Germany is a beautiful and diverse country. It has retained its heritage while grasping the future with both hands and in these 10 images we have tried to present iconic scenes from right across the country. 

  • 1

    A Bavarian beer keller

    Lederhosen are optional

    A Bavarian beer keller
    • Couples
    • Food
    • Group
    • Nightlife
    • Photo
    • Single

    A Bavarian beer keller features oom-pah bands, a variety of pork dishes, and a lot of German beer. 

  • 2

    Cinderella's castle

    See the stunning castle that inspired Walt Disney

    Cinderella's castle
    • Couples
    • History
    • Photo

    Neuschwanstein Castle was built in the 19th century for King Ludwig II. It's as pretty as a picture in any weather. 

  • 3

    Cologne Cathedral

    Don't miss the views from the top of the spire

    Cologne Cathedral
    • History
    • Photo

    This Gothic masterpiece is one of the most visited places in Germany and dominates the city skyline. It took over 500 years to build. 

    Map
  • 4

    The Berlin Wall

    Check out the awesome grafitti (on the bits left standing)

    The Berlin Wall
    • History
    • Photo

    Berlin's history is fascinating and has contributed to the unique landscape and character of Berliners. Find out more about it at the Berlin Wall Memorial.  

    Map
  • 5

    A twee village in the Black Forest

    Follow in the footsteps of Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, and Little Red Riding Hood

    A twee village in the Black Forest
    • Families
    • Unusual

    The Black Forest is a wooded wonderland forever linked with the famous tales told by The Brothers Grimm. Many of the small towns and villages in the region seem trapped in a time warp. 

  • 6

    Brandenburg Gate

    It looks both Greek and German at the same time

    Brandenburg Gate
    • History
    • Photo

    The Brandenburg Gate is a symbol of unity to German people and often hosts rallies and political gatherings. 

    Map
  • 7

    A Christmas market

    Nothing says Christmas like mulled wine, snowfall and thousands of twinkling lights

    A Christmas market
    • Nightlife
    • Photo
    • Shoppers

    Christmas markets are found in almost every town and city in Germany. They run for several weeks in December and are a great place to pick up presents for the whole family. 

  • 8

    Zwinger Palace

    Opulent art - inside and out

    Zwinger Palace
    • History
    • Photo

    This palace in Dresden is the foremost example of late Baroque architecture in the world, but the museum inside is also worth a look. Several paintings by Raphael hang in the gallery.

    Map
  • 9

    Neues Rathaus in Munich

    Neues Rathaus means the New Town Hall, but it was built in the 1860s

    Neues Rathaus in Munich
    • History
    • Photo

    Don't miss the Rathaus-Glockenspiel Cuckoo clock. Try to time your visit on the stoke of the hour.

    Map
  • 10

    Moselle Valley

    Follow the river to where Germany, France and Luxembourg meet...

    Moselle Valley
    • Families
    • Photo
    • Unusual

    ...and Belgium isn't far away either.

Paul Smith | Compulsive Traveller