From Baltic beaches to breathtaking castles, medieval towns to modern landmarks, we’ve rounded up 12 beautiful spots in Germany you need to visit!
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The Reichstag, the seat of the German parliament, has survived fascism and fire to become one of Berlin’s most recognizable landmarks. The spectacular modern glass dome was added in 1999, offering stunning views inside and out. To see the Reichstag at its absolute best, visit in October during the annual Festival of Lights.
Rakotzbrücke
The utterly enchanting Rakotzbrücke looks like something out of Lord of the Rings with its reflection in the river producing an almost perfect circle. Known as a “devil’s bridge” (due to the belief that only Satan could have created such a thing), it was commissioned in 1860 by a local knight. Nestled in the Kromlauer Park near Gablenz in Saxony, it is best viewed in autumn when framed by fiery foliage.
Heidelberg
Situated on the banks of the Neckar river, Heidelberg is one of Germany’s most beautiful towns. It is home to Germany’s oldest university, the breathtaking ruins of Heidelberg Castle and the Baroque Heiliggeistkirche (Church of the Holy Spirit). The Philosophers' Walk on the slopes of the nearby Heiligenberg offers magnificent views of the town and its castle.
Neuschwanstein Castle
The fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most popular places in Europe. A steep 30-minute walk from the nearby village of Hohenschwangau, this noble-looking castle offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountain scenery. Inside, highlights include the personal apartments of King Ludwig II.
Rügen Island
If you love sun, sea and sand, you’ll want to head to Germany’s largest island, Rügen, located on the Baltic Coast. Here, you’ll discover breathtaking white-sand beaches that stretch for miles, elegant piers with splendid sea views and historic towns dotted with superb Art Nouveau architecture.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Picturesque Rothenburg is a major highlight along Bavaria’s Romantic Road. This delightful medieval town transports you back to the middle ages with its old city walls and gabled houses. Highlights include the Gothic church of St Jakob, the Rothenburg Museum and the Rödertor city gate.
Königssee and St. Bartholomew's Church
The stunning Königssee is Germany’s largest and cleanest lake. For environmental reasons, only electric boats and rowing boats are allowed on the water. Take a tour past the lovely St. Bartholomew's Church and hear the boatman's trumpet blast bounce back from the sheer mountain walls.
Muskau Park and Castle
The English-style landscaped park at Muskau is one of the most beautiful in Saxony, leading to its inclusion in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage list. Within the park is the dreamy Neo-Renaissance Muskau Castle, which was destroyed in World War II and reopened after reconstruction in 2013.
The Frauenkirche
Dresden was once one of Germany’s most beautiful cities but it suffered terrible bombing during World War II and restoration is still ongoing. The Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) was left in ruins during the Communist era to serve as a reminder of the damage wrought by the war, but after reunification it was reconstructed into the most celebrated landmark in the city.
Miltenberg am Main
Standing on a tight bend on the Main river, Milternberg has appeared in countless period TV shows and movies. The town is made up of beautiful half-timbered houses, traditional taverns, specialty shops and tiny alleys that descend toward the riverbank. It is also home to one of Germany’s oldest hotels, Zum Riesen (the Giant), which dates back at least to 1411.
Sanssouci Palace and Park
Sanssouci Palace, set in the Park Sanssouci complex in Potsdam, was designed as an intimate royal hideaway. The name is French for “without a care” and gives a good indication of the flamboyant character of this enchanting Rococo palace which has captivated visitors for centuries.
Neues Rathaus and Marienplatz
At the centre of Munich, Marienplatz is dominated by the Neo-Gothic new town hall (Neues Rathaus). Its ostentatious design features statues of Bavarian dukes, kings, saints, mythical creatures as well as a variety of gargoyles inspired by medieval bestiaries. Its tower offers fantastic views of the city and, weather permitting, all the way to the Alps.
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