Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.
New tourist destinations in exotic places of the planet have recently attracted more and more holidaymakers. But traditional routes have not lost their relevance either. European countries annually receive millions of tourists and offer various kinds of recreation: beach, ski, health, excursion. Travelers especially highlight Germany. It is in the TOP 5 most visited countries in Europe and is one of the safest tourist destinations.
Germany attracts foreign visitors with its landscape, historical and cultural sights, but the undoubted advantage is the first-class service, from hotel accommodation to entertainment services. One of the important indicators is the fact that more than 30% of Germans spend their holidays in their country without leaving its borders.
Every tourist will find a vacation to their liking. It hosts music and film festivals, sports competitions, carnivals, and major trade exhibitions. There are more than 2000 cities in Germany. Each of them has its own history, which undoubtedly attracts travelers from all over the world. It is unrealistic to visit them all in one vacation. Choosing the right route is also beyond the power of many. Our ranking includes 12 of the most beautiful cities in Germany, which are recommended to visit first.
Rating of the most beautiful cities in Germany
Nomination | a place | town | rating |
Rating of the most beautiful cities in Germany | 1 | Munich | 5.0 |
2 | Cologne | 4.9 | |
3 | Frankfurt | 4.8 | |
4 | Berlin | 4.7 | |
5 | Stuttgart | 4.6 | |
6 | Dusseldorf | 4.5 | |
7 | Dresden | 4.4 | |
8 | Bremen | 4.3 | |
9 | Heidelberg | 4.2 | |
10 | Quedlinburg | 4.1 | |
11 | Lubeck | 4.0 | |
12 | Baden Baden | 4.0 |
Munich
Rating: 5.0
The first place on the list is occupied by the metropolis, which, according to locals and tourists, is the most beautiful city in Germany. Munich is the capital of Bavaria. It is famous not only for its historical values. Many shoppers are attracted to the boutiques, where they can buy the latest collections of designer clothes at very attractive prices. For beer fans, Munich is the place where thousands of people from all over the world meet each year for a fun and vibrant Oktoberfest.
There are a lot of attractions. The main one is the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is the most revered temple in the country. Munich involves not only visiting museums and monuments. The English Garden is located in the center. This is not just a park. This is a whole entertainment complex, which is surrounded by greenery. Everyone will like it here: both lovers of leisurely walks and adherents of active recreation. On one of the reservoirs, an imitation of waves is created, which is very important for sportsmen-surfers.
The city has a rich history, and in order to learn more about it, one must visit the Old Pinakothek, Nymphenburg Palace, Marienplatz, Blutenburg Castle. Many historical monuments were destroyed during the Second World War, but they were completely restored and recreated their original appearance.
Cologne
Rating: 4.9
On the second line of the rating is a city with a rich history and culture. It is located on both sides of the Rhine River. Cologne is the oldest settlement, its name is translated from Latin as 'colony'. This status was assigned to cities that enjoyed special privileges. Today Cologne is famous for its museums and galleries, annually attracts tourists to authentic events and modern festivals. The city houses the headquarters of international organizations, the country's largest concert hall and the largest European hockey stadium.
The famous landmark is the Cologne Cathedral. The majestic Gothic building is the third tallest temple in the world. Its construction began in 1248, and the construction lasted for almost 6 centuries. In 1880, the 157-meter cathedral was able to open its doors to everyone. Tourists will also be interested in the Roman-Germanic Museum with ancient artifacts, the Ludwig Museum, where a large collection of works by Pablo Picasso is presented, and the Museum of Applied Arts.
Visiting the Chocolate Museum, you can learn its history from the Aztecs and Mayans to the present day. Connoisseurs of the foamy drink will be able to enjoy a special light beer, the recipe of which has been preserved since ancient times. Kölsch is brewed in Cologne and is one of the protected varieties (the decision to obtain this status is made by the European Union).
Frankfurt
Rating: 4.8
The third place in the rating deservedly goes to the city, which is not only the historical, but also the economic center of Germany. In Frankfurt, ultra-modern skyscrapers made of glass and concrete and small cozy houses, reconstructed after complete destruction during the Second World War, coexist. It houses the European Central Bank and the Federal Bank of the country.
The main shrine of Catholics is Frankfurt Cathedral. The Old Opera is a stately building that looks like a royal palace. To get a boost of vivacity, you can visit the picturesque place of the city, the Palm Garden – a fragrant oasis where plants from all over the world are collected. Local residents are proud of their fellow countryman Johann Goethe. The house where the great poet lived now houses a museum that attracts many travelers from all over the world.
Despite the fact that the city was practically razed to the ground, it was possible to restore it, and all the historical monuments are absolutely exact copies of the originals. You can only feel the striking contrast between the present and the past, comfortably adjacent to each other, only in Frankfurt. It is undoubtedly not only the most beautiful city in the country, but also in the world.
Berlin
Rating: 4.7
The capital of Germany is ranked fourth in our ranking. In Berlin, you can fully relax and not only enjoy the contemplation of historical and cultural monuments, but also have fun in the evening, because it is then that a rich nightlife begins with many clubs and restaurants. Shopping is another reason for its popularity among tourists. The city is a financial center with the offices of the largest corporations in the country.
The variety of museums, palaces and other attractions is impressive. The Berlin Wall, Victory Column and the Reichstag draw tourists from all over the world. The Brandenburg Gate, built in the 18th century, will forever remain a symbol of the city's unity. The Olympic stadium seats over 70 thousand people. Among the temples, it is especially worth highlighting the Kaiser Wilhelm Church, St. Jadwigi, St. Nicholas, St. Mary. The synagogue was built in the 19th century in the Moorish style. It is the centerpiece of the Jewish community.
The tallest structure in the city and the whole country is the Berlin TV Tower, from the observation deck of which a magnificent panoramic view opens up. More than 50 museums and galleries present extensive collections of paintings, musical instruments, and ancient artifacts. To visit Germany and not to visit Berlin means not to fully learn the history of this country.
Stuttgart
Rating: 4.6
On the fifth line of the rating – Stuttgart. It is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by hills, and on its territory there are vineyards, orchards, and numerous parks. The main attraction not only of the city, but of the whole of Germany is the largest theater in the world – the Stuttgart State Theater. These are three majestic buildings that form a single architectural ensemble, striking in their beauty and luxury.
The city is known throughout the world as the center of the automotive industry. In the Porsche and Mercedes museums, you can learn the history of brand creation and see rare cars, of which there are only a few in the world, as well as famous racing supercars. Even those who like to travel on foot will not remain indifferent after getting acquainted with the expositions. Thousands of tourists flock to Stuttgart every year for music festivals and concerts. Here is the Bach Academy, the Philharmonic. The city is famous for its chamber and symphony orchestras.
Luxurious palaces attract the attention of not only architecture experts, but also ordinary vacationers. These are the Ludwigsburg Residence, the Old Castle, the Solitude. It is recommended to visit the Württemberg mausoleum, Mon Repos, Stiftskirche. Picturesque recreation areas: Rosenstein Park, Heenpark Killesberg, Lake Beren.
Dusseldorf
Rating: 4.5
Dusseldorf is in sixth place in the ranking. The Rhine river divides the city into two parts, where the new architecture adjoins the Old Town, completely destroyed during the war and rebuilt according to the historical plan. Tourists are attracted by both ancient monuments and ultra-modern futuristic buildings. Düsseldorf is one of the five German cities where the main industrial, economic and financial corporations of the country are located.
The oldest religious building is the Basilica of St. Lambert. The equestrian sculpture by Johann Wilhelm can be seen in the market square. The town hall was built in the 16th century and is a historical heritage of the country. Among the castles are Kaiserswerth, Benrath Palace. The Great Museum of Fine Arts presents a huge collection of paintings by famous artists. An interesting feature of the city is that the historic center is still illuminated by gas lamps.
Numerous boutiques with branded products have become a real paradise for fashionistas and fashionistas all over the world. At Europe's largest flea market, you can find unique items at a bargain price. You can enjoy the beauty of the Rhine by walking along the promenade. Various festivals, concerts, carnivals do not let the locals and visitors get bored.
Dresden
Rating: 4.4
Dresden, the capital of Saxony, is on the seventh line of the rating. Its history begins in the XIII century. Because of the many beautiful canals, the city is also called Florence on the Elbe. And due to the fact that 2/3 of the territory is covered with forests, Dresden became Saxon Switzerland. A historical site that attracts thousands of tourists is the Old Town, where the Zwinger architectural complex is located. In it you can visit several museums, enjoy world masterpieces of famous painters, including Raphael's 'Sistine Madonna'.
Dresden has become not only a cultural and historical place. There are several large shopping centers and brand boutiques in the city, where you can buy clothes and other products at very attractive prices. The Christmas market brings together people from all over the world. Mass festivities and other entertainment events take place here, starting from the last days of November until the New Year's holiday.
The symbol of the city is the Frauenkirche Protestant church, built in the 18th century. She, too, did not escape the fate of being destroyed during the war. But the Baroque monument was completely restored in the mid-90s of the last century. Another church is Kreuzkirche. From the height of its tower, a stunning view of landscape and architectural landmarks opens. The Dresden Opera House is the country's most famous theater.
Bremen
Rating: 4.3
The eighth place in the rating is given to the city, which was founded in the VIII century and which still retains its charm and splendor. Our compatriots probably remember the famous cartoon 'The Bremen Town Musicians' and many Russian tourists associate the city with four loyal friends. The locals also paid tribute to them, so a bronze sculpture of famous wandering heroes was installed on the Market Square.
Bremen is Germany's musical center. The theater presents a varied repertoire: opera, musicals, jazz and symphony concerts. During the festivals, thousands of musicians and fans of various styles come to the city. Every traveler will find a place to his liking in the city. The Universum International Center with its futuristic architecture invites those who are not indifferent to the exact sciences to participate in experiments and watch interactive exhibits.
Bremen is a seaport city, despite the distance from the coast of 50 km. Thanks to this, trade is very developed here, many boutiques, shops and souvenir shops are open, where you can find goods from all over the world. Tourists enjoy not only the views of the canals, but also the sailboats at the pier. The most famous of these is the 'Ship with Green Sails'.
Heidelberg
Rating: 4.2
One of the most picturesque cities in Germany is ranked ninth. His landscapes have inspired musicians, poets and artists to create masterpieces. The climate is different from most areas of the country. Thanks to this, you can find exotic plants here: date, olive, almond trees. The legendary Dark Forest keeps a secret and attracts many travelers to solve its secret. The first university in Germany was opened in the city in the XIV century, which is still working, so a lot of young people from different parts of the world live in Heidelberg.
The city escaped the fate of being destroyed during the war, so all the sights have survived from the time of their construction, and are not a reconstructed copy. Temples are striking in grandeur. Most visited: the Church of the Holy Spirit and the Church of St. Peter. Heidelberg Castle towers over the city and is the country's historical heritage. The pedestrian bridge connecting the two parts of the city seems to have stepped out of the pages of fairy tales.
In Heidelberg, a unique bonsai museum has been opened, which contains more than a hundred varieties of plants. Many of them are over 100 years old. The city also welcomes small travelers who have a place to roam. A fabulous park with attractions, cardboard castles, dense forests will give you a meeting with your favorite characters: Snow White and the dwarfs, Dwarf Nose.
Quedlinburg
Rating: 4.1
The tenth place in the rating belongs to a city with a rich history and many preserved monuments, the construction of which dates back to the X-XIV centuries. The romantic atmosphere is everywhere. Newlyweds from all over the world come here to get from modern times into an old fairy tale. The symbol of the city is the oldest abbey located on the Schlossberg mountain. A palace and a church are located on its territory. The first king, Henry I, was also buried there.
The old town 20 years ago was included in the UNESCO list as a world natural and cultural heritage. There is a statue of Roland in the market square. It was destroyed in the 15th century and rebuilt four centuries later. The Gothic temple of Marktkirche is also located here. Old Quedlinburg was once surrounded by a wall that protected the locals from enemies. Of the 18 towers, only 4 have survived to this day. Details of ancient fortifications can be seen everywhere.
Quedlinburg is recognized as a museum city, and for good reason. About 1,300 buildings have over 600 years of history. The oldest half-timbered house in Germany is also located in this picturesque place. Medieval streets, cozy cafes, souvenir shops attract a large army of tourists from all over the world to the city.
Lubeck
Rating: 4.0
The most beautiful city with medieval architecture is on the eleventh line of the rating. Altstadt is located on an island surrounded by numerous canals and the Trave River. A striking detail that makes Lubeck stand out are the old baked brick houses with gabled red roofs. The ancient city fortification has not been completely preserved, but the Holstein Gate with two towers still welcomes tourists. The observation deck of St. Peter's Church offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
The City Hall was created by mixing two styles: Gothic and Renaissance. This is the oldest building in the country, where services are still held. More than 1000 historical buildings create a special favorable atmosphere. Cobbled streets, merchant houses, Gothic temples – every traveler will find his own favorite place. Lubeck is the Christmas capital of the northern part of the country. Large-scale events annually attract tourists from all over the world.
Germany's largest port is the center of trade. Shopping is another reason to visit this hospitable city. Lively life does not stop even at night. Tourists are welcome here all year round.
Baden Baden
Rating: 4.0
We end the rating with a resort town famous for its thermal springs and incredibly beautiful landscapes. It was very popular in the 19th century. Aristocrats from all over the world came here, including from Russia. Today Baden-Baden is also a topical tourist destination where you can improve your health, learn more about the history of the town, and see its architectural sights. Fashionable hotels, chic shops and casinos attract guests who value high-quality service.
The favorable location in the valley of the Os river creates a climate favorable for recreation. The mixing of mountain and forest air has a positive effect on health. Cultural leisure can be brightened up by visiting the theater, philharmonic society, various exhibitions. To this day, the thermal baths – ancient Roman baths – and other buildings from 2000 years ago have been well preserved. Interesting sights that are recommended to visit in Baden-Baden: Russian Church, Old and New Castles, Sturdza Chapel.
Black Forest is a national park where you can walk along a mountain trail enjoying views of the Rhine and mountains. Flora and fauna develop here naturally, so vacationers find themselves in the amazing world of wild nature in the very center of Europe. The most beautiful city in Germany with a long history awaits guests at any time of the year. The popularity of the resort does not depend on the seasonality.
Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.