Europe · 33 Places · Best June-August, December (Christmas markets)
Germany blends medieval castles, fairy-tale villages, and vibrant cities with world-class museums, beer gardens, and Christmas markets. From the Black Forest to Berlin's contemporary art scene, experience rich history, excellent public transport, and hearty cuisine in the heart of Europe.
Germany blends medieval castles, fairy-tale villages, and vibrant cities with world-class museums, beer gardens, and Christmas markets. From the Black Forest to Berlin's contemporary art scene, experience rich history, excellent public transport, and hearty cuisine in the heart of Europe.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 33 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Berlin's iconic neoclassical monument and symbol of German reunification. Built in 1791, this former city gate stood at the border between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. Today it represents peace and unity, illuminated beautifully at night.
The fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle. Built by King Ludwig II in the 19th century, this Romanesque Revival palace sits dramatically on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau. The interior features elaborate chambers with stunning murals and craftsmanship.
The central memorial site of German division, preserving the last piece of Berlin Wall with the death strip and watchtowers. The open-air exhibition along Bernauer Strasse includes authentic wall segments, documentation center with viewing platform, and Chapel of Reconciliation.
Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, this twin-spired cathedral took 632 years to complete. Standing 157 meters tall, it houses the Shrine of the Three Kings and stunning stained glass windows. Climbing the 533 steps to the south tower offers panoramic city views.
Munich's central square and heart of the city since 1158. The neo-Gothic New Town Hall features the famous Glockenspiel with 43 bells and 32 life-size figures that perform daily. The square buzzes with street performers, outdoor cafes, and serves as the Christmas market location.
UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five world-renowned museums on a single island in the Spree River. Home to Pergamon Museum, Neues Museum (with Nefertiti bust), Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and Altes Museum. Represents 6,000 years of human artistic and cultural history.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Legendary 5-star hotel beside Brandenburg Gate, combining historic glamour with modern luxury. Opulent rooms, Michelin-starred restaurants, rooftop spa with city views, and impeccable service make this Berlin's most prestigious address since 1907.
Check rates on Booking.comStylish boutique hotel near Kurfürstendamm combining 1920s charm with modern design. Comfortable rooms, excellent breakfast, jazz bar, and quiet residential location offer great value with character in West Berlin.
Check rates on Booking.comTop-rated hostel in trendy Mitte district combining private rooms and dorms. Rooftop terrace, bike rental, sociable bar, and walking distance to major sights make this Berlin's best budget accommodation with hostel atmosphere and hotel amenities.
Check rates on Booking.comGrand hotel in Baden-Baden's premier spa destination, situated in private park along the Lichtentaler Allee. World-class spa, gourmet dining, and elegant rooms create a refined wellness retreat in Europe's most prestigious spa town.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Two Michelin-starred restaurant in Berlin blending Asian flavors with European techniques. Chef Tim Raue creates artistic dishes inspired by Thai, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines in minimalist modern setting. Reservations essential months ahead.
Berlin's oldest restaurant since 1621 serving hearty German classics in historic setting. Napoleon allegedly dined here. Cozy atmosphere, generous portions of schnitzel, sauerbraten, and Berlin specialties at reasonable prices.
Iconic Berlin currywurst stand near Mehringdamm U-Bahn. Late-night favorite serving the city's beloved fast food: sliced bratwurst topped with curry ketchup. Local institution since 1981, open until 5 AM on weekends.
Berlin's best weekly street food market in historic Kreuzberg hall. Dozens of vendors from around world every Thursday evening. Try everything from Vietnamese banh mi to Italian porchetta in buzzing atmosphere.
Elegant Berlin coffeehouse in villa setting serving Viennese specialties. Schnitzel, strudel, excellent coffee in refined atmosphere. Perfect for leisurely breakfast or afternoon Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake).
Three Michelin-starred restaurant in Munich's Bayerischer Hof Hotel. Chef Jan Hartwig creates innovative multi-course tasting menus with seasonal ingredients, impeccable technique, and artistic presentation in elegant dining room.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $20-30 (hostel dorm) | $60-90 (budget hotel or private hostel room) | $150-350 (4-5 star hotel) |
| Food (per day) | $15-25 (supermarket, street food, cheap restaurants) | $30-50 (breakfast, lunch, restaurant dinner) | $80-150 (nice restaurants, fine dining option) |
| Transportation | $8-12 (local transport day pass or walking) | $15-20 (local transport, some taxis) | $30-60 (taxis, ICE first class, car rental) |
| Activities | $7-15 (free attractions, occasional museum) | $15-30 (museums, tours, attractions) | $40-80 (premium tours, shows, spa) |
| Daily total | $50-70 | $120-180 | $300-500+ |
Be aware of surroundings in crowded tourist locations and public venues
Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings
Monitor local media for breaking events
Watch for pickpockets in busy train stations and tourist areas
Keep valuables secure, especially in major cities
Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps
Be cautious of financial scams targeting tourists online
Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency notifications — the German emergency number is 112.
Carry your passport or a certified copy at all times; German police may ask for ID.
Jaywalking is technically illegal and frowned upon; always wait for the pedestrian green light.
Germany is one of Europe's safest travel destinations with a very low crime rate, efficient police, and excellent emergency services. Petty theft at tourist sites and train stations is the primary concern; violent crime against tourists is rare. Emergency services: police at 110, medical at 112.
The best time to visit Germany is June-August, December (Christmas markets). Germany has a temperate oceanic climate in the west and north, transitioning to a more continental climate in the east and south. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, summers are warm to hot (
No visa required for stays up to 90 days within 180-day period. Passport must be valid for 3 months beyond stay. ETIAS required from late 2026 (€20, valid 3 years). Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Germany is the Euro (EUR) (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Germany: German (official), English widely spoken in cities and tourist areas. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Germany include Brandenburg Gate, Neuschwanstein Castle, The Berlin Wall Memorial, Cologne Cathedral, and Marienplatz and New Town Hall. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
Each region has its own character — coastal, alpine, vineyard, capital. Pick a starting point.
Bavaria (Bayern) is Germany's largest and most diverse state, stretching from the Danube lowlands in the north to the soaring peaks of the Alps in the south. Home to Munich, one of Europe's most livable cities, Bavaria enchants visitors with fairy-tale castles, pristine Alpine lakes, ancient beer halls, and UNESCO World Heritage towns. The state blends rich Catholic traditions, a proud regional identity, and world-class cultural institutions with stunning natural scenery.
Berlin is Germany's vibrant capital and largest city, renowned for its turbulent history, world-class museums, state-of-the-art art scene, and legendary nightlife. From the remnants of the Berlin Wall to the grandeur of the Brandenburg Gate, the city seamlessly blends its complex past with an innovative, forward-looking spirit. Berlin stands as one of Europe's most culturally rich and diverse metropolises.
North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen) is Germany's most populous state, home to vibrant cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Dortmund. The region blends industrial heritage with world-class museums, Gothic cathedrals, baroque palaces, and sweeping natural landscapes from the Eifel hills to the Sauerland highlands.
