and Weimar

The central-German cities of Erfurt and Weimar feature an incredible concentration of cultural significance. While Erfurt boasts a beautiful medieval center, Weimar is renowned as a cultural epicenter, famously associated with icons such as Bach, Goethe, Schiller, and Nietzsche.

Essential sights in Erfurt include the impressive cathedral and the grand Zitadelle Petersberg. In Weimar, don’t miss the Goethe-Nationalmuseum, Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek, and the Bauhaus Museum, which has its roots in the area.

7. The Black Forest

Bordering France and Switzerland, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) extends over 6,000 sq km (2,316 sq miles). From its lush spruce-covered slopes to picturesque valleys and quaint villages, this region invites exploration by car, on foot, or by bike.

For those with limited time, driving along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse unveils breathtaking views. If time permits, consider hiking the Panoramaweg or visiting Triberg, known for its waterfall and iconic cuckoo clocks.

8. Berlin

No itinerary for Germany would be complete without mentioning Berlin, the vibrant capital and cultural heart of the country. As Germany’s largest city, Berlin brims with iconic museums, diverse dining options, and an electric nightlife scene.

Make sure to explore the Neue Nationalgalerie and the renowned Museumsinsel (Museum Island). For nightlife, consider visiting the famous Berghain and Pratergarten, where the city’s adventurous spirit in dining and entertainment comes alive.