Spectacular landscapes, traditional architecture, medieval relics, and 20th century historical sites make Germany a must for any travel enthusiast. Located in the heart of Europe and dissected by numerous high-speed rails, it is extremely easy to enter and navigate Germany’s diverse locales. Come explore these magical lands with our top ten favorite German destinations!
10. Berchtesgaden National Park
flickr/ntr23
Located in the southeast corner of Germany, in the state of Bavaria, the Berchtesgaden National Park is 210 square kilometers of wide-open mountainous terrain. Covered in dense forest and rocky mountain faces, the park allows visitors to hike the extensive trail system to enjoy an untouched natural environment. A visit to the 12th century St. Bartholomew’s Church, in the heart of the mountains, is only possible by a hike through the mountains or by boat.
9. Konigssee
flickr/TateWeb
The calm clean waters of Lake Konigssee are an unforgettable destination for any traveler. The narrow lake is 8 kilometers long and at it’s widest 1 kilometer wide. Nestled in the valley and surrounded by mountains, rugged peaks reflect perfectly in the crystal clear waters. Enjoy a lovely time at the Königssee Serenade, eating a delicately prepared meal along the lake with the tunes of a live brass band putting your mind at ease.
8. Heidelberg Castle
flickr/Mónica (Monguinhas)
Heidelberg Castle is perhaps the most historically relevant structure in the Northern Alps. With the first mention of the castle dating back to the 13th century, the castle has seen it’s fair share of destruction, construction and restoration. The present structure was constructed in 1651 and rests pleasantly on the Königstuhl hillside, overlooking a traditional village.
7. Miniatur Wunderland
flickr/Eric Troche
Head to Hamburg and visit the whimsical Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model train exhibit. This fictitious wonderland covers 6400 square meters of area with over 12000 meters of track, crossing cities and geography across the globe. The project began in 2000 and features over 900 trains, 215,000 trees and 200,000 miniature citizens.
6. Memorial of the Berlin Wall
flickr/Yortw
Built in August 1961 the Berlin Wall was a symbol of a world divided during the last half of the 20th century. The wall separated citizens of the city, breaking-up families and destroying lives. A monument was resurrected integrating the original wall with reproductions of the structures and fortifications that once stood. Don’t forget to visit memorial’s Window of Remembrance, commemorating victims who attempted to break through the historical barrier.
5. Pergamon Museum
flickr/Santiago Atienza
With over 1,135,000 visitors every year, the Pergamon Museum is easily Germany’s most visited museum. The museum features a large collection of antiquity pieces from Greek and Roman eras, an exhibit devoted to a Middle-Eastern collection and an exhibit of Islamic art. This huge collection of relics began as early as 1698 and continues to expand everyday.
4. Europa-Park
flickr/John van Hulsen
Come experience the spills, thrills and chills of Germany’s largest theme park. Feel your heart try to jump out of your chest as the Blue Fire megacoaster takes you from 0 to 100 in 2.5 seconds. Get wet and fight the tides of the Atlantica SuperSplash or travel the path of Odysseus with the water roller coaster Poseidon. The park offers fun for all ages and is filled with a bit of something for everyone.
3. Cologne Cathedral
flickr/Lori Branham
Soaring spires reaching for the heavens, the Cologne Cathedral has stood the test of time and is a monument to the longstanding faith and tradition of this proud nation. Interestingly, construction of this behemoth began in 1248 and was finished 632 years later. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the cathedral is an artistic and architectural marvel that leaves it’s visitors utterly breathless.
2. Brandenburg Gate
flickr/Werner Kunz
Built by the Prussian King Frederick William II in the late 18th century, the Brandenburg Gate served as the primary entry point to Berlin for many years and it has certainly seen it’s fair share of historical moments. Napoleon marched his forces through the gates during his occupation of Berlin, Hitler began his reign of terror at it’s foot, and JFK declared that he was a “jelly donut” in his inspiring “Ich bin ein Berliner” speech. The Brandenburg Gate is a testament to Berlin’s turbulent history and a testament to the strength of the German people.
1. Neuschwanstein Castle
flickr/Alf Igel
Mad King Ludwig’s II legacy of having a taste for the eccentric is most evident in his construction of Neuschwanstein Castle nestled above the village of Hohenschwangau in southwest Bavaria. High in the foothills, the castle is a unique combination of Romanesque, Gothic and Byzantine architecture. The lavish interior is straight from the fairy tales; ornate arches, a magnificent ballroom, an over the top opera stage, and a throne hall memorializing the knights of the middle-ages. Ludwig II may have been mad, but he surely created a structure like none other that has been enjoyed by millions.
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