Do you feel that you want to discover more about sights in Germany?
That’s why I sat down at some point to write down the most important, popular, and historical places and sights in Germany.
This helps me when looking for a destination for a short trip or a longer vacation. Because in Germany you can go on great road trips and combine visits to many of these places.
The order is not important. Therefore, I have divided the attractions by state to get a better overview.
From B like Bavaria to T like Thuringia.
Have fun with my ideas for a short trip to beautiful Sights in Germany
The article is constantly updated and completed!
Check out all travel blogs at Travel Diaries.
Bavaria
Bavaria probably has the most impressive sights in Germany. The Alps always cast a spell over me when I approach them. That’s why there are just too many sights here that I’ll write down in a separate article at some point.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Which sight is famous far beyond the country’s borders?
Neuschwanstein Castle, of course. Ideal for a longer stay in the Allgäu with hikes to the most beautiful vantage points of the castle.
These are close to Füssen, Hohenschwangau Castle, Forggensee, Alpsee, and the Tegelberg.
View tips for visiting Neuschwanstein Castle
These are the 14 most beautiful castles and places in Germany
Zugspitze Garmisch-Partenkirchen
The highest mountain in Germany is the Zugspitze. It lies southwest of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, on the border with Austria.
If visibility is good, you have a view of up to 250 km, and thus of 400 mountain peaks in Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland.
I prefer a hike to the top.
If you don’t feel like it but still want to enjoy the view, you can use the Eibsee cable car, the cogwheel railway, and the glacier cable car to get to the Zugspitz glacier with its panorama platform.
The GAA(German Alpine Association) provides information for the hikes up.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Old Town
For many Germans, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the most beautiful city in Germany. The most famous photo motif is “the Plönlein” – the landmark of the old town.
By the way, Plönlein does not mean the small house, but it is a term that means “the small square at the fountain”, which includes a fountain, half-timbered houses, and the two towers of the old city wall.
The market square with the town hall, the city wall, castle gardens, the double bridge, and the Tauber Valley are particularly beautiful.
My tip: the executioner tour or even later the tour with the night watchman.
View all sights in Rothenburg ob der Tauber with tips here
3 One of the most beautiful cities in Germany is on the Castle Road: Rothenburg ob der Tauber old town (here the “Ploenlein”)
Koenigssee, Berchtesgadener Land
The Instagram motif at all is the Königssee in the Berchtesgaden National Park. The deepest point measured is 192 m. If you want to explore the lake, you must share the incredibly beautiful natural scenery with many other tourists. Take a boat to discover the most famous mountain lake in Bavaria.
Short Trip to Munich
Munich is worth a weekend trip. Visit the Viktualienmarkt, visit a beer garden, the Marienplatz, and enjoy the view of it.
Why Munich?
- Sightseeing, shopping, and culture
- Good food in the numerous beer gardens, restaurants, and cafes
More tips for your short trip to Munich:
- Sights in Munich
- Insider tip Munich: 11 alternative sights & tips
- Save money in Munich: Is the Munich City Pass worth it?
Bamberg Old Town
The old town of Bamberg is beautiful. Places to visit are the old town hall, the Bamberg Cathedral, the new residence, and the monastery on the Michaelsberg. In one day, you can easily explore the sights of Bamberg on foot.
Imperial Castle Nuremberg
Nuremberg’s landmark is one of the most famous imperial palaces of the Middle Ages in Europe. An imperial palace once served the emperor to live with his court. Because the cities ruled by Roman-German emperors in the Middle Ages were always on the go to meet their vassals on-site, attend imperial diets, or hold court.
See more about the Imperial Castle in Nuremberg on the official website
Baden-Wuerttemberg
Baden-Württemberg is the federal state in which I live. Ever since I was a child, I spent all my holidays in the Black Forest or in the Swabian Jura. On school trips, we were in Bad Urach, in caves or the more famous lakes. Here are popular tourist places and attractions that are not so well known.
Mainau Island, Lake Constance
One of the most popular destinations on Lake Constance is the island of Mainau. You can reach the flower island by boat from Meersburg on Lake Constance or by your own vehicle.
If you are a flower fan, then you will like the many flowers and plants in the botanical garden.
You can find more tips for Lake Constance in these articles
- The 13 most beautiful places & highlights at Lake Constance
- Konstanz: Sights and places worth seeing with tips
Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle is located on the edge of the Swabian Jura. The spectacular location above a valley makes it a popular day trip destination from Stuttgart (distance of about 1 hour).
Lichtenstein Castle as you can explore it today was built in the 19th century in the romantic neo-Gothic style. There was already a castle there in the Middle Ages.
Did you know that the castle was copied?
The small castle “Klein Lichtenstein” in Lietzow is on Rügen. It’s noticeable when you drive along the road because it glows white out of the forest ( check out my Rügen article, you’ll find a picture there). There is also a smaller copy in Cape Town (Hout Bay). Check it out here.
See the 14 most beautiful castles and palaces in Germany
Heidelberger Castle
Who does not know it? Germany’s most famous landmark of the city of Heidelberg?
Walk from the old town over the Old Bridge, up the Schlangenweg to the Philosophenweg, and enjoy the best view of the castle. The best time to visit the castle is in the morning or late afternoon when day tourists are heading home.
- View all information about visiting Heidelberg here
- Information about the top sights in Heidelberg
- For me, Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany
- The most beautiful castles and palaces in Germany
Black Forest National Park
The Black Forest National Park covers 10,000 hectares between Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt. It is surrounded by the Black Forest Nature Park. The area covers 0.7 percent of the forest area in Baden-Württemberg.
The Schliffkopf, from which you have a great view, is particularly popular.
You will find numerous other places around it. In my childhood, for example, I was in Tennenbronn at all times of the year. This is where I learned to ski and explored numerous hiking trails and other activities with my family.
Just beautiful.
Places to visit are the Triberg waterfalls, Gengenbach, and Sommerberg in Bad Wildbad (with the Wildine suspension bridge and the Black Forest treetop path ). There are also many lakes and the Black Forest High Road for road trip fans.
Look at my tips for the Black Forest
- Excursion destinations for the Black Forest (also with children)
- Road trip via the Black Forest High Road to Lake Constance
- Holidays in the Black Forest – A road trip through southern Germany
- Bad Wildbad in the northern Black Forest
Castle Hohenzollern
One of the other beautiful castles and palaces in Baden-Württemberg is Burg Hohenzollern. It sits enthroned on a hill on the edge of the Swabian Jura. You can see this castle from afar.
Hohenzollern Castle is also just an hour’s drive from Stuttgart. While you’re here, you should also look at the beautiful city of Tübingen.
On the Hohenzollern Castle website, you will find all information about visiting, admission, and guided tours.
Meersburg
What is the most beautiful town on Lake Constance?
I think that Meersburg is the most beautiful small town on Lake Constance. The medieval town with its direct location on Lake Constance and the picturesque vineyards is an ideal excursion destination on Lake Constance. That is why it is very worthwhile to visit this place.
Since it is so beautiful here, many tourists naturally come here. So, avoid the summer holidays and come here in spring or autumn.
Ulm Minster
You have probably already seen the Ulm Minster. Even if it was just driving by from the southbound freeway.
Because this building is not only a landmark of the city of Ulm. It also has the tallest church tower in the world (161.53 meters high). Around four meters higher than the towers of Cologne Cathedral.
You can climb the tower and enjoy the view from the top. The viewing platform is at 142 meters and unfortunately can only be reached on foot via 768 steps.
The Ulm Minster was financed by the citizens of Ulm themselves. No wonder it took over 500 years to build before it was finally completed
Europa Park Rust
Germany’s largest amusement park ensures unforgettable moments. Screaming roller coaster riders and beaming children’s eyes are part of everyday life here. The Europa park offers numerous attractions such as rides, shows, and great play worlds. There are also a wide variety of themed worlds to discover.
Adjacent is the water world Rulantica. Really great fun not only for children.
- You can find more tips in my report on Europa-Park Rust and the Rulantica water world
- There are no tickets on-site, so you should buy your ticket here in good time
- Also, check out the Europa Park website
Mercedes Benz Museum
The Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart is a place not only for automobile fans. More than 160 vehicles and a total of more than 1,500 exhibits surprise many visitors.
The façade from the outside is also a landmark: each of the 1,800 triangular façade panes is unique.
Who would have thought so?
Berlin
Berlin is the capital of Germany and a federal state. Around 6 million people live in the metropolitan region of Berlin-Brandenburg. Berlin consists of twelve districts. As a historically important place, there are quite a few attractions here. You can find the most important ones here.
- Overnight stay in Berlin – my recommendations for hotels
- Activities and tours in Berlin
- Insider tips from Berliners for Berlin
- Street art in Berlin
- You have to see these places worth seeing in Berlin.
Brandenburg Gate
As a landmark of Berlin, you cannot avoid it. Once a symbol of division, today a symbol of Germany’s unity. The 26-meter high and 65.60-meter wide building close the boulevard Unter den Linden with five openings to the west and to Pariser Platz.
Reichstag building
Politics is made in the Reichstag building. Today’s seat of government was already the center of power in the German Empire and the Weimar Republic.
You can visit the seat of the German Bundestag free of charge every day between 8 a.m. and midnight, with the last admission being at 10 p.m.
The highlight of the visit is the glass dome with a roof terrace. You can also visit these for free. You just have to register in advance. Of course, you have the best view from the top. No wonder the Reichstag dome, designed by star architect Norman Foster, is one of the most visited sights in Berlin!
Brandenburg
Sanssouci Palace
Potsdam’s Prussian palaces are impressive. In addition, Sanssouci Palace, which brought fame to Frederick the Great, is the highlight of the cultural landscape recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While you’re here, be sure to check out the surrounding parks and other castles too!
- See all the information about the visit on the official website
- Book day trips from Berlin with Get Your Guide
Spreewald
Many don’t even have the Spreewald in Brandenburg on their map of Germany, do they?
There are great places and exciting things to discover here. Beautiful places are Lübbenau, Leipe, and Lübben. In addition to the well-known gherkins, you should also paddle on the water in the Spreewald. I think it’s great to be a little active. If you don’t feel like it, you can let yourself be taken around in a boat.
Bremen
Schnoor district
When you think of Bremen, it used to be the Bremen Town Musicians. But in recent years, the Schnoorviertel has become more and more popular – I mean beyond the borders. Bremen’s oldest district is idyllic and cozy. The name comes from Low German and is the word for string – Schnoor. The name comes from the fact that rope makers once had their workshops here.
If you are in Northern Germany: Drive to Bremen and explore the small streets and alleys in the Schnoorviertel.
Hamburg
For me, Hamburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. If the weather were a little better, I could well imagine living there. Here are four places worth seeing in the Hanseatic city, you should also look at my other articles for Hamburg:
- Places and highlights worth seeing in Hamburg
- Insider tips for Hamburg from locals
- The most beautiful cafés and best restaurants in Hamburg
- Activities and tips for 7 city tours in Hamburg
Elbe Philharmonic Hall
The Elbphilharmonie, affectionately called Elphi by the locals, is Hamburg’s newest landmark. It only took 10 years and 866 million euros to build the Elphi. For a long time, it was in the headlines because of construction defects, economic disagreements, and, above all, the repeated delays in completion.
Book tickets for the Elbphilharmonie tour
Warehouse District
Hamburg’s warehouse district with its brick houses offers a wonderful contrast to the modern buildings in the city center.
Did you know that the Speicherstadt is the world’s largest contiguous warehouse complex?
You can find more information about this in the article on the sights of Hamburg.
New Town Hall
For me, Hamburg City Hall is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The Neo-Renaissance sandstone building is not only imposing, but it also covers an entire city block! The town hall, which is 112 m high, can be seen from afar and is therefore always a good point of orientation.
Miniature Wonderland Hamburg
When I first heard about Miniature Wonderland years ago, I didn’t think I would find it awesome. The name doesn’t sound that exciting, but when you stand in the museum, you become a child again. Attention is paid to every detail here.
It’s just AWESOME!
You can buy tickets with priority entry here in advance
Hesse
When you think of Hesse, you often only think of Frankfurt am Main, maybe the Taunus.
Frankfurt am Main
Many people are probably like me and initially don’t know anything about Frankfurt am Main except for banks and the stock exchange. But I have to say that Frankfurt has a lot of places worth seeing. The new old town, the Römer, of course, the stock exchange, and an impressive skyline.
Here I have written down all the highlights and places worth seeing for your next Frankfurt trip.
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Mecklenburg-West Pomerania is wonderful! You just have to love this state. Whether you like the Baltic Sea and the wonderful islands, want to explore the Mecklenburg Lake District or cities.
I have traveled extensively in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania with my campervan.
- View the most beautiful islands in the Baltic Sea in Germany here
- Find out here where the most beautiful Baltic Sea beach is!
- You can find an overview of all reports for MeckPomm here.
Wismar
Wismar in Mecklenburg-West Pomerania is the most beautiful city on the Baltic Sea. The historic old town, UNESCO World Heritage, is particularly worth seeing.
Wismar’s old town includes the market square with the town hall, water art, and the ” Old Swede”. As well as the churches of St. Georgen, St. Marien, and St. Nikolai. In addition, numerous gabled houses from the time of the Hanseatic League.
See more sights and tips for Wismar here
The island of Rügen with chalk cliffs
The most beautiful island in the Baltic Sea for me is incredibly varied. Even if Rügen is quite crowded in summer, you can still find quiet places. Rügen is not only the largest island in Germany but also the most popular.
Must-visit places are the Jesmond National Park with the high chalk cliffs and large beech forests. Also visit the lighthouse at Cape Arkona and the worth seeing piers in Sellin, Binz, and Sassnitz. I was surprised by the fairytale forest, a little insider tip in the north.
Check out all the sights for Rügen here
Schwerin Castle
The beautiful state capital of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has some beautiful corners that you should take a look at. The highlight in Schwerin, however, is the castle. But also, Lake Schwerin and the city itself are worth seeing.
You have to see all the tips and highlights in Schwerin here
Lower Saxony
Lüneburg Heath
A visit to the Lüneburg Heath is particularly popular in August or September when everything is in purple bloom. The most famous trail is the 223 km long Heidschnuckenweg. The long-distance hiking trail connects Celle with Hamburg and leads through the most beautiful heath landscapes of the southern and northern heaths. The Heidschnuckenweg is also on my list of places that I would like to discover or hike.
Celle
The residential town of Celle has only 70,000 inhabitants but has a picturesque old town with over 400 half-timbered houses. The castle in the style mix of Renaissance and Baroque is also a go-to place. The city is also often referred to as the gateway to the Lüneburg Heath. The ideal place to take trips to the heath.
City
East Frisian Islands
The islands of Wangerooge, Spiekeroog, Langeoog, Baltrum, Norderney, Juist, and Borkum are very popular holiday destinations, especially among Germans. Everyone will find their paradise here. Long, wide, and fine sandy beaches await you. Places you should visit are the hikes or boat trips to the seal banks. I could watch these cute little predators crawling around for hours.
Another bonus is the perfect North Sea climate. In addition, some islands are pollen-free and a true paradise for allergy sufferers.
My favorite islands are Juist, Langeoog, and Spiekeroog.
Ostfriesland
Not only the East Frisian Islands are a highlight, but also the beautiful places on the mainland in this region. Greetsiel, Leer, the world’s most leaning tower in Suurhusen and Emden, and the secret capital in the heart of East Friesland Aurich are particularly beautiful.
Hahnenklee Stave Church (Goslar)
Did you know that there is a stave church in Germany?
The well-preserved Hahnenklee stave church in Goslar is one of the few stave churches outside of Norway. I think it’s a beautiful example. The construction alone is extraordinary. Have a look at my sights in Norway, here you can find more pictures of stave churches.
North Rhine-Westphalia
North Rhine-Westphalia is the most densely populated and most populous state. The industrial sector in particular is gigantic here. Of course, there are also many sights. I’ll focus on the most important ones first. It’s been too long since my visits to places like Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Bochum, or Münster.
Cologne Cathedral
The Cologne Cathedral is an absolute must-see in Cologne. It already greets you when you arrive by train. The stairs in front of the main entrance of the train station lead directly to the Domplatte.
Admission to the cathedral is free.
Would you like to take part in a public tour?
Then you are spoiled for choice. There are many different tours of Cologne Cathedral. You can climb up one of the two towers without a tour. You can find an overview of all tours on the Cathedral Tours website.
More tips for Cologne
Zollverein Colliery
The site of the former Zollverein colliery in Essen is really an interesting place. The UNESCO World Heritage Site used to be the largest and most modern mine in the world. Today you can take advantage of a huge range of leisure and cultural activities on 100 hectares!
Really exciting place!
You can find more information on the official website
Old Town Dusseldorf
Everyone should have visited the old town of Düsseldorf at least once. The “longest bar in the world” offers you many breweries, pubs, and bars. Only a few tourists forget when to stop drinking. I don’t like Altbier, so I’ve avoided visiting the brewery until now.
In the old town, you will also find small individual shops that you should visit.
Rhineland-Palatinate
More information about highlights in Rhineland-Palatinate will follow soon
Moselle Valley
Trier
Geierlay Rope Suspension Bridge
Castle Eltz
Eltz Castle is located on the Moselle between the two cities of Trier and Koblenz. Eltz Castle is one of the most beautiful and well-known castles in Germany.
This architectural masterpiece is hidden among the trees in the forest. The castle has been maintained by the same family since it was built. You want to preserve the appearance and beauty of this structure.
Did you know that this is one of the few castles that wasn’t damaged in war?
It is one of three castles on the left bank of the Moselle that were never destroyed.
Likewise, many of the original furnishings from the past centuries are still preserved. So, if you want to take a tour through history, I recommend that you also visit the inside of the castle and not just take “Instagram-worthy” pictures in front of it.
Where to sleep?
There are numerous accommodations in the area. The Landhotel Ringelsteiner Mühle is only 1.4 km away from the castle. There is free parking, excellent service, and delicious food.
Reichsburg Cochem
Cochem is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Germany. Once you are in the town, you can hardly miss the castle that towers over the town. Boat trips on the Moselle are also popular, from which you have a great view of Cochem and the Reichsburg.
Built-in the 12th century, the Reichsburg Cochem is simply amazing with its magnificent architecture and fairytale appearance. A highlight for many on the trip to Cochem.
Did you know that a banker named Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené restored the entire castle in the 19th century?
Because of this, the castle has a Neo-Renaissance style rather than a medieval style.
There are regular guided tours to this castle. This allows you to take a close look at various details such as archaic furniture, tapestries, paintings, etc.
Stay near Cochem?
If you are looking for cheap accommodation, you should book the Stumbergers Hotel. From here you have a wonderful panoramic view of the Reichsburg.
Imperial Cathedral Speyer
Saarland
Saar Loop
Saxony
Frauenkirche Dresden
The Frauenkirche is the most famous landmark in Dresden. It sits majestically in the middle of Dresden’s Neumarkt and cannot be overlooked. Like almost everything else in Dresden, the baroque church was completely destroyed in World War II.
The church was completely rebuilt by 2005 and since then it has welcomed many visitors as a symbol of reconciliation. But not only is the look inside the evangelical church worthwhile. Also, You can climb the viewing platform of the Frauenkirche via ramps and steep stairs and enjoy what is probably the best view of the whole of Dresden. The view over the city and the surrounding area is magnificent.
Tip: The €8 entrance fee is really worth it. It’s best to visit them first thing in the morning. The Frauenkirche is open from 10 a.m.
Saxon Switzerland
In the east of Germany lies true natural beauty. Far from the city noise, the rock formations formed by sandstone soar magnificently into the sky. The sparsely populated region on the Elbe offers numerous possibilities for a really nice stay.
Whether relaxation or action, there is something for everyone here.
The most beautiful places include the rock castle Neurrathen & Bastei, Königstein Fortress, Lilienstein, Kirnitzschtal, and the towns of Bautzen, Görlitz, and Dresden.
- View highlights of Saxon Switzerland here in the blog
- Tips for the most beautiful hikes in Saxon Switzerland
Monument of the Battle of the Nations in Leipzig
One of the most important monuments in Germany is the impressive Monument of the Battle of the Nations in Leipzig. The most imposing war memorial in Europe was completed in 1913 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the defeat of France’s Emperor Napoleon at the Great Battle of 1813. More than 600,000 soldiers fought on the battlefield.
The Monument of the Battle of the Nations and Museum is just a short tram ride from the center of the city. It is one of the most popular and important sights in Leipzig.
- Opening times: April to October daily from 10 am to 6 pm. November to March daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Entry fee: Adults: 6 euros and entry for children up to 6 years is free.
- View more information on the website
- Read all Leipzig sights with the best tips here
Saxony-Anhalt
Quedlinburg
Hunk
Schleswig Holstein
Wadden Sea National Park North Sea
The Wadden Sea North Sea National Park stretches from the East Frisian Islands in Lower Saxony to Schleswig-Holstein to Sylt on the Danish border. A mudflat hike is mandatory. Go barefoot in search of creatures like lugworms and understand the ecosystem of the national park.
Take a seal tour and explore the underwater world.
Sylt Island
The North Sea Island of Sylt is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Germany. No wonder the island on the North Sea boasts fantastic beaches, many hotels, holiday apartments, and numerous opportunities for activities.
From a mudflat hike to a boat trip to see seals or seals in the Wadden Sea, a hike along the coast, or a tour of the island by bike: the possibilities are varied.
The individual places are all pretty nice. And even at peak travel times, you will find quiet corners. In this blog post, I’ll tell you my personal tips for the most beautiful places on Sylt!
Holsten Gate Lübeck
I have been told so many times about the Hanseatic city of Lübeck. You can explore the small Hanseatic city in Schleswig-Holstein in a relaxed manner in one day.
The Holsten Gate is Lübeck’s landmark.
Do you remember the old 50 Deutschmarks bills?
Then you might remember the Holstentor because that was what you could see on this ticket.
The old city gate was built in the 15th century and is characterized by the late Gothic architectural style.
There used to be four Holsten Gates, of which only the middle one remains today. Since 1950 it has also been the home of Lübeck’s City History Museum.
Here you will find all tips for exploring Lübeck in one day
46 The symbol of Lübeck. The Holsten Gate
Helgoland
Thuringia
Schmalkalden-Meiningen
In the Schmalkalden-Meiningen region, you will find everything a discoverer’s heart desires half-timbered houses, palaces, churches, and castles … and modern street art! Schmalkalden is part of what is known as the “Half-timbered Road”; small and large, sometimes stately, and sometimes a bit crooked buildings jut out into the small, extremely well-kept streets.
In addition to the half-timbered beauties, there are sometimes small, but also large-scale street art paintings between the rows of houses, some of which deal with the history of the city and others with the genocide of the Second World War.
Read all the highlights for Schmalkalden-Meininigen here
Wart Castle
Fact: The Wartburg is located above the town of Eisenach. The castle has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
The Wartburg is particularly well-known for the fact that the well-known reformer Martin Luther hid in the Wartburg from 1521 to 1522 and translated the New Testament of the Bible into German here.
The most famous German poet, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, also stayed at the castle several times. Ideal in connection with a trip to Eisenach and Erfurt.
See the 14 most beautiful castles and palaces in Germany
Erfurt Cathedral
Kramer Bridge Erfurt
FAQs
The answer is Berlin. The capital of Germany is not only the largest city in the country but also has the most sights to offer.
The most visited attraction in Germany is the Miniature Wonderland in Hamburg, would you have thought? It is definitely worth paying a visit to the museum.
1. Miniature Wonderland Hamburg
2. Europa-Park (Rust)
3. Neuschwanstein Castle
4. Mainau Island Lake Constance
5. The old town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber
