Best Sights and Attractions in Germany

nightscape of Germany

One of the places that people would love to visit in Europe for the great parties it has in store for both locals and tourists alike is Germany. It is without question that this country has been considered as the “booze” place in the world.

Beer or wine? That sums up the German conundrum. One is at the heart of a pilsner-swilling culture that draws kegloads of visitors annually, is the very reason for one of the world’s great parties (Oktoberfest) and is consumed with pleasure across the land. The other is exported worldwide, is responsible for gorgeous vine-covered valleys and is enjoyed everywhere, often from cute little green-stemmed glasses. Germany’s Oktoberfest has become so well-known that one of the best things to see in Boracay, Philippines is the Beer Festival they hold every October in accordance to that of the original Oktoberfest.

Indeed, Germany is a country worth visiting. One who is into world war history will particularly love what Germany has in store for them because there certainly is a lot to see in this old country. Here are a few of them.

Neuschwanstein (King Ludwig’s Castle)

neuschwanstein castle - just like sleeping beauty's castle

The Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most visited castles in Germany and one of the most popular tourist destination in Europe. The castle is located in Bavaria, near the town of Fussen. It was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as the “Fairytale King”. Nestled in the Alps, and it seems to come straight out of a fairy tale. Walt Disney drew inspiration from it for his classic, Sleeping Beauty. Neuschwanstein (new-swan-stone) is the most photographed building in Germany.

King Ludwig II designed his dream castle in 1869, and instead of an architect he hired a theatrical set designer to realize his vision.
Take a tour through the flamboyant castle’s interior. Highlights include a gaudy artificial grotto, the Throne Room with its giant crown-shaped chandelier, and the lavish Minstrels’ Hall.

The Romantic Roadromantic road with medieval shops

The Romantic Road is one of Germany’s best scenic routes. A trade route during the middle ages, Germany’s Romantic Road still retains much of its medieval character. The road often winds through forgotten sections of countryside, connecting walled towns and picturesque villages. Travelers may enter a town through an arched gateway complete with guard towers. Inside, you will find gothic cathedrals, half-timbered fachwerk houses, beautiful historic hotels and often a medieval festival.

Fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein and the Alps, the picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the best-preserved medieval town in Germany, complete the charm.

Brandenburg Gate

brandenburg gate symbol of peace nightscape

More than any other landmark, the Brandenburg Gate is the national symbol for Germany. Built in 1791, the gate was commisioned by Friedrich Wilhelm II to be a symbol of peace. It is crowned with the winged goddess of victory, riding a four-horsed chariot. The Gate was designed by Karl Gotthard Langhans, the Court Superintendent of Buildings, and the main architectural design of this landmark hasn’t changed since it was first constructed in 1791.

Ironically the gate was incorporated into the Berlin wall during the years of Communist government and  now stands as a symbol of the reunification of the two sides of this great city.

Black Forest

running water in black forest, germany

The Black Forest region is one of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations.  Like Bavaria to its east, the Black Forest combines great outdoor scenery with unique local customs, products, and fare.  It is also the heart of Germany’s timber and woodworking industry that generates much of the region’s economy beyond tourism. The vast expanse of hills, valleys, and forests stretches from the posh Spa-town Baden Baden to the Swiss border, covering an area of 4,600 square miles.

Walking, biking or driving – there are many scenic routes that will lead you to tiny villages, wineries and old-world monasteries. Two of the most recommended tours are the Wine Route and the German Clock Road, which traces the history of the cuckoo clock.

But remember: No visit to the Black Forest is complete without a piece of Black Forest Cake, with chocolate, cherries, cream and a good dash of cherry schnapps.

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