germany places to visit mountains

The 18 Best Mountainous Towns and Cities to Visit in Germany

Germany is a country full of beautiful and diverse landscapes. You’ll find everything from sleepy seaside resorts and booming metropolises to quaint medieval villages and river cities steepled in vineyards.

Some of Germany’s best and most stunning terrain can be found in the alluring and mysterious mountainsides. Some of the most mountainous regions in the country include Bavaria to the southeast, North Rhine-Westphalia to the west, and Baden-Württemberg to the southwest.

Whether you’re searching for a dazzling ski destination or a charming town off the beaten path, check out our list of the 18 best mountainous towns and cities to visit in Germany.    

Table of Contents

1. Garmisch-Partenkirchen

One of the most famous mountain towns in Germany is Garmisch-Partenkirchen, located in southern Bavaria . This iconic mountain village is extremely popular with winter sports enthusiasts, thanks to its convenient location in the Bavarian Alps.  

The towns of Garmisch and Parenkirchen joined together for the 1936 Winter Olympics, and have been in a happy partnership ever since. The Garmisch side of town is a bit more modern, while the Partenkirchen area has retained its old-school Bavarian charm with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses.

No matter where you are in town, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views of the alps and the crisp, clean air that can only be found in the mountains. 

If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t hesitate to hit the slopes, spend some time skating in the Olympic ice-skating stadium, or take a romantic sleigh ride around town.

The summer is a great time to visit for those who want to avoid the crowds, and you’ll find plenty of hiking trails in and around the city. 

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is also close to Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze , and a ride to the top via the cogwheel train and cable car is basically a rite of passage for anyone visiting this cozy mountain village. 

Once you get hungry, stop by one of the steamy cafés for a homemade pastry and cup of hot coffee, or sit down for a meal at one of the many restaurants that offer classic German fare and beer. 

2. Schönau am Königssee

One of the best mountainous towns to visit in Germany is tucked away in the southeast corner of Bavaria. Schönau am Königssee is situated on the northern end of the breathtaking Königssee Lake , and the mountainous backdrop of this idyllic town will make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a fairy tale. 

Schönau am Königssee is especially popular in the winter, as once the lake freezes over it becomes a stunning mirror for the surrounding Berchtesgaden Alps .

You’ll also find over a dozen miles of tracks for skating. The city is also home to a luge, bobsled, and skeleton track (the oldest one in the world!). 

Schönau am Königssee is extremely beautiful in the summertime, too, and a boat tour around the lake is one of the best ways to take in the verdant mountain views. Of course, you could always opt to take in views of this beautiful lake with a beer in hand from one of the restaurant patios overlooking the water. 

Those looking for a more active experience in Schönau am Königssee should go for a hike on one of the many scenic trails in the area. The Malerwinkweg is a fairly easy trail that’ll take you through its namesake’s national forest along the edge of the lake, and the slightly more intense Rabenwand Trail will give you views from higher up as it leads you to the Königsbachwasserfall. 

3. Monschau

Located on the Belgian border in the southwestern corner of North Rhine-Westphalia, Monschau is one of the best mountain towns to visit in Germany and also one of the Top 20 Best Day Trips from Cologne, Germany .

Not only is it extremely picturesque, but it’s rich history dates back to the beginning of the 12th century. You can see the city’s age in its leaning half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets, and there are numerous museums tucked into ancient buildings around town.

One of the best ways to learn about the town’s history is by tasting it. Monschau is famous for its mustard, so don’t hesitate to indulge a bit while you’re in town. 

As you wander around the charming streets, you’ll find lots of cozy cafes and restaurants – and the best ones will have outdoor seating overlooking the scenic Ruhr River.

You could also admire the river from a different angle by booking a whitewater rafting excursion, or head into the nearby Eifel National Park and hike along its shores. 

While in Monschau, you shouldn’t miss the lovely Monschau Castle . This ancient edifice looms above the city and is now used as a youth hostel and open-air music venue.

If you’d like to stay a night or two and explore this verdant area but don’t fancy the idea of a youth hostel, you’ll find plenty of charming hotels in the town center.

4. Schiltach

For another one of Germany’s best mountain towns, head to the Upper Kinzig Valley in the Black Forest . Here, you’ll find the charming town of Schiltach, a village whose history dates back to the 11th century. 

This idyllic river town brags beautiful alpine views, classic medieval architecture, and a host of intriguing museums. One of the best things about visiting Schiltach is that it’s a very well-kept secret, so there’s no need to worry about flocks of tourists crowding the streets. What’s not to love?

The most notable of the 4 museums in town is the Schüttesäge Museum , where you can learn all about the town’s timber rafting industry and other ways the raftsmen utilized the timber. 

Another big part of Schiltach’s culture is tanning, and the Black Forest’s oldest tannery is located in this tiny town. You’ll find few other craft tanneries around the country that produce as high quality of leather as the Trautwein Company, and you can even make an appointment to view the tanner’s handiwork while you’re in town.

A walking tour through this ancient village will also give you a sense of its history, and the river promenade is a great way to take in the stunning mountain views.

Those in search of the best mountain cities to visit in Germany shouldn’t miss the Bavarian town of Füssen. Located just north of the Austrian border, Füssen is the perfect home base for exploring the nearby mountainsides and waterways. 

The town is perched on the scenic shores of the Lech River and Forggensee Lake , and boasts stunning views of the nearby mountains.

The Tegelberg Mountain is home to a ski resort and alpine slide, and those in search of a more tranquil experience can spend the day exploring the famous Neuschwanstein Castle located just a few minutes to the southeast.

Of course, you could always stay within city limits and admire the ancient architecture and beautiful river views while wandering the streets. You could also visit Hohes Schloss , the town’s castle, check out the Benedictine Monastery of St. Mang (which houses the violin and lute museum ), or head down to the lake for some hiking and swimming. 

Once you’re ready for a break, make a beeline for the Bierstubbe at Hotel Hirsch. This traditional Bavarian pub serves up tantalizing local dishes and delicious brews straight from Munich . 

6. Baden-Baden

Situated in the southwestern Black Forest region, the city of Baden-Baden is one of the best mountainous towns to visit in Germany. This ancient spa town has been drawing people to the area for thousands of years, and you can still frequent the same bubbling thermal baths, or soak in a sea salt grotto as you stare up at stalactites. 

Baden-Baden is also home to Europe’s steepest funicular railway, and a ride up the forested Merkur Mountain is the best way to get panoramic views of the lovely city and surrounding area.

You could also take a hike up to the ruins of the Schloss Hohenbaden, take a promenade through the old parts of town, or indulge in some locally made truffles washed down with a warm cup of coffee. 

Perhaps the most iconic part of Baden-Baden, however, is the luxurious Kurhaus Complex. This lavish building is home to a spa resort and ritzy casino, and those looking for a glamorous mountain getaway while in Germany would be hard-pressed to find a better spot.

Of course, if you’re not looking to empty out your pockets, you could always opt to explore these lovely grounds for the day. 

Quaint towns and picturesque cities are abundant in the Rhineland-Palatinate region , and the charming village of Bremm is no exception. The best thing to do in this sparsely populated area is to take in the stunning views, and you’ll find them around every turn. 

Bremm is situated on the scenic Moselle River and surrounded by lush mountainsides. There are plenty of hiking trails that’ll reward you with incredible views of the surrounding areas.

For one of the best vistas, hike up to the Moselschleife Bremm Aussichtspunkt for a view of the famous Moselle Loop , where the river bends in a horseshoe-like shape. For the best cityscapes, walk up past the church into the surrounding vineyards – but just be sure to stick to the paths. 

Once you’ve worked up a thirst from all the hiking, make a beeline back into town and enjoy a refreshing glass of crisp Riesling , the sweet white wine that this region is famous for. You’ll also find a few restaurants around town, though there are admittedly more options for wine than there are for food. 

You likely won’t get to visit all the wineries in just one day, so if you’d like to stick around for a day or two there are plenty of guest houses and hotels in Bremm. 

8. Oberammergau

The village of Oberammergau is easily one of the most charming in the country, making it an easy choice for one of the best mountainous towns in Germany. Nestled in the verdant meadows of the Bavarian Alps, Oberammergau is a great alternative for those looking to avoid the crowds of the ever-popular Garmisch-Partenkirchen , located to the south. 

This little mountain village is incredibly picturesque, and is known for its beautifully painted houses, cobblestone streets, and artisan craft shops.

The town is also home to some stunning frescoes painted by Franz Seraph Zwinck back in the 1700s, and some interesting architecture like the onion-shaped dome of the Church of Saint Peter and Paul. 

If you’re interested in architecture, take a trip south into the nearby town of Ettal and spend the day wandering through the Ettal Abbey . Those more interested in German beers can take a tour of the brewery located across the way. 

Another of Oberammergau’s claims to fame is the Passion Play performance, performed only once a decade since the 17th century. The play was canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns, so if you’re lucky, you may be able to catch the performance in the next few years. 

9. Freiburg im Breisgau

Sitting at the base of various mountain peaks in the Black Hills region of southwest Germany is Freiburg im Breisgau. This vibrant university town is one of the best mountainous cities in the country, and offers an abundance of outdoor recreation and beautiful brooks that cross through the city center. 

Schlossberg , also known as “Castle Hill”, is a forested hiking area that can be easily accessed from city center. Unfortunately, there are no castles on the hill today – but the views across the town certainly are fit for royalty. If you’re not keen on hiking all the way to the top, you can always hitch a ride on the funicular railway. 

Those looking for even more incredible views can head up to Feldberg , Baden-Württemberg’s tallest mountain. The peak is located about an hour south of Freiburg im Breisgau, and those who aren’t looking for a strenuous hike can take the cable car to the top. Once there, you’ll have access to hiking trails, a skiing area, and a viewing tower. 

If you want to stick closer to town, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy right in the city. One of the most picturesque places is in the reconstructed Old Town, or Altstadt, in local speak, where you’ll find a magnificent Gothic cathedral, some original city gates from the middle ages, and plenty of little shops and cafes. 

10. Schwäbisch Hall

Schwäbisch Hall (often referred to simply as “Hall”) is one of the best mountainous towns to visit in Germany. Located in the northeastern part of Baden-Württemberg near the Bavarian border, this rural river city flies under the radar all too often – which can be a bonus for those looking to escape some of the more touristy mountain towns

This unsung gem is bursting with historic and picturesque features. The higgledy-piggledy lanes are lined with medieval half-timbered houses, and the backdrop of the Kocher River and surrounding mountains make this town one that truly belongs in the storybooks. 

The town built its riches from harvesting “white gold” (better known today as salt ), and the city has retained much of its original buildings and monuments. All around town, you’ll find beautiful stone bridges crisscrossing the river, cafes buzzing with locals, and some top-rated museums that’ll give you a little more insight into Schwäbisch Hall’s history. 

Check out the Hohenloher Freilandmuseum – an open-air farming museum that showcases some of the area’s most famous residents, the rare black-spotted pig. 

You’ll have a large variety of restaurants to choose from when you get hungry, and you’ll find everything from German and Austrian fare to international delights. There are also plenty of pubs and wine bars to choose from if you feel the need to wash your dinner down with some local drink.  

11. Blaubeuren

Located in the hills of the Baden-Württemberg , the city of Blaubeuren is as picturesque as they come and offers visitors an endless amount of photo-ops. Blaubeuren is also steeped in history and fairy-tale-like myths, much of which is inspired by the ultra-blue waters of the Blautopf . 

This surreal spring has attracted visitors to Blaubeuren for centuries, and the remarkable coloring is actually due to its vast depth. Folklore has it that it was deep enough for mermaids, but the real explanation is that it’s the endpoint for a vast cave system. 

The Hohle Fels is another nearby cave system that has seen many important archaeological digs, with most finds dating back to the Upper Paleolithic period. For more information about this ancient cave, you can head back into town and visit the Museum of Prehistory . 

The town itself is also rich in history, and you’ll be able to see it in the half-timbered houses and medieval-era monastery.

You could also munch down on some traditional Swabian cuisine if you prefer to taste your way through history, and the best place to do so is at the lovely and tasty Hotel Löwen . 

Another medieval treasure can be found in the Harz Mountains . The mountain town of Goslar has a long history, and is home to 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Goslar dates back to 922 AD when silver and copper ore were discovered in the nearby mountainsides. The town was founded by Heinrich I after this discovery.

Learn all about its fascinating history at the Rammelsberg Mine and Museum (one of the town’s World Heritage Sites). You can even enter into Europe’s oldest mining chamber where you’ll have numerous guided tour options to choose from. 

The Imperial Palace of Goslar is another historical monument that has been impeccably preserved, and this 11th-century palace definitely deserves a visit. It’s part of the greater Imperial Old Town of Goslar , which is the second UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After you tour the castle, be sure to walk down the enchanting cobblestone streets of the Altstadt and inhale the medieval atmosphere.

Unfortunately, the incredible history and beautiful architecture of Goslar hasn’t gone unnoticed, and the city plays host to busloads of tourists during summer months.

You could always book a hotel and head into the wilderness during the day to escape the crowds, but be sure you do so well ahead of time as accommodations in Goslar fills up fast. 

13. Heidelberg

Germany’s oldest university city is also one of its most scenic mountain towns, and Heidelberg is a favorite with Germans and tourists alike. It’s also one of the Top 16 Best Cities to Visit in Germany, According to Lonely Planet

Located on the banks of the Neckar River in the Baden-Württemberg region, Heidelberg is renowned for its unified red-roofed houses, its rich literary history, and (like so many other German towns) a half-ruined hilltop castle.

Heidelberg is unlike many other German towns in the fact that it emerged virtually unscathed after World War II. That being said, it was basically destroyed in the 17th century by French troops – but there are still tons of beautiful buildings to see around town, including the aforementioned castle. 

You’ll definitely want to pencil in some time to see the historic university grounds and the old student dungeons that have since been turned into a museum.

Heidelberg is also home to one of Germany’s best Christmas markets , so you may want to consider visiting in the winter. 

14. Marburg

Just an hour north of Frankfurt , you’ll find the university town of Marburg. The city is tucked into the hillsides of Hesse , and has everything you could hope for in a medieval German town.

Complete with a castle on a hill, half-timbered houses, and the oldest pure Gothic cathedral in the country, there’s much to love in Marburg. 

The Landgrafenschloss is a 13th-century castle perched on the city’s highest point, and aside from providing you with astounding views, it’ll also give you a look into Marburg’s past.

The well preserved half-timbered houses along the Lahn River will allow you to pretend you’ve gone back in time, and if you’d like to learn more about the history of Marburg, you’ll find plenty of museums sprinkled around town. 

Those looking to bask in the great outdoors should hike up to the Kaiser Wilhelm Tower, also known as the Spiegelslustturm , or take a more leisurely approach to outdoor recreation and enjoy a pedal boat ride along the scenic river. 

Once you’re ready for some sustenance, head to Marktplatz , where you’ll find endless bars, restaurants, and cafes lining the old square. If you find this area to be too crowded, head up to one of the quieter side streets for more options. 

15. Wernigerode

Situated on the northern fringe of the Harz Mountains , Wernigerode is one of Germany’s best mountain towns. It’s a classic medieval town with narrow cobblestone streets and iconic half-timbered houses, but there are a few things that make Wernigerode one of a kind. 

One of the most noteworthy buildings in town is the Gothic town hall, with its ancient twin spires and its rust-colored façade. The square surrounding it is incredibly picturesque as well.

The 12th-century castle should also be sought out, as the picture-perfect edifice sits high above the city and offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and town. 

One of the coolest things about Wernigerode is its location on the Harz Narrow Gauge Railway (HSB). The HSB is no ordinary railway. It utilizes vintage steam-powered locomotives and travels through the scenic Harz mountains from Wernigerode to Brocken , the highest peak in northern Germany.

This route will provide you with stunning views of the mountains, and the charming train ride is one you won’t soon forget. 

16. Meersburg

Located on the lovely shores of Lake Constance in the Baden-Württemberg region, Meersburg is one of the best mountainous towns to visit in Germany. We admit that “mountain” might be a generous term here, but the little village of Meersburg is so stunning that it’s earned a spot on our list. 

This tiny town is teeming with vineyards and orchards, and the beautiful blue lake adds to the breathtaking scenery. The best vista in town can be found at the medieval Meersburg Castle, with views of the lake, the distant Swiss Alps, and the city below. 

The castle is surrounded by the historic Oberstadt , or Upper Town. After you’ve taken in all the views from above, you can wander down the charming cobblestone streets that are lined with half-timbered houses.

You’ll eventually make your way down to the Unterstadt , or Lower Town, and a walk along the seafront promenade is simply compulsory. 

The small town of Altena is one of Germany’s most quintessential mountain towns, and of course, that includes a majestic hillside castle. Though these are somewhat of a common sight in the Rhine-Westphalia area, the Burg Altena is not any less breathtaking. 

Altena was booming during the middle ages, and many of the townsfolk earned a living by making the wire that is used in chainmail shirts. Today, you can learn about that part of the city’s past and more history in the hilltop castle, and while you’re up there, you’ll be treated to dazzling views. 

A hike up to the Aussichtspunkt am Brandweg will afford you some great views of the castle, city, and surrounding mountains. You could always walk around the town itself to get a sense of the place as well, and the verdant river promenade is one of the best places to do so. 

18. St. Goarshausen

What’s better than a medieval castle perched high on a hill? Two of them! The historic city of St. Goarshausen does in fact brag 2 such fortresses, and you’ll even find the ruins of two more in the neighboring St. Goar .

Situated on the shores of the scenic Rhine River surrounded by gentle mountains, St. Goarshausen is a lovely place to spend some time while in Germany. 

Burg Katz is the castle closest to town, and this 14th-century stronghold is now a private hotel. For enough money, anyone can live like royalty in St. Goarshausen, even if it’s just for a night.  Hike up to the observation area for some incredible views of the surrounding mountains and towns below.

Burg Maus is just a few miles to the north. Though you won’t be able to stay overnight, you’ll be able to climb to the top of the main tower for some seriously spectacular views.

You’ll be able to hike up to both castles, and if you don’t feel like breaking a sweat to get to them, some of the nearby roads will get you pretty close. 

One of the best things about this little river town is that it’s virtually unknown and criminally underrated, so there’s no need to worry about large crowds of tourists clogging these scenic streets. 

Related posts:

A Complete Travel Guide to the Harz Mountains: 16 Best Things to Do in Germany’s Secret Adventure Wonderland

Fairytale towns and mystical mountains.

The Harz Mountains have captured the imaginations of poets, writers and artists alike for centuries, and we can easily understand why.

This tucked-away region of Northern Germany is home to more cobblestone streets and timber-framed houses than we had room for on our camera’s memory card, and even though there are more cultural and historic attractions here than can fit on most people’s itineraries, the real draw of the Harz is the mountains .

While they are quite a bit lower than their far-away southern neighbours of the Alps, they are much more accessible – especially for people in Northern Europe looking for shorter travel times. Or for those who are rather looking for mellow hikes in beautifully forested and hilly landscapes full of myths and tales.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you won’t be disappointed by the Harz Mountains, either. From gigantic swings to endless kilometres of hair-raising mountain bike routes; the region has got you covered.

We have visited the magical Harz Mountains twice and as you can probably tell, we were completely charmed . We think you will be, too.

In this travel guide to the Harz Mountain, we will share our best tips on what to see and do in the area, where to stay, when to visit and much more!

Table of contents

Why visit the Harz Mountains?

Our time in the harz, where to stay in the harz mountains, what to do in the harz mountains, where to eat in the harz mountains, how to get around the harz mountains, how to get to the harz mountains, when to visit the harz mountains, what to bring to the harz mountains, minimise your impact.

As we alluded to in the introduction above, we think that the Harz Mountains are a very suitable holiday option for many types of travellers.

The mountains (and their accessible northern location) are the big draw here, offering everything from easy family- and dog-friendly hiking routes to 2,000+ kilometres of mountain biking trails for thrill-seekers. Less daring bikers will also find plenty of nicely marked trails.

On top of that, we shouldn’t forget that there are clean, swimmable lakes everywhere – perfect for cooling down in the summer months.

In winter, snow falls regularly in the Harz creating more than 500 kilometres of cross country trails including several floodlit tracks as well as 53 downhill slopes ranging from easy to hard in difficulty.

Cities or nature?

The towns of the Harz Mountains are truly unique with incredibly well-preserved city centres full of cute houses , romantic streets and pretty churches.

You can mix spending time in the charming towns with exploring the forested paths through the misty rolling hills and mountains or you can simply focus on one or the other.

Either way, the Harz Mountains offer an easy getaway that will surely have you longing for more.

Our first visit

On our first visit to the Harz Mountains, we spent 4 full days in the middle of November.

While it was a bit chilly, we had a great time exploring both the towns and the surrounding nature – all without tourist crowds.

Goslar was the base of our adventures for most of our visit, but we also spent a night in lovely Quedlinburg to experience the eastern part of the Harz.

Our second visit

For our second time, we had the luck of visiting the Harz region in the middle of sunny June .

There were flowers everywhere and the landscapes were vibrantly green . It looked quite different than it had in the autumn but equally impressive.

This time, we finally got to visit Wernigerode , Brocken , Hamburger Wappen and many of the other highlights we had missed the first time around.

Scroll further down to see all of the best things to do in the Harz Mountains!

Map and geography

Depending on how you look at it, the Harz Mountains are either located in the middle of everything or the middle of nowhere (in the good sense!).

The Harz is situated directly in the middle of Germany with easy autobahn access from several big cities. Still, it’s far away enough to make its visitors feel completely at ease – and give that special far-away-from-urban-life atmosphere that city-dwellers often so desperately need.

Technically, the Harz Mountains are located in the three states of Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia. The region stretches for approximately 100 kilometres from west to east and 32 kilometres from north to south.

The Harz Mountains area is compact enough that any choice of location will still leave you able to visit the rest of the region in a breeze – especially if you travel by car.

While staying in the mountains would surely be lovely if you intend to mostly hike, we think a city location will fit most travellers best. This way, you won’t be constrained by food options and you’ll still be very close to nature.

Goslar is your best bet with Quedlinburg a close second. Wernigerode is also worth your consideration.

Search for the best value accommodation in the Harz Mountains here (adlink) .

Goslar: Haus Mittenmank am Marktplatz

The 5-starred luxury apartments of Haus Mittenmank am Marktplatz are located directly in the middle of Goslar.

If you like to have more space and/or enjoy cooking some of your own meals, this is a fantastic place to stay.

Check prices and availability at Haus Mittenmank am Marktplatz (adlink) .

Ilsenburg: Landhaus Zu den Rothen Forellen

With a great central location in the Harz Mountains in-between Goslar and Wernigerode at the foot of Brocken, 5-starred Landhaus Zu den Rothen Forellen is one of the region’s top choices for that ultimate relaxing place to stay .

With a swimming pool , spa area and sauna you’ll have plenty of ways to wind down after a day in the mountains.

Don’t forget to check out the nearby Ilsetal ( Ilse Valley ) for stunning nature and hiking.

Check prices and availability at Landhaus Zu den Rothen Forellen (adlink) .

Value for money

Goslar: romantik hotel alte münze.

4-starred Hotel Alte Münze has the perfect location in Goslar right next to the central Market Square.

The hotel almost feels like a small town; a mix of buildings old and new tucked away on a quiet side street. As we arrived here after the sun had set on our first day in the Harz, we felt transported back in time on the cobbled streets (almost like we were in an old film!)

As an added bonus, the restaurant at Hotel Alte Münze serves vegan meals. The service at the reception was also top-notch.

Check prices and availability at Romantik Hotel Alte Münze (adlink) .

Goslar: AKZENT Hotel Villa Saxer

This is where we lived in Goslar during our second time in the Harz Mountains.

Ideally located in Goslar, this 4-starred hotel is a very comfortable place to stay complete with parking opportunities, breakfast buffet and all the amenities you’d need in the room.

We especially loved the view over the roofs of Goslar from our windows at the top floor.

Check prices and availability at AKZENT Hotel Villa Saxer (adlink) .

Goslar: Hotel Der Achtermann

As you arrive in Goslar by train, you can’t miss the 4-starred Hotel Der Achtermann.

Being the largest hotel in town, it’s only fitting that they also have a huge spa area complete with an adventure swimming pool, a hot tub and several saunas – just what we needed after a long day out exploring the Harz!

Check prices and availability at Hotel Der Achtermann (adlink) .

Quedlinburg: Romantik Hotel am Brühl

Quedlinburg is the most romantic town of the Harz with its perfectly preserved historic city centre.

For the most romantic stay, look no further than the 4-starred Hotel am Brühl.

We only stayed here for a single night but loved the atmosphere and design from the moment we set foot in the hotel.

Check prices and availability at Romantik Hotel am Brühl (adlink) .

Quedlinburg: Bellevue Ferienwohnungen

For our second time in Quedlinburg , we stayed in Bellevue Ferienwohnungen.

The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, a dining room and two big bedrooms.

It was honestly much bigger than we needed it to be, but we can imagine this being the perfect place to stay for a family!

Check prices and availability at Bellevue Ferienwohnungen (adlink) .

Quedlinburg: Schlosshotel zum Markgrafen

A real-life (renovated) castle, 4-starred Schlosshotel zum Markgrafen is a unique place to stay in Quedlinburg.

It looks like there has been paid great attention to detail . And it’s actually cheaper than we expected.

Check prices and availability at Schlosshotel zum Markgrafen (adlink) .

Wernigerode: Boutique-Hotel Anno 1910

We (unfortunately) haven’t stayed in Wernigerode ourselves, but if we did, it would be a dream to stay at the stylish Boutique-Hotel Anno 1910.

Check prices and availability at Boutique-Hotel Anno 1910 (adlink) .

Hahnenklee: Dein Hotel

Located in Hahnenklee just 15-20 minutes from Goslar (and right next to the Liebesbank Trail !), Dein Hotel looks like a nice place to stay for a nature-filled trip to the Harz Mountains.

Check prices and availability at Dein Hotel (adlink) .

Goslar: Hotel Harzlodge

Hotel Harzlodge is located a little more than a kilometre from the centre of Goslar’s old town and is a fine choice for a budget place to stay in the Harz.

Check prices and availability at Hotel Harzlodge (adlink) .

There are so many incredible attractions and things to do in the Harz Mountains that this travel guide couldn’t possibly fit them all.

These were our favourites.

Here are the 16 best things to do in the Harz Mountains:

• Experience the historic city centre of Goslar
• Go inside the Rammelsberg Mine
• Walk across the Titan-RT Suspension Bridge
• Walk the cobblestoned streets of Wernigerode
• Catch the unique view towards Wernigerode Castle at Agnesberg
• Visit Brocken, Northern Germany’s highest mountain
• Stand in awe under the old linden tree at the Burg Lauenburg ruins
• Learn about the Upper Harz Water Management System
• Experience Quedlinburg’s medieval charm
• Go on short and long hikes in the Harz Mountains
• Hike the Liebesbankweg (love bench trail)
• Hike the circular Torfhausmoor trail in the national park
• Hike around the Oderteich Lake in the national park
• Visit the rock formations of the Teufelsmauer (Devil’s Wall)
• Go back in time at the Walkenried Monastery
• Follow in Luther’s footsteps in Lutherstadt Eisleben

1. Experience the historic city centre of Goslar

Goslar is the main city of the Harz Mountains and historically the most important one.

The Rammelsberg Mine (described below) is located just a few kilometres south of town, having made Goslar famous and wealthy.

Every single street in the old city is unique with more than 1,500 timber-framed houses in total – each more crooked and charming than the next – lining the cobblestone streets.

Stunning churches abound in Goslar with more than a handful located very close to each other in the city centre.

Also, don’t miss the palace !

Using Goslar as a base for the Harz Mountains

We used Goslar as a base for our adventures in the Harz Mountains.

Not only is it conveniently located with easy access to both the mountains, attractions and other towns of the Harz, it’s also an idyllic place in itself.

Goslar is just big enough to have what you need in terms of supermarkets, restaurants and the like while still retaining that smalltown charm that makes you lower your shoulders a bit and commit to a slower pace of life.

Where we stayed in Goslar

We have stayed at three different hotels in Goslar : Hotel Der Achtermann, Romantik Hotel Alte Münze and AKZENT Hotel Villa Saxer.

Hotel Der Achtermann (adlink) is conveniently located close to the train station of Goslar in the northern part of the old town.

The hotel is huge with more than 100 rooms. We loved the spa area with a big adventure pool and several different saunas.

Hotel Alte Münze (adlink) is quieter and has more of a boutique feel to it. The location also couldn’t be better.

AKZENT Hotel Villa Saxer (adlink) is kind of in-between the two. Not huge, but also not a classic boutique hotel. Definitely a solid option nonetheless.

2. Go inside the Rammelsberg Mine

Have you ever been inside a mine ? Prior to visiting Rammelsberg, we hadn’t, and we must say we found the experience to be fascinating !

Imagining the lives of the miners spending all day inside the damp, dark environments with no electricity… Even when they did wear headlamps during the last years, it was still a gruelling job.

On our visit, we got to go into the mine itself and follow in the footsteps of the miners in the narrow galleries.

Before closing in 1988, the Rammelsberg Mine had more than 1,100 years of consecutive mining history – and archaeological finds date mining activity here a mind-blowingly 3,000 years back in time!

Tip: It’s cool inside the mine (even in summer) so remember to bring a jacket or an extra layer.

3. Walk across the Titan-RT Suspension Bridge

Travelling around the Harz Mountains, you will quickly realise how big of a role water has played here historically.

To this day, it still does – exemplified by the Rappbode Dam (Rappbode-Talsperre) – the largest dam in the Harz region and the highest dam in Germany.

The 458-metre long suspension bridge Titan RT runs parallel to the dam – and it’s open for pedestrians.

Walking 100 metres above the water below, you don’t want to walk here if you suffer from serious vertigo … The views are great, though!

If you feel extra brave, check out the GigaSwing – dubbed the most spectacular pendulum jump in Europe.

The bridge is open every day from 09:00 to 18:00 and the price to cross it is 6 euro for adults (~ 6.8 USD) and 4 euro for children aged 4-14 (~ 4.5 USD).

4. Walk the cobblestoned streets of Wernigerode

Walking the old streets of Wernigerode is like stepping back in time , immersing yourself in the charming ambience of a medieval town .

Wernigerode may be slightly less renowned than Goslar and Quedlinburg, but it offers an equally captivating experience.

Only a short walk away from the main thoroughfare will take you to hidden cobblestone paths adorned with beautiful half-timbered houses .

Don’t miss the Marktplatz ( marketplace ) in the centre of town as well as the views up towards Schloss Wernigerode ( Wernigerode Castle ). We also enjoyed strolling around the Lustgarten ( pleasure garden ).

5. Catch the unique view towards Wernigerode Castle at Agnesberg

You’ve seen the Wernigerode Castle from Wernigerode’s old town and perhaps you’ve even been inside its medieval walls .

But have you seen the unique view from behind the popular castle at Agnesberg?

The hike up from town is relatively steep , but at only about 1.5 kilometres each way with an incline of 100 metres, it’s doable for most people. And the viewpoint is truly stunning .

We parked (for free) at the parking lot called “ Parkplatz Am Lustgarten “. The Agnesberg viewpoint is right by “ Stempelstelle HWN 31 “.

6. Visit Brocken, Northern Germany’s highest mountain

Apart from its fairytale-like towns, the Harz Mountains are probably most known for being home to Brocken – Northern Germany’s highest mountain.

Standing at 1.142 metres above sea level , it’s not a truly tall mountain. But with no nearby competitors, it certainly feels tall enough!

The views from up here are naturally amazing as you can see as far as the visibility of the day will allow you to in all directions .

There’s a circular path that goes around the summit which is very family-friendly.

The climate at the summit is almost alpine and often quite cold and surrounded by clouds , so remember to bring appropriate clothing.

Fun fact : If you go in a straight line east from Brocken, the next prominent elevation would be in the Ural Mountains in Russia.

How to get to Brocken?

The most popular way to get to the top of Brocken is with the steam train (Brockenbahn).

Leaving from Wernigerode , the trip to the summit takes more than 1.5 hours – so this is certainly not for people in a rush…

It is however a pretty cool experience to travel with one of Germany’s last remaining steam trains and take in the landscapes in a slow, leisurely way.

For active people, it’s possible to both hike and bicycle to the top. As it’s located in the Harz National Park, no cars are allowed at the summit of Brocken .

7. Stand in awe under the old linden tree at the Burg Lauenburg ruins

We’ll say it right away: This place is severely underrated .

A beautiful, old linden tree seems to be growing right out of the ruins at Große Lauenburg ( Big Lauenburg ) – and with a good chance, you’ll have the magical place all to yourself .

While the tree certainly steals the show, don’t miss the tower at Kleine Lauenburg ( Small Lauenburg ) where you’ll get vistas of the landscapes below.

We parked by the “ Naturfreundehaus Schullandheim Stecklenberg ” and hiked the ~1.6-kilometre forest path to Große Lauenburg with a height difference of about 160 metres.

8. Learn about the Upper Harz Water Management System

To run a mine, you need energy. A lot of energy.

If you’re from a century without electrical switches and gas stations, using running water as your source of energy is almost just as good as the modern alternatives. That’s what the Upper Harz Water Management System is all about.

The people of the Harz Mountains were ingenious in their ways of using water to drive the water wheels of the mines, and the systems are still clearly on display today.

We walked along a few of the hundreds of kilometres of ditches that were dug to divert water. As the dirt had to be put somewhere , there are walking trails along most – if not all – of them.

It’s also impossible to miss the 100+ water reservoirs (although many of them actually are hidden a bit off the beaten track). They were historically used as “batteries” and are now mostly used for swimming in summer .

To learn more about the water management of the Harz Mountains and go on a guided tour in the surrounding landscape, pay a visit to the Upper Harz Mining Museum (Oberharzer Bergwerksmuseum) – one of the oldest technological museums in Germany.

9. Experience Quedlinburg’s medieval charm

Could a town be much more romantic than the UNESCO-listed city of Quedlinburg?

Often heralded as one of Germany’s prettiest towns, Quedlinburg is the epitome of a fairytale countryside town.

With more than 2,000 timber-framed houses , some dating back hundreds and hundreds of years, there’s an almost endless array of cute atmospheric cobblestone streets, perfect for slow strolls (and a soon-to-be-filled photo library).

History has been kind to Quedlinburg in that wars have been fought elsewhere and almost no houses have burned, making for a very authentic experience.

Schlossberg

A must-do in Quedlinburg is visiting the Schlossberg (Castle Mountain).

Unfortunately, it has been in the middle of some renovations while we’ve stayed in town (should be all done at the end of 2024), but walking up the hill and catching the magnificent views of the city and surrounding landscapes is nevertheless totally worth it.

We can also recommend catching the views of the Schlossberg from nearby Münzenberg .

Don’t miss the cute backstreets of Münzenberg as well as discovering the small but pretty Münzenbergmuseum .

Where to stay in Quedlinburg?

We stayed at the lovely Romantik Hotel am Brühl during our first time in Quedlinburg, perfectly located super close to the old town.

The hotel is designed in a charming style and we loved our stay. This is surely one of (if not the ) best hotels in Quedlinburg.

10. Go on short and long hikes in the Harz Mountains

The Harz Mountains are a prime hiking spot with more than 9,000 kilometres of marked trails crisscrossing hills, towns, rivers, forests, valleys and meadows.

Many hikes are dog-friendly (and some are even stroller-friendly!), but you’ll also easily find hikes in the Harz with more demanding terrain and elevation gains .

If you’re looking for longer trails , you’re equally spoilt for choice.

Choose between the Harzer Hexenstieg (100 km), the Harzer Baudensteig (100 km), the Harzer Grenzweg (100 km), the Karstwanderweg Suedharz (200 km), the Selketal-Stieg (72 km), the Harz Monastery Trail (64 km), the Harzer Foersterstieg (60 km) and the Teufelsmauer Stieg (35 km)… To name just a few.

The Harzer Hexenstieg is a popular trail running all the way through the Harz Mountains from Osterode in the west to Thale in the east for about 100 kilometres – notably taking you over Brocken, the highest peak of the Harz .

You can also collect stamps at the 222 checkpoints of the Harzer Wandernadel , located all over the Harz Mountains, to record your visit. Collect all 222 and get the badge of Harz Hiking Emperor or Empress.

11. Hike the Liebesbankweg (love bench trail)

The Liebesbankweg hike in Hahnenklee is a real crowd favourite in the Harz Mountains and one of the best things to do whether or not it’s a sunny day or one of the more overcast ones.

At about 7 kilometres in total length, the circular hike will take you along forest trails past vistas (and many benches!) as well as a couple of scenic ponds ( teich) – a few of which you can swim in.

12. Hike the circular Torfhausmoor trail in the national park

If you’re into nature, you’ll be delighted to explore the stunning trails in Harz National Park . Here the environment is mostly left to itself so biodiversity can flourish .

One of the best hikes in the Harz National Park is the hike around Torfhausmoor, offering picturesque landscapes and a charming boardwalk .

This circular hike is approximately 4.5 kilometres long and can be completed in about 1.5 hours.

13. Hike around the Oderteich Lake in the national park

Once, the Oderteich was the largest dam in Germany. Now it’s a listed UNESCO-World Heritage site in the Harz National Park where the previously planted spruce forest is turning into wild nature complete with dead wood and lots of biodiversity.

The Oderteich is perfect if you’re in search of a non-strenuous circular hike with great photo opportunities on the way.

The route around the lake is approximately 4.5 kilometres long and takes about an hour to walk.

Located inside the Harz National Park, nature here is protected and wild.

14. Visit the rock formations of the Teufelsmauer (Devil’s Wall)

The Teufelsmauer – the Devil’s Wall – is the name of the rock formations (and the trail connecting them) laid out over about 35 kilometres between Blankenburg and Ballenstedt in the eastern part of the Harz.

The most interesting stone formations are the “Großvater”, “Hamburger Wappen”, “Papenstein”, “Königsstein”, “Mittelstein”, “Dicker Stein” and “Gegensteine”.

On our first time in the Harz, we visited the Königsstein and Mittelstein. Second time around, we got to see Hamburger Wappen.

Königsstein and Mittelstein

We parked our car near Thale and walked to the Mittelstein and Königsstein using the parking called “ Parkplatz Teufelsmauer ” on Google Maps located on Quedlinburger Str. 13 in Thale.

The hike was easy and provided great views of the rocks as well as the surrounding landscape.

Hamburger Wappen

On our second visit, we visited Hamburger Wappen from Timmenrode. We parked here .

Hamburger Wappen is a pretty big area with lots of opportunities for exploration and photo spots. An easy recommendation if you like big rocks and nice views!

15. Go back in time at the Walkenried Monastery

Visiting the Walkenried Monastery ( Kloster Walkenried ) is a captivating experience in the Harz that offers a glimpse into the rich history and architectural grandeur of the past .

Stepping foot into the church ruins allows you to immerse yourself in a bygone era, where you can explore the remnants of this medieval monastic complex (from the 12th century!).

We really liked the ruins’ mysterious charm , with weathered stone walls, towering arches, and crumbling corridors that evoke a sense of awe and intrigue – all mixed with the light from the huge windows.

Don’t miss the UNESCO World Heritage Information Centre Walkenried right next door where you can learn all about UNESCO and the World Heritage Site (“Mines of Rammelsberg, Historic Town of Goslar and Upper Harz Water Management System”) in interactive installations.

Also: We can recommend taking a walk around the cute town of Walkenried .

16. Follow in Luther’s footsteps in Lutherstadt Eisleben

If you’re a history buff, don’t miss Lutherstadt Eisleben – the home of Martin Luther .

Martin Luther was the seminal figure of the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, and in Lutherstadt Eisleben you can visit his birthplace as well as his death place .

Three churches you can’t miss on your visit:

• St. Andreaskirche : The largest church in the city. St. Andreas played an important role in the Reformation and Luther delivered his last sermons here.
• St.-Petri-Pauli-Kirche : This is where Martin Luther was baptized. Contact the church in advance if you want to get baptized here yourself in the new circular pool.
• St. Annen : Visit the Augustinian Hermits Monastery and check out the incredible coffered ceiling from 1608 inside the church. Also, the views from up here across the Lutherstadt Eisleben are beautiful.

Parking tip : Parkplatz Siebenhitze is free all day long and very close to the city centre.

Bonus: Check out all of the most photogenic viewpoints of the Harz Mountains

If you haven’t noticed already, the Harz Mountains are full of photographic opportunities.

So many, in fact, that we can’t include them all here.

If you’re interested in adding beautiful photos to your portfolio and/or Instagram feed, make sure to check out our guide on where to find the best photo spots & most beautiful viewpoints (with 21 ideas).

While Germany (apart from its bigger cities) might not be famous for putting plants at the centre of the plate, we’ve actually been able to eat lots of diverse, delicious plant-based foods in the Harz Mountains.

Goslar has the most dining options, including two fully vegetarian places ( Schneeweiss + Rosenrot as well as Soup & Soul Kitchen ). We also liked Brumbys Restaurant .

We haven’t spent much time in Wernigerode , but here you’ll also have quite a few options. We dined in the cosy courtyard at Garden of India .

For lunch in Quedlinburg , Samocca is a really solid choice.

Using HappyCow , we’ve had luck finding tasty vegan meals all over the Harz Mountains .

Arabic, Vietnamese and Indian cuisine are often good bets for veganising common dishes in Germany.

We didn’t visit it ourselves, but Naturkost-Hotel Harz (adlink) is an all-vegan bed and breakfast located in the mountains near Bad Grund southwest of Goslar that also serves food for non-guests.

The road network in the Harz is well-developed and it’s fast to go pretty much anywhere in the region. You’d be hard-pressed to find trips inside the Harz Mountains that take more than an hour of driving.

Parking is generally free in many places. In the towns and near attractions, you may have to pay a small fee if you park centrally. It’s a good idea to bring cash (euro coins) in those cases.

By public transport

We didn’t use any public transport ourselves in the Harz Mountains, but it should definitely be possible to go almost wherever you like with a combination of local trains and buses.

Many trains and buses have timetables and routes that are specifically designed for hikers .

Don’t miss the steam trains that are still very much in use!

The Harz Mountains are connected to the German autobahn meaning you can go here by car from all of Europe in a whizz.

Be aware that people drive very fast on the sections of the autobahn that don’t have speed limits. Overtake with caution.

Fly into either Berlin, Hamburg, Hannover, Leipzig or Frankfurt and catch a local train or hire a car to get to the Harz Mountains.

Use our adlink below to find the cheapest tickets:

Search for the cheapest flight tickets on Momondo .

It’s possible to travel by train from all over Europe to the Harz Mountains.

Goslar is the main hub, but it’s also possible to for example go to Wernigerode and Quedlinburg.

On our first visit, we took the train from Copenhagen, Denmark to Goslar which took about 7-8 hours total each way with transfers in Hamburg and Hannover.

There’s no bad time to visit the Harz Mountains, but as with most other holiday destinations, avoiding the main holiday seasons is a good idea if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy cheaper accommodation.

Spring is a beautiful time to visit with warming weather, rushing water and blooming flowers.

Summer is naturally the warmest season. The summer holidays in Germany are spread out between the middle of June and the middle of September. When we visited in June we had incredible, warm and sunny days.

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit. We visited the Harz Mountains in the middle of November where we were lucky to still see some colourful leaves on the trees. For the best autumn foliage, it might make sense to visit a little bit earlier.

Winter is a popular time to visit for winter sports. Especially so during Christmas and New Year’s. During heavy snowfall, the Harz Mountains turn into the most perfect fairytale winter landscape.

• Travel insurance (adlink) . Never travel without it!
• A good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
• Sunscreen (adlink) . The sun can be strong even in winter.
• Hiking shoes , sneakers or other comfortable shoes you can walk in.
• Swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim or stay at a hotel with a spa.
• Water and snacks .

To minimise your impact during your visit in the Harz Mountains, follow these guidelines:

• Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
• Avoid single-use plastics , including straws.
• Dispose of waste properly .
• Check your sunscreen if you intend to swim. Many brands contain oxybenzone and other chemicals that are harmful to the environment.
• Take only photos, leave only footprints . Let everything stay in its natural place.
• Be considerate of other visitors .
• Respect wildlife.

Thanks for reading

Thanks for getting all the way to the end! We hope this travel guide to the Harz Mountains has been useful.

What do you think about the northernmost mountains in Germany and all of the lovely historic towns?

If you’ve been to the Harz, it would be awesome to hear what you think we missed. Please share your best tips and tricks in the comments – thank you!

If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re only happy to help.

Pin for later:

Our favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for cheap hotels.
• Momondo for the best flight deals.
• SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

• Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
• DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
• Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
• See all of our camera gear here .

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• Bad Segeberg Travel Guide: 8 Best Things To Do & See Around the Fascinating Mountain - Everything you need to know about Bad Segeberg including what to do, where to stay, when to visit - and when not to!
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2 thoughts on “ A Complete Travel Guide to the Harz Mountains: 16 Best Things to Do in Germany’s Secret Adventure Wonderland ”

Hi Alex and Victoria, I am touring Europe this May for 2 months and having read your guide to the Harz Mountains have decided to go there. I’m visiting Düsseldorf and Leipzig so it will be a great adventure to get out into the wild area of northern Germany. Thanks so much for your very detailed guide, great that you share the free parking points too. Decided to visit Kassel, Goslar, Gustav Adolf Stave Curvh, then do the summit walk. Then on to Wernigerode to get that picture of the castle 🙂 Will then venture on towards Leipzig calling in at the beautifully described Quedlinberg.

Hi Ian, thanks so much for your kind words and for sharing your itinerary! We’re sure you’ll love venturing out into the wild – the Harz Mountains truly is a beautiful area of Germany. Enjoy! 🙂

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THE 10 BEST Germany Mountains

Mountains in germany.

• Hiking Trails
• Bodies of Water
• Nature & Wildlife Areas
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Taufstein

2. Zugspitze

3. Drachenfels

4. Nebelhorn

5. Feldberg

6. Wank Mountain

7. Mount Tegelberg

8. Schlossberg

9. Merkur Mountain

10. Elbe Sandstone Mountains

11. King's Throne (Konigstuhl)

12. Rauschberg

13. Wendelstein

14. Wasserkuppe

15. Belchen

16. Herzogstand

17. Reutlingen Achalm

18. Fichtelberg

19. Kickelhahn

21. Brocken

22. Hoher Kranzberg

23. Petrisberg

25. Feldberg Mountain

26. Hoherodskopf

27. Kahler Asten

28. Michaelsberg

29. Wallberg

30. Tippelsberg

What travelers are saying

The German Alps: 3 Best Places to Hike and 5 Day Tours That You’ll Love

The bavarian alps in germany offers hiking and adventure for all levels, plus the unbelievably majestic king ludwig ii’s castles set with mountain backdrops..

Below you’ll find everything from one-day tour recommendations, to my top three recommendations of where to stay if you plan on hiking and have a few days or longer that showcase the best of the Bavarian Alps.

Top 1-Day Tour Recommendations for the Bavarian Alps in Germany

If you’ve only got limited time and are staying in Munich , here are my top 5 tour recommendations for day trips to the Bavarian Alps. They make it super easy and convenient for you to explore my favourite part of Germany:

Zugspitze: Visit Germany’s Highest Peak.

It takes one very long or two days to hike the highest mountain in Germany. Fortunately, if that’s too intense, you can still reach the 2962 meter mountain peak by cable car. Enjoy a beer at Germany’s highest beer garden. This tour includes pickup from your hotel in Munich.

Partnachklamm – Visit one of the most beautiful gorges in all of Germany.

On this day trip from Munich, you’ll walk alongside a raging river and majestical waterfalls. It’s one of my favorite hikes in the entire Alps. The dramatic scenery far surpasses the effort. You’ll eat lunch at a mountain hut. Something every traveler to Bavaria should do to experience traditional Bavarian-style hospitality and unique alpine culture.

Eagle’s Nest – Visit Hitler’s Mountain Retreat.

This tour offers something for both history buffs and nature lovers. You’ll leave from Munich and travel on one of the most scenic roads in the German Alps to Berchtesgaden. One of only two national parks in Bavaria. The panoramic vistas of alpine peaks are among the most dramatic in the country. I’m a huge fan of Berchtesgaden!

Try a boat ride on the Königsee and discover the salt mines.

Take a day trip from Munich to discover the beautiful Königssee. You’ll enjoy the unique pleasure of listening to an echo show where a musician will use the lake’s echo to create musical effects. Then, you’ll explore Bartholomä island before heading on to the salt mines of Berchtesgaden to see the mysterious glowing salt grottoes.

Take a day trip to see Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castles

Enjoy a luxury trip to two of King Ludwig II’s famous castles. This King of Bavaria is well-known for building beautiful and luxurious castles. Make a stop in Hohenschwangau where King Ludwig grew up and enjoy a detour in Oberammergau. These castles are set in two different and stunning locations in the German Alps and this tour will give you an opportunity to see the subtle changes of the landscape.

Where To Stay in the German Alps When You Want to Hike and Have a Few Days or Longer

It’s definitely worth spending at least a few days, or even a week or longer in the German Alps. Here are my top three recommendations of where to go for what I think is the most stunning scenery in Bavaria, especially if you plan to hike.

Berchtesgaden National Park

This is one of only two national parks in Bavaria and is home to the famed Lake Königssee. This is a great choice if you’re seeking stunning Alpine scenery, want to be around one of the most beautiful lakes in Germany and a variety of hiking trails from very easy to more advanced hikes.

What To Do in Berchtesgaden

You’ll definitely want to take a boat ride across the lake to St. Bartholomew, visit the Eagles Nest for a breathtaking panoramic view of Hitler’s mountain retreat. You’ll find lots of hiking trails and could easily spend several days here or even up to a week.

Where To Stay in Berchtesgaden

Most of the accommodations are in smaller family-run places called “Ferienwohnungen” (vacation apartments). See VRBO vacation rentals in Berchtesgaden National Park where you’ll find many “Ferienwohnungen”. Airbnb is usually my top choice for stays of 2 or more nights or if I’m travelling with a small group of friends. Or, if you’d rather stay in a guesthouse, check out our two top recommendations below:

Gästehaus Bergwald

Located in Berchtesgaden, the Gästehaus Bergwald offers you charming accommodation with well-equipped rooms, stunning mountain views and friendly staff.

Gästehaus Sägfeiler  

Surrounded by panoramic views of the Berchtesgaden Alps, the Gästehaus Sägfeiler offers comfortable traditional Bavarian accommodation.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is one of my favourite places in the German Alps. It’s a great place to base yourself if you’re looking to stay in a larger town. It also some of the most spectacular hiking in the Bavarian Alps including the difficult hike up to the Zugspitze, the highest mountain in Germany. You can also reach it by cable car.

What To Do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Explore the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which was previously two separate towns. I’d also recommend checking out nearby Mittenwald. It’s

known for its colourful painted houses and violin making which dates back hundreds of years. It’s just a short train ride away and offers spectacular views of the German and Austrian Alps.

One of my favourite easy day hikes in all of the Bavarian Alps is in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the Höllentallklamm (Hell Valley Gorge) (mentioned below) at the foot of the Zugspitze, and a circular hike up through the Partnachklamm with lunch at one of the restaurants or huts. It’s one of the best hikes in Germany where the scenery far surpasses the easy hiking.

Mittenwald also offers some spectacular hiking. A great easy hike in Mittenwald is the Hoher Kranzberg. It’s a circular loop that passes two lakes, so be sure to bring your bathing suit. If you like skiing, Garmisch-Partnekichen by far offers the best skiing in all of Germany in my opinion.

Where To Stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

I think the best places to stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen are also Ferienwohunungen (vacation apartments). See vacation rentals in Garmisch-Partenkirchen to find one that’s right for you.

Or check out one of these traditional Bavarian guest houses.

Gästehaus Maria

With its traditional Bavarian decor and charm, the family-run hotel, Gästehaus Maria is the perfect place to stay while visiting Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Das Nordberg Guesthouse

With its unique Bavarian style with modern touches, Das Nordberg Guesthouse offers comfort and relaxation just 10 minutes from the heart of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Allgäu Alps

The Allgäu Alps have a romantic charm and idyllic charm about them that keeps visitors coming come. I recommend staying in Germany’s most southern village, Oberstdorf for its charm and accessibility to 200 km of hiking trails of every difficulty level.

What To Do in the Allgäu Alps

You’ll find a variety of hiking trails that you can do all year long, or in winter check out the 130 km of ski slopes or 75 km of cross-country ski tracks. And don’t miss a hike to the Schrecksee (pictured above). It’s considered to be the most beautiful high alpine lake in all of Germany.

Where To Stay in the Allgäu Alps

Check out these vacation rentals in Oberstdorf available on Airbnb. Or check out one of our recommended hotels.

Boutique Hotels Gams

This charming boutique hotel is for adults only and is quietly yet centrally located in Oberstdorf, next to a hiking and cross-country ski trail. Boutique Hotel Gams offers free WiFi, a small café and a sunny garden,

Alpin Lifestyle Hotel Löwen & Strauss

Conveniently located in the heart of Oberstdorf, the Alpin Lifestyl e Hotel Löwen & Strauss offers spa facilities and fine cuisine. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a bit of luxury.

My Favourite Hikes in the German Alps

Keep checking back as I have a ton of hikes that I still need to add to this ever-growing list. I hike in the Bavarian Alps almost every weekend and frequently post my photos on Instagram, so be sure to follow me there at @Laurel_Robbins for the latest updates. What can I say, I hike faster than I write :). I also don’t write about every hike. If it’s just so-so, I don’t write about it. My very favourite hike is the Höllentalklamm (Hell Valley Gorge) in Garmisch-Partenkirchen!  Take a look at the photos, and you’ll see why!  I also love the Partnachklamm, especially in winter. The huge icicles add to the drama!

The Partnachklamm can be easy if you just decide to hike to the gorge and back. You can make it slightly more challenging if you hike to the nearest hut. Alternatively, you can choose one of the much longer extensions! You can also reach King Ludwig’s Mountain Hut by passing through the Partnachklamm. This destination is also available as a tour from Munich . For views, you can’t beat the Herzogstand to Heimgarten.  It’s a fantastic ridge walk offering great views of the Walchensee. It was a favorite among Bavarian royalty!

Warning, this hike is not for you if you’re afraid of heights. Fortunately, it can be modified. You can still hike up to the Herzogstand, and skip the ridge walk to the Heimgarten.

While there are lots of places to hike in Germany, you can’t beat the German Alps for stunning scenery and mountains. I lived in Bavaria for over 10 years and still didn’t hike everywhere.

22 Amazing Things to Do in the Harz Mountains, Germany

The Harz Mountains is a beautiful highland area in Northern Germany, famous for its well-preserved medieval towns, stories of magic and witches, regal castles, and immersive forest hikes through the 247 km 2 (95 sq mi) Harz National Park. It combines land from three different federal states: Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia.

If you’re like me, you’ve just found out about the Harz Mountains and are asking yourself, “How is it possible I’ve never heard of this place?” This guide to the Harz mountains includes:

• How to reach the Harz Mountains – How to reach Harz from cities like Berlin.
• Quick tips for visiting Harz – The best time to visit, what to pack, and how to plan your trip.
• Where to stay in the Harz region – Where I recommend staying in Harz to travel efficiently.
• Things to do in the Harz Mountains – All the best things I did on my own Harz Mountains trip, which I can highly recommend you try for yourself!

How to reach the Harz Mountains

You can reach the Harz Mountains from anywhere in Northeast Germany, such as Berlin, Leipzig, Hamburg, or Dresden, in under 3 hours. It works as a Berlin day trip but for the best experience, you’ll want to stay for at least a couple days.

Here are the different ways to reach the Harz Mountains:

• By car – The easiest way to reach the Harz Mountains is definitely by car. This is because the trains run infrequently, so if you miss a connection you’ll be waiting for an hour at minimum. We always book with Discover Cars and recommend them.
• By train – There are two main train stations in Harz which you can reach from Berlin: Wernigerode and Goslar . Between the two, I’d recommend staying in Wernigerode. To get the best deal, you should definitely book these tickets in advance. For train tickets to Wernigerode from Berlin, click here to check prices and availability .
• By tour – The only tour I could find departs from Leipzig as a day trip. If you only have one day and you’re based in Leipzig, you can check that out here .

Tips for visiting Harz

• You should spend at least 3 days in Harz. We stayed for an entire week, and still felt like we had much more to see. In three days, you can visit the main towns, do one longer hike, and have a flexible day for special excursions.
• The best time to visit Harz is Summer and Autumn. Harz is often cooler than neighboring cities, so it’s a great escape from the heat. Autumn sees spectacular foliage, as well. Prepare for intermittent thunderstorms in both seasons.
• Most menus, signs, and directions will only be in German. Some of the more touristic towns like Wernigerode and Goslar will have more available in English. But it’s best if you come prepared, either brushing up on your German or with a translation app handy.
• Cell phone reception is very spotty in smaller towns and on the road. It’s extremely common to drive through Harz National Park and lose your cell signal. Be sure to download offline maps.
• Make reservations for any meal you plan to eat out. It is surprisingly hard to find somewhere to eat in this region without a reservation (even for breakfast!). Call ahead and make a reservation every night, you won’t regret it.

Where to stay in Harz

The Harz region looks pretty big on a map, and it can actually take quite a long time to travel from corner to corner (45 minutes to an hour, depending on the route). That’s why it’s so important to carefully choose where you’re going to stay.

• Braunlage Best for a long stay – This is where we stayed. Very central location, close to great hiking spots. We stayed in BergNest Braunlage which was an absolute steal at under 100€ per night.
• Wernigerode or Quedlinburg Best for a short stay – Located in the Northwest, these are convenient spots for exploring North Harz (the most popular area).
• Sankt Andreasberg – Located next to Braunlage, also has a proper dining/shopping street and a small supermarket for stocking up.

If you’re staying more than a weekend, I definitely recommend staying in Braunlage , a surprisingly cute mountain town on the edge of the Harz National Park in the East. Tons of places to eat dinner, handy hiking and outdoors shops, several proper-sized supermarkets close-by, a gas station, and located centrally.

These towns are small, and get booked out fast . If you’re planning a trip now, put in your dates below and hit “Search” to see what’s available:

Things to do in the Harz Mountains

1. collect stamps for the harzer wandernadel.

Harz is famous for hiking, and one of their initiatives to get people to visit more diverse areas in the region is the Harzer Wandernadel .

Known as the “Harz Hiking Pin” in English, Harzer Wandernadel is a program where you can collect stamps from 222 different stations scattered throughout the region in a booklet. Then, you can trade in those stamps for pins as you reach certain milestones.

Participating in the Harzer Wandernadel was easily one of my favorite things to do in Harz!

Each location has a number, and the booklet you pick up has a list of each and where to find them. Though sometimes, finding the stamp location can be an adventure on its own!

It’s a fun, gamified way to explore the region while you seek out stamps in all sorts of obscure locations. Most locations will include a bit of hiking (which makes sense, given the name).

Here’s an example of what one of the Stempelstelle (stamp locations) looks like:

By the end of our weeklong trip, we were able to claim both the Bronze and Silver hiking pins! Beyond that you can also get a gold pin, and be crowned as the Harz hiking king or queen for collecting stamps at all 222 locations.

My top tip: Pick up the Harzer Wandernadel pass early in your trip, so you can get as many stamps as possible without needing to backtrack. We got ours at the tourism center in Wernigerode.

2. Hike the Bode Valley (Bodetal)

Bodetal is easily the top outdoor destination in the entire Harz region. Sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of Germany”, this valley features lucious green forests and calming river sounds to keep you company on your hike.

There are two main ways to hike the Bodetal: down next to the river, or at the top of the canyon. If you make it a roundtrip hike (10km there and back), you can theoretically take both paths.

If you want to really hike through the more forested areas, then you’ll enjoy the lower path. The hike starts out with a wide, almost paved path and after the Jungfernbrücke gets more rocky and more like a typical hiking path.

Definitely bring food for lunch, and plenty of water. This hike took us something like 5 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, stopping for photos/video, and admiring the valley.

If you’re not up for the full hike, just hiking to Jungfernbrücke is a popular, and very short path. There’s a restaurant at the end which will be very busy if you arrive around lunch.

The most popular way to do this hike is to start in Thale and do it as a one-way hike ending in Treseburg . From there, you can call a taxi or take a (very infrequent) bus back to Thale. Make sure to bring cash (30€ at least), in case the taxi doesn’t accept card.

There’s not much going on in Treseburg, so I wouldn’t plan on it for more than a post-hike refreshment. You’ll see prettier towns during your Harz trip.

3. Climb the Agnesburg for a view of Harz’s best castle in Wernigerode

I’d be lying if visiting the Schloss (castle) in Wernigerode wasn’t towards the tippy-top of my Harz itinerary. This stunning castle can be seen from many angles in Wernigerode, but the best is undoubtedly from the viewpoint at the top of Agnesburg .

The hike up here wasn’t long, but it’s all uphill and is a little confusing with all the winding paths. But if you make it, and catch a glimpse of sunshine, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Schloss Wernigerode .

At least when we went, there weren’t a ton of people at the top. This meant we had time and space to ourselves to take photos and enjoy the view. I certainly enjoyed some nice bench time after the uphill hike.

4. See the famous orange town hall in Wernigerode

While you’re in Wernigerode, you can’t miss the famous Rathaus (town hall) in the main square. It clearly looks like something out of an old witches tale, with its ominous pointed spires and half-timbered exterior.

Attached is a cafe, and behind it on the left you’ll find the Wernigerode tourism office (where you can pick up your Harz Hiking Pass!).

Wernigerode has plenty more scenic streets while not being a huge town. Your main challenge will be finding parking, as it’s one of the most popular spots to visit in the entire Harz region. Its popularity is also reflected in steep prices for food and coffee.

Come early to avoid the crowds, or later in the afternoon when they’ve all emptied out. The morning is best for pictures because that’s when the Rathaus has direct sunlight.

5. Hike the Ilsenburg (or go all the way to Brocken)

While the Bodetal is inarugably the most popular hike in Harz, I’d venture to say that Ilsenburg is even prettier. Both have beautiful forested pathways you can wander along for hours, but what Ilsenburg offers is a lot of variety along the way.

Your first stop on this hike will be the Ilsenburg Lower Falls, a great spot for a picnic and some photos from the bridge. We thought that the lower falls looked even better than the upper falls, which you’ll reach later.

Along the way there are also a lot of little detours you can take to scenic viewpoints (and more hiking stamps!). You can easily just keep an eye on sign posts, and check in your hiking pass whether the locations are named.

One great place to get a view over the valley is Ilsestein .

You’ll also find a lot of self-described Klippe (“cliffs” in English). Like this one below called Gebertsbergklippen , which does not exist as a location on Google maps: a common issue in Harz.

Towards the end of our hike, we landed in Plessenburg . Here we could collect a hiking stamp, and down a Radler for refreshment. But it’s possible to hike all the way to the highest point in the Harz, the Brocken.

5. Have a coffee in Germany’s most beautiful village, Stolberg

Stolberg was rated Germany’s most beautiful village a few years ago, and if you’re one of the few people to visit you’ll see why.

This cute town in the South of Harz used to be much more popular with tourists. But in recent years, people have flocked instead to the bigger towns of Quedlinburg and Wernigerode instead. Better for you, as you wander the streets of this adorable village, ice cream in hand!

Come here for a coffee on the main square, and visit the next spot on the list: the Luther Beech forest just outside of town.

6. Walk up to the Luther beech forest for a view of Stolberg palace

After you’ve seen Stolberg, climb the path to the Luther Beech Forest. It’s named after Martin Luther, who apparently came to Stolberg and stopped to rest and reflect at this spot.

There’s a wooden plaque attached to a tree that claims Luther compared the town to the shape of a bird. Whether or not that makes any sense is for you to decide, as you peer over Stolberg and its castle.

As usual, you can collect a stamp here for your Harzer Wandernadel.

7. Ride the Brockenbahn

The Brockenbahn is what’s called a Schmalspurbahn , which translates literally into “narrow-guage train”. This steam-powered train is a blast from the past, and traverses 140 kilometers of narrow guage railway throughout the Harz region.

It’s called the Brockenbahn because you can take it all the way up to the Brocken, which is the highest mountain in the region at 1,141 meters (3,743 feet) above sea level. This particular line was completed in 1899.

You can ride the Bahn for 34€ as an adult (one-way), or 51€ (return trip). That is to say, it’s not cheap especially considering how short the ride is.

If you just want to snap some photos, the best place to get a glimpse of the Brockenbahn is at stations like Drei Annen Hohne .

8. See over 16,000 half-timbered houses in Quedlinburg

Quedlinburg includes a castle, church, and old town which were all added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994. The town contains over 16,000 half-timbered houses and is one of the best-preserved examples of a medieval and Renaissance towns in all of Europe.

This is because it escaped much of the bombing in Germany during World War II.

In fact, the buildings in Quedlinburg are from at least five different centuries. One of which, is from the 14th century and one of Germany’s oldest buildings. And you thought you had to go to Munich to see traditional Germany? Not so!

Among domestic tourists, Quedlinburg is probably more famous for its Christmas market, with hotels and guest houses selling out months in advance. Can you imagine something more quintessentially German than a Christmas market in a town that looks like this? I think not.

9. Go inside one of Germany’s only surviving Stave churches

Stave churches are ornate, wooden churches that were once common in North Western Europe but few survive today. The most famous examples are located in Norway, but a precious few churches in this style survive in Europe. As you can probably imagine, being made of wood, they had a nasty habit of burning down.

The Gustav Adolf Stave Church is actually more of a replica of older churches, in particular the Borgund Stave Church located in Norway. As such, it was only constructed in 1907.

The church is located in Hahnenklee and you can go inside for a small fee.

10. Climb to the top of Josephskreuz in South Harz

On your way to Stolberg, stop by the Josephskreuz where you can climb up this steel structure to get a view over the entire South Harz region. It was inaugurated in 1896 and is held together by about 100,000 rivets. From the top, you’re about 38 meters above ground.

To reach Josephkreuz, you’ll start on a forest path marked by these two creepy children carvings. Go through and it’s about a 20-30 minute walk from the parking lot up to the Kreuz.

Once you arrive, you can buy an entry ticket and climb up to the top of the structure. Originally, Josephskreuz was built in wood but because it wore down with time, it was eventually replaced by the steel structure you see today which weighs in at 125 tons.

The spiral staircase to the top includes about 200 steps, and lets you see the entire landscape of the lower Harz region. This includes the Brocken mountain, Inselsberg and Magdeburg. And as usual, you can pick up a stamp here for your Wandernadel.

11. See the smallest half-timbered house in Germany, Kleinstes Haus

Say hello to Kleinstes Haus , which literally means “Smallest House” in German. Located in Wernigerode, this is the smallest half-timbered house in all of Germany. It contains a small museum, which unfortunately wasn’t open when we visited late in the afternoon.

If anything, a quick pitstop during your trip to Wernigerode.

12. Drive up to Hexentanzplatz (Witch’s Dancing Place) for a view over the Bodetal

Hexentanzplatz is like a very, very miniature amusement park for children which also includes some places to eat. Apart from statues of devils that children play on, you’ll also find a few trailheads you can use to see the Bodetal from several different angles.

13. Hike over to La Viershoehe

This viewpoint called La Viershoehe is located just around the corner of the main viewing platform at Hexentanzplatz. From here, you can walk out to the edge and see a sweeping view of the Bodetal.

It’s a great way to end your hike around the Bodetal, because you get to see the kind of terrain you were surrounded by during your hiking adventure.

14. Go to Goslar

Goslar is one of the bigger, and more developed towns in Harz and completes the trifecta of towns most tourists go to see (with Wernigerode and Quedlinburg being the other two). It’s quite a bit bigger than the other two, with a population of around 50,000 people.

Goslar’s most famous viewpoint is the town square, which includes the Town Hall and market fountain. This fountain is considered the largest and oldest surviving Romanesque fountain in Germany.

From here you can just wander around and find some cute, cobbled streets for your Instagram shots. Goslar is also a great place to grab a traditional German meal at once of the eateries near the center.

15. Grab a stamp at Engagement Island in the Oker

Engagement Island is one of the many places on our Harz trip we originally just stopped to pick up a stamp for our Wandernadel. It was a bit of an adventure to find the path that would actually lead us to the island and not result in falling into a pit of mud.

But once we made it, it was a beautiful spot to enjoy golden hour.

16. Visit Herzberg am Harz in South Harz

Herzberg am Harz is a cute, small town in Harz which has a main, car-free pedestrian center. Maybe the favorite structure we saw during our stroll through Herzberg was this firehouse:

On the way out, you’ll also probably see the Herzberg Castle, which the town is probably most famous for. After that, the fun fact about Herzberg am Harz is that it happens to practice Esperanto as an auxiliary language to German.

17. Stop by Lonauer Waterfall

Lonauer Waterfall is a 10-meter high natural waterfall, and the largest natural waterfall in the western Harz mountains. You can reach it on an easy hike, which you’ll find in an otherwise residential neighborhood of Herzberg am Harz.

It’s a worthy stop if you happen to be in the area and want to catch a waterfall.

18. See one of Germany’s most impressive monuments at Kyffhäuser

Kyffhäuser Monument is a monument to Frederick I Barbarossa, the legendary king that united Germany from a patchwork of over 1,600 states into a single nation. In fact, the ruins of Imperial castle are also located here and date back to 1,000 AD.

According to legend, Barbarossa slept under the Kyffhäuser until Germany needed him. The king who actually had this monument constructed, Kaiser Wilhelm I, was portrayed as the second coming of Barbarossa and is also memorialized at Kyffhäuser.

19. Grab a stamp and a view at Rote Stein

Rote Stein is one of the many scenic viewpoints in the Harz region, which also has a stamp you can get for your Harzer Wandernadel. Come for the stamp, stay for the views.

20. Visit Teufelsmauer (Devil’s Wall) from two locations

Teufelsmauer is a rock formation made of sandstone, located on the Harz region. It runs all the way from Blankenburg to Ballenstedt, and as such there are several pieces you can specifically visit. All the key paths to the rock formations are easily accessible by footpaths and not too far from the car park.

21. Visit the monastery at Walkenried

The Walkenried Abbey was founded back in 1127 by Cisterians, a Catholic religious order of monks and nuns. During its long history, it was greatly damaged and much of it fell into disrepair until the first effort to renovate the building began in 1876. Today you can go inside and visit a museum.

People are still excavating the area around the abbey and if you come here you may see archaeologists at work.

22. Radau Waterfall

The Radau waterfall stems from the Radau river, and ultimately plunges 23 meters (75 feet) into a pool below. This waterfall is easily accessible from the highway, making it a lovely and quick stop during your Harz road trip.

Planning a trip to Harz?

I hope you enjoyed this guide to visiting Harz, Germany and you have a wonderful trip. If you’re planning to visit more in East Germany, don’t miss my guides to Berlin’s best day trips and things to do in Berlin .

About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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Best Hikes in Germany

Germans are crazy about hiking. No matter that most live in apartment buildings in sprawling cities , they are forest people, just waiting for their chance to escape back into the woods.

The country is covered in over 200,000 kilometers of accessible, well-maintained trails. Up in the Alps , many of these paths were originally used for seasonal cattle drives or by the military. But today's visitors, led by the Deutscher Alpenverein (German hiking association), range in ages, skill levels, and nationalities. Whether they lead up to the highest peaks or through the scenic valleys, here are the 9 best hikes in Germany.

Herzogstand to Heimgarten

This ridge walk will make you feel on top of the world, with views to prove it. Although you won't be alone as this is one of the most popular hikes in all of Germany.

Leaving the parking lot, you slowly ascend through thick forest. Trees drop away and eventually, you emerge on top of the ridge at Herzogstand with panoramas of interlocking lakes from Walchensee to Staffelsee to Starnbergersee to Kochelsee to Ammersee on your way to Heimgarten, the highest point in this direction. A cross marks the summit.

This hike is not recommended for people afraid of heights as hikers watch the path drop away on either side of the trail. On clear days, Munich - 70 km away!- can be seen. 

Too tired to make it back down (or up)? The Herzogstandbahn cable car takes you right to the top. And if you want to avoid crowds, visit in winter when the cable car is closed. 

Hiking Info for Herzogstand to Heimgarten

• How to Get There : Three main trailheads: Ohlstadt, Eschenlohe and Walchensee. The last is the most popular with the trailhead at the Herzogstandbahn parking lot.
• Difficulty : Moderate. The hike up takes around 3 hours, but the ridge walk is only 2 hours.
• Gear : Enough water for a day trip, waterproof clothes and sunscreen as there is little protection from the elements.
• Open : This very popular mountain is visited year round. In winter , there may be closures for ice or avalanche.
• Map : Herzogstand to Heimgarten Loop Map

Painter's Way

Located in Saxon Switzerland south of Dresden , the Malerweg translates to the "Painter's Way". This impressive 112 km (69.5 miles) trail within the Elbe Sandstone Mountains has inspired artists for centuries and is one of the most picturesque hiking trails in all of Germany. 

The area's popularity rose in the 18th century as the abstract 1,106 free-standing sandstone peaks drew curious visitors. Romantic artists like Johann Carl August Richter, Johann Alexander Thiel, and Caspar David Friedrich have all paid a visit and help popularize the site through their work.

The hike is broken into eight one-day stages of about 17 km (10.5 miles) each. This means you can take a day hike or go on an ambitious week-long journey across table-top mountains and narrow gorges.

The most popular section is the second stage where the Bastei Bridge majestically crosses the rock. Built in 1824, the scenic bridge overlooks the Elbe River and leads to the fortress town of Hohnstein . This section is only 13 km (8.1 miles) but rises steadily. Also, note that you must travel through narrow cave tunnels to reach Polenztal Valley.

For those that are not satisfied by simply walking among the rocks and need to conquer them, there are 21,000 different climbing routes .

Hiking Info for Painter's Way

• How to Get There : Begins at Pirna/Liebethal, or you can pick which stage and take the train to that town from Dresden’s Hauptbahnhof (main central station). Travel to Stadt Wehlen to start on the second stage.
• Difficulty : Different stages offer different levels of difficulty, though no area is too challenging for a moderate day hike.
• Gear : Bring waterproof gear and some food and water, but there are ample opportunities to refuel. Hiking poles can help you navigate steep inclines. Accommodations  are available at the end of each stage and fancy travelers can even have their bags transferred between hotels.
• Open : Idyllic hike year round , it is only closed during heavy snow, black ice or after heavy rainfall .
• Maps : Routes available online or in their brochure

Partnachklamm

Beneath Germany's tallest mountains is one of the bestgorge hikes. The Partnachklamm gorge divides Garmisch from Partenkirchen and the trail runs 700 meters (2,305 feet) between 80 meters (262 feet) high limestone walls. Here, visitors can walk among the waterfalls - until the winter when these flowing waters freeze into impressive stalactites fitting of a frozen castle.

This is an extremely popular walk so expect crowds coursing through narrow passageways. You can even arrange guided hikes like romantic torchlight walks, or continue to the next location...

Hiking Info for Partnachklamm

• Address : Ludwigstraße 47, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen
• How to Get There : Pedestrian-only road leads here from Olympic Stadium.
• Difficulty : Easy and accessible for all levels. The gorge is about 30 minutes from the parking lot, and the walk takes about 40 minutes.
• Gear : Waterproof shoes and a light jacket in summer. In the winter, dress warmly.
• Admission : 3 euro
• Open : May - June and October 8:00 - 18:00; July - September 8:00 - 19:00; November - April 9:00 to 18:00.
• English brochure and map

King's House Hike

The only way to reach the Königshaus am Schachen (King's House in Schachen) is by completing a hearty 10km, 3-4 hour hike, 1,800 meters above sea level.

Those up to the challenge are rewarded with the lodge of a king - King Ludwig II of Neuschwanstein fame to be exact. Built between 1869-72, this cozy palace is rustic, resembling a Swiss chalet rather than a fairytale kingdom. But visitors need only look upon the Zugspitze to find themselves in a realm of otherworldly beauty. Just below, the Alpengarten auf dem Schachen is an alpine botanical garden with over 1,000 plant species from the Alps to the Himalayas.

Inside, Königshaus's lower half is all intricate wood paneling, but upstairs the unbelievable Türkische Saal (Turkish Hall) transports you to a place and time much more exotic. Gilded everything, stained glass, peacock feathers, and rich embroidery are a cacophony of riches. Ludwig II celebrated his birthday here every August 25th, complete with servants positioned around the hall in Oriental costume as a tableaux vivants (‘living picture’).

Hiking Info for King's House Hike

• Address : Linderhof 12, 82488 Ettal
• How to Get There : Well-marked trails from Partnachklamm or Schloss Elmau.
• Difficulty : Long day trip, it is a moderate level hike but fit for everyone from active children to seniors.
• Gear : Trekking poles and hiking shoes . Bring enough water to sustain you throughout the hike.
• Admission : 4.50 euro
• Open : Beginning of June until October (depending on the snow conditions). German tours at 11:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00 & 16:00.
• Map:  Area trails and ​ route from Partnachklamm or Schloss Elmau

Lüneburg Heath

Naturpark Lüneburger Heide is the oldest nature park in Germany with hiking paths crisscrossing its 1,130 square kilometers (440 sq miles). Located between Hamburg , Bremen and Hannover, quaint villages with thatched roofs dot the landscape of dense pine forests, green meadows and colorful heath.

Visit in late summer to be enveloped in purple as the lilacs take over the park.  Heidschnucken , a local moorland sheep, naturally maintain the landscape and are the namesake of the 223-kilometer (138 miles) route connecting north and south heathlands, Heidschnuckenweg.

When walking through Lüneburger Heide, stop at modest Wilsede Hill. Just 169 meters high, it offers panoramic views of the area.

Hiking Info for Lüneburg Heath

• How to Get There : Begins at Hamburg -Fischbek and ends at Celle.
• Difficulty : 14 stages break up the route, with most sections flat and easy. 
• Gear : Walking shoes, a jacket, and water.
• Open : Year-round
• Maps : Available at tourist offices around Celle

The Rheinsteig tracks Germany's longest river from Bonn , the former West German capital, to Wiesbaden. Past castles , forests, and vineyards , this route is split into 21 stages for a total distance of 320-kilometer (198 miles).

Hiking Info for Rheinsteig

• How to Get There : From Wiesbaden-Biebrich train station, follow the path leading to the Rheinsteig trail through the castle grounds.
• Difficulty : The full distance is only for experienced hikers, but casual hikers can take on a stage or two easily. The total ascent is 11,500 meters.
• Gear : Good walking shoes and supplies to last the length of your journey.

Hut Hiking in Germany

A truly German experience is ending a day of hiking with a stay at an Alpine hut. These rustic accommodations are a communal place to recharge and share experiences over hearty German meals (look for bewirtschaftet ), a beer, and a game of cards.

These humble mountain abodes mean you don't need to carry your house on your back and introduce you to the local hiking community. They are also quite cheap, usually running €18 for a dorm bed (DAV membership offers deep discounts). Some offer small private rooms.

In particular, look out for S ennalpen (Alpine dairy farms) and indulge in fresh dairy products straight from the mountains.

Tips for German Hut Hiking

• Looking for a place to stay? DAV has 200 hut listings in Bavaria alone. However, the site is only in German.
• Some places supply blankets, others do not. A sleeping bag liner can help make you more comfortable. 
• Bring your own towels and expect limited wash facilities.
• After a day of hiking, boots stay outside. Hausschuhe (slippers) are borrowed or brought.
• Huts are generally open from June to September.

Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is often synonymous with its most famous sight, Hitler's Eagle’s Nest. But the town itself is worth a visit, and Berchtesgaden National Park offers miles of trails centering on Watzmann Mountain.

Among the many hikes you can take:

• Mount Watzmann - Germany's third highest mountain offers serious rock climbing. Watzmann Haus at 6,332 feet above sea level is a great destination or refueling point. Built in 1888, this hostel is one of the highest hotels in Europe.
• Königssee - At the base of Watzmann, you are dependent on a ferry to traverse the lake but once you cross the waters, you can take a 30-minute trek to beautiful Obersee (with a stop at the ice cave), then continue on to Röthbach waterfall - the highest in Germany. Or you could take Königsseer Fußweg from behind the Berchtesgaden train station along Königgsseer Ache to the lake.
• Almbachklamm   (Almbach Gorge) - Accessible only in summer, start at Kugelmühle and take the path through the gorge past rushing waterfalls. There are options to make this climb shorter (about 1.5 hours) or longer (3 hours up to the pilgrimage church of Ettenberg ). 

Hiking Info for Berchtesgaden

• How to Get There : Berchtesgaden is well-connected by road and train .
• Difficulty : To ascend Watzmann, you should be fairly fit and skilled. The north approach is easier than the east face. The other hikes range from easy to moderate.
• Gear : Bring waterproof gear as the weather changes quickly. Cables and other permanent fixtures help climbers top Watzmann.
• Map : Berchtesgaden National Park Map

German Border Trail

For almost 40 years, Germany was divided, split by a mighty wall and an even stronger government regime. Today, the Wall has fallen and those nostalgic (or just curious) about the border can walk where it once ran.

Called innerdeutsche Grenz, Zonengrenze or das grüne Band (green belt), it is the longest nature sanctuary of Germany. Composed of 1,393-kilometer (865 miles), the route is marked with reminders of what once stood, from memorials to remnant of fortifications. It starts along the Baltic coast in Usedom Nature Park to Lübeck , continuing along the Elbe, then east to Wolfsburg, through Harz nature park, Rhön Biosphere Reserve, by the cross of peace on the Dachsberg hill, on the former border strip between Bavaria and Thuringia, past the Thuringian-Frankish mountains, by the divided village of Mödlareuth, and then crossing into Czech Republic. 

Hiking Info for German Border Trail

• How to Get There : Join the route anywhere from Lübeck to Mödlareuth
• Difficulty : Most of the hike is flat, though doing the whole route would require a lot of stamina.
• Gear : Waterproof gear and supplies for as long as you plan to be out. Accommodations are available at the many towns.

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1. Zugspitze

2. sächsische schweiz.

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3. Berchtesgaden National Park

4. the heidschnukenweg trail.

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5. The Rheinsteig Trail.

6. goethe’s way, 7. the allgäu alps, 8. baltic coast, 9. rhine river valley.

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10. Partnachklamm

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How to plan a road trip in the Bavarian Alps

A week-long drive through the mountains of southern Germany takes in a range of architectural wonders.

While not as high or visually dramatic as some other sections of the European range, the Bavarian Alps come with plenty of charm. Cowbells resound across high pastures, wooden huts serve cold beer and turquoise lakes shimmer in the countryside below. There’s also, of course, a famous castle. Schloss Neuschwanstein welcomes huge numbers of visitors every year and fronts many a guidebook — and it has notably just undergone the largest restoration project in its 150-year history. Travelling from west to east, this road trip starts at the landmark before making stops at other impressive structures, notable buildings and feats of engineering across the region.

1. Schloss Neuschwanstein  

Kick things off at one of Germany’s most recognisable locations, the enchanting castle said to have inspired those featured in Disney’s Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. The most extensive makeover to date, including meticulous work on paintings, furniture and a one-tonne chandelier, began in 2017 and is due to be completed this summer. Book onto a guided tour to see the results for yourself, then stroll to nearby Marienbrücke bridge for a view back at the turreted marvel.

2.   The Passion Play Theatre

For a scenic mountain route, drive via Plansee in Austria to reach Oberammergau. The village is adorned with murals known as Lüftlmalerei, including depictions of Hansel and Gretel and Little Red Riding Hood. But there’s another, different story this place wants to tell. Locals have been putting on a once-a-decade Passion Play, telling the story of the Crucifixion, for almost four centuries — a pledge once made to fend off the plague. The next performance is scheduled for 2030, but you can join a daily tour of the specially built theatre.

3.   Zugspitze Cable Car

Drive south to the island-dotted lake of Eibsee and the Zugspitze cable car. Its construction, which began in 2015 and took two years, was a veritable engineering feat: carrying up to 120 people each, its glass cabins glide smoothly to the 2,962m summit of Germany’s highest mountain in a matter of minutes. Buy a return ticket, allowing plenty of time to take in the panorama: on a clear day, you can see peaks as far as Austria, Italy and Switzerland.

4.   Tegernseer Hütte

Next, head east and get ready for a hike to the Tegernseer Hütte, a mountain hut perched between the peaks of Roßstein and Buchstein. First constructed in 1903, it was rebuilt in 1965 after a lightning strike. The quickest path takes two hours or less from the car park just west of Bayerwald, zig-zagging through forests, meadows and rougher terrain at the end. Alternatively, there’s a gentler three-hour option. Set off early to reach the terrace for lunch or book well in advance for an overnight and time without the crowds.

5.   Wendelstein Cog Railway

Continue along the shores of the Tegernsee and through Bayrischzell until you reach the village of Brannenburg. From here, hop onto one of the yellow carriages that shuttle visitors up and down the Wendelstein mountain. Built between 1910 and 1912, this high-Alpine rack railway was the first of its kind in Germany. Since modernised, it takes you over bridges, through tunnels, under galleries and around rock faces in around 25 minutes.

6.   Eagle’s Nest

Follow the road via Reit im Winkl to the Berchtesgadener Land, where the Kehlsteinhaus (nicknamed the Eagle’s Nest) was built atop a rocky outcrop as a retreat for Nazi leadership in the 1930s. Leave your car in Obersalzberg and take a designated bus up Germany’s highest road; a brass-lined lift inside the hillside will then take you to the site, now maintained as a restaurant. There are guided tours of the area to learn about its turbulent past, then end the trip exploring the wider Berchtesgaden National Park.

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Brockengipfel

Hiking Highlight

Logically, you also have the best view from the highest point far and wide. If, yes, if it weren't for the problem with the fog. There was a year when … read more

Schrammsteinaussicht

Because the Schrammsteine are one of the highlights in Saxon Switzerland because of the great panoramic views, it can of course be overcrowded here in summer. In winter, however, comparatively … read more

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Drachenfelsplateau

The Drachenfels viewing plateau is the attraction of Königswinter. For hikers, the plateau is interesting and accessible via the village of Röhndorf. Once at the top you have a breathtaking … read more

Kahler Asten

When the weather is good, you have a fantastic all-round view, especially from the Asten Tower, but when the weather is bad, you can't see your hand in front of … read more

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The Grandfather Rock is part of the Devil's Wall. Some strength is required to climb it. But the effort is rewarded. From the top you have a magnificent view of … read more

Wilseder Berg

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Pfaffenstein

In the middle of Saxon Switzerland, on the summit of Pfaffenstein you will be treated to a fantastic panoramic view from the observation tower, a mountain plateau full of history and a regional retreat.

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Ilsestein (HWN 030)

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Germany for Breathtaking Mountains, Medieval Towns, and Moving Historic Sites

From moving landmarks to charming villages, these are 20 of the best places to visit in Germany, according to experts.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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Germany is filled with charming small towns, exhilarating cities, enchanting castles, historic landmarks, and famous festivities — notably Oktoberfest and the Christmas markets . With 16 states, from Bavaria to Bremen, there are a lot of different ways to vacation in Deutschland. That might look like bopping around to hilltop villages on a road trip or plopping down in a vibrant metropolis and going on some interesting day trips. Need some inspiration ahead of your first (or next) trip to the land of bratwurst and beer? We asked Liam S. Dunch, product manager, Europe at Abercrombie & Kent , and Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato , to share their top picks. Scroll on for the best places to visit in Germany.

Related: 12 Best Small Towns in Germany, From Charming Medieval Villages to Idyllic Mountain Escapes

1. East Side Gallery

Abdulhamid Hosbas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Once a symbol of oppression — and an enduring reminder of Germany’s turbulent past — the concrete barrier that used to divide Berlin now serves a vastly different purpose thanks to the creation of the East Side Gallery. Artists transformed the largest remaining section of the Berlin Wall into an open-air art gallery with colorful, thought-provoking graffiti murals.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

One of the most beautiful small towns in the world , Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an endlessly charming village along Germany’s fabled Romantic Road in the Franconia region of Bavaria. Its cobblestone lanes, half-timbered houses, churches, medieval walls, and towers look like they were plucked from a storybook.

3. Courtroom 600

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Many people who visit Germany want to gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events of the 20th century. “Not only does a trip to Courtroom 600 means the chance to step inside the room where Nazi leaders were tried for their unspeakable crimes, but visitors can also watch real footage of the Nuremberg trials and learn about the legacy of the verdicts,” explains Dunch.

4. Bach-Museum Leipzig

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Dunch urges lovers of classical music to make the pilgrimage to Leipzig, where Johann Sebastian Bach composed most of his major works and spent the last 27 years of his life. The Bach-Museum Leipzig houses a collection of instruments, original manuscripts, and other memorabilia related to the German composer. 

5. Baden-Baden 

Werner Dieterich/Getty Images

European aristocracy (including Napoleon III and Queen Victoria) have decamped to Baden-Baden, a historic spa town on the edge of southwestern Germany's Black Forest, since the 19th century. This Belle Époque resort town retains its glamorous reputation and wellness credentials, continuing to entice well-heeled travelers with thermal baths and high-class spa hotels such as Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa .   

6. Museum Island

“I always tell first-time visitors to Berlin to check out Museum Island,” says Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato . Situated in the middle of the Spree River, this architecturally stunning cultural complex houses five magnificent museums: Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and Pergamon Museum. 

7. Schloss Proschwitz

Daniel Schäfer/picture alliance via Getty Images

Schloss Proschwitz is a beautiful 18th-century, neo-baroque castle in the district of Meissen with elegant interiors and gardens. The estate also plays host to Saxony's oldest private winery, which invites visitors for cellar tours and tastings.  

8. Hofbräuhaus

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The most famous of the many beer halls in Munich, Hofbräuhaus takes patrons back in time to an era when tokens were used to pay for steins and shares the tradition of gemütlichkeit (geniality) with visitors from around the world through live music, warm hospitality, and homemade Bavarian food.

9. Meissen's Porcelain Museum

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“The medieval town of Meissen has produced fine figurines and crockery since 1710,” explains Dunch. The Meissen Porcelain Museum tells the story of Meissen porcelain through a collection of more than 2,000 objects — including ornate tables used in the royal courts of Europe in the 18th century, vases, candle holders, and intricate animal figurines. 

10. Neuschwanstein Castle 

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One of Germany’s most famous and frequented attractions, Neuschwanstein Castle welcomes a whopping 1.4 million visitors each year. Travelers come from all over to gawk at the fairy-tale medieval palace and far-reaching views from atop a dramatic rocky hilltop in the Bavarian Alps. Quinn recommends booking timed-entry reservations to avoid waiting in lengthy lines.

11. Linderhof Palace

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And you don't have to go far to see another stately residence. Instead of (or after) fighting the crowds at Neuschwanstein Castle, Dunch suggests visiting nearby Linderhof Palace. “It’s easy to see why this idyllic fantasy ‘hunting lodge’ was Ludwig II’s favorite getaway.”

Yasonya/Getty Images

Set on the shores of Lake Constance in Bavaria, Lindau attracts travelers with its harborfront charm and scenic views. On the itinerary? Catch sight of Switzerland across the water as you stroll the streets, check out the lighthouse, pause along Seepromenade to snap photos of the 12th-century Mangturm watchtower, and embark on a kayak excursion.  

13. Spreewald Biosphere Reserve

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Tucked between Berlin and Dresden, the UNESCO-listed Spreewald Biosphere Reserve is a unique inland delta along the Spree with waterways and woodlands. It’s an idyllic setting for kayaking along the channels and soaking in the natural beauty of the area. 

14. Porsche Experience Center Leipzig

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Sports car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Porsche Experience Center Leipzig , a state-of-the-art factory and test circuit. Ready to go full-throttle? After the tour and a brief history lesson, accelerate, brake, and drift on an adrenaline-pumping drive on the circular track.   

15. Zugspitze

Achim Thomae/Getty Images

Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, rises 9,718 feet above sea level and stands out as a top spot for high-altitude fun and year-round recreation. The Wankbahn cable car operates from April to October, bringing visitors to Mount Wank for a homemade breakfast at Sonnenalm and far-reaching panoramas. Hiking is also popular during the warmer months, while winter brings opportunities for skiing, tobogganing, and glacier tours.

16. Baiersbronn

Baiersbronn, a quaint village in southern Germany between Strasbourg, France and Stuttgart, is the culinary capital of the Black Forest with seven Michelin-starred restaurants and even more that have earned other culinary awards. “It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch on a drive through this scenic region,” says Quinn. 

17. Therme Erding

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The largest thermal bath complex in Europe, Therme Erding , located just 30 minutes northeast of Munich, draws upwards of 5,000 visitors each day. The giant water slides, wave pool, and lazy river are a hit with kids. Prefer relaxation? There’s also a classic spa and sauna area just for adults. 

18. Titisee-Neustadt

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Nestled within the Black Forest in southwest Germany, Titisee-Neustadt is a local’s getaway on the lakeshore that’s beloved for family fun and access to nature. During the summer, active types love to hit the scenic trails and climb Hochfirst Mountain, while winter means skiing and sledding. Bringing the kiddos? Head to Badeparadies Schwarzwald, an indoor water park with slides, mineral pools, and saunas. 

19. Europa-Park

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Travelers of all ages will have a blast at Europa-Park , a theme park in Rust, Germany with over 100 rides — including 13 thrilling roller coasters — plus a water park, live shows, restaurants, bars, hotels, a camping site, and even a wellness spa. Looking for something unique? The resort area is also home to Eatrenalin , an experience that combines fine dining with theme park technology for a totally immersive meal.

Felix Hörhager/picture alliance via Getty Images

There are plenty of naturally beautiful places to visit in Germany, but few are as stunning as Eibsee. Sitting at the base of the Zugspitze, this pristine lake is filled with crystal-clear water and surrounded by alpine peaks that make it a favorite destination for boating and hiking.

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The Top 7 Spots for Hiking and Trekking in Germany

Germany is blessed with some truly magnificent natural beauty that is the stuff of fairytales. From sacred lakes to the enchanted black forests, from the coastal trails that wrap around the Baltic Sea to the otherworldly peaks reaching for the sky, here are some of the best spots for outdoor enthusiasts to come and revel in a little slice of nature’s paradise in Germany.

Sächsische schweiz.

Situated close to Dresden, the beauty of Sächsische Schweiz (Saxon Switzerland) is of mythical proportions. Ancient, fingerlike rock formations make it the perfect location for climbing and hiking. The huge national park is known for its sandstone formations and splendid valleys and waterfalls. Best spots for hiking and climbing in the park are the Schrammsteine, a long and jagged group of rocks, and the highly distinctive Lilienstein mountain.

The Black Forest

Allgäu Alps

The lake Constance region encompasses four different countries, and are connected through a network of trails, mountains, gorges, and waterways in the heart of nature. Those wishing to take the challenge of a week-long trek around the lake will be rewarded with natural spendor that transcends cultural boundaries. In Germany this lake in known as the Bodensee, but those wishing to go higher can opt for an Allgäu Alps, a classic hiking trail in southern Germany.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

This little town located in the Bavarian Alps is a hiker’s dream in any season, being a prominent destination for skiing, hiking, and even ice-skating. The town lies near the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. Other summit attractions include the Alpspitze mountain, with its pyramidal peak that has come to symbolize the town Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Baltic Coast

The Baltic Sea in the north of Germany offers hikers over 250 miles (400km) of coastal trails with periodic views of seaside living all the way from Lübeck to Ahlbeck. Hikers can take in the smell of the sea air, the splendor of the pine forests, and the yellow rapeseed fields characteristic of the trails. Whenever you feel, swap your hiking gear for your swimming suit and take a dip in the Baltic waters.

Berchtesgaden National Park

This mountainous landscape in Bavaria is referred to as the Eagles Nest. It has a network of trails for both newbie and experienced trekkers. The 7.5-mile (12km) trail from the Hintersee National Park information point to Bindalm ensures a day well spent in the mountains, through forests and valleys. The national park is known for its impressive wildlife—especially wonderful sightings include the golden eagle and red deer. A hike to the magnificent Königssee is also recommended.

Palatinate Forest Nature Park

What could be better than hiking in the serene sunshine of Germany’s southwest? Not only is this the biggest forest area in the country, it is also wine country, where hikers are treated to the beautiful hilly vineyards and epic scenery. That’s not all though, because the trails also weave past eight ruin sites from the Trifels Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was captured. There are hundreds of trails to choose from, so grab your hiking boots and pick your own adventure.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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8 top places to visit in Germany in 2024

Feb 23, 2024 • 5 min read

No highlights list of Germany would omit Oktoberfest in Munich © FooTToo / Getty Images

The heart of Western Europe , Germany is a boundless feast for travelers.

Its endless variety of historic yet cutting-edge cities; dark, romantic forests; and cultural riches can often make the task of planning a visit daunting. Yet though it would take a lifetime to take in all of this fascinating country’s highlights, you can get a good start indeed with this guide.

Here are eight of the very best places to visit in Germany.

1. The Baltic Coast

Northern Germany’s Baltic Coast represents a side of the country not many visitors anticipate. The indented southern coast of the Baltic Sea hides great swathes of pure sand, susurrating pines and pristine nature sanctuaries. Highlights include the former Hanseatic power Stralsund, a classic of red-brick Gothic gabled architecture; the sheer cliffs of Jasmund National Park ; and the birdlife and beauty of the Darss-Zingst Peninsula .

2. Cologne 

Cologne (Köln) is known for its liberal climate and its wealth of historic sights. Taking its name from the Romans (who founded it in the first century CE as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium), it’s been a major center of German history for centuries.

The most tangible symbol of Cologne’s importance and the essential sight? Its magnificent 13th-century Gothic cathedral, the Kölner Dom , Germany’s largest church, which was also Europe’s highest building until eclipsed by the  Eiffel Tower . Other must-see historical and cultural attractions include the  Römisch-Germanisches (Romano-Germanic) Museum and the sublime collection of 13th- to the 19th-century European art at the  Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud . 

Planning tip:  Pick up a  KölnCard  at the  Cologne Tourist Board office (adjacent to the cathedral) or at any KVB or DB ticket machines. A 24-hour individual ticket (€9) gets you unlimited public transport and up to 50% off at many cultural attractions, restaurants and shops. 

3. The Middle Rhine Valley (the Rhine Gorge)

As the Rhine , Germany’s second-longest river, flows south from Koblenz , it cuts a gorge through a gasp-inducing landscape of vineyards and castles. The stretch between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, known as the Oberes Mittelrheintal (Upper Middle Rhine Valley) is so special it won UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2002.

A land heavily contested over the centuries, the Oberes Mittelrheintal harbors wonderful castles like  Pfalzgrafstein ,  Burg Rheinstein ,  Burg Reichenstein and Koblenz’s mighty Festung Ehrenbreitstein .

Of the many wineries and wine bars you might visit, we recommend Bingen’s Weingut Georg Breuer,   Alte Weinstube Zum Hubertus in Koblenz and Zum Grünen Baum in Bacharach .

4. Erfurt and Weimar

The proximate central-German cities of  Erfurt and Weimar represent an astonishing concentration of cultural achievement and historic significance. Erfurt, capital of Thuringia , has one of Germany’s loveliest medieval centers, while Weimar stands tall as the capital of the eponymous 20th-century Republic, and before that the home of cultural luminaries such as Bach, Goethe, Schiller and Nietzsche.

Erfurt’s essential sights include its  cathedral , where Martin Luther was ordained, and the vast, baroque Zitadelle Petersberg . In Weimar, you’ll have to find time for the Goethe-Nationalmuseum , in a building that was the author’s home of 50 years; the UNESCO-listed Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek ; and the modernist treasures of the Bauhaus Museum , which also originated here.

5. Munich & the Bavarian Alps

Munich (München), the capital of the Free State of Bavaria (Freistaat Bayern) is the city most visitors associate with “classic” German culture – for while Germany is in fact a patchwork of cultures and dialects, it’s often the Bavarian model of Bierkellers , Bratwurst and Lederhosen that outsiders have in mind. Munich is no cliché, though: Germany’s third-largest city is a center of high-tech manufacturing and cutting-edge culture, as well as the gateway to the magnificent Bavarian Alps . 

Essential sights and experiences include the  Residenzmuseum , the former palace of Bavaria’s ruling Wittelsbach dynasty; the museum-packed  Kunstareal district; and the gracious 17th-century Schloss Nymphenburg . An easy drive south of Munich lie the forested mountains, photogenic villages and ski- and spa-resorts of the beautiful Bavarian Alps .

Planning tip:  Oktoberfest , synonymous with Munich, is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Accommodation is booked solid long in advance, so plan ahead.

6. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Perhaps the most enchanting village along the entire 400km (250 miles) of the Romantic Road ,  Rothenburg ob der Tauber (meaning “above the Tauber river”) is a wonderfully preserved example of a medieval German village. Strict heritage protection ensures that every turn reveals meandering cobbled lanes, glimpses of the intact city walls and venerable churches. Make time to see the local treasures collected in the  Reichsstadtmuseum , housed in a former Dominican convent, and the  Alt-Rothenburger Handwerkerhaus , where weavers, potters and other craftspeople ply their trade as they have done for over seven centuries.

7. The Black Forest

Bordering France and Switzerland , the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a vast woodland of more than 6000 sq km (2316 sq miles). From its spruce-swaddled slopes to deep valleys broken by silvery lakes and traditional villages and farmsteads, this diverse rural playground just begs to be explored by car, cycle or foot.

If you’re pressed for time, a drive along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse ( Black Forest High Road ) from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt unfurls a series of gorgeous vistas. If you have more time, consider hiking the 40km (25-mile)  Panoramaweg or the 12km (7.5-mile)  Feldberg–Steig to the forest’s highest peak. Population centers you should definitely include on your visit include Triberg, with its waterfall and cuckoo clocks; the laid-back university town of Freiburg ; and Alpirsbach, with its 11th-century Benedictine monastery .

Planning tip: While travelers are naturally drawn to the Black Forest’s great outdoors, it would be a mistake to overlook the region’s excellent cuisine. There’s Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest gâteau), of course – while lesser-known specialities include venison Baden-Baden , smoked Schwartzwalder Schinken (ham) and skinless lange rote (long red) sausages from Freiburg.

No list of German highlights would be complete without the country’s capital and dynamic cultural engine room. Germany’s most populous city,  Berlin is a bountiful beast of a place, with some of the country’s definitive museums, dining, art and – perhaps above all – nightlife.

Boisterous Berlin has long had a bohemian streak. While you should definitely make time to for cultural highlights like the Mies van der Rohe–designed Neue Nationalgalerie and the treasure trove that is Museumsinsel (Museum Island), those seeking a party will surely find it in iconic venues like  Berghain and  Pratergarten , where beer and bonhomie have flowed together since 1837. As ever, Berlin’s party people continue to innovate . 

Planning tip:  Before you hit town, get yourself a Berlin Welcome Card online. This six-day, all-inclusive ticket (adults €169; children aged 3–14 €85) gives you unlimited rides on public transport, free entry to more than 30 top attractions plus up to 50% off entry to over 150 more, as well as other benefits.

This article was first published Jun 3, 2021 and updated Feb 23, 2024.

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The Most Beautiful Places in Germany, From Fairytale Castles to Alpine Lakes

By Caitlin Morton

The most beautiful places in Germany are at once charming, bewitching, and staggeringly pretty. Not only does the country contain alpine peaks and mysterious forests, but its major cities and charming small towns are testaments to man-made beauty: think white Rococo churches, streets lined with timbered houses, and castles that seem almost too majestic to be real.

From the fairytale castles along the Romantic Road to vineyard-covered hills along the Rhine River—and everywhere in between—here are 24 impossibly lovely places to visit on your next trip to Germany.

This article was originally published in 2017. It has been updated with new information.

Eibsee, Bavaria

Germany has no shortage of beautiful alpine lakes, but few are quite as stunning as Eibsee, located at the base of Germany’s highest mountain (Zugspitze). The glistening lake features crystal-clear water, a scattering of islands, and a hiking trail with plenty of overlooks to capture the perfect photo.

Görlitz, Saxony

Back in 2017 , this small city won the “European Location Award”—an annual prize given by the European Film Commission Network to recognize outstanding TV and movie filming locations. Görlitz is perhaps most famous for appearing in The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014), but film buffs will recognize parts of town that appeared in The Reader (2008) and Inglourious Basterds (2009), as well.

Sylt, Schleswig-Holstein

This skinny island seven miles out into the North Sea is like nowhere else in the country, with rolling heathered dunes, thatched roof cottages, beach saunas, and the surrounding Wadden Sea. In other words, it’s like Germany’s version of the Hamptons .

Rakotzbrücke (Rakotz Bridge), Saxony

Hidden in Kromlau’s Rhododendron Park, Rakotzbrücke is a 19th-century bridge that creates a perfect stone circle when reflected in the waters below it. Rakotzbrücke is often referred to as “Devil's Bridge,” since the structure seems so impossible that it must have been built by, well, the devil.

Vicki Denig

Jesse Ashlock

Charlie Hobbs

Emily Pennington

Zwinger, Dresden

Once the festival arena of the Dresden Court, the Zwinger palace complex is a stunning example of Baroque architecture . Today, the palace serves as a museum and houses an Old Masters gallery, the Dresden porcelain collection, and the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments.

Saxon Switzerland, Saxony

If you think you’ve seen all of the most beautiful places in Germany, rest assured that there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path sites left to explore. Case in point: Sächsische Schweiz (Saxon Switzerland), a slice of rugged and rocky countryside just south of Dresden. Roughly one-third of Saxon Switzerland was designated a national park in 1990, and the area contains surprising attractions like the Bastei Bridge—an arched structure sitting more than 600 feet above the Elbe River.

Pilgrimage Church of Wies, Bavaria

With its bright colors and exuberant frescoes, the UNESCO-listed Church of Wies is a masterpiece of Rococo architecture—with the added bonus of a scenic Alpine setting.

Berchtesgaden National Park, Bavaria

Located near the Austrian border, the only national park in the German Alps is equal parts picturesque and biodiverse. The site is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve, which means you won’t find any developed towns or settlements here. Instead, you’ll find untouched natural wonders like Königssee, an alpine lake with crystal-clear water and fjord-like surroundings.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, well-known for its preserved medieval old town, draws millions of tourists each year with its made-for-Instagram multicolored facades. Try to visit in December to experience the Reiterlesmarkt, one of the best Christmas markets in the entire country.

Zugspitze, Bavaria

Sitting at an altitude of over 9,700 feet, Zugspitze (part of the Wetterstein Mountains) is the highest peak in Germany. Cable cars will take you to the summit, where you can enjoy restaurants, a beer garden, and some of the best views of the Alps.

Geierlay Suspension Bridge, Rhineland-Palatinate

With a length of 1,180 feet and height of 330 feet, the Geierlay Suspension Bridge (Hängeseilbrücke Geierlay) is not exactly for the faint of heart. But its stunning setting in the Hunsrück Mountains might just inspire you to face your fears.

Cologne Cathedral, North Rhine-Westphalia

Germany’s largest Gothic church took more than seven centuries to construct, and it’s hard to argue the remarkable behemoth wasn’t worth the time and effort. The cathedral’s major attractions are its dual spires, stained glass murals, and Shrine of the Three Kings, which is said to hold the remains of the Three Wise Men.

Hohenzollern Castle, Baden-Württemberg

Set atop a 768-foot bluff in the foothills of the Swabian Alps, this picturesque castle is more than just nice to look at: With its many towers and fortifications, it's considered a relic of 19th-century military architecture. It's perhaps most impressive on overcast days when it peeks out above the fog—a literal castle on a cloud.

Rügen, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Germany’s largest island has Baltic beaches, chalk-white cliffs, and a number of luxurious seaside resorts. Rügen is actually accessible by train, meaning you can leave Berlin in the morning and arrive at the island by lunchtime.

Harz National Park, Lower Saxony

Harz National Park is located within Germany’s most northern mountain range, and it’s one of the country’s most popular areas for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.

Museum Island, Berlin

An ensemble of five museums, Museum Island is actually on another island (Spree) in the Mitte district. Built between 1824 and 1930, it became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999.

Mosel, Rhineland-Palatinate

Mosel is one of Germany’s most prestigious wine regions , with terraced vineyards covering the valleys of several rivers (Mosel, Saar, etc.) near the Luxembourg border. Aside from its famous Riesling grapes, Mosel’s attractions include medieval villages, traditional German taverns, and plenty of riverside views.

Tüchersfeld, Bavaria

This Bavarian village in the Püttlach Valley is postcard-perfect—so much so that it has been featured on German postage stamps. But no matter how many photos you’ve seen of the town, you really must see the timber-framed houses and sky-high rock formations in person.

Stuttgart City Library, Baden-Württemberg

Situated in a concrete cube in the heart of southern Germany, this isn't your average library. The main attraction (a five-story reading room shaped like an upside-down pyramid) looks more like an M.C. Escher drawing than a typical library—until you notice the hundreds of thousands of neatly stacked books, that is. Cozy? Not really. Beautiful? You bet.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria

Built in 1886, Neuschwanstein is one of the most popular castles in all of Europe—and not just because it served as inspiration for Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. The majestic structure has a clifftop location and ornate rooms that attract 1.4 million visitors every year.

Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg

Stretching across southwest Germany is the Black Forest , a wooded mountain range known for its dense 100-mile stretch of pine trees, picturesque villages, natural thermal spas, and, believe it or not, the invention of the cuckoo clock. The area doesn’t just look like a scene out of a storybook, though—legend says the Brothers Grimm drew inspiration from the forested area in their native country for fairy tales like Hansel and Gretel and Rapunzel .

Lübeck, Schleswig-Holstein

Located on the Baltic coast, Lübeck is a striking, colorful town that dates back to the 12th century. The UNESCO-protected city was one of northern Europe’s major trading hubs through the centuries; as such, it transformed into today’s multicultural port defined by its red-brick city gates and gothic churches.

Marburg, Hesse

If you want to get the full German fairytale experience , you can’t do much better than the Hessian town of Marburg—also known as the university town where the Brothers Grimm studied and gathered inspiration for some of their stories. Renowned for its cascading cobblestone streets and medieval churches, the town also features playful sculptures of the Grimms’ most famous characters, from the Frog King reading a book on the side of a building to Cinderella’s slipper sitting beneath the towering Marburger Schloss castle.

Schwerin Castle, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Modeled off the chateaux of France’s Loire Valley, Schwerin Castle offers a delicious taste of French Renaissance architecture in northeast Germany. The residential palace is surrounded by water (who doesn’t love a castle on a lake?) and boasts a 60-acre garden, statues of Greek and Roman gods and goddesses, and a whopping 653 rooms adorned in lush fabrics and oil paintings.

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Best places to visit in germany.

Full of culture, lively locals and great beer, Germany is home to many captivating travel destinations. Whether you're looking to soak up art, architecture and history or imbibe at Oktoberfest, this country appeals to a variety of tourists. U.S. News weighed factors like sights, food, culture, accessibility and value, in addition to expert and traveler opinions, to create the best places to visit in Germany. Vote for the destinations you love below to help shape next year's ranking.

Neuschwanstein

Garmisch-partenkirchen, black forest, berchtesgaden, rüdesheim am rhein.

Germany's capital city is akin to Paris and London in that you just can't visit the country without going. Like many large cities, Berlin offers something for everyone, from a lively nightlife scene to restorative green spaces. Those looking take in the arts can explore the impactful East Side Gallery (on the Berlin Wall) or visit the more traditional art galleries at Museum Island. Berlin also pays homage to its ominous past with powerful and humbling attractions. Must-visit historical sites include the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.

Visitors flock to Munich every fall to take part in Oktoberfest, a two-week-long ode to Bavarian traditions featuring Germany's best beers and bratwurst. But Munich, one of the largest German cities, offers so much more than just this festival. The city is home to beautiful gardens, exquisite churches and engaging museums worth exploring. Wander around Munich's charming neighborhoods and spend some time in Marienplatz, a central square that's home to the world-famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel and hosts a popular Christmas market.

Though Neuschwanstein Castle was never meant for visitors, it has become one of Germany's most popular tourist attractions. King Ludwig II commissioned the castle as a place of refuge from public life. Today, more than 1 million people stroll through the property every year. The castle's Romanesque Revival-style is certainly romantic; in fact, it inspired Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. But what elevates this castle to bucket list status is its unbelievable setting, perched in the Bavarian Alps. From the castle, travelers can get an eyeful of the surrounding mountains, Alpine lakes and striking foliage (especially during fall).

This scenic mountain town in the Bavarian Alps calls to adventure-hungry travelers. In winter, Garmisch-Partenkirchen draws skiers looking to hit the slopes and learn about the Winter Olympics that were held here in 1936. In summer, hikers descend upon the town hoping to climb Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak (the summit is also reachable via cable car). Other can't-miss attractions include Lake Eibsee and Partnachklamm, a narrow gorge characterized by steep rock walls and roaring rapids. Meanwhile, if you're looking to unwind, take a stroll through Historic Ludwigstrasse or explore the grounds of Linderhof Palace and Park.

One of the best places to see Germany's natural splendor is the fairy-tale-inspiring Black Forest. This section of Baden-Württemberg encompasses more than 2,000 square miles of enchanting waterfall-filled forests, rolling hills and lengthy valleys dotted with half-timbered villages. A great introduction to the Black Forest is driving along its scenic namesake highway (Schwarzwaldhochstrasse); be sure to start or end your journey in the spa town of Baden-Baden to benefit from its thermal springs. You'll also want to save time for visiting gorgeous natural wonders like the picture-perfect Triberg Waterfalls, Lake Titisee and the Feldberg, the Black Forest's highest peak.

Dresden is made for architecture enthusiasts. The city, which is located in eastern Germany near the Czech border, features remarkable facades and edifices adorned with ornate architectural details. Though you'll have your pick of stunning structures, make sure you visit the Dresden Zwinger (a Baroque-style palace) and Dresden Royal Palace (a Renaissance landmark where the Fürstenzug, the world's largest porcelain mural, resides). If you prefer modern architecture, head to Kunsthofpassage to gaze at its quirky buildings, one of which has singing drainpipes. And those visiting during festive season can't miss Striezelmarkt, Germany's oldest and largest Christmas market.

For a memorable vacation in the Bavarian Alps, visit Berchtesgaden. This destination, which sits on the Austrian border, captivates visitors with its massive peaks, cascading forests, deep valleys and Alpine lake and river that make up Berchtesgaden National Park. Start your journey driving the scenic Rossfeld Panoramastrasse before traveling south to awe-inspiring Lake Königssee and the Eagle's Nest, a mountaintop beer garden. If you enjoy skiing, arrive in winter when Jenner Mountain is blanketed with snow.

First-time visitors to this historic German city should make a beeline for Cologne Cathedral – this breathtaking example of Gothic architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city's most popular landmark. Meanwhile, travelers with a sweet tooth should make time in their schedule for a tour of Cologne's Chocolate Museum. Other activities include relaxing on the lawn at Rheinpark, exploring Cologne's Old Town, cruising the Rhine River and taking in spectacular city views from a cable car. Visit in February or March when Cologne's annual Carnival celebration takes place, an event featuring festivities like masked balls, parades and parties.

Go off the beaten track on your next getaway by heading to this Bavarian city in southeast Germany. Boasting centuries-old architecture and a prime location along the Danube River, Regensburg is known as one of Germany's oldest and best-preserved medieval cities. Most of Regensburg's top attractions can be found in the city's UNESCO-listed Old Town, including landmarks like St. Peter's Cathedral, Haidplatz Square and the Stone Bridge. Other sights worth visiting include the Thurn und Taxis Palace and Walhalla, a hall of fame honoring exemplary German-speaking figures throughout history.

This city in southwestern Germany is well known for housing the country's oldest university. However, its good looks and superb location along the Neckar River also make it a great destination to enjoy old-world character and a small-town ambiance. To see as much of this beautiful city as possible, take a long stroll through Heidelberg's old town and across its picturesque Old Bridge. Then, ride the funicular railway to Heidelberg Castle, and continue on to Königstuhl for impressive views. Additional must-see sights to add to your vacation itinerary include the Philosopher's Walk, Heidelberg Zoo and the Student Prison at Heidelberg University.

Boasting elaborate churches and palaces around every corner, Würzburg is a photographer's paradise. From the Baroque-style Residence Palace to the Romanesque St. Kilian Cathedral, there are countless buildings worth exploring. Not only can travelers enjoy beautiful architecture, they can expect manicured gardens and parks, such as Ring Park and the University of Würzburg's Botanical Garden, along with numerous vineyards and estates offering wine tastings (Würzburg is located in Germany's Franken wine region). When you're not sipping on delicious vino, consider visiting the grand Marienberg Fortress or snapping a photo of Würzburg's iconic Old Main Bridge.

Primarily known for its winemaking capabilities, Rüdesheim am Rhein is a small village located at the base of Germany's Rhine Valley. While you'll surely want to spend the majority of your time here sampling Rüdesheim am Rhein's famous riesling, you should save time for other activities as well. The restaurant- and market-lined Drosselgasse alley is a perfect place to hear live music, and you'd be remiss to skip the one-of-a-kind Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet during your trip. Another worthwhile activity is a castle cruise along the Rhine River.

Frankfurt is best known as the financial capital of the eurozone thanks to it housing the European Central Bank, but don't assume the city is nothing more than a concrete jungle. Frankfurt doubles as a tourist-friendly destination with all kinds of attractions. Here, you'll find the Frankfurt Museum Embankment, a riverside perimeter that comprises more than a dozen museums, including the popular Städel Museum. Other noteworthy sights include the city's colorful old town, the Main Tower observation deck and the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden.

Located less than 22 miles southwest of bustling Berlin, Potsdam makes for a perfect daytrip. The city offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere complete with parks and eye-catching historical landmarks. The city's most popular attraction, Sanssouci Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so breathtaking that it is often compared to Versailles. The palace's name means "without a care," so plan on spending unhurried hours there taking in its splendor and the surrounding grounds. You'll also want to save time for visiting Cecilienhof Country House – where the historic Potsdam Conference took place – and strolling through the charming Dutch Quarter.

Home to Germany's largest cruise port, the Elbe river and hundreds of canals flowing through the city center, Hamburg is a great place to explore by boat. But for those on foot, many top attractions are clustered in the heart of the city, including the Alter Elbtunnel and Planten un Blomen park. Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth visiting, offers Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway system that enraptures visitors of all ages. Plus, Hamburg is a haven for music lovers with its impressive Elbphilharmonie complex, which features two concert halls and a plaza with sweeping city views.

The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is a must-visit destination due to its well-preserved history (both medieval and more recent). The city's darker World War II connections are on display at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rallying Grounds and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials museum. Go further back in time with a visit to the vast, all-encompassing Germanisches Nationalmuseum, which includes artwork from prehistoric times to today. Then, wind your way through old town's endearing streets, where you'll find half-timbered houses, a four-story fountain and the imposing Imperial Castle, which dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

Head to this small medieval city in northern Bavaria to feel as if you've stepped back in time. Bamberg is famous for housing notable Enlightenment-era writers and philosophers like E.T.A. Hoffmann and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Plus, Bamberg boasts a gorgeous location along the Regnitz river and a collection of exquisite architectural beauties, including the Romanesque Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. But no visit would be complete without seeing the dreamy rose garden at the New Residence palace.

Upon first glance, Lübeck might look like any other mid-size German city. However, this northern destination with Nordic beauty holds plenty of historical significance, so much so that UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site. Between the 12th and 16th centuries, Lübeck was considered one of Europe's most important trading ports. The city still remains a hub for maritime commerce with its location on the Baltic Sea. After learning more about Lübeck's maritime roots at the European Hansemuseum, travelers can check out the stately Holsten Gate in the city's charming old town or explore its many waterways during a boat tour.

Sitting on the banks of the Rhine River about 80 miles northwest of Frankfurt, Koblenz is overlooked by the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This idyllic setting is an added bonus to the city's strong cultural offerings, which range from institutions like the DB Museum Koblenz and the Ludwig Museum to monuments like the German Corner. You should also make time for a ride on the Koblenz Cable Car, which offers panoramic views of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Plus, with access to both the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is an excellent destination for a river cruise (many routes take travelers past vineyards, castles and more).

Situated about 10 miles east of Germany's border with Luxembourg, the country's oldest city draws history buffs in droves. Trier was founded by Romans in 16 B.C. and is filled with some of the best-preserved ruins from that era. Must-see Roman relics include St. Peter's Cathedral, Porta Nigra, the Basilica of Constantine and the Imperial Baths. When you need a break from learning about Trier's ties to the Roman Empire, explore old town's colorful Hauptmarkt square, visit Karl Marx's birthplace or take a scenic boat tour along the Moselle river.

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Germany

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 26, 2022

History, culture, and natural beauty perhaps best describe the essence of vacationing in Germany. With its many historic cities and quaint small towns, along with an abundance of forests and mountains, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing unique places to visit in this beautiful part of Europe.

Those wanting to sightsee or experience the arts should head to the larger metropolitan areas such as Munich, Frankfurt, or Hamburg. For those looking for recreational activities, consider a visit to places such as the majestic Bavarian Alps, the Black Forest, or the Rhine Valley.

Lovely old cathedrals and grand palaces are everywhere. And in the smaller towns and villages, some boasting still-intact original medieval Old Towns (Altstadt), many centuries-old traditions are still practiced, including traditional Christmas markets, festivals, and fairs.

At the cultural heart of Germany is the capital, Berlin. Home to many fine museums and galleries, this vibrant city makes for a great base from which to explore the many other delights the country has to offer. And for nature lovers, there's a whole world of possibilities in Germany's great outdoors.

For ideas and recommendations to help plan your travels, be sure to read our list of the top tourist attractions in Germany.

1. Berlin's Brandenburg Gate

2. cologne cathedral (kölner dom), 3. the black forest, baden-württemberg, 4. the ultimate fairy-tale castle: schloss neuschwanstein, bavaria, 5. miniatur wunderland and the historic port of hamburg, 6. the rhine valley, 7. berlin's museum island, 8. munich's marienplatz, 9. bamberg and the bürgerstadt, bavaria, 10. zugspitze massif, bavaria, 11. the island of rügen, mecklenburg—western pomerania, 12. königssee (king's lake), bavaria, 13. rothenburg ob der tauber, bavaria, 14. sanssouci park and palace, potsdam, 15. insel mainau: the flower island of lake constance, 16. the berlin wall, 17. reichstag building, berlin, 18. the old town (altstadt) in nuremberg, 19. dresden frauenkirche, 20. frankfurt's main tower.

Modeled on the Acropolis in Athens and built for King Frederick William II in 1791, the monumental sandstone Brandenburg Gate in Berlin's Mitte district was the city's first Neoclassical structure. It measures an impressive 26 meters in height, which includes the Quadriga , the spectacular four-horse chariot carrying the goddess of victory perched atop this spectacular building.

Its six huge columns on each side of the structure form five impressive passages: four were used by regular traffic, while the center was reserved for the royal carriages. Huge Doric columns also decorate the two buildings at each side of the Gate, once used by toll-collectors and guards.

Undoubtedly Berlin's most iconic structure, it's hard to believe that the majestic structure you see today was severely damaged during WWII. It was also once part of the infamous Berlin Wall and, for a few decades, was symbolic of the division of Berlin into East and West.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Berlin

The towering Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Mary, is located on the banks of the Rhine and is undoubtedly Cologne's most impressive landmark. This masterpiece of High Gothic architecture is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Construction on this most ambitious building project of the Middle Ages started in 1248 and reportedly took over 600 years to complete.

As imposing as its façade, the cathedral's magnificent interior covers an area of 6,166 square meters and boasts 56 huge pillars. Above the high altar is the Reliquary of the Three Kings, a 12th-century work of art in gold that was designed by Nicholas of Verdun to house the relics of the Three Kings brought here from Milan.

Other highlights include the panoramic views from the South Towers , the 12th- and 13th-century stained glass in the Three Kings Chapel , and the Treasury with its many precious objects, all of which survived largely intact after WWII. For some of the best vistas over the city and river, climb the 533 steps to the viewing platform in the South Tower. A small entrance fee is required.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Cologne

The beautiful Black Forest with its dark, densely-wooded hills is one of the most visited upland regions in all of Europe. Situated in the southwestern corner of Germany and extending 160 kilometers from Pforzheim in the north to Waldshut on the High Rhine in the south, it's a hiker's heaven.

On the west side, the Black Forest descends steeply to the Rhine, crossed by lush valleys, while on the east, it slopes more gently down to the upper Neckar and Danube valleys. Popular spots include Germany's oldest ski area at Todtnau, the magnificent spa facilities of Baden-Baden , and the attractive resort of Bad Liebenzell.

Other highlights include the spectacular Black Forest Railway . It's centered on Triberg with its famous falls, and Triberg itself, home to the Black Forest Open Air Museum .

The best way to catch them all? Grab a map of the Black Forest Panoramic Route, a 70-kilometer driving tour that takes in the very best views over the region, along with its top historic attractions, including stunning castles and numerous medieval towns and villages.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in the Black Forest

The quaint old town of Füssen , situated between the Ammergau and Allgäu Alps and a popular alpine resort and winter sports center, is a good base from which to explore nearby Neuschwanstein Castle. This spectacular old fortress is widely recognized as one of Europe's most famous and picturesque royal castles.

King Ludwig II of Bavaria built this many-towered and battlement-covered fantasy fortress, famous as the inspiration for Walt Disney's iconic theme park castles, from 1869-86. A variety of tour options are offered, including guided tours of the sumptuous interior taking in the Throne Room, the Singers' Hall – and some of the country's most spectacular views.

Official site: www.neuschwanstein.de/englisch/tourist/index.htm

In the heart of the historic Port of Hamburg, the magnificent Miniatur Wunderland , the world's largest model railway, is an attraction that appeals equally to young and old alike. Boasting more than 9.5 miles of model railway track, this massive scale model includes sections dedicated to the USA, England, Scandinavia, as well as Hamburg. It also incorporates around 1,300 trains, more than 50,000 microscopic lights, and in excess of 400,000 human figures.

It's not unheard of for guests to spend many hours exploring this fascinating world, with its remarkably detailed miniature airports, complete with planes that actually take off, as well as crowded cities, quaint rural scenes, and bustling harbors. For a memorable experience, book one of the behind-the-scenes tours, an especially fun thing to do at night.

Speaking of harbors, be sure to explore the vast Port of Hamburg while you're here. Covering 100 square kilometers, this huge tidal harbor is home to one of the world's largest cruise ship terminals, and is known as the Gateway to Germany. To make the most of your visit, note that the harbor is best explored by tour boat.

Afterwards, visit the harborside promenade , a lovely pedestrian route, and the Warehouse District . This historic district is famous for its continuous lines of tall brick-built warehouses.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Hamburg & Easy Day Trips

The Rhine is not only Europe's most important waterway, it's also the most beautiful. With a total length of 1,320 kilometers, this magnificent river stretches from Switzerland through Germany all the way to The Netherlands.

While there are many places in Germany to enjoy this majestic river, the lovely Upper Middle Rhine Valley section, designated a UNESCO World heritage Site, is probably the most popular spot for tourists to visit. Here, this often dramatic 65-kilometer stretch of river boasts more than 40 castles and some 60 picturesque medieval towns all just waiting to be explored either by river cruise or by car.

Looking for a great place to begin your Rhine Valley adventure? The historic town of Bingen , where the river cuts through a deep gorge before entering the Bacharach valley, is a good place to start.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Rhine Valley

Berlin's world-famous Museumsinsel, or Museum Island, lies between the River Spree and the Kupfergraben, a 400-meter-long canal off the river. This excellent attraction includes many of the city's oldest and most important museums.

The heart of this pedestrian-friendly district is the Old Museum . Constructed in 1830, it was designed specifically to exhibit the royal treasures. Soon after, the land behind the museum was set aside for art and the "knowledge of antiquity."

Between 1843-55 the New Museum took shape, and the National Gallery was added in 1876, along with the Bode Museum , built in 1904 and home to collections of antiquities. Another highlight of a walking tour of these spectacular points of interest is the Pergamon with its recreated historic buildings from the Middle East.

But be warned: there's so much to see among these amazing museums that you can't possibly cram it all into a single day.

Germany's third biggest city, Munich (or München in German) has plenty to offer the adventurous traveller. The capital city of the state of Bavaria can trace its roots all the way back to the 12th century when a monastery was established here, and quickly grew into the region's most important place of trade and commerce.

Central to this rise was Marienplatz , the large square where traders from across Bavaria would meet to conduct business, and where locals would congregate to shop and watch medieval jousting tournaments. These days, this vast square still draws crowds of people, but for different reasons: they're here for sightseeing or possibly to enjoy a visit to one of square's trendy cafés and restaurants, or to shop in its unique boutique stores.

The points of interest for tourists are plentiful. Here, you'll find both the "new" and "old" town halls, the Neues Rathaus and Altes Rathaus, where much of the city's history was written. Both are attractive and worth a visit. Other landmarks include the tall monument to the Virgin Mary, the Mariensäule built in 1638, as well as the elegant Fischbrunnen , a 19th-century fountain with its bronze figures.

For a truly memorable experience, why not consider a visit in winter? If so, you'll be rewarded with the chance see the Marienplatz come alive with a spectacular display of lights and ornaments during the annual Christmas Market . Other winter festivals are held here, too, including the ancient, month-long Fasching carnival. Held each January to February locals and visitors alike partake in fun dances and events that have been held here for centuries.

Visit Marienplatz at any time of year and you'll still have fun. From March through to October you can witness the Neues Rathaus' famous glockenspiel perform its merry dance, its mechanical figures thrilling viewers thrice daily in a performance that has been enjoyed since 1908.

Location: Marienplatz, 80331 München, Germany

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Munich

Located in the valley of the Regnitz, where the river divides into two arms, sits Bamberg. This old imperial city is the most important town in Upper Franconia, and is one of the best preserved of Germany's many charming old towns. It's also one of the best to explore on foot.

Your walking tour should begin in its old episcopal quarter, home to the 13th-century cathedral and the old Benedictine abbey of Michaelsberg . It's between the two river branches that you'll find spectacular Bürgerstadt , a small borough of Bamberg that contains the Grüner Markt , an excellent pedestrian zone which is home to the 17th-century Baroque church of St. Martin .

To the north is the New Town Hall , or Neues Rathaus, built in 1736. But perhaps the town's most important structure is the Old Town Hall , built on top of the Obere Brücke (Upper Bridge).

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Bamberg

Part of the Wetterstein mountain range, the Zugspitze massif straddles the frontier between Germany and Austria and is surrounded by steep valleys. The eastern summit, at 2,962 meters, is crowned by a gilded cross and can be reached by the Bayerische Zugspitzbahn , a cog railway, or by cable car.

Another great way to enjoy this area of outstanding natural beauty is aboard the Tiroler Zugspitzbahn , a railway that runs to the Zugspitzkamm station at 2,805 meters. From here, the journey can be continued via a cable car to Zugspitz-Westgipfel Station at 2,950 meters. Be sure to sample a meal at the excellent panoramic restaurant located here.

A highlight of the journey is the chance to walk through an 800-meter-long tunnel, complete with viewing windows, to the Schneefernerhaus station at the top of the Bavarian cog railroad. From here, you can ascend the eastern summit with its viewing platforms. And thanks to the many ski resorts located nearby, Zugspitze is a wonderful German destination to visit in winter.

Rügen is the largest and most beautiful of the German Baltic islands. Separated from the rest of Germany by the Strelasund, it's linked to the mainland town of Stralsund by a causeway. The island's beauty stems from its diversity of landscape, including everything from flat farmland and forest-covered hills to expansive sandy beaches, lagoons, and lovely peninsulas.

A fun thing to do here, especially for outdoor enthusiasts, is to pay a visit to the Jasmund Peninsula , which in places reaches heights of 161 meters. Here, you'll find Jasmund National Park, popular among nature lovers for its abundance of wildlife, with notable species found here, including rare white-tailed eagles.

Another draw are the island's beautiful Stubnitz beech forests, part of Königsstuhl National Park. One of the most dramatic parts of the island's scenery can be enjoyed where these dense old forests come to a dramatic end on the Königsstuhl (King's Chair), a sheer chalk cliff plunges down to the sea from a height of 117 meters.

There's also a great visitor center here, which offers plenty of valuable information regarding all aspects of the island. Another must see is the little old resort town of Putbus , seat of the Princes of Putbus and with numerous Neoclassical buildings and parks.

The lovely Bavarian lake of Königssee is one of the great beauty spots of the region of Germany referred to as Berchtesgadener Land. Also known as the King's Lake, this area near Salzburg is a hiking and biking paradise thanks to its vast network of trails.

One of the most popular things to do is follow the attractive footpath located along the east side of the Königssee to the Malerwinkel. Also known as Painters' Corner, it's notable for its superb views over the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Another equally attractive sightseeing option is taking a boat trip to the 17th-century Pilgrimage Chapel of St. Bartholomew , at the south end of the lake, and to walk from here to the Obersee. Berchtesgaden , at the end of the Deutsche Alpenstrasse, is perhaps the best-known tourist town and one of the most popular mountain resorts in the Bavarian Alps.

Also of note here is Berchtesgaden National Park. This place of outstanding natural beauty has, since 1990, been designated a UNESCO Word Heritage Site.

The old Franconian imperial city of Rothenburg is one of the most attractive places to visit on Germany's famous Romantic Road tourist route. Located on the steep banks of the picturesque River Tauber, it's notable for its walls and towers, untouched since the Thirty Years War of 1618.

This completely preserved, picture-perfect medieval town offers endless charm. One of the most popular things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to join a walking tour. For those who prefer to be their own guide, get started by picking up a map from one of the tourism offices located in the town.

There are no end of opportunities to explore, with individual buildings of note including the imposing 13th-century Town Hall (Rathaus) and the wonderful Ratstrinkstube , or Council Tavern, built in 1466 with its interesting clock. Also worth seeing is St.-Georgs-Brunnen fountain , built in 1608 near the end of Herrngasse; St. James's Church , with its fine high altar dating from 1466; and the Imperial City Museum .

Simply walking the old streets past these beautiful buildings is a timeless experience, especially if it involves the Plönlein , one of the town's most picturesque spots. And after all that adventure, end your visit at one of the many fine restaurants dotted around the town.

If traveling in winter, be sure to include a stop here for the traditional Christmas Market, which draws crowds from across the country and even further afield.

Spectacular Sanssouci Park, laid out between 1744 and 1756, is considered the most celebrated example of Potsdam Rococo. Reflecting the personal influence of Frederick the Great, the park includes a lovely Baroque flower garden, more than 3,000 fruit trees, and numerous greenhouses. It's a pleasure strolling around this huge park, especially the straight-as-an-arrow, two-and-a-half-kilometer-long avenue, shielded on each side by trimmed hedges, perfect lawns, and gorgeous gardens.

A number of park buildings are worth exploring, too, in particular the Picture Gallery with its many works of art. Other must-sees here include the exquisite Chinese House , an extremely elaborate garden pavilion, and the wonderful Roman Baths complex.

Sanssouci Palace itself, a single-story Rococo building with an elliptical dome in the center and a circular room at each end, is notable for its spectacular interior decor. This is especially evident in its large oval Marble Hall and sumptuous apartments.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Potsdam

Insel Mainau, the spectacular Flower Island on beautiful Lake Constance, covers an area of 110 acres and attracts many visitors to its beautiful parks and gardens, luxuriant with semitropical and tropical vegetation.

Access to the island is by boat, or via a pedestrian bridge connecting it to the mainland, so be sure to allow a little extra travel time in addition to the two or more hours needed to properly explore this stunning property. Ample public parking is available on the mainland, some with electric vehicle charging stations.

Another highlight is the 18th-century Schloss, notable for its lovely White Hall, the old defensive tower, and the gatehouse.

Official site: www.mainau.de/en/welcome.html

While not exactly the most picturesque of places, what's left of the Berlin Wall is one of those attractions that any visitor to Berlin simply must see. Built in 1961, the wall was the most visible manifestation of the Cold War mentality that existed after WWII, and by the time it was torn down in 1990, it extended some 155 kilometers.

Thankfully, all that remains of the wall today are small graffiti-covered sections, stark reminders of the more than 70 people who died trying to escape from the East. Sections of preserved wall include a short stretch at infamous Checkpoint Charlie , as well as a section at Humboldthafen opposite the Reichstag Building on which the victims of the wall are listed.

Also of note is the excellent Berlin Wall Exhibition , with its permanent exhibits relating to the Berlin Wall, and the Berlin Wall Memorial .

The seat of Germany's government, the Reichstag (Reichstagsgebäude) is once again one of Berlin's most-visited attractions. Constructed in 1894 in Neo-Renaissance style, it infamously burned down in 1933 and remained in ruins until after German reunification, when it was rebuilt in its former glory.

One change that was made was to the building's massive Kuppel, its central dome. Instead of a traditional wood or metal dome, a decision was made to use glass, transforming the space into a major tourist attraction in the process.

From here, visitors can enjoy great city views, which are even more dramatic at night. If planning to enjoy the view in the evening, try to catch a spectacular sunset from the on-site Rooftop Restaurant. The Reichstag also makes for a stunning backdrop for summer concerts and light shows. English language guided tours are also available.

Address: Platz der Republik 1, 11011, Berlin, Germany

Official site: www.bundestag.de/en/visittheBundestag

The historic city of Nuremberg (Nürnberg) has long held a reputation as one of Germany's most important, and oldest, cultural, spiritual, and commercial centers. If visiting, you'll want to spend the bulk of your time exploring the city's "Altstadt," or Old Town area.

Although largely destroyed during WWII, the medieval structures were painstakingly rebuilt and look today much as they would when originally constructed. Ringed by five kilometers of city walls, the Altstadt is wonderful to explore on foot, especially if you're able to take the time and let your curiosity lead you.

Highlights include Nuremberg Castle, an imposing medieval stronghold built in the 11th century, which dominates the Old Town. Most impressive are its old towers, the oldest of which, the Pentagonal Tower, was constructed in 1040, and the 13th-century royal quarters.

Other notable features of the Old Town you'll come across include the Hauptmarkt, a centuries-old market square popular for its exquisite old fountain. Also located here are the original town hall, built in the early 1600s, and numerous old merchants' homes.

The city of Dresden is home to another remarkable story of reconstruction after the destruction of WWII. Here, in the old city center, you'll find the elegant Frauenkirche, a magnificent church that was, when built in 1743, considered one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in all of Europe.

Looking at it today, it's hard to believe that the church was completely destroyed during the war. But thanks to the hard work and diligence of local city folk, what remained was carefully catalogued and stored until reconstruction began after German reunification.

The fully restored interior is equally impressive, with a particular highlight being the rebuilt high alter, which looks today exactly as it did when the church was originally built. Be sure to also take the opportunity to visit the church dome for its superb city views. Check the attraction's website for details of upcoming concerts and events, as well as for its regular service schedule (visitors are always welcome).

Address: Georg-Treu-Platz 3, 01067 Dresden, Germany

Official site: www.frauenkirche-dresden.de/home

While Germany is especially well-known for its many magnificent historic structures, the country is also making a name for itself in the world of modern-day architecture. One of the best examples can be found in Frankfurt, a former Imperial City that's fast becoming one of the most important financial centers in Europe.

Now known as "Mainhatten," a nod to both its river setting and the many skyscrapers that now grace its skyline, the city's business district feels distinctly North American. By far the most impressive structure, though, is the architecturally pleasing Main Tower. Standing 240 meters tall and with no less than 56 stories, the tower's observation platforms offer unparalleled views over the city and the Main River.

And if a fear of heights isn't a problem, book a table for an evening meal at the Main Tower Restaurant and Lounge for a spectacular sunset view (reservations recommended). Be sure to check out the boutique shops and artworks on the ground level floors of the tower, too.

Address: Neue Mainzer Str. 52-58, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Official site: www.maintower.de/en/

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Hidden Germany: where to stay and what to do off the beaten track

In our latest instalment on less-visited corners of Europe, we look at Germany’s coastal bike paths, scenic winelands and revamped industrial regions Hidden … Greece | Croatia | Italy | France | Spain

A lthough Germany is still taking the pandemic a little more seriously than much of Europe (masks are still required on public transport in many places, for example), the country is fully open to visitors after two years of on-and-off restrictions. Though often overlooked in favour of the savoir vivre of France or the dolce vita of Italy, this vast country has plenty of first-class holiday options, from island-hopping or beach-bumming along the Baltic coast, to hiking or cycling the Alps and visiting lakes, castles, national parks and buzzing cities.

The German part of the Mosel River runs for 150 miles from Perl, on the border with France and Luxembourg, to Koblenz, passing steep, vine-covered hillsides, medieval villages, fairytale hilltop castles and the odd art nouveau villa. The climate is sunny, not far off Mediterranean, and some of the country’s best wines, especially rieslings, have been grown here for centuries by Weingüter , many of whom still use the labour-intensive methods of their forefathers.

Trails explore the steep riverbanks, including Europe’s steepest vineyard, the Bremmer Calmont. Hikes range from a riverbank saunter to hard slogs through terraced vineyards. The Mosel Cycle Path runs from Perl to Koblenz – it can also be picked up at Trier for a shorter ride. Many Mosel Valley boat tours start and end at lovely towns and villages such as Cochem, Bernkastel-Kues, Trier and Traben-Trarbach.

Near the Luxembourg border, Trier is Germany’s oldest city – founded in 17BC – and it has a treasure trove of Roman buildings, including the vast Porta Nigra gate, the Basilica of Constantine and the Cathedral of Saint Peter. Cochem also dates from late Roman and Celtic times, has an impressive castle, and is surrounded by some of the country’s best vineyards. One of Germany’s most beautiful castles, Burg Eltz , is a 30-minute drive from Cochem. A short drive to the east is the Geierlay footbridge, one of the country’s longest suspension bridges (360 metres long, 100 metres high). It forms part of the 400km Saar-Hunsrück-Steig hiking route between Trier and Boppard. Wine aficionados could explore a new project called Via Mosel , which maps out the valley’s most interesting wine estates and villages; the region is alive with wine festivals in summer and early autumn.

Where to stay In Trier, art nouveau Hotel Villa Hügel (doubles from €200 B&B), built for a winemaking family in 1914, has a restaurant as well as outdoor and indoor pools and saunas. Hotel Karl Noss in Cochem ( hotel-noss-cochem.de , rooms from €134 B&B) has rooms with views over the Mosel and vineyards, plus a restaurant and cafe-bar. Strau ßwirtschaft taverns, set up by winemakers in homes and cellars, offer their own wines as well as regional dishes: Daniel Bach in Cochem is a good example.

The Harz region, called “the heart of Germany” for its central location, straddles several states: Lower Saxony to the north, Sachsen-Anhalt to the east, and Thuringia in the south. It’s a popular hiking destination, thanks to its mix of nature reserves (including the Harz national park ) and forested hills. The region is crisscrossed with almost 5,000 miles of well-signposted trails – some named after poets such as Goethe and Heinrich Heine, who roamed the region centuries ago – that range from short, scenic loops to the 37-mile Harz Witches’ Trail.

Many climb the area’s largest mountain, the Brocken; a surreal place with fabulous views, a hotel and weather station, and a museum about the division of Germany. The mountaintop once had a Stasi listening post for spying on West German politicians. As well as walking, the Harz offers skiing (downhill and cross-country) and sledging in winter – at its best around Braunlage and Hahnenklee – plus rock-climbing and 1,000 miles of mountain biking routes, from cross-country to free-ride.

Most Harz towns are absurdly quaint, with half-timbered houses, and centuries-old churches and town halls. Pretty Goslar is a showcase for the region’s former wealth and importance: the nearby Rammelsberg ore mine, today a Unesco world heritage site, used to provide silver for the Holy Roman Empire, and now has a dedicated museum and guided tours. Quedlinburg has an imposing abbey and charming Christmas markets. Wernigerode makes a great base too, especially if you want to ride the Brockenbahn – a steam train that has been puffing around the area for 120 years. Some operators have started to offer walking tours with baggage transport ( wandern-im-harz.de ).

Where to stay Close to the castle in Wernigerode, Hotel Erbprinzenpalais (doubles from €112 B&B) offers simple but comfortable rooms. In Goslar, the Alte Münze (doubles from €117 B&B) has upmarket rooms and suites, plus a bar and restaurant, a 10-minute walk from the 11th-century Imperial Palace. Brauhaus Lüdde in Quedlinburg offers decent food and craft beer, as does the Brauhaus gastropub in Goslar.

Mecklenburg Vorpommern

Germany’s north coast stretches for about 1,500 miles between the Netherlands and Poland and hosts a wealth of attractions – fishing villages, historic Hanseatic towns, national parks, spa resorts – that are barely visited by international tourists.

East of Lübeck, the Baltic coast (Ostsee in German), is in the state of Mecklenburg Vorpommern – Meck-Pomm to locals – and although not as sun-drenched as the Med, is pleasantly warm in summer, with long, sandy beaches, clear water, and stately resort architecture that includes handsome 19th-century promenades and piers.

A great way to explore is to pick up the (family-friendly) Baltic Sea Cycle Route from Unesco heritage town Wismar, which runs through charming seaside villages such as Kühlungsborn and Heiligendamm, to Warnemünde, which has a sweeping beach, delicious fish sandwiches and soft ice-cream, and proximity to the Hanseatic city of Rostock. From here, there’s access to the remote Fischland-Darß-Zingst peninsula and Western Pomerania lagoon area national park – a picturesque landscape of cliffs, dunes, spits and lagoons. The coastal islands are also beguiling: peaceful, car-free Hiddensee, for example, or the more classic seaside resorts of Rügen – Binz and Sellin – with footpaths along the striking chalk cliffs of Jasmund national park (which will get a new skywalk and multimedia exhibition this year); or the resorts on Usedom – Heringsdorf and Ahlbeck.

There’s plenty inland to explore too, from the two former ducal residences of Ludwigslust and Schwerin, to the Müritz national park further south, which overlaps with the Mecklenburg Lake District – the largest landlocked lake district in Europe. With more than 1,000 lakes, it’s a veritable paradise for water sports enthusiasts.

Where to stay Meer Zeit (doubles from €100 B&B) is a family-run bed and breakfast in rural Poel with tastefully furnished rooms that have views of the sea or the garden, a breakfast room with a fireplace and yoga classes. Hotel Villa Belvedere in Binz (from €210 B&B) has 22 comfortable rooms and suites as well as flats in a neighbouring beach house. For dinner, Zum Skipper in Sellin, on Rügen, has locally sourced fish and seafood dishes and a terrace. Or for something a bit more special, Kosi has regional cuisine, fine wines and a terrace in the woods of Heiligendamm.

This eastern state may be known these days as the heartland of the far-right AfD ( Alternative für Deutschland ) party and abundant coronavirus-denying Querdenkers but there’s no denying Saxony’s natural beauty and historic panache. From picturesque hilltop castles and state capital Dresden to the “Saxon Switzerland” mountains and the winding Elbe river, the state has a lot to offer.

There’s plenty beyond the main sights to explore, including pretty Leipzig, which offers cutting-edge art (see the transformed industrial complex Baumwollspinnerei ) and clubs as well as oodles of tradition. The Ore Mountain range ( Erzgebirge ) by the Czech border is a ski region in winter and now also a mountain biking mecca.

Then there are Instagram hotspots such as the town of Görlitz, whose medieval charm and architectural landmarks have featured in a slew of films (Grand Budapest Hotel, The Reader, Inglourious Basterds), and Kromlau Park , with its landscaped gardens and the Rakotzbrücke, or devil’s bridge, whose reflection in the lake below creates a perfect circle.

An ideal base for the region is Dresden, the “Florence of the North”, whose postwar rebuild has resulted in a baroque cityscape brimming with historic landmarks and a wealth of art and culture. Must-sees include the Zwinger palace, the equally baroque Frauenkirche and the Old Masters Picture Gallery , with its outstanding collection of European art from the 15th to 18th centuries. From here, it’s less than an hour to the wonderland of rock formations, valleys and waterfalls – famously depicted by Romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich – of the Sächsische Schweiz , with its array of hiking trails and climbing routes.

Where to stay

Dresden’s Limehome (doubles from €72, ) is a sleek apart-hotel with designer furnishings that is convenient for many of the sights. In Leipzig, Fregehaus (doubles from €90 room-only) is a charming boutique hotel in a 16th-century house. Bio Village Schmilka (doubles from €144 B&B) is a village of sustainably built hotels and eco-restaurants on the edge of the Saxon Switzerland national park.

Western Germany’s Ruhr region is the largest urban area in the country, and primarily known for its industrial heritage. That may not sound ideal for a family holiday, but in recent decades some of its infrastructure has been creatively (and expensively) transformed into new and unusual attractions. Visitors can go mountain biking on spoil tips, water skiing on quarry ponds, climb in former blastfurnaces, and enjoy a dip in a former coking plant.

The largest such project is the Zollverein , a Unesco world heritage site near Essen that was once the largest coalmine in the world – it closed in 1986 – and is now a symbol of the Ruhr’s regeneration. Today there are woodlands and exotic plants, the Red Dot design museum, swimming pools and ice rinks, and the Casino Zollverein , which offers regional cuisine with a contemporary twist in a suitably industrial setting.

A half-hour drive away, the 180-hectare (450-acre) Duisburg-Nord landscape park , originally an ironworks, has undergone a similar revamp and now offers panoramic views and walkways between blastfurnaces; the largest outdoor climbing garden in Germany; and Europe’s largest indoor diving pool, inside a former gasometer. For children, two adjacent amusement parks in nearby Bottrop (a 30-minute drive) provide additional thrills. Schloß Beck is good for younger children, with creative play zones as well as amusement rides, while Movie Park Germany is more action-packed, with rollercoasters and regular movie-themed shows.

For an overview of the region, hike, cycle or drive the 250-mile Industrial Heritage Trail , which takes in former industrial sites, panoramic views, and company towns, and can also be split into themed sub-routes (miners, beer brewing, allotments). The Ruhr Topcard is worth considering as it gives free entries to more than 90 places, and other discounts.

Where to stay The Zollverein has its own place to stay, Hotel Friends Zeche-Zollverein Essen (doubles from €120 room-only), a trendy and convivial spot with dapper rooms and a 24-hour lounge with terrace. Essen, with its contemporary art galleries and interesting architecture is a good base. Alte Lohnhalle (doubles from €100 room-only) is in attractive former colliery offices and has industrial-chic interiors, a bar and casual restaurant.

Although Bavaria is one of Germany’s better-known destinations, not many travellers are aware that the northern part is a distinctive sub-region known as Franconia (Franken in German), with its own cultural and linguistic heritage – indeed, East Franconian is one of the German dialects with the highest number of speakers.

The region spills out of Bavaria into parts of Baden-Württemberg, south Thuringia and Hesse, and almost half of its territory – about 6,000 square miles – is composed of nature parks, historic cities and Unesco heritage spots. These include Bamberg’s old city, Bayreuth’s Margravial Opera House , Bad Kissingen (one of Unesco’s “great spa towns of Europe”), Würzburg’s Residenz palace , and the Limes, the ancient wall marking the border of the Roman empire. To get off the beaten track and experience the region’s abundant natural charms, hire a bike and hop on to the Tauber Cycle Path , one of the few five-star biking routes in Germany, running along the Tauber Valley between Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Wertheim, taking in vineyards, forests and meadows.

There are also canoe trips along the Altmühl, the slowest river in Bavaria, which meanders for 160km through the nature park of the same name – one of the largest in Germany, with activities galore as well as castles, palaces, churches, abbeys … and Archaeopteryx bird fossils . Hikers and rock climbers will enjoy the Spessart and Frankenwald forests, and the Fichtelgebirge and Hassberge mountains, as well as the “Franconian Switzerland” (Fränkische Schweiz) – a fairytale sub-region with otherworldly rock formations, dramatic castles and charming cities (Bamberg, Nuremberg, Bayreuth). Local culinary delights range from top-notch Franconian wines and beers (smoked beer is a speciality) to venison hunted from local forests, line-caught carp and asparagus in season.

Where to stay Gasthof Drei Linden in Bamberg (doubles from €80) has a restaurant with local and international dishes, friendly service and cosy rooms. Five Reasons in Nuremberg (doubles from €90, two-night minimum) has bright private rooms with oak floors, plus a sleek bar-lounge and communal kitchen. Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s Villa Mittermeier (doubles from €111) is a stylish option for sleeping as well as dining, thanks to its chic restaurant and wine cellar.

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Theme worlds, we have divided our "places of germany" into 11 categories.

Castles & Ruins

Caves, Gorges & Waterfalls

Coasts, Beaches & Harbours

Meadows & Forests

Monasteries & Churches

Parks & Gardens

Rivers, Bridges & Lakes

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Towns, Villages & Squares

Alpine peak.

Do you know one of the most beautiful mountains in the northern Alps? Then go to the Alpspitze, a 2628 m high mountain in the Wetterstein mountains. The peak shows an “ideal-typical” mountain shape; like a pyramid. It is a “local mountain” of Garmisch-Partenkirchen and one of the most famous and beautiful mountains of the […]

Explore something new

New places in germany, friedrichstadt old town, lemgo market place, bad waldsee old town, from romantic to hipster, discover routes, romantic places on the lahn: off to central hesse, odenwald mountain road, along the castle road on the neckar, berlin victoria park.

One of the most beautiful parks in Berlin is Viktoriapark. It has a dyllic design and has the highest mountain in Berlin’s city centre in its centre: the Kreuzberg, whose “summit” is about 66 metres high and offers a beautiful wide view over the city. The park’s landmark, the National Monument erected in 1821, is […]

Visit the major German cities and capitals

What you must have seen.

Frankfurt am Main

Enjoy especially worth seeing cities

Sightseeing guideline for strolling.

Ludwigsburg

Quedlinburg

Schwäbisch Hall

Flower paradise at Lake Constance: off to the island of Mainau

Mainau Island flower show with history From the seat of the Teutonic Order to a cultural monument The extensive park, the baroque palace complex and,

Spring magic in German castle parks

European garden culture in the Hanover Herrenhausen Gardens A walk through the palace parks of Hanover The Herrenhausen Gardens in Hanover are one of the

Insider tip: A holiday for two in Bad Wimpfen

A perfect weekend in Bad Wimpfen Explore the medieval beauty of Bad Wimpfen The historic spa town of Bad Wimpfen offers everything you could wish

Excursion destinations under the sign of Schiller and Goethe

The city of Schiller, Marbach am Neckar: Where it all began Friedrich Schiller was born in the tranquil town of Marbach am Neckar on 10

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