These top attractions in Germany are a must-see
As Germans, we love our country an all cultural and historic places. Do you want to discover our home country Germany? Here is my list including the most important, most popular and most historic places and sights in Germany.
The 10 best places and attractions to visit in Germany
This list is published every year by the German National Tourist Board. To me, it is often surprising what can be found in the Top-10. If you would like to know more about the individual federal states, click through the table of contents and discover the most important historical and cultural places in Germany.
- Europa-Park in Rust (Baden-Wuerttemberg)
- Miniatur Wunderland (Hamburg)
- Phantasialand Brühl (North Rhine-Westphalia)
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Bavaria)
- Nürburgring (Rhineland-Palatinate)
- Schloss Neuschwanstein in Hohenschwangau (Bavaria)
- Berlin
- Black Forest (Baden-Wuerttemberg)
- Hamburg
- Therme Erding (Bavaria)
Germany is a country for road trips, beautiful landscapes and great cities. The order of my top attractions is not relevant. I’ve divided to cluster the attractions by federal state to give you a better overview. From B for Bavaria to T for Thuringia.
Have fun with my ideas for a short trip to Germany
The article is constantly being updated and completed!
Bavaria
Bavaria probably has the most impressive highlights in Germany. The Alps, in particular, always cast a spell over me when I approach them. That’s why there are simply too many sights here, which I’ll write down in a separate article at some point.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Caste is often named among the top 10 places to visit in the world. The sight is famous far beyond the borders of Germany. Fun fact: More tourists from abroad come here to visit than Germans. Ideal for a longer stay in the Allgäu, with hikes to the most beautiful viewpoints of the castle.
Nearby are Füssen, Hohenschwangau Castle, Forggensee, Alpsee and Tegelberg.
- Tipps zum Besuch von Schloss Neuschwanstein ansehen
- Das sind die 17 schönsten Burgen und Schlösser in Deutschland
Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria
Zugspitze Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Top of Germany: with 2,962 metres, the Zugspitze is Germany’s highest mountain. It is located southwest of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, on the border with Austria.
With good visibility, 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 take the Eibsee cable car, the cog railroad and the glacier cable car up to the Zugspitze glacier with its panorama platform.
The DAV (German Alpine Association) provides information for the hikes to the top free of charge in this flyer.
The iconic image of Lake Eibsee with the Zugspitze panorama in the background
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Old Town
For many Germans, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the most beautiful town in Germany. The most iconic picture is the “Plönlein” - the landmark of the old town.
Incidentally, Plönlein does not refer to the small house, but is a term that means “the small square by 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 town wall, the castle garden, the double bridge and the Tauber Valley are also particularly beautiful. My tip: The hangman’s tour or, even later, the tour with the night watchman.
One of the most beautiful towns in Germany lies on the Castle Road: Rothenburg ob der Tauber Old Town with half-timbered houses (Picture of “Plönlein”)
Königssee, Berchtesgadener Land
The most Instagrammable place in Germany is the Königssee in the Berchtesgaden National Park. At its deepest point, it measures 192 m. If you would like to explore the lake, you’ll have to share the incredibly beautiful natural scenery with lots of other tourists. Take a boat to discover Bavaria’s most famous mountain lake.
Königssee in Bavaria
Munich
Munich is definitely worth a day or weekend trip. Visit the Viktualienmarkt, go to a beer garden, Marienplatz and enjoy the view. If you’re keen on visiting Munich during the Oktoberfest, you should book long time in advance. Prices for hotels are rising extremely during this period.
Why a trip to Munich is worth it:
- Sightseeing, shopping and culture
- Good food in the numerous beer gardens, restaurants, and cafés
Weitere Tipps für deinen Kurztrip nach München:
- Sehenswürdigkeiten in München
- Geheimtipp München: 11 alternative Sehenswürdigkeiten & Tipps
- Geld sparen in München: Lohnt sich der München City Pass?
Munich Marienplatz View from Alter Peter
Old Town Bamberg
The old town of Bamberg is gorgeous and worth a visit. Attractions include the old town hall, Bamberg Cathedral, the new residence and the monastery on Michaelsberg hill. You can easily explore the sights of Bamberg on foot in one day.
Bamberg Old Town Hall
Kaiserburg Nuremberg
Nuremberg’s landmark is one of the most famous imperial palaces of the Middle Ages in Europe. An imperial palace once served as a residence for the emperor and his court along his travel routes. This is because the cities ruled by Roman-German emperors in the Middle Ages were actually always moving to meet their vassals, attend imperial diets or hold court.
Kaiserburg Nuremberg
Baden-Württemberg
Baden-Württemberg is the federal state where I live. Even as a child, I spent all my vacations in the Black Forest or on the Swabian Alb. On school trips, we went to Bad Urach, caves or the more well-known lakes. Here are some popular tourist destinations and attractions that are not yet 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 so-called “island of flowers” by boat or ferry from Meersburg or by car.
If you are a flower fan, you will love the many flowers and plants in the botanical garden.
You can find more tips and things to do around Lake Constance in these blog posts:
- Die 13 schönsten Orte & Highlights am Bodensee
- Konstanz: Sehenswürdigkeiten und sehenswerte Orte mit Tipps
Mainau “flower island” on Lake Constance
Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle is located on the edge of the Swabian Alb. Its spectacular location above a valley makes it a popular day trip destination from Stuttgart (about 1 hour away).
Lichtenstein Castle, as you can explore it today, was built in the 19th century in a romantic neo-Gothic style. There was already a castle here in the Middle Ages.
By the way, did you know that the castle was copied? The small castle “Klein Lichtenstein” in Lietzow is located on the island of Rügen (Baltic Sea). You’ll notice it as you drive along the road as it shines white out of the forest (take a look at my Rügen article, you’ll find a picture there). There is also a smaller copy in Cape Town (Hout Bay). Check it out here.
Lichtenstein Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Baden-Württemberg
Heidelberg Castle
Germany’s most famous ruin and landmark of the city of Heidelberg is well-known among Germans. Walk uphill from the Old Town over the Old Bridge, up the Schlangenweg to the Philosophenweg and enjoy the best view of the castle (well signposted). Best time to visit the castle is in the morning or late afternoon, when day visitors are on their way home.
- Check out my Heidelberg Travel Guide and tips
- Best things to do and see in Heidelberg
- Money saving tip: Heidelberg Card review, the sightseeing pass for Heidelberg
For us, Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful cities 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, which offers great views, is very popular among locals and tourists. Here you can find a map with great hikes in the Black Forest National Park (sad but true: just in German).
There are numerous other places around it. In my childhood, for example, I spent all my vacations a year in Tennenbronn. I learned to ski here and explored numerous hiking trails and other activities with my family.
Highlights are the Triberg waterfalls, Gengenbach, Sommerberg in Bad Wildbad (with the Wildline suspension bridge and the Black Forest treetop walk). There are also many lakes and the Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwald Hochstraße) for road trip fans.
Take a look at my tips for the Black Forest (please consider using the translation button in our browser, as long as we didn’t translate the article):
- Ausflugsziele für den Schwarzwald (auch mit Kindern)
- Roadtrip über die Schwarzwaldhochstraße an den Bodensee
- Urlaub im Schwarzwald – Ein Roadtrip durch Süddeutschland
- Bad Wildbad im Nordschwarzwald
Those who want to get off the beaten path will find the most beautiful routes for a road trip in the Black Forest.
View ofrom the top of Sommerberg, Bad Wildbad Black Forest
Wildline suspension bridge Bad Wildbad Black Forest
Hohenzollern Castle
Another beautiful castle and attraction in Baden-Württemberg is Hohenzollern Castle. It is enthroned on a hill on the edge of the Swabian Alb. You can see this castle from afar when arriving via the Autobahn.
Hohenzollern Castle is also only an hour’s drive from Stuttgart. While you’re here, you should also take a look at the beautiful student town of Tübingen. Both places are worth a day drip.
- Visit the Hohenzollern Castle website where you will find all the information about visiting, admission and guided tours.
I explored Hohenzollern Castle in a vintage Porsche from the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart.
Meersburg
Where is Lake Constance at its most beautiful? I think 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 destination for a day trip on Lake Constance. It is therefore well worth a visit.
As it is so beautiful here, many tourists naturally come here. So avoid the summer vacations and come here in spring or fall instead.
View from Meersburg over the old town
Ulm Minster
You’ve probably already seen Ulm Minster. Even if it was only when driving past from the Autobahn heading south.
Because this building is not only the landmark of the city of Ulm. It also has the highest 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 142 meters high and can unfortunately only be reached on foot via 768 steps (sorry, no elevator). Ulm Minster was financed by the citizens of Ulm themselves. No wonder it took over 500 years to build until its final completion.
The Ulm Minster in Ulm has the highest church tower in the world!
Europa-Park Rust
Germany’s largest amusement park provides unforgettable moments. Screaming rollercoaster riders and shining children’s eyes are part of everyday life here. Europa Park offers numerous attractions such as rides, shows, and themed playgrounds. There are also various themed worlds to discover.
Adjacent is the Rulantica water world. Really great fun, and not just for children.
- You will find more tips in meinem Bericht zum Europa-Park Rust und der Wasserwelt Rulantica
- There are no tickets on site available, so you should buy your ticket here in advance
- Check out the Europa Park website
Rulantica Water World Rust in the evening
Germany’s largest theme park: Europa Park Rust in the Black Forest
View of Europa Park Rust
Mercedes-Benz Museum
The Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart is a highlight not only for automobile fans. More than 160 vehicles and a total of more than 1,500 exhibits surprise many visitors.
The façade and architecture from the outside is also an attraction: each of the 1,800 triangular façade panes is unique. Would you have thought it?
Berlin
Berlin is the capital of Germany and also a federal state. Around 6 million inhabitants live in the Berlin-Brandenburg metropolitan region. Berlin consists of twelve districts. As a historically important place, there are quite a few sights here. You can find the most important places to visit in Berlin here.
- Übernachtung in Berlin - meine Empfehlungen für Hotels
- Aktivitäten und Touren in Berlin
- Insider-Tipps von Berlinern für Berlin
- Street Art in Berlin
Brandenburg Gate
As a Berlin landmark, you can’t get past it. Once a symbol of division, today a symbol of German unity. The 26-meter-high and 65.60 meter wide building closes off the boulevard Unter den Linden with five passages to the west and to Pariser Platz. Berlins top attraction to visit as a tourist.
The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin is one of the most important attractions in the German capital.
The Reichstag building
Politics is made in the Reichstag building. Even during the German Empire and the Weimar Republic, today’s seat of government was the center of power.
You can visit the seat of the German Bundestag free of charge every day between 8 am and midnight, with the last admission at 10 pm.
The highlight of the visit is the glass dome with its roof terrace (for free). You just have to register in advance. Of course, you have the best view from the top. No wonder the Reichstag dome, built on top of the building by star architect Norman Foster, is one of the most visited places in Berlin!
Reichstag in Berlin with dome. One of Berlin’s most popular attractions.
Brandenburg
Sanssouci Palace
Potsdam’s Prussian palaces are impressive. Sanssouci Palace in particular, 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, you should also take a look at the surrounding parks and other palaces in Potsdam!
- Alle Informationen zum Besuch auf der offiziellen Webseite ansehen
- Tagesausflüge ab Berlin bei Get Your Guide buchen
Absolutely worth seeing: Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam (Brandenburg)
Spree Forest
Many people don’t even have the Spreewald in Brandenburg on their map of Germany’s top attractions, do they? Yet, there are great places and exciting things to discover here. Beautiful places include Lübbenau, Leipe and Lübben. In the Spree Forest, in addition to the famous gherkins, you should also paddle on the water. I think being a bit active is great. If you don’t feel like it, you can take a boat and sail around.
Bremen
Schnoorviertel
When you think of Bremen as a German, you think of the Bremen Town Musicians. But recently, the Schnoorviertel in particular has become increasingly well-known - beyond the borders, I mean. Bremen’s oldest quarter is idyllic and cozy. The name comes from the Low German word for cord - Schnoor. The name comes from the fact that rope makers once had their workshops here.
If you’re in northern Germany, head to Bremen and explore the small streets and alleyways in the Schnoor district.
Schnoorviertel in Bremen
Hamburg
For me, Hamburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. If the weather were a little better (it rains a lot in Northern Germany), I could well imagine living there. Here are four places worth seeing in the Hanseatic city, you should also take a look at my other articles for Hamburg:
- Sehenswerte Orte und Highlights in Hamburg
- Geheimtipps für Hamburg von Locals
- Die schönsten Cafés und besten Restaurants in Hamburg
- Aktivitäten und Tipps für 7 Stadtführungen in Hamburg
Elbphilharmonie
The Elbphilharmonie, affectionately called the Elphi by the people of Hamburg, is Hamburg’s newest landmark. It only took 10 years and cost 866 million euros to build the Elphi. For a long time, it was in the headlines of Germans Newspapers because of construction defects, economic disagreements and, above all, the repeated delays in completion.
Book your ticket for the Elbphilharmonie guided tour
Elbphilharmonie Hamburg view from the water
Speicherstadt - Warehouse district
Hamburg’s Speicherstadt warehouse district with its brick buildings 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?
Speicherstadt Hamburg
New town hall
For me, Hamburg City Hall is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The sandstone building in the neo-renaissance style is not only imposing, it also covers an entire city block! Even from a distance you can recognize the town hall with its 112 m height, and it therefore always serves as a good landmark.
New town hall
Miniaturwunderland Hamburg – the world’s largest model railway
When I first heard about Miniaturwunderland years ago, I didn’t think I would find it brilliant. The name doesn’t sound that exciting, but when you stand in the museum, you become a child again. Every detail is taken care of here, it’s just brilliant! Miniaturwunderland is one of the fun things to do when you visit Hamburg. Besides Elbphilharmonie and HafenCity at dawn you’ll find Austria, Antarctica and a miniature model of Norway. So cool.
See all the Information on the official website
Austria in the Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg
Hesse
When German people think of Hesse, they often only think of Frankfurt am Main and perhaps the Taunus.
Frankfurt am Main
Many people are probably like me and don’t know anything about Frankfurt am Main apart from banks and the stock exchange. But I had to realize that Frankfurt has a lot of places worth seeing. The new old town, the Römer, of course the stock exchange and an impressive skyline.
Eiserner Steg bridge and imperial cathedral in Frankfurt am Main.
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is wonderful! You simply have to love this federal state. Whether you like the Baltic Sea and the wonderful islands, the Mecklenburg Lake District or exploring the hanseatic cities like Stralsund, Rostock and Wismar.
I have traveled extensively in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania with my campervan. You can find all blog posts for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania here.
- Die schönsten Inseln der Ostsee in Deutschland hier ansehen
- Hier herausfinden, wo der schönste Ostsee Strand sich befindet!
Wismar
Wismar in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is the most beautiful city on the Baltic Sea. The historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly worth seeing.
Wismar’s old town includes the market square with the town hall, waterworks and “Alter Schwede”. As well as the churches of St. Georgen, St. Marien and St. Nikolai. There are also numerous gabled houses from the Hanseatic period.
Historic building in Wismar: the “Red House”
Island of Rügen with the famous chalk cliffs
For me, the most beautiful island in the Baltic Sea is incredibly varied. Even though the Island of 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.
Top sights include the Jasmund National Park with its high chalk cliffs and large beech forests. Visit the lighthouse at Cape Arkona and the picturesque piers in Sellin, Binz and Sassnitz. I was surprised by the fairytale forest, a little insider tip in the north.
Top attraction and most beautiful place on the Baltic Sea: the chalk coast on the island of Rügen!
Schwerin Castle
The beautiful state capital of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has many beautiful places that you should visit. The top sight of Schwerin, however, is the castle. But Lake Schwerin and the city itself are also worth a visit.
Schwerin castle and palace gardens
Lower Saxony
Lüneburg Heath
A visit to the Lüneburg Heath is particularly popular in August or September, when the heather is in bloom and everything is purple. 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 heathland landscapes of the southern and northern Heath. The Heidschnuckenweg is also on my list of places I still would like to discover or hike.
A must-do for me: the Lüneburg Heath and the Heidschnuckenweg trail
Celle
The City of Celle has only 70,000 inhabitants, but is a beautiful old town with more than 400 half-timbered houses. The castle in a mix of Renaissance and Baroque styles is also a top attraction. The town is also known as the gateway to the Lüneburg Heath. The ideal place for excursions into the heath.
The old town of Celle is one of the top sights in Germany.
Stade
Stade is a charming town in northern Germany. It is worth a visit for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Enjoy views from the Cosmae Church, explore the half-timbered houses and narrow alleyways of the historic old town around the Rathas. Learn more about the history of the city and the churches of St. Cosmae et Damiani and St. Wilhaldi in the Zeughaus.
Ostfriesische Inseln
The islands of Wangerooge, Spiekeroog, Langeoog, Baltrum, Norderney, Juist and Borkum are very popular vacation destinations, especially among Germans. Everyone will find their paradise here. Long, wide and fine sandy beaches await you. The highlights are the hikes or boat trips to the seal banks. I could spend hours watching these cute little predators crawl around.
Another bonus is the perfect North Sea climate. Some islands are also pollen-free and a true paradise for allergy sufferers.
My favorite islands are Juist, Langeoog and Spiekeroog.
North Sea island of Juist sights & tips (Bill Riff)
East Frisia
Not only the East Frisian islands are a highlight, but also the beautiful places on the mainland in this region. Particularly beautiful are Greetsiel, Leer, the most leaning tower in the world in Suurhusen and Emden, as well as the secret capital in the heart of East Frisia, Aurich.
Aurich Castle East Frisia
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 Norway. I think it’s a beautiful example. The construction itself is extraordinary. Take a look at my best places to visit in Norway, here you can find more pictures of stave churches.
Place to visit in Lower Saxony: the Hahnenklee stave church in Goslar.
North Rhine-Westphalia
North Rhine-Westphalia is the most densely populated federal state. The industrial sector is particularly large here. Of course, there are also many places of interest. I’ll focus on the most important ones first. My visits to places like Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Bochum or Münster were too long ago to mention them here.
Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Cathedral is an absolute must-see in Cologne. It greets you as soon as you arrive by train. The steps in front of the main entrance to the station lead directly to the cathedral plateau.
Entry to the cathedral is free of charge. Would you like to take part in a public guided tour? Then you are spoiled for choice. There are many different guided tours of Cologne Cathedral. You can also climb to the top of one of the two towers without a tour. You can find an overview of all guided tours on the Cathedral Guided Tours website.
Further tips for Cologne:
Cologne Cathedral is the landmark of the city of the same name.
Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex - “The cultural heart of the Ruhr Area”
The site of the former Zollverein colliery in Essen is a fascinating place. The UNESCO World Heritage Site used to be the largest and most modern colliery in the world. Today, you can enjoy a massive range of leisure and cultural activities on 100 hectares! A really exciting place!
You can find more information on the official website
Düsseldorf Old Town
Everyone should visit Düsseldorf’s old town at least once. The “longest bar in the world” offers many breweries, pubs and bars. But some tourists forget when to stop drinking. I don’t like Altbier, so I haven’t visited a brewery yet. My favourite place is Little Tokyo as I’m a big Japan Fan.
You will also find small individual stores in the old town that you should visit.
Rheinland-Pfalz
Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle is located on the Moselle river between the two cities of Trier and Koblenz. Eltz Castle is one of the most beautiful and best-known castles in Germany. WurdeThis architectural masterpiece is hidden among the trees in the forest. The castle has been looked after by the same family since it was built. They want to preserve the appearance and beauty of this building.
Did you know that this is one of the few castles that was not damaged in the war? It is one of three castles on the left bank of the Moselle that was never destroyed.
Many of the original furnishings from past centuries have also been preserved. So if you want to take a tour through history, I recommend visiting the castle inside as well and not just taking “Instagram-worthy” pictures in front of it.
Where to stay overnight? There are numerous accommodations in the area. The Landhotel Ringelsteiner Mühle is just 1.4 km from the castle. There is free parking, excellent service and delicious food.
Eltz Castle on the Moselle, one of the most beautiful castles in Germany.
Imperial Castle in Cochem
Cochem is one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Germany. Once you are in the town, you can hardly miss the castle that towers over the town. Boat trips on the Moselle, from where you have a great view of Cochem and the Imperial Castle in Cochem, are also popular.
Built in the 12th century, Cochem Castle is simply outstanding with its magnificent architecture and fairy tale appearance. A highlight for many on their trip to Cochem.
Did you know that a banker named Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené restored the entire castle in the 19th century? That’s why the castle has a neo-Renaissance style rather than a medieval style. There are regular guided tours of the castle. You can take a closer look at various details such as archaic furniture, tapestries, paintings, etc.
Staying overnight near Cochem?
If you’re looking for affordable accommodation, you should book the Stumbergers Hotel. From here you have a wonderful panoramic view of the Imperial Castle in Cochem.
Imperial Castle Cochem on the Moselle river
More information for places to visit in Rhineland-Palatinate will follow soon. Like:
- Moselle valley
- Trier
- Geierlay suspension rope bridge
- Kaiserdom Speyer
The Saarland
Saarschleife - one of Germany’s most beautiful river bend
Saxony
Frauenkirche Church Dresden – monumental Protestant church
The Frauenkirche is the most famous sight in Dresden. It sits majestically in the middle of Dresden’s Neumarkt square and cannot be overlooked. Like almost everything in Dresden, the baroque church was destroyed during the Second World War.
It is therefore all the more wonderful that the church was completely rebuilt by 2005 and has been welcoming visitors as a symbol of reconciliation ever since. But it’s not only worth taking a look inside the Protestant church. You can climb the ramps and steep stairs to the viewing platform of the Frauenkirche 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 € 10 entrance fee is really worth it. It’s best to visit early in the morning. The Frauenkirche is open from 10 am. Get an overview of the city and its sights from above.
The Frauenkirche is one of the most visited sights in Dresden
Saxon Switzerland
A true natural beauty lies in the east of Germany. Far away from the noise of the city, the sandstone rock formations tower magnificently into the sky. The sparsely populated region on the Elbe offers numerous opportunities for a really pleasant stay. Whether relaxation or action, there is something for everyone here.
The most beautiful places include the Neurrathen & Bastei rock castle, Königstein Fortress, Lilienstein, Kirnitzschtal and the towns of Bautzen, Görlitz and Dresden.
- Highlights der Sächsischen Schweiz hier im Blog ansehen
- Tipps für die schönsten Wanderungen in der Sächsischen Schweiz
Saxon Switzerland, top sight: Bastei
Leipzig Monument to the Battle of the Nations
One of Germany’s most significant monuments is the impressive Battle of the Nations Monument in Leipzig. The most impressive 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 the Nations in 1813. More than 600,000 soldiers fought on the battlefield.
The Battle of the Nations Memorial and Museum is just a short tram ride from the center of the city. It is one of the most popular and important attractions in Leipzig.
This grandest 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 the Nations in 1813. Over 600,000 soldiers fought on the battlefield. The Monument to the Battle of the Nations, complete with a museum, is just a short tram ride away from the city center. It ranks among Leipzig’s most popular and important attractions.
- Opening hours: April to October, daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. November to March, daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Admission: Adults: 10 €, children up to 6 years free.
- View further information on the website
- Alle Leipzig Sehenswürdigkeiten mit den besten Tipps hier nachlesen
Leipzig Sights: Monument to the Battle of the Nations
Saxony-Anhalt
Soon to be added:
- Quedlinburg
- Brocken
Schleswig-Holstein
Wadden Sea National Park North Sea
The Wadden Sea North Sea National Park extends from the East Frisian Islands in Lower Saxony to Schleswig-Holstein to the island of Sylt on the Danish border. A mudflat hike is mandatory. Go barefoot searching for creatures like lugworms and understand the ecosystem of the national park.
Take a seal tour and explore the underwater world.
Reflections in the Wadden Sea. The national park is a must visit on Sylt island.
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 harbor seals in the Wadden Sea, a hike along the coast or a trip around the island by bike: the options are varied. The individual locations are all pretty beautiful. And even at peak travel time, you can find quiet corners. In my blog post I’ll give you my personal tips for the most beautiful places on Sylt!
Highlight on Sylt for us: The idyllic west beach in Hörnum
Holstentor Lübeck
I have been told so many times about the Hanseatic city of Lübeck. You can explore the small Hanseatic town in Schleswig-Holstein in a relaxed manner in one day (I recommend a daytrip from Hamburg). The Holstentor is the landmark of Lübeck. Do you still know the old german currency and the 50 DM bill? Then you may remember the Holstentor, because that was what was visible on this bill.
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 the Lübeck City History Museum.
The landmark of Lübeck. The Holsten Gate.
Helgoland Island
Thuringia
Buchenwald Memorial
The former concentration camp in Buchenwald is now a memorial that you can visit for free. At the end of the war it was the largest concentration camp in the German Reich and therefore a relic of times that must never be repeated. I visited the Buchenwald memorial including the museum and memorial.
Schmalkalden-Meiningen
In the Schmalkalden-Meiningen region you will find everything an explorer’s heart desires: half-timbered houses, palaces, churches, and castles… and modern street art! Schmalkalden is part of the so-called scenic route “Fachwerkstraße” (half-timbered street), small and large, sometimes stately and sometimes a bit crooked, buildings protrude everywhere in the small, extremely well-kept streets.
In addition to the half-timbered beauties, there are small and large 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.
Schmalkalden-Meiningen region in Thuringia
Wartburg
The Wartburg is located above the city 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 renowned German poet, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, also stayed at the castle several times. Ideal to visit with a trip to Eisenach and Erfurt.
At Wartburg Castle near Eisenach, Martin Luther translated the New Testament of the Bible
Erfurt: cathedral and Krämerbrücke
You should not miss the state capital Erfurt with the impressive cathedral and landmark of the city, the Erfurt Cathedral, as well as the Krämerbrücke, the longest built and inhabited bridge in Europe. Another highlight is the old town and the Petersberg Citadel. A well-preserved fortress with a spectacular view over the city.
Krämerbrücke in Erfurt
Would you like to know more about the sights in Germany?
Which German city has the most attractions?
The answer is Berlin. The capital of Germany is not only the largest city in the country, but also has the most sights and landmarks to offer.
What is the most visited attraction in Germany?
The most visited attraction in Germany is the Miniaturwunderland in Hamburg, would you have thought that? It is definitely worth paying a visit to the museum.
What are the most famous attractions in Germany?
- Europa-Park (Rust)
- Miniaturwunderland Hamburg
- Phantasialand Brühl
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Nürburgring
I hope you enjoyed this article and helped answer your questions.
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