Where Should I Go for My First Time in Germany?

If it’s your first time visiting Germany, you’ll want a mix of iconic cities, historical landmarks, natural beauty, and local culture. Germany is diverse, efficient to travel through, and offers something for every type of traveler. Here are some of the best places to consider for a first-time trip, depending on your interests and travel pace.

Berlin is an exciting place to start. As Germany’s capital, it’s a vibrant mix of modern culture and heavy history. You’ll find powerful sites like the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Holocaust Memorial, and Brandenburg Gate. Museum Island offers world-class exhibitions, while districts like Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg give you a taste of Berlin’s creative energy. It’s a city of contrasts, where you can explore Cold War relics by day and enjoy modern art galleries, cafes, and global street food by night.

Munich gives you a more traditional and elegant side of Germany. As the capital of Bavaria, it’s known for beer gardens, historic squares, and proximity to the Alps. Visit Marienplatz and watch the Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall, relax in the English Garden, or enjoy Bavarian specialties in a classic beer hall like Hofbräuhaus. Munich also makes a great base for day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle or Dachau Memorial Site. If you’re traveling in fall, consider timing your visit with Oktoberfest.

The Romantic Road is perfect for a scenic and storybook-style route. This famous trail through southern Germany connects picturesque medieval towns and fairytale castles. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a highlight—known for its half-timbered houses and well-preserved walls. Towns like Dinkelsbühl, Füssen, and Würzburg offer beautiful stops along the way. This route is ideal for road-trippers or those wanting a slower pace filled with charm and photo-worthy architecture.

If you love rivers and wine, the Rhine Valley is a must. The region between Koblenz and Rüdesheim offers some of Germany’s most stunning scenery—vineyards, hilltop castles, and the winding Rhine River. Small towns like Bacharach and St. Goar are great places to stay or stop during a river cruise. It’s a relaxed way to experience rural Germany, and the local Riesling wines are excellent.

Cologne offers a mix of Gothic grandeur and riverside culture. The city’s most famous landmark is the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most impressive churches. You can climb to the top for views of the city and the Rhine River. Cologne also has a vibrant arts scene, excellent museums like Museum Ludwig, and its own beer culture—don’t leave without trying a glass of Kölsch at a traditional brewhouse.

For nature and folklore, head to the Black Forest. This region in southwest Germany is full of dense forests, hiking trails, spa towns, and scenic drives. It’s ideal if you want to combine outdoor activity with relaxation. Baden-Baden is a famous spa town, while Triberg offers waterfalls and the world’s largest cuckoo clock. The Black Forest High Road is one of the most scenic routes in the country and showcases the region’s legendary landscapes.

Germany is a welcoming and well-organized destination for first-time visitors. With efficient public transport, safe cities, and a wide variety of experiences—from castles and cathedrals to modern art and mountain trails—you can easily craft an itinerary that fits your style. Whether you’re into history, food, culture, or nature, there’s a region of Germany that feels made just for you.

Want help building your first-time itinerary in Germany? We’re happy to help with custom travel planning based on your interests, time, and budget.