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From the big cities of Berlin and Munich to the countryside, there are hundreds of famous landmarks in Germany just waiting to be explored! From natural wonders to political and historical locations to castles and palaces of royalty, the country exudes an abundance of places to visit and admire. Explore below some of the best and most famous landmarks in Germany to visit on your next trip!
Schloss Neuschwanstein – Bavaria
Schloss Neuschwanstein, or Neuschwanstein Castle, is one of the most well-known and famous landmarks in Germany – even one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe! It receives about 1.5 million visitors a year and served as the inspiration for Disney World’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
King Ludwig II of Bavaria commissioned the castle and construction began in 1869. The architecture is based on the Romantic style and the operas of Richard Wagner, a friend of King Ludwig II.
Schloss Neuschwanstein overlooks the town of Hohenschwangau, which is near Füssen in southwest Bavaria and close to the border with Austria. For a perfect view of the castle, head to the Marienbrücke.
You can only visit the castle via a 35-minute guided tour. Peak season is from June to August, and tickets to visit the castle can only be bought at the ticket center in Hohenschwangau, not at the castle itself.
Schloss Neuschwanstein can be reached by plane, public transport, and car. The nearest airport is Innsbruck Airport in Austria, which is 56.2 kilometers away. It’s also not too far away from Munich Airport, which is one of the biggest airports in Germany. The nearest train station is in Füssen, and from there, a bus line runs regularly to the castle.
Other tourist attractions nearby that shouldn’t be missed are Schloss Hohenschwangau, Alpsee boathouse, and the thermal baths “Königliche Kristall-Therme”.
Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.
Elbphilharmonie – Hamburg
Rising above Hamburg’s skyline is one of Germany’s newest landmarks – the Elbphilharmonie (known as “the Elphi”). This concert hall is one of the largest in the world and overlooks Hamburg’s iconic Elbe River. With one of the most high-tech acoustic systems in the world, this concert hall provides stunning concerts and musical productions.
Built on top of one of the warehouse buildings in the Speicherstadt (warehouse district) – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the building resembles the peak of a wave. It fits in perfectly with the nautical and port city of Hamburg.
Even if you’re not visiting the Elphi for a performance, you can visit the observation deck at the Elphi for free. This platform gives an incredible view of Hamburg and the entire harbor. The concert hall can be easily visited via public transportation. The U-Bahn Line 3 is only a 5-minute walk away from the Elphi – get off at station Baumwall. It can also be reached by the ferry station HADAG Elbphilharmonie.
Besides being a world-renown concert hall, the Elphilharmonie is also home to a Westin hotel as well as multiple restaurants and bars. It’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway and a famous landmark in Germany that shouldn’t be missed!
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe – Berlin
The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is an enormous outdoor interactive structure in the center of Berlin. It is a place to remember and commemorate the six million Jews murdered in Europe during the Holocaust (WWII 1939-1945). The memorial opened on May 10, 2005, although planning started in 1988.
The monument includes the Field of Stelae which consists of 2710 steles (concrete blocks in multiple sizes) that stand on 19,073 m² (4.7 acres) of land. The visitor immerses themselves in this fully walkable structure that can be accessed from all four sides. The wave-like shape of the structure makes it look different depending on the vantage point. It also gives the visitor a feeling of being disoriented due to the varying sizes of the concrete blocks and sheer vastness. There is also an indoor exhibition underneath the Field of Stelae which details the extermination of the Jews.
The memorial is a must-see but somber activity for anyone interested in learning about the atrocities committed towards Jews during WWII. The outdoor memorial is appropriate for any age, although children should not climb on the steles. The indoor exhibition is not suitable for anyone under the age of 14 years old.
To reach the memorial, you can fly into Berlin Brandenburg Airport and take public transportation to the center of Berlin. It is close to the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, which houses the German Parliament.
Contributed by Nicole from Go Far Grow Close
Frauenkirche – Dresden
One of the most famous landmarks in Germany is the Frauenkirche, also known as the Church Of Our Lady. Located in Dresden’s busy Neumarkt Square, this historic church draws millions of visitors each year. When you look at its structure, it’s hard to believe that it was completely destroyed during World War II in 1945. It was later restored in 2005 financed through private donations from all over the world. The Frauenkirche is considered a symbol of hope and reconciliation.
This glorious church also features one of the largest domes in Europe. You can climb up to the top of the dome to soak in some amazing views of the city and the Elbe River. The interiors of the church are vibrant and very captivating. The colorful murals, the artistic oak doors, and the golden cross at the top are the most delightful features of the church. The church was built in the baroque style, making it one of the most picturesque landmarks in Germany.
The entrance to the church is free while the elevator to the dome costs a small fee. You can reach the Frauenkirche very conveniently through the Dresden tramway service, the nearest tram station is Marienplatz.
Contributed by Anjali from Cheerful Trails
Bastei Bridge – Saxon Switzerland
One of the most worthwhile, famous landmarks in Germany is the Bastei Bridge in Saxon Switzerland, a real natural jewel near Dresden. Outdoor fans, nature lovers, and photographers especially love this picturesque area. Countless hiking trails lead to breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, deep gorges, green fairytale forests, and spectacular viewpoints of the Elbe Mountains.
The absolute highlight for many vacationers is a visit to the world-famous Bastei Bridge. This amazing landmark is a stone bridge that connects quite extraordinary rock formations. The scenery is so unique and special that about 1.5 million visitors from all over the world come every year to experience this impressive attraction. From the Bastei Bridge, the rock drops steeply over 194 meters to the Elbe River. From there you have a stunning view over the Elbe Valley and over to the rocky needles of the mountains.
In any case, it is worth spending a few days in this region. On top of the famous Bastei Bridge, there are many other great things to do in the area – including a visit to the Königsstein Fortress, a bike tour along the beautiful Elbe River, or a hike along the famous Malerweg Route.
The easiest way to reach the Bastei Bridge is by car. The nearest international airport is in Dresden about 45 kilometers away.
Contributed by Martina from PlacesofJuma
St. Peter’s Cathedral – Trier
Many call Trier the little Rome of Germany and St. Peter’s Cathedral is the focal point of this town. As the oldest church in Germany, the cathedral was built in 326, about the same time that the Romans started building St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The cathedral is located on Domfreihof Square. When you arrive at the square you will notice how impressive all the buildings around the square are, with the cathedral as the absolute highlight.
Take a seat on one of the square’s benches and take in all the details of St. Peter’s Cathedral. For example, the tower and the statues at the entrance are exquisitely beautiful. After admiring the exterior, visit the interior of the cathedral for free. You will immediately notice that the inside is huge. At the back of the cathedral, you can visit the treasures of the cathedral including Jesus’s holy tunic and holy nails from Jesus’s cross. If you have visited St. Peter’s Cathedral, it is recommended to visit the Liebfrauenkirche next to the cathedral. The garden behind Liebfrauenkirche is a great place to visit because you have an impressive view of the church and the cathedral.
You can easily visit St. Peter’s Cathedral when you are in the historic center of Trier. From the main street, it is a 5-minute walk to Domfreihof Square. Trier itself can be reached by public transport or car. Besides visiting the cathedral and the church, there are many things to do in Trier.
Contributed by Alexander and Cynthia from Travel Your Memories
Königsstuhl – Island of Rügen
Königsstuhl is a prominent chalk cliff along the 10-mile stretch of chalk cliffs on the island of Rügen. It forms the main attraction of Jasmund National Park and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although Rügen, Germany’s largest island, boasts spectacular scenery and beaches, international tourists rarely find their way here.
The white cliffs reach 118 meters above sea level, creating a picturesque contrast between the blue and turquoise water and the lush green woods that surround it. The scenery inspired many artists, such as Caspar David Friedrich who painted them in 1818.
Rostock, Germany (RLG) is the closest airport although there are not many international connections. From there, you will want to take a rental car. However, cars are not allowed inside the national park, so you will have to hike or take a coach or bus.
The parking lot in Hagen is about 2.8km away from Königsstuhl. Hiking there is pleasant and easy enough for inexperienced hikers. If you prefer, you can also take a bus from this parking lot or a bus from the port in Sassnitz. Hiking maps for the area are available on the Jasmund National Park website. Additional information such as admission fees is available at www.koenigsstuhl.com.
Contributed by Christin of Christin has Fernweh
Cuckoo Clock – Triberg
If you’re looking for a famous landmark in Germany and are in the Black Forest region, you don’t get more famous than the world’s largest cuckoo clock in Triberg. Triberg is a pretty town set right in the Black Forest region. The town is full of cute wooden houses and surrounded by trees and stunning views.
It’s easy to get to Triberg from all the major cities as the train routes are good. It’s also a popular spot for buses and day tours. However, if you want to explore the area, you’ll find it much easier with your own vehicle. The town has plenty of parking and if you’re campervanning in Germany there’s a wonderful campsite just outside.
Once you’re in Triberg, it’s impossible to miss the main street. However, once you’re on the main street, you could be forgiven for missing the world’s largest cuckoo clock! This is because it doesn’t look like a clock at all – it’s a house. A two-story-high building, built as part of the street!
But it’s a fully working clock- during the hours of daylight you’ll see the bears moving, hear it chime, and the cuckoo will appear every 30 minutes.
Triberg is also home to many other clocks, including the world’s smallest cuckoo clock and the house of 1001 clocks (apparently- we didn’t count!). Once you’ve admired as many cuckoo clocks as you can, treat yourself to a piece of deliciously authentic Black Forest Gateau cake, made with black cherries, chocolate sponge, and whipped cream- worth every calorie!
Contributed by Kat from Wandering Bird
Blautopf – Blaubeuren
The Blautopf is one of Germany’s most beautiful and famous landmarks. Located in Southern Germany, it is a lake famous for its exquisite blue color. The water is high in limestone particles, which reflect the light and make it shimmer in vivid hues of blue and green. The colors are most intense in the morning but it is worth coming at any time of the day.
Next to the Blautopf, you can find the town of Blaubeuren. During your visit to the lake, you have the chance of exploring the old town with its half-timbered houses. Plus, make sure to stop by the Blaubeuren Abbey. The Bathhouse of the Monks is worth visiting for the centuries-old wall paintings you can admire there. The caves around the Blautopf served as a shelter for humans over many millennia. Scientists found human remains that date back to 65,000 years ago, and they also discovered the world’s oldest instrument here. If you want to see this and many more exhibits that are up to 40,000 years old, make sure to stop by the URMU Museum in Blaubeuren.
A great way of visiting Blaubeuren and the Blautopf is on a road trip through Germany. If you don’t have a car, the closest city is Ulm. You can easily get here with a high-speed train from Munich and then travel to Blaubeuren on a regional train.
Contributed by Daniel and Ilona from Top Travel Sights
New City Hall – Munich
Munich is one of the most well-known and picturesque German cities. Known for its annual Munich Beer Festival; Oktoberfest, this great city has a lot to offer the avid traveler. But outside of its seasonal notoriety, Munich offers mesmerizing architecture and buildings that you can admire for hours. In fact, Munich has some of the most famous landmarks in Germany, all conveniently located in Marienplatz. Best of all you can’t miss them as they are conveniently located next to Munich Hauptbahnhof – the main train station in Munich.
Marienplatz (Mary’s Square and also referred to as Our Lady’s Square) has been the main focal point of Munich’s city center since 1158. The New City Hall, Neues Rathaus in English, has been the focal point of the square since 1905 and is built in a striking Neo-Gothic architectural design. One of its most prominent features is the Glockenspiel spectacle that happens a few times per day. This show depicts some of Munich’s history, as well as the famous “Schäfflertanz” dance. You can also pay a small fee to catch a lift to the observation deck on the tower. Located 85 meters above Marienplatz, the tower provides fantastic views over the Munich city center.
Along the Marienplatz, you can also dine or grab a drink, as well as shop for souvenirs and mementos. The square is popular from day until night and is worth a visit when in Munich.
Contributed by Kerry from VeggTravel
Brandenburg Gate – Berlin
The Brandenburger Gate is arguably Germany’s most famous landmark and one of Berlin’s tourist hotspots. Built in the 18th century, the Brandenburg Gate was constructed by Frederick William II and originally meant to be the gate of the city and the beginning of the road to Brandenburg. The Brandenburger Gate is located in the heart of the city right next to the Tiergarten and the Reichstag, two other iconic landmarks in Berlin. The gate has been a staple of German history and played a prominent role in the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Right next to the gate is the U-Bahn station Brandenburger Tor, one of the most convenient ways to reach the landmark. The subway system in the German capital is relatively affordable and reliable. It will take you all around the city and even runs late into the night. Another fantastic way to get to know the city is via a segway tour. For around 40 Euros per person, you’ll learn how to ride a segway and then take a guided tour around the city center. You’ll pass right underneath the Brandenburg Gate and can snap all the best pictures. The gate is especially beautiful at night when it’s illuminated at night with lights. In the evenings there are also far fewer other people there as the gate gets quite crowded during the day.
Contributed by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
Neuer Zollhof – Düsseldorf
Neuer Zollhof, or the New Zollhof, is a business complex consisting of three separate buildings in Düsseldorf and located near the Rheinturm, the tallest building in the city. This famous German landmark with eye-catchy and striking architecture was designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry and completed in 1998. The buildings are some of the finest examples of Gehry’s architectural style, featuring his signature curves, organic shapes, bright colors, and interesting use of materials. The modern design works harmoniously with the surroundings and nearby historic houses.
Düsseldorf is conveniently connected to a number of major cities by train, including Cologne, Amsterdam, and Brussels. The city also has an international airport only 10 kilometers away from the city center with both domestic and international connections. To get around Düsseldorf, the tram is a great way to explore the city as it’s reliable and clean. Tram Line 706 reaches Neuer Zollhof at station Stadttor.
Contributed by Kenny from Knycx Journeying
Hohenzollern Castle – Baden-Württemberg
The Hohenzollern Castle is without a doubt the true definition of a castle: turrets, sweeping views, and big sturdy walls for protection. Although it looks like the castle has been there for ages, this is actually the third castle to sit atop Mount Hohenzollern. This specific castle dates back to the 19th century and was built according to the prevailing German Romanticism (the same style the famous castle of Neuschwanstein adheres to) by the Prussian Royal Family – descendants of whom still own the castle today. The entrance fee for the castle is 22 Euros.
As is the case with most castles, Hohenzollern Castle was built a little “out of the way” which means getting there can be a bit of a struggle. The Baden-Württemberg region in Germany has a lot of fairy-tales castles within a few hour drive so make a weekend of it after a trip to Hohenzollern Castle! Fly into Karlsruhe, rent a car for a day (prices start at €28), and drive 90 minutes to Hohenzollern Castle. The castle grounds have two parking lots, from which a shuttle bus takes you up to the castle (the price for which is included in your entrance ticket) or you can simply make the 20-minute hike on foot by using the hiking path near the winding road.
Contributed by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer
Triberg Waterfalls – Black Forest
If you’re in Germany and you like waterfalls, head to Triberg, home of one of the highest waterfalls in the country. It’s a gorgeous series of waterfalls with a 163-meter drop. The waterfalls sit just outside the quaint town of Triberg in the Black Forest. The address is Schönwälder Str. 2, 78098 Triberg and it’s fairly easy to find the falls – either follow the signs or the crowds!
It’s possible to reach Triberg by public transport – both buses and trains have nearby stops, but you’ll find it a lot easier with your own vehicle. If you’re driving or motorcycling in Germany, there is plenty of parking around the town. Entrance to the falls costs around 6€. There aren’t many facilities or shops, so take a drink or snacks with you and stock up before you leave town.
The hike to the falls is fairly flat and children/ able-bodied adults should be able to do walk it easily. Wheelchairs or pushchairs may struggle due to the uneven path. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on their leashes. The falls are open all year, but please be careful in winter – it can get icy and slippery, even on the path.
As it’s one of the most popular German landmarks in the area, try to get there either when it opens or just before closing, when the tour buses have gone home. You’ll be able to get much closer and take better photos.
Contributed by Kat from Biker Girl Life
TV Tower – Berlin
The TV Tower, or Fernsehturm in German, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Berlin. It’s one of the tallest structures in Europe, making it a fantastic place for views of the city. It should definitely be on your Berlin bucket list!
During the Cold War when Berlin was split into East and West, the Soviets built the TV Tower in East Berlin. It stands at 368 meters (1,207 feet) tall and was intentionally built so that it could be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Though the Soviets built the TV Tower as a symbol of communist strength in East Germany, today it stands for the reunification of Germany and is a symbol of Berlin. It was inaugurated on October 3, 1969, and oddly enough, October 3rd is now Reunification Day in Germany.
The viewing platform is about 200 meters high, and there’s also a revolving restaurant on a different level where you can have a nice meal and see the views of Berlin at the same time. Since there’s almost always a wait, it’s recommended to book tickets ahead of time.
The TV Tower is located at Alexanderplatz, making it easy to reach from the Alexanderplatz U-Bahn and S-Bahn station. Lots of other important sights are located within walking distance from Alexanderplatz, such as Museum Island, the Berliner Dom, the DDR Museum, and Brandenburger Tor.
Contributed by Ali from Berlin Travel Tips
Nymphenburg Palace – Munich
Are you inspired to visit places that look amazing on Instagram or blow you away on TikTok? One place that is even more magical in person is Nymphenburg Palace, located in the heart of Munich. This amazing Bavarian palace was home to kings and queens, to future rulers, and now it’s a place everyone can visit to admire. The building is pure white in the sunlight with the red roof shining just as bright in the sun. In any season it is a beautiful sight at the end of a canal surrounded by a forest that was once well out of the city and a playground for the royals and their friends.
Today you can wander the magnificent ground, perfectly manicured and full of wildlife or you can tour the inside of the palace. The extravagant rooms take you back to a time when the royals were isolated and seeing the inside of one of their regal homes was a rarity for people outside the social circle. All the rooms are beautiful, trimmed with gold, and hold ornate furniture.
In the buildings surrounding the palace, you will also find more royal treasures. One of them is the Marstall Museum which holds the carriages that were used by the royal Bavarian family to get around. They are all well preserved and beautifully displayed. You can also see the household items that were needed to wait on the royals hand and foot. Many of them are intricate and rare.
Nymphenburg Palace is easy to get to from central Munich. The palace has its own stop of the same name and it is then only a short walk from there. At the stop, you will find a small bakery on the corner, perfect in the winter months to warm up inside, and an ice cream shop to cool down in the summer months with a must-eat German food – “Spaghettieis”.
Although Nymphenburg is beautiful in any season, winter is where it shines for visitors that don’t see snow regularly. The frozen canal leads to the perfect winter palace covered in snow and it is a sight to remember forever.
Contributed by Bec from Wyld Family Travel
Zwinger – Dresden
The Dresden Zwinger is one of the many popular attractions in Dresden. It is a palatial complex close to the Elbe River, castle, and Theaterplatz. The Dresden Zwinger is a great place to explore due to its vast exterior and exquisite interior. To enter the courtyard, you pass through some very ornate gates, including the Kronentor. The Kronentor is a baroque-style gate to the palace with a distinguished crown on the top. The other entrance to the Dresden Zwinger is via the Glockenspiel. The Glockenspiel is home to a collection of porcelain bells that you can hear play every 15 minutes while visiting.
The main courtyard hosts events and has a formal garden with extensive landscaping. Attractions inside the complex include the Old Masters gallery – an art gallery with over 750 paintings from the 15th to 18th century, including some by Rembrandt. You can also watch classical music performances in the wall pavilion or see the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments.
From the main train station of Dresden to the Zwinger is a gorgeous 20-minute walk. The train station is well-connected to long-distance and international routes, as well as local destinations.
Contributed by Rich from RJOnTour
Checkpoint Charlie – Berlin
One of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks is Checkpoint Charlie, the most famous border crossing checkpoint between East and West Berlin. From 1961 to 1991, Berlin was divided into two by the Berlin Wall, which was constructed by East Germany to limit movement into the West. Those wishing to cross from one side to the other had to do so at one of the checkpoints along the wall, including Checkpoint C – better known as Checkpoint Charlie. It was the only checkpoint that could be used by foreigners and members of the Allied Forces.
After the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany, Checkpoint Charlie became one of Berlin’s most famous tourist attractions. Today, you can visit a replica of the guardhouse and the sign marking the border crossing. The nearby Checkpoint Charlie Museum features exhibits where you can learn more about the Berlin Wall, Germany’s division, and attempts to escape from East to West Berlin.
Checkpoint Charlie is located in central Berlin, close to many of Berlin’s other top sights including Potsdamer Platz, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island. To get to Checkpoint Charlie, take the U-Bahn to Kochstraße station – from there, you’re just steps away from the checkpoint.
Contributed by Sydney from A World in Reach
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1 Comment
Personalizeornaments
December 9, 2022 atThese structures look very beautiful. It’s worth to be seen.