월요일, 1월 20, 2025
HomeLuxury Travel19 Most Enchanting Places To Explore In Germany

19 Most Enchanting Places To Explore In Germany


I love how Germany is proud of both its age-old traditions with progressive ideals. It’s filled with charming villages, moody forests, romantic river valleys, vineyards, half-timbered towns, and the majestic Alps. From my many trips (and Berlin aside), here are my favorite places I’d love to share with you…

1. Rothenburg ob der Tauber and the Romantic Road

Rothenburg GermanyRothenburg Germany

Rothenburg ob der TauberRothenburg ob der Tauber

I thought this was one of the most enchanting towns in the whole country! Here I discovered impeccably preserved medieval architecture, pretty half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and the landmark area of Plönlein corner (second photo above), all set against a backdrop of lush, rolling countryside. I thought the atmosphere was romantic and timeless – to me, it felt like stepping into a dreamy European fairy-tale! 

I found it nestled in the Franconia region of Bavaria and situated on a plateau overlooking the Tauber River which was part of the scenic Romantic Road (a 350km tourist route). I was founded in 1274 and today has a population of around 11,000 residents. 

I stopped here on a road trip and strolled along the well-preserved medieval walls and panoramic views of the town, visited the charming Market Square with its historic Town Hall, explored the interesting Medieval Crime and Justice Museum, tried traditional Schneeballen pastries, wandered through the picturesque Plönlein corner, and stepped back in time at the quirky German Christmas Museum! 

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  • Location: northern Bavaria 
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: spring to autumn but Christmas is very magical

My personal highlights… 

  • Staying at the characterful gem Hotel Reichsküchenmeister – I loved the 17th century traditional Franconian building it was housed in as well as the original wooden beams, the interesting antique furnishings, and unique medieval-themed decorations! 
  • Climbing the 241 steps of the tall Town Hall Tower where I saw panoramic views over the city – I could see Rothenburg’s red rooftops, cobblestone streets, and even the lush greenery surrounding the medieval walls.

2. The Black Forest

Black Forest shrouded in mist at sunriseBlack Forest shrouded in mist at sunrise

The Black Forest GermanyThe Black Forest Germany

This is a mysterious land of cuckoo clocks and cherry gâteaux! I adored this large, forested mountain range for its extra-special scenery consisting of dense evergreen forests, mist-shrouded rolling hills, and quaint traditional villages filled with pretty half-timbered houses.

I also loved the tranquil and mystical vibe which was infused with a sense of old-world charm – it’s so magical it even inspired some of the Brothers Grimm fairy tales!

It’s located in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwestern Germany, bordering France to the west and Switzerland to the south, and stretches from the spa town of Baden-Baden to the Swiss border and eastward from the Rhine River to the town of Villingen-Schwenningen. It spans 6,000 square kilometers and has been a significant source of timber, clock-making, and folklore since medieval times! 

I spent a week staying at the very Insta-worthy Schwarzwald Panorama hotel and hiked the scenic trails of Feldberg (which was the highest peak), explored the enchanting Triberg Waterfalls, learnt about clock-making history at the German Clock Museum in Furtwangen, relaxed in the luxurious thermal baths of Baden-Baden, discovered the picturesque Titisee Lake, sampled wine in the vineyards of Offenburg and wandered through the quaint streets of the historic towns of Calw and Freiburg.

My favourite highlights…

  • Driving along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße – a stunning scenic high road which took me past rolling hills and valleys, thick forests of black fir trees, mist-covered lakes and the occasional quaint cottage!
  • Catching the Zapfle-Bahnle train around the lake – I loved gazing at the lake from the vintage-style, open-air carriages and the quaint stops which were decorated with hanging baskets of flowers and old-fashioned station signs. 

3. Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle taken on a clear day Neuschwanstein Castle taken on a clear day

Neuschwanstein Castle in the winterNeuschwanstein Castle in the winter

This palace is so fairytale-like that it actually inspired the famous Disney castle! I have to be honest, the 19th-century Romanesque Revival architecture was absolutely jaw-dropping. With its dramatic design, towering white limestone facades, intricate interiors and stunning backdrop of the Bavarian Alps. To me it felt magical and almost otherworldly! 

I found it perched atop a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau in the Alps in southern Bavaria near the town of Füssen (just across the border from Austria). It was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria (who was known as the “Mad King”) in 1869 and opened to the public in 1886 shortly after his death. It covers an area of over 6,000 square meters and was designed as a homage to German composer Richard Wagner.

I drove two hours from Munich to visit. Once there, I took a guided tour of the opulently decorated interiors, including the king’s lavish bedroom and the stunning Singers’ Hall. I also enjoyed breathtaking views from Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge), which overlooks the castle and offered an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity!

My highlights.. 

  • The quirky array of unique medieval inspired gifts in the gift shop located in the castle courtyard were a lot of fun to browse – I saw everything from ornate tapestries to pocket watches and drinking horns! 

4. Lake Königssee

Konigsee LakeKonigsee Lake

Lake Königssee drone shotLake Königssee drone shot

This is often known as Germany’s most beautiful Alpine Lake! It was also my favourite lake and I was completely enchanted by its brilliant aquamarine waters which were flanked by the majestic Bavarian Alps, secluded pebble beaches and the striking St. Bartholomew’s chapel. It was a place where I could just reflect and just silently gaze in awe of its natural beauty!

It’s nestled in the Berchtesgaden National Park in southeastern Germany, in the state of Bavaria, close to the border of Austria. The glacial lake spans around 5.2 square kilometers and I found out from locals it has a rich history as a being a retreat for Bavarian kings. 

I also found that since 1909, the gorgeous lake has preserved its pristine and natural environment by permitting only electric-powered passenger ships, rowing boats, and pedal boats on its waters.

I stayed here for a blissful weekend and took a scenic electric boat tour to the idyllic red-roofed St. Bartholomew’s Church, hiked the surrounding trails and saw breathtaking alpine views, visited the famed Echo Wall (where I could hear my shouts rebound across the lake!) and then took a cable car at the nearby Jenner Mountain.

  • Location: Bavaria, near the Austrian border
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: summer

My personal highlights… 

  • Indulging in an a very relaxing hayflower wrap at the nearby EDELWEISS Spa – my therapist told me the flowers grew locally in the region and had potent anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Regensburg

Regensburg, Bavaria taken by drone in the winterRegensburg, Bavaria taken by drone in the winter

Regensburg Street at night taken at Christmas!Regensburg Street at night taken at Christmas!

Clock Tower in Regensburg's market SquareClock Tower in Regensburg's market Square

I was completely charmed by this historic UNESCO World Heritage city! I thought Regensburg was an enchanting spot with its well-preserved medieval architecture, the colourful, narrow streets of its Old Town, a fabulous range of busy restaurants, independent cafes and an eclectic range of quirky shops. I also really enjoyed its buzzy and upbeat vibe! 

 

Located in the southeastern part of the country, it sits at the junction of the Danube, Naab, and Regen rivers in the state of Bavaria. Once an important trading hub during the Roman Empire, today it boasts a population of around 150,000.

I’ve visited in both summer and at Christmas time and both seasons were magical for very different reasons. When here, I explored the historic Stone Bridge which had stunning views of the Danube, visited the imposing St. Peter’s Cathedral which had intricate Gothic architecture, and wandered through the narrow streets of the Old Town which were filled with colorful medieval buildings.

I also experienced the fairytale Christmas market at Thurn und Taxis Palace (my video below), enjoyed a traditional meal at the historic Wurstkuchl, one of the world’s oldest continuously operating restaurants and sipped on German beer in the charming riverside Spitalgarten Beer Garden.

  • Location: eastern Bavaria, southeast Germany
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: summer but the Christmas period is especially magical

My highlights… 

  • Staying in the unique Hotel Bischofshof am Dom – I loved the incredible historic building it was housed in, my individually decorated guest room which had unusual period furnishings and the cool Bavarian Beer Garden where we were served fresh draught beers by waitresses in dirndls! 

Check out our video highlights of our trip to Regensburg… 

6. Bamberg

Bamberg City HousesBamberg City Houses
My photo of beautiful Bamberg!

Bamberg GermanyBamberg Germany

This is another enchanting place which has an UNESCO-listed Old Town! I thought it looked post-card pretty with well-preserved medieval and Baroque architecture, charming half-timbered houses and winding cobblestone streets. It didn’t have the same cosmopolitan feel and lively vibe that Regensburg did but it was a  quaint, quiet and timeless place where locals lived a more traditional way of life.

It’s situated on the Regnitz River near its junction with the Main River in located in northern Bavaria and it has a population of around 77,000 people. It dates back to the Roman times but today it’s famous for its immaculately preserved medieval Old Town and its unique smoked beer.

I came here on a day trip and explored the stunning Altes Rathaus perched over the river, visited the grand Bamberg Cathedral which had a serene Rose Garden, strolled through the medieval streets of the Old Town, marvelled at the unique Little Venice area along the Regnitz River, and enjoyed the city’s famous Rauchbier (smoked beer) in the Schlenkerla traditional brewery. 

  • Location: northern Bavaria
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: summer

My favourite highlights… 

  • Dining on vegan dumplings with creamy bill sauce in the Zapfhahn restaurant – I loved how you could get eco-friendly food in a traditional wood-beam tavern in the heart of Bavaria! In fact, they really seemed to embrace this kind of lifestyle there despite being surrounded by tradition! 

7. The Rhine ValleyThe Rhine Valley in GermanyThe Rhine Valley in Germany

The Rhine Valley GermanyThe Rhine Valley Germany

I thought this was such a picturesque and romantic place! I found dramatic landscapes of steep, vineyard-covered hills, dotted with charming medieval villages, fairytale-like castles, quaint villages and pretty historic towns all set along the winding Rhine River. The whole place had a timeless and serene vibe which I couldn’t get enough of!

It’s nestled in the western part of the country, stretching along the Rhine River between Koblenz and Bingen in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, with some parts extending into North Rhine-Westphalia and Hesse. It has been a vital trade route since Roman times and today it’s listed as an UNESCO World Heritage site.

I spent an idyllic week here cruising along the Rhine River and seeing the stunning medieval castles of Marksburg and Rheinfels, exploring the charming towns of Bacharach and Rüdesheim, hiking the Rheinsteig trail and seeing gorgeous views of the vineyards and river, visited the legendary Lorelei Rock, savoured local wines in cosy wine taverns and relaxed in the thermal baths in the spa towns of Wiesbaden. 

  • Location: northern Bavaria
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: summer or autumn

My personal highlights… 

  • Going wine tasting at the rustic-chic RheinWeinWelt in Rüdesheim – it was great being able to sample the wine self-service style using a pre-loaded card. My favourite was the aromatic Schloss Johannisberg Riesling! 

8. Bremen

Bremen in GermanyBremen in Germany

Bremen GermanyBremen Germany

This is one of the oldest towns in Germany and dates back 1200 years! I also thought it was stunning with an eye-catching blend of historic architecture, chocolate-box pretty half-timbered houses in the Schnoor quarter and the iconic Bremen Roland statue. 

I found it tucked away along the Weser River, around 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of the North Sea coast in northern Germany and it has a population of 570,000. It’s known for its maritime trade, its UNESCO-listed Town Hall and Roland statue, and its association with the Brothers Grimm’s “Town Musicians of Bremen.”

I spent a day here and that was enough to squeeze in the impressive UNESCO-listed Town Hall and the Roland statue in the historic Market Square, visit the stunning St. Peter’s Cathedral, stroll through the charming Schnoor quarter with its narrow streets and half-timbered houses, walk along the Schlachte promenade by the Weser River, and discover the iconic Town Musicians of Bremen statue inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale.

  • Location: northwest
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: summer or Christmas for the markets

My favourite highlights… 

  • Stumbling across the quirky cat-cafe Katzen-Cafe – I was totally won over by the cosy and whimsical cat-themed decor, the lush foliage which was everywhere and their very tasty stuffed peppers with came with Bavarian style potatoes.

9. The Harz National Park

Harz National Park in GermanyHarz National Park in Germany

The Harz National ParkThe Harz National Park

I thought this place was truly spellbinding! I discovered a protected area filled with gorgeous scenery – dense forests, dramatic mountain landscapes, and tranquil valleys, complemented by charming timber-framed villages and fairy-tale like medieval castles. I was also completely taken with its mystical, tranquil and atmospheric vibe – it was shrouded in folklore, and often in mist too!

It was located in the central part of the country, and spanned the states of Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, and centered around the Harz Mountains, including the famous Brocken peak. Established in 1990, it covers around 247 square kilometers and is known for its rich biodiversity and historic mining heritage. 

I spent a couple of days exploring and hiked to the Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany, rode the historic Brocken Railway through stunning landscapes, explored charming towns of Wernigerode and Quedlinburg which were filled with colourful half-timbered houses, discovered ancient mining heritage at the Rammelsberg Museum, and wandered through serene forests filled with cascading waterfalls and picturesque trails.

  • Location: central part of the country
  • Address: Lindenallee 35, 38875 Wernigerode
  • Harz National Park Website
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: spring to autumn but the winter time is also magical

My favourite highlights… 

  • Taking the unique traditional steam locomotive along the Brocken Railway, which eventually took me to the summit of Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz Mountains. The panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and the river valleys cutting through the landscape were breathtaking! 

10. Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau CastleHohenschwangau Castle

hohenschwangauhohenschwangau

This 19th century castle was also something like out of a fairytale! I was completely charmed by this unique place – it had a vibrant yellow facade, set against the rugged backdrop of the jaw-dropping Bavarian Alps and had ornate interiors, which featured medieval and romantic motifs, pretty frescoes, and intricate wood carvings.

The aura here was one of mystique and romance – I felt as though I were deep in the pages of a beautifully illustrated storybook!

I found it tucked away in the heart of the Alps close to the border with Austria and near the town of Füssen in Bavaria in the southern part of the country. It was completed in 1837 and it sat a heady elevation of around 800 meters (about 2,620 feet) above sea level. It also once served as the childhood home of King Ludwig II. 

I drove and parked in the car park at Hohenschwangau village, took the steep 15 minute walk up to the castle and paid the €13 entrance fee and from there I joined a guided tour (independent exploring of the castle wasn’t allowed). 

My personal highlights…

  • King Ludwig’s Bedroom which was filled with incredible wood carvings and exotic Oriental Room which was decorated in a striking inspired by King Maximilian’s travels in the Near East! I especially liked the lantern-like lamps which mimicked the styles found in Middle Eastern bazaars.

11. Bavarian Forest National Park

Bavarian ForestBavarian Forest
Walking through the Bavarian Forest during the winter

Bavarian Forest National Park in GermanyBavarian Forest National Park in Germany

I loved this Instagram-worthy gem especially when I visited during the winter! It was a very scenic place with expansive stretches of pristine forests, clear streams, and a striking wilderness dotted with interesting wildlife. It felt very grounding and zen-like – I loved immersing myself in the untouched nature here! 

It was located in southeastern Germany along the border with the Czech Republic, in the state of Bavaria and it spans over 24,250 hectares. Established in 1970 as Germany’s first national park, wildlife here included the lynx, wolves, European bison, deer, black stork, pygmy owl and rare the three-toed woodpecker. 

When here, I hiked the scenic trails of Lusen and Rachel peaks and saw incredible panoramic views, explored the interactive Hans-Eisenmann-Haus visitor center, experienced the treetop walk at Neuschönau, and visited the historical glassworks in Frauenau. I especially loved coming here in winter though – the trees looked seriously stunning adorned with heavy snow (my photos are above)!

  • Location: Bavaria, southeast
  • Visitor centre address: Hans-Eisenmann-Haus 1, 94556 Neuschönau, Bavaria
  • Location Map
  • Bavarian Forest National Park
  • Best time to visit: all year round (the winter is particularly magical)

My personal highlights.. 

  • Warming up by drinking a locally made plum schnapps in the visitor’s centre cafe – the fruity kick was just enough to get me to brave the freezing temperatures again outside! 

12. Wurzburg Residence

Wurxburg ResidenceWurxburg Residence

Wurxburg Residence GardensWurxburg Residence Gardens

This magnificent Baroque palace really wowed me! It had stunning Baroque architecture, intricate frescoes, opulent interiors and its beautifully landscaped court gardens. Wandering through it, I thought it exuded an air of regal elegance which transported me back to a time of European aristocracy and courtly love!

  • Location: Würzburg, Bavaria, southern part of the country
  • Address: Residenzplatz 2, 97070 Würzburg, Bavaria
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: all year round

My favourite highlights… 

  • The opulent White Hall which had detailed stucco work, and the Mirror Cabinet which had unusual intricate mirrored walls and an elaborate ceiling fresco which I was in awe of!

13. The Moselle Valley

The Moselle ValleyThe Moselle Valley

Moselle Valley in GermanyMoselle Valley in Germany

This was such a picturesque historic wine region! I discovered an enchanting area filled with rolling vine-covered hills, the winding Moselle River and chocolate-box pretty medieval villages. To me, it felt serene, quaint and romantic.  

It stretches along the Moselle River between Trier and Koblenz, near the borders of Luxembourg and France in the western part of the country. I discovered that it’s a historic wine-growing region with roots dating back to Roman times, now home to around 105,000 people. The Rieslings produced here are thought to be among the best in the world!

I spent a long weekend here and explored the historic city of Trier which was home to interesting Roman ruins and Karl Marx House.

I also discovered the charming village of Bernkastel-Kues and went wine tasting, took a scenic boat cruise along the winding Moselle River, hiked to the fairytale-like Burg Eltz castle, enjoyed gorgeous panoramic views from Reichsburg Cochem, and cycled through lush vineyards along the Moselle Wine Route.

  • Location: western Germany
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: summer and early fall

My personal highlights…

  • Tasting biodynamic Riesling wines at the gorgeous organic vineyard Weingut Rita & Rudolf Trossen – I loved how the wines were made without the addition of sulfites which gave them a much cleaner taste!

14. Lichtenstein Castle

Lichtenstein Castle in GermanyLichtenstein Castle in Germany

Lichtenstein CastleLichtenstein Castle

I thought this place was enchanting with a capital ‘E’! It was perched dramatically on a narrow cliff which overlooks the Echaz Valley and had fairytale-like neo-Gothic architecture complete with photogenic turrets and spires, and backdrop of thick forested landscapes. This was another castle which exuded a magical, storybook vibe – Germany was like the gift that kept on giving! 

I found it tucked away in the Swabian Alps near the village of Honau, in Baden-Württemberg, in the southern part of the country. It had an elevation of around 817 meters (2,680 feet) above sea level and was built in 1840 having been inspired by Wilhelm Hauff’s 1826 novel Lichtenstein, which romanticised medieval chivalry and castle life. 

It was privately owned, yet I discovered it was open to the public for visits. I paid €14 for a guided tour, as it was the only way to explore the interiors. The tour lasted 30 minutes, during which I enjoyed the dramatic blend of neo-Gothic elegance and medieval-inspired charm.

The rooms were adorned with intricately carved woodwork, colourful stained glass windows, antique furnishings, and period decor. I even saw intricately woven tapestries, suits of armour, and medieval weaponry on display too.

The grounds were equally as impressive and featured beautifully landscaped gardens and winding pathways where I saw breathtaking views of the Swabian Alps.

  • Location: Baden-Württemberg, southwest 
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: all year round

My highlights… 

  • The Knight’s Hall which was a grand, neo-Gothic room featuring intricate wood paneling, stained glass windows and interesting displays of perfectly preserved medieval armour! 

15. Mittenwald

Mittenwald - Bavaria - GermanyMittenwald - Bavaria - Germany

MittenwaldMittenwald

I thought this charming Bavarian alpine town was postcard pretty! This gem had an idyllic alpine setting, colourful timer houses adorned with mural art (Lüftlmalerei), exquisite cobbled stone lanes, pretty frescoed buildings and the dramatic backdrop of the Karwendel Mountains. It also had a peaceful, alluring and timeless vibe.

I found it nestled Upper Bavarian Alps of Germany, near the Austrian border, nestled in the scenic Isar Valley and surrounded by the Karwendel and Wetterstein mountain ranges. It has a population of around 7,000 and is known for its centuries-old violin-making tradition, established in the 17th century.

I spent a weekend here and that was enough to gaze in awe at its gorgeous frescoed houses, visit the Geigenbaumuseum and learn about the town’s violin-making heritage, admire the stunning interiors of St. Peter and Paul Church, hike the dramatic trails of the Karwendel Mountains, and take a cable car to Karwendelbahn where I saw photogenic panoramic views of the Alps.

  • Location: Bavaria, south
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: late spring to early fall

My favourite highlights… 

  • Staying at the nearby Insta-worthy quartier – über Nacht in besonderer Architektur – I loved its striking architectural design which only used organic materials, the designer custom-made furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows in my room which had breathtaking mountain views.

16. Sanssouci Castle

Sanssouci ParkSanssouci Park

Sanssouci Park GardensSanssouci Park Gardens

This magnificent Rococo palace was actually built as a summer retreat! I discovered it was a stunning gem of a place with superbly preserved Rococo architecture, dreamy terraced vineyards, ornate interiors, surrounding parkland dotted with fountains and elegant structures, such as the Chinese House and the New Palace, and a serene, regal vibe! 

It’s tucked away in Potsdam, just outside Berlin, nestled within a vast park. It was built in the 1740s as a summer residence for Frederick the Great of Prussia, and it reminded me of the Palace of Versailles in France because of the exquisite terraced gardens.

I paid the entrance fee €12 and explored the opulent interiors of Sanssouci Palace (guided tours were also available) and strolled through the expansive Sanssouci Park, visited the ornate Chinese House, admired the architecture of the New Palace, relaxed by the beautiful Sanssouci Fountain, and discovered the nearby Cecilienhof Palace, where the Potsdam Conference once took place.

  • Location: Potsdam, near Berlin
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: May to September

My personal highlights… 

  • The Voltaire Room which was the most lavish with elaborate stucco work and frescoes adorned with cherubs, floral arrangements and a huge ornate fireplace made of fine marble! 

17. Gorlitz

GorlitzGorlitz

Gorlitz in East GermanyGorlitz in East Germany

This picturesque, historic city is a very popular filming location! I also thought it was a beautiful gem with impeccably preserved architectural treasures spanning Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles, a fine square and a strikingly beautiful church.

I loved its very authentic old-world charm, which is why it was chosen as a backdrop for films such as ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel,’ ‘The Reader,’ ‘The Last Command,’ and ‘Inglourious Basterds.’

It’s actually the most eastern city in the country and is nestled along the Neisse River that marks the border with Poland. Together with the Polish city of Zgorzelec across the river, it’s part of a larger metropolitan area. The city boasts a history spanning over a thousand years and currently has a population of around 56,000 residents.

I came here on a day trip from Dresden and strolled through the enchanting old town, marvelled at the architectural beauty of the landmark Gothic church Peterskirche, discovered the interesting Silesian Museum, enjoyed the lush greenery of the Stadtpark, snapped photos of the iconic Woad House (the oldest secular building in the town) and crossed the bridge to see the pretty town of Zgorzelec in Poland! 

  • Location: Saxony, Eastern part of the country
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: late spring to early winter

My personal highlights… 

  • Going for a classic Viennese coffee and a ‘Apfelkuchen’ at the historic cafe Ratscafe Görlitz – I was totally charmed by the Town Hall Renaissance building it was housed in which including stone arched ceilings, exposed wooden beams, authentic antique furniture and a very cosy vibe!

18. Eibsee

EibseeEibsee

Eibsee Lake in GermanyEibsee Lake in Germany

This is an idyllic and remote spot! I thought this alpine lake was seriously stunning with clear, brilliant blue waters, lush green forests and a dramatic backdrop of the pristine Zugspitze mountains and dotted with charming wooden boathouses lining its shoreline – for me, it was a serene escape a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life!

It’s nestled at the base of Zugspitze, the highest peak in the southern part of the country, near the town of Grainau in Bavaria. Spanning approximately 177 hectares (about 438 acres), it reaches a maximum depth of about 29.5 meters (97 feet) and serves as a popular recreational hub!

I visited here on a day trip from Munich, enjoying a scenic boat ride and exploring the smaller islands in the lake. I hiked the picturesque trails and tried stand-up paddleboarding. I could can rent boats, paddleboards, boats, and all sorts of water sports gear right there – it was super convenient!

  • Location: Bavaria, southern part of the country
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: summer

My personal highlights… 

  • Renting a fun pedal boat for €12 an hour from the boat station which was located along the lake’s shore – I loved seeing the close-up views of crystal-clear waters.

19. Sylt

Sylt GermanySylt Germany

Sylt GermanySylt Germany

I thought this was a really unique and underrated gem! I discovered a windswept beauty spot featuring distinctive thatched-roof cottages, elegant resorts, and a variety of beaches – from broad, sandy stretches ideal for sunbathing and water sports to secluded spots backed by dunes.

It has been a luxurious seaside resort since the 19th century, yet it’s often overlooked by foreign visitors. Personally, I was a big fan of its chic and sophisticated vibe, complete with gourmet dining, high-end shopping, and lively nightlife!

It’s part of the is part of the Frisian archipelago nestled in the North Sea, off the northern coast of Germany but I found it was connected to the mainland by the Hindenburgdamm rail causeway, so no boat trips were required! 

I was lucky enough to stay for a week at the boutique beachfront Hotel 54° Nord and unwound on the sprawling Westerland Beach, explored the Wadden Sea National Park’s unique tidal flats, indulged in spa treatments at Sylter Welle, dined on fine food at Gosch, experienced the vibrant nightlife in the buzzy resort of Kampen, and enjoyed boutique shopping along Friedrichstraße in Westerland. 

  • Location: Frisian Islands, Northern part of the country
  • Location Map
  • Best time to visit: late spring to early autumn

My favourite highlights… 

  • I loved the pretty houses which were built in the unique Fristian style – they had thatched roofs and charming facades! 
  • Seeing the cliffs which lined the coast – they were slowly eroding so they were shaped into unique and striking patterns. 

I also loved the elegant city of Munich, which was home to the famous annual Oktoberfest, the striking resort town of Monschau, the fine baroque university city of Heidelberg, Lübeck the city renowned for its Brick Gothic architecture, and the spectacular scenery of the Rems Valley. 



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