The Best Places to Visit in Germany you need to see now!

|

So, you’re headed to Germany? Great choice! It just happens to be my favorite place on earth! One of your biggest decisions is going to be WHERE to go and WHAT to see. Finding the best places to visit in Germany can be truly overwhelming.

I have lived in several different areas of Germany. Even so, at one point I faced the same question about where to visit in Germany. I left for many years and when I decided to start traveling back, I had no idea where to start! I had two weeks. I knew I couldn’t fit it all in but I was taking my husband for the first time so it needed to be epic!

The choices range from medieval castles to modern cities, fairy-tale villages, and breathtaking natural landscapes; there are so many great German tourist spots!

The best places to visit in Germany article cover photo features popular German landmarks like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Cologne Cathedral and the Bavarian Alps

So, where is the best place to travel to in Germany then? THAT, my friend, depends on your own personal travel tastes! Read through this article of the most popular places to see in Germany and see what fits your own personal travel needs.

From the beer halls of Bavaria to the cosmopolitan streets of Berlin, from rambunctious Oktoberfest celebrations to serene Alpine lakes, use this comprehensive guide to narrow down your itinerary and make the seemingly impossible task of deciding what to see in Germany possible!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post. For more information see my privacy policy.

Germany’s Best Travel Regions

Looking for an area that suits your travel tastes? These are your best bets!

The Romantic Road: Germany’s Most Scenic Route

The Romantic Road stretches 350 kilometers from WĂ¼rzburg to FĂ¼ssen, passing through medieval towns, rolling countryside, and fairy-tale villages.
There are bus tours that will escort you along this route, stopping at the best places. Here are a few of the best options on Get Your Guide, which generally come with book now, pay later, and free cancellation!

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

The most famous stop on the Romantic Road is Rothenburg, Germany’s best-preserved medieval town. It’s my favorite German town! When I was a child, we lived just a few kilometers away and decades later, I keep going back!

Frozen in time Rothenburg is sprung from the pages of a storybook with half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and towers. My favorite things to do in Rothenburg include walking the medieval wall, visiting one of the great museums in Rothenburg including the Medieval Crime Museum, exploring Rothenburg after dark, and perusing the largest Christmas store in the world!

You may find these Rothenburg posts helpful:

Markusturm / Marcus Tower and the Roder Arch Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany, Rothenburg itinerary
Marcus Tower Rothenburg

Other Romantic Road Highlights

  • WĂ¼rzburg boasts the magnificent Residenz Palace is from the exterior a bit unassuming. I’d call it even bland, but the opulence of its interior is something to behold!
  • DinkelsbĂ¼hl rivals Rothenburg for medieval charm but receives fewer visitors. Their Christmas market is quite charming.
  • Augsburg, one of Germany’s oldest cities, offers Roman history and Renaissance architecture.
  • The route ends at FĂ¼ssen, your base for visiting Neuschwanstein.
Map of the Romantic Road in Germany
Map of the Romantic Road in Germany

The Rhine Valley: Castles, Vineyards, and Villages

The Rhine Valley is another one of my personal favorite destinations in Germany. This is another place that I’ve been visiting since my childhood and it keeps calling me back.

Angie Kunze, owner The Travel Bug Life on a Rhine River cruise in the 1970's with two other children and a Rhine village in the background.
Me enjoying my very first Rhine River Cruise!

This river stretches across several countries in Europe, but you’ll find the best of the Rhine between Koblenz and Bingen. The upper middle Rhine has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features dozens of fortresses and castles perched on hillsides above the river, with terraced vineyards and charming villages like Bacharach and RĂ¼desheim dot the landscape.

the view of the Rhine River looking north from Burg Rheinfels Castle
The mighty Rhine River

This area is perfect for anyone who’s looking for something to do near Frankfurt International Airport. RĂ¼desheim is less than an hour by car (two by public transit) from the airport.

The Rhine Valley produces some of Germany’s finest wines, particularly the renowned Rieslings. Wine tasting opportunities abound here.

Check here for a full list of castles on the Rhine River.

I love to sit back and take in sites along the Rhine like the legendary Loreley Statue and Lorelei Rock and the fanciful Pfalzgrafenstein Castle from the water. These cruises offer panoramic views of the vineyards, castles, and scenic landscapes. The short cruise between St. Goar and Bacharach is a popular choice.

The Lorelei Statue at the Lorelei Rock on the Rhine River near St. Goar and St. Goarhausen Germany
The Lorelei Statue

Stay in a family-run guesthouse or one of the amazing castle hotels on the Rhine and enjoy this amazing area of Germany!

burghotel auf schonburg castle hotel germany
choose one of the Rhine’s amazing Castle hotels!

Moselle River Valley

The Moselle, like the Rhine, is lined with terraced vineyards, castles, and picture-perfect little wine villages with half-timbered houses. The Mosel Valley is also famous for its white Riesling wines, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to cruise the river. The differences?

You’ll find a cliff-top castle here and there but nothing like you’ll find on the Upper Middle Rhine. My favorite thing about the Moselle is that in contrast to the crowded Rhine, the Moselle is sleepier.

The lazy Moselle cuts right through the small town of Cochem with its medieval town center and hilltop storybook perfect castle Reichsburg. Travel here for the annual wine festival the last weekend of August, or another time for a slower pace!

Cochem Germany on the banks of the Moselle River
Cochem Germany on the banks of the Moselle River
Reichsburg Cochem Castle Germany
Reichsburg Cochem Castle Germany

The Black Forest: Nature and Tradition

The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) in southwestern Germany offers dense forests, traditional villages, cuckoo clocks, and the decadent Black Forest cake. Looking for rural charm and outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and nature walks? This is your spot!

beautiful trees in Triberg Germany in the black forest
The Black Forest
Black Forests cake in Triberg Germany
Black Forests cake

One tip I recall from my favorite travel expert is if you plan to visit both the Black Forest and the Alps to visit the alps first otherwise this area might seem a little underwhelming. Still, if you love dense dark forests and gushing waterfalls this is a wonderful destination.

Here’s a full guide on how to travel the Black Forest

Black Forest Destinations

  • Triberg: If you’re looking for a destination in the Black Forest consider Triberg. You’ll find one of Germany’s highest waterfalls and numerous cuckoo clock shops. Here’s a complete guide to visiting Triberg.
  • Freiburg im Breisgau, the region’s unofficial capital, boasts a beautiful medieval Old Town, Gothic cathedral, and sunny climate.
  • Baden-Baden is a picturesque spa town famed for its thermal baths and spas, a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking relaxation, wellness, and leisure activities. Come here for therapeutic mineral-rich waters and a range of wellness treatments. You’ll also find casinos, lush parks and gardens, and Europe’s largest opera and concert halls.

Outdoor Activities in the Black Forest

  • The Westweg, a 285-kilometer trail from Pforzheim to Basel, is one of Germany’s most famous long-distance hikes. In winter, the region transforms into a snow sports destination with family-friendly ski areas.
  • Drive the scenic Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwald-Hochstrasse) for stunning valley views. I can confirm that this drive is especially scenic since I just drove a portion of it in October. Consider a stop at a farmhouse cafe for authentic Black Forest cake and coffee.

The Bavarian Alps

My very favorite area of Germany is Bavaria! It’s quintessential Germany! Think lederhosen, pretzels, beer steins, and traditional folk music. This region happens to be home to one of Germany’s most stunning landscapes, the mighty Bavarian Alps mountain range.

It’s here that you’ll find stunning Alpine scenery, crystal-clear emerald lakes, snow-capped mountains, charming mountain villages, meadows with crazing cows, and rustic mountain huts!

The Alps are the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.

This is also my favorite area of Germany to eat! Hearty traditional Bavarian dishes are some of the best food in Germany and include favorites such as schnitzel, pretzels, and wurst, best enjoyed at cozy taverns and beer halls.

Top destinations in the Bavarian Alps include:

Zugspitze

The Alps are home to Germany’s highest mountain! Make your way to the top on the cogwheel train or cable car to the summit for 360-degree views across four countries. I have a complete guide on visiting Zugspitze and Eibsee, the emerald green alpine lake at the base of the mountain.

Zugspitze Mountain Germanys highest
Zugspitze Mountain Germanys highest

Berchtesgaden National Park

Berchtesgaden National Park features dramatic mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and alpine meadows. The park is home to Königssee, a stunning fjord like lake, Germany’s deepest. Take an electric boat tour of the lake and embark at Obersee, one of my favorite Germany bucket list additions! Here’s how to see both of these amazing lakes!

boat tours of Konigssee Lake: The image depicts a large electric passenger boat on a pristine lake surrounded by towering mountains.
an idyllic boat tour on Lake Königssee Germany
Obersee, Alpine Lake in Germany
Obersee, Alpine Lake in Germany

Eagle’s Nest

The Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), Hitler’s mountaintop retreat, now serves as a restaurant and historical site. The views are spectacular but remember this place’s dark history.

What are the best cities to visit in Germany?

I avoid big cities like the plague, but I realize some of you love a big city vacay. I’m willing to admit that cities have it going on when it comes to travel. There are tons of things to do!

I’ve included Germany’s three biggest cities: Munich, Hamburg, and Berlin. Plus, you’ll find some of Germany’s most popular towns in this section.

Berlin: The Dynamic Capital

Located in eastern Germany, Berlin is the capital city and one of Europe’s most iconic cities. Visitors find a compelling mix of history, diverse culture, a vibrant art scene, galleries, world-class museums, performance venues, a thriving culinary scene, and nightlife in this modern cosmopolitan city.

From cityscapes and contemporary architecture to green spaces and the Spree River where you can take a boat ride or walk along its banks, Berlin’s landscapes are as diverse as any in Germany.

Berlin is incredibly bike-friendly, and renting a bicycle is one of the best ways to explore.

What to See in Berlin

  • The commanding Brandenburg Gate monument remains Berlin’s most iconic landmark.
  • The memorial to the Berlin Wall which once divided Germany into two separate counties.
  • The glass domed Reichstag government building offers panoramic city views.
  • The UNESCO World Heritage Museum Island is home to five world-class museums, including the Pergamon Museum with its reconstructed ancient monuments.
  • Sobering WWII sites like the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe or the Topography of Terror documentation center.
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Germany Landmarks in Germany
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Germany

Munich: Bavaria’s Cultural Heart

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, combines traditional German culture with modern amenities, world-class museums, theaters, opera houses, music venues, lush parks and gardens. Its proximity to the Bavarian Alps provides opportunities for outdoor adventures including hiking and skiing.

Munich’s Must-See Attractions

  • On the city’s busting historic Marienplatz square you’ll find shops, restaurants and the famous Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall. This enchanting mechanical clock performs daily at 11 am and noon (and a 5 pm showing during certain times of year.)
  • The English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks, offers beer gardens and peaceful walking paths.
  • The opulent Residenz Munich (Palace) is filled with treasures from Bavarian monarchs.

Beyond the City Center

Take a day trip to Nymphenburg Palace with its magnificent baroque architecture and expansive gardens. Visit during summer when the fountains are operating for the full experience.

Beer Culture, Oktoberfest, Beer Tents, and Beer Gardens!

Munich is the best place to visit in Germany for Oktoberfest. Why? Because this is where it all began! In the 17th century the wedding between a Bavarian King and his bride kicked off the very first Oktoberfest!

Today the world-famous festival takes place yearly from late September until early November. Visitors flock to Munich during this time.

If you can’t make it for Oktoberfest but still want to experience the Beer Garden culture, you’ll be glad to know that you can experience a traditional beer hall in Munich year-round. Hofbräuhaus is the most famous, but locals often prefer Augustiner-Bräu for a more authentic atmosphere.

Love the idea of Oktoberfest but NOT the overwhelming crowds? Consider visiting one of these small-town Oktoberfest alternatives instead!

Oktoberfest Germany
Oktoberfest Germany

Hamburg: Germany’s Gateway to the World

Hamburg, on the Elbe River, brings a fun nautical vibe to the city. The Port of Hamburg is the city’s heart, and a harbor boat tour provides the best introduction.

Hamburg is also home to Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway exhibition and the wave-like glass architectural marvel called the Elbphilharmonie concert hall viewing platform offers 360-degree views of the city.

Heidelberg: Romantic Germany at Its Finest

Heidelberg has a rambling castle ruin that overlooks the Neckar River and is home to Germany’s oldest university.

Stroll the cobblestone streets of Hauptstrasse in the Old Town (Altstadt), explore the University of Heidelberg’s historic buildings, cross the whimsical Old Bridge on your way to the Philosopher’s Walk for stunning panoramic views of the city, castle, and river.

I like this choice because it’s very easy to get to from Frankfurt which is home to Germany’s largest International Airport. You can be from the airport to Heidelberg in as little as an hour! Check the official transit website for more information.

Heidelberg Castle

While I’ve seen more impressive castles in Germany, Heidelberg Castle but the views from the top are quite nice! The last time I was there it was a Saturday and there was a long line at the funicular that whisks you up to the castle so plan accordingly.

Old Bridge in Heidelberg Germany view from the Heidelberg Castle
The view of Old Bridge from Heidelberg Castle

Cologne: Cathedral City on the Rhine

Cologne’s skyline is dominated by its magnificent Gothic cathedral, one of the most impressive churches in the world.

Cologne Cathedral

The UNESCO-listed Gothic Cologne Cathedral took over 600 years to complete. Climb the 533 steps to the south tower for breathtaking views across the Rhine and city. The first time I visited Cologne Cathedral I was probably 13 years old? (MANY years ago) and I will never forget walking through those massive doors.

Beyond the Cathedral

Make your way across the Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with thousands of love locks, to enjoy the cathedral view from across the Rhine. You’ll find Roman artifacts at the Romano-Germanic Museum. The Chocolate Museum is a must for chocolate lovers!

night view of the Koln (Cologne) Cathedral Germany
Koln (Cologne) Cathedral

Dresden: The Florence of the Elbe

Dresden with its baroque splendor is one of Germany’s most beautiful cities. This is what to see in Germany for breathtaking architecture and world-class art collections.

What to see in Dresden

Climb the dome of the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), for city views. The Zwinger Palace complex houses outstanding museums, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery with Raphael’s Sistine Madonna.

The Royal Palace features the Green Vault treasure chamber, displaying one of Europe’s most magnificent collections of jewels, gold, and precious objects. The Semperoper (opera house) offers tours and world-class performances.

Walk along the Elbe River promenade at sunset when the baroque buildings glow golden. Cross the Augustus Bridge for the best views of the Old Town skyline. The Neustadt (New Town) across the river offers hip cafes, street art, and a more alternative atmosphere.

Also, Dresden is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Czech Republic so consider adding it to your travel itinerary!

Nuremberg: Medieval History and Christmas Magic

I love everything “medieval” and Nuremberg is my kind of town! Nuremberg blends medieval charm with somber 20th-century history. The city hosts Germany’s most famous Christmas market and offers fascinating insights into both medieval and modern German history.

Things to see in Medieval Nuremberg

The Imperial Castle overlooks the city from its hilltop position. If I’m being honest this isn’t the best castle I’ve visited in Germany but if you’re in town it’s worth seeing.

The Hauptmarkt features the ornate Schöner Brunnen fountain and the Gothic Frauenkirche with its mechanical clock that performs daily at noon.

I think my favorite thing about Nuremberg, and something that makes it stand out from other towns in Germany are its whimsical bridge scenes. Follow along the river to discover your favorite!

Nuremberg bridge in winter
Nuremberg Bridges

Historical Significance

For those interested in World War II you’ll find The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and The Palace of Justice, where the Nuremberg Trials took place.

The Most Beautiful Medieval Towns in Germany

Did I mention that I’m kind of obsessed with the Middle Ages? I try to add medieval towns to my travels whenever possible, and Germany is an absolute gold mine! A visit to one of Germany’s finest medieval towns is a virtual step back in time. I haven’t met one yet that I didn’t like!

These picturesque towns, scattered throughout Germany, collectively have a rich history, yet each has its own unique charm. Here’s a list of the most beautiful medieval towns in Germany!

Wernigerode Germany, medieval town
Wernigerode, just one of Germany’s beautiful medieval towns

Germany’s Castles

There are literally thousands of Castles in Germany! I’m a bit obsessed with adding them to my travel itinerary. In this section you’ll discover some of the best options.

Neuschwanstein Castle: Disney’s Real-Life Inspiration

Let’s start with Neuschwanstein Castle which is one of Germany’s most famous landmarks! It’s the ultimate fairy-tale castle, it’s located near FĂ¼ssen in Bavaria, about two hours from Munich. Built by King Ludwig II in the 19th century, this romantic castle perched on a rugged hill inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Neuschwanstein castle classic view from Mary's Bridge. picture was taken in early fall when everything surrounding the castle is a bright green color. the castle is a fanciful style with turrets and towers, a white castles with a pretty blue roof, it sits on a hill overlooking the valley below
Neuschwanstein Castle

Having lived in Germany for so many years it’s odd that I have never visited Neuschwanstein before. On my first trip back, I made it a priority. Some discredit it because it’s comparatively not very old, some say it’s overrated, but I disagree!

You can get full details on visiting Neuschwanstein AND Hohenschwangau Castle in this article. One excursion, two castles! win!

More Ludwig Castles

Did you know that there are SEVERAL castles associated with King Ludwig? From the famous Linderhof to the sprawling Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg) to his less known royal residences, you’ll find the complete list of King Ludwig Castles in this article.

Black Forest Castles

While this area of Germany isn’t generally known for its castles, here are the top 33 castles in the Black Forest!

Castles Near Frankfurt

Found yourself at Frankfurt International and wanting to find the nearest castle? Here’s a whole list of castles near Frankfurt Germany!

Berg Eltz Castle

It is in my opinion the ultimate storybook fairytale castle! This perfect little authentic medieval castle that has remained virtually undisturbed, tucked away in a lush 300-acre forest in Germany, for 865 years.

I just love Burg Eltz’s fanciful mix of architectural styles. In this ultimate guide you’ll get all of the important details plus a few insider tips on how to make your visit just a little bit more magical!

Berg Eltz Castle Germany, the Medieval Europe castle
Burg Eltz Castle

More Fairytale Castles

Germany is known for its fairytale castles…magical castles that look like they came straight out of a storybook. This article contains the most beautiful fairytale castles in Germany!

Lichtenstein Castle Germany
Lichtenstein Castle, one of Germany’s fairytale castles!

Best Places to Visit in Germany with Family

Germany is exceptionally family-friendly, with many attractions designed just for the young ones in your travel party:

  • Europa-Park in Rust, Germany’s largest theme park, rivals any amusement park in Europe with thrilling rides and themed areas.
  • Theme parks: While Europa-Park is probably the most famous, there are plenty of other theme parks around Germany too! Phantasialand in BrĂ¼hl is one of my personal favorites!
  • Schwimmbad’s (swimming pools): You’ll find both indoor and outdoor facilities, as well as a combination of both! Tropical Islands near Berlin is the largest tropical resort in Europe. Therme Erding near Munich is the largest thermal spa in the world. Just search “schwimmbad in …” because there are tons of options! My personal favorite is the Frankentherme in Bad Windsheim, the perfect addition to your Rothenburg itinerary!
  • Open Air Museums are a wonderful way to wear out little ones with lots of energy, and their parents too.
  • Munich’s Deutsches Museum offers hands-on science exhibits where kids can touch, experiment, and learn.
  • The Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg captivates all ages with its intricate miniature world complete with trains, planes, and tiny moving figures.
  • Farm stays. Why not book a stay on a working farm? From cozy holiday farms to luxurious agritourism resorts, you can enjoy farm-fresh meals, participate in agricultural activities, and immerse yourself in rural life. Check Farmtravel.com to book one now!
  • The North Sea, head for the beaches of the North Sea in northern Germany!!

Top 10 Places to Visit in Germany

If you’re looking for a quick reference, here are the top 10 places to visit in Germany that offer the most compelling experiences:

  • Berlin – Dynamic capital blending history, culture, and contemporary edge
  • Munich – Bavarian tradition meets cosmopolitan sophistication
  • Neuschwanstein Castle – The ultimate fairy-tale castle experience
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Best-preserved medieval town
  • Rhine Valley – Castles, vineyards, and scenic river cruising
  • Heidelberg – Romantic castle ruins and charming Old Town
  • Hamburg – Maritime heritage and cutting-edge architecture
  • Dresden – Restored baroque beauty along the Elbe
  • Cologne – Gothic cathedral and vibrant riverside city
  • Black Forest – Traditional villages and pristine nature

Best Places to Visit in Germany in the Countryside

I adore Germany’s countryside and am happy to leave the urban centers to you city lovers. Don’t get me wrong, I’m also in heaven when I’m exploring a medieval village, but Germany’s peaceful landscapes are simply divine!

You’ll find more detail on these all in other sections of this article but here’s the brief answer:

  • The Rhine Valley for its stunning river valley scenery. Catch a boat ride for views of the terraced vineyards and castles above or head for one of those castles for panoramic views of the river valley below!
  • The Moselle Valley rivals the Rhine for beauty but receives fewer tourists. Visit the charming wine villages like Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues, for wine tasting and winding river views.
  • The Bavarian Alps for mountain meadows dotted with cows wearing bells, and hiking trails through pristine landscapes. Valley views include towering mountains peaks while heading up the mountain gets you stunning vistas!
  • Saxon Switzerland National Park near Dresden offers dramatic sandstone formations, deep gorges, and panoramic viewpoints reached by well-maintained hiking trails.
  • The Harz Mountains in central Germany provide traditional half-timbered villages, historic narrow-gauge railways, and the legendary Brocken peak shrouded in folklore.
  • Lake Constance (Bodensee) on the Swiss and Austrian borders combines lakeside relaxation with island monasteries, lakeside cycling routes, and views of the Alps.

Best City to Visit in Germany for the First Time

If you must pick only one then I’d say that your best bet is Munich. The Bavarian capital captures that quintessential Bavarian spirit that many travelers associate with Germany, from lederhosen and dirndls to alpine traditions and hearty regional cuisine.

The city offers a cornucopia of things to see and do to keep you busy for days. Not least of which are the traditional beer halls. Treat yourself to a giant pretzel and stein upon stein of all of the German beer your little heart desires!

Munich is also a good jumping off spot for day trips to see fairy-tale castles like Neuschwanstein, Alpine scenery, and the medieval villages of the Romantic Road with their half-timbered houses and cobblestones.

The city is walkable, safe, and more compact than Berlin, making it less overwhelming for first-time visitors. The efficient public transport system makes getting around a snap!

Traveling in Germany for the first time? Germany travel tips: Ultimate Guide for traveling in Germany for the first time

Best Places to Visit in Germany in Winter

Winter transforms Germany into a wonderland. These are great choices for winter!
Don’t miss this article: Germany in Winter: Ultimate Guide, everything you need to know!

  • Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the Bavarian Alps become snow sports paradises with skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, and cozy mountain huts serving warm GlĂ¼hwein.
  • Zugspitze offers spectacular winter views and reliable snow conditions.
  • The Black Forest villages look like Christmas card scenes under snow, with traditional farmhouses, frozen waterfalls in Triberg, and excellent cross-country skiing.
  • The Harz Mountains provide affordable skiing and the romantic Brocken Railway, a historic steam train that climbs through snowy forests to the summit.
  • The German Christmas Markets! Almost every small town has one! Check out the next section!

Best Places to Visit in Germany for Christmas

Have I mentioned that Christmastime in Germany is MAGICAL? Imagine snow dusted streets, lively Christmas markets, fresh greenery, twinkling Christmas lights and delightful smells like roasting wurst and chestnuts, spiced mulled wine (GlĂ¼hwein) and gingerbread (lebkuchen)!

Germany invented the Christmas market tradition, and visiting during the Advent season (the four weeks before Christmas) offers an enchanting experience.

Germany’s best Christmas destinations include: (Check out this ultimate guide to the Germany Christmas Markets)

  • Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is Germany’s most famous Christmas market. Don’t miss the opening ceremony with the Christkind (Christmas angel)!
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber is even better at Christmastime! Besides the advent market, the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Museum and shop are open year-round. Check this Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Guide for more information.
  • Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, surrounded by the town’s baroque architecture, is Germany’s oldest Christmas market dating back to 1434.
  • Munich hosts multiple Christmas markets, with the main one at Marienplatz featuring a huge Christmas tree and the Krampuslauf (Krampus parade). Locate more Krampus Events here!
  • Cologne’s cathedral provides a spectacular backdrop for multiple Christmas markets.
  • Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market, perhaps the most magical of them all, is located under a railway bridge that’s lit with rotating colors.

Magical Medieval Christmas Market itinerary, Germany

Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market in the Black Forest Germany
Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market

For those seeking to understand World War II history, here are your best options.

  • Berlin WWII sites: the Topography of Terror documentation center built on the former Gestapo headquarters site, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the German Resistance Memorial Center, and the Berlin Story Bunker museum.
  • Nuremberg WWII sites: The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, the Memorium Nuremberg Trials at the Palace of Justice
  • Munich WWII sites: the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, Germany’s first concentration camp and NS-Dokumentationszentrum, the birthplace of the Nazi movement.

The Map

Use these maps to seamlessly plan your itinerary!

Printable map for planning

First, download this printable map. Then mark the general area of your “must-see” sights, attractions, cities, and towns. Now see if you can create a

  • circular route: great for arriving at one airport and flying home from the same airport
  • straight line, point A to Point B: great for flying into one city and home from another
  • find a central location where you can do day trips: simple and easy, no need to pack and unpack again and again
Printable Map of Germany from the University of Texas

Interactive Google map of the Best Places to Visit in Germany

Here’s a map of the recommended places to visit in this article that will make your planning easier. The link takes you to an interactive Google Map.

Interactive Google Map of the Best Places to Visit in Germany. What to see in Germany
Where to visit in Germany
Where should I go for my first time in Germany? use this map!

Where Should I Go for My First Time in Germany: Sample Itineraries

If you’re wondering “where should I go for my first time in Germany?” here are practical itineraries based on trip length.

One Week in Germany

Days 1-2: Munich – Explore the city, visit a beer hall, see the main sights Day 3: Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle Days 4-5: Romantic Road stops (Rothenburg, DinkelsbĂ¼hl) Days 6-7: Berlin – History, museums, neighborhoods

This itinerary covers Bavarian culture, fairy-tale castles, medieval towns, and the vibrant capital.

Two Weeks in Germany

Add to the one-week itinerary: Days 8-9: Rhine Valley – River cruise, castle visits, wine tasting Days 10-11: Cologne and surrounding region Days 12-13: Hamburg – Maritime atmosphere, architecture Day 14: Dresden or return to starting point

Three Days in Southern Germany (First-Time Focus)

If your time is limited and you want to experience quintessential Germany: Day 1: Munich city center Day 2: Neuschwanstein Castle and FĂ¼ssen Day 3: Rothenburg ob der Tauber or Garmisch-Partenkirchen

This condensed itinerary hits key highlights that represent what most people imagine when they think of Germany.

start planning your Germany Trip

Interested in our epic first trip? Because it was Epic! My 2 Week Whirlwind trip to Germany that includes just a bit of Switzerland and Austria needs a bit of updating but it’s a “done for you” itinerary! check it out!

This itinerary covers “the best of” in my opinon: Germany Itinerary 10 days: Rhine, Neuschwanstein, Black Forest, Rothenburg, more!