The notion of the fairytale destinations may seem like a trendy travel term, but the truth is many of these locations have been receiving travelers for years. It may not have begun in Germany, but when the country introduced some of its most popular tourist routes, such as the Romantic Road, and the Fairy Tale Road, it became somewhat of a phenomenon. Whether you call them German fairytale towns, German medieval cities, the most beautiful towns in Germany, or simply the prettiest towns in Germany, they add a special magic to your travel experience.
As a history lover, I have always sought out ancient cities and landmarks in my travels to learn their stories, but not everyone loves history. But a visit to one of these most beautiful towns in Germany wraps a history lesson into a beautiful destination. While it is not always the case, most of these locations are walled cities founded hundreds of years ago during the middle ages. Simply a walk along the medieval streets of these prettiest towns in Germany is to walk among artifacts, to walk where others have walked for centuries.
We believe that every trip to Germany should include at least one of these amazing locations. The tourist routes include some of them, but there are dozens that are less well-known. So, we brought together travel writers from around the world, and a few German friends, to share the prettiest towns in Germany. Some are famous and some more obscure, some mere villages with a few thousand residents, and others are larger cities that manage to retain an ethereal sense. But they are spread across the country, in almost every German state, so wherever your travels lead, there is one not too far away.
Our Most Beautiful Towns in Germany Include:
- The Prettiest Towns in Baden-Württemberg
- The Prettiest Towns in Bavaria
- The Prettiest Towns in Hesse
- The Prettiest Towns in Lower Saxony
- The Prettiest Towns in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
- The Prettiest Towns in North Rhine-Westphalia
- The Prettiest Towns in Rhineland-Palatinate
- The Prettiest Towns in Saxony
- The Prettiest Towns in Saxony-Anhalt
- The Prettiest Towns in Schleswig-Holstein
- The Prettiest Towns in Thuringia
We know our list is not inclusive, as there are too many pretty cities in Germany to count. We also now that we have not included the states of Brandenburg or Saarland. Perhaps you can suggest a fairytale town in those states to add to this list! But for now, you can browse through them all, or you can use the jump links above to go straight to the area of Germany you will be visiting.
The Prettiest Towns in Baden-Württemberg
Bad Wimpfen, selected by Corina from Another Milestone
Considered an underdog compared to its medieval neighbors Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Heidelberg, Bad Wimpfen is a gem we discovered on a road trip around south of Germany. Its name “bad” comes from the salt water baths known for their therapeutic effects. Without question one of the most beautiful towns in Germany, Bad Wimpfen has much more to offer.
The best way to explore Bad Wimpfen’s old town is walking. Cobbled stone streets, old, traditional buildings and narrow passages between houses will make you feel you are in a fairytale and Belle from Beauty and the Beast will show off one of these houses.
Its central market hosts the townhall building, an Evangelic church with two towers finished in 16th century and a beautiful fountain. Once you start exploring the city center you will find on your way Blue tower, built in 13 century and one of the few remaining of Staufen Imperial Palace, Red tower, not as well preserved as the Blue one, Nuremberg tower, a reminder of the help received from Nuremberg during a war, Neo Gothic railway station, the old hospital and the most impressive church in town: Manorial Collegiate Church.
Traces of human existence were found here from 5th century BC, but the place became important after the 12th century when the Staufen Imperial palace was built. Bad Wimpfen has an interesting history and you can discover it walking around and spotting the important buildings still standing. But if you don’t like history, just wander on its beautiful streets and you will be enchanted!
Baden-Baden, selected by Carol Perehudoff from Wandering Carol
The first time I saw the spa town of Baden-Baden in Germany, I had to shake my head and blink. I’d never seen anything that looked so much like a fairy tale town, at least not one so grand. Lined with elegant stone hotels, with natural hot springs, a tree-lined park and two famous bathhouses, the Caracalla Therme and Friedrichsbad baths, Baden-Baden has everything you could want from a holiday, except possibly wild nightlife. Long known as one of Europe’s most eminent spa towns, it’s more of a place to soak in thermal water, have a spa treatment, shop in one of the snazzy boutiques or sit in a café. Or, just stroll and enjoy the scene of one of the prettiest towns in Germany.
One of the most appealing places to wander is through the Lichtentaler Allee, a much-loved park that follows along the River Oos. Many of the town’s best hotels, such as the 5-star Brenners Park Hotel & Spa back onto the park, so it’s easily accessible. There are also many wooded trails up and around Baden-Baden, so hiking is a popular pastime.
Baden-Baden is full of lovely architecture. At the Kurhaus, which was once the spa centre and the place to go to drink the thermal spring water, you can still see the enchanting frescoes that line the covered promenade. Today, you’ll find a Tourist Information desk inside.
At one of the bath complexes, Caracalla, the design was inspired by ancient Rome, and it’s fun to while away time in one of the dreamy thermal pools, or to visit the extensive sauna area upstairs. The other spot to soak, Friedrichsbad, is a neoclassical bathhouse, where a bathing circuit consists of soaking, steaming and massage, and can take up your entire afternoon. (But be prepared. It’s a nude bathing experience.)
After soaking you can browse through the shops in the cobbled lanes, stop for a glass of wine or a pastry at one of the many cafes, and just enjoy life in a town so captivating it feels as if emerged straight from a storybook.
Donaueschingen, selected by Iris from Mind of a Hitchhiker
Before I even heard of Donaueschingen, I fell in love with the idea of paddling down the entire Danube river in a kayak. When I finally pursued this idea, I learned I had to start in this German town, seeing that it was one of the most beautiful towns in Germany. In early May, it was still very frosty in Germany’s coldest region, but Donaueschingen enchanted me beyond its emblematic role in my journey.
At the fringe of the Black Forest, at the edge of Swabian culture, and near the continental divide of the North Sea and the Black Sea, Donaueschingen is a true borderland. The town in southern Baden-Württemberg is mostly famous for being the source of the 2860-kilometer long Danube River. This river flows from this humble town all the way to the Black Sea through or beside 10 European nations. This is just the start.
Getting to Donaueschingen with the ‘Schwarzwaldbahn’ train journey is already a breathtaking experience. If you’re coming in from the west, you’ll even pass under the watershed between the Rhine and the Danube rivers. In town next to the St. Johan’s church, you can visit the ‘Donauquelle’ (Source of the Danube) – an intumescent spring that carries the name of this great river. But the actual start of the Danube is the confluence of the two creeks named the Brigach and the Breg. If you’re more into athletic endeavors, Donaueschingen is also the starting point of the ‘Donauradweg’ – a very long international bike path that meanders all the way to Romania. Or you can paddle it like me!
Heidelberg, selected by Gábor Kovács from Surfing the Planet
There are towns in Germany that make you feel yourself in a fairy-tale world, and it’s hard to argue about Heidelberg being one of the best examples. This charming town is found on the banks of the Neckar River. Both the gorgeous architecture of the Old Town and the lovely landscape make it one of the most romantic places in the whole country, and definitely one of the prettiest towns in Germany. Amongst the main things to see in Heidelberg, the hilltop castle is probably the most essential sight. The castle was built in the 15th century, and it presides the views of the town. Although unfortunately it was severely damaged during the 9-year war in the 1800s, it’s still a wonderful landmark and offers fascinating views.
There are several important landmarks to visit; our favorite is probably the Old Stone Bridge – one of the nicest medieval bridges you can find in Europe. The atmosphere of Heidelberg is also very pleasant, especially if you get to sit in a restaurant terrace at one of the several lovely squares, such as Marktplatz or Karlsplatz. Heidelberg is very famous for its university, more Nobel Laureates have studied here than in any other German city. You can get to absorb some of this intellectual atmosphere, if you walk on the Philosopher’s Way (a trail on the hillside opposite to the Old Town), where once Hegel or Goethe cleared his mind and looked for inspiration.
If you plan to visit Heidelberg, you can quite easily get there from Frankfurt (or even Frankfurt Airport) by train.
Rottweil, selected by Monty Meerstein of the Meerstein Express
My choice for one of the prettiest towns in Germany, Rottweil, lies between the Black Forest and the Swabian Alps and is the oldest city in Baden-Württemberg. The Romans founded the first community in the location in 74 AD, and housed a garrison. One of the attractions in the city are the ruins of the Roman baths from that time, and the city is part of the German Roman Road Neckar-Alb-Aare tourism route.
During the middle ages, Rottweil was a center of agricultural trade, and animal herds were often brought to and from the city. The Rottweiler dog was bred to bring out the characteristics of courage, alertness, strength, reliability and stamina. The Rottweilers are well loved in the city, and celebrated with statues, artworks, and even a festival.
Rottweil also has an industrial history, and played a role in salt production in the region. We take salt for granted now, but at one time it was a hard won commodity, involving a process of boiling and conveyors. The Saline Museum memorializes that heritage, and gives demonstrations of the process in the original buildings.
Since that time Rottweil has undergone many changes of rulership, but its architecture is primarily of Swabian influence. While this is not exactly the style that traveler’s think of when they imagine a fairytale town in Germany, it has a colorful and cheerful feeling that certainly qualifies it as one of the prettiest towns in Germany.
The Baroque churches, Predigerkirche, Kapellenkirche, and the Ruhe-Christi-Kirche alone, make a visit to the city worthwhile. But, there are some interesting museums, such as the Dominican Museum and the Doll and Toy Museum, and several art museums. It is also possible to get a panoramic view over the city by taking a ride to the top of the Elevator Test Tower.
The Prettiest Towns in Bavaria
Dinkelsbühl, selected by Ann from The Road Is Life
A perfect stop on Germany’s Romantic Road, Dinkelsbühl is like a scene from straight a fairy tale book. Colourful gabled houses are surrounded by a medieval wall and dominating towers, this picturesque little town is an absolute must on your Bavaria itinerary. The highlight of our visit was a stroll along the Weinmarkt (Main Street), this is where you will find the most impressive collection of beautifully coloured 15th century buildings.
Learn all about the 800 years of Dinkelsbühl’s history by visiting the Haus der Geschichte, the 14th century town hall. Grab a bite to eat at the most beautiful building on the Weinmarkt, the Deutsches Haus. This 15th century timber-framed building that was once home to nobility now houses a restaurant and hotel and happens to be the most striking building in the town.
During our visit to Dinkelsbühl, we were pleased to arrive during the famous Kinderzeche festival. During the 30 Years War in the 17th century, Dinkelsbühl came under siege by the Swedes. While most villages in the area were destroyed, Dinkelsbühl was spared. Legend has it that it was all thanks to the town’s children who begged the Swedes to spare their town. For the last 100 or so years, Dinkelsbühl has been celebrating this by hosting an epic festival!
This historic festival is held each year in July, it lasts for 10 days and includes parades with dancers, performances, traditional food tents, music and much more. It is said to be one of the most colourful festivals in Germany. We can highly recommend adding this to your German bucket list as it is an excellent way to learn and experience authentic Bavarian culture.
Füssen, selected by Lora at Explore With Lora
Füssen is a 700-year old small fairy tale town with gorgeous brightly coloured buildings. One of the first things you should do when you visit Füssen is to wander the streets of the old town. I spent my first night walking around the streets feeling as if I had stepped back in time. The Bavarian architecture and cobblestoned streets gives the town an old world charm, and make it one of the prettiest towns in Germany. Although it’s old in ages, Füssen still offers all the services you’d expect in a modern town.
Inside the town, there are several castles you can visit. And just outside of Füssen is one of Germany’s most famous castles, Neuschwanstein. Renting a bike from Füssen and heading towards Neuschwanstein Castle is the perfect way to spend a day. Along the way you will pass through magical mountains, lush forests, and turquoise lakes. Füssen in general is perfect for outdoor lovers. Things to do include walking, cycling and swimming. For a fairy tale lake vacation, Füssen is the perfect addition to your Germany trip.
Nuremberg, selected by Rose from Where Rose Goes
Nestled in the heart of Bavaria, the small city of Nuremberg (or Nürnberg to the locals) is what fairytales are made of. The settlement is famed for its Christmas markets which fill the central square with gingerbread biscuits and other traditional foods during the winter months. While Nuremberg is indeed gorgeous when sprinkled in snow, it is one of the prettiest towns in Germany, and it makes for an excellent visit anytime of year.
There are plenty of things to do in Nuremberg. For a taste of the traditional, take a visit to the Handwerkerhof (handkerchief) market, a medieval market within the City Walls. Here you can dine at Bavarian restaurants and pick up souvenirs from handicrafts to locally-sourced produce. You should also take a walk down Weißgerbergasse, the most colorful street in the city, known for its charming houses and traditional wooden beams. Other options include taking a pedalo out on Großer Dutzendteich lake and climbing Nuremberg Castle to capture magical views out over the city. Finish a day in Nuremberg with a hearty Bavarian meal and pint of local beer!
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, selected by Brooke & Buddy Baum from Trailing Away
Stepping into the walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany is truly like stepping back in time. Although this historic tourist town sustained extreme damage during World War II, the many people who loved it chipped in to make sure it was restored to its former beauty. Knowing its medieval charm was a major draw, the city made sure to keep its original architecture when restoring it.
The half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and surrounding countryside make it an idyllic place to stroll any time of year, but it is especially magical at Christmastime. Many people do Rothenburg as a day trip, and that really is a shame. It definitely deserves a few days of your time to really soak in its beauty, and it is truly, one of the most beautiful towns in Germany.
One of the best (and cheapest) ways to spend your time in this stunning city is to walk the wall that surrounds it. There is so much history here, as well as unique opportunities to explore towers along the way, plus great views into and out of town. As you walk, you’ll see many names on the stones – these are some of the people who made donations to restore the quaint German town. It is touching to see how people from all over the world came together to help this beloved place. For another great view and unique experience, go up the Town Hall Tower to look down at the colorful houses below. And don’t miss the famed Nights Watchman Tour for a fun activity after dark that may just be the most entertaining history lesson you ever have.
The Prettiest Towns in Hesse
Rudesheim am Rhein, selected by Diana from The Elusive Family
Rudesheim am Rhein is one of the prettiest towns in Germany, beautifully situated city on the banks of the Rhine River in southern Germany. It is a great day trip from Stuttgart, which is one of the best home bases for visiting southern Germany. If flying into Frankfurt it is just a 45-minute drive from the city. Rudesheim am Rhein is multi-tiered, with the main village situated at the bottom and beautiful viewpoints of the valley from the top of the village. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is situated on the Rhine Gorge, a stretch of land between Koblenz and Bingen that is home to castles, villages and unique historical and geological wonders.
Rudesheim has an assortment of things to do including taking a cable car to the top of the hill overlooking the Rhine. The cable car starts at the bottom and is a great ride up to the top of the hill where you can visit the Niederwald Monument. Before arriving at Niederwald Monument, a visit to the Niederwaldtempel is a must as it has great vantage points across the river.
The Eibingen Abbey is another great place to visit where it currently houses Benedictine nuns. Walking through the numerous vineyards is a must since the region is well knowns for some of the best wine in Europe. Among the vineyards you can find Burg Ehrenfels, a Medieval castle ruin on the hillside. Rudesheim is also a great place to take boat trips further down the Rhine River as it has its own marina where numerous boats stop daily to let passengers on and off along the river route.
The Prettiest Towns in Lower Saxony
Goslar, selected by Vicki from Vicki Viaja
Germany is full of stunning fairytale towns but one of them will always have a very special place in my heart: my hometown Goslar is a little town, near the Harz mountains in the middle Northern part of Germany. With its medieval charm, it makes you think this town was cut out straight out of your old favorite childhood fairytale book. Goslar is full of half-timbered houses and buildings that are up to 1000 years old. Stroll through its narrow streets and enjoy one of its delicious beers which history goes back until the middle ages. You’ll agree it is one of the prettiest towns in Germany.
It is a great place to visit whether you come in winter or summer. In summer, make sure to sit on the beautiful market square or its surrounding cafés for some yummy freshly baked cake and coffee. If you come in winter, make sure to check its amazing Christmas market which is known to be one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.
Whether you visit in the summer or winter, you might want to stay a little bit longer to also enjoy the surrounding Harz Mountains. In summer, it’s amazing to have a refreshing bath in one of the many lakes or go hiking. In winter, you can find ski slopes all over the Harz Mountains, especially in the higher parts. But even if you don’t feel like walking or skiing, you can have a ride with the Harz narrow-gauge railway, which leads you through the stunning snowy winter-wonderland of the mountains.
Gottingen, selected by Toni Frazer from Enchanted Serendipity
Göttingen remains one of the most enchanting, prettiest towns in Germany. Known predominantly for being a university city in Lower Saxony, it has so many charming little highlights which make it one of the most memorable places to visit in the country.
Although it is lovely in Summer, a visit in Winter is just something else, with snow making it feel as though you’re walking around in a fairytale. The Ganseliesel fountain – a statue of a girl with a goose is an icon of the city – and is located outside of the medieval Town Hall. Both are worth seeing. There are many historic buildings worthy of photographing here as you walk the streets. However, when I visit, I really get in amongst the food offerings – which truly take you back to another time.
Cron & Lanz is a well known patisserie famous for its “tree ring” cake called Baumkuchen. But ANY cake here is a treat – and so is the decor of the upstairs dining room, if you’re lucky enough to find a seat. Currywurst is a delicacy in Germany, and one of the best Currywurst offerings can be found at a real hole in wall, called Bratwurst Glöckle. For delicious German fare, delicious schnitzels are on offer at the local institutions, Zum Szültenbürger. Eating in any of these really help you connect with this place.
Göttingen is a walkable city, it isn’t a place one needs a car – with bicycles the main mode of transport here. Spending a day here and just getting lost is a great way to see the town. And if you happen to be visiting over the festive season, Göttingen also has a darling Christmas market that is well worth checking out so you can enjoy Nutella crepes, Gluhwein and more.
Hannoversch-Münden, selected by Juergen from Dare 2 Go
Hidden in a valley in Lower Saxony lies the small town of Hannoversch Münden. This place has a rich history due to its location at the confluence of two rivers. These rivers literally flooded the town with affluence.
The grand Gothic town hall and the town’s many well-preserved half-timbered houses reveal some of its former prosperity. Wander around, look up and study the detailed hand-painted carving of beams and door surrounds – often enhanced with gold leaf.
In Hann Münden the Werra and Fulda join to become the Weser, which has been an important shipping route for many centuries. It carries river barges all the way to Bremen, a major sea port of the former Hanseatic Trading League.
In the 13th century, Hann Münden was granted “staple rights”. This meant that all passing freight boats had to unload their cargo, and offer it for sale to local merchants for 3 days at a reasonable price. Quickly the town became a very wealthy trading centre.
Today most of the medieval town centre is a living testament to the town’s past. Complete with a 14th century river bridge, a Renaissance castle, part of the ancient town wall, and many wiggly, narrow, cobbled streets lined with beautiful old buildings. It is one of the prettiest towns in Germany.
Orientation for those who want to visit Hannoversch Münden (now officially called Hann Münden):
- Hann Münden is about 20 kilometres north of Kassel, another worthwhile destination thanks to the World Heritage listed Bergpark Wilhelmhöhe and the biannual “documenta” art show.
- Lower Saxony’s oldest university city Göttingen, another town with many half-timbered houses, is under 25 kilometres to the east.
The Prettiest Towns in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Stralsund, selected by Andy Kontra of Colly and the Steamrollers
Stralsund isn’t a famous name, and it doesn’t represent the stereotypical fairytale city in Germany. But exploring the streets in Stralsund is very much like walking through a movie of tales or fables, from one story to the next, or in my case, like switching up the musical genres while performing a set. Stralsund is a smorgasbord of architectural styles and features, that come together in an intriguing way, making it one of the prettiest towns in Germany.
The most prominent historical buildings in Stralsund are built of red bricks, a rather uncommon sight in Germany. Standing alongside them are intricate gabled patrician homes that go on for blocks. There are also havens of Swedish style buildings, and more traditional German half-timbered style. This unique architectural mix is one reason that Stralsund, along with its sister city Wismar, were granted the status of a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Stralsund is in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, the north-easternmost state of Germany. During its most prosperous period, it was a member of the Hanseatic League, the confederation of merchant trade guilds that controlled trade along the Baltic Sea Routes. The patrician and merchant houses hail from this period. After the Peace of Westphalia was signed in Münster, bringing an end to the Thirty Years’ War, Stralsund became part of Sweden for almost 150 years, leaving the Swedish mark.
When visiting Stralsund, walking the streets on the Old Town Island is one of the best ways to feel how eclectic it is, but taking a harbor tour is the best way to get an overall view of the city. Seeing the rows of red-roofed buildings from above is also possible from the Marienkirche (St. Mary’s Church) tower.
Someday, a stop at Angela Markel’s house may be a Stralsund to-do, as the city is the Prime Minister’s home town. But for now, the must see sites include the Stralsund Rathaus, Marienkirche, Nikolaikirche, and the World Heritage Exhibits in the Swedish built Olthof’s Palace. If you have time, the Oceanographic Museum has 4 different exhibit on aquatic life in the Baltic Sea, and the Cultural Museum has intriguing displays across the city. Stralsund also has a bridge to Rugen Island, with its beautiful beaches and chalk cliffs, and ferry access Hiddensee Island, where no cars are allowed. After all that history, you need a break on the beach!
Wismar, selected by Tonia Kontra, Proud New Mother
Wismar, like its sister city Stralsund, is a Unesco World Heritage site renowned for its stunning architecture. Once a medieval walled city, a member of the Hanseatic League, conquered by the Swedes, and later part of Prussia, Wismar bears the mark of all of these periods of its history. The result is a colorful melenge, with charming streets, squares and a harbor, with a whimsical feeling that qualifies it as one of the prettiest towns in Germany.
The landmark of Wismar is the Wasserkunst, which means water art. It is a Dutch Renaissance styled pavilion fountain which once supplied the city’s drinking water. Wasserkunst stands in the center of one of the biggest Market Squares in northern Germany which is lined on every side with historic buildings and homes. The Wismar Rathaus sits on the north side of the Market Square, where visitors can learn the city history through exhibits in the cellar.
The city is proud of its brick Gothic churches, St. Mary’s, St. George, St. Nikolai, and Heiligen-Geist church, which each has some unique feature, as well as the former deacons residence, the Archidiakonat. Also, be sure to see the World Heritage House, which tells the story of Wismar as a heritage site; the Watergate, the only one of 5 original city gates that remains; the armory, the Swedish military structure that once housed the arsenal and the Swedish garrison; and the Fürstenhof, built as a summer house for the Dukes of Mecklenburg.
When you tire of all that history, some fun therapy may be in order. Perhaps some shopping at the boutiques along Krämerstraße is in order, or a picturesque walk along “the pit” or the shaded paths of the Lindengarten. Be sure to pet the pigs! If adventure is more in line, go in search of the Swedish Heads, or take one of the available harbor tours. Then tie history and indulgence together with a delicious meal in one of the historic buildings, such as The Old Swede, Zum Weinberg, or on The Lohberg.
The Prettiest Towns in North Rhine-Westphalia
Freudenberg, selected by Alex from Swedish Nomad
Freudenberg is quite special due to the fact that all of the houses are painted in white and black with grey roofs, making it both unique, and one of the most beautiful towns in Germany. It is located in the Siegen-Wittgenstein district, in North Rhine-Westphalia and dates back hundreds of years. It was originally established as a market town “Flecken” which is why the historic town still is called Alter Flecken.
I love Freudenberg because it is quite surreal to see so many similar looking houses these days, especially since they aren’t newly built. They are all historic houses with their own story, and you can even stay in some of them as an Airbnb accommodation or the local hotels of Hotel Zum Alten Flecken and Hotel Zur Altstadt.
To get the best view I suggest walking up the stairs that lead up to a park located on top of a hill, just outside the town center. From there you get a panoramic view of Freudenberg where you see even clearer how well designed this architectural masterpiece is.
There are also some restaurants serving up local German food, and I recommend staying overnight and just enjoy strolling around the old town. Go for a walk in the beautiful park as well and take in the scenic lush views.
Cologne and Frankfurt are the biggest cities nearby, and if you’re flying into Germany, I suggest flying there and then rent a car to get to Freudenberg, even though buses are available as well.
Monschau, selected by Karen from Wanderlusting K
One of the prettiest towns in Germany has to be the fairytale town of Monschau! Although Monschau is definitely well-recognized on the Internet, it’s still a very quiet town with a beautiful half-timbered city center that is UNESCO recognized within Northwestern German that is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind over a weekend.
This fairytale town is famous for the river that runs through it, its charming half-timbered buildings, and its Christmas markets. Monschau is located in the middle of the scenic Eiffel National Park (both in Belgium and Germany), which provides many great opportunities for hiking. I went in winter, so hiking wasn’t on my agenda as we enjoyed simply wandering through the town, stopping into the many independent shops (including the gorgeous Christmas ornament shop), and tasting the local mustard that is made along the river. My parents-in-law loved just sitting at a cafe enjoying the scenic views!
What I loved was that although it’s “famous,” you don’t see many people taking bus day trips to Monschau, and you can enjoy this town without much fuss. We stayed overnight in the town where we spent a lovely evening enjoying dinner and beers at a cozy cafe. Although the restaurant was certainly used to tourists, we were one of the only tourists there. The night that we arrived, it was snowing, which was absolutely magical seen from the window of the hotel that we were staying in. It’s hard to fully capture the magic of Monschau in just a photo, but once you arrive, you’ll wonder if you’ve been transported into a fairy tale!
Zons, selected by Roxanna Keyes, Gypsy With a Day Job
On our first trip to Germany, we completely missed the city of Zons, one of the prettiest towns in Germany, which sits along the banks of the Rhine within the Dormagen city limits, between Düsseldorf and Cologne. In fact, Zons is kept so quiet, that even our German hosts who live in Düsseldorf were unfamiliar with the town! When we returned on our second trip, we took our hosts to Zons, on a day trip from Düsseldorf.
This obscurity of Zons does surprise us a bit, it was once a city with the important role of hosting a Rhine Gate, a stop along the Rhine to collect the trade toll for the Holy Roman Empire, for centuries. This important financial role as a German medieval city required it to have fortifications and a garrison to protect the interests of the empire, so city walls, gates, and a castle were built in the 12th century.
Once the Holy Roman Empire finally fell, the city of Zons became a quiet community of farmers, somehow escaping ruin from the numerous times the Rhine flooded its streets; somehow escaping destruction during the Thirty Years War, being conquered by Napoleon’s troops, and both World Wars. The city walls, gates, and towers still stand, and many of the original homes still line the streets. A visit to Zons is like stepping back in time.
There are several must-see attractions in Zons, but a walk through the city can incorporate all of them in a day: the toll gate, the pepper box, the Juddenturm, the herb garden, and the windmill, among others. There are intermittent restaurants and pubs, some with backyard biergartens for a break along the way. A stop at the Kreis Museum includes many artifacts, but it also surprises with its collection of art nouveau pieces from the 1900 Paris World Fair, and its textile art.
Zons embraces the notion that it is a fairy tale village, hosting the Marchenspiele, an open air fairy tale theater that runs through the summer months. It also embraces its medieval history, hosting the annual St. Matthew’s Market, which is a sort of Renaissance festival. The market draws a crowd, but it is truly a fun and fantastical experience.
The Prettiest Towns in Rhineland-Palatinate
Bernkastel-Kues, selected by Brenda O’Sullivan from This Girls Wanderlust
Bernkastel-Kues is a well-known wine making town along the Moselle River in Germany. The town itself is broken into two parts, Bernkastel and Kues, nestled along either side of the river. The beautiful views from the hillside vineyards that surround Bernkastel-Kues show the winding Moselle river and the small villages that lay within its bends. This town is just magical; it is undeniably one of the most beautiful towns in Germany. From its medieval vibes to its various breathtaking hikes through the vineyards.
There are two special times to visit, first is in September, when harvesting of the grape vines is underway. This task is mostly done by hand to preserve the quality of the wine Bernkastel-Kues produces, quite an amazing sight to see. The second would be for the beautiful authentic Christmas markets that are held in Marktplatz of Bernkastel, which have a live advent calendar each night. Both times are highly recommended.
A must when visiting this beautiful town is dinner in Burg Landshut, a castle ruin turned into a restaurant, located just above Bernkastel. The views are spectacular and food which is modern German cuisine does not disappoint. A rewarding way to work up an appetite is to hike up to the castle, but beware, it is a very steep 750m from the town, allow 30-40 minutes at easy to get there. There is also an hourly shuttle bus from the riverfront which costs €7 return.
One of my favourite discoveries in Bernkastel was Bonbon Willi’s sweet shop. Not only is there every kind of sweet you can imagine on display but you also get to watch the sweets being boiled and crafted using century-old techniques and tools at this traditional shop. Some of the unique flavours on offer include white and red wine sweets made from the local wine.
No trip would be complete without a visit to Weinstube Spitzhäuschen for some wine tasting. With the chance to taste of 50 wines from the Schmitz family’s local vineyards. The crooked half-timbered building itself is worth visiting as it is the Moselle’s oldest building which dates back to 1416, it is rather unusual as the bottom is much narrower than the top. It was built this way to allow carriages to pass through the narrow alley into the marketplace with ease.’’
Cochem, selected by Lee from The Travel Scribes
It marks the unofficial start of Germany’s Mosel valley, a valley known for its gorgeous river (The Mosel), some of the world’s steepest vineyards and picturesque towns, complete with cobbled streets. Cochem is a gem of a riverside town, definitely one of the prettiest towns in Germany, perfect for a Sunday stroll but also a weekend exploring its sights.
It’s one of the larger towns in the region due to its accessibility from larger cities like Koblenz, Bonn and Cologne, as many local inhabitants from the region make a day trip to this overgrown village. The city square and surrounds is dotted with cafes serving delectable flammkuchen (similar to a pizza, but using crème fraiche and usually bacon and sliced onions), icy cold local beer and some of the best Riesling wine to be found in all of Germany.
Take a stroll along the riverside or try your hand at hiking up the hill to the castle, Schloss Reichsburg, which looms over this charming town. The castle is a restored 10th century ruin which often offers tours. Of note are also the Senfmuhle, an old mustard mill from the early 1800’s, which is the last of its kind in all of Europe and the cable car, which allows you sweeping views over the river and the vineyards.
If you are lucky enough to visit in summer, Cochem also boasts some of the best festivals in the region. In mid-June is the Moselle Wine Week, August is the Castle Festival and in September and October you’ll be spoiled for choice in terms of smaller wine festivals and tastings throughout the village.
The Prettiest Towns in Saxony
Bautzen, selected by Marta and Milosz from Backpackers WRO
Bautzen is a city with over a thousand years of history, located in Saxony, near the German-Polish border. The town is very attractive to tourists, being one of the prettiest towns in Germany, however, underestimated and yet not very popular. It is also the historical capital of Upper Lusatia and the seat of the cultural institutions of the Sorbs. Until now, many inhabitants speak Lusatian, and street names are written in two languages. Bautzen is a very photogenic, certainly one of the prettiest towns in Germany, located on the Spree River, and it is an excellent place for a one-day trip. We visited Bautzen on the way to Munich.
The center of Bautzen seems to be full of towers. The most important tourist attractions of the city are relatively close to each other, within walking distance. The most beautiful view of the center of Bautzen is from the bridge over the Spree. You can see towers, fragments of old walls, a river, walking paths, everything looks captivating.
Start with the Ortenburg Castle and visit the Sorbian Museum to better understand their history and culture. Then go to the ruins of the fifteenth-century church of St. Nicholas and have a look at the Lusatian cemetery, which is right next to it. Head to the Old Water Tower, which is part of the medieval city fortifications, and can be considered a symbol of Bautzen. Another interesting point is the Saint Peter’s Cathedral, which is currently used by both Catholics and Protestants. Our favorite point of interest in Bautzen is the Witch’s House at Fischerpforte gate, which is one of the oldest houses in the town. Last but not least – if you are looking for a perfect souvenir from Bautzen – we recommend Bautz’ner mustard!
Görlitz, selected by Wendy Wernath from The Nomadic Vegan
Görlitz is a picturesque Silesian town in the far east of Germany, just across the border with Poland. It’s very well-preserved and is in fact the largest German town to have escaped damage during World War II. Conveniently located on both the railroad line and the autobahn between Dresden and Wroclaw, Poland, Görlitz is easy to access.
The old town of Görlitz is compact and easy to explore on foot. Sights to seek out during your explorations include the Rathaus, Untermarket Square and the Evangelical Church of Görlitz. And there’s also the Lusatian Neisse River, which serves as the German-Polish border.
One thing you should definitely do while you’re here is to go for a stroll along the Neisse River, enjoying both the natural beauty and the Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque architecture you’ll see along the way. You can also cross the river via the pedestrian footbridge, have a quick lunch in Poland, and enjoy the panoramic view of Görlitz from there.
Those interested in learning more about the local history of the area will also want to visit the Silesia Museum. Or if outdoor sports are more your style, consider hiking up Landeskrone Mountain. It takes about an hour from the Biesnitz tram station and is a lovely stroll on a clear day. If you’re looking for a souvenir, a fun thing to buy is some local Bunzlauer Keramik porcelain. It’s easily recognizable by its distinctive pattern. And finally, at the end of a long day of sightseeing, you deserve to kick back and relax with a bottle of Landskron, the local brew.
The Prettiest Towns in Saxony-Anhalt
Quedlinburg, selected by Frauke Gudde, World Traveler and Nurse
No list of prettiest towns in German is complete without Quedlinburg, the birthplace of the German nation. While it is impossible to name a single prettiest city in Germany, if I had to pick one, it would be Quedlinburg.
It was here in 919 that the Francs offered the crown of unified Germanic tribes to the Saxon Duke Henry, known as Henry the Fowler. Henry’s wife, Saint Matilda, began a religious educational institution for women. Their descendants ruled the empire, building an abbey which still stands on Castle Hill, and a Kaiserpfalz (Imperial Palace) in the valley. A stronghold of power remained for almost 800 years. Then Quedlinburg transformed into a quiet town at the foot of the Harz Mountains, which somehow escaped damage in all the wars, and original houses still stand.
Wandering the winding streets and alleys of Quedlinburg is a pleasure. The old town and its Romanesque structures, and the new town (built in the 13th century,) with its 1,300 half-timbered buildings, are whimsical, charming, and stunning at every turn. There are a week’s worth of discoveries to be had, so bring an extra memory card for your camera!
Things that must be done: visit Castle Hill, the Abbesses Palace, the Schloss Museum, and St. Servitus Church. You will get an amazing view over the new town, tour the luxurious palace, see the tombs of Henry and Matilda, and see the spectacular Quedlinburg Treasure. Another must: a walk through Münzenberg, a sort of shanty town built by the indigent, in, and on top, of convent ruins. It has a unique character, a great view, and a museum.
Other top sites include the Marktplatz, the Finkenherd, the Half-Timber Architecture Museum (Fachwerk Museum), the Museum for Stained Glass and Artistic Handcrafts, and Breiten Straße. If you stay several days, be sure to head to nearby Thale and ride the gondola to the Hexentanplatz, the place where the witches dance, an important pagan worship site. The night of the witches is still celebrated on the mountain every year.
The Prettiest Towns in Schleswig-Holstein
Husum, selected by Kathrin Unbehaun, World Traveler, Retired in Düsseldorf
In my opinion, the small town of Husum is one of the prettiest towns in Germany, and it is not at all what a visitor would expect. Located in the northern-most state of Schleswig-Holstein, Husum is a harbor town, and in many ways it looks like a village on the coast of Ireland or Scotland, with its charming houses and boats along the wharf. There are even herds of sheep along the dikes!
The colorful buildings throughout the old town once housed fishermen and merchants. Today they are filled with unique shops and cafes. Wandering the bay and the cobblestone streets is a lovely way to spend an afternoon, feeling as if you have stepped back in time. If you prefer more structure, pick up a brochure for the culture walk, and check out the 34 different cultural landmarks, or take a tour with a period costumed guide.
The Husum Castle is the only one in this region of Germany, and although its outer appearance is not extremely ornate, the interior is resplendent. Each spring the castle garden is a burst of purple from the field of crocus flowers. There are many legends about who may have planted the flowers, but no one really knows. Other town attractions perpetuate the feeling of being in a fairy tale, from the Maritime Museum, with its ancient fishing boats, to the Poppenspeler Museum, which showcases the history of puppetry, to the Christmas House, which is open all year.
If you go, be sure to try the local delicacy, Husum crabs, which are often served on a sandwich, a slice of Fries Cake, and the local brew Husum-bier. And no visit to the area is complete without a walk on the beach and a trip to the Unesco World Heritage site, the Wadden Sea. The traditional mud walk will make you feel like a kid again.
Mölln, selected by Roxanna Keyes, Gypsy With a Day Job
The tiny town of Mölln is virtually unheard of outside of Germany, but it is certainly one of the most magical and prettiest towns in Germany. Often referred to as Eulenspiegel Town, a monicker that hails from the mythical and fabled character, Till Eulenspiegel. A part of German folklore since the 14th century, Till is known as a jester who traveled throughout the Holy Roman Empire pranking citizens, often, but not always, to provide a moral lesson. It is said that he died in our little town Mölln, and is buried there.
Mölln has a look that stands out, even among a list the prettiest cities in Germany, with its eclectic architecture. There is a combination of half-timbering, burnt red brick, and deep sloping red roofs. It is a striking combination, seldom found.
One of the pleasures of visiting Mölln is starting from the town square, and getting lost among its curving, cobbled streets, or schedule a city walking tour that begins and the Market Square. The tour includes the Church of St. Nicholas, the circa 1373 Town Hall, the Holy Spirit Hospital, and the Customs House from the days as a Salt Road fortress. A stop at the Moellner Museum and the Eulenspiegel Museum are both worthwhile, and when you come across the statue of Till Eulenspiel, be sure to rub his finger and toe for good luck!
Mölln is surrounded by 5 lakes, as well as canals and locks that were part of the Salt Road. This affords abundant outdoor and adventure activities for visitors. There are boats and paddleboats to rent, and 3 hour ship cruises available, as well as multiple swimming areas. The lakes are well stocked with pike, perch and trout, so fishing is also rewarding.
On dry land, at least 3 well marked trail systems surround the city, skirting the canal and lakes, and traveling through hardwood forest. A branch of the Camino de Santiago, the St. James Way, from Scandinavia, passes through Mölln as well. The city parks offer a wildlife park, as well as both a disc golf and miniature golf course.
The Prettiest Towns in Thuringia
Lauscha, selected by Lena Ziems, World Traveler and Expense Accountant
You’ve probably never heard of the village of Lauscha. No worries. Few people outside of Germany have, but this small village is one of the prettiest towns in Germany. No list of the most beautiful towns in German is complete without it!
Lauscha is located in the state of Thuringia, tucked into a valley of the Thüringer Schiefergebirge, which means the Thuringian Slate Hills, which are technically called the Thuringian-Vogtlandian Slate Mountains. Many cities in the region have slate-roofed homes, because it is so plentiful. But Lauscha goes well beyond that. The houses and buildings in the main village are entirely covered in slate tiles. While this obviously does not create the colorful image that many visitors are seeking, it arouses an utterly surreal feeling when entering the town for the first time. When snow falls, it is magical.
If the strange beauty of Lauscha is not enough capture your attention, perhaps its history will. The village is referred to as “the cradle of Christmas tree decorations and baubles.” Just before 1600 the first glass production began in the city, and around 1845 workers began making glass decorations for their Christmas trees because they could not afford the traditional fruit and nut decorations. Within a few years, ornaments spread across Europe, and in the 1870s they crossed the Atlantic.
Today the glass making tradition continues. Visitors can tour 2 different glass production facilities, attend glass blowing workshops, and see centuries worth of unique creations in the Museum of Glass Art. If you go to Lauscha, all are as essential to the experience as meandering the the dusky gray streets.
The best time to visit Lauscha is in the winter, when a dust of snow and the evening lights create a fairytale glow. Enjoy the biggest festivity of the year at the December Bauble Festival, and hit the slopes for skiing, or ski jumping. In warmer months, opt for a mountain toboggan ride and a forest hike. For an all day trek, try the Brunnenroute, which leads through a series of historic fountains and wells in the forest. For a shorter trip, try the Glashütte trail, which follows the glass works history.
Have You Decided which of the Prettiest Towns in Germany to Visit?
There is certainly a lot of variety and different styles among our picks for the prettiest towns in Germany, and hopefully you found one that suits your travel tastes. Germany is a country filled with beautiful places, from natural wonders to man-made sites. Any travel within the country is sure to have a number of worthwhile attractions, but we think including at least one of these most beautiful towns in Germany sort of wraps your trip up with a nice ribbon, and gives you a load of wonderful memories. Check our map, and add one to your itinerary!
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