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.

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.

Family vacations are great experiences! Nothing bonds a group of people like exploring a new country or learning about a different culture together – especially if you choose an outstanding destination like Germany where there’s something for everyone!

But whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers or planning a bigger trip with the whole family including siblings and parents, these vacations can definitely be challenging to organize!

You have to take into account the different ages of everyone involved because family members’ varying ages (and physical abilities) will affect what kind of activities and places each person will be interested in. 

If all of this sounds a bit too familiar, then you’re in the right place! This guide will help you plan the best family vacation to Germany.

Keep reading for tips on how to arrange everything from transportation around different cities, booking family-friendly accommodations, and creating a well-planned itinerary that will cater to everyone’s preferences.

Why Visit Germany as a Family

Germany is really the perfect place to visit as a family. This vast country has something to offer for all kinds of travelers: big urban cities, natural landscapes, historic routes, fairy tale castles, world-class museums, fun amusement parks, and interesting cultural events year-round.

As a family, you might find that one region offers more activities that are better suited for younger children, teens or college-aged kids, or your family’s particular interests.

Or you might decide to do a big tour so you can get a taste of different parts of Germany. The good thing is that with some planning you can easily visit different regions in Germany and see a lot of the country in just a couple of weeks.

One of the great things about Germany is that it’s quite easy to get around the whole country as a visitor. You can travel nearly everywhere by train or you can rent a car and drive part of or your entire route.

The public transportation network, especially in bigger cities, is efficient and well-connected. Even if you opt to go for a rental car, you’ll always have the option of parking it at the hotel and using public transport for the times it’s more convenient than driving (which it almost always is in larger cities).

Public transport also allows for flexibility when everyone wants to do their own thing for a while and explore the city on their own.

Speaking of exploring on your own, traveling to Germany is a great way to teach kids and teens how to travel internationally!

I moved to Germany when I was 16 and lived with a German family in a Hamburg suburb for a year. My high school was in the center of the city and so I took the S-bahn to school everyday, explored the city with friends (even at night), rode my bike everywhere, and took the train all over Germany – often by myself.

That experience made me independent and a confident traveler, even before I could speak German. It’s pretty natural in Germany for kids and teens to go places by themselves or with siblings or friends, even in big cities.

If you’re not comfortable letting your kids explore completely on your own, keep in touch via cell phone. If your phone service doesn’t work in Germany, get a couple pre-paid SIM cards when you arrive. Read our Germany SIM card guide here so you can decide ahead of time which one to get.

A Few Family Trip Tips

• Hop On Hop Off bus tours are perfect for families. All you need to do is get everyone on the bus and then ride the entire tour at once for an easy and efficient introduction to the city you’re visiting. Most HOHO bus tours have narration, often in multiple languages. Some cities HOHO tours are better than others, so check out our guide to the best HOHO bus tours here.
• If you have teens or college students traveling with you, let them be the leader for a day (or more)! Work with them before you leave to plan a day of your trip and then let them take the lead that day once you’re in Germany. It’s the perfect opportunity to help them develop travel skills while giving you a bit of a break.
• Learn a few words of German together as a family before you leave. While you can get by in Germany pretty easily as a speaker of English using a German language translator app, being able to say a few words in German when you enter a store, restaurant, hotel or museum goes a long way. Learning some German basics together as a family will get everyone excited for your upcoming trip!

With my experience living in Germany and traveling all over the country for over 30 years, I’ve helped many others, including families, plan the vacation of their dreams. If you’d like to get tried-and-tested tips for traveling with family members plus personalized recommendations based on your preferences, check out our travel planning consultations!

Best Time to Go to Germany

Germany is a great place to visit year-round. Each season has something unique to offer and can bring a different experience to your family trip! With that being said, you still want to take into account some things like peak season and the weather depending on the activities your family wants to do.

The peak tourist season is usually considered to run from June to August or early September. At that time summer is in full swing and you’re more likely to have consistently good weather during your stay.

This is the best time to visit if your family wants to do outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, cycling, climbing, trekking, and more. It’s also great for relaxing at a beer garden, going for picnics at the park, and outdoor concerts and festivals. But be prepared to face crowds, long lines (especially if you don’t book online ahead of time), and higher prices for flights and accommodations, as tourists from all over the world flock to Germany.

On the other hand, winter (December to February) is considered to be mostly off season. The exception is of course December when the holiday season kicks into gear and Christmas markets pop up all over the country.

These outdoor markets are some of the best places to visit as a family since there’s something for everyone – fun carnival rides, handcrafted decorations and toys, festive light shows with choirs, outdoor ice skating, traditional sweet Christmas treats, and warm mugs of Glühwein (or non-alcoholic Glühpunsch)!

These days there are also more and more kid-focused Christmas markets. Plus, there are several fun Christmas traditions kids enjoy and your family could have fun experiencing them.

The downside to visiting during winter, especially after the December holidays when the seasonal light displays come down, is the often gloomy weather, short and dark days, subzero temperatures, and sometimes heavy snowfall (mostly in the mountains). But if your family is into winter sports like skiing and sledding, then winter might be a good time to visit. 

Another great time to visit Germany is during shoulder seasons. One of them is autumn (late September to November). The weather is still generally pleasant though it gets colder nearing November. By this time, summer tourists are beginning to leave and things are generally calmer and less crowded.

But keep in mind that Oktoberfest marks another busy period in Munich and southern Germany when another wave of tourists arrive and accommodations near the festival book pretty quickly and at higher prices.

Aside from Oktoberfest and the nice fall weather, another reason to visit would be Halloween. Each year the celebrations get bigger around Germany and it could be a fun experience for kids.

The other shoulder season takes place in spring from March to May. The weather tends to be more unpredictable with rain showers, hail, sunny days, and even snow happening all within a short span. But as it gets warmer during May, spring festivals are celebrated all over the country. If you pack layers and an umbrella or rain jacket, spring can be a wonderful time to visit Germany.

Some of the most popular Frühlingsfeste (spring festivals) are the ones in Munich, Cologne, and Stuttgart happening in April and May. These have everything from beer tents, food stalls, and carnival rides making it a fun place for all ages. These festivals are a super fun way to welcome the changing seasons and warmer weather!

Getting Around Germany

As I mentioned, one of the best things about Germany is all the options you have for getting around the country, even for those traveling in big groups.

For the most flexible and comfortable option, we suggest rental cars. This is a good idea if you’re traveling with younger children since navigating public transportation and trains with luggage and little ones might be stressful.

Rental cars are also great if your family plans to stick to smaller towns and villages or go on several day trips. Some families opt to rent a larger apartment or hotel on the outskirts of town where it’s easy to park a rental car. With this option you get space, comfort, and affordability, and you can use both the car and public transport.

If you just want to visit a couple of larger cities – say Berlin and Munich – I’d forgo the rental car and simply take a train from one city to the next (and fly into one city and out of the other). You could also book guided tours for any day trips you want to take so you don’t have to plan and figure everything out yourself.

If you’re traveling with teenagers or older children, especially if they can carry their own luggage, trains, buses, and other modes of public transport might be a better way of getting around. This way, everyone gets to relax when traveling from place to place. This option also gives everyone the independence to choose when and where to go sightseeing in each location, and especially in major cities with extensive public transport networks.

For regional travel, we recommend looking into buying group regional train tickets. There are different options available per region. It’s a great way to save money since a group train ticket gives the group unlimited trips on regional trains within each German Bundesland (state). You can buy these tickets via the Deutsche Bahn app, on the Deutsche Bahn website (and then send the ticket to your app) or at the train station. No reservations are required or available for regional trains.

Guided tours are another popular alternative, especially for day trips. If you don’t want to rent a car for the entirety of your trip or figure out the details of train travel for each day trip, look for a guided private tour that already includes transportation. Many of them are done with small groups so if your family is large enough, then you’ll have the guided tour all to yourself! 

Within cities, Hop On Hop Off bus tours are the best way to get to know a place for the first time. These tours bring you to the top landmarks and historical sites while taking out the stress of navigating public transport. In general, guided tours are amazing group activities. If you’re interested in finding more tours like a walking tour or a bike tour, Get Your Guide has you covered with tons of options.

Finding Family Accommodations in Germany

One of the most important aspects of planning a family trip is finding the right accommodation. Luckily, finding family-friendly accommodation in Germany should not be that much of a problem.

You’ll find all different types of accommodations from American-style international hotel chains, budget hostels, boutique aparthotels, family-run bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals (apartments or even houses) in most German cities.

If you’re particular about staying in family rooms or hotels with family services like babysitting, then the best option would be large international chains. If your priorities are space, comfort, and flexibility, then we suggest apartment-style hotels or vacation rentals. If you prefer smaller family run boutique hotels, you might find larger family rooms. Or you can book 2 rooms near each other.

Tip: if you’re traveling during the summer and having air conditioning is important to you, check that the hotel has A/C in each room. Also read reviews to see if there are positive or negative comments about it. A/C isn’t as common in Germany as it is in the US!

For more recommendations, check out our accommodation guides for various cities:

• Best Hotels in Munich
• Best Hotels in Munich for Oktoberfest
• Best Hotels in Cologne
• Best Hotels in Hamburg
• Best Hotels in Stuttgart
• Best Hotels in Frankfurt Am Main
• Best Hotels near Frankfurt Airport

If your family is adventurous and looking for a unique experience, check out our guide to the best castle hotels in Germany!

Where to Go in Germany

Where to Go and What to See in Northern Germany

The most popular destination in Northern Germany is Hamburg. Not only is it the second largest city in Germany but it’s also one of the most unique ones. For example, did you know that Hamburg has more canals than Amsterdam and Venice combined? This port city by the Elbe river is worth visiting to see a different side of Germany compared to Bavaria in the south.

Hamburg also has a good-sized airport so you could also start or end your trip there. And it’s only a couple hours away from Berlin, so that could be the perfect next stop on your trip.

Some exciting activities to do as a family include going on a harbor cruise of the Hamburg’s top districts and landmarks, canoeing in the canals, strolling through the zoo or urban garden Planten un Blomen, and trying fresh food at Fischmarkt. For more ideas, check out our Hamburg sightseeing guide.

Other must-visit cities in the region are the smaller cities of Bremen, Lübeck, Stade, and Lüneburg. You can easily visit these cities on a day trip from Hamburg. If you’re itching to see a castle, add Schwerin Castle — known as the “Neuschwanstein of Northern Germany” — to your itinerary. Read more in our guide on the best day trips from Hamburg here.

Northern Germany is also known for its rich natural landscapes like the Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park, which is made up of mudflats, sandbars, and dunes. The island of Sylt, with its sandy beaches and lighthouses, make for a beautiful family beach vacation. If you want to travel out of Germany, both of these places are also near the Netherlands and Denmark.

Where to Go and What to See in Eastern Germany 

The highlight of Eastern Germany is Berlin. Many of the country’s top historic sites are found in the city center: Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall, Museum Island, Unter den Linden, the Reichstag, and the Holocaust Memorial, to name a few.

Berlin is also a great city for older kids since you can plan educational visits to interactive museums like the DDR Museum or Mauermuseum Haus am Checkpoint Charlie. Another fun sight for families is Museumdorf Düppel – an open air museum showing how life was lived in the area during medieval times. It’s so much fun to visit!

Wondering how to fit everything Berlin has to offer in your itinerary? Read our guide on creating the best 2-day Berlin itinerary.

Beyond the German capital, Eastern Germany has a lot to offer. There’s of course the smaller but more well known cities like Dresden, Leipzig, and Magdeburg that are worth discovering. In these towns you can still see remnants of life behind the Iron Curtain in buildings, murals, and museums.

There are also charming medieval towns like Quedlinburg and Görlitz. You’ll also find some castles and palaces in the region like Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam, Schwerin Castle, Wernigerode Castle, and Quedlinburg Castle.

For nature lovers, Saxon Switzerland National Park near Dresden and the Harz Mountains near Magdeburg are must-visits for rock climbing, hiking, and trekking. A popular tourist attraction is the Bastei Bridge, an impressive man made bridge that connects the tall, jagged rock formations over the Elbe river.

For a different kind of landscape, Rügen Island boasts of white chalk cliffs, beaches and seaside resorts. Eastern Germany is also an easy way to travel to Poland or the Czech Republic.

Where to Go and What to See in Central Germany

One of the main cities in Central Germany is Cologne. Cologne is home to important churches like the towering Cologne Cathedral, food and cultural events, museums, and mighty Rhine river.

One place we recommend for kids of all ages is the Cologne Chocolate Museum. Not only will your family learn about the history of cocoa but everyone will get to enjoy the chocolate tastings! It’s a lot of fun.

For the adults and beer lovers, we recommend booking a brewery tour and tasting of Cologne’s famous local beer, Kölsch. Check our Cologne travel guide for more ideas!

Frankfurt is another major city, though it might not be at the top of many family’s Germany bucket lists. But whether you have a layover at Franfurt airport or decide to spend a day exploring Frankfurt in-between destinations, there’s plenty to do in the city. A good family activity could be going on a sightseeing cruise on the River Main. 

Frankfurt is also a great gateway into the Rhine Valley and Mosel Valley areas, one of Germany’s most beautiful regions. There’s so much to see in this area from medieval castles, hillside vineyards, and picturesque riverside towns.

A popular way to explore this area is through a river cruise where you’ll get the chance to see smaller towns like Bacharach, Koblenz, Cochem, and Heidelberg. Some of the most famous castles of Germany are here like Burg Eltz and Cochem Castle. 

If you’d like to explore the castles, villages, and vineyards — and even pop across the border into Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands or France, it’s best to rent a car. That way you have the flexibility to explore and aren’t spending a lot of time waiting for train connections.

For more details, we’ve put together a list of castles in Central Germany, both near Cologne and Frankfurt.

Where to Go and What to See in Bavaria

Bavaria in Southern Germany is one of the most visited regions of Germany. And for good reason – it’s breathtaking! It’s also the region that most people picture when they think of Germany.

Bavaria is home to Munich, a major tourist destination known for Oktoberfest and its charming Old Town. Some things you could add to your family itinerary include going on a bike tour of the city center, spending a day in the English Garden, or trying Bavarian cuisine at the central market Viktualienmarkt.

For more details on the top things to see and do in Munich, check out our 2-day itinerary of the city.

Munich is an amazing base for day trips as well. You can’t go to Bavaria (or Germany for that matter) without visiting Neuschwanstein Castle. This fairy tale castle is a stunning year round, but most especially during the winter months when the Alps are blanketed in snow.

Bavaria is a key point along the Romantic Road (more on that below!), a route lined with castles and medieval towns like Dinkelsbühl, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bamberg, and Nürnberg (Nuremberg). These four are fairly close to each other so you could easily make one your home base for a few days and visit the others via train or rental car.

South of Munich, you can visit small towns nestled within the Bavarian Alps like Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Mittenwald, and Oberammergau. All are reachable by train or car from Munich.

Another fun family destination in the Alps would be Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. There’s tons of activities to do such as riding the cable car to the summit, skiing, sledding, and hiking on low-level trails. If you’d rather admire this mountain from below, simply enjoy the view from Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Your other Alpine option is to visit the Berchtesgaden and the Eagle’s Nest area. The Berchtesgaden National Park is filled with dense forests, rugged mountains, narrow gorges, and beautiful lakes and glaciers. Kids will love the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines! There’s a fun tour that takes you deep inside the mines in a small train. You even get to slide down wooden miner’s banisters!

There’s also many lakes in the region that are perfect for the summer or for boat tours during cooler months. The most popular ones are Lake Königssee and Lake Chiemsee. Both are reachable on a day trip from Munich.

While in Bavaria, take advantage of how close you are to Austria, Switzerland, and even the Czech Republic. The most accessible day trips would be to the Austrian cities of Salzburg and Innsbruck.

Where to Go and What to See in the Black Forest

Stuttgart, just north of the Black Forest, is the largest city in this region. The city is known for many things such as being an automotive hub (the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Porsche Museum would be perfect for any car lover in the family!), their huge and historic Christmas markets, and the Cannstatter Volksfest or the Stuttgart Beer Festival. For more ideas to add to your itinerary, read our list of the best things to do in Stuttgart! 

There’s also many day trips you can do from Stuttgart to smaller cities and towns like Heidelberg, Freiburg, Esslingen, Ludwigsburg , and Tübingen. There are also castles nearby like Hohenzollern Castle, Lichtenstein Castle, and Ludwigsburg Palace. For more in-depth information, check out our list of day trips and weekend trips from Stuttgart.

The highlight of southwestern Germany is definitely the Black Forest. This beautiful mountain region by the Danube river is known for its natural landscape of dense forests, lakes, and waterfalls and the cute small villages througout. It’s also associated with the Black Forest cake, the Brothers Grimm, and as the origin of cuckoo clocks.

Some top destinations in the region include the Triberg Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Germany with several hiking trails and even an illuminated show during winter. Other popular holiday spots for both tourists and locals are Lake Titisee and Lake Constance (Bodensee).

Lake Constance actually borders three countries: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. So if your family is looking to travel outside of Germany, the Black Forest is a good jumping off point to venture into those countries. From Freiburg, Baden-Baden or Stuttgart you can also easily hop over to France for a day or longer.

Road Trips Around Germany

What’s a family vacation without a little road trip? Germany is great for scenic drives and there are various routes with different themes that your family can choose from. 

Romantic Road

This picturesque route runs from Würzburg to Füssen in Bavaria. It links some of Germany’s best medieval villages, tranquil landscapes, and fairy tale castles like Neuschwanstein Castle. You’ll pass through many historic cities along the way such as the medieval walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber and other well-preserved medieval towns like Augsburg, Dinkelsbühl, and Nördlingen. 

If you want to roadtrip the Romantic Road you could fly into Stuttgart, pick up your rental car, drive to Würzburg or Rothenburg ob der Tauber, then drive south to Füssen (Neuschwanstein). You can also start from the south by flying into Munich and doing the route in reverse. 

German Castle Road

The German Castle Road (or Burgenstrasse in German) is another great road trip option focusing on the southern part of the country. If you want to see as many castles in the least possible time, then this route dotted with over 70 castles spanning around 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) is perfect for you. 

The route starts in Mannheim, a university town in Baden-Württemberg along the Rhine River and Neckar River, and goes all the way to Prague in the Czech Republic. Since the journey is quite long, we recommend picking some of your favorite castles and focusing on that part of the route.

Some of the castles you’ll see are Heidelberg Castle (one of the most famous castle ruins in Germany), the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, Hornberg Castle, Colmberg Castle, and among many others. You’ll also pass by many of the medieval towns that form part of the Romantic Road like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Bamberg.

The best starting point of the Castle Road on the German side is in Nuremberg, which has a small airport but for international flights, Stuttgart, Munich, or Frankfurt am Main would be better.

German Fairy Tale/Brothers Grimm Road

The German Fairy Tale Road is the ultimate road trip for kids and everyone young at heart! The route is centered around the Brothers Grimm so that includes towns they lived and worked in as well as places associated with their fairy tales. It starts in the town of Hanau in the Kinzig Valley and runs all the way up to Bremen in Northern Germany for a total of 600 kilometers (373 miles). 

The route passes through many scenic landscapes and natural parks like the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park and the Spessart Nature Park. The charming towns along the route are truly straight out of a story book. The most famous ones are Alsfeld, where you can see the house of Little Red Riding Hood, and the town of Bad Wildungen which has the Snow White Museum. For more historic sites, you can stop at the university town of Kassel where you can see the first edition of Grimm’s Fairy Tales from 1812. 

Another element of fairy tales are of course the castles. In this route, you’ll get to admire the Sababurg Castle, which is widely referred to as the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Another iconic one is the Trendelburg Fortress, known as the beloved Rapunzel Tower.

German Timber Frame Road

If you’re enchanted by Germany’s beautiful half-timbered houses and winding cobblestone alleys, then the German Timber-Frame Road is a must-do route. This is one of the longest routes, spanning over 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles), since it runs through the entirety of Germany starting in the river Elbe in the north all the way down south to Black Forest and Lake Constance.

 It covers the following regions: Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia, Hesse, Bavaria, and Baden-Württemberg. Each region has suggested routes you can follow so we recommend focusing on maybe one area where you’ll be spending the most time in. There are over 100 towns on the route. Some lesser known smaller cities on the map you should check out are Bad Urach, Wernigerode, Stolberg, and Celle.

The post How to Plan a Family Trip to Germany in 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

We’re here to help! With how vast and beautiful Germany is, it can be overwhelming to decide which places will make it on your itinerary.

This guide gives you a rundown of the best places to visit and tours to book in Germany. We cover cities, villages and towns, castles, natural landscapes, road trips, and more. 

Best Cities in Germany

Berlin

Berlin is most likely the first destination that comes to mind for anyone traveling to Germany. The German capital is one of the most vibrant cities in Central Europe, known for being a global hub of culture, history, and art.

Berlin is a must-see!

Some of the most iconic sights of Berlin are located in the Unter den Linden area, a major boulevard running through the heart of the city. These include the German Parliament (Reichstag), Brandenburg Gate, Pariser Platz, Berlin Cathedral, and the Berlin State Opera. 

On one end of the boulevard, you’ll find Museum Island, a complex of five museums located along the Spree River that showcase some of the best collections in art, history, and archaeology. Berlin is full of amazing museums so you’re sure to find at least one you can’t wait to visit, whether the Neue Nationalgalerie, the DDR Museum showing what life was like behind the Iron Curtain in East Germany, the Stasi Museum or the Tränenpalast (Palace of Tears), where people leaving for the West said tearful good-byes to family and friends.

Berlin is also home to important historic sites you can’t miss like the Holocaust Memorial, Berlin Wall remnants and memorials, and Checkpoint Charlie (yes, it’s a replica and touristy but it’s worth a look), the the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, and many more.  

For places a bit further from the center, you’ll want to explore Charlottenburg Palace, the Marzahn neighborhood, and Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam. For scenic views of the city skyline, we suggest climbing up the Berlin TV Tower or taking a river cruise along the Spree River.

If you’re looking for a centrally-located and reasonably priced hotel, check out our Berlin hotel guide here. For more things to see and do in Berlin, check out our guide on planning the perfect Berlin itinerary.

Munich

Munich is another of Germany’s major cities that is responsible for attracting tourists from all over the world. Due to its charm and proximity to the Alps, it’s another must-see for many visitors to Germany.

One of the great things about Munich is that most everything you’ll want to see is in a compact area that is walkable. Many will start exploring the Bavarian capital of Munich in Marienplatz, the main square of the historic city center.

This square is home to historic buildings like the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), where you can catch the famous Glockenspiel’s daily chime, St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche), the Frauenkirche, Asamkirche, and the central food market Viktualienmarkt. Be sure to climb St. Peter’s Church for stunning city views. On a clear day you can see the Alps!

There are also some fun museums in the city like Deutsches Museum for science and technology, the Alte Pinakothek for medieval art or Pinakothek der Moderne for contemporary art. Dachau, the concentration camp memorial site on the outskirts of the city, is also a must-see for many (and highly recommended).

For urban green spaces, nothing compares to the English Garden (Englischer Garten). Not only is it a great place for relaxing, it’s also filled with cultural landmarks like the Chinese Tower, where you can find one of the city’s largest beer gardens. You can’t help but relax and live in the moment when taking a stroll through the English Garden. You also have to stop and see the surfers on the Eisbach!

Speaking of beer, another thing that makes Munich a popular tourist destination is Oktoberfest the world’s biggest beer festival. (If you’re even considering going to Oktoberfest, book your hotel now! We’ve got an Oktoberfest hotel guide right here that will help you find the perfect place to stay before they’re all booked up.)

Aside from history and cultural events, Munich also boasts amazing landscapes thanks to the Bavarian Alps. It’s a great gateway to exploring the romantic castles of King Ludwig and medieval villages along the Romantic Road (more on that below!)

You can also use Munich as your home base for several days as you day trip to nearby locations like Nürnberg, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Mittenwald, Oberammergau, Neuschwanstein, Chiemsee, Linderhof, Berchtesgaden, Eagle’s Nest, Königsee, and even Salzburg, Austria. Yes, there are a lot of day trip options from Munich!

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Munich that’s walkable to the important sights, check out our hotel guide. Also read our guide on the best things to see and do in Munich.

Hamburg

Hamburg in north offers visitors a unique and different experience compared to other German cities. Located along the river Elbe in northern Germany, Hamburg is an important city that connects to many waterways and shipping routes and is a beautiful and fun city to visit.

Because of the city’s urban landscape, one of the best ways to sightsee is by taking a harbor cruise of some of Hamburg’s highlights. These include the Elbphilharmonie, the Speicherstadt district, St. Pauli’s Pier, and Hafen City. 

Other must-dos include canoeing Hamburg’s many canals, sampling fresh fish and seafood at the Fischmarkt, strolling through Planten un Blomen botanical gardens, and paying a visit to the International Maritime Museum, the Miniatur Wunderland, and the Treppenviertel of Blankenese.

You can also take several memorable day trips from Hamburg to Lübeck, beaches on the North Sea or Baltic Sea, Stade, Lüneburg, Schwerin Castle or Bremen.

For more Hamburg tips, read our accommodation guide and our list of the best things to do in Hamburg.

Cologne

Cologne is a beautiful city located along the Rhine river. The city has a unique combination of old charm with modern, dynamic neighborhoods. The most famous landmark is the Cologne Cathedral, one of the country’s largest cathedrals.

The historic center is home to more classic old churches as well as many new art galleries, boutique shops, and cafés. Another thing Cologne is known for is its chocolate. Make sure to visit the Chocolate Museum to get a taste and learn about its history. For more information on Cologne, read our corresponding accommodation guide and travel guide.

Many people visit Cologne because of its ideal location within the Rhine Valley. From the city, you can embark on various day trips to castles or cruises to riverside towns or wineries. More information on the Rhine Valley below!

Tip: if you don’t have a day or two to devote just to Cologne but want to see the famous and super impressive Cologne Cathedral, no problem. The cathedral is right across from the train station, so if you’re going through Cologne, plan a 1-3 hour stopover to see the cathedral and even some of the downtown area!

Frankfurt am Main

Frankfurt is one of the leading financial centers of the world. If you’re flying internationally, you’ll most likely pass through Frankfurt airport.

For some travelers it’s worth booking a hotel in the city for a night upon arriving in Germany, and then taking the train to their next destination or picking up a rental car the next day. This way you don’t have to worry about missing a train or rental car pick up due to a flight delay.

Frankfurt’s Old Town is where you’ll find many important landmarks like Römerberg, the main square with medieval townhomes surrounding a fountain, the Frankfurt Cathedral, and Goethe House.

The city is located along the Main river so there’s different ways to enjoy the skyline whether it be by the iconic Iron Bridge (Eiserner Steg) or via a sightseeing river cruise. 

You can definitely see a lot of Frankfurt in one day. But Frankfurt’s central location also makes it one of the best places to go on day trips to the Rhine Valley, smaller surrounding towns, or fairy tale castles.

Tip: there are two Frankfurts in Germany! Frankfurt am Main (meaning, Frankfurt on the river Main) is where the huge international airport is. Frankfurt an der Oder (meaning, Frankfurt on the river Oder) is in eastern Germany between Berlin and the Polish border.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is the capital of the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwestern Germany, just north of the Black Forest. It’s a big city in a beautiful part of Germany and has a large international airport that is easy and enjoyable to fly into.

What makes Stuttgart unique are the hills surrounding the city center and the gorgeous vineyards. Plus, there are several fun day trip options from Stuttgart via train or car, such as Esslingen, Tübingen, Hohenzollern Castle, Lichtenstein Castle, the Black Forest, Baden-Baden, and even Strasbourg, France.

Stuttgart is renowned worldwide as an automotive hub since it’s the birthplace of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. If you’re interested in cars and the history behind the brands, it’s worth visiting their respective museums.

There are many other sights to see in Stuttgart, including the Neues Schloss in Schlossplatz Square, the Stuttgart TV Tower for absolutely stunning views, and the many vineyards in and around the city (yes, Stuttgart has vinyards that are actually in the city).

If you’re lucky enough to visit in December, don’t miss the Stuttgart Christmas Market – it’s one of the oldest in the world! Even better, while in Stuttgart it’s easy to visit Ludwigburg’s Baroque Christmas Market just north of Stuttgart, and Esslingen’s Medievel Christmas market to the south. Both can be reached by S-bahn from the city center.

For more general tips for visiting Stuttgart year-round, read our accommodation guide and our list of the best things to do in Stuttgart.

Villages and Towns in Germany

Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is a beautiful Bavarian town across the border from Salzburg, Austria known for its history with World War II and its one of a kind natural beauty. You can start off your visit exploring the quaint and charming town center but you’ll have the best time once you venture out to the surrounding area.

A top destination is Eagle’s Nest, a historic viewpoint in the Alps. If you’re planning a family trip, add the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines to your itinerary for a fun underground activity that’s perfect for young kids and adults alike. Also nearby are the Königsee lake (take the boat cruise!), the cute village of Ramsau, and Hintersee lake – which you can hike to from Ramsau in about an hour – and the Jennerbahn. There are also many options for hiking in the area in the warmer months and snow activities in the winter.

Read more about how to plan a visit to Berchtesgaden here.

Rothenburg Ob der Tauber

For medieval villages straight out of a postcard, nothing compares to Rothenburg Ob der Tauber. This well-preserved town is instantly recognizable to all by its colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone alleyways, and intact historic city walls. 

While you can spend a couple nights in this charming town, it also makes for an easy day trip from Nürnberg, especially in the summer when days are super long.

Rothenburg is without a doubt the most popular fairytale town, and can get very crowded as a result, but there are plenty of other medieval must-sees in the surrounding area that can be less touristy and just as beautiful. These include Dinkelsbühl, Würzburg, Bamberg, Nördlingen, and Füssen (this one is a couple hours south). To learn more about them, read the section on Romantic Road under road trips! 

Bacharach & Cochem

Bacharach is a picturesque town along the Rhine River. It’s a popular stop for river cruises but there’s plenty to see and do on land. There are lots of gorgeous vineyards that surround the village with nearby restaurants and wineries serving the best food and wines. Bacharach is also home to the Burg Stahleck, a medieval castle turned into a youth hostel on a hill, which you can visit even if you’re not staying there (we highly recommend hiking up there for the view). If you’re interested in booking a room in that castle (or another German castle), check out our guide to the best castle hotels in Germany.

Cochem, on the other hand, is further east in the Moselle Valley. It’s also an idyllic town with half-timbered houses and quaint countryside. In town you’ll find the famous Reichsburg Castle (Cochem Castle), towering over the Moselle River. The medieval castle has been rebuilt many times over the year and it hosts fun themed activities like medieval-style dinner and live performances.

Quedlinburg 

Quedlinburg is another charming medieval town but this one is located up north in the Harz mountains. It’s one of the most important Renaissance towns in Europe since it is so well preserved. It has all the classic elements of medieval architecture including colorful half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. Some highlights include the Quedlinburg Castle-Hill, home to the Collegiate Church of St. Servatius and burial site of the first German King.

If you’re interested in what life was like in East Germany and aren’t visiting Berlin, there’s a DDR Museum in nearby Thale!

Görlitz 

Görlitz is a small town on the Polish border in southeastern Germany. Where the previously mentioned towns are celebrated for their medieval features, Görlitz boasts of a wealth of different architectural styles due to its rich history. You’ll find historic buildings from different eras like Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical and Art Nouveau. One of the most famous landmarks is the Parish Church of St. Peter and Paul which is part of the Via Sacra (Holy Route) pilgrimage. Another perk of visiting Görtliz is that you can walk to Poland!

German Castles

Neuschwanstein Castle & Hohenschwangau Castle

Neuschwanstein is a super popular destination in Germany, attracting over 1.5 million visitors from all across the globe every year. It’s said to have been the inspiration of Walt Disney for his famous princess castles.

If you have the chance to Neuschwanstein during winter, it makes for a unique experience as you’ll see the castle and the backdrop of the Alps all covered in snow. It’s breathtaking (and cold)!

The only downside to visiting in the winter is that the Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) is often closed due to snow and ice, making it difficult to get that iconic Neuschwanstein photo. Fortunately, there are several other vantage points for amazing photos (and selfies) but if you’ve got your heart set on the view from Marienbrücke, do consider the weather.

To make the most out of your visit, explore Hohenschwangau – another nearby castle known to be King Ludwig’s childhood summer home. If you can’t go inside Hohenschwangau, at least go up to the castle courtyard for the view.

If you’re adding this to your Munich itinerary, read our tips on how to plan the ultimate Neuschwanstein day trip.

Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle is a famous landmark found in Heidelberg, a university town located in southwest Germany. This castle is actually one of Germany’s most famous castle ruins, dating all the way back to the 13th century.

Its imposing exterior is helped by the fact that it’s so high up, providing spectacular views of the Neckar River. Aside from the views, make sure to check out the Heidelberg Tun (the world’s largest wine barrel) and the castle’s fireworks show during summer that’s done in memory of when the castle burned down.

Read our guide for more information on how to visit Heidelberg Castle.

Burg Eltz

Burg Eltz is one of the rare castles in Germany that has never been damaged by war or other external forces. It’s even been under ownership of the same family for over 30 generations. The Eltz Castle is on the north of the Moselle Valley overlooking the Elzbach River. In the castle you’ll find a museum with well-preserved artifacts and restaurants where you can dine in a medieval setting. Definitely a must-see!

Hohenzollern Castle

If you’re looking for a castle in the Black Forest, we recommend visiting Hohenzollern Castle. This ancestral seat of Prussian royals is located on the hilltops of the forest. The interiors are grand, with over 140 rooms with gilded coffered ceilings and ornate decorations. The castle also hosts special cultural events like open-air cinema screenings and concerts. It even has its own Christmas market and festivities!

Schwerin Castle

Schwerin Castle is famously called the “Neuschwanstein of the North.” It’s easy to see why! To start off, the castle has a unique location. It stands alone on an island on the main lake of the city, Lake Schwerin. Since it’s surrounded by water, the exterior of the castle makes for some beautiful pictures that look straight out of a fairy tale.

While the inside is very grand (there are around 600 rooms) and lavishly decorated, the exteriors are also just as breathtaking. The palace garden is lush and vibrant and is filled with beautiful structures like a green labyrinth and cascades. 

Wartburg Castle

Wartburg Castle is one of the most important castles in Germany because it was the first German castle to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its history dates back all the way to the 12th century and many of the original structures are still intact. The castle stands as a symbol of Germany’s rich and fascinating history. It’s situated on a cliff 1300 feet above the town of Eisenach, in the state of Thuringia.

Wernigerode Castle

The Wernigerode Castle is a hilltop castle found in the Harz Mountain region. It was originally built as a Renaissance fortress but then rebuilt in the Romantic style, which is very similar to Neuschwanstein Castle.

As a result of all the reconstruction, the style of the castle’s interior, from the rooms to the courtyards, has a little bit of everything. Since it’s atop a hill, the castle can be reached by a specialized motor train if you don’t want to walk up. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with great views over the historic town of Wernigerode and the beautiful Harz mountains.

Tip: Wernigerode is very close to Quedlinburg so you can easily combine a visit to both.

Nature: Islands, Beaches, Lakes, Forests and Mountains

If you’d like to get off the beaten path or crave nature on your Germany vacation, here are the best places to go.

Rügen & Hiddensee

Rügen is the largest island in Germany. It’s located in northeastern Germany in the Baltic Sea. The island is known for its sandy beaches stretching over 40 miles, white chalk cliffs, and amazing panoramic views. Rügen is also home to the Jasmund National Park, a park with a rich biodiversity of rare plants and birds as well as hiking and walking trails by the cliffs.

If you’re seeking calm, head to the car-free Hiddensee island. It’s so beautiful and peaceful. You won’t want to leave! You can also stop in historic Stralsund before or after visiting Rügen.

Lake Constance (Bodensee)

Lake Constance is a well-loved holiday spot for locals and tourists. It has an amazing location being bordered by three countries (Germany, Austria and Switzerland). Surrounding the lake you’ll find everything from vibrant resort towns and more quaint medieval villages. Aside from the gorgeous scenery, it’s known popular for water sports, mainly sailing, windsurfing, and swimming.

Harz Mountains

The Harz Mountains are home to many beautiful and well-preserved medieval towns but it’s a great spot for outdoor activities. The mountainous landscape is a good place for hiking routes and mountain biking trails of varying difficulties.

There are also several clear lakes that are ideal for swimming during the summer. One of the most popular outdoor destinations is the Bode Valley. There are also waterfalls like the Ilsenburg Lower Falls, Lonauer Waterfall, Radau Waterfall, and more.

When visiting the Harz Mountains you can also visit the fairtytale towns of Quedlinburg, Wernigerode and Goslar.

Spreewald

The Spreewald (Spree Forest) is a UNESCO-protected nature reserve located an hour away from Berlin (and about an hour north of Dresden). The forest is known for its winding canals lined with vibrant trees and diverse flora and fauna.

A great way to explore the area is by kayaking or riding the traditional Kahn boats along the canal. Make sure to visit the nearby towns of Lübbenau and Lehde where you’ll find museums showcasing the region’s crafts as well as get a glimpse of the everyday life of village life in Germany.

Saxon Switzerland & Bastei Bridge 

Saxon Switzerland National Park is located near the city of Dresden. The natural landscape is made up of mountains, elevated plains, cliff tops, gorges, woods, and the valley of the River Elbe.

The landscape is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. One of the most famous landmarks of the national park is the Bastei Bridge, a bridge that links the tall and jagged rock formations. It’s so beautiful! And it’s an easy day trip from Dresden any time of year.

After a long day of hiking, you can relax in the pools and saunas found in the park or at your hotel near the park or in Dresden.

Chiemsee & Königssee 

Chiemsee and Königssee are both popular lake destinations in southern Germany. Chiemsee is actually known as the Bavarian Sea because of how large it is. One of the islands in the lake, Herreninsel, is home to Herrenchiemsee Palace. This palace was created by King Ludwig as an homage to the Palace of Versailles.

Königssee on the other hand, is one of the deepest lakes in Germany located mainly in the Berchtesgaden National Park. The best way to explore this area is by boat. Boat tours on the Königssee will show you some of the top landmarks which include the St. Bartholomew Church, Obersee Lake, and Röthbach Waterfall. You can also do some great hiking in this area.

Black Forest

The Black Forest is a famous region in Germany that’s associated with many different things like the delicious Black Forest cake, the Brothers Grimm fairy tales, and cuckoo clocks.

In terms of landscape, the Black Forest is a mountainous region with dense forests, rivers, and lakes. The most visited destinations are the Triberg Falls, Germany’s highest waterfall with several hiking trails, and Titisee, a large natural lake that’s ideal for swimming, windsurfing, and sailing during summer.

In the surrounding area you’ll also find spa towns and villages like Calw, Bad Wildbad, Gengenbach, Baden-Baden, and the university town of Freiburg im Breisgau. A benefit of visiting the Black Forest is that you can day trip to both France and Switzerland!

Zugspitze (Garmisch-Partenkirchen)

Zugspitze is the highest peak in Germany. To reach the summit, you have to take a cable car and at the end you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of glaciers and mountain peaks from four neighboring countries. It’s a fantastic winter destination, especially for those who love skiing and sledding. During the summer months, you’ll have access to low-level trails that are good for hiking and trekking. You can stay in or near Garmisch-Partenkirchen or visit the Zugspitze on a day trip from Munich.

Germany Road Trips

Germany is an amazing place for road trips and driving is pretty easy (yes, even on the Autobahn). Here are some of the most popular routes with different themes you can choose from. 

Romantic Road 

The Romantic Road is the best road trip for those who can’t get enough of picturesque medieval towns. It’s also ideal if you’re spending more time in Bavaria and want to really explore the area beyond the big cities. The route runs from Würzburg to Füssen in Bavaria and passes through medieval villages like Rothenburg Ob der Tauber, Augsburg, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, and castles like Neuschwanstein and Linderhof.

Wine Road 

The Wine Road runs through Rhineland Palatinate, starting at Bockenheim in the north to Schweigen in the south. This route is dotted with rich vineyards, castles, and charming wine villages. Along the way you’ll get to stop by wine shops, delight in the local wine at tasting rooms, and attend any seasonal local wine festivals. 

German Castle Road

If you’re fascinated by German castles and want to check off as many from your bucket list, then embark on the German Castle Road. The route starts in Baden-Württemberg and goes all the way to Prague, Czech Republic. Some of the castles that are part of this route are Heidelberg Castle, the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, Hornberg Castle, Colmberg Castle, and many more. There’s also some crossover with the Romantic Road.

Biking Tours and Trails

Germany is a great country for biking. Many people bike not just for leisure or exercise but as part of their daily commute, routine, and even vacation. This means that for most cities, biking is safe and accessible. Throughout every German city, town, and village you’ll find specially marked bike lanes. And there are biking paths and trails all over rural Germany, too. If you have the opportunity to explore the major cities via bike we recommend the following tours:

• Berlin Sights and Highlights Bike Tour
• Munich Guided Bike Tour
• Hamburg Bike Tour around Alster Lake
• Cologne Guided Bike Tour

If you’re looking for routes that traverse the entire country or at least some regions, here is a list of the most popular cycling trails:

• Elbe Cycle Path (Elberadweg) – goes along the Elbe through Hamburg, Magdeburg, and Dresden; starts in Lower Saxony and ends in Czech Republic
• River Main Cycle Route (MainRadweg) – goes along the river Main through the Rhine and Moselle
• Moselle Cycle Route (Moselradweg) – goes along the Moselle Valley; starts at the German-French-Luxembourg border and flowing all the way to the mouth of the Moselle on the Rhine

River Cruises and Boat Tours

Major cities along a body of water will also have a variety of boat tours and river cruises to choose from. Here are some of our recommended tours:

• Berlin Boat Tour along Spree River
• Frankfurt Sightseeing Cruise along River Main
• Hamburg Harbor Day Cruise
• Cologne Top Sights Rhine River Cruise

The post Best Germany Vacations & Tours: Places to Go in 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

No Berlin itinerary is complete without adding a couple museums that are in line with your interests! This guide of the best museums in Berlin will help you choose which to visit during your trip.

And because figuring out which ticket or pass to get can be confusing, I lay out your options so you can make the best choice for your itinerary. I also tell you how you can visit many of these museums for free!

I spent hours comparing ticket and museum pass options while we were in Berlin recently so I hope the information at the very end of this article saves you from having to do the same!

Best Museums in Berlin

Museums on the Museum Island

Berlin’s Museum Island is a complex of 5 famous museums (see description of each below) located along the Spree River near Unter den Linden. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most renowned museum sites in Europe, covering everything from archaeology, art and history. Here are the 5 museums on the island:

Altes Museum

The Altes Museum (“Old Museum”) features an impressive collection of classical antiquities with a special focus on Ancient Greece and Rome. This includes bronze, clay and stone sculptures, coin collection from the 7th century, jewelry and vases made of gold, and Roman portraits and tombs.

Alte Nationalgalerie

The Alte Nationalgalerie features art collections from the 19th century onwards. It houses over 3,000 paintings and sculptures of different art movements like realism and impressionism, with works from famous artists like Monet and Renoir. 

Bode Museum

The Bode Museum is housed in a Baroque building and is home to a large and unique sculpture collection as well as sacred Byzantine art. The sculptures date back to the Middle Ages to the 18th centuries. Aside from Byzantine art, the museum is also known for its well-preserved Byzantine coin and medals collection.

Neues Museum

The Neues Museum (“New Museum”) is actually home to some of the oldest archaeological findings in the world. The collections feature items from prehistory from the Stone Age, the Golden Age and the Bronze Age as well as artifacts from ancient Egypt, the most famous one being the bust of Nefertiti. 

Pergamon Museum

The Pergamon Museum is home to magnificent items from the ancient world. Journey into the past by visiting the Pergamon Altar, a monumental construction from the 2nd century BC and the Market Gate of Miletus, a large marble monument built in the 2nd century AD. You can also admire beautiful artwork and cultural artifacts from the Museum of Islamic Art here.

• Public transportation stop:  U-bahn: Friedrichstraße / S-bahn: Friedrichstraße or Hackescher Markt
• Museum Pass or Museum Island Pass: you get free entry to all 5 museums with either pass
• Berlin Welcome Card: Free entry with All Inclusive and Museum Island
• Book online: If you’d like a skip-the-line ticket and expert-led tour of the Pergamon and New Museum, plus a Museum Island Pass, book this ticket online.
• If you just want to book tickets for an individual museum, book a ticket here (timed entry for Alte Nationalgalerie, Neues Museum, Pergamon Museum)

DDR Museum

The DDR Museum, located just across the Berlin Cathedral, gives you a fascinating look into everyday life back in the years of the German Democratic Republic or former East Germany. The interactive exhibits let you sit in an interrogation room, drive an old Trabi, sit on replica furniture, and even try on authentic clothes from that time. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the experience to have a better and more critical understanding of this part of Germany’s history. This is a super fun museum!

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Alexanderplatz / S-bahn: Hackescher Markt
• Museum Pass: Not included
• Berlin Welcome Card: 25% discount with Basic, free entry with All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Book your skip the line ticket here!

Everyday Life in the DDR Museum (Alltag in der DDR)

If you can’t visit the DDR Museum, or if you’re especially interested in life in the former East Germany, the Everyday Life in the DDR Museum is a fantastic place to visit. And it’s free!

This interactive museum dives into several facets of everyday life in the DDR (GDR) including school, work, grocery shopping, restaurants, vacations, and more. You can even scan a QR code when you enter the museum and listen to their free audio guide as you tour the museum. We really liked this museum and found it a wonderful complement to the DDR Museum.

After touring this museum, explore the Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood or walk to the Mauerpark (Wall Park).

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Eberswalderstrasse
• Tickets: free admission!

Stasi Museum

If you’re interested in the Cold War time period and how the Stasi (East Germany’s secret police) spied on its citizens, the Stasi Museum the perfect museum for you. It’s housed in the former Stasi building! Inside you can explore 3 floors of exhibit and walk through actual offices and meeting rooms used by the Stasi. They offer an audio tour and expert-guided tours but you can also explore at your own pace.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Magdalenenstrasse
• Museum Pass: Not included
• Berlin Welcome Card: 25% discount with Basic, free entry with All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Book a ticket here!

German Spy Museum (Deutsches Spionagemuseum)

Want to know more about spy craft throughout history in Germany and beyond? If so, this interactive museum deserves a spot on your itinerary. There are several interactive exhibits kids will love, so it’s a fun family destination. While you can get tickets at the door – if they’re available – it’s better to book online so you can skip the line (that’s what we did).

• Public transportation stop: Potsdamer Platz
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: 25% discount with Basic, free entry with All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Book a flexible entry ticket here!

Berlinische Galerie

The Berlinische Galerie showcases art from classical modernism, expressionism, Dadaism and a special focus on avant-garde European art. Works encompass all sorts of media from photography, painting, installation, architecture, and digital art. The museum is also an important cultural center for concerts, lectures and talks featuring international artists.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Hallesches Tor, Kochstraße or Moritzplatz
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: 37.5% discount with Basic and All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online: Book your skip the line ticket here!

Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum)

The Deutsches Historisches Museum is one of the best places to learn all about the history of Germany. The permanent exhibition in the historic Zeughaus building showcases thousands of historical artifacts from medieval armors, embroidered uniforms, election posters, and even an original piece of the Berlin Wall. On the other hand, special temporary exhibitions on current political and social developments can be found in the modern Pei Building. 

Note: As of December 2022, the Zeughaus building is closed until further notice.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Museumsinsel
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: 25% discount with Basic, free entry with All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Deutsches Historisches Museum Official Website

Deutsches Technikmuseum Berlin (German Museum of Technology)

For any fans of science and tech, the Deutsches Technikmuseum is one of the best Berlin museums. The interactive exhibits take you from early history achievements in aircrafts and locomotives to modern developments in computers and communication technology. The museum takes on a hands-on, activity-oriented approach so if you’re traveling with children make sure to check out their programmes of presentations and guided group workshops too!

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Möckernbrücke or Gleisdreieck
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: 37.5% discount with Basic and All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online: Deutsches Technikmuseum Berlin Official Website

Hamburger Bahnhof (Museum of Contemporary Art)

Hamburger Bahnhof is located in a former train station and is a vibrant center of the German capital’s contemporary art scene. The train station used to be a railway museum until the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation agreed to operate the museum as part of the Nationalgalerie. Aside from paintings, you’ll see everything from sculptures, photography, object art, and video and film art. It’s also home to must-see artworks from iconic artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Joseph Beuys. 

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn/S-bahn: Hauptbahnhof
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: Free entry with All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online: Book your skip the line ticket here!

Humboldt Forum

Humboldt Forum is one of the newest museums in Berlin having opened to the public in 2021. The new cultural center combined two institutions, the Ethnological Museum of Berlin and the Museum of Asian Art, into one. It showcases important collections from other cultures of Africa, America, Asia, and Oceania. The museum also has a research laboratory that hosts workshops and events that cover global problems and challenges.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Museumsinsel or Rotes Rathaus / S-bahn: Alexanderplatz or Friedrichstraße
• Museum Pass: Free entry to special exhibitions
• Berlin Welcome Card: Not included
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Humboldt Forum Official Website

Jüdisches Museum (Jewish Museum Berlin)

The Jewish Museum is one of the largest museums dedicated to German-Jewish history and culture. The architecture of the museum itself, designed by Daniel Libeskind, is worth visiting and full of meaning. Inside, German-Jewish history is documented through several exhibitions discussing not only World War II but beyond. Some Noteworthy areas are The Memory Void, Holocaust Tower, and Shalekhet (Fallen Leaves). The permanent exhibition is always free of charge.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Hallesches Tor or Kochstraße
• Museum Pass: Free entry to special exhibitions
• Berlin Welcome Card: 25% discount to special exhibitions with Basic and All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Book your skip the line ticket here!

Kunstgewerbemuseum (Museum of Decorative Arts)

The exhibitions at Kunstgewerbemuseum (Museum of Decorative Arts) are the perfect intersection of art, fashion, and design. It houses world-famous displays of European arts and crafts such as relics made of gold and silver, jewelry, porcelain, furniture, tapestry, costumes, and embroidered textiles. These items cover different periods and styles from the Middle Ages to Art Nouveau and give a unique glimpse of the everyday items used back then.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn/S-bahn: Potsdamer Platz
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: 25% discount with Basic and All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online: Staatliche Museen zu Berlin Official Website

Museum Für Naturkunde (Natural History Museum)

Museum Für Naturkunde (Museum of Natural History) showcases the development and evolution of the world through its interesting exhibitions covering everything from the world of dinosaurs, the solar system, minerals, native animals, and evolution. It’s one of the best museums to visit if you’re traveling with children since it’s both fun and educational. Some highlights include the world’s largest dinosaur skeleton and one of the best preserved skeletal specimens of a T-rex.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Naturkundemuseum / S-bahn: Hauptbahnhof or Nordbahnhof
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: 37.5% discount with Basic, 38% discount with All Inclusive
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Book your skip the line ticket here!

Neue Nationalgalerie

Neue Nationalgalerie is a must-visit for lovers of contemporary and modern art. The striking modern museum building opened again recently in 2021 after extensive renovations. The light-filled upper level terrace provides the perfect space for special exhibitions featuring large-scale sculptures. Meanwhile, the lower level houses themed shows and the museum’s permanent collection which features 20th century artists like Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, and more.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn/S-bahn: Potsdamer Platz
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: Not included
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Staatliche Museen zu Berlin Official Website

Topography of Terror

The Topography of Terror is one of the most visited memorials and place of remembrance in Berlin, with over a million visitors each year. This free museum is located on the site of the former Nazi Gestapo headquarters and makes for one of a dark, but educational visit. The permanent exhibitions teach visitors through photographs and old documents about the crimes that took place in the site during the Nazi regime. You can also find here the longest surviving section of the Berlin Wall in the center of Berlin.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn: Potsdamer Platz or Kochstraße / S-bahn: Potsdamer Platz or Anhalter Bahnhof
• Free admission for all

Music Instrument Museum

Located in the Berlin Philharmonic, the Museum of Musical Instruments boasts of a collection of over 3,300 European musical instruments from 16th to the 21st century. A great majority of them have been well-preserved and can even be played today. One of the most unique highlights of this museum is the Naumburger wind instrument collection, a rare set of instruments which belonged to a group of traveling pipers in the early 17th century.

• Public transportation stop: U-bahn/S-bahn: Potsdamer Platz
• Museum Pass: Free entry
• Berlin Welcome Card: Not included
• Book regular ticket online: Get tickets here!

Düppel Medieval Open Air Museum

This is a fun “museum” the whole family will enjoy! Located in the Berlin suburbs, you could easily spend an entire day wandering around the beautiful Düppel grounds learning about life in the Middle Ages. It’s a hands-on museum so you can pet farm animals, roast Stockbrot (bread on a stick) over an open fire, and observe how people dressed in authentic medieval clothes spin yarn, dye fabric, and more. It’s a lot of fun!

• Public transportation stop: S-bahn: Zehlendorf or Mexikoplatz
• Museum Pass: Not included
• Berlin Welcome Card: Not included
• Book regular ticket online (timed entry): Book tickets here!

What Kind of Tickets or Museum Pass to Get?

Should you get a Berlin Museum Pass, Museum Island Pass or a Berlin Welcome Card? Or should you simply buy individual tickets? There are so many options it will make your head spin. It just comes down to how many museums you want to visit. Let’s look at each option.

How to Visit Museums for FREE!

Before you book any tickets, be sure to check the calendar because if you’re in Berlin on the 1st Sunday of the month, you can visit many of the museums in this list for free!

Single Museum Ticket

If you only want to visit a couple museums, and don’t need the other benefits of the Berlin Welcome card (like public transportation) just buy one or more individual tickets. Note that many museums now require timed entry, so be sure to book tickets in advance so you can get your preferred day and time.

Berlin Museum Pass

The Berlin Museum Pass gives you free entry to over 30 exhibitions and museums for 3 consecutive days. It includes Museum Island and a number of museums which you can find here.

Can you see 30 museums in 3 days? Nope! But with some planning you could probably see 6-9 museums. More if you want to speed through them. If you hit up the right combo of museums, you’ll save money by day 2.

When we were last in Berlin we got Aaron this museum pass so he could visit several museums I’d already been to. Since he had 3 days he could devote to museums, this pass worked out well. And it paid for itself by the second day.

For a majority of the museums, you need to book a timed entry (a specific day and time), which you can easily book when you purchase the pass or later for free on each museum’s website.

I highly recommend checking prices of the museums you’d like to visit and which days/times are available for the timed-entry museums, and then creating a schedule on paper. Be sure to factor in travel time between museums and enough time to get a snack, lunch, etc. This way you can be sure you’ll get your money’s worth out of the pass and that you’ll be able to get a timed entry for your desired days and times.

It took me a bit to figure out a schedule that would work but we did save a good amount of money with the pass and Aaron enjoyed visiting the museums!

To save money on entrance tickets, buy the Berlin Museum Pass here.

Berlin Museum Island Pass

If you just want to focus on the 5 museums on the museum island, this could be a good option. You can get a 1-day Museum Island Pass here.

If you’d prefer to have a guided tour, check out this skip the line ticket that includes an expert-guided tour of the Pergamon and New Museum plus a Museum Island Pass.

Berlin Welcome Card

The Berlin Welcome Card is Berlin’s official tourist ticket that gives you free access to public transportation, discounts to tourist attractions, and free entry to many museums. You can choose from different packages and durations depending on what you need. For more information on the Berlin Welcome card click here.

• Berlin Welcome Card Basic: Includes public transport in zone AB and discounts to various tourist attractions
• Berlin Welcome Card All Inclusive: Includes public transport (but can be optional), discounts and free entrance to various tourist attractions, and 1 day hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Berlin Welcome Card Museum Island: Includes public transport, discounts to various tourist attractions, and free entry to one museum on Museum Island per day

The Berlin Welcome Card might work for you…and it might not. As with the Berlin Museum Pass above, check prices of the museums you want to visit and compare to the Welcome Card options.

Museum Pass vs Berlin Welcome Card Overview

The post Best Museums to Visit in Berlin, Germany in 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

As one of the busiest airports in the world, tons of people pass through and spend time at FRA for lots of different reasons.

You might be coming from the United States and have a long layover before catching your connecting flight to another city in Germany.

Perhaps you have a short layover before your next flight to another European destination.

Or maybe you have to wait a few hours to pick up your rental car or catch a train to another destination in Germany or elsewhere in Europe.

No matter the reason or the amount of time you have, there’s no need to be bored!

Whether you stay in the airport or venture outside to the city center, here are the best things to do during your Frankfurt Airport layover. 

10 Things to Do at Frankfurt Airport on a Layover

As the busiest airport in Germany, Frankfurt Airport has plenty of activities to keep travelers occupied during their 2 or 3 hour layover.

If you’d prefer to venture into downtown Frankfurt am Main, scroll down for directions and our sight-seeing tips.

1. Unwind In An Airport Lounge

A great way to unwind after long international flights is by relaxing at one of the lounges in the airport. If you fly business class or first class, you’ll automatically have lounge access to your airline’s exclusive lounge. These include Lufthansa, Air Canada, Air France KLM, Emirates, Japan Airlines, and more.

Alternatively, you can also book a stay at the Frankfurt Airport VIP-Services airport lounge. It’s available for any traveler as long as you book in advance. Take relaxation to a whole other level at a fully equipped conference room or a luxurious private suite, complete with a chauffeur in a luxury limousine directly to your aircraft. 

There are also several walk-in lounges that offer day tickets at more affordable rates, giving you access to buffet meals, unlimited high-speed free wifi, fully serviced bars, comfortable seating, and even showers. For more information on the different airport lounges, visit the airport’s official website.

We get a couple free lounge access tickets each year through one of our business credit cards, so check yours to see if that’s an option.

2. Take An Airport Tour

This tour is a fun way to learn interesting facts and see different parts of the airport you wouldn’t otherwise see. There are two tours offered: XXL Tour (2-hour tour) and Starter Tour (45 minutes). All tours are done from the comfort of an air-conditioned bus. 

The XXL Tour is the ultimate airport experience. You can see the ground handling of aircraft, takeoffs and landings in the central runways, and new development sites. The Starter Tour allows you to see the highlights, like a quick glance at aircrafts being fueled and closeups of aircraft livery from all over the world. Book tickets here!

3. Admire The Views From The Visitors’ Terrace Or Open Air Deck

Get some much needed fresh air at the Visitors’ Terrace and the Open Air Deck! The Visitors’ Terrace located in Terminal 2 is a great place to get a closer view of the apron and planes landing and taking off on the runways. 

The Open Air Deck is a roof terrace located in the transit area. Here you can take a smoke break, sit among the greenery under the sun, or watch airplanes. There’s even a telescope you can use for close ups, at no extra cost. 

4. Go On A Shopping Spree

Frankfurt Airport has stores and shopping areas scattered in all terminals. The Airport City Mall, located pre-security in Terminal 1 features a wide range of retail outlets and restaurants. In Terminal 2, you’ll find all the airport staples like convenience stores, Duty Free, and famous designer brands.

You can even book a personal shopper to advise you on the best products or help you look for something specific. The personal shoppers speak Mandarin, Vietnamese, German and English fluently and the service is free of charge.

Even if you’re not in the mood to make purchases, it’s always interesting to see what’s available in other countries, isn’t it?

5. Experience A Flight Simulator

Traveling with children and looking for a fun activity to keep them entertained? Check out the flight simulator center!

Experience what flying is like from the perspective of a pilot and practice taking off and landing at different international airports. Choose from different simulations (there’s even one for younger kids), all under the guidance of an expert professional pilot! 

6. Catch A Movie At Movie World

Another great way to pass time quickly is by watching movies. At Movie World, you can watch movies on a big screen for free! These small, private areas have TVs where you can choose from blockbusters, full-length movies, documentaries, and television series. There’s a wide selection to choose from, suitable for families and available in different languages.

7. Enjoy Delicious Meals, Drinks And Snacks

You definitely won’t go hungry with all the choices of restaurants available! The airport offers a wide range of options, from fast food chains, German local food, coffee shops and bakeries, Asian food, Italian food, and healthy options.

There are some establishments that are open 24/7 during the summer months such as McDonald’s, and other German chains like Bistrot, Scoom that serve everything from pastries, Schnitzel, sandwiches, and salads. Check the full list of dining options here.

8. Meditate, Stretch And Relax

After a long day of traveling, nothing helps like some peace and quiet. There are multiple spaces in FRA that allow you to have some time to yourself amidst the noise and bustle of the airport. You’ll find free-of-charge yoga rooms in both terminals, fully equipped with mirror walls, yoga mats, and a monitor showing short videos. 

If you’re religious, there are Christian chapels, Jewish prayer rooms, and Muslim prayer rooms in both terminals as well. For those who are not religious, you can visit the quiet rooms. These rooms are entirely neutral and don’t have any specific cultural or religious features. They’re an excellent place to enjoy a few moments of contemplation and de-stress.

9. Freshen Up After A Long Flight

If you need to freshen up before traveling to your final destination, take advantage of the shower facilities available in the airport. The showers are open for use between 6:00 am and 11:00 pm. There is a small cost of 6,00€ to use them but this includes a towel, toiletries, and use of a hair dryer. Check the locations of the showers here.

10. Take A Comfortable Nap

Struggling with jet lag and want a comfortable place to sleep for a while? Book a spot at the NapCabs in Terminal 1! The NapCabs are small soundproof cabins with a comfortable bed, adjustable air-conditioning, alarm clock, USB charging station, free wi-fi, and even a work desk. Cabins are booked per hour with a minimum of 2 to 3 hours, depending on the time and must be reserved in advance online.

How To Leave Frankfurt Airport And Explore the City Center

If you have 7 to 8 hours or more available, then we definitely suggest venturing out of the airport and heading into the city to do some sightseeing. You’ll be surprised at how much you can see and fit into your schedule!

One of the most efficient ways to go about exploring Frankfurt is to start in Old Town, the heart of Frankfurt.

It’s home to important landmarks like Römerberg, the central main square, and Frankfurt’s City Hall. From here you can easily make your way to the Frankfurt Cathedral, cross the Iron Bridge, and stroll along the River Main.

There’s more to the city but these are the highlights to see when you don’t have much time.

For a full list of popular spots and main attractions to see, read our 1 day in Frankfurt itinerary guide.

Getting to Frankfurt city center

There are a couple ways of getting to the city center from the airport using public transportation. But you can also take a taxi or book a car rental if you prefer.

By Bus

There are several bus lines which can take you to the center: 61, 77, 72, 58 and 62 bus lines (daytime buses) and 81 and 7 bus lines (night buses).

By Train

S-bahn (regional trains): Take the S-Bahn railway S6 and S9 lines to Offenbach Ost and Hanau. Then you’ll be able to transfer to downtown Frankfurt (Hauptwache Station).

U-bahn (metro): You can take U Bahn 8 and 9 lines, which will take you to Hauptwache Station.

Need to Spend The Night at Frankfurt Airport or Frankfurt City?

If you have a long stay at the airport, and especially if you need to stay overnight, we suggest booking a hotel near the airport.

It’ll be much more comfortable to relax in a hotel room before catching your next flight or train ride and it also allows you to explore Frankfurt city center without worrying about making it back by a specific time.

There’s a hotel located directly inside the airport called MY CLOUD Transit Hotel. This is a good option for those who either don’t have enough time or the desire to go out and explore the city of Frankfurt but would still like to have the privacy of their own room to relax. 

The compact rooms have queen-sized beds, modern bathrooms, air-conditioning, flat screen TVs, and some even have views of the runway. Click here to book a room in this Frankfurt Airport Hotel.

If you want to stay outside of the airport, you’ll find plenty of options in the surrounding area.  Many have direct access to the airport via walkways, while many others are just a 5- to 10-minute walk away.

Here are some of our top suggestions:

1. Hilton Garden Inn – World class hotel chain with direct access to Terminal 1 by skywalk
2. Holiday Inn Frankfurt Airport – Great value hotel located 10 minutes away from Terminal 2
3. Steigenberger Airport Hotel Frankfurt – Business hotel with modern amenities and complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle

Check out our complete guide of the best hotels near Frankfurt International Airport.

The post What To Do On a Layover In Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

Known as Germany’s bustling financial capital, Frankfurt isn’t exactly the first city that comes to mind when you think of the best German castles. The city conjures up images of tall skyscrapers, busy streets, and urban architecture. 

But you’ll be surprised to find out that just on the outskirts of this modern city, fascinating castles await you. From Gothic castles, medieval forts, private residences and even a castle turned youth hostel, there’s no shortage of interesting castles waiting to be discovered outside of Frankfurt.

In this guide, we share a list of the best castles near Frankfurt (perfect for day trips!) and practical information on what to do and how to get to each castle. It’s a great starting point to explore not only Frankfurt but all the other castles that Germany has to offer! At the end of the guide we share tips for visiting Frankfurt.

Can I Take a Day Trip To These Castles from Frankfurt?

Yes! In fact, these castles make for the perfect day trip from Frankfurt because of their proximity to the city. So you can easily add day one or more day trips to your itinerary. The best castle for a quick and easy day trip would be Saalburg Roman Fort since it’s just a 30-minute drive away from Frankfurt.

Most of the other castles are over an hour drive away which are great if you have more free time in your itinerary. You can also look into guided tours that take care of transportation and logistics to make your day trip hassle-free, like this guided day trip from Frankfurt to Eltz Castle.

Can I Sleep in a Castle Near Frankfurt?

Though many of us would love to experience sleeping like royals in a castle, it’s not as common of an option as you may imagine. Many of these castles serve as museums or exhibits that showcase the castles’ rich history and background. Some of them are also still under the ownership of the founding families so they’re used as summer residences or private estates.

Because of this, sleeping in a castle is not really an option that’s easily available — with some rare exceptions. For example, the castle in Bacharach has been turned into a youth hostel! If you book well in advance, you can have the unique experience of sleeping in a German castle. Yes, it’s a youth hostel but hostels in Germany tend to be pretty nice (albeit basic) and family oriented.

The castle in Bacharach is on a hill overlooking the village of Bacharach below and has AMAZING views of the river Rhine below. You can drive up the hill to hostel entrance or hike up from the town (and train station) below. Even if you don’t stay there I highly recommend hiking up to the castle for the view (it is a hike up a hill but it’s pretty short).

Other castles in the area have hotels not inside the castle itself, but very close by. You can stay in one of their tastefully designed rooms and get spectacular views of the castle and surrounding landscape.

If you’re really seeking unique, fun experiences in castles besides guided tours, then we suggest looking into special tours or events that each castle hosts. Many host medieval dinners and feasts or festive markets during Christmas season.

How to Get to the Castles Near Frankfurt

If you’ll be in the Frankfurt area and want to venture out beyond the city, you can take your pick from several castles!

The best and fastest way to get to these castles near Frankfurt is by car. The drives to most of these castles are just a little over an hour. Many official websites have helpful directions on what routes to take. So if you’re picking up or dropping off a rental car in Frankfurt, why not include one or more of the castles below on your itinerary?

That said, you can get pretty much anywhere in Germany via public transportation. Some of the castles give directions for public transportation though you might have to transfer from train to bus. 

Beautiful Castles to Visit Near Frankfurt

Here are 8 of the best castles to visit near Frankfurt and 10 beautiful castles that are a little further away from Frankfurt but deserve a spot on your Germany itinerary!

1. Saalburg Roman Fort

Saalburg Roman Fort is located on the Saalburg Pass in the Taunus Mountains, just 30 minutes away from the city center of Frankfurt. It was built all the way back in the 2nd century, serving as a fort for Roman troops. 

Although it was recently reconstructed 100 years ago in the 19th century, the archaeological structures transports you back in time to the Roman Empire. The surrounding area is also filled with ruins of Roman villages and shrines under old trees. 

The Saalburg Roman Fort now serves as an open-air museum. Inside you can admire excavation finds and replicas of artifacts used by soldiers who lived in the fort. There are even special events where you can participate in themed tours, complete with presentations of Roman clothing, tools, and activities. It’s a great place to visit with children!

If you get hungry after exploring the fort, you can dine in Taberna, the museum restaurant and cafe serving modern Roman cuisine.

Entrance Fee: 7 € for adults

Directions: By train: from Frankfurt take the S-Bahn (S5/Direction Bad Homburg/Friedrichsdorf) to the Bad Homburg Bahnhof. From there, a city bus (Line 5) travels several times daily to Saalburg. By car: read more here.

2. Mespelbrunn Castle

Mespelbrunn Castle is situated in the town of Mespelbrunn, between Frankfurt and Würzburg. It’s around an hour away from Frankfurt by car. This moated castle dates back to the late medieval times to the early Renaissance period. 

Its fairly secluded location in the forest surrounded by the lake and against the backdrop of the town’s rolling hills makes for a picturesque landscape. Up to the present day, the castle is a family home of the founding royal family, the Counts of Ingelheim. Because of this, there is a privacy policy to follow, meaning entrance is only allowed by going on the castle’s guided tour.

Entrance Fee: 6 €

Directions: By car: take the Autobahn A3 and exit at Weibersbrunn then cross the roundabout following directions to Mespelbrunn. In Mespelbrunn, take a right and after a few meters a left into the village following the directions Schloss Mespelbrunn. Stay on the main road (Hauptstrasse) for about 3km. At Hotel Engel, take a left onto Schlossallee. By train: this castle is best reached by car.

3. Castle Steinau

Castle Steinau is one of the best preserved and largest castle complexes of the 16th century in Hesse. It’s around an hour drive away from Frankfurt. The original castle had an interesting structure. The buildings formed a pentagon, guarded by a five-sided outer ward, four corner bastions, and a 18- to 25-meter moat. 

The castle is also known for the Brothers Grimm museum. The Brothers Grimm, known for writing the world’s most famous fairy tales, spent their childhood in Steinau. Since 2015, there has been a permanent exhibition on the castle’s top floor dedicated to their work. In here you can find everything from writings, to portraits, and everyday objects like an inkwell owned by Jacob Grimm.

Entrance Fee: 3,50 € (without guided tour); 4,50 € (with guided tour)

Directions: By car: take the Autobahn A66 towards Frankfurt/Hanau and exit at 48 – Schlüchtern-Süd. Stay there towards Steinau-Ost and from there simply follow the instructions to the Castle Steinau. By train: take a regional train to Steinau (about 1 hour) and then walk to the castle (about 20 minutes).

4. Marburg Castle

Marburg Castle (also known as Marburger Schloss or Landgrafenschloss) is another castle located in Hesse, a little over an hour drive away from Frankfurt. It was first built in the 11th century as a fort but now serves as a Museum of Cultural History at the Philipps University of Marburg. It’s home to many historic rooms, including one of the most beautiful secular Gothic halls in Germany. The castle is high up on a hill overlooking the city so after visiting the castle museum, get ready for impressive views!

Entrance Fee: about 5€

Directions: By train: take a regional train from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to Marburg Hauptbahnhof (about 2 hours), take bus #2 5 stops to Marburg Rudolphsplatz, then walk up to the castle (or take the shuttle if its being offered). By car: take the A5, then A485 and B3 to Südspange in Marburg. Take the exit toward Marburg-Süd/Cappel/Uni. Klinikum/Uni. Lahnberge from B3 and continue to the castle.

5. Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle)

Burg Eltz is a medieval castle that’s known for being one of the few castles in the Eifel region that has never been destroyed by world war. You can still find the original furnishings from centuries ago inside. It is still owned by the same family who has resided there since the 12th century.  

Its eight towers stand tall on a large rock by the Moselle valley and surrounded by the rich flora and fauna of the Eltz Forest. The region is actually one of the best places to go for hikes. Even the short hike to the top of the castle is well worth a visit!

The tour of the castle showcases its inner courtyard and many historic buildings including the armory hall, the knight’s hall, and the hunting room. There’s even two restaurants nearby where you can experience you can dine in a medieval setting.

Entrance Fee: 12 €

Directions: By train: take the train to Hatzenport and then the bus 365 to the Burg Eltz parking lot (about 3 hours). By car: click here for more.

An easy way to enjoy Burg Etlz without the stress of driving or taking a long train trip is with this full-day tour from Frankfurt!

6. Wartburg Castle

Wartburg Castle is a famous castle originally built in the Middle Ages. It’s located in the state of Thuringia (Thuringen), on a cliff overlooking the small town of Eisnach, around 2 and half hours away from Frankfurt by car.

It holds great significance in German history. First of all, it’s the place where Martin Luther translated the New Testament of the Holy Bible into German. It’s also said to be one of the key inspirations for King Ludwig II for building Neuschwanstein Castle. And last but not least, it’s also one of the first of many German castles to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Entrance Fee: 13 €

Directions: By car: you can reach Eisenach and Wartburg Castle via the A4 autobahn and the B7, B19 and B84. (about 2 hours) The access road to the castle and parking lot is located in the southern part of town, off the B19. By train: take the train to Eisenach (2 hours), then bus #3 to the castle.

7. Cochem Castle (Reichsburg Castle)

Cochem Castle (also known as Reichsburg Castle) is a neo-Gothic style castle overlooking the Moselle River in the town of Cochem which is about 2 hours by car from Frankfurt. 

In addition to the usual guided tours in different languages, guests can participate in various fun events hosted at the castle. On Fridays and Saturdays, the “Knights Feast” takes place, a medieval-style dinner with costumes, entertaining performances, and a knighting ceremony.

During the holiday season, you can catch Christmas performances presented by live costumed actors, accompanied by animals, as they take you through the castle’s wonderful gardens.

If you don’t have much time, you can dine in at the castle tavern. Enjoy wine tasting and light food while taking in panoramic views of the Moselle River. Cochem is a delightful town to visit anytime during the year!

Entrance Fee: 7 €

Directions: By car: take A3 and A48 to L98 in Kaisersesch. Take exit 4-Kaisersesch from A48 to Cochem (about 2 hours). There’s no parking at the castle so park in a city lot in town. You can then walk or take the shuttle (May-October) to the castle. By train: take train to Cochem Hauptbahnhof, then walk to take the shuttle to the castle.

8. Castle Stahleck in Bacharach

Castle Stahleck is located in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, around an hour drive away from Frankfurt. This beautiful castle stands on a crag above sea level with a view of the Lorelei valley. It’s also surrounded by a water-filled partial moat, which is a unique architectural feature for castles in Germany.

It has a rich history, dating back to the 12th century though the exact year remains unknown. In the 17th century, it was destroyed during the Thirty Years War. It was only in the early 20th century when it was rebuilt to be a youth hostel.

Currently, the Bacharach Youth Hostel is a world-famous accommodation that’s almost always fully booked. There are over 160 rooms accommodating different numbers of beds. There’s a dining room, bistro, cafe/bar, multiple common rooms, and even a Knights’ Hall that can be used for events for over 100 people.

Because the castle is used as a hostel, it’s not available for tours. But, the public can enjoy free entry to the courtyard where they can enjoy views of the Rhine River.

Even if you don’t stay at the castle youth hostel, you can hike up the hill for the amazing views! It’s worth hike, both to see the castle (last time I was there you could go inside the common areas, even if you’re not staying there) and the views.

Entrance Fee: no fee

Directions: By train: take a regional train (or S8 + regional train) to Bacharach (about 1 hour). Hike up the hill to the castle. By car: take B43, then A60 to L400 in Bingen am Rhein. Take exit 49-Bingen-Mitte from A61. You can drive up to the castle but may not be able to park if you’re not staying there. You can park in the public lots in the town below.

What Are Some Other Castles To Visit In Germany?

If you can’t get enough of castles, then good news for you, there are so many more to explore around Germany! According to some sources, there are over 25,000 castles throughout the country! Here are some of the other top castles in Germany to visit:

• Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria (the famous fairytale castle Walt Disney modeled his Disneyland castle after)
• Hohenschwangau Castle in Bavaria
• Heidelberg Castle in Heidelberg
• Hohenzollern Castle near Stuttgart
• Lichtenstein Castle near Stuttgart
• Linderhof Palace in Bavaria
• Schwerin Castle in Schwerin in Northern Germany
• Nymphenburg Palace in Munich
• Herrenchiemsee Palace in Bavaria
• Sanssouci Palace near Berlin

If you are venturing farther away from Frankfurt, Bavaria is one of the best places to start in your quest to visit more castles. The region is especially known for King Ludwig’s fairytale castles. 

You can’t miss out on Neuschwanstein castle, the iconic source of inspiration for Walt Dinsey. Since it’s just a few hours from Munich, you can easily reach the castle by car or public transportation. For tips on how to plan the perfect day trip from Munich, read our guide here. While you’re there, you can also visit Hohenschwangau castle since it’s right next to Neuschwanstein. 

Aside from Neuschwanstein, the other King Ludwig castles like Linderhof Palace, Nymphenburg Palace, and Herrenchiemsee Palace are all worth visiting. To learn more about King Ludwig’s castles in Bavaria and how to visit them, check out our complete guide here.

If you’re heading to Berlin, then Schwerin Castle and Sanssouci Palace are all within easy access by public transportation. 

In southwest Germany, you’ll find Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important castle ruins in the north of the Alps. If you’re traveling to Stuttgart, you can also plan day trips to Hohenzollern Castle and Lichtenstein Castle. If you want to add more castles to your Germany itinerary, read our guide for more tips on how to tour the best castles in Germany!

Where is Frankfurt?

Located in the German state of Hesse (Hessen in German), in the western part of the country on the banks of the River Main, Frankfurt am Main is one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in Germany. The city is also the heart of the larger Rhine-Main metropolitan region. 

Frankfurt is a global city and one of the major financial centers of Europe. Because of this, this city is a hub for many worldwide and European corporate headquarters. It’s also home to some of the most renowned cultural institutions like the Alte Oper and the Museum Embankment (Museumsufer). 

For many travelers, Frankfurt is widely known as the gateway to Germany or even continental Europe. This is in large part due to the Frankfurt Airport, the busiest airport in the country and one of the busiest in the world. It is the airport with the most direct routes in the world and is also the main hub for Lufthansa, the national airline of Germany.

If you’re flying in or out of Frankfurt, why not take a day or two to see the city and a castle or two?

Where to Stay in Frankfurt

If you’d like to visit castles in the Frankfurt area, here are 3 easy options for where to sleep: Frankfurt city, near the Frankfurt airport, and Wiesbaden.

There are many different areas you can stay in when visiting Frankfurt. Choosing an area can depend on various things like how long you’re staying or why you plan to visit the city. You can also find all sorts of accommodation options for everyone. Depending on your budget or travel style, you might like Frankfurt’s boutique hotels, international chains, small family-run hotels or even youth hostels.

For those who are in Frankfurt on a long layover or are just stopping by on your way to another city, staying near the airport is probably be the most convenient option. That way you can get to and from the hotel and airport quickly and easily. Because Frankfurt Airport is so busy, finding a hotel that fits your budget or style shouldn’t be a problem.

And even though you’re close to the airport, it’s super easy to go into Frankfurt city! From the airport to Frankfurt’s Hauptbahnhof (main train station) it’s roughly a 15-minute ride via S-bahn (metro). Click here to see popular hotels near the Frankfurt airport!

If you want to be near all the historical landmarks and top sights, then downtown is the best area to stay in. Its central location and walkability is hard to beat. It’s also a very well connected area because of all the metro stops and how close the Hauptbahnhof is. However, since it is a very touristy area, rates might be higher especially during peak travel seasons like the months of summer or close to Christmas. Click here to see top hotels in downtown Frankfurt.

Another great option is Wiesbaden. Wiesbaden is a nice, smaller town that’s located near the airport. If you are looking for the convenience of being near Frankfurt Airport but want to stay somewhere more unique and has a picturesque downtown (with a 15 foot tall cuckoo clock!), then we recommend looking into Wiesbaden. Click here to check out the best hotels in Wiesbaden.

I’ve stayed in a hotel in downtown Frankfurt (close to everything and minutes from the airport), an AirBnB in a neighborhood outside of the city center (quieter but still easy to get around), and in a hotel in downtown Wiesbaden (peaceful, relaxing, and closer to a few of the castles in the list below). All were easy to reach from the airport and wonderful places to spend a few days right after arriving or just before departing Frankfurt.

What to Do and See in Frankfurt

There are so many things to do and see in Frankfurt. Depending on how much you want to see, you can easily visit many of the famous landmarks in a day to a couple of days.  

A good starting point for your Frankfurt itinerary is Old Town (Altstadt in German). Here you’ll find Römerberg (the beautiful central main square), Frankfurt’s City Hall (Rathaus), St. Paul’s Church (Paulskirche), Goethe House, and Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom).

For more urban landmarks, you can make your way out of Old Town to visit the European Central Bank, one of the most important financial institutions in the world. 

You can’t miss out on the scenic views by the River Main, which runs throughout the city. You can stroll by the riverbanks or even book a river cruise to admire Frankfurt’s iconic skyline. The Iron Bridge (Eiserner Steg) is one of the most popular destinations to not only take photos of the cityscape but to also admire the love locks left on the bridge.

If you love arts and culture, then the Museum Embankment by the River Main is the perfect place to go. In this area, you’ll find world-class museums such as the Städel Museum, the Museum of Applied Art, the Museum of World Cultures, the German Film Museum, and the Icon Museum.

For a more comprehensive list of what to do and see in Frankfurt, read our Frankfurt guide here.

What Are Some Weekend Getaways From Frankfurt?

There are many day trip options from Frankfurt!

You can go to nearby major cities like Cologne or Heidelberg. It’s also a great starting point for exploring the Rhine Valley and its surrounding small villages like Rüdesheim am Rhein, Koblenz, Bacharach, and more.

Exploring the Black Forest region is also a good option including cities like Baden-Baden or Freiburg.

The post Best Castles To Visit Near Frankfurt, Germany appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

Planning a visit to Munich, Germany for the first time can be a daunting but ultimately rewarding experience if you’ve never been there before. This guide is here to help!

From historic plazas to world-renowned beer halls, the Bavarian capital offers plenty of places to experience Munich’s rich culture and unique activities for every kind of traveler.

I’ve visited Munich many times and have never run out of things to do and places to explore. In fact, the more I visit, the more I find to do!

If you’re planning a short visit and want to see as many sites as possible, this article will help you plan a Munich itinerary that will make the most out of your stay, whether you’re visiting for 2 days or even more!

When to Visit Munich

There’s really no “best time” to visit Munich because it’s a wonderful city to visit any time of year. I’ve spent time there in the summer, fall, and late winter/early spring and have never been disappointed!

That said, each season can bring something totally different to your experience depending on what you’re looking for.

During summer, you’ll enjoy sunny blue skies and outdoor festivals, beer gardens, or picnics in the parks. But prepare yourself for crowded streets and the heat since there’s not as much air-conditioning in Germany.

If it’s Oktoberfest you’re after, visiting during the fall is the best option. The event begins mid- or late-September and lasts until early October, so you can expect accommodation and airfare costs to be at their peak during this time period. For the weather, September is usually still warm but it gets a bit colder towards October. 

Visiting during winter can be a great way to make the most out of the off-season prices, especially if you’re comfortable with snow and cold temperatures. The air is filled with festivities brought by the Christmas markets and events around the city. You can also plan a day trip and venture outside the city for winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, or sledding.

If you come during spring, you’ll be welcomed with trees and flowers blooming as well as outdoor markets and activities kicking into gear. But the weather can be unpredictable – a couple of days can bring light breezes and warmth but other days can be gloomy, rainy or even snowy.

Getting to Munich

Munich is one of the biggest cities in Germany, so it’s very well connected and easy to get to.

You can fly in via Munich Airport, which welcomes flights daily from all over the world. Depending on where you’re flying from, you might be able to find a direct flight from abroad into Munich (I’ve flown directly into Munich from the US east coast).

To get into Munich’s city-center from the airport you can take the S-bahn (cheap and takes 45-60 minutes), a taxi or arrange an airport transfer ahead of time.

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Germany, buying a train ticket to Munich’s central train station, (the main train station is called München Hauptbahnhof in German) is one of the easiest and best ways to get to the city.

Taking the bus is another option, and you’ll arrive at the bus station located right next to the train station.

If you’re traveling to Munich from another city in Germany or country in Europe, I recommend looking at both flights and train tickets. Flying within Europe and in Germany is easy but often it’s quicker, easier, and more relaxing to take the train.

Where to Stay in Munich

The first thing you should consider when planning your trip is where to stay. If you’re planning to be in Munich for 2 full days, plan to spend 3 nights in Munich. You can get away with 2 nights if you can arrive early in the morning and/or leave in the late afternoon or evening.

Luckily, Munich offers countless of options for accommodation. Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose between luxury hotel rooms, serviced apartments, or boutique B&Bs.

I’ve stayed in both apartments and hotels in Munich. I enjoyed my stay at Hotel Am Viktualenmarkt a few years ago. It’s close to the old town but on a quiet street. The staff were friendly, the beds were comfortable, and the breakfast was delicious!

For more information on how to decide where to stay in Munich, check out our guide of the best hotels in Munich.

Best Way to Get Around Munich

There are a variety of ways to explore Munich. If you’re looking to see as many of the city’s best sights, I recommend booking a Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour ticket here.

This is a great option that allows you to comfortably navigate each tourist attraction at your own pace or simply get a quick and easy tour of the city. You can choose from 3 routes, each taking an hour and covering 16 stops around the city, all for the price of one ticket!

We’ve started doing these tours because they’re a great way to quickly get an overview of a city before zeroing in on specific sights, and they enable you to see a lot in a short amount of time (if you ride the entire route without getting off), which is perfect when you’re only in a city for a couple days.

Besides taxis and rental cars, the city also has a robust and effective public transportation network. You can get everywhere you want to go on the U-bahn (underground train), the S-bahn (aboveground city railway), trams, and buses.

You can also get around the downtown area and city by foot, since it’s very walkable. When I stay in a downtown hotel I mostly walk around Munich. When I stay in an AirBnB away from downtown I buy day passes and use public transit.

Best Guided Tours in Munich

Guided tours are an excellent resource that travelers often overlook!

I sure did, and for many years I was determined to do everything on my own.

Then I started adding in guided tours and guided day trips and have enjoyed and appreciated what they’ve added to my vacation – time to actually be in the moment and enjoy my travels!

There are so many reasons and benefits for taking a guided tour.

First of all, tours take out the stress of planning the perfect itinerary, finding the best prices for tickets, and arranging transportation. These are all taken care of, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy!

Second, if you’re not staying in place for a long time, a local tour guide covers all the city highlights in the most time effective way – and you can ask questions and get to know a place in more depth.

It can be difficult to meet locals on a vacation, and taking a guided tour is one way to easily connect with interesting, knowledge, and fun locals.

Lastly, a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference if you don’t speak the country’s language. They can also give you insights into the local culture and show you hidden gems that you wouldn’t otherwise find by yourself.

If you’re only in the city for a day or two and are looking for an exciting twist to the typical walking tour, then book this Segway tour to zoom through the streets of Munich from a unique perspective. I’ve listed a few more guided tours below, so keep reading!

2 Days In Munich Itinerary Ideas

What you see while in Munich depends on several factors – your interests, whether you like sight-seeing at a fast or relaxed pace, whether you prefer to eat every meal in a sit-down restaurant or on the go, where your lodging is located, etc.

That said, here are a few ideas for how you could plan your 2-day Munich itinerary:

Itinerary #1: Self-Guided Munich
Day 1: Visit the Old Town sites, Viktuellenmarkt (great for lunch), Munich Residenz or an art museum, and then spend the evening taking a stroll through the English Garden and having a beer at the Chinese Tower Beer Garden.

Day 2: Visit Nymphenburg Palace in the morning, hit up 1 or 2 museums in the afternoon, and then take a Bavarian beer and food tour in the evening.

Itinerary #2: Pack in As Much As Possible
Day 1: Ride the Hop On Hop Off bus in the morning to get an overview of the city, enjoy a quick lunch at the Viktuellenmarkt then take a 3-hour segway tour. After dinner enjoy a walk through the English Garden.

Day 2: Spend half of the day visiting Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial and the rest of the day visiting either the BMW museum or taking a Munich food tour or a 3rd Reich tour. Spend the evening enjoying dinner and a stroll through the Old Town.

Itinerary #3: Guided Tours & A Day Trip

Day 1: Spend the morning seeing the Old Town and taking a gourmet food tour of Viktuellenmarkt. In the afternoon, go on a guided bike tour of the city. Enjoy dinner and beer in the evening.

Day 2: Take a day trip to from Munich to Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Neuschwanstein, the Romantic Road or Salzburg, Austria.

What to Do & See in Munich in 2 Days

Below are the top sights in Munich. You likely won’t be able to fit all of them in a 2-day visit but this guide gives you an idea of the best things to add to your itinerary. I’ve also listed a few of the best options for day trips.

Old Town (Altstadt)

Munich’s Old Town (Altstadt) is characterized by its historic buildings and streets lined with cathedrals, boutiques, and food stalls. There are many must-sees throughout Old Town such as the city center plaza called Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche cathedral and Staatliches Hofbräuhaus (Royal Brewery). Don’t miss out any of these famous landmarks and take this guided walking tour to learn about the city’s history.

New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)

Located in the heart of the city in Marienplatz, Neues Rathaus is an iconic feature of Munich’s skyline. Though it mainly operates as a city hall for government employees, the building also attracts tourists because of its panoramic views and famous balcony where football team FC Bayern celebrates wins.

You also can’t miss out on the Glockenspiel’s daily chime at noon and dancing figures!

Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)

Another one of Munich’s famous town halls is Altes Rathaus. Located in the eastern end of Marienplatz, this town hall’s history dates back to 1310. It has undergone many renovations and served the state in different capacities but is now used for celebrations, memorials or award ceremonies. It is also home to the Toy Museum (Munich Spielzeugmuseum).

Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum)

This quirky, fun museum is a popular destination for families and kids. But if you’re feeling nostalgic you can also visit to admire the old-fashioned interiors or see how toys have developed over the years, from wooden toys to tin toys, to Barbies and steam engine trains.

St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche)

Another historic symbol of Munich is the St. Peter’s Church, the city’s oldest remaining Catholic church located right by Marienplatz and Viktuellenmarkt. Dating all the way back to the 12^th century, the church is known for its Gothic architecture and ceiling frescos. Climbing the church tower’s 306 steps is worth it to get a stunning view of Old Town Munich.

Munich Residenz (Residenz München)

At the center of Munich, you’ll find Munich Residenz, the biggest city palace in Germany. This magnificent palace complex is made up of lush gardens, lavish rooms, and courtyards that are open to the public through museum visits.

Some highlights here are the Cuvilliés Theatre, the Hercules Hall, and the Treasury. Because of the palace’s sheer size and its rich history, this would be the perfect place to book a guided tour to make the most out of your visit.

Cuvilles Theater (Old Residence Theater)

The Cuvillies Theater is one of Munich’s most important cultural venues. Located inside the Munich Residenz, this rococo theater is made up of four floors with 14 boxes each, all decorated in red walls and gold ornaments. Here you can watch classical concerts featuring resident soloists, members of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra and the Symphony Orchestra of the Bavarian Radio. If you don’t have time for a show, you can simply visit through a guided tour.

Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is an impressive institution with exhibits featuring over 50 different fields of science and technology. If you’re traveling with kids, this is one of the best things you can do in the city. Each area is highly interactive, from the planetarium to a reproduction of a cave, and even an underground mining complex. You can easily spend a full day worth of fun here!

Alte Pinakothek

Munich is home to some of the best museums in the world, many of them located in the Kunstareal (Art District) area. Each museum features different time periods and art movements. Alte Pinakothek shows the development of art from the middle ages to the 18^th century. Among the 700+ artworks on display, you’ll see works from masters like Albrecht Dürer, Sandro Botticelli, and Leonardo Da Vinci.

Pinakothek der Moderne

Another great museum in the art district is the Pinakothek der Moderne, which is comprised of 4 major museums. Each is dedicated to a different specialization: modern and contemporary art, design, architecture, and works on paper (graphic art). This comprehensive museum covers all the bases of modern art. A must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.

Neue Pinakothek

Neue Pinakothek is one of the most renowned museums of European art, featuring 18^th to 19^th century art from different movements such as Art Nouveau and Impressionism. In here you can admire works from the great pioneers of modern art like Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Paul Cézanne.

Unfortunately, it has been closed down since December 2018 for renovations. You can get to all other museums easily by taking the tram line 27 and stopping at the Pinakothekstation.

Museum Brandhorst

The Museum Brandhorst is a museum for contemporary art located in the art district area. The vibrant and colorful exterior gives you an idea of the kind of art exhibited inside which features Pop Art, expressive painting and Cubism. The museum attracts visitors from all over the world as it is houses the Andy Warhol largest collection in Europe. Other famous works you can find here are by artists Cy Twombly and Pablo Picasso.

Beer Halls & Beer Gardens

You can’t leave the city without immersing yourself in Munich’s beer and food culture. One of the best ways to experience this is a night at a beer hall, tasting different beer and trying traditional Bavarian food.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options in the city but if you’re looking for the complete package, then book this tour for a one of a kind evening at a traditional beer-hall. It includes personalized recommendations by a local, an exclusive tour of the Oktoberfest Museum, and of course, a beer sampling session and a platter of Bavarian delicacies.

Olympic Park (Olympiapark)

Built for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games, the Olympic Park is still a popular destination that attracts both locals and tourists. More than a park, it is also where sporting, social and cultural events are held. If you’re a sports fan, you can visit the state-of-the art fitness facilities, swimming pools, and skating rink.

Other relaxing alternatives include dining at the park’s revolving restaurant, checking out an outdoor performance, or simply strolling along the Olympic lake. Though it’s located in the North of Munich, it is a quick 10-minute walk away from the Olympiazentrum U-bahn station.

BMW World (BMW Welt)

BMW Welt is Bavaria’s most visited tourist attraction maybe because there is nothing else like it elsewhere in the world. Located next to the Olympic Park, BMW Welt is the home for all brands under the BMW Group which actually includes BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce.

This futuristic building contains an exhibition center, an event venue, a museum, and delivery center. You can learn about the brand’s history through the BMW Museum’s guided tours, admire the latest models in the showroom, or even watch exciting stunts by professional motorcyclists!

Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)

Nymphenburg Palace and the beautiful gardens it occupies is one of the city’s most vibrant spots. Inside, you can get a glimpse into the palace’s history through its ornate furnishings and ballrooms. There are also several museums inside specializing in areas like natural history, porcelain, and royal carriages.

The sprawling gardens are also filled with pavilions and smaller palaces. Some worth mentioning are Amalienburg with its mirrored halls and Badenburg, a sauna and bathing hall. The palace is easily reached by bus or tram at the station called “Schloss Nymphenburg.”

Dachau Concentration Camp (KZ Gedenkstätte Dachau)

If you’re looking for an important educational tour, check out this half-day trip to the Dachau Memorial Site. Led by professionally trained guides, this tour is sensitive to the historical context of the former concentration camp. The tour covers the entire area including the museum exhibition, the original remaining structures, and the cinema that screens informative documentaries in English.

If You Have 3 Days in Munich

If you are staying in Munich for 3 days or even more, then you’ll certainly have a better chance of hitting as many of the spots listed above. Since a couple of the sites are close to each other, you’ll be able to see several attractions in one go.

You also have the opportunity to dive even deeper into the city’s history. If you are interested in learning about one of the darkest moments in both Munich and the world, then book this 2-hour walking tour that traces the rise of the Third Reich under Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.

Sports is also a big part of Munich’s history. If you are a big football fan, book this Bayern-München Football Stadium Tour to visit the team’s official museum and training grounds, and explore the grand Allianz Arena.

Best Day Trips from Munich

If you have more time and are looking to explore new sights beyond the city, you can take a day trip to any of Munich’s surrounding areas.

One of your travel options is to book full-day tours, which removes the stress of planning since transportation is usually taken care of. But you can also visit any of these cities and sites by renting a car or via public transportation, like trains or buses.

Linderhof & Neuschwanstein Castles

Bavaria is home to some of the most beautiful castles in Central Europe. One of them is Linderhof, located 1.5 hour away from Munich. Though it’s the smallest of King Ludwig II’s castles, it’s the only completed one and still just as stunning.

After Linderhof you can make your way to Neuschwanstein, Germany’s top tourist destination. This iconic castle is straight out of a fairytale and is known worldwide as the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s castle. For more information on how to get from Munich to Linderhof and then Neuschwanstein, check out this full-day tour complete with transportation here.  

Romantic Road

If you’re interested in experiencing medieval Germany, then go on this tour that takes you down the Romantic Road. The journey starts with Harburg Castle, one of the oldest castles in Southern Germany and takes you all the way to Rothenburg, a charming restored medieval town.

Salzburg, Austria

You can also make the most out of your stay in Munich and venture out to a whole other country by booking a day trip to Salzburg here.

From Munich you can cross the Austrian border into Salzburg via a 2-hour train ride. Salzburg, celebrated by many as Mozart’s hometown and the setting of “The Sound of Music”, is visited by millions of tourists per year.

This place is perfect for a day trip – it’s a well-preserved charming town unlike any in Europe and it’s small enough where you can visit most if not all of the most famous landmarks in a day.

The post 2 Days in Munich: Perfect Itinerary & Best Things To Do appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

I’ve not only created a ton of Germany vacation itineraries for myself and others, I’ve reviewed a lot of reader itineraries and nearly everyone tries to fit in WAY more than is possible!

So I thought I’d put together a sample 10-day Germany itinerary focusing on popular destinations. I also give suggestions for shorter and longer itineraries, as well as variations on the 10-day itinerary below.

Is 10 Days in Germany Enough?

That depends! For some, yes. For others, not nearly enough. It depends on your approach to travel and what you want to accomplish on your trip. Which of these 3 scenarios fits your travel style the best?

1. Go, Go, Go! In this scenario your goal is to see as much of Germany as humanly possible. As soon as your plane lands you hit the ground running and you don’t stop until you’re on your flight home. Your goal is to visit as many cities as possible and you don’t mind packing/unpacking your suitcase each day or checking into a new hotel every night.
2. Home base + Day Trips This scenario is the opposite of the above. You choose a home base, probably stay in an AirBnB, and spend your time deeply exploring the nooks and crannies of one city with several fun day trips to nearby locations in a low-stress, relaxing way.
3. Balance. In this scenario you choose 2-3 locations to explore in 10 days. You get to see different parts of Germany but don’t spend all of your time on trains or in the car. This is the approach I’ve taken with the sample itinerary.

After looking at what’s do-able with a balanced approach to traveling in Germany over 10 days, you’ll be able to decide whether 10 days is enough for you or not. At the end of this article, I also give suggestions for if you have more or less than 10 days.

When I lived in Germany I traveled all over the country for a couple days at a time. Since moving back to the US, we’ve taken many 10-14 day European vacations (flying to Europe from the US east coast) and have felt like we were able to not only see and do quite a lot but also relax and really feel like we’ve gotten away from our everyday lives in the US.

At the very end of this article I’ll share our 14-day Germany itinerary from a few years ago, just to give you another idea of what’s possible in that time-frame.

Sample 10-Day Germany Itinerary #1

This sample itinerary focuses on 2 of the most popular cities in Germany and includes day trips to nearby destinations in order to maximize time.

This itinerary assumes use of public transportation in and between cities but you could easily use this itinerary if you rent a car instead.

We’ve traveled all over Germany by train and by car. When visiting mostly cities, we usually stick to trains. If we’re visiting smaller or more rural sights, we’ll drive. You can get around Germany easily both ways.

Keep reading to the end for variations on this itinerary, ideas for if you have fewer or more than 10 days, plus one of our recent 14-day Germany itineraries!

Day 1- Fly Overnight to Berlin (Sleep on plane)

Your trip to Germany has started! Most flights from the US travel overnight to Germany so you’ll spend some or all of your first day and night in transit.

Tips:

• If you have a connecting flight in the US, I highly recommend a longer layover before your international flight. While hanging out at the airport isn’t super exciting, it’s a HUGE bummer to miss your international flight and have to then arrive a day late all due to a delay with your domestic flight!
  
  These days we typically fly from Raleigh-Durham International Airport to Atlanta, Dulles, Newark or Boston to catch our flight to Germany, and I’ve been booking longer and longer layovers so we have plenty of time to catch our international leg if there’s a flight delay.
  
• Same goes for layovers in Europe. On one trip, our flight from Newark to Stockholm was delayed a couple hours and we missed our connecting flight into Berlin. We ended up having to fly to Helsinki and then into Berlin and we didn’t arrive until early evening.
  
  We had plans to meet up with 2 friends in Berlin before driving to Magdeburg and it was such a bummer to not get to see them due to that flight delay!
  
• If you do have a long layover, consider getting a 1-day pass to your airline’s club lounge. We get a couple passes each year through our credit cards and we use them when we fly internationally. It’s nice to enjoy free food, drinks, and a quieter space for a couple hours.
  
• We’ve started flying into regional airports like Munich, Stuttgart, Hamburg, Düsseldorf/Köln and Berlin instead of Frankfurt. Not only have we found better (and cheaper) flights, it’s easier to pick up a rental car or go right into the city to our hotel instead of having to catch a train first.
  
  It used to be easy to fly into Frankfurt and buy a train ticket for anywhere in Germany on the same day but these days, unless you want to pay full price for a flexible ticket, you’re stuck taking one specific train at a specific time.
  
  So you’ll either take a chance on missing your train if your flight is delayed and having to buy another train ticket or plan to board a train leaving several hours after your flight is to arrive.
  
  I find it easiest to fly into the city where we’re starting our trip.

Day 2: Arrive in Berlin (Sleep in Berlin)

Today you arrive in Berlin in the late morning or early afternoon. After taking public transit, an airport transfer or a taxi into the city and checking into your hotel, you have the rest of the day to explore and have your first meal in Germany.

Today would be a good day to do the Hop On Hop Off Bus tour! You’ll get a good overview of the city and if you fall asleep, you can just go around again (haha)! ? Depending on where you stay in Berlin, you could also walk around the Brandenburg Gate area or visit one of the sights listed under Day 3 & 4 below.

Tip: we keep our arrival day flexible and don’t schedule important or expensive tickets or tours. You never know if a flight will be delayed or if you’ll find yourself powerless over jet lag.

It’s a bummer to miss something you were looking forward to (like when we missed seeing our friends in Berlin due to a flight delay). If you arrive on time or have oodles of energy, you have even more time to explore!

Day 3 & 4: Berlin (Sleep in Berlin)

Start with a walk down Unter den Linden, a major boulevard running through the heart of the city. Walking down this avenue brings you to some of Berlin’s most popular sites, from the Berlin Cathedral to the iconic Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island.

Whether you go to Neues Museum for Egyptian artifacts or Pergamon Museum for Ancient Greek and Roman archeological installations, it’s worth spending a few hours exploring these amazing museums.

Near Brandenburg Gate you can also see another important landmark: the Holocaust Memorial, an abstract site that serves as a powerful reminder of WW2. If you’re interested in learning more about this time in history, you can also tour the DDR Museum for an interactive experience showing how life was like back in East Germany.

Going Beyond Unter den Linden brings you to the government district where you can tour the Reichstag Building (German Parliament). Climb up to the building’s iconic glass dome and enjoy panoramic views of Berlin. We had to wait in line a while to get the last time we were there but it was worth the wait.

To get even more amazing views, take a boat cruise tour along the Spree River. On the east side of the river, make sure to visit the East Side Gallery, a former section of the Berlin Wall that used to separate West Berlin from East Berlin. Here you can admire the mural paintings that represent freedom and capture the city’s complex history.

Tip: While Berlin has amazing museums and other must-see sights, one of our favorite things to do in Berlin is to simply explore the neighborhoods!

Over the years we’ve walked ALL OVER the city, just randomly exploring. Try hopping on a tram, bus, U-bahn or S-bahn, riding it ways, and getting off at a random stop.

You never know what you’ll discover!

Day 5: Berlin Day Trip (Sleep in Berlin)

From Berlin you can take day trips that unlock even more parts of Germany.

One popular trip is Potsdam, the former capital of Prussia filled with grand landscapes and royal architecture like the Sansoucci Palace. Potsdam is only 40 minutes away via train but if you don’t want to worry about transportation, book a guided tour here.

For another half-day tour, you can take a train north of Berlin to the Sachsenhausen Memorial. Formerly a concentration camp, the remaining structures show the dark history of WW2 while paying respect to victims and survivors. To learn about this historic site, book this tour led by an expert here.

Another must-visit for history buffs is the town of Seelow, home of the Seelow Heights battlefield. This lesser known battle was one of the most brutal scenes in the Eastern Front. Go on a full day tour here to explore the battlefield and uncover the stories of this historic event.

From Berlin, you can also head down to Dresden, a beautiful city along the Elbe River. Many attractions are located in the old town so you can easily go to lots of landmarks like the Frauenkirche Dresden, to Zwinger Palace and Dresden Castle. Book your day trip to Dresden here and discover what makes it one of Germany’s most visited cities.

Day 6: Travel to Munich (Sleep in Munich)

Today you’ll hop on a high speed ICE train at the Berlin Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and travel 4-6 hours to Munich.

If you get an early start and leave in the morning, you’ll arrive with plenty of time to check into your hotel and then spend the late afternoon and evening exploring the city.

If you need a pick-me-up when you arrive, find a table at a local cafe for afternoon Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) – one of my personal favorite German traditions!

Or if the weather is good, enjoy a traditional Bavarian meal and beer at an outdoor Beergarten. If you’re tired of sitting after several hours on the train, take a stroll through the Englischer Garten (English Garden).

Wondering where to stay in Munich? Check out our Munich hotel guide here!

Tips:

• I recommend booking the ICE train from Berlin to Munich. This train is faster than others and makes fewer stops. If you book your ticket in advance, you’ll be able to snag a discounted ticket. If you’re traveling with others or during the tourist season, consider adding a reservation when you purchase your ticket.
  
  You can check train schedules and buy tickets here (this is where I buy my train tickets).
  
• Train or plane? In most cases, I recommend the train. It’s just easier! The Berlin main train station (Hauptbahnhof) is likely closer to your hotel than the airport, and once you get to the station, all you need to do it walk to the correct platform and board your train when it arrives.
  
  Plus, you can walk around the train if you get tired of sitting and you get to enjoy the scenery along the way. When you arrive in Munich you hop off the train in the city center and can be at your hotel in probably 10-20 minutes.
  
  The flight part of flying from Berlin to Munich is short but don’t forget to factor in getting to/from the airport, checking in, going through security, waiting to board, and potential flight delays.
  
  All of that can add up to far more than taking a 4-6 hour train!

Day 7-8: Munich (Sleep in Munich)

With 2 days just for Munich, you’ll be able to see and do quite a bit! A lot of the best things to see in Munich are located in Old Town.

We recommend going on a walking tour of the area so you can explore all the landmarks including the town halls (Altes Rathaus and Neues Rathaus), Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, and the Royal Brewery in the most time effective way.

Before leaving Old Town, make sure to grab a bite in Viktuellenmarkt. You can also make the most out of your lunch break and take a guided tour of the food market. One of my favorite things to do in Munich is wander around this market!

There’s a great hotel near there that’s close to everything but on a quiet street – Hotel am Viktuellenmarkt. I stayed there a few years ago and was very happy with it (especially their big breakfast buffet).

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center, make your way to Englischer Garten (English Garden). This massive urban park has everything from sunny beer gardens to surfing in the river (so fun to watch).

You can take a short stroll to get a taste of it or spend an entire day exploring everything it has to offer!

If you’re short on time but still want to spend time in nature, we suggest going to Munich Residenz. Not only will you get to stroll in the beautiful court gardens, you’ll also get to visit Germany’s largest city palace.

You could also plan a morning or afternoon for exploring something outside the city center like Nymphenburg Palace, BMW Welt or Olympia Park. Unless you’re really into cars or the olympics, I recommend Nymphenburg Palace. You can take public transport there and back and the gardens alone are worth seeing.

On one of my winter Munich visits I spent several hours wandering all around the grounds and really enjoyed my time there – much more than I’d expected!

There’s a bistro at the palace so you can also enjoy Kaffee und Kuchen, a beer or lunch while you’re there (I had a pretty good Schnitzle and fries there).

Finally, you can’t leave the Bavarian capital without going to a beer hall. There’s so many great options so to save you the trouble of finding the best one, check out this complete package tour that includes a reservation at a traditional beer hall with a beer sampling session and traditional delicacies.

If you don’t have time to sit down for a Bavarian “Maß”of beer (or aren’t a beer drinker) you can take a walk through the famous Hofbräuhaus.

Yes, it’s touristy…but touristy can be fun! My “German mom” took me there on my first visit as a teenager and I’ve been back a few times since just to take a walk through the place. There’s almost always a Lederhosen-clad oompa band playing and if you stop to listen for a few minutes, you won’t be shooed away.

If you have time, sit down at one of the long tables and enjoy a Maß (a 1 liter of beer), a traditional meat-and-potatoes meals or dessert. You’ll likely make friends from all over the world and after a beer, you’ll be signing right along with the band.

Of course, if you’re looking for something more authentic, ask for recommendations at your hotel or just head out of the city center and stop at a place that looks inviting.

The only words you really need to know is “Bier, bitte!” (beer, please).

Day 9: Munich Day Trip (Sleep in Munich)

To maximize your time, make Munich your home base and take a day trip instead of packing up and heading to another hotel for just 1 or 2 nights.

An easy day trip you can do in half a day is to the Dachau Concentration Camp. The former concentration camp held over 200,000 prisoners and is now a powerful memorial that pays respect to the victims. Since this can be a harrowing experience, we suggest booking a tour led by a professional tour guide.

If you’ve never visited a concentration camp before, I highly recommend Dachau.

For a full day trip, go on this tour of Neuschwanstein castle. See the real life version of the castle that inspired Disneyland and take in the scenic views of the Bavarian Alps.

If you want to fit more in your day, you can also make your way to other fairytale castles like Linderhof and Hohenschwangau castle, King Ludwig’s childhood home.

If you’ve been enjoying sunny days on your trip, take the opportunity to take this day trip to Eagle’s Nest. This historic viewpoint offers panoramic views of the German Alps.

In case of bad weather, don’t worry! You can go on an exciting underground visit to the salt mines of Berchtesgaden, which is actually a huge amount of fun!

Day 10: Fly Home from Munich

Today you’ll take public transportation or a taxi to Munich Airport and fly home with wonderful memories of your Germany vacation.

10-Day Germany Itinerary Options:

• Reverse the trip. Fly into Munich and out of Berlin.
• Exchange a day in Berlin or Munich for an additional day trip or two so you can see both the city highlights and more of the region. If you shorten your stay in either city, a HOHO bus tour is a great way to quickly see the sights!
• Skip the day trips altogether and add a 1-2 night stop en route from Berlin and Munich in Leipzig, Dresden, Bamberg, Nuremberg, etc.
• Follow the same general itinerary but switch out one or both of the cities for Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, etc.
• Stick with Berlin OR Munich and add stays in 1-2 smaller cities nearby. If you rent a car, this option could become a fun roadtrip!
• Stick with Berlin OR Munich and add a visit to a city in a neighboring country, eg, Berlin + Prague, Munich + Salzburg or Munich + Zurich.

If You Have More Than 10 Days in Germany

If you have 14 or more days in Germany you can easily explore a whole other region of Germany! Here are some popular options.

(Remember, though, that if you’re coming from the US, a 14-day trip means you typically have 11 full days in Germany.)

Hamburg & Lübeck in Northern Germany

As Germany’s second biggest city, Hamburg has a lot to offer (and is one of my favorite cities but I used to live there so I’m a little biased).

Did you know that Hamburg has more canals than Amsterdam and Venice combined? This picturesque port city by the Elbe river is worth visiting to see a different side of Germany.

Northern Germany looks and feels different to other parts of Germany and is worth a visit! While in Hamburg you can easily take a day trip to the smaller city of Lübeck to the north, Schwerin to the east, Stade to the south or the beaches of the North or Baltic seas.

If you plan to visit Berlin, Hamburg (and northern Germany in general) is a great next step because it’s only a couple hours away by train. And it’s more off the beaten path for many travelers from the US. You could do 2 days in Hamburg and then 1-2 days for day trips.

Stuttgart & the Black Forest in Southeastern Germany

If you’re visiting southwest Germany, add the Black Forest to your itinerary! This beautiful mountain region by the Danube river is known for its dense forests associated with the Grimm Brothers, charming villages, lakes and waterfalls, and its quirky cuckoo clocks originating from the 1700s.

You can stay in one of the smaller towns in the region like Baden-Baden to the north or Freiburg im Breisgau to the south – a university town in the sunniest part of Germany.

But you can also easily head to Stuttgart (or nearby Esslingen or Tübingen), a bustling city known as the birthplace of the automobile and filled with beautiful urban green spaces and world-class museums.

Personally, I lean towards Freiburg or Stuttgart, but again, I’ve lived in both and so I’m a little biased. I also fly in/out of Stuttgart when I visit this region.

There are also lots of small villages in the Black Forest that are fun for a vacation – Triberg, Titisee, and Gengenbach, for example. A perk of exploring this part of Germany is the Konus card you can get from your hotel and which gives you free access to public transportation in the region!

Another perk of visiting this region of Germany is that you’re close to the French and/or Swiss borders. Whether you take a train or bus or drive a rental car, you can easily add a visit to Strasbourg or Colmar in France or Basel in Switzerland.

When I lived in Freiburg I took the train to Basel (1 hour), a bus to Colmar (about an hour), and a train to Strasbourg (1.5 hours).

How many days to spend in this region? That’s depends…you could make Freiburg your home base for 3 days, spending 1-2 days exploring Freiburg and 2+ days on day trips.

Or plan to fly in/out of Stuttgart so you can spend 1-3 days exploring the city and surrounding area.

Rhine Valley & Cologne in Central Germany

Traveling as a couple? The Rhine Valley is a popular romantic destination with a lot to do, from wine tasting in hillside vineyards to taking a river cruise. We’ve explored this area in all seasons and have enjoyed each visit so much that we keep coming back!

We recommend going on a boat tour (whether traveling with your special someone or not) as it makes it easy to visit charming Rhine river towns like Bacharach, Boppard, Sankt Goar, and Koblenz. Bacharach has a very cool youth hostel on a hill that’s actually an old castle and has amazing views!

If you go a bit farther, you’ll reach the Mosel Valley. Visit even more castles like Burg Eltz or Cochem Castle which overlooks the small town of Cochem and the Mosel River. Cochem Castle is easier to visit because it’s in Cochem.

Only 30 minutes away, Burg Eltz is a little more challenging to visit (on the weekends there’s a bus you can take) but it’s worth a visit to this beautiful area, especially if you’d like to do a little hiking.

You can either start or end your Rhine Valley trip in Cologne (click here for our Cologne hotel guide or here for our Cologne city guide). The city’s old town is very walkable making it easy to see famous landmarks like the awe-inspirig Cologne Cathedral and Museum Ludwig.

Even if you only have an hour or two between train connections in Cologne, be sure to visit the Cologne Cathedral – it’s right across from the train station.

If you focus on the Rhine or Mosel, you could spend 2-3 days here. If you want to explore both, I’d give it 5+ days in your itinerary.

Lake Constance (Bodensee) in Southern Germany

Lake Constance is a popular destination bordering Austria and Switzerland. Visit lakeside towns like Konstanz and Lindau for fun water activities like sailing and windsurfing or stroll along the quaint villages with a backdrop of the Swiss Alps.

This is a popular vacation destination for Germans and a great place to relax. It’s also close to Switzerland so you could pop over the border for a day trip.

The Romantic Road (Romantische Strasse) in Southern Germany

This picturesque route running through Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg makes for excellent road trips. It links some of Germany’s best castles starting from Nuremberg Castle in the north down to Neuschwanstein Castle.

Along the way you can stop by Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the best-preserved medieval old town of Germany. It’s touristy but for good reason! You can also explore neighboring areas like Würzburg, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, and Füssen – all equally historic and picturesque towns.

If you want to roadtrip the Romantic Road you could fly into Stuttgart, pick up your rental car, drive to Würzburg or Rothenburg ob der Taube, then drive south to Füssen (Neuschwanstein).

Or fly into Munich and do the route in reverse. It’s a beautiful route for a road trip and you could spend half or all of your vacation just traveling the Romanic Road!

If You’re in Germany in December

December is one of the best times to visit because of Christmas markets! Nothing gets you in the holiday spirit like roaming through these bright outdoor markets while sipping a mug of Glühwein and trying traditional Christmas German sweets.

Lots of the places in this itinerary have their own Christmas markets, especially major cities like Stuttgart (click here for our Stuttgart Christmas Market guide), Munich, and Berlin.

Not only do these cities have their main Christmas markets usually held in their central plazas but you can also find other smaller, alternative markets if you want something more niche.

Near Stuttgart, you’ll find many of these kinds of markets. Whether it be the Tübingen chocolate festival for all things sweet or the Esslingen Medieval Market with fun carnival medieval attracts, there’s a Christmas market for any festive theme you can imagine!

If You Have Fewer than 10 Days in Germany

What if you don’t have 14 days or even 10 days in Germany? What if you only have 3, 5 or 7 days for your visit to Germany?

If you only have 3 days in Germany, focus on one city + a day trip. For example, you could spend 2 days in Munich and take a day trip to Neuschwanstein.

Or spend 1 day in Munich (or whatever city you’re visiting) and take 2 day trips.

If you have 5 days, you could visit 2 cities…say, 2 days in Munich, 1 day for travel, and 2 days in Berlin. It would be tight but it’s do-able.

Or you could focus on one region, say, Munich for 2 days and the Garmisch area for 3 (visiting smaller towns and the alps).

Or Hamburg, Lübeck, and the Baltic Sea. Or Berlin and Dresden. Or Cologne and the Rhein or Mosel. Or Freiburg and the Black Forest.

Our Recent 14-Day Germany Roadtrip Itinerary

Just to give you another example of a Germany trip itinerary, one of ours is below.

A few years ago we spent a couple weeks roadtripping around Germany in mid to late June, revisiting several places I’d lived and seeing a couple bands who were touring in the Germany.

It took me a while to get this itinerary to work! I had to plan around the concert in Bochum and the music festival near Hamburg, plus we didn’t have much flexibility with travel dates due to work. And we used miles for our flights.

For this trip we decided to rent a car so we’d have a lot of flexibility, and we were glad we did.

We saw a lot on this trip but since I was already very familiar with most every destination (except Bochum and the Black Forest museum), it was easy for us to pack a lot into the trip. Plus, it was summer and so we had tons of daylight.

Here’s the itinerary:

Day 1: Fly to Berlin (from the US east coast)
Day 2: Arrive in Berlin (we were supposed to arrive in the morning but due to a flight delay in Newark we didn’t arrive until the evening), drive to Magdeburg after a short visit to the Brandenburg Gate
Day 3: Magdeburg
Day 4: Quedlinburg, Wernigerode and the Harz mountains
Day 5: Drive to Bochum (we went here just to see one of our favorite bands perform in the evening)
Day 6: Drive to Hamburg
Day 7: Hamburg
Day 8: North Sea beach day
Day 9: Hurricane Music Festival (near Hamburg)
Day 10: Drive to Stuttgart
Day 11: Stuttgart
Day 12: Drive to Freiburg for the day
Day 13: Drive to the Black Forest Open Air Museum
Day 14: Fly home from Stuttgart

Let us know if you have any questions as you create your perfect Germany vacation itinerary!

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