10 Best Things to Do in Germany

The Brandenburg Gate stands tall at the edge of Berlin’s Pariser Platz. This iconic neoclassical monument was designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans in the late 1700s, inspired by the entrance to the Acropolis in Athens. The structure is steeped with fascinating history and is now seen as a symbol of a reunited Berlin. 

The gateway is also an ideal starting point when exploring the rest of the city, with Unter den Linden boulevard and the Reichstag a short walk away. The south wing of the Brandenburg Gate is home to Berlin Tourist Info, where you can gather valuable information about the city's top attractions.  

The Berlin Wall is a moving symbol of the Cold War. This historic barrier, erected in 1961, divided East and West Berlin for 28 years. Traces of the concrete border have been preserved along its zig-zag course through Berlin, many of which are decorated with poignant murals. You can take a walking tour past these remnants to come face-to-face with Germany’s history. 

The Berlin War Memorial in Bernauer Strasse commemorates the wall. On your visit, you can explore exhibitions that detail the history of the division and provide insight into the political and historical background, from the wall's construction to its fall in 1989. Guides are available in the grounds to answer any questions you might have. 

Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century palace designed by King Ludwig II. It’s perched on a rugged hill in a Bavarian village, near the Austrian border. The castle’s pretty turrets and hilltop location give it a fairy-tale feel. In fact, Neuschwanstein is reportedly the inspiration for the castles in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella, and it has attracted several filmmakers over the years. It’s also one of Germany’s most photographed buildings. 

You can visit the castle on a guided tour, complemented by a video presentation. You can’t drive up to the castle, but you’ll have the opportunity to take some great pictures on your walk to the entrance. 

The Black Forest National Park is a vast nature reserve in Baden-Württemberg, southwestern Germany. Spanning 10,000 hectares, this protected wilderness offers breathtaking views, with towering mountains that reach heights of over 1,000 metres. The untouched environment is home to fascinating wildlife, like red deer, lynx and peregrine falcons. 

Within the wild and untamed woodlands, there are well-kept trails waiting to be explored. You could try hiking, biking or rafting through the serene landscapes, taking in the lush valleys, enchanting waterfalls and ancient ruins that have inspired beloved fairy tales. During your travels, consider a stop at the National Park Centre in Ruhestein to find out more about the forest and its inhabitants. 

On a scenic cruise down the River Rhine, take a captivating voyage through some of Germany’s most beautiful attractions. Glide past castles, vineyards and historic towns, or stop to explore the rich culture and heritage along the river banks. Highlights include the bustling city of Cologne, with its twin-spired Gothic cathedral and museums of chocolate, art and perfume, and Mannheim, with its stunning Baroque palace and fountain. 

Don’t miss the Rhine Gorge, a breathtaking stretch of river between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, often considered the most stunning part of the waterway. On this part of the journey, you’ll see the legendary Rock of Lorelai. If you stop in the area, try the beer and potato pancakes in a local tavern. 

Aachen Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe, is an architectural masterpiece. Dating back to the 8th century, this iconic construction was Charlemagne's imperial palace chapel. There’s a combination of Carolingian and Gothic styles in the architecture and features. As soon as you step through the entrance, you’re treated to the stunning view of the grand interior, with its intricate mosaics and unique octagonal design. Don’t miss the Throne of Charlemagne in the western gallery of the Palatine Chapel. 

The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the centre of the city of Aachen in western Germany. Guided tours can be booked on arrival. The cathedral is closed to tourists during services and concerts. 

Zugspitze is the highest peak in Germany at 2,962 metres. It rises majestically in the Bavarian Alps, offering a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscapes. It’s a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, providing year-round enjoyment. In winter, it’s a spectacular location for skiing and snowboarding. In the warmer months, hiking trails reveal alpine meadows and crystal-clear lakes. 

You can reach the summit by cogwheel train, cable car, or a combination of both. There are stunning views as you ascend. On a clear day, you can see Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland from the top. 

Trier is known as the ‘Rome of the north’ due to its ancient history as a Roman metropolis. The area boasts many remarkably well-preserved Roman structures, including Constantine’s Basilica, a Roman bridge, an amphitheatre, imperial baths and the majestic Porta Nigra. This city gate was 1 of 4 in Trier, but now stands alone as an impressive and eye-catching building. You can go inside and climb to the upper floors to admire the carvings on the stone walls. 

Trier is in western Germany, close to the border with Luxembourg. The cityscape is a showcase of fascinating architecture, including Renaissance, Baroque and Classicist. You’ll also find Karl Marx’s birthplace here, which is now a museum of his life and works. 

Germany's largest island, Rügen, lies in the Baltic Sea and is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country. This picturesque retreat has white-sand beaches, dramatic chalk cliffs and deep beech forests. There’s an extensive network of trails for hiking and biking that lead visitors past Stone Age tombs, old lighthouses and shimmering lakes. 

Rügen is a haven for history enthusiasts, nature lovers and anyone looking for peace and tranquillity by the sea. As you tour around the island, you’ll find sophisticated seaside resorts, picturesque fishing villages and charming historic towns, like Sellin, where Albert Einstein once spent a summer. 

The Elbphilharmonie is an iconic building in Hamburg, Germany’s City of Music. This grand concert hall is renowned for its distinctive wave-like glass structure, designed by Herzog and de Meuron. 

Hosting world-class performances, the Elbphilharmonie is a symbol of Hamburg's commitment to the arts. Whether you're drawn by its spectacular acoustics or its stunning design, a visit to this musical landmark promises an unforgettable cultural experience. If you have tickets for a concert here, you might want to allow some extra time to admire the panoramic views of the city and harbour. Or you can just ask for tickets for the Plaza observation deck, which you’ll reach via an 82-metre-long, curved escalator.