Germany is a destination known for its Oktoberfest beer festival, yet, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes there are many more reasons to visit. From the charming villages nestled in rolling hills to the picturesque views that will make you feel like the main character in a movie, a visit to this European gem is nothing short of enchanting. On your journey to chart out the best places to visit in Germany, you’ll love this StudyFinds list of recommendations from travel experts.
The country of Germany is not big on modernization which means stepping onto any street is a direct connection to history. From cobblestone streets that whisper tales of centuries gone by to leisurely strolls through medieval towns, history surrounds you at every turn.
If you are specifically planning a trip to celebrate an authentic Oktoberfest, look no further. Germany offers a multitude of fantastic destinations to complement your Oktoberfest experience. Start your journey in Munich, the birthplace of Oktoberfest, where you can immerse yourself in the festival’s rich traditions and sample the finest Bavarian beers. Don’t miss out on exploring other enchanting German cities like Berlin, Cologne, and Stuttgart, each with its unique cultural attractions, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife, providing a perfect balance to your Oktoberfest adventure.
If that’s not enough, the sophistication that breathes into each town from the genius of artists like Beethoven and Bach will make you stand taller in life. Germany is a must visit for any world traveler and we are going to tell you exactly what should be on your travel guide. Which town in Germany is on your bucket list? Leave a comment to let us know!
The List: Best Places to Visit in Germany, According to Experts
1. Munich
Munich is number one on every expert’s list of places to visit in Germany and it is because it is the most popular town. “Munich is one of Germany’s most beautiful cities and especially nice to visit in the summer. The Bavarian capital is known for its high life quality, historical buildings, and beautiful nature around. If you’re in Munich in the summer, make sure to spend some time in the English Garden, a large green area directly in the center full of people enjoying the sun and the good weather. You can even try to go surfing on the ‘Eisbach Welle’, an artificial wave in the river in the park,” shares Travel Passionate.
While in Munich you cannot miss it’s historic city center. A reviewer from Planet Ware writes, “It’s a delight to explore on foot, with the fun centered around the city’s large open square, the Marienplatz. Here, you can explore delightful old architecture dating all the way back to medieval times, including the Old and New Town Halls.”
Of course we can not mention Munich without mentioning it’s world-famous Oktoberfest beer festival, but there is so much more. “It’s home to beautiful gardens (both beer and regular), exquisite churches, and interesting museums, all worth exploring,” comments Via Travelers. “It’s an urban wonderland, perfect for wandering around charming historic neighborhoods or spending some time in Marienplatz, a stunning central square filled with local shops that plays host to a famous German Christmas market each year. It’s also where you can find the New Town Hall and the beautiful Englischer Garten (English Garden) to enjoy a good stroll or a picnic. The most significant pull to Munich is the laid-back cafe culture and world-famous beer halls that encapsulate the best of Bavaria, all while being easy to navigate and built with short breaks throughout, so you can experience the city at your own pace.”
2. Dresden
There is no dread in Dresden, according to a reviewer from Travel Passionate. “One of the reasons why Dresden is an amazing destination in Germany to visit during summer is because of its location. “The river Elbe flows through the city of Dresden and during summer you’ll find the perfect atmosphere on the riverside. Families, groups of friends, friendly strangers. Everyone is enjoying their day.”
Many travel guides recommend Dresden as a starting point for German travel. “Thanks to its location just a few miles away from Germany’s border with the Czech Republic, the historic city of Dresden makes a great base from which to explore not just the eastern part of the country, but also Eastern Europe, too. And as it’s an easy two-hour drive or train ride south of the nation’s capital, Dresden also makes for a fun day trip from Berlin,” a reviewer from Planet Ware shares.
Don’t forget to check out the most popular landmarks when you visit Dresden. Touropia adds, “Dresden offers several interesting landmarks such as the beautiful plaza of Bruehl’s Terrace and the magnificent palace complex known as the Zwinger. The Old Town also contains a number of historic sites like the stunning Frauenkirche cathedral. Impressive art galleries and museums abound in the city, particularly the Green Vault, which houses thousands of exquisite precious gems, jewelry pieces and fine art works.”
3. The Black Forest
Have you ever wanted to step into the scene of a fairytale? The Black Forest is your best bet to make this wish come true. Expatica writes, “Growing up, you most likely heard a Brothers Grimm fairy tale or two. Well, why not visit the magical land that supposedly inspired such stories as Hansel and Gretel, Rapunzel, and Sleeping Beauty. Bordering France in the southwest of Germany, the Black Forest covers11,100 square kilometers of breathtaking natural landscape. Known for its dense, evergreen forests, and beautiful lakes and waterfalls, it’s the ideal place to get back to nature; be it by foot, bike, or horseback.”
You won’t want to miss Baden-Baden. “The delightful town of Baden-Baden is well-known as Germany’s spa capital. Thanks to its mild climate and hot springs, this charming town in the heart of the popular Black Forest tourist region has for centuries been the go-to destination for the rich and royalty seeking authentic therapeutic spa town experiences,” a reviewer from Planet Ware shares.
The Black Forest is a visual treat but it is also a destination for luxury experiences. Travel Triangle notes, “One of the most captivating and incredible places to visit in Germany is the enchanting Black Forest. This densely wooded hill is among the top-rated Germany destinations and a great place to enjoy panoramic views, luxury spa, skiing, trekking, and more.”
4. Berlin
Whether you arrive during the day or night, Berlin is going to keep your travel schedule full. Planet Ware says, “Berlin is also considered one of Europe’s top cultural destinations, home to numerous excellent art galleries and museums just waiting to be explored. Some of the best are located on Museum Island, a must-see destination that alone can take days to explore. And after these Berlin attractions have closed, fun things to do at night include enjoying concerts by the renowned Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, perhaps taking in a performance by Berlin Opera, or simply wandering the always-interesting avenues and boulevards in the Mitte District, where you’ll find famous landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate.”
Hoping for a celebrity sighting? Berlin would be your best bet. According to Expatica, “Germany’s capital is the center for all that is hip in the worlds of art, fashion, music, and design. The city is teeming with amazing architecture and there are plenty of fun things to do in Berlin. Whether you fancy getting a culture fix at the numerous museums and art galleries, haggling at the various flea markets, or delving into the city’s trendy restaurant and bar scene, you won’t be short of options. Of course, Berlin is also home to several important historical sites and landmarks. These include the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Jewish Museum.”
U.S. News & World Report writes, “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.”
5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Last on our list of the best places to visit in Germany, according to experts, is a tiny town that is absolutely mesmerizing. “Rothenburg, or ‘Rothenburg ob der Tauber’, is a small German town that’s often described as a fairytale town due to its medieval architecture,” says Wine Traveler. “If you’re looking for a quaint yet unique and inspiring destination, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is perfect for you as you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time when you enter this stunning location. It’s not just great for history lovers, either. Rothenburg is often used as a jump-off point to explore the ‘Romantic Road‘, a scenic route beloved by many German tourists.”
Rothenburg is not evil, it’s medieval. “As one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an old Bavarian Imperial City and is considered one of the most picturesque towns in all of Germany. It’s a magical place to stop in, retaining its old-world charm despite being rife with tourists,” shares a reviewer from Via Travelers. “The sheer beauty of this quaint town can sweep visitors off their feet and has also become one of the most popular stops on the country’s Romantic Road tourist route. It’s one of only three historical towns in Germany that still has entirely-intact city walls, with the other two being Nördlingen and Dinkelsbühl.”
Even if you cannot pronounce Rothenburg ob der Tauber you will still need to add it to your Germany bucket list. “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,” writes Travel and Leisure.
Sometimes the anticipation of a trip is just as exciting as the trip itself. Which of these German towns thrill you? Leave a comment to let us know!
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Sources
- Travel and Leisure
- Via Travelers
- Wine Traveler
- U.S. News & World Report
- Expatica
- Planet Ware
- Travel Triangle
- Touropia
- Travel Passionate
- Lonely Planet
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.