Germany has endless great travel destinations in stock. In its new book, Lonely Planet presents the country’s 250 most beautiful travel destinations. We took a closer look at the treasures – and show you our top ten travel destinations in Germany!
Nature and culture at Lake Constance
Where is that?
Lake Constance is surrounded by three countries. In addition to Germany (both Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg), Switzerland and Austria also have access to the lake.
The special thing about this travel destination:
Here, you’ll find the perfect mix of nature and culture. You can marvel at the peaks of the Alps, take a dip in the lake or gather new impressions in cities like Constance or Lindau. Boredom does not arise here! If you feel like relaxing, you can spend the day in one of the numerous lidos. Adventurous people can take the ferry to islands such as Mainau or Reichenau.
Our favorite activity:
How about a cruise across the lake? From Lindau, the country panorama trip takes you to Austria and Switzerland.
Airy views in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains
Where is that?
The Elbe Sandstone Mountains are located in the Swabian Switzerland National Park in Saxony and are definitely one of the top travel destinations in Germany.
The special thing about this travel destination:
In the German low mountain range, there is an incredible variety of species. A mix of gorges and towers ensures different climatic conditions in which a wide variety of species feel comfortable. The mountains of sandstone towers and chimneys lay at the bottom of a former sea from millions of years ago. Later, movements of the earth’s crust and water currents, for example, the Elbe, formed the bizarre formations of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, which enchant countless visitors today.
Our favorite activity:
You get a special impression of the mountains when it is foggy. Let the mystical atmosphere work its magic.
Feel princely in the fairytale castle of Schwerin
Where is that?
The magnificent Schwerin Castle, which sits enthroned in the heart of the capital of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, was once a noble residence. Today, the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania meets here.
The special thing about this travel destination:
Architects and master builders have worked on the beautiful gardens with impressive results! Strolling here almost feels like being in a fairy tale. Not only the gardens have a long history: Around 941, a Slavic castle with a rampart was built here, which can still be seen today in the curves of the castle. Schwerin Castle is a fairytale castle that is second to none and is often described as the Neuschwanstein of the North.
Our favorite activity:
It’s worth taking a look inside: gold-decorated walls and magnificent chandeliers in the castle museum give an impression of how the dukes used to live.
Old town flair in the Schnoor district
Where is it?
If you are in Bremen, you will find the Schnoorviertel between the Weser and the market square. The history of this gangway district goes back to the High Middle Ages.
The special thing about this travel destination:
In the narrow streets and between old buildings (some of which date back to the 15th century), you feel transported to another time. The Schnoor district’s name itself is also full of history: Schnoor means cord. In the past, ropes, especially ropes for shipping, were made here.
By the way:
The narrowest alley in this district is only 80 centimeters wide with all things cultural as well as culinary being located here. There are numerous cafés and galleries in the Schnoorviertel. So why not stop here and there while strolling through the narrow streets?
Mystical tour through the Saalfeld Fairy Grotto
Where is it?
This grotto is located in Saalfeld, Thuringia, on the edge of the Thuringian Slate Mountains. It was created from an abandoned mine.
The special thing about this travel destination:
In the past, alum slate was mined here for tanning skins. The mine was shut down and is now a fairytale grotto. Stalagmites and stalactites have been growing here ever since. Anyone suffering from respiratory diseases is in the right place here because the grotto is also used as a healing gallery. There was also an entry in the Guinness Book of Records: The Saalfeld Fairy Grotto is the “most colorful show grotto in the world”.
Our favorite activity:
A day trip to this top travel destination is particularly worthwhile for families. In addition to the grotto, there is also an adventure park with an obstacle course and adventure forest.
Sailing and more at the Kiel Week
Where is it?
Every June, sailing enthusiasts from all countries come together for the world’s largest regatta in the capital of Schleswig-Holstein.
The special thing about this travel destination:
In 1882 it started small with 20 sailing yachts – today, there are an incredible 5000 skippers. At the same time, the big summer festival takes place with numerous events and concerts. There are also culinary specialties to be discovered from all over the world. You can for sure gather inspiration for your next holiday here.
Our favorite activity:
Let yourself be carried away: between regattas, live music and a street of games, there is something for those, both young and old, making Kiel Week the ultimate family outing.
Travel back in time to the Baroque era at the Herrenhausen Gardens
Where is it?
Hanover’s Herrenhausen Gardens are known as a real gem and as one of the most important baroque gardens in Europe.
The special thing about this travel destination:
Between water fountains and well-tended flower beds, you embark on a journey into another time: the garden has remained almost unchanged since its expansive construction which began roughly around the year of 1676. If you fancy a little adventure, venture into the maze. Hobby botanists learn a lot of exciting things in the vegetable and botanical garden.
Our favorite activity:
Every year, the International Fireworks Competition lights up the night. On five summer evenings, the most renowned pyrotechnicians in the world compete against each other and enchant the audience with breathtaking lights.
Past and present meet in Marburg
Where is it?
Located on the idyllic Lahn, Marburg is particularly well-known as a university town.
The special thing about this travel destination:
Past and present merge here: Students bring a breath of fresh air to the old town streets and historic buildings of the university from 1527. Strolling through the winding old town, you will find hip bars and cute little shops. You can also learn about the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm, who lived here, from the many boards along the historic buildings. Of course, a walk up to the castle with a view over the city should not be missed.
Our favorite activity:
Visiting the impressive places of worship. Here, Marburg has a colorful mix of medieval synagogues and Lutheran parish churches.
Excursion to the Spreewald river labyrinth
Where is it?
This green jewel of Germany is, among other things, a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is located in the south-east of Brandenburg.
The special thing about this travel destination:
Attention nature lovers! With its numerous watercourses, the Spreewald is a habitat for an extraordinary variety of animal and plant species. Traditionally, the boat takes you from A to B and anyone who wants to explore this labyrinth is recommended to do so with one of the many boat trips offered.
Our favorite activity:
From deep relaxation in one of the sauna and bathing areas to sporty excursions by bike or canoe, the Spreewald has something to offer for everyone. Why not combine both? First, a trip and then, relaxation.
A look behind the facade in Freiburg
Where is it?
Freiburg im Breisgau is located between green mountains and has made it into Lonely Planet’s top 10 trend destinations for 2022.
What is special about this travel destination:
Medieval buildings such as the Schwabentor and the modern architecture of the university buildings meet in Freiburg and create a varied cityscape. There is a lot to discover in the winding streets of the old town. But the proximity to the mountains and valleys of the Black Forest also makes Freiburg a versatile travel destination.
Our favorite activity:
Your tired feet can relax in the cool water of the Freiburg Bächle. If you fancy a little adventure, follow the Bächle and explore new places.
Lonely Planet Ultimate Travel Destinations Germany: Lonely Planet’s Top 250 List MairDuMont Verlag, 288 pages, ISBN: 978-3-8297-3673-2, €29.95
