Germany, a country with deep forests, picturesque valleys and the most charming towns with half-timbered houses, whose streets you can wander for hours. Check out the best things to do in Germany and the top places to visit. Also included is a map of what to visit in Germany.
Best things to do in Germany
Dense and dark forests, snow-capped mountain peaks, sandy beaches with breathtaking cliffs, historic towns, majestic castles, rock towns… you will find all this and much more in Germany.
Join us for a look at the best things to do in Germany.
1. Bavarian Forest – the most beautiful places in Germany
The Bavarian Forest stretches along the Bohemian Forest near the Czech-German border. Part of it is protected as a national park.
You can enjoy peaceful walks through the forest, picnic by the lake or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. There are hundreds of kilometres of easy hiking and cycling trails in the Bavarian Forest that you can explore on foot or by bike.
Go hiking on Großer Rachel or Großer Arber (you can also take the cable car here) or visit Neuschönau, where there is a zoo in the forest and a treetop trail.
2. Bavarian Alps – the most beautiful places in Germany
In the south of German Bavaria lies the Bavarian Alps, a breathtaking region of beautiful scenery, clear lakes and snow-capped peaks. The Alps in Germany may not be as vast as the Alps in Austria, but they certainly have a lot to offer.
One of the most popular parts of the Alps in Germany is the Berchtesgaden National Park, which is considered by many to be the most beautiful part of the Bavarian Alps. This is mainly thanks to the local lakes Königsee and Obersee.
We took a boat ride on Lake Königsee and then continued from the dock to Lake Obersee, which is smaller and absolutely magical. Be prepared for crowds of tourists as the lakes are very easy to reach.
You can also enjoy beautiful hiking trails in the Allgäuser Alps, the most picturesque part of the Bavarian Alps. Another place to visit in the Bavarian Alps is the Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany. The Zugspitze can be reached by a modern cable car, or you can take an easy walk around Lake Eibsee and enjoy the views of the Zugspitze, which dominates the entire area.
Nearby, the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein and the waterfalls on the Lech River near the historic town of Füssen are hidden at the edge of the forest.
Find out all about the Bavarian Alps in our Bavarian Alps travel guide.
3. The island of Rügen
Rügen is Germany’s largest island and is located in the north of Germany in the Baltic Sea. Rügen is famous for its beautiful white limestone cliffs, especially the cliffs of the King of the Silver Mountain (Königsstuhl) in the Jasmund National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can walk around the cliffs on the easy trail between Sassnitz and Königsstuhl, where there is a visitor centre (there is a shuttle bus from the car park in Hagen, or you can walk here in 30 minutes).
The island has some of the best beaches in Germany, with long stretches of fine sand that are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, relaxing. Visit the romantic castle in Granitz and the towns of Binz and Sellin with their long piers and beautiful beaches. The Baltic Sea is colder than the Mediterranean, but on the other hand, there are fewer people.
Or take a ride on the historic narrow-gauge railway Rasender Roland, which connects the island’s main resorts and offers beautiful views of the countryside.
4. Black Forest – things to do in Germany
The Black Forest (Black Forest) in Germany is one of the most beautiful and diverse regions in the country, famous for its dark coniferous forests, picturesque valleys and mountain peaks where you can enjoy spectacular views.
The Black Forest is a paradise for hiking, biking, kayaking or swimming in Lake Titisee. Visit Baden-Baden and Bad Wildbad for their thermal springs. At Bad Wildbad, don’t miss the cascading Triberg waterfalls or the WildLine Hängebrücke bridge.
Explore the historic city of Freiburg with its impressive cathedral and taste the authentic Black Forest ham, which was created right here in the Black Forest.
5. Saxon Switzerland – the most beautiful places in Germany
Saxon Switzerland is a national park located in Germany near the border with the Czech Republic, where it is connected to the national park Czech Switzerland. It is known for its unique rock formations and fantastic views.
Saxon Switzerland is literally interwoven with hiking trails that allow you to wander the local countryside for days on end and you will always have something to discover, including the Lilienstein Table Mountain, the Carolafelsen lookout, Schrammstein and other places, often hidden in the forests.
Don’t miss the Bastei, an impressive rock bridge. If you want to enjoy the best view of the Bastei, turn left towards the viewpoint just before the bridge. Entrance to the bridge is free, but you can visit the rock castle, which is located just behind the bridge, for a small fee. Bastei is a beautiful place, but be aware that there are a lot of tourists.
Another beautiful place near the Bastei Bridge is Königstein, a massive fortress with a rich history.
6. Lake Constance – top places to visit in Germany
Lake Constance, also known as Lake Constance, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Europe, located on the borders of Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
The lake surroundings offer many interesting places that are worth a visit. Explore the medieval town of Meersburg, then hop on a boat to discover more of the historic part of Konstanz.
Mainau, an island on Lake Constance, is known as the “Island of Flowers” because of its beautiful botanical gardens.
In addition, Lake Constance is ideal for water sports such as swimming, sailing and windsurfing. Or take a boat trip and enjoy a different perspective of the lake.
7. Romantic Journey – top places to visit in Germany
The Romantic Road (or Romantische Straße) is a road in southern Bavaria running between the towns of Würzburg and Füssen.
If you love historic towns and beautiful castles, you’ll love this route. From the vast vineyards to the Alps, here you will see the best of Germany.
Discover the historic towns of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Augsburg and Nördlingen, admire the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein or see the waterfalls on the Lech River near Füssen.
The romantic journey originated in the 50s. in the 1920s to promote tourism in Germany. Along the way, just follow the brown signs with the name Romantische Straße (you can also find the marked route on the map at the end of this article).
8. Harz National Park
The Harz is one of the highest and most extensive mountain ranges in Germany, famous for its deep spruce and beech forests, rock formations, peat bogs and picturesque valleys.
The highest peak of the Harz Mountains is Brocken (1141 m), which is accessible on foot, by bike or by the Brockenbahn steam train. From the top there is a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside.
Stroll across the suspension bridge over the Rappbode Dam, admire the Radau waterfalls and the stalactite cave in Rübeland, or visit the beautiful towns with half-timbered houses, including Quedlinburg (UNESCO-listed), Goslar, Wernigerode and Stolberg with its magnificent Josephskreuz lookout tower.
Not far from Blankenburg is the rock fortress of Regenstein and the white sand caves (look for Sandhöhlen on maps), which are a hidden gem in the wider area.
The Harz Mountains are steeped in witchcraft myths and legends, so you’ll also find places associated with these myths – especially Hexentanzplatz Thale.
9. Schleswig-Holstein National Park
Wide sandy beaches with dunes and white sand from where you can watch birds, happily grazing sheep and endless views, welcome to the Schleswig-Holstein National Park.
The national park stretches along the coast of the Wadden Sea, just outside Denmark. It is of such indispensable ecological value that it has been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere for decades.
Stroll through the unspoilt nature on Skylt, visit the harbour town of Husum or enjoy a stroll on the endless white sand beach of Ording for the most beautiful sunsets.
Nearby you can visit the beautiful historic town of Lübeck.
10. Heligoland archipelago
Helgoland is an archipelago with a rugged and beautiful landscape, including high red cliffs that contrast perfectly with the bright blue sea. The area is home to seals and huge colonies of seabirds that nest on the steep cliffs.
Helgoland is a great place for long walks. Cars are not allowed here, so you can enjoy the breathtaking nature and let the fresh sea breeze blow over you.
Tip: Helgoland can be reached by boat from Cuxhaven or Hamburg. Book a return cruise to Helgoland from Cuxhaven or from Cuxhaven to Hamburg at this link.
11. Hamburg – the most beautiful cities in Germany
The second largest city in Germany , Hamburg is one of the busiest and most important ports in Europe. But make no mistake. This port is 100 km from the North Sea. The Elbe River and numerous canals crisscross the city and are connected by 2,300 bridges. That’s more than Amsterdam and Venice combined.
The canals and the Elbe are flanked by buildings built in the so-called. brick gothic. According to many, Hamburg is the most beautiful city in Germany.
Notable landmarks include the modern Elbphilarmonie concert hall and the magnificent Town Hall. While visiting, don’t miss the Red Light District, or Reeperbahn, with live music and clubs where the Beatles launched their career.
Read our detailed guide to Hamburg (things to do, transport, accommodation, prices, food and other useful tips including a map).
12. Berlin – the capital of Germany
Despite its history, marked mainly by World War II and the Cold War, Berlin has become a multicultural and vibrant city. Berlin is even considered a world centre for culture and the creative industries.
Just walk around and soak up the atmosphere. From street art, architecture and historical sites. And have something good to go with it. Like the city itself, Berlin’s cuisine is international, tasty and varied.
Find out more about Berlin in the previous article with tips on what to see in Berlin (sights, photos, map and other useful tips).
13. Dresden – the most beautiful cities in Germany
Dresden is a beautiful historic city that is literally bursting with sights.
Stroll through the old Altstadt and soak up the history of Dresden. Explore some of the best museums in Germany, including the Zwinger and the Royal Palace. Or cross the bridge to Neustadt and enjoy a little bit of Berlin in Dresden.
Read our detailed guide to Dresden (sights, things to see, transport, accommodation and other useful tips including a map).
14. Munich
Munich is the largest city in Bavaria, Germany, and is the gateway to the German Alps in the south. The town is a perfect base for day trips in the surrounding area, including Neuschwanstein Castle. But that’s not the only thing – the city itself is beautiful and full of attractions.
Begin your visit in the centre at the iconic Marienplatz Square with the Old and New Town Halls, where you can climb the tower of St Peter’s Church and enjoy a view of the old town in all its glory. From here, you can continue to the brick Frauenkirche Cathedral or Residenz München, which houses one of the most beautifully decorated interiors in the world.
Visit Nymphenburg Palace and stroll through the Englischer Garten, which is bigger than New York’s Central Park.
But Munich is not just about historical monuments. You will also find modern and futuristic buildings that literally contrast with the historic core. One of these places is the Olympic Park, where you can climb the tower and get a bird’s eye view of the whole city.
Munich is also home to several great museums and the iconic Oktoberfest is held here every October. You can enjoy excellent beer and food all year round at the Hofbräuhaus München in the city centre.
15. Nuremberg – the most beautiful cities in Germany
Nuremberg is another beautiful city to visit in Bavaria, Germany. Explore the medieval centre, including the imposing castle and the Handwerkerhof craft street. You can spend long hours discovering new corners, period buildings and hidden bridges over the Pegnitz River.
Before Christmas, the city centre gets into the Christmas spirit thanks to the Christmas markets, which are renowned in the surrounding area.
After World War II, Nuremberg became the scene of the famous Nuremberg Trials, where Nazi criminals were tried for war crimes. Today you can visit the museum, including Courtroom 600, where the trials took place.
16. Cologne
Cologne is located in the west of Germany and is the fourth largest city, known for its rich culture and lively atmosphere.
The dominant feature of the city is the Cologne Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can climb up to the tower and enjoy the view of the city.
Or cross the Hohenzollern Iron Bridge, which is literally dotted with lovers’ castles and overlooks the cathedral. Behind it is an office building with a lookout point that offers some of the best views of the cathedral and Cologne. There are several other viewpoints around the waterfront.
If you continue from Cologne Cathedral along the waterfront, you’ll reach the smaller Rheinauhafen harbour, which is lined with modern buildings, fountains and a chocolate museum.
To the south of Cologne is the Phantasialand theme park, full of roller coasters and adrenaline attractions.
17. Frankfurt am Main
Frankfurt is home to the European Central Bank and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and is considered one of the world’s largest financial centres.
Frankfurt is one of the few European cities with an impressive modern skyline full of skyscrapers. As a result, it is nicknamed the “European Big Apple”. Stroll through the Innenstadt I district in the city centre and admire the modern architecture, which houses modern institutions, shops and restaurants.
The old town centre with its beautiful medieval houses and the famous town hall is in sharp contrast to the modern buildings. From here you can continue to St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral and enjoy the view of Frankfurt from the tower.
Along the Main is the so-called “Museumsufer”, where more than 20 museums of various kinds are concentrated.
18. Potsdam
Potsdam is a city rich in history and culture, located just a few kilometres southwest of Berlin.
Potsdam is best known for its magnificent palaces and extensive gardens. Sanssouci Castle and its park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most beautiful monuments in Germany.
Other impressive buildings include the New Palace, the Cecilienhof Palace, where the Potsdam Conference was held after World War II, and many others.
A short walk from the centre is the Dutch Quarter with its Dutch architecture and atmosphere, where you can relax in stylish cafés.
19. Heidelberg – things to do in Germany
Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Germany for many reasons. This is where you will find Heidelberg Castle, one of the most famous castles in Germany, with a beautiful view of the city and the Neckar River.
Heidelberg also has a well-preserved old town, with Hauptstraße, a street lined with shops, restaurants and cafés, running through it.
Heildeberg is home to the oldest university in Germany, dating back to 1386, and the Philosophical Trail on the hill above the town, from which you can enjoy beautiful views of the city.
20. Eltz Castle
Germany is famous for its beautiful castles and Eltz Castle is one of them.
Eltz Castle was never conquered or destroyed, so its original medieval architecture is well preserved. The castle is set in a picturesque valley, surrounded by forests and blends several architectural styles.
At the castle, you will see one of the finest private collections of medieval silver, gold and jewellery in Europe, including weapons and porcelain.
Things to do in Germany – map
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map of the best things to do in Germany. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places I mention in my guide on what to visit in Germany. If you want to save the map, star it. It will then be saved to your Google Maps and can be retrieved at any time on your mobile phone or computer. For a larger version of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.
Germany transport
Germany has a very extensive and efficient transport infrastructure that is well organised and connects all major cities and smaller areas.
By car to Germany
Germany is famous for its motorways, known as Autobahnen. These are notorious for having no speed limits on some sections, although the recommended maximum speed is 130 km/h. In addition to motorways, Germany is covered by a network of well-maintained roads and urban routes.
The maximum speed in the village is 50 km/h and 100 km/h outside the village.
The current fuel prices can be found at this link.
Trains and buses
Deutsche Bahn, the national railway company, provides regular and reliable services throughout Germany. There are fast long-distance trains (such as ICE – InterCity Express) as well as regional and city trains.
Trains are supplemented by buses, which are more affordable. The best known carrier in Germany is Flixbus.
Basic information before travelling to Germany
Language: the official language is German, but English is also well understood in tourist areas.
Currency: the currency in Germany is the euro (EUR).
Socket: in Germany, F-type sockets, also known as “Schuko” sockets, are used. These sockets have two round pins and are designed for 230V and 50Hz.
Basic phrases:
- Guten Tag – Hello
- Auf Wiedersehen – Goodbye
- Danke schön – Thank you very much
- Bitte schön – Please
- Entschuldigung. – I’m sorry.
- Ich verstehe nicht. – I don’t understand.
- Können Sie das bitte wiederholen? – Can you repeat that, please?
- Ich spreche nur ein bisschen Deutsch. – I only speak a little German.
- Wo ist die Toilette? – Where’s the toilet?
- How much does it cost? – How much does it cost?
- Hilfe – Help
- Yes/Nein – Yes/No
These were the best things to do in Germany. Do you have a question? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below. Have a safe journey!
More information about Germany
BERLIN: Berlin has something for everyone – take your pick from our tips on what to see in Berlin.
HAMBURG: Hamburg is considered by some to be the most beautiful city in Germany. Take a look at our tips on the things to do in Hamburg and form your own opinion.
Dresden: Dresden is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. Get inspired with tips on sights and attractions to visit in Dresden.
GERMAN ALPS: Germany has carved out a beautiful part of the Alps for itself. What to do and what hiking trails to take in the German Alps can be found in a separate article.
