12 Famous Landmarks in Germany To Add to Your Bucket List

Famous landmarks in Germany, such as the Brandenburg Gate and Neuschwanstein Castle, reflect the country’s rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. With over 39 million international visitors each year, Germany is one of Europe’s top travel destinations.

Imagine standing beneath the towering spires of Cologne Cathedral or admiring the Neuschwanstein Castle, a fairy tale masterpiece that inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Stroll through the Black Forest, explore the shores of Lake Constance, or take in Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate.

We’ve chosen these 12 landmarks because they represent Germany’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty and offer unforgettable experiences for any traveler.

Swipe and Vote: Choose Your Favorite

Which famous German landmark would you ditch your group tour to explore solo (because, let’s be honest, group tours…)?

This is a swiper quiz, swipe right for yes, swipe left for no.

European Lakeside Towns for a Peaceful Getaway Lindau, Germany

Lake Constance 1/5

12 Breathtaking Natural Wonders in Europe for Your Bucket List

The Black Forest 2/5

European Countries Ranked by Pickpocketing Risk_Berlin, Germany

Brandenburg Gate 3/5

Epic Adventures for Couples in Europe_Driving the Romantic Road, Germany_Neuschwanstein-castle, Bavaria

Neuschwanstein Castle 4/5

12 Famous Landmarks in Germany Cologne Cathedral, Cologne

Cologne Cathedral 5/5

Results

Lake Constance

5 17

The Black Forest

9 13

Brandenburg Gate

7 15

Neuschwanstein Castle

10 12

Cologne Cathedral

8 14

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Table of Contents

Cologne Cathedral, Cologne

Cologne Cathedral is the most famous landmark in Germany, welcoming an average of six million visitors yearly. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage site was constructed between the 13th and 19th centuries and took over 600 years to complete.

Despite being completed in 1880, it’s still the world’s tallest twin-spired church, Europe’s second-tallest church, and the world’s third-largest church overall. In total, Cologne Cathedral is 515 feet (157 meters) tall. Built to house the Shrine of the Three Kings, this monumental structure is a sight to behold.

It features two magnificent spires, breathtaking intricate stonework, and spectacular stained glass windows. Inside, the sheer size and grandeur of the cathedral will blow you away.

Travel Tips

Check Opening Hours: The cathedral is open from 6 AM to 8 PM, but tourist visits are from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and 1 PM to 4 PM on Sundays.
Climb the Tower: Challenge yourself with the 533-step climb to the South Tower for panoramic views of Cologne and the Rhine River.
Explore the Treasury: Visit the Cathedral Treasury for EUR 6 (USD 6.32).

Brandenburg Gate, Berlin

World Wild Schooling - https://worldwildschooling.com This European Country Is Home to a Castle That Inspired Disney — and a Mountain Where You Can See Four Countries at Once - https://worldwildschooling.com/famous-landmarks-in-germany/ — © orpheus26 / Adobe Stock

Brandenburg Gate is one of the most iconic attractions in the German capital, Berlin. This historic landmark, commissioned by Prussian emperor Frederick William in the late 1700s, symbolizes division and unity in Berlin.

For some time, the gate divided East and West Berlin. It was an exclusion zone, inaccessible to anyone. However, upon the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the Brandenburg Gate became a symbol of unity and peace. Today, it’s one of Germany’s most famous tourist attractions.

The gate features a neo-classical design and is topped by a sculpture called the Quadriga, which depicts a chariot pulled by four horses.

Travel Tips

Visit Early or Late: Go in the morning or evening to avoid the crowds.
Explore Pariser Platz: Walk around the square in front of the gate to take great photos.
Combine with Nearby Attractions: Visit nearby landmarks like the Reichstag Building and Holocaust Memorial, which are within walking distance.

Lake Constance, Baden-Württemberg

Lake Constance, located where Germany, Switzerland, and Austria meet, is one of Germany’s most beautiful natural wonders. Also known as Lake Bodensee, it’s famed for its sparkling emerald waters, charming towns, and pristine scenery. A popular vacation spot, Lake Constance is approximately 39 miles (63 kilometers) long.

The lake is fed by the Rhine River and features two parts: the Obersee (upper lake) and Untersee (lower lake). Aside from being an excellent place to take photographs and enjoy the natural side of Germany, Lake Constance has many things to do. Hiking, sailing, swimming, and windsurfing are popular pastimes. Many people visiting the lake stay in the medieval city of Konstanz.

Travel Tips

Use the Ferry System: Take ferries to explore towns around Lake Constance, like Meersburg and Lindau, without worrying about parking.
Visit Local Vineyards: Explore vineyards in Meersburg and Hagnau for wine tastings with lake views.
Bring a Picnic: Pack food to enjoy by the lake.

Black Forest, Southwest Germany

The Black Forest, by the border of France, is one of Germany’s most impressive natural attractions. It is a mountainous region in southwest Germany, occupying an area of 2,320 square miles (6,009 square kilometers). It’s best known for its dense forests, rolling hills, and traditional villages with half-timbered houses.

Interestingly, the Black Forest is also the birthplace of the cuckoo clock. Foodies might also be pleased to hear that it’s known for local delicacies like cherry cake and Black Forest ham. The Romans named the forest the Black Forest due to its dark green conifer trees.

While the trees aren’t truly black, the thick spruce blocks out light, making the forest much darker.

Travel Tips

Rent a Car for Flexibility: It allows you to explore remote villages, viewpoints, and hiking trails that public transport can’t reach.
Try Local Specialties: Taste traditional Black Forest dishes like Black Forest cake and sausages at regional restaurants.
Use Hiking Maps and Apps: Pick up local maps or download hiking apps to find well-marked trails and discover hidden routes.

Berlin TV Tower, Berlin

Berlin TV Tower is one of the most famous modern landmarks in Germany’s vibrant capital. Also known as the Fernsehturm, it was built between 1965 and 1969 and stands at an impressive 1,207 feet (368 meters) tall. From its viewing gallery, it offers magnificent city views.

Unsurprisingly, the Berlin TV Tower is the tallest structure in Berlin. Aside from its sheer size and epic views, the tower features a unique attraction: a revolving restaurant 679 feet (207 meters) up the tower. This restaurant offers a dining experience that comes with 360-degree city views. Unfortunately, the Sphere restaurant is closed now, but it’s due to reopen in 2025.

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Travel Tips

Book Tickets in Advance: Book tickets online to skip the lines.
Plan Your Visit Around Sunset: Arrive early for sunset views, but expect crowds at this popular time.
Check for Special Events: Visit the official website for events or exhibitions.

Neues Rathaus (New City Hall), Munich

Neues Rathaus, or New City Hall, in Munich, Bavaria, is one of the most significant landmarks in Germany. Constructed in the 19th century, it hosts the city government, which includes the city council, mayor’s offices, and parts of the administration. Furthermore, it forms the northern part of Marienplatz, the main square of Munich’s Old Town.

This historic site has a beautiful neo-Gothic style. It features a breathtaking central spire, several smaller spires, intricately carved archways, and fascinating sculptures. A dragon sculpture is one of the most exciting details to look out for at Neues Rathaus. Quite brilliantly, the dragon has been designed to look as though it’s climbing the town hall.

Travel Tips

Catch the Glockenspiel Performance: Watch the famous chime show at 11 AM or 12 PM when mechanical figures reenact historical events.
Explore the Courtyards: Wander through the beautiful courtyards, especially the Prunkhof, which is less crowded.
Consider a Guided Tour: Join a guided tour to learn about the building’s history and architecture and access areas not open to the public.

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Munich Residenz, Munich

Munich Residenz is one of the most dazzling landmarks in Munich. Once home to Bavarian Royalty, this 14th-century palace in the heart of Munich is the largest city palace in Germany. At first, it was a castle, but over generations, it was transformed into a gorgeous palace with grand halls, lush gardens, and luxurious bedrooms.

It also served as the seat of government and residence of the Bavarian dukes and kings between 1508 and 1918. Today, the palace is open for visitors to explore. Outside, Munich Residenz offers scenic gardens, a beautiful facade, and impressive sculptures.

Meanwhile, Munich Residenz’s interior is jam-packed with grand corridors, fine artwork, antiques, and luxurious fixtures and fittings. What’s not to like?

Travel Tips

Use Public Transport: Take the U-Bahn or S-Bahn to Marienplatz station for easy access to the Munich Residenz.
Take an Audio Guide: Rent an audio guide to learn about the history and significance of the rooms and artifacts.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Visit early or late to avoid crowds and explore the palace at a more relaxed pace.

Bastei, Rathen

Bastei, near Rathen and not too far away from Dresden, is one of the most unique landmarks in Germany. It’s a monumental rock formation that rises 636 feet (194 meters) above the Elbe River. Located in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, it offers scenic views and a unique perspective of Germany’s nature.

The rock formation was formed by water erosion over one million years ago. However, that’s not all the attraction is known for. At Bastei, you’ll also find a 200-year-old sandstone bridge. This bridge allows visitors to get closer to the rock formations and find the most scenic views of the area.

You can enjoy scenic valley views above the Elbe River from the bridge. Sounds perfect, right?

Travel Tips

Arrive Early: Arrive around 8 AM before the crowds arrive around 10 AM.
Bring Sturdy Hiking Shoes: The trails to Bastei can be steep and uneven, so wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
Pack Snacks and Water: While dining options at Bastei are limited, bring your own snacks and water to stay energized, especially if you’re hiking nearby trails.

Heidelberg Castle, Heidelberg

Another fascinating castle you can visit in Germany is Heidelberg Castle. Thanks to its picturesque river location, Heidelberg is one of Germany’s most charming and romantic cities, and the castle overlooks the city center. Founded in the 13th century, its ruins are considered one of the most significant Renaissance structures north of the Alps.

Heidelberg Castle has a long history of turmoil, so large parts are in ruin. Over the last 800 years, it has been destroyed by lightning, fires, and wars. Each time, it has undergone renovation work. However, it’s only been partly rebuilt since demolition in the 17th and 18th centuries. Honestly, though, this only adds to the castle’s intrigue, mystery, and excitement.

Travel Tips

Take the Funicular: Use the funicular railway from Kornmarkt for easy access and stunning views.
Visit the Gardens: Enjoy a stroll in the castle gardens for great views of Heidelberg and the Neckar River.
Check for Events: Look for special events like concerts or tours.

Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg

Although the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg opened in 2017, its popularity has made it one of Germany’s most beloved attractions. Elbphilharmonie can be a mouthful to say, so most people refer to it as Elphi. As you can probably tell from its name, this landmark is a concert hall.

According to Hamburg Marketing, over 2,900 concerts and 3,400 educational events with over 200,000 visitors/participants have already taken place since the opening of the Elphi. However, you don’t have to go inside the concert hall to appreciate what it offers. Located in Hamburg’s historic Speicherstadt, Elphi has a stunning design.

Its architecture resembles the movement of a wave, paying homage to the city’s rich shipping history.

Travel Tips

Reserve Plaza Tickets: Book tickets online to skip long lines.
Ride the Tube: Don’t miss the curved escalator.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau

Neuschwanstein Castle in the Schwangau municipality is one of Germany’s most magical monuments. Located in the foothills of the Alps in Germany’s mesmerizing Bavaria region, this fairytale castle isn’t something you want to miss. For starters, the scenic forests and mountains surrounding the castle create the perfect setting.

The castle itself is an outstanding example of Romanesque revival and Gothic-style architecture. It draws travelers in with its beauty and majesticness. Interestingly, Neuschwanstein Castle inspired the original Disney Castle.

Honestly, it’s not surprising Disney used the castle for inspiration. Everything from its dream-like towers and finer details to the postcard-perfect setting is out-of-this-world. You’ll picture a Disney princess in the castle straight away.

Travel Tips

Book Tickets Online: Buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines, especially in peak season.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: The uphill walk from the ticket center takes about 40 minutes, so wear sturdy shoes.
Visit During Off-Peak Times: Visit during spring or fall, or on weekdays, to avoid large crowds.

Zugspitze, Wetterstein Mountains

At 9,717 feet (2,962 meters), Zugspitze is the highest mountain in Germany. This iconic peak, situated in the Wetterstein Mountains in the Bavarian Alps, is a big hit with outdoor adventures. One of the major draws to Zugspitze is the impressive views.

From the summit, visitors are treated to second-to-none views of the Bavarian Alps. You can see four countries (Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland), over 400 surrounding mountains, and icy glaciers. Zugspitze is also a popular place to participate in winter sports.

Hiking, skiing, and snowboarding are popular activities on the mountain. The Zugspitze cable car, the cogwheel train, and the Gletscherbahn cable car offer easy access to the mountain.

Travel Tips

Choose Your Access Method: Take the cable car for a quick ascent or the cogwheel train for scenic views.
Dress in Layers: Wear layers, as the summit can be much colder than the base.
Plan for Altitude: Adjust to the high elevation by taking it slowly and staying hydrated.