Germany, one of the most popular European countries, is home to an array of interesting tourist attractions. However, a holiday in Germany does not usually go beyond popular cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, etc. If you want to imbibe and enjoy the essence of Europe in Germany, traveling through the historic highlights of Germany will be a great idea. The historic highlights of Germany include 17 cities that have a hand in changing not only the history of Germany but also of Europe and to some extent the history of the world as well. These 17 German cities have been selected not only for their history but also for the cultural and gourmet experiences they offer. These cities are known for their friendly environment and relaxing vibe. So, without further ado, let us jump into the 17 cities that make for the historic highlights of Germany that you can visit with a Germany visa.
Aachen
The history of Aachen goes back 5000 years ago, to the Neolithic period. Charlemagne, the Holy Roman Emperor is who really put Aachen on the historical map. Today, the city is known for its Elisenbrunnen Thermal Fountain, Chio World Equestrian Festival, Old Town Hall, etc. But the main attraction here is the Aachen Cathedral. Known to be the first cathedral in Northern Europe, it was built in 800 AD and became the 1st German monument to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage status. Apart from enjoying the historical but friendly vibe of the city, do not forget to explore its lovely restaurants and cafes.
Augsburg
Augsburg is clearly the most glamorous as well as powerful among the historical highlights of Germany, thanks to the Fuggers and the Wesslers, two influential and wealthy families. The city design, the artwork, the palaces, etc. of the city are true examples of their good taste and prosperity. The grand architecture of the place is influenced by Rococo and Renaissance periods. Some of the top attractions of the place are the Town Hall, the Pracht Fountains, the Perlach Tower, the Schaezler Palace, etc. Another family that is associated with Augsburg is the Mozart family, and the city still celebrates the father-son music composer duo with the German Mozart Festival every year.
Bonn
The former capital of Germany, Bonn is famous for being the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven. The city and its people are still most proud of Beethoven and celebrates his talent and achievements at the Beethoven Festival that happens every year during Spring. The main attraction here is Beethoven Memorial, where you get to see the largest Beethoven collection, complete with original scores and instruments. Apart from this, the Bonn Cathedral, Old Town Hall, Electoral Palace, University of Bonn, House of History, etc. are some of the important places of interest here.
Erfurt
Located in the heart of Germany, Erfurt is most popular for its different types of architecture. The city holds Medieval and Renaissance architectural styles, including German Gothic design. Erfurt is known as the City of Towers, mostly because of the mighty spires of the numerous churches, monasteries, chapels, and abbeys. Some of the best attractions to see in Erfurt are Cathedral of Mary, Jewish District, Egapark, Petersberg, Monastery of St. Augustine, etc. An important attraction that you must see here is the Kramerbrucke, also known as the Merchant’s Bridge. It is the Europe’s longest bridge that is home to a number of buildings occupied by cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Freiburg
Located in the south of Germany, on the edge of the Black Forest, Freiburg is one of the most cheerful and friendly cities in Germany. The most charming attraction here is the Old Town, characterized by water channels running along the pavements. The place is home to some amazing restaurants, cafes, and bars, where you will get to enjoy the local cuisine. However, the star attraction here is the Freiburger Minister Cathedral, which is a fine example of Gothic architecture, built in 1513. Freiburg Farmers’ Market, Historic City Center, Gerberau Historic Street, etc. are some of the must-see attractions here. Moreover, Freiburg is known for its green spaces, and there are plenty of parks and gardens for you to explore here.
Heidelberg
Located on the foothills of the Oldenwald forest, next to the Neckar River, Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Germany. It is one of the oldest places in Europe to be inhabited by humans, although the modern city that we see today exists since the 5th century. The Old Town of Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful in Germany; however, it is the Heidelberg that is the star attraction of the place. Located on the top of a hill, the Heidelberg Castle is an ancient fortress that was built 700 years ago. There is also the Old Bridge, which offers you an amazing array of attractions. Apart from this, Philosopher’s Walk, Market Square, Former Student Prison, Church of the Holy Spirit, etc. are some other popular attractions here.
Koblenz
Located on the banks of Rivers Moselle and Rhine, Koblenz is a 2000-year-old city. Home to 4 mountain ranges, pretty vineyards, and lush green forests, Koblenz is one of Germany’s most beautiful cities. If you want to learn about the cultural history of the place, the Stolzenfels Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a place you must visit. There is also the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which is located 400 feet above the ground. Electoral Palace, Germany Corner, St. Kastor Basilica, Jesuit Square, etc. are some other worth-visiting attractions in Koblenz. One the must things to do in Koblenz is take the cable car ride that will give you a bird’s eye view of the entire city.
Lubeck
Founded in 1143, Lubeck is considered the Queen of the Hanseatic Cities. The glorious historical past of the city can be seen its historical architecture and cultural attractions. Moreover, it is one of the cities in Germany that has still retained its Medieval ambience and charm. This is also the reason why the entire Old Town of Lubeck has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want to know more about the wealthy and powerful history of Lubeck, you must head to The Hansemuseum, an interactive museum that tells you about the place in the most interesting way. Burgtor City Gate, Lubeck Cathedral, Holsten Gate, St. Mary’s Church, The Malerwinkel Park, etc. are some of the places of interest here.
Munster
Munster in Germany played an important role in world history, as the Peace of Westphalia was signed here. However, although the city is almost 1200 years old, Munster has a modern charm, thanks to the buzzing university and its young student body. The Town Hall of the city is the most popular, as it has earned the European Heritage Label. Moreover, the city is also the epitome of art and culture, as it is home to more than 30 museums. If you are visiting Munster during your Germany travels, Prinzipalmarkt Square, Munster Castle, Historic Town, Cow Quarter District, etc. are worth visiting.
Osnabruck
Osnabruck is the perfect mix of the old and new. With an age of almost 1300 years, the city has a rich history that is reflected through its ancient merchant houses and other buildings in the Old Town. On the other hand, the city still retains its youth, as it is home to plenty of industries and educational institutions that ensure that thousands of students are present in the city throughout the year. Another thing that makes Osnabruck unique is that it is the only city in Germany that is situated within a national park. While the greenery of the place makes it worth visiting, do explore its Town Hall, which is considered a landmark of European History and has been awarded the European Heritage Label. Osnabruck Palae, St. Peter’s Cathedral, Ledenhof Palace, Felix Nussbaum Haus Museum, Hegertor City Gate, etc. are the spots you must visit here.
Potsdam
Two things that the beautiful city of Potsdam is famous for are its palaces and gardens. Replete with history and culture, Potsdam is a great place to admire and appreciate Baroque architecture. The city has more than 150 buildings from the 18th to 20th centuries that are awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the palaces that should be on your itinerary are Sanssouci Palace, Marble Palace, Cecilienhof Palace, New Palace, etc. These palaces come with magnificent gardens that will leave you in awe. A few other attractions that you should cover in Potsdam include Museum Barberini, Dutch Quarter, Brandeburg Gate, Glienricker Bridge, etc.
Regensburg
If you want to know how life in Germany looked like in the Middle Ages, Regensburg is a place you must visit. The city is at least 2000 years old and is most popular for its legendary hospitality. With architecture from the 11th to the 13th centuries still intact, Regensburg has preserved the palaces, high towers, merchant houses, narrow streets, and squares from the yesteryears beautifully. In fact, amongst the 1500 ancient buildings, 984 of them are awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Stone Bridge over the Danube River along with St. Peter’s Cathedral is considered the symbol of the city. The Town Hall, Walhalla, Stadtamhof Square, Thurn and Taxis Palace, Historic Sausage Kitchen, House of Bavarian History, Porta Praetoria, etc. are some of the must-see places here.
Rostock
Located on the coast of the Baltic Sea, Rostock is the only German city amongst the historic highlights where you can explore beaches. A port city, Rostock has a marine flair along with a beach culture like no other. Moreover, the city also hosts sailing regattas regularly. Apart from enjoying the beach vibe of the place, you must also explore the Old Town and other attractions that give you a glimpse of the North German Brick Gothic architectural style. Some of the best places to see in Rostock include Town Hall, City Wall, Astronomical Clock, Tepott & Lighthouse, Monastery of the Holy Cross, City Harbor, Rostock University, Kropeliner Gate, Maritime Museum, etc.
Tubingen
Primarily a student town, Tubingen is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. The history of the city is almost 900 years old, which is all well-preserved in its Old Town. A walk in the Old Town of Tubingen will take you through narrow streets, steep steps, and gabled houses that will take you straight back to the ancient times. An important attraction you must see in the Old Town is the astronomical clock that was built in 1511 and is still in working condition. A few of the places that you must visit here are Neckarfront, Castle Hohentubingen, Eberhard-Karls University, etc.
Trier
Existing since 16 BC, Trier was found during the rule of Roman Emperor Augustus. In fact, Trier is considered the oldest city of Germany. While the city has some of the most ancient and historic monuments and art treasures, Trier’s highlight is Porta Nigara, the city gate that has been preserved since the ancient times. Moreover, you will also get to see some other interesting Roman monuments like Liebdrauenkirche, Trierer Dom/Cathedral, Hauptmarkt, etc. Apart from checking out the monuments, you must also take out time to visit the different vineyards and taste the delicious wines of the region. Trier Amphitheater, Roman Imperial Throne Rooms, Electoral Palace. Karl Marx House, etc. are the best places to see here.
Wiesbaden
Known as the spa town of Germany, Wiesbaden was found by the Romans some 2000 years ago, when they discovered hot springs underneath the place. As Wiesbaden was home to thermal baths, spas, casinos, mansions, villas, and boulevards, it acted as a resort town for the aristocracy in the 19th century. Moreover, the place holds the nobility of the era even today. One of the most interesting attractions of the city is the Old Town Hall, which was built in 1610 and is home to an interesting mix of designer stores, cafes, boutiques, and galleries. You must also visit the Wiesbaden Town Hall, Wiesbaden Kurhaus Spa, Hessian State Theater, Wiesbaden Farmers’ Market, etc. here.
Wurzburg
Believed to have been founded in 1000 B.C., Wurzburg has an amazing array of historical attractions, including palaces and museums. Some of the attractions of the city have earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status, one of them being The Residence Palace. One of the most renowned Baroque castles of Europe, The Residence Palace is home to a magnificent staircase, interesting museums, and art-filled galleries. The most popular painting in the palace is the ceiling painting by Giovanni B. Tiepolo, the renowned Venetian artist. Some other attractions of Wurzburg are St. Mary’s Chapel, Marienberg Fortress, St. Kilian Cathedral, Old Main Bridge, Falkenhaus, etc.
Conclusion
The best part is that almost all the cities in the list of historic highlights of Germany offer walking tours to tourists, which is also the ideal way to explore them. So, on your next trip to Germany, do not forget to add at least a few of these historic cities in your travel itinerary.
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