With so much history, culture, and natural beauty, where do you begin when visiting Germany? Here is a list of the top 10 things to see and do in Germany that you definitely won’t want to miss.
Brandenburg Gate
When in Germany’s capital, you literally will not be able to miss the impressive and iconic Brandenburg Gate that was once part of the Berlin Wall. The Brandenburg Gate was modeled after the famous Acropolis and was built in 1791
Cologne Cathedral
One of the largest cathedrals in the world, the Cologne Cathedral is one of the must-see sites in Germany. Construction on the Kölner Dom began in the 13th century and took over six centuries to complete. After most of Cologne was destroyed by bombings during World War II, this iconic cathedral survived. The cathedral is famous for housing the Shrine of the Three Kings which is thought to hold the remains of the Three Wise Men.
Black Forest
The Black Forest tops nearly every list of the top things to see in Germany. Stretching over 4,000 square miles to the Swiss border, the Black Forest has rolling hills and valleys with walking, biking and scenic driving routes through medieval German towns and villages such as Freiburg and Schiltach.
The Romantic Road
Another of the top things to do in Germany is take a trip on the most popular scenic driving route in the country, known as the Romantic Road. The Romantic Road takes you through the southern provinces of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg where you will pass through medieval towns with half-timbered houses and castles. The route ends in the Alps near the most famous castle in the world, Neuschwanstein Castle, which was the inspiration for the castle in Sleeping Beauty.
Pilgrimage Church of Wies
Located in a picturesque Alpine valley in Steingaden, Bavaria, the Pilgrimage Church of Wies is astonishingly beautiful with its vivid frescoes, intricate carvings and Rococo architecture. The church is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and definitely one of the must-see sites in Germany.
Europa-Park
The largest theme park in Germany, Europa-Park recently surpassed Neuschwanstein Castle as the most visited attraction in the country. The large amusement park has rides and attractions themed after different European countries.
Rhine Valley
The Rhine is one of the most important rivers in Europe and also an area of breathtaking natural beauty, with many of its most scenic sites located along Germany’s Upper Middle Rhine Valley. The picturesque Upper Middle Rhine Valley, stretching from Bingen to Koblenz, features dozens of medieval castles, cathedrals, and rolling vine-clad hills, and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural and historical significance. You can explore the Rhine Valley by land or by river cruise.
Marienplatz, Munich
One of the best things to do in Munich is exploring the main city square, called Marienplatz. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this historic city centre is filled with stunning architecture and a notable clock tower, the Rathaus-Glockenspiel.
Oktoberfest
One of the most German things to do in Germany is attend Oktoberfest, a lively beer festival that takes place over two weeks through September and October. There are many Oktoberfest spin-offs around the world, but the original and official Oktoberfest takes place in Munich. The 2019 Oktoberfest will take place September 21st through October 6th.
Christmas Markets
Another quintessential thing to do in Germany is attend the many traditional Christmas markets that can be found all over the country. You can find artisanal gifts and food stalls serving bratwurst and mulled wine at many of the markets. The Christmas markets are typically open from late November to early January. Berlin alone has dozens of Christmas markets.
Browse other Germany tours and browse Christmas Market tours and river cruises.
More Germany Travel from Our Expert Advisors:
- Places to Visit in Munich
- Oktoberfest: More Than Just Beer
- Best Christmas Markets in Germany
- Scenic Sites Along the Rhine River
- Gourmet Germany: Food and Wine Worth the Trip
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Germany
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- Russia River Cruises 2011
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- History of the Matryoshka Doll
More Germany and Oktoberfest Travel:
- Oktoberfest Celebrations Around the World
- Oktoberfest 2018 Germany
- Your Guide To Fall Beers And Where You Can Experience Them
- Celebrating Oktoberfest in the U.S.
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