Germany, often stereotyped for beer, bratwurst, and lederhosen, is a treasure trove of experiences far beyond these clichés. From enchanting castles and storybook towns to breathtaking landscapes and dynamic cities, Deutschland offers something for every traveler. And yes, while the lederhosen might be fun, there’s so much more to discover.
My first encounter with Germany was during a 6-week backpacking trip across Europe. As I enjoyed a massive beer under the warm Berlin sun, a sense of belonging washed over me. This feeling led me to Munich, initially for a study abroad program, but I fell in love with the country and stayed for over five years. My passion for Germany has grown so much that I might be that friend who talks about it too much.
But your gain from my obsession is this Germany Travel guide. I’ve poured all my enthusiasm for Deutschland into this guide, sharing my top tips, itineraries, and recommendations to help you plan your perfect trip.
Germany Travel Guide Banner Image
Essential Germany Travel Information
Currency: Euro (€)
Language: German. While diverse dialects and accents exist, English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas.
Transportation: Germany boasts an excellent and affordable transportation network. Trains, buses, and domestic flights are readily available. Omio is a fantastic resource for comparing and booking travel options. A car is beneficial for exploring smaller towns and rural areas, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations quickly, but it’s not necessary for navigating larger cities.
Want to know more about German trains? Check out my comprehensive guide to train travel in Germany.
Germany’s Seasonal Highlights
Germany offers unique experiences throughout the year.
Spring (March – May): Witness the stunning cherry blossoms in Bonn and enjoy pleasant weather for city exploration and outdoor activities.
Summer (June – August): Perfect for festivals, beer gardens, hiking in the Alps, and exploring national parks.
Autumn (September – November): Experience Oktoberfest in Munich, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer crowds than summer.
Winter (December – February): Immerse yourself in the magic of German Christmas markets and enjoy winter sports in the Bavarian Alps.
Dresden Christmas Market Scene
Must-Visit Destinations in Germany
Choosing where to go in Germany can be overwhelming, but here are some of my top recommendations:
Munich
Let’s start with my personal favorite: Munich. After living here for over five years, I’m completely biased, especially if you love beer as much as I do. Munich is, after all, the home of Oktoberfest!
Munich is packed with exciting things to see and do, from its impressive museum quarter (many offer €1 admission on Sundays!) and delicious Bavarian cuisine to a wealth of historical landmarks.
It’s also an ideal base for day trips. Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle, is just a 2.5-hour trip from Munich. Or, visit the magnificent Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace and the setting of The Sound of Music, only an hour away by train.
Reasons to visit Munich on your Germany trip:
- World-renowned beer and beer festivals
- The Englischer Garten, one of the world’s largest urban parks
- Stunning palaces and museums
- Convenient base for day trips to the Alps and Austria
Berchtesgaden National Park
For nature enthusiasts, Berchtesgaden National Park, near the Austrian border, is a must-see.
The park boasts breathtaking scenery, from shimmering turquoise lakes and snow-capped mountains to the charming town of Berchtesgaden.
It’s also the perfect destination for a relaxing Bavarian wellness retreat.
Reasons to visit Berchtesgaden National Park on your Germany trip:
- Incredible hiking trails and panoramic views
- Boat trips on Königssee lake to the stunning Obersee lake
- Historical sites like Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest
Königssee Lake in Berchtesgaden National Park
Berlin
Berlin is a city I love to revisit time and time again.
This endlessly captivating capital is brimming with world-class museums, diverse culinary experiences, and a unique culture that sets it apart from the rest of Germany.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nightlife enthusiast, or a food lover, Berlin has something to offer everyone.
Reasons to visit Berlin on your Germany trip:
- Rich and complex history
- World-class museums and iconic landmarks
- Vibrant nightlife and diverse food scene
Franconia
Franconia, a beautiful region in northern Bavaria, is divided into Lower, Middle, and Upper Franconia.
Often overlooked by international tourists, Franconia is one of Germany’s hidden gems, featuring picturesque half-timbered houses, exceptional beer, and unique natural landscapes.
Must-see places in Franconia:
- Bamberg
- Nuremberg
- Würzburg
- Bayreuth
Half-timbered houses in Bamberg, Franconia
Monschau
Monschau is perhaps the most idyllic village on this list, nestled near the Belgian border.
I visited during the Christmas markets a few years ago and was so captivated that I extended my stay to soak in its charm a little longer.
Picture perfect half-timbered houses lining a lively river and, of course, a castle overlooking it all.
Reasons to visit Monschau on your Germany trip:
- Welcoming and friendly locals
- Picture-postcard scenery at every corner
- An unforgettable fairytale atmosphere
Hamburg
Hamburg is a dynamic city I’ve had the pleasure of visiting multiple times. Its lifestyle and atmosphere remind me of my hometown, Vancouver.
Combining classic and modern architecture, including the stunning Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and home to Miniatur Wunderland, Germany’s most popular attraction, Hamburg has a lot to offer. However, simply enjoying a beer while watching the sunset over the Elbe River might be the best way to experience it.
Reasons to visit Hamburg on your Germany trip:
- Impressive architecture like the Elbphilharmonie
- Fresh and delicious seafood and a thriving culinary scene
- Lively and energetic atmosphere
Hamburg cityscape at sunset
Dresden
Dresden is one of Germany’s most stunning cities, especially considering its remarkable reconstruction after being largely destroyed in World War II.
After decades of restoration, Dresden has regained its former glory, establishing itself as a major cultural center in Germany.
It’s also conveniently located near Saxon Switzerland National Park, one of Germany’s most breathtaking natural wonders!
Reasons to visit Dresden on your Germany trip:
- Magnificent architecture and historical sites
- World-class museums and a vibrant cultural scene
- Home to Germany’s oldest and most enchanting Christmas market
Stuttgart and Surroundings
Stuttgart, the capital of Baden-Württemberg, is known as the “cradle of the automobile industry.” This is evident in its two world-class car museums: Mercedes-Benz and Porsche.
Beyond cars, the region around Stuttgart is dotted with charming small towns, easily accessible by public transport, offering a perfect blend of city and countryside experiences.
Reasons to visit Stuttgart and the surrounding area on your Germany trip:
- Picturesque towns like Esslingen, Ludwigsburg, and Tübingen
- Stuttgart’s Stadtbibliothek, a uniquely beautiful library
- Exciting events like the Stuttgart Christmas Market and Cannstatter Volksfest
Stuttgart Christmas Market at night
Erfurt
Thuringia, often overlooked by international visitors, is a hidden gem. Its capital, Erfurt, is a fantastic choice for an authentic German experience.
Erfurt is famous for the Krämerbrücke, a stunning medieval bridge lined with houses.
Beyond the bridge, discover an impressive cathedral, a formidable fortress, and charming surprises around every corner. Erfurt is also home to KiKA, the German children’s TV channel, and fun character statues are scattered throughout the city.
Reasons to visit Erfurt on your Germany trip:
- Krämerbrücke, Europe’s longest inhabited bridge
- Quirky and fun children’s channel character sculptures throughout the city
Cologne
Cologne, for me, is synonymous with fun and celebration. While not the “prettiest” city at first glance due to wartime damage, it boasts impressive landmarks like the iconic Cologne Cathedral.
Cologne truly shines during special events. Its Christmas markets are among the best I’ve ever experienced, and the Karneval celebrations are legendary!
Reasons to visit Cologne on your Germany trip:
- Unforgettable events like the Cologne Christmas Market and Kölner Karneval
- The iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a world-renowned church
- Welcoming and fun-loving locals, some of the friendliest in Germany
Cologne cityscape with cathedral
Hannover
Lastly, Hannover is an underrated German city often overlooked by tourists.
Locals joke about Hannover being boring, but I disagree. It features a magnificent palace within the city, an architecturally impressive Town Hall with a unique elevator offering panoramic views, and a relaxed, cool vibe reminiscent of Berlin decades ago.
Explore amazing things to do in Hannover to discover its hidden gems.
Reasons to visit Hannover on your Germany trip:
- The stunning New Town Hall
- The beautiful Herrenhausen Palace and Gardens
- A relaxed and friendly city atmosphere
Unforgettable Experiences in Germany
Germany offers a wealth of bucket-list worthy experiences:
German Christmas Markets
German Christmas markets are truly magical.
If you love Christmas, a German Christmas market trip should be on your bucket list. No one captures the cozy Christmas spirit quite like the Germans.
The best part (besides the delicious German Christmas market food) is that you’ll find Christmas markets in almost every city, town, and village, each with unique traditions.
You could spend years exploring them all!
Explore these Christmas market guides:
- Cologne Christmas Market
- Stuttgart Christmas Market
- Dresden Christmas Market
Cologne Christmas Market with Cathedral backdrop
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival in Munich, is reason enough to plan a trip to Germany.
Millions attend this incredible event annually, millions of liters of beer are served, and unforgettable memories are made.
… If you can remember them after a few liters of beer!
Read my complete Oktoberfest guide for all the details.
Fairytale Castles
Castle lovers, prepare to be amazed! Germany is a castle paradise with thousands of elegant palaces and fairytale castles. If you’ve dreamed of fairytale endings, Germany is your destination.
You won’t be disappointed.
Must-visit castles in Germany:
- Neuschwanstein Castle
- Hohenzollern Castle
- Eltz Castle
Bonn Cherry Blossoms
The cherry blossoms in Bonn (also Beethoven’s birthplace and home of Haribo gummy bears) are breathtaking and worth visiting in spring. They are among the most beautiful sights in Europe in springtime.
Walk through tunnels of pink blossoms! My guide to cherry blossoms in Bonn tells you where to find them.
Karneval, Fasching, and Carnival Season
Carnival season is one of the best times to visit Germany for a festive experience.
The biggest celebrations occur before Lent throughout the country, with the most famous festivities in North Rhine-Westphalia.
My top recommendation? Celebrate in Cologne, where Kölner Karneval attracts millions of visitors yearly.
Rose Monday Parade at Cologne Carnival
Germany Itinerary Ideas
Germany is vast and diverse, so planning your trip effectively is key. Here are some Germany itinerary ideas:
Diverse Germany Itineraries:
- Southern Germany Classic: Munich, Allgäu (castles!), Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Berchtesgaden National Park, Stuttgart & Area, Black Forest
- Eastern Germany Classic: Berlin, Dresden, Saxon Switzerland
- Western Germany Classic: Aachen, Monschau, Eifel National Park
- Northern Germany Classic: Hamburg, Bremen, Lübeck, Kiel, Sylt
- Rhine River Classic: Mainz, Koblenz, Burg Eltz, Cochem, Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf
- Harz Mountains Experience: Harz Mountains, Goslar, Wernigerode, Quedlinburg
City & Culture Focused Germany Itineraries:
- Big City Tour: Berlin and Munich (4-hour express train connects them)
- Baden-Württemberg Special: Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, Tübingen, Esslingen, Heidelberg
- Bavaria Special: Munich, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Bayreuth
- Saxony Special: Leipzig, Görlitz, Dresden
- Rhine City Hop: Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf
- Romantic Villages Hop: Würzburg, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Füssen
Nature Focused Germany Itineraries:
- Southern Germany Nature: Berchtesgaden National Park, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Black Forest, Lake Constance (Bodensee)
- Bavaria’s Best Nature: Berchtesgaden National Park, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Munich Lake Region, Franconian Switzerland, Danube Gorge
- Eastern Germany Nature: Dresden and Saxon Switzerland National Park
Top Germany Travel Tips
Transportation: Use public transport, especially trains, for efficient and affordable travel. Consider a car for rural exploration.
Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons and events. Consider a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals.
Attractions and Tickets:
- GetYourGuide is excellent for tours and attraction tickets.
- City passes like Munich City Pass, Berlin Pass, and Cologne Card offer significant savings if you plan to visit many attractions.
- Use Google Translate to search in German for more detailed local information.
Erfurt cityscape with Krämerbrücke
Further Germany Travel Inspiration
Inspired to plan your Germany trip?
I’ve written extensively about Germany. Explore these articles for more inspiration:
- [Link to Germany category or related articles on familycircletravel.net will be added here]
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