A country renowned for its rich cultural heritage, Germany isn’t just about football and beer. Germany is a go-to destination for culture enthusiasts and every nook and corner of this magnificent country is dotted with symbols of history, culture, and natural beauty. With over 6,250+ museums and art galleries for culture vultures to choose from, Germany leaves every tourist begging for more. Boasting of several alluring cities along with historical monuments littered all across its landscape, these historical structures give a glimpse into the country’s proud history while also covering a wide range of topics that are not only informative but also entertaining and lots of fun. From fairy-tale castles to traditional cathedrals, when in Germany, if you have some spare time on your hands, here’s a definitive bucket list you could use to explore Germany’s many marvels. Additionally, don’t forget to check out Musafir.com that has a vast range of discounted international holiday packages when you’re planning to tour through Germany.
- Kunsthalle, Hamburg
Regarded as Northern Germany’s leading art museum, when you visit this fascinating museum, be assured to witness more than 700 masterpieces on display all the time. Situated very close to the Alster Lake, Kunsthalle plays host to some of the most important public art collections in Germany featuring works of legendary artists such as Munch, Kandinsky, Picasso, Rembrandts, Holbeins amongst several others. What more, you also get to go on a tour witnessing art spanning across seven centuries.
- Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria
Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein holds the distinction of being arguably the world’s most famous castle. The former home of Ludwig II, this castle which translates to new-swan-stone in English, looks like a set straight out of Disney fairy tale movie. Designed by a theatrical set designer in the year 1969, the Neuschwanstein is a throwback to the medieval ages of Germany and is thronged by visitors throughout the year owing to its wide popularity.
- Gemäldegalerie, Berlin
Also known as the Old Masters Museums, Gemäldegalerie comprises of some of the world’s most spectacular collection of European art ranging from the 13th to the 18th centuries. Spread across an impressive 7,000 square meters of exhibition space, Gemäldegalerie showcases the art of the greatest European artists from almost every time period.
- Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
A symbol of Germany’s reunification, the Brandenburg Gate was constructed in 1791 and was modelled on the Acropolis in Athens. Built for King Frederick William II, this national symbol stood between East and West Berlin and measures a striking 26 metres in height. Crowned with a stunning four-horse chariot perched right on top, this gate was once a toll collection point. This sandstone structure is immersed in history and was once Berlin’s first Neoclassical structure.
- Alte Nationalgalerie, Berlin
Popularly referred to as the old national gallery of Berlin, The Alte National Galerie was built between 1866- 1876 and was later restored in 2001 by distinguished architect, Friedrich August Stüler. Part of the ensemble known as the Berlin’s Museum Island, also a UNESCO World Heritage, Alte Nationalgalerie hosts stunning sculptures and paintings of the 19th century. This remarkable museum showcase the striking art pieces of acclaimed artists including Auguste Renoir, Adolph Menzel Edouard Manet Claude Mone, Caspar David Friedrich and several other art maestros.
- Kölner Dom, Cologne
Situated on the banks of the river Rhine lies the spectacular Cologne’s Cathedral also known as Kölner Dom. Cologne’s most impressive landmark ranks as one of Germany’s most important architectural monuments. Covering an area of 6,166 square meters and boasting of an impressive 56 huge pillars, the construction of this unique Gothic monument started in the year 1248 and finished in 1880 spanning nearly 600 years. One of the most ambitious building projects of the Middle Ages, this cathedral still lies next to the city’s train terminal and attracts tourists from all across the globe.
- Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg
One of the most picturesque locales in the world, the Black Forest region stretches across 160 kilometres and is located in the south-western corner of Germany. Laden with expansive densely-wooded hills, remarkable valleys, vast lakes and tiny villages, a visit to the Schwarzwald or the Black Forest is guaranteed to take your breath away. Make sure to visit the world-famous posh spa facilities of Baden-Baden, magnificent wineries, the quaint Black Forest Railway station and Germany’s oldest ski area at Todtnau. Additionally, do make it a point to relish on the delectable Black Forest Cake laced with delicious cherries, cream and chocolate.
- Museum Ludwig, Cologne
Constructed in 1986, this museum showcases the contemporary and avant-garde art collection of German collector Peter Ludwig while also providing a spectacular insight on the artist and his life. Famed for holding the world’s largest collection of the works of Pablo Picasso which is well arranged and presented, a visit to the Museum Ludwig will surely leave you spell bound and gasping for more.
- Europa-Park, Rust
Ranked as one of the world’s leading amusement parks, Europa-Park, Germany’s largest amusement park comprises of over 100 attractions and shows along with 15 European themed areas. Spread across 95 hectares, this park is currently the most visited site in Germany. The European-themed areas modelled on the different countries of Europe is geographically accurate. Moreover, unlike other steel and plastic dominated amusement parks, this park gives out a natural feel owing to its many trees, cute flowerbeds, canals, lakes and beautiful gardens. Furthermore, with a 46-hectare water park on the way, Europa-Park promises to be a unique short holiday destination for the entire family.
- Mercedes-Benz Museum, Stuttgart
For automobile enthusiasts, what better way to satiate their automobile cravings than by paying a visit to the world’s largest automobile museum. One of the finest museums’s in the world, there are nearly 160 vehicles on display at a single time and is guaranteed to be a hit with the kids. What more, there’s so much more on display which is a sure shot way to turn even the casual visitor into a hardcore automobile buff. Additionally, whilst in Stuggart, do pay a visit to the infamous Porsche museum as well which is located at a distance of only 10 kilometres away from this museum.