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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 determine the best places to visit in Germany. Vote for the destinations you love below to help shape next year's ranking.

Black Forest

Berchtesgaden, saxon switzerland national park, neuschwanstein, rüdesheim am rhein.

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.

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.

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.

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 lakes and river that make up Berchtesgaden National Park. Start your journey driving the scenic Rossfeld Panoramastrasse road before traveling south to awe-inspiring Lake Königssee and the Eagle's Nest, a mountaintop chalet and beer garden with a dark history. If you enjoy skiing, arrive in winter when Jenner Mountain is blanketed with snow.

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 Old Stone Bridge. Other sights worth visiting include St. Emmeram's Palace and Walhalla, a hall of fame honoring exemplary German-speaking figures throughout history.

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 picture, 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, one of Germany's oldest and largest Christmas markets.

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 Würzburg Residence to the Romanesque Würzburg Cathedral, there are countless buildings worth exploring. Not only can travelers enjoy beautiful architecture, they can expect manicured gardens and parks, such as Ringpark 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 snapping a photo of Würzburg's iconic Old Main Bridge.

Home to Germany's largest cruise port, the Elbe river and numerous 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.

Saxon Switzerland National Park stands out for its collection of unique rock formations. You'll find sandstone structures, which come in various shapes and sizes, scattered throughout the park, along with scenic gorges and the winding Elbe river. Saxon Switzerland's most popular attraction is undoubtedly the Bastei Bridge, which is surrounded by stately formations and provides incredible views of the area. Other fascinating spots worth visiting include Painters' Way (the Malerweg trail), the Elbe Cycle Route and Felsenbühne Rathen, an open-air theater built into the park's rocks.

Leipzig offers an array of attractions and activities (think: various museums, an impressive zoo and top-notch nightlife venues) to satisfy both residents and visitors. Prioritize visits to the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, which celebrates Napoleon Bonaparte's defeat and retreat from the city, and the unique Panometer, a converted gasometer-turned-gallery that features 360-degree art installations. If you're a music lover, also save time for exploring the Leipzig Music Trail and seeing St. Thomas Church, which houses Johann Sebastian Bach's remains.

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).

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 dozens of 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.

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 and Gothic Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. But no visit would be complete without seeing the dreamy rose garden at the New Residence palace.

Primarily known for its winemaking capabilities, Rüdesheim am Rhein is a small village located at the base of the Taunus Mountains in Germany's Upper Middle 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.

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 Rally 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 14th-century fountain and the imposing Imperial Castle, which dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

Located roughly 20 miles southwest of bustling Berlin, Potsdam makes for a perfect day trip. 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 the Museum Barberini and strolling through the charming Dutch Quarter.

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 Koblenz to sights 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).

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.

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Garmisch-Partenkirchen

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20 Things to Know Before Visiting Germany

April 7, 2018 by Contributor

Here we inform you of our 20 Things to Know Before Visiting Germany, including crucial German etiquette standards and how to travel throughout Germany with grace and dignity.

Crucial German Etiquette

How to visit germany with grace.

There are only a handful of countries that are so different yet so similar to North America, then Germany. Walking around Germany, at first glance, looks like a regular day in Canada – a regular day in one of our oldest cities, mind you, but a regular day.

The people wear the same clothes, we eat the same foods (mostly), we even listen to the same music. This is about where the similarities end. Our customs and etiquette standards are almost polar opposites, to the point where many Canadians/Americans have complained about visiting this great country.

It is easy to criticize a society we don’t know much about or have certain preconceived notions that don’t hold up once confronted with the real thing.

1. It’s all about the Cash

Not every place of business takes plastic. Even fewer accept credit cards as payment. It is always helpful to have cash in hand, just in case you run into a place that is cash only. Oh, they won’t tell you in advance, they don’t even have signs at the entrance. You just need to know.

Travel Tip:  always have a few 1euro coins and 50Euro cent coins. You never know when you will need them. I have one of each stashed in a little pocket in my wallet. When I need it, it’s there.

2. You have to pay to pee

Speaking of change, just about every toilet you will use is going to cost you. It is generally 50 cents Euro but can go all the way up to 1 euro per person. Children are allowed to enter with a parent free of charge but the change rooms for babies are oftentimes in the handicapped toilet and still require payment to access.

There are free options available, though I wouldn’t suggest using them outside of a restaurant. They can be “interesting”.

3. There is no Sunday shopping

Germany has very quiet peaceful Sundays. Many locals from NRW travel to the Netherlands on Sundays for shopping. Luckily, the border is packed with great little towns just waiting for shoppers from the German border region to arrive. This has the expected consequence of making Saturdays in Germany a very busy shopping day for the unprepared. Sundays in the Netherlands are a great opportunity for shopping and other activities. This is why I prefer doing all of my shopping online, or just before I pick up the kids from school. That sacred 2-3 pm time at the grocery store is heaven…and the baby is napping in the stroller. Win-Win.

4. If a German says they will be there, they will be there.

Every year around my son’s birthday, I remember when he was turning 2 and we invited his whole class from preschool to his party. All 20 agreed to come, so I made snacks and cake for 20 kids and a parent. 3 showed up. And 2 of them were related. In Germany, when 20 people RSVP that they will be there, expect 20 people. German punctuality is also something to mention. Never be late for a German; traffic is not an excuse.

5. Germans stare.

Not like, staring at you until you make awkward eye contact then pretending nothing happened. They will stare at you, even after you notice and express your discomfort in it. I can’t tell if they are judging me, trying to figure out what I am saying, or some strange “lost in the moment” face and I happen to be in their line of sight, but it’s weird. I would say you get over it, but you really don’t.

6. We keep our voices down in public.

Germans like rules and they like it when everyone follows the rules. Part of these rules is keeping your voice down; no one wants to hear your conversation, and we don’t want anyone else hearing our conversation. Even the (local) children are aware of this rule. After living here for 4 years, we still stand out like the foreigners that we are. I can’t tell you how many times I have to shh the kids (to no avail) on a 10-minute bus ride, let alone a 45-minute tram ride to downtown.

7. Nudity is a thing.

Between the spa, beach, and swimming pools, I have seen way too much nudity. The changing rooms at the pool are communal family rooms, male rooms, and female rooms. And no one is shy about changing in front of strangers. Same with the showers after the pool. Speaking of the spa; a Spanish friend went to the spa with a few of her German girlfriends. They didn’t tell her anything because it is normal for them. She was mortified when she walked into the sauna and saw a bunch of naked old men lounging around. It got worse after she laid down and one of them walked up to her to talk about the flip-flops on the chair.

Nudity in the sauna is mandatory; they believe towels or swimsuits will lock in too much heat and damage your pores and overheat your body, and dirty towels are in the sauna are gross. We learned this the hard way when we went to the Tropical Islands . Fun times.

8. Never ask for tap water in a restaurant

On our very first night here, our waiter was so kind as to inform us of this social etiquette. While you may drink tap water at home, not everyone does. It’s seen as a faux pas. And therefore, restaurants will sell you a bottle of water.  Even a pitcher of water with ice will cost a few euros. And be sure to ask for Still water . Germans like to carbonate their water and their juice. I mean, I guess water is pretty boring and those flavor infusion drops have a lot of sugar in them but seriously, carbonated apple juice?

9. Recycle, Recycle, Recycle

Back in the day, everything was taken back to the recycling depot and we were given a few bucks to spend at the candy store. Germany still has that and the depot is conveniently located at the entrance of most (if not all) grocery stores. When purchasing eligible items, we pay a deposit. In turn, we are encouraged to return that item for a refund. Most items start at 25 cents Euro and go up from there.

Many Germans prefer to return their items on a daily basis since they generally go to the store that often. I tend to forget mine and show up once a week with two large bags full of them. Again, more stares and comments. I don’t care – today’s groceries are free. I’m a winner.

There are some things that I just won’t return for a deposit, like my fancy Christmas market mugs . Sure, I COULD take a fun photo with them and pretend as I took it home. It would save me a ton of money and even more cabinet space. But where is the fun in that?

10. Avoid the bike lane.

We have ingrained this fact into our son and he is now schooling the little one. On most sidewalks, there are two lanes, a colored lane, and a grey lane. The colored lane is for bikes and the grey is for pedestrians. Cyclists will ring their little bell until you move out of the way; if they have to go around you, you will hear about it and everyone will know what you have done, see rules 5 & 6.

We learned this on our House Hunting Trip a few years ago. We almost got taken out by a line of bikers and a nice English-speaking couple (see, they are everywhere) informed us. I guess we looked like we had no idea what just happened. My son asked a good question the other day about it; if there are no signs, how do people know that these are the rules? I told him that moms and dads teach their kids, who go on to teach their kids… yes mummy but what about moms and dads that don’t know about the rules, who tells them? The bike that nearly hit you will be sure to educate you on the matter.

11.  Germans don’t jaywalk (without getting yelled at).

Not a word of a lie, it doesn’t happen in Germany. I have been at this one intersection in town, not a car in sight for miles, and dozens of people are just standing on the curb – waiting for the light to change. They even get upset that it’s taking so long, but no one will dare step out into the road. The one or two people that will cross, get an ear full from both sides of the road.

Why? Mostly, because it’s against the law and Germans always follow the rules. But also because that jaywalker has set a bad example for the children around and could have been hurt. I have the right to go about my day without witnessing an avoidable tragedy.

This has a lot to do with the driving laws in Germany too; Cars generally have the right of way in all cases except when a crosswalk is present ( but even like North America, many drivers view them as suggestions instead of laws), followed by bikes, dogs, then pedestrians. That’s right, dogs have socially more rights than a pedestrian.

When it comes time to cross on a small street, cars rarely slow down to let anyone pass before they make their turn. We learned this rule VERY QUICKLY.

While not totally related, this does come to mind every time I hear the term Jaywalking

12. Speaking English hasn’t made its way up the ranks just yet

The random lady walking her dog can speak to my kids, my neighbor is a SAHM and she can speak perfect English. So can the butcher, the cashier, and the nice lady that serves me at Subway even has an American accent. But my Realtor, Bank Teller, or Cell Phone retention department… not a single word.

I mean, yes, this is Germany and English isn’t even an official language so I can’t exactly EXPECT anyone to speak English. But when the guy at McDonald’s has a second language but the guy robbing me blind at Vodafone can’t string two sentences together, I start to question things.

The moral is, to try to learn a few words. Those that can’t speak English though, seem to have a bit of a chip on their shoulder about it and refuse to hear your broken German no matter how hard you try. I have had a few altercations with the staff because I am trying to say the few German words that I know and they just stare at me like I was from another planet.  A nice customer from behind would interrupt, tell me what was going on, tell the staff what I am trying to say, then proceed to chew them out for being so ignorant about my accent.

13. They will scold your kids for you

True story, Germans are not afraid of Mamma bear. If your kid is out of line, they will correct the child and the child better listen respectfully. On the other hand, if you are busy chatting with the neighbors and your kid gets an earful from grandma across the park, just take it and move on. It’s nothing personal, and she probably has her best intentions at heart. This has a lot to do with the level of freedom Germans give their kids.

14. Kids roam free and respectfully at a very young age

The main reason I can think of why strangers discipline “school” children is a result of the amount of freedom that children are given in Germany. As young as 6 years old, kids are allowed to ride the train on their own, walk to school by themselves, go to the store, and run errands for mom and dad. Because they are allowed in public without supervision, the general public is in charge of that child’s well-being. It takes a village, after all. As a parent, Germans know that strangers will care for the child should they need help, and in return, parents help other children they see walking alone (or not alone, they don’t really care).

15. Tax is included in the price

Gone are the days of factoring in 14% sales tax on some items, but not on others. Or wondering what is the tax rate in this province/state. It is the law that all price tags show the final price of an item. Kids can now properly budget for their sweeties.

TRAVANDO Slim Wallet with Money Clip Austin RFID Blocking Card Mini Bifold

The slim wallet  AUSTIN  presents itself in a modern way with a certain number of card slots and a money clip. The noble design is emphasized by the  metal emblem

16. German grocery stores

What the cashiers lack in patience, they make up for in speed. Not only am I required to bring my own bag (plastic bags are for sale, but they aren’t cheap), and bag my own groceries, these people never let up. I could be drowning in a sea of vegetables and they will keep piling it on until there is no room left on the counter… then wait and stare as I frantically throw everything into my buggy so she can scan more items. And of course, they are done scanning well before I am done putting food away, so what do I do?

Do I pay now and finish packing after, or do I finish packing and pay after? Either way, everyone is staring and checking to see if I will break under the pressure.

It’s a sport, it has to be. Even the locals look flustered when it’s their turn. I am convinced this is why they all have small fridges; so they have to shop more often, meaning they have smaller loads in their carts, and can easily keep up with the cashier.

17. Expect to share and make new friends

Just like the cafeteria in high school, Biergartens and other public spaces have a lack of seating and this can only lead to one thing… sharing. The benches are long enough to accommodate many people and Germans may not ask permission to sit with you. If there is space, they will come. If you are taking up too much room, they will ask you to move over to make way for the rest of the group. No one is shy in Germany.

Now, this doesn’t mean you actually have to talk to them. As I said before, Germans aren’t really into small talk, so if you aren’t interesting to them, they will leave you alone. But if you say or do something to pique their interest, be prepared to make a new friend because they will start talking to you.

18. Drinking in public isn’t just for the Biergarten

It is legal to drink just about anywhere in a public space. This makes Christmas Markets and the downtown area a great place to be during festivals. You are allowed to drink in public, this doesn’t mean you can be drunk in public. Know your limit and don’t embarrass yourself.

The surrounding countries, however, don’t have the same love for beer.

We went to Rotterdam for a quick weekend break and saw a guy drinking his beer outside the train station. To me, it wasn’t a problem, I’ve been in Germany for 4 years, it’s normal. Nope.  A nice man politely asked him if he was German, and the answer was yes. “Well, here in the Netherlands you are not allowed to drink in public. I suggest you put it away until you are back in the hotel”.

Oops. Another great story; we were walking around downtown and saw a Panel Van pull up at a stop sign. A bunch of construction workers jumped into the van, with a beer in hand, and they drove off. Drinking while in a car is legal.

Driving while drunk or drinking while driving the car is not legal, however. The legal limit is .05% (to compare, it is .08% in America). The fines are much higher, you can lose your license on the first offence and may also be required to see a psychologist for evaluation of your ability to drive in the future. With this much beer available, and so ingrained in their culture, it is no wonder that strict rules are made.

19. Autobahn is German for Highway

Germany is not the magic land of high speeds and NASCAR practice. There are speed signs on many parts of the highway. There just also happens to be many parts, safe parts, that are unlimited. This means the roads are straight and uneventful enough to make driving 200km/hr relatively safe. But whatever you do, do not go into the Left lane if you aren’t prepared to join them. Cars will come up at you so incredibly quickly that you won’t know what is going on. Rarely will they slow down, mostly because they don’t have to. It’s like a game of chicken except everyone knows that the slowpoke is at fault. Keep up or get out.

20. They aren’t rude, they are just German.

So this has come up a few times. Germans, in general, are very frank. They aren’t interested in pleasantries; they have things to do. Germans tend to be more direct and expressive which can come off as a little aggressive to non-Germans.

This can come off as rude in terms of customer service, the way they talk to you in the streets, even the way they scold you and your kids (adults are not immune to being told off). I promise you, they aren’t being rude. Some would even say our exaggerated concern with politeness is exhausting and time-consuming.

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Open for vaccinated visitors

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Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

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Not required in public spaces.

Germany entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Germany from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Germany.

Can I travel to Germany if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Germany without restrictions.

Can I travel to Germany without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Germany without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Germany?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Germany.

Can I travel to Germany without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Germany?

Mask usage in Germany is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Germany?

Restaurants in Germany are open. Bars in Germany are .

How to Plan a Trip to Germany (Your Step by Step Germany Trip Planner for Traveling to Germany for the First Time!)

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  disclaimer policy.

You’ve decided to visit Germany. Hooray! Whether you’re looking for bustling cities, sandy beaches, alpine hiking, intriguing history, fairytale castles, delicious food, fun festivals or friendly people, Germany is the perfect European vacation destination.

Not only is there a tremendous amount to do, see, eat, and experience in Germany, you can easily combine a visit to Germany with other European destinations. Germany is easy to get around in by train, bus, car or bike, and many people speak English.

You’re probably wondering…where do I even begin with planning my dream-come-true vacation to beautiful Deutschland? 

Where should I go? Is it better to take the train or rent a car? What are the must-see cities and attractions? Which ones should I skip? Where’s the best place to stay? What should I eat and drink?

Join our FREE Germany Trip Planning Facebook Group!

Don’t worry! We’re here to help you narrow down your travel options, plan your itinerary , and book your trip with ease. It’s actually quite easy to plan a trip to Germany by yourself with the information in this article, on this site and with some help of some online booking engines.

To reduce overwhelm and help you plan your ideal vacation, we cover everything you need to know to get started planning your trip to Germany . And if you have any questions, you’re welcome to ask us in our free Germany travel Facebook community or send us  an email . 

Ok, let’s begin!

• 1 Meet Your Germany Travel Guides
• 2 Overview of Regions
• 3 Where to Go in Germany: Itineraries and Planning
• 4 Want more itinerary ideas? Are you a big city person? Check out… 
• 5 Prefer smaller historic, picturesque cities? Check out…
• 6 What about cute little villages with “Fachwerk” (half-timber) architecture? There are so many! Here are a few ideas…
• 7 Looking forward to visiting fairytale castles?
• 8 Like islands and water? Take a look at…
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• 10 Passports & Visas
• 11 What’s the Best Time to Go to Germany?
• 12 Germany Booking Timeline
• 13 What’s the Weather in Germany Like?
• 14 What Time is it in Germany Right Now?
• 15 What’s the Best Way to Get to Germany?
• 16 Where to Stay in Germany
• 17 Getting Around Germany
• 18 What to Wear in Germany
• 19 My Absolute Favorite Travel Clothing Items
• 20 What to Eat in Germany

Meet Your Germany Travel Guides

Hi, we’re Cate and Aaron, and we love helping people plan amazing trips to Germany. While Aaron has visited Germany several times (and is our chief rental car driver!), I lived there for 4+ years, have spent nearly 30 years of my life going back and forth between the US and Germany, and have traveled to all corners of the country.

I also taught German for several years and have a PhD in German Applied Linguistics, which means I’ve gotten to know Germany from several different angles. We’re so excited to help you plan your dream trip to Deutschland! 

Overview of Regions

Northern Germany  – Hamburg is the largest city in this region but there are other must-visit smaller cities like Lübeck , Stade, Bremen, and Lüneburg. Northern Germany also has the beautiful beaches of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, the Wadden Sea national park, and the islands of Sylt, Flör, and Heligoland. Northern Germany is flat and great for biking. It looks so different from Bavaria! Combine a trip to Denmark with a visit to northern Germany.

Eastern Germany  –  Berlin is of course the feature city in this region, but Dresden, Leipzig, Magdeburg, Quedlinburg, Bautzen, Erfurt, and Weimar are smaller must-see cities. There’s also the Harz mountains, Swiss Saxony national park , Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes in Thuringia, Wernigerode castle, the Schwerin Palace, and Sansouci in Potsdam. Combine a trip to eastern Germany with a visit to Poland or the Czech Republic.

Central Germany  – This region offers bustling cities like Cologne , Düsseldorf, and Frankfurt , smaller cities like Aachen, Wiesbaden, Koblenz, and plenty of cute villages. There’s also the Rhine and Mosel river areas, vineyards, the Eifel national park, castles , and beautiful rolling hills. Combine a visit to central Germany with a trip to the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, or France.

Black Forest/Baden-Württemberg  –  Stuttgart is the largest city in this region, and smaller cities like Baden-Baden, Heidelberg, Freiburg , Tübingen, and Ulm also warrant a visit. Vineyards and wineries, spa towns, castles (such as Hohenzollern or Lichtenstein ), waterfalls, Lake Constance, cute villages, and hiking are also features of the Black Forest /Baden-Württemberg region. Combine a trip to France or Switzerland with a visit to southwestern Germany.

Bavaria/Alps  – Munich is the feature city of Bavaria ( Oktoberfest! ), along with smaller cities like Regensburg, Nuremberg, Würtzburg, Bamberg, and Passau. There’s also the famous Zugspitze, Eagle’s Nest, Neuschwanstein castle , and Chiemsee lake, as well as lovely alpine towns like Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden . Combine a trip to Bavaria with a visit to Austria, Czech Republic or Switzerland.

Click here for what to do in Munich!

Where to Go in Germany: Itineraries and Planning

There’s so much to see and do in Germany! Here’s some info to get you started on your itinerary (you can also check out this article with 10-14 day itinerary ideas ). 

If you have just a few days,  I recommend focusing on one city and a day trip (e.g., Hamburg with a day trip to Lübeck or Munich with a day trip to Neuschwanstein ).

If you have a week,  you could visit 2 cities (plus 2 day trips) in different parts of Germany and allot one day for travel between cities (e.g., a few days in Munich with a day trip to Chiemsee, travel day to Berlin, then a few days in Berlin with a day trip to Potsdam). Or you could spend a week touring one region of Germany (e.g. the Black Forest or the Rhine and Mosel areas).

If you have two weeks,  you can see a lot of Germany! You could, for example, start in Berlin, then visit Hamburg, take a day trip to Lübeck , then visit the Rhein river area, stop in the Black Forest , and end your trip in Munich. You could easily do this trip via train or car. Take a look at a couple 10-14 day itineraries we’ve outlined to give you a sense of how much you can do in that amount of time.

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

How long does it take to travel around Germany by train? 

It’s quick and easy to travel around Germany by train. Here are some sample travel times to give you an idea: 

• Berlin to Hamburg – 1 hour 45 minutes 
• Berlin to Munich – 4 – 4 1/2 hours
• Hamburg to Lübeck – 1 hour 
• Hamburg to Cologne – 4 hours 
• Hamburg to Munich – 5 hours 40 minutes 
• Frankfurt to Nuremberg – 2 hours 
• Stuttgart to Munich – 2 1/4 hours 
• Munich to Berchtesgaden – 2 hours 

I use and recommend the official German rail system website to check travel times and book train tickets (point-to-point, saver tickets, and discounted regional tickets). I book all of our train tickets here!

Want more itinerary ideas? Are you a big city person? Check out… 

• Cologne / Düsseldorf

Prefer smaller historic, picturesque cities? Check out…

What about cute little villages with “fachwerk” (half-timber) architecture there are so many here are a few ideas….

• Wernigerode
• Quedlinburg
• Dinkelsbühl
• Rothenburg Ob der Tauber
• Berchtesgaden

Looking forward to visiting fairytale castles?

• Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau (the “Disney castle”)
• Castles near Frankfurt
• Castles near Cologne
• 16 castles to visit in Germany

Like islands and water? Take a look at…

• Husum (North Sea)
• Timmendorferstrand (Baltic Sea)
• Lake Constance (Bodensee)
• Titisee 

What about nature, hiking, and national parks? Consider…

• Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park
• Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park 
• Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park
• Jasmund National Park
• Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park
• Müritz National Park
• Lower Oder Valley National Park
• Harz National Park
• Kellerwald-Edersee National Park
• Hainich National Park
• Eifel National Park
• Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park
• Saxon Switzerland National Park
• Bavarian Forest National Park
• Berchtesgaden National Park
• Black Forest National Park

How about a road trip? Why not drive the…

• German Timber-frame Road (northern to southern Germany)
• Romantic Road (Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, north/south)
• Castle Road (Bavaria to Baden-Württemberg, east/west)
• Wine Road (Palatinate wine region, north/south)
• Fairytale Route (from Hanau to Bremen, south/north)
• Black Forest High Road (Baden-Württemberg, north/south)
• Alpine Route (Baden-Württemberg to Bavaria, east/west)
• Volcanic Route (Rhein River and Eifel mountains, north/south)

Passports & Visas

If you’re from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries, you do not need a visa to enter Germany (at the time of publishing this article). You do, however, need a valid passport with at least 3 months validity AFTER your planned departure date.

Play it safe and have MORE than 6 months validity on entrance to Germany! You also need at least 2 blank passport pages at the time of your arrival. Check your passport NOW so you have plenty of time to renew it if needed. Do not wait until the last minute to do this (been there, done that – it’s expensive and stressful)!

Germany is part of the Schengen zone, which means you can stay in Germany for up to 90 days without a visa. If you visit other countries in the Schengen zone before or after Germany, that counts towards your 90 days and reduces the amount of time you can spend in Germany. While on the automatic 90-day tourist visa you may not work but you can engage in business.

What’s the Best Time to Go to Germany?

The best time to visit Germany is whenever you can get there! No, seriously! There’s no best time of year for your  Deutschland   tour because there’s no bad time of year to visit. I’ve traveled all over Germany in spring, summer, fall, and winter and enjoyed every single season (Cate here, writing this article, by the way).

When should  you  travel to Germany? Well, it just depends on what you’re looking for…

Summer  is when you’re most likely to have warm (even hot) sunny weather. But it’s not guaranteed. I’ve had hot steamy summers in Germany (like last summer when we traveled during a heat wave), cold rainy summers, and everything in-between.

Fortunately, even if you encounter rain in the summer it likely won’t last more than a few hours or at most a couple days before you’ll see the sun again. The benefit of summer travel is that you’ll have nice long days for sight-seeing because the sun doesn’t fully set until about 10pm. If you’re interested in beaches or mountains, summer is a great time of year to visit.

Note, however, that not all hotels, cars, and restaurants use A/C. If you really hate hot weather, play it safe and avoid Germany in the middle of the summer. (Although, to be honest, in all of the summers I’ve spent in Germany, there have only been a few days in the summer that I’ve found truly unbearable without A/C.) If you  must  have A/C, be sure to confirm that your room or rental car has it.

Summer can also be a more crowded time to travel, since so many families make use of summer break. Book accommodation early for the most options and best prices!

Winter  travel in Germany can be cold but beautiful. One of my favorite times of year to travel in Germany is during the four weeks of advent at Christmas.

Yes, it gets dark early (by 5pm or a bit earlier) but the lights, decorations, and Christmas markets more than make up for it. Plus, you can go skiing and enjoy other winter activities.

I was just in Germany for a couple weeks in December and the weather was perfectly fine 90% of the time. There was only one day where the weather was truly miserable and even on that day there were enough breaks in the weather to enjoy my day trip exploring a new town and a new Christmas market. 

Germans don’t let winter keep them from enjoying outdoor activities, hiking to strolling through a Christmas market or enjoying a coffee at an outdoor cafe. Don’t let it stop you, either! Just bundle up, grab a mug of Glühwein, and you’ll be fine!

Fall and spring  are also great times to visit Germany. In the fall you’ll enjoy crisp mornings and cool evenings and seeing the leaves change color.

In the spring you’ll experience the joy everyone feels when they can once again sit outside at cafes and restaurants. The weather can vary quite a bit day to day but if you travel late in the fall or early in the spring you can score great deals and will find smaller crowds.

Germany Booking Timeline

I’ve booked flights, accommodations , and tours and tickets a few weeks before my arrival, and I’ve booked them several months in advance. Book early if you:

• Are traveling during peak summer, Christmas market or ski season
• Have very specific travel dates or lodging, transportation, sight-seeing needs
• Are visiting big cities
• Are on a tight budget
• Are visiting during a special event, such as Oktoberfest 

I usually start looking at my options as early as possible so I can figure out what a good deal looks like for my travel dates. I then set up flight alerts and start earmarking AirBnB’s and hotels. I begin booking whenever I find something that meets my needs and fits my budget. 

Here’s a general booking timeline to get you started:

6-12 months in advance:

• Research and book your international flights
• Research travel insurance
• Plan your travel itinerary and dates
• Research and book flights within Germany or Europe
• Research travel options within Germany (rental car, train bus, etc)
• Research accommodation options (book if you find great deals or if availability is limited)
• Make sure your passport is up-to-date (you need at least 6 months left on it when you enter Germany) and apply for a new one if it isn’t

3 – 6 months in advance:

• Book accommodation
• Book trains or busses (usually 90 before your travel dates is the earliest you can book but always check if you can book earlier – the best deals go fast)
• Book rental car
• Book tours, events, and tickets
• Book travel insurance 
• Review your travel wardrobe and gear and purchase the items you need  

1 month in advance:

• Book any remaining attractions and tours
• Book airport transfers or plan how you will get to your lodging
• Purchase a sim card for phone or check how you can use your current phone service in Germany (e.g., I can use my Verizon phone service for a $10/ a day fee)

1 week in advance: 

• Print out or ensure that you can easily access all bookings, tickets, and travel info on your phone (make sure you can access everything without data or wifi!)

1 day in advance:

What’s the Weather in Germany Like?

What will the weather be like when you visit Germany? Well, it depends on the time of year and where you are. Weather in Germany can be somewhat unpredictable no matter the time of year.

I recommend being prepared by wearing layers, packing an umbrella or rain jacket, and remembering that the weather will likely change soon. And, as I said earlier, don’t let any kind of weather stop you from enjoying Germany! 

Summer.  Germany comes alive in the summer with everyone and their dog (literally, there are dogs everywhere) outside enjoying the nice weather. Average high in the summer is 80F.  

Be warned…it can rain in the summer but it doesn’t usually last that long. It can also be super hot in the summer…but again, scorching temperatures doesn’t usually last that long.

Fall.  Such a beautiful time of year in Germany with the leaves changing colors and cool, crips mornings and evenings and warm days. One of my favorite times of year in Germany! In September, the average high is 67F and by November it’s around 47F.

Winter.  Bring your scarf, hat, and mittens because German winters can get cold! Average temps hover around freezing with warmer days in the 40s/50sF. While it can snow anywhere in Germany, you’ll find the most snow in southern Germany. Winter weather doesn’t mean everyone hides inside, though. On the contrary! Do what the Germans do – bundle up and enjoy the outdoors.

Spring.  I love being in Germany on the first spring day because  everyone  heads outside to enjoy the sun and everyone is in such a good mood! Early spring will see a high around 47F but by late spring it’s more like 67F.

What Time is it in Germany Right Now?

Germany is in the Central European Time zone (CET) or UTC+2. It’s 6 hours ahead of the US EST, 7 hours ahead of CST, 8 hours ahead of MST, and 9 hours ahead of PST.

Daylight savings in Germany in 2020: time “falls back” on October 25 and “springs forward” on March 29. Write these dates in your calendar so you don’t accidentally miss any flights or trains (been there, done that)!

What’s the Best Way to Get to Germany?

It depends on where you’re coming from and where you’re going.  When flying from outside Europe, many people fly into Frankfurt (FRA), the largest airport in Germany and one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe.

The benefit of flying into Frankfurt is that it has a ton of direct flights, and once you reach Germany you can easily take a commuter flight, train, bus or rental car to your final destination.

The downside? The airport is huge, busy, and I’ve noticed prices into Frankfurt have been higher than regional airports in Germany.

I used to  always  fly into Frankfurt , and then take a train, bus or rental car to my final destination. But recently? I’ve found that it’s easier (and sometimes cheaper) to bypass FRA and fly into other German cities, such as Munich , Hamburg , Berlin , Düsseldorf ( Cologne ) or Stuttgart .

You might even be able to find a direct flight from the US (I’ve flown direct Atlanta – Stuttgart and Washington DC – Munich, for example). Otherwise, you’ll change planes somewhere in Europe and take an easy 1-3 hour flight to Germany. We’ve changed planes in London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Paris, and Vienna, for example. You could also fly into another European city and then take a train, bus or rental car into Germany.  

A Few Notes About Flying Into FRA (Frankfurt Airport) and Traveling Onwards

If you take a commuter flight from Frankfurt  (FRA) to your final destination in Germany, you’ll go through passport control in FRA and then to your connecting gate. Super easy. Most flights from FRA to elsewhere in Germany are an hour or less in duration.

If you’re traveling onward by train from Frankfurt,  you can transfer to the train right at the airport below Terminal 1. If your train leaves from the main station in Frankfurt, you can either take the S-bahn or a regional train from the airport to the Hauptbahnhof (main station) in about 10-15 minutes.  

Important:  you’ll find cheap “savings fare” train ticket prices if you book your ticket online well ahead of your arrival. Be sure to book your ticket for  at least  a few hours after your flight’s arrival time into FRA.

Be warned: getting through passport control, customs, picking up your checked luggage, and making your way to the train station can take longer than you think. And if your plane from the US (or elsewhere) is delayed…well, it’s easy to miss your train and have to buy a new, much more expensive ticket on the spot. Personally, I would book a saver fare train ticket for a train that leaves 3-5 hours after my international flight’s arrival time – at the minimum. And that’s still cutting it close if there’s any kind of delay!

Tip: If you want maximum flexibility and peace of mind, buy a “flex ticket.” You’ll pay more but these tickets aren’t tied to a specific train. So if your flight is five hours late, you can take a train later in the day without changing your ticket or losing money.

These tickets also you to stop somewhere en route to your final destination for a couple hours, and then get back on a different train (e.g., stop in Stuttgart for a couple hours on your way to Munich). So if you arrive on time, you can work in a short excursion on the way to your final destination (store your luggage at a locker in the train station). If your flight is late, just go directly to your destination. These tickets are also refundable before the first day of travel.

For ultimate flexibility and peace of mind, spend the night in or around Frankfurt and book a saver fare train for early the next morning. 

You can also easily pick up a rental car at FRA  and drive to your final destination. Aaron and I have done this a few times and never had any problems.

The one problem we do have? Staying awake long enough to drive to our destination! We usually keep the driving distance to an hour or two on the day of our arrival and drink a lot of coffee. Sometimes we pull over at rest area and take a nap. 

If you want to rent a car at the airport and are concerned about driving while jet lagged, consider picking up the car and then spending the night in nearby town, such as Wiesbaden (I spent an enjoyable few days there before catching my flight home a few years ago). 

If you’re catching a bus  from the city center to travel onwards, S-bahn 8 or 9 will zip you into town quickly and cheaply in about 10-15 minutes. Buy tickets at any of the ticket machines before you board the S-bahn.  

You can also catch busses  into Frankfurt and elsewhere in front of Terminal 1 (arrivals level) and Terminal 2 (level 2).

You’ll find taxis  in the same general area. It takes about 20 minutes to get into downtown Frankfurt by taxi.

Flying to Germany from Elsewhere in Europe

These days it’s super easy and generally inexpensive to fly to Germany from all over Europe. Here are a couple tips:

When booking your international flight, you might be able to include a stop-over in the city where you’ll transfer to your Germany flight. I used to do stopovers in London, and a couple years ago I did an awesome stopover in Iceland. TAP also offers free stopovers in Lisbon or Porto.   

I highly recommend looking into both flying and taking a train (or bus) into Germany, especially if you’re arriving from a neighboring country and not on a stopover. Of course, if you’re flying from cities like London, Barcelona, Rome or Oslo, flying is the best option. But if you’re traveling from Paris, Vienna, Copenhagen or Prague, for example, a train might be the better way to go.

Even if the actual flight is only an hour, you have to factor in the time it takes to travel to the airport, go through security, potential flight delays, and then traveling to your lodging once you land. A 5- or 6-hour train ride might actually take less time than a 1-hour flight when you total it all up!

Traveling to Germany By Train, Bus or Car

Traveling to Germany from other European countries by train, bus or car is easy. Train travel is generally simple, comfortable, and quick. Most train stations in Germany are located in the city center, so it’s easy to get to your lodging via taxi or public transportation. 

If renting a car in another country, just double check that you’re authorized to take the car out of the rental country. If you are, you’ll have no problems crossing the boarder and driving around Germany. 

Busses tend to cost less than trains, and you can find some amazing deals, but to be honest, I still prefer taking trains over busses. Trains are more comfortable, you can get up and walk around, and they’re almost always faster than busses. Plus, they don’t get stuck in traffic.

Tips for Booking the Best Flights with Cash or Miles: 

• Start looking for flights early,  especially if you’re traveling during peak season. I booked our mid-June flights in late January. While we found low mileage flights for very specific weekend travel dates, we could have found better flight times had we booked even earlier. 
• Track flights  through google or look at options in Hopper so you’ll know a good deal when you see one.  
• Look for last-minute deals.  When I decided to go to Germany in December I didn’t start looking for flights until early November (the trip was a last-minute decision). Because I was flexible on travel dates and went early in the month, I found excellent tickets using miles. This doesn’t always happen, but it never hurts to look for deals, even if your travel dates are right around the corner. 
• Fly in or out of smaller regional airports  (e.g., Berlin , Hamburg , Stuttgart , Munich , Düsseldorf). When I booked our flights for mid-June I couldn’t find anything into Frankfurt using miles. But I did find flights into Berlin and out of Stuttgart, and that actually worked even better for that trip ! For my recent December trip , I found that flying in and out of Stuttgart used the lowest amount of miles and had the best schedule. I’ve also flown into Hamburg and Munich airports.

Where to Stay in Germany

Germany has so many options for lodging:

• Vacation rentals (e.g., VBRO, AirBnB)
• Hip boutique hotels
• Quirky hostels
• More traditional HI hostels
• Large hotel chains
• American-styles hotels (Hilton, Marriott, etc)
• Family-run Pensionen (bed and breakfast)
• Camping (RV and tent)

When we’re in Germany we typically opt for AirBnB (I like having a kitchen to make breakfast) or a smaller family-run Pension or boutique hotel. We used to stay in hostels when we was younger (they’re pretty nice in Germany) but even then I found Pensionen to be very affordable – sometimes  more  affordable than hostels – especially when traveling with one or two other people. If we’re spending the night near an airport or train station and want convenience and ease we’ll stay at a larger chain hotel .

Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget accommodations, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Germany! To help you get started, check out our Germany hotel guides.

Breakfast  is often included with lodging in Germany (but not always). Sometimes breakfast will feature fresh bread or Brötchen (delicious German rolls), cold cuts and cheese, butter and jam, and tea and coffee. Other times there will be an extensive breakfast buffet that includes things like yogurt, museli, a variety of breads, meats, cheeses, and even hard-boiled eggs. You’re unlikely to find things like omelets, bacon, pancakes, waffles, and hot oatmeal.

If you’re looking to save money on lodging,  book rooms with a shared bathroom. (This is typically only an option in smaller or older hotels and not an option I come across as often anymore.) Sometimes that will mean sharing a full bathroom with other guests on your floor, and other times you’ll have a sink and/or shower in your room and will share a toilet located in the hallway. Shared bathrooms are more common in smaller Pensionen than in hotels.

These days I prefer the convenience of having a full bathroom in my room but I’m not averse to sharing a hall bathroom when needed (takes me back to my younger backpacking days – ha!). I’ve never had to wait to use a shared bathroom or had any trouble with them. Sometimes there are two or more bathrooms per floor. If you do opt for a shared bathroom, bring flip-flops!

Hostels can be a great option for families,  as many offer family rooms. Hostels typically offer a simple breakfast and sometimes dinner. While accommodations are simple, some hostels can be in spectacular locations. The hostel in Bacharach, for example, is in an old castle on a hill and offers a gorgeous view of the town below and the Rhine river!  

Getting Around Germany

One of the benefits of traveling in Germany is that it’s super easy to get around the entire country. You have so many transportation options.

You can rent a car and drive from place to place. Or you can stick to trains and busses. Or ride a bike – there are tons of bike paths throughout Germany.   

If I’m primarily visiting big cities I prefer taking the train or a bus to get from one city to another. When I spend more time in smaller cities or want to take day trips to harder to reach places, I prefer having a car.

For our recent summer trip to Germany, we rented a car at the Berlin airport and returned it to the Stuttgart airport. We didn’t take trains or busses at all. We got a car so we could go to places that aren’t as easily (or quickly) accessible by train. We didn’t use the car every day, though. We walked and used public transportation when exploring cities.    

Speaking of public transportation, Germany’s is one of the best! It’s super easy to get everywhere you want to go via the S-bahn (above ground metro), U-bahn (underground metro), Strassenbahn (street car), and city bus. Taxis (and Uber/Lyft, where available) are also convenient options, though more expensive than public transport.

There are also car-share programs that you can look into. I haven’t used any of them and don’t know how convenient they are for travelers but it doesn’t hurt to check them out.

German cities are very walkable, so it’s easy to get around by foot. And, if you’d like to bike around like a local, there are lots of places to rent bikes (or scooters!) around town or maybe even at your hotel or AirBnB. If you’re more interested in just one afternoon of biking, try a city bike tour!

A few transportation tips:

• For the best train ticket prices book your ticket via the official German rail system website in well in advance. I book all of our tickets there. Note: if you pre-purchase your ticket at the lowest price you have to take the specific train you booked. If you miss that train, you have to buy another ticket. 
• If you don’t mind taking slower regional trains you can get some really cheap tickets and regional day tickets. You may not want to use these tickets to go from Munich to Hamburg, but they’re great for day trips, whether traveling solo or with others.
• Busses are often less expensive than the train (though not quite as comfortable and often slower).
• There are Eurail options for Germany, and they’re a great choice if you value flexibility and ease or if you want to make stops while traveling (eg., stop in Cologne for a couple hours while traveling from Hamburg to Munich).
• If you plan to rely on public transportation in the cities you visit, buy a day pass (or perhaps a multi-day or week pass) rather than individual tickets. Also check to see if there are group day tickets or if young kids can ride free. Note: there’s often a small additional fee to bring a bike or a large amount of luggage on public transportation. There are often less expensive day passes for travel starting after 9am. 

What to Wear in Germany

Check out my packing list for Germany!

Layer, layer, layer!  The weather in Germany is often unpredictable so your best bet is to bring layers so you can customize your wardrobe on the fly. Since rain is a possibility any time of year, you may want to bring a light rain jacket or an umbrella.

Bring comfortable shoes.  You’ll no doubt walk all day long (often on cobblestone), so bring your most comfortable, supportive shoes. Be sure to break in your shoes  before  you travel. There’s nothing worse than realizing a day into your trip that your shoes pinch your toes or give you huge blisters. (Bring along moleskin, just in case. I always have  this kind  in my day bag!) I typically bring a good pair of walking shoes appropriate for the season (e.g., boots in the winter) and a nicer pair of flats (sandals in the summer).

You can wear jeans.  Some people say  never travel with jeans  but I’m not one of those people. I love traveling with jeans! They’re comfortable, I can wear them a few times without having to wash them, and I feel less like a tourist wearing them because everyone wears them. If you like jeans, wear jeans.

Scarf, hat, gloves.  If you’re traveling in the winter or even late fall or early spring, definitely bring a warm scarf, hat, and gloves or mittens. Or buy them in Germany and take them home as a souvenir! Almost all of my winter accessories are from Germany. Even if you’re not traveling in colder weather, I recommend a  travel scarf with a hidden pocket  for ease and security.

You can wear shorts in the summer.  Shorts are more popular in Germany than they used to be, so if you like them and are comfortable in them, wear them. That said, do also bring summer dresses or skirts and or lightweight pants to wear when shorts are too informal.

Bring a comfortable day bag or purse.  When you’re out and about all day you want a comfortable bag or purse to hold your travel essentials – wallet, phone, camera, ipad/kindle/book, umbrella, journal, etc. For peace of mind, you may even want one with special security features.  Click here to read my guide for buying the best travel purse.

My Absolute Favorite Travel Clothing Items

Merino wool camisole/tank  – These camisoles are the BEST for travel! They’re soft, comfortable, easy to hand wash, and they never stink. This might be TMI but a few years ago, when I was traveling solo around Europe, I wore the same merino wool tank each day for 14 days in warm spring weather. It never smelled bad! Since that experiment I don’t typically go that long without washing my tanks, but I like knowing that I could!  Click here to read more reviews and buy a merino wool camisole/tank.

Foldable flats  – I splurged on a pair of foldable leather flats a few years ago, and after I broke them in I started really liking them. I wouldn’t recommend them for a full day of walking (especially on cobblestones) but I like to bring my foldable flats along for a change of pace or when I want the option of wearing a cute pair of shoes but don’t want them to take up much space in my suitcase.

Merino wool shoes  – I bought a pair of dark grey merino wool walking/tennis shoes a couple years ago and I LOVE them! I can wear them barefoot in the summer, and not only do my feet stay relatively cool, my shoes don’t stink when I take them off at the end of the day. I can throw them in the wash if they get dirty (though mine still look great 2 years later), they pack flat and don’t take up much space in my suitcase or travel backpack, and the heel is thick and cushioned. You can also buy replacement merino wool insoles without having to buy a new pair of shoes.

What I don’t like: the pair I have doesn’t have enough arch support for me and there’s not enough padding under the ball of my foot. The first few times I wore them they were uncomfortable after walking all day and I was super disappointed! But after adding an arch support and a gel insert under the ball of my foot (I like  this one ) I loved them and now wear them all the time while traveling and at home. Many people love them from the start!  Click here to to read reviews and check out merino wool shoes.   

What to Eat in Germany

You’ll never go hungry while traveling in Germany! While you can always find traditional items like Schnitzel, Spätzle, Rouladen, and Bratwurst, there are plenty of healthier options, including those that are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.

Many restaurants now cater to special diets and accommodate allergies, as do some specialty grocery stores. Aaron has a meat allergy and frequently eats gluten-free and has never had a problem finding delicious food in Germany.

These days Germany has a wide variety of restaurants to ft all budgets featuring cuisine from all over the world (except Mexican…I’ve yet to find good tacos in Germany). So you won’t be stuck eating Schnitzel every day – unless you want to!

We usually eat breakfast at our AirBnB or hotel, enjoy a nice lunch at a restaurant we’ve stumbled upon, and then grab a Döner, salad or pizza for dinner. We also often picnic using ingredients from the bakery and grocery store or farmer’s market.

Traditional German dishes to try:   Schnitzel, Spätzle, Rouladen, Bratwurst, Sauerbraten, Schweinehaxen, Maultaschen, Currywurst, Leberkäse, Flammkuchen, Sauerkruat, Kartoffelsalat (potato salad), Quark, all kinds of German breads.

Quick lunches and snacks on the go:  Döner, Falafel, Bratkartoffeln (fried potatoes), Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), Bratwurst, Currywurst, salads, Brötchen filled with meat and/or cheese, fresh pretzels, pastries, cakes. Click here to see the best German street food!

Desserts & sweet treats:  Schwarzwälderkirchtorte (Black Forest Cake), Bienenstich (Bee Sting Cake), cheesecake, Stollen, Frankfurter Kranz, cake, Donauwellen cake, Berliner, Lebkuchen, Pflaumenkuchen (plum cake), all kinds of pastries and chocolate – just to name a few! Click here to see the 10 must-try German desserts and sweets.

Beer:  every kind you could ever imagine! I usually just ask for the local beer unless there’s a specific one I know I want to try.

Christmas: This is the best time of year to be in Germany, partly because of the many delicious holiday treats like Lebkuchen, Stollen, Glühwein, and so much more. Click here to read more about what to eat in Germany during the Christmas season.

Want to try German food now? Click here to see where to buy delicious German food online!

Got a question about traveling in Germany? Join our free Germany trip planning community or  send us an email!

Grab your FREE 10 Germany Gems Cheatsheet Now!

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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Here’s how we can help you plan your perfect trip in 2024.

GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

TICKETS & TOURS:  For guided tours, day trips, private tours, and skip-the-line tickets,  Get Your Guide  is our go-to!

TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

71 Comments

I enjoyed reading this information. My husband and I would like to stay in Germany for 2 to 3 months in 2022. I am interested in staying in the area of Bamberg with the plan of visiting other regions in Germany via a rental car. Either at the end or beginning of our stay we would like to visit France (especially Paris). I have so many questions. But our hope is to have basically our last trip on our own and experience more of the everyday lifestyle. Up to this point we have only traveled via being guest of Viking River Cruise and tours.

Hi Donna! 2-3 months in Germany sounds awesome! Since you’ll be there so long, you might want to consider spending 1 month in 3 different regions or 1.5 months in 2 regions. Otherwise you’ll be doing a lot of overnight or multi-night trips if you want to see other regions. Are you thinking about renting an AirBnB? If you want to experience the everyday lifestyle, I highly recommend it. Feel free to email me if you have questions as you start planning. 🙂

Hi! Thank you for this awesome post. It’s very useful. I wanted to ask you a question. I’m planning to travel to Germany as soon as the pandemic starts to be less dangerous. I want to go to Germany for 2 months, how many cities do you think is possible to visit? And also how much money do you think is possible to use everyday for food if my budget is small? Thank you very much!

Hello! Two months is a good amount of time to visit Germany, and you should be able to see and do quite a lot! Just how many cities depends on how quickly you like to travel and what you want to do in each place (e.g., just see the highlights or live like a local). If you want to stick to big cities you could spend 1-3 weeks in each and take lots of day trips to see the surrounding area.

If that’s the case, you could rent an Airbnb (or similar), which would not only save you money on lodging (they’ll often give discounts for stays of 1 week or longer) but also make it easier to make some inexpensive meals at the Airbnb (and it’s easy to make German dishes “at home”!) and maybe even do laundry for free.

If you want to be on the go the whole time, moving from city to city (big, medium, and small), it will be more expensive unless you stay at hostels (or super cheap hotels). And remember to factor in the constant packing and unpacking, time getting to/from the train station (or airport)…that gets tiring when traveling for a couple months!

I recommend coming up with a budget, then looking at what kind of lodging fits that budget (hotels, hostels, longer Airbnb stays, Couchsurfing, etc). Then think about what you most want to do in Germany (live like a local, just spontaneously explore, see specific sights, have specific experiences, etc) and what you want your daily experience to be like (e.g., do you want to feel relaxed each day and get to know fewer places or be on the go, packing and unpacking, moving from place to place). Neither is better than the other, it’s just important to get clear on what kind of experience you want!

A few ways to reduce your budget: – Eat in fewer sit-down restaurants. Eat breakfast at “home”, buy snacks and drinks at the grocery store and bring them with you each day, cook some meals each week at “home”, pick up lunch from a grocery store or bakery and eat in a park, etc. Make eating dinner in a sit-down restaurant a special occasion. Doing these things will save you money and you’ll eat healthier!

– Take busses or slower trains to travel around Germany. There are regional train passes you can purchase that allow travel in a specific area very inexpensively. Travel will be slower and there are some restrictions on when you travel (often not during rush hour) but you’ll save money and often you’ll see some out of the way sights. You can also get good deals on flights but once you factor in travel to the airport (time and cost), time to check in, waiting to board, potential delays, and then getting from the airport to your final destination, it’s often just easier to take the train.

– Buy standard train tickets in advance. You can get nice discounts on faster train tickets if you book far enough in advance.

This might be more info than you wanted but I hope that helps you start planning your trip! Let me know if you have any other questions. 🙂

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Great post full of detailed information on all aspects of travel in Germany. When travel reopens in Europe we’re planning on a 2 week trip in Germany with our adult son. He’s an avid soccer fan so we’ll need to plan the trip around the soccer schedule so he can see as many games as possible. We are considering Eastern Germany with a short trip into Poland or Northern Germany with a few days in Denmark. We’d really appreciate your expertise and suggestions. Although we’ve traveled extensively in many western and eastern European countries, we have not spent a great deal of time in Germany. Thanks. J.

Hello! I’m back working on this site now and am happy to help. I’ve got more articles and resources coming but let me know if you have any specific questions!

Hi Both The Ueckermann family 9-10 adults and 2 little once to experience Germany in Oct 2023. Central G and Netherlands will be awesome. We need to do all planning and funds estimates please assist. We live in South Africa and hopefully COVID 19 not a factor any more. Plan 2-3 weeks depending on the funds regards Engela

Hi Engela! Let me know if you have any specific questions about planning your trip to Germany. Happy to help!

HI, I was having trouble with your email 🙂 so sorry I am just replying here. I was hoping you could help us and I wasn’t sure if you offer buying tickets and guidance of our specific places we would like to visit. Anxiously wanting to hear back from you, Anne

Hi Anne! I just sent you an email. 🙂

Hello Cate! Such a well written article with great info! My husband and myself would like to travel to Germany in Oct. of 2022, possibly with my then 16 year old son as well. We want to go in October so we can also experience Octoberfest. I cant have beer because I have celiac’s. IS THERE OTHER ALCOHOL DURING OCTOBERFEST OTHER THAN BEER? WHAT IS THE WEATHER IN OCTOBER AND DOES OCTOBERFEST RUN THE FULL MONTH? IS THERE A CERTAIN AREA WE SHOULD STAY TO REALLY EXPERIENCE OCTOBERFEST AND ANY POTENTIAL ISSUES TO AVOID DURING OCTOBERFEST? We are overwhelmed with planning our trip because we don’t even travel within the US and I feel like there’s so much we want to experience in such a short period. We would like to go for 2 weeks. We want to go because both our families are from Germany. My family comes from Nuremburg (sp) and my husbands family Bavaria but we are unsure which part. This trip is important for us to try to learn about our family roots. DO YOU KNOW WHERE WE COULD GO IN GERMANY TO LEARN ABOUT OUR GENEOLOGY? We would like a more of a laid back approach to experiencing Germany. I dont want to necessarily feel rushed every single day but I do understand that some events and places we would want to visit would need to be scheduled and we are ok with that. I would like to do the Air bnb but know nothing about them. I would like less stress worrying about transportation such as missing busses. We are interested in castles, picturesque views, experiencing floating on the Rhine River perhaps. ANY SUGGESTIONS ON AIR BNB’S THAT PROVIDE BREAKFAST AND ANY IDEAS ON AREA’S TO VISIT BASED ON EVERYTHING I’VE PROVIDED? P.S……our last name literally translates to “the German”. We have had so many Europeans tell us that when they hear our name…LOL

CORRECTION: This is Lisa Nemec. My hubands family is Bohemian. We believe his family crossed over from Czech.

Hi Lisa! There are plenty of other drinks at Oktoberfest, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding something. The weather at that time of year can vary but in late September to early October it’ll likely be warm during the day and cooler in the evening. Oktoberfest is mostly held in late September but I believe it goes until Oct 2 in 2022. There are a lot of hotels and AirBnB’s within walking distance of Oktoberfest (also walking distance to downtown) but book early because they fill up quickly! You’ll also pay a premium at that time of year. Some people prefer not to stay near the main train station but other people don’t mind it.

As to where you could go in Germany to find out about your genealogy, I’d start by searching the genealogy sites online and get as much specific info as you can. You can then try a site like http://www.genealogienetz.de/index_en.html (I haven’t used it, just found it).

If you have 2 weeks, you could fly in and out of Munich and focus on Bavaria. While in Munich you could take a couple day trips to Salzburg, Berchtesgaden, Neuschwanstein, the Alps, etc. You could see a lot at a laid-back pace in 2 weeks!

AirBnB’s are great if you’re going to be somewhere for at least a few days, want a little extra space, a kitchen, etc. Even just being able to make breakfast, coffee/tea, and keep drinks cold for when you come home in the evening is so nice. But you don’t typically get hotel-like services like a prepared breakfast, new towels each day or linen changes. If you want to be walking distance to lots of things in Munich, a hotel near downtown could be a great option. If you’re ok with being in a neighborhood, an AirBnB could be a good choice. There are so many great neighborhoods in Munich so you really just need to look at price, amenities, and distance to the things you want to see. I’ve stayed at hotels near Marienplatz and in an AirBnB further away (maybe a 10-15 minute walk + U-bahn ride to Marienplazt) and I enjoyed both.

I hope that helps!

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HELP……I have been put in charge of coming up with an itinerary for my hubby and 4 of our friends for travel in July 2022. I truly have no idea what I am doing. What we are looking for are castles, beautiful scenery and history (although I have been told that they do not want to go to concentration camps). The following is the tentative itinerary I have come up with. We are looking also, for moderate priced Inns/quaint hotels and castle stays centrally located. Any changes/suggestions/comments would be GREATLY appreciated. We will be renting 2 cars. 1 night Munich drive to Nuremburg 3 nights Nuremburg – drive to Fussen 1 night Fussen – drive to Ettal 3 nights Ettal – drive to Unterwossen 1 night Unterwossen – drive to Salzburg Austria 3 nights Salzburg Austria drive to Munich 1 night Munich – fly home

Hi Linda! Your itinerary looks good for a 2-week trip. Here are few suggestions:

-If you’re flying into Munich, you could drive right to Nuremburg on the first day, since it’s only a couple hours drive from Munich airport. If you pick up your car, drive into Munich, settle into a hotel, and then drive to Nuremburg the next day, you’re using a lot of time for driving/checking in/unpacking/packing and you won’t get to see much of Munich. If you go right to Nuremburg on arrival day and stay for 3 nights, you could add a night to the end of your trip so you have 2 nights in Munich or add a day to Salzburg and keep Munich at 1 night.

-Fussen and Ettal are pretty close to each other so you could stay 3-4 nights in one and then take a day trip to the other. I like to reduce the number of one night stays as much as I can during 1 and 2 week trips for the reasons I mentioned above. You could also stay in Ettal and make day trips to both Fussen and Unterwossen and cut out 2 1-night stays.

-If you don’t want to see Munich, I’d keep that at 1 night and stay near the airport at the end of your trip. If you do want to see Munich, I’d give that 2 nights minimum.

I hope that helps! I think you’ll really enjoy your itinerary!

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Thankyou for all the wonderful suggestions! I’m visiting Germany closer to Christmas for two weeks.

That’s my favorite time to be in Germany! Everything is so beautiful and festive. You might be interested in my Stuttgart Christmas Market article – even if you won’t be near Stuttgart, it will give you an idea of what you can do, see, and eat at any Christmas market. I also talk about 6 other nearby Christmas markets that are super fun to visit. 🙂 Enjoy your trip!!

I had all but given up on our delayed 25 yr Wedding Anniversary(07/28/2020 delayed to Sept 2021, due to covid) trip to Germany. Then I found your website! It reinvigorated our desire to NOT CANCEL our plans! We have a son in Kaiserslautern(rhein main air force base) , and want to split a 2 week trip between seeing 7-8 days traveling in Germany( Berlin, Munich, Cologne, and Stuttgart) and Paris. And then 6 to 7 day visiting our son. We had all but given up, until I read your article. Thanks! I wish that there were some way to have everything planned for us in advance! But, your post at least has assured us that we can make this happen on our own. Thank you very much!!

Definitely don’t cancel your plans, even if you have to postpone! (We had to postpone our anniversary trip, too – such a bummer!) You can definitely make your trip to Germany happen. Here are a few ideas for you…

You could fly into Paris, then travel to Kaiserslautern to see your son and do a day trip to Stuttgart (visit the Christmas market if you’re there in December or nearby Esslingen any time of year) and then either visit Munich and the area around there (fly out of Munich) or travel up to Cologne and over to Berlin (fly out of Berlin).

It’ll be a lot to try to see Paris, spend several days in Kaiserslautern, and also see Cologne, Stuttgart, Munich, and Berlin but if you can combine things – like if your son can go with you to visit Stuttgart and Munich or Cologne and Berlin, you could see a lot of the places you’re interested in. Flying into one city and out of another will help a lot, too.

You could also fly into Munich, then go to Kaiserslautern via Stuttgart, take a short trip to Paris, then go to Berlin via Cologne and fly out of Berlin. Or do the same but start in Berlin and fly out of Munich.

You’ll have a great time no matter your itinerary! 🙂

Your website is a such a great resource! I have a ton of questions about planning a trip, I’m just going to send you an email.

Thank you Komal

Got it and replied 🙂

We’re planning a trip to Germany at the end of February next year. What is the weather typically like during that time? Our itinerary includes arriving in Frankfurt, spending a day in Cologne, then heading to the Black Forest for about three days, followed by three days in Zurich, and returning to Frankfurt for three more days. Do you think this plan is good, or would you suggest any changes? Additionally, what places would you recommend visiting? Lastly, do you think purchasing a Eurail Global Pass is worthwhile for this trip?

The weather will likely still be cold in February but you could have some sunny days. Rain (or even snow) is always a possibility so bring an umbrella or even a waterproof jacket or shoes.

To best answer your other questions, I recommend booking either an itinerary review or a one-on-one consult in Zoom. I’ve helped hundreds of clients answer questions just like yours. 🙂 You can check out both options and read what previous clients have said here: https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/services/

I’d love to help you get your trip sorted so you have the best trip to Germany ever!

What is a good budget for 2 adults in Germany for two weeks?

It’s nearly impossible to give a guideline because it depends on so many things – your travel style, what kind of transportation you want to use, your accommodation & restaurant preferences, etc. I know that’s not very helpful in the short-term but it would be less helpful for me to give you a specific budget not knowing any specifics about you or your trip plans. Plus, most travelers like to splurge in one area and cut back in another but that’s so different for each traveler.

What I recommend is this: start looking at flights, transportation, and accommodations well before you want to book them in order to get an idea of what each costs for your travel dates. Add everything up for 2 weeks and then decide if you’re ok with that amount so far, keeping in mind you’ll still need to add on food, souvenirs, tickets/tours, insurance, and anything you need to get before you leave (clothes, luggage, passport, etc). I like to do this research before I book flights/transport/accommodations. That way I get an idea of what will be my splurge and where I will need to reduce costs to keep within the budget that’s right for me. Everyone’s ideal budget is so different!

hi i am planning to travail to Germany in December 2021 with my family , any idea

My big tip for Germany in December: visit the Christmas markets (if they’re open this year)! You’ll find one in nearly every German city, town and even small villages. They’re outdoors so dress warmly and enjoy the food, drink, and stalls. They’re a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts, too.

Days are short in December, and some touristy sites do shut down in winter, so keep that in mind. But you’ll still find plenty to do after dark, especially if you’re in bigger cities. As long as you take these two things into consideration, you’ll have a great visit no matter where you go!

Hi, my partner and I are wanting to visit Germany in January 2022. I have previously stayed in Wurzburg for 3 weeks and dream of taking my partner there.Seeing as I went with school a few years ago we didn’t really have a chance to look around other parts of local Germany. Where would you recommend us to go whilst in that area? We like architecture (but not too much…) we’re in our 20’s so we also want to have fun 🙂 we’ll either be driving (we live in France) or we’ll be going by train. Will the Christmas markets still be on? I doubt it but you never know… Thanks

Also, we are wanting to go with our dog. Would that be possible or too complicated?

You could easily go to Munich and spend a few days there – lots to see and lots of places to have fun. (I had a great time there in my 20s!) There are also a lot of day trip options – Berchtesgaden, Salzburg, Neuschwanstein, Passau, Regensburg, etc. You could also stop in Nuremberg on your way to Munich. All of that is easy by car or by train – and if you go by train, you could probably do those day trips using a regional train pass. Or you could do guided day trips and not have to plan anything! I’ve got some listed in my Munich guide – https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/munich-travel-guide/

It looks like the Christmas markets are on for 2021 but they could always get canceled in the coming weeks. Most have their last day on Dec. 24 so unfortunately, you won’t get to see them if you visit in January. That just means planning another trip to Germany for December 2022! 🙂

Germany is pretty dog-friendly so it’s probably do-able. But there are likely museums and other sites that might not allow dogs inside. If you mostly want to spend time outdoors, and your dog is ok with possibly very cold/wet/windy weather, or if you can leave the dog at your lodging for part of the day, it might work ok.

Hope that helps!

Hi Cate, you have put together a terrific planning guide. Thanks. Our 4 children just gave us a trip back to Germany in celebration of our 50th wedding anniversary. We lived in Erlangen from Aug 1972 – 1973. We are excited to go back but we are debating between a Rhine river cruise or going on our own. We’ll probably go sometime in May/June or Sept/Oct 2022.

How exciting!! It’s so fun to go back and revisit where you used to live in Germany. Aaron and I did that in 2019 and had such a good time seeing what had/had not changed. I’m excited for you!

I’ve heard people say great things about Rhine river cruises. If you don’t have time to or don’t want to do much trip planning, that’s a great option. The downside is that you’re more limited to what you can do and see. If you have time and interest in planning your own trip, you can definitely do it. And since travel is coming back, I’ll be focusing on this site a lot more in the coming months and helping people plan their trips, so I’ll be here to help you, too. 🙂

Hi Cate, We have wanted to visit Germany (from the US) for a few years now and have finally decided to make it happen, but had no idea where or how to start. Your article is full of valuable information. Thank you. At least we now have a starting point. Our trip isn’t for another year, but it will go quickly. So excited and thank you for all the information.

You’re welcome! I’m so excited for you already. 🙂 The next year will fly by and you’ll be on a plane bound for Germany before you know it. Now that travel is coming back, I’ll be focusing on this site a lot more so be sure to come back when you’re ready to plan your trip. I’m working on lots of guides and helpful resources! 🙂

Hello. My grandfather expressed interest in going to Germany in 2022. More specifically, he wants to go to ‘The Battle of the Bulge’ where his older brother passed away in World War II. We would also like to go to the Holocaust Memorial. I have been trying to research/plan this trip but would be open to suggestions. We are from the US and could spend about a week out there. I am grateful that I stumbled across your blog as it is very informative and interesting! 🙂

Hello! That sounds like it will be a wonderful trip for your grandfather! If you’re talking about visiting the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin (highly recommended), you could fly right into Berlin (their new airport!) and spend half of your time seeing the city, then head to Brussels and take a Battle of the Bulge day tour! I found one here that you can look at (aff link): https://www.getyourguide.com/bastogne-war-museum-l35043/bastogne-battle-of-the-bulge-tour-from-brussels-t169657/?partner_id_Y5UOFLS It looks like it also goes into Luxembourg so you could get 3 countries in one trip. 🙂 If you have enough time, you could take a day trip to Brugges or Ghent – both are 30-60 minutes from Brussels. You could then fly out of Brussels back to the US. To get from Berlin to Brussels you’d probably want to fly but it’s a short flight and you could probably get an early morning or a late afternoon flight so it wouldn’t take up your whole day. Hope that helps with your planning!

Hi, your site is wonderful and has some great information! I am traveling (solo) to Germany in late April and will be there for one month. I have been to Munich/Bavaria/Salzburg before so I’d planned on focusing my trip on the rest of Germany. I’m flying into Berlin and was planning on staying there 4-5 nights, then I’m not sure where to go. I was thinking of spending a week in an area and going on day trips; for example, the Black Forest, the middle Rhine area, maybe Harz Mountain. But I also want to see some cities like Cologne, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Trier, and Hamburg. So maybe a bit of both cities and countryside? Do you have any thoughts? Thanks!

I definitely recommend choosing 3-4 locations where you can stay for a week or so and then take day trips. You could do longer stays in Berlin and Hamburg – there’s tons to do and see in each city, as well as lots of day trip options. You could also do Cologne or try a smaller town on the Rhein or Mosel and explore that area in more depth. For the Black Forest you could stay in the university town of Freiburg and day trip to towns/hiking in the Black Forest, as well as Basel and Colmar/Strassbourg). You could also choose 3 locations for longer stays (e.g., Berlin, Hamburg and Freiburg) and then do a couple of 2 or 3-night stays as you travel between cities, e.g., a short stay in Wernigerode or Quedlinburg (Harz mountains), Trier, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, or Tübingen on your way to Freiburg. Tip: if you want to do a lot of day trips, make sure you stay where it’s fairly quick and easy to get to the train/bus station! Since you’ll be there for a month you have lots of flexibility and plenty of time to do and see a lot of the areas you mentioned!

@Cate, Thank you so much! I’m really enjoying going through your site, too!

Looking for a good travel guide book for Germany any recommendations?

Rick Steve’s is always a good one! I’ve used his guidebooks a ton. You can get his Germany guidebook on Kindle or as a hard copy (aff link): https://amzn.to/33z7d59

@Cate, Thanks

So excited to find your site! My husband and I will travel from Texas to Bavaria for 7-10 days in September. I am in charge of all the planning. I’m thinking Munich & surrounding area and Salzburg. Do you have any suggestions? I’m also pondering some organized day tours..

Munich is a wonderful home base for seeing lots of great sites in Bavaria! You could easily spend 1-3 days in Munich (especially if you’re there during Oktoberfest) and then take day trips to places like Neuschwanstein, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Salzburg, Linderhof, Chiemsee, Berchtesgaden, Nuremberg…just to name a few! You can easily do all of that by train and mix it up with some organized day tours here and there. I’ve been working on a Munich guide that will have ideas for day trips and tours so keep an eye out for that!

Hello Cate, Your blog is very helpful. Like to seek your help and guidance. I am from Singapore and not familiar with Germany. Both me and my wife intend to fly to Amsterdam where my daughter is attending university and spend 18 days vacation with her in Europe during her break. Am planning 7 days touring Germany. Tentatively looking tourist site at hamburg, Berlin, Stuttgart and then off to another country eg. france, switzerland or Italy for another 7 days. then travel back to Amsterdam to fly home. Any advise how we can optimize the traveling as we are not familiar with these region? Appreciate your kind assistance. regards, Perry

It will be so much fun to travel with your daughter! It might be difficult to fit Hamburg, Berlin and Stuttgart into 7 days. On the train it takes about 6 hours from Amsterdam to Hamburg, 3 hours from Hamburg to Berlin, and over 8 hours from Berlin to Stuttgart. While all three of those cities are amazing, I recommend choosing either northern or southwestern Germany, rather than trying to hit all three (or make the Germany part of your trip 10 days).

You could, for example, travel from Amsterdam to Hamburg, then to Berlin, and fly from Berlin to France or Italy. That would give you plenty of time for travel, city exploring and day trips.

Or take the train from Amsterdam to Stuttgart and explore that area. Stuttgart is close to France, so you could spend several days seeing both southwestern Germany (Stuttgart, villages in the Black Forest, Freiburg, Baden-Baden, etc) and French cities like Strassbourg, Colmar and Mullouse. You could also very easily go to Basel in Switzerland! It’s a long train ride from Amsterdam to Stuttgart so I’d look into flights. Stuttgart is a great airport to fly into!

Hi, my family and I would like to visit Germany this summer. My husband and I have two teenagers (15 and 13), and one of them is reads a lot and it is very interested in history. We would like to visit german cities but also, some concentration camps. Our plans is to spend two weeks there. Any suggestions?

You’re going to have so much fun in Germany! Everywhere you go there’s so much history, so it just depends on what kind of history you’re looking for. For a 2-week stay you could easily visit 2 (maybe 3) different parts of Germany without feeling like you’re spending your whole vacation on the train or in the car. You could, for example, fly into Munich, visit the city and Dachau concentration camp, take a few day trips to Salzburg, the Alps, Neuschwanstein, Nuremburg, etc – there are so many options!…then visit the Black Forest area, the Rhein/Mosel area, the Hamburg area or the Berlin area and fly out of that second city (Stuttgart, Cologne/Düsseldorf, Hamburg or Berlin). If you want to focus on 2 main areas, say Munich and Berlin, you could do a 1-2 night stopover in a city in-between. Hope that helps you get started on your planning! 🙂

@Cate, We are from USA planning on attending next years NfL game if possible. We are a large group 10-15people who would also like to see the culture and history. Open to staying in Berlin, munich, or anywhere else as long as accessible to get to game. We want to fly out wed night from BOS be there Th F S Su (game in Frankfurt) leave M. Anything you would recommend?

Hi! I just now saw your question. If you’re flying into FRA and have Th, F, and S to do some sight-seeing, I’d stick to the Frankfurt area and do day trips. If you go to Berlin or Munich you’ll spend most of your time in transit and checking in/out of hotels. We’ve got a Frankfurt guide on our website and also a castles guide – so you could spend a day exploring FRA, then a day visiting a castle, and then 1 day visiting a nearby city like Heidelberg, Nürnberg or Rothernburg ob der Tauber. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. We’ve also got a Germany Trip Planner and one-on-one travel consults, too. And lots of info on this website. We’re happy to help!

I just found your great website! We have just drafted a 3 week trip plan to Germany and Austria and I would love your thoughts about it!. Is late May better than June? (I really can’t do heat without AC!)

– [ ] 2. Land in Vienna- 2 nights… – [ ] 3. Take tour or just Spend a day in the sprawling Schönbrunn Palace, – [x] 4. Rental car to Take KM 29 for about an hour to Burg Liechtenstein drive an hour to Melk Abbey Then Steyr From Melk, Steyr 1 night stay – [x] 5. Spend a little time, touring the Steyr Mannlicher! – [x] 6. Wake up early and bike 15 minutes to spend the morning exploring more of Halstatt before the day-trippers.. Sky Walk salt mine – [x] 7. After lunch, enjoy more the beauty of Salzkammergut area! on to Salzburg in time to return the rental car. we will stay in the old town (Salzburg 3 nights) – [ ] 8. See Salzburg – [ ] 9. Take guided tour to Eagles nest – [ ] 10: To Munich by 2 hour train.. taxi to hotel, Sleep Munich 2 nights … – [ ] 11. Guided tour all day— Dachau and Munich sites – [x] 12 Slow morning to rest, checkout, cab, 1.5 hour train to Oberarmagau for lunch and stroll. Rent car in Garmish and Drive another hour to Sleep in Hohenschwangau 2 nights Maybe take 30 minute Schloss Hornschwangau Castle tour before closing if time – [x] 13 Visit Neuschwanstein! (Hohenschwangau castle first if not last evening) then rent a bike and go a mile -7 minutes to Tegelberg luge ride – [x] 14 drive 2.5-4 hours but first stop for lunch and see Ulm Cathedral. Going Opposite the crowds arrive in afternoon to stay in nearby Rothenburg 3 nights. See stunning Rothenburg – [x] 15 After coffee and quiet streets, walk the medieval wall. If crowds arrive, leave and drive a short way and tour the Bad Weinsheim Frankonian Open Air Museum – [x] 16 Drive 30 min to Ansbach, park and Take 30 min train and10 min cab into Neuremburgfor day. – [x] 17. leave in early morning and drive 3-5 hours through To St Goar take B9 along the Rhine from Bingen arrive in time to tour Burg Eltz and then maybe return car in Emmelshausen this day or next. Take cab back down to nearby St Goar for 3 nights. – [ ] 18 See Burg Eltz castle if not seen yesterday and then see Marksburg castle – [ ] 19 REST maybe just board a boat for a relaxing Rhine River cruise from Sant Goar. We will disembark to visit small Bacharach and back again by train. – [ ] 20 Depart by 70minute train to Frankfurt airport Or would it be better to do the trip in reverse, starting with Germany first? Thank you!!

It’s not usually super hot in May but it can be hot in mid-late June. The last time we were there in June (2019) it was incredibly hot and there isn’t as much a/c there…but you never know, I’ve had cold and rainy June visits, too. If you want to be more sure of not-super-hot weather, I’d go in mid-late May or early to mid-June — as long as you’re ok with the possibility of some not-so-warm days. If you go in mid-late June and don’t love hot weather, book hotels with a/c, rent a car with a/c, and plan to buy a lot of cold drinks. No matter the weather, it’s always fun to travel around Germany! 🙂

You could easily do your itinerary either way so I’d just look at whether flights are better into Vienna/out of FRA or vice-versa. Check the hotels you want to stay in to make sure they have availability — I’ve actually reversed my itinerary before due to hotel availability!

You’re planning to cover a lot of ground in 3 weeks and be on the go go go, which some people find more tiring than expected…but if you know your travel style, then go for it! 🙂 3 nights in one place gives you 2 full days, which is a good amount of time for most places. 2 nights means 1 full day, which can be enough in some locations but if you do many in a row, it can feel like you’re constantly checking in/unpacking/packing/checking out, and can get super tiring if you’re doing a lot of day trips.

Be sure to plan in time for getting ready, eating breakfast, packing, checking out of the hotel, getting to the train station/car rental – it often takes up more time than you’d expect. Trains aren’t as punctual as they used to be, so keep that in mind for what you plan on arrival after a train trip.

An idea — instead of taking a train to Oberammergau, then to Garmisch to rent a car, then driving to Hohenschwangau, I’d rent a car in Munich and drive to each place. It will probably be less expensive to rent in Munich and easier than doing the train and car pick-up (especially with luggage!).

For the longer drives, plan on them taking longer than what’s estimated in google maps because there’s often traffic! If you miss the traffic and arrive early, it’ll be a nice bonus!

Your idea to add in some guided day tours is a good one – it’s a nice change from having to figure everything out yourself and can feel like a mini vacation from your vacation.

Overall, you’ve got a really fun trip planned!

Hi Cate! I love your clear way of describing and explaining. My husband and I are invited to a wedding outside of Berlin the last weekend in April. From there we would love to head to the spas in Baden-Baden .. what else would you suggest to see in the Baden-Baden area and without driving the best transportation option? We can stay up to about 10 days. Thank you!

Thank you for your nice comment! 🙂 I’d take the train from Berlin to Baden-Baden. It’s about 6 hours and you can relax and see the sights along the way. You could fly from Berlin to Stuttgart but by the time you travel to the airport in Berlin (the new one is further out than Tegel was), check in, wait to board, fly, and then take the train from Stuttgart to Baden-Baden, it’s at least as long as – if not longer – then taking the train.

When in Baden-Baden you could visit Gengenbach, the Black Forest, Triberg (cuckoo clocks & waterfalls), Tübingen, Stuttgart/Esslingen, Lichtenstein Castle, Hohenzollern Castle, Freiburg, Basel (Switzerland), Strassbourg (France), Colmar (France) — just to name a few! You should be able to reach all of these places via train/bus. The Black Forest Open Air Museum is also a lot of fun! I’m working on guides to several of these locations – and some are already on the site – so check back soon for new ones. 🙂

You should be able to get a free KONUS train pass, which enables you to travel throughout the Black Forest region for free. I don’t think it works for every place I listed but it will get you to several of them. Here’s more info about the KONUS card: https://www.schwarzwald-tourismus.info/planen-buchen/konus-gaestekarte (you can switch to English if it’s in German).

You could fly out of Stuttgart airport or travel up to Frankfurt and fly out of there. Strassbourg or Basel might work, too.

@Cate, that really does! Thanks again,

You’re very welcome!

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I am planning a trip with my husband, 18 year old daughter, mother in law and myself. We will have 8 nights total flying Munich to Amsterdam or vice versa. Interested in the Christmas markets, of course, castles (would love if we could stay the night in a castle if that’s possible), and just getting an authentic German experience. My mother in law found family ancestry in Stuttgart, so she would like to stop there. The other areas that we have an interest in are Frankfurt, Cologne (wonder if there is such thing as a day cruise on the Rhine River), and maybe Hamburg (for the canals, but I’m not sure December is the best time of year for that). Although, I’m not sure we’ll be able to see all those cities in just 8 nights, as we would also like 1-2 nights in Amsterdam.

We plan to rent a car and I will be doing the driving. We live in Colorado so I’m familiar with winter driving, but wonder if I can use Google maps while traveling through Germany.

Would love your thoughts or suggestions on this.

Thank you, Lea Ann

Hi Lea Ann, you’ve got the makings of a magical winter trip! All of the places you mentioned will be beautiful in December because of the Christmas markets. Stuttgart, for example, has a huge, old Christmas market (plus there are 2 other really beautiful ones nearby) and there are 2 nearby castles you can visit. Hamburg and Cologne and also wonderful cities (Frankfurt too but I’d skip it on a short trip unless you have a specific reason to go there).Amsterdam is also a lot of fun and a great place to fly in or out of.

It’s a lot to fit into 8 nights so you’ll definitely need to hone in on just a few places, otherwise you’ll spend your entire trip packing/unpacking/driving. 🙂

You can use google maps in Germany and that’ll make getting from place to place easy. But unless you want to stop at specific sights between cities, you could easily take the train, since you’re going to big cities (you don’t need a car in any of the cities you want to visit). If you don’t mind parking the car at each hotel in the city, a car can give you more flexibility.

You can also stay in a castle in Germany! We’ve got a guide for that right here so you can see which one you like best.

It’s hard to get more specific about an itinerary here in the comments without taking to you and getting a better sense of your interests and needs but we’ve got lots of resources to help you — Christmas market guides (definitely take a look at the Stuttgart one!), city and hotel guides , and we’ve also got a Germany Travel Bundle with an interactive Germany Travel Map, City Cheatsheets, and other resources, and I do one-on-one trip planning consults .

And be sure to join our travel planning Facebook group !

@Cate, thank you for your quick response and feedback! I’ll check out the links you shared and I’ve joined your Facebook group.

You’re welcome! Glad you joined the group! 🙂

Hi Cate , I have visited Germany but only Düsseldorf for my sugery. I will like to take my wife and kids with me this time I have an appointment in December might use the opportunity to take them for Christmas holiday . I have 12’night in total . 5 night in Düsseldorf can you please advise which city we can visit for the rest days and we are not leaving Germany until 26th. So I want them To enjoy the Christmas but I don’t know which city to choose .I will you to please give me where the kids can enjoy the trip age 8 ,6 and 3 . Do we fly back from Düsseldorf or from Another city ? Thanks for your help.

If you’d like to fly out of the Düsseldorf airport, you could spend the second part of your trip in Cologne so you could visit the markets there, in Bonn, and surrounding area (e.g. a day trip to Aachen).

If you’re ok with flying out of a different airport, you could go to Stuttgart (good Christmas markets in the area and a couple castles), Munich (good markets and day trips) or Berlin (good markets and day trips) and fly out of any of those airports.

Most everything will be closed on Dec 25 and the latter half of Dec 24 so keep that in mind when doing your daily planning.

Hope that helps with your planning!

Hi, Thank you for the detail page. I and my family will be visiting to watch a NFL game in Frankfurt and had some travel ideas outside of the city that I have not found solutions for. First, are US citizens allowed to rent cars without a permit? We want to travel to Stuttgart and Munich for some museums and possibly Berlin, but I’ve yet to figure how time and distances for the trip as these do seem to be quite a distance from each other. Then, we would end the trip back in Frankfurt to travel back to the US, unless we find an airline in Berlin. Do you have suggestions? This would be a 7-14 day trip, depending on cost. Thank you

Hi Marco! Yes, you can rent a car with just your US driver’s license. While not required, an int’l driver’s license can be helpful if you get pulled over or in an accident (you can get on at AAA). You can check distance between those cities via google maps (it’ll show you both driving and trains). I always add 25% to the times they suggest because there’s a good chance you’ll encounter traffic somewhere. We use google maps for all of our road trips in Germany. You could definitely do Frankfurt – Stuttgart – Munich – Berlin – Frankfurt (stay near airport on the last night) in 14 days. If you don’t want to drive from Munich – Berlin – Frankfurt, you could return the car in Munich and then take the train to Berlin and back to Frankfurt. Hope that helps you get started on your trip planning!

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 25 Best Things to Do in Germany

25 Best Things to Do in Germany

Forested and hilly, the country of Germany , or Deutschland if you prefer, brings back memories of long walks in beautiful forests and visiting castles. In my younger days I’ve spent a lot of time in the country and really enjoyed all of it. Although when my parents made us do long walks on rainy days I remember being rather cranky.

Germany has a long and rich history and I’m sure you have heard of names like Albert Einstein, Ludwig van Beethoven and Karl Marx… but besides the cultural aspect of the country I’m sure many will also be envisioning a beautiful busty blond girl in traditional clothing that serves you half a liter of beer and a plate of bradwurst mit sauerkraut:P

But let’s get on with the top 25 things to do in Germany !

1. Hohenschwangau, southwest Bavaria: Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)

Like a fairytale castle, the Schloss Neuschwanstein rises up above the Bavarian woods. In fact, the Bavarian ‘schloss’ served as a blueprint for the castle in Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty, and you will understand exactly why, given that its Germany’s most photographed building.

The castle is exquisitely designed, both in terms of architecture, and with respect to the regale adornment both on the exterior and within the interior. Ludwig II of Bavaria is responsible for commissioning the castle in the mid-nineteenth century to serve as a retreat, and due to his love for classical music conceived by Richard Wagner, he dedicated the castle to the composer.

Book a day trip from Munich: Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day

2. Berlin: Berlin Wall

On August 13, 1961, a dramatic turn of events shaped the cityscape of Berlin for many years to come. The Berlin wall, which was erected to impede the escape of East Berliners from the Soviet-regulated East German state, from that day forward served as a mainstay of disunity, fear, and of universal oppression.

Today, the remaining fragments of the Berliner Mauer are nothing more than graffiti-covered lengths of concrete and dilapidation, but still, the sight is enough to attract visitors by the thousands, irrespective there’s nothing attractive about it.

Recommended tour : Guided Bike Tour of the Berlin Wall and Third Reic

3. Berlin: Erholungspark Marzahn

The German authorities ambitiously undertook the creation of Erholungspark Marzahn, a public park in Marzahn, and it was completed in 1987. The result being a rather unique combination of an oasis of tranquility combined with cosmopolitan beauty, and all within a bustling urban reality.

The Chinese garden, which was completed exclusively by local landscape architects and artisans, represents the largest garden of its kind outside China. A visit to the gardens will allow you to witness ponds, pavilions, watercourses, traditional architecture, as well as ceremonies which are symbolic of countries such as Italy and Korea. Certainly a marvelous work of art that ought to be experienced by every visitor to Berlin.

4. Berchtesgaden : Berchtesgaden National Park

The Berchtesgaden National Park is representative of nature devoid of much disturbance by the human hand. In essence, the national park is a haven of lush forests, crystal clear lakes, steep rock faces, rolling meadows, and sleepy little villages.

Trails that are clearly indicated wind through the gorgeous scenery while they brim with opportunities for cycling, hiking, and Nordic walking. And do be sure to see lake Königssee, which rivals most Norwegian fjords for sheer beauty, the only difference being that the lake is far cleaner.

Book online : From Salzburg: Berchtesgaden and Königssee

5. Aachen: Aachen Cathedral

Finalized in 935, Aachen Cathedral, also referred to as the “Imperial Cathedral”, is the oldest cathedral in all of northern Europe. Between 936 and 1531, the establishment served as the church for the coronation of 30 German kings in addition to 12 German queens.

It was originally inspired by churches which were found in the Eastern Holy Roman Empire, and was developed throughout the Middle Ages while being further adorned by subsequent authorities thereby making it a complex and sophisticated masterpiece of architecture. It has inspired many other German constructions and is perhaps even more impressive in that it was chosen to be the final resting place for the eminent medieval ruler, Charlemagne.

6. Schleswig-Holstein: Sylt

The unusually named Sylt tends to epitomize much about Germany that people frequently feel is lacking – serenity, shifting sand dunes, nail-biting surf, a laid-back atmosphere, picturesque lighthouses, and plenty of sunshine.

Frequently referred to as the “St. Tropez of the North”, Sylt, which lies on an elongated piece of land on Germany’s northern coast overlooking the North Sea, is seen to be a fine combination of exuberant nature and world-class glamor, where high-class boutiques together with bustling restaurants and tranquil coves witness wave upon wave of tourists throughout the summer months. If nothing else, the vistas are enthralling.

7. Rhineland-Palantinate: Burg Eltz

Many who have visited Burg Eltz in Rhineland-Palantinate say that it’s Germany’s most beautiful castle and it typifies what historical courtyard romanticism should be about. It’s certainly true to say that the castle makes for a dazzling impression, and it is among the very few medieval fortresses in Europe to have remained completely intact.

The conical towers rise up gratifyingly from the lushness of the Elzbach valley, and the elaborate Gothic ornamentation is more than worthy of an arduous walk up the hill. Interestingly enough, the castle comes with a good number of 15th century lavatories that are fully flushable, which is in stark contrast to the sophisticated and enchanting Versailles which has none.

8. Herreninsel: Schloss Herrenchiemsee

King Ludwig II of Bavaria had the intention of creating a Royal Palace in the midst of Bavaria’s largest lake when he acquired Schloss Herrenchiemsee in 1873. It’s not a surprising choice either, given that the venue is most thoroughly breath-taking.

Schloss Herrenchiemsee, which translates to “New Palace”, was the king’s final and most grandiose project, draining more effort and money than either of his other two castles. Representing the epitome of overabundance, luxury, splendor, and vanity, and whilst being modeled on Versailles, the castle overflows with gold and really should not be missed, even for the wonderful setting for the palace alone.

Suggested tour : Herrenchiemsee Palace and Boat Trip Day-Tour

9. Würzburg: Würzburg Residence

Because of the Archbishop Johan von Schonborn’s insatiable and deeply curious requirements for a splendid construction, based on his obstinacy alone, the marvelous Würzburg Residence, which is in the Baroque architectural style, was completed.

Among those involved in its planning were the most distinguished architects from Germany, France, and Austria, and finally an imposing U-shaped palace was conceived, together with its 300 rooms. The luxurious innards are to be witnessed to be believed and the well-groomed gardens stretch around the palace in an all-encompassing fashion. The residence is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Related tour : Würzburg: Sightseeing Train Tour

10. Upper Middle Rhine Valley

The Middle Rhine Valley has for centuries facilitated cultural transitions between the north and the Mediterranean, acting as one of the most significant routes for transport in Europe. Yet it’s the upper 40 mile (65 km) stretch that has provided a limitless source of stimulus for artists.

Abundant in sun-drenched vineyards, historic towns, and idyllic castles, the area very aptly reflects the harmonious relationship that people can have with their surroundings. To experience and witness the area from the finest vantage point, it’s prudent to discover it by boat, and ideally aboard the last of the Rhine’s remaining paddle steamers – Goethe.

11. Saxony: Dresden Elbe Valley

Towering castles, bucolic villages, historic centers, magnificent churches, and colossal bridges all dot a small 12.5 mile (20 km) stretch of the Dresden Elbe Valley, where the natural and cultural values combine together, making it the ideal weekend getaway.

The valley is filled with unpretentious beauty while simultaneously being a throng of dramatic events, which work together to make it a stimulating and yet soothing landscape that offers plenty of interest to all its visitors. In spite of the tragic 1945 allied bombings, Dresden still represents a wonderful blend of culture, politics, education, and economics, thereby making a terrific base for traveling throughout the Elbe Valley.

Recommended tour : Dresden: Segway Tour Along the Elbe and Old Town

12. Köln (Cologne): Köln Dom (Cologne Cathedral)

Though Cologne Cathedral was under construction for around 600 years, the curious thing about it is that every added detail emulates the original design. In 1996, UNESCO added the cathedral to the World Heritage List, and for good reason as the construction is something of a masterpiece of engineering.

The cathedral sits on the site of a Roman temple from the 4th century, and houses three golden-crowned skulls which are thought to be from the Three Magi. The elaborate decoration of the cathedral and imposing façade invariably strike the unsuspecting visitor with awe.

Take a tour : City Highlights with Local Guide

13. Bavaria: Wies Church

Wies Church, which stands humbly in the midst of nowhere in particular, tends to pose questions among its visitors as to why it should have been erected in such a solitary place. Nevertheless, driven forth from the initial curiosity, upon entering the whitewashed building, they are often left speechless.

Where once a dilapidated wooden figurine stood – a crying portrait of the Scourged Saviour – now rises in its place a divine palace in all its fervent glory. And needless to say, fully deserved of its UNESCO status. The acute clash between the raw outer surroundings and the amazingly ornate interior serves to ignite the spiritual and uniquely aesthetical experience.

14. Berlin: Museumsinsel (Museum Island)

This cluster of 19th century buildings in the neoclassical style, which is regarded as among the world’s momentous museum complexes, is settled on the tip of an island in the Spree River. The museums, of which there are five, host splendid collections of ethnological and historical wares as well as a congregation of art pieces, including Byzantine and Late Antique works in addition to a variety of sculptures. The sheer vastness of the assemblage ensures that there is something for everyone.

15. Regensburg: Old Town of Regensburg

Regensburg was founded by the Romans in 179 A.D. and is now a thriving cultural and trading center. The old town bears witness to a plethora of exquisite marks of a wonderfully prosperous history, and as such, it has been bestowed with UNESCO World Heritage honors.

A stroll through the town provides for a sensory experience of German artistry and romanticism. Brilliantly preserved and entirely unscathed by countless wars, it’s not so much an urban hub as it is an outdoor museum. Countless monastic ensembles and churches make up a large part of the area, together with patrician houses and towers. Once there, it’s easy to imagine that you’ve embarked on a journey throughout the Middle Ages.

Useful tour : Regensburg: Sightseeing Train Tour

16. Potsdam: Sanssouci Park

Sanssouci (sans souci – without worries) Park in Potsdam was originally a simple terraced garden utilized by Frederick the Great as a way for him to relax from his royal burdens. However, the King realized that the location offered a magical ambience, after which, he arranged a sizable residence to be established, which more latterly was followed by one venue after another.

Thus, the original orchard was transformed into an extensive park, together with luxuriant palaces and lavishly landscaped gardens. Today, Sanssouci Park represents a sophisticated place which is fit for a taste of relaxation in a particularly royal style.

17. Quedlinburg: Old Town of Quedlinburg

Quedlinburg’s roots date back to the 9th century to the time of the Carolingian Dynasty. The town originally consisted of nothing more than a number of tiny villages, but today, these tiny villages make up a maze of cobblestoned streets that lead visitors past decorative exteriors of old-day tenements, multi-colored houses with small flower-laden gardens, and magnificently picturesque temples. There’s plenty of historical value and romanticism to be found in the Old Town of Quedlinburg.

18. Weimar: Weimar Museums

Once the stomping ground for the likes of Nietzsche, Liszt, Bach, Goethe, Schiller, and more, these days, Weimar is a hotbed for a tourist swarm with an intellectual orientation. The number of exquisite museums in Weimar reflects an atmosphere of real anticipation.

The 1,000-year-old town might not have you in raptures on account of its stunning architecture, but as the center for German Enlightenment, it will more than likely stimulate your mind and is certainly worthy of an extended visit.

19. Bamberg: Schlenkerla Brewery and Tavern

If you’re arriving in Germany for the beer and you’re not arriving in time for the Oktoberfest, then Bamberg’ Schlenkerla Brewery will definitely compensate you in every which way. You may think that going all the way to Franconia in order to get a few glasses of good barley beer is rather ill-advised, but if you’re keen on the concept of enjoying a smoke beer that’s been tapped directly from the barrel, a wooden barrel that is, then Bamberg, and in particular Schlenkerla, is the ideal choice.

Otherwise, however, the town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in that it has exerted a major architectural influence upon the country as a whole, and it’s also southern Germany’s Center of Enlightenment. Plenty enough reason to make the journey now?

Highlighted tour : Bamberg: 1.5-Hour Guided Beer Tour

20. Maulbronn: Maulbronn Abbey (Kloster Maulbronn)

Founded in 1137 by Cistercian monks, Maulbronn Abbey is among the best maintained medieval monastic complexes to be seen north of the Alps. Legend has it that during a lengthy journey from Alsace, the monks stopped to water their mules. Whilst there, they became enchanted with the place and opted to establish a settlement (in English, Maulbronn means “mule-well”).

The diligence of the monks brought the awareness of Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, who then welcomed the monastery under his auspices, which in turn led to a wealth of funding. Although development thrived, the Reformation halted the proceedings and the Maulbronn residents were rejected from the monastery.

Trier has a 2,000-year history which makes it the oldest town in the country. Nevertheless, it’s not merely worthy of exploration given its age. The town was home to no less than six different Roman emperors and has thus inherited an impressive array of ancient remnants, many of which are perfectly preserved.

The most impressive example is the Porta Nigra (Black Gate), which was once an important element within the city walls. The picturesque town of Trier is nestled into the Moselle river valley, and is crowned with a myriad of pastoral villages and vineyards. The hospitality and cuisine to be enjoyed is something never to be forgotten.

22. Rust: Europa-Park

As you’d likely expect, Europa-Park offers terrific fun while simultaneously providing an unobstructed and pleasurable learning experience. Located within the heart of a top-notch resort, the theme park resembles a pocket-sized version of the European continent.

Take a ride at the Silverstone Race Track in a Formula 1 racing car, visit the Russian MIR space station, enjoy freshly baked bread from the “Quartier Francais”, or pleasure from the charms of some of Italy’s hot spots. There’s truly something for everyone here, irrespective of age or gender.

Book online : Rust: Europa-Park Entrance Ticket

23. Berlin: Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)

It could be argued that the Brandenburg Gate is simply a gate like any other large gate in the world, and that’s true in terms of the superficial aspect. Nevertheless, there is a story behind this particular gate.

At one time, when the infamous Berlin Wall still stood in all its concrete glory, the 197 ft. (60 m) tall Brandenburg Gate, which was located towards the end of Unter den Linden, represented a part of the physical division and mental obstruction between the east and west sides of the city. Quite on the contrary, these days, the Gate is much more a towering symbol of unity and peace, not only for the German peoples but the world over.

24. Munich: BMW Museum

The structure of the BMW Museum in Munich is representative of cutting-edge architectural work, together with its distinctive configuration as a futuristic silver bowl. Once you enter into the dynamic interior, you’ll rapidly begin to realize that there’s a lot more to BMW automobile manufacturing than simply prestige.

It’s an artistic creation, a means of expression, and ultimately the product of a world where inspiration meets reality. Though you may not yet have much idea about the world of the motor car, upon leaving the BMW Museum in Munich, you’ll have a far deeper appreciation for the trade.

25. Hamburg: Modelleisenbahn Miniatur Wunderland

Upon making a visit to the Modelleisenbahn Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg, you’ll be treated to 6.84 miles (11 km) of train track which winds around the huge floor space and travels through Scandinavia, the Swiss Alps, the U.S. and a variety of German destinations.

Everything is in great detail, from the trains themselves to the stations that the trains visit, to the trees that line the tracks. The $12.5 million enterprise is the largest in the world and without doubt deserves plenty of tourist attention.

Skip-the-line : Priority Entrance: Miniatur Wunderland

25 Best Things to Do in Germany:

• Hohenschwangau, southwest Bavaria: Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)
• Berlin: Berlin Wall
• Berlin: Erholungspark Marzahn
• Berchtesgaden: Berchtesgaden National Park
• Aachen: Aachen Cathedral
• Schleswig-Holstein: Sylt
• Rhineland-Palantinate: Burg Eltz
• Herreninsel: Schloss Herrenchiemsee
• Würzburg: Würzburg Residence
• Upper Middle Rhine Valley
• Saxony: Dresden Elbe Valley
• Köln (Cologne): Köln Dom (Cologne Cathedral)
• Bavaria: Wies Church
• Berlin: Museumsinsel (Museum Island)
• Regensburg: Old Town of Regensburg
• Potsdam: Sanssouci Park
• Quedlinburg: Old Town of Quedlinburg
• Weimar: Weimar Museums
• Bamberg: Schlenkerla Brewery and Tavern
• Maulbronn: Maulbronn Abbey (Kloster Maulbronn)
• Rust: Europa-Park
• Berlin: Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)
• Munich: BMW Museum
• Hamburg: Modelleisenbahn Miniatur Wunderland

Germany: The perfect destination with beautiful nature and cultural attractions for every taste

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The sun is warming the air, the days are getting longer, everywhere things are budding and blossoming: it's spring in Germany - time for getaways, blossom festivals, asparagus feasting and popular Easter traditions.

Summer At Last: Beer Gardens, Swimming Fun, Strawberry Ice Cream

Golden sunshine, colourful forests: the Indian summer can also be found in Germany. An ideal time for active holidaymakers and wellness fans. And for epicures, since this is harvest time.

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Destination Germany

Would you like to travel to Germany as a tourist? Here you’ll find all the important information you need for an unforgettable stay.

Whether you love nature or history, mountains or the sea, Germany has something to offer for everyone. From majestic castles set amid picturesque landscapes to the lively streets of Berlin, there are countless hidden treasures to discover in the country. Here you will find valuable information about popular destinations, cultural highlights, local traditions and delicious dishes along with practical travel tips. Get ready for a journey through Germany to explore fascinating cities, breathtaking mountain landscapes and intriguing UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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Entry requirements, how can i get about in the country, travelling on a budget, what do i need to know before the trip, food and drink, the most attractive towns and cities, outdoor excursions, history and technology, history up close, unesco world heritage, the great outdoors, where can i stay the night, germany from a distinctive perspective, germany from a digital perspective.

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To get you in the mood, we’ve put together a summary of some of Germany’s magical spots, magnificent natural attractions and a few ideas as to what you might like to do on your trip to Germany:

What are the requirements for tourists entering Germany?

Tourists from EU countries in the Schengen area and from many other countries can enter without any further formalities. All other travellers need a tourist visa for a 90-day stay: the type C Schengen visa. Check this list issued by the German Foreign Ministry Auswärtiges Amt to find out if you need a visa:

https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/-/231148

You can obtain a visa from the German embassy or consulate in your country. It will also provide you with details of any requirements that apply.

How can I travel in Germany?

Germany is well-known for its motorways . They criss-cross the country in all directions. With the exception of a few islands, you can get to virtually every point of interest in Germany by car. Travelling by train in Germany is very convenient, too: the local and long-distance public transport network has trains and buses that serve virtually the entire country. The major cities and their surrounding areas in particular offer excellent transportation links. One convenient option for travel between larger towns and cities is that of the long-distance buses. There is also domestic air traffic – though given that Germany is not overly extensive in size, more ecofriendly forms of travel are available.

Here you will find tips for travelling in Germany:

Bonus tip: how can I travel in Germany on a limited budget?

Travelling costs money, and even though there are a lot of countries that are more expensive than Germany, it is certainly not one of the cheapest holiday destinations. The longer you want to spend exploring Germany, the more this applies, of course: travel, accommodation, food and drink are necessary expenses. One option is to earn the cost of your trip in Germany itself while you are there.

Find out all about work and travel in Germany:

What are the most important things I need to know when travelling to Germany?

Germany is made up of 16 federal states , but this won’t affect you in terms of tourist travel. There are no noticeable borders between the states and the same laws apply everywhere throughout the country. Germany has a nationwide system of healthcare consisting of general practitioners and hospitals. In order to keep costs low in the event of illness or accident, tourists are advised to take out travel health insurance for the duration of their visit to Germany. All common means of payment are accepted in Germany, though paying with cash is still widespread, especially in the case of small amounts. Food in Germany is international: Italian, Turkish and Asian cuisine is to be found practically everywhere. German cuisine with all its specialities is an option too, of course.

What can I eat and drink when I visit Germany?

The restaurant landscape in Germany is practically unlimited and highly diverse. In big cities in particular it is possible to find almost every type of international cuisine, often in gourmet quality, too. Virtually every town in Germany has a pizzeria, a kebab restaurant or a Chinese restaurant serving good food that is reasonably priced. But tourists will want to try the country’s own typical dishes and drinks, too. Some dishes require a little tolerance, unlike perhaps the most common German drinks such as beer and wine. When it comes to beer and wine, it’s always a good idea to try regional specialities.

What places should I visit in Germany?

There are hundreds of worthwhile destinations in Germany. Here you will find the most popular places for tourists from abroad to visit in Germany:

Everything you need to know about the most attractive German towns and cities

But this is only a small selection of course. You might be asking yourself: where do I start my trip to Germany? What are the most frequently visited towns and cities in Germany ? Maybe you’d like to get to know the big German cities ? Hamburg, the port city on the North Sea, Berlin, the German capital, Leipzig, the cultural centre in the east, or Cologne, the city with the famous cathedral? Frankfurt, the city of banks and museums? Or Munich, home to the Oktoberfest, situated on the edge of the Alps? Each of these cities has a long and fascinating history, even dating back to Roman times in some cases.

Our bonus tip: “Berlin for free”

You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money if you want to visit Germany. Here we have compiled a special set of tips for those who’d like to get to know Berlin (almost) for free:

Everything you need to know for a trip to the countryside in Germany

Germany has a rich variety of landscapes: the islands in the North Sea and Baltic Sea , extensive plains in the north rising to the lower mountain ranges, and then Germany’s highest point in the far south – the Zugspitze in the picturesque Alps. In all these regions you will find unique and stunning landscapes, romantic river valleys, majestic mountains such as the Brocken in the Harz Mountains or the Feldberg in the legendary Black Forest – and there are even enchanted primeval forests, too.

The different landscapes provide habitats for numerous different animal species. If you are interested in wild animals, this is the right place for you:

Everything you need to know about cultural and historical highlights on your trip to Germany

No one can visit the land of Goethe, Bach and Beethoven without at least encountering in some form the mark left by these and other great artists – or indeed hearing their works. Germany is the country with the most symphony orchestras and opera houses. The Berlin Philharmonic is considered one of the best orchestras in the world, and more than a third of the world’s opera performances take place in Germany. In Berlin alone there are three opera houses, the Semperoper in Dresden is world-famous, too, and then of course there is the Festspielhaus in Bayreuth, where only works by Richard Wagner are performed. Popular music has an equally important role to play: with festivals such as “Rock am Ring” at the Nürburgring motor racing track and concerts ranging from local bands to international superstars, there is something on offer to suit every taste.

Great art treasures in impressive museums

In Germany, cultural education is seen as a responsibility of the public sector, which is why many museums receive funding from the state. This is another reason why the country has countless museums that many millions of people visit every year. Berlin has an entire museum island – a must-see on any visit to the capital. The Alte Pinakothek in Munich, the Städel Museum in Frankfurt, Museum Ludwig and the Wallraff-Richartz Museum in Cologne, the Staatsgalerie in Stuttgart and the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister in Dresden – the list of outstanding exhibition venues is virtually endless. The advantage from your point of view when travelling to Germany: it’s usually not far to go to the nearest major museum.

Spectacular presentations of history and technology

Museums are not only dedicated to the fine arts, of course. The largest technology museum of its kind in the world is in Munich: the Deutsches Museum. 1.5 million people visit it every year. Another spectacular place to see is the Sinsheim Museum of Technology, where a real Concorde is on display – still the fastest passenger aircraft ever. Anyone visiting Frankfurt am Main who is interested in natural history should be sure not to miss the Senckenberg Museum.

German history is featured in numerous museums, with both its dark and bright sides. The largest German-language cultural history museum is the Germanisches Nationalmuseum in Nuremberg. Meanwhile, the Buchenwald memorial on the site of a former concentration camp near the Goethe and Schiller city of Weimar is dedicated to the crimes perpetrated under National Socialism.

Where can I immerse myself in German history up close?

Finding out about history in a museum is fascinating, but here are some tips for you if you want to really immerse yourself in the past. Open-air museums bring bygone times back to life, ancient walls give you history at first hand and historical festivals offer a glimpse of what life must have felt like in past eras.

Unique destinations in Germany: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The United Nations awards a distinctive seal of quality to particularly outstanding natural or cultural monuments. They are declared by UNESCO to be World Heritage Sites . Here you can find out which of these places you should definitely not miss in Germany:

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Are you a nature-lover wanting to get a feel for the great outdoors in Germany?

It is possible to explore cities and landscapes on foot. Those wishing to cover lengthier distances in the countryside may prefer to travel by bicycle. Germany offers numerous opportunities for this, too:

Where can I stay on my trip to Germany?

Germany has hotels in all price categories, ranging from exclusive luxury hotels to budget hostels. You will find accommodation in all price categories via the usual channels on the internet, too. One particular feature in Germany is the concept of the youth hostel: nowadays these can be used by people of all ages, including families. The accommodation they provide is usually quite basic, but inexpensive. Since Germans like to camp, Germany has lots of campsites as well. Motorhome travellers take note: you are allowed to stay for a single night anywhere where it is not expressly forbidden. But one night is the maximum.

Are you looking for what is typical of Germany or what is not so typical?

If it’s winter and you want to experience something typically German: go to a Christmas market! If you like whimsical things, such as cuckoo clocks: set off on the German Clock Road. Here you will find some distinctive ways to explore Germany – not always off the beaten track, but highly recommended:

Bonus tip: I want to visit Germany without travelling!

Want to visit Germany but without travelling? We can help you with that. We’ve put together some great destinations for you to explore digitally. You might like to start with a virtual tour of some of the most impressive spots:

Frankfurt’s New Old Town is a spectacular sight, shown here in 360-degree video:

But there are lots of other ways to explore Germany on the internet without setting foot in the country. Try our tips for a virtual visit to Germany:

What are you looking for?

Entry to germany for fully vaccinated persons.

This article contains information on entry to Germany for persons who are fully vaccinated with approved vaccines.

Persons who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus SARS‑CoV‑2 with vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) (or equivalents of these vaccines used in third countries) can enter Germany from the United States. This includes persons who wish to enter Germany for the purpose of visits or tourism. Fully vaccinated persons as defined above can apply for visas at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany if required.

However, this does not apply to entry to Germany from countries that are classified as areas of variant of concern. Transportation to Germany from these areas continues to be prohibited.

Only persons who have been vaccinated with vaccines listed on the website of the Paul-Ehrlich-Institut (PEI) can enter Germany (see details below). This currently applies solely to vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or equivalents of these vaccines used in third countries. The plan is to extend this to other vaccines with a comparable level of protection as soon as the necessary tests have been completed.

Proof of vaccination

To enter Germany, all travellers must present proof of vaccination that meets the requirements listed under 1., 2. and 3. below in full.

1. It must be a digital EU COVID certificate or comparable proof of vaccination in digital or physical (paper) form in German, English, French, Italian or Spanish. Photographs of physical proof cannot be accepted as digital proof. Proof in digital form should have been issued digitally by the authorised issuer and transmitted digitally to the entitled holder.

2. Proof of vaccination must contain the following Information:

• the personal data of the vaccinated person (at least their family name, first name and date of birth or the number of a valid passport or other official photo ID, which is to be presented upon inspection),
• date of vaccination, number of vaccinations,
• name of vaccine,
• name of disease vaccinated against, and
• identifiers that indicate the person or institution responsible for administering the vaccination or issuing the certificate, for example an official symbol or the name of the issuer.

3. Furthermore, the vaccine itself must meet certain requirements. These requirements – which are mandatory – are published on the website of the Paul-Ehrlich-Institut and concern:

• the vaccines used,
• the number of individual vaccinations required for full protection,
• any booster shots required to maintain full protection,
• the time that must be waited following vaccination before the individual is considered fully protected, and
• the maximum time allowed between individual vaccinations or booster shots.

Before all planned travel, you should therefore check whether your proof of vaccination meets the above requirements – in particular, whether the vaccination that you have received meets the criteria published on the website of the Paul-Ehrlich-Institut in full.

Children under the age of 12 who are not yet vaccinated can enter the country with proof of a negative test result (PCR test or antigen test) when accompanied by at least one fully vaccinated parent. Children under the age of six do not require proof of a negative test result.

For more information, please consult the website of the Federal Ministry of the Interior .

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A 1st Timer’s Guide to Germany Travel: Where to Go, When to Go & More!

Last Updated: August 30, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

While most commonly associated with beers, bratwursts and tight leather pants, Germany is a country full of delightful finds that extend far beyond the stereotypes.

From dreamy castles and fairytale towns to awe-inspiring nature and sprawling cities, Deutschland has a little something for every kind of traveler… although I’ll admit the leather pants are also great.

I first visited Germany on a 6 week backpacking trip across Europe, and as I sipped my comically large beer under the toasty Berlin sun, I felt a strange sense of calm and belonging.

Spurred by this hunch, I moved to Munich. One study abroad later, I loved it so much I stayed for over 5 years… enough to gain so much giddy enthusiasm for this country that I’ve become a thoroughly insufferable dinner guest.

But my social life’s loss is your gain, my friend… because today, I’ve decided to channel all my Deutschland fangirl tendencies into this concise Germany travel guide filled with all my top tips, itineraries, and recommendations.

I hope you find it helpful, and of course, feel free to ask any more questions in the comments section or on Instagram here.

Save this Germany Travel Guide for Later!

I promise it’ll come in handy!

Traveling to Germany Basics

Currency: Euro

Language: German, although accents and dialects vary wildly! In larger cities and tourist hotspots, most Germans also speak excellent English.

Getting Around: Trains, buses and flights are plentiful and affordable in Germany – my best tip is to use Omio to compare options easily. Having a car is ideal for visiting smaller towns, more remote locations and numerous destinations in a short amount of time, but is otherwise not needed for big cities.

Curious about trains in Germany? Read my full step by step guide to German train travel.

Germany Highlights (By the Season)

• Winter: Christmas markets, skiing & alpine sports, Karneval and Fasching season (Carnival), Starkbier (Strong beer) season
• Spring: Cherry blossoms in Bonn , Frühlingsfest (Springfest) in Munich
• Summer: Hiking, Beer Garden season, summer festivals/celebrations
• Fall: Oktoberfest and other Volksfests, the world’s biggest pumpkin festival in Ludwigsburg, the Wurstmarkt (world’s largest wine festival)

My Favourite Places in Germany

Not sure where to go in Germany? Here are some places I can definitely recommend!

Let’s get my mega-biased opinion out of the way first – Munich is the city I called home for 5+ years, and I couldn’t recommend it more… especially if you’re obsessed with beer like I am. This is the birthplace of Oktoberfest after all!

There are lots of fun things to do in Munich , like hopping around the city’s sprawling museum district (many only cost 1 euro on Sundays!), eating up the best Bavarian food that Munich has to offer or soaking in the wealth of historical sites scatered around the city.

It’s also an ideal base for many epic day trips. Going from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle (AKA the real life Sleeping Beauty castle) takes only 2.5 hours. Or, if you want to visit glorious Salzburg from Munich (AKA the birthplace of Mozart and setting of Sound of Music), that’s only 1 hour by train.

Why visit Munich when you travel Germany:

• Amazing beer & beer festivals
• The English Garden – one of the largest city parks in the world
• Beautiful palaces and museums
• Easy base for amazing day trips to the Alps

Berchtesgaden National Park

If it’s natural beauty you’re after, Germany’s Berchtesgaden National Park (near the border to Austria) is a must-visit.

Everything here is breathtaking – from the shimmering turquoise lakes and snow-flecked mountains to the adorable Berchtesgaden town center.

And, if you’re up for it, this is the ideal place to enjoy a typically Bavarian wellness weekend.

Why visit Berchtesgaden National Park when you travel Germany:

• Stunning hikes and scenery
• The glorious boat ride on Königssee to see the equally stunning Obersee
• Historic sights like Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest

Hands down one of my favourite places to visit time and time again is Berlin.

This endlessly fascinating city is home to incredible museums, delicious food, and a unique culture that makes it distinct from the rest of the country, despite its status as capital!

Whether you’re a history nerd, an avid partyer, or a famished foodie, Berlin has plenty to offer.

Why visit Berlin when you travel Germany:

• Fascinating history
• World-class museums and attractions
• A thriving nightlife and food scene

Franconia is a glorious region in northern Bavaria that is divided into Lower, Middle, and Upper Franconia.

To me, it’s one of the most underrated regions in Germany for international visitors, with an abundance of fairytale half-timbered houses, amazing beer, and unique natural landscapes.

Here are some places in Franconia that are absolutely worth visiting:

• Franconian Switzerland
• Würzburg (still haven’t been yet!)

Perhaps the most idyllic entry of this list is Monschau, a sleepy but gorgeous village found near the border to Belgium.

I was lucky enough to come here for Christmas markets a few years ago, and I loved it so much, I skipped the train I’d pre-booked just so I could spend a few more hours there. 

Picturesque half-timbered houses clustered around a roaring central river… oh, and a castle on a hill. Because of course they have one.

Why visit Monschau when you travel Germany:

• Super friendly locals
• Picture-perfect scenes at every turn
• Christina might cry if you don’t

Hamburg is an amazing city I’ve had the chance to visit a few times now. It’s a lifestyle city that reminds me a lot of my hometown, Vancouver.

Home to a mix of classic and modern architecture (including the coolest opera house in the world!), as well as Germany’s #1 attraction – the adorable Miniatur Wonderland, Hamburg has a lot to offer tourists, but perhaps the best way to enjoy it is with a nice beer and sunset along the Elbe.

Why visit Hamburg when you travel Germany :

• Amazing architecture like the Elbphilharmonie
• Fresh and tasty seafood (and a booming foodie scene!)
• A fun, vibrant vibe

Dresden is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, and its beauty is all the more astounding when we consider that much of the city was destroyed completely in WWII.

After decades of reconstruction however, Dresden once again shines with its former glory, establishing itself as one of the most important cultural hotspots in Germany.

… and all only a stone’s throw from Saxon Switzerland, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country!

Why visit Dresden when you travel Germany :

• Stunning architecture and sights
• World-class museums and culture scene
• Its jawdropping Christmas market (the oldest one in the country!)

Stuttgart (and its Surrounding Area)

Stuttgart is the biggest city (and capital) of the German state Baden-Württemburg. 

It’s perhaps best known as the ‘cradle of the automobile industry’, which explains why it’s home to not just one, but two car-centric museums: one belonging to Mercedes-Benz, and one to Porsche.

Besides cars though, the area around Stuttgart offers up some of the cutest small towns you can find in Germany, all easily reachable by public transport, meaning you get the best of all worlds during a visit here.

Why visit Stuttgart and the surrounding area when you travel Germany:

• Fairytale towns like Esslingen, Ludwigsburg, and Tübingen
• Stuttgart’s Stadtbibliothek, one of the most unique and beautiful libraries in the world
• Lots of fun events like Stuttgart’s Christmas Market and the Cannstatter Volksfest 

Thuringia is a state often overlooked by international tourists, but if you’re looking for a truly charming German escape, its capital Erfurt makes an excellent choice.

This beautiful city is famed for its unique Krämerbrücke, which is a gorgeous medieval bridge lined with residential buildings.

But that’s not all – there’s also an impressive cathedral, an imposing fortress, and surprises waiting on every corner… quite literally, because Erfurt is the HQ of the German children’s channel KiKA, and there’s plenty of fun statues of famous characters scattered around town.

Why visit Erfurt when you travel Germany:

• Krämerbrücke, the longest inhabited bridge in Europe
• Quirky and fun children’s channel sculptures all over the city

Cologne, to me, is a city synonymous with fun and celebration. While at first glance, it might not rank among the “prettiest” places to visit in Germany (much of it was destroyed in the war), it still boasts several impressive landmarks and sights, like the epic Cologne Cathedral.

Where Cologne really shines though is during special events – the Christmas markets here are some of the best I’ve been to in my entire life, and the Karneval celebrations… well, those are truly epic!

Why visit Cologne when you travel Germany:

• Bucket list events like the Cologne Christmas Market and Kölner Karneval
• The iconic Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), one of the most famous churches in the world 
• Fun-loving locals who are among the friendliest I’ve ever encountered in Germany

Last but not least, we have Hannover, a city which (in my opinion) is one of the most underrated cities in Germany where tourism is concerned.

Locally, people often joke that Hannover is one of the most boring cities in Germany, but I don’t think that’s true at all. One quick look and you’ll find a stunning palace within the city, an architecturally impressive Town Hall (with a unique elevator offering epic views), and a cool laidback vibe that many compare to what Berlin was like decades ago.

Here are some awesome things to do in Hannover.

Why visit Hannover when you travel Germany:

• Its gorgeous New Town Hall
• The stunning Herrenhausen Palace and its gardens
• A fun, laidback city vibe

Bucket List Experiences in Germany

Germany is full of incredible bucket list experiences. Here are a few of my favourites:

Christmas Markets

German Christmas markets are the stuff of bucket list dreams.

If you adore Christmas, a German Xmas market trip needs to make it on your bucket list, because nobody captures Christmas coziness and joy quite like the Germans do.

The best part (besides the droolworthy assortment of German Christmas Market foods ) is that you’ll find Christmas markets in just about every city, town, and even the smallest of villages, each with their own unique take on traditions.

Trust me, you could never get bored of visiting these.

Here are some full guides to the Christmas markets I’ve visited in Germany:

• Munich’s Christmas Markets
• Berlin’s Christmas Markets
• Cologne’s Christmas Markets
• Esslingen Christmas Market
• Ludwigsburg Christmas Market
• Karlsruhe Christmas Market
• Düsseldorf Christmas Market
• Nuremberg Christmas Market
• Essen Christmas Market

Oktoberfest

Trust me – Oktoberfest , AKA the world’s largest beer festival, is reason enough to make a trip to Germany.

Typically celebrated annually in Munich, this is one of the most incredible events in the world, with millions of people attending, millions of beer served, and a guaranteed recipe for making memories to last a lifetime.

… If you can remember anything after 5L of beer that is.

Read my full Oktoberfest guide for more details.

Visiting Fairytale Castles

If you love castles, I recommend avoiding Germany……. because you might just combust from sheer fangirl joy.

Seriously, Germany is every castle lover’s kryptonite, with elegant palaces and fairytale castles in the thousands. If you’re a Disney gal like me who grew up dreaming of happily ever afters, pack a ballgown and head to Germany ASAP.

I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Here are some castles that you must visit in Germany:

• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Nuremberg Castle

The Cherry Blossoms in Bonn

The cherry blossoms in Bonn (also the birthplace of Beethoven and gummy bear legend, Haribo) are absolutely spectacular, and 100% worth visiting in Spring time. In fact, I’d even say they’re one of the best things to see in Europe at Spring time.

Yes, you, too, can come frolic in these tunnels of pink! Here is my guide on where to find cherry blossoms in Bonn.

Karneval, Fasching, Etc.

Carnival Season is one of the best times to visit Germany if you’re looking for a party.

The grandest celebrations take place just before Lent, and are celebrated throughout the country, although the festivites in North-Rhine Westphalia are probably the best known.

My top recommendation? Go celebrate in Cologne, where the Kölner Karneval draws millions of visitors every year.

My Recommended Germany Itineraries

Germany is a huge country with a massive diversity in sights… so how can you organize your time efficiently and make the most of your trip? Here are some German trip itinerary ideas…

Germany itinerary ideas for a taste of everything:

• Southern Germany Classic: Munich, the Allgäu (for Castles!), Garmisch Partenkirchen, Berchtesgaden National Park, Stuttgart & Area, Black Forest
• Eastern Germany Classic: Berlin, Dresden, Saxon Switzerland
• Western Germany Classic: Aachen, Monschau, Eifel National Park
• Northern Germany Classic: Hamburg, Bremen , Lübeck, Kiel, Sylt
• The Rhine River Classic: Mainz, Koblenz, Burg Eltz, Cochem, Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf
• The Harz Mountains Experience: Harz Mountains, Goslar, Wernigerode, Quedlinburg

Germany itinerary ideas for city breakers and culture hunters:

• The Big City Tour: Berlin and Munich (a 4 hour express train connects them)
• The BaWu Special: Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, Tübingen, Esslingen, Heidelberg
• The Bavaria Special: Munich, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Bayreuth
• The Saxony Special: Leipzig, Görlitz, Dresden
• The Rhine City Hop: Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf
• The Romantic Villages Hop: Würzburg, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Füssen

Germany itinerary ideas for nature lovers:

• Southern Germany Nature Itinerary: Berchtesgaden National Park, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the Black Forest and Lake Constance (Bodensee)
• Bavaria’s Best Nature Itinerary: Berchtesgaden National Park, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Munich’s Lake Region, Franconian Switzerland, Danube Gorge
• Eastern Germany Nature Itinerary: Dresden and Saxon Switzerland National Park

My Top Germany Travel Tips

• If you’re overwhelmed by transport options, Omio is a great resource for comparing trains, buses and flights in Germany at the same time.
• If travelling by train, look into group discount tickets like the Bayern Ticket which give you unlimited train travel for one day on regional trains. It can save you a TON of money.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries nearby (i.e. Switzerland), a Eurail pass might save you money.

Accommodation:

• Booking.com is a great place to search up hotels, and filtering by Free Cancellation allows you to book without paying upfront
• Airbnb can be a very affordable alternative for longer stays/bigger groups

Attractions and Tickets:

• GetYourGuide is a great site for finding tours and attraction tickets
• City passes like the Munich City Pass , Berlin Pass , and the Cologne Card can save you a LOT of money if you plan to visit many tourist attractions in a short time
• If you’re trying to find specific info about a place, try using Google Translate to search in German because German versions of sites always have more info

If you’re past the planning stage and heading to Germany soon, make sure you read this before you go:

• Hilarious must-knows before you visit Germany

More Germany Travel Reads

Feeling inspired to visit Germany after reading all that?

As you can (probably) tell, I’ve written extensively about Germany.

So, here are some more articles that might pique your interest:

• Unique Things to do in Germany (That You Can’t Do Anywhere Else)
• The Best Christmas Markets in Germany
• Hilarious Must-Knows Before You Visit Germany

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

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💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

4 thoughts on “A 1st Timer’s Guide to Germany Travel: Where to Go, When to Go & More!”

i found myself reading almost every post in your website for days and days and i ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT and adore and thank you for spending so much time and effort to make it so helpful, informative and fun to read. you have helped me plan my trip to munich in december and i cant wait to visit just because of your enthusiasm 🙂

We would like to Thank you for sharing such a beautiful blog! Very informative.

This Germany Travel Guide truly captures the multifaceted beauty of Deutschland, a country that has something to offer to everyone, from culture enthusiasts to nature lovers. Your personal anecdotes from living in Munich make it come alive, making me yearn for a taste of that amazing beer you’ve mentioned, and a wander around the English Garden! The varied seasonal highlights emphasize how Germany is a year-round destination, offering uniquely charming experiences, from the festive winter Christmas markets to the lively summer festivals. It’s heartening to know that navigating around the country is convenient, making it possible to explore its picturesque small towns and vibrant cities. This guide is a treasure trove for anyone planning to travel to Germany – it gives a well-rounded view of the country, infused with personal insights, which makes it even more valuable. I’m particularly intrigued to visit Munich, the city you so passionately call home.

As a Berliner, I can’t agree more with this guide. Germany truly is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation, natural beauty and urban charm, hearty cuisine and diverse cultures. Moving around in Germany is indeed quite convenient thanks to the well-organized public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams. And yes, English is widely spoken in major cities, so communication shouldn’t be a problem for travelers. As for the varied dialects across regions, it just adds to the unique charm of exploring this beautiful country. Safe travels, fellow adventurers!

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Prepare for a roller-coaster ride of feasts, treats and temptations experiencing Germany's soul-stirring scenery, spirit-lifting culture, big-city beauties, romantic palaces and half-timbered towns.

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East Side Gallery

Friedrichshain

The East Side Gallery is the embodiment of Berlin’s grit and guts.

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Aachener Dom

It’s impossible to overestimate the significance of Aachen’s magnificent cathedral. The burial place of Charlemagne, it’s where more than 30 German kings…

Schloss Linderhof

Bavarian Alps

A pocket-sized trove of weird treasures, Schloss Linderhof was Ludwig II’s smallest but most sumptuous palace, and the only one he lived to see fully…

Schloss Neuschwanstein

Appearing through the mountaintops like a mirage, Schloss Neuschwanstein was the model for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. King Ludwig II planned this…

A collaboration between the architect Matthäus Pöppelmann and the sculptor Balthasar Permoser, the Zwinger was built between 1710 and 1728 on the orders…

Schloss Hohenschwangau

King Ludwig II grew up at the sun-yellow Schloss Hohenschwangau and later enjoyed summers here until his death in 1886. His father, Maximilian II, built…

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Germany's public transportation network is one of the best in the world (and kids under 15 travel on trains for free). Read on for how to explore Germany.

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Do you know if you need a visa to visit Germany? We can help you work it out.

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From Deutsche Bahn rail passes to camping in the summer months, there are plenty of ways to save money in Germany.

Traveling with Kids

With lots of family-friendly activities and a well-developed infrastructure, Germany is an ideal destination for families traveling with kids of all ages.

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Visit historic towns, castles and palaces, plus epic mountains and remote beaches on these top touring routes through Germany.

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Explore Neuschwanstein castle

Used as inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella film, the castle of Neuschwanstein stands with impossible grandeur in the hills of Bavaria’s Hohenschwangau district. Originally built for King Ludwig II who only spent 11 nights in the castle before his death, it now enchants visitors aplenty. Our trip to Germany would not be complete without it.

See the remnants of the Berlin Wall

Once dividing the German capital both physically and politically, what remains of the 155 kilometre long Berlin Wall has been largely dressed in thought-provoking graffiti. Feel the emotion of our visit, celebrating its symbolic demolition in 1989 and commemorating this dark patch in German history.

Embrace the Bavarian rich beer brewing heritage

Governed by a set of 16th century rules that determine purity, beer brewing in Germany is a cultural art form. Peel back the layers of beer culture to gain a deeper understanding of its significance, as we visit some of the 1300 breweries found here.

Go up the iconic Berlin TV Tower for 360° views

The Berliner Fernsehturm, or Berlin TV Tower, once stood as a proud statement of communist power. With democracy in place, we will take a trip to the top of the capital’s TV Tower to soak up the sentiment of a united city, admiring 360-degree views from the observation deck found at a height of 203 meters.

Admire the beautiful Baroque building façades in Dresden

The rebirth of Dresden since the bombings of 1945 is a testament to the German spirit of resilience. Connect with the intricacies of Baroque architecture whilst stepping into a pace of life found in many of the country’s boutique cities.

Our top 5 things to do in Germany

When you explore Germany with Trafalgar,  we'll connect you with Bavarian beer heritage, nostalgic castles, Baroque architecture and political complexities.

Stasi Museum

The blurred political history of Germany is uncovered within the stark walls of the Stasi Museum. Once the headquarters of East Germany’s Ministry for State Security, it now stands as a memorial and research centre. Germany tours are scarcely complete without a trip to Stasi.

Residenz Museum

Peel back the layers of German opulence with a step into the former home of Bavarian royalty. A well-timed visit to the Residenz Museum complex will see you watching a performance by the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra. On any other day, be awe-struck by the grandeur of the palace’s ten courtyards and 130 display rooms.

Oranienburg

Memorial & Museum Sachsenhausen

Visit a Nazi concentration camp and you will begin to understand the deeply moving stories of Germany's troubled historical past.Not for the faint of heart, Memorial & Museum Sachsenhausen in Oranienburg will walk you through a mortuary, execution trenches and prison cells. The enormity of suffering remains thick in the air.

Best museums in Germany

Packed with breathtaking moments and cultural significance, museum hopping is an important part of any trip to Germany. With Trafalgar, you'll step from the tumultuous past to the progressive present to understand the complete German story.

Best food in Germany

An indulgent sausage tour is hard to resist in Germany, particularly when washing wursts down with local beer. Trafalgar will guide you through the goodness of this meaty cuisine, always laden with condiments, always satisfying.

A simple pork sausage first steamed and then fried, it’s the lashings of curry ketchup that make currywurst unique. This fast food local favorite is enjoyed with hot potato chips and a local beer, while standing and engaging in a chat with some locals.Add an additional layer of curry powder for extra kick.

Slightly less indulgent than the currywurst, a weisswurst sausage is typically made of veal and pork and warmed in water without complete cooking or frying. Eat the near-raw weisswurst as a mid-morning snack served alongside warm pretzels.

Schweininshaxe

Roasted pork knuckle is an adored culinary dish found across Germany. Often left to marinate for around a week before being slowly roasted at low temperatures, Schweininshaxe is a labour of love. Appreciate yours over a leisurely meal lasting many hours.

What to pack for Germany

Otto Wolff’s guide to German food

Gelbwurst, rindswurst. Kartoffelpuffer, kartoffelkloesse. German food can be a mouthful before the dish has been served. The Wurst! By Otto Wolff will guide you through the very best of German cuisine.

An eye for fairytale architecture

Most sources claim that over 20,000 castles can be found across the hills of Germany. Allow this trip to inspire childhood nostalgia with its fairytale architecture.

Digital maps

It's always good to have a backup of digital maps on standby when you're out exploring in your own time. Download them prior to your trip so you can reach them even when your phone is offline.

Travel adaptor

Though many hotels will have adaptors available for use, being prepared with your own will ensure you're always charged and ready to go.

Traditional costume

Oktoberfest is not the only time that traditional dress could be called upon in Germany. Travelers looking to connect closer to the culture may like to pack the 19th century German attire of a Dirndl or lederhosen.

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Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and toiletry bottles.

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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.

Berlin's Brandenburg Gate

Cologne cathedral (kölner dom), the black forest, baden-württemberg, the ultimate fairy-tale castle: schloss neuschwanstein, bavaria, miniatur wunderland and the historic port of hamburg, the rhine valley, berlin's museum island, munich's marienplatz, bamberg and the bürgerstadt, bavaria, zugspitze massif, bavaria, the island of rügen, mecklenburg—western pomerania, königssee (king's lake), bavaria, rothenburg ob der tauber, bavaria, sanssouci park and palace, potsdam, insel mainau: the flower island of lake constance, the berlin wall, reichstag building, berlin, the old town (altstadt) in nuremberg, dresden frauenkirche, 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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King-Ludwig-Way

Christmas markets of germany (classic, 8 days), munich oktoberfest, best of germany (12 days), altmühltal-panorama path, moselle river cruise (mainz-mainz) - ms crucevita 4*sup, best of germany by train, oktoberfest (2 night package), christmas markets rhine cruise (dusseldorf - dusseldorf), best of germany (classic, 12 days).

• Hiking & Trekking
• Self Guided Walking Holidays
• Explore the serene Lake Starnberg
• Cross the Ammer ravine to Rottenbuch
• Tour UNESCO site 'Kirche in der Wies'

“All hotels were okay. All days the package was there when we arrived.”

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Experience the wonderment of the Christmas Markets
• Learn about the traditional German Christmas Pyramids
• Gather for a festive celebration in fun-loving Munich

“This was a great tour! Insight is so organized and I learned a ton about German and its history.”

• Festival & Events
• Cycle around Munich's historic sites
• Experience the vibrant Oktoberfest
• Tour Dachau Concentration Camp

“Munich and the festival can't be put into words. Everything was great about the trip from the accommodations.”

• Discover Berlin's landmarks and ascend the TV Tower
• Explore Frankfurt's Römerberg and financial district
• Cruise the Rhine and lunch in a 13th-century castle

“Loved all the places where we went. Over all it was great.”

• Relax at Altmühl-Thermal Spa in Treuchtlingen
• Explore Devil's Pulpit and Medieval Pappenheim
• Enjoy views from Willibalds castle

• River Cruise
• Explore Cochem on a guided city tour
• Stroll through Koblenz with a local guide
• Enjoy leisure time exploring the cities

“The food was superb, the staff friendly and efficient. There appeared to be a good atmosphere between the staff generally which resulted in a happy atmosphere.”

• Christmas & New Year
• Tour Hamburg's port and Miniatur Wunderland
• Cruise the Rhine River in Cologne
• Visit Berlin's Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag

“It's necessary to clarify that this is practically a self-guided tour for the most part.”

• Drink a stein and party the night away in Munich
• Enjoy parties, pork, and playgrounds of rides
• Grab your best knee-high socks and suspenders

“The Saturday night live music, mixed with the open bar, was one of the craziest nights of my life.”

• Experience Cologne's festive Christmas markets
• Explore historic Koblenz and its vineyards
• Stroll through Mainz's medieval streets and shops

“The food was wonderful, and the whole crew was wonderful.”

• Coach / Bus
• Walk Rothenburg's cobbled streets
• Cruise the scenic Black Forest region
• Explore Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Germany set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the German Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Germany.

Passport validity requirements 

Germany follows Schengen area rules . Your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

If you have a residence permit, you must have a valid passport for the duration of your stay. Renew it before the expiry date.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area , which includes Germany, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in Germany are different.     

If you’re travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Make sure you get your passport stamped on entry and exit.

If you’re a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area.

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

At German border control, you may need to:

• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your stay

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period

To stay longer, you must meet the German government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or permit you need with the  German Embassy in the UK . 

If you’re in Germany with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Germany .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Germany guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into and out of Germany . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food into Germany

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries . There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.

Taking money into Germany

You must declare any amount above 10,000 euros in cash or other payment types. You can find more information on the German Federal Foreign Office website.

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Germany Footsteps

14 Incredible Germany Travel Quotes That Will Make You Want To Pack Your Bags

Ever wondered what it feels like to explore the heart of Europe, where history and modernity blend so seamlessly? This article of 14 incredible Germany travel quotes aims to take you on a literary journey through Germany, with words that inspire and evoke the wanderlust in all of us.

Travel has a way of breaking down barriers, not just between countries but within ourselves, showing us new perspectives and the beauty of different cultures. Germany, with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Through the eyes of famous writers, poets, and adventurers, we’ll share quotes that capture the essence of Germany’s allure, making you feel as if you’re walking down cobblestone streets, savoring a warm pretzel, or gazing out at the fairy-tale castles that dot its countryside.

Our hope is that these quotes do more than just inspire you to visit Germany; they encourage you to see travel as a means of learning, growing, and connecting with the world.

So, let’s take a look at the words that have captured the hearts of travelers for generations and discover why Germany might just be your next adventure.

Love Germany?  Click here to download your free guide to 25 Incredible Things You Must Do In Germany In Your Lifetime . You won’t want to miss them!

Don’t miss the best hotel savings in Germany here >>

“Germany, in the summer, is the perfection of the beautiful.” – Mark Twain

Mark Twain, an American writer known for his wit and humor, spent a great amount of time traveling through Germany.

This quote captures the enchanting beauty of Germany during the summer months, inviting travelers to experience its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture firsthand. It’s a reminder of the country’s natural beauty and Twain’s keen observations of the places he visited.

“The rivers and hills of Germany tell the stories of its soul.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a German writer and statesman whose works include poetry, drama, literature, theology, humanism, and science.

This quote reflects his deep connection and appreciation for Germany’s natural landscape, highlighting the poetic beauty of the nation’s geography and the historical and cultural narratives intertwined with its physical features.

It’s an invitation to look beyond the surface and explore Germany’s rich heritage and soulful landscapes.

“Berlin is a banquet for the senses, where every craving is satisfied.” – Marlene Dietrich

Marlene Dietrich, a renowned German-American actress and singer, famously captured the essence of Berlin with this quote.

It speaks to the city’s diverse and rich cultural life, its culinary delights, and its vibrant atmosphere.

Berlin, with its tumultuous history and modern rebirth, is a city that indeed offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit on a traveler’s itinerary.

“Heidelberg – where every stone tells a story.” – Mark Twain

Returning to Mark Twain, this quote articulates his fascination with Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most picturesque cities.

Twain’s reflection on Heidelberg emphasizes the city’s historical depth and architectural beauty, where every corner and cobblestone lane holds a tale waiting to be discovered, making it a captivating destination for travelers interested in exploring Germany’s past.

“We all live under the same sky, but we don’t all have the same horizon.” – Konrad Adenauer

Konrad Adenauer, the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, is known for his leadership in post-war Germany.

This quote, while reflecting on the universal human condition, could encourage exploration and understanding beyond one’s immediate environment.

It symbolically invites travelers to Germany to broaden their horizons and experience the diverse cultural landscapes the country has to offer.

“To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable.” – Ludwig van Beethoven

Ludwig van Beethoven, a German composer and pianist, revolutionized classical music.

This quote, beyond its musical context, speaks to the importance of embracing experiences with passion.

It resonates with travelers by encouraging them to dive into their journeys wholeheartedly, including the exploration of Germany’s rich musical history and its timeless landscapes.

“Once upon a time…” – Brothers Grimm

The Brothers Grimm, Jacob and Wilhelm, were German academics, philologists, cultural researchers, lexicographers, and authors who together specialized in collecting and publishing folklore during the 19th century.

This iconic opening phrase to many of their fairy tales invites readers and travelers alike into a world of wonder and exploration, much like the experience of discovering Germany’s enchanting forests, castles, and historic towns that inspired many of their tales.

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” – Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein, the world-renowned theoretical physicist, had a deep appreciation for nature’s mysteries.

This quote highlights the importance of connecting with the natural world for greater understanding and insight.

Germany, with its diverse natural landscapes from the Bavarian Alps to the Black Forest, provides an ideal backdrop for travelers seeking a deeper connection with nature and, by extension, the universe’s mysteries.

“To travel is to live.” – Hans Christian Andersen

Hans Christian Andersen, a Danish author best known for his fairy tales, celebrated the essence of travel with this quote.

While he might not be German, his sentiment encourages us to explore new places and cultures, including Germany’s rich landscapes and storied cities, to truly embrace the vibrancy of life.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine , an early Christian theologian and philosopher, makes a compelling argument for travel with this metaphor.

Although not directly related to Germany, this quote inspires travelers to venture beyond their comfort zones and explore the rich tapestry of experiences the world, including Germany, has to offer, from its historic cities and cultural landmarks to its breathtaking natural wonders.

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller

When you travel to Germany, this quote reminds you that the journey is not just about the landmarks you see but about the perspectives you gain.

Whether it’s witnessing the blend of historical and modern architecture in Berlin or understanding the importance of conservation in the Black Forest, your experience in Germany teaches you to appreciate the blend of tradition and innovation in a new light.

Each city and landscape in Germany offers a distinct narrative, enriching your understanding of the world.

“A man travels the world over in search of what he needs and returns home to find it.” – George A. Moore

This quote captures the essence of finding personal fulfillment and discovery in travel, especially poignant in the context of Germany.

As you explore the historical streets of cities like Munich and the tranquil paths of the Rhine Valley, you might find what you’re searching for within yourself—be it peace, inspiration, or a sense of belonging.

The cultural richness and historical depth of Germany can mirror the journey of self-discovery many travelers embark on, highlighting that sometimes, the farthest journeys lead us back to where we started, enriched and more aware.

“The best way to know a city is to eat it.” – Anthony Bourdain

Anthony Bourdain’s wisdom rings especially true in Germany, where the cuisine offers a unique window into the country’s culture, history, and soul.

From savoring a pretzel in Bavaria to indulging in a currywurst in Berlin, each dish tells a story of regional traditions and historical influences.

This quote encourages travelers to dive into Germany’s culinary landscape not just as a way of tasting good food, but as a method to deeply engage with the local culture and history, understanding Germany from a deliciously different viewpoint.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta

The transformative power of traveling is exemplified through the experiences one can have in Germany, from the awe-inspiring castles and palaces that dot the landscape to the poignant historical sites of Berlin.

These experiences can be so profound that they often leave one without words, only to later flourish into stories that are told and retold, enriching the traveler’s life and those of their listeners.

Germany, with its layers of history and breathtaking landscapes, serves as the perfect backdrop for such life-changing journeys that turn every traveler into a storyteller.

As we reach the end of our journey through words that paint Germany in diverse strokes of appreciation and wonder, it becomes clear that each quote is a window into the soul of this incredible country.

Whether through the eyes of literary giants like Goethe or the adventurous spirit of Anthony Bourdain, the essence of Germany is captured in a way that beckons travelers to discover its beauty for themselves.

This collection of quotes is not merely an anthology of praise but a mosaic of invitations to experience the rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty that Germany offers.

So, pack your bags, let your heart be stirred by these eloquent testimonies, and set forth to create your own unforgettable memories in the land that has inspired so many.

Check out this guide to the most romantic places in Germany here and this guide to the most Instagrammable places in Germany. You can also find all our travel guides to Germany here .

Related Articles:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon first fell in love with Germany back in 2000 on her first visit. She loves the long history, the picturesque Old Towns, the castles, the food, everything really! Since then, she has visited many times and loves writing about Germany here so you can enjoy it too. In fact, Sharon loves German culture so much that she sent her kids to a German primary school in Australia. She especially loves Berlin and towns with charming Old Towns like Celle and Quedlinburg. Sharon also has a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and understands the nitty gritty of travel planning. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to Germany whether it's your first or tenth time!

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Minister Blair to travel to Germany for 24th Ukraine Defense Contact Group Meeting

From: National Defence

Media advisory

The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, will visit Germany on September 5-6, 2024 to participate in the 24th Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting hosted by the United States at Ramstein Air Base.

September 3 , 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces   The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, will visit Germany on September 5-6 , 2024 to participate in the 24th Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting hosted by the United States at Ramstein Air Base. Minister Blair will join Allies and partners from approximately 50 nations to discuss Russia’s ongoing illegal and unjustifiable war on Ukraine and our ongoing work to provide Ukraine with the military assistance it needs to defend its sovereignty and win its fight. The Minister will also visit Security Assistance Group—Ukraine in Wiesbaden, Germany, where Canadian, American, and Allied military personnel coordinate the provision of military assistance and training for Ukraine. On September 6 , 2024, Minister Blair will hold a media availability at Ramstein Air Base to announce additional military assistance to Ukraine.

• Date: September 6 , 2024
• Time: 12:45 p.m . CEST
• Location: Ramstein Air Base
• Media are asked to contact +49 (0) 6371-47-2458 or [email protected] for accreditation.

Simon Lafortune Press Secretary and Communications Advisor Office of the Minister of National Defence Email: [email protected]  

Media Relations Department of National Defence Phone: 613-904-3333 Email: [email protected]

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Pensioner ‘raped 92 times by 72 men after husband drugged her’

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A pensioner drugged his wife so she could be raped nearly 100 times by 72 men over the space of 10 years, a court has heard.

Gisele P, 72, has ‘no recollection’ of the ten years of abuse, which she discovered in 2020 after police found hundreds of images of her on her husband’s phone .

She was seen unconscious, mostly in a foetal position, in the pictures and videos alleged to show dozens of rapes at the couple’s home in Mazan, near Avignon, France.

They had moved to the village from Paris , two years after the abuse is believed to have started in 2011.

Dominque P. is alleged to have used an online forum to recruit strangers to visit their home, according to police who found chats on a site called coco.fr, which they have since shut down.

A forklift driver, fire brigade officer, company boss and a journalist are among the 51 other men on trial accused of participating in the 71-year-old’s scheme, in which no money changed hands.

Most of the mix of single, married and divorced men, aged between 26 and 74, are accused of raping her once, while some took part up to six times.

Dominique P, who allegedly took part in the rapes himself, is also accused of filming them while encouraging men to use degrading language, prosecutors said.

In their defence, the men claim they were helping the couple live out their fantasies.

But Dominique P. admitted to investigators that he had drugged his wife with tranquilisers like anxiety-reducing drug Temesta without her consent.

One expert described Gisele’s state as ‘closer to a coma than to sleep’.

Three men left promptly after arrival without having sex with his wife, Dominique P told prosecutors.

Police found the 71-year-old’s stash of images after a security guard caught him secretly filming under the skirts of three women in a shopping centre.

The 71-year-old, who claims he was raped by a male nurse when he was nine, is ready to face ‘his family and his wife’, his lawyer Beatrice Zavarro said.

For Gisele, however, this trial will be a ‘horrible ordeal’ as it is the ‘first time she will have to live through the rapes that she endured over 10 years’, her lawyer said.

Gisele, now aged 72, could have opted for a trial behind closed doors, but ‘that’s what her attackers would have wanted’, Camus said.

But that hasn’t stopped her from waving her right to a trial behind closed doors, which she believes ‘her attackers would have wanted’, Camus said.

She will be supported by her three children, while present at the trial in Avignon, which is due to last until December 20.

Dominique P. has also been charged with murder and rape in 1991, which he denies, and an attempted rape in 1999, which he admitted after DNA testing.

Experts, who said the man does not appear mentally ill, concluded that he had a need to feel ‘all-powerful’ over the female body, according to assessments included in court documents.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

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13 Best German Christmas Markets — Including the Oldest in the World

These German Christmas markets are straight out of a storybook.

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Fröhliche Weihnachten! Nothing beats being home with your family for the holidays, but hopping around European Christmas markets (or even European- style Christmas markets in the U.S. ) is pretty close. When it comes to traditional holiday markets, Germany leads the way in decorations, baked goods, and grand festivities that range from live concerts and ice skating rinks to the crowning of the Christmas angel. Of course, the shopping is half the fun, so plan to leave plenty of room in your suitcase to bring home handcrafted ornaments and other special gifts that will delight your loved ones on the big day.

It's not just a big-city affair — you can find a Christmas market in many small towns around the country — but these markets are some of the most legendary. Here are 13 destinations worth traveling for in the weeks before Christmas, brimming with holiday cheer and overflowing with sweet glühwein .

Münchner Christkindlmarkt

One of Munich's biggest Christmas Markets takes place in the famous Marienplatz square, which has been in the city center since Munich's founding in 1158. This year, there will be over 130 stalls full of goods and food (including one of Germany's largest nativity markets), decoration-making workshops and puppet shows for children, and the famous Krampus run, in which hundreds of people dressed in devil-like Krampusse and Perchten costumes run and dance down the street. There will also be frequent musical performances, with under-the-tree carols on Wednesdays and traditional holiday music performed on the town hall balcony every day except Fridays and Saturdays. The market will be open from Nov. 25 to Dec. 24, 2024.

Dresdner Striezelmarkt

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The Dresdner Striezelmarkt is considered the first genuine Christmas market in the world, dating all the way back to its first iteration in 1434, when it was held for just one day. Today, it's a massive multi-day event where over 200 stalls can be found selling sweet treats, Christmas tchotchkes, and more. Ride the Ferris wheel to get the best view of the market lights. The 590th Dresdner Striezelmarkt will take place at Altmarkt from Nov. 27 to Dec. 24, 2024. For those seeking something a bit more intimate, Dresden hosts a variety of Christmas markets of all sizes, so after checking out the Striezelmarkt, you can mosey over to the Neumarkt or the Neustadt, where there's more Christmas fun to be had.

Leipzig Christmas Market

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Open from Nov. 26 to Dec. 23, 2024, the Leipzig Christmas market is one of Germany’s oldest and largest. With more than 250 stalls tucked in the historic Marktplatz, punctuated by a massive, marvelous Saxon spruce Christmas tree, the Leipzig Christmas market has been delighting merrymakers since its humble 1458 roots. Other highlights are, of course, the culinary treats, traditional medieval market, and variety of performances on the market square stage.

Trier Christmas Market

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Open every day from Nov. 22 to Dec. 22, 2024 (except Nov. 24), the Trier Christmas market has been a beloved German holiday tradition for more than 40 years. It's located in the town of Trier, only eight miles from the Luxembourg border. The romantic medieval setting, surrounded by the Trier Cathedral and Main Market, sports nearly 100 booths and a family-friendly program that changes daily. Event highlights usually include puppet theater performances, Christmas concerts, and tours with professional city guides.

Berlin Christmas Markets

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If you want to visit a new Christmas market on every day of your trip, Germany's capital is a great bet — there are more than 60 Berlin Christmas markets to choose from. Head to the Kurfürstendamm on the west end of town and get your shopping done at the Breitscheidplatz Christmas market . Or, ride the Ferris wheel, skate the ice rink, and peruse the Old Berlin-style market alleys at the Berlin City Hall Christmas market to tap into the city's holiday fun. Most of the markets open in November, and some even stay open past Christmas into the new year.

Cologne Christmas Markets

Cologne is another city dotted with Yuletide markets during November and December. Don’t miss Nikolausdorf, or Nicholas Village, on Rudolfplatz near the trendy Belgian Quarter, where you’ll encounter cozy village lanes, charming half-timbered houses, and hot drinks served in cups shaped like Santa’s boots. The dazzlingly illuminated Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral , with its huge decorated Christmas tree, is another must-see from Nov. 18 to Dec. 23, 2024.

Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt

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Offering a traditional German Christmas market experience, the Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt is one of the country’s most romantic and transportive, thanks in part to the 17th-century riverside town setting and nighttime backdrop of the glowing Heidelberg Castle. Spread across six different squares, the Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt embodies the warm, fuzzy feeling of Christmas. Don’t miss the ice rink at Karlsplatz and the illuminated fir trees at Kornmarkt. This year’s market dates are Nov. 25 to Dec. 22, 2024.

Düsseldorf Christmas Market

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The Düsseldorf Christmas market encompasses the entire city center with several markets, each themed around the varied wares on offer, from edible delights to dazzling decor schemes, plus an ice skating area. Taking place from Nov. 21 to Dec. 30, 2024, the event will offer more than 200 elaborately decorated Christmas huts to wander at various locations throughout the city center. Take a spin on the giant Ferris wheel between bouts of shopping and sipping hot mulled wine. In the past, themed areas have included dedicated artisan markets where you can buy gifts direct from glassblowers and painters.

Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt

One of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt , known as “the little city of wood and cloth,” is held each year on Nuremberg’s Main Market Square. Officially opened by the Christkind, a young local woman in angelic garb and a golden crown, the market is famous for its Rauschgold angels, wooden nutcrackers, nativity scenes, and colorful stars, as well as culinary highlights such as gingerbread-like lebkuchen , mulled wine, and bratwurst. Those with little ones won’t want to miss the Christmas-themed city for children on Hans-Sachs-Platz, which has special entertainment for kids and booths with hands-on activities. This year, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt will take place from Nov. 29 to Dec. 24, 2024.

Stuttgart Christmas Market

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Over 300 years old, the Stuttgart Christmas market is another German holiday favorite with some of the best decorations. A prize is awarded each year for the most beautiful stall (chosen by a jury), so all 200-300 booths here are ornately adorned. Enjoy the festive sights and sounds of Stuttgart at Christmas and the soul-warming scent of cinnamon, vanilla, glühwein , and roasting bratwurst in the air. The Stuttgart Christmas market will be open from Nov. 27 to Dec. 23, 2024.

Braunschweig Christmas Market 

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Dating back to 1505, the Braunschweig Christmas market has been beloved for more than five centuries. From Nov. 29 to Dec. 29, 2024 (except Dec. 24 and 25), the old quarter around Braunschweig’s cathedral will transform into a magical Christmas wonderland, with 130 stands offering a range of goodies, from typical wooden toys to leather goods, jewelry, illuminated Christmas stars, and, of course, delicious food.

At the Braunschweig Christmas market, the glühwein is tailored to the setting, served with a shot of local Braunschweiger Mumme, a thick malt extract. If you love it, you can also try Mumme beer and baked rolls at the Mumme stand. Plus, you won't want to miss the Christmas concerts at Brunswick Cathedral, the life-size nativity scene, and the ice rink at Kohlmarkt.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt

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It doesn’t get much more picture-perfect than the medieval walled town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but go around Christmastime and you’ll be swept into a half-timbered holiday fairy tale. Taking place from Nov. 29 to Dec. 23, 2024, the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt is an Advent experience. Don’t leave without sampling schneeballen (snowballs), a local treat made from shortcrust pastry dough that’s rolled into a ball, fried, and coated with confectioners' sugar and other toppings of choice.

Rüdesheim Christmas Market of Nations

For something a bit different from the classic German Christmas market, head to Rüdesheim for the annual Christmas Market of Nations , now in its 30th year. Here in the wintry Rhine Valley, more than 20 countries from four continents gather to offer their unique goods and specialties. The market takes place from Nov. 21 to Dec. 23, 2024, but the traditional St. Thomas Night parade is a highlight.

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British tourists flock to Spain despite summer of overtourism protests

Spain welcomed 10.9 million international visitors in july, article bookmarked.

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Overtourism protests across Spain this summer did not deter millions of British travellers from visiting holiday hotspots, including Barcelona and Mallorca .

Spain welcomed a record 10.9 million tourists, mainly Brits and Germans, in July despite demonstrations by locals against international visitors causing congestion and house price hikes.

Between January and July, spending by foreign visitors in Spain rose 18.6 per cent to €71 billion (£60 billion), according to data from the Office for National Statistics .

On average, Brits spent €1,389 (£1,170) and Germans €1,340 (£1,128) per visit to Spain in July, and the cash splashing on Spanish holidays is expected to boot the country’s economic growth by 2.4 per cent this year.

The latest action against overtourism follows a chain of protests across Spain this summer.

Thousands of Barcelona residents squirted diners in tourist areas with water during a widely reported protest against mass tourism in July.

The Spanish locals chanted “tourists go home” with placards that read “Enough! Let’s put limits on tourism” in the demonstration against overtourism.

In Barcelona this weekend, protestors plan to demonstrate along Somorrostro Beach, a viewpoint for the America’s Cup sailing race.

The group ‘No to the America’s Cup’ are protesting against the “occupation of the beaches” and “privatisation of spaces”, report The Telegraph .

However, the Spanish Tourist Office told The Independent in August that tourism arrivals to Spain this summer “have not been impacted” and called for the British media to have a “sense of perspective” when reporting on the anti-foreign action.

Pedro Fiol, the president of Aviba, the Association of Balearic Travel Agents, told the Majorca Daily Bulletin that the slogans for the protests should be “anti-government policy, not anti-tourism”.

Mr Fiol said: “The United Kingdom and Germany are the foundations, the pillars of our tourist industry, and we have got to make sure they remain strong because we can’t afford to see the tourist industry falter. So we need an honest debate and, where possible, quick and simple solutions.”

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Now boarding: Faces, places, and trends shaping tourism in 2024

After falling by 75 percent in 2020, travel is on its way to a full recovery by the end of 2024. Domestic travel is expected to grow 3 percent annually and reach 19 billion lodging nights per year by 2030. 1 Unless otherwise noted, the source for all data and projections is Oxford Economics. Over the same time frame, international travel should likewise ramp up to its historical average of nine billion nights. Spending on travel is expected to follow a similar trajectory, with an estimated $8.6 trillion in traveler outlays in 2024, representing roughly 9 percent of this year’s global GDP.

About the authors

This article is a collaborative effort by Caroline Tufft , Margaux Constantin , Matteo Pacca , and Ryan Mann , with Ivan Gladstone and Jasperina de Vries, representing views from McKinsey’s Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure Practice.

There’s no doubt people still love to travel and will continue to seek new experiences in new places. But where will travelers come from, and where will they go? We developed a snapshot of current traveler flows, along with estimates for growth through 2030. For the purposes of this report, we have divided the world into four regions—the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa.

Our analysis identifies three major themes for industry stakeholders to consider:

• The bulk of travel spending is close to home. Stakeholders should ensure they capture the full potential of domestic travel before shifting their focus to international travelers. And they should start with international travelers who visit nearby countries—as intraregional trips represent the largest travel segment after domestic trips.
• Source markets are shifting. Although established source markets continue to anchor global travel, Eastern Europe, India, and Southeast Asia are all becoming fast-growing sources of outbound tourism.
• The destinations of the future may not be the ones you imagine. Alongside enduring favorites, places that weren’t on many tourists’ maps are finding clever ways to lure international travelers and establish themselves as desirable destinations.

The bulk of travel spending is close to home

International travel might feel more glamorous, but tourism players should not forget that domestic travel still represents the bulk of the market, accounting for 75 percent of global travel spending (Exhibit 1). Domestic travel recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic faster than international travel, as is typical coming out of downturns. And although there has been a recent boom in “revenge travel,” with travelers prioritizing international trips that were delayed by the pandemic, a return to prepandemic norms, in which domestic travel represents 70 percent of spending, is expected by 2030.

The United States is the world’s largest domestic travel market at $1 trillion in annual spending. Sixty-eight percent of all trips that start in the United States remain within its borders. Domestic demand has softened slightly, as American travelers return abroad. 2 Dawit Habtemariam, “Domestic U.S. tourism growth levels off as Americans head overseas,” Skift, August 18, 2023. But tourism players with the right offerings are still thriving: five national parks broke attendance records in 2023 (including Joshua Tree National Park, which capitalized on growing interest from stargazers indulging in “dark sky” tourism 3 Scott McConkey, “5 national parks set attendance records in 2023, and the reasons may surprise you,” Wealth of Geeks, April 16, 2024. ).

China’s $744 billion domestic travel market is currently the world’s second largest. Chinese travelers spent the pandemic learning to appreciate the diversity of experiences on offer within their own country. Even as borders open back up, Chinese travelers are staying close to home. And domestic destinations are benefiting: for example, Changchun (home to the Changchun Ice and Snow Festival) realized 160 percent year-on-year growth in visitors in 2023. 4 Shi Xiaoji, “Why don’t Chinese people like to travel abroad anymore? The global tourism industry has lost 900 billion yuan. What is the situation?,” NetEase, February 12, 2024. In 2024, domestic travel during Lunar New Year exceeded prepandemic levels by 19 percent.

China’s domestic travel market is expected to grow 12 percent annually and overtake the United States’ to become the world’s largest by 2030. Hotel construction reflects this expectation: 30 percent of the global hotel construction pipeline is currently concentrated in China. The pipeline is heavily skewed toward luxury properties, with more than twice as many luxury hotels under construction in China as in the United States.

India, currently the world’s sixth-largest domestic travel market by spending, is another thriving area for domestic travel. With the subcontinent’s growing middle class powering travel spending growth of roughly 9 percent per year, India’s domestic market could overtake Japan’s and Mexico’s to become the world’s fourth largest by 2030. Domestic air passenger traffic in India is projected to double by 2030, 5 Murali Krishnan, “Can India’s airports cope with rapid passenger growth?,” Deutsche Welle, February 7, 2024. boosted in part by a state-subsidized initiative that aims to connect underserved domestic airports. 6 “India is seeing a massive aviation boom,” Economist , November 23, 2023.

When travelers do go abroad, they often stay close to home (Exhibit 2).

Europe and Asia, in particular, demonstrate strong and growing intraregional travel markets.

Recognizing this general trend, stakeholders have been funneling investment toward regional tourism destinations. An Emirati wealth fund, for instance, has announced its intent to invest roughly $35 billion into established hospitality properties and development opportunities in Egypt. 7 Michael Gunn and Mirette Magdy, “UAE’s $35 billion Egypt deal marks Gulf powers’ buying spree,” Bloomberg, April 27, 2024.

Europe has long played host to a high share of intraregional travel. Seventy percent of its travelers’ international trips stay within the region. Europe’s most popular destinations for intraregional travelers are perennial warm-weather favorites—Spain (18 percent), Italy (10 percent), and France (8 percent)—with limited change to these preferences expected between now and 2030.

Despite longer travel distances between Asian countries, Asia’s intraregional travel market is beginning to resemble Europe’s. Intraregional travel currently accounts for about 60 percent of international trips in Asia—a share expected to climb to 64 percent by 2030. As in Europe in past decades, Asian intraregional travel is benefiting from diminishing visa barriers and the development of a low-cost, regional flight network.

Thailand is projected to enjoy continued, growing popularity with Asian travelers. Thailand waived visa requirements for Chinese tourists in 2023 and plans to do the same for Indian tourists starting in 2024. It has aggressively targeted the fast-growing Indian traveler segment, launching more than 50 marketing campaigns directed at Indians over the past decade. The investment may be paying off: Bangkok recently overtook Dubai as the most popular city destination for Indian tourists. 8 “Bangkok overtakes Dubai as top destination for Indians post visa relaxation, reveals Agoda,” PR Newswire, January 18, 2024.

A McKinsey ConsumerWise survey on consumer sentiment, conducted in February 2024, suggests that Chinese travelers are also exhibiting high interest in international travel, with 36 percent of survey respondents indicating that they intend to spend more on international travel in the next three months. 9 Daniel Zipser, “ China brief: Consumers are spending again (outside of China) ,” McKinsey, April 8, 2024. Much of this interest is directed toward regional destinations such as Southeast Asia and Japan, with interest in travel to Europe down from previous years. 10 Guang Chen, Zi Chen, Steve Saxon, and Jackey Yu, “ Outlook for China tourism 2023: Light at the end of the tunnel ,” McKinsey, May 9, 2023.

Given travelers’ preference for proximity, how can tourism stakeholders further capitalize on domestic and intraregional travel demand? Here are a few strategies:

• Craft offerings that encourage domestic tourists to rediscover local gems. Destinations, hotels, and transportation providers can encourage domestic tourists to integrate lesser-known cultural landmarks into their trips to visit friends and relatives. In France, the upscale hotel chain Relais & Châteaux markets historic properties that lie far from classic tourist sights—such as Château Saint-Jean in rural Auvergne—as a welcome escape from the bustle of Paris. In Mexico, the Pueblos Mágicos program has successfully boosted domestic tourist visits to a set of “magical towns” that showcase Mexican heritage.
• Fold one-off domestic destinations into fuller itineraries. Route 66 in the United States is a classic road trip pathway, which spurs visits to attractions all along the highway’s length. Tourism stakeholders can collaborate to create similar types of domestic itineraries around the world. For instance, Mexico has expanded on its Pueblos Mágicos concept by branding coordinated visits to multiple villages as “magical routes.” In France, local tourism boards and vineyards have collaborated to promote bucket list “wine routes” around the country.
• Make crossing borders into neighboring countries seamless. Removing logistical barriers to travel can nudge tourists to upgrade a one-off trip to a single attraction into a bucket list journey across multiple, less-trodden destinations. In Africa, for example, Ethiopian Airlines is facilitating cross-border travel to major regional tourist sites through improved air connectivity. In Asia, Thailand has announced its intent to create a joint visa easing travel among Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Source markets are shifting

The United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, and France remain the world’s five largest sources of travelers, in that order. These countries collectively accounted for 38 percent of international travel spending in 2023 and are expected to remain the top five source markets through 2030. But interest in travel is blossoming in other parts of the world—causing a shift in the balance of outbound travel flows (Exhibit 3).

North Americans’ travel spending is projected to hold steady at roughly 3 percent annual growth. US consumers voice growing concerns about inflation, and the most cost-constrained traveler segments are reducing travel, which is affecting ultra-low-cost airlines and budget hotels. Most travelers, however, plan to continue traveling: McKinsey research suggests that American consumers rank international and domestic travel as their highest-priority areas for discretionary spending. Instead of canceling their trips, these consumers are adapting their behavior by traveling during off-peak periods or booking travel further in advance. Travel spending by Europeans paints a slightly rosier picture, with roughly 5 percent projected annual growth. Meanwhile, the projected 12 percent annual growth in Chinese travelers’ spending should anchor substantial increases in travel spending across Northeast Asia.

Alongside these enduring traveler segments, new groups of travelers are emerging. Eastern Europe, India, and Southeast Asia are still comparatively small source markets, but they are developing fast-growing pools of first-time tourists (Exhibit 4).

India’s breakneck GDP growth of 6 percent year over year is bolstering a new generation of travelers, 11 Benjamin Laker, “India will grow to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027,” Forbes , February 23, 2024. resulting in a projected annual growth in travel spending of 9 percent between now and 2030. Indian air carriers and lodging companies are making substantial investments to meet projected demand. Budget airline IndiGo placed the largest aircraft order in commercial aviation history in 2023, when it pledged to buy 500 Airbus A320 planes 12 Anna Cooban, “Biggest plane deal in history: Airbus clinches massive order from India’s IndiGo,” CNN, June 19, 2023. ; that same week, Air India nearly equaled IndiGo’s order size with purchase agreements for 250 Airbus and 220 Boeing jets. IndiGo later added an order for 30 additional Airbus A350 planes, well suited to serving both domestic and international routes. 13 “Airbus confirms IndiGo's A350 aircraft order,” Economic Times , May 6, 2024. The Indian Hotels Company Limited is ramping up its hotel pipeline, aiming to open two new hotels per month in the near future. International players are not sitting on the sidelines: seven hotel chains are launching new brands in India in 2024, 14 Peden Doma Bhutia, “Indian Hotels expansion plans: 2 new brands launching, 2 hotels opening every month,” Skift, February 2, 2024. including Marriott’s first Moxy- and Tribute-branded hotels in India and entrants from Hilton’s Curio and Tapestry brands. 15 Forum Gandhi, “Check-in frenzy: International hotel giants unleash fresh brands in India’s booming hospitality landscape,” Hindu Businessline , February 13, 2024. Development focus has shifted away from major metropolises such as Mumbai and Delhi and toward fast-developing, smaller cities such as Chandigarh and Hyderabad.

Southeast Asian travel spending is projected to grow at roughly 7 percent per year. Pockets of particularly high growth exist in Cambodia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. To capitalize on this blossoming source market, neighboring countries are rolling out attractive visa arrangements: for example, China has agreed to reciprocal visa waivers for short-term travelers from Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. 16 Julienna Law, “China launches ‘visa-free era’ with Southeast Asia. Will travel retail boom?,” Jing Daily , January 30, 2024.

Travel spending by Eastern Europeans is expected to grow at 7 percent per year until 2030—two percentage points higher than spending by Western Europeans. Areas of especially high growth include the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland, where middle-class travelers are increasingly venturing farther afield. Major tourism players, including the TUI Group, have tapped into these new source markets by offering charter flights to warm-weather destinations such as Egypt. 17 Hildbrandt von Klaus, “TUI develops Czech Republic as a new source market,” FVW, December 22, 2023.

Although the number of travelers from these new source markets is growing, their purchasing power remains relatively limited. Compared with Western European travelers (who average $159 per night in total travel spending), South Asians spend 20 percent less, Eastern Europeans spend 40 percent less, and Southeast Asians spend 55 percent less. Only 3 percent of the current Asian hotel construction pipeline caters to economy travelers, suggesting a potential supply gap of rooms that could appeal to budget-constrained tourists.

While acknowledging that historical source markets will continue to constitute the bulk of travel spending, tourism players can consider actions such as these to capitalize on growing travel demand from newer markets:

• Reduce obstacles to travel. Countries can look for ways to strategically invest in simplifying travel for visitors from growing source markets. In 2017, for example, Azerbaijan introduced express processing of electronic visas for Indian visitors; annual arrivals from India increased fivefold in two years. Requirements regarding passport photocopies or in-person check-ins can similarly be assessed with an eye toward reducing red tape for travelers.
• Use culturally relevant marketing channels to reach new demographics. Unique, thoughtful marketing strategies can help destinations place themselves on first-time travelers’ bucket lists. For example, after the release of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara , a popular Bollywood movie shot in Spain with support from the Spanish Ministry of Tourism, Indian tourism to Spain increased by 65 percent. 18 “ Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara part of syllabus in Spain colleges,” India Today , June 6, 2004.
• Give new travelers the tech they expect. Travelers from newer source markets often have access to tech-forward travel offerings. For example, Indian travelers can travel anywhere within their country without physical identification, thanks to the Digi Yatra app. The Southeast Asian rideshare app Grab has several helpful travel features that competitors lack, such as automated menu translation and currency conversion. Tourism stakeholders should consider how to adapt to the tech expectations of newer travelers, integrating relevant offerings that ease journeys.
• Create vibrant experiences tailored to different price points. Crafting lower-budget offerings for more cost-constrained travelers doesn’t need to result in giving them a subpar experience. Capsule hotels, in which guests sleep in small cubbies, began as a response to the high cost of accommodations in Japan, but they have become an attraction in their own right—appearing on many must-do lists. 19 Philip Tang, “24 of the best experiences in Japan,” Lonely Planet, March 23, 2024.

The places you’ll go: The destinations of the future may not be the ones you imagine

The world’s top ten destination countries (the United States, Spain, China, France, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Italy, Thailand, Japan, and India, in that order) currently receive 45 percent of all travel spending, including for domestic travel. But some new locales are gaining traction (Exhibit 5).

A significant number of travelers are expanding their horizons, booking journeys to less visited countries that are near to old standbys. For instance, Laos and Malaysia, which both border Thailand—an established destination that is home to Bangkok, the world’s most visited city 20 Katherine LaGrave, “This is the world’s most visited city,” AFAR , January 31, 2024. —are up a respective 20 percent and 17 percent, respectively, in year-over-year international travel spending.

The world’s top ten destination countries currently receive 45 percent of all travel spending, including domestic-travel spending. But some new locales are gaining traction.

Several other countries that have crafted thoughtful tourism demand generation strategies—such as Peru, the Philippines, Rwanda, and Vietnam—are also expected to reap benefits in the coming years. Vietnam logged a remarkable 40 percent increase in tourism spending in the five years before the pandemic. Postpandemic, it has rebounded in part by waiving visa requirements for European travelers (while indicating intent to offer similar exemptions in the future for Chinese and Indian travelers). 21 Ashvita Singh, “Vietnam looks to offer visa-free entry to Indians: India report,” Skift, November 20, 2023. The Philippines has made a concerted effort to shift its sun-and-beach branding toward a more well-rounded image, replacing its long-standing “It’s more fun in the Philippines” tourism slogan with “Love the Philippines.” Peru is highlighting less visited archeological sites while also marketing itself as a top-notch culinary destination through the promotion of Peruvian restaurants abroad. Rwanda is investing in infrastructure to become a major African transit hub, facilitated by Qatar Airways’ purchase of a 60 percent stake in the country’s major airport. 22 Dylan Cresswell, “Rwanda plots ambitious tourism recovery,” African Business , July 28, 2022. Rwanda has also successfully capitalized on sustainable tourism: by charging $1,500 per gorilla trekking permit, for instance, it has maximized revenue while reducing environmental impact.

Tourism players might consider taking some of these actions to lure tourists to less familiar destinations:

• Collaborate across the tourism ecosystem. Promotion is not solely the domain of destination marketing organizations. Accommodation, transportation, and experience providers can also play important roles. In Singapore, for instance, the luxury resort Marina Bay Sands partners extensively with Singapore Airlines and the Singapore Tourism Board to offer compelling tourism offerings. Past collaborations have included flight and stay packages built around culinary festivals. 23 “Singapore Tourism Board, Marina Bay Sands & UOB partner to enliven Marina Bay precinct,” Singapore Tourism Board news release, January 25, 2024.
• Use infrastructure linkage to promote new destinations. By extending route options, transportation providers can encourage visitors to create itineraries that combine familiar destinations with new attractions. In Asia, Thailand’s tourism authority has attempted to nudge visitors away from the most heavily trafficked parts of the country, such as Bangkok and Phuket, and toward less popular destinations.
• Deploy social media to reach different demographics. Innovative social media campaigns can help put a destination on the map. Australia launched its “Ruby the kangaroo” campaign in China to coincide with the return of postpandemic air capacity between the two places. A video adapted for Chinese context (with appropriate gestures and a hashtag in Mandarin) garnered more than 20 million views in a single day on one of China’s largest social media platforms. 24 Nicole Gong, “Can Ruby the kangaroo bring Chinese tourists hopping back to Australia?,” SBS, June 5, 2023.
• Embrace unknown status. “Off the beaten path” messaging can appeal to widely traveled tourists seeking fresh experiences. Saudi Arabia’s “#WhereInTheWorld” campaign promoted the country’s tourist spots by acknowledging that they are less familiar to travelers, using a series of images that compared these spots with better-known destinations.

As tourism stakeholders look to the future, they can take steps to ensure that they continue to delight existing travelers while also embracing new ones. Domestic and intraregional tourism remain major opportunities—catering to local tourists’ preferences while building infrastructure that makes travel more seamless within a region could help capture them. Creative collaboration among tourism stakeholders can help put lesser-known destinations on the map. Travel tides are shifting. Expertly navigating these currents could yield rich rewards.

Caroline Tufft is a senior partner in McKinsey’s London office, Margaux Constantin is a partner in the Dubai office, Matteo Pacca is a senior partner in the Paris office, Ryan Mann is a partner in the Chicago office, Ivan Gladstone is an associate partner in the Riyadh office, and Jasperina de Vries is an associate partner in the Amsterdam office.

The authors wish to thank Abdulhadi Alghamdi, Alessandra Powell, Alex Dichter, Cedric Tsai, Diane Vu, Elisa Wallwitz, Lily Miller, Maggie Coffey, Nadya Snezhkova, Nick Meronyk, Paulina Baum, Peimin Suo, Rebecca Stone, Sarah Fellay, Sarah Sahel, Steffen Fuchs, Steffen Köpke, Steve Saxon, Sophia Wang, and Urs Binggeli for their contributions to this article.

This article was edited by Seth Stevenson, a senior editor in the New York office.

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