Choose from 274 Fun Things to Do in Germany
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Cologne Old Town (Altstadt)
Stretching along the west bank of the Rhine River and presided over by the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral, the Old Town (Altstadt) is both the navigational and historical heart of Cologne. With its colorful old buildings, beautiful Romanesque churches, and scenic riverside promenades, it’s an obvious starting point for any exploration of the city.
The Basics
No Cologne sightseeing tour is complete without a visit to Old Town landmarks like the Cologne Cathedral, the Town Hall, and the Hohenzollern Bridge. Join a walking tour and learn more about the city’s history from your tour guide; admire the views on a cruise along the Rhine River; or explore independently on a hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cologne’s main Visitor Information Center is located outside the cathedral in the Old Town.
- There are free Wi-Fi spots located around the Old Town.
- Most of the attractions in the Old Town are wheelchair accessible, but some of the narrow cobbled streets might be tricky to navigate.
How to Get There
Most of Cologne’s main attractions, hotels, and restaurants are located in or around the Old Town, so it’s impossible to miss the neighborhood. The main Köln Hauptbahnhof train station sits just north of the cathedral. From the cathedral, trams run to nearby sights such as the Rheinauhafen and the Chocolate Museum.
When to Get There
Whether you visit during the day as part of a city tour or after dark to drink or dine along the riverfront, Cologne’s historic center is lively at all hours. The busiest time to visit is during the peak summer months (July and August), when attractions like the cathedral can get busy; get an early start if you want to escape the crowds. Alternatively, Cologne is at its most atmospheric during the annual Carnival or over the winter holidays, when the Old Town hosts some of Germany’s best Christmas markets.
A walking tour of Cologne Old Town
Start your walking tour outside the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, then head to the riverfront to see the Hohenzollern Bridge and stroll along the waterfront. Stop to see Museum Ludwig and Great St. Martin’s Church, then head west to the Alter Market, where you can visit a traditional brauhaus (brew-pub) to sample a Kolsch beer. Continue to the Neumarkt, one of the main shopping centers, stopping along the way to see the Heinzelmännchen fountain and the Tünnes and Schäl statues, then visit the Farina Museum to learn more about Cologne’s perfume-making history.
Address: Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 27
Chiemsee
At 80 sq km (31 square miles) Chiemsee is the largest lake in Bavaria, fed by the snowmelt water of the rivers Prien Tiroler and Achen, which drain the lake on its northern shores as the Alz.
Attractions around Chiemsee include the house designed by flamboyant Secessionist artist Julius Exter in the lakeside resort of Übersee-Feldwies; surrounded by colorful gardens, the house is ornately decorated with wrought-iron balconies and many of his paintings are displayed in his former studio.
There is also a retrospective exhibition of Exter’s vivid landscapes in the Baroque Augustinian Monastery on Herrenchiemsee, an island in the middle of Chiemsee. Also located on the same island is the extravagant Herrenchiemsee New Palace, built in the style of Versailles for King Ludwig II, who reigned over Bavaria between 1865–86; a small museum in the palace details his short but eccentric life.
Frauenchiemsee is the second islet on Chiemsee, home to one of the oldest monasteries in Germany. It was founded back in 782 and flourished for the most part for the next millennia before being rebuilt in Baroque style in the 17th century, although parts still date from medieval times.
As well as its manmade landmarks, Chiemsee is popular with walkers and cyclists for its natural beauty; surrounded by the snowy peaks of the Alps, the shoreline is protected as the wetland home of several endangered species of wading birds.
Practical Info
Chiemsee is 90 km (56.25 miles) southeast of Munich close to the Austrian border; it is best reached via the A8, taking the exit to Bernau. Julian Exter’s House: Blumenweg 5, 83236 Übersee-Feldwies. Open in summer for exhibitions only. Augustinian Monastery & Herrenchiemsee New Palace: 83209 Herrenchiemsee. Open Apr–Oct daily 9am–6pm; Nov–Mar daily 10am–4.45pm. Admission to both €10 adults, €9 concessions. Frauenchiemsee Monastery: 83256 Frauenchiemsee. Open May–Oct 11am–5pm daily. Admission free.
Address: Germany
From $ 51
Bockenheimer Warte
In what is possibly one of the world’s most interesting subway entrances, a streetcar appears to burst through the sidewalk from underground at the Bockenheimer Warte. Bockenheimer Warte is a part of the neighborhood of Bockenheim, which is a residential area that is worth visiting to get an impression of where locals go for grocery shopping, haircuts, and the like. Bockenheimer Warte is a five-minute walk from the Palmengarten, one of Frankfurt’s two large botanical gardens, and the Senckenberg Museum (Germany’s second-largest natural history museum) is quite close as well.
The lively Leipziger Straße, full of shops and places to eat, also begins at the Bockenheimer Warte. This creative metro entrance is one of the best photo opportunities in Frankfurt and is certainly worth stopping by if you have a few minutes to spare, especially if you are already in the area to visit the natural history museum or the botanical garden.
Practical Info
Bockenheimer Warte is served by the U4,U6, and U7 metro lines and is a 15-minute walk from downtown Frankfurt. The area has plenty of great shopping and cafes, and is close to the university, the natural history museum, and the botanical garden.
Address: Bockenheimer Landstrasse, Bockenheim, Frankfurt 60325, Germany
From $ 88
Berlin TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm)
Soaring 1,207 feet (368 meters) over Alexanderplatz, Berlin’s TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm) is Germany’s tallest structure. Built to mark the 20th anniversary of the German Democratic Republic in 1969, the tower was intended to be a symbol of East Germany’s achievements as a socialist society. Today it’s one of the capital’s most visited landmarks, affording 360-degree views over the entire city.
The Basics
Visitors can take in the views from the 666-foot-high (203-meter-high) observation deck, grab a drink at Berlin’s highest bar, or book a table at the revolving Sphere restaurant. A visit to the tower is included on many sightseeing tours and hop-on hop-off bus tours of Berlin. It’s also a popular photo stop on walking, biking, and Segway city tours, and can be seen on sightseeing cruises along the River Spree. Choose a skip-the-line ticket to avoid a long wait.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Discounted entry is available for Berlin Welcome Card holders.
- Ticket holders should arrive 15 minutes before the allotted time in order to pass through security.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on-site.
- Restaurant visitors should leave their coats at the free coat-check at the entrance.
- Large items, backpacks, and strollers are prohibited inside the tower.
- Due to safety concerns, wheelchair users and those with limited mobility are not permitted to enter the tower.
How to Get There
The Berlin TV Tower is located on Alexanderplatz in the Mitte neighborhood, about a 10-minute walk from nearby attractions such as Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island. The tower can also be reached by S-bahn (Alexanderplatz station), U-bahn (Klosterstraße station), and tram (Alexanderplatz). Paid car parking is located at Alexanderplatz and Otto-Braun Street.
When to Get There
The Berlin TV Tower is open daily, but with more than 1.2 million annual visitors, it can get crowded, especially during summer and holidays. Opt for an early morning visit for the best chance to beat the throngs. Alternatively, head up to the observation deck after dark for an unforgettable view of Berlin’s skyline. Other atmospheric times to visit include during the Berlin Festival of Lights in October and the Alexanderplatz Christmas Market.
The View from the Tower
The viewing platform of the Berlin TV Tower offers panoramic views over the city below. Display panels help you pinpoint such top attractions as the Reichstag (parliament) building, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Spree River. Farther afield you might spot the Olympic Stadium, Tempelhof airport, and the Tiergarten, or remains of the Berlin Wall and the many monuments of the UNESCO-listed Museum Island.
Address: Panoramastrasse 1a, Berlin 10178, Germany
Hours: Mar–Oct 9am–12am; Nov–Feb 10am–12am
Admission: Adults €15.50, Children €9.50
From $ 23
Casino Baden-Baden
Germany’s oldest casino opened for business in 1855 after a visiting Parisian brought up the idea of opening gaming rooms in the Black Forest spa town to add some spice to the evening entertainment options. While gambling became popular in the town during the early decades of the nineteenth century, it wasn’t until 1855 that Casino Baden-Baden came to be, and it still showcases the same glitz and glamour of the Second Empire.
Parisian designers fashioned the casino with crystal chandeliers, ornate frescoes and rich tapestries reminiscent of Fontainebleau or Versailles in France. While gambling remains a popular diversion, visitors can also take guided tours of the historic casino and hear tales of its storied past and famous patrons.
Practical Info
Jackets are required for men inside the casino, but they can be rented for a small fee.
Address: Kaiserallee 1, Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Hours: Sunday-Thursday noon to 2am; Friday and Saturday noon to 3:30 am
Admission: 5€ Table games/ 1€ slots
From $ 237
Currywurst Museum
Few foods are more iconic than the German fast food sausage dish, Currywurst. Steamed, then fried pork sausage is seasoned with spicy curry ketchup, then served up with a side of crisp and golden French fries. And while this regional dish can be found on just about any street corner in Berlin, it’s the Currywurst Museum located in this eclectic city that really tells the story of this popular treat.
Travelers can wander through galleries dedicated to this fine food and learn about its inception back in the 1940s, as well as how this local dish was made famous in movies, television, music and pop culture. The interactive nature of Currywurst Museum means visitors can taste, touch and smell just about everything. And of course, there’s plenty of opportunity to sample these spicy dogs, too.
Practical Info
The Currywurst Museum is located near Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin. It is accessible via the U-Bahn, bus and S-Bahn. It is open from 10 a.m. until 6p.m. daily. Tickets are 11 euro for adults and 8.5 euro for students and seniors.
Address: Schützenstraße 70, Berlin, Germany
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Admission: 11 euro for adults; 8.5 euro for students and seniors
From $ 16
Church St Michaelis (Michaeliskirche)
The baroque Protestant Church of St. Michaelis (Michaeliskirche) is a Hamburg landmark. Its famous clock tower soaring above the city roofs has been a beacon for sailors since the 1680s.
The copper dome and gold clock of St. Michaelis’ 132-meter (433-foot) tower rises above a network of tiny alleys known as the Krameramtswohnungen, lined with half-timbered almshouses from the 17th century.
Take a guided tour of the tower for views over the port of Hamburg from the observation platform, and visit the crypt for a historic tour.
Practical Info
The Church of St. Michaelis is near the Alsterfllet canal in the old section of Hamburg. The closest metro stop is Rodingsmarkt.
Address: Sulldorfer Kirchenweg 191, Hamburg 22589, Germany
Hours: November to April: Daily from 10am - 5:30pm, May to October: Daily from 9am - 7:30pm
Admission: €3.50
From $ 12
Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady (Frauenkirche)
A Munich landmark, the Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady (Frauenkirche) features two 325-foot (99-meter) towers topped by spherical domes. According to local ordinance, no other building in the city may be taller than this, preserving the cathedral’s central position on the skyline of Bavaria’s capital.
The Basics
Visible from all over Munich, the Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady is a must-see attraction—whether you want to tour the interior or attend a service. Climb 86 steps and then take an elevator to the top of the south tower for unparalleled views of Munich.
Most Munich city tours include a stop at the cathedral and nearby Marienplatz—the city’s main square. Many WWII history tours also visit the church, which was damaged during the war. Full-day tours from Frankfurt typically include a visit to the cathedral along with other Munich highlights, and some day trips also include a visit to the nearby city of Nuremberg.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors to Munich.
- Admission to the church is free.
- The main church is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but the tower is not.
How to Get There
The Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady is located just off busy Marienplatz, in Munich’s city center. While guided tours provide easy transportation, it’s also possible to take tram 19 to Marienplatz (Theatinerstrasse), or take the S- or U-bahn to Karlsplatz and walk 10 minutes from there.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open daily from 7:30am to 8:30pm. Services include morning and evening mass and midday prayers, and though you may not explore the church during services, all are welcome to attend. The church frequently hosts concerts and organ recitals, which may require paid admission.
The Devil’s Mark
Legend has it that the Devil made a deal with Frauenkirche architect Jörg Halspach—that he would pay for the church if the builder didn’t put windows in it. When Lucifer came to inspect the building, he stamped his foot in fury at being hoodwinked, leaving a large footprint on the floor. Look for der Teufelstritt at the entrance to the Frauenkirche.
Address: Frauenplatz 1, Munich 80331, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 17
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
The Dachau Concentration Camp was the first of its kind opened in Germany by Adolf Hitler's Nazi government in 1933, and it served as a model for later concentration camps. Today, the camp is a memorial to the more than 32,000 people who died and the more than 200,000 who were imprisoned during the Nazi regime. The memorial was established as a site of memory and education in 1965, 20 years after Dachau was liberated by American troops.
The Basics
The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is most often visited on half- or full-day trips from Munich. Visitors to the memorial site can expect to see the former compound (now an exhibition center), and learn about Europe in World War II, the Holocaust, and the role Dachau played in this important chapter in German history. Whether seen independently or on a guided private or small-group tour from Munich, the guard houses and administration buildings, reconstructed barracks, cells, and crematorium offer ample opportunity for reflection.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visiting the Dachau memorial is an intense experience, and appropriate solemnity and respect are required on the grounds.
- While it is free to visit the memorial, booking an audio guide or a group or private tour allows for added insight and context from a tour guide.
- The site does not offer luggage storage.
- Dachau is generally wheelchair accessible, although some of the grounds are unpaved and some buildings do not have dedicated wheelchair entrances. Wheelchairs can be borrowed upon arrival.
- Some of the exhibits may not be appropriate for kids under 12; it's recommended that kids visit with an adult.
How to Get There
Dachau is set just 17 miles (28 kilometers) northwest of Munich. By public transportation, take the S2 train from Munich's Central Station for about 25 minutes to Dachau. Get off at Dachau station (Dachau Bahnhof) to hop on bus 726 toward Saubachsiedlung and get off at KZ-Gedenkstätte, the entrance of the memorial site. Parking fees apply from March to October.
When to Get There
The camp is open daily from 9am to 5pm year-round, aside from Christmas Eve. While some exhibits are indoors, many consider the summer months of May to October the best time to visit as much of the site is outdoors. The memorial tends to be busiest around noon.
Exhibitions at the Dachau Memorial Site
Set in what was once a maintenance building, Dachau's main permanent exhibition covers the former Nazi concentration camp's horrific history and sheds light on the lives of the site's prisoners with firsthand accounts, biographies, and artifacts. Elsewhere on the Dachau grounds are exhibits in other original buildings displaying bunkers, model barracks, a crematorium, and a gas chamber, although evidence indicates that the gas chamber was never used to murder prisoners.
Address: Dachau, Germany
Admission: Free. Tours cost € 3 - € 3.50
From $ 25
Chamaeleon Theater
The Chameleon (or Chamäleon in German) Theater was once a ballroom dating back to 1906. It is located in the Hackesche Höfe, a historic area of courtyards in Berlin's Mitte district and reopened about 10 years ago as a modern cabaret theater. Artists from around the world perform choreographed shows here, and since they’re generally displays of dancing and body language, there is no need to worry about language barriers.
The Chameleon Theater connects the past of the historic ballroom with the present and future on its stage with its entertaining shows. Performances feature an exciting variety of acrobatics, music, dance, comedy and drama, which is all part of the theater’s goal of enchanting its guests with bold shows from world-renowned performance artists. Each season, the theater changes its colors to fit with the next upcoming show, so the experience is ever-changing.
Practical Info
The Chameleon Theater is located at Rosenthaler Straße 40-41 in Berlin Mitte. The box office is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, until 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and until 9:30 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday, it is open from noon to 6 p.m.
Address: Rosenthaler Straße 40 -41, Berlin, Germany
Hours: The box office is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, until 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and until 9:30 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday, it is open from noon to 6 p.m.
Admission: Pricing varies
From $ 43
DDR Museum
The official name of East Germany was first Deutsche Demokratische Republik (DDR), or German Democratic Republic. The DDR Museum in Berlin is an interactive site where visitors can see what life in East Germany was like when the country was split into East and West regions. Rather than simply having exhibits to view and signs to read like most museums, DDR Museum exhibits often require visitors to push buttons, open doors or drawers and pull levers to get information and the full experience.
In this museum, visitors can get a glimpse of what it was like to be under surveillance in a bugged room. Artifacts, such as old clothing, a typewriter and a landmine from the border, are also on display. Other exhibits include one where you can listen to prisoner interrogations and another where you can drive an old Trabi car.
Many people who once lived in East Germany now bring their children and grandchildren to the DDR Museum to show them what life was like just a few decades ago. However, as one of the most popular museums in Berlin, it also attracts tourists from around the world who come to visit the German capital and journey back in time to explore its recent history.
Practical Info
The DDR Museum is located at Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1 on the river Spree. It is directly opposite the Berlin Cathedral. It's open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., except on Saturday when it is open until 10 p.m.
Address: Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1, Berlin 10178, Germany
Hours: Daily 10am-8pm, Saturday 10am-10pm
Admission: Adults €7
From $ 11
Berlin Zoo and Aquarium
Home to the most complete collection of animal species anywhere in the world, the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium celebrates the diversity of the animal kingdom. You’ll find everything from giant pandas to hippos, jellyfish, and gorillas here. Famous residents include Knut the polar bear and Bao Bao the giant panda.
The Basics
Opened in 1844 and located in the Tiergarten in the city center, Berlin Zoo is Germany’s oldest zoological garden and the most visited zoo in Europe. With daily feedings that visitors can watch and naturalistic enclosures, the zoo is designed to provide intimate encounters with animals. For an unforgettable experience, the zoo also offers “meet and greets” with the giraffes, elephants, hippos, tapirs, and meerkats in the company of experienced guides (adults only).
The accompanying aquarium was built in 1913 and is home to black-tip reef sharks, crocodiles penguins, “Nemos” (clownfish), and more. The aquarium also has several tuataras from New Zealand, a rare breed of lizard that has lived on Earth for 200 million years. The zoo is one of the stops on the Berlin hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the zoo and aquarium is via paid ticket—visitors can choose a combined pass or purchase separate tickets for each attraction.
- The zoo and aquarium are wheelchair- accessible, and wheelchairs are available on loan.
- Both the zoo and aquarium have restaurants and cafes.
- Make sure to see the Chinese-inspired entrance gate with twin elephants, a replica of the original gate that was destroyed during World War II.
How to Get There
The zoo is accessible by car, hop-on hop-off bus, public transport, or on foot from nearby areas. The closest metro stop is Zoologischer Garten (S-Bahn and U-Bahn). Paid parking is also available.
When to Get There
The zoo is open from 9am–6pm 365 days a year; last entry is one hour before closing. Seasonal opening times are as follows: January 1–February 25, 9am–4:30pm; March 26–September 23, 9am–6:30pm; and October 29–December 31, 9am–4:30pm.
Take a Stroll in Tiergarten
Like Central Park in New York, Berlin’s Tiergarten is the city’s green heart, where locals come to run, walk, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With plenty of open lawns shaded by trees, it’s a great spot for a lunchtime picnic or simply somewhere to sit down and rest tired feet in between sightseeing spots.
Address: Budapester Straße 32, Berlin 10787, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Bode Museum
As one of five museums on Museum Island, the Bode Museum, formerly the Kaiser- Friedrich Museum, houses three separate collections of sculptures and treasures: the Museum of Byzantine Art (art from the West-Roman and Byzantine Empires from the 3rd to the 15th century), the sculpture collection (sculptures from the Early Middle Ages to the late 18th century), and the Numismatic Collection (coin cabinet). The cabinet is complemented by a gallery specifically for children. The museum, which opened in 1904 was renovated in 2006.
The Bode Museum’s architecture is impressive. In order to achieve the appearance of a building rising from water the architect arranged the three-winged building around several interior courtyards so that the exterior facades immediately bordered the banks of the river Spree. A dominating dome and two opulent staircases give the building the appearance of being stately. Seen from the water, the museum gives the impression of a gigantic ship above the waterline.
In the summer, the shore on the other side is a popular place for people to meet each other and hang out.
The Bode Museum’s architecture is impressive. In order to achieve the appearance of a building rising from water the architect arranged the three-winged building around several interior courtyards so that the exterior facades immediately bordered the banks of the river Spree. A dominating dome and two opulent staircases give the building the appearance of being stately. Seen from the water, the museum gives the impression of a gigantic ship above the waterline.
In the summer, the shore on the other side is a popular place for people to meet each other and hang out.
Address: Am Kupfergraben 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
Hours: Open Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun 10am - 6pm; Thu 10am - 8pm. Closed Mondays.
Admission: Adult: 10 EUR, Discounted: 5 EUR
From $ 23
Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)
The grand gateway to Unter den Linden Boulevard and Tiergarten Park, the Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor) is one of Berlin’s most recognizable landmarks. Built by Prussian kings, this monumental gate stood strong through World War I and the Cold War, becoming a symbol of reunified Germany and a poignant reminder of Berlin’s tragedies and triumphs.
The Basics
No Berlin tour is complete without a glimpse of the Brandenburg Gate. Whether you choose to explore Berlin on a walking tour, on a bike tour, by Segway, or in a Trabant vintage car, you’ll surely stop to snap a photo by this iconic landmark. There are tours to suit all preferences—small-group and private tours that offer a more personalized experience; Berlin Wall and Third Reich tours that offer a greater insight into Berlin’s history; and hop-on hop-off bus tours for those who want to discover Berlin at their own pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The tourist information center at the Brandenburg Gate has free Wi-Fi.
- The Brandenburg Gate and many surrounding attractions are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Brandenburg Gate is located on the historic square of Pariser Platz in West Berlin, at the western end of Unter den Linden Boulevard and bordering the eastern entrance to Tiergarten Park. The closest subway station is Brandenburger Tor. Monuments such as the Holocaust Memorial and the Reichstag building are within easy walking distance.
When to Get There
As one of the most popular Berlin attractions, the Brandenburg Gate is often surrounded by crowds, especially during the busy months of July and August. Visit after dark to see the monument lit up by dramatic spotlights, or stop by in the early morning to avoid the crush of tourists or grab a rare photograph of the gate without crowds. The Brandenburg Gate is also an important part of annual events such as the October Berlin Lights Festival, Berlin’s holiday illuminations, and the city’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.
The Historic Importance of the Brandenburg Gate
Built in 1791 in a neoclassical style, the Brandenburg Gate is the last of Berlin’s original city gates. Originally commissioned by Prussian King Frederick William II, the monument took center stage years later during the Cold War, when it was located in an exclusion zone on the Soviet side and inaccessible to residents of both East and West Berlin. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, it was heralded as a symbol of unified Berlin, with huge crowds gathering to celebrate its monumental reopening.
Address: Am Pariser Platz, Berlin 10117, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg)
To experience the majesty of Germany’s Hohenzollern Dynasty, visit Berlin’s Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg). Built in the 17th century as a royal summer residence, the palace combines rococo and baroque decor and architecture, while the grounds feature a formal garden modeled after the Gardens of Versailles, a belvedere building showcasing German porcelain, a theater, and a mausoleum of royal marble tombs. Aside from palace tours, the site’s evening concerts are the main draw.
The Basics
The palace interior offers an extravaganza of opulence—in the Old Palace, you’ll find the Oak Gallery, King Friedrich I’s bedchamber, the royal apartments of Queen Louise, the Oval Hall, and the Porcelain Cabinet, while the New Wing (Neuer Flugel), added by Friederich the Great, features the Golden Gallery (Goldene Galerie) ballroom and the Silver Vault’s collection of tableware. The Charlottenburg Palace Park is also open to the public and famous for its tree-lined gardens, the Belvedere tea house with its extensive porcelain collection, and the neoclassical mausoleum, housing Queen Louise.
Various palace sites require various fees, but all-encompassing palace tickets are available. The palace is seen from afar on most Berlin city sightseeing tours, but you can get a closer look by purchasing tickets to explore the interior independently or visiting the Grosse Orangery for an evening concert featuring classical performances from the Berlin Residence Orchestra (Berliner Residenz Orchester) dressed in baroque costumes. Book a concert with a 3-course dinner for the full experience, and opt for VIP tickets to receive a glass of sparkling wine at intermission.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Allot two to three hours to explore the palace’s main attractions.
- The site’s restored Kleine Orangery now operates as the Palace Garden Cafe.
- Much of the palace grounds are wheelchair accessible.
- The gardens are free to enter.
- Admission to the New Wing includes an audio guide.
- Concerts at the Orangery typically sell out weeks in advance; book well in advance to secure your tickets.
How to Get There
Charlottenburg Palace is in inner-city west Berlin. From Alexanderplatz, take the S5 or S7 on the S-Bahn rail system to Zoologischer Garten, then switch to the U12 and get off at Sophie-Charlotte-Platz, the closest public transit stop. From there, it is a 15-minute walk to the palace.
When to Get There
The palace is open 10am to 5pm November through March and until 6pm April through October; it is closed on Mondays. During the holidays, the palace houses a Christmas market with stalls offering arts, crafts, and traditional sweets. Winter also brings special holiday concerts for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. The outdoor gardens make an excellent place to stroll and picnic during summer.
Address: Spandauer Damm, Berlin 14059, Germany
Hours: Apr - Oct: Tues - Sun 10am - 6pm; Nov - Mar Tues - Sun 10am - 5pm. Closed Mondays
Admission: €17
From $ 16
Cecilienhof Palace
Potsdam’s Cecilienhof Palace (Schloss Cecilienhof) was the last palace built by the House of Hohenzollern, the dynasty that ruled the Kingdom of Prussia and the German Empire until the end of World War I. These days, the former home of Crown Prince Wilhelm is best known for the role it played as the location for the Potsdam Conference of 1945, during which the leaders of the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States (The ‘Big Three’) negotiated the terms for the end of WWII.
Today, the 176-room castle is an historic memorial and museum where visitors can tour the impressive working rooms where the conference took place. Schloss Cecilienhof is located in the northern part of the large Neuer Garten park, close to the shore of the Jungfernsee (Virgins’ Lake). The lake, once a glacial kettle, is now a part of the River Havel. Lunch or dinner can be found right on the lake at the former working dairy, now a hearty restaurant and brewery called the ‘Gasthausbrauerei Meierei im Neuen Garten.’
Practical Info
Schloss Cecilienhof is about 1.5 miles (2.5 km) north of Potsdam's town center in the New Garden district, an area of lake- and riverfront parks and villas. Schloss Cecilienhof is easy to reach by car, by bicycle, or by public transportation. (Or on foot, if you don't mind a little bit of walking.)
Address: Im Neuen Garten 11, Potsdam 14469, Germany
Hours: April through October: Tuesday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; November through March: Tuesday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Admission: 6,00 €
From $ 14
BMW Museum
Housed in a futuristic mirrored building, the BMW Museum is located at company headquarters near Munich’s Olympic Park. Inside you can find motorcycles and cars ranging from vintage Rolls-Royces to classic MINIs, with a series of interactive exhibits detailing 90 years of automobile design.
The Basics
Highlights of the museum’s extensive car collection include a 1928 Dixi car, the BMW 328 that won the historic Italian Mille Miglia race in 1940, and a rare 1974 BMW 3.0 CSL "Batmobile." Museum tours offer insight into the company’s evolution and product history, while guided factory tours go behind the scenes at the BMW Group Plant for a peek into the manufacturing rooms. Additionally, some hop-on hop-off tours of Munich stop at the BMW Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The BMW Museum is a must-see for history buffs and car enthusiasts.
- BMW World (BMW Welt) and all its facilities, including the museum and manufacturing plant, are fully wheelchair accessible.
- BMW World has five restaurants (Restaurant M1, Biker's Lodge, Copper’s, EssZimmer, and Restaurant Bavarie), which serve snacks, coffee, and meals.
How to Get There
Located in Munich, Germany, the BMW Museum is easily accessible by public transportation. Take the U3 subway line to either Olympiazentrum or Petuelring, Tram 27 to Petuelring, or Bus 173, 177, or 178 to Petuelring. There is a parking garage on-site.
When to Get There
The BMW museum is open year-round with the exception of Mondays. Weekdays tend to be quieter with easier bookings for popular behind-the-scenes tours. Arrive at opening time or in the afternoon to avoid the most crowded times of the day.
BMW New-Car Pickup
A special time to visit BMW World is during the pickup of a new car. Visitors who have purchased a new BMW receive personalized service and a one-on-one introduction to their new vehicle. Some pickup packages include premium tours of the plant, BMW World, and the BMW Museum.
Address: Am Olympiapark 2, Munich 80809, Germany
From $ 20
Black Forest
Although the Black Forest is located in one of the sunniest areas of Germany, its name dates back to a time when thick trees shielded the forest floor from light. While there are more clearings now, the country's largest and most renowned forest remains a real-life Grimm fairy tale dotted with gingerbread villages and serene wood-fringed lakes.
When to Get There
Many travelers consider early fall and late spring the ideal time to visit the Black Forest, when the weather is temperate and the region—one of the most-visited mountain areas in Europe—is less crowded. If visiting between June and August, be sure to book your hotels and spas well ahead of time. Also keep in mind that some hotels and restaurants in the area close for about a month during winter.
The Basics
With its stunning scenery, clean air, dozens of mineral spas, plentiful wineries, and numerous small towns, travelers can easily spend a day, a week, or a month exploring this region between the Rhine River and the Alpine foothills of Switzerland. The Black Forest Railway is a popular activity within the forest, stretching for 93 miles (150 km) through the region and passing several magnificent waterfalls along the way.
With its stunning scenery, clean air, dozens of mineral spas, plentiful wineries, and numerous small towns, travelers can easily spend a day, a week, or a month exploring this region between the Rhine River and the Alpine foothills of Switzerland. The Black Forest Railway is a popular activity within the forest, stretching for 93 miles (150 km) through the region and passing several magnificent waterfalls along the way.
Day trips are available from Frankfurt, Zurich, and Strasbourg, each typically including a stop at the spa town of Baden-Baden, home of the famous Kurhaus Casino. If you have more time, embark on a multi-day tour for the chance to experience a wider swath of the Black Forest's small towns.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Black Forest
The Black Forest region is tucked into Germany's southwest corner, in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg. The beautiful university city of Freiburg im Breisgau is an ideal starting point for your exploration, as well as a must-see attraction in its own right. The Frankfurt Airport is the closest international airport, while the Strasbourg Airport in France is also conveniently close. Between local and regional lines, it's easy to reach just about any corner of the Black Forest by bus or train, but some visitors opt to rent a car for self-guided tours.
- A visit to the Black Forest is perfect for spontaneous travelers and outdoor adventurers; you'll find ample hiking and biking in the area.
- Keep in mind that Black Forest area highways are often steep and winding; give yourself plenty of time to get from place to place.
- To avoid having to drive yourself, book a Black Forest bus tour.
- Don't forget to pick up a tourist map of the area with attractions, cycle routes, and hiking trails marked.
The Black Forest region is tucked into Germany's southwest corner, in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg. The beautiful university city of Freiburg im Breisgau is an ideal starting point for your exploration, as well as a must-see attraction in its own right. The Frankfurt Airport is the closest international airport, while the Strasbourg Airport in France is also conveniently close. Between local and regional lines, it's easy to reach just about any corner of the Black Forest by bus or train, but some visitors opt to rent a car for self-guided tours.
When to Get There
Many travelers consider early fall and late spring the ideal time to visit the Black Forest, when the weather is temperate and the region—one of the most-visited mountain areas in Europe—is less crowded. If visiting between June and August, be sure to book your hotels and spas well ahead of time. Also keep in mind that some hotels and restaurants in the area close for about a month during winter.
Highlights of the Black Forest
Besides Baden-Baden and Freiburg, the Black Forest is dotted with plenty of other beautiful areas and must-sees, depending on your interests. The northern portion of the forest is home to the rolling vineyards of the Badische Wine Route, while in the central area, travelers will find excellent beer in Alpirsbach, plus cuckoo clocks and one of Germany's largest waterfalls in Triberg. In the south sits the wine region of Kaiserstuhl, as well as Lake Titisee, one of Germany's most scenic lakes.
Address: Germany
From $ 237
Checkpoint Charlie
Once one of three Berlin Wall border points, bridging the divide between the Allied-occupied West Berlin and Soviet-occupied East Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie is one of the most important Cold War sites in Berlin. Today, a recreated guard house marks the site where numerous confrontations, escape attempts, and protests took place, and the adjoining Checkpoint Charlie Museum is a moving tribute to those who risked their lives to escape from East Germany and bring about the fall of the wall.
The Basics
Most sightseeing city tours or hop-on hop-off bus tours of Berlin make a stop at Checkpoint Charlie, while walking tours, bike tours, and Segway tours offer a more unique way to visit the landmark. For historical context, be sure to visit the Checkpoint Charlie Museum (Mauermuseum), or combine it with a tour of other historic war sites, such as the Wall Memorial, the East Side Gallery, or the Allied Museum, where the original Checkpoint Charlie border crossing is on display.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Souvenir passport stamps and photos at Checkpoint Charlie are available for an extra fee.
- Just south of Checkpoint Charlie is the Black Box Cold War exhibit and Outdoor Checkpoint Charlie Gallery.
- The Checkpoint Charlie Museum is mostly wheelchair accessible, although some exhibits may be off-limits.
How to Get There
Checkpoint Charlie is located on Friedrichstrasse in East Berlin, just east of Potsdamer Platz. The closest U-Bahn stations are Kochstrasse and Stadtmitte, but it’s also possible to walk there from many nearby sights—the Brandenburg Gate is about a 20-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The sight is open daily, all year round, but the small space can get overcrowded in the summer months. Aim to visit first or last thing in the day to avoid the main crowds or pre-book your tickets in advance to skip the line.
Exploring the Checkpoint Charlie Museum
A small museum crammed with photos, artifacts, and information, the Checkpoint Charlie Museum offers a moving portrait of Berlin during the Cold War era. Notable exhibitions focus on the creative and daring ways that East Germans attempted to escape across the border—including a cleverly adapted VW car, a hot-air balloon, and a suitcase. It’s a memorial to those who lost their lives, and offers first-hand accounts of life behind the wall as well as a look at human rights efforts around the world.
Address: Intersection of Friedrichstraße and Zimmerstraße, Berlin 10923, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Berlin Wall
At the height of the Cold War in 1961, socialist East Germany erected the Berlin Wall as an imposing concrete barrier that divided Berlin's eastern and western sides for nearly 30 years. In 1989, toward the end of the war and the fall of East Germany and communism in Europe, the wall's demolition began, thus reunifying Germany. Today, sections of the wall remain as permanent reminders of the days when the country (and Berlin) was divided.
The Basics
On Bernauer Strasse, the Berlin Wall Memorial is made up of an original section of the wall and a gun turret. Visit the memorial and various portions of the wall on a small-group tour to learn about the area's history among other travelers, or on a private historian-led tour for an in-depth, personalized experience. Bike tours, Segway tours, and walking tours are all great ways to see the wall's various remaining sections spread across the city, as well as Checkpoint Charlie, the infamous border-crossing spot between the two sides.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Berlin Wall Memorial features a visitor center, where you can get an overview of Berlin wall sites and watch a historical film, plus the Documentation Center with its exhibits and the Chapel of Reconciliation, where prayers services are held.
- The longest and most interesting remaining stretch of the wall is the open-air East Side Gallery, set on Mühlenstrasse featuring murals painted by international artists in 1990 and again in 2009.
- Because Berlin's reunification was so successful, it can be difficult to tell the difference between east and west in many parts of the city. Look for the double row of cobblestones to guide you along certain sections of the wall’s course.
How to Get to the Berlin Wall
The almost 100-mile-long (160-km) Berliner Mauerweg is a multi-use path that runs along the former wall, with 40 multilingual information stations posted along the way. In other parts of the city, lengths of the wall are covered in psychedelic graffiti, like that at the East Side Gallery on Mühlenstrasse. Sections of the wall also remain near the former site of the Gestapo headquarters.
When to Get There
The Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Strasse is open daily from 8am to 10pm. The visitor center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30am until 6 or 7pm, depending on the season. The East Side Gallery is always available to visit, and the Museum Haus am Checkpoint Charlie is open daily from 9am to 10pm.
Berlin Sights Along the Wall
It's ironic that Berlin's most popular attraction, for the most part, no longer exists. Because the Berlin Wall disappears and reappears around the city, you can see several of the German capital's most important landmarks as you visit the wall. Museum Island, Potsdamer Platz, and the Brandenburg Gate can be seen easily on a bicycle tour, weather permitting.
Address: Mühlenstraße, Berlin 10243, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 16