What to visit in Germany: the must-sees

Cities to visit in Germany

Berlin, a multifaceted metropolis

If you don't know what to visit in Germany, start with its capital. Berlin is a city that is hard to get around. Bubbling and creative, it seems to be constantly changing. Its architecture is very diverse and contrasts with the homogeneity of other German cities. In the German capital, you can admire famous monuments such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag Palace or the Charlottenburg Castle. Experience the atmosphere of East Berlin by strolling through the Friedrichshain district, along the East Side Gallery (a fragment of the Berlin Wall) or past Checkpoint Charlie. Those thirsty for culture and history will not miss visiting the Museum Island, the German History Museum or the Holocaust Memorial.

Hamburg, meeting place for artists

A major European port, Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany. It will surprise you with its rich architecture and dynamism. Crisscrossed by canals, this city is full of red brick buildings, like those of the famous Speicherstadt, or "warehouse city". Soak up the atmosphere of the city by strolling along the piers, the Nikolaifleet canal, the Kontorhausviertel district or the Jungfernstieg, the "Virgin's Way". Art lovers will appreciate the creativity of the Gängeviertel, the Bucerius Art Forum, the Kunsthalle and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Enjoying nature in Germany

On the wooded paths of the Black Forest

Hiking enthusiasts will have a blast on the trails of the Black Forest. This mountainous region covered with fir trees is dotted with natural gems like the Triberg waterfalls or Lake Mummel. Between two hikes, you can visit a typical village where you can visit  cuckoo clock makers  and taste the local specialties: ham, Black Forest cake and kirsch. For the best views of the region, follow the Bundesstraße 500, a scenic route of about 60 km. You can also visit Lake Titisee or climb to the Feldberg, the peak of the forest massif.

At the top of Germany: the Bavarian Alps and Saxon Switzerland

Among the places to visit in Germany are, of course, the Bavarian Alps, a hiker's paradise and a particularly touristy region. By train or cable car, climb to the top of the Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain at 2,962 meters. From the top you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Austria. The Bavarian Alps are also home to places like the Partnach Gorge, a popular spot for whitewater sports enthusiasts. In the southeast of Germany, near the Czech border, lies Saxon Switzerland. This mountainous region crossed by the Elbe River contains impressive sandstone cliffs and spires. The must-see site is the famous Bastei, or "bastion," which offers a panoramic view of the Elbe Valley.