Berlin is Germany’s vibrant capital and a hub of history, art, and contemporary culture. The city’s mix of historic sites, modern architecture, and cultural institutions makes it a must-visit destination. 

• Key sights: Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island
• Best for: History lovers, art enthusiasts, and dynamic city life
• Accessibility: Excellent public transport and a wide range of guided tours make exploring the city straightforward
• Best time to visit: Spring or autumn for mild weather and smaller crowds 

Top things to do in Berlin include walking along the East Side Gallery to see street art on the Berlin Wall, exploring Museum Island’s world-class galleries, and visiting the Reichstag building for its iconic glass dome. Don’t miss Checkpoint Charlie to step back into Cold War history and enjoy the city’s many parks and outdoor spaces for a relaxed stroll. 

Munich is the heart of Bavarian culture, offering a mix of traditional charm and modern city life. Its historic squares, grand churches, and nearby castles make it perfect for culture and history enthusiasts. 

• Key sights: Marienplatz, English Garden, Neuschwanstein Castle (day trip)
• Famous for: Bavarian traditions, historic architecture
• Accessibility: Flat city centre and pedestrian-friendly streets 

In Munich, visitors can watch the Glockenspiel show at Marienplatz, stroll through the English Garden, or explore Viktualienmarkt for fresh local delicacies. A day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle provides fairy-tale scenery, while the surrounding Bavarian countryside is ideal for walking and photography. Munich’s combination of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it ideal for a memorable city break. 

Hamburg is a lively port city with a rich maritime history and a strong music culture. The city combines historic warehouses, modern architecture, and waterfront attractions. 

• Sights: Speicherstadt warehouses, Elbphilharmonie, harbour tours 
• Known for: Music history including the Beatles in St. Pauli, a vibrant food scene, and scenic river cruises 

Top things to do in Hamburg include exploring the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt district, taking a harbour tour to see container ports and historic ships, and visiting the Elbphilharmonie for music and panoramic city views. St. Pauli and the Reeperbahn district highlight the city’s musical heritage, while local markets and waterfront areas offer opportunities to enjoy the city’s culinary scene. 

Dresden is famous for its beautifully restored Old Town and elegant Baroque architecture. The city blends history, art, and riverside charm. 

• Sights: Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, Elbe riverfront 
• Best for: A relaxed pace, scenic riverside walks, and architectural photography 

Visitors can stroll along the Elbe riverbanks, admire the detailed architecture of Zwinger Palace, and explore the city’s art collections. The rebuilt Frauenkirche is a symbol of resilience and history, and the calm atmosphere makes Dresden ideal for a more leisurely city break. 

Cologne is renowned for its striking Gothic cathedral and scenic setting on the Rhine. The city combines rich history with walkable streets and modern attractions. 

• Sights: Cologne Cathedral, Rhine river cruises, Chocolate Museum 
• Best for: Compact city centre, Gothic architecture, and cultural experiences 

Highlights include visiting the Cologne Cathedral and climbing its tower for panoramic views, enjoying a cruise along the Rhine to see the city from the water, and exploring the Chocolate Museum for a fun cultural experience. Cologne’s walkable streets make it easy to combine history, shopping, and riverside leisure in a single trip. 

Leipzig is a smaller city with a thriving arts scene, historic music connections, and fewer crowds. It offers a more relaxed but culturally rich experience. 

• Sights: St. Thomas Church, contemporary art galleries, lively squares 
• Best for: Music and art lovers, affordable stays, and walkable city streets 

Visitors can follow in Bach’s footsteps at St. Thomas Church, explore modern galleries and creative spaces, and enjoy outdoor squares in the city centre. Leipzig is known for its innovative cultural offerings and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great alternative to larger German cities. 

Nuremberg – Medieval Charm and Christmas Markets ¶

Nuremberg is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural traditions. 

• Sights: Nuremberg Castle, Old Town, Germanisches Nationalmuseum 
• Best for: History enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and seasonal markets 
• Accessibility: Compact city centre, easy to explore on foot, good public transport 

Top things to do include walking through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visiting Nuremberg Castle for panoramic city views, and exploring the Germanisches Nationalmuseum for insights into German history and art. During December, the world-famous Nuremberg Christmas Market transforms the city into a festive wonderland with seasonal stalls, lights, and traditional crafts. 

Heidelberg is a picturesque city known for its riverside setting and historic charm. 

• Sights: Heidelberg Castle, Old Bridge, Philosophers’ Walk 
• Best for: Romantic getaways, history lovers, and scenic photography 
• Accessibility: Compact city centre and pedestrian-friendly streets 

Visitors can explore the impressive ruins of Heidelberg Castle, stroll across the Old Bridge, and enjoy panoramic views along the Philosophers’ Walk. The city’s historic Old Town is lined with shops and traditional architecture. Heidelberg’s riverside location along the Neckar River and its relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for leisurely exploration and romantic city breaks. 

Frankfurt is a dynamic city that combines a modern skyline with historic landmarks, making it both a business hub and a cultural destination. 

• Sights: Römer, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, Palmengarten botanical gardens 
• Best for: Urban explorers, history and architecture fans, and convenient transport hub 
• Accessibility: Excellent public transport connections, pedestrian-friendly city centre 

Top things to do include visiting the Römer square for medieval architecture, climbing St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral for city views, and exploring Palmengarten, one of Germany’s largest botanical gardens. Frankfurt’s mix of skyscrapers and historic buildings creates a unique cityscape, and its efficient transport links make it an ideal starting point for exploring other parts of Germany. 

What is the nicest German city to visit? ¶

Munich or Heidelberg depending on whether you prefer vibrant city life or a romantic riverside town. 

What two places should you go in Germany for 4 days? ¶

Berlin and Dresden offer a mix of history and baroque architecture, while Munich and Neuschwanstein Castle provide Bavarian charm and fairy-tale scenery. 

What is the most walkable city in Germany? ¶

Cologne and Leipzig have compact city centres ideal for exploring on foot. If you’re travelling on an accessible holiday and need travel insurance, check out our senior travel insurance. 

What is the most English-friendly city in Germany? ¶

Berlin and Hamburg are the easiest for English speakers, with many signs, tours, and services available in English.