Germany City Breaks: 22 Destinations for Your Next Urban Getaway

City Breaks in Eastern Germany

Many cities in Eastern Germany are probably among the most underrated in the country. We want to change that, because in our opinion it’s absolutely worth exploring the east on a city break. Let’s go!

Erfurt

Erfurt is Basti’s hometown, so we’re obviously biased here. Still, even from a purely objective standpoint, Erfurt is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany and always worth a visit. The medieval old town is almost completely preserved.

Besides the Erfurt Cathedral, the standout is certainly the Krämerbrücke — a bridge that is completely built up and even inhabited. Alongside the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, the Krämerbrücke is unique in Europe in this form.

But Erfurt isn’t only worth visiting for its wonderful historic center — it’s also a genuinely great place to spend time. The city center has plenty of great bars and restaurants and a lively cultural and music scene, whose most well-known representative is certainly the singer Clueso.

And let’s not forget: Erfurt has the most beautiful Christmas market in Germany. The backdrop on the Domplatz is simply one of a kind.

Our hotel recommendation for Erfurt: Hotel Domizil

Weimar

We just introduced you to Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, as our first pick.

If you’re already there, you can easily make a side trip to Weimar — it’s only about 15 minutes away by train from Erfurt.

The city of Goethe and Schiller is considerably smaller than Erfurt, but absolutely worth a visit nonetheless.

After all, not only did two of the most important German poets come from here. Weimar is also the birthplace of the Bauhaus movement, making it a must for architecture fans as well.

Our hotel recommendation for Weimar: Grande Albergo Giancarlo

Dresden

Dresden is no longer an under-the-radar pick, but it’s absolutely worth a visit nonetheless.

The old town with the Frauenkirche, Semperoper, and Zwinger is world-famous — but far from the only thing that makes Dresden so lovable. The Elbe riverbank in particular is simply gorgeous, and especially in summer it’s the perfect place to stroll and relax.

And then of course there’s the Neustadt: trendy neighborhood is a pretty worn-out phrase, but it fits the Neustadt well. Bars, pubs, and clubs meet students, organic-soy-chai-latte moms, and tourists, and there are even late-night convenience stores.

The Neustadt is somewhere between a little Kreuzberg and a little Prenzlauer Berg — and either way, it’s absolutely worth your time.

Our tip: If you want to experience Dresden and the surrounding area from a different angle, we recommend a canoe or boat tour on the Elbe.

Our hotel recommendation for Dresden: Chateaux Bülow Palais

Leipzig

We already covered Dresden, so Leipzig definitely can’t be left out. Leipzig is also no longer a hidden gem, but it’s still seriously underrated.

In the city center, plenty of well-known highlights await: the Thomaskirche, Auerbach’s Cellar, the Panorama Tower, and the Panometer. Or you can follow in the footsteps of Johann Sebastian Bach, who lived, studied, and composed here.

In the Südvorstadt, Leipzig shows a completely different side of itself. Here you’ll find an alternative vibe and a thriving creative scene. Pretty hip.

In Plagwitz, on the other hand, you can paddle leisurely along the canals and admire the industrial charm from the water.

Our tip: If you have a bit more time, take a trip out into the surrounding countryside. The Neuseenland area around Leipzig awaits you with beautiful lakes, plenty of relaxation, and countless water sports activities.

Our hotel recommendation for Leipzig: Hotel Fregehaus

Berlin

Berlin, you are so wonderful! How true — our capital city is hip, cosmopolitan, and the largest city in Germany. You could easily spend months here without ever running out of new things to discover.

But in all seriousness: no matter how many hipsters roam Friedrichshain & Co. these days, Berlin has been through very different times, and it’s fascinating to walk in the footsteps of history, which is still present all across the city.

Beyond that, Berlin has pretty much everything you could ask for: an incredible variety of international cuisine, a vast cultural program ranging from fine art galleries to street art in abandoned courtyards, and plenty of beautiful parks and green spaces.

Our hotel recommendation for Berlin: Garden Living

Potsdam

Potsdam is certainly well known, but as Berlin’s next-door neighbor it tends to get overlooked. That’s a real shame, because Potsdam is truly an incredibly beautiful city — and as one of the most popular university towns in Germany, it’s also young and modern.

Potsdam’s most famous draw is of course the vast park grounds and its palaces, with Sanssouci being the standout. You could easily spend several days exploring the grounds, but even a stroll is a great start.

Beyond that, Potsdam is also home to the Babelsberg Film Studios. Parts of Hollywood productions like Inglourious Basterds and Bridge of Spies were even shot here.

The streets of Potsdam are also among the most charming anywhere, with their pretty white houses, cute cafés and restaurants, and a really pleasant atmosphere.

Our tip: If you’re visiting Potsdam with kids, you absolutely have to check out Extavium. Here you can feel, hear, taste, and smell science — and so much more.

Our hotel recommendation for Potsdam: Villa Monte Vino in Potsdam

City Breaks in Northern Germany

When you think of Northern Germany, do you immediately picture the sea, fish sandwiches, and beach chairs? That’s definitely accurate, but the north also has some fantastic cities to offer. And we’re going to show them to you now. We’ve also woven the most beautiful cities in northern Germany into the routes for the most scenic road trips in Germany.

Lübeck

Lübeck has a truly charming old town in the North German style. The entire historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and rightfully so. The Holstentor is certainly the most well-known landmark, though we personally didn’t find it quite as spectacular as its reputation suggests.

When you’ve had your fill of old stone buildings, take a side trip to the museum harbor. Right next to the old town, many historic ships are moored here.

Our tip: The best view of the Holstentor and the old town is from the observation platform at St. Petri Church. Once you’ve taken it all in, stop at one of the cozy restaurants and try Labskaus. This traditional dish of corned beef, beets, pickled herring, and fried egg may look like an acquired taste, but it’s actually delicious.

Our hotel recommendation for Lübeck: Fisher’s Loft Hotel

Bremen

Maritime vibes and a lively city buzz — that’s Bremen! The sea isn’t right in the city, but the North Sea coast and the North Sea islands aren’t far away. There are still beaches in Bremen, though, so you can easily enjoy a little summer vacation right in the city.

The Hanseatic city also has plenty of points of interest: the historic old town is full of grand buildings like St. Petri Cathedral, the magnificent City Hall, and Böttcherstraße. And the Bremen Town Musicians pop up here and there in one form or another throughout the city.

Our tip: The best coffee in Bremen is at the windmill in the Wallanlagen park! The charming windmill stands right in the middle of the city in the green Wallanlagen park and now houses a café.

Our hotel recommendation for Bremen: Numa Hotel Bremen Saga

Hannover

In the mood for a young, international city where festivals take place throughout the year? Then Hannover is exactly the right choice!

Hannover doesn’t really have the reputation of being a particularly noteworthy destination, but that’s completely undeserved. For starters, Hannover is one of the greenest cities in Germany. On top of that, it has a very charming old town with an incredible number of eclectic restaurants and food from all over the world.

Add to that several events spread throughout the year, such as the music festival Fête de la Musique in summer — which also takes place in Berlin, by the way — or the medieval Christmas market in winter. Still not convinced? Then check out the best insider tips from a local in Hannover.

There’s also plenty to do outside the city. Near Hannover you’ll find Lower Saxony’s largest lake, the Steinhuder Meer, with swimming beaches, boat rentals, and local culinary specialties.

Our tip: Make sure to climb up to the dome of the City Hall in Hannover. From up there you get the best view over the city!

Our hotel recommendation for Hannover: Kastens Hotel Luisenhof

Hamburg

Hamburg is Germany’s city with the most bridges — a staggering around 2,500 bridges! A somewhat quirky fun fact, but the truth is: with its many canals, Hamburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, and a harbor tour is pretty much essential for every visitor.

Beyond that, there are many other activities in Hamburg well worth doing:

How about an evening at a musical? Hamburg is, after all, the no-longer-so-secret musical capital of Germany. And speaking of music: one of the top sights in Hamburg is of course the magnificent Elbphilharmonie.

All in all, Hamburg has everything a traveler’s heart desires — beautiful waterways, a broad cultural program, and historic buildings.

There are also lots of great things to do with kids in Hamburg, like visiting the world’s largest model railway.

If Hamburg’s notoriously dreary weather is still giving you second thoughts about a Germany city break to the Hanseatic city, we can put your mind at ease: it’s actually not that uncommon for the weather in Hamburg to be quite nice — and if it isn’t, you can simply head to one of the many museums in Hamburg.

And if you’ve already been to Hamburg, be sure to check out our insider tips for Hamburg. You’re sure to discover a corner of the city you haven’t seen yet.

Our hotel recommendation for Hamburg: Hotel Tortue

Lüneburg

For a long time, Lüneburg wasn’t even on our radar. We knew the Lüneburg Heath, but we had no idea how beautiful Lüneburg itself is.

The city is located very close to Hamburg and won us over so completely that we’ve since actually moved there.

The historic quarter is one of our favorites in all of Germany, and the large student population keeps the city young and lively at the same time.

Our hotel recommendation for Lüneburg: Hotel zum Heidkrug

City Breaks in Western Germany

In Western Germany there are many cities you’ve probably heard of, and some of them are among the most popular Germany city break destinations out there. Let’s take a closer look.

Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf has a bit of a reputation for being a boring, snobbish city. Honestly, we thought the same for a long time — but it’s complete nonsense.

Düsseldorf is actually far more exciting than its reputation suggests and makes a great choice for a city break weekend. You’ve probably already heard of the Media Harbor, and from the Rhine Tower you get the best panorama over the city.

We also have to admit something (attention, dear Cologne residents: please skip to the next paragraph): Altbier tastes much better than Kölsch.

Our hotel recommendation for Düsseldorf: B Hotel

Aachen

Waaay in the far west, Aachen sits at the tri-border area of Belgium and Holland. A great destination if you want to combine your city break with day trips across the border.

Aachen is a wonderful combination of a worth-seeing historic center and a lively university city, and with 330,000 inhabitants it’s not that small.

The must-sees in Aachen include the Cathedral with its treasury, the historic City Hall, and the Elisenbrunnen.

Our hotel recommendation for Aachen: Innside Hotel

Trier

OK, Trier isn’t really off the beaten path. The romantic city on the Moselle is the oldest city in Germany and certainly one of the most beautiful.

Trier has existed for over 2,000 years and was founded by the Romans. The city has a total of nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the city center feels like one giant open-air museum.

On top of that, the stunning Moselle Valley is just around the corner.

Trier is therefore a perfect destination for both a weekend trip and a longer vacation!

Our tip: Be sure to take a walk up to the Mariensäule on the Markusberg. From up there you’ll have the most beautiful view of the city.

Our hotel recommendation for Trier: Hotel zur Glocke

Cologne

The towering Cathedral, celebrating crowds in costumes at Carnival, and plenty of brewpubs serving Kölsch — we’re talking about Cologne, of course. And without a doubt, all of that is a must on any trip to Cologne, but there’s also quite a bit more.

As a Roman city, Cologne has a history stretching back to antiquity, and many historic buildings still bear witness to that today. There are also some really cool museums that have nothing to do with dry history. We just say Chocolate Museum — mmm!

Beyond the museums, Cologne offers tons of great activities. How about a boat trip on the Rhine or a little aerial adventure on the cable car? Either way, we simply love the relaxed and open-minded atmosphere of the city, which can tip into full-on craziness during Carnival.

Our hotel recommendation for Cologne: Urban Lofts

Münster

Among all the well-known cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, and the like, Münster can sometimes get forgotten. We think that’s a real shame!

Münster is the bicycle city par excellence, and that somehow defines its charm. Things move at a more relaxed pace here, and most of the nicest spots are easily reachable without a car. Perfect if you’re not in the mood for a huge city like Berlin or Munich.

The top sights in Münster that you really shouldn’t skip are St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Lamberti Church. The park around the Aasee was also voted the most beautiful in all of Europe in 2009 — need we say more?

And a stroll along the Prinzipalmarkt with its shopping strip, the many cafés, and the colorful houses is definitely not to be missed when visiting Münster.

Our hotel recommendation for Münster: Hotel Mauritzhof

City Breaks in Southern Germany

When you think of Southern Germany, you naturally picture the Alps, rugged mountains, green meadows, and happy cows. But the south also has some truly beautiful cities worth exploring, and we want to introduce them to you now.

Bamberg

Bamberg in Upper Franconia stands for beer, basketball, and its old town. The Bamberg historic district is one of the best-preserved of its kind in Germany and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety. The Old City Hall in particular is simply a picturesque sight.

If you enjoy drinking beer, then Bamberg is just the place for you. In the past, there were a whopping 68 breweries here; today there are still eleven. It’s especially worthwhile in summer to wander through the city’s beer cellars and beer gardens and sample a “Seidla” here and there.

Our tip: Drink beer. What else?

Our hotel recommendation for Bamberg: Hotel Wohnbar

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany and is also very popular with international tourists. The city has a very special, romantic flair, with winding alleyways, local legends, and spectacular vantage points.

You could barely scratch the surface of Heidelberg in a day or two, there’s so much to see here.

The city has been an inspiration for writers, painters, and poets throughout history, and its reputation as the most romantic city in Germany reaches all the way to Asia. In fact, many Asian travelers think of Heidelberg first and foremost when they hear the word Germany!

Our tip: Heidelberg is incredibly romantic. Visit the city with your significant other!

Our hotel recommendation for Heidelberg: Boutique Hotel Heidelberg Suites

Freiburg

Freiburg is known for its small streams, the Black Forest, and the Münster, a Gothic cathedral unique in Germany. And why streams? Well, because the entire city is crisscrossed by small channels that provide wonderful refreshment in summer. In fact, Freiburg is one of the warmest cities in Germany.

The city in the deep south is therefore a wonderful destination for a real summer trip, because you can not only explore the old town here, but also check out attractions in the Black Forest or take a day trip to France. The French border is only 30 kilometers away.

Our tip for Freiburg: Take a trip up to the Schlossberg. Up there you’ll find beautiful hiking trails and the best view over Freiburg!

Our hotel recommendation for Freiburg: Hotel Rappen

Augsburg

With fewer than 300,000 inhabitants, Augsburg is often seen as Munich’s little neighbor — or overlooked entirely. In our opinion, that would be a real shame, because when it comes to Augsburg: small but mighty.

Do you know Urmel aus dem Eis or Lukas der Lokomotivführer? Both are Augsburg originals from the Augsburger Puppenkiste, probably the most famous marionette theater in the world. It might sound like a slightly odd attraction at first, but this theater has genuine cult status!

But simply strolling through the lanes is also worthwhile, as Augsburg is one of Germany’s oldest cities and you can see the passage of time reflected in the various buildings — absolutely beautiful! There are also great cafés and restaurants.

Our hotel recommendation for Augsburg: Hotel Maximilian’s

Ulm

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the tallest of them all? The Ulm Minster! At 161.53 meters, the church tower in Ulm is actually taller than Cologne Cathedral. Anyone who makes the effort to climb the 768 steps to the top has certainly earned the incredible view over Ulm.

On a stroll through the Ulm old town, you’ll also encounter many charming half-timbered houses. One of them even has a spot in the Guinness Book of Records as the most crooked hotel in the world. Crazy, right?

Ulm is also located practically right on the doorstep of the Alps. This means you can easily combine your city break with a foray into nature — especially ideal if you’re into hiking and cycling.

Our hotel recommendation for Ulm: Schmale Haus

Munich

Oktoberfest and a snobbish crowd? Admittedly, there’s a grain of truth in the reputation as a pretentious city, but beyond that, Munich has an incredible amount to offer.

Palaces, churches, and other grand buildings — Munich probably has more of them than you could ever count. The Frauenkirche is likely the most famous among them. The image of the two church towers set against the typical Bavarian blue-and-white sky is Munich’s iconic symbol.

Munich also has plenty of green spaces, like the English Garden and the Olympic Park. There are also some really cool museums in Munich. The Pinakotheken collections, spread across the city, offer a wide variety of art. If you’re traveling to Munich with kids, definitely plan a visit to the Deutsches Museum. Your kids will love the many hands-on exhibits.

You can also enjoy a great beer in Munich. Many brewpubs in Munich have a long-standing tradition and are wonderfully cozy.

If you prefer something a bit more alternative and laid-back, we recommend the Schwanthalerhöhe neighborhood. And if you really want to experience something completely different, go check out the surfers on the Eisbach wave.

Our hotel recommendation for Munich: Rocco Forte The Charles Hotel