Why Germany rewards travellers
Germany packs medieval old towns, alpine peaks, world-class museums and some of Europe's best beer into one easy-to-cross country. Fast ICE trains link the highlights, so you can mix big cities with castles and forests in a single trip.
Berlin and its history
Start in the capital. Walk through the Brandenburg Gate, trace the East Side Gallery (the longest surviving stretch of the Berlin Wall, painted with murals) and visit the moving Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Museum Island holds five world-class collections, including the Pergamon.
Neuschwanstein Castle
King Ludwig II's fairy-tale castle near Füssen inspired Disney's logo. Book timed tickets online (around 21 euros) well ahead, and pair the visit with a walk to Marienbrücke for the classic photo over the gorge.
Munich and Bavaria
Munich's Marienplatz and its glockenspiel anchor the old town. In autumn, Oktoberfest fills the city with beer tents, but the English Garden and beer halls like the Hofbräuhaus are great year-round.
The Romantic Road and Rothenburg
This scenic route links walled medieval towns. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the highlight: walk the intact town walls and wander cobbled lanes that look frozen in the 1500s.
The Black Forest
In the southwest, the Black Forest offers dense woodland, cuckoo clocks, spa towns like Baden-Baden and the real Black Forest gateau. Drive the scenic B500 or hike near Triberg's waterfalls.
Cologne Cathedral
Cologne's twin-spired Gothic Dom is a UNESCO site and one of the tallest cathedrals on earth. Climb the 533 steps of the south tower for sweeping views over the Rhine.
The Rhine Valley
Between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, the Upper Middle Rhine is lined with hilltop castles and steep vineyards. Take a river cruise past the famous Lorelei rock.
Hamburg and the north
Germany's great port city offers the Speicherstadt warehouse district, the striking Elbphilharmonie concert hall and the buzzing nightlife of the Reeperbahn.
Practical tips
- Buy a Deutschland-Ticket (49 euros/month) for unlimited regional transport.
- Many shops close on Sundays, so plan groceries ahead.
- Cash is still useful at small cafes and markets.
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