Germany is one of those countries that has something for everyone. With so much history and culture woven into modern Germany, it’s hard to find any city that doesn’t provide something for visitors from around the world. Regardless of whether you’re a history buff, art lover, foodie, football fan, or a shopaholic, Germany has you covered.
Having been to almost all of the major cities over the last 5 year, we’ve put together a list of cities that we absolutely loved!
Here are 5 German cities that you need to visit:
BERLIN
You’d be hard-pressed to find another city in Germany that has as much history as Berlin- particularly history that you’re able to just walk up to and touch. But that’s not the only thing that you have in this wonderful city. You have food, culture and some of the cheapest shopping you can find in Western Europe.
First timers will likely head towards the Berlin Wall, Brandenberg Gate, Check Point Charlie, and if they have time, a trip to TrepTower Park ( a must visit in our opinion!) because of the history that is so delicately preserved here.
Shopping lovers will most likely head to one of the many shopping districts in Berlin- our favorite being Alexander Platz and Alexa (both walking distance from each other). Here is where North American’s can get their fill of Primark, Bijou Brigitte, Bench, Billabong, Quicksilver, Vero Moda, Mango, Levi, Bench.
Music lovers will find tons of indie bands playing in various small bars around the city. We also can’t recommend Philharmonic Concert Hall enough. Considered one of the best in the world, this prestigious company has counted composers like Beethoven and Wagner amongst its own.
How to get there: Direct flights or book your train journey on Rail Europe
DORTMUND
One of the many cities destroyed during WWII, Dortmund is a fascinating city full of culture, art, culinary delights and football fanatics.
Art lovers can spend days in Dortmund U, a brewery turned into a culture centre, which hosts multiple exhibitions ranging from contemporary to modern art. Our favourite being the musical tree located right in the entrance.
The football lovers in the group will love the Football Museum- embedded in Dortmund’s art and culture mile. Here you can also find Dortmunder U, the Harenberg City Center, the RWE Tower, the Museum of Art and Cultural History and the City and Regional Library.
Boasting the world’s tallest Christmas tree in the world, (1,700 fir trees stand 45 meters into the sky. A 4-meter tall angel crowns the top with 48,000 lights), Dortmund’s Christmas market is definitely one to visit.
How to get there: Thalys
Getting to Dortmund is fairly easy and quick with the Thalys going at 300/hr.
DUSSELDORF
Architecture lovers flock to Dusseldorf, and it’s easy to see why. The skyline is designed by some of the best design minds in the business. Not only do these wonderful designs by the marina create visual interest, but they also serve a secondary purpose of rebuilding a city 85% destroyed in the Second World War.
If you’re a history and food lover like us, then you’re going to fall head over heels in love with Dusseldorf’s old town (Altstadt). Known lovingly as the “world’s longest bar” you’re not going to run out of place to grab a pint or a bite. Grab a friend and plan to spend an entire sharing a meal and meeting new friends. Beer sure to try a local brew, or dine where Napolean himself dined before- at Zum Schiffchen.
Art lovers also have their pick with the variety of culture centres and contemporary art galleries scattered around the Dusseldorf. But if you’re like us and like picking up pieces from different parts of the world, then the boutique shopping options in Dusseldorf will get you excited like us.
How to get there: Thalys
HAMBURG
Love fish, harbors, and the red light district? Well, we have just the city for you! Just kidding
Just kidding! There’s so much more toHambug than meets the eyes. While it’s filled with art and history (Chilehaus), we know it as the city that never sleeps. With an extremely lively nightlife (particularly on Saturday nights), and even better Fischmarkt on early Sunday mornings, Hamburg is full of surprises.
One of the best ways to get to know the city a better is to take a cruise around the city. You’ll get to see a different side of the city and see why we love it so much!
How to get there: Flights, Rail Europe, car
MUNICH
Filled with hidden gems, wonderful street art and historical buildings, this capital of Bravia, is more than what meets the eye, and the best way to see the city is to spend some time getting to know it better.
History lovers will fawn over the ancient temples and castles, while contemporary art lovers will marvel at the street art that lines the side streets, and beer lovers will get their fill with the bavarian beer.
Yes, Munich has something for everything- regardless of what your interests are.
How to get there: Direct flights. Rail Europe, Car
Bonus: ROMANTIC ROAD
You know those picturesque shots that you see on postcards tagged with Germany?
They really do exist, and they are all located on the romantic road. While technically not one city, the 400km stretch from Wurzburg to Fussen in the south is worth a road trip. You’ll not only find some of the most charming towns, but you’ll see some of the most scenic views along the way.
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