The 10 most beautiful places in Germany for a holiday

Germany is one of those destinations you often think you’ll visit “someday”, only to be surprised by how diverse the country is. From chalk cliffs by the sea to vineyards along rivers, and from fairy-tale castles to trendy cities: you could easily fill several holidays here. Below you’ll find ten places, each well worth a visit, with practical tips included to make them truly useful.

1. Bavaria: the Alps around Garmisch-Partenkirchen

If you love mountain air, clear lakes and views your camera can’t quite capture fairly, then the south is the place for you. From Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you can easily reach the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain. The Partnachklamm is also highly recommended: a gorge with walking paths alongside foaming water. Tip: set off early, especially at the weekend, as the routes will be quieter then.

2. The Black Forest: half-timbered villages and hiking trails

The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is ideal if you enjoy being active without having to plan an “expedition” every day. The Triberg area and the region around Lake Schluchsee are perfect for walks, but also for relaxed days. Combine a forest walk with an afternoon in a spa town like Baden-Baden, where wellness is truly part of the local culture.

3. The Moselle: wine, river bends and Cochem

The Moselle region is perhaps the most relaxed area for a road trip with short distances. Drive along the river, stop in villages for a riverside terrace and visit Reichsburg Cochem. You don’t need to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy a pleasant tasting here; you’ll often hear stories about the vineyards and life in the valley too.

4. Saxon Switzerland: the Bastei Bridge and rock landscapes

Near Dresden lies Saxon Switzerland National Park, known for its sandstone rock formations. The Bastei Bridge is the most famous viewpoint, and rightly so: you look out over an impressive valley with steep cliffs. Go during the week if possible. And bring sturdy shoes; even the \”easy\” paths can be uneven.

5. Berlin: culture, districts and plenty of green spaces

Berlin isn’t a city you can capture in one list. You go there for museums on Museum Island, for street food in Kreuzberg, and for tranquil stretches along the Spree. What many people forget: Berlin is also surprisingly green. Tempelhofer Feld, an old airport now a park, is perfect for a picnic or a long walk. Ideal if you like to combine your city break with the outdoors.

6. Dresden: baroque, views and a day trip to the Elbe

Dresden feels classic and elegant, with the Frauenkirche and the Zwinger as its main attractions. But the charm also lies in walks along the Elbe and in the smaller streets of the Neustadt. Dedicate at least one day to the surrounding area: a boat trip or a short train ride will take you to a nature reserve or a castle along the river.

7. Rügen: beach, chalk cliffs and seaside resorts

For a completely different side of Germany, head to Rügen, the country’s largest island. The white chalk cliffs in Jasmund National Park are iconic, and the long beaches make it a top summer destination. Seaside resorts like Binz have that typical German coastal atmosphere: smart promenades, beautiful villas, and plenty of places for a fish sandwich.

8. Rothenburg ob der Tauber: medieval and atmospheric

Yes, it’s touristy. And yet, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is worth it, precisely because it has been so well preserved. Walk along the city walls, wander through the alleyways, and go early in the morning or later in the evening when the day-trippers have left. Then it feels much more authentic, and you have plenty of space to look around at your leisure.

9. The Harz Mountains: half-timbered houses, steam train and nature

The Harz is a lovely destination if you want to combine nature and villages. Wernigerode and Quedlinburg are full of half-timbered houses and have lively squares. For a day outdoors, you can take the steam train towards the Brocken, a mountain with often misty, mysterious weather. This is also a hit with children, but even as an adult, it’s simply enjoyable to ride such a train.

10. Konstanz and Lake Constance: water, cycling and excursions

Lake Constance (Bodensee) is a wonderful region for those who enjoy being by the water but don’t necessarily need the sea. Konstanz is a good base: you can cycle along the shore, take boat trips, and easily make excursions to Mainau Island (flower lovers, take note!). Looking for more inspiration for swimming spots? Then take a look at these beautiful swimming lakes in Germany. Ideal for a holiday with the whole family!

Useful tips for your holiday in Germany

• Travel time: June and September are often ideal: long daylight hours, pleasant temperatures, and fewer crowds than in peak season.
• Transport: You’re flexible with a car, but many regions are also easily accessible by train (especially Berlin, Dresden, and the Moselle region).
• Accommodation: Book popular areas (Rügen, Bavaria, Rothenburg) in advance, especially if you’re travelling during school holidays.
• Planning: Choose a theme: nature, cities, wine routes, or coast. This will make your trip feel more relaxed and you’ll get more out of it.

With these ten places, you have a strong foundation for a truly varied holiday. Whether you mainly want to hike, soak up culture, or simply enjoy driving around with plenty of stops: Germany makes it easy to fill your days without feeling rushed.