While places like England, Spain, France and Italy may get all the attention when it comes to European vacations, you shouldn’t sleep on Germany. Not only is this country home to some of the best breweries in the entire world, it’s also home to some of the most historic and some of the most modern cities as well. In fact, it’s possible to experience both the old and new worlds when making only a short trip through this country.
On the list below, we’re going to take a look at the 20 cities that every travel should see when visiting Germany. As you’ll see, the style of these cities truly run the gamut, from the hyper-contemporary Berlin to the classic beauty of a place like Potsdam or Freiburg. Germany truly is a land of history and contrasts.
Simply put, if you’re planning a vacation in Germany – or maybe even studying abroad – then these are the best cities that Germany has to offer. So, pop the cap on a cold German brew, and come take a look!
1. Hamburg
The port in Hamburg happens to be the second largest on the continent. Oh, and the city is pretty cool too!
2. Potsdam
When you’re passing through Potsdam, be sure to take in the beauty of Sanssouci Palace, which has been standing for centuries.
3. Marburg
This university town will appeal to younger travelers who want to intermingle with the young German people.
4. Heidelberg
A romantic German city set amid rolling hills and overlooking a flowing river… What’s not to love?
5. Schwerin
While the city is plenty beautiful, the real reason to visit is to sneak a peek at the gorgeous palace sitting out in the lake.
6. Freiburg
Located along the border right near both Switzerland and France, Freiburg has long been an important German city.
7. Dresden
Absolutely decimated during World War II, Dresden is one of the more modern of Germany’s many cities.
8. Bamberg
Ah, so you came to Germany to sample the many different beers? Well, if that’s the case then a trip to all of Bamberg’s nine breweries is a must!
9. Wismar
Gothic architecture abounds in this wonderful German city that’s full of rich history that dates back many centuries ago.
10. Tubingen
This is another university town that should appeal to younger travelers looking to meet their German counterparts.
11. Cologne
As the fourth largest city in all of Germany, Cologne (also referred to as Koln) is a cultural hub for the country.
12. Nuremberg
A town that’s famous for all the wrong reasons, you’ll find plenty to do and eat when visiting.
13. Stralsund
If you’ve got a flavor for old-world architecture, then the coastal charm of Stralsund should appeal to you!
14. Regensburg
One part of the Roman Empire, traditional German architecture and Roman architecture intermingle in this beautiful city.
15. Dusseldorf
If you plan on checking out some of Europe’s best art museums, then a trip to Dusseldorf is an absolute must.
16. Frankfurt
The financial industry in Germany calls Frankfurt its home, and the city is rich and modern enough to prove that.
17. Leipzig
The traditions of classical music run deep in this German city that Johannes Sebastian Bach used to call home.
18. Weimar
Much like Leipzig, the tradition of classical music runs deep in this city. Liszt used to live here!
19. Munich
Fans of automobiles and German engineering will definitely want to pop by the BMW Museum in Munich.
20. Berlin
Until you’ve actually visited Berlin for yourself, you’d never realize what a modernized city it really is.
