Is Summer a Good Time to Visit Germany?

Summer is many traveler’s favorite time to visit Germany.

If you’re a big fan of festivals or concerts, one of the biggest draws are all the cultural events that take place during these months. From lively wine and beer festivals to open-air concerts and street celebrations, there’s always something exciting happening all around the country. 

It’s also a great time for outdoor activities, whether it’s hiking in the Alps, swimming in lakes, visiting the beaches of northern Germany, exploring national parks or cycling through picturesque countryside.

Lastly, the warm and generally pleasant weather creates the perfect backdrop for sightseeing and taking pictures!

What is Germany Like in the Summer?

The summer months are typically considered to run from June through August, though warm summery weather can being in May and continue into September. I’ve been in Germany for more than one May or September heat wave!

During the summer you can expect anything from mild to warm temperatures to long, hot, sunny days. Hotter summers have become more frequent with global warming so heat waves are to be expected at some point during a typical summer.

But you also need to be prepared for rainy days, since these months actually have the highest average precipitation. I’ve also experienced days or even a couple weeks of cloudy, rainy weather.

In terms of travel, summer has always been the peak tourist season. We recommend booking everything from airfare, hotels, tours, and entrance tickets for popular sights like Neuschwanstein castle or the Reichstag dome in Berlin as early as possible to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

What to Pack for Summer in Germany

• Lightweight clothing: Pack breathable and versatile clothing like shorts, t-shirts, dresses, skirts, and lightweight pants
• Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun
• Comfortable walking shoes: Bring sturdy, comfortable shoes for sightseeing! Hiking shoes are also a  good idea if you plan to hike or do outdoor activities. I like to bring a pair of comfortable sandals to wear, as well.
• Swimsuit:  Essential if you plan to visit lakes or coastal areas. Watershoes are also a good idea.

These are just a few essentials to get you started. For more tips, read our ultimate Germany packing list and the 15 things we always take with us to Germany (and beyond).

Where to Go in Germany in Summer?

Rhine Valley & Moselle Valley

With their rolling vineyards, rivers glistening under the sun, surrounding beautiful towns and villages exuding a relaxed vibe, and the many castles, the Rhine Valley and Moselle Valley are popular travel destinations for the summer holidays.

Castle Eltz (Burg Eltz) is one of the main attractions in this area for many travelers and a must-see. Another attraction are the vineyards. Although harvest time is typically in the fall, it’s nice to visit during this time to see them in full bloom.

For all wine lovers, a fun activity would be to do a vineyard tour like this one in the Moselle Valley where you can spend soaking up the beautiful  scenery, taste premium wines, and learn about the wine-making process of different vineyards.

The Moselle Valley region is also home to charming medieval villages like Cochem, Beilstein, and Bernkastel-Kues – all worth visiting for their fairy tale atmosphere and historic buildings.

Summer is also a great time to visit the area because the boat cruises along the rivers are running on a regular basis (provided the water level is high enough). The Rhine river especially is the perfect place to explore by boat tour. There are lots of different options to choose from depending on the route you prefer.

We recommend doing the Castles Tour river cruise operated by the Köln-Düsseldorfer cruise line. This boat ride from Bingen to Koblenz takes you to many of the castles in the Middle Rhine. You can also do a shorter portion if you prefer. We’ve done the Bingen to St. Goar portion and enjoyed it.

Along the way, you can explore any of the quaint medieval towns by the river like Bacharach, Rüdesheim, Boppard, or St. Goar. It’s also a good idea to visit these small towns during summer because the majority of shops and restaurants are open full hours!

Black Forest

Another popular destination during summer is the Black Forest. It’s a beloved region for good reason! It’s associated with a variety of things like the famous Brothers Grimm fairy tales, Black Black Forest cake, breathtaking natural beauty, and charming historic cities like Freiburg, Triberg, and Gengenbach.

The diverse landscape of the Black Forest makes it a great place to do a wide range of outdoor activities – perfect for nature lovers!

There are lots of different hiking and walking trails that go through scenic wonders like the Triberg waterfalls, Ravenna Gorge and the Wutach Gorge, and mountain peaks like Feldberg and Schauinsland. If you’re looking for something more laidback, there’s nothing better than spending a day relaxing or swimming in any of the Black Forest’s pristine, beautiful lakes like Schluchsee (largest lake in the region), ​Titisee, or Mummelsee.

The region is also famous for spa towns like Baden-Baden and Bad Wildbad, where you can relax in thermal baths or hot springs.

If you’re traveling with family, a fun thing to add to your itinerary is the Europa-Park in Rust. It’s the largest theme park in Germany with over 18 different themed areas and 13 roller coasters.

Another one of the best things about visiting the Black Forest is its location! If you’re looking to maximize your summer holiday by visiting another European country, you can easily take a day trip to France or Switzerland!

Colmar, a picturesque French city known as Little Venice, is only around an hour away from Freiburg. Larger Strasbourg is another an easy France day trip. Also located an hour away is Basel in Switzerland, known for its historic center and a great starting point for exploring the rest of Switzerland.

These are just some things you can do during your summer stay in the Black Forest, but make sure to read our complete guide of things to do and see year-round!

Lake Constance (Bodensee)

There’s no better time to visit Lake Constance than summer! This crystal-clear lake is a popular tourist destination but it’s also a favorite place for many locals. It’s located near the Swiss and Austrian border at the foot of the Alps in southern Germany and not too far from Lichtenstein.

Konstanz is the largest city on the lake, known for its historic old town and the nearby Mainau Island. There’s also Lindau, situated on an island in the eastern part of the lake, with its charming old town, harbor, and the Lindau Lighthouse. Meersburg, Friedrichshafen, and Überlingen are other beautiful towns on the lake.

For fans of water sports, the lake is ideal for sailing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, and canoeing. You can rent equipment or join local classes to try these activities. The well-maintained cycling path that encircles the lake is perfect for bike enthusiasts, offering picturesque views of villages, vineyards, and the lakeshore.

Summer is also festival season around the lake, with live music, open-air shows, and cultural special events taking place in the various towns and cities.

Harz Mountains

The Harz Mountains region in northern Germany is another haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Summer is an ideal season to visit and make the most out of the vast network of hiking and nature trails for all skill levels.

If you’re a bit more experienced, we recommend hiking the Brocken, which is the highest peak in the Harz. It’s a relatively strenuous and steep hike but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views.

But if you prefer to skip out on the hike, there are other ways to explore the mountains! The region is known for its historic narrow-gauge railways, like the Harzquerbahn and Brockenbahn, which offer scenic train rides through the mountains. You can also drive to scenic outlooks.

Don’t miss out on charming towns like Wernigerode, Quedlinburg, and Goslar, with their well-preserved medieval architecture. The region has a rich history associated with mining and the vast network of mines in these towns have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some other famous landmarks include the and the Quedlinburg Castle-Hill and Wernigerode Castle, which can be reached by the Harzquerbahn or on foot.

Saxon Switzerland

Saxon Switzerland is one of the most unique places in Germany, characterized by its striking sandstone cliffs and dramatic gorges. The summer months are a perfect time to admire the vibrant landscapes and go on outdoor adventures.

We’ve day tripped here a couple times from Dresden but you can also spend a couple days exploring the region.

The Saxon Switzerland National Park is home to hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. One of the most popular routes is the Malerweg (Painter’s Way) which winds through picturesque valleys and offers views from rocky outcrops.

This route leads you to the famous Bastei Bridge, stunning, bizarre rock formations that stand over 600 feet over the river Elbe. Rock climbing is also a very popular activity here because of the rich variety of sandstone formations, but climbers must be trained and follow certain rules to protect the cliffs. 

For a more leisurely experience, you can take a scenic steamboat cruise along the Elbe River, passing by the sandstone formations and charming villages, like Bad Schandau and Kurort Rathen. Here you’ll find the Rathen Open Air Stage, a natural stage in a deep valley that’s used as an open-air theater. During summer weekends, you can watch shows varying from traditional performances, musicals, and plays.

Füssen Area (Neuschwanstein Castle and More)

Fussen serves as a gateway to one of Germany’s most popular tourist attractions, Neuschwanstein Castle. This fairytale castle receives tons of visitors year-round, but summer is especially busy. With its iconic turrets and picturesque backdrop of the Bavarian Alps, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.

If you’re looking for something less touristy, we recommend going to the Tegelberg! The Tegelberg mountain rises steeply from the foothills of the Alps near Schwangau and offers different outdoor activities. You can hike along scenic trails or take the Tegelbergbahn cable car to the summit.

If you’re feeling adventurous, experience the thrill of paragliding and view the landscape of the castle and lakes like Alpsee and Forggensee from above. In the summer, the Sommerrodelbahn or summer luge ride is finally open! It’s located directly at the foot of the mountain and is a fun activity for kids and adults alike.

Zugspitze & Eibsee

Eibsee is a lake at the base of the Zugspitze mountain. In the summer, the crystal-clear waters are great for renting boats and cooling off from the heat by swimming in the cold water. You can also hike around the lake (takes approximately 2 hours – I recommend going in the morning when it’s cooler) as an enjoyable way to take in stunning mountain views. After a long day of summer activities, you can grab a drink and relax at the lakeside beer garden. 

Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany, is situated south of the town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria. While it may be more known as a ski resort, summer is a good time to visit this area, too. There may even still be enough snow on the glacier for sledding. But summer also provides the opportunity to hike to the very top of Zugspitze to get panoramic views, especially during clear, sunny days. However, do keep in mind that it can get quite crowded in the summer months.

Rügen Island

Summer on Rügen Island, which is tucked away on the Baltic Sea in northeastern Germany, is a coastal paradise that remains somewhat off the beaten path for many non-German travelers – perfect for avoiding the crowds of tourists during the summer peak season.

The island is known for its sprawling coastline and beautiful beaches. Rügen is a place of relaxation. You can stroll through charming seaside towns like Binz and Göhren, where you can enjoy ice cream on the promenade or enjoy seafood at waterfront restaurants in the fresh sea air.

For more active things to do, there are plenty of hiking trails in the chalk cliffs of Jasmund National Park, offering panoramic views of the coastline.For a unique experience, hop on a ferry to Hiddensee, Rügen’s carless neighbor. Here, you’ll find unspoiled beach landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s the best way to truly unwind and disconnect!

Stralsund

Across from Rügen Island you’ll find Stralsund, a German city that combines the laid back atmosphere of the coast with history and culture. The Old Town of Stralsund is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s home to important buildings like the Gothic Old Town Hall and historic churches like St. Mary’s Church.

The town’s location on the coast offers fantastic opportunities for relaxed days by the waterfront, taking in the sea breeze. Stralsund’s waterfront promenades with their outdoor cafes and restaurants are a great spot to sip on local beers while enjoying summer sunsets over the Baltic sea. You can also easily take a ferry to the nearby islands of Rügen and Hiddensee for more summer beachfront adventures. We really enjoyed exploring Stralsund when we spent a week on Rügen.

Rostock

Rostock, a vibrant coastal city in northern Germany, is a fantastic destination to explore during the summer season. Its sandy beaches along the Baltic Sea coast, especially Warnemünde Beach, invite sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls along the promenade. The nearby seaside district of Warnemünde makes for a great day trip for an even more relaxing atmosphere by the beachfront and marina.

If you plan your visit in August, don’t miss the Hanse Sail, one of the largest maritime festivals in the Baltic region! During this festival, over 250 traditional ships of all types from all over the world visit the coast of the city of Rostock. There’s also another maritime event that takes place later on in September called the Rostock Cruise Festival, where cruise ships are accompanied by fireworks as they sail out onto the Baltic Sea.

Wattenmeer (Wadden Sea)

The Wattenmeer is an intertidal zone made up of mudflats, sandy shoals, dunes, wetlands that stretches along Germany’s northern coastline by the North Sea. This is one of the most beautiful places in Germany because it has remained largely undisturbed. It has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna.

Summer is an ideal time to visit and try unique outdoor activities. During low tide, you can join guided mudflat hiking tours to walk across the exposed mudflats while discovering marine life like crabs and shellfish. As an important stopover for migratory birds, summer brings increased bird activity so avid bird watchers will be able to spot a variety of species.

There are also usually seal safari tours operating throughout June to September, allowing you to observe these creatures lounging on sandbanks or swimming gracefully in the water from a safe distance.

The Wadden Sea is also dotted with picturesque islands like Sylt, Föhr and Amrum. In summer, ferries and boats offer regular services, making it convenient to explore these islands’ unique cultures, landscapes, and beaches.

Würzburg

Würzburg, a charming city in the heart of Bavaria, truly shines during the summer months. With its stunning architecture, lush greenery, and vibrant cultural scene, it’s an ideal destination for the warm months.

One of the quintessential summer experiences in Würzburg is savoring the local wine. The city is located in the Franconian wine region, known for its excellent white wines particularly the Silvaner and Müller-Thurgau varieties. 

You’ll find numerous vineyards and wine cellars in and around Würzburg, making it a wine enthusiast’s paradise. The best way to enjoy these wines is at one of the many outdoor restaurants or wine bars or on the Old Main Bridge with picturesque views of the city and the Main River. We not only enjoyed a glass of local wine on the Old Bridge but also picked up a bottle in the farmer’s market in the Marktplatz.

The city’s green spaces, like Hofgarten or the Ringpark along the river, are also great spots for picnics with wine or leisurely strolls.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a town frozen in time with its well-preserved medieval architecture and intact city walls, is especially enchanting in the summer. One of the highlights during this season is the Night Watchman Tour. While this tour is available throughout the year, they offer it more regularly during the summer.

In this walking tour, you’ll be guided by the Night Watchman, in his traditional attire, who takes you on a humorous journey back in time through the cobbled streets of Rothenburg after dark. This tour is offered in English and in German.

Summer also brings a vibrant festival atmosphere to Rothenburg. The town hosts various events like music festivals and outdoor performances in its charming squares. Aside from this, the weather is just great for getting lost in the charming streets of Old Town. But do keep in mind that Rothenburg is quite touristy so it can get very crowded during the day since it’s peak season.

Read our full guide on the best things to do and see in Rothenburg!

Hamburg

Hamburg is one of the best cities to visit during summer! You’ll get to experience the city in full swing with outdoor festivals and events like the Christopher Street Day Parade in early August and Isamarkt – an outdoor market that is nearly 1 km long (fun fact: I used to walk through this market on my way home from school when I lived in Hamburg as a teen).

Because of the warm, pleasant weather, it’s also the best time for going on boat trips along the harbor or exploring the canals by canoe (which is super fun). The Alster Lake is also a popular spot during summer for barbecues, swimming, or simply relaxing by the shore. 

Check out our accommodation guide for the best places  to stay in Hamburg!

For an exciting summer adventure, you can also go on a day trip to Heligoland, a small archipelago in the North Sea that’s easily accessible by ferry. It’s known for its white sand dunes, beautiful red rock cliffs, and diverse bird colonies.

If you want to stay closer to the city, the Elbstrand beaches, such as Övelgönne and Wittenbergen, are a good option. These urban beaches provide a quick escape from the urban hustle and bustle.Read our full guide on the top things to do and see in Hamburg!

Munich

As one of the most popular German cities for visitors, Munich is always bustling with life and activity and summer is no exception. One of the city’s most iconic summer traditions is the beer garden experience, which you can find all throughout the city center. A must-visit is the Chinese Tower Beer Garden in the English Garden. It’s one of the biggest ones with over 7,000 seats. It’s also connected to a restaurant where you can enjoy Bavarian cuisine and on certain days, there’s live music performances which adds to the fun and lively summer atmosphere.

Aside from the Chinese Tower, the English Garden is a popular spot for just hanging out, picnicking, or strolling around. One unique feature is the Eisbach, a man-made river that flows through the park. In the summer, you can even float down the river or just watch surfers riding the waves. 

Check out our accommodation guide for the best places to stay in Munich!

Summer also brings a lot of festivals in Munich. One of the highlights is the Tollwood Summer Festival held in the Olympiapark usually from June to September. This multicultural event features live music, art installations, a vibrant market with handcrafts and international gastronomy. Read our full guide on the top things to do and see in Munich!

Frankfurt

While you may think of Frankfurt as mainly a city for transiting or layovers, the city is worth exploring for a day, especially during summer! There are several events and outdoor activities taking place like Museumsuferfest, a multi-day cultural festival held along the banks of the River Main during the last weekend of August. It features stage productions, live music performances, art exhibitions, museum presentations, and delicious food stands. If you’re a big fan of classical music, the Palmengarten (Frankfurt’s botanical garden) also hosts open-air concerts during the summer months amidst the blooming greenery. 

Check out our accommodation guide for the best places to stay in Frankfurt! 

Frankfurt is also a great base to do day trips to nearby castles, wine festivals, and scenic landscapes. In the Frankfurt Rhine-Main region you’ll find festivals like the Rheingau Wine Festival in August where you can sample excellent local wines. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Taunus Mountains, located a 40-minute drive from Frankfurt, offer a range of recreational opportunities like hiking and cycling.

Read our full guide on the top things to do and see in Frankfurt!

Heidelberg

Nestled in the Neckar River, Heidelberg is a delightful destination to explore in the summer. It’s home to the Heidelberg Castle, fascinating castle ruins that date back to the Middle Ages. During mid-June to the beginning of August, one of the most anticipated events takes place – the Heidelberger Schlossfestspiele (Heidelberg Castle Festival). This festival features a series of open-air theater performances in the courtyard, ranging from plays, operas, and concerts. 

Check out our guide for tips and more information on visiting Heidelberg Castle!

Summer is also the perfect time to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Philosopher’s Walk (Philosophenweg), a scenic path offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. We also recommend checking out Königstuhl (King’s Seat), a mountain situated on the edge of Old Town that you can reach by hiking or cable car for views of the city and the Neckar Valley. Summer is also the best time to take the Neckar River Cruise and relax and enjoy the sights from a romantic river boat.

Read our full guide on the top things to do and see in Heidelberg!

The post Summer in Germany: 19 Beautiful Places to Visit & Things to Do appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

If you’re planning to visit this beautiful northern Germany city and are wondering what to do in Hamburg or which Hamburg points of interest are for you, this guide will help you plan your stay.

Is Hamburg, Germany Worth Visiting?

Yes, Hamburg is definitely worth visiting! Hamburg is a unique city and offers such a different experience from other cities in Germany. I lived in Hamburg for a while and it’s one of my top 3 favorite German cities.

The city itself is a beautiful place with interesting architecture built around the canals and ports. There’s a lot to see from the Speicherstadt (old warehouse district) to the Elbphilharmonie (controversial new-ish performance center), to the Alter Elbtunnel (that allows you to walk under the river) to the huge Alster lake (located right in the middle of the city), to the many vibrant neighborhoods, and so much more.

Hamburg also offers a lot in terms of culture, whether it be art or maritime museums, a dynamic nightlife, or a vibrant culinary scene.

What Is Hamburg Best Known For?

Hamburg is best known for its canals, port, and harbor area. As one of the largest and oldest ports in Europe, a lot of the city is shaped by its unique maritime history and heritage.

You can definitely see this history in the architecture of Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with picturesque red-brick warehouses and winding canals. Along the harbor you’ll also find famous landmarks like the Elbphilharmonie and the famous Fischmarkt. 

The city also boasts a fun and vibrant nightlife, largely concentrated in the entertainment district of the Reeperbahn (though you’ll find fun things to do in the evening all over the city).

Hamburg is also known for its nature and green spaces like the Alster Lake in the middle of the city and the Planten Un Blomen urban park and botanical gardens.

How Much Time to Spend in Hamburg?

I recommend at least 3 nights and 2 full days in Hamburg in order to see several of the sights on our list below. If you want to add a day trip from Hamburg (highly recommended!), add another 1-2 days.

Wondering where to stay in Hamburg? Check out our helpful Hamburg hotel guide here that includes hotels we’ve recently loved.

Only have one day to spend in Hamburg? No worries! Do the HOHO bus, a harbor cruise, and 1-2 other things on our list below, and you’ll get a fantastic taste of the city.

Best Time to Visit Hamburg

The summer months are perfect for those who seek long days, the best chance at having good weather, and to see the city in full swing with outdoor festivals and events like the Christopher Street Day parade, outdoor markets or the Dom fair.

Summer is also the best time to enjoy a boat trip on the Elbe, explore Hamburg’s many canals by canoe or grab a drink and relax on a beach on the Elbe river. Keep in mind that this is peak season so it’s more crowded and prices are likely to be higher.

A good alternative to summer is late spring or early autumn when temperatures are milder and more temperate. This time of year is ideal for strolling or biking along the waterfront. Visiting at this time of year is also a good way to avoid the crowds and higher prices of the summer months.

Winter brings shorter, darker days and cold winds from the harbor. But travel rates at this time tend to be much lower before and after the holiday season when Christmas markets and festivities light up the city. New Year’s Eve is a fun time to visit Hamburg because you can take part in the fireworks and festivities throughout the city.

Hamburg doesn’t get a lot of snow in the winter but it does happen. When I lived in Hamburg, it once snowed and got so cold that the Alster lake froze and I got to walk to middle of the lake!

How to Get to Hamburg

Hamburg is a major port city and the second-largest city in Germany, making it extremely well-connected and accessible.

If you’re coming from outside of Europe or even outside of Germany, one the best ways to get to Hamburg is by air. The city has its own international airport, Hamburg Airport.

Once you arrive, it’s easy to get to the city center since it’s only around 30 minutes away by public transportation. We’ve flown in and out of Hamburg airport several times and it’s always been easy and convenient.

If you’re visiting from another city in Germany or a nearby European country, traveling by train, car or bus is likely a better option. The main train station, Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, is centrally located in downtown and is well connected to several regional towns and major cities. The bus station is near the train station. From there you can hop on public transit or take a taxi or Uber to your accommodations.

You can also easily drive from neighboring big cities like Hanover (Hannover), Bremen, and Lübeck, all of which are around an hour and a half away. It’s also a great weekend trip from Berlin, with the drive being around 3 hours.

Where To Stay in Hamburg

The best place to stay in Hamburg is the city center so you can be close to all the must-see spots and destinations. Depending on where you stay downtown, you can easily walk to multiple sights on our list below.

Here are a few hotel recommendations:

• Heikotel am Stadtpark – Elegant hotel located in the Winterhude district near the Stadtpark. Amenities at the Heikotel am Stadtpark include an excellent breakfast buffet (with a huge tea selection) and free lockers to store your luggage before or after your stay. It’s also a short walk from where you can rent a canoe to explore the canals. We were invited to stay here once and loved the neighborhood. Click here to check availability and price.
  
• Hotel Baseler Hof – Traditional hotel offering a variety of rooms, including spacious family rooms. It’s located between Alster Lake and Planten un Blomen, making it easy to get around the city center on foot. When we stayed here we easily walked all over the city! Click here to check availability and price.
  
• Hotel Senator Hamburg – Located near top destinations and the Alster Lake in the lively district of St. Georg. Simple and comfortable rooms feature all the classic amenities, and some with balconies. Click here to check availability and price.
  
• Hotel Henri Hamburg Downtown – Cool and trendy boutique hotel located downtown featuring spacious suites and studios with modern furnishing. Close to many attractions and delicious dining options. Click here to check availability and price.

For even more options, read our full accommodation guide on where to stay in Hamburg.

Things To See and Do in Hamburg

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Rathaus (Town Hall) and Alster Arkaden

Start your Hamburg visit in the center of the city with a peek at the elaborately decorated Rathaus (Hamburg City Hall) and a stroll down the elegant Alster Arkaden. This area is not only a Hamburg tourist attraction, it’s a great place to do some shopping at department stores and boutiques or stop for Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake).

I used to love wandering around this area after school when I was a teen…and I still do all these years later!

St. Nikolai Memorial

St. Nikolai Memorial is a Gothic cathedral dating back to the 12th century. It has a long history, undergoing several reformations throughout the centuries. The original chapel was made of wood before expanding to a brick and stone church, which then burned down in a fire.

During World War II, the church unfortunately suffered heavy damage again. Most of it was destroyed but the spire remained and the ruins serve as an important memorial of the war.

Nowadays, you can actually take an elevator up the spire, visit the church’s ruins and the newly renovated museum dedicated to the victims and impact of the war in Europe. We highly recommend stopping here.

Climb St. Michael’s Church Tower

St. Michael’s Church is the largest church in Hamburg. This Baroque-style church is quite impressive since it can fit around 2,500 people, has five different organs, and features a 60 foot high altar.

There’s also an underground crypt with around 2,000 people buried. It also features a bell tower that visitors can actually climb up to. Standing at over 300 feet tall, the observation deck offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city and harbor.

On our most recent visit, there was a wedding going on inside the church. Visitors were still allowed inside but taking photos was prohibited. The next time we stopped by there were no weddings going on so we were able to take photos.

Hamburg Harbor Boat Tour

See the city from a different perspective! On our last trip to Hamburg we were invited to take a harbor cruise with Rainer Abicht and had such a great time. Highly recommended!

Our 2 hour tour took us through the scenic Speicherstadt, past the legendary Fischmarkt, and to the container terminals. Our tour guide spoke German so I translated much of the tour for Aaron. Later I found out you can get an English translation of the tour, so ask about that when getting your tickets.

Explore the Port Area of Landungsbrücken

Landungsbrücken, also known as the St. Pauli Piers, is the largest landing site in the port of Hamburg. The piers are located on the banks of the Elbe river and aside from being a major transportation hub, they’re known to have a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

This is because there are tons of restaurants, bars, and shops in the area. You can catch the HOHO bus here or easily walk to Fischmarkt, the Elbphilharmonie, the Speicherstadt, St. Pauli, and more. It’s a touristy area but still a must-see.

Enjoy a Fischbrötchen

When in Hamburg (or in northern Germany in general), you must try a Fischbrötchen!

We were invited to Brücke 10 for a tasty lunch on our last visit. I got the salmon Fischbrötchen and Aaron got the Backfisch. Both were excellent. We washed them down with rhubarb soda while watching the boats go by. Plan your day so you can stop here after your harbor cruise for a delicious and affordable lunch or afternoon snack.

Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

The first time I took Aaron to visit Hamburg we got tickets for the Hop On Hop Off bus tour. It’s a great way to get an overview of Hamburg in just an hour or so (and it was a relief to rest our feet after walking all morning). I even saw some new areas of the city I hadn’t seen before!

We hopped on the bus at Landungsbrücken and rode all the way around without getting off at any of the stops. If you start in the morning you could use the HOHO bus to see several sites and explore a lot of Hamburg.

Click here to book your Hamburg Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour in advance!

Tour the Elbphilharmonie (Elbe Philharmonic Hall)

Even if you don’t plan to see a performance in this famous concert hall, a visit to the Elbphilharmonie is a must. It’s such a cool building! After getting your free ticket, take the escalator to the outdoor public viewing platform for spectacular views of the city and harbor.

If you want to learn more about the Elbphilharmonie and see more of the inside, book a group tour well ahead of your visit.

Admire the Speicherstadt Architecture

After visiting the Elbphilharmonie, walk a couple blocks to the distinctive Speicherstadt old warehouse district. The Speicherstadt is the world’s largest warehouse complex and a UNESCO world heritage site. It features a unique architectural style with its brick buildings and industrial structures.

This area was a former hub of trade but is now a picturesque section of the city full of canals, bridges, and 100-year-old brick warehouses. There are also several museums here like the Miniatur Wunderland, the Hamburg Dungeon, and the International Maritime Museum.

Check out Miniatur Wunderland

Miniatur Wunderland is a charming attraction in the Speicherstadt for those who are traveling with kids – or who are young at heart.

There are different sections featuring Hamburg, the Alps, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, and even parts of the United States in miniature. It’s also known as the world’s largest model railway exhibit with over 1000 digitally controlled trains running throughout the wonderfully intricate landscapes with carefully crafted details like railways, vehicles, houses, bridges, miniature people, and even an airport with planes taking off and landing.

What’s fun about Miniatur Wunderland is that every 20 minutes or so the overhead lights dim and you get to see the miniature exhibits at night. There are also all kinds of fun easter eggs to look for in the exhibits (like a Millennium Falcon landing at the airport).

We spent a couple very enjoyable hours exploring Miniatur Wunderland when we were invited to check it out. But you could easily spend half a day there, especially if you get a bite to eat in their restaurant and browse the gift shop.

Ride the U3 in Hamburg City Center 

How about taking in a scenic view while you give your feet a rest? Hop on the U3 (yellow line) at the Rathaus and ride towards Kellinghusenstrasse.

During this 15-20 minute ride you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the harbor and pass by some of Hamburg’s gorgeous architecture. I rode the U3 to school when I lived in Hamburg and always enjoyed this view.

I highly recommend exiting at Eppendorferbaum and exploring the neighborhood’s cafes, boutiques, houses, and bakeries on foot. Many of my friends lived in this area when I was teen and I always enjoyed exploring the beautiful neighborhoods that were so different from where I grew up in the US. For a lovely walk head towards the Alster and stop at the Uni Hamburg along the way.

Browse Isemarkt

One of the longest weekly outdoor markets in Europe, you’ll find a wide range of fresh produce, crafts, flowers, and food stalls. I used to walk through this market on my way home from school when I was a teen.

The market is generally open Tuesdays and Fridays from 8am – 2pm. You can reach it from either the Eppendorferbaum or Hoheluftbrücke U-bahn stops.  

Canoe Hamburg’s Canals

When Aaron and I were last in Hamburg we decided rent a canoe near our Airbnb so we could explore the canals for an afternoon. It was so fun! We paddled around both the smaller canals that are lined with beautiful houses and gardens, and on the much larger Alster laker. It was a fantastic way to see Hamburg from a different perspective.

Stop For A Latte

On our most recent trip to Hamburg we were invited to Public Coffee Roasters for a latte break. It was the perfect place to rest our feet and refuel with seriously delicious lattes. If you’re looking for a good souvenir or gift to take home, you can pick up a bag of freshly roasted beans. We will definitely return for another latte next time we’re in town!

Enjoy A Franzbrötchen

You can’t visit Hamburg without trying a Franzbrötchen pastry! You’ll find them at most bakeries in a variety of flavors from cinnamon to chocolate chip. They’re an easy and delicious snack on the go.

Picnic on the Alster Lake

Right in the middle of the city is the big beautiful Alster Lake – the perfect place for a peaceful stroll or afternoon picnic. You can also take a boat tour or rent a paddle boat or canoe. Then explore the gorgeous neighborhoods around the Alster. 

Explore the Sternschanze Neighborhood

Sternschanze is a neighborhood in the center of Hamburg that’s known for being a hip and trendy area. It has a cool, alternative atmosphere which makes it popular district for entertainment and nightlife.

There’s lots of lively cocktail bars, music and cultural venues like the Rote Flora, trendy restaurants, and independent boutiques and galleries. We always enjoy exploring Sternschanze. Last time we were there it rained all day long so we stopped for a nice long Kaffee und Kuchen.

Visit the Fischmarkt (Fish Market)

The open air Fischmarkt started in 1703 and is still a popular Sunday morning destination for locals and tourists alike. Located right on the harbor, this outdoor market is full of stands selling fresh fish and seafood, sandwiches, fruit, chocolate, flowers, and much more.

Be sure to head inside the Fischauktionshalle (Fish Auction Hall) for live music, beer (yep, even at 7am), and people-watching. You’ll need to get up early – or head over after staying out all night on the Reeperbahn – because the Fischmarkt is only open on Sundays from 5am to late morning.

Learn About Maritime History At The International Maritime Museum

An important aspect of the hanseatic city of Hamburg is its maritime history. And there’s no better place to learn about it than the International Maritime Museum. The museum boasts of an impressive collection of artifacts, models, and exhibits that showcase the city’s rich nautical history.

The exhibits cover a wide range of topics aside from Hamburg’s history like shipbuilding, seafaring, and naval warfare. It’s a must educational experience for all history buffs and for those who want to learn about Hamburg through its past.

Explore the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe

The Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe is dedicated to decorative arts, applied arts, design, and crafts, covering a diverse range of periods, styles, and cultural regions. It’s one of the most renowned museums of applied arts in Europe.

The permanent collections include everything from fashion and textiles, ancient antiquities, European sculptures, musical instruments, photography and new media, Islamic Art, and East Asian art.

In recent years, they’ve hosted special exhibits featuring more modern art and culture like tattoos, computer games, the fashion industry, and more.

Admire Art at The Hamburger Kunsthalle

The Hamburger Kunsthalle is a world class museum housing an extensive collection of artworks, ranging from contemporary art to paintings and sculptures.

Visitors can visit the three different buildings and admire artwork from different periods in art history starting from the Old Masters to Impressionism, Modernism, and Pop Art. Renowned artists include Rembrandt, Edvard Munch, Paul Klee, and Pablo Picasso. 

Tour Cap San Diego

Cap San Diego is a former cargo ship that is now open to the public as a museum ship. The ship was built in the 60s and operated as part of a shipping fleet, sailing the South Atlantic and bringing in goods for trade until the late 80s.

Since then it’s been restored as a floating museum. Visitors can explore the decks and engine rooms, see the permanent exhibition or even book an overnight stay aboard the ship!

Visit U-Boot 434

The U-Boot 434 is a former Soviet Navy submarine that was once used during the Cold War. Much like the Cap San Diego, it’s now open to the public as a museum that’s docked right across the Fischmarkt market hall.

It’s actually still fully operational and visitors have the unique opportunity of experiencing what it’s like to be below sea in a submarine. There are guided tours available for those interested in learning more about the technical details or seeing the command center.

Go Up the Hamburg TV Tower

The Hamburg TV Tower or Heinrich-Hertz Tower is an iconic landmark of the city. At almost 920 feet tall, it’s the tallest building in Hamburg.

It used to be open to the public and visitors could climb up to the viewing platform and dine at the tower restaurant. It’s been closed for several years but is said to be reopening in 2023 or 2024.

Explore the Composers Quarter

The Composers Quarter is a complex of six museums in the district of Neustadt. Each museum pays homage to famous classical composers who are from or have lived in Hamburg.

All of the museums are set in beautiful historical buildings. Inside you’ll find everything from audio recordings, photograph collections, and instruments displayed that give insight into the composer’s lives. Here is the list of the six museums you can visit:

• Brahms Museum
• Telemann Museum
• Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach Museum
• Johann Adolph Hasse Museum
• Gustav Mahler Museum
• Fanny & Felix Mendelssohn Museum

Go Dancing Or See A Show On the Reeperbahn In St. Pauli

If you’re in Hamburg on a Friday or Saturday evening, head to the Reeperbahn (also known locally as the “Kiez”) for a night out. Sure, it’s Hamburg’s Red Light District – and one of the largest in Europe at that – but don’t let that scare you off.

Everyone from teens to grandparents frequent Hamburg’s entertainment district with its bright, flashy neon lights for live music, dancing, and a variety of theater and opera performances in music venues.

My friends and I went dancing here quite often when I was a teen. If you’re a Beatles fan, check out the Indra Club and Grosse Freiheit, two places they played while getting their start in Hamburg.

Take a Walk Along the Elbe and Through the Treppenviertel in Blankenese

Only 25 minutes from the city center, Blankenese feels like a different world. A former fishing village turned favored neighborhood of Hamburg’s wealthy, the Treppenviertel (“stairs quarter”) offers narrow winding footpaths, thatched-roof houses, and stunning views. Be sure to walk all the way down to the Elbe and along the scenic trail.

Enjoy Brunch in a Neighborhood Cafe

On our last summer trip to Hamburg we stopped by a little cafe near the apartment we rented and enjoyed a lovely brunch. We sat outside, scarfed down a delicious German breakfast of Brötchen, cheese, jam and butter, yogurt and museli, eggs, veggies, and coffee and tea. Delicious!

Even better? The tiny ice cream cones were served with our check! If you have the time while visiting Hamburg, spend an hour or two enjoying brunch at a cafe or restaurant in your Hamburg neighborhood.

Which Hamburg neighborhoods to visit? There are so many but here are a few ideas: Sternschanze, St. Pauli, Altona, Hafen City, Harvestehude, Eppendorf, Blankenese.

Explore Ohlsdorf Cemetery 

One of the largest cemeteries in Europe, Ohlsdorf is truly impressive. Although it might seem unusual, Ohlsdorf Cemetery is actually a popular attraction in Hamburg due to its impressive size and unique history. Explore the peaceful grounds to admire the beautiful sculptures, gravestones (many famous people are buried here), and gardens.

Festival: Hamburger Dom

The Hamburger DOM is the biggest fair in Northern Germany. It’s held three times a year, typically during spring, summer, and winter and usually runs for about a month each time. It’s held at Heiligengeistfeld, an event area right beside the St. Pauli stadium.

No matter which season you go to, there’s so much to do in the festival! There’s a ton of rides ranging from vintage carousels to thrilling roller coasters for all ages. You can also treat yourself to delicious German fair snacks like Currywurst, Fischbrötchen, and the famous Schmalzkuchen – bite-sized donuts served with powdered sugar or chocolate sauce. You can also pick up a decorated Lebkuchen heart to wear around your neck and then take home as a souvenir (I kept my first one from the Hamburger Dom for years).

Another big draw of the festival are the light shows and huge fireworks displays at night! Even if you’re not into rides, it’s fun to walk through it at least once.

Notice The Stolpersteine 

While walking around Hamburg keep an eye out for small brass plaques in the sidewalks. These Stolpersteine (“stumbling stones”) commemorate the lives of those who were persecuted by the Nazis during World War II. The plaques include the name, birthdate, and fate of the individual.

Walk Under The Elbe River Via The Old Elbe Tunnel

The Old Elbe Tunnel is a historic tunnel that was first opened in 1911. It was built to connect the St. Pauli Piers to the port of Hamburg on the opposite side. Since then, more modern tunnels have been built to replace it. Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist attraction where pedestrians and cyclists can pass through for free.

Visit The Tierpark Hagenbeck (Hagenbeck Zoo)

Tierpark Hagenbeck is one of Germany’s most popular zoos, housing over 210 different animal species from all around the world. The zoo is actually known to be successful in breeding rare and endangered species like the Asian elephant and the Siberian tiger. Other highlights include the four-level Tropical Aquarium and a fun Arctic themed Eismeer polar section.

Take a Day Trip

You have so many options for easy day trips from Hamburg. If you go an hour north, you can visit Lübeck, the beaches on the Baltic or the beaches and small towns on the North Sea. Go south to visit the cute town of Stade or Lüneburg. Go east to visit Schwerin Castle. Or get up early and go further to the island of Sylt or Heligoland. Click here for our guide to the best Hamburg day trips!

Hamburg, Germany FAQ

What To Do in Hamburg in One Day?

If you only have 1 day in Hamburg, you can still see quite a bit. I recommend starting at the Rathaus area downtown, then stopping at the St. Nikolia memorial on your way to St. Micheal’s church. Then ride the HOHO bus all the way around so you can see a lot of the city quickly. Finally, after exploring the harbor area, walk to the Speicherstadt. If you have time, visit the Philharmonie or Minature Wunderland.

Is The Hamburg Card Worth Getting?

We get asked this a lot and the answer is…it depends.

The Hamburg Card is the city’s official discount card that can save you tons of money on your trip. It offers unlimited travel on the city’s public transportation – which includes the U-bahn, S-bahn, buses, and harbor ferry rides – and it’s valid from/to the airport and in all relevant districts of Hamburg (area Hamburg AB). That means, if you get the Hamburg Card you don’t have to buy an additional transit pass, which is definitely convenient. 

There are different card variations you can choose from, depending on your itinerary. There’s a day ticket all the way up to a 5-day ticket. They also offer individual or group cards. The group cards are valid for 5 people, which is perfect for those traveling with family or friends.

Not only do you get free unlimited public transportation rides, you’ll also get access to over 150+ great deals on everything from tourist attractions, city tours, port cruises, musicals, concerts, and museums.

Some of Hamburg’s important landmarks included in the card (and that we’ve covered in this guide!) are the Hamburger Kunsthalle, Miniatur Wunderland, the International Maritime Museum, the Hamburg Town Hall, St. Michael’s Church, just to name a few.

The Hamburg Card also gives you some discounts and deals in a selection of restaurants and cafes. It’s the perfect opportunity to try some iconic Hamburg specialties like Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) and Fischbrötchen.

So is it worth getting the Hamburg card? If you plan on staying in the city for a few days, using public transport frequently during your stay, and want to visit the sights included with the card, then the Hamburg Card is likely worth it.

Another case where it would be worth getting is if you’re traveling as a group. The group pass (valid for 5) will definitely save you money, since you are splitting it evenly with other people. You’ll not only save money on public transport but tickets to tons of sights and activities too.

Click here for more information on the prices and discounts included in the Hamburg Card.

On the other hand, if you’re only staying in Hamburg for maybe 1 or 2 days, then you might not be able to use the card to its maximum potential. In this case, we suggest booking a Hop On Hop Off Bus tour instead, so you’ll get to see all the important sights and landmarks during your stay.

You’ll get to explore the city at your own pace but you won’t have to worry about navigating and paying for tickets for public transportation.

When considering whether to get a city card, we always recommend adding up how much you’d pay for transport and entry to your top sights, and then compare it to the cost of the card and see if it’s worth it for your trip. Also be sure to confirm the return or exchange policy because these types of cards are often non-refundable.

The post Hamburg, Germany Sightseeing Tips: Best Things To Do In 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

In this guide we show you easy and popular, as well as more off-the-beaten path day trips from Hamburg.

Where Can I Travel On A Day Trip From Hamburg?

Hamburg is close to all sorts of amazing destinations that are perfect for day trips.

You have, for example, islands, beaches, or coastal towns like Sylt, Heligoland, Cuxhaven, and Sankt Peter Ording.

If you’re more into beautiful historic cities, Lübeck, Stade or Bremen are great options. There are also smaller towns like Lüneburg and Bremerhaven or the Altes Land countryside.

I lived in Hamburg when I was younger and traveled around northern Germany any chance I got. I still love returning to my favorite places and exploring new ones. The good new is that no matter what you choose, you can’t go wrong because they’re all great!

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

What’s The Best Way to Get Around Northern Germany?

Option 1: Car

The most flexible option is by rental car since you can customize your itinerary and hit multiple spots in a day on your own timeline. If you want to visit some beaches or smaller villages, driving can be easier. That said, you can reach all of the day trips in this guide by train (except for Heligoland) so don’t feel like you need to rent a car, just to do a day trip.

Option 2: Train

Trains are an efficient way of traveling around the area because of how well connected the German rail system is. For some day trip destinations you can take a high speed train, for others a regional train or the local Hamburg S-bahn.

If you plan to use regional transport, you can save money on unlimited travel on one day by using the Schleswig-Holstein Day Ticket for trips in the state north of Hamburg and the Niedersachsen Day Ticket for trips in the state south of the city (Hamburg is both a city and a state).

There’s also the Deutschland Ticket, which is valid nationwide and allows you to travel on regional public transit all over Germany. We used it on a 3 month trip and loved the flexibility it gave us. If you want to know more about this ticket and how to use it on your trip, read our guide here.

Keep in mind that these tickets are only valid on regional trains. High speed trains, which are usually the quickest and most comfortable way to travel by rail, are not part of these day tickets.

Option 3: Boat

Some coastal or island destinations can also – or only – be reached by ferry.

Best Day Trips from Hamburg

Lübeck

Lübeck is one of the most popular and easy year-round day trips from Hamburg. Known as both the “marzipan city” and the City of Seven Spires due to its many Gothic churches, the city of Lübeck has remained a hub for maritime trade over the centuries.

Despite the damage that the Old Town section of Lübeck sustained during World War II, the basic footprint of Old Town Lübeck, with its 15^th and 16^th century churches, salt storehouses, and public monuments remains unchanged. 

What To Do And See In Lübeck

Holstentor (Holsten Gate)
Created in the 15^th century, this gate straddles the Trave River and is a symbol of the city.  Take a walk up one of its spiral staircase to get a view of the city and ships below. Tip: Lübeck’s tourism website mentions that the best time to photograph the gate is in the afternoon. But don’t worry, even if you visit on a cloudy day like the last time we were there, it’s still beautiful.

The Altstadt & Courtyards
While there is no shortage of attractions to visit in Lübeck, some of the best sights can be found by chance, just by strolling the alleys and streets of the Old Town.

Not only can you window shop or stop at a cafe or restaurant, you can also explore the courtyards found in the well-preserved Kober area in the north along Engeslwisch, Glockengießerstraße and Engelsgrube, and in the south around the cathedral.

If you’d rather not leave discovering Lübeck’s Altstadt to chance, check out this guided walking tour through the Lübeck’s courtyards and alleys!

Church of St. Mary’s
The Church of St. Mary’s is Germany’s third largest church and sits on the highest part of the old town in Lübeck.  It is a model for countless other brick Gothic churches in the country.

Inside, two bells lie broken on the ground remaining where they fell after an Allied attack during World War II. Don’t miss the Danse Macabre stain glass window that pays tribute to a medieval mural that was destroyed during WWII. Just outside the church, be sure to look for the devil statue sitting on a stone slab.

Enjoy All Things Marzipan
Lübeck is famed for its marzipan! Stop by Café Niederegger across from the Rathaus. This is the flagship store of this famed producer of marzipan. This location is a shop, café, and has a museum.  There are two other locations in Lübeck.  One is a marzipan factory and the other is a shop.

You’ll find marzipan everywhere, e.g., marzipan covered in chocolate, marzipan shaped like fruit, marzipan covered cake, and even Marzilade – a marzipan fruit jam! You’ll also find a wide variety of delicious cakes so it’s a great place to stop for Kaffee und Kuchen.

Hospital of the Holy Spirit
Located at Koberg square in the Jakobi Quarter, the Hospital of the Holy Spirit is one of the oldest social institutions in the world.  It was founded in 1286 and continued in operation until the 1960s.  At Christmastime, the hospital welcomes an international arts & crafts market.

St Peter’s Church
Go to St Peter’s for an excellent view of Lübeck from its 50 m. high viewing platform. St Peter’s was initially built between 1227 and 1250 and then expanded in the 15^th and 16^th centuries. Nowadays, the church is no longer used for religious services and is now a center for events and exhibitions. A large arts and crafts market occurs in St Peter’s during Christmastime. There’s also a cozy cafe at the entrance.

An der Obertrave
Take a stroll along this promenade, which follows the Trave River along the southwest curve of Old Town Lübeck. Along the An der Obertrave, you will see homes decorated in Medieval and Renaissance architecture.

How To Get From Hamburg to Lübeck

Lübeck is 45 miles (72 kilometers) from Hamburg. By regional train it takes about an hour to get to Lübeck. You can use the Schleswig-Holstein regional day ticket for up to 5 people traveling together. By car it takes about an hour to reach Lübeck from Hamburg (depending on traffic).

Stade

From the 13^th to 17^th centuries, Stade was a prominent member of the Hanseatic League, a commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in northwestern Europe. It has previously been a part of Sweden and Denmark. Exploring Stade is a delight!

Things To Do And See In Stade

Old Town & Harbor
The Old Town of Stade is home to historic buildings and churches like the Rathaus Hansestadt Stade (town hall), the Church of Saints Cosmas and Damian, and St. Wilhadi Church. The harbor or Stadthafen Stade along the River Schwinge was once a trading hub but now features a charming waterfront ambiance with a scenic promenade. Restaurants and cafes line the harbor and it’s a lovely place to relax and enjoy a drink or meal.

Schwedenspeicher Museum (Swedish Warehouse)
Shortly after the end of the Thirty Years’ War, the Swedish conquered Stade and began constructing a supply house from 1692 to 1705.  Today, the former warehouse contains exhibits on the history of Stade as well as the Hanseatic period.

Freilichtmuseum (Stade Open Air Museum)
The Freilichtmuseum is an open air museum where visitors can get a glimpse of rural life of the past through preserved objects from everyday life. The museum also hosts craft and weaving workshops as well as guided tours twice a month. It’s a small yet interesting museum, so it’s easy to fit into a day trip.

Kunsthaus (Art Gallery)
The Kunsthaus is an exciting art gallery constructed within a merchant’s house from the Hanseatic period.

St. Wilhadi Kirche
For centuries, this church has overlooked the city of Stade.  Interestingly, its history includes multiple lightning strikes to the tower! St. Wilhadi also contains an organ by the master by the master organ builder Erasmuc Bielfeldt from 1731 to 1736.

How To Get To Stade From Hamburg

Stade is 34 miles (56 kilometers from Hamburg). Stade is part of the Hamburg transit area so you can reach Stade using a Hamburg transit ticket in about 60 minutes. By car it takes about 1 hour to reach Stade.

Lüneburg

Having survived World War II relatively untouched, Lüneburg has a medieval charm that draws visitors from around the world. This city was a bustling trading hub in the Middle Ages and owes its long and prosperous history in part to the production of salt, known as “white gold.” Even if you only have a couple hours to enjoy Lüneburg, it’s worth visiting.

Things To Do And See in Lüneburg

Am Sande Market Square
To best experience Lüneburg’s medieval charm, go directly to the Am Sande market square. The square is surrounded by the beautiful architecture of St John’s Church. Fun Fact: in the Middle Ages, the plaza was covered in sand rather than cobbles to help merchants maneuver their horse and ox carts within the market.

Historic Harbor, Stintmarkt
Now a vibrant waterside district filled with a high concentration of bars and pubs, the historic harbor of Luneburg was previously a shipping center and fish market. Try out one of the pubs for a great view of the historic harbor and cityscape of Lüneburg.

Highlight: At the harbor stands the Old Crane (Alte Kran) which previously loaded ships. You can see the inside of the crane on a guided city tour. (There’s one just like it in Stade, too.)

Old Town Hall (Rathaus)
Construction of the town hall begun in 1230 but took centuries to complete.  The baroque façade of the town hall is something special to behold but the true beauty lies within with murals, frescoes, and intricate wood carvings. Outside of the Rathaus is a large market square.

Lüneburg Abbey & Textile Museum
Approximately a 15-minute walk from the city center, the Monastery Lüne (Kloster Lüne) was founded in 1172 by Benedictine monks as a nunnery and is inhabited to this day!

Textile Museum
The Textile Museum explores the art of weaving and exhibits the textile works of art made by nuns over the centuries.

St John’s Church (St. Johannis)
Luneburg’s oldest church dates to 927 and is known for the crooked steeple. Whoops! While you’re exploring St John’s, keep a look out for the elegant high altar and ornate Baroque organ inside. The composer, Johann Sebastian Bach himself learned to write and compose here while his uncle worked as the choirmaster.

Salu Saltztherme
Luneburg’s saltwater thermal spa! Relax in a eucalyptus sauna or a steam bath. There’s even a water park for children called “Kinderbadeland.”

How To Get To Lüneburg From Hamburg

Lüneburg is 34 miles (56 kilometers) from Hamburg. It’s part of the Hamburg transit area so you can reach Lüneburg using a Hamburg transit ticket in about 50 minutes. By car it takes about 40 minutes to reach Lüneburg (depending on traffic).

Schwerin Castle

Walking through the gardens and rooms of Schwerin Castle, it would be an understandable mistake to think you’d become lost in a fairy tale! The oldest parts of the castle date back to the 16^th century. Make sure to take some extra time to explore the lakes and gardens nearby!

Schwerin is sometimes called “Neuschwanstein of Northern Germany” relating it to the neomedieval castle in the Bavarian mountains that became world famous. They were both built to remind and imitate ancient and medieval castles. Neuschwanstein was constructed about 20 years after Schwerin Castle.

Discover the most important sights of the old town of Schwerin in this 90-minute city tour.

How To Get To Schwerin From Hamburg

Schwerin Castle is 68 miles (111 kilometers) from Hamburg. By regional train, it takes a little over an hour. Depending on which train you take, you can purchase individual tickets or a day card.

You can use the Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket for up to 5 people traveling together from Hamburg to Schwerin, which is in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

By car it takes about an hour and a half to reach Schwerin (depending on traffic).

Sankt Peter Ording

Sankt Peter Ording is a popular beach destination on the North Sea. This picturesque seaside town is known for its expansive sandy beaches perfect for a relaxing day away from the city or doing outdoor activities.

There are rental beach chairs available so you can spend the day enjoying sunbathing, swimming or walking on the boardwalk by the ocean. You can also do water activities like kiteboarding and windsurfing depending on the weather. 

One of Sankt Peter Ording’s most iconic features is its stilt houses. One of them houses a restaurant and another has toilets! These traditional beach houses give Sankt Peter Ording a charming coastal feel. I’ve been to this beach in various seasons and always enjoy walking up and down the beach on a sunny day.

How to Get to Sankt Peter Ording from Hamburg

Sankt Peter Ording is 87 miles (140 kilometers) from Hamburg. This day trip is best done by car and takes around 1.5 hours from Hamburg to Sankt Peter Ording (depending on traffic).

Altes Land

Altes Land is an area located to the south of Hamburg on the southwestern side of the Elbe River. This area is known for being one of the largest fruit-growing regions in Northern Europe, specifically apples and cherries. Altes Land has beautiful natural landscapes, especially during the harvest season.

The scenic countryside is lined with quaint villages and half-timbered farmhouses. It’s the perfect day trip from Hamburg for those looking for a quiet, lesser known destination.

How to Get to Altes Land from Hamburg

Altes Land is around 28 miles (45 kilometers) from Hamburg. Altes Land is part of the Hamburg transit area so you can reach Stade, Buxtehude or Jork using a Hamburg transit ticket in about an hour. By car, it also takes around an hour from Hamburg to Altes Land (depending on traffic).

Cuxhaven

Located at the mouth of the Elbe River, Cuxhaven is a maritime town known for its picturesque beaches, piers, and coastal landscapes. We did a day trip here from Stade (via train) but you could also visit on a day trip from Hamburg.

Things to Do and See in Cuxhaven

Kugelbake
This tall tower is a historic landmark that used to be a navigation aid for ships navigating the River Elbe and the North Sea. From here you can see huge ships sail by and then walk to the nearby beach.

Wattenmeer (National Park Wadden Sea)
Located in the estuary of the Elbe in the North Sea, Wattenmeer is a national park made up of mudflats, shallow creeks, dunes, and sandbars. When the tide it out you walk out pretty far – though it is muddy so wear appropriate shoes or boots. I tried walking in an area that was still pretty wet and my shoes got stuck in the mud a few times.

Windstärke 10 Museum
A maritime museum that showcases the region’s seafaring history, with exhibits on the dramatic challenges of seafaring in the North Sea.

Schloss Ritzebüttel
A historical 14th-century brick mansion used as a cultural venue for exhibitions and concerts located a short walk from the city center pedestrian zone. You can also stay in the well-preserved castle rooms or visit the gardens and restaurant. There’s also a nice park with walking trails and a small river flowing through it. We enjoyed a relaxing stroll through this area.

Cuxhavener Küstenheiden
A coastal heath or natural reserve ideal for walking or biking.

How to Get to Cuxhaven from Hamburg

Cuxhaven is around 80 miles (129 kilometers) from Hamburg. Cuxhaven is around 1.5 hours away by regional train using the Niedersachsen Ticket. By car, it takes about 2 and a half hours from Hamburg to Cuxhaven (depending on traffic).

Bremen

Bremen is one of oldest and most important port cities in northern Europe. It has a rich heritage and trading legacy which is reflected on many of its historic landmarks and medieval architecture. We were invited to join a guided English tour of the city and Beck’s brewery and highly recommend both experiences. Book a guided tour so you don’t miss out on the must-see sights of Old Town Bremen!

Things to Do and See in Bremen

Town Musicians of Bremen
A landmark made of bronze depicting the donkey, dog, cat and rooster from the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale. It’s a popular selfie spot!

Bremen Market Square
The Market Square in Old Town is home to the beautiful and intricate UNESCO World Heritage Town Hall, the statue of Bremen Roland, the first Holy Roman Emperor, and the St Petri cathedral. It’s especially beautiful at night.

Schnoor Quarter
This district is a must-see and one of the only parts of the city that has preserved its medieval character. Explore the narrow, winding streets and discover all the historic buildings through this guided walking tour.

Beck’s Brewery Tour
We were invited to join an English tour of Beck’s brewery, which was a lot of fun. During the first part we learned about Beck’s brewing process, and during the second we got to sample several types of Beck’s beer. I only recommend this tour if you don’t have to drive back to Hamburg!

How to Get to Bremen from Hamburg

Bremen is around 77 miles (125 kilometers) from Hamburg. Bremen is around an hour by high speed train. You can also take a regional train, which takes about 1.5 hours. By car, it takes about 1.5 hours  from Hamburg to Bremen (depending on traffic).

Bremerhaven

Bremerhaven is a small coastal city and important international port. It’s full of interesting museums and research institutes dedicated to not only preserving its maritime heritage but covering a wide range of interesting topics. We visited Bremerhaven on a day trip from Bremen but you can easily visit from Hamburg.

Things To Do And See In Bremerhaven

The German Emigration Center Museum
This is the largest theme museum about emigration in Europe. It documents the experience of emigrants leaving for North America through personal artifacts, interactive exhibits, and short documentaries. I really enjoyed this immersive museum!

The Klimahaus Bremerhaven
This unique museum takes visitors on a climate journey along the eighth longitudinal line around the world. As you proceed, you get to experience how it’s like to live in different places like Switzerland, Sardinia, Niger, Cameroon, Antarctica, Samoa, Alaska, and back to Bremerhaven. Aaron visited this museum and enjoyed his visit.

How to Get from Hamburg to Bremerhaven

Bremerhaven is around 112 miles (181 kilometers) from Hamburg. Bremerhaven is around 1 hour and 40 minutes by taking a combination of the high speed train and regional train. By car, it takes about 2 hours from Hamburg to Bremerhaven (depending on traffic).

Heligoland (Helgoland)

Heligoland is a small archipelago made up of two islands: the main island called Hauptinsel and a smaller island called Düne. The main island is where the harbor is located. It’s known for its red sandstone cliffs, like the famous Lange Anna, pristine beaches, and colorful coastal houses.

How to Get to Heligoland from Hamburg

Heligoland is around 96 miles (155 kilometers) from Hamburg. Heligoland can be reached by ferry or catamaran . From Hamburg it takes about 3.5 hours (from Cuxhaven it takes about 2.5 hours). This is a day trip that would need to be planned out in advance and is best done in the summer when you have lots of daylight.

Sylt

Sylt is a popular island destination in the North Sea. Its natural beauty is characterized by its long, vast beaches, dunes, and mudflats. The main town of the island, Westerland, attracts tourists with its upscale spas and resorts, shops, and seafood restaurants.

There are also several landmarks worth visiting like the Sylt Aquarium and Musikmuschel music pavilion. I recommend spending an hour in Westerland and then going north or south via bus or rented bike to see more of this beautiful island. If you head north you can visit the most northern spot in all of Germany.

How to Get to Sylt from Hamburg

Sylt is around 134 miles (216 kilometers) from Hamburg. Sylt can be reached by regional train from Hamburg in a little over 3 hours. This is a day trip that would need to be planned out in advance and is best done in the summer when you have lots of daylight.

Hamburg Day Trip FAQ

What’s the best day trip from Hamburg?

If you’re looking for a picturesque small town: Stade or Lüneburg. Larger town: Bremen or Lübeck. Interesting museums: Bremerhaven. Beaches: Cuxhaven or Sankt Peter Ording. Island: Heligoland or Sylt. Castle: Schwerin. You really can’t go wrong with any of them!

What’s the most beautiful city near Hamburg?

Lübeck, Bremen, Stade, and Lüneburg are all beautiful cities just about an hour away from Hamburg.

What cities are near Hamburg by train?

There are so many! You can reach Lübeck, Bremen, Bremerhaven, Cuxhaven, Stade, Lüneburg and more all by train.

Is Hamburg worth visiting?

Most definitely! Hamburg is a beautiful and vibrant city in northern Germany with a lake, canals, and harbor…not to mention fun museums, gorgeous parks, and tons of great restaurants. I lived in Hamburg for a while and it’s in my top 3 favorite German cities. Click here to see the best things to do in Hamburg.

How many days is enough in Hamburg?

Ideally 3 nights, which gives you 2 full days . If you can add another 1 or 2 days you can see more, enjoy a more relaxed sightseeing pace and add 1 or 2 day trips.

What to do in Hamburg in 1 day?

If you only have 1 day in Hamburg I recommend doing the HOHO bus so you get to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time. Check out our what to do in Hamburg guide and choose 2-4 things from that list to add to your day.

Where to stay in Hamburg?

To find the best hotels in the most convenient locations, check out our where to stay in Hamburg guide here.

The post Best Day Trips from Hamburg in 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

In this guide we share the pros and cons of visiting Munich during the winter, the best things to do in and around Munich, and our winter travel tips and experiences so you can make your time there unforgettable.

After visiting Munich several times in spring, summer, and fall, we recently spent all of December in Munich so we could get to know the city in winter. We loved being there at that time of year.

While summer and Oktoberfest may draw the crowds, there’s still so much to see and do during winter in Munich.

And while sunny days in beer gardens might be what come to mind when thinking of Munich, the Bavarian city of Munich has a unique cozy and festive charm when the temperatures drop. The city transforms into a fun winter wonderland that blends history, culture, and seasonal festivities.

From lively beer halls, bustling Christmas markets, and world-renowned museums to snow-covered landscapes and adventurous day trips, Munich offers a unique and memorable experience for those willing to explore beyond the summer rush.

Is Munich Worth Visiting In The Winter?

Yes! Visiting Munich in the winter season lets you see a completely different side of the city as compared to summer. And if you’re not a fan of hot weather, winter is a great time of year to visit.

What’s Munich like in the winter? From late November through December the city is filled with a fun, festive, and cozy atmosphere as celebrations for Christmas and New Year are in full bloom.

One of the highlights during this time of year are the festive Christmas markets happening all around the city. Yes, there’s more than 1 market in Munich! We visited nearly all of them during our winter in Munich and they each had their own unique vibe.

From classic world-renowned Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz to more alternative ones like the Tollwood Winter Festival, you’re guaranteed to have a great time getting into the holiday spirit in Munich.

A perk of visiting Munich during the winter months is that it’s not peak season. While the city is bustling with holiday festivities and events in December, the number of tourists is generally lower compared to the summer months. In January and February, there are even fewer visitors so it’s almost like having the city to yourself.

During this time of year flights and accommodation prices are typically more affordable than during the summer (except right around Christmas and New Years). Popular tourist attractions and landmarks will also be less crowded, allowing you to have a more relaxed vacation and experience.

The downside of visiting Munich in the winter? It gets dark early (usually around 4:30pm), it can be cold, rainy or even snowy, some sights have reduced hours or be closed altogether, fountains will be turned off, and many statues covered up for the winter.

Is Munich Very Cold In The Winter?

In my experience, Germany’s winters are far milder than they used to be. So while Munich’s weather in winter can indeed bring cold temperatures, occasional snowfall, and rainy days, there are also many times when you’ll experience sunny days and warmer weather, especially in the afternoons. 

Munich’s winter weather will also depend on what month you visit. The colder season usually starts in mid or even early October, and by the end of November, the temperature will have significantly dropped. The coldest month is typically January. It only starts to get much warmer during spring, typically from late April onwards.

• Average temperature for November: High 45°F (7°C) / Low 33°F (1°C)
• Average temperature for December: High 38°F (3°C) / Low 28°F (-2°C)
• Average temperature for January: High 37°F (2°C) / Low 25°F (-4°C)
• Average temperature for February. High 39°F (4°C) / Low 25°F (0°C)

When we spent December in Munich we experienced all kinds of weather from freezing cold temperatures and snow to afternoons so warm and sunny we walked around in t-shirts to cool rainy days. So it’s a good idea to be prepared for all kinds of weather and to not let any of it keep you from exploring and enjoying Munich.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it starts to get dark early in the day, especially after the time change in late October. By November it’s dark by 4:30 or 5pm, so make sure you plan your day accordingly, especially if you’re thinking of taking pictures.

What To Wear In Munich In Winter

The key to preparing yourself for the potentially cold winters of Munich is knowing what to pack and have available to wear while visiting the city. It’s all about having a good winter coat, warm clothes, and layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures. Here’s a list of things to pack:

• Winter coat: An insulated winter coat is essential for staying warm when it’s cold in Munich. A wool coat or a waterproof winter jacket are good options. I initially wore my favorite short Kühl puffer coat that keeps me toasty when we’re in much warmer North Carolina. Once the snow and freezing temps arrived I picked up a thigh-length puffer. On the really cold days I wore both coats!
• Thermals: Thermal underwear provide an extra layer of insulation and warmth without adding bulk to your outfit. If you don’t have thermals, bring tights or leggings to wear under pants and skirts. When it got really cold Aaron and I kept warm by wearing a layer under our jeans.
• Sweaters, cardigans and long-sleeve shirts: Materials like merino wool, fleece or cashmere are ideal for keeping warm, especially if you layer them over thermals. Aaron and I each pack merino wool t-shirts and merino wool long-sleeved base layers and combine them with sweaters and shirts to keep warm.
• Comfortable shoes or boots: Sturdy boots or shoes with good traction will make navigating snowy and icy streets and sidewalks easier. Waterproof – or at least water resistant – shoes or boots are nice to have.
• Warm accessories: Gloves, mittens, wool socks (we bring both thick wool socks and wool knee socks), cozy travel scarves or wraps, and beanies or hats will keep you bundled up and warm. Since we use our phones all day when traveling, we each have a pair of convertable mittens that allow us to use our phones (and get out keys, wallets, etc) without our fingers freezing.
• Umbrella: We love this umbrella because it’s small and lightweight but large enough to keep us dry.
• Sturdy & comfortable day bag or purse: Bring one that is super comfortable and will hold the essentials (wallet, keys, make-up, phone, hat and gloves, umbrella, etc) securely. Check out our guide to the best crossbody travel purses and bags here.
• Phone must-haves: We never travel without this phone power bank for charging our phones on the go, a phone wrist strap to prevent dropping and breaking your phone, and a pop-socket to make holding your phone and taking photos/videos easier.

These are just a few essentials to get you started. For more tips, read our ultimate Germany packing list and the 15 things we take on every trip to Germany.

Where To Stay In Munich During Winter

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Munich offers a variety of accommodation options for any kind of budget and preference. We recommend staying in or near the city center so you’ll be close to most of the major landmarks and tourist attractions, many restaurants, as well as easy access to public transportation.

If you visit in December prices are likely to be higher due to the holiday season and Christmas markets. In January, February, and March, you’re likely to find good deals since it’s off-season, especially if you plan ahead and book in advance. Here are some of our recommendations:

• Schwan Locke Munich: We’ve stayed here and liked both the location and the facilities. They offer a variety of modern apartments with comfy beds, balconies, and laundry facilities. The staff were friendly and helpful and we were able to walk to the train station and Old Town in less than 10 minutes. Plus, restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores were only a couple minutes away. This is the perfect place if you’d like to have a kitchenette and a little more space than you typically get with a hotel in the city.
• Hotel am Viktualienmarkt: I’ve stayed here and loved the comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and fantastic breakfast buffet. The location is a little further from the train station but super close to the Altstadt (Old Town) and on a quiet street.
• City Aparthotel München: This family-run hotel features modern apartment-style rooms with fully-equipped kitchenettes and all your essential amenities – all at a good price. It’s located near Karlsplatz-Stachus Square so you’ll be near the popular Eiszauber ice skating rink and Christmas markets.
• Hotel Falkenturm: This boutique hotel has an amazing central location, just a 5 minute walk to Marienplatz and even has views of the famous Frauenkirche Church. You’ll also be near the main Christmas market in the city, Munich Christkindlmarkt. 
• Flemings Hotel München-City: Flemings Hotel München-City boasts of a stylish design, modern facilities, and excellent location near the main train station. It also has top notch health and wellness facilities like a fitness center, spa lounge and sauna, and gourmet restaurant on-site.

For more information and other excellent options, read our full guide on the best hotels in Munich.

15 Best Winter Activities in Munich

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner, be sure to use the Trip Planning Spreadsheet, City Cheatsheets, and Germany Planning Map to help you plan your itinerary.

1. Experience the Magic of Munich Christmas Markets 

Experiencing Christmas time is easily one of the best things about visiting Munich during winter. The city comes alive with several festive Christmas markets that are typically open towards the end of November through Christmas eve. 

One of the best Christmas markets is the famous Munich Christkindlmarkt. Set in Marienplatz in front of the town hall, this market is brimming with sparkling Christmas decorations, live Bavarian traditional folk music (sometimes), and tons of food stalls selling traditional seasonal treats like Glühwein (hot wine or mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Stollen (Christmas bread) and so much more!

There’s also the Christmas Village at the Munich Residenz, a small market set in the courtyard of the palace. If you’re looking for a Christmas market with a twist, the Medieval Christmas Market tries to recreate the atmosphere of a real German market from the Middle Ages. Another popular one is the Christkindlmarkt at Sendlinger Tor, one of the remaining city gates of Munich’s former fortifications. 

For a more alternative option, check out Munich Tollwood Winter Festival. This festival is dedicated to raising awareness on social issues and features organic gourmet street food, sustainable crafts from all over the world, and fun concerts. We also enjoyed the creative Christmas market at Münchener Freiheit.

Curious about other Christmas markets around the country? Read our guide to the best Christmas markets to visit in Germany!

2. Explore the Altstadt (Old Town)

It’s always a good time to visit Munich’s historic and beautiful Altstadt. Start in Marienplatz and admire the Neues Rathaus (new town hall) with it’s famous Glockenspiel, the Altes Rathaus (old town hall), and the beautiful churches (St. Peter, St. Michael, St. Paul, Frauenkirche, and Asamkirche). Then wander the pedestrian zone to the city gates (Karlstor, Isator and Sendlinger Tor).

If the weather is nice, climb the St. Peter’s tower for a stunning view of the city. On a clear day you can see the Alps. If you’d rather not walk up a couple hundred stairs, you can take the elevator up to the top of the Rathaus.

If you need to do any shopping, this is a great place to do it. You’ll find all kinds of stores from specialty boutique stores to large department stores. When you get hungry, stop at a food truck for a piping hot Bratwurst.

3. Stroll Through The English Garden

The English Garden (Englischer Garten) is the largest park in Munich, measuring over 375 hectares and running through the center of Munich.  It’s a favorite for locals and tourists alike during all seasons. A visit to Munich isn’t complete without a walk through the English Garden.

During the colder months, the atmosphere is serene and the winter scenery is especially beautiful when fresh snow blankets the entire park. It makes it a perfect spot for taking pictures and exploring the network of walking paths. 

There’s also various recognizable landmarks in the park like the Chinese Tower, where you will find one of the city’s largest beer gardens in the summer and a small Christmas market in December, the Japanese Tea House situated on an artificial island at the end of the park, Monopteros, a Greek temple offering great views, and the Eisbachwelle, where you’ll find people wearing winter wetsuits surfing in the middle of the city!

4. Go Ice Skating

Eiszauber is a popular ice skating rink located in the city center, specifically in Karlsplatz-Stachus. It’s the largest mobile ice arena in the city and is typically open from mid-November until the beginning of January. There’s a daily program with fun themes and activities as well as a series of parties nearly every night.

Another must-see in the English Garden is the Kleinhesseloher Lake. When it gets cold enough, this beautiful lake in the middle of the park freezes over, making it suitable for ice skating while being surrounded by nature. 

5. Admire The Beauty Of The Munich Residenz

The Munich Residenz is the biggest city palace in Germany. On cold or rainy days where you want to stay indoors, this is one of the best places to visit just because of how much there is to see.

This magnificent palace complex is made up of lush gardens, lavish halls, and courtyards that are open to the public. There are over 100 opulent rooms to explore featuring a variety of architectural styles.

Some main highlights include the Antiquarium, with its vaulted ceilings covered with Renaissance frescoes, and the Treasury which holds an impressive collection of jewelry, ceremonial objects, and treasures that span centuries. We especially enjoyed visiting the beautiful Cuvilliés Theater (the old Residenz theater).

6. Take A Guided Tour

There are several tours to choose from that will help you dig into Munich’s history and culture and leave you feeling like you’ve experienced something unique.

Aaron did this small group Third Reich & WWII history tour and said it was outstanding. After the tour he took me around Munich’s Altstadt and gave me a mini tour and I was surprised that so many things I’d simply walked by for so many years had such a fascinating story attached to it.

Another tour Aaron enjoyed is this small group food tour through Viktualienmarkt. He not only sampled several local excellent sweet and savory treats from the market, he got to know local Munich food and culture in more depth.

Other Munich tours to check out are this beer hall and brewery tour, this evening of German food and beer tour, this 3-hour bike tour, and this Old Town walking tour.

7. Enjoy Hearty Bavarian Food 

What better way to keep warm than to enjoy a hearty Bavarian meal in a cozy restaurant? Traditional Bavarian food tends to be quite heavy but it can also be the perfect comfort food during cold winter days.

The cuisine features a lot of savory meats and dumplings, potatoes or Spätzle. Some classic dishes include Schweinebraten (roast pork), Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), Bratwurst (pork sausages), and Käsespätzle (kinda like the German version of mac and cheese). For something sweet, try a Dampfnudel (steamed sweet dumplings) with vanilla sauce, Apfelstrudel with ice cream or a slice of delicious German cake.

If you want to sample a bit of everything, then book a gourmet food tour of Munich’s biggest food market Viktuellenmarkt! If you also love beer, you can opt for an evening at a traditional beer hall and enjoy Bavarian beer and delicacies.

8. Take a Winter Walk Along The Isar River

If you’re looking to do a leisurely stroll then we can’t recommend a better place, especially during those lucky sunny days. As you walk along the riverbank, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in the quiet charm of the city while enjoying the crisp winter air.

On New Year’s Eve, the riverbanks are also a popular gathering place for people to drink wine or beer and celebrate with friends and family. We enjoyed our walks along the river here.

9. Pay Your Respects at Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial

A visit to Dachau is a moving and highly worthwhile educational experience. It takes under an hour to travel there via Munich’s public transit and 2-3 hours to tour the site. You can easily visit on your own or you can book a guided tour of Dachau from Munich. Dachau is free and open all year long except on December 24th.

10. Explore The Olympic Park

The Olympic Park is an iconic city landmark, originally constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics. During winter, the expansive park grounds look beautiful when covered in snow. You can go for a short walk by the lake, explore the sports facilities, and even go sledding if it snows. Sledding is a popular activity here because of the many slopes and hills. 

It’s also just as nice when there’s no snow. After taking a walk around the area, you can go up the Olympia Tower, where you’ll get amazing views from the observation deck. There’s also a revolving restaurant at the top. Olympiapark is also a great place to go for New Year’s Eve if you want to see fireworks.

11. See Schloss Nymphenburg And The Palace Grounds

Another great place to check out is Schloss Nymphenburg, the former summer residence for Bavarian rulers built during the 17th century. You can spend time indoors learning about Bavaria’s history while admiring the opulent Baroque architecture and lavish interiors and furnishings. 

But the best part is walking through the sprawling gardens and palace grounds. The intricate and symmetrical gardens are filled with pavilions and even small palaces and hunting lodges. There are also several fountains, water features, and a lake on the palace grounds. We loved wandering around these gardens and was especially stunning after it snowed.

12. Warm Up In A Beer Hall or Cafe

Some might argue that the best way to beat the cold is by drinking beer, especially while you’re in Munich! While most beer gardens are closed during winter, you can still find some people in beer gardens when it’s not raining. The Viktualienmarkt beer garden, for example, is open year round.

There are also traditional beer halls and taverns that offer all the best local beers. Beer halls typically have rustic decor, long wooden tables and can get quite packed but there’s always a nice, warm, and lively ambiance. Try renowned Bavarian brews (we like Augustiner) and also experience the local beer culture all while staying cozy and warm.

You can also learn more about Munich’s brew-making history and go on a tour of one of the oldest beer houses, Hofbräuhaus.

If Kaffee und Kuchen is more your style, you’re in luck. Munich is full of delightful cafes, coffee shops, and bakeries. You’ll find all kinds of tasty coffee, espresso drinks, and teas, as well as scrumptious cakes, tortes, strudels, pastries, and other baked items.

13. Spend A Day Visiting Art Galleries And Museums

Munich is home to several renowned museums and art galleries. Many are located in Kunstareal, the museum quarter in the city center. Choose two or three museums that you’re interested in and spend a day museum hopping.

If you’re interested in Bavaria’s history and culture, then you can begin at the Bavarian National Museum, where you’ll find a diverse collection of art and artifacts spanning different time periods. For another side of history, you can also visit the Egyptian museum (Staatliches Museum Ägyptischer Kunst) which showcases both archaeological artifacts and art from Ancient Egypt.

For a unique experience, visit the Deutsches Museum, the world’s largest science and technology museum. It features an impressive array of exhibits ranging from aerospace, physics, scientific instruments, chemistry, transportation, and more.

For art lovers, the Alte Pinakothek is one of the oldest galleries in the world and is a treasure trove of world-renowned European masterpieces of various artistic movements. There’s also the Lenbachhaus, a gallery with a large collection of art from “Der Blaue Reiter” (The Blue Rider), one of the most important groups of avant-garde artists in Germany.

If you’re a car enthusiast, a visit to the BMW museum or the BMW-Welt is a must. Both are located just outside the city center near the Olympia Park.

If you’ll be in the city during a Sunday, you can plan this as your museum day! Many places offer a discounted entrance fee on Sundays so make sure to check all the museums’ official websites.

14. Catch A Performance At The Nationaltheater

If museums aren’t your thing but you still want to do a cultural activity, then go to the opera or theater instead! The Nationaltheater is one of the best spots for this because of its varied programs. It’s home to the Bavarian State Opera, Bavarian State Orchestra and the Bavarian State Ballet.

Whether you watch operas or ballets, each performance is under the direction of top-class conductors, features talented musicians and dancers, as well as timeless classical pieces. 

The main building of the Nationaltheater itself is also beautiful. If you don’t have time to watch an entire performance, you can book a tour of the historic building. The tour includes a visit to the Königssaal, the Ionic Halls, the auditorium and the stage area when possible.

15. Relax At Indoor Pools Or Saunas

One of the best winter activities after a long day of sightseeing is relaxing in a sauna or indoor swimming pool. There are various public baths and spa centers in Munich but one of the best options is Therme Erding. Located outside the city center and around 20 minutes from the Munich Airport, Therme Erding is the largest thermal bath complex in Europe.

The tropical-themed resort has a water park, pool bars, thermal baths, multiple sauna and steam rooms, jacuzzis, beauty treatment parlors, massage areas, and more. It’s the perfect retreat for those looking to escape the city and the cold weather.

Another popular option that’s located within the city is Müllersches Volksbad. This is a public bath with an Art nouveau-style interior with large and small swimming pools, a Roman bath and sauna, and an in-house cafe and restaurant.

Best Winter Day Trips From Munich

Neuschwanstein 

Visiting Neuschwanstein is one of the top things to do in Germany, no matter the season. This world-famous castle attracts millions of visitors each year and is said to be the inspiration for the iconic Disney castles. Because it’s a very touristy destination, summer is usually when it’s the most packed. So visiting during winter has its advantages!

For one, if you’re lucky enough you’ll get to see the castle glistening amidst snow capped mountains and trees. It’s absolutely breathtaking, a once in a lifetime view that’s worth the freezing cold temperatures (seriously, we were so cold).

But the weather can be unpredictable in winter and there are days where it’s rainy and foggy and some of the paths and trails might be closed (note that the Marienbrücke closes when there’s snow or ice). So it’s always a good idea to prepare beforehand and  manage your expectations as best as you can.

Also, keep in mind that if you plan to visit during the holidays, they’re closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year. Winter hours are also shorter. From mid-October to the end of March, guided tours start daily at 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  

For more information, read our full guide on how to visit Neuschwanstein Castle during the winter.

Berchtesgaden, Ramsau And Hintersee

Exploring the Berchtesgaden area during winter offers a unique day trip experience that combines the stunning landscapes of the Bavarian Alps with the rich historical significance of the region.

Berchtesgaden is usually associated with WWII so there are lots of educational sites to visit like the Obersalzberg Documentation Center and the Eagle’s Nest, though it’s closed during winter. But there are so many other things to discover in the region. 

The charming Old Town of Berchtesgaden is quite picturesque especially during the winter since there’s are Christmas market stalls all through the Altstadt.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the natural beauty and landscapes are definitely a highlight. You can visit the Berchtesgaden National Park which is still open during winter and go on a Lake Königsee boat tour, which is quite magical with the mist and snow-covered mountains in the backdrop. In the winter months the boats don’t sail all the way to Salet but it’s still fun to explore the St. Bartholomä area.

When we spent a week in Berchtesgaden in the winter we also enjoyed the easy hike from Ramsau to Hintersee lake via the Zauberwald (Enchanted Forest). It was cold but we had blue sky and gorgeous views.

For more Berchtesgaden sights and tips, read our full guide on the best things to do and see in the Berchtesgaden region!

Salzburg Or Innsbruck, Austria

While you’re in Munich, why not cross over the border into Austria? This is a great way to maximize your time and explore other top winter destinations in Europe. Salzburg is only a 2-hour train ride away from Munich but you can also book a full-day guided trip here.

Salzburg is known for being the setting of the beloved film “The Sound of Music” as well as the hometown of famous classical composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It has a charming Old Town with well-preserved landmarks like the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Mirabell Palace. And, of course, there’s a lovely Christmas market.

Another Austrian city near Munich is Innsbruck, which is also around an hour and 45 minutes by train. Innsbruck is great for those looking for more active day trips since it’s known for being a paradise for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. The Old Town also offers opportunities for sightseeing with famous landmarks like the Golden Roof and the Imperial Palace.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen And Zugspitze

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is an alpine town located in the Bavarian Alps, around an hour away from Munich by car or train. It’s known for hosting the Winter Olympics in the past so it’s perfect for those looking to go to a world-class ski resort to hit the slopes.

Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, is also situated nearby, offering breathtaking panoramic views and all the winter sports from skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and winter hiking.

We took a day trip to Garmisch while in Munich in the winter, and while it was cold, we had a fun day wandering around both towns, enjoying the Christmas market, having Kaffee und Kuchen, and we even stopped in nearby Mittenwald on our way back to Munich.

Nuremberg (Nürnberg)

Nuremberg is the ultimate Christmas destination, especially if you’re a big fan of Christmas markets! It’s only an hour away by train from Munich, making it a quick and easy day trip to get into the holiday spirit.

This German city is home to one of the largest Christmas markets in the country, the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt. There are over hundreds of wooden stalls selling classic Christmas decorations and seasonal delicacies like Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (small grilled sausages flavored with marjoram) and Lebkuchen (similar to gingerbread cookies).

The post Munich in Winter: 15 Best Things To Do (Plus Travel Tips) appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

About Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming medieval town nestled in northern Bavaria. It’s known for its well-preserved medieval old town, rich history, colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and enchanting atmosphere. 

It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany, attracting visitors from all over the world, especially to the city walls. Rothenburg is what many picture when they think of quaint, fairy tale-like medieval towns.

But aside from its beautiful architecture, it’s also home to important landmarks like the St. James Church and interesting museums like the Medieval Crime Museum and the German Christmas Museum. Rothenburg is also renowned for its vibrant Christmas market and fun events like music festivals are held in the area.

Is Rothenburg Worth A Visit?

Yes, absolutely! Rothenburg is one of the most beautiful places in Germany. It’s known for being one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in Europe and for having a unique fairy tale atmosphere with its colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and an in-tact wall around the Altstadt (Old Town).

Rothenburg has a rich history beginning in the Middle Ages when it was a free imperial city. This meant that it was an independent city directly under the authority of the Holy Roman Emperor. As the second largest city in the Holy Roman Empire during medieval times, people from all over the world are drawn to this small town’s fascinating history and one-of-a-kind charm.

We’ve visited the medieval town of Rothenburg many times over the past 3 decades in all seasons. We’ve done day trips by train and car and have stayed in hotels in the Altstadt (Old Town). We always enjoy visiting.

It is, however, a popular stop along the famous Romantic Road (Romantische Strasse) and many tour busses stop here for several hours. Because of this, it can get quite crowded, especially during the country’s peak travel season (around June to September) and during Christmas market season.

If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, we highly recommend staying overnight. That way you can experience the town when it’s much less crowded in the late afternoon and evening after the huge tour busses have left. And if you get up early in the morning, you can explore the town before the busses start arriving (around 10am).

Even better, the money you spend on hotels and restaurants by spending a night or two helps the town afford to maintain the beautiful old (and expensive to maintain) buildings!

Where Is Rothenburg On Map Of Germany?

Rothenburg is located in the state of Bavaria in Southern Germany. It’s located in the Tauber Valley, specifically along the northern stretch of the Tauber River.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

What To Do And See In Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Tower Trail (City Wall)

Rothenburg is one of only 3 towns in Germany that still has completely intact city walls. One of the best things to do is walk the Tower Trail along the town wall. It’s called Tower Trail because Rothenburg is home to 42 towers, many of which are found along the wall. Some parts of the trail take you along the top of the wall, so you can get good views of the Altstadt (Old Town). 

The trail is around 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) and takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. But you can choose how much to do since it’s divided into different stages. It’s also open 24/7 and is completely free!

We usually walk parts of the wall while also exploring the side streets (there are stairs down to the street in various sections) but at some point we’re going to walk the whole wall in one go.

Castle Garden (Burggarten)

The Castle Garden (Burggarten) is a nice, tranquil green park near Burgtor (Castle Gate) just right outside the medieval walls. It’s one of the best places to visit if you want to relax for a while and enjoy stunning views of the Tauber Valley. Aside from the lookout points, there’s also a formal garden with sandstone sculptures and flowerbeds. Walk all the way to end of the park for amazing views!

Plönlein

Plönlein is one of the main attractions of the town. This small square located at the intersection of two streets is one of the most photographed and iconic spots in Rothenburg. It is a picture perfect square with medieval architecture, a yellow timber-framed house positioned in the center, two historic gates, and a water fountain. It’s said to have been the inspiration for the setting of Pinocchio! Since it’s one of the town’s most popular places, it’s usually bustling with people so we recommend going early if you want to take a lot of pictures.

Rothenburg Night Watchman Tour

If you’re looking for unique and fun things to do in Rothenburg, then this guided tour is for you! The Night Watchman Tour is an immersive experience that takes you on a comical yet historic journey through the town’s medieval streets after dark. In this walking tour, you’ll be led by a guide dressed historically like a night watchman who shares entertaining and informative stories about the town’s history. Aside from learning about Rothenburg’s past, you’ll get to experience the enchanting and special atmosphere of the streets illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. We finally did this tour on our most recent visit and it was a lot of fun.

Click here to book a memorable private Night Watchman walking tour!

Altstadt (Old Town)

Wandering the streets of the Altstadt (Old Town) and getting lost in its charming cobblestone streets and alleyways is one of the top things to do in Rothenburg. The beautiful buildings, colorful half-timbered homes, ancient walls, and traditional German taverns are really something straight out of fairy tales.

Old Town is also where you’ll find many of the town’s most important landmarks like the Town Hall (Rathaus), St. Jacob’s Church, Plönlein, Marktplatz, and many more. It’s a very walkable area so you’ll be able to see and do a lot in just a few hours.

To make it even more special, book a private and personalized walking tour of Old Town with a professional local guide here!

Market Square (Marktplatz)

Market Square is the vibrant heart of Old Town. In here you’ll find the impressive Town Hall (Rathaus) which features a mix of 16th century Renaissance and Gothic style architecture in its facade. Visitors can climb up to the Town Hall Tower to get panoramic views of Tauber Valley and the medieval rooftops. The Market Square is also the perfect place to grab a bite since there’s a lot of coffee shops and restaurants in the area. 

St. James Church (St. Jakob’s Church)

St. James Church is another must-visit important landmark. It’s a historic Lutheran church dating back to the 15th century. It’s also along the way of the famous the Way of St. James or Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage that spans across Europe and leads to northwestern Spain. 

Highlights of the St. James Church includes the ornate stained glass windows and the Holy Blood Altar by Tilman Riemenschneider, a historic wooden altar featuring scenes from The Last Supper. You can also drive right through the church!

Tauber Bridge or Double Bridge

The Tauber Bridge, also known as the Double Bridge, is a road bridge spanning the west of the Tauber Valley, just ten minutes outside of Old Town. The stone bridge is made up of two rows of arches, one on top of the other and was first built in the 14th century. It offers a really nice landscape view with the town of Rothenburg in the backdrop. It’s easy to get to this bridge if you have a car so you can easily see it on your way into or out of town. Unfortunately, when we stopped by on our recent visit there was a music festival going on and the bridge was closed to non-festival goers!

Medieval Crime Museum

The Medieval Crime and Justice Museum is an unique museum offering a glimpse into the dark past of crime, punishment, and even torture back during the medieval times. It houses an unusual collection of exhibits of historical crime scenes and torture devices and instruments. The subject matter is not exactly light but it’s an interesting must-visit for those who are interested in seeing a different side of medieval history.

German Christmas Museum

If you’re not visiting Rothenburg during the Christmas season, you can still experience some of the festivities in the German Christmas Museum. The museum highlights everything related to Christmas traditions from how certain customs started to how different regions around the country celebrate it. The museum features an ornate Christmas village, traditional Christmas decorations like nutcrackers and Christmas pyramids, and lots of other festive ornaments. You can also walk through any of the many Käthe Wohlfahrt stores to feel immersed in the Christmas season.

If you want to learn more about Christmas in Germany, read our guide on all the traditions and food that make German Christmas so unique and special!

We also have a guide on how to celebrate Saint Nicholas Day like a German!

Old Rothenburg Craftsmen House (Alt-Rothenburger Handwerkerhaus)

The Old Rothenburg Craftsmen House is a small medieval home preserved from the 1300s that showcases traditional crafts and trades that were once practiced in the town. The museum features artifacts and tools from all sorts of crafts like woodcarving, glassblowing, pottery, weaving, breadmaking, metalwork, and farming. It’s a great testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Rothenburg. 

Master Draught Festival (Meistertrunk)

The Master Draught Festival (Meistertrunk) is a major annual event that commemorates the historic event of the Thirty Years’ War. Every year, the festival retells the legend that took place during the war when the town’s mayor, Georg Nusch, impressed the enemy forces by drinking 3 1/4 liters in one go which saved the city from destruction. The legend is retold through theatrical performances and reenactments all throughout the city. Performers wear traditional costumes and there’s a parade with music through the historic streets of the Old Town. 

Rothenburg Christmas Market (Reiterlesmarkt)

The Rothenburg Christmas Market is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany. During Christmas time, the Market Square transforms into a magical and festive atmosphere with a huge Christmas tree and over 70 stalls. They sell everything from mulled wine (Glühwein) and delicious Franconian treats like gingerbread (Lebkuchen), Bratwürste, and Flammkuchen. Aside from snacks, you’ll find Christmas ornaments, souvenirs and handmade crafts. 

For more information on the Christmas markets in Germany, read our guide to the best Christmas markets to visit!

Explore After Dark

Even if you’ve walked all over Rothenburg during the day, be sure to go out again after dark. It’s just so pretty when the sun sets and the lights go on! Go for walk or enjoy a beer at a table outside on the Marktplatz and revel in the romantic vibe of this fairytale town.

Where To Stay In Rothenburg

While you can visit Rothenburg on a day trip, we highly recommend spending a night or two in this charming town. You’ll be able to explore more of the town, enjoy delicious meals without feeling rushed, and you’ll get to experience the popular parts of the Altstadt without the crowds.

• Hotel Reichs-Küchenmeister – This beautiful 4-star hotel is located in the heart of the Old Town, just step away from important landmarks like St. James’s Church. The hotel features a mix of both modern and traditional individually-decorated rooms. They have a delicious restaurant serving Franconian cuisine and wines on sight and an outdoor beer garden. We had a wonderful dinner here on a winter trip and plan to stay here on our next visit.
  
• Romantik Hotel Markusturm – This historic, family-run hotel is located at the Markusturm tower beside the Old Town walls. The rooms are tastefully decorated with antique and vintage touches. There’s also a delicious traditional restaurant on-site that serves very good breakfast.
  
• Pension Elke – This small family run hotel is locatd in a charming half-timbered building and is a short walk from the main square. We stayed here on a summer visit and loved it! It’s not a luxury stay but it was very comfortable, had everything we needed, and a hearty breakfast buffet was included in the price of the room. We loved the historic building and personality of the hotel. The family run a grocery store below the Pension and invite guests to go running through the Altstadt with them every evening!

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

How To Get To Rothenburg

Rothenburg is within 2-3 hours of a few major German cities including Munich, Frankfurt, Nuremberg (Nürnberg), and Stuttgart. You can reach Rothenburg by car or train.

The easiest and often quickest way to get to Rothenburg is by driving. From Munich it takes about 2.5 hours and is a little over 2 hours from Frankfurt. From Nuremberg it’s only 1.5 hours, while Stuttgart is a bit further, taking around 3 hours. 

Renting a car gives you more flexibility to make stops along the way. If you want to explore the Romantic Road area or just taking a day trip from any of the other cities, driving is a great option. Keep in mind that there isn’t much parking space in the town but there are several parking lots just outside the city walls. The one we parked at had restrooms and an option for inexpensive all day parking.

If you prefer to take the train, we recommend checking the Deutsche Bahn official website to find the best routes, times, and tickets. The travel time from Munich, for example, is about 3.5 hours and there are no direct trains. From Rothenburg’s main train station you can reach the Old Town in about 15 minutes by foot or you can take a taxi.

An easy way to visit Rothenburg is to take a guided day trip. That way you don’t have to worry about transportation or logistics since everything will be taken care of for you! If you are coming from Frankfurt, you can book this full day tour to Heidelberg and Rothenburg. If you’re coming from Munich, we recommend booking this guided day trip that takes you to Rothenburg and Nördlinger Ries.

Day Trips From Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Why not make Rothenburg your home base for a few days so you can explore more of the area? Here are some great day trip options.

TIP: If you have our Germany Travel Planner look at our interactive planning map to see do-able day trips. Seeing the castles, towns, and other must-see sights on the map (along with our photos and up-to-date tips) makes it much easier to decide what to add to your itinerary. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Nuremberg (Nürnberg)

Many people day trip from Nuremberg to Rothenburg but you can do it the other way around, too. If you’re looking for another charming medieval town with colorful buildings and a city wall, head on to Nuremberg.

This historic city is also known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the stunning Nuremberg Castle on a hill and the picturesque Old Town with its lovely half-timbered houses, bridges over the river, and churches.

Nuremberg is also hosts the Nuremberg Christmas Market, one of the oldest and most traditional in Germany, which attracts visitors from around the world. So if you’re visiting during the holiday season, Nuremberg would make a great day trip! 

Würzburg

Würzburg is another nearby city that’s only about 45 minutes away by car. It’s known for stunning Baroque architecture, particularly the Würzburg Residence. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with opulent interiors, ornate rooms, and an impressive large fresco by Venetian artist Tiepolo, the Residence is a must-see (take the free English tour – we really enjoyed that)!

Würzburg is also known as the center of the Franconian wine country so it’s home to amazing local vineyards, fun wine festivals, and lots of wine bars and cellars where you can taste Franconian wines. Tip: go to the old bridge, order a glass of local wine from one of the stands (they’re easy to find), and enjoy the view while sipping delicious wine. It’s a popular place to hang out for visitors and locals alike.

Dinkelsbühl

Dinkelsbühl is another picturesque town in the Romantic Road area. Like Rothenburg, this town was a former free imperial city of the Holy Roman Empire. It shares a lot of similarities in terms of architecture with Rothenburg like its well-preserved city walls with various towers and gates, cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and vibrant squares. It’s a great alternative to Rothenburg if you want more of that medieval charm without as many crowds or tourists.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for being one of Germany’s most beautiful towns and for having Europe’s largest intact old city wall. The Old Town preserves structures from the 11th to 19th centuries and showcases a variety of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. One of the main attractions is the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) which is situated on an island on the Regnitz river and is accessible by arched pedestrian bridges.

Other highlights include the Romanesque Bamberg Cathedral and the Michelsberg Monastery. Bamberg is also known for its unique beer culture. There’s a vibrant beer scene with traditional breweries, beer gardens, and a wide range of distinctive local beer styles.

Munich

One of the nearest major cities from Rothenburg is Munich, the capital of Bavaria. It’s a great starting point to explore southern Germany but it also makes a great day trip. There’s a lot to do and enjoy in Munich from beer gardens, world-class museums, beautiful architecture, hearty Bavarian cuisine, and of course, Oktoberfest. If you want to visit Munich on a day trip from Rothenburg (or vice-versa), driving is the best way to go because it takes over 3 hours one way to from one city to the other by train.

The Romantic Road

Rothenburg is in the Romantic Road area so it’s easy to explore more of it on a day trip.

The Romantic Road is one of Germany’s most popular tourist areas and it’s important to note that “road” is a bit of a misnomer because it’s not really just one road that you can easily follow. It’s actually more of an area that you can explore by taking the slower scenic roads.

The Romantic Road technically starts in the city of Würzburg and ends in the small Bavarian town of Füssen near the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. The Romantic Road stretches over 400 kilometers or almost 250 miles and passes through almost 30 official stops, including charming small towns, medieval castles, and beautiful scenery. You can spend anywhere from a couple hours to several days in the area, depending on how much of the route you choose to see and how many stops you’d like to make along the way.

If you’ve got a day to explore the Romantic Road by car, you can easily visit the neighboring towns of Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen, which are just as beautiful and oftentimes less crowded than Rothenburg. Along the way you’ll pass through beautiful villages. Stop at the ones that catch your interest!

If you Munich is your homebase and you want to visit Rothenburg and the Romantic Road area but you don’t want to worry about renting a car or figuring out transportation logistics, we recommend booking this guided day trip of the Romantic Road from Munich that goes through Harburg Castle, Dinkelsbühl, and Rothenburg. 

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a beautiful city known for being home to Germany’s oldest university, its rich cultural heritage, and historic sites like Heidelberg Castle, Old Town, and Alte Brücke. It’s also surrounded by amazing natural landscapes like the Neckar river and Odenwald mountain range in the distance. It’s best to do a day trip to Heidelberg from Rothenburg by car.

Frankfurt

If you want to visit a big city on a day trip from Rothenburg, one option is to head to Frankfurt. It’s a nice contrast from Rothenburg since Frankfurt is known to be a bustling metropolis with a cosmopolitan atmosphere since it’s an important financial center in Europe.

Frankfurt is a mix of modern with its futuristic skyline and skyscrapers with some charming historic landmarks found in Old Town. You can also discover the city’s art and cultural side in the Museum Embankment, with famous museums like the Städel Museum and the Museum für Moderne Kunst. Overall, Frankfurt is a good city to explore in just a day or two. If visiting on a day trip from Rothenburg, it’s best to go by car.

If your home base is Frankfurt and you’d like a stress-free day trip to Rothenburg, book this guided day trip from Frankfurt to Heidelberg and Rothenburg!

Rothenburg ob der Tauber FAQ

What is Rothenburg, Germany known for?

Rothenburg, Germany is known for its incredibly well-preserved medieval old town and its intact city walls that provide panoramic views of the town and its surroundings. It’s celebrated for its charming fairy tale-like atmosphere and charm.

How much time do I need in Rothenburg, Germany?

Rothenburg is a popular day trip destination, so it’s very manageable to do it as a day trip spending 5-8 or so hours in the town. That said, if you want to fully experience and explore the town, then we recommend staying for 1 or 2 nights so you have at least one full day. This allows you to do more activities like the famous Night Watchman Tour (it’s a lot of fun). Staying for 2-3 days is also a great idea so you can do day trips to other nearby towns like Dinkelsbühl and Würzburg and explore more of the Romantic Road area (best by car).

How long does it take to walk the Rothenburg wall?

The Tower Trail, which is the path that goes all along the Rothenburg walls, is around 2.5 miles (4 kilometers). It takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, depending on the crowds and your pace. You can explore some of it and then choose to leave the trail since it leads into different parts of the Old Town or complete the entire trail. Ultimately, you can choose how much of it to do since it’s divided into different sections and there are stairs down to the town at regular intervals.

How old is Rothenburg Germany?

Rothenburg is one of the oldest towns in Germany. Settlements in Rothenburg’s area date back to around 970 AD but the city was founded around the 11th century, making it approximately 750 years old.

Is Rothenburg in Bavaria?

Yes, Rothenburg is in Bavaria (Bayern in German). More specifically, it’s located in northern Bavaria in the Middle Franconia region.

What river is Rothenburg on?

Rothenburg is not directly located on a river. It is situated on a plateau overlooking the Tauber River valley. This explains the full name of the city “Rothenburg ob der Tauber” which is German for “Rothenburg (red castle) above the Tauber.” 

How far is Rothenburg from Munich?

Rothenburg is located approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of Munich. The driving distance between the two cities is around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. By train, it takes around 3 hours depending on the route and transfers you take.

Next Steps For Planning Your Trip:

• Start planning an unforgettable trip to Germany here!
• Book a personalized travel consult or itinerary review with Cate.
• Join our friendly Facebook group.

The post Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Best Things to Do and See appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

This guide will help you help you plan you visit to this historic university town and its famous Heidelberg Castle. If you want to discover enchanting Heidelberg beyond the castle, be sure to check out our Heidelberg guide here.

Heidelberg Castle (Heidelberger Schloss in German) is a popular castle and castle ruin in Germany and a major landmark of Heidelberg.

The city of Heidelberg is located in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg in southwest Germany, along the Neckar River. Situated atop a hill overlooking the Neckar Valley, the castle attracts people from all over and is definitely worth visiting.

Aaron and I have been to Heidelberg many times over the years and always enjoy wandering the cobblestoned streets, exploring the castle, and taking walks on the Philosophenweg trails.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Schloss Heidelberg!

Why Visit Heidelberg & Heidelberg Castle

So many reasons! First, Heidelberg is a famous university town and home to Heidelberg University, which is the oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in Germany. A friend of mine studied there and her student housing was in the historic city center just steps from the Heiliggeistkirche!

Second, the Heidelberg Altstadt is known for its romantic architecture, historic sites, and unparalleled riverside views. And while there are tourists in Heidelberg, it’s not just a tourist destination.

Third, the city is quite easy to navigate and easy to get around on foot, so you can definitely see Heidelberg Schloss and other important landmarks in a day.

Your first stop should be Altstadt (Old Town) where you’ll find picturesque streets lined with cafés, medieval buildings, and churches. Highlights include the Marktplatz (main square), the Church of the Holy Spirit, and the Rathaus (town hall). 

Another must see is the Alte Brücke (old bridge), a stone bridge spanning the river Neckar and connecting two sides of historic Heidelberg. Take a stroll or book a river cruise to get great views and a unique perspective of the castle and the city.

What You Need to Know About Visiting Heidelberg Castle

Getting to Heidelberg

You can travel to Heidelberg by train or car. The main train station in Heidelberg is centrally located and has service to both regional towns and major cities, the nearest ones being Frankfurt and Stuttgart. To find the best train or route to take, check out the Deutsche Bahn website (German Rail).

On the Deutsche Bahn website you can check train schedules and book point-to-point tickets or regional tickets. This is where I book all of our Germany train tickets.

If you’re driving a rental car, take the Autobahn (motorway) A5 or A 656 (via Darmstadt, direction: Karlsruhe/Basel) and exit at Heidelberg motorway interchange or at “Heidelberg/Schwetzingen” which will take you to the city center.

If you don’t want to worry about transportation, consider booking a day tour! This guided tour from Frankfurt provides private bus transportation and brings you to the main tourist attractions of Heidelberg.

Directions to Heidelberg Castle

To get to Castle Heidelberg from the central train station using public transportation, take bus line 33 or bus line 20 to the stop “Bergbahn.” Once there, you have to take a short ride via the funicular railway all the way up to the “Schloss” station. For more info on the Bergbahn, scroll to the end of this guide.

Alternatively, you can also walk from the train station to Old Town and then to the castle. You can find the uphill path that leads up to the castle (called Burgweg) next to the Rathaus and Kornmarkt. You can choose between the short route (with steps) or the scenic route (no steps). For both paths, follow the signs that lead to the castle. It’ll take 45-60 minutes to walk up to the castle from the main train station.

If you’re driving, keep in mind that there aren’t many parking spaces close to the castle. There are a few parking spots with fees about 500m from the main entrance of the castle grounds, further uphill of the garden area. Take note that the one way street uphill to the castle is closed to the public on weekends. It’s easier to park in a larger public lot and then walk to the castle enjoying the town along the way.

Visitor Information: Opening Hours & Tickets

Heidelberg Castle is open Mondays to Sundays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Viewing the interior is only possible through a guided tour. The guided tours in English are done at the following times: 11:15 am, 12:15 am, 2:15 pm, and 3:15 pm (at the time this guide was written).

The areas that are open without a tour are the castle gardens, inner courtyard and terrace, wine barrel cellar, and the German Apothecary Museum.

You can access all of these places with the standard entrance ticket which costs 9,00€. It also includes round trip use of the funicular.

The guided tours have an additional fee of 6,00 € for adults. You can buy tickets at the castle ticket counter (visitor center or Burgweg).

How to Reserve A Guided Tour

If you’d like a guided tour of the castle or the castle and town with an English speaking guide who can give you insider information and tips, here are 3 great options that are all very highly rated.

This 1.5 hour castle tour is perfect if you’re short on time or want to easily combine a tour with exploring on your own.

If you’d like to combine a Heidelberg city tour with a castle tour, this 2-hour tour is perfect for you.

And if you’d prefer a private tour – especially if you’re traveling together with friends or family – book a private tour.

Brief History of Heidelberg Castle

The Heidelberg Castle has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 13th century. The earliest structure was constructed in 1214 and continued expanding until it became two castles. It was first used as a royal residence by Prince Elector Ruprecht III, the King of Germany during a short period in the early 15th century.

Originally a fortified castle with outer defensive walls, Heidelberg Castle continued to expand  into a combination of several buildings. Succeeding Prince Electors of the Palatinate built several residential halls, which resulted in the property looking like a mix of a castle and palace.

Unfortunately, the castle also suffered a lot of damage. In the 17th century, it was destroyed by the French army during the Nine Years War. Parts of it were rebuilt but it was damaged again by lightning strike twice in the 18th century, leaving the castle uninhabitable and in ruins. 

It was never completely restored but the ruined castle now stands as a symbol of German Romanticism. The vestiges of the past with the restored structure all highlight a different period of German architecture which attracts over millions of tourists annually. 

What To See In Heidelberg Castle

German Apothecary Museum

The German Apothecary Museum is an interesting glimpse into the history of pharmaceutics. The exhibition showcases everything from natural remedies from medieval times to antique lab equipment. The museum is located on the lower floor of the Ottheinrich Building.

Heidelberg Tun 

The Heidelberg Tun is the world’s largest wine barrel. It was built by Prince Elector Karl Theodor to hold over 220,000 liters (58,124 gallons) of wine. The giant barrel stands at 7 meters (23 feet) high, and is 8.5 meters (28 feet) wide. It even has a dance floor built on top of it! 

Friedrich Building

The Friedrich Building is the royal family’s ancestral hall. It’s filled with statues of emperors and kings displaying the idealized royal lines as built by Friedrich IV. You can admire some of the statues and sculptures that are on the facade of the building but the original ones are displayed inside.

Ottheinrich Building and the Imperial Hall

The Ottheinrich Building houses the grand Imperial Hall, one of the most ornate and beautiful rooms in the castle. The ceremonial hall also managed to keep many of its original parts like the door frames, sandstone ornaments, and some sculptures. The second floor has now been repurposed into a special venue for exhibitions and receptions for weddings.

Castle Gardens and Courtyard

The castle gardens, constructed by garden architect Salomon de Caus, are a beautiful sight in itself. As you stroll through the romantic palace garden, you’ll stumble upon vibrant flower beds, intimate garden alcoves, mazes and man-made grottoes, a heated greenhouse with orange trees, and fish ponds. 

There are also several patios around the castle with amazing views of the city below so don’t miss those!

Heidelberg Castle Lighting and Illumination

The castle lighting and illumination is a special event that takes place three times a year, usually  the first Saturdays in June and September, and the second Saturday in July. It’s done in memory of the three times when the castle was on fire. The event begins with a light show of the castle being illuminated to simulate the fire. It’s then followed by a spectacular firework show launched from the Old Bridge over the Neckar river.

Even if you aren’t able to see the special castle lighting, you can admire the beautifully lit castle every evening after dusk. The best places to see the illuminated castle are the Alte Brücke, the Philosophenweg, and the market squares in the Alt Stadt.

Bergbahn: Yes or No?

If you have the time, we recommend getting the Panorama Ticket at the Bergbahn station in the Alstadt that gives you entrance into the castle, as well as a ticket to ride the Bergbahn all the way up to Königstuhl, then back down the castle, and finally, back into the Altstadt.

Here’s what we did when we visited the castle. First, we bought our Panorama tickets at the station in the Alstadt. Then, we rode the first Bergbahn to the second stop. You can either get on the second Bergbahn or take a few minutes to get a coffee at the terrace cafe. We immediately got on the second Bergbahn. Got the very front or the very back of this Bergbahn for great views!

Rode the Bergbahn to the top of Königstuhl. We spent 30-40 minutes enjoying the amazing view, sitting the Königstuhl (King’s Chair), and just wandering around the area (there’s a falconry, hotel, artwork, trails, and a fun spot for kids). Before going back down the hill, be sure to take the stairs down to the Bergbahn machine room viewing area. There you can see the inner workings of the Bergbahn.

Then we rode the Bergbahn back down to the castle. If we’d had more time and the weather been nicer, we would have loved to have hiked down. Next time! We spent an hour or so touring the castle (there was a thunderstorm towards the end of our visit so we cut it a bit short).

We could have taken the Bergbahn back into the Altstadt but we instead opted to the take the stairs. It was a short walk through the pretty neighborhood below the castle.

Other Famous Castles in Germany

Germany is full of castles just as beautiful and fascinating as Heidelberg Castle. In fact, there’s said to be over 25,000 castles all over the country waiting to be added to your itinerary!

We have several guides that can help you choose which to visit. Start by reading our ultimate guide of the best castles to visit in Germany.

We also have a guide on the top castles to visit near Cologne and Frankfurt.

Lastly, because we can’t talk about castles without mentioning Neuschwanstein Castle, here are our tips on how to plan your Neuschwanstein day trip from Munich.

The post How to Visit Germany’s Heidelberg Castle appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

Berlin offers visitors an array of neighborhoods to explore, each with its own distinct character and charm. From the trendy and younger vibe of Kreuzberg to the historic landmarks of Mitte to the elegant allure of Charlottenburg, there’s a neighborhood to suit every taste and interest.

We’ve stayed in various parts of Berlin over the years and have enjoyed the unique character of each one. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our Berlin neighborhood guide will help you navigate districts that make up the German capital that are most popular with visitors.

We also highlight the best hotels (luxury, mid-range, and budget) and must-see landmarks in each area to help you decide which neighborhood is the best for your ultimate Berlin trip.

Berlin Tip: we highly recommend booking a private tour with Matti of Tours of Berlin. He’s one of our preferred partners and offers a fantastic way to get an insider’s look at Berlin. Matti is a Berlin native and can show you Berlin’s fascinating history, take you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems, and much more. Click here to check out Matti’s tours. Tell him we sent you!

Best Neighborhoods in Berlin For Travelers

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Mitte

If you’re a first-time visitor to Berlin, Mitte is the best area to stay in. Mitte (which actually means “middle” in German) is considered to be the center of Berlin.

This borough is made up of smaller districts: Mitte proper, Gesundbrunnen, Hansaviertel, Moabit, Tiergarten, and Wedding. Mitte is also where Berlin was born, growing from a small settlement founded along the Spree river in the 13th century. Since then, it has evolved to be a major historical and cultural hub. 

Many of the most popular tourist attractions are found here, like the Museum Island, a complex of UNESCO World Heritage Site museums located along the Spree.

Some of the most famous museums on this small island in the center of Berlin include the Pergamon Museum, home to some of the most significant archeological findings in the world and the Alte Nationalgalerie which showcases important artwork from the 19th to 21st century. For more details on the best museums to visit in Berlin, check out our full guide!

Another of Berlin’s most iconic sights is the Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor). The only surviving city gate, it stands as a symbol of unity. If the last time you visited Berlin was when the German capital was divided into former West Berlin and East Berlin – as is the case for some travelers I’ve talked with who used to live in Germany – you’ll be shocked by how this area now looks. It’s also near other important landmarks like the German Parliament Building (Reichstag), Tiergarten park, and Unter den Linden, a major boulevard with many restaurants, cafes, and bars. 

Near the Brandenburg Gate you’ll also find the Holocaust Memorial (the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe). I highly recommend dedicating time to walk through this free and moving sight.

Going the opposite direction from the Brandenburg Gate, Unter den Linden extends all the way from Pariser Platz to the Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom). Located opposite the Berlin Cathedral is the DDR Museum, an interactive museum that gives you a glimpse into life in East Germany (highly recommended).

Within walking distance from there, you can also find Hackescher Markt, a vibrant shopping area with lots of dining options, and boat landings where you can catch a fun 1-hour boat cruise (also highly recommended). Further the other direction leads you to Alexanderplatz, which is home to the TV Tower and lots of shopping opportunities.

As you can tell, a lot of the main attractions are all here in Mitte. This is the biggest advantage to staying in this neighborhood. If it’s your first visit to Berlin, then you most likely want to see most of the top tourist spots.

So staying in Mitte is a great choice because many major attractions, landmarks, and museums are within a short walk from each other or easily accessible by public transportation. It also has easy access to the Berlin Brandenburg Airport.

Pros of This Neighborhood: Since it’s a prime location to stay in, you won’t have any trouble finding accommodations. Mitte has everything from boutique hotels, reliable chain hotels, affordable hostels, and even apartments for you to choose from.

Cons of This Neighborhood: Due to Mitte’s central location and popularity among tourists, there are some drawbacks. Things like accommodations, shopping, and dining can be more expensive here compared to other areas. This means that some areas can also feel very touristy and crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. It won’t be as quiet or calm compared to more residential areas further away from the city center.

All in all, if you’re first time visitors then Mitte is the best location. Mitte is also a good choice if you have limited time in the city and you want to see as much as you can during a short stay.

Best Hotels in Mitte:

• NH Collection Berlin Mitte Friedrichstrasse – This 4-star luxury hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Berlin, right along Friedrichstrasse, a vibrant business hub booming with shopping, cafes, restaurants, and popular sights. Nearby tourist attractions include the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and its close proximity to the Friedrichstrasse Train Station provides access to many more, including the moving Palace of Tears exhibit. After a long day of exploring the city, you can unwind with a sumptuous German meal at the restaurant or in one of the restaurants right next to the hotel, a relaxing drink at the bar, or a de-stressing time at the sauna.
  
• Leonardo Hotel Berlin Mitte – Leonardo Hotel has a great view of the River Spree and is within walking distance to Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, and Friedrichstrasse. The hotel features comfortable and contemporary rooms, equipped with modern facilities like health and wellness facilities, fitness center, and an in-house bar and restaurant. 
  
• TITANIC Comfort Mitte – For budget travelers wanting to stay in Mitte but make the most out of their budget, TITANIC Comfort Mitte is a good option. While it’s affordable, the modern rooms are tastefully designed and elegant. It’s situated between Alexanderplatz and Potsdamer Platz and near Gendarmenmarkt and Museum Island.

For more accommodation options, check our guide to the best hotels in Mitte, Berlin.

Kreuzberg

Kreuzberg is part of the larger Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg borough, located to the south of Mitte. Kreuzberg is a lively, vibrant neighborhood known for its diverse population, cool art scene, and alternative culture. This district also has an interesting history since it has witnessed many transformations in recent years (it was part of the former West Berlin when the city was divided). 

The fall of the Berlin Wall brought new opportunities for development, attracting an eclectic mix of residents from young professionals, students, artists, and musicians. This is reflected in the streets of Kreuzberg with all of its art galleries, street art, trendy cafes, and lively nightlife scene. 

One of the most famous historic landmarks found here is the reconstructed Checkpoint Charlie, located between Mitte and Kreuzberg. The original separated West Berlin and East Berlin during the Cold War. The Topography of Terror is also nearby, a free museum documenting the crimes that took place in the site during the Nazi regime. 

Another important educational museum within walking distance from Checkpoint Charlie is the Jewish Museum, dedicated to Jewish history and culture in Germany. If you’re more interested in art, the Berlinische Galerie and Martin-Gropius-Bau are worth visiting. You can also admire the street art and graffiti-covered walls found all along the neighborhood.

Make sure to head to Kottbusser Tor, a bustling center in east Kreuzberg with lots of great restaurants and markets offering a wide array of Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s also well known for the nightlife scene and is home to all sorts of bars, clubs, and music venues. 

Kreuzberg has a lot of green spaces and parks like Görlitzer Park and Victoriapark. There’s also Landwehr Canal, a stretch of water running parallel to the Spree River. Many locals and tourists walk, jog or sit by the banks during warm days. 

Pros of This Neighborhood: The main pros of staying in Kreuzberg are its vibrant cultural and art scene, young vibe, and diverse atmosphere. You’ll be in close proximity to all sorts of events in music venues, art galleries, and cultural institutions. It’s also a great place for those who prioritize food and nightlife because of the wide variety of bars, clubs, restaurants, food stalls, markets, and cafes you’ll find in Kreuzberg. It’s a fun place to make your home base while in Berlin.

Cons of This Neighborhood: If you want to be as close as possible to the more mainstream tourist attractions, then Kreuzberg may not be the right place for you. And, while parts of Kreuzberg may not be as near to the tourist hotspots, it does still experience high demand and crowds. Accommodations in this area tend to be less luxurious and high-end compared to other neighborhoods. Lastly, since Kreuzberg is known for its lively atmosphere, it may not be ideal for travelers looking for a quiet or relaxing stay since it can be noisy and loud depending on where you stay.

Best Hotels in Kreuzberg:

• Orania Berlin – This luxury boutique hotel is housed in a historic building in the heart of Kreuzberg in a bustling street filled with cafes and shops. The rooms offer an elegant blend of modern and historic charm with upscale furnishings. It has sophisticated amenities like a bar serving artisan cocktails, regular live music, and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine.
• Mondrian Suites Berlin am Checkpoint Charlie – This mid-range hotel is located near Checkpoint Charlie, making it close to both Mitte and Kreuzberg. There are different types of rooms available like studios and or 1-bedroom suites. Many of them have balconies with good city views. 
• Hotel Johann – Hotel Johann is located 10 minutes away from both the Jewish Museum and the Berlinische Galerie. The casual and comfortable rooms feature bright decor, wood floors, and free WiFi. 

Friedrichshain

Friedrichshain is quite similar to Kreuzberg, but it was part of East Berlin as opposed to West Berlin. It’s also part of the larger Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg borough and is located southeast of Mitte and east of Kreuzberg. 

Friedrichshain used to be a working-class district that was badly damaged during World War II. Following the fall of the Berlin Wall and the German reunification, it began to develop a reputation as a young and dynamic district because of different socio-political movements.

Now, it’s a highly urban area known for its vibrant nightlife, alternative culture, and artistic atmosphere. There are also lots of affordable accommodation options, trendy bars and restaurants, making it a popular area for young people.

The most notable landmark in Friedrichshain is the East Side Gallery, a former section of the Berlin Wall with over a hundred original mural paintings created by artists from all over the world. At the end of the wall, you can walk through the Oberbaum Bridge (Oberbaumbrücke), a beautiful Gothic-style bridge connecting Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg. 

Along the Spree, you’ll also find Holzmarkt 25, a former industrial site that has been turned into a multifunctional complex. If you want a feel of the creative and alternative vibe of the district, then this is a popular place to go. Holzmarkt 25 is home to various bars, art studios, food stands, and outdoor spaces. It also hosts a wide range of events from live performances, exhibitions, workshops, and markets. 

Karl-Marx-Allee, the main boulevard, is a must-see architectural and historical landmark. It’s lined with monumental apartment buildings and wide sidewalks with imposing Stalinist architectural features. Nowadays, the boulevard is a popular destination full of shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. 

Another popular area is Boxhagener Platz, a small park/square surrounded by a variety of cafés, restaurants, and great bars. On Sundays, a popular weekly flea market takes place here and you can find all sorts of antiques, vintage items, clothing, and other unique gifts. The ambiance in this area is always vibrant, social, and lively.

For green spaces, check out Volkspark Friedrichshain, Berlin’s oldest public park. Here you can relax under the sun, enjoy outdoor activities, have a picnic, and admire landmarks like the Fairy Tale Fountain. 

Pros of This Neighborhood: Like Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain is a great choice if you’re looking to stay in a more artsy, alternative, and eclectic atmosphere. The vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene may also be a big draw because of all the clubs, bars, and fun events in the area. It’s also easier to find more affordable dining and accommodation options here compared to other neighborhoods, while still staying relatively close to Mitte.

Cons of This Neighborhood: You likely won’t be as close to many of the main attractions in the city center without having to use public transportation. And while hotels here might be more affordable, many are more budget-type accommodations. It’s also good to keep in mind that some areas might get noisy because of bars and clubs. Some areas may feel a little less safe at night.

Best Hotels in Friedrichshain:

• Hotel Indigo Berlin East Side Gallery – Hotel Indigo is a 4-star hotel that’s part of the IHG brand. It overlooks the Spree and is just minutes away from the East Side Gallery and Oberbaum Bridge. Each room is individually furnished and has air-conditioning. There’s also a delicious breakfast buffet offering vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. 
• nhow Berlin – nhow Berlin is a sleek, modern hotel located directly on the banks of the river Spree and is 10 minutes away from the East Side Gallery. The hotel has spacious family rooms, air-conditioning, and some with river views It has amenities like a sauna, fitness center, and a trendy restaurant and bar with DJ performances.
• AMANO East Side – AMANO East Side is located near the Spree and around a 12-minute walk from the East Side Gallery. The hotel features standard rooms with air-conditioning, free wi-fi, and a garden and terrace on-site.

Charlottenburg

Charlottenburg is located in the western section of Berlin and is part of the borough of Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf. This neighborhood is known for being one of the more upscale neighborhoods with grand buildings, elegant streets, and historic landmarks. It’s a mix of a residential and commercial neighborhood and is quite popular with tourists because of the famous Charlottenburg Palace.

Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg) is the largest surviving royal palace in Berlin. It dates back to the 17th century and features beautiful Baroque and Rococo style architecture. The palace grounds are extensive, made up of several wings and new pavilions that have been restored with their original furnishings. It’s also a good place to escape the bustling streets of the city and spend time outdoors strolling through the gardens. 

Another major landmark in Charlottenburg is the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, a striking church ruin and memorial that stands as a memorial against the war and destruction caused during World War II. The church is located along Kurfürstendamm, a vibrant boulevard and shopping street with high-end boutiques, department stores (including the famous KaDeWe), restaurants, and cafés. One of the best things to do in this Berlin district is to shop!

Other cultural landmarks include the Deutsche Oper, one of the biggest opera houses in Germany where you can catch an opera or ballet performance. There’s also the Museum Berggruen, which is just right across the Charlottenburg Palace, and is home to an impressive modern art collection. 

Pros of This Neighborhood: Charlottenburg is the perfect place for those who want a more high-end and upscale stay in the city. The architecture, streets, and buildings are all very grand, elegant, and polished. It’s also a great choice for anyone who wants to splurge since it’s home to some of the best luxury stores, hotels, and restaurants. It’s also one of the safest neighborhoods in Berlin, making it popular for families who want a calm and quiet stay.

Cons of This Neighborhood: On the other hand, Charlottenburg can feel quite commercialized with all shopping areas and may feel like it lacks the charm that other Berlin neighborhoods offer. It can also be more expensive compared to other areas, especially for accommodations. In terms of location, it’s well connected with public transportation to the city center. But it’s not walkable to many of the main tourist attractions. 

Best Hotels in Charlottenburg:

• Dorint Kurfürstendamm Berlin – This luxurious 4-star hotel has top amenities including relaxing spa facilities, gym/fitness studio, a steam room, and an upscale in-house French restaurant. The rooms feature high windows, air-conditioning, sound system, and sleek furnishings. It’s just 5 minutes away from Kurfürstendamm, near many of the luxury retailers and restaurants in the area.
• Sir Savigny Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel set within a historic building from the late 1800s. It’s within walking distance from Kurfürstendamm and near many literary and cultural venues, bookstores, galleries and literary salons. The rooms are elegantly designed with custom furnishing and unique art nouveau touches. It also has a great in-house kitchen with delicious meat dishes.
• Hotel Q! Berlin – Hotel Q! is also along Kurfürstendamm. The hotel features striking, minimalist rooms with the options for studios or suites. There’s also a modern spa area with a Finnish sauna, a steam bath, and beauty treatments. Guests can also enjoy Thai dishes in the restaurant or relax with a cocktail at the terrace bar.

Moabit

Moabit is an inner city district that is part of the larger Mitte borough. Moabit is technically an island, since it’s surrounded by three waterways, including the Spree River and the Westhafen Canal. It was originally a working-class district but later became home to a mix of industrial facilities and residential areas. Now, it’s a bustling and diverse neighborhood that attracts its fair share of tourists. 

The most notable landmark is the Berlin Central Station (Berlin Hauptbahnhof), one of the main gateways into the city and one of the busiest train stations in the country as it serves many locations, both nationally and internationally. 

Moabit is also home to the Hamburger Bahnhof Museum. The museum was located in a former train station and is seen by its unique architecture. It’s an important center for contemporary art with must-see artworks from iconic artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Joseph Beuys, and many more. 

Another cultural spot is the Arminius Markthalle, a restored market hall offering a variety of culinary delights, local crafts, and a lively atmosphere with its different live performances, events, and activities. 

Pros of This Neighborhood: Since it’s part of Mitte, one of the best things about staying in Moabit is the location. It’s very centrally located and a short distance from many of the major landmarks in the Mitte proper area. You’ll have the convenience of the location while also having access to more affordable accommodation options. It’s also the best location for those who might have trips arriving or leaving from the Berlin Hauptbahnhof and want to stay nearby. The neighborhood also has a multicultural environment, and is reflected in the restaurants, cafes, and market hall.

Cons of This Neighborhood: Some downsides include how busy and hectic it can get because of the central train station. Both commuters and tourists are always coming and going so it can get very crowded, depending on the time. There’s also not much to see in the district so you would really have to venture out to the neighboring districts and surrounding area. Lastly, there aren’t a lot of higher-end options for accommodations, if that is something you are prioritizing.

Best Hotels in Moabit:

• Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt – This high-end hotel is just a minute away from the Berlin Train Station and has amazing views of the German Chancellery and Reichstag buildings. The rooms are sleek and modern and have all necessities including air-conditioning. Amenities include an international restaurant/bistro and bar, plus a spa area with a sauna and fitness center.
• Mercure Hotel MOA Berlin – The Mercure Hotel is situated in a historic building and has a unique large atrium lobby. The rooms and suites are all bright, sleek, and modern. Some interesting features include a shopping center, a stylish bar with a fireplace, an international restaurant, and over 30 meeting rooms for business travelers.
• Motel One Berlin-Bellevue – This contemporary budget hotel features modern rooms with air-conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Upgraded rooms also come with shared balconies. The hotel has a chic bar and café serving cocktails, beer, and light fare.

Prenzlauer Berg

Prenzlauer Berg is a neighborhood in the northeastern part of Berlin and is part of the borough of Pankow. The district has a really interesting history, heavily associated with the bohemian, activist, and gay community counterculture. It was an historically important site for the revolution that led to the fall of the Berlin Wall. Since then, it has undergone significant revitalization and gentrification, attracting a mix of residents from students, artists, and young professionals.

Kollwitzplatz is the heart of the neighborhood. The city square is a popular hangout spot with its weekly market, array of restaurants and cafes, and lively atmosphere. Another popular area is the Oderberger Strasse, a picturesque street with lots of independent shops, cafes, vintage clothing stores, and trendy eateries. 

Another must-visit is Mauerpark, a lush public park known for its huge Sunday flea market and fun, iconic karaoke sessions at the amphitheater. For more recreational activities, make sure to also check out Prater Garten, Berlin’s oldest beer garden, where you can enjoy seasonal local brews under chestnut trees. The Kulturbrauerei is also a great spot. It’s a former brewery complex that has been turned into a cultural center. It hosts regular events, concerts and festivals and is home to nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the free museum illustrating daily life in former East Germany.

For more historical landmarks, the Berlin Wall Memorial can be found in Prenzlauer Berg. The memorial commemorates the partition of the city with a large open-air exhibition on the former border strip. There’s also the Wasserturm Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin’s oldest water tower. 

Pros of This Neighborhood: One of many perks of staying in Prenzlauer Berg is the location. It’s near enough to Mitte to where you can easily reach all of the main tourist attractions. But you can also spend a good amount of time in Prenzlauer Berg immersing yourself in the local cultural scene. It has a fun, trendy atmosphere while also being quite laidback and family-friendly. 

Cons of This Neighborhood: Given all of this, Prenzlauer Berg has been gaining a lot of popularity recently with tourists. So it’s not immune to crowds and higher prices that come with the peak travel seasons. There are many dining options and events, but it may not have that many landmarks in comparison to other areas.

Best Hotels in Prenzlauer Berg:

• Myer’s Hotel Berlin – Myer’s Hotel is a 4-star luxury hotel located near Kollwitzplatz and Wasserturm Prenzlauer Berg. It’s set in a beautiful stone historic building. The classical-style rooms feature dramatic wallpaper, high ceilings, and elegant furnishing. They also offer a delicious breakfast buffet and amenities like a classy lobby bar, a spa with a steam room and saunas, and a garden with sculptures and terrace seating. 
• Hotel Oderberger – Hotel Oderberger is a unique hotel located in a former public bathhouse from the early 1900s. There’s different types of rooms available from suites and apartment-style with kitchenettes. Guests are welcome to use the indoor pool, sauna, and spa center.
• MEININGER Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz – This hotel is ideal for those looking for budget options with flexibility and comfort in mind. There are various room types from mixed dormitory rooms, double rooms, and more spacious family rooms. There’s a cafe, bar, game room and shared kitchen and laundry facilities available.

Pankow

Pankow is the second largest borough in Berlin. It’s located in the northeastern part of Berlin and is known as being more of a residential area. It has a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere and is an ideal location for those looking for a quieter stay away from the more touristy areas of Berlin.

One of the most historically significant landmarks in Pankow is the Schönhausen Palace. Once a residence of East German leaders, it now serves as a museum and event venue, offering a glimpse into the district’s political history. The Baroque palace is also surrounded by gardens through which the Panke river runs. Citizen Park Pankow is a nice green space with meadows, a grand gate, cafe, and a library.

Pros of This Neighborhood: Because this area is not so popular with tourists, accommodations tend to be more affordable. This also means that it doesn’t really get crowded or touristy in many parts of the district. It has more of a residential and local charm. It’s also a very safe, family-friendly and calm area for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

Cons of This Neighborhood: But with that being said, if it’s your first time in Berlin, it may not be the best idea to stay here since it’s quite far from the Mitte, where all the must-see destinations and historical sights are found. There isn’t much to see around Pankow since it’s more residential. There are also limited dining and shopping options compared to the more busy, trendy districts of Berlin.

Best hotels in Pankow:

• Living Hotel Weissensee – This hotel is located on a quiet, leafy residential street near a park in Pankow. The modern rooms are all air-conditioned and some have kitchenettes and separate living room areas. There’s an in-house restaurant, beer garden, as well as a kids’ play area, spa, steam room, and gym.
• Businesshotel Berlin – The Businesshotel Berlin offers casual, comfortable en-suite rooms with all basic amenities at an affordable rate. 

Next Steps For Planning Your Trip:

• Start planning an unforgettable trip to Germany here!
• Book a personalized travel consult or itinerary review with Cate.
• Join our friendly Facebook group.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

The post Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Berlin, Germany appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

About Cologne (Köln)

Cologne is the largest city in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany. It’s known for its unique architecture, with the Cologne Cathedral being the most important landmark and distinct feature of the city’s skyline.

Cologne also a great jumping off point for visiting the Rhine and Moselle Valley regions, as well as other cities and towns in the western part of Germany. 

I spent several weeks in the Cologne suburbs when I was a teen, and we’ve been back to visit several times over the years.

Keep reading to discover the must-see sights and activities, top accommodations, and best day trips in the amazing city of Cologne!

Is Cologne Worth Visiting?

Yes, in general, Cologne is a beautiful city worth visiting for a day (or two) or even if you just have a short train layover.

Of course, whether Cologne gets a spot in your itinerary depends on your sight-seeing priorities. This guide will help you determine what you most want to see and do in Cologne.

Cologne is renowned for the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, which is an iconic architectural feature of city’s skyline. Near the cathedral you’ll find a charming Altstadt (Old Town) with beautiful churches and interesting museums, lovely narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, and vibrant squares filled with busy cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Cologne is also famous for its vibrant carnival season and Christmas markets, attracting visitors from around the world. 

While Cologne is a beautiful city and I always enjoy visiting, it’s important to note that it’s not a city filled with fairytale half-timber houses or a “super cute” Altstadt (Old Town) like, say, Heidelberg.

How Much Time To Spend In Cologne?

How much time should you spend in Cologne? It depends…

• If you just want to see the cathedral and grab a bite to eat, you could plan a 2 or 3 hour stop.
• In 1 day you can see the main sights in and near the Altstadt (Old Town), maybe a bit more.
• In 2 days you could see the main sights and explore the beautiful neighborhoods to get more a local feel for this beautiful city. Or see focus on the Old Town on the first day and take a day trip on the second.

If you’re planning to spend the night in Cologne, check out our hotel recommendations at the end of this guide – including where we stayed – or our full Cologne hotel guide here.

Where Is Cologne Located In Germany On A Map?

Cologne is located in western Germany in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen). It’s situated along the left bank of the Rhine River, southeast of Düsseldorf (the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia).  

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

28 Things to To Do And See In Cologne

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

A Cologne must-see! This stunning cathedral is one of Germany’s tallest and the tallest twin-spired church in the world. It’s easy to see why the Cologne Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage sight and one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany. 

No visit to Cologne is complete without admiring the cathedral’s beautiful Gothic architecture with its intricate spires, ornate facade, and stunning stained glass windows. One of the highlights of the cathedral is the Shrine of the Three Kings, a large gilded sarcophagus that’s traditionally believed to hold the bones of the Three Kings or Three Wise Men.

You can also go the top of the cathedral by climbing the 533 stone steps of the spiral staircase. It leads to a viewing platform of about 330 feet above the ground with panoramic views of the Rhine.

Be sure to look on the wall of the cathedral facing the train station for a small exhibit showing what the cathedral looked like after WWII and how it was reconstructed.

Tip: grab an easy to-go meal (we got Döner) and eat it in the little park in front of the cathedral. You can rest your feet and enjoy the view of the stunning Dom.

Take a Guided City Tour

If you’re only in the city for a few hours or a day, take a guided tour so you can hit all of the highlights quickly and easily.

If you like walking tours, book this guided city highlights tour with a local.

If you’d like to tour the cathedral, the Old Town, and try a Kölsch, book this highly rated tour.

If you prefer scooting around on a segway, book this innovative Cologne segway tour.

More into e-scooters? Book this Cologne e-scooter tour so you can see all of Cologne’s best sights.

If you’d rather sit back and enjoy as a knowledgable guide pedals you around the best of the city, book this guided rickshaw tour.

Want to get off the beaten path? Book this Ehrenfeld street art walking tour to make your time in Cologne even more memorable.

Tour Cologne By Bus

If you’re only in town for a morning or afternoon, riding the HOHO bus (Hop On Hop Off) is a great way to see more of the city quickly. Buy your ticket, hop on (get the top front seats if possible) and ride it all the way around. You can buy tickets just before boarding the bus.

Ride the Bimmelbahn

Another option for easily seeing some of Cologne’s sights is the Bimmelbahn. Yes, its touristy and you won’t see as many sights as with the HOHO bus. But it can be fun. There are a couple routes you can choose from (e.g., one goes to the Chocolate Museum and another goes out to the Zoo/Flora/cable car).

Along the way you can see the sights and learn some interesting facts about Cologne via the narration that plays in English and German. You can ride it the whole way for an easy tour or get off and back on later.

We didn’t have time to do the HOHO bus so we took the Bimmelbahn to the Zoo/Flora. We got to see more than we would have on foot and learned a few things about Cologne along the way. If you have a CologneCard you’ll get a discount on the Bimmelbahn.

Thanks to the Cologne tourism office for gifting us 2 CologneCards to use on our visit!

Drink a Kölsch Beer

If you like beer, don’t miss out on this unique cultural experience!

Kölsch is the local beer of Cologne. This style of beer is known for its peculiar fermentation process where it’s initially fermented warm like an ale but then stored in colder temperatures like a lager. This yields a light, full fruity flavor that’s easy to drink. It’s also traditionally served in a tall, thin, cylindrical glass called a Stange.

Another unique thing about Kölsch is that it has a protected geographical indication (PGI) within the European Union. This means that only breweries within 30 miles of Cologne and following the right brewing process can classify their beer as a Kölsch. 

There are many places to try out this brew, like the many bars or Kneipen in the Old Town. If you want to immerse yourself in Cologne’s local beer culture, especially if you’re short on time, book this tour of famous breweries with a tasting of 3 delicious Kölsch beers!

Cologne Old Town (Altstadt)

Cologne’s Altstadt (Old Town) is renowned for its historic streets lined with colorful buildings, vibrant squares, traditional old houses, and important historic and cultural landmarks.

One of these landmarks is the Cologne City Hall, a historic building set between the two squares of Rathausplatz and Alter Markt. It has a very interesting facade that combines several structures in varying architectural styles. 

Old Town is also home to large squares like the Old Market Square (Alter Markt) and Fish Market (Fischmarkt) where you can find outdoor cafes, restaurants, and bars. Here you can try the famous Kölsch beer or try a typical Halver Hahn sandwich.

If you’re interested in exploring Old Town through Cologne’s beer and food scene, then check out this Old Town guided tour that also takes you to cool breweries with beer tasting!

Great St. Martin Church

During the Middle Ages, Cologne was an important site for Romanesque churches. There are twelve of these churches, known for their distinct architectural style.

One of the most famous and beautiful ones is the Great St. Martin Church. This church was built during Roman times, on top of the remnants of an ancient Roman chapel. It has been reconstructed several times throughout history, during a fire in the 12th century and after the second World War. 

Other Romanesque churches worth checking out in Old Town are the Church of St. Ursula, St. Maria im Kapitol, and the Church of St. Gereon.

Ostermann Fountain

Be sure to stop at the charming Ostermann Fountain while in Cologne. It’s like this hidden treasure right in the middle of the city. This fountain has been been around since the 19th century and it details the history of the city. There are also cafes and restaurants right next to the fountain if you’re looking for a place to take a break.

Cologne Chocolate Museum

If you’re a chocolate lover, the Cologne Chocolate Museum is a must-visit. It’s one of the most popular museums in Germany and will take you on a fascinating journey through the history of chocolate, showcasing the entire chocolate-making process from beans to bars.

You’ll learn how cocoa is grown and cultivated to produce the chocolate bars we know and love. At the end of the chocolate factory tour, you can taste some delicious samples or participate in a workshop to design and make your own chocolate bar.

There’s also a cafe where you can enjoy delicious meals and amazing cakes. Seriously, the cakes looked SO good – and they’re not all chocolate! If it’s a nice day, sit outside on their riverfront terrace.

We visited this museum over 20 years ago and enjoyed returning on our last trip. Thanks to the Chocolate Museum for the complementary ticket!

Ride The Ferris Wheel Outside The Chocolate Museum

After touring the Chocolate Museum, ride the ferris wheel for an excellent view of the city and the Rhine river! It’s located right outside of the chocolate museum so you can’t miss it (note – it’s not there during some months of the year).

Sample A Variety of German Mustards

Across the street from the Chocolate Museum is the Senfmühle, a small shop where you can taste several kinds of delicious German mustard. You can also buy a crock or two to take home.

Walk Along the Rhine River

No visit to Cologne is complete without a walk along the Rhine! Start in Old Town and walk to Hohenzollern bridge or vice versa. If it’s a hot day, stop and put your feet into the cool water at the Wasserspeilplatz not too far from Hohenzollern bridge (see photo above).

Hohenzollern Bridge (Hohenzollernbrücke)

The Hohenzollern Bridge is a three-arched steel structure that spans the Rhine river. It was originally constructed in the early 20th century and has undergone renovations and restorations over the years. Today it serves as a railway bridge but it also has a pedestrian walkway and bicycle lanes on either side.  

One of the notable features of the Hohenzollern Bridge is the large number of padlocks attached to the railings. These love locks have become a tradition done by couples as a way of displaying affection and commitment. It’s fun to look at all of the different types, inscriptions, and dates as you walk by.

Hohenzollern Bridge is also the perfect place to take some pictures as you’ll have great views of the Cathedral in the background.

Admire the View From the KölnTriangle

This modern skyscraper offers an unbeatable panoramic view of the city’s skyline. Head to the observation deck for jaw-dropping vistas of the majestic Rhine River, the iconic Cologne Cathedral, and beyond. It’s the perfect spot to capture some stunning photos and get a unique perspective of this vibrant city. You can reach the KölnTriangle by walking across the Hohenzollern bridge.

Rhine River Cruise

The River Rhine is an important part of Cologne’s urban landscape. There’s different ways you can explore the river. Of course, one of the best ways is to take a boat trip.

We recommend booking this Rhine River cruise since you’ll get to see Cologne’s top tourist attractions like the Cathedral, Old Town, Rheinauhafen and see 5 of the many river bridges. The tour also includes commentary and drinks and snacks are available for purchase on board.

Flora and Botanical Garden (Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln)

The Flora and Botanical Garden is one of the best places to relax in and take a break from all the sightseeing in the city center. This diverse green space is home to over 10,000 species of plants and trees. Many of them are displayed in the main greenhouse which features tropical rainforest plants.

There’s also a small tropical house that cultivates tropical crops like bamboo, cocoa, coffee, sugar cane, coconut palm and more. It’s especially beautiful during days with good weather, since everything is vibrant and lush. The best part is that it’s open daily with free access to all.

Cologne Cable Car

If you want to see the city and the river from a different perspective, you can also take the Cologne cable car. The gondola lift connects the two banks of the Rhine river and offers the best birds-eye view of the city. For more information, you can visit the official website here. 

Belgian Quarter

Cologne has a lot of different areas and neighborhoods to explore. The Belgian Quarter is one of the most trendy and vibrant ones. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and streets lined with all sorts of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. There’s also a thriving art and culture scene so you’ll find art galleries, theaters, and music venues that come alive especially during the night.

The Belgian Quarter is a great place for shopping, grabbing a meal or quick bite, and simply taking in the eclectic vibes of the area. You can walk there from the Old Town and it’s a great place to go see the less touristy parts of Cologne.

Museum Ludwig

Museum Ludwig is known for its impressive collection of contemporary and modern art. It features a wide range of movements including Pop Art, Abstract Expressionism, and Surrealism. The Ludwig Museum also houses one of the largest Picasso collections in Europe. Other famous artists include Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol.

Romano-Germanic Museum

If you’re a history buff, one of the best things to do is to visit the Roman-Germanic Museum. This museum showcases Cologne’s origins during the Roman period. Like many structures in the city, it was built around the Roman ruins and different archaeological sites in an effort to preserve its rich history. There’s lots of interesting exhibits and artifacts on display. One of the highlights of the museum is the well-preserved Dionysus mosaic, a captivating floor mosaic depicting scenes from Greek mythology.  NOTE: Note, the main museum is currently closed. Please visit the temporary exhibition in the Belgian House (Belgisches Haus/Maison Belge).

Pop Into The Maria Himmelfahrt Church

We came across this historic church in the heart of Cologne near the train station and popped inside to find an interior rich with ornamentation. It’s a beautiful church!

Admire the Street Art

There is some beautiful street art in the Eherenfleld district of Cologne – but you have to know where to look! We stopped to see several spots on our way out of Cologne (we had a car) but you can also book this guided tour with a local who will take you off the beaten path and share insight into this underground cultural scene.

Explore Daily Life in Cologne

One of my favorite things to do when traveling anywhere is hop on a random bus or tram, ride it several stops, and then get out and explore the neighborhood. It’s the best way to get off the beaten path!

Go Shopping

Cologne is a great place to go shopping so if you’re looking for new clothes or just want to bum around and see what’s on offer, head to the pedestrian shopping streets in Cologne (except on Sundays and holidays when stores are closed).

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

The Wallraf-Richartz Museum is a renowned art museum featuring works and exhibits from the medieval period until the early 20th century. There are various collections from different movements and art styles including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Impressionism. Some of the most famous artists featured include Monet, Rembrandt, Botticelli, Rubens, Van Gogh,, and many others. 

EL-DE Haus (NS Documentation Centre of the City of Cologne)

The EL-DE Haus, also known by its full name the NS Documentation Centre of the City of Cologne, is a historically significant memorial center that’s worth visiting to learn more about Germany’s complex history. It’s housed in a former Gestapo prison and it provides a chilling insight into the dark period of Nazi rule and World War II  in Germany.

Visitors can explore the preserved cells and exhibition areas that document the history of the Nazi regime as well as the resistance movements during that time. The museum’s exhibits include photographs, documents, and personal stories that can be quite difficult to read. But it’s a moving memorial that honors the victims of the regime. 

Fragrance Museum

Cologne is also known for being the birthplace of the eau de cologne. If you’re interested in learning about the origins of this famous type of perfume, then the Fragrance Museum is a must-visit. This unique and niche museum that takes you through three centuries in the history of perfumes. It’s located in an elegant historic building and features interactive displays and exhibits showcasing the fragrance-making process and vintage perfume bottles. After visiting, you can try out samples and maybe even find your new signature scent!

Cologne’s Christmas Markets

If you’re in Cologne from the end of November through Christmas, this is for you! Cologne comes alive during the festive season with its many Christmas markets. The biggest and most popular one takes place right outside the Cologne Cathedral which provides a stunning backdrop for all the Christmas stalls selling everything from traditional decorations, locally made handicrafts, and delicious sweet treats. There’s many others scattered throughout the city like the angel-themed Neumarkt Market, the Nicholas Village in Rudolfplatz, or the Harbor Market.

For more information on Christmas markets in Germany, read our guide to the best Christmas markets to visit!

How To Get To Cologne

Cologne is a very well-connected city so there are several easy ways to get here.

BY PLANE: you can fly into Frankfurt am Main (FRA), Düsseldorf (DUS) or Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN). From FRA it’s 1-3 hours to Cologne by train (depending on the train you take) and 2 hours by car. From DUS it’s about 45 minutes by train or car. From CGN it’s about 30 minutes to the city center by public transport and 15 minutes by car.

BY TRAIN: If you’re taking the train, the main train station is Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof) which has excellent train connections with most major cities in Germany and other European cities. We recommend checking the Deutsche Bahn official website to find the best routes and tickets.

BY CAR: If you’re traveling by car, Cologne is well-connected to the German highway network, making it easily accessible by car. The nearest major cities to drive from would be Düsseldorf (around 45 minutes to 1 hour), Bonn (around 30 to 40 minutes), and Frankfurt (around 2 hours). 

On our most recent visit we flew into FRA and took a regional train up to Cologne (we took a regional because we had the Deutschland-Ticket). The train went up the Rhine, so we were treated to a wonderful view of the river and castles along the way.

Where To Stay In Cologne

Top Pick & Where We Stayed

Koncept Hotel zum kostbaren Blut – This hotel prioritizes sustainability and is in a converted convent above the historic square of Alter Markt. It has a slightly funky retro vibe but is equipped with all your standard, modern amenities.

It’s location is perfect, since it’s only a short walk from the train station, Cathedral, Altstadt, the Christmas markets, and Rhine river. It’s also well-connected to public transport. We stayed here on our last visit and loved it (see photo above)!

More Great Hotels:

Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom – A highly rated hotel in Cologne, the castle-like features of the Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom look straight out of a fairytale. The historic building was first built in 1863 and offers the best location in the city since it’s right across from the Cologne Cathedral, so you’ll wake up to beautiful unobstructed views. You’ll also find top-notch service and first-class facilities in this five-star hotel. Definitely perfect for guests looking for luxury accommodation.

CityClass Hotel Residence am Dom – CityClass Hotel Residence am Dom is perfect for travelers who don’t want to compromise on quality and location of their accommodation. It has an amazing central location near the Cathedral square, Museum Ludwig, and the train station. You can also easily walk to the other Cologne sights.

For more hotel options, read our full guide on the top accommodations in Cologne!

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Day Trips From Cologne

Mayen

You’ve probably never heard of Mayen but it’s a lovely small town that makes for a great day trip from Cologne. I spent several weeks there over 2 summers when I was doing research for my dissertation and loved it. You can spend an enjoyable half day exploring the Old Town, visiting the castle on the hill, the mining museum, churches, and enjoying a tasty meal.

Rhine Valley

If you have a full day for a day trip you could head to the Rhine Valley to explore the small towns on the Rhine river (Bacharach, Oberwesel, St. Goar, etc) or one of the many castles. You could also take the train to Bingen, take a river cruise to Bacharach, and then take the train back to Cologne. That area is so beautiful!

Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf is the capital of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and is around 45 minutes to 1 hour away from Cologne, making it a great day trip for those looking for another city destination. It’s widely known as an international financial center, meaning the city is bustling with modern architecture and high-rise buildings.

At the same time, it also has the charm of the Old Town with many important historic and cultural landmarks. The city is also famous for its fashion and art scene. It’s home to art museums and a luxurious shopping boulevard with high-end brands from all over the world. Düsseldorf is known for its own type of German beer called Altbier and even being home to the longest bar in the world!

For more information, read our full guide on the best things to do in Düsseldorf.

Aachen

Aachen is known for its thermal baths and spas, making it the perfect day trip for those looking to relax and recharge after sightseeing in busy cities. The small city shares a border with Belgium and the Netherlands and is over an hour drive away from Cologne.

Aachen is also home to stunning Aachen Cathedral, the first German building to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also closely associated with Charlemagne, the great emperor during the medieval times, who made Aachen his principal residence and established it as the center of his empire. One of the main highlights related to Charlemagne is the Palatine Chapel. 

Bonn

Bonn is a city to the south of Cologne that’s only around a 30 to 40 minute drive away. The city is most famous as the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven so it’s a great destination for any classical music enthusiast. There are several museums and landmarks dedicated to both Beethoven and classical music history such as the Beethoven House, where he was born. 

Monschau

If you’re looking to explore a smaller, more quaint town with medieval touches, then Monschau is the perfect day trip from Cologne. It’s located around an hour and a half drive away from Cologne. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and romantic alleyways that transport visitors back in time.

An important landmark is the turreted, red sandstone Monschau Castle which overlooks the town and has great countryside views. Monschau is also near the Eifel National Park so there’s plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and trekking.

TIP: If you have our Germany Travel Planner look at our interactive planning map to see do-able day trips. Seeing the castles, towns, and other must-see sights on the map (along with our photos and up-to-date tips) makes it much easier to decide what to add to your itinerary. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

FAQ

What Is Cologne, Germany Famous For?

Cologne, Germany is famous for the Cologne Cathedral. It’s also best known for being the birthplace of the eau de cologne. 

How Many Days are Enough For Cologne, Germany?

Cologne is definitely doable as a day trip, especially if you don’t have much time in your Germany itinerary. But we definitely recommend staying at least one full day to get the most out of your trip. If you are staying around 2-3 days, it’s a good idea to combine it with a day trip to Düsseldorf or other nearby cities.

Is It Safe To Travel to Cologne, Germany?

Yes, Cologne is safe to travel to. Overall, Germany is a very safe destination. As always, it’s important to take all safety precautions like being mindful of your belongings and staying alert of your surroundings, especially in more touristy and crowded areas.

What To Do in Cologne, Germany For a Day?

If you’re in Cologne for only a day, make sure to visit the Cologne Cathedral. You can also spend most of your time in the Old Town and simply choose one or two other museums/landmarks to see. The Hohenzollern Bridge is also a must-see to get panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River. 

What to See in Cologne, Germany in 2+ Days?

If you’re in Cologne for 2+ days, we recommend doing the things mentioned above but also allocating more time to the Flora and Botanical Garden, another museum of your choice, and perhaps doing a Kölsch tasting tour!

What To Do in Cologne, Germany in December?

If you’re visiting Cologne in December, then trying to visit as many of the seven Christmas markets is a must do! Enjoy a nice warm mug of Glühwein and sweet treats like Lebkuchen (gingerbread). The atmosphere in the Old Town is especially charming and festive during this season which makes sightseeing even more special.

Next Steps For Planning Your Trip:

• Start planning an unforgettable trip to Germany here!
• Book a personalized travel consult or itinerary review with Cate.
• Join our friendly Facebook group.

The post 28 Top Things to Do, See and Experience in Cologne, Germany in 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

Planning a trip to Germany? Wonder if it’s possible to include a visit to neighboring Switzerland and Austria?

We’ve combined trips to Germany with visits to both Austria and Switzerland. In this guide we give you itinerary ideas from 3 different starting points in Germany so you can easily include beautiful Austria and Switzerland in your trip.

Get ready to discover charming medieval towns, breathtaking natural landscapes, and historic cities in all three countries!

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Can I Go To Switzerland & Austria From Germany?

This is a question I’m frequently asked in one-on-one trip planning consults. The quick answer? Yes, it’s totally possible. I’ve helped lots of clients create an unforgettable itinerary that combines Germany with one or both of these beautiful countries.

The most important thing to consider when planning your own route is your starting point in Germany. That’s why we’ve organized the itinerary ideas below around 3 convenient starting points in Germany.

Not only are these starting points popular destinations, they’re also convenient for hopping across the border into Switzerland and Austria. We also suggest where you can go in both Austria and Switzerland so you can plan an unforgettable trip.

Starting Point #1: Southern Germany

Bavaria, a beautiful region in southern Germany, is the easiest starting point for a journey through both Germany and Austria. Here are destinations to consider adding to your itinerary.

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner, be sure to use the Trip Planning Spreadsheet, City Cheatsheets, and Germany Planning Map to help you plan your itinerary.

Munich

One of the best places to start your journey is Munich, the largest city in southern Germany. The Bavarian capital is known for many things including Oktoberfest, historic sights, delicious beer and food, and excellent iconic views and scenery.

Because there’s so much to do and see in walkable Munich, we recommend staying for a couple of days — at the very minimum 2 days. This will allow you to get a good taste of Munich by seeing most of the city’s highlights in the center of town and something a bit further out.

When choosing your accommodation, it’s best to stay somewhere in the city center Altstadt (Old Town). This way most of the main tourist sites will be within walking distance or a short ride away via public transportation. Read our full guide with recommendations for the best hotels in Munich, including where we’ve stayed.

If you stay in the Altstadt (Old Town), you can spend a day visiting historic buildings like the Neus Rathaus (New Town Hall) and the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) in Marienplatz. Make sure to stop by the central food market, Viktuellenmarkt, and the Munich Residenz, the biggest city palace in Germany (my favorite part of our palace visit was the Cuvilliés Theatre).

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

After stopping by the palace, you can easily make your way to the beautiful Englischer Garten (English Garden) and grab drinks at the famous Biergarten am Chinesischen Turm (Chinese Tower Beer Garden) or simply take a relaxing stroll through this famous park.

The next day, depending on how much time you have, you can visit a sight that is a bit further from the center. One suggestion to head out to Nymphenburg Palace to admire its beautiful gardens and luxurious pavilions. Another half-day activity is taking a guided tour to the memorial site of Dachau Concentration Camp for a moving and educational experience.

Another option? Make Munich your home base and stay for several days. One of the reasons Munich is such a popular destination in Germany is because there are so many amazing day trip options nearby.

The most popular day trip is without a doubt Neuschwanstein Castle. Millions of people each year visit Germany to see this beautiful castle straight out of a fairy tale nestled in the Bavarian Alps. No matter when you visit, the castle and its landscapes are gorgeous year round, and especially magical during the winter season.

For more day trip ideas, read our full guide on the best day trips to take from Munich. Many of the locations below can be done as a day trip from Munich before making your way to Austria.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen comprises two small towns that have grown together and are located about an hour or so away from Munich. Both towns are well known for being a hotspot for winter sports as they regularly host skiing championships (when there’s enough snow). 

This area is beautiful year round and can be visited on a day trip from Munich or you can spend a couple days here before venturing into Austria. There’s a lot to do around Garmisch-Partenkirchen so you’ll easily find enough to fill 2 or more days.

If you like hiking, you’ll love this area because Garmisch is surrounded by amazing mountains, hiking paths and natural areas, most notably Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm), Eibsee lake, and Zugspitze, which is Germany’s highest peak. There you’ll find sweeping views of the Alps and Germany’s highest beer garden.

Partnach Gorge is easy to reach by bus or on foot from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Zugspitze and Eibsee lake are about 40 minutes away by train or bus. You can also drive to each.

You can also have a laidback afternoon, evening or full day in Garmisch and Partenkirchen. Walk around each small town taking in the alpine scenery, ornate churches, traditional painted Bavarian houses, and the feel of the cobblestone streets.

Be sure to stop for a meal, beer or Kaffee und Kuchen. Tip: we had a delicious coffee, tea, and freshly made “house cake” at Wildkaffee Cafe.

Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is another of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations. It lies within the breathtaking Berchtesgaden Alps and is surrounded on three sides by Austria. Salzburg is only a short drive (around 45 minutes) away from Berchtesgaden, making it the perfect next stop as you make your way from Germany to Austria.

Berchtesgaden has a unique atmosphere thanks to its beautiful location surrounded by the mountains. We recommend staying 2-3 days to make the most of it.

Known for its association with World War II, there are many historical and educational sites to visit like Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus in German) and the Obersalzberg Documentation Center.

Originally built as a mountaintop retreat during the Nazi regime, Eagle’s Nest now serves as a popular tourist destination for the panoramic views of the stunning alpine scenery. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the area, then Obersalzberg Documentation Center is a must-visit (currently closed for renovation). 

For more outdoor activities, make sure to visit the Berchtesgaden National Park. It’s rich with natural landscapes like rugged mountains, narrow gorges, and pristine lakes. We recommend visiting the Königsee, taking the Jennerbahn cable car, and hiking from Ramsau to Hintersee lake. If you have extra free time, the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines are also a fun site to add to your itinerary.

Click here to see our recommendations for where to stay in Berchtesgaden and more information about what to do and see in this beautiful area.

Salzburg

The city of Salzburg is the easiest entry way into Austria as the travel time from Berchtesgaden is only around 45 minutes away by car (you can also take the train or bus). This picturesque city is known around the world as the setting of the musical “The Sound of Music” and as the birthplace of Mozart.

Salzburg’s historic center houses many of the city’s important landmarks and it’s small enough so that they are within walking distance of each other. You can easily spend a day (or more) wandering the beautiful squares and streets of the downtown area. You’ll also find Mozart’s former residence, the Salzburg Cathedral, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the Mirabell Palace and Gardens. During December you can visit their beautiful Christmas market.

Zell am See

Located around an hour away from Salzburg, Zell am See would be the ideal next stop in your trip into Austria. This town lies on one of the nicest alpine lakes, Lake Zell. The lakeside town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with a wide range of activities throughout the year.

In the summer, visitors can indulge in hiking, biking, and water sports on the lake, while in winter, the town transforms into a winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding. You can also explore the town square and lively pedestrian zone to do some shopping or try some exquisite Austrian pastries and desserts at a coffee shop.

Innsbruck

After a scenic drive of around 2 hours, you’ll make your way to Innsbruck. This city nestled in the heart of the Alps is famous for being a winter sports destination. One of the main reasons to visit are for the world-class ski resorts around the city but there’s also so much more to see and do in Innsbruck.

One of Innsbruck’s highlights is its charming and picturesque cityscape, especially with the backdrop of the Nordkette mountain range and the River Inn. In Old Town, make sure to visit the famous Golden Roof, a building with a shimmering roof adorned with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles, and the majestic Hofburg Palace.

You can also take a cable car into the Nordkette and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views. We once took the cable car to the top, then walked back down to Innsbruck. While it was a long walk and we were quite sore for a few days, it was a lot of fun!

Vienna

Another option in this itinerary would be to go to Vienna from Salzburg. Even though the train ride is only a about 2.5 hours and 3 hours by car, we recommend spending a couple of days here. A day trip would not be enough time to really enjoy everything there is to do and see in the Austrian capital.

Vienna is a memorable destination that combines history, architecture, and culture. Some must-see landmarks include Schonbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Hofburg. The Vienna State Opera is also a must for opera and classical music lovers. Vienna is also home to world-class museums like the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Belvedere Palace, and Albertina.

If you have a couple weeks to travel, you could see most or even all of these places in Germany and Austria by car or train.

Starting Point#2: Germany’s Black Forest

Located in the southwestern region of Germany, the Black Forest is an ideal starting point for exploring both Germany and Switzerland. We recommend making one place in the Black Forest your home base and exploring the rest through day trips.

Here are some beautiful places to add to your Germany and Switzerland itinerary.

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner, be sure to use the Trip Planning Spreadsheet, City Cheatsheets, and Germany Planning Map to help you plan your itinerary.

Baden-Baden

Situated in the northern region of the Black Forest, the old resort town of Baden-Baden offers a wide selection of relaxing activities and rejuvenating retreats for all sorts of travelers. Renowned for its soothing natural hot springs, extensive spa and wellness facilities, and therapeutic thermal baths, Baden-Baden invites everyone to unwind and recharge after a long day of traveling.

Aside from its luxurious wellness offerings, the town is also great for sports enthusiasts looking to do something active like hiking, biking or spending a day in the prestigious golf courses and equestrian clubs.

Triberg im Schwarzwald 

Another great place to go in the Black Forest is Triberg, located just over an hour away from Baden-Baden. This smaller town is closely associated with the famous Black Forest cuckoo clocks! You can even find the world’s largest cuckoo clock here. 

Triberg is also home to the Triberg Waterfalls, a series of waterfalls near the Gutach river and considered to be one of Germany’s highest waterfalls. It very pretty and if you’re lucky you’ll catch a glimpse of the famous red squirrels.

Although this town leans touristy, Triberg is worth adding to your itinerary if you’re looking for a home base that has a good mix between natural landscapes and tourist attractions. You really feel like you’re in the Black Forest in Triberg.

If you’d like to stay in this general area but would prefer a different town, check out Gengenbach. It’s a lovely small town with a delightful market square and cute side streets. From Gengenbach you can easily head into the Black Forest – be sure to stop by the Black Forest Open Air Museum and see what life on a Black Forest farm used to be like. We loved it!

Freiburg im Breisgau

If you’re looking for a pleasant stay in the Black Forest, consider Freiburg. It’s our favorite home base! I lived here for a little while when I was in grad school and am always happy to spend time in Freiburg.

Freiburg is in the heart of the Black Forest and is aptly known as the “capital of the Black Forest.” It’s also the sunniest spot in Germany.

A vibrant university town, Freiburg features a mixture of Gothic and modern architecture, as seen in the Old Town. One of the most popular attractions in Freiburg is the Münster Cathedral. This impressive Gothic structure dates back to 1200 AD and boasts one of Germany’s largest church bells. Another must-see is Schlossberg, a scenic lookout offering sweeping views of the city’s iconic red-tiled rooftops.

One of the reasons we love making Freiburg our Black Forest home base is that not only is there a lot to see and do in Freiburg, it’s easy to visit locations all over the region by train and car. For our recommendations on where to stay and to read more about all there is to do and see in this beautiful town, read our Freiburg guide here.

Basel

Basel is conveniently located near the borders of Germany, Switzerland, and France. It’s only about an hour by train or car from Freiburg, so it’s a great day trip if you just want to get a quick taste of Switzerland. You could also make a short stop in Basel before heading further into Switzerland.

Nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is a quaint riverside city with lots to offer. Some of the city’s most important landmarks include the Basel Minster, the medieval streets of the Old Town, the Zoo Basel, Kunstmuseum Basel, and Marktplatz.

Zurich

Continuing your journey into Switzerland, only an hour away from Basel is Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city. The city is an important global hub for banking and finance, but it’s also rich with history and beautiful architecture.

This is best seen in the picturesque streets of the central Altstadt where you’ll also find famous historic landmarks like Lindenhof, Grossmünster, Kunsthaus Zürich, and Fraumünster. After sightseeing, you can spend the rest of the day strolling along the calm promenade of Lake Zurich, admiring the scenic surroundings, and trying out delicious Swiss chocolate.

Zurich also has a good airport to fly in and out of. We flew from the US to Zurich once when we spent a couple weeks in the Swiss Alps and it was super convenient. If you fly home from Zurich it’s easy to spend a day there before heading home.

Lucerne, Interlaken & Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are a highlight of any Switzerland trip and we recommend taking 3-5 days to do this leg of the journey. 

From Zurich, first make your way to Lucerne, which is around an hour drive away. Lucerne is worth spending at least a full day in. It’s home to famous landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge (the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe), the colorful Old Town, and the Swiss Museum of Transport.

Lucerne is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes like Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus, a mountain peak with a restaurant and sweeping alpine views that’s reached by cable cars or railway. 

After Lucerne, your final destination could be the Interlaken area, arguably one of the most beautiful places in the world. The fastest way to get to Interlaken is by car which is around an hour away. But if you’re looking for a unique experience, then you can opt for a scenic train ride on the Luzern-Interlaken Express. 

Interlaken is an important destination in the Bernese Oberland region of the SwissAlps and is considered to be the main gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of this region. The town is situated between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. A great way to explore is by taking a boat cruise. Interlaken is also surrounded by mountains, the most famous peaks being Jungfrau (known as the Top of Europe), Eiger, and Mönch.

You could also choose a small village to base yourself in and then explore the area by car. We did that once and loved the experience of being in a tiny alpine village, as well as driving through the Alps and visiting places like St. Moritz, Davos, Lugano, Grindelwald, Gimmelwald, Wintertur, St. Gallen, and more. We even stopped in a tiny village that we think Aaron’s family is originally from!

Starting Point #3: Lake Constance (Bodensee)

Lake Constance might be more of an unknown hidden gem for tourists coming from outside Germany, but it’s a favorite for locals and also a good starting point to travel to Switzerland from Germany. 

Konstanz

Konstanz is the biggest city on the shores of Lake Constance. It’s a great starting point for this region since there’s many a lot of different things to see and do. You can start by exploring Niederburg, the well-preserved medieval Old Town district and home to the city’s main church, Konstanz Munster. 

Don’t miss a boat trip to Mainau Island, also known as the Island of Flowers, where you can immerse yourself in stunning botanical gardens and explore the Baroque Mainau Castle. For those looking for a relaxing treat, make sure to check out the Bodensee-Therme Konstanz, a thermal spa right on the shore of the lake.

If you happen to be in Konstanz for New Year’s you’re in for a treat. We celebrated here once and had so much fun welcoming the new year with everyone else in the Old Town and on the shores of the lake.

Meersburg

Meersburg is a small town near Konstanz, around 40 minutes away by car and ferry. It’s surrounded by vineyards on the northern banks of Lake Constance, so it’s perfect for vineyard tours and wine tastings. 

It’s also known for its medieval charm. The Old Town is home to two medieval castles: the Meersburg Castle (considered to be one of the oldest inhabited castles in Germany) and Neues Schloss Meersburg, which houses several museums. Meersburg also boasts of an expanse of half-timbered houses, and two medieval town gates, which are remnants of the ancient town fortification.

Lindau

Lindau is another well-known summer destination in the Lake Constance area. It’s around an hour drive south from Meersburg. It’s also quite near the Swiss cantons of St. Gallen and Thurgau and the Austrian state of Vorarlberg, so you can easily cross to the other two countries from here.

The best time to visit Lindau is in the spring or summer months because the gardens and outdoor spaces are in full bloom. So if you’re visiting during these seasons, we recommend staying for a few days and enjoying the scenery and even participating in outdoor activities like sailing, hiking, swimming, and cycling. 

The Old Town and Lindau Harbor are other two places worth visiting. The harbor has amazing views of the lake and the surrounding Swiss and Austrian Alps. It’s also where you can find interesting sites like the Lindau Lighthouse and Bavarian Lion sculpture.

Bregenz

An hour away south from Lindau is Bregenz. This city is the capital of the Austrian state of Vorarlberg and lies on the east and southeast shores of Lake Constance. It’s surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes like the Pfänder mountain and the Rhine valley leading to the German Alpine foothills.

One of the highlights of the city is the Bregenz Festival (Bregenzer Festspiele). This performing arts festival is held annually in the summer around July to August. It’s a unique festival because of the venue – a floating stage is set up on the lake to showcase spectacular opera and musical performances. Aside from the festival, the Old Town features a lot of Gothic and Baroque architecture. Some important landmarks include the Martinsturm, a medieval tower with great city views, and the Kunsthaus Bregenz.

St. Gallen

To make your way to Switzerland, all you have to do is drive a little over 30 minutes to the west to St. Gallen. This Swiss city has a rich history being founded in the 7th century and it has now evolved into a large urban center in Eastern Switzerland.

The main highlight of St. Gallen is the Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage site built sometime in the 8th century. The abbey complex includes a magnificent Baroque-style cathedral, a library with ancient manuscripts and rare books, and a picturesque courtyard. In the city center, you’ll also find Drei Weieren, a collection of ponds that now serves as a natural swimming area with a magnificent view over the historic city. It’s a popular local recreation area for the city inhabitants to swim and picnic in during summer and even ice skate during the colder winter months.

Zurich

Your last stop in this itinerary would be Zurich. Depending on how much time you have, you can either make this into a day trip or stay for a couple of days. If you have the time, you could also venture further into Lucerne and Interlaken, as discussed in the previous section, or head north to the Black Forest or France.

Germany, Austria & Switzerland in One Trip

The above proposed itineraries combine Germany with either Austria or Switzerland. But what if you do want to see Germany, Austria, and Switzerland all in one trip?

The good news is that it’s possible! That said, it’s important you plan every leg of your trip in advance. You should decide how much time to spend in each city/town, find accommodation as needed, and calculate how much time you’ll be traveling in between each destination. It’ll be rewarding and you’ll be sure to make travel memories you’ll never forget!

To see all 3 countries in one trip we suggest starting in Bavaria (consider flying into Munich) like we discussed in the first section. From Munich, you can add day trips to Neuschwanstein and/or Garmisch. Then, head to Berchtesgaden and then into Austria by going to Salzburg first and then Innsbruck. 

From there you head could go to Zurich, Switzerland. You could also alternatively stop in the Gimmelwald area to explore the Alps or head to Lucerne instead. Depending on how much time you want to spend in Switzerland, we also recommend going down to Lugano to experience Italian-speaking Switzerland or Geneva for the French-speaking area.

The last part of your trip would be to make your way back to Germany. This time you’ll head into the Black Forest region which is near the Swiss border. Choosing which towns or cities to stop by all ultimately depends on your time and personal preference! Make sure to read our complete Black Forest guide to help you choose the best things to do and see in the region.

Not Sure Where To Begin With Planning Your Trip?

We’ve got you covered! The interactive planning map, how to videos, and itinerary guides in our popular Germany Travel Planner will help you plan an a stress-free, personalized, and unforgettable trip. Or book a one-on-one trip planning consult with Cate!

The post Where to Travel in Germany, Austria & Switzerland in 2 Weeks appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

I lived in Freiburg for several months when I taught for a college study abroad program and absolutely love the area. We return to visit Freiburg and the Black Forest whenever we can.

Here are the top things to do and see in Freiburg, Germany.

What To Do And See In Freiburg Im Breisgau

Freiburg is a lovely town to explore for a day or two. Even if you only visit Freiburg on a day trip, you can see quite a bit. Here are the best sights to add to your itinerary. We also share ideas for day trips at the end of this guide.

TIP: if you have our Germany Travel Planner be sure to check out the interactive planning map so you can see where the best sights are located. Seeing where these sights are on the map, along with our up-to-date photos and tips, makes planning your trip SO much easier. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Freiburg Münster (Freiburg Cathedral)

The Freiburg Münster is the city’s most popular landmark. This Romanesque church dates back to the 13th century and took 300 years to complete. The tower along with the exterior of the cathedral is incredibly ornate and artistic.

One of its most noteworthy architectural features is its 116-meter (360-feet) tower with 16 bells, famously described by Swiss historian Jacob Burckhardt as the most beautiful spire on earth. It is also the only church tower in Germany completed during the Middle Ages that has remained intact with no damages from the war. 

The inside of the cathedral is equally captivating with its intricate stained glass windows, tall columns, and high altars. It is definitely worth visiting as it’s a symbol of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Right in the heart of Freiburg’s Altstadt (Old Town), you can’t miss it.

Münstermarkt (Freiburg Cathedral Market Square)

Münsterplatz, the area surrounding the Freiburg Münster, is a vibrant pedestrian square filled with historic buildings, bustling shops, and busy cafes. Every day of the week except Sundays, the Freiburg Cathedral Market (Münstermarkt) is open from 7:30 am until 1:30 pm. 

The market features over 100 different stalls with farmers and artists selling everything from local produce, handmade crafts, and traditional regional food. It’s a must-see when visiting Freiburg!

Freiburg Altstadt (Old Town)

Freiburg’s Altstadt is a picturesque area with cobblestoned narrow streets, important historic monuments, boutiques and shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, and lots of charm. One of my favorite things to do when I lived here was simply wander around the Altstadt after I finished teaching for the day.

You’ll also find the Freiburg Cathedral, town halls, Martin’s Gate, and many more landmarks we’ll discuss below. Freiburg’s Old Town is also bordered on the east by the Dreisam River and Schlossberg Mountain, making it easily accessible to other beautiful parts of the city. 

With everything that there is to see in this area, we highly recommend going on a walking tour of Freiburg’s medieval old town to not miss out on anything!

Rathausplatz

Rathausplatz is home to the Old Town Hall and New Town Hall of Freiburg. The Old Town Hall (Freiburg Rathaus) was built in a typical Renaissance style before it was reconstructed later on with three new wings and a red sandstone facade. It also houses the Tourist Information Office on the ground floor.

The New Town Hall, on the other hand, is composed of two Renaissance burgher houses that are joined together by a gabled column entryway. The whitewash facade features large bay windows and balconies. 

Rathausplatz turns into a magical wonderland during the holidays as it hosts the Freiburg Christmas Market. If you’re visiting during Christmas time, don’t miss the chance to sip on some mulled wine while enjoying the festive atmosphere of the square.

Wondering what the Christmas season in Germany is like? Check out our guides on the best German Christmas markets, German Christmas food and traditions, and how to celebrate Saint Nicholas Day.

Freiburg Bächle

The Bächle running through the streets of Freiburg are one of the most interesting features of the city. They are essentially small water-filled channels or gutters that run along the streets and alleyways, mainly in the Altstadt.

They were originally used for a variety of purposes like supplying drinking water to households and providing water for firefighting. Now, they’re an iconic feature of the city landscape and a fun way to keep cool during the summer months. You can even catch kids splashing or playing with little boats on the waterways.

Fun fact: there’s also a popular local legend that says that any single person who accidentally stumbles into a Bächle will marry a Freiburger.

Historisches Kaufhaus (Historical Merchants’ Hall)

Located on the south of Münsterplatz, the Historical Merchants’ Hall (Historisches Kaufhaus) is an eye-catching dark red building with access balconies, large bay windows with colored tiles, and decorative sculptures.

It used to be a custom office and market storage during the medieval times at the peak of Freiburg’s history as a trading center. Now the space is used as a prestigious venue for important events and occasions.

Schwabentor (Swabian Gate)

The Schwabentor (or Swabian Gate in English) is one of the remaining old city gates built in the 13th century. The gate tower is three stories high with interesting features like half-timbered extensions and a Baroque painting of merchants facing the side of the town. On the exterior side, you can also find a painting of Freiburg’s city patron, St. George, depicted as a dragon slayer.

Martinstor (Martin’s Gate)

Martinstor (Martin’s Gate) is the older of the two medieval gates of the city’s old fortifications. Like Schwabentor, it once served as an entrance to the medieval city and is now an important historic monument. 

It has very distinctive architectural features like the twin towers on its roof and the arched entryway. Next to this archway, you’ll also stumble upon a small detail: a tablet commemorating the burning of witches in Freiburg in 1599.

Schlossberg (Castle Hill)

Schlossberg (also known as Castle Hill) is a hill overlooking the city of Freiburg. The hill is covered in trees and lush greenery, making it a great spot for those looking for a dose of nature. There are lots of walking trails leading to the summit so it’s also a popular place to watch the sunset over the city.

To get to the top you can hike up via the trails or take the funicular railway called the Schlossbergbahn (Schlossberg railway). The railway takes you to the top of the almost 1,500-foot hill in just 3 minutes. 

Aside from strolling in the Schlossberg recreation area or grabbing a drink at the beer garden, you can also head on to the Schlossbergturm, an observation tower with over 150 steps leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the city and region.

Seepark Freiburg

Seepark Freiburg is a sprawling park within Freiburg’s city limits. The park area has a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and gardens, picnic areas, playgrounds, and some restaurants and a beer garden. 

The park is a good place for anyone looking for recreational activities like swimming and renting pedal boats in the summer, biking around the lake, playing football or frisbee, and even trying out mini golf in the park’s course. For something more calm and relaxing, you can picnic or read by the lake and visit the Japanese garden with a small waterfall.

Dreisam River

The Dreisam river flows through Freiburg and offers opportunities for peaceful walks along the riverbank. If you’d like to explore outside of the Old Town, follow the walking path along side the Dreisam! One thing I always enjoyed doing when I lived in Freiburg was cooling off in the Dreisam on hot days. There are several areas that are shallow and perfect for wading. If you’d rather not get in the water, you can enjoy the view from a bench or take a picnic and sit on the grass.

Augustiner Museum

Augustiner Museum is a former monastery that now runs as an art and culture museum. The museum showcases a wide range of artworks, sculptures, altars, and artifacts from the Middle Ages to the Baroque era. 

Some of the highlights include the works of medieval stonemasons, original stained glass windows from the Freiburg Cathedral, and educational exhibits on Freiburg’s history and folklore.

Messe Freiburg

Messe Freiburg is a large event venue and exhibition center that’s known for hosting a lot of different trade shows, conferences, and cultural events in the city. There’s all sorts of events happening frequently from food festivals, tech fairs, flea markets, and everything in between. There’s also a concert hall so music festivals and theater performances are also held here. Make sure to check out all of the events and performances on their official website!

Mundenhof

Mundenhof is known as the largest animal park in the state of Baden-Württemberg. This park is home to a diverse range of animal species. Many of the animals kept here are mainly breeds of domestic animals and livestock from all over the world. 

One of the best things is that visitors can interact with the animals in a completely natural setting since they are kept in open paddocks where they roam freely. It’s definitely one of the top activities to do if you’re traveling with kids and want an educational but fun experience.

Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery)

Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery) is a burial ground located in the outskirts of Freiburg. Built in the 17th century, it’s one of Germany’s oldest cemeteries that has been preserved as a whole. It serves as the final resting place for many individuals from Freiburg’s past so it holds a deep historical significance for the city.

Why Visit Freiburg Im Breisgau

Freiburg is known as the capital of the Black Forest and Germany’s sunniest city. It’s worth visiting for its important medieval landmarks in the Altstadt (Old Town), the stunning views from Schlossberg and nearby Schauinsland, and its amazing location near Switzerland, France, and other towns in the Black Forest region. If you’d like to visit 3 countries on your trip to Germany, go to Freiburg!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Freiburg Im Breisgau

The best time to visit Freiburg depends on your preferences, but generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities (especially swimming in lakes) and festivals, while winter is great for winter sports and Christmas markets. I’ve been in Freiburg during every season and it’s a wonderful city to visit any time of year.

Where Is Freiburg Located On a Map?

Freiburg is located in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwest Germany. It sits on the western edge of the Black Forest, and because it serves as one of the main entry ways into the region, it’s pretty easy to get to.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

How To Get To Freiburg

Airports Near Freiburg

If you’re planning to visit Freiburg right after arriving in Germany, it’s easiest to hop on a fast train from Frankfurt or Stuttgart airports. Alternatively, you could fly into a closer airport in France or Switzerland.

• Frankfurt Airport (2 hours away via ICE train)
• Stuttgart Airport (2 hours away)
• EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (50 minutes)
• Strasbourg Airport (1 hour)

Getting to Freiburg By Train Or Bus

You can easily travel all over Germany by train. Busses are also an option, but personally, I prefer the train. Even though Freiburg is in the southwestern corner of Germany, it’s easily reached by public transit from all over Germany, France, and Switzerland.

If you’re traveling from German cities like Stuttgart or Frankfurt, you can take a fast ICE/IC/EC train and reach Freiburg in about 2 hours. If you’re coming from smaller towns in the Black Forest, you’ll likely take a regional train to Freiburg. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe, there’s a good chance you’ll go through Strasbourg, France or Basel, Switzerland.

The best way to find train tickets for travel in Germany is through the official German rail website. You can also book tickets to or from other European countries, as long as your trip starts or ends in Germany.

Freiburg Hauptbahnhof is the main train station. To get to your accommodation you can walk, take the tram or hop in a taxi.

Getting To Freiburg By Car

If you’re renting a car, you can drive to Freiburg by taking the A5, which runs north-south parallel to the Rhine from the Swiss border in the south and goes all the way up to Frankfurt am Main.

You can also rent a car in Freiburg for a couple days if you’d like to explore the Black Forest but don’t want a car for your entire trip. While you can get to many locations in the Black Forest via train or bus, having a car gives you flexibility and enables you to get off the beaten path. We rent our cars here.

Where To Stay In Freiburg Im Breisgau

Freiburg is one of the best places to make your home base when exploring the Black Forest region. There are a lot of accommodation options available from luxury hotels to aparthotels with kitchens to budget-friendly family accommodations.

We recommend staying within or around the city center to be closest to all the main landmarks in the area. If you plan to take the train on day trips, make sure you can easily and quickly get to the train station on foot or by tram. If renting a car, make sure there’s easy parking.

#1 Top Pick: Zum Roten Bären
Listed as Germany’s oldest guesthouse, this fairy tale yet modern hotel has both cobblestone street views and courtyard views and is located in the Old Town just steps from the Schwabentor (old Swabian Gate) and near the Münster cathedral. Click here to check availability and price!

• Park Hotel Post – Housed in a stately 19th-Century Art Nouveau-style building, Park Hotel Post is a 4-star hotel located in Freiburg city center. This classy hotel offers elegant rooms with literary and cultural themes and modern facilities.
• Boutiquehotel am Stadtgarten – Located right across Stadtgarten and within walking distance of the Freiburg Cathedral, this accommodation is perfect for those looking for boutique hotels with a casual atmosphere and modern facilities.
• Aparthotel Adagio Access Freiburg – This apartment-style hotel has over 150 rooms with modern features including kitchens, living rooms, and flat screen TVs. It’s a great place for families looking for spacious rooms.
• FourSide Hotel Freiburg – Located a bit further away from the center, this hotel is great for those looking for a more budget-friendly option. The trendy hotel features chic rooms with colorful decorations and modern amenities.

For more options, check out our guide to the best hotels in the Black Forest.

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Day Trips From Freiburg im Briesgau

Schauinsland

Schauinsland is a mountain at the edge of the Black Forest, around 30 minutes from Freiburg. It has an elevation of over 4200 feet, which can be reached via the Schauinslandbahn, the longest cable car in Germany.

From the cable car, you can see views that stretch across the Rhine Valley to the Vosges Mountains. Once you reach the summit, you can see more of the Black Forest and even all the way to the Alps. Schauinsland is also the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts looking to do activities like hiking, biking, Nordic walking, paragliding and winter sports.

Ravenna Gorge

Ravenna Gorge is another great day trip from Freiburg, as it’s only a short drive away (30 minutes). This gorge is a breathtaking natural attraction, characterized by its steep cliffs, lush greenery of the Black Forest, and crystal-clear waters.

One of the highlights is the Ravenna Bridge, an arched stone bridge that spreads across the gorge. During the Christmas season, this area transforms into one of the most beautiful places in Germany. The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market takes place right beneath the historic railway viaduct, making for a surreal winter wonderland view with all the wooden stalls and Christmas decorations.

For more information on the best Christmas markets in Germany, read our full guide here.

Europa Park

Europa Park is the largest theme park in Germany. It’s about a half hour drive from Freiburg. The theme park has over 18 different themed areas and 13 roller coasters, ranging from kid-friendly ones like the Alpenexpress Enzian, which goes through a diamond mine, and high-speed roller coasters like the Silver Star. There are tons of indoor activities as well as shows, parades, a 4D cinema, and holiday events for everyone. 

Black Forest Towns

If you’d like to explore the Black Forest while in Freiburg, you have lots of wonderful day trip options. Some must-visits include an open-air museum, the old resort town of Baden-Baden, Triberg for cuckoo clocks and the Triberg Waterfalls, and the charming small towns of Staufen and Gengenbach.

Black Forest Open Air Museum

The Black Forest Open Air Museum is the first open-air museum in the Black Forest, located in Gutach. It claims to be the most visited open-air museum in Germany with over 250,000 visitors annually. The museum brings you the historic rural experience of the Black Forest. Here you can experience the region’s traditional crafts, housing, culture, and even technology. 

It’s also very interactive with different hands-on activities and areas specifically for kids. Make sure to check out the restaurant to try a slice of Black Forest cake!

Lake Titisee

​Lake Titisee is around 35 minutes away from Freiburg. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning scenery, and outdoor recreational opportunities. You can easily spend an entire day walking the trail around the lake, admiring the views, and then stopping by at any of the restaurants or cafes by the lake. If it’s hot outside, go for a swim in the lake!

Basel, Switzerland

Nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is a quaint riverside city with lots to offer. It’s around an hour away by car or train and could make a great starting point to exploring the rest of Switzerland. Some of the city’s most important landmarks include the Basel Minster, the medieval streets of the Old Town, the Zoo Basel, and Kunstmuseum Basel.

Colmar, France

If you want to venture outside of Germany, then Colmar, France is a great option since it’s only around 1 hour away. This French city is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered medieval and early Renaissance buildings. Canals and waterways run through the town, earning it the nickname “Little Venice.”

Next Steps For Planning Your Trip:

• Start planning an unforgettable trip to Germany here!
• Book a personalized travel consult or itinerary review with Cate.
• Join our friendly Facebook group.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

The post Best Things to Do in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany appeared first on My Germany Vacation.