Germany, with its rich history, offers countless charming towns with unique atmospheres, historical sights, and breathtaking landscapes. From medieval half-timbered towns to idyllic mountain villages, from vibrant big cities to tranquil little places – there’s something for every taste. Discover picturesque old towns, impressive castles, beautiful landscapes, delicious specialties, and a variety of activities in and around the best places in Germany.
On our list of the Top Twelve Best Places, you will also find Schiltach, a picturesque little town in the Black Forest. It is known for its well-preserved half-timbered architecture and its idyllic location at the confluence of the Kinzig and Schiltach rivers. The historic old town captivates with its narrow alleyways, magnificent half-timbered houses, and the charming marketplace lined with cozy cafés and restaurants.
Meersburg, idyllically situated on Lake Constance, is a true gem in southern Germany and rightly deserves its place on our Top Twelve list! The town captivates with its historical old town, which enchants with picturesque streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and impressive sights. Particularly noteworthy is the Old Castle, the oldest inhabited castle in Germany, which offers visitors fascinating insights into medieval history. Right next to it stands the baroque New Castle, which provides a breathtaking view over Lake Constance to the Alps. Meersburg's lakeside promenade invites relaxed strolls, where one can enjoy the fresh lake air and the picturesque views. Numerous cafés and restaurants offer regional specialties that can be enjoyed in a cozy atmosphere right by the water. Wine lovers will also find their pleasure, as the region is known for its excellent viticulture. A visit to one of the many wineries or a wine tasting is therefore a must. Meersburg is also an ideal starting point for excursions around Lake Constance, whether by boat, bike, or on foot. With its unique combination of history, culture, and nature, the town offers an unparalleled travel experience.
Miltenberg, idyllically situated on the Main River, is a picturesque little town that enchants visitors with its historical charm and impressive half-timbered architecture. The well-preserved old town invites relaxed walks through narrow streets and over cobblestones, past magnificent half-timbered houses that date back to the Middle Ages. Particularly noteworthy is the marketplace, lined with imposing half-timbered buildings, including the famous Schnatterloch. Miltenberg is also renowned for its long-standing brewing tradition, and a visit to one of the local breweries or inns to sample the local beer is a must. The town is nestled in a beautiful landscape that beckons for hiking and cycling tours. The nearby Odenwald and the surrounding vineyards offer numerous opportunities to enjoy nature. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the Stadt Miltenberg Museum and the Brewery Museum, which provide fascinating insights into the history and traditions of the region. Miltenberg is a captivating place that, with its combination of historical architecture, natural beauty, and cultural highlights, captivates every visitor.
Annweiler am Trifels, a charming little town in the Palatinate, is primarily known for the majestic Trifels Castle, which majestically overlooks the town from a rocky outcrop. For this reason, it rightly deserves a spot on our list of the Top Twelve Best Places. The castle, once a powerful Imperial fortress, housed the Imperial Regalia in the Middle Ages and served as a prison for Richard the Lionheart. A visit to the castle offers not only exciting insights into history but also breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape of the Palatinate Forest.
Dinkelsbühl, a true gem of the Romantic Road, is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany. The fully intact city walls, with their 18 towers and four gates, encircle an old town that has changed little since the 17th century. A stroll through Dinkelsbühl is like a journey into the past, past magnificent half-timbered houses, Gothic churches, and historic squares. Particularly noteworthy is the impressive St. George's Church, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, as well as the St. George's Minster, which captivates visitors with its impressive size and beauty. Dinkelsbühl is also known for its vibrant history, which comes to life each year during the Children's Festival, a historical drama commemorating the city's rescue during the Thirty Years' War. The town also offers numerous museums, including the House of History, which provides exciting insights into Dinkelsbühl's past. Culinary delights await in the form of traditional Franconian specialties served in cozy inns and restaurants. With its unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, Dinkelsbühl offers an unforgettable travel experience.
Monschau must of course not be missing from our list of the best places. The picturesque town in the Eifel region is a true gem that enchants visitors with its well-preserved old town and romantic atmosphere. The narrow, winding streets are lined with historic half-timbered houses that provide insight into the town's centuries-old history. Especially worth seeing is the Red House, an impressive museum that showcases the living culture of cloth makers in the 18th century. Monschau is also known for its mustard mill, which has been in operation since 1882 and delights visitors with traditional and exotic mustard varieties. The surrounding area of Monschau invites extensive hiking and cycling tours, particularly the Eifelsteig, which leads through the varied landscape of the Eifel. Another highlight is Monschau Castle, which majestically overlooks the town and provides the backdrop for the Monschau Classic Festival in the summer months. During the Advent season, Monschau transforms into a winter wonderland as the Christmas market fills the town with lights, scents, and festive cheer. With its unique blend of history, culture, and nature, Monschau is an incomparable place that makes the heart of every guest soar.
Meersburg, idyllically situated on Lake Constance, is a true gem in southern Germany. The town impresses with its historic old town, featuring picturesque alleys, colorful half-timbered houses, and impressive sights. Particularly noteworthy is the Old Castle, the oldest inhabited castle in Germany, which offers visitors fascinating insights into medieval history. Right next to it stands the baroque New Castle, which provides a breathtaking view over Lake Constance to the Alps. Meersburg's lakeside promenade invites leisurely walks where one can enjoy the fresh lake air and the picturesque views. Numerous cafés and restaurants offer regional specialties that can be enjoyed in a cozy atmosphere right by the water. Wine lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, as the region is known for its excellent wine production. A visit to one of the many wineries or a wine tasting is therefore a must. Meersburg is also an ideal starting point for excursions around Lake Constance, whether by boat, bike, or on foot. With its unique combination of history, culture, and nature, the town offers an unparalleled travel experience.
Bad Wimpfen, a charming spa resort on the Neckar River, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking history, architecture, and relaxation. The historic old town, with its impressive half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and medieval towers, is a true jewel that invites leisurely strolls. Notable sights include the Blue Tower, the town's landmark, and the Kaiserpfalz, a remnant of the medieval castle complex that once housed Emperor Frederick Barbarossa. Bad Wimpfen is also known as a spa town and offers numerous opportunities for rest and relaxation. The local thermal baths and spa facilities attract visitors looking for tranquility and well-being. Additionally, the town serves as an ideal starting point for hikes and bike tours along the Neckar, where one can enjoy the beautiful nature and idyllic vineyards. Culinary delights abound in Bad Wimpfen, with a variety of restaurants and wine taverns offering regional specialties and excellent wines from the area. With its unique blend of history, culture, and wellness, Bad Wimpfen provides an unparalleled travel experience that captivates every visitor.
Without Königstein im Taunus, this list would certainly be incomplete! The charming small town in Hesse offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxation. Nestled in the picturesque Taunus Mountains, the town is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Among the best cities, you will also find Cochem – idillically located on the Moselle, it is a true gem that enchants visitors with its romantic charm and impressive Reichsburg. The castle majestically overlooks the town and offers a fascinating view of the Moselle valley and the surrounding vineyards. A guided tour of the Reichsburg is an absolute must and transports visitors to the world of the Middle Ages. Cochem's old town is characterized by its charming half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and the picturesque marketplace lined with cozy cafés and restaurants. Here, one can enjoy the regional Moselle wines and specialties. Cochem is also an ideal starting point for boat trips on the Moselle, where one can discover the impressive landscape and the numerous castles along the river. The region also offers countless hiking and cycling trails that lead through the beautiful nature. A hike on the Apollo Trail is particularly recommended, offering breathtaking views of the Moselle. Cochem uniquely combines history, culture, and nature, providing an unforgettable travel experience.
Rüdesheim am Rhein, an idyllic wine town in the Rheingau, is a true paradise for wine lovers and connoisseurs. The town is world-renowned for its picturesque Drosselgasse, a narrow alley filled with wine taverns, restaurants, and souvenir shops that attracts visitors from all over the world. Here, one can sample the excellent wines of the region in a cozy atmosphere and experience the hospitality of Rheinhessen. A highlight is the ride with the cable car to the Niederwalddenkmal, which majestically overlooks the vineyards and offers a breathtaking view of the Rhine Valley. Rüdesheim is also an ideal starting point for boat trips on the Rhine, during which one can admire the impressive castles and palaces along the river. For history enthusiasts, the Medieval Torture Museum provides exciting insights into times gone by. Nature lovers can enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley with its numerous hiking and cycling paths. A hike along the Rheinsteig, which leads through the spectacular landscape, is particularly recommended. Rüdesheim am Rhein uniquely combines wine, history, and nature, offering an unforgettable travel experience.
Quedlinburg, one of the oldest towns in Germany, enchants visitors with its unique medieval charm and impressive half-timbered architecture. The old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a true open-air museum with over 1,200 half-timbered houses from eight centuries. That’s why it deserves a place on this wonderful list of the best places! A walk through the narrow, cobblestone streets feels like a journey back in time. Particularly noteworthy is the marketplace with its splendid town hall and the statue of Roland. The imposing St. Servatius Church on the castle hill, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, houses the famous Quedlinburg cathedral treasure and offers a fantastic view over the town. Quedlinburg is also a cultural center that hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the renowned Quedlinburg Music Festival and the traditional Christmas market. The surrounding Harz region invites hiking and exploration in one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Germany. Numerous museums, cozy cafés, and restaurants offering regional specialties round out the offerings. Quedlinburg is a fascinating travel destination that captivates every visitor with its history, architecture, and cultural diversity.