50 plus Famous Landmarks in Germany, Germany’s most popular sights!
Are you looking for the best places to visit on your next trip to Germany? Look no further! This list of famous landmarks in Germany has it all!
We’ll covers Germany’s natural and man-made landmark, some popular tourist attractions, some hidden gems!…all great travel destinations that deserve a spot on your “must see” travel wish lists.
Although there are many Famous landmarks in Germany, we’ll focus on only the very best of the best!
Whenever I plan a trip to Germany, I want it to be epic. I have limited time to visit, so I want to make the most of my time. Many of these landmarks were on my travel bucket list, many of have been fortunate enough to visit! Many more are still on my travel wish list!
In this article you’ll find over 50 of the very best landmarks in Germany! These are the top famous German Landmarks that you need to see right now! When we have more time we can explore the smaller recesses and corners of the country but for now, we want to see the very best Germany has to offer!
Table of Contents
Landmarks Germany: for Nature lovers
These next “ famous landmarks of Germany “ are man made structures set in nature so you get the best of both worlds.
(1) The Bastei Bridge (The Bastion Bridge / Basteibrücke)
The Bastei, located in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, is a bridge that spans a one of a kind ancient rock formation. The rock formation and bridge tower over the Elbe River and the Saxon Switzerland National Park (Nationalpark Sächsische Schweiz) below.
*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small fee. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.
(2) The Devil’s Bridge / Rakotzbrücke
Located in the state of Saxony, is a whimsical half circle bridge that is one of Germany’s most fanciful iconic landmarks. The reflection of The Devil’s Bridge in the waters of tiny Rakotzee Lake causes the bridge to appear as a full circle.
Folklore often refers to these fanciful and seemingly logic defying structures as Devil’s bridges.
The Devil’s Bridge is a 1.5 hour drive from either Dresden or the Saxon Switzerland National Park. (Looking for more hidden gems in Europe? here’s how to find them!)
(3) Geierlay Suspension Bridge (Geierlay Hängeseilbrücke)
Thrill seekers this one’s for you, because my feet prefer to stay firmly planted on the ground! If you find yourself in the Rhine River / Moselle River area check out the Geierlay Bridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Germany. Navigate your way along this 360 meter long pedestrian bridge that’s suspended 100 meters above the ground below for maximum thrills and amazing views.
natural landmarks in Germany
Germany is flush with natural landmarks! Here are some of the most recognizable:
(4) Triberg Wasserfall (Triberger Wasserfälle)
Triberg is located in the Black Forest (Schwarzwald auf Deutsch!) The Black Forest is a magical densely forested area in southern Germany, where one might expect to find gnomes and fairies around any corner.
The lush green landscape of the Black forest is where you will find one of Germany’s highest waterfalls. In addition to seeing the famous waterfall in Triberg, you can also shop for whimsical cuckoo clocks and get a taste of some delectable Black Forest cake! (cherries, chocolate, cream, and a touch of cherry-flavored liquor…yum!)
To learn about how you can get a taste of what Triberg has to offer, check out my “Triberg Germany trip planner!”, consider adding one of the Black Forest Castles to your itinerary, and get the Black Forest Travel Guide here!
(5) The Alps
The Alps are a mountainous region that stretch across several European countries, including southern Germany. The Bavarian Alps, with their towering peaks, alpine lakes, and alpine villages are a wonderful place to visit.
Mount Zugspitze is located in the Bavarian Alps and happens to be Germany’s highest mountain. For panoramic views of the stunning alpine landscape (one of the best things about the Alps!) that surrounds Zugspitze, head to the viewing platform / observation deck at the very top, and don’t miss the emerald-green Eibsee at the base of the mountain.
Get more information: Complete Visitor Guide: Stunning Eibsee Lake and Zugspitze Mountain!
(6 & 7) Königssee and Obersee Lakes
Ah the Bavarian Alps, a little bit of heaven on earth and the lakes in heaven are just, well heavenly! Konigsee is a fjord like lake nestle in the German Alps. Take a scenic boat tour on Konigsee to the back of the lake where you have the option to disembark.
From there, a lovely path leads to Obersee, an idyllic emerald green lake. Röthbachfall waterfall, Germany’s highest, is located behind Obersee.
get more details: read about the best way to see both Königssee and Obersee Lakes, or take a tour from Munich or Salzburg
(8) River Rhine (Rhein)
The famous Rhine River slowly meanders its way through some of the most lovely scenery in Deutschland! The banks of the Rhine River are littered with castles, castle ruins, and oh so adorable villages!
The most romantic and beautiful part (arguably) of the Rhine runs through the The Lorelei Valley (Loreley) in Germany, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consider adding a short trip on the most scenic section of the Rhine to your Germany Itinerary. Book either a short 2-hour cruise or even a multi-day cruises on the Rhine!
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(9) Tree path Regensburg (Pappelallee)
You’ll feel a bit like you’ve landed in a daydream when you visit the fancifully crooked tree path in the World Heritage town of Regensburg. (Find it on Google Maps / GPS: try entering “Pappelallee” (popular avenue))
Historical landmarks in Germany
Germany is just flush with history! It’s the perfect place to take a trip back in time. I love the way they preserve their ancient treasures instead of tearing them down just to replace them with modern structures that are often completely lacking in personality. You’ll find many very well preserved medieval towns in Germany.
Here are some of the best historic landmarks in Germany:
(10) Prehistoric Pile Dwelling Museum (Pfahlbauten Unteruhldingen)
Let’s start with one of the oldest of the historical landmarks in Germany. On Lake Constance there is an archaeological open air museum. There you will find recreated dwellings based on Neolithic and Bronze Age stilt house settlements that existed here from around 4,000-850 BC!. The location of the Prehistoric Pile Dwelling Museum on Lake Constance is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
(11 & 12 & 13) Bremen Town Hall (Bremer Rathaus) plus the Roland and Bremen Town Musicians Statues
Bremen is located near the North Sea in northern Europe. The beautiful Bremen Town Hall is one of the most important examples of Brick Gothic and Weser Renaissance architecture in Europe. Together with the Roland Statue, an iconic sight that can be found in the Market Square, it is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
While you’re in Bremen don’t miss one of the most Popular attractions in town, The Bremen Town Musicians Statue!
(14) Old Town Hall Bamberg (Altes Rathaus)
The Old Town Hall, which spans a portion of the Linker Regnitz River in Bamberg, is a very recognizable “ Germany landmark.” Bamberg, with its well preserved 11th-19th century structures, is located in northern Bavaria .
The Old Town Hall is surrounded by Bamberg’s Old Town, with its medieval streets and Europe’s largest intact old city wall.
(15) Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Rothenburg is one of Germany’s most popular destinations and for good reason! It’s a fairy tale come to life, and yes it was even the inspiration for the higgledy-piggledy little village in the Walt Disney Pinocchio movie.
But, Disney aside, Rothenburg is one of Germany’s most well preserved historical landmarks. This medieval city will charm you with its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and 14th century medieval town walls. Take yourself to Rothenburg and take a step back in time!
First time in Rothenburg? Don’t miss a thing! Rothenburg ob der Tauber Visitor Guide! OR save yourself some work and get a free 3 day Rothenburg itinerary!
(16 & 17 & 18 & 19) Roman sites in Trier
Much older even than Rothenburg is the ancient city of Tier, located in wine country in southwest Germany. Trier, teeming with amazing landmarks, was founded by Romans. You will be delighted to find several well preserved Roman structures still standing.
The best examples of Roman structures in Trier:
- Porta Nigra Gate is an ancient Roman City gate from the year 170 AD.
- Roman baths ruins, a large Roman bath complex from the early 4th century, constructed during the reign of Holy Roman Emperor Constantine I (Constantine the Great) during the time that his son lived in Trier.
- Roman amphitheater
- Stone bridge over the Moselle River. (Römerbrücke) There was a bridge here as early as the year 17 BC.
Trier is, as you might expect, listed as a UNESCO site, and don’t miss the Archaeological Museum with it’s impressive display of Roman artifacts.
(20 & 21 & 22 & 23) Historical Landmarks in Berlin Germany
Berlin is the largest city in Germany, so it’s not surprising that they have their fair share of famous landmarks, most of which are located in the city center.
Here are the best historical landmarks in Berlin:
Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)
The Brandenburg Gate is an 18th-century neoclassical monument in Berlin just off of the Pariser Platz. The city gate was built under the Prussian King Frederick William II.
The Berlin Wall
After World War II Germany was divided during the ensuing Cold war. The “Iron curtain” split the country into East Germany (German Democratic Republic) and West Germany, (Bundesrepublik Deutschland or Federal Republic of Germany)…two separate countries.
The split thereby divided the historic town of Berlin into East Berlin and West Berlin and a wall went up dividing the two sides.
After the German Reunification in 1990, and the subsequent Fall of the Berlin Wall, the Berlin Wall Memorial became one of the most Popular landmarks in Berlin.
There are two popular spots to visit on what remains of the Berlin Wall:
- East Side Gallery is the longest surviving section of the Berlin Wall. Today colorful works of art adorn what was at one time a dark symbol that divided a country of kinsmen.
- Checkpoint Charlie-Today there is a monument where Checkpoint Charlie,the best known wall crossing, once stood. All that is left is a concrete slab and a small shack.
Other ” Germany landmarks “ in Berlin
Museum Island (Museumsinsel)
is a museum complex on Spree Island in Berlin, and yet another UNESCO site. The five museums on the island include: The Pergamon Museum (classical antiquities, Greek and Roman art) The Bode Museum (unique collection of sculptures) The Neues Museum (world class exhibit museum) The Alte Nationalgalerie (art museum) The Altes Museum (royal art collections)
Looking for more? “17 Best Museums Berlin – Ultimate Museum Guide for Berlin“
TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm) While visiting Museum Island, notice the lanky TV Tower in the background. This is another “ German Famous Landmark.” Make your way to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Berlin and a revolving restaurant!
Castles and Palaces
There are literally thousands of castles and castle ruins in Germany (around 12,000!…NOT kidding.) On this list you’ll find some of Germany’s fairytale castles.
Here are some of the very best German Landmark Castles:
(24) Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)
What is Germany’s most famous Landmark? I would have to say that (arguably) the most Famous German landmark is Neuschwanstein Castle. The sight of this castle, located in the Bavarian Alps, is recognized around the world.
It’s a decidedly fairy tale castle that was built by King Ludwig, who was a real dreamer and visionary, and sadly one of Germany’s most tragic historical figures. Take the guided tour of this popular tourist destination (the opulent throne room is a sight to behold!)
Neuschwanstein, one of Germany’s most famous castles, is just across the valley from another that is well worth visiting? Hohenschwangau castle (Schloss Hohenschwangau) was King Ludwig’s childhood home and both can be toured on the same day!
Get more information: Plan your visit to this duo of castles: Neuschwanstein: Everything you need to know to plan your trip!
(25) Eltz castle
So many of Europe’s landmarks have tragically been destroyed by war throughout the centuries. That’s not the case with Burg Eltz, the medieval castle situated in a densely forested area of the Mosel River Valley.
The original castle, built nearly 900 years ago, still stands in this spot, the original family still in ownership of the castle. The Burg Eltz Castle grounds consist of dense forests with a network of walking trails, a fun way to round out your visit!
get more information: Ultimate Burg Eltz Castle Guide, one of the best medieval castles in Europe!
(26) Heidelberg castle (Schloss Heidelberg)
Heidelberg Castle is a Gothic Renaissance structure located just an hour south of Frankfurt International Airport (1.5 hours by train) This beautiful castle, built in 1214 AD, still stands guard high above the city but is classified as a ruin because it has only been partially rebuilt since its demolition in the 17th and 18th centuries.
(27) Castle Marienburg (Schloss Marienburg)
Whimsical Marienburg Castle is a virtual fairy tale dream come to life. The decidedly fanciful architecture makes this castle a great place to let your imagination run free! The castle, located in northern Germany near Hanover, was completed in 1867.
(28) Hohenzollern Castle (Burg Hohenzollern)
This massive Gothic Revival fortification is located near Stuttgart in southern Germany. The original 11th century castle was destroyed in 1423, the current structure completed in 1867. With over 350,000 visitors per year, Hohenzollern Castle is one of the most visited castles in Germany.
(29) Reichsburg Cochem Castle
It is my opinion that there are few castles as cute as this 11th century Gothic Revival beauty! Reichsburg Cochem Castle is the quintessential “every child’s dream” castle! One night when I spotted it sitting atop a hill overlooking Cochem and the Mosel River I felt quite sure that I was seeing Hogwarts in all its glowing glory.
(30) Lichtenstein castle (Schloss Lichtenstein)
This tiny 19th century cliff side castle situated high above the little town of Liechtenstein, is in a category all to itself. In the 19th century nostalgia for medieval times and Gothic architecture inspired the construction of these types of romantic structures. Lichtenstein Castle is located south of Stuttgart.
(31) Würzburg Residence Palace (Residenz Würzburg)
Wurzburg Palace is a Baroque style place that deserves its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Extensive damage was inflicted on this beautiful 18th century palace during World War II, but they have done a fantastic job of bringing this palace back to glory!
Wurzburg Palace is an easy trip from Frankfurt International airport. It’s just 1 hour east of the airport (1 hour 45 minutes by train.)
(32) Herrenchiemsee New Palace (Neues Schloss Herrenchiemsee)
King Ludwig strikes again! This sprawling palace is his answer to Versailles! On strict orders from the King, it was imperative that everything in this palace be done in the French style. King Ludwig ran out of money and died at an early age before the place was complete, but it’s still worth a visit!
Make a day of it! Herrenchiemsee Palace is located about an hour from Munich on an island in Chiemsee Lake so you will need to take a ferry over.
(33) Schwerin Castle (Schloss Schwerin)
This 1,000 year old “romantic Historicism” style castle, often called the Neuschwanstein of the north, is a sight to behold! Schwerin Castle is located on an island in Schweriner Lake in northern Germany.
(34) New Palace Potsdam (Neues Palais)
The sprawling New Palace Potsdam, part of the “Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin” UNESCO World Heritage designation, is simply stunning! It is located in Potsdam, just outside of Berlin, and is considered to be the last great Prussian Baroque Palace.
Churches and Cathedrals
Religious Monuments Germany: Germany has some of the World’s most spectacular churches and cathedrals. Here are some of the very best:
(35) Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
The massive gothic style Cologne Cathedral, with its beautiful stained glass windows, is located in Cologne Germany. At the time of its completion in 1880 it was the world’s tallest building.
Today the Gothic cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the “tallest twin-spire church in the world, the Second tallest church in Europe after Ulm Minster, and the third tallest church of any kind in the world.” -Wikipedia.
(36 & 37) Duo of UNESCO Churches in Trier
We find ourselves in lovely Trier once again. Along with the Roman monuments these churches are included on the “Trier UNESCO World Heritage collection.”
- Church of our Lady (Liebfrauenkirche) Trier (Pfarrei Liebfrauen Trier). This French high gothic style Catholic church dates from the year 1260 AD.
- Trier Saint Peter’s Cathedral (aka Dom Trier.) This Roman Catholic Church is the oldest church in Germany, having opened its doors in the year 1270 AD
(38) Ulm Minster (Ulmer Münster)
is a Lutheran church located in Ulm, between Stuttgart and Munch. The church steeple measures 161.5 meters. (over 500 feet.) Ulm Minster is currently the tallest church in the world. This 19th century gothic structure holds up to 2,000 worshipers at one time.
(39) Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom)
The stunning Aachen Cathedral, located in Aachen in western Germany, is also a UNESCO site. This Roman Catholic church is one of the oldest churches in all of Europe. Construction began in the year 796 AD, a project of Roman Emperor Charlemagne who was later buried in the cathedral.
(40) Parish Church of St. Sebastian
The St. Sebastian Church is located in Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden in the lovely Bavarian Alps. This adorable little church with the mountains in the background, and the little brook and bridge in the foreground. It was at the top of my bucket list!
get more information: Get full details on visiting this beautiful place / popular spot in my Parish Church of St. Sebastian article.
Honorable mention: Cathedrals and Churches
There are SO many “not to be missed” Germany landmarks. Here are a few more that you might want to consider on your next trip.
(41) Erfurt Cathedral ( Erfurter Dom)
also known as St Mary’s Cathedral, is a 12th century Gothic Romanesque style Catholic cathedral located in Erfurt in the central part of Germany. A commanding figure in the Erfurt skyline with all of its many spears, this cathedral puts me in mind of an ornate temple. Stunning and warmly lit at night!
Honorable Mention: World Heritage
Here are some famous monuments in Germany with World Heritage status:
(42) Bergpark (mountain park) Wilhelmshöhe
UNESCO World Heritage Bergpark (mountain park) Wilhelmshöhe is a most unique park located in Kassel in north central Germany. The park was built on a hill and is the second largest park on a hill slope in the world. The uniqueness of this park earns it a spot on the ” Famous Landmarks in Germany ” list.
(43) Quedlinburg Germany
A trio of historic landmarks in Germany can be found in the small town of Quedlinburg (located between Leipzig and Hanover) and have together earned the town a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage list:
- Quedlinburg Old Town’s (Altstadt) has exceptionally well preserved medieval streets and half timbered houses that transport visitors to Quedlinburg back in time. If you’re looking for quintessential historic Germany you’ll find it here!
- Collegiate Church St. Servatius (Stiftskirche St. Servatius) This old 12th century Romanesque church is said to contain “a treasure trove of sculptures, paintings, manuscripts & relics.” -Wikipedia
- The Imperial Abbey of Quedlinburg facing the church is the Abbey, founded in the year 936 AD which now houses the castle museum (Schlossmuseum Quedlinburg.)
Honorable mention: Castles and Palaces
(44) Sanssouci Palace
Potsdam, just outside of Berlin, is home to another famous landmark in Germany, In addition to the Brandenburg Gate, Prussian King Frederick the Great also built Sanssouci Palace as his summer retreat. Sanssouci Palace is often considered one of Germany’s rivals to Versailles…and that’s why it deserves a spot on the ” Famous Landmarks in Germany ” list!
(45) Nymphenburg Palace
Is a French Baroque style Palace in Munich. Be sure to leave time in your schedule to explore the beautiful gardens that have remained virtually unchanged for over 150 years. Nymphenburg is another Versailles contender! This palace has a faccade that actually surpasses that of Versailles! (Nymphenburg: frontal width of 632 m (2,073 ft) Versailles: 402 meters (1,319 ft)
Read about all of King Ludwig’s famous castles here!
Honorable Mention: Landmark Germany Modern architectural structure
Here are some of the beautiful buildings in Germany…from more recent history.
(46) The Twin Towers
- located in Frankfurt am Main are the headquarters of the Deutsche Bank, the facade of the towers are covered in glass windows.
(47) Main Tower
- In the same area of Frankfurt, you’ll find the Main Tower, a double skyscraper with a cylinder shaped tower that is attached to a cube shaped tower.
(48)The Reichstag building,(Reichstagsgebäude)
- an impressive glass dome, located in Berlin, that serves as the German parliament building
(49) The Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall
- in Hamburg is one of the largest in the world. The glass top portion of the building resembles a hoisted sail sitting atop a brick building.
honorable mention (historical significance)
World War II and Holocaust sites and memorials are a sad but important reminder of the tragedies of the past. These two WWII sites are landmarks of significant historical importance in Germany’s history. Here are some additional landmarks of Germany with historical significance:
(50) Dachau Concentration Camp
- (KZ-Gedenkstätte Dachau) is located north of Munich. In WWII over 40,00 prisoners of war were put to death at Dachau. Today it is open to the public as a museum and place of remembrance.
(51) Holocaust Memorial
- also known as The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is located in Berlin. This park dedicated to the murdered Jews consists of 2 ,711 concrete slab monuments.
Map of Famous Landmarks In Germany
use this map to help plan a star studded trip to Germany…Gute Reise!
FOLLOW THIS LINK for an interactive Google Map with these Famous Landmarks!
There you have it! the Best of the Famous Landmarks in Germany!
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