Things to do in Germany – 25 experiences and attractions

Text and photo: Helena Bergström

What to see and do in Germany? The country is one of Europe's most diverse travel destinations, where you can combine historical sights, scenic landscapes, culture, food and entertainment. Whether you're drawn to fairytale castles, lively festivals or beautiful road trips, there are plenty of experiences to choose from. Here we've collected our best tips for a trip through Germany.

Things to do in Germany – our best tips

We have travelled around Germany many times, both on short weekends and months-long motorhome trips. Over the years we have discovered everything from classic sights to more unexpected gems, and it is precisely this variety that makes the country so interesting. Here you can hike in beautiful nature one day and stroll through historic cities or visit a lively festival the next.

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25 things to see and do in Germany

1. Visit Berlin

Berlin is one of Europe's most exciting cities, where history meets modern culture. Here you can experience iconic sights such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall and the Reichstag, but also a rich selection of museums, restaurants and nightlife. The city has a creative and relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for both weekend trips and longer stays.

2. Experience Hamburg

Hamburg offers a unique combination of big-city vibe and maritime charm. The city's harbor area, Speicherstadt and many canals give it an almost Venetian feel, while restaurants, bars and shopping attract visitors all year round. Don't miss a stroll along the harbor or a visit to the lively St. Pauli district.

READ MORE: 22 things to see and do in Hamburg

3. Discover Dresden

Dresden is one of Germany's most elegant cities, often called the "Florence of the Elbe" due to its beautiful architecture and location on the Elbe River. Here you can admire grand buildings such as the Frauenkirche and the Zwinger, as well as explore the city's art collections and historical environments. The combination of culture, history and natural surroundings makes Dresden a perfect destination.

READ MORE: 18 attractions and experiences in Dresden

4. Be impressed by Saxon Switzerland and the Bastei

Saxon Switzerland is one of Germany's most spectacular natural areas, with dramatic rock formations and deep valleys. Here you can hike to iconic viewpoints like the Bastei, where the views over the Elbe are something truly special. The area is also close to Dresden, making it easy to combine nature and city on the same trip.

5. Visit fairytale castles

If you dream of battlements, towers and grand castle environments, Germany is the perfect country to travel to. Here you will find everything from the iconic Neuschwanstein to romantic Burg Eltz, Hohenzollern and Heidelberg Castle Ruins. Many of the castles are also located in scenic surroundings, which makes the journey there part of the experience.

READ MORE: 10 magical castles in Germany you won't want to miss

6. Take part in Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest in Munich is one of the world's most famous folk festivals, attracting millions of visitors each year. It combines traditional costumes, large beer tents, music and a festive atmosphere during the end of September and beginning of October. Even if you are not particularly interested in beer, it is a special cultural experience that provides an insight into Bavarian traditions.

7. Go to German Christmas markets

Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, and traveling here during Advent is something very special. Here, mulled wine, Christmas baking, crafts, light decorations and atmospheric music await in both large cities and smaller towns. For those who love the Christmas atmosphere, this is one of Europe's very best travel destinations during the winter months.

READ MORE: Inspired by German Christmas traditions

8. Join the carnival

Carnival in Germany is a colorful and festive tradition that involves entire cities, especially in the Rhineland. The celebration symbolically starts on November 11th at 11:11 a.m., and then reaches its peak in the weeks before Lent. If you visit cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf or Mainz during the carnival season, you can expect parades, music, costumes and a wonderful atmosphere.

9. Explore the Moselle Valley

Moselle valleys is one of Germany's most scenic areas, known for its winding rivers, steep vineyards and charming little villages. Here you can drive along beautiful roads, visit vineyards and sample local wines in a relaxed environment. The region is perfect for a quiet and enjoyable trip with a focus on nature, food and wine.

10. Hike in nature

Germany has many beautiful natural areas suitable for hiking, from moorland and beech forests to mountain formations and national parks. Black Forest, Harz Mountains, Eifel and Saxon Switzerland are just a few examples of areas where you can combine exercise with magnificent views. The country is therefore very suitable for those who want to mix city life with active days in nature.

READ MORE: 10 amazing natural areas in Germany

11. Discover Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is located on the German Baltic Sea coast and is an area that is perfect for a quieter holiday. Here you can enjoy the sea, spas, picturesque villages, cycling trails and beautiful natural areas. The region is also easy to reach from Sweden, which makes it extra attractive for a shorter trip or a longer tour.

READ MORE: 8 things to do in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

12. Relax with a spa – in Baden-Baden or at Usedom

Germany is famous for its spas and health resorts, and Baden-Baden is perhaps the most classic of them all. Here you can enjoy thermal baths, historic bathhouses and a relaxed atmosphere. Also the island of Usedom in the Baltic Sea beckons with long sandy beaches, elegant seaside resorts and plenty of opportunities for relaxation.

13. Drive along beautiful themed roads

Germany is known for its many themed roads, which make it easy to discover the country at a leisurely pace. The Romantic Road, the Fairy Tale Road, the Castle Road and the Wine Road are just a few examples of routes where sights, nature and charming towns follow each other. It is a perfect arrangement for those who want a trip with a clear theme and many nice stops along the way. Read more here:

• Beautiful roads in Germany
• 6 holiday routes in northern Germany
• Korsvirkesvägen

14. Have fun at amusement parks

There are plenty of amusement parks in Germany, especially in the northern parts of the country. Heide Park, Hansa Park and Serengeti-Park are some examples of destinations where you can combine carousels, shows and family-friendly activities. Perfect for a day trip if you want to break up your sightseeing with speed, play and entertainment. You can read more here:

• Amusement parks in northern Germany
• Templin -among Indians and cowboys

15. Visit caves and mines

Germany has many exciting caves and mines that offer both natural experiences and history. For example, you can visit salt mines, stalactite caves and underground environments with exciting stories about both geology and people. For families with children and curious travelers, this is often a popular excursion that differs from classic city visits.

READ MORE: Mines and caves in Germany - 7 exciting tips

16. Try German specialties

Germany has an exciting food culture where each region offers its own flavors and traditions. For example, you can try marzipan from Lübeck, currywurst in Berlin, weisswurst in Bavaria or Black Forest cake in the south of the country. For those who like food and drink, Germany is a destination where there is always something new to discover, whether you are attracted by rustic dishes, local cheeses or riesling and beer. Read more here:

• German Food – 25 Classic Dishes to Try
• German specialities in different regions

17. Experience the beer culture

Germany is a dream destination for anyone interested in beer, breweries and classic beer gardens. Here you can do everything from trying local beer styles and going on brewery tours to staying in beer hotels or trying beer spas. Beer culture is also strongly linked to regional identity, which makes it extra interesting to discover on site.

READ MORE: Beer in Germany - 6 German experiences with a beer theme

18. Visit wine festivals

For wine lovers, Germany is far more exciting than many might think. During late summer and autumn, several wine regions are filled with wine festivals, tastings and local parties where you can taste both classic and more unknown wines. Along the Moselle, the Rhine and in other wine regions, beautiful environments and a pleasant atmosphere await.

19. Eat asparagus in season

White asparagus, or spargel as the Germans call it, is almost sacred in Germany during the spring. From mid-April to the end of June, asparagus is served everywhere, and many regions organize special asparagus festivals, markets and events. For those who want to experience something truly local, this is a nice way to get closer to both the food culture and traditions.

READ MORE: All about asparagus in Germany – festivals, routes, recipes

20. Shop for local products

There is a lot to buy back home from Germany, especially if you like local specialties and traditional crafts. Marzipan from Lübeck, porcelain from Meissen, cuckoo clocks from the Black Forest and Ritter Sport chocolates are just a few examples. Shopping for regional products is also a nice way to take a little piece of your trip home with you.

READ MORE: Gifts in Germany - 12 must-haves to bring home

21. Vacation with children in Germany

Germany is a great destination for families, as there are plenty of experiences to suit both young and old children. Here you will find everything from fairytale castles and interactive museums to large theme parks, safari parks and water parks. Europa-Park, Phantasialand, Legoland and the Deutsches Museum in Munich are just a few examples of places that can make your holiday extra memorable.

READ MORE: Tips for things to do with children in Germany

22. Discover Roman remains

Many are surprised by how many traces of the Roman Empire actually remain in Germany. In and around Trier, Cologne and several other places you can see ruins, baths, defenses and other remains from the Roman era. This is an exciting theme for those who want to combine history with a little more unexpected sights.

READ MORE: 6 sites from Roman times in Germany

23. Be fascinated by unique sights

Germany also offers many unexpected and unique attractions that stand out from the crowd. For example, you can visit unusual buildings, unique parks – or why not a boat lift with a lifting height of 36 meters? These types of places give the trip an extra dimension and are perfect for those who want to discover something different. Here you will find tips on places that stand out:

• Boat lift with 36 meter lifting height
• Germany's longest suspension bridge
• Kassel Bergpark – with water spectacles
• Wörlitzer Park – unique garden kingdom
• The Green Citadel of Magdeburg

24. Learn more about Bauhaus

Bauhaus is one of the world's most influential design and architecture schools and has had an enormous impact on modern design. In Germany you can visit places – not least Dessau – which tells more about the school's history, ideas and heritage in architecture, art and design. This is a must for those interested in aesthetics, urban planning or cultural history.

25. Visit picturesque towns

If you like half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets and charming city centers, Germany has a lot to offer. Cities like Celle, Bamberg and other smaller towns along the theme roads offer both history and genuine atmosphere. Here you can stroll around at a leisurely pace, sit down in a square and enjoy a more small-scale side of the country.

READ MORE: 10 picturesque towns in Germany

More guides in the same series

Here you will find more guides with tips on what to see and do in different countries. This type of article is perfect for those who want to get an overview, inspiration and ideas for their next trip.

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