Highlights of Germany by region

Must-see destinations in Germany

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North Germany

Lower Saxony

Bückeburg Palace

Bückeburg Palace stands as a magnificent testament to over 700 years of noble history. This Renaissance palace has been in the possession of the family of the Counts of Holstein-Schaumburg, later the Princes of Schaumburg-Lippe, for more than seven centuries and continues to serve as their ancestral seat today. Surrounded by extensive gardens and parks covering more than 80 hectares, the palace complex includes not only the main building with its historic state rooms but also the largest private mausoleum in the world and a Royal Riding School with a tradition dating back 400 years. The palace, which lies in the centre of the town of Bückeburg, draws visitors from far beyond the local area, enchanting them with its blend of architectural styles spanning four centuries, from Renaissance to Baroque and Historicism.

Celle

Celle is a historic town in Lower Saxony, Germany, situated on the banks of the River Aller at the southern edge of the Lüneburg Heath. With a population of about 71,000, it is one of the largest Lower Saxon towns between Hanover and Hamburg. The town is renowned for its remarkably preserved Old Town featuring around 450-500 half-timbered houses dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. Celle's most prominent landmark is its ducal palace, which dates back to 1292 and combines Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. From 1378 to 1705, Celle served as the official residence of the dukes of Brunswick-Lüneburg. Today, the town is known for its cultural offerings, including the Bomann Museum, the Celle Museum of Art (the world's first 24-hour art museum), and the oldest working Baroque theatre in Germany housed within the palace. The town's picturesque setting, rich history, and well-preserved architecture make it a popular destination for both German and international visitors.

Goslar ※

Goslar, a thousand-year-old town nestled on the northern edge of the Harz Mountains in Germany, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture. Founded in the 10th century, this former imperial city boasts an impressive array of cultural treasures, including approximately 1,500 half-timbered houses dating from the 15th to 19th centuries, the Romanesque Imperial Palace, and the historic Rammelsberg Mine. The old town, largely surrounded by former defensive structures and green spaces, reflects the economic importance of mining in the region, with its layout and buildings showcasing the mutual balance of technical, social, and economic developments over a millennium of historical mining. Visitors to Goslar can explore its charming market square, numerous museums, churches, and the Upper Harz Water Management System, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an ideal destination for those interested in history, culture, and picturesque German towns.

Wolfenbüttel

Located 12 km south of Braunschweig, Wolfenbüttel is a relaxed historical town filled with half-timbered houses. It is one of the best preserved hsitorical towns in the northern half of Germany along with nearby Goslar and Quedlinburg. With origins dating back to the 10th century and first officially documented in 1118, this picturesque town combines rich history, stunning architecture and a vibrant cultural scene. For some 400 years until 1754, Wolfenbüttel served as the residence of the Dukes of Braunschweig and Lüneburg, with the impressive baroque Schloss Wolfenbüttel standing as testament to this period. The town is particularly renowned for the Herzog August Bibliothek (Duke August Library), founded in 1572 and housing over 900,000 books including rare manuscripts. With approximately 53,000 inhabitants, Wolfenbüttel retains its historical character through several hundred well-preserved half-timbered buildings, many dating back centuries, as the town was largely undamaged during the war.

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

Schwerin

Schwerin, the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in northeastern Germany, is the state's oldest city, first mentioned in 1018 and granted city rights in 1160. Known as the "Venice of the North", this charming city is built around seven lakes, with Schweriner See being the largest at 63 square kilometres. The city's iconic landmark is the fairy-tale Schwerin Castle, situated on an island in Lake Schwerin, which served as the residence of the Dukes of Mecklenburg for centuries and now houses the state parliament. Since 2024, the castle and surrounding residential buildings have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With just under 100,000 residents, Schwerin is Germany's smallest state capital, yet it offers a rich cultural experience through its State Museum with impressive art collections, the Gothic Schwerin Cathedral dating back to the 13th century, and a vibrant calendar of events including the Schlossfestspiele castle theatre festival.

Saxony-Anhalt

Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm ※

The Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm stands as a magnificent testament to 18th-century landscape design, philosophy, and cultural vision. Spanning approximately 142 square kilometres along the Elbe and Mulde rivers in central Germany, this extraordinary cultural landscape represents one of Europe's most significant achievements in landscape architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, the Garden Realm exemplifies the philosophical principles of the Age of Enlightenment through its harmonious integration of art, education, and economy. Created under the visionary leadership of Prince Leopold III Friedrich Franz von Anhalt-Dessau (1740-1817), this remarkable ensemble of parks, palaces, and gardens embedded within the natural floodplain landscape offers visitors an unparalleled journey through history, architecture, and horticultural innovation.

Quedlinburg ※

Quedlinburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled at the northeastern edge of the Harz Mountains in Germany, boasts over 1,000 years of rich history. The medieval town is renowned for its exceptional collection of 2,069 well-preserved half-timbered houses spanning eight centuries, making it one of Germany's largest area monuments covering nearly 90 hectares. The town's skyline is dominated by the Castle Hill ensemble, featuring the Renaissance castle and the Romanesque Collegiate Church of St. Servatius, which houses valuable religious artefacts and serves as the burial site of King Henry the Fowler and Queen Mathilde. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets of the historic old town, visit numerous museums including the Lyonel Feininger Gallery, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty of the Harz region, which offers excellent hiking opportunities. The best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is mild, though December is also popular for its enchanting Christmas market set against the backdrop of medieval architecture.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode, known as "the colourful town of the Harz Mountains," is a picturesque destination located on the northern edge of the Harz Mountains in Germany. This charming town is renowned for its well-preserved historic centre featuring lavishly restored half-timbered houses and cobbled streets. Dominated by the majestic Wernigerode Castle, which was originally a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century, the town offers visitors a glimpse into 800 years of history. Wernigerode received its town charter in 1229 and developed as a significant trading hub. Today, with a population of over 32,000, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the Harz region, whether by the historic steam-powered Harz Narrow Gauge Railways, hiking trails, or road. The town experiences a temperate oceanic climate, making it suitable for visits year-round, though May to September is considered the best time to visit.

Brandenburg & Berlin

Berlin

Berlin, Germany's capital and largest city, is home to 3.9 million residents and stands as the European Union's most populous city (within the city boundaries). Located in eastern Germany along the Spree River, Berlin covers 891 square kilometers, with nearly one-third of its area composed of forests, parks, and waterways. The city seamlessly blends historical landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag building, and remnants of the Berlin Wall with contemporary culture, featuring over 180 museums, a vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary offerings including 23 Michelin-starred restaurants. Berlin's extensive public transportation network spans 473 kilometers, making it easy to explore both the city's central districts and its leafy suburbs. The city's unique character emerges from its striking contrasts, where historical buildings stand alongside modern architecture, and its role as a hub for technology startups, politics, media, and science contributes to its dynamic atmosphere.

Potsdam

Potsdam, the capital of the German state of Brandenburg, is a historic city located about 25 kilometres southwest of Berlin's city centre. With over 1,000 years of history, it is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, which include the Palaces and Parks of Potsdam covering approximately 500 hectares of parkland and encompassing 150 buildings dating from 1730 to 1916. The city served as a residence for Prussian kings and the German Emperor until 1918, and its planning embodied ideas of the Age of Enlightenment through a careful balance of architecture and landscape. Key attractions include Sanssouci Palace, the summer residence of Frederick the Great, the New Palace, Cecilienhof Palace (site of the 1945 Potsdam Conference), and the Dutch Quarter with its 134 distinctive red brick houses. Potsdam also boasts the famous Studio Babelsberg, one of Europe's oldest film studios, earning the city UNESCO Creative City of Film status in 2019.

Central Germany

North Rhine-Westphalia

Monschau

Monschau, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Eifel", is a charming historic town located in the Eifel region of western Germany, in the North Rhine-Westphalia state. Situated in the narrow valley of the Rur river, just 2km from the Belgian border, this small resort town boasts a beautifully preserved medieval centre with half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets that have remained largely unchanged for over 300 years. Originally known as Montjoie, the name was changed to Monschau in 1918. The town's history dates back to 1198, with Monschau Castle being built at the end of the 12th century. Once a thriving centre for textile production in the 18th century, Monschau now primarily relies on tourism, welcoming approximately 2 million day visitors annually. With its picturesque setting within the Hohes Venn – Eifel Nature Park, distinctive architecture, and rich cultural heritage, Monschau offers visitors a glimpse into Germany's past whilst providing modern amenities and attractions for all seasons.

Rhineland-Palatinate

Mainz

Mainz, the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate, is immediately recognisable by the pink-reddish sandstones of its buildings. Located on the banks of the Rhine River, it boasts a rich heritage dating back to Roman times. As the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the printing press, Mainz is home to the Gutenberg Museum, which showcases his revolutionary work. The city's skyline is dominated by the Romanesque St. Martin's Cathedral, a testament to its importance as a former prince-bishopric. Mainz is also renowned as Germany's wine capital, with the surrounding Rheinhessen region being the country's largest wine-growing area. Visitors can explore the charming old town with its half-timbered houses, enjoy the Mediterranean flair of the Rhine promenade, and experience the city's famous carnival celebrations, second only to those in Cologne.

Saxony

Dresden (※)

Dresden is often called the "Florence on the Elbe" due to its stunning Baroque architecture and rich artistic heritage. Despite suffering devastating destruction during World War II, Dresden has risen from the ashes to reclaim its position as one of Europe’s most beautiful and culturally vibrant cities. Dresden was the royal residence of the Electors and Kings of Saxony, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries when it flourished as a cultural and political center. Dresden State Art Collections houses one of the oldest and most prestigious art collections in Europe. In addition to its historical and artistic appeal, Dresden has a thriving modern cultural scene, with contemporary art galleries, live music venues, and a growing tech industry. The Neustadt district is particularly known for its bohemian vibe, street art, and trendy cafes. The Dresden Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, dating back to 1434.

Saxon Switzerland National Park

Saxon Switzerland National Park is one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Germany, located at the confines of the state of Saxony and the Czech Republic. Known for its dramatic sandstone rock formations, deep valleys, lush forests, and picturesque villages, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. The park is famous for its Elbe Sandstone Mountains, a unique range of jagged, towering sandstone cliffs that rise dramatically above the Elbe River. These formations are the result of millions of years of erosion, creating an otherworldly landscape of spires, pinnacles, and deep ravines.

South Germany

Baden-Württemberg

Heidelberg

Heidelberg, a picturesque city in southwestern Germany, is renowned for its romantic charm and rich history. Situated along the Neckar River and surrounded by lush forests, this city of approximately 163,000 inhabitants is home to Germany's oldest university, founded in 1386. The city's skyline is dominated by the iconic Heidelberg Castle, a magnificent ruin perched atop a hill overlooking the Old Town. Heidelberg's well-preserved medieval and Baroque architecture, including the Old Bridge and the Church of the Holy Spirit, attracts millions of visitors annually. Beyond its historical appeal, Heidelberg is a thriving centre of science and research, hosting numerous internationally acclaimed institutes and research-based companies. The city's vibrant cultural scene, coupled with its picturesque setting, makes it a popular destination for tourists and students alike.

Hohenzollern Castle

Perched majestically atop Mount Hohenzollern at an elevation of 855 metres, Hohenzollern Castle stands as one of Germany's most impressive and iconic fortresses. This ancestral seat of the Hohenzollern dynasty, who later became Kings of Prussia and German Emperors, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into German royal history while providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Swabian Alps. The castle's strategic position not only served defensive purposes throughout history but also creates a picturesque silhouette against the sky that has captivated visitors for generations. Emperor William II himself claimed the view from the castle was "truly worth a journey," and indeed, on clear days, visitors can see all the way to the Alps. The golden-hued bricks of this neo-Gothic masterpiece shimmer in the sunlight, creating an almost mystical appearance that seems to belong more in a fairy tale than in reality. Today, the castle remains in the ownership of Prince George Frederick, the current head of the Prussian branch of the Hohenzollern family, and when he visits, the royal family flag flies proudly from the Watch Tower.

Ludwigsburg Palace

Known as the "Swabian Versailles," Ludwigsburg Palace stands as one of Europe's largest and most impressive original Baroque complexes. This splendid estate comprises 18 buildings containing 452 rooms, reflecting the power and wealth of the dukes and kings of Württemberg who once called it home. The palace complex, with its lavish architecture featuring arches, columns, frescoes, and chandeliers, offers visitors a journey through three centuries of royal history and architectural styles. Surrounded by spectacular gardens on three sides, the entire estate covers 32 hectares (79 acres), making it the largest palatial estate in Germany. The unique blend of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical elements creates an architectural symphony that captivates visitors from around the world.

Schwäbisch Hall

Schwäbisch Hall, a picturesque town of approximately 40,000 inhabitants, is nestled in the Kocher River valley in Baden-Württemberg, southern Germany. With a history spanning 2,500 years, this former imperial city boasts a well-preserved medieval old town characterised by half-timbered houses, covered wooden bridges, and numerous staircases. The town's prosperity was historically built on salt production, which lasted from 500 BCE to 1924, earning it the moniker 'white gold'. Today, Schwäbisch Hall is renowned for its cultural offerings, including the Kunsthalle Würth art gallery, the Hällisch-Fränkisches Museum, and the popular open-air theatre performances on the steps of St. Michael's Church. The town serves as a regional economic hub, home to several market-leading companies, and attracts visitors with its spa facilities, cultural events, and proximity to the Schwäbisch-Fränkischer Wald nature park.

Tübingen

Tübingen, a charming university town in southwestern Germany, is nestled along the Neckar River in the state of Baden-Württemberg. With a history dating back over 900 years, this picturesque city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval old town, featuring steep steps, narrow lanes, and pointed gabled houses. Home to the prestigious University of Tübingen, founded in 1477, the city boasts a vibrant academic atmosphere with nearly one-third of its 90,000 residents being students. Tübingen offers a blend of cultural attractions, including the imposing Hohentübingen Castle, the Gothic Stiftskirche, and numerous museums showcasing art and archaeology. The town's lively market square, crowned by the 15th-century Town Hall with its ornate astronomical clock, serves as a focal point for local life and events.

Freiburg im Breisgau

Freiburg im Breisgau, often simply called Freiburg, is a charming city in southwestern Germany, situated on the edge of the Black Forest. As the fourth-largest city in Baden-Württemberg, it boasts a population of about 355,000 in its built-up area. Known for its sunny climate, Freiburg is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The city's rich history is evident in its well-preserved Old Town, which features the iconic Freiburg Minster, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 13th century. Freiburg is also home to one of Germany's oldest universities, founded in 1457, contributing to its vibrant intellectual atmosphere. The city's unique Bächle, small water channels running through the streets, add to its distinctive character. With its picturesque setting, cultural attractions, and proximity to France and Switzerland, Freiburg serves as an excellent base for exploring the region.

Bavaria

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, meaning "Red fortress above the Tauber", is a beautifully preserved medieval town located in Bavaria, Germany. Perched on a plateau overlooking the Tauber River, this walled city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval old town, which attracts tourists from around the world. Founded in the 12th century and becoming a Free Imperial City in 1274, Rothenburg is one of only four towns in Germany that still have completely intact city walls. The town features cobblestone streets, colourful half-timbered houses, and numerous historical attractions including St. James' Church with its altar by Tilman Riemenschneider, the Medieval Crime Museum, and the town hall with its clock tower. Visitors can walk the 1.5-mile medieval wall that encircles the historic centre, offering splendid views of the town's architecture. Rothenburg is also part of the popular Romantic Road, a scenic route through southern Germany.

Würzburg ※

Würzburg is a historic city in northwestern Bavaria, Germany, situated along the Main River about 120 km southeast of Frankfurt. The city, with a population of approximately 126,000, is the capital of Lower Franconia and serves as a major administrative center. Founded by Celts and first mentioned in 704 CE, Würzburg was the seat of a wealthy and powerful Prince-Bishopric until 1801. The city is renowned for its Baroque architecture, particularly the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence with its Court Gardens, one of the grandest baroque palaces in Europe and a definite highlight of Germany. The cityscape features significant landmarks including the Marienberg Fortress, the 180-meter-long Old Main Bridge, and St. Kilian Cathedral, the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany. The city is also a center of wine production in the Franconia region, known for its mineral-rich dry white wines, and houses the Julius-Maximilians-University, founded in 1582.

Bamberg ※

Bamberg, one of Germany's most beautiful cities, boasts a splendid blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles, with the full package of timber-framed houses, stone fortifications and archiepiscopal palaces. The city's remarkably preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, features over 1,300 listed buildings and showcases a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Built at 262 metres above sea level, this city of 73,300 residents is often called the Franconian Rome due to its religious heritage and hillside setting. The town's layout reflects early medieval urban planning, with religious and secular buildings thoughtfully integrated into the landscape. Key landmarks include the imposing Bamberg Cathedral with its four distinctive towers, the unique Altes Rathaus built on an artificial island, and the picturesque Little Venice district with its historic fishermen's houses along the Regnitz.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg, the second-largest city in Bavaria with 545,000 inhabitants, combines medieval heritage with modern urban life. The city sits on the Pegnitz River and features the Nuremberg Castle, a medieval fortress built around 1140 that dominates the skyline. As the unofficial capital of the Franconia cultural region, Nuremberg forms an urban area with neighboring cities Fürth, Erlangen, and Schwabach, encompassing approximately 3.6 million inhabitants. The city offers 54 different museums, including the Germanic National Museum which houses 1.3 million cultural artifacts. While 90% of the town was destroyed in 1945, many medieval-style areas were carefully rebuilt using the original stones, preserving the city's historical character. Modern Nuremberg features Germany's first driverless subway lines and Bavaria's second-busiest airport, making it both a significant cultural destination and a vital transportation hub.

Schleissheim Palace

Just a few kilometres north of Munich lies one of Germany's most beautiful examples of Baroque architecture - the magnificent Schleissheim Palace Complex. This grand estate comprises three distinct palaces set within a stunning formal garden, offering visitors a glimpse into Bavaria's royal past. Though it may appear as a magnificent palace complex today, the site actually began with very modest origins, evolving over centuries into the impressive ensemble we see today. The three palaces - Old Palace, New Palace, and Lustheim Palace - each represent different periods and architectural styles, creating a fascinating journey through Bavarian royal history.

Munich

Munich, the capital and largest city of Bavaria, is Germany's third-largest city with 1,605,000 inhabitants. Located north of the Alps along the Isar River, the city combines historical significance dating back to 1158 with modern prominence as a global center of science, technology, and tourism. The city features numerous historical landmarks, including the Frauenkirche cathedral, Marienplatz with its Old and New Town Halls, and the Nymphenburg Palace. Munich's cultural landscape encompasses world-famous museums, the historic Hofbräuhaus Brewery, and extensive green spaces like the English Garden26. The city consistently ranks among Germany's most expensive cities and boasts one of the highest standards of living worldwide.

Herrenchiemsee Palace

Nestled on Herrenwörth Island in Lake Chiemsee, Herrenchiemsee Palace stands as one of Bavaria's most magnificent royal residences. This luxurious 19th-century palace was commissioned by King Ludwig II, often referred to as the "Fairytale King" or "Moon King," who designed it as a homage to France's Palace of Versailles and King Louis XIV, whom he deeply admired. The palace is often called the "Bavarian Versailles" due to its striking similarities to the French original, though it was never intended to be a perfectly exact replica. Unlike his medieval-themed Neuschwanstein Castle, Herrenchiemsee represents Ludwig's fascination with the Baroque era and absolute monarchy.

Linderhof Palace

Nestled in the Bavarian Alps near the village of Ettal, Linderhof Palace stands as a testament to King Ludwig II's artistic vision and extravagant taste. This magnificent rococo-style royal villa is the smallest of Ludwig's three palaces and the only one he lived to see fully completed. Unlike his other grandiose projects, Linderhof has a distinctly private atmosphere, reflecting the king's reclusive nature and his desire for a personal retreat away from the pressures of royal life.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle stands majestically perched on a rugged hill in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps, embodying the romantic ideals of 19th-century architecture and the fantastical vision of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. This iconic structure, with its soaring towers and dramatic silhouette against the Alpine backdrop, has captivated the imagination of visitors from around the world since it was opened to the public shortly after Ludwig's death in 1886. Often referred to as the "fairy-tale castle," Neuschwanstein served as the inspiration for Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle, cementing its place in popular culture. The castle represents a fascinating blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine architectural styles, creating a unique aesthetic that reflects Ludwig's artistic sensibilities and his admiration for medieval legends and Wagnerian operas. As you approach this magnificent structure, you'll be struck by its picturesque setting amidst the lush Bavarian countryside, with panoramic views of the Alpsee Lake, dense forests, and the majestic Alps stretching into the distance.

Berchtesgaden National Park

Berchtesgaden National Park, established in 1978, is Germany's only alpine national park, located in the southeasternmost part of Bavaria along the Austrian border. Covering an area of approximately 210 square kilometres, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve showcases stunning landscapes including the Watzmann mountain (2,713 metres), the third highest mountain massif in Germany, the fjord-like Königssee lake, and the smaller Obersee. The park features diverse habitats comprising 54% forest, 22% rock, 21% open land and 3% water, with approximately 260 kilometres of hiking trails ranging from barrier-free circular walks to challenging high alpine routes. Visitors can observe rich biodiversity including golden eagles, marmots, ibex and rare plant species, particularly in the unique Wimbachtal valley with its constantly moving rocky terrain. The park attracts around 1.6 million visitors annually, with the hiking season typically running from June to October, and swimming is permitted in all lakes within the protected area.

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And now check out the :

Best French Medieval Castles

Best French Châteaux

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Best Spanish Medieval Castles

Best German Castles

Best German Palaces

Best UNESCO Monuments

Most Romantic Places

Best French Villages