While cities like Berlin and Munich tend to dominate travel plans for American visitors heading to Germany, the country offers countless destinations that combine rich history, local charm, and authentic experiences away from the typical tourist spots. From medieval towns nestled in the Black Forest to quiet villages along the Rhine River, Germany rewards travelers who venture beyond the major urban centers.
To help you discover both the well-known highlights and hidden corners of this diverse country, here are 21 of the best places to visit in Germany, ranging from bustling port cities to peaceful mountain retreats.
Berlin
Ever wondered what it’s like when history and modern life collide on every street corner? That’s Berlin in a nutshell, where graffiti-covered sections of the Berlin Wall stand next to sleek glass skyscrapers. Germany’s capital city lets you time-travel from Cold War-era Checkpoint Charlie to the contemporary food scene at Markthalle Neun in a single afternoon. Here, you can cycle through the vast Tiergarten park, grab a currywurst from a street vendor, or spend hours museum-hopping on Museum Island. As night falls, the city transforms from a historical heavyweight into Europe’s party capital, with underground clubs in old power stations and bars hidden behind unmarked doors.
Munich
Munich stands out as Bavaria’s cultural heart, where tradition and modernity come together in perfect harmony. The city moves to its own rhythm – from the clock tower chimes of Marienplatz to the cheerful clinking of beer steins at the famous Hofbräuhaus. You’ll find locals dressed in lederhosen and dirndls not just during Oktoberfest, but year-round, showing how deeply Bavarian culture runs through daily life here. While the city draws millions for its beer halls and festivals, it’s also home to world-class museums, royal palaces, and sprawling English Garden where you can surf (yes, actually surf) on a standing wave in the middle of the city. It’s not a place that takes itself too seriously, despite its wealth and sophistication – after all, this is where businessmen head to beer gardens in suits during their lunch breaks.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Ever dreamed of stepping into a real-life fairy tale? Perched high on a hilltop in Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle is exactly what comes to mind when you think “Disney princess castle.” In fact, this 19th-century palace inspired Walt Disney’s iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle. With its white limestone walls and blue turrets set against the backdrop of the German Alps, it looks like it was plucked straight from a storybook.
Heidelberg
Many visitors come to Heidelberg for its famous castle ruins perched high above the Neckar River, but this charming university town offers much more than just medieval history. The Old Town’s narrow cobblestone streets and traditional German architecture make it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale, while the presence of Germany’s oldest university keeps the atmosphere young and lively. Walking across the Old Bridge gives you picture-perfect views of both the castle and city skyline, and the nearby Philosopher’s Way hiking trail offers a peaceful escape into nature. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic churches, enjoying local beer gardens, or taking a river cruise, Heidelberg provides plenty of options for every type of traveler.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Wandering through Rothenburg ob der Tauber for the first time in 2019, I felt like I’d stepped into a medieval fairy tale. This charming town in Bavaria sits perched above the Tauber River, its well-preserved walls and towers dating back to the 14th century. Red-roofed houses and cobblestone streets make up the heart of the old town, while the famous Plönlein corner offers one of Germany’s most photographed views. During December, the Christmas Market transforms the Market Square into a festive wonderland, complete with traditional glühwein and local treats. The best way to experience Rothenburg is by taking the Night Watchman’s Tour, where you’ll hear fascinating tales of the town’s history while exploring its lamp-lit streets after dark.
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This medieval town looks like it jumped straight out of a fairy tale, with its well-preserved city walls, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses that inspired Walt Disney’s Pinocchio. Rothenburg is also home to the world’s only Christmas museum, where you can experience the magic of the holiday season all year round at the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt store.
Black Forest
Step into a real-life fairytale when you visit Germany’s enchanting Black Forest region. This vast woodland stretches across 2,320 square miles, offering visitors a mix of dense pine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages that inspired many Brothers Grimm tales. Take a scenic hike along well-marked trails, stopping at traditional farmhouses where you can sample authentic Black Forest cake and locally-made cuckoo clocks. For a relaxing escape, visit the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, where you can soak in natural thermal waters or try your luck at its famous casino.
Dresden
Many travelers visit Dresden for its remarkable Old Town, which was meticulously rebuilt after World War II, but the city offers much more than just historical architecture. The Elbe River flows through the heart of Dresden, creating a perfect backdrop for evening strolls and riverside picnics. While the Frauenkirche church and Zwinger palace complex draw crowds year-round, the city’s growing art scene and modern neighborhoods like Neustadt show its forward-thinking side. The Dresden Christmas Market brings extra magic during winter months, but between the excellent museums, local wine region, and regular cultural festivals, you’ll find plenty to fill your itinerary any time you visit.
Hamburg
Hamburg stands out as Germany’s second-largest city and one of Europe’s biggest ports, where maritime heritage meets modern urban life. The city wraps around the Elbe River and countless canals, giving it a distinctly nautical feel that’s different from anywhere else in the country. You’ll find old sailor bars and fish markets alongside sleek concert halls and trendy neighborhoods, making it clear why locals proudly call it “The Gateway to the World.” While most visitors flock to Munich or Berlin, Hamburg offers something special – a mix of gritty port life, elegant Hanseatic history, and an edgy arts scene that’s helped shape everything from The Beatles’ early days to today’s cutting-edge architecture.
Cologne
I always tell travelers heading to Cologne to start at the Cologne Cathedral. Rising high above the city center, this Gothic masterpiece took over 600 years to build and stands as Germany’s most-visited landmark. The twin spires can be seen from almost anywhere in the city, and if you’re up for climbing 533 steps, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the Rhine River and the city below.
Nuremberg
Nuremberg captured my heart when I first visited in 2019, drawn by its rich medieval history and blend of old-world charm. The second-largest city in Bavaria sits along the Pegnitz River, where the imposing Imperial Castle watches over the Old Town’s red-roofed buildings and cobblestone streets. Traditional German architecture fills the main square, Hauptmarkt, which transforms into one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets each winter. Beyond its fairytale appearance, Nuremberg holds deep historical significance as the site of the famous post-WWII trials, now preserved in the Documentation Center. The city’s famous bratwurst and lebkuchen (gingerbread) keep visitors well-fed as they wander between Gothic churches and half-timbered houses that look straight out of a storybook.
Rhine Valley
The Rhine Valley feels like stepping into the pages of an old fairy tale, and I never tire of its magic no matter how many times I visit. This 40-mile stretch along Germany’s most famous river is dotted with medieval castles perched on rocky cliffs, with terraced vineyards cascading down to the water’s edge. You can hop aboard a river cruise to drift past charming villages with half-timbered houses and sample local Riesling wines straight from family-run wineries. It’s more than just a scenic route – it’s a journey through centuries of history, where ancient fortresses tell tales of feuding lords and river merchants. The best way to experience it is slowly, stopping at riverside towns like Bacharach and Boppard to wander cobblestone streets and soak in views that have inspired poets and painters for generations.
Bamberg
My first visit to Bamberg was during a summer road trip through Bavaria in 2019. This medieval town, perched along the Regnitz River in northern Bavaria, is often called “Little Venice” due to its network of waterways and historic fishing houses. The entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where half-timbered buildings and baroque architecture line cobblestone streets. The Old Town Hall, built on an artificial island in the middle of the river, stands as the city’s most photographed landmark. Bamberg’s beer culture runs deep – its smoky Rauchbier, brewed with malted barley dried over beechwood fires, has been made the same way by local breweries for centuries.
Leipzig
Many travelers visit Leipzig for its rich musical heritage, with connections to Bach, Wagner, and Mendelssohn, but this eastern German city offers much more than classical compositions. The city center features a mix of Renaissance architecture and modern buildings, while the Spinnerei – a former cotton mill turned cultural hub – hosts art galleries and studios. In autumn, the Leipzig Book Fair draws literature enthusiasts from across Europe, but you’ll find plenty to explore here throughout the year, from the peaceful Leipzig Zoo to the bustling Market Square where locals and tourists gather for coffee and traditional Saxon treats.
Lubeck
When I think of historic German cities, Lübeck always brings a smile to my face. This former medieval trading powerhouse sits proudly on an island in northern Germany, surrounded by the Trave River and lined with distinctive brick Gothic architecture. Its narrow cobblestone streets wind past old merchant houses and churches that tell stories of the Hanseatic League, when Lübeck was known as the “Queen of the Hanse.” While many visitors come to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, others are drawn by the city’s reputation as Germany’s marzipan capital – the sweet almond treat has been crafted here for generations. It’s not a massive tourist destination like Berlin or Munich, which makes wandering through its historical center feel like discovering a secret piece of German history.
Wurzburg
Step back in time as you explore Würzburg, a charming city along Germany’s famous Romantic Road. The city’s crown jewel is the Würzburg Residence, a grand palace that shows off some of Europe’s finest baroque architecture and a massive ceiling fresco that will make your neck sore from looking up. Take a stroll across the Old Main Bridge, where you can sip local Franconian wine while watching boats cruise along the Main River below. For the best views of the city, climb up to the Marienberg Fortress – the walk might leave you a bit out of breath, but the panorama of Würzburg’s red rooftops and church spires makes it worth the effort.
Baden-Baden
Take a step back in time and treat yourself to old-world luxury in Baden-Baden, Germany’s most famous spa town. This elegant resort destination has drawn visitors to its thermal springs since Roman times. You can spend your days soaking in the mineral-rich waters at historic Friedrichsbad or the more modern Caracalla Therme. For evening entertainment, try your luck at the Casino Baden-Baden, one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful gambling houses, or catch a performance at the Festival Hall. The surrounding Black Forest offers plenty of hiking trails and scenic spots for when you need a break from all that pampering.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
My first visit to Garmisch-Partenkirchen was during a winter escape through Bavaria in 2019. Nestled at the foot of Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze, this charming alpine town sits in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Traditional painted houses and cozy mountain lodges line the streets, while snow-capped peaks create a perfect backdrop for both summer hiking and winter skiing. The town actually consists of two merged communities – sporty Garmisch and the more traditional Partenkirchen – each maintaining its own character. The Olympic Ski Jump still stands proud from the 1936 Winter Games, and nearby, the clear waters of Lake Eibsee reflect the mountains like a mirror, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Regensburg
Medieval history comes alive in Regensburg, a city along the Danube River that holds the distinction of being one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval towns. While many visitors come to see the famous Stone Bridge and Gothic Cathedral, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers much more than just old buildings. The narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town lead to hidden courtyards, small shops, and traditional beer gardens where you can sample local Bavarian specialties. During summer months, the city hosts various festivals celebrating its rich history and culture, but any time of year you’ll find plenty to explore among its 1,500 listed historical buildings and Roman ruins.
Schwerin Castle
If you’re looking to step into a real-life fairytale, Schwerin Castle should be at the top of your list. Sitting on its own private island in Lake Schwerin, this 19th-century palace looks like it was plucked straight from a Disney movie. The castle serves as both the state parliament building and a museum, giving visitors a chance to explore its grand halls and learn about the dukes who once called it home. Walking through its gardens and across the bridge to the island, you’ll understand why locals call it the “Neuschwanstein of the North.” It’s not just the architecture that makes this place special – the reflection of the castle’s towers in the lake’s surface creates a mirror image that photographers can’t resist.
Weimar
Ever wondered where Germany’s greatest minds found their inspiration? Welcome to Weimar, the small city that shaped the country’s cultural identity. Home to literary giants Goethe and Schiller, this charming spot in central Germany was where the famous Bauhaus art movement began in 1919. As you walk through the cobblestone streets, you’ll pass the houses where composers like Bach and Liszt once lived, and see the very cafes where Germany’s first democratic constitution was drafted. The city’s Classical Weimar district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lets you step back in time to when this modest town was the intellectual heart of Europe. Don’t miss Goethe’s Garden House, where the poet wrote some of his most famous works, or the Historic Cemetery, where you can visit the final resting places of Germany’s creative legends.
Trier
As Germany’s oldest city, Trier sits along the banks of the Moselle River near the Luxembourg border. Founded by the Romans in 16 BC, this historic gem holds the impressive title of having the largest collection of Roman ruins north of the Alps. The city’s main square, dominated by the imposing Porta Nigra gate, takes you back nearly 2,000 years to when emperors walked these streets. Beyond the Roman heritage, Trier’s medieval market square and half-timbered buildings tell stories of its evolution through time. The city is also the birthplace of Karl Marx, and visitors can explore his childhood home-turned-museum to understand the environment that shaped his ideas. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate Trier’s location in the heart of Germany’s oldest wine region, where local Rieslings flow as freely as the nearby Moselle River.
