#27 Famous Landmarks in Germany

Located in Central Europe, Germany is one of Europe’s largest and second most populous countries. Its size and long history make it one of the most important in European, which translates to the many famous German landmarks spread throughout the whole territory.

Germany is more famous for its industry and strong economy, the world wars, and the Oktoberfest; however, it is a country with plenty of monuments and attractions. In this post, we will explore the most famous landmarks in Germany, from the beautiful castles and palaces to the impressive churches and other fascinating locations.

Let’s explore the most famous landmarks in Germany.

Famous landmarks in Germany – Berlin

East Side Gallery, Berlin

By Kristin Dahlstrom from Scotland less explored

The Berlin Wall is such an important part of German history and a must-see when visiting Berlin. The best place to learn about what life was like on either side of the wall and what brought about its destruction is the East Side Gallery at The Wall Museum. 

The East Side Gallery features part of the wall decorated by artists from over 20 countries. Until 1989 this part of the wall was still a restricted area with watchtowers and soldiers armed with automatic rifles who would shoot at anyone trying to cross. Today 1.3km of the wall remains here. It is not just the longest continuous section of the wall in Berlin but also the longest open-air gallery in the world.

After the wall came down, 118 artists started painting the remaining sections. The two most famous paintings along the wall are the Fraternal Kiss which shows a Soviet and East German leader kissing, and a painting of a Trabant crashing through the wall. In 1990 the area became the open-air gallery it remains today, so it is best to save this for fair weather.

To get here, take the tram, U or S bahn to Berlin Ostbahnhof or Warschauer Strasse, which are close to either end of the East Side Gallery. 

Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin

By Sydney from A World in Reach

Berlin’s Checkpoint Charlie is one of the most famous landmarks in Germany. The checkpoint was the most famous border crossing point on the Berlin Wall during the city’s division during the Cold War.

Of the three checkpoints on the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie was the only one where foreigners were permitted to cross into East Berlin. It was also the site of one of the most intense moments of the Cold War when a standoff occurred between Soviet and American tanks.

Today, Checkpoint Charlie is one of Berlin’s most frequently visited sites. Visitors can see a replica of the guard house and a sign that marks the crossing point. The original guard house is now on display at Berlin’s Allied Museum.

The attraction also serves as a memorial to those who attempted to escape from East Berlin at the Checkpoint. An exhibition near the checkpoint tells the stories of the escapees who succeeded, as well as the ones who failed.

To learn more about Berlin’s division during the Cold War, visitors can add a stop at the nearby Mauer Museum (Berlin Wall Museum) to their Berlin itinerary.

Checkpoint Charlie is located in Berlin’s Friedrichstadt neighborhood, at the corner of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße. The Kochstraße U-Bahn station is just a short walk away from the landmark.

Brandenburger Tor, Berlin

By Ali from Berlin Travel Tips

Several of the most famous landmarks in Germany are located in Berlin, including Brandenburg Gate or Brandenburger Tor in German. This old city gate once marked the western edge of Berlin.

It dates back to the late 1700s, and it’s the only city gate that still stands in Berlin. Before the version you see today, there was actually a wooden gate here that was constructed in the early 1700s. This gate controlled people and goods coming in and out of the city.

This gorgeous gate has seen a lot of history in its time. Napoleon invaded Berlin in the early 1800s and had his army steal the Quadriga (the chariot and horses on top) and bring it back to Paris with them. It was returned about ten years later.

During the Cold War, when the line was drawn between East and West Berlin, Brandenburger Tor happened to be just east of the border. When the Berlin Wall was built, the inner and outer walls went around the gate, making it inaccessible to both sides. Reagan’s famous “tear down this Wall” speech occurred just west of Brandenburg Gate.

Today this landmark is one of many free things to do in Berlin, and it’s a great place for photos. It’s also host to many large events, such as public viewings of football (soccer) games and one of the largest New Year’s Eve parties in the world.

To reach Brandenburger Tor, take the U5 ubahn line or the S1, S2, S25, or S26 sbahn lines to the Brandenburger Tor S&U station

Berliner Dom, Berlin

By Ali from Berlin Travel Tips

Berlin’s most famous church is the Berliner Dom or Berlin Cathedral, and it should be on your Berlin bucket list. This protestant church is located on Museum Island, right near the well-known collection of museums. A church has existed in this spot since at least the 1400s, but the gorgeous building you see today was inaugurated in 1905.

One of the most important parts of the church is the Hohenzollern family crypt. The Hohenzollern were an important ruling family of Prussia (Germany) for centuries, and almost 100 members of their family were buried here. World War II caused much damage to the crypt, and restoration work is ongoing.

Aside from the interesting history inside the church, the outside makes for some wonderful pictures. If you stand in the right place near the trees on the other side of the Lustgarten, you can get a great photo of the Berlin Cathedral with the TV Tower behind it.

The cathedral has a viewing platform which you can reach by climbing 270 stairs. The views of the TV Tower, Rotes Rathaus, Museum Island, and more are worth the effort.

Church services still occur here, and tourist visits are not permitted while services are going on. Tickets to visit the inside of the church and go to the viewing platform are 10 euros. Buying your ticket online ahead of time is recommended, and they do not take cash at the church.

To reach the Berliner Dom, take the U5 Ubahn line to the Museumsinsel station.

TV Tower, Berlin

By Ali from Berlin Travel Tips

The Berlin TV Tower is one of the most recognizable sights in the city, and it’s one of the best places to go for views of Berlin. The East German government took four years to build the TV Tower, and it was intentionally designed to be tall enough for people to see it from almost anywhere. It was completed in 1969 and is still one of the tallest buildings in the EU.

The TV Tower, or Ferhsehturm in German, is 368 meters (1,207 feet) tall, and the viewing platform is 203 meters (666 feet) high, providing 360-degree views. There’s even a bar and a revolving restaurant. At the observation deck level, you’ll see signs near the windows letting you know what attractions and buildings you see in front of you.

Tickets start at 22.50 euros at the door, but lines can be long for this popular attraction, so it’s worth paying a little extra to skip the line ticket to save time.

You might also want some great photos with the TV Tower in it, so another option is to climb the Victory Column or take the fastest elevator in Europe at Panoramapunkt. Both provide excellent views of the city that include the TV Tower.

To reach the TV Tower, take Ubahn lines U2, U5, U8, or Sbahn lines S3, S5, S7, or S9 to the Alexanderplatz S&U station. Several tram lines, buses, and regional trains also stop here.

Famous German landmarks – Bavaria

Nymphenburg Palace, Munich

By Alexandrea Sumuel from Wander With Alex

The Nymphenburg Palace, also called Schloss Nymphenburg, is located in Munich, Germany. It is about 150 miles south of Nuremberg, Germany, and around 95 miles northwest of Salzburg, Austria. You can get to Nymphenburg Palace by train, bus, or car from Nuremberg or Salzburg. 

This famous German landmark has been a symbol of the Bavarian royal family for centuries and was completed around the late 17th century as a summer residence. Over time, the palace was renovated to reflect the evolving tastes of its residents. The main palace features gorgeous baroque architecture and is lavishly decorated with paintings and sculptures. The rooms are decorated with fabrics and tapestries, and the ceilings are covered with murals.

The back of the palace is where you’ll find the most magnificent gardens. The property has fountains, sculptures, and old buildings surrounded by canals and lakes. You can even take a gondola ride down the central canal in summer. 

Visiting the Nymphenburg Palace is a truly unique experience that offers a look into the world of Bavarian royalty. The palace’s architecture, extensive artwork, and charming gardens make it a must-see German landmark for anyone visiting the region.

Marienplatz, Munich

Marienplatz is the central square of Munich and the center of the city public for centuries. Naturally, it is one of its main attractions. First mentioned in the 12th century, it may be much older. Over the centuries, it has suffered vast transformations, particularly when new buildings were constructed.

Marienplatz is surrounded by several imposing landmarks in Munich, including:

• The new town hall – an impressive Gothic-style building featuring the famous Glockenspiel in the clock tower.
• Glockenspiel – An old clock mechanism consisting of 43 bells and 32 figures that perform a show every day at 11:00, 12:00, and 17:00.
• Old town hall
• Mariensaule – known as Mary’s Column – a 17th-century column constructed o celebrate the end of the 30-year war. It is topped with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary.
• Frauenkirch – Cathedral of our blessed lady.

Like all of Munich, almost all the buildings in this square were completely destroyed during WWII and reconstructed afterward. However, they were meticulously built to be exactly the same as before.

Besides all the German landmarks with impressive architecture, Marienplatz is also surrounded by plenty of shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. The square is a lively and cultural hub throughout the year, making it one of the best things to do in Munich.

However, it in Christmas time that it becomes a winter wonderland, with the Christmas markets selling food and souvenirs. It is possibly the best time to visit as the lively atmosphere is fun and contagious.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial

Located in Dachau, just outside Munich, the Dachau concentration camp is as notorious as horrendous. Established in 1933, it was in operation until it was liberated in 1945 by American forces. During this period, more than 200 000 people were imprisoned, and about 41 000 died of disease, and starvation or were executed.

Visiting the Dachau concentration camp is a sobering experience that can be very emotionally charged due to all the atrocities that happened there and in other similar camps. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of extremism and how far ideologies can go.

It is a must-visit landmark in German for people who want to learn more about the horrors of the Holocaust and the crimes committed by the Nazi regime. And a reminder of how important it is to prevent that from happening again.

While visiting Dachau, it is possible to take an organized tour, to understand better what we are seeing and what happened there. The tours include visiting the gas chambers, the crematorium, and former barracks. There’s also an exhibition of photos, artifacts, and historical documents.

This is a very different landmark in Germany, and despite being a completely different experience, it is an opportunity to learn and reflect.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle, in the southeast of Bavaria, is one of the world’s most beautiful and well-known castles. More than a Famous landmark in Germany, it’s a famous world landmark. It’s visited by 1.5 million tourists yearly, and it is usually called a fairy-tale castle because… that is precisely what it looks like.

King Ludwig II of Bavaria commissioned the castle with private funds. Constructions began in 1869 but were never finished. Had it been completed, it would have more than 200 rooms. Only 15 rooms and halls were finished, but they are standing. Every detail was thought besides having gorgeous decoration, the rooms were equipped with the latest technology of the 19th century.

The visits to the castle are only possible as part of a guided you. And we advise you to buy tickets in advance, as they book out quickly. The castle is 109 km from Munich, taking nearly 2 hours by car.

Fun fact: the castle was the model for Disney castles worldwide, like the Sleeping Beauty Castle in the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.

Konigssee

Konigssee is an Alpine lake in the Baviera just 160 km from Munich. It is a beautiful lake with crystal clear water in the Berchtesgaden National Park. The picturesque Bavarian Alps surround the lake, creating stunning views.

The lake is at a Jurassic rift and stretches for almost 8 Km, surrounded by huge, steep mountains that go up to 2 700 meters high. It is the cleanest and deepest lake in Germany.

One of the best things to do in Konigssee is to catch an electric-powered passenger ship through the lake. Only electric or manual boats are allowed so they don’t pollute the lake. We also suggest you hike from Konigsee to Obersee, a small picturesque lake nearby. It is a lovely, short trail.

There are several hikes in the Berchtesgaden National Park near the lake if you like hikes. Another attraction in Konigssee Lake is St Bartholomew’s church which is on the banks of the lake but isn’t possible to visit.

As Konigssee is close to Munich, you can visit it on a day trip from Munich.

Eibsee

By Soujanya Rai from The spicy journey

Eibsee is one of the most beautiful and iconic lakes in Germany. Located in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen region of southern Germany in Bavaria, Eibsee is 100 km south of Munich, and it takes 1 hour to drive here from the city.

One can even get here by public transportation by taking a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen from the Munich central train station and then another train to Grainau, the closest station to Eibsee. From Gainau, one can reach Eibsee after a simple and stunning hike of 4.5 km.

While there are many exciting things to do at Eibsee, walking along the 8 km shore of the lake is a must-do and offers breathtaking views of Eibsee and the nearby Zugspitze – the highest point of Germany.

During peak summer, one can even dip in the cool waters of Eibsee or rent a boat at the counter near the parking lot. People often bring their kayaks to the lake as well. While visiting Eibsee, it’s worth combining it with a trip to other popular sites in the Garmisch region, such as Zugspitze, Alpspitze, the Partnach-klamm gorge, the Olympic ski jump, and the nearby idyllic town of Mittenwald. 

Nuremberg Castle, Nuremberg

By Paul D’Souza from Paulmarina

The imperial castle of Nuremberg was where kings and emperors were crowned during the medieval ages. The castle was built on a rocky terrain above the rest of the old town at the beginning of the 11th century. The fortification and Nuremberg city walls have been considered some of the best strongholds in Europe.

Nuremberg City was an important place along the trading route between the south and the north of Europe. Therefore, the city had blossomed, and kings and noblemen would frequent the area. The fort served as an essential base for the Holy Roman Empire at the time, but after the 30-year war, it slowly lost its influence.

Today, the castle is one of the most visited sites in Nuremberg. A walk across the town with its half-timbered houses takes one right up the hill to the castle museum. The best city views, with the typical regional red-brown roofs, are taken at the castle courtyards.

Visitors can experience the castle’s interiors, which have been turned into a museum. Tickets are about €7 per adult, and a visit is well worth it for those who want to learn more about the history of Nuremberg and this fascinating castle. The stunning castle gardens adjoining the keep and gigantic stone walls can be accessed for free. Other notable attractions in Nuremberg are located near the imperial castle.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

The medieval walled town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of Germany’s most beautiful and famous landmarks. Located in the Franconia region of Bavaria 250 km northwest of Munich, Rothenburg is accessible by train with connections to major German cities.

However, driving to Rothenburg is much easier and quicker as you’ll usually have to change trains a couple of times. Alternatively, the nearest airport to Rothenburg is Stuttgart, located 1.5 hours away.

The walled town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is famous for its stunningly well-preserved medieval architecture and fortified walls dating back to the 13th century. The town has maintained its original appearance over the centuries, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to experience a slice of medieval Europe.

Visitors worldwide come to see its picturesque narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and historical landmarks such as the Plönlein, a beautiful square with a fountain and half-timbered houses.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is also recognized as an essential cultural monument by the German government due to its crucial role in the history of Germany. It was an important trading town during the Middle Ages and the site of several battles during the Thirty Years’ War.

Famous Germany Landmarks – North Rhine-Westphalia

Koln Cathedral, Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia

Koln Cathedral or the Dom is Cologne’s Cathedral in the North of Germany. It is an impressive Gothic catholic church, classified UNESCO world heritage site.

The cathedral has two massive spires 157 meters high, making it the second tallest church in Europe. The Cathedral is extensively decorated and full of beautiful stained glass windows. Inside the Cathedral, you will find an impressive medieval choir and several arcades.

It is possible to climb 533 stone steps of the spiral staircase of the Dom to a viewing platform of about 100 meters and enjoy the beautiful skyline of Cologn. You don’t have to pay for an entrance to visit the Cathedral.

Aachen Cathedral, Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia

By Jo Koni from World wild schooling

The Aachen Cathedral, located in the western German city of Aachen, is a must-see landmark for any history or architecture enthusiast. Getting to Aachen is easy, with several airports nearby, such as Maastricht/Aachen, Liège, Duesseldorf, and Cologne (Köln/Bonn).

High-speed trains like the Thalys and ICE trains also serve the Aachen Hbf train station, offering convenient connections to major European cities. Driving to Aachen is also an option, allowing you to explore nearby cities like Cologne, Dusseldorf, and Monschau.

The Aachen Cathedral is a famous landmark in Germany with an impressive history. Commissioned by Emperor Charlemagne in the 8th century, the Cathedral was his preferred residence and where he was eventually buried in 814.

The Cathedral also witnessed over 30 German king coronations and survived a Viking raid in 881. You can still see Charlemagne’s throne in the Cathedral, adding to the historical significance of this architectural masterpiece. The Cathedral suffered damages during World War II but has since been restored to its former glory.

The Aachen Cathedral’s importance has been recognized worldwide, as it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. This designation was the first ever given to a German cultural monument. The Cathedral’s architectural and artistic significance is immense, as it is one of the best-preserved monuments from the Carolingian period. From the intricate mosaics to the impressive octagonal dome, the Aachen Cathedral is a masterpiece of architecture and art that deserves its UNESCO recognition.

In conclusion, the Aachen Cathedral is a remarkable landmark with a rich history and architectural significance that should not be missed. Whether you’re interested in history, arts, or just want to admire the beauty of this stunning cathedral, a visit to Aachen is a must-do for any traveler.

Rhine Tower in Dusseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia

By Jo Koni from World Wild Schooling

The Rhine Tower in Dusseldorf is a renowned landmark that has captivated visitors for decades. You can easily reach the tower using various public transportation options, including the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, or tram. Alternatively, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the Rhine Promenade to reach the tower and take in the stunning river views.

Construction of the tower began in 1979 and was completed in 1981, serving as a practical structure carrying aerials for directional radio, FM, and TV transmitters in addition to its observation deck and revolving restaurant.

Standing at 240 meters, the Rhine Tower is the tallest building in Dusseldorf and has become an icon of modernity and innovation. Its futuristic design and unique architecture have attracted visitors from around the world, making it a must-visit destination in the city.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding areas from the observation deck, located at the height of 168 meters, and dine in style at the revolving restaurant. Whether interested in the tower’s practical function or impressive aesthetic, the Rhine Tower symbolizes Dusseldorf’s modernity and innovation.

Germany Landmarks – Saxony

Frauenkirche, Dresden, Saxony

By Elle from Only in Germany

The Frauenkirche is one of the most beautiful churches in Germany. It is a monumental baroque-style church in Dresden, Germany, designed by George Bähr and completed in 1743.

The church has a large stone dome, which August the Strong suggested based on his visit to Santa Maria della Salute in Venice. The church suffered various construction errors over the years, and regular maintenance work had to be done. During World War II, the church was entirely destroyed by a fire caused by bombing and a firestorm. 

After the war, the remaining stones were saved and stored for over 40 years. There were initiatives to rebuild the church with donations from the West, but the state church rejected the idea. After the reunification of Germany, plans to rebuild the church were developed, and a society was formed to collect donations. 

The church was rebuilt from 1994 to 2005, and over 3500 stones from the original church were reused. The total cost of rebuilding the church was around 180 million euros, with 115 million euros raised through donations. The Frauenkirche was reopened on October 30, 2005, after a consecration service. 

Today, the Frauenkirche is one of the most popular attractions in Dresden, attracting many visitors to its grandeur and history. The reconstructed church looks almost identical to the original, symbolizing peace and reconciliation for Dresden and Germany as a whole.

Zwinger, Dresden, Saxony

By Daniel James Clarke from Dan Flying Solo

Dresden’s historical center is bejeweled with numerous Baroque-style buildings. Still, the city’s most impressive architectural accomplishment is the Zwinger, a vast and ornate palatial complex and a true cultural landmark in Germany.

Commissioned by Augustus II — Saxony’s 18th-century Elector and the King of Poland — the expansive palace, grounds, and stately rooms were constructed to house his extensive collection of treasures. Sadly, like much of Dresden’s classical city center, the Zwinger was almost destroyed in World War II. A two-decade-long restoration project ensued, returning the building’s former grandeur.

Entrance to the magnificent enclosed courtyard is free, as is the chance to admire the symmetrical gardens, intricate fountains, and al fresco statues by famous German sculptor Balthasar Permoser. However, you’ll need to buy an entrance ticket to visit the other open-to-the-public pavilions. 

As one of the best places to visit in Saxony, it’s worth the investment, especially as you can also tour exhibition spaces packed with art, artifacts, and sculptures. The world-renowned Flemish and Renaissance paintings at the Old Masters Picture Gallery and the ceramics in the Dresden Porcelain Collection are particularly impressive.

The Zwinger is only a 20-minute walk (or 10-minute tram ride) from Dresden Hauptbahnhof, meaning it could be visited on a day trip from Berlin. Still, an overnight stay is recommended if you really want to do the city justice.

Bastei Bridge, Saxony

By Martina from PlacesofJuma

The Bastei Bridge is, without a doubt, one of the most important tourist attractions in Germany. It is located in the region of “Saxon Switzerland,” about 50 kilometers from Dresden, where there is also an international airport. The easiest way to get there is to take a rental car from the airport.

The Bastei Bridge is most famous for its iconic appearance, found in many photos and travel magazines. If you love nature and the great outdoors, this is your place. Excellent hiking trails lead through deep canyons and green forests and up to the magnificent view of the Elbe hills.

There are no opening hours for the world-famous Bastei Bridge, which is unique, and moreover, it can be visited free of charge. This outstanding landmark is a 76.5m long bridge that runs through a fascinating rock formation.

Because the landscape is so unique and special, about 1.5 million tourists worldwide visit this impressive attraction every year. The rocks fall steeply to the Elbe River at a height of 194 meters from the Bastei Bridge. Visitors will enjoy a breathtaking view of the Elbe Valley, and especially the rocky peaks of the Elbe Valley are breathtaking.

Popular landmarks in Germany – Baden-Württemberg

Heidelberg Castle, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg

By Sharon from Dive into Germany

Heidelberg Castle (or Schloss Heidelberg in German) is the most famous landmark in Heidelberg and one of the most famous in Germany. It’s located 80 meters above the Old Town of Heidelberg and adds to the beauty of this university city.

It started life around 1300 as a fortress. Later, it was expanded to become a royal palace and home to Heidelberg’s Prince-Electors. Over the years, it was damaged by fires, wars, and lightning.

However, part of what makes it a famous landmark today as it was left partly in ruins in 1764 thanks to a lightning strike. No one has lived here since, and it has become quite an evocative site above Heidelberg.

It’s very easy to get here from Heidelberg’s Old Town. It’s a short (but steep) walk up the hill, or you can take the bergbahn, a cogwheel train, from the edge of the Old Town. This is the easiest way to get there.

You can visit a small part of the grounds and get great views over Heidelberg without a ticket. You need a ticket or a guided tour if you want to visit the interior central courtyard and see inside the castle. You can also visit an enormous 185,500-litre wine cask in the cellar and the Pharmacy Museum with the ticket.

Ludwigsburg Residential Palace, Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg

By Marianne from Pasta Pretzels & Passports

The Ludwigsburg Residential Palace (Residenzschloss) is one of the most stunning landmarks in Germany. This Baroque-style palace is located in the city of Ludwigsburg, just 12 kilometers north of Stuttgart.

Getting to the Ludwigsburg Residential Palace is easy. If you are coming from Stuttgart, you can take the S-Bahn, regional train, or bus from Stuttgart or other nearby cities.

The Ludwigsburg Residential Palace was built between 1704 and 1733 by Duke Eberhard Ludwig of Württemberg. It is one of the largest Baroque palaces in Germany and is known for its ornate façade, elegant interior, and beautifully manicured gardens.

Visitors to the Ludwigsburg Residential Palace can explore the many rooms and halls of the palace, which are decorated with intricate frescoes, gilded stucco, and priceless works of art.

In addition to the palace itself, visitors can also explore the palace gardens, which cover an area of more than 30 hectares.

The gardens include a large fountain and several ornamental gardens, including a parterre and rose gardens. There is also a greenhouse that contains a collection of tropical plants.

During the fall, the Ludwigsburg Residential Palace hosts the world’s largest Pumpkin Festival. With over 450,000 pumpkins elaborately carved into sculptures, as well as delicious pumpkin-based dishes like soups, waffles, or Maultaschen, it is definitely a must-see attraction.

Famous Germany Landmarks – Hamburg

Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg

By Vicky from Buddy The Traveling Monkey

One of the most famous German landmarks is the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg. The Elbphilharmonie is a concert hall inaugurated in 2017 and has since become the symbol of Hamburg. It is located along the River Elbe and can be easily reached using public transportation.

If you’re traveling on a budget, the Elbphilharmonie is the perfect attraction for you to visit. It’s one of the many free things to do in Hamburg. Tickets are required to visit, but same-day tickets are free, and you can get them at the Visitor Center across the street.

Although the Elbphilharmonie is a concert hall, it also has a public viewing platform. Known as The Plaza, it offers impressive panoramic views of the River Elbe and Hamburg.

While standing on The Plaza, you’ll be 37 meters above ground level. Below you will be what was once a warehouse that stored coffee, tea, and cocoa. Above you will be the concert hall, a hotel, and residential apartments. It’s nice that they kept some historic elements while also creating something modern.

If you want coffee or a snack, there is a small café on the platform. There are also public restrooms and a gift shop.

Speicherstadt, Hamburg

By Josh Band from A Backpacker’s World

In Hamburg, one of the most underrated German landmarks is found in the north. The Speicherstadt district attracts visitors from around the world and is one of the reasons some people may even choose to visit Hamburg over Berlin. Speicherstadt is an old warehouse district from the Maritime era.

Hamburg continues to be one of the most active ports in the world, but the warehouses are no longer in use. Instead, the area is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site as there are few examples of such beautiful warehouses in as great of an abundance as Speicherstadt offers. 

As you would imagine, it’s found right in the port of Hamburg, one of the city’s best areas. In the port, you can visit many attractions such as Elbphilharmonie and Miniatur Wunderland (which is actually in one of the old warehouses), or you can take a boat tour of Hamburg. This is one of the best things to do as it offers a unique perspective of Speicherstadt and allows you a completely immersive experience as the towering warehouses surround you. 

Speicherstadt is stunning and a must-visit for anyone in Hamburg or other northern parts of Germany. 

Other famous landmarks in Germany

Reichsburg Castle, Cochem, Rhineland-Palatinate

By Morgan Fielder from Crave the Planet

Sitting 100 meters above the winding Moselle River sits Reichsburg Castle (also known as Cochem Castle.) It’s a glittering neo-gothic reconstruction of a castle dating back to 1051 that is the pearl of the stunning Moselle River Valley. 

This stunning imperial castle is perched on a steep hill overlooking Cochem. In addition to guided tours, it even offers medieval-themed dinner parties for castle lovers from mid-March until November (09:00-17:00).

As one of the most well-preserved castles in Germany, Reichsburg Castle is a popular attraction for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. The castle has a long and fascinating history, with roots dating back to the early 11th century. You can explore the castle’s many rooms and learn about its rich history through guided tours.

In addition to the castle itself, there are plenty of other things to do in Cochem. Visitors can stroll through the town’s charming streets, sample the local wines at a nearby vineyard, or take a relaxing boat ride down the Moselle River. There are also dozens of hiking trails in the countryside, offering stunning views of the region’s impossibly steep vineyards, green meadows, and lush forests.  

A ride on the Cochem chairlift (Cochemer sesselbahn) and a trip to the Bundesbank bunker should not be missed on a trip to Cochem.

Most people will visit Cochem on one of the many Moselle River cruises, but it also makes a perfect day trip from Frankfurt or Koblenz.  Multiple airports are within 1.5 hours, including Frankfurt, Frankfurt Hahn, Cologne-Bonn, and Luxemburg.  The town of Cochem has many train and bus connections, but I would suggest renting a car to soak up the beauty of the Moselle Valley truly.

To get to Reichsburg Castle, note that there is no parking there.  You simply take a leisurely stroll up the hill from the town center as you cannot miss it.  There’s a view of the castle from every part of town. A Reichsburg-Shuttle bus for mobility-impaired individuals departs from the town center.

And the best part, your dogs are allowed on the castle tour.

Romerberg Square, Frankfurt, Hesse

Romberg Square is the city center of the old town of Frankfurt. It is in front of the Romer, the seat of Frankfurt city administrations since 15 the century. It used to be the largest medieval city center in Germany.

The square is stunning and charming, it is surrounded by typical half-timbered houses characteristic of medieval Germany. It is also the site of imperial coronations, trade fairs, and the Frankfurt Christmas Market, an event that occurs annually from late November until Christmas.

Romerberg Square was completely destroyed in WWII, so all the houses and buildings are replicas of the original rebuilt in 1980. It was also the site of a Nazi book burning in 1933, existing a Memorial for the book burning.

Town Musicians of Bremen, Bremen

By Bremen from Zimmin Around the World

Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten (The Town Musicians of Bremen) is a fairy tale written by the Brothers Grimm. A famous statue in the northern city of Bremen depicts the donkey, dog, cat, and rooster from the fairy tale.

In Bremen, the Town Musicians of Bremen statue can be found right next to the Rathaus (Town Hall), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Rathaus in Bremen was constructed in 1410 and is considered one of the finest in all of Germany.

Every day, visitors line up by the Town Musicians of Bremen statue and rub each animal’s nose. It is said that rubbing the nose of the four animals will bring good luck. Souvenirs of Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten statue can be found throughout the city. There is even a Bremen Street in the Japanese city of Kawasaki with a replica of Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten.

The Town Musicians of Bremen is a statue in the heart of the city, so visiting this statue is easy and does not take a whole lot of time, giving visitors plenty of time to visit other well-known sites in the
City of Bremen, like the Schlachte, Dom St. Perti, and the famous Schnoor Area.

Bentheim Castle, Lower Saxony

By Penny Fernandes from GlobeTrove

The Bad Bentheim Castle is one of the impressive castles located very close to the border with the Netherlands. The castle is impressive and based on the top of a hill, giving you a view of the entire countryside below it. If you reach here on a clear day, you will be able to see for miles around.

One of the intriguing facts about the castle is the sandstone that was used to build it. This stone was mined from the surrounding areas and was coveted back in the day. In fact, this was how the town made its money!

While the castle is currently not occupied, it is open to the public for viewing. There is much to see, from a simplistic church to the grandiose interiors. It makes an excellent place for kids and adults alike. 

There is even a restaurant where you can catch lunch while you enjoy the view. The outdoor seating is excellent during days with good weather.