The majority of tourists who flock to Germany tend to stick to two of its major cities, Berlin and Munich.
However, some fail to realize that there is a wealth of history located in many other cities and regions surrounding Berlin and Munich that are begging to be discovered.
1. Cologne
Cologne’s city gates were built during the medieval period, and three of the original twelve sites still remain today. The Roman city walls still surround the city, but Cologne is also internationally known for its “Veedel” or traditional neighborhoods where you find various historical monuments like the North City Gate and the late neo-gothic church on Neusserstrasse.
2. Regensburg
Some of the many architectural highlights Regensburg has to offer includes the Old Town Hall, the Old Chapel, the Porta Pretoria gates (which leads to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD) and much more.
3. Dusseldorf
Dusseldorf is situated along the Rhine River is home to numerous old castles and historic churches. Even though the majority of the Old Town was destroyed during World War 2, much of the city was rebuilt on its original foundation walls.
4. Hamburg
Die-hard Beatles fans flock to Hamburg as it was the city that essentially “discovered” the Beatles before they became popular in the United States and even England.
5. Stuttgart
Stuttgart is located near the Black Forest, and there are numerous historic buildings you could check out such as the Old Palace, the Old Chancellery which was built in the 16h century, the Princes’ Building, the Solitude Palace, King William’s Palace and much more.
6. Dresden
Dresden has been termed as the “Florence of the Elbe” thanks to its historic city center; however, the majority of it was destroyed during World War 2.
7. Bremen
Considered to be one of the most important cities in northern Germany, Bremen has a lot to offer for tourists who are looking for a slice of German history. Once upon a time Bremen was a member of the medieval Hanseatic League, thus it became (and still is) one of the most important cities in northern Germany.
8. Nuremberg
Nuremberg is home to the old “Nazi party rally grounds” during World War 2, and also hosts a historical Castle Quarter which contains numerous old buildings that managed to survive the war.
9. Bonn
Also known as Beethoven’s hometown, classical music lovers head to Bonn to check out Beethoven-Haus, also known as the birthplace of one of the most famous composers who ever lived.
10. Frankfurt
If you fly to Germany chances are you will fly into the Frankfurt airport given that it is one of the biggest airports in Europe. However, if you’re going to land in Frankfurt be sure to check out some of the many historical museums like the German Architecture Museum, the German Film Museum, the Jewish Museum and much more.
The Discussion
No doubt that some of the most beautiful historical sights in Europe are in Germany. I have been in most of this cities and have great photographs of me and my wife, highly recommended.
Family holidays to Europe are what we enjoy other island holidays are all about. Many things in life are no day at the beach. The good news is that package holidays to Europe give you your day at the beach and a little sand and sun to spare.Thanks for the post
Thanks
Thanks for the article. I have been to Cologne before but when I visit Germany again at the end of the year I’m going to check out the places on your list. Thanks again.
I have beet at Hamburg, Dusseldorf and Dresden. Beautiful cities and great cultural heritage. I wish I can go again to Germany very soon.
I would add big part of Eastern Europe in this selection. It is a fact that Germany can offer a great experience and historical places, but this also apply for Hungary and Czech republic.
Really you describe here 10 most beautiful cities. Keep it.
I like this Post.
That’s right many cities in Germany have great heritage and so many places to visit. The list of above cities is probably the best on internet.
Dresden was destroyed, thats true, but they rebuilt most parts. Nowadays it looks as if it never has been damaged. Dresdens Old Town is one of the most beautufull places in the world, honestly, if you can manage to go to Germany dont miss a trip to Dresden!
It is really great information, thank you very much for sharing that info for us
Great review! I’ve been to Germany once for OctoberFest and would love to go back.
It is true that Germany have great historical sights. For sure there would be much more, if there was no WWII, I guess most places have been destroyed, but only few are rebuild.
We are due for a short holiday in Germany this December, so your guide has been very helpful.
We fly to Frankfurt, but will now be visiting a few other cities to sample their tourist attractions. Thanks for the post.
Germany is great. I have been living in Munich for about 3 years and had a great time. I want to visit Hamburg someday!
Nice list. I live in Denmark, just above Germany, and it wasn’t before recently I got my eyes open for this great contry. Great history, great food, great language (at least I think so).
I know the article is “besides berlin” but I really must emphasize that Berlin is an amazing historic city for tourist.
Never been to Germany but I’ve heard so much about it. Dusseldorf sounds interesting to me. This is a great list to remember.
In my opiniou, Cologne is so amazing. I scream when I see that church!
Germany has always been a favorite travel destination of mine and I`ve been in many of the cities you mention in your wonderful post. I think that Rostock may be a great add to your list, it is also has a large part of the country`s history.. It is the only member of the historic highlights of Germany that is situated on the coast after all.
It is true that Germany has great historical sights. For sure there would be many more, if there was no World War II, I think most places have been destroyed, but only a few are to be reconstructed.
Maybe you could also mention one town that is however very small but also romantic at the same time, especially during Christmas! Well, its name is Bayreuth! Just check!