1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Germany Travel

German Destination Cities - Major Cities in Germany

Places to See and Things to Do

By Michele Hartley, About.com

Whether traveling in Germany for business or pleasure or attending a major event, you may want to take time out to enjoy some of the things that the German city or region you are visiting offer. See what the must-sees are if you are visiting a major German city and find ideas for day trips to castles, forests, lakes and other attractions that are close to the city you are visiting.

1. Berlin - Historic Capital of Germany and Metropolitan City

Berlin is a touristic hotspot with plenty of brilliant museums, great shopping and pulsating nightlife. The German capital is one of the great cities of the world and is home to lovely parks, monuments, shopping and historical sites.

Currently going through a new cultural renaissance, innovative art abounds in trendy neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Prenzlauerberg where there are countless art galleries, small clubs and theatres. Without a doubt, Berlin is a must for any urban traveler.

2. Dresden - Germany's Jewel on the Elbe

One of Germany's most beautiful cities is Dresden, about 90 minutes from Leipzig. Its famous buildings and museums, the Semperoper, Zwinger and the newly restored Frauenkirche are awe-inspiring and the landscape is breathtaking. Situated under the mountains, on the River Elbe, Dresden is picturesque and charming. The Dresden Marketplace is alive with street perfomers,open air markets and shops and restaurants. Famous for its china, you can pick up some lovely porcelain while you are there.

3. Visit Leipzig, Germany - Home to JS Bach and Mendelssohn

Leipzig is a beautiful old city with an incredible main station and a long tradition of music and culture. Thomaskirche boasts a world class choir and the city was a favourite of Bach, Mendelssohn and Wagner. Visit Aurbach's Keller, now a restaurant and formerly a famous beer hall frequented by greats like Goethe.

4. Hamburg - Germany's Venice of the North

Hamburg, with its harbor, canals, the Alster Lake and the famous Reeperbahn offers a myriad of choices. Take in the Fish Market on a Sunday morning, stay up all night on the Reeperbahn where everyday is a 24 hour party. Tour the city's historic sites, take a cruise on the canals or harbor go shopping in any one of the shopping arcades. Spend a day to take a walking tour of the city.

5. Stuttgart - German Wine and Spa Country

Stuttgart, home to Porsche and Mercedes Benz, is a major business and industrial center but is also well known for its music, cultural attractions, spas and surrounding vineyards. A lovely, hilly city, it has a vibrant restaurant and nightlife.

With more than 500 vineyards and its proximity to the Black Forest, Stuttgart is a favorite destination for German wine and outdoor enthusiasts. A hike, a little music, a little wine and a nice relaxing mineral bath, sounds appealing doesn't it?

6. Düsseldorf- Fashion Capital of Germany

Düsseldorf, Germany's fashion capital sits directly on the Rhine. The beautiful Aldstadt (Old Town) is home to hundreds of lovely restaurants and shops. Home to one of the most outrageous Carnivale celebration in Germany, Düsseldorf is an elegant, vibrant city with one of the finest shopping areas in Germany as well as over 260 bars and restaurants directly in the Aldstadt.

7. Cologne, Germany - Historic City on the Rhine

Cologne offers great nightlife, a wide selection of historic sites and museums and excellent shopping. Cologne, with a cityscape dominated by the Cologne Cathedral, has a vibrant intellectual community and is a favorite destination for young as well as old who flock to the city to enjoy the numerous activities, the great location on the Rhine and the regional cuisine.

8. Munich, Germany - Capital of Bavaria - Home of Oktoberfest

The city of Munich is a favorite among tourists and offers opportunities to visit lovely museums or stroll around the city streets. Try one of the local beers or dine at one of the many great beer gardens or restaurants in the city.

Bavaria's largest city, Munich is a favorite tourist destination year round. Enjoy all the charms of Munich and be in the Bavarian countryside or the Alps within minutes. Friendly and relaxed, it is a great place for a holiday. And of course, Octoberfest!

9. Frankfurt am Main - Financial Capital of Germany

Frankfurt boasts a lovely skyline and access to some beautiful areas along the Rhine and Mosel. Visit the lovely old Romerberg area with its medieval timbered buildings and cobblestone square. The financial center of Germany, the city boasts some lovely restaurants and great hotels as well as a massive convention center.

Take a cruise on the Rhine or visit Weisbaden, Ruedesheim and Mainz. Located fairly centrally, the city is a good starting point for exploring Germany.

Explore Germany Travel

More from About.com

  1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Germany Travel
  4. Things to Do in Germany
  5. Travel Germany - Top Destination Cities in Germany

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.