I love this country. Every time I go visiting, I find new places that feel different. Some have moody forests and quiet river valleys. Others have vineyards, half-timbered towns, or views of the majestic Alps. I’ve taken many trips with my family, and each one helped me see something new.
Germany has deep traditions and strong progressive ideals. You feel both in the charming villages, the streets of Berlin, and the old age-old buildings. This mix makes the whole place very intriguing.
One of my favorite things is to share my memories. Walking through romantic valleys, sitting in small cafes in half-timbered towns, or hiking in the majestic Alps. These are the moments I really love.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber and the Romantic Road
To be honest, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of those towns that looks straight out of a fairy-tale. This enchanting gem in the country gave me the feeling of being inside a storybook. I saw half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture that was so impeccably preserved, it honestly felt unreal. The famous Plönlein corner, a charming landmark, stood out with its perfect backdrop of lush, rolling countryside. The atmosphere was pure romantic, dreamy, and just so timeless. It felt super European and peaceful.
This place sits in Franconia, a region of Bavaria, built high up on a plateau above the Tauber River. It’s part of the scenic Romantic Road, which is a 350km long tourist route known for pretty old villages. Founded in 1274, the town now has a population of about 11,000 residents. Not gonna lie, I came here on a spontaneous road trip and it turned out to be one of the best detours I’ve ever taken. The well-preserved medieval walls and panoramic views across the town were something else.
I spent hours walking through the Market Square, checked out the historic Town Hall, and stepped inside the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum, which was actually way more interesting than I expected. I also tried their traditional Schneeballen pastries—they looked weird but tasted really good. The picturesque streets made me feel like I had stepped back in time, and the quirky German Christmas Museum was like a little winter dream even outside the holiday season.
- Location: northern Bavaria
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring, autumn, or Christmas — every season feels magical
My personal highlights…
One of my favs was staying at Hotel Reichsküchenmeister, a real characterful gem and proper 4-star stay. It’s inside a 17th century Franconian building that had epic medieval-themed decorations like antique armor, wooden beams, and even vintage tapestries—all so cool. I also climbed the full 241 steps up the Town Hall Tower, and no joke, the view of Rothenburg’s red rooftops, cobblestone streets, and all the lush greenery around the old medieval walls was worth every step.
The Black Forest
Not gonna lie, the Black Forest was one of the most mysterious and magical places I’ve ever explored. This large forested mountain range gave me that deep old-world charm vibe, and everything—from the dense evergreen forests to the mist-shrouded rolling hills—felt like I had stepped into one of those Brothers Grimm fairy tales. I saw quaint traditional villages, pretty half-timbered houses, and even tasted fresh cherry gâteaux while shopping for cuckoo clocks.
This region sits in Baden-Württemberg, southwestern Germany, near France and Switzerland. The whole area spans over 6,000 square kilometers and runs from the spa town of Baden-Baden to the Swiss border, stretching east from the Rhine River to Villingen-Schwenningen. It has deep roots in timber, clock-making, folklore, and even medieval times.
I stayed a week at the Insta-worthy 4-star Schwarzwald Panorama hotel. Honestly, it was the best base. I hiked the scenic trails of Feldberg, the highest peak, and visited the enchanting Triberg Waterfalls. I also explored the German Clock Museum in Furtwangen, which had deep clock-making history, and soaked in the luxurious thermal baths at Baden-Baden. The calm at Titisee Lake was unmatched, and I spent a morning sipping local wine by the vineyards near Offenburg.
- Location: southwest Germany
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer
My personal highlights…
One of my favourite drives ever was along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße. The stunning scenic high road took me past peaceful valleys, tall black fir trees, and even mist-covered lakes. I stopped at a quaint cottage for a quick photo break. I also hopped on the Zapfle-Bahnle train around the lake—the vintage-style open-air carriages, the quaint stops with hanging baskets, flowers, and old-fashioned station signs made the ride unforgettable.
Neuschwanstein Castle
To be honest, Neuschwanstein Castle is the most fairytale-like palace I’ve ever seen. People always say it looks like the Disney castle, and they’re not wrong. The 19th-century Romanesque Revival architecture, the jaw-dropping dramatic design, those towering white limestone facades — everything felt larger than life. The intricate interiors and stunning backdrop of the Bavarian Alps made it feel totally magical and kind of otherworldly.
It’s built on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau, in the Alps, deep in southern Bavaria, near Füssen, close to Austria. The castle was commissioned in 1869 by King Ludwig II, known as the “Mad King”. Sadly, he died before it opened to the public in 1886. The place covers over 6,000 square meters and was meant as a grand homage to the German composer Richard Wagner.
I drove here from Munich, took about two hours, and stayed overnight at the fabulous 4-star AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa. I took the guided tour, saw the opulently decorated interiors, stood inside the king’s lavish bedroom, and admired the huge Singers’ Hall. Not gonna lie, the breathtaking views from Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) — which overlooks the castle — gave me the most Instagram-worthy photo opportunity of the trip.
- Location: Bavaria, near the Austrian border
- Location Map
- Neuschwanstein Castle Website
- Best time to visit: spring or summer
My personal highlights…
The gift shop inside the castle courtyard had some quirky, unique, medieval inspired gifts. I had so much fun browsing through ornate tapestries, little pocket watches, and even drinking horns — I bought one for the laughs. It was such a cool piece of history you could actually take home.
Regensburg
Not gonna lie, Regensburg really charmed me. This historic UNESCO World Heritage city felt like a special spot in the country. It had an enchanting mix of well-preserved medieval architecture, colourful narrow streets, and a lively Old Town full of fabulous busy restaurants, independent cafes, and eclectic, quirky shops. The whole area had a buzzy, upbeat vibe that made it feel alive day and night.
It’s in the southeastern part of Bavaria, at the junction of the Danube, Naab, and Regen rivers. The city was a major trading hub during the Roman Empire and now has a population of around 150,000. I’ve been there during summer and around Christmas time, and both seasons were honestly magical for different reasons. The lights, food, and cold air made the Christmas period feel like a fairytale.
One of my favorite walks was across the historic Stone Bridge, which gave stunning views of the river. I also visited the imposing St. Peter’s Cathedral with its intricate Gothic architecture and saw all the colorful medieval buildings in the Old Town.
- Location: eastern Bavaria, southeast Germany
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer, or the Christmas period
My personal highlights…
One thing I’ll never forget was the Christmas market at Thurn und Taxis Palace—the lights and vibe were next level. I had a traditional meal at the historic Wurstkuchl, one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants, and drank German beer by the riverside at the Spitalgarten Beer Garden. I stayed at the unique, 4-star Hotel Bischofshof am Dom, and to be honest, the incredible historic building, the cool Bavarian Beer Garden, and fresh draught Ayinger Bräuweisse beers served by waitresses in dirndls made it feel like I was in a movie.
I even captured the whole trip in a cinematic viral video with drone shots and cozy Christmas Market footage — and yeah, I still rewatch it.
Bamberg
One hundred percent, Bamberg was one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever been. This UNESCO-listed gem had an Old Town that felt post-card pretty, filled with well-preserved medieval architecture, touches of Baroque architecture, and charming half-timbered houses. The winding, cobblestone streets gave the city a quaint, quiet, and timeless mood, where locals still enjoy a traditional way of life. Unlike places with a strong cosmopolitan feel, this town had its own relaxed charm and lively vibe.
It sits along the Regnitz River, near the junction with the Main River, in northern Bavaria. The population is around 77,000 people. Its roots go back to Roman times, and much of the town is still immaculately preserved. One thing that stood out was its unique smoked beer—it’s called Rauchbier and it’s pretty famous locally.
I spent a weekend there and stayed at the beautiful, elegant, 4-star Altstadthotel Messerschmitt. Not gonna lie, I felt like royalty walking through the stunning Altes Rathaus, which was perched above the river. I also visited the grand Bamberg Cathedral, wandered through the serene Rose Garden, and strolled the medieval streets.
- Location: northern Bavaria
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer
My personal highlights…
I marvelled at the little canals in Little Venice, tried the legendary Rauchbier at Schlenkerla, the traditional brewery, and explored the heart of Bavaria with its peaceful energy. The real surprise for me? Dining on vegan dumplings with creamy bill sauce at the Zapfhahn restaurant. The place served eco-friendly food in a traditional wood-beam tavern, which totally matched the local lifestyle and love for tradition. It was one of those meals I didn’t expect to enjoy so much—and I still remember every bite.
Bavarian Forest National Park, Southeastern Bavaria
To be honest, Bavarian Forest National Park is an Instagram-worthy gem I didn’t expect to love this much. I visited in winter, and everything looked surreal—stunning trees covered in heavy snow, clear streams, and pristine forests stretching across an expansive land. It had this calm, zen-like energy that made me feel completely grounding. The striking wilderness, full of interesting wildlife, felt untouched and peaceful.
This place is in southeastern Germany, along the border with the Czech Republic, in Bavaria. It covers about 24,250 hectares and was established in 1970 as Germany’s first national park. You can spot wild animals like lynx, wolves, European bison, deer, black stork, pygmy owl, and even the rare three-toed woodpecker.
I stayed a night at the incredible, wellness focused, 4-star Hotel Eibl-Brunner, a proper 4-Sterne-Superior experience. I hiked the scenic trails of Lusen and Rachel peaks, and the panoramic views were unreal. I also visited the interactive Hans-Eisenmann-Haus visitor center, took the treetop walk at Neuschönau, and checked out the historical glassworks in Frauenau. My camera roll was full of snow-covered landscapes and peaceful forest shots.
- Location: southeast Germany
- Visitor centre address: Hans-Eisenmann-Haus 1, 94556 Neuschönau, Bavaria
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: all year round
My personal highlights…
What really hit the spot after hiking in freezing temperatures? Warming up with a shot of locally made plum schnapps in the visitor’s centre cafe. The fruity kick was just what I needed to get back outside. It’s one of those places that stays in your head long after you leave.
Lake Königssee
Not gonna lie, Lake Königssee is hands-down Germany’s most beautiful Alpine Lake. It’s also my favourite lake—I felt completely enchanted by the aquamarine waters, the majestic Bavarian Alps, and those secluded pebble beaches. The whole place had a striking presence, especially when I stood near St. Bartholomew’s chapel just to gaze and reflect on the calm natural beauty all around.
This gorgeous lake is part of Berchtesgaden National Park, in southeastern Germany, Bavaria, close to the border with Austria. It’s a glacial lake covering about 5.2 square kilometers. Locals say it was once a retreat for Bavarian kings, and since 1909, the area has been preserved to maintain its pristine, natural environment. Only electric-powered passenger ships, rowing boats, and pedal boats are allowed—no fuel-powered ones.
I spent a blissful weekend there. I went on a scenic electric boat tour to the idyllic, red-roofed St. Bartholomew’s Church, hiked the surrounding trails, and took in the breathtaking alpine views. At the famed Echo Wall, I yelled and actually heard my shouts rebound across the lake. I also rode the cable car up to Jenner Mountain, and let me tell you—the view was wild.
- Location: Bavaria, near the Austrian border
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer
My personal highlights…
One of my favorite parts? Booking a relaxing hayflower wrap at the nearby 4-star EDELWEISS Hotel and Spa. My therapist explained the flowers were picked locally in the region and had potent, anti-inflammatory properties. I didn’t expect much, but it was honestly so calming I almost fell asleep. Definitely a memory I won’t forget.
The Rhine Valley
To be honest, the Rhine Valley gave me one of the most picturesque and romantic experiences during my time in the country. The dramatic landscapes, the steep, vineyard-covered hills, the charming medieval villages, and the fairytale-like castles all around—everything just felt like it belonged in a storybook. I passed through quaint villages and pretty historic towns, all lined up along the winding Rhine River. The entire place had a timeless, serene vibe that was hard to leave.
It’s located in the western part of Germany, stretching along the Rhine River between Koblenz and Bingen, in Rhineland-Palatinate, with parts in North Rhine-Westphalia and Hesse. This region was a vital trade route during Roman times and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. I spent an idyllic week there and loved every moment.
I spent my days cruising the river, spotting stunning, medieval castles like Marksburg and Rheinfels, and walking around charming towns like Bacharach and Rüdesheim. I even tried hiking the Rheinsteig trail, where I got some gorgeous views of the vineyards and river. At one point, I stood on the legendary Lorelei Rock and just took it all in. I also savoured local wines in cosy wine taverns and relaxed in the thermal baths of spa towns like Wiesbaden.
- Location: (Also reaches parts of) northern Bavaria
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer, autumn
My personal highlights…
I stayed overnight at the wonderful, 4-star Hotel Schloss Rheinfels, and the superb river views from their terraced sun lounging platforms along the Alpsee shoreline were honestly an incredible experience. Another one of my favourite moments was going wine tasting at the rustic-chic RheinWeinWelt in Rüdesheim. I got to sample wines in self-service using a pre-loaded card, and my top pick? The aromatic Schloss Johannisberg Riesling—light, fruity, and totally worth the hype.
Bremen
Not gonna lie, Bremen totally surprised me. As one of the oldest towns in Germany, with over 1200 years of history, it blends stunning beauty with eye-catching details and historic architecture everywhere. I loved walking past chocolate-box pretty half-timbered houses, especially in the Schnoor quarter, which looked straight out of a fairy tale. The iconic Bremen Roland statue stands proud in the heart of the city, adding to that historical vibe.
The city is built along the Weser River, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the North Sea coast, in northern Germany. With a population of around 570,000, Bremen has long been known for maritime trade. It also features the UNESCO-listed Town Hall and the beloved Roland statue, plus its fun connection to the Brothers Grimm and their Town Musicians of Bremen.
I visited for a day and stayed a night at the gorgeous, 4-star Steigenberger Hotel Bremen. My walk through the impressive Market Square led me to the St. Peter’s Cathedral, which stood tall with its own presence. I strolled the charming, narrow streets, took a peaceful walk along the Schlachte promenade, and had time to discover the little landmarks tied to the city’s story.
- Location: northwest Germany
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer or Christmas (markets are next level)
My favourite highlights…
One of my favourite highlights was finding the quirky cat-cafe called Katzen-Cafe. I’m serious, it had the most cosy, whimsical, cat-themed decor, with plants and lush foliage all around. I had these tasty stuffed peppers served with Bavarian style potatoes—unexpected and actually so good. That little moment made the whole trip feel extra personal and warm.
The Harz National Park
To be honest, Harz National Park felt absolutely spellbinding. It’s a protected area with gorgeous scenery—filled with dense forests, dramatic mountain landscapes, and tranquil valleys. I loved walking through charming, timber-framed villages, spotting fairy-tale like medieval castles, and breathing in the mystical air. The atmospheric vibe, the folklore, and the layers of drifting mist made the whole place feel unreal.
It’s located in the central part of the country, stretching across Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt, surrounded by the Harz Mountains. It’s home to the famous Brocken peak, and was established in 1990, covering around 247 square kilometers. The park is known for its rich biodiversity and historic mining heritage, which you can feel everywhere.
I spent a weekend here and stayed at the Insta-worthy, 4-star Hotel & Spa Suiten FreiWerk. I spent my time exploring, and I hiked all the way up to Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany. Riding the historic Brocken Railway was like stepping back in time. I passed through stunning landscapes, explored the towns of Wernigerode and Quedlinburg, and admired the colourful half-timbered houses everywhere I went.
- Location: Lindenallee 35, 38875 Wernigerode
- Harz National Park Website
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: spring, autumn, or winter — every season felt magical
My favourite highlights…
One of my favourite highlights was taking the unique, traditional steam locomotive up the mountain. Reaching the summit, I saw panoramic views of surrounding peaks, river valleys, and the full landscape — it was honestly breathtaking. Add to that the serene forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque trails, and you’ve got the kind of place that stays in your memory for years.
Hohenschwangau Castle
To be honest, Hohenschwangau Castle was a totally fairytale experience. This unique place had a vibrant yellow facade, set against a rugged backdrop of the Bavarian Alps, and I was instantly charmed. The view was seriously jaw-dropping, and the ornate interiors made the entire visit feel like I had stepped into a storybook. The medieval motifs, romantic motifs, pretty frescoes, and intricate wood carvings inside added to the feeling of mystique and romance.
This castle sits in the heart of the Alps, near the border with Austria, in Füssen, Bavaria, in the southern part of the country. It was completed in 1837 and stands at an elevation of about 800 meters (2,620 feet) above sea level. It used to be the childhood home of King Ludwig II.
I drove, parked in the car park at Hohenschwangau village, and then took the steep 15 minute walk up to the entrance. The entrance fee was €13, and you have to take a guided tour—independent exploring isn’t allowed, but it was worth it.
- Location: Hohenschwangau, Bavaria
- Location Map
- Hohenschwangau Castle Website
- Best time to visit: all year round
My personal highlights…
One of my personal highlights was standing in King Ludwig’s Bedroom—the incredible wood carvings blew me away. The exotic Oriental Room was also insane, with its striking style inspired by King Maximilian’s travels to the Near East. I especially loved the lantern-like lamps that reminded me of Middle Eastern bazaars. Everything about this castle felt like a world of its own.
Wurzburg Residence
Not gonna lie, the Wurzburg Residence straight-up wowed me. This magnificent Baroque palace looked like something made for royalty. The stunning Baroque architecture, intricate frescoes, and opulent interiors made the place feel rich with history and art. The beautifully landscaped court gardens were perfect for wandering, and the entire space carried that air of regal elegance you’d expect from European aristocracy and stories of courtly love.
It’s located in Würzburg, in the Franconia region of Bavaria, in the southern part of the country. The palace was completed in 1744 by three top architects—Balthasar Neumann, Lucas von Hildebrandt, and Maximilian von Welsch. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and spans around 15,000 square meters. It mixes both Baroque and Rococo architecture, and honestly, it’s one of the finest palaces in Europe.
I paid the €10 entrance and joined the guided tour, which took us through lavish rooms filled with over-the-top grandeur at every turn. The frescoes by Tiepolo, one of the most important decorators of the 18th century, were unreal. I climbed the grand staircase, walked through meticulously maintained galleries, and admired the treasury, filled with fine art and antique furniture.
- Location: Würzburg, Bavaria
- Address: Residenzplatz 2, 97070 Würzburg, Bavaria
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: all year round
My favourite highlights…
One of my absolute favourite highlights was the opulent White Hall—the detailed stucco work felt like it belonged in a fantasy. I was also blown away by the Mirror Cabinet, which had unusual, mirrored walls and an elaborate ceiling fresco that left me in awe. You don’t just walk through this place—you feel it.
The Moselle Valley
To be honest, the Moselle Valley felt like a real-life painting. This picturesque, historic wine region was so enchanting, especially with the rolling vine-covered hills and the winding Moselle River flowing through chocolate-box pretty medieval villages. The vibe was so serene, quaint, and totally romantic. It’s the kind of place where you can just relax and take in the views with a glass of wine in hand.
The valley stretches from Trier to Koblenz, near the borders of Luxembourg and France, in the western part of the country. It’s a historic, wine-growing region dating back to Roman times, now home to about 105,000 people. The Rieslings produced here are considered some of the best in the world.
I spent a long weekend here and stayed at the romantic, 4-star, boutique Weinromantikhotel Richtershof. During the trip, I explored the historic city of Trier, saw interesting Roman ruins, and visited the Karl Marx House. I also strolled through the charming village of Bernkastel-Kues, went wine tasting, and took a scenic boat cruise. One afternoon, I hiked up to the fairytale-like Burg Eltz castle, then ended the day soaking up the gorgeous, panoramic views from Reichsburg Cochem. I even cycled along the lush vineyards on the Moselle Wine Route.
- Location: western Germany
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer, early fall
My personal highlights…
One of my personal highlights was trying biodynamic Riesling wines at the gorgeous, organic vineyard, Weingut Rita & Rudolf Trossen. The wines were made without added sulfites, which gave them a super cleaner taste. Honestly, I didn’t expect such a strong flavor profile. It changed how I think about wine forever.
Lichtenstein Castle
Not gonna lie, Lichtenstein Castle was one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever seen. It’s perched on a narrow cliff that overlooks the Echaz Valley, with a fairytale-like look and dramatic neo-Gothic architecture. The whole castle is super photogenic, with tall turrets, pointed spires, and a wild backdrop of thick forested landscapes. The vibe felt magical—like stepping into a real storybook. Germany really is the gift that keeps on giving.
This gem is tucked away in the Swabian Alps, near the village of Honau, in Baden-Württemberg, in the southern part of the country. It sits at an elevation of 817 meters (2,680 feet) above sea level. The castle was built in 1840, inspired by Wilhelm Hauff’s 1826 novel, Lichtenstein, which romanticised medieval chivalry and castle life. Though it’s privately owned, it’s still open to the public.
I paid the €14 for the guided tour, which lasted about 30 minutes. The interiors had this dramatic blend of neo-Gothic elegance and medieval-inspired charm. The rooms were filled with intricately carved woodwork, colourful stained glass windows, antique furnishings, period decor, intricately woven tapestries, suits of armour, and even medieval weaponry on display.
- Location: southwest Germany
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: all year round
My highlights…
One of my real highlights was standing inside the Knight’s Hall—a grand, neo-Gothic room with intricate wood paneling, tall stained glass windows, and interesting displays of perfectly preserved medieval armour. It was quiet, beautiful, and honestly, gave me goosebumps.
Mittenwald
To be honest, Mittenwald is the kind of charming Bavarian alpine town that just sticks with you. It was so postcard pretty, every corner looked like a photo waiting to happen. This little gem sits in an idyllic alpine setting, with colourful timer houses covered in mural art called Lüftlmalerei. The exquisite charm of its cobbled stone lanes and pretty frescoed buildings, backed by the dramatic Karwendel Mountains, gave the whole town a peaceful, alluring, and timeless vibe.
It’s located in the Upper Bavarian Alps of Germany, near the Austrian border, and nestled in the scenic Isar Valley. It’s surrounded by both the Karwendel and Wetterstein mountain ranges. The population is around 7,000, and it’s famous for its centuries-old violin-making tradition, established in the 17th century.
I spent a weekend here and couldn’t stop taking pictures. I would literally gaze in awe at the gorgeous frescoed houses. I visited the Geigenbaumuseum to learn about the town’s violin-making heritage, stepped inside the stunning interiors of St. Peter and Paul Church, and went for a good hike along the dramatic trails. I also took the cable car up to Karwendelbahn and soaked in the photogenic, panoramic views of the Alps.
- Location: Bavaria, south
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: late spring to early fall
My favourite highlights…
One of my favourite highlights was staying nearby at the Insta-worthy, 4-star Quartier – über Nacht in besonderer Architektur. The striking architectural design only used organic materials, and the designer custom-made furniture inside, paired with floor-to-ceiling windows, gave me breathtaking mountain views from the bed. No joke—I didn’t want to check out.
Sanssouci Castle
Not gonna lie, Sanssouci Castle completely surprised me. This magnificent Rococo palace was built as a summer retreat, but it felt like a royal dream. It was such a stunning gem, with superbly preserved Rococo architecture, dreamy terraced vineyards, and ornate interiors that left me in awe. The entire surrounding parkland was dotted with fountains and elegant structures like the Chinese House and the New Palace, giving it a truly serene, regal vibe.
You’ll find it in Potsdam, just outside Berlin, inside a vast park that makes you feel like you’re wandering through history. It was built in the 1740s as a summer residence for Frederick the Great of Prussia, and to be honest, it really reminded me of the Palace of Versailles in France, especially with the exquisite terraced gardens.
I paid the €12 entrance fee and took one of the guided tours to explore the opulent interiors. After that, I walked around the expansive Sanssouci Park, admired the architecture, sat by the beautiful Sanssouci Fountain, and stopped by the nearby Cecilienhof Palace, which is known for the Potsdam Conference.
- Location: near Berlin
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: May to September
My personal highlights…
I gotta say, the Voltaire Room was one of the most lavish rooms I’ve seen. It had elaborate stucco work, frescoes filled with cherubs, floral arrangements, and a huge ornate fireplace made from fine marble. Everything about it screamed luxury and history in one.
Gorlitz
To be honest, Gorlitz felt like a movie set. This picturesque, historic city is not only a filming location for classics like The Grand Budapest Hotel and Inglourious Basterds, but it’s also a beautiful gem filled with impeccably preserved architectural treasures. I saw Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles all in one place. There was a fine square, a strikingly beautiful church, and an authentic old-world charm that made every corner photo-worthy.
This is the most eastern city in Germany, set along the Neisse River, right on the border with Poland. Across the bridge is Zgorzelec, which together form a connected metropolitan area. The history here spans over a thousand years, and about 56,000 residents call it home today.
I came for a weekend and stayed at the historic, boutique, 4-star Gut am See hotel after driving from Dresden. I explored the enchanting old town, admired the architectural beauty of the landmark Gothic church Peterskirche, and visited the interesting Silesian Museum. I also wandered through the lush greenery of Stadtpark, snapped photos at the iconic Woad House, which is the oldest secular building, and crossed the bridge into the pretty town of Zgorzelec.
- Location: Saxony, Eastern part of the country
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: late spring to early winter
My personal highlights…
Not gonna lie, sipping a classic Viennese coffee with Apfelkuchen at the historic cafe Ratscafe Görlitz was a vibe. It was inside a real Town Hall Renaissance building, with stone arched ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and authentic antique furniture that gave the place such a cosy vibe.
Eibsee
Not gonna lie, Eibsee was one of the most idyllic places I’ve ever seen in Germany. This remote spot is a breathtaking alpine lake with stunning, clear, brilliant blue waters and surrounded by lush green forests. The dramatic backdrop of the pristine Zugspitze mountains made every view feel unreal. I also loved the charming wooden boathouses dotted along the shoreline — everything about this place felt like a serene escape 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, close to the town of Grainau in Bavaria. The lake spans around 177 hectares (or about 438 acres) and reaches a maximum depth of 29.5 meters (97 feet). It’s a popular recreational hub for both locals and visitors.
I came here on a day trip from Munich but ended up staying overnight at the 4-star Eibsee Hotel — the incredible lake views from my room were totally worth it. During my time here, I enjoyed a scenic boat ride, explored the smaller islands, hiked the picturesque trails, and even tried stand-up paddle-boarding. It was easy to rent boats, paddleboards, and all kinds of water sports gear right by the lake, which made it super convenient.
- Location: Bavaria, southern part of the country
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: summer
My personal highlights…
To be honest, the most fun I had was renting a pedal boat for just €12 an hour from the boat station on the lake’s shore. I got to see the close-up views of the crystal-clear waters — it was peaceful, beautiful, and felt like a dream.
Sylt
To be honest, Sylt completely surprised me. This unique, somewhat underrated gem felt like a perfect blend of nature, class, and calm. It’s a windswept beauty spot filled with thatched-roof cottages, elegant resorts, and beaches that range from broad sandy stretches ideal for sunbathing and water sports to secluded spots backed by peaceful dunes.
It has been a luxurious seaside resort since the 19th century, yet it’s still often overlooked by foreign visitors. The island has a very chic and sophisticated vibe with lots of gourmet dining, high-end shopping, and a surprisingly lively nightlife scene. Sylt belongs to the Frisian archipelago, set in the North Sea just off the northern coast of Germany, and the best part? Thanks to the Hindenburgdamm rail causeway, you can get there with ease — no boat trips required.
I stayed for a week at the contemporary, boutique, beachfront Hotel 54° Nord and it was just what I needed to unwind. I spent time relaxing on Westerland Beach, explored the tidal world of Wadden Sea National Park, booked spa treatments at Sylter Welle, ate amazing seafood at Gosch, danced in Kampen, and did some boutique shopping along Friedrichstraße in Westerland.
- Location: Frisian Islands, Northern part of the country
- Location Map
- Best time to visit: late spring, early autumn
My favourite highlights…
Not gonna lie, I was obsessed with the pretty houses built in classic Fristian style — the thatched roofs and charming facades made every street feel like a postcard. I also loved the cliffs along the coast, shaped into striking patterns by years of erosion. Every corner of the island had something special — it felt like discovering the true elegance of northern Germany.
Final Words
Germany is a land of romantic valleys, half-timbered towns, majestic Alps, and charming villages that blend age-old traditions with progressive ideals. From the mystical Black Forest to the bustling city of Berlin, every corner of the country offers something unique. Whether you’re planning family trips, exploring vineyards, or strolling through moody forests, there are countless places worth visiting.
To be honest, I’ve completely fallen in love with the diversity this country holds. Not gonna lie, sharing my favorite spots here made me relive the joy of each destination. If you enjoy discovering intriguing landscapes, learning about culture, and uncovering timeless beauty, Germany is ready to welcome you.
