If you’re looking for a vacation spot with a rich history and a variety of things to do, Germany is the place for you.
While Germany’s largest cities, like Berlin and Munich, have plenty to offer in terms of art, culture, and nightlife, there are also many smaller places that are worth exploring.
If you’re traveling from the US, all you need is an ETIAS Germany for Americans and this handy guide to the hidden gems of Germany.
Cochem
Cochem is a beautiful town on the Mosel River. It’s located in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, and it’s known for its medieval architecture and scenic views.
The small town is full of history, and visitors have an endless number of landmarks to explore. Cochem is also an important wine center, due to its position in the white wine region of Germany.
Ulm
Ulm is a city in the state of Baden-Württemberg, between Suttgart and Munich. The city is well known as the birthplace of Albert Einstein.
Ulm is known for its beautiful architecture. There are many churches, towers and other buildings that have been preserved since medieval times. It’s even home to the tallest church in the world!
Quedlinburg
Quedlinburg is a small city in northern Germany that dates back to the 10th century. It’s located equidistant between Hanover and Leipzig.
Visitors can see UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the castle and church, which have been preserved perfectly. The old town is also a must-see, with 2000 half-timbered houses dating back to at least 5 different centuries.
Regensburg
Regensburg is the perfect place to visit if you want to experience a small, beautiful city with a rich history. The city has been inhabited since 179AD, and it has preserved its heritage throughout that time.
Regensburg has been known as a center for arts and learning since the Middle Ages. Today, it is still very much an important cultural center for Germany and Europe, and it’s even an official UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Erfurt
Erfurt is the capital of the Central German state of Thuringia, and it’s an important religious site for the Protestant church. Many visitors come to see the Cathedral of Saint Mary, which is where the father of the Protestant Reformation—Martin Luther—was ordained.
The city is popular for its medieval architecture. It’s also the largest city in the state of Thuringia, and easily accessible from all parts of the country.
Rothenburg
Rothenburg can be found between Munich and Frankfurt. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for some beautiful, old-world architecture and a rich history.
Visitors can wander around the cobbled streets, taking in the half-timbered houses and quaint towers and churches. It’s especially magical during the Christmas season, when the whole town is lit up in lights.
Bonn
Bonn is the former capital of West Germany, and is well-known as the birthplace of Beethoven. There’s a monument of the composer by the Bonn Minster church—one of the country’s oldest churches.
The city is also known for its medieval history and thriving art scene. Bonn really comes to life in May, when the iconic cherry blossom trees and rhododendron bushes are in full bloom.
Trier
Founded all the way back in the 1st century BC, Trier is Germany’s oldest city. Despite this fact, it’s tucked away right near the border with Luxembourg, making it a peaceful escape from other big cities.
History lovers will be in their element here, where they can find one of the best preserved city gates, 3 Roman ruins, and a 2nd century Roman bridge.
Monschau
Monschau is a quaint town in the Eifel region of Germany. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, including half-timbered houses and medieval castle ruins.
Monschau is located on the border between Germany and Belgium, which makes it an ideal place to stop if you’re driving from one country to another.
Lübeck
Lübeck is famous for its old buildings and cobblestone streets, which make for great photo ops. The Brick Gothic style of its architecture is rare in the rest of Germany, making the city really special.
The city center is the most extensive UNESCO World Heritage Site in the country. You can also find a number of impressive churches, and try Lübeck’s famous marzipan.
