Nesting on the western side of Europe, Germany features lush forestry, marvelous mountain ranges, and enchanting rivers. Aside from that, this beautiful country also has a fair share of breathtaking beaches. Its capital, Berlin, is a gorgeous city with vibrant nightlife and an immensely spectacular art scene. There you’ll find iconic landmarks that are relevant to the city’s history, most especially in the WWll era. If you’re into the beer culture, you must drop by Munich in October and party like it’s the end of the world during Oktoberfest. Frankfurt, on the other hand, is a modern German city with skyscrapers and fantastic attractions. For a more in-depth guide, feel free to browse through this list of the best places to visit in Germany.
1. Moselle Valley (from USD 305.0)
Don’t forget to add Moselle Valley in your itinerary for a complete German escapade. The enchanting Moselle River passes through this town, hence the name. The town features a breathtaking landscape of lush greenery and spectacular nature views. Also, you’ll notice an abundance of vineyards here, making it seem like a faraway land taken from a page of a fairy-tale book. While in the area, be sure to visit Deutsches Eck, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, and the marvelous Cochem Castle, then experience wine tasting in Bernkastel-Kues. If you’re traveling in a small group, this day-trip tour package by Viator is ideal for you.
Moselle Valley Guided Small-Group Tour from Frankfurt
Duration: 10 hours
2. Berlin (from USD 38.0)
Considered the capital of Germany since the 13th century, Berlin has a vibrant culture and an interesting history, especially regarding the 20th-century Holocaust. Here you’ll find lots of iconic landmarks. One that stands out is the 18th-century Brandenburg Gate, which serves as a beacon of unification in the country. This stunning city is also acknowledged for its vibrant art scene. Start exploring by booking this hop-on, hop-off tour package that will let you visit the most marvelous sites in the comfort of a cozy bus. A cruise can be included in your itinerary if you want to.
Berlin City Hop-on Hop-off Tour with Optional Cruise
Duration: 1 day
3. Cologne (from USD 43.25)
Stretching towards Rhine River in Germany, Cologne is a cultural hub that features fascinating architecture and quintessential villages. Here you’ll find the marvelous Cologne Cathedral, which is a popular destination among Catholic tourists. For a glimpse of stunning 20th-century art, including pieces from the great Picasso, browse through the exhibits and displays at Museum Ludwig. If you want to see the best of Cologne, you might want to check out this excellent 3-hour guided bike tour. Through this tour, you will get to explore the charming Rheinauhafen district as well.
Cologne: 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
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4. Munich (from USD 26.0)
Another gorgeous city that you must see and explore while in Germany is Munich. Considered the capital of Bavaria, Munich is popular for its centuries-old skyscrapers and remarkable landmarks. If you’re into beer, be sure to make a stopover here in October and experience one of the biggest beer festivals in the world—Oktoberfest. Check out this tour package offered by Viator and get to visit iconic sites in the city, including Viktualienmarkt, Hofbrauhaus, and Marienplatz. Plus an audio guide is available throughout the tour.
Munich City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Duration: 60 to 120 minutes
5. Leipzig (from USD 23.84)
Located in Saxony and considered as Germany’s most populous city, Leipzig is truly fascinating with its quaint villages and old-town vibes. Here you’ll find the stunning Thomas Church and the iconic site of the Battle of Leipzig, where the French and the allied armies of Russia, Prussia, and Austria fought days and nights in 1813. Get to see the city in a laid-back and carefree way through this three-hour bike tour offered by GetYourGuide. Included in the places to visit are the bustling Plagwitz district, Red Bull Arena, Leipzig’s Apothecary Garden, and Old Town Hall.
Leipzig: 3-Hour Bike Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
6. Lubeck (from USD 250.0)
Your German escapade will not be complete without a day in Lubeck. It is a breathtaking city in northern Germany and is known for its Gothic architecture, medieval structures and landmarks, and fascinating culture. While here, you can browse through the exhibits in Museum Holstentor, take souvenir pictures of the stunning 13th-century Marienkirche, visit Buddenbrookhaus, and a lot more. If you want to explore the old-fashioned way, book this Lubeck private walking tour and get to know the city from the perspective of a knowledgeable local guide.
Lubeck Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
Duration: 2 hours
7. Augsburg (from USD 255.0)
Make the most of your adventure in Germany by spending a day or two in Augsburg. Considered one of the oldest cities in Bavaria and the whole of Germany, Augsburg showcases diverse architecture, from the medieval homes in quaint villages; the fascinating Sankt Ulrich und Afra abbey, which showcases an onion-domed exterior; to examples of renaissance buildings, such as Augsburger Town Hall’s Golden Hall. If you’re into sightseeing and city walks, this Augsburg private walking tour offered by Viator might pique your interest.
Augsburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
Duration: 2 hours
8. Dresden (from USD 27.1)
Planning an itinerary for your upcoming German adventure? Be sure to include Dresden in the list of charming places to visit. Dresden is the capital of Saxony, a German state located on the eastern side of the country. Its reconstructed old town features classic architecture and is filled with excellent restaurants, chic cafes, fascinating museums, retail shops, and souvenir stores. While here, check out Frauenkirche Church and marvel at the beauty of its baroque architectural design. If you want to see the best the city has to offer, this sightseeing tour is ideal for you. Ride a bike with a professional guide and explore.
Dresden: Sightseeing-Tour in German by Bike
Duration: 3.0 hour
9. Heidelberg (from USD 157.16)
Be left in awe by the beauty and grandiosity of the marvelous Gothic Heiliggeistkirche church towers in Heidelberg. Nesting in the southern part of Germany, on Neckar River, Heidelberg has lots of iconic landmarks, including a great example of Renaissance architecture—Heidelberg Castle on Königstuhl hill. If you want to learn the culture of the city, you should spend some fabulous time at Altstadt and try out excellent restaurants, buy souvenir items, and make friends with locals. Join this fantastic three-hour tour and get to see the breathtaking Heidelberg Castle, along with other popular attractions.
Heidelberg: Private 3-Hour Tour with Castle Visit
Duration: 3.0 hour
10. Frankfurt (from USD 53.11)
Found along River Main, Frankfurt is a lovely city in the heart of Germany. It is a modern metropolis that is home to skyscrapers, upscale businesses, state-of-the-art facilities, luxurious attractions, and more. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born in this stunning place, and his home was turned into an iconic museum—Goethe House Museum. While in Frankfurt, be sure to visit the Römer and marvel at the beauty of its medieval architecture. Also, you should see the gardens of Palmengarten, take souvenir pictures of Main Tower, and say a prayer in Frankfurt Cathedral. If you’re an old-school tourist, you might be interested in this three-hour bike tour offered by GetYourGuide
Frankfurt: Guided Bike Tour
Duration: 2.5 hour
11. Hamburg (from USD 20.06)
Hamburg is a bustling port city located on the northern side of Germany. This place features an abundance of parkland, and various charming canals pass through it. While here, you might want to try some chic cafes by Inner Alster Lake. If you want a good view, stroll along Speicherstadt, and remember to take lots of souvenir pictures. Also, don’t forget to drop by St. Michael’s Church, a beautiful Lutheran church known for being the finest baroque church in Hamburg. If you want to go exploring without using public transport or commuting, book this hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour by GetYourGuide
Hamburg: Line A Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
12. Regunsburg (from USD 10.84)
Lying on Danube River, Regensburg is a gorgeous Bavarian city on the eastern side of Germany. The city center is popular for its medieval architecture and quaint villages. Here you’ll find lots of iconic landmarks, such as a stone bridge that was built in the 12th century, Regensburg Cathedral, a replica of the Parthenon, and more. Discover all Regensburg has to offer with this guided day-tour package by GetYourGuide.
Regensburg: Sightseeing Train City Tour with Audio Guide
Duration: 45.0 minute
13. Weimar
Another gorgeous place that you should explore in Germany is Weimar. Notable for being the birthplace of Weimar Classicism, this city is very relevant to the history of Germany. From 1918 to 1933, the Weimar Republic was the unofficial designation for the German state after World War l. Here, the new government of Germany was formed. Aside from a fascinating history, this city’s charming villages and lovely architecture are the other reasons tourists come and visit.
14. Berchtesgaden (from USD 70.45)
If you explore the Bavarian Alps by land, you’ll come across a lovely town called Berchtesgaden. With gorgeous mountain ranges and spectacular natural views, this municipality is a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the noise and pollution of the concrete jungle. Ideal for reconnecting with nature and relaxing, this gorgeous place offers lots of fantastic activities.
From Munich: Berchtesgaden Foothills and Obersalzberg
Duration: 10.0 hour
15. Nuremberg (from USD 79.0)
Can’t get enough of Germany? Add Nuremberg to your itinerary. This beautiful city in Bavaria is the second largest in the region and has lots to offer for tourists who are into fascinating architecture, vibrant culture, and lovely old-town charm. While in the city, be sure to visit Imperial Castle of Nuremberg and a 14th-century Gothic church called Frauenkirche. Other landmarks to see in the city include Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, Schöner Brunnen, Nuremberg Zoo, and more.
Nuremberg Day Trip from Munich by Train
Duration: 10 hours
16. Lindau (from USD 212.0)
Have you heard of the spectacular Lake Constance? This lake in Germany makes the city of Lindau a popular summer destination for tourists who like swimming and are into watersports. Just like other German cities, Lindau has a fair share of fascinating architecture, quaint villages, and old-town charm. Some popular landmarks you should see while visiting include Mangturm Tower, City Museum of Lindau, Notre Dame Cathedral, and more.
Lindau Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
17. Rügen Island
Visiting Germany during the summer? There’s one paradise in the country that is known for being a fantastic summer destination of tourists from around the world—Rugen Island. Located in the Baltic Sea, this gorgeous German island features breathtaking beaches, stunning white-chalk cliffs, and lovely natural wonders. Here you can swim all day and bask in the warmth of the golden sun. You may also want to explore natural parks on the island and spot wildlife. One place where you can do so is at Jasmund National Park.
18. Black Forest
If you like reconnecting with nature and doing physical activities, you should explore Black Forest. It is a mountainous region that borders France in southwest Germany. Characterized by a lush evergreen forest and an abundance of wildlife, this area offers plenty of activities that you can do. You can hike through the excellent trails or set up camp with your friends. Plus, in the center of the town, you’ll find picturesque villages with Gothic buildings. Also, there are plenty of vineyards around, and vino is a big part of the region’s culture.
19. Düsseldorf (from USD 87.0)
Boasting a booming fashion industry and a vibrant art scene, Düsseldorf is a modern and advanced city in western Germany. Compared to other cities in the country, Düsseldorf features more buildings and upscale businesses rather than medieval architecture and quaint villages. If you want to relax in the city while enjoying the views, stroll along Altstadt. Also, don’t forget to check out Rhine Tower or go on a shopping spree in Königsallee.
Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience
Duration: 2 hours
20. Rothenburg ob der Tauber (from USD 77.73)
Visited by lots of tourists from around the world for its well-preserved medieval structures, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming town in Bavaria, in Ansbach of Mittelfranken. This place is gorgeous and looks like a setting for a Disney movie. Here you’ll find the German Christmas Museum that your kids will surely be pleased to see. Also, there is the stunning St. James’s Church, Rothenburg ob der Tauber; the fascinating Medieval Crime Museum; and the bustling Rothenburg Christmas Market that sparkles with glittering lights.
Frankfurt: Day Trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Duration: 10 hour
21. Stuttgart
If you’re thinking of spending a day in Stuttgart, this article is the sign you’re waiting for telling you that you should. The city is known for being a manufacturing hub in the Baden-Württemberg state, in southwest Germany. It has lots of fascinating museums, and here you’ll find the headquarters of luxurious transport brands Porsche and Mercedes Benz. This place is also fantastic for families on vacation as it has lots of green spaces and charming recreation areas.
Stuttgart 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Duration: 1.0 day
22. Kiel (from USD 21.5)
Do you have so much time on your hands? Why not explore the majestic city of Kiel and learn about its culture? Lying on Germany’s Baltic Sea coast, Kiel is a bustling port city that is characterized by its old-town vibes and fascinating medieval architecture. Testaments to these are the rebuilt St. Nikolai Church and Kieler Rathaus. If you are traveling with family, be sure to take them, especially the kids, to the Zoological Museum of Kiel University. Also, you might want to spend a day picnicking in Schrevenpark and enjoy the relaxing ambiance and the picturesque views. The best way to experience the city and avoid long queues and bad public transportation is by joining this 24-hour sightseeing bus tour. For the duration of the tour, you will visit Holtenau, a former fishing settlement; the Baltic Sea; and other sites.
Kiel: 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Duration: 1.0 day
23. Bremen (from USD 27.1)
Notable for its maritime trading industry, the city of Bremen is located in northwest Germany and straddles Weser River. Its Market Square is a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by excellent restaurants and fantastic shops, Market Square is the best place to go if you want to have a glimpse of the culture and lifestyle of the region. Other spots that you should see while here are the Gothic town hall, the marvelous Roland Statue, and St. Petri Dom Bremen.
Bremen: City Sightseeing Bus Tour
Duration: 1.5 hour
24. Quedlinburg
You will be amazed by Quedlinburg’s old-town charm and quaint villages. Walking through the narrow streets of this city will make you feel like you’re living the life of Belle in the storybook Beauty and the Beast. With pastel-colored structures, half-timbered homes, and lots of gorgeous flora all over, this charming city should make it to your list of places to visit in Germany. While here, you might want to drop by the Church of St. Servatius, which is an iconic landmark and an example of Romanesque architecture.
25. Koblenz (from USD 342.0)
Complete your German adventure and vacation experience by visiting the majestic Koblenz. This charming city used to be spelled Coblenz until it was changed in the year 1926. Known as the crossing point for the Rhine and the Moselle, with an abundance of parkland and renowned landmarks, Koblenz has lots of offerings for tourists. Its name is derived from the Latin word “cōnfluentēs” since it is a confluence of two rivers. While here, be sure to check out the iconic prison-turned-medieval-castle called Marksburg. Also, explore Stolzenfels Castle and fall in love with its romantic vibes. Lastly, you can not end your holiday without checking out the elevated 19th-century Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
Koblenz - Old Town including the Deutsches Eck
Duration: 2 hours
26. Potsdam (from USD 21.68)
Known as the largest city in Brandenburg and located on the border of Berlin, Potsdam is undeniably gorgeous. With an abundance of parkland, majestic palaces, and tranquil lakes, here you’ll find lots of marvelous landmarks that you must see, including the iconic palace of Frederick the Great, the king of Prussia—Sanssouci Palace, the 18th-century New Palace with Rococo interiors, the landscaped gardens of Sanssouci Park, the marvelous Glienicke Bridge, and more. Be sure to add this capital city on your list of places to visit in Germany.
Potsdam: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
27. Freiburg (from USD 37.93)
When you stop by Germany’s Black Forest, you’ll find the vibrant Freiburg im Breisgau. Popular for its reconstructed medieval town and temperate climate, this university city features breathtaking natural wonders, excellent hiking routes, gorgeous highlands, and dramatic landmarks. Some of the most popular sites you’ll see here include Freiburger Münster, Schwabentor, Martinstor, and more. If you’re into sightseeing and city walks, check out this fantastic tour package by GetYourGuide, the highlights of which are visits to restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, hosted by the iconic drag queen Betty BBQ.
Freiburg: City Walking Tour with Drag Queen Betty BBQ
Duration: 85.0 minute
28. Bamberg (from USD 17.34)
Be enchanted by the old-town charm of Bamberg, a gorgeous city in northern Bavaria, Germany. Aside from its medieval architecture, Bamberg is known for its fascinating beer culture and has lots of fantastic breweries all over. If you’re not into beers and prefer landmarks, you will not be disappointed with the many places to visit in this city, including Bamberg Cathedral, the historic porcelain museum called Altes Rathaus, the stunning Alte Hofhaltung, and a lot more. If you want to explore the market gardeners’ district and reconnect with nature, check out this fantastic tour package by GetYourGuide.
Bamberg: Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District
Duration: 1.5 hour
29. Rhineland (from USD 75.0)
Still thinking of more places to check out in Germany? You might be interested in spending a day or two in Rhineland, which is a loosely defined area in Germany, on the western side of the country. It is characterized by heavily forested areas and fascinating centuries-old architecture. Quaint villages and old-town vibes draw tourists who are into culture. Learn more about this area’s history and explore an underground city through this fantastic five-hour guided underworld tour.
Rhineland-Palatinate: 5-Hour Guided Underworld Tour
Duration: 5 hour
30. Rostock (from USD 14.13)
Heading to Rostock University? If so, the Hanseatic City of Rostock is your main destination. On the northern part of Germany and straddling Warnow River, this lovely city has its fair share of medieval architecture, Gothic-inspired structures, fantastic attractions, bustling shopping districts, and more. If you’re traveling with your family, be sure to take them on a side trip to Rostock Zoo and watch them be left in awe by the sight of polar bears, gorillas, elephants, and other fascinating animals. For sure they will also love a day at Karl’s Adventure Village Rövershagen, enjoying exciting rides and playing games to their hearts’ content.
Rostock: Hop-On Hop-Off Double-Decker Bus Tour
Duration: 1 day
Explore breathtaking Germany
Germany is a breathtaking country that is worth exploring. It has beautiful cities that present various attractions, all with stunning architecture, rich culture, and fascinating history. Whether you are into all the mundane modern things that life has to offer, gorgeous beaches and resort towns, or charming quaint villages, Germany has a city that is ideal for the type of tourist you are. If you are planning a getaway to this majestic country anytime soon, use this list as your guide in making an itinerary. Be sure to visit as many as you can to make your upcoming trip the adventure of a lifetime.
Aachen
Contributed by Content Creator, Robbie Peters
Source: Robbie Peters
I visited the charming city of Aachen, nestled in the westernmost corner of Germany, bordering Belgium and the Netherlands.
Aachen’s history dates back to the Neolithic Age, and the city has played a significant role in German and European history. It was once the imperial city of Charlemagne, the Holy Roman Emperor, and his legacy still resonates throughout the city.
I visited the awe-inspiring Aachen Cathedral. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe and the final resting place of Charlemagne himself. The cathedral’s octagonal design and golden altar are truly magnificent, and the Shrine of Charlemagne is a must-see for any history buff. I also stopped by the impressive Aachen Town Hall, Ponttor, and Heilig Kreuz Kirche.
No trip to Aachen would be complete without experiencing the enchanting Christmas market. Held annually from late November to December, the market transforms the city into a winter wonderland. The aroma of gingerbread and mulled wine fills the air as you stroll through the beautifully decorated stalls, browsing for unique gifts and indulging in delicious treats.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a charming Christmas getaway, Aachen has something to offer everyone.
History
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