Best of Germany

Germany provides visitors with a magical journey that traverses numerous landscapes, stunning towns, and a fascinating culture. The history here is complex and engaging, ultimately becoming the story of how one can find their way back from the brink of darkness.

There are numerous sightseeing events and tours that bring out the best of what Germany offers. Visitors to Germany come for the welcoming and friendly nature of the people, the breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. Here is a list of some of the top attractions that are considered “must-see” in Germany, in no particular order.

Old Town Hamburg

You’ll find the stunning Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall, the historic Speicherstadt, and the beautiful St. Nicholas on your journey through the historic city center of Hamburg. Be sure to tour the local history museum during your time in the city to discover how the city came back from a devastating series of bombing runs during the war in 1943. The harbor is modern and massive too, which is perfect for a lingering evening boat tour.

The Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is arguably the most-visited site in all of Germany. With its massive Gothic spires, it is the tallest twin-spired church with a total height of 157m. Named a world heritage site in 1996, the church was originally designed to be a place of worship for the Holy Roman Emperor. Today, it offers a chance to see many artistic masterpieces.

The Castles of the Rhine

The Rhine Valley is one of the most beautiful regions in Germany. Not only can use enjoy a leisurely cruise along the river, there are vineyards to explore and stunning villages which long to welcome you. There are also numerous feudal castles which guard the shores of the river throughout the valley. If you can only choose one to tour, make it be Rheinfels Castle.

The Frisian Islands

These islands actually span along the coastlines of three countries: Germany, Denmark, and The Netherlands. Sylt is the largest and most populated of the islands and is a known destination for Europe’s jet-set as well as nudists. Amrum is also a hot tourist spot but less crowded. The pristine beaches, panoramic views, and relative seclusion continue to draw in visitors looking to escape the bustle of more traditional destinations.

Rothenburg

This community is the best-preserved Medieval village in all of Germany. You can walk along the old walls of the city if you wish or tour the interesting Crime and Punishment Museum. Be sure to get some apple strudel during your stay. Then get some sleep, so you can partake in the Night Watchman’s tour.

Lake Constance

Lake Constance lies between Germany, Austria, and Switzerland and is fed by the Rhine River, one of the longest in Europe. It is a freshwater lake that is relied upon for water consumption by nearby cities and towns. Recreation draws many tourists from across Europe and beyond each year.

Bavaria

When you’re in Bavaria, it feels like you are home. Although it may be famous for its beer and architecture, you’ll find plenty of ways to be active during your time here. In Munich, you can rent a bicycle and explore the city on one of many vehicle-free paths. There are engaging museums to find, great food to enjoy, and lots of sightseeing to do.

Berlin

An entire holiday could be spent exploring the many sites of this beautiful city. From the Reichstag to the Brandenburg Gate, you’ll find that memorials are plentiful in this city, ensuring that the past will not be forgotten, so that it will not repeat itself in the future. A walking tour of the city is certain to produce numerous hidden gems. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall decades ago, the city has grown and evolved into a modern, bustling metropolis that prides itself on looking to the future while preserving the past.

The Black Forest

Secluded pine-laden woodlands located in southwestern Germany, the Black Forest is famous for being the origin of cuckoo clocks. The area gets its name from the dark shadows of the fir and pine trees that grow very thick there. The black forest offers first rate hiking, camping, and some skiing. Travelers on a budget can find great deals on lodging and accommodations in the towns that surround the Black Forest.

Oktoberfest

Munich makes that claim that it is the home of beer and if 6 million visitors is any indication, that claim seems to be valid. Oktoberfest is known worldwide as a celebration of Bavarian beer and lasts several weeks long, from mid-September to early October. The 200 year old festival includes events such as parades, beer tents, music features, feasts of authentic German cuisine, and exhibits.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Located near the Austrian border, Neuschwanstein Castle has the title of the most photographed building in Germany. It is also the most famous of all of the German castles and was the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle located in Disneyland. Neuschwanstein Castle was built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II.

World Famous Christmas Markets

Holidays in Germany especially during the Christmas season are something very enjoyable where almost every germa street and shop are transformed into a shopper’s paradise. The glamour and the lights transform the entire country into a Christmas wonderland that you are not going to see anywhere else. For a true Christmas holiday in Germany, you should visit many areas to share the spirit of Christmas. The first stop is Nuremberg. Her you will find Christkindlesmarkt. This special event transforms the market square into a shoppers dream. One can only spend the entire day shopping, browsing and enjoying the Christmas decorations.

After you spend the day at Nuremberg, you can move onto Frankfurt, where the market has taken over the Old Town. You find delights that will amaze everyone at Christmas. You might even visit Michelstadt or Rudesheim on the weekend when they are open for some more Christmas delights. You holidays in Germany do not have to stop there, you can move onto Erfurt for the largest Christmas market in East Germany. Not only will you see the lighted Christmas tree that seems to touch the sky, you will fine all the foods that Germany is famous for and enjoy tasting every one.

Between X-mas and New Year

After experiencing all the Christmas delights, and while waiting for a new year to arrive, you might move onto Munich and Berlin to see some of the history of Germany. There are so many different attractions to see all over Germany, when the day is over, you can enjoy some fine German beer. When drinking a glass of fine German beer you want to drink it slow, you want to take small drinks and savor the taste. Add to your beer tasting experience some of the fine German cuisine and you are on your way to a night restful and peaceful sleep. After you wake, you might want to relax by the hotel pool or try exploring some more areas of Germany.

A New Year Celebration Maybe ?

Your holidays in Germany do not have to end at Christmas, stay for the New Year Celebration. Drop you piece of molten lead into water and have your future told. You will find dancing, drinking and lively entertainment to ring in your New Year in Germany. When the clock strikes midnight, you can wish everyone a Gutes Neue Jahr and listen to the church bells ringing all around. You have never experienced such a joyous celebration if you have never been to Germany for Christmas and the New Year celebration.

Once you arrive home, you will want to start planning your trip for next year. Traveling during holiday celebrations is always a wonderful experience. You might want to go back to German.

The best of Germany will take you through a journey that you will remember for a lifetime. There are many marvels to find if you’re willing to begin looking for them