25 best things to do in Germany

Planning a trip and wondering what to do in Germany? Whether you're into history, fairy-tale castles, or stunning landscapes, Germany has something for everyone. Walk through Berlin’s storied past, explore the medieval streets of Rothenburg, or take in the dramatic scenery of the Black Forest. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Germany.

1. Visit Schloss Neuschwanstein – Germany’s ultimate fairy-tale castle

Mad King Ludwig’s most extravagant creation, Schloss Neuschwanstein, looks like it was plucked straight from a storybook. Perched dramatically in the Bavarian Alps, this castle blends medieval fantasy with Wagnerian inspiration — no wonder it was the model for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. It’s easily one of the best places to see in Germany.

Germany has no shortage of castles, each with its distinct character. If Neuschwanstein’s soaring towers and cliffside setting aren’t enough, head east to Schloss Linderhof. Tucked into the Ammergebirge Alps, this smaller yet opulent retreat is Ludwig’s only completed palace, surrounded by perfectly manicured terraced gardens.

2. Explore Pinakothek der Moderne – Munich’s temple of modern art

Munich’s Pinakothek der Moderne isn’t just a museum — it’s a celebration of modern creativity. Housed in a striking white building, this cultural powerhouse brings together four distinct collections, covering everything from cutting-edge design to 20th-century art icons.

The Bavarian State Gallery of Modern Art showcases a stellar lineup of German Expressionism, Surrealism, and American Pop Art, with an entire room dedicated to Picasso. The Neue Sammlung dives into industrial design, featuring everything from classic cars to early computers. Meanwhile, the Graphische Sammlung boasts over 400,000 prints and drawings, making it a must-see for art lovers.

3. Experience Germany on two wheels

Germany is a dream for cyclists. With trails that cut through the Bavarian Alps, the Black Forest, and riverside towns along the Rhine and Elbe, it’s a great way to explore some of the best places to visit in Germany. Whether you’re after a relaxed ride through vineyards or a multi-day mountain challenge, there’s a route for it — and plenty of rental options if you’re traveling light.

Some of the best cycling routes follow Germany’s iconic rivers. Pedal along the Rhine for castle-studded views, wind through vineyard-covered hills on the Mosel route, or take the scenic Altmühl Valley path. If you’re up for a challenge, the Rennsteig trail in the Thuringian Forest offers a legendary ridgeline ride.

Prefer wheels with a smoother glide? In-line skating has become a popular form of entertainment in Germany, with dedicated routes like the 60-mile (100km) Fläming Skate trail south of Berlin, perfect for skaters and cyclists alike.

4. Take a cruise through the romantic Rhine Valley

Fairy-tale castles, rolling vineyards, and riverside villages — the Rhine Valley is Germany at its most picturesque. This legendary stretch of the river, long associated with poets, painters, and a few less-romantic robber barons, is best explored by boat, bike, or scenic train.

The most stunning section starts just upstream from Bonn, where the Siebengebirge (Seven Mountains) rise steeply along the river. The Drachenfels (Dragon Rock) is steeped in myth — legend says Siegfried slew a dragon here and bathed in its blood for invincibility. Below, white steamers glide past craggy cliffs crowned with medieval castles, while terraced vineyards fuel the Riesling-filled taverns of Bacharach and Rüdesheim.

If you’re planning a trip to Germany with castles, river cruises, or wine culture in mind, this is one region you don’t want to skip.

5. Raise a Maß at Oktoberfest, Munich

The world’s biggest beer festival isn’t just about the beer — it’s a full-blown Bavarian spectacle. Expect brass bands, hearty food, and millions of revelers packed into massive beer tents, all raising their Maß (one-liter steins) in a toast to tradition. If you’re going, pack your lederhosen or dirndl — this is one party where dressing the part is half the fun.

Oktoberfest runs for two weeks, ending on the first weekend of October, so plan your trip accordingly. And while the festival is legendary, Germany’s beer culture doesn’t stop here. From crisp Pilsners to smoky Rauchbier, there’s a brew for every taste — just don’t ask for a pint. In Germany, beer is serious business, and the Maß is king.

6. Step into baroque splendor at the Zwinger, Dresden

Dresden’s Zwinger isn’t just a palace — it’s an open-air masterpiece of Baroque excess. Built in the early 1700s by architect Matthäus Daniel Pöppelmann for Augustus the Strong, it was designed as a lavish stage for royal festivities, complete with sweeping courtyards, elegant fountains, and ornate pavilions. Today, it stands as one of the best places to see in Germany, showcasing the country’s rich architectural heritage.

Inside, the Zwinger is just as impressive. The Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Old Masters’ Gallery) houses Raphael’s famous Sistine Madonna, while the Porzellansammlung (Porcelain Collection) showcases exquisite Meissen and Chinese porcelain. For history buffs, the Rüstkammer (Armory) is packed with dazzling suits of armor and ceremonial weapons.

7. Discover Germany’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Germany is packed with history, and its 54 UNESCO World Heritage Sites prove it. From medieval towns to cutting-edge industrial landmarks, these sites showcase the country’s architectural, cultural, and natural treasures.

Walk through the timeworn streets of Bamberg, a perfectly preserved medieval town. Explore Berlin’s Museum Island, home to some of the world’s most important art collections. Or step into history at Wartburg Castle, where Martin Luther translated the New Testament. Nature lovers can head to the beech forests of Jasmund National Park or marvel at the bizarre rock formations of Saxon Switzerland.

With so many options, it’s easy to weave a few of these sites into your Germany itinerary. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a deep dive into Germany’s rich heritage.

8. Experience Cologne – history, beer, and carnival madness

Cologne is Germany’s cool, free-spirited city — a place where history meets a laid-back beer culture and a famously wild carnival. With over 2,000 years of history, it has seen Roman emperors, medieval merchants, and modern-day revelers, all leaving their mark.

The city’s centerpiece is its breathtaking twin-spired cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the skyline. But Cologne isn’t just about old stones; it’s about energy. The streets around the cathedral and main station are buzzing day and night, whether it’s with café-goers, street performers, or party-loving locals.

If you’re here in February, brace yourself for Karneval, when the city transforms into a costumed, beer-fueled frenzy of parades and parties. Any other time of year, grab a Kölsch in a traditional beer hall, soak up the Rhine-side views, and see why Cologne is one of Germany’s most beloved cities.

9. Dive into Germany’s electric nightlife

Germany lives and breathes electronic music, and its club culture is the stuff of legend. As a hub of entertainment in Germany, the nightlife scene offers something for everyone — from Berlin’s iconic techno temples to underground student haunts in university towns, there’s a venue for every taste, whether you’re a die-hard raver or just looking for a wild night out.

Berlin leads the charge, with world-famous clubs like Berghain, where the music is relentless, and the door policy is infamous. But the scene isn’t just about techno — Leipzig’s Moritzbastei, a historic fortress-turned-student-club, offers a mix of live music and DJ nights, while Hamburg’s Reeperbahn is packed with bars and clubs that shaped music history (including The Beatles' early gigs).

10. Stroll through Sanssouci Park – a royal escape near Berlin

Potsdam’s Sanssouci Park isn’t just a park — it’s a statement. Built in 1744 as Frederick the Great’s personal retreat, this sprawling estate was designed for relaxation, art, and philosophy, far from the politics of Berlin. The name Sans souci — French for “without cares” — says it all.

At its heart stands Schloss Sanssouci, a striking yellow palace perched on a terraced vineyard overlooking the town. Designed by architect Georg von Knobelsdorff, it was completed in just three years, but the surrounding gardens took much longer to perfect. The park is a masterpiece of Baroque landscaping, dotted with fountains, pavilions, and extravagant follies.

An easy day trip from Berlin, Sanssouci is a place to wander, take in history, and see how Prussian kings defined luxury.

11. Get festive at Germany's Christmas markets

If you want holiday cheer with a side of nostalgia, Germany’s Christmas markets deliver. Think twinkling lights, steaming mugs of mulled wine, and the scent of gingerbread filling the air. These markets, dating back centuries, transform town squares into winter wonderlands, complete with traditional crafts, hearty food, and enough kitsch to make even the Grinchiest visitor smile.

The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is the most famous, drawing crowds with its wooden stalls and old-world charm. But Saxony might just have the best selection — Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, founded in 1434, claims to be the oldest in Germany. Wherever you go, expect hand-carved ornaments, cozy woolens, and museum shops packed with one-of-a-kind gifts.

If you're visiting Germany in winter, skipping the Christmas markets would be like skipping Oktoberfest in Munich — unthinkable.

12. Take in the Dramatic Cliffs of Rügen

Germany’s largest island, Rügen, is a place of windswept beaches, quiet fishing villages, and, most famously, towering white chalk cliffs. Located in Jasmund National Park, these sheer cliffs rise above the Baltic Sea, framed by ancient beech forests that have earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

The most iconic viewpoint is the Königsstuhl (King’s Chair), a dramatic rock formation immortalized by 19th-century painter Caspar David Friedrich. His famous painting Chalk Cliffs on Rügen captures the island’s wild beauty — though you don’t need a canvas to appreciate the view.

13. Sip your way through Germany’s wine country

Germany might be known for beer, but its wines are just as impressive — if you know where to look. Thanks to high local demand, many bottles never make it beyond the valleys where they’re grown. The best way to experience them? A tasting tour along the Deutsche Weinstraße, the route winding through the heart of the Palatinate wine region.

Established in 1935 to promote local wine, the Weinstraße stretches from the French border at Schweigen-Rechtenbach to Bockenheim, passing through rolling vineyards and charming villages. Riesling reigns supreme here, though Pinot Noir-based reds are gaining a following. Stop in Neustadt an der Weinstraße, the region’s lively wine capital, or visit Bad Dürkheim, home to the world’s largest wine barrel (big enough to fit a restaurant inside).

For a more refined experience, Deidesheim and the medieval town of Freinsheim offer excellent food to pair with the local vintages. Whether you're a casual sipper or a serious connoisseur, this is Germany’s wine country at its best.

14. Hit the slopes in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Germany's premier ski resort, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, nestled in the shadow of the Zugspitze, offers everything from alpine runs to the adrenaline-pumping Kandahar World Cup circuit.

Not into winter sports? No problem. Garmisch-Partenkirchen is just as popular in summer, with miles of hiking trails and spectacular Alpine scenery. The town itself is a mix of old-world charm and modern luxury: Partenkirchen has traditional Bavarian houses, while Garmisch has stylish boutiques and lively cafés.

For unrivaled views, take the cable car or railroad up to the Zugspitze. On a clear day, the panorama stretches over 125 miles across the Alps, making it one of the most spectacular vantage points in Germany.

15. Step into history at Aachen Cathedral

Aachen Cathedral is no ordinary church, but a masterpiece of medieval architecture and a symbol of imperial power. Built by Charlemagne and consecrated in 805, its octagonal Palatine Chapel remains one of the greatest surviving structures of early medieval Europe. Using repurposed Roman marble and bronze, the space exudes a striking Byzantine influence, illuminated by a magnificent 12th-century chandelier.

The Gothic altar, added later, houses Charlemagne's gilded tomb, while the simple marble-and-wood throne on which emperors once sat for coronation provides a modest contrast. Don't miss the cathedral's treasury, one of Europe's finest, filled with relics and treasures that span centuries of religious and royal history.

16. Join the party at Christopher Street Day

Berlin and Cologne know how to celebrate Pride. Christopher Street Day (CSD), Germany’s biggest LGBTQ+ event, isn’t just a parade — it’s a full-blown festival of inclusivity, activism, and pure energy. Held annually since 1979, it honors the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York and draws hundreds of thousands of people to the streets.

Berlin’s CSD Demo kicks off on Ku’damm, winding through the city before ending in front of the Brandenburg Gate for a massive rally and party. Expect floats, DJs and a sea of rainbow flags. In addition to the parade, there are tons of events, from club nights to cultural talks, making the week a celebration of diversity.

Cologne’s CSD is just as legendary, with a parade that turns the entire city into a carnival of music, dance, and activism.

While in Berln consider staying in the Propeller Island City Lodge which is truly one of the weirdest hotels in the world. Or find your best accommodation option in Berlin with our guide to the best places to stay in Berlin.

17. Escape to the North Sea islands

Wind-swept dunes, endless skies, and the gentle crash of the North Sea — Germany’s North Frisian Islands offer a coastal retreat that feels a world away. Whether you’re lounging in a Strandkorb (a classic wicker beach chair) or riding the waves on a kiteboard, these islands balance rugged beauty with understated charm.

Once isolated fishing and farming communities, these islands have long since turned to tourism, but they’ve kept their character. Sylt is the most developed, with stylish boutiques and restaurants in thatched-roof villages. But if you’re after peace, Föhr and Amrum offer a more laid-back, pastoral escape.

Despite its popularity, the region is more Martha’s Vineyard than St. Tropez. The landscape — rolling dunes, wild marram grass, and dramatic coastal light — has inspired artists for over a century.

18. Hike through the Allgäu, Bavaria

Alpine peaks, rolling meadows, and crisp mountain air — the Allgäu region in Bavaria is a dream for hikers.

The town of Füssen, set on the River Lech, makes a perfect base. It’s best known for the fairy-tale Schloss Neuschwanstein, but there’s more to explore. The former Benedictine abbey of St. Mang adds a historical touch, while the surrounding mountains provide endless outdoor adventures.

From Füssen, trails lead deep into the eastern Allgäu, with routes crossing into Austria for those craving a cross-border trek. Well-marked paths wind past alpine lakes, through lush forests, and up to panoramic peaks. If you prefer two wheels over two feet, the region also boasts excellent cycling routes.

19. Head to the Flower Island of Lake Constance

Lake Constance (Bodensee), Germany’s largest lake, is more than just a pretty backdrop — it’s a destination in itself. Shared with Austria and Switzerland, this vast inland sea is framed by the Alps and dotted with charming towns, vineyards, and lush orchards.

One of its highlights is Mainau, the "Flower Island." Famous for its year-round botanical displays, this island bursts with tulips in spring, roses in summer, and dahlias in autumn. Palm trees and exotic plants thrive in the mild climate, giving it an almost Mediterranean feel. Beyond the gardens, the island is home to a Baroque palace and butterfly house, adding to its fairytale-like appeal.

Elsewhere on the lake, towns like Meersburg and Lindau offer historic charm, while the university city of Tübingen and medieval Rottweil — both nearby — are worth a detour for their half-timbered houses and lively atmosphere. 

20. Relive history at the Berlin Wall

The Berlin Wall was more than just a barrier — it was a stark symbol of division that shaped the city for nearly three decades. For those exploring historical things to do in Germany, the Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer) is the most powerful place to grasp its impact.

Located along Bernauer Straße, this memorial preserves the only section of the Wall that remains fully intact. Here, you can see the original border fortifications, including the death strip, watchtowers, and escape tunnels. Informational panels and exhibits bring personal stories to life, making it clear just how deeply the Wall affected Berliners on both sides.

Unlike the graffiti-covered East Side Gallery, which celebrates the Wall’s fall, this site offers a more sobering perspective. It's a must-visit to truly understand Berlin’s past — and the resilience of its people.

21. Step back in time in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

If you're looking for a fairytale version of Germany, Rothenburg am Tauber is the place to be. This beautifully preserved medieval town perched above the Tauber River is the highlight of the Romantic Road, a scenic route through the historic Bavarian countryside.

With its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and imposing city walls, Rothenburg is like a time capsule. Walk the sentry path along the fortifications, explore the market square, or climb the Renaissance Rathaus tower for panoramic views over the red rooftops and rolling Franconian hills.

Despite its picture-perfect charm, Rothenburg isn’t just a tourist showpiece — it has a real history. The town thrived during the Middle Ages but was frozen in time after the Thirty Years’ War left it impoverished. Today, it’s one of Germany’s most famous small towns, drawing visitors year-round — especially at Christmas, when its market and Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village transform it into a winter wonderland.

22. Explore the mystical Black Forest

Deep valleys, dense evergreen forests and half-timbered villages: the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is Germany's most iconic landscape. Stretching 100 miles from Karlsruhe to the Swiss border, the region is famous for its dark spruce hills, cuckoo clocks and rich folklore.

Beyond the thick woods, you’ll find open pastures, rushing waterfalls, and traditional farmhouses with wide, sloping roofs. The highest peak, the Feldberg offers breathtaking views across the Rhine Valley and, on clear days, all the way to the Swiss Alps. For outdoor lovers, the Black Forest is paradise — hiking and cycling trails weave through its rolling hills, while scenic train routes like the Schwarzwaldbahn cut through its dramatic landscapes.

23. Discover the beauty of Berchtesgaden National Park

The Berchtesgaden National Park in the Bavarian Alps is a paradise of deep valleys and lakes. The town of Berchtesgaden, once the summer retreat of Bavarian royalty, still exudes Alpine charm with its painted houses, small royal palace, and breathtaking mountain views.

The national park itself protects some of Germany's most stunning scenery, including the emerald-green Königssee, where powered boats glide through glassy waters surrounded by sheer cliffs. The park’s Haus der Berge visitor center offers a fascinating introduction to the region’s fragile ecosystems and diverse wildlife.

History also runs deep here. The town’s wealth was built on salt mining, and you can still descend into the old Salzbergwerk for a subterranean tour. For an entirely different perspective, take the winding mountain road up to the Kehlsteinhaus — better known as the Eagle’s Nest. Perched at 6,017ft, this former Nazi retreat is now a panoramic restaurant with one of the most breathtaking views in Bavaria.

24. Stay in Nuremberg’s Old Town – a medieval city reborn

Nuremberg’s Altstadt (Old Town) is the quintessential German medieval city — except it’s not. Almost entirely rebuilt after World War II, the city’s red-roofed houses, Gothic churches, and towering fortifications are a testament to both its history and resilience.

The Old Town is surrounded by imposing defensive walls, watched over by the Kaiserburg, the imperial castle perched on a rocky hill. Below, cobbled streets lead past half-timbered houses, lively squares and ornate fountains. But Nuremberg isn't just about emperors and Wagner’s Mastersingers, its history is complex. The city was the center of Nazi propaganda rallies and later symbolically became the site of the Nuremberg Trials, where Nazi leaders were tried.

Today, Nuremberg combines a challenging past with a vibrant present. Visit the castle for breathtaking views, stop by the Documentation Center to learn about its 20th-century history, and then relax in the beer hall with a plate of Nürnberger Rostbratwürste, tiny but legendary sausages served with tangy mustard and sauerkraut.

25. Explore the romantic ruins of Heidelberg Castle

Few places in Germany capture romance quite like Heidelberg, where the red sandstone castle towers over the city and the Neckar River. As one of the best places to see in Germany, this striking fortress offers a blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking views.

This striking fortress, once home to the Electors of the Palatinate, is an architectural patchwork of styles from the 13th to 17th centuries. Inside the fortress, you'll find the fascinating German Pharmacy Museum and the Grosses Fass, a wine barrel so huge it once held more than 200,000 liters of local wine. In true medieval fashion, wine was part of the castle's tax system and local vintners had to contribute to the annual filling.

The climb up to the castle is an experience in itself: you can climb the picturesque stone steps or take the cable car for a more unhurried ascent. Either way, the views of Heidelberg's red-roofed Old Town and the Neckar River Valley are well worth the trip.