Germany has stunning scenery, fascinating history, lively cities, and charming small towns. From the rugged Bavarian Alps to the sandy beaches of the North Sea and Baltic Sea, Germany has a diverse landscape that offers many options for holidays and vacations. Here are some top destinations to consider for your next holiday in Germany.
1. Berlin
Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany. It has a vibrant arts and culture scene, lively nightlife, diverse architecture, and significant historical sites. Some top attractions include:
Brandenburg Gate
This 18th-century neoclassical monument is a symbol of Berlin and German unity. It sits on Pariser Platz along the famous Unter den Linden boulevard.
Reichstag Building
The historic home of the German parliament features a glass dome designed by Norman Foster where visitors can look down on the legislative chamber.
East Side Gallery
This 1.3-kilometer stretch of the Berlin Wall features colorful murals by artists worldwide, commemorating freedom and human rights.
Museum Island
This unique complex is located in the Spree River and has 5 world-class museums, including the Pergamon Museum and Neues Museum.
2. Munich
Munich is the capital of Bavaria and Germany’s third-largest city. It blends historic architecture and modern amenities with the grandeur of the Alpine scenery nearby. Highlights include:
Marienplatz
The central square contains the gothic New Town Hall’s famous glockenspiel astronomical clock.
Englischer Garten
One of the world’s largest urban public parks, this green space has lakes, streams, trails, and beer gardens.
Hofbräuhaus
From 1589, this beer hall epitomizes Bavarian gemütlichkeit with oompah bands, food, and substantial liter beers.
BMW Museum
This futuristic museum details the history of BMW cars and motorcycles through interactive exhibits.
3. Romantic Road
This scenic route through quaint villages and medieval towns stretches between Würzburg and Füssen in southern Germany. Key stops include:
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
With impressively preserved medieval architecture, this walled town is one of Germany’s best preserved.
Würzburg Residence
The grand baroque palace was the prince-bishops’ home and featured Tiepolo’s frescoes.
Neuschwanstein Castle
The fairytale castle of King Ludwig II inspired the Disney castle and has jaw-dropping Alpine views.
4. Cologne
Cologne on the Rhine River has an extensive history of Roman times. Don’t miss:
Cologne Cathedral
This magnificent Gothic cathedral took over 600 years to complete and boasts the world’s largest church facade.
Chocolate Museum
Get your chocolate fix by learning about the history and production of chocolate at this delicious museum.
Rhine River Cruise
Take in views of the city, cathedral, and riverside landmarks by cruising along Germany’s most important waterway.
5. Hamburg
Germany’s second-largest city is a significant port and media hub with a vibrant nightlife scene centered around the Reeperbahn. Top sights include:
Miniatur Wunderland
The world’s largest model railway exhibits over 15 kilometers of tracks and interactive miniature scenes worldwide.
Kunsthalle Hamburg
This premier art museum houses an expansive collection of European paintings and contemporary art.
Speicherstadt
The red-brick historic warehouse district along canals conjures an old port atmosphere.
Michael’s Church
One of Hamburg’s most famous landmarks, this Baroque Protestant church has one of Europe’s highest church towers.
6. Black Forest
The southwest Black Forest region enchants with dense pine forests, lakes, hiking trails, traditional villages, and cuckoo clocks. Don’t miss:
Baden-Baden
This elegant spa town is famous for its mineral-rich thermal baths and exclusive casino.
Lake Titisee
The crystal blue waters of Germany’s largest natural lake are perfect for swimming and watersports in summer.
Triberg Waterfalls
Germany’s highest waterfalls thunder down in the Central Black Forest.
Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte
Indulge in the famous Black Forest cake slices with chocolate shavings and whipped cream.
Conclusion
With its incredible mix of natural landscapes, centuries of history and culture, delicious food and drink, and cosmopolitan cities, Germany offers something for every type of traveler. From mountain hikes and beach visits to museum hopping and castle tours, you can find engaging sights and activities for an unforgettable German holiday.
FAQs
1. What is the best time of year to visit Germany?
Germany can be visited year-round, but spring, summer, and fall are popular times with moderate weather. Late spring and early fall avoid summer crowds. Many Christmas markets run from late November through December.
2. What documents do I need to travel to Germany?
U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Germany. No visa is required for tourist stays under 90 days.
3. How do I get around Germany?
Public transportation like trains, buses, trams, and the U-Bahn/S-Bahn are excellent in cities. Between cities, trains are best. Rental cars provide flexibility for hard-to-reach areas.
4. What is the currency in Germany?
Germany uses the Euro (€). Major credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available.
5. What languages are spoken in Germany?
German is the official language, with many locals also speaking English well. Learning a few German phrases shows goodwill.
