Best Places to Visit in Germany in 2025: Top Destinations for Every Traveler

Whether you're into medieval castles, vibrant cities, or dramatic mountain views, Germany offers a little bit of everything. Here, urban life blends with centuries of history and every type of traveler can find something unforgettable. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time visitor looking to explore historic cities or a parent planning summer adventures with your kids—Germany has something that’ll make you fall in love with it.

With efficient transportation, family-friendly services, and a mix of natural and cultural beauty, it’s no wonder Germany continues to be one of Europe’s top destinations. And if you know how to find cheap flights, it’s even easier to get there. From cities like Berlin and Cologne to scenic escapes around the Bavarian Alps and Lake Constance, this guide covers the best places to visit in Germany in 2025. 

Best places to visit in Germany for first-timers

1. Berlin

If it’s your first time visiting Germany, the best way to get a feel for the country is by starting with its most iconic city. Berlin is where modern Germany and its complex history intersect. The city's historic core is full of museums, local cafés, and street art, so you can find something interesting to explore in all its neighborhoods.

• Location: Northeastern Germany
• Best time to visit: May–September for pleasant weather and outdoor activities
• Top attractions: Brandenburg Gate, East Side Gallery, Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island, Checkpoint Charlie

2. Munich

Munich is everything you imagine Germany to be. Think half-timbered buildings, beer gardens, and views that stretch to the Bavarian Alps. It’s the capital of Bavaria and a gateway to southern Germany. It has a walkable Old Town, the world-famous Oktoberfest (if you visit in fall), and easy access to castles and mountains. 

• Location: Southern Germany, Bavaria
• Best time to visit: September–October for Oktoberfest; May–June for fewer crowds
• Top attractions: Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, English Garden, Viktualienmarkt, Neuschwanstein Castle (day trip)

3. Cologne

Cologne (Köln) is a great blend of laid-back vibes and big-city appeal. It’s known for its jaw-dropping Gothic cathedral, which is one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks, and a charming Old Town perfect for riverside strolls. The city is also big on art, with museums and galleries everywhere. Plus, it’s friendly, welcoming, and easy to explore.

• Location: Western Germany, North Rhine–Westphalia
• Best time to visit: May–September; December for the festive Christmas markets
• Top attractions: Cologne Cathedral, Rhine River cruises, Museum Ludwig, Old Town (Altstadt), Hohenzollern Bridge

Best family-friendly destinations in Germany

1. Bavaria

Traveling through Germany with kids is easier than you might think. Bavaria feels like it was made for families with its green valleys, alpine lakes, and castles that look straight out of a fairytale. The highlight? Neuschwanstein Castle, a dreamlike structure that inspired Disney’s Cinderella castle. There’s also plenty of space to explore. Parents can relax with stunning views and hearty Bavarian food while the kids immerse themselves in the forests and folklore.

• Location: Southern Germany
• Best time to visit: May–September for outdoor adventures; December for Christmas magic
• Top attractions: Neuschwanstein Castle, Lake Königssee, Tegelberg summer toboggan, Bavarian Forest National Park, Munich’s Deutsches Museum

2. Heidelberg

Heidelberg is one of Germany’s most charming cities—and one of the best for families. Its walkable Old Town is full of color, cobblestone streets, and inviting cafés. The Heidelberg Castle is a kid-favorite thanks to its massive ruins and funicular ride to the top. Families can enjoy river walks, boat tours, and green spaces perfect for picnics or playground breaks. The city also feels manageable, with plenty of family-friendly accommodations, stroller-friendly public transport, and easy day trips to nearby towns.

• Location: Southwestern Germany, Baden-Württemberg
• Best time to visit: April–October for mild weather and castle tours
• Top attractions: Heidelberg Castle, Philosopher’s Walk, Neckar River cruise, Old Town, Zoo Heidelberg

3. Hamburg

Hamburg might not be the first place families consider, but maybe it should be. Germany’s second-largest city is full of attractions for all ages, like harbor cruises, kid-focused museums, and the massive Hagenbeck Zoo. The Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway and miniature world, is a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults. There are parks with lakes for paddle boats, hands-on science exhibits, and tons of easy dining options. Plus, many public attractions offer family tickets and discounts.

• Location: Northern Germany
• Best time to visit: May–September for best weather; December for festive markets
• Top attractions: Miniatur Wunderland, Planten un Blomen park, International Maritime Museum, Hamburg Harbor tour, Hagenbeck Zoo

Best places to visit in Northern Germany

1. Lübeck

Lübeck is a historic gem on Germany’s northern coast. Its medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with narrow alleys, Gothic spires, and charming red-brick buildings. Plus, it has one of the region’s most beautiful Christmas markets.

• Location: Schleswig-Holstein, northern Germany
• Best time to visit: May–September for warm weather; December for Christmas markets
• Top attractions: Holstentor Gate, Old Town, Lübeck Cathedral, Niederegger Marzipan Museum

2. Sylt

Often called the "Hamptons of Germany," Sylt is a North Sea island known for its windswept beaches, luxury resorts, and laid-back culture. You can stroll through villages like Keitum or enjoy the region’s fresh seafood. Whether you're after upscale relaxation or nature-focused adventure, Sylt offers a unique experience in northern Germany.

• Location: North Frisian Islands, Schleswig-Holstein
• Best time to visit: June–September for optimal beach weather and outdoor activities
• Top attractions: Ellenbogen Peninsula, Kampen lighthouse, Wattenmeer UNESCO site

Best places to visit in Central Germany

1. Leipzig

Leipzig is one of Germany’s most exciting cultural hubs thanks to the blend of classic architecture, gritty art spaces, and green parks. It was also home to composers like Bach and Mendelssohn, and today it buzzes with artists, students, and creatives. Visit its renowned music museums, explore the alternative vibe of Plagwitz, or catch a performance at the Gewandhaus.

• Location: Saxony, central Germany
• Best time to visit: May–October for festivals and outdoor concerts 
• Top attractions: St. Thomas Church, Bach Museum, Spinnerei art complex, Leipzig Zoo

2. Weimar

Weimar is ideal for travelers interested in art, literature, and intellectual history. It was home to Goethe and Schiller, two of the country’s greatest writers, and later became the cradle of the Bauhaus movement. Today, it’s a peaceful city with leafy streets, elegant gardens, and world-class museums.

• Location: Thuringia, central Germany
• Best time to visit: April–October for mild weather, blooming gardens, and cultural festivals
• Top attractions: Goethe’s House, Bauhaus Museum, Schiller Museum, Park an der Ilm

Best places to visit in Southern Germany

1. The Black Forest

Southern Germany is known for its stunning alpine scenery, charming towns, and rich cultural traditions. Its half-timbered villages and winding trails make the Black Forest an unforgettable destination. You can hike or bike through scenic routes, visit spa towns like Baden-Baden, or explore legends of fairytales. 

• Location: Baden-Württemberg, southwestern Germany
• Best time to visit: May–October for outdoor activities; December for festive villages
• Top attractions: Triberg Waterfalls, Europa-Park, Black Forest Open Air Museum, Baden-Baden, Ravenna Gorge

2. Lake Constance 

Lake Constance is a tranquil escape, located at the border with Switzerland and Austria. Families and couples love its lakeside towns, flower-filled gardens, and easy boating and cycling options. From the medieval streets of Lindau to the blooming beauty of Mainau Island, this region is summer-perfect.

• Location: Borders of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria
• Best time to visit: June–September for warm weather and lake activities
• Top attractions: Lindau Old Town, Mainau Island, Zeppelin Museum, Meersburg Castle, lake cruises

3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

This walled town looks like it was plucked from a storybook. Rothenburg’s cobbled lanes, medieval towers, and traditional bakeries are especially magical in the early mornings or off-season. It's also a great stop along the Romantic Road, offering both history and postcard-perfect photo ops.

• Location: Northern Bavaria
• Best time to visit: May–September; December for the Reiterlesmarkt
• Top attractions: Marktplatz, Medieval Crime Museum, Town Walls walk, Christmas Museum, Plönlein Square

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Best places to visit in Germany in winter

1. Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Winter in Germany means snow-covered rooftops, holiday lights, and cozy vibes. Garmisch-Partenkirchen is an alpine town nestled in the Bavarian Alps. It’s great for skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying the snowy landscape. The Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest peak, is just a cable car ride away for incredible views.

• Location: Bavaria, near the Austrian border
• Best time to visit: December–March for snow and winter sports
• Top attractions: Zugspitze, ski resorts, Partnach Gorge, historic Ludwigstrasse

2. Füssen

Located at the southern tip of Bavaria and right on the edge of the Alps, Füssen is a magical winter destination—and not just because it’s the gateway to Neuschwanstein Castle. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for a snowy escape. Füssen is one of the best places to visit in Germany in winter if you want beauty, tranquility, and fairytale vibes all in one place. 

• Location: Bavaria, near the Austrian border
• Best time to visit: December–February
• Top attractions: Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau Castle, Füssen Old Town, alpine lakes and trails

Best places to visit in Germany in summer

1. The Romantic Road

This is one of Germany’s most iconic travel routes. The Romantic Road takes you through rolling countryside, vineyards, and medieval towns straight out of a fairytale. And summer is the ideal time to explore it, with colorful flowers in every window box, cobblestone markets, and castle visits beneath bright blue skies. Every stop along the Romantic Road offers stunning views. 

• Location: Würzburg to Füssen, Bavaria, and Baden-Württemberg
• Best time to visit: May–September
• Top attractions: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Neuschwanstein Castle, Dinkelsbühl, Würzburg Residence, Bavarian countryside

2. Lake Königssee

Lake Königssee is Germany’s most pristine alpine lake, nestled among dramatic cliffs in the Berchtesgaden National Park. Its crystal-clear, emerald waters are peaceful, photogenic, and refreshing in summer. Surrounding the lake are lush hiking trails, panoramic lookouts like the Malerwinkel viewpoint. It’s one of the best places in Germany to visit if you love nature, fresh air, and a slower pace in the height of summer.

• Location: Bavaria, near Berchtesgaden
• Best time to visit: June–September
• Top attractions: Boat rides, Malerwinkel hike, Jennerbahn cable car, St. Bartholomew Church

When to visit Germany’s top destinations

Start planning your Germany adventure: Find the best flight deals with Going

Germany is packed with unforgettable places to explore. From charming medieval towns and alpine villages to modern cities and summer lakeside retreats, there is something for every kind of traveler. The only thing that can make it even better? Finding a cheap flight to make it possible!

That’s where Going comes in. Our exclusive airfare alerts help you find the lowest prices to Germany (and other places on your bucket list, for that matter). No more guessing, no more overpaying—just real deals, straight to your phone.

Plan your Germany trip now, and use the Going app to find the best flight deals today!