Germany consistently ranks among the top travel destinations in the world given its sheer variety of attractions across diverse landscapes, cities, and towns. From the Bavarian Alps in the south to the beaches of North Frisian Islands in the north, here are some of the most amazing things to do in Germany:
1. Admire Neuschwanstein Castle
Often called the fairytale castle, King Ludwig II’s Neuschwanstein Castle sits majestically atop a rugged hill in southern Germany. Perched against the Bavarian Alps, the 19th-century Romanesque structure is considered one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country with over 1.3 million visitors annually. Don’t forget to explore its beautifully ornate interiors.
2. Relax in Black Forest
With thick evergreen forests, jagged rock formations, and tranquil rivers, the scenic Black Forest region is a must-visit in Germany. Hike through scenic trails with photo stops at Europa Park, Titisee lake, and Triberg Falls – the highest water fall in Germany. Cozy up in a timber-framed lodge and indulge in the region’s famous black forest cake.
3. Wander in Rhine Valley
Winding through six German states, the majestic Rhine valley offers breathtaking natural vistas worthy of any travel bucket list. Cruise along the river and disembark to explore half-timbered medieval towns and UNESCO world heritage sites including the Loreley cliffs and hilltop castles dotting the valley’s banks.
4. Marvel at Berlin Wall Memorial
Pay homage at Berlin’s moving Wall Memorial that commemorates lives lost in the quest for freedom during the Cold War period. Intersperse your walk along the pedestrianized Bernauer Strasse with engaging audiovisual exhibits shedding light on the wall’s history and impact. Ponder at the graffitied East Side Gallery too.
5. Shop in Hamburg’s Reeperbahn
Hamburg’s Reeperbahn area was historically known for its red light district but today transforms into one of Europe’s largest shopping and entertainment hotspots. Shop for everything quirky at Puls fashion outlets, St. Pauli fish market or catch a live concert in the buzzing nightlife district perfect for people watching.
6. Explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Step into a storybook town with Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s enchanting medieval architectural ensemble safely encircled by defensive stone walls. Wander cobbled alleys, marvel at Gothic churches, and relish in local gingerbread delicacies and wines at half-timbered restaurants lining the charming Town Square.
7. Visit Dresden’s Zwinger Palace
Zwinger Palace in Dresden symbolizes magnificent Baroque aesthetics. Tour its vast inner courtyard studded with statues, fountains, and pavilions before heading inside its galleries displaying priceless Old Masters collection. For panoramic city vistas, hike up the neo-Renaissance Frauenkirche dome.
8. Hike along Rhine Falls
Visit the thundering Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall by volume, found amidst pastoral Liechtenstein countryside. Multiple footpaths and elevated promenades allow awe-inspiring close-up views of the 3-stage, 150-meter wide cascades framed by lush greenery. Perfect for photography with DSLR cameras.
9. Wander around Cologne Cathedral
Daunting at 157 meters in height, Cologne Cathedral is Germany’s most visited landmark and the nation’s finest example of Gothic architecture. Marvel at its soaring twin spires and beautiful stained glass windows before exploring religious artworks. Don’t miss the panoramic views from the roof terrace and chocolate shops along the banks of River Rhine.
10. Explore Historic Munich
Munich, capital of Bavaria, surprises with a splendid medley of culture, heritage, and fun-loving vibes. Walk along promenades admiring Nymphenburg Palace’s Baroque splendor. Browse wares in the famous Viktualienmarkt, then chill in Englischer Garten – Germany’s largest urban green space. Top your trip with a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, just 2 hours away from Munich city center by car.
11. Relax in Rügen Island
Germany’s largest island Rügen makes for a scenic Baltic Sea getaway. Explore rugged coasts, secluded bays and rolling countryside dotted with thatched villages. Paddle along Jasmund National Park’s famed chalk cliffs or relax at the spa resort of Binz popular since the 19th century. Don’t miss Thalkiff limestone formations, a UNESCO heritage site.
12. Bask on Nordsee Coasts
Nordsee strands provide the perfect scenic break on Germany’s North Sea coastline. Cycle past shifting sand dunes and marshlands on the East Frisian Islands. Play with children building sandcastles on clean family beaches of Sylt, Norderney or Borkum islands where accommodation choices abound. Spot seabirds and dunescapes through guided ranger trails.
13. Visit Heidelberg’s Altstadt
Heidelberg’s well-preserved Altstadt or Old Town area transports you to a bygone era. Explore Germany’s most photographed landmark – the imposing 13th century Heidelberg Castle perched high over the charming town below. Wander cobbled alleys, photograph the 18th century Old Bridge, then rejuvenate over steamy mugs of hot Glühwein wine.
14. Marvel at Dresden Art Collections
Home to a few of the world’s finest art collections, Dresden charms culture aficionados. The Old Masters galleries at the Zwinger Palace showcase priceless masterpieces. For more, visit the Albertinum Museum or the recreated Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister. No trip is complete without ogling Dresden’s exquisite baroque and rococo interiors.
15. Relish Cuisine in Bavaria
For a taste of hearty Bavarian fare, head to Munich, Nuremberg or Rothenburg during their fairs to relish roast chicken, sausages with sauerkraut and pretzels washed down with mugs of braumeister beer. Or pick Alpine cuisine with cheese fondues, goulash and strudels in Garmisch-Partenkirchen where Oktoberfest originated from.
16. Admire High-Rise Architecture
Venture beyond Cologne to admire more avant-garde landmarks. Potsdamer Platz in Berlin stuns with striking high-rises designed by eminent architects. Düsseldorf clusters landmarks like the avant-garde K21 Kunstsammlung and landmark Rheinturm by the river Rhine. Hamburg’s HafenCity quartier redefines urban living with neoclassical blending modern designs.
17. Relive History in Nuremberg
History comes alive in Bavaria’s second largest city – Nuremberg. Tour landmark buildings like the Imperial Castle, Gothic churches and Westender Synagogue. Visit Documentation Center’s harrowing exhibit on Nazi rallies ground or stroll Old Town’s photogenic lanes. Indulge in handmade Nuremberg bratwursts and Lebkuchen gingerbread treats.
I hope this gives you a good overview of the diverse things to see and do across the culturally rich and scenic Germany. Let me know if you need any specific destination or activity covered in more detail.