Overview of the most popular cities and places in southern Germany; just click on the links and you will find more information about the different travel destinations in Germany.
Munich
Munich (München), the capital of Bavaria and the gateway to the German Alps, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany, famous for its interesting mix of traditional Bavarian culture, modern life and high-tech industries. Contemporary architecture goes hand in hand with grand avenues, first-class museums and baroque palaces, which are a salute to Munich’s royal past. And of course, Munich hosts the annual Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival, which draws more than 6 million visitors to the Bavarian capital each fall.
Nuremberg
Nuremberg (Nuremberg), which celebrated its 950th birthday, is the second largest city in Bavaria and is steeped in history: from the Imperial Castle, the traditional residence of Germany’s emperors, and the old town full of half-timbered houses, to the home of Albrecht Durer, and the grounds of the Nazi Rally party.
Wurzburg
Situated in the Franconia wine region of Bavaria, Würzburg is idyllically located on both sides of the main river. The city used to be the home of the powerful prince-bishops of Germany, and you can still find their legacy in the baroque architecture of Würzburg. The highlight of the city is its Residence Palace (Residenz), one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe and part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Neuschwanstein
The most famous castle in the world, Neuschwanstein, is located in the Alps, and it seems to come straight out of a fairy tale; no wonder Walt Disney took inspiration from him for his Sleeping Beauty castle. Built in 1869, the Bavarian King Ludwig II built this fantastic castle not for defense but for pleasure: it was his private summer retreat. And while Neuschwanstein’s design may seem medieval, Ludwig made sure to incorporate modern technologies of the time, such as toilets and heating.
Stuttgart
Stuttgart, the capital of the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, is located in the southwestern corner of Germany. In 1886 the automobile was invented here, and Stuttgart is still the home of Mercedes and Porsche (and their fascinating automobile museums). With its many parks and surrounding vineyards, Stuttgart is one of the greenest cities in Germany.
Dachau
16 km northeast of Munich you will find the city of Dachau. The city became famous for being the site of the first concentration camp built in Nazi Germany. The camp has been converted into a memorial site featuring the original barracks, prisoner baths, and crematorium, as well as a historical exhibit. After visiting the concentration camp, head to Dachau Old Town, which has a very picturesque old town, overlooking a castle.
Romantic path
One of the most popular scenic drives in Germany, the Romantic Road takes you from the Franconian wine country to the foothills of the German Alps; Along the way, enjoy unspoiled nature, picturesque villages with half-timbered walls, towers and houses, hidden monasteries, and charming hotels.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Germany, situated along the Romantic Road. Walk on the medieval wall that surrounds the old town or climb to the top of the historic town hall for a spectacular view of the region. The city is very popular with hikers and gets very crowded in the summer.
Freiburg
This thriving university town is located just across the border from France and Switzerland, in the southwestern corner of Germany. For many travelers, Freiburg is just the gateway to the Black Forest, but the city has a lot to offer: a spectacular monastery church, historic merchant houses, medieval squares, and plenty of laid-back restaurants and wine bars.
Baden-Baden
Baden-Baden is located 60 km northeast of Strasbourg, France, in the Black Forest region of Germany; The city is famous for one of the oldest casinos in Germany and its many spas and hot springs, dating back to Roman times.
