Things to see and do in Germany

As a symbol of both division and unity, the Brandenburg Gate is Germany’s most famous landmark. This neoclassical arch stands at the end of Unter den Linden, surrounded by history-heavy sites like the Reichstag building and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Walk through the gate at night when it’s beautifully illuminated, then head to the nearby Museum Island to explore five world-renowned museums situated in the middle of the Spree River.

Perched precariously on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau, Neuschwanstein is the ultimate fairytale castle. Commissioned by King Ludwig II as a private retreat, its slender towers and Romanesque design famously inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Tour the opulent Throne Hall and the king’s bedroom, then walk to the nearby Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) for the iconic postcard view of the castle framed by the Bavarian Alps.

Dominating the city’s skyline with its two massive spires, Cologne Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It took over 600 years to complete and houses the ornate Shrine of the Three Kings. For those with stamina, climbing the 533 steps of the south tower rewards you with a breathtaking view across the Rhine. Afterward, wander the nearby Old Town to sample a glass of traditional "Kölsch" beer in a local brewery.

The Romantic Road is Germany’s most popular scenic route, stretching from the Main River to the Alps. Its crown jewel is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a perfectly preserved medieval town. Walking along its 14th-century town walls feels like stepping back in time. Explore the crooked half-timbered houses, visit the Christmas Museum (open year-round), and don't forget to try a "Schneeball" (snowball), the town's signature pastry made of deep-fried dough.

Known for its evergreen canopies, mist-covered mountains, and folklore, the Black Forest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It is the birthplace of the cuckoo clock and the famous Black Forest cherry cake. Hike through the Ravennaschlucht (Ravenna Gorge), visit the roaring Triberg Waterfalls, or drive the scenic Black Forest High Road for panoramic views. For a touch of luxury, stop in the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden for a soak in its historic Roman baths.

In the north, Hamburg’s maritime soul is centered around its massive port and the historic Speicherstadt—the world’s largest warehouse district built on oak piles. With its red-brick Gothic architecture and narrow canals, it is best explored by boat. Nearby, the Elbphilharmonie concert hall stands as a modern architectural icon. Make sure to visit the Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway, which is a marvel of engineering for visitors of all ages.

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is a romantic landscape of terraced vineyards, steep cliffs, and more castles than any other river in the world. Take a river cruise between Bingen and Koblenz to see the legendary Lorelei Rock, where sirens were said to lure sailors to their doom. Stop in the wine village of Rüdesheim to explore the Drosselgasse alley and enjoy a glass of local Riesling overlooking the river.

At 9,718 feet, the Zugspitze is Germany’s highest peak. You can reach the summit via a modern cable car or a nostalgic rack railway from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. On a clear day, the "Four-Country View" allows you to see hundreds of peaks across Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. In winter, it is a premier ski destination, while summer offers high-altitude hiking and the chance to walk on the Zugspitzplatt glacier.

Marienplatz is the vibrant heart of Munich, featuring the New Town Hall and its famous Glockenspiel, which performs daily with moving figurines. After watching the show, walk to the nearby Viktualienmarkt to browse local delicacies. No trip to Munich is complete without experiencing a traditional beer garden, such as the one at the Chinese Tower in the English Garden, where you can enjoy a pretzel and a liter of beer under the shade of ancient chestnut trees.

Located near Dresden, this park features the dramatic Elbe Sandstone Mountains. The highlight is the Bastei Bridge, a stone structure that links jagged rock formations hundreds of feet above the Elbe River. The views of the bizarre rock pillars and the winding river below are some of the most unique in Central Europe. It is an ideal spot for photography, rock climbing, and scenic hiking.

Known as "Florence on the Elbe," Dresden is a city of incredible Baroque beauty. The Frauenkirche, with its massive stone dome, was painstakingly rebuilt after being destroyed in WWII and stands as a symbol of reconciliation. Nearby, the Zwinger palace complex houses world-class museums, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery. The city’s silhouette, especially when viewed from across the river at sunset, is one of the most elegant in Germany.