places to visit in germany in one day

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Best places to visit in germany.

Full of culture, lively locals and great beer, Germany is home to many captivating travel destinations. Whether you're looking to soak up art, architecture and history or imbibe at Oktoberfest, this country appeals to a variety of tourists. U.S. News weighed factors like sights, food, culture, accessibility and value, in addition to expert and traveler opinions, to determine the best places to visit in Germany. Vote for the destinations you love below to help shape next year's ranking.

Black Forest

Berchtesgaden, saxon switzerland national park, neuschwanstein, rüdesheim am rhein.

One of the best places to see Germany's natural splendor is the fairy tale-inspiring Black Forest. This section of Baden-Württemberg encompasses more than 2,000 square miles of enchanting waterfall-filled forests, rolling hills and lengthy valleys dotted with half-timbered villages. A great introduction to the Black Forest is driving along its scenic namesake highway (Schwarzwaldhochstrasse); be sure to start or end your journey in the spa town of Baden-Baden to benefit from its thermal springs. You'll also want to save time for visiting gorgeous natural wonders like the picture-perfect Triberg Waterfalls, Lake Titisee and the Feldberg, the Black Forest's highest peak.

Germany's capital city is akin to Paris and London in that you just can't visit the country without going. Like many large cities, Berlin offers something for everyone, from a lively nightlife scene to restorative green spaces. Those looking take in the arts can explore the impactful East Side Gallery (on the Berlin Wall) or visit the more traditional art galleries at Museum Island. Berlin also pays homage to its ominous past with powerful and humbling attractions. Must-visit historical sites include the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.

Visitors flock to Munich every fall to take part in Oktoberfest, a two-week-long ode to Bavarian traditions featuring Germany's best beers and bratwurst. But Munich, one of the largest German cities, offers so much more than just this festival. The city is home to beautiful gardens, exquisite churches and engaging museums worth exploring. Wander around Munich's charming neighborhoods and spend some time in Marienplatz, a central square that's home to the world-famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel and hosts a popular Christmas market.

First-time visitors to this historic German city should make a beeline for Cologne Cathedral – this breathtaking example of Gothic architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city's most popular landmark. Meanwhile, travelers with a sweet tooth should make time in their schedule for a tour of Cologne's Chocolate Museum. Other activities include relaxing on the lawn at Rheinpark, exploring Cologne's Old Town, cruising the Rhine River and taking in spectacular city views from a cable car. Visit in February or March when Cologne's annual Carnival celebration takes place, an event featuring festivities like masked balls, parades and parties.

For a memorable vacation in the Bavarian Alps, visit Berchtesgaden. This destination, which sits on the Austrian border, captivates visitors with its massive peaks, cascading forests, deep valleys and Alpine lakes and river that make up Berchtesgaden National Park. Start your journey driving the scenic Rossfeld Panoramastrasse road before traveling south to awe-inspiring Lake Königssee and the Eagle's Nest, a mountaintop chalet and beer garden with a dark history. If you enjoy skiing, arrive in winter when Jenner Mountain is blanketed with snow.

Go off the beaten track on your next getaway by heading to this Bavarian city in southeast Germany. Boasting centuries-old architecture and a prime location along the Danube River, Regensburg is known as one of Germany's oldest and best-preserved medieval cities. Most of Regensburg's top attractions can be found in the city's UNESCO-listed Old Town, including landmarks like St. Peter's Cathedral, Haidplatz Square and the Old Stone Bridge. Other sights worth visiting include St. Emmeram's Palace and Walhalla, a hall of fame honoring exemplary German-speaking figures throughout history.

Dresden is made for architecture enthusiasts. The city, which is located in eastern Germany near the Czech border, features remarkable facades and edifices adorned with ornate architectural details. Though you'll have your pick of stunning structures, make sure you visit the Dresden Zwinger (a Baroque-style palace) and Dresden Royal Palace (a Renaissance landmark where the Fürstenzug, the world's largest porcelain picture, resides). If you prefer modern architecture, head to Kunsthofpassage to gaze at its quirky buildings, one of which has singing drainpipes. And those visiting during festive season can't miss Striezelmarkt, one of Germany's oldest and largest Christmas markets.

This city in southwestern Germany is well known for housing the country's oldest university. However, its good looks and superb location along the Neckar River also make it a great destination to enjoy old-world character and a small-town ambiance. To see as much of this beautiful city as possible, take a long stroll through Heidelberg's old town and across its picturesque Old Bridge. Then, ride the funicular railway to Heidelberg Castle, and continue on to Königstuhl for impressive views. Additional must-see sights to add to your vacation itinerary include the Philosopher's Walk, Heidelberg Zoo and the Student Prison at Heidelberg University.

Boasting elaborate churches and palaces around every corner, Würzburg is a photographer's paradise. From the Baroque-style Würzburg Residence to the Romanesque Würzburg Cathedral, there are countless buildings worth exploring. Not only can travelers enjoy beautiful architecture, they can expect manicured gardens and parks, such as Ringpark and the University of Würzburg's Botanical Garden, along with numerous vineyards and estates offering wine tastings (Würzburg is located in Germany's Franken wine region). When you're not sipping on delicious vino, consider snapping a photo of Würzburg's iconic Old Main Bridge.

Home to Germany's largest cruise port, the Elbe river and numerous canals flowing through the city center, Hamburg is a great place to explore by boat. But for those on foot, many top attractions are clustered in the heart of the city, including the Alter Elbtunnel and Planten un Blomen park. Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth visiting, offers Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway system that enraptures visitors of all ages. Plus, Hamburg is a haven for music lovers with its impressive Elbphilharmonie complex, which features two concert halls and a plaza with sweeping city views.

Saxon Switzerland National Park stands out for its collection of unique rock formations. You'll find sandstone structures, which come in various shapes and sizes, scattered throughout the park, along with scenic gorges and the winding Elbe river. Saxon Switzerland's most popular attraction is undoubtedly the Bastei Bridge, which is surrounded by stately formations and provides incredible views of the area. Other fascinating spots worth visiting include Painters' Way (the Malerweg trail), the Elbe Cycle Route and Felsenbühne Rathen, an open-air theater built into the park's rocks.

Leipzig offers an array of attractions and activities (think: various museums, an impressive zoo and top-notch nightlife venues) to satisfy both residents and visitors. Prioritize visits to the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, which celebrates Napoleon Bonaparte's defeat and retreat from the city, and the unique Panometer, a converted gasometer-turned-gallery that features 360-degree art installations. If you're a music lover, also save time for exploring the Leipzig Music Trail and seeing St. Thomas Church, which houses Johann Sebastian Bach's remains.

Though Neuschwanstein Castle was never meant for visitors, it has become one of Germany's most popular tourist attractions. King Ludwig II commissioned the castle as a place of refuge from public life. Today, more than 1 million people stroll through the property every year. The castle's Romanesque Revival-style is certainly romantic; in fact, it inspired Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. But what elevates this castle to bucket list status is its unbelievable setting, perched in the Bavarian Alps. From the castle, travelers can get an eyeful of the surrounding mountains, Alpine lakes and striking foliage (especially during fall).

Frankfurt is best known as the financial capital of the eurozone thanks to it housing the European Central Bank, but don't assume the city is nothing more than a concrete jungle. Frankfurt doubles as a tourist-friendly destination with all kinds of attractions. Here, you'll find the Frankfurt Museum Embankment, a riverside perimeter that comprises dozens of museums, including the popular Städel Museum. Other noteworthy sights include the city's colorful old town, the Main Tower observation deck and the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden.

Head to this small medieval city in northern Bavaria to feel as if you've stepped back in time. Bamberg is famous for housing notable Enlightenment-era writers and philosophers like E.T.A. Hoffmann and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Plus, Bamberg boasts a gorgeous location along the Regnitz river and a collection of exquisite architectural beauties, including the Romanesque and Gothic Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. But no visit would be complete without seeing the dreamy rose garden at the New Residence palace.

Primarily known for its winemaking capabilities, Rüdesheim am Rhein is a small village located at the base of the Taunus Mountains in Germany's Upper Middle Rhine Valley. While you'll surely want to spend the majority of your time here sampling Rüdesheim am Rhein's famous riesling, you should save time for other activities as well. The restaurant- and market-lined Drosselgasse alley is a perfect place to hear live music, and you'd be remiss to skip the one-of-a-kind Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet during your trip. Another worthwhile activity is a castle cruise along the Rhine River.

The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is a must-visit destination due to its well-preserved history (both medieval and more recent). The city's darker World War II connections are on display at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials museum. Go further back in time with a visit to the vast, all-encompassing Germanisches Nationalmuseum, which includes artwork from prehistoric times to today. Then, wind your way through old town's endearing streets, where you'll find half-timbered houses, a 14th-century fountain and the imposing Imperial Castle, which dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

Located roughly 20 miles southwest of bustling Berlin, Potsdam makes for a perfect day trip. The city offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere complete with parks and eye-catching historical landmarks. The city's most popular attraction, Sanssouci Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so breathtaking that it is often compared to Versailles. The palace's name means "without a care," so plan on spending unhurried hours there taking in its splendor and the surrounding grounds. You'll also want to save time for visiting the Museum Barberini and strolling through the charming Dutch Quarter.

Sitting on the banks of the Rhine River about 80 miles northwest of Frankfurt, Koblenz is overlooked by the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This idyllic setting is an added bonus to the city's strong cultural offerings, which range from institutions like the DB Museum Koblenz and the Ludwig Museum Koblenz to sights like the German Corner. You should also make time for a ride on the Koblenz Cable Car, which offers panoramic views of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Plus, with access to both the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is an excellent destination for a river cruise (many routes take travelers past vineyards, castles and more).

Upon first glance, Lübeck might look like any other mid-size German city. However, this northern destination with Nordic beauty holds plenty of historical significance, so much so that UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site. Between the 12th and 16th centuries, Lübeck was considered one of Europe's most important trading ports. The city still remains a hub for maritime commerce with its location on the Baltic Sea. After learning more about Lübeck's maritime roots at the European Hansemuseum, travelers can check out the stately Holsten Gate in the city's charming old town or explore its many waterways during a boat tour.

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8 of the best places to visit in Germany

May 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan your trip to Germany with this guide to the best places to visit © Westend61 / Getty Images

At the heart of Western Europe  is  Germany , a boundless feast for travelers.

Its endless variety of historic yet cutting-edge cities, romantic forests, and cultural riches can often make the task of planning a visit daunting. It would take a lifetime to see all of this fascinating country’s highlights, so take it slow and make a start with our guide to the very best places to visit in Germany.

1. The Middle Rhine Valley (the Rhine Gorge)

As the Rhine , Germany’s second-longest river, flows south from Koblenz , it cuts a gorge through a gasp-inducing landscape of vineyards and castles. The stretch between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, known as the Oberes Mittelrheintal (Upper Middle Rhine Valley) is so special it won UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2002.

A land heavily contested over the centuries, the Oberes Mittelrheintal harbors wonderful castles like  Pfalzgrafstein ,  Burg Rheinstein ,  Burg Reichenstein and Koblenz’s mighty Festung Ehrenbreitstein .

Planning tip:  Make time to visit some of the many wineries and wine bars here. We recommend Bingen’s Weingut Georg Breuer,   Alte Weinstube Zum Hubertus in Koblenz and Zum Grünen Baum in Bacharach.

2. Cologne 

Cologne (Köln) is known for its liberal climate and its wealth of historic sights. Taking its name from the Romans (who founded it in the first century CE as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium), it’s been a major center of German history for centuries.

The most tangible symbol of Cologne’s importance and the essential sight is its magnificent 13th-century Gothic cathedral. The Kölner Dom  is Germany’s largest church, and was also Europe’s highest building until eclipsed by the  Eiffel Tower . Other must-see historical and cultural attractions include the  Römisch-Germanisches (Romano-Germanic) Museum and the sublime collection of 13th- to the 19th-century European art at the  Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud . 

Planning tip:  Pick up a  KölnCard  at the  Cologne Tourist Board office (adjacent to the cathedral) or at any KVB or DB ticket machines. A 24-hour individual ticket (€9) gets you unlimited public transport and up to 50% off at many cultural attractions, restaurants and shops.

Looking for more budget tips? Here's our money-saving guide to visiting Germany

3. The Baltic Coast

Northern Germany’s Baltic Coast represents a side of the country not many visitors anticipate. The indented southern coast of the Baltic Sea hides great swathes of pure sand, susurrating pines and pristine nature sanctuaries. Highlights include the former Hanseatic power Stralsund, a classic of red-brick Gothic gabled architecture; the sheer cliffs of  Jasmund National Park  on Rügen Island ; and the birdlife and beauty of the Darss-Zingst Peninsula.

Driving in Germany? Here are the best road trips

4. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Perhaps the most enchanting village along the entire 400km (250 miles) of the Romantic Road ,  Rothenburg ob der Tauber (meaning “above the Tauber river”) is a wonderfully preserved example of a medieval German village. Strict heritage protection ensures that every turn reveals meandering cobbled lanes, glimpses of the intact city walls and venerable churches. See the local treasures collected in the  Reichsstadtmuseum , housed in a former Dominican convent, and the  Alt-Rothenburger Handwerkerhaus , where weavers, potters and other craftspeople ply their trade as they have done for over seven centuries.

5. Munich and the Bavarian Alps

Munich (München), the capital of the Free State of Bavaria (Freistaat Bayern) is the city most visitors associate with “classic” German culture – for while Germany is in fact a patchwork of cultures and dialects, it’s often the Bavarian model of Bierkellers , Bratwurst and Lederhosen that outsiders have in mind. Munich is no cliché, though: Germany’s third-largest city is a center of high-tech manufacturing and cutting-edge culture, as well as the gateway to the magnificent Bavarian Alps .

Essential sights and experiences include the  Residenzmuseum , the former palace of Bavaria’s ruling Wittelsbach dynasty; the museum-packed  Kunstareal district; and the gracious 17th-century Schloss Nymphenburg . An easy drive south of Munich lie the forested mountains, photogenic villages and ski- and spa-resorts of the beautiful Bavarian Alps.

Planning tip:  Oktoberfest  – the beer festival that starts each year in September – is synonymous with Munich, and is the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Accommodations are booked solid long in advance, so plan ahead.

Time your visit to Munich right with this seasonal guide

6. Erfurt and Weimar

The proximate central-German cities of  Erfurt and Weimar represent an astonishing concentration of cultural achievement and historic significance. Erfurt, capital of Thuringia , has one of Germany’s loveliest medieval centers, while Weimar stands tall as the capital of the eponymous 20th-century Republic, and before that the home of cultural luminaries such as Bach, Goethe, Schiller and Nietzsche.

Erfurt’s essential sights include its  cathedral , where Martin Luther was ordained, and the vast, baroque  Zitadelle Petersberg . In Weimar, make time for the Goethe-Nationalmuseum , in a building that was the author’s home of 50 years; the UNESCO-listed Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek ; and the modernist treasures of the Bauhaus Museum , which also originated here.

7. The Black Forest

Bordering France and Switzerland , the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a vast woodland of more than 6000 sq km (2316 sq miles). From its spruce-swaddled slopes to deep valleys broken by silvery lakes and traditional villages and farmsteads, this diverse rural playground just begs to be explored by car, cycle or foot.

If you’re pressed for time, a drive along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse ( Black Forest High Road ) from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt unfurls a series of gorgeous vistas. If you have more time, consider hiking the 40km (25-mile)  Panoramaweg or the 12km (7.5-mile)  Feldberg–Steig to the forest’s highest peak. Population centers you should definitely include on your visit include Triberg, with its waterfall and cuckoo clocks; the laid-back university town of Freiburg ; and Alpirsbach, with its 11th-century Benedictine monastery .

Planning tip: While travelers are naturally drawn to the Black Forest’s great outdoors, it would be a mistake to overlook the region’s excellent cuisine. There’s Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest gâteau), of course – while lesser-known specialities include venison Baden-Baden , smoked Schwartzwalder Schinken (ham) and skinless lange rote (long red) sausages from Freiburg.

Don't miss Germany's best flavors with this guide to food and drink

No list of German highlights would be complete without the country’s capital and dynamic cultural engine room. Germany’s most populous city,  Berlin is a bountiful beast of a place, with some of the country’s definitive museums, dining, art and – perhaps above all – nightlife.

Boisterous Berlin has long had a bohemian streak. While you should definitely make time to for cultural highlights like the Mies van der Rohe–designed Neue Nationalgalerie and the treasure trove that is Museumsinsel (Museum Island), those seeking a party will surely find it in iconic venues like  Berghain and  Pratergarten , where beer and bonhomie have flowed together since 1837. As ever, Berlin’s party people continue to innovate . 

Planning tip:  Before you hit town, get yourself a Berlin Welcome Card online. It's available for varying periods of time, from 48-hours to 6-days, and gives unlimited rides on public transport , free entry to more than 30 top attractions plus up to 50% off entry to over 150 more, as well as other benefits.

Explore Berlin one neighborhood at a time with our guide

This article was first published Jun 3, 2021 and updated May 9, 2024.

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How to Spend One Magical Day in Munich (Itinerary + Travel Tips!)

Some cities are just so relaxing, and so downright enjoyable, that visiting always puts a smile on your face–and after spending one day in Munich, we hope you’ll agree that the capital of Bavaria is one of them!

Munich always brings to mind the word livable for us: while the sightseeing is excellent, it’s the atmosphere that truly makes Munich stand out (something that it has in common with Madrid , at least for us).

Nicknamed the “Village of a Million People” (or Millionendorf), Munich manages to simultaneously live up to its status as stately (former) capital city while offering the relaxed pace of a much smaller one.

If your idea of spending 24 hours in Munich (or less!) involves a palace, a church or two, plenty of wandering, delicious food, beautiful parks, a few unexpected highlights, and–of course–some excellent beer, then we put together this one day Munich itinerary for you.

Here’s how to fall in love with Munich in a day!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate One Day in Munich Itinerary

Where to stay in munich for a day, more than 24 hours in munich, germany, getting around during one day in munich, quick tips for visiting munich in a day, read more about visiting germany (and central europe), your one day munich itinerary map.

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Start your morning at Marienplatz.

Where better to begin your one day in Munich than in the very heart of the city?

Marienplatz has been Munich’s central square for going on 1000 years, and it remains one of the best places to visit in Munich!

Notable buildings include the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall, which now houses a toy museum) and Neus Rathaus (New Town Hall), which are some of the most recognizable structures in the city.

Don’t miss the gorgeous Glockenspiel on the side of the Neus Rathaus!

It dances daily at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, and between March and October, you’ll have a third chance to catch it at 5:00 PM as well.

You’ll likely be a bit too early to catch it right now, but don’t worry–you’ll have another chance in a bit.

Soak up views of Munich from above at the Neus Rathaus or Peterskirche.

Before leaving the Marienplatz area, take the time to get a birds-eye view of the famous square and of Munich as a whole!

You have two options to do so: head to the top of the Neus Rathaus, or to the top of Peterskirche, which is Munich’s oldest church and worth visiting whether you climb the tower or not.

Opinions abound on which boasts the better view, but it’s safe to say you won’t be disappointed with either!

The two viewpoints more or less face each other, so decide whether you want to admire Marienplatz when looking to the south from the Neus Rathaus or to the north from Peterskirche (also affectionately known as Alter Peter, or “Old Peter”).

One other very notable difference?

Heading to the top of the Neus Rathaus involves an elevator… while heading to the top of Alter Peter requires a 306-step climb.

Make your way over to Viktualienmarkt.

The bustling Viktualienmarkt, or Victuals Market, is a must-see when trying to sample Munich in a day!

Located a very short walk from Marienplatz, the Viktualienmarkt was once a farmer’s market, but today caters more to foodies and souvenir shoppers–though if you’re hankering from some produce, you’ll still find that, too.

You’ll also find Munich’s very own Maypole here, as well as the city’s most central beer garden.

As the first of 2 beer gardens (potentially) included on this Munich itinerary, you may or may not want to stop for a drink–but it’s a wonderful place to do so!

The Viktualienmarkt Beer Garden offers a rotating selection of beer from Munich’s six major local breweries, so there’s no telling exactly what you’ll find on tap.

Bringing your own snacks is encouraged, so feel free to browse the market and then sit down to enjoy your purchases over a drink.

It’s worth noting that the Viktualienmarkt Beer Garden is also open year-round, weather permitting, while most beer gardens are seasonal.

If you’re hoping to enjoy this Bavarian tradition but are visiting Munich in winter, the Viktualienmarkt Beer Garden is your best bet for enjoying an outdoor brew.

Check out the Devil’s Footprint at Frauenkirche.

After enjoying the Viktualienmarkt, it’s time to head to another one of Munich’s most beautiful churches–but check the time, because you might want to pay a visit to the Glockenspiel in Marienplatz on the way!

From there, enjoy a very short walk over to Frauenkirche.

With its distinctive twin towers, Frauenkirche is one of Munich’s most iconic buildings–but it’s also known for a legendary visitor!

There are several versions of the story , but one way or the other, a very distinct footprint in Frauenkirche is attributed to the devil paying a visit to this Bavarian Cathedral.

Located just inside the entrance to the church, shortly before you enter the sanctuary, it’s one of the most popular things to see at Frauenkirche, so keep an eye out!

Odds are that there will be several people standing around photographing the footprint (and/or comparing their own footprint to the devil’s) when you walk in.

Fraunekirche is free to visit, with the exception of getting an audio guide or climbing one of the towers, which you most likely won’t have time for when trying to see Munich in 24 hours or less.

Step into Odeonsplatz.

One of Munich’s most important squares, Odeonplatz is dominated on one side by the bright yellow Theatinekirche, on another by the Munich Residenz (more on those two below), and on a third by the famous Feldherrnhalle.

If the Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshals’ Hall) looks familiar, you might have been to Tuscany!

The Feldherrnhalle  was built in the 19th century as a replica of the Loggia dei Lanzi, which stands on the Piazza dell Signoria in Florence (right around the corner from the Uffizi Museum).

The Odeonplatz is also home to some dark history: it was the site of a deadly confrontation between German police officers and upcoming Nazis during the climax of the 1923 Beer Hall Putsch.

During the time of the Third Reich, a statue of Hitler stood here that passersby were expected to honor.

The statue was demolished in 1945.

If you’re curious about this chapter in Munich’s past, this well-reviewed Third Reich walking tour covers the rise and fall of, as well as the resistance to, the Nazis in Munich in far more detail.

… and stop to form your own opinion of Theatinekirche.

Built between 1663 and 1688, the Theatinekirche (officially the Church of St. Kajetan) is a bit controversial among visitors: not everyone is a fan of the bright yellow facade!

Like its next-door neighbor, Feldherrnhalle, the Theatinekirche takes inspiration from Italian architecture and features an opulent Baroque interior that is light on color but heavy on details.

Theatinekirche is free, quick, and easy to see, so be sure to step inside as you pass by when visiting Munich!

Marvel at the Munich Residenz.

For more than 400 years, the Wittelsbach royal family ruled Bavaria from the Munich Residenz–and today, you can step inside and tour it for yourself!

What started in the 14th century as a modest medieval castle grew and changed enormously over the centuries until the opulent palace that we see today took shape.

Today, the Munich Residenz is the largest urban palace in Germany, and visiting is one of the absolute best things to do in Munich.

Thanks to its many centuries of growth, you’ll see a wide variety of architectural styles on display, from Renaissance to Baroque to Rococo (so much Rococo!) and beyond.

Of all the roughly 120 rooms in the palace, the Antiquarium, which was housed to hold the monarchs’ collection of antiques, is arguably the best-known (and it’s quite the marvel in person):

Want to see a different side of the Munich Residenz?

If your one day in Munich happens to be a Saturday, you can enjoy a concert in the Residenz’s chapel !

(Other concerts are occasionally offered throughout the year, so if you’re a classical music fan, check and see if there’s anything available at the time of your trip.)

Whether you visit at night for a concert or not, though, touring the many rooms of the Munich Residenz should absolutely be a priority during your day in Munich.

Meander through Hofgarten.

With only a day in Munich to work with, you won’t need to spend long in the beautiful Hofgarten–but it’s worth stopping by!

The Royal Garden dates to the 17th century and was once the exclusive strolling grounds of the aristocracy.

Don’t miss the Diana Temple while you’re there!

Make your way through the Englischer Garden to the Chinese Tower.

As you leave Hofgarten, it’s time to make your way into another park: the Englischer Garden, which is one of the largest urban parks in the world (even beating out Central Park in New York City and Hyde Park in London).

The park is expansive enough that there’s no way to see it all, but here are a few things to keep an eye out for.

Haus der Knust

As you enter the park, you’ll pass the formidable Haus der Knust.

Today, the building holds Munich’s Museum of Contemporary Art, but the building itself is also known for being the first major example of Nazi architecture.

Monopoteros

Built in 1836, this beautiful round gazebo offers beautiful views of the Englischer Garden, as well as of the rooftops of the Altstadt in the distance.

Chinesischer Turm

The Chinesischer Turm, or Chinese Tower, is a bit of a hike from the edge of the Englischer Garden–and in fact, walking here makes up a decent chunk of the actual distance covered in this Munich itinerary, so feel free to skip it if you’re short on time!

However, if you’re visiting Munich on a beautiful day, the Chinesischer Turm also offers one of the city’s most popular and idyllic beer gardens, perfect for relaxing while enjoying any extra time you have this afternoon.

Just don’t bother hiking over if the weather is too cold or wet: the beer garden’s hours are weather-dependent.

The tower also hosts a Christmas market during the holiday season!

And, as you walk back to Munich’s Altstadt, there’s one more place at the edge of the Englischer Garden to see…

Stop to admire Munich’s dedicated river surfers on your way back into the center.

Munich is a city known for its quirks, its easy access to nature, and its melding of the old and new… and a very fun example of that energy can be found at Eisbachwelle, one of the most famous river surfing spots in the world.

Year-round, very experienced (and sometimes professional) surfers jump into the river one after the other to ride the famous man-made wave, usually with plenty of onlookers around to watch them!

Eisbachwelle is located on the southern edge of the Englischer Garden, and you could easily see it on your way into the park as well.

However, since you’ll need to loop back into the center of town regardless, we placed them at the end of your park tour for the purposes of this itinerary for Munich.

You can find the right place by directing your GPS to Eisbachwelle or Eisbachbrücke (the name of the bridge where visitors watch the surfers).

Wrap up your one day in Munich with touristy fun and classic Bavarian food at Hofbräuhaus.

Dating to 1589, Munich’s iconic Hofbräuhaus is touristy in all the best ways.

Yes, you’ll be surrounded by many other visitors when eating and drinking there (plus some Munich residents shepherding their guests from out of town around), but you’ll also almost certainly have a great time, and spend far less than you might think for such an iconic location!

Classic Bavarian food like pork knuckle, pretzels, potatoes, and Bavarian meatloaf are featured on the menu, along with the classic beer served by the liter (if you haven’t ordered a full liter of beer yet in Munich, it’s worth ordering one for the photo op alone).

Prefer to step (ever so slightly) off the beaten path?

Augustiner, another beloved Munich brewery and one of our favorites, has a restaurant location right in front of the Frauenkirche.

Want to taste several varieties of Bavarian food and beer while learning a bit about Munich’s beer history?

If so, then this Bavarian beer and food culture tour might be right for you!

Book your Bavarian food and culture tour today!

On our most recent stay in Munich, we loved basing ourselves at Hotel Concorde !

The location, on a quiet street just a 7-minute walk from Marienplatz, was perfect, the room crisp and modern, the staff friendly, and the included breakfast great (we ate a lot of traditional sausages and pretzels for breakfast, among many other things).

For travelers on a budget, Hotel Kreis Residenz München gets great reviews, but note that you’ll be compromising significantly on location, so be prepared for a decent U-Bahn ride into the city center before kicking off your sightseeing!

Looking to splurge?

If so, then the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Munich is an incredible place to stay.

Check rates & book your stay in Munich today!

If you’re lucky enough to have more than one day in Munich, it’s time to start thinking a bit further afield–literally!

Attractions like the Nymphenburg Palace (the summer residence of the Kings of Bavaria), Olympic Park (grounds of the 1972 Summer Olympics), and the Alte Pinakothek (just one of several wonderful art museums in Munich) are all excellent options for extending your trip.

Autophiles will be drawn to the BMW Museum and BMW World (my stepmom is a big car fan and loved them), while those looking for a science and technology museum will love the Deutsches Museum, and football fans will want to tour the Allianz Arena .

If you’re looking to splurge on some shopping (or even just enjoy some luxury window shopping), head to the famous Maximilianstrasse.

In addition to all the cool things to do in Munich itself, though, it’s also hard to miss that the capital of Bavaria is one of the best-connected cities by train in Europe–meaning that the day trip possibilities are endless!

Just a handful of the best day trips from Munich include Neuschwanstein Castle , Nuremberg, Salzburg (only an hour away by train despite being across the border!), and Dachau (both the town and memorial site).

Looking to enjoy some time in nature?

Consider heading up to Zugspitze in the Bavarian Alps to enjoy views from the highest point in Germany (and–this being Bavaria–beers at the highest beer garden in Germany while you’re at it).

We designed this one day Munich itinerary to be completely walkable, and travelers who love to meander on foot won’t need any other transport to get around!

The route covers just under an hour and a half of walking, not including any time spent in each attraction (touring the Residenz, browsing the stalls at the Viktualienmarkt, etc.).

If you’re staying far outside the Altstadt or are taking a day trip to Munich from another city, you’ll want to take the U-Bahn (metro) or S-Bahn (commuter rail) to Marienplatz to kick off your day in Munich.

Hoping to avoid walking, or have some attractions well outside the Altstadt (like Olympic Park or Nymphenburg Palace) on your Munich bucket list?

If so, a hop-on/hop-off bus tour might be right for you.

Consider booking a tour to dive deeper into the city.

When trying to get an overview of Munich in a day, it’s hard to dive too deep into any one subject–but if you want to learn more about Munich’s history, booking an organized tour with a knowledgeable guide is a great way to do so!

For example, this popular bike tour will allow you to cover a wider geography than we included here.

For history buffs, this well-reviewed Third Reich tour offers an introduction to Munich’s Nazi-connected past.

And, for foodies whose love of Munich’s history is closely tied to its most famous drink, this Bavarian beer and food culture tour offers a chance to learn about (read: taste) far more varieties of beer than you’ll likely have time for on your own with only one day in Munich to work with!

Book your cultural tour of Munich today!

Come prepared with cash!

While credit cards are more widely accepted every year, Germany is still a very cash-based society in many ways.

There’s a good chance that you’ll find yourself reaching for your Euros more often than you might think during your day in Munich!

To make sure you’re not caught unaware, come prepared with cash, especially in places like beer gardens and when browsing the stalls at Viktualienmarkt.

Prepare for crowds during seasonal events.

If you happen to be planning a trip to Munich for Oktoberfest or the Christmas markets , you’re going to have a fantastic time.

However, some of the typical attractions that you’d like to see during a day in Munich might be impacted.

Crowded and pricey hotels (book ASAP if you’re visiting for an event), seasonal closings (see: beer gardens), and weather can all impact your trip, so keep that in mind as you plan.

Don’t plan to shop on Sundays.

Shops–including grocery stores–typically close on Sundays in Germany.

If you have any shopping planned, be sure to keep the day of the week in mind as you plan your 24 hours in Munich.

Tourist attractions and restaurants in central areas are generally less impacted by this, but it’s good to plan ahead!

Planning a trip to Germany soon and eager to keep reading?

You can browse our Germany blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• How to Travel Europe By Train: The Ultimate Guide (+ Tips!)
• Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle: A Fairytale Day Trip
• How to Celebrate Christmas in Europe: Itinerary Ideas, Tips + FAQ!
• Salzburg in Winter: A Massively Detailed Guide
• 17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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One Day in Cologne (Itinerary + Rhine River Cruise)

• Milena Yordanova
• August 22, 2024

A complete itinerary for one day in Cologne (+ a map with all must-see attractions, where to try the famous Kölsch beer and the best castles to visit near Cologne).

Cologne, also known as Köln in German, is the largest city in the North Rhine-Westphalia region . The city is famous for its iconic Gothic cathedral , known as the Kölner Dom, and its lively beer culture featuring the local brew, Kölsch. There’s also a chocolate museum where you can discover the history of chocolate and enjoy tasty samples!

Founded by the ancient Romans, Cologne boasts a history spanning over 2000 years. During the Middle Ages, the city became one of the most important cities in the Holy Roman Empire. It was a major centre of trade and commerce, due to its strategic location on the Rhine River. Today, Cologne is a modern and vibrant city that has something for everyone, whether you’re into history, art, food or nightlife.

Best 1-day Cologne Itinerary

With its key landmarks, all conveniently located in Altstadt (Old Town), exploring Cologne in a day is entirely feasible. Yet, there are plenty of attractions near the city worth visiting, such as the imperial city of Aachen, the magnificent Drachenburg Castle, and the beautiful Augustusburg Palace. Thus, if possible, I’d recommend spending more than a day in Cologne!

This itinerary for one day in Cologne covers all popular attractions , including the iconic cathedral, the Chocolate Museum and where to find the best Kölsch beer in the city . You’ll also find several recommendations for one-day trips from Cologne, including the best nearby castles and cities to visit.

One Day in Cologne Itinerary (for first-timers)

Breakfast at bakery merzenich.

• Visit the famous Cologne Cathedral
• Enjoy the views of Hohenzollern Bridge
• House of Fragrances 4711 and its iconic Eau de Cologne

Lunch at Café Chocolate

• Visit the Imhoff Chocolate Museum
• Taste the local beer Kölsch at Peters Brauhaus
• Day trips: Siebengebirge Cruise, Aachen, Koblenz, Augustusburg Palace and Drachenburg Castle

In my experience, you’ll need at least one full day to explore Cologne and enjoy the city without feeling rushed. Yet, if you’re visiting in December during the famous Christmas market, I suggest extending your stay by at least another day. There are several big Christmas markets to discover! Right after this 1-day itinerary, you’ll find recommendations on how to see the city for 2 and 3 days in case you have extra time to spare.

Tips on your 1-day Cologne itinerary

Accommodation – have you already secured your hotel? Ensure it’s conveniently located by checking my guide on where to stay in Cologne .

My favourite place to stay in Cologne : Legend Hotel Why : ideal central location, just a short stroll away from Cologne Cathedral and train station What I like : rooftop bar with cathedral view, fantastic restaurant

Sightseeing – I suggest visiting the Cologne Cathedral first thing in the morning since it’s the most popular attraction and tends to get crowded later in the day.

Map – find here a map of this 1-day itinerary for Cologne (with all attractions and restaurants’ websites).

One Day in Cologne Itinerary

08:30 AM – 09:30 AM

Start your one day in Cologne with breakfast at Bakery Merzenich on Wallrafplatz. This famous bakery is located right beside the iconic cathedral, Kölner Dom. They offer a large range of good sweet and savoury pastries, perfect for a quick breakfast. Try any of their classics like the nougat pretzel, Bee Sting (cake with vanilla pudding cream) or Kölner Röggelchen (sandwich with Gouda and mustard). My personal favourites are the crispy nougat pretzel and the cheese pretzel.

Cologne Cathedral

09:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is not only the city’s most iconic landmark but also a symbol of the city itself. It has survived wars and conflicts over the centuries and remains a symbol of Cologne’s resilience and heritage.

The construction of Kölner Dom began in 1248, but it wasn’t completed until 1880, spanning over six centuries. It was built to house the relics of the Three Kings (Magi), making it an important pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages. The cathedral’s stunning facade features intricate stone carvings, spires, and flying buttresses. Its twin towers stand at around 157 meters (515 feet) tall, making them visible from many parts of the city.

There are free organ concerts in the cathedral during the summer period . The concerts are held every Tuesday at 09:00 PM (see all available concerts here ).

It is possible to climb the narrow staircase (533 steps) to the top of the south tower for panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River. Along the way, you’ll see the eight bells of the cathedral, including the massive 24-ton St. Peter’s Bell (Petersglocke). The entrance to the tower is outside the cathedral, on the right side of the main entrance.

There is no possibility to reserve your tickets in advance Entry ticket : free for the cathedral , €7 – Cathedral Treasury, €6 – to climb the south tower (no lift)

I’ve travelled a lot, but the Cologne Cathedral is one of the most impressive cathedrals I’ve ever seen. I strongly suggest taking the time to explore its stunning interior.

The Cathedral Treasury is located outside of the cathedral, on the left side of the main entrance. It houses a rich collection of church relics dating from the Middle Ages. The treasury keeps the Shrine of the Three Kings , a golden sarcophagus that holds the crowned skulls and clothes of the Three Wise Men. The relic was brought from Milan by Holy Roman Emperor Fredrick Barbarossa and given to the Archbishop of Köln, Rainald von Dassel in 1164. Another notable treasure is the Gero Cross (Gero Kreuz). Carved in 976, it is the oldest crucifix north of the Alps that has survived to this day.

Hohenzollern Bridge

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

For the most iconic views of the cathedral , head to Hohenzollern Bridge. Built in the early 20th century, this bridge links the cathedral on the west side of the Rhine River with Rheinboulevard on the east side.

House of Fragrances 4711

11:15 AM – 11:45 AM

House of Fragrances 4711 is the birthplace of the famous Eau de Cologne and modern perfume. Wilhelm Mülhens founded the factory in 1792 on Cologne’s Glockengasse street, where today you’ll find the flagship store.

The most famous product of 4711 is its signature fragrance, also known as Eau de Cologne (meaning water from Cologne). Created by Italian perfumer Johann Maria Farina, it features citrus scents such as lemon, orange, bergamot, and neroli. The name 4711 comes from the factory’s house number, which was assigned during the French occupation in the 19th century.

Don’t miss the fragrance fountain, filled with the original Eau de Cologne ! Find out more about the history of this famous fragrance, by taking this guided tour of House of Fragrances 4711 (every Saturday at 1 PM).

12:00 PM – 01:50 PM

For lunch make your way to Café Chocolate , the best place for brunch in Cologne in my opinion. I tasted the Avocado Bread with poached egg and the Tomato Mozzarella Bread, both were fantastic. However, the highlight was the Crowaffel – a waffle made with croissant dough. The Pistachio Crowaffel was absolutely delicious!

If you’re craving a second dessert (and who doesn’t), head to Ice Cream United . Their ice cream is made fresh on-site, and it has a smooth and creamy texture. I like the pistachio and hazelnut flavours the most.

Imhoff Chocolate Museum

02:00 PM – 04:00 PM

Situated on the banks of the Rhine River, Imhoff Chocolate Museum is the most popular museum in Cologne . It was founded in 1993 by Hans Imhoff, a well-known German chocolate manufacturer. The Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum is dedicated to the history, production, and cultural significance of chocolate.

The highlights of the museum are the small Tropicarium with cacao trees and the 3-meter-tall chocolate fountain . And the best part is that you can sample the chocolate from the fountain on a wafer!

Make sure to visit the museum’s gift shop, which offers a wide selection of chocolates. It’s a must-visit for me whenever I’m in Cologne.

Booking in advance is recommended (tickets are timed-entry and lines are usually long) Entry ticket : Skip-the-line Chocolate Museum (free cancellation up to 24 hours)

Dinner at Peters Brauhaus

Finish this 1 day in Cologne with a dinner at Peters Brauhaus . This popular restaurant serves traditional German cuisine . I especially enjoyed the Brodwoosch mit Kartoffelsalat (sausage with potato salad) and the Apfelstrudel mit Vanilleeiscreme.

Another option for dinner is Gilden im Zims , known for serving the best pork knuckles in the city.

Certainly, dinner wouldn’t be complete without tasting the famous local beer Kölsch . This light, pale yellow beer with subtle fruity notes, is typically served in slender 0.2L glasses. The person who serves you the Kölsch beer is called Köbes. The Köbes will automatically bring you a fresh glass of this excellent ale whenever your current one is finished, without requesting it. To decline further servings, simply place the beer coaster atop your glass. To help you keep count, the waiter will mark each beer consumed with a line on your coaster.

Both Peters Brauhaus and Gilden im Zims serve excellent Kölsch beer. Yet, for an exceptional Kölsch beer head to Brauhaus Em Kölsche Boor . Founded in 1760, it is one of the oldest breweries in Cologne .

More ideas for one day in Cologne

Take a panoramic city cruise.

Take this panoramic city cruise and discover the city’s highlights from the water. You’ll journey past the iconic cathedral, Great St. Martin Church and the historic buildings in the Altstadt district. Enjoy the beautiful views from the water of Deutz Bridge, South Bridge and the famous Hohenzollern Bridge.

Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings

Join this Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings and experience the city’s famous brewing culture. The tour takes you to some of the city’s most renowned breweries , including the historic Früh am Dom and the 700-year-old Brauhaus Sion, as well as younger breweries.

Take a guided tour of the Old Town

Join this Old Town Highlights Tour with a Local and explore the historic Altstadt of Cologne. You’ll discover the iconic Gothic Cathedral, ancient artefacts from the city’s Roman past and the historic Town Hall. Take a walk along the banks of the Rhine River and enjoy the beautiful views.

Enjoy the panoramic views from KölnTriangle

Standing at a height of approximately 103 meters (338 feet), KölnTriangle is one of the city’s tallest buildings . Its observation deck, located on the 28th floor, offers stunning panoramic views of the city, including the Gothic Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge. The viewing platform is open daily from 11 AM to 8 PM.

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud is a must for art enthusiasts . Founded in 1861, the museum is named after two noble citizens of Cologne – Franz Ferdinand Wallraf and Johann Heinrich Richartz. Wallraf bequeathed his extensive collection of paintings and coins to the city upon his death, while Richartz generously funded the construction of the museum.

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum showcases masterpieces from the medieval era to the early 20th century . It features some of my favourite artists like Van Gogh, Cézanne, Renoir, Monet, Manet, and Caspar David Friedrich. Be sure to visit the medieval art section, which I found surprisingly interesting despite not being a huge fan of this genre.

Museum Ludwig

Museum Ludwig is another popular art museum. Its primary focus is on modern art, particularly contemporary works from the 20th and 21st centuries . It all began in 1976 when Peter and Irene Ludwig donated 350 works of modern art to the city of Cologne. As a tribute to their contribution, the museum was named Museum Ludwig.

Today, Museum Ludwig boats artworks from different styles like Pop Art, Abstract Expressionism, Surrealism, and German Expressionism. It’s famous for its extensive collections of works by artists like Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Gerhard Richter. In fact, Museum Ludwig holds one of the largest Picasso collections in Europe.

Roman-Germanic Museum

This archaeological museum displays artefacts from the Roman settlement of Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, which later became the city of Cologne. It was built in 1974 on the site of an urban Roman villa, whose remains you can still see in the basement. The museum houses an extensive collection of objects from the Paleolithic period to the early Middle Ages . One of its most famous exhibits is the Dionysus Mosaic, a remarkably well-preserved floor mosaic dating from the 2nd century AD.

Documentation Centre for the National Socialism

If you’re interested in World War II, a visit to the EL-DE Haus (NS-Dokumentationszentrum) is a must. The EL-DE Haus is named after its owner – the wholesaler Leopold Dahmen. The building served as the headquarters of the Secret State Police (Gestapo) from December 1935 until March 1945. In its basement cells, the Gestapo detained and interrogated individuals deemed enemies of the Nazi regime, often subjecting them to torture.

Today the building is both a museum and a memorial to the victims of the Nazi regime. If you want to learn more about World War II, get the audio guide. Keep in mind, that it runs for more than 3 hours, so focus on the parts that interest you the most.

Cologne City Hall

Cologne City Hall (Rathaus in German) is the oldest city hall in Germany with a history of over 800 years. Its oldest section still standing today dates back to 1330. So, make sure to stop for a moment and admire its Renaissance arcade and the 15th-century Gothic tower.

Great St. Martin Church

Great St. Martin Church (Gross Sankt Martin) is one of Cologne’s twelve Romanesque churches . It towers above the quaint, colourful houses at Fischmarkt Square. The church’s roots trace back to a Roman chapel from the 10th century, whose remnants you can still see in the crypt. In ancient Roman times, the site where the church now stands was a separate Rhine island, hosting a storehouse. Over time, this island merged with the mainland, ceasing to exist.

The construction of the Great St. Martin Church began in 1150 and lasted until 1250. It is the city’s most beautiful Romanesque church, so make sure to include it on your Cologne itinerary when you visit.

Zoological Garden

Founded in 1860, the Zoological Garden (Kölner Zoo) is one of the oldest zoos in Germany . It is home to over 10,000 animals from around the world. Some of the highlights include an elephant park and a rainforest hall with a tropical climate, palms and free-roaming birds.

You can buy your Zoological Garden ticket here . Don’t forget to check the feeding times in advance to get the most out of your visit.

Cologne Christmas Market

If you’re in Cologne during December, make sure you don’t miss its famous Christmas market. The city hosts one of the most popular Christmas markets in Germany. In fact, there are 8 themed markets, located throughout the Old Town.

Find all you need to know in my in-depth guide to the Cologne Christmas Market .

2-day Cologne itinerary

If you have 2 days to spend in Cologne, I suggest following my itinerary for the first day and taking a day trip to Aachen on the second day. Aachen is one of the most charming historic cities near Cologne. However, if you’re here in December, I suggest using the second day to explore Cologne’s Christmas markets (there are 8 large markets).

2 days in Cologne

• Day 1: Cologne Cathedral, Hohenzollern Bridge, House of Fragrances 4711, Imhoff Chocolate Museum
• Day 2: Cologne Christmas market (winter) or day trip to Aachen (summer)

3-day Cologne itinerary

If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Cologne, simply follow the suggested two-day itinerary outlined above for the initial two days. Then, on the third day, opt for a Rhine River cruise through the picturesque Siebengebirge mountains or a day trip to Drachenburg Castle or Augustusburg Palace.

3 days in Cologne

• Day 3: take a Rhine River cruise or day trip to Drachenburg Castle (or Augustusburg Palace)

Best pass for your 1-day Cologne itinerary

I highly recommend getting the KölnCard if you want to save money. It costs only €9 for 1 day (€18 for 2 days) and includes:

• free access to public transport for 24/48 hours (single ride ticket is €3)
• 24% discount at the Chocolate Museum
• 15% discount at the shop and restaurant at Hard Rock Cafe Köln
• 10% discount for purchases at House of Fragrances 4711
• up to 50% discounts off many museums, restaurants and shops

So, by using public transportation twice and visiting the Chocolate Museum, you’re already making savings.

If you’re planning to visit several museums, I’d recommend getting the Museum Card . It costs €20 for two days and gives you free admission to all municipal museums. In addition, you can use the public transport system for free within the city (only on the first day).

Where to stay in Cologne

The best place to stay in Cologne is Altstadt (Old Town). This is the historic part of the city, where you’ll find all the famous attractions, including the iconic cathedral, Museum Ludwig and the Town Hall. Also, the train station is a short stroll away, making it convenient for connections to Cologne Bonn Airport.

I suggest booking a hotel in the area between Kölner Dom and Alter Markt. This way, you’ll be close to everything and within walking distance of attractions and restaurants.

CityClass Hotel Alter Markt – Best mid-range

Guest rating: 8.5 | 3,900+ reviews

Located at the main square in the Old Town, Alter Markt, this hotel is only a 5-minute stroll from the cathedral and the train station. Its prime location means you can easily reach all the main attractions, restaurants, and the Rhine River on foot. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and some even offer stunning views of Kölner Dom.

Why book – 5min walk to the cathedral, modern rooms with city views, great breakfast

Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom – Best luxury

Guest rating: 8.9 | 1,010+ reviews

Located directly opposite the cathedral, Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom is a historic hotel, family-owned since 1863. At Taku , a Michelin-starred restaurant, you can sample exotic Asian dishes, while Hanse Stube serves French gourmet cuisine. Additionally, you can treat yourself to delicious pastries and afternoon tea at the Wintergarten, or enjoy live music at the Piano Bar.

Why book – 2min walk to the cathedral and the train station, Michelin-star Asian restaurant, great Spa centre

Getting around in Cologne

The easiest way to get around Cologne is by using the tram and metro (U-Bahn). The city has an extensive network of trams, operated by KVB (Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe). The U-Bahn lines complement the tram network, offering fast transportation across the city, even to suburban areas. Find out more on the official website of KVB .

Although Cologne is one of the largest cities in Germany, its Old Town (Altstadt), where you’ll find all the tourist attractions is small. You can easily explore it on foot without needing any public transportation. If you’re not up for walking, I recommend taking the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus , which stops at all must-see attractions.

How to get to Cologne

The closest airport is Cologne-Bonn Airport, located about 15 kilometres from Cologne’s city centre. The easiest way to reach the city centre from the airport is by taking the train , which departs directly from the airport and stops at Köln Hauptbahnhof.

Cologne is served by the S-Bahn (suburban railway) and Regionalbahn (regional train) networks, operated by Deutsche Bahn (German Rail). These trains connect Cologne with nearby cities and towns, making it easy to travel within the region. Check timetables and book tickets online at Deutsche Bahn official site .

The city’s main train stations are Köln Hauptbahnhof (Cologne Central Station) and Köln Messe/Deutz (Cologne Trade Fair/Deutz Station). Köln Hauptbahnhof is nearer to the Old Town, just a brief 5-minute walk away, making it more convenient.

Cologne has a Low Emission Zone (Umweltzone) in the city centre, where only vehicles meeting certain emissions standards are allowed to enter. In addition, on-street parking in the city centre is limited and subject to time restrictions and fees. However, Cologne has numerous parking garages (Parkhäuser) , located in and around the city centre. If you prefer not to drive in the city centre, consider using Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts.

Best one-day trips from Cologne

Siebengebirge cruise.

The Siebengebirge Cruise is the most popular day Rhine River cruise from Cologne . You’ll journey upstream on the Rhine, heading towards the scenic Siebengebirge mountains. Located on the eastern bank of the river, the Siebengebirge mountains are known for their natural beauty and rock formations.

The cruise takes you along Bonn and the famous Drachenfels (Dragon’s Rock), crowned with the ruins of a medieval castle. Legend has it that the hill was once home to a dragon slain by the hero Siegfried.

Located 1 hour away by train, Aachen is my favourite one-day trip from Cologne . Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor, made Aachen his imperial capital during the late 8th and early 9th centuries. The city served as the principal coronation site for German kings for nearly six centuries.

Some of the most famous landmarks are the Aachen Cathedral and its stunning Palatine Chapel, the beautiful Town Hall and the Couven Museum . Make sure to check out Nobis Printen e.K. , known for selling the finest gingerbread in town!

How to get to Aachen Take a train from the Central Railway Station to Aachen Hbf (about a 50-minute journey).

Koblenz is strategically positioned at the confluence of two major rivers, the Rhine and the Moselle. Founded by the Romans around 8 BC, the city has a rich history, dating back over 2,000 years.

One of the most iconic sights is the Deutsches Eck (German Corner), the place where the Rhine meets the Moselle River . From there you can take the cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved fortresses.

I highly recommend stopping at Ulrikes Culture Bakery for breakfast and at eGeLoSIa Laden (the best gelato in the city). I particularly enjoyed the pistachio and forest fruit flavours.

How to get to Koblenz Take a train from the Central Railway Station to Koblenz Hbf (about a 1-hour journey).

Augustusburg Palace

Augustusburg Palace, located in Brühl near Cologne, is one of the finest examples of Rococo architecture in Germany . It was built in the 18th century by Archbishop-Elector Clemens August of Bavaria. The palace served as a residence for the archbishops of Cologne and their guests.

Augustusburg Palace is surrounded by an extensive park, designed in the style of English gardens. In the park, you’ll find the Falkenlust Hunting Lodge, where Clemens August, Prince-Elector of Cologne, practised his favourite sport, falconry.

You can explore the Augustusburg Palace only with a guided tour, but you’re free to visit the Falkenlust Hunting Lodge on your own.

How to get to Augustusburg Palace Take a train from the Central Railway Station to Brühl Station (15 min journey). The property is less than a 5-minute walk from the train station.

Drachenburg Castle

Standing atop the Drachenfels hill, near the town of Königswinter, Drachenburg Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the Rhine River. The castle is a prime example of 19th-century historicism , featuring a fairytale-like appearance with turrets and spires. In my view, Drachenburg Castle is one of the most magical castles near Cologne . Baron Stephan von Sarter, a wealthy banker, commissioned its construction in the late 19th century.

Today, you can tour the castle and its opulent rooms (don’t forget to take the audioguide for extra insights).

How to get to Drachenburg Castle Take a train from Cologne Central Railway Station to Königswinter (a 40min journey). From there it’s about 30min walk to the castle. Another option is to take the historical rack railway Drachenfelsbahn from the train station to the castle.

What to see next

The Rhine River Valley isn’t just known for its picturesque vineyards but it’s also home to numerous castles. Some lie in ruins, while others have been transformed into museums or hotels. Find out more in my complete guide to the most popular castles on the Rhine .

Best time to visit Cologne

For pleasant weather, visit Cologne from May to September. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy the popular beer gardens. In February, Cologne hosts its famous Carnival, one of Germany’s largest and oldest celebrations. December is also a busy season due to the city’s celebrated Christmas market, which is one of the best in Europe.

Faqs about visiting Cologne

One day in Cologne is enough to explore the Old Town, see the iconic Cologne Cathedral and visit the Chocolate Museum. However, if you’re visiting during the Christmas season, plan for extra time as the city hosts several large Christmas markets.

One day is sufficient to see the city’s most popular attractions, including Altstadt, the iconic cathedral, Chocolate Museum and enjoy the famous local Kölsch beer.

Begin by visiting Cologne Cathedral, the city’s most popular attraction, then make your way to Hohenzollern Bridge for stunning city views. Next, discover the history of chocolate at Imhoff Chocolate Museum. Finish the day with a glass of the famous local beer Kölsch at Peters Brauhaus.

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Thanks for sharing. This information is great for my planned trip :). Wishing you all the best .

Hi Jurie, Have a great trip! 🙂

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24 Hours in Munich: An UnBeerlievable Itinerary You’ll Be Glad You Copied!

Last Updated: October 31, 2023

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24 hours in one of the world’s most spectacular cities?  Okay, challenge accepted.

The following 24 hours in Munich itinerary is here to kick your butt and whisk you away on a whirlwind tour of all the city’s top highlights.

This itinerary is intense and jam-packed, but in a city like Munich, there’s no time to waste, so chop chop, what are you waiting for?!  Los geht’s!

… and if you have more time to spend in Munich, check out my 2 days in Munich and 3 days in Munich itineraries too.

Save this Munich 1 Day Itinerary for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

But first, the unsexy logistical stuff…

How to Get from Munich Airport to the City Centre

First thing’s first: let’s get you to the city. Taxis from Munich Airport to the city center cost about 50-60 euros, or you can book with Welcome Pickups, which guarantees an English-speaking driver and pick-up right from arrivals.

A must cheaper option is the Lufthansa Express, or taking the S-Bahn – both the S1 and S8 run from the airport to the center, and take about 45 minutes. For a full guide on what tickets to buy, how to find the station, etc., read my full Munich airport to city guide!

Munich’s Bus and Train Stations

If arriving by train or bus, you might find yourself with the daunting task of navigating one of Munich’s many train or bus stations. Don’t worry, I have a guide for that too! Read my guide on the different stations around Munich for more info.

Munich’s Public Transport System

I can’t sugarcoat it – Munich’s public transportation system is very, very confusing if you’re new around here. If you’re not sure what tickets to buy, what the U-Bahn/S-Bahn are or how to survive the system,  check out my full detailed breakdown on Munich public transport.

Alright – enough logistics! Let’s move onto our 1 day in Munich itinerary…

1. Start in Marienplatz

Marienplatz has been Munich’s main square since the 12th century and is THE best place to begin your whirlwind 24 hours in Munich. The first time you catch a glimpse of the majestic New City Hall (Neues Rathaus), you’ll maybe see why I decided to move here!

This square is packed with ‘wow factor’, from its central golden-angel topped column (the Mariensäule), which was built to celebrate the end of the Swedish occupation during the Thirty Years’ War, to the whimsically beautiful Old City Hall (Altes Rathaus) in the East, which, quite fittingly, houses a toy museum today.

Marienplatz is by far the most popular gathering point in the city, as it has been for centuries, since its origins as a space for markets, tournaments and celebrations. Today, it is tourist attraction numero uno here in Munich, which is why I think you should visit it first!

The square gets especially busy during the Glockenspiel performance at 11am, 12pm, and 5pm (omitted from November through February). You can try to be here for this performance, but it’s kind of underwhelming in my honest opinion.

Don’t forget to step through the central archway to peep into the little courtyard of the Rathaus – it is really beautiful, and a nice way to escape the crowds for a bit!

2. Traditional Bavarian Breakfast

When in Munich for only 24 hours, you need to prepare yourself… what better way to fuel up for a wild day of sightseeing than breaking open a cold one?

Let’s start your Munich adventure with a typical Bavarian breakfast, the stuff of true carby, boozy dreams.

Known around here as a Weißwurst Frühstück (White sausage breakfast), a Bavarian breakfast consists of three simple ingredients: a doughy pretzel, a pair of white sausages with sweet mustard, and naturally, a cold glass of wheat beer to wash it all down. Yes, this is truly a German stereotype served to you on a plate.

BUT HEY, welcome to Bavaria – it’s time to get buzzed before noon in the name of culture!

On that note: make sure you do indulge in this treat before noon – it’s very much a faux pas to have Weißwurst after the 12 o’ clock bell strikes… and don’t forget to peel the skin from your sausages too. Here’s a video on how to do it (and to prepare you for the interesting aesthetic of this beloved sausage).

WHERE TO GET BAVARIAN BREAKFAST IN MUNICH

Café Glockenspiel

Address: Marienplatz 28 (Look for signs and then take the elevator up)

If you can score a table by the window, this has an AMAZING view over Marienplatz and is my preferred place to watch the Glockenspiel performance (if you time things correctly) because you’ll be up above, watching the crowds of ant-like tourists from above while you sip your beer and eat your pretzels.

Service here is pretty mediocre and prices are a little higher (I mean, you always pay extra for a nice view!) but the experience is lovely if you manage to get a view.

Schneider Brahaus

Address: Tal 7

Located steps away from Marienplatz, this place is a little touristy, but locals like it here too. With a nice ambiance combined with excellent Weißbier, this would be a great place to have breakfast thanks to its very central location.

Hofbräuhaus

Address: Platzl 9

I’ll be real with you, the Hofbräuhaus is mainly for tourists. I mean, locals go there too sometimes (usually visitors in tow), but it’s very much a hammed up touristy serving of the classic beer hall experience.

That said, you can’t go to Munich and NOT visit the Hofbräuhaus. You just can’t! It’s touristy, but it’s fun, and it’s quintessentially Munich. This 24h itinerary is jam-packed so if you want to say you’ve had a beer here, why not do so for breakfast?

… AND IF YOU DON’T FEEL LIKE SAUSAGE…

Dear plant-based and vegetarian friends, I’m fully aware that most traditional Bavarian eats won’t be your jam, especially breakfast… BUT here are some breakfast options for you if you still want to have a great ‘typically Munich’ experience.

Vegetarian Weißwurst

If you really want to see what the buzz is all about and you have access to cooking facilities at your accommodation, there are some health food stores that sell veggie versions of the traditional Weißwurst.

I’ve heard Vitalia stocks them, as well as various “Bio” shops across the city. The Seitan Weisswurst from Wheaty is supposedly very good – click here to find a map of places in Munich that stock their products.

Café Frischhut

Address: Prälat-Zistl-Straße 8

Café Frischut is known for its schmalznudel, a very Bavarian, very fried, very doughy pastry that is definitely not good for you, but (I hope) involves zero sausage!

If you are hoping for a meat-free alternative to a Bavarian breakfast, but still want something that is very Munich, then stop at this adorable café and watch them fry up these beauties fresh before your eyes… all with a hot cup of joe of course.

Other Plant-Based/Vegetarian Options

And hey, if all you want is a good old fashioned avocado toast, who am I to judge? Munich has a surprisingly excellent selection of vegan/veggie restaurants these days, click here to check out my vegetarian friend Wandering Chocobo’s guide on places to eat that are veggie friendly.

3. Get a view

With a belly full of caloric regret, it’s time to work off your gluttony by enjoying one of Munich’s finest viewpoints. If you thought Marienplatz was amazing from the ground, wait til you see it from above.

Saint Peter’s Church Tower (Alter Peter) is one of the best places to get an amazing view over Munich, with soaring 360 degree views that stretch even to the Alps on a clear day.

Beware though, while the tower is cheap to climb (3 euros), it’s an upwards slog that will literally take your breath away, with crowds to match!

This is why I would recommend doing this earlier in the day to get your bearings and avoid the hordes of people who roll in as the day goes on. A good physical fitness is required for this climb as it’s quite steep and mildly claustrophobic near the top, but the views are very, very worth it.

Alternatively, you can check out the amazing view from the Neues Rathaus right across from Saint Peter. The best perk of this view? You can take an elevator straight to it, and the perspective is just as beautiful, usually with far fewer people because it remains a happy secret from most tourists.

To get a ticket, go into the Tourist Information Center in the Neues Rathaus and ask for a ticket to see the Rathausturm (or the City Hall Tower). It will cost 4 euros per adult, but an elevator will take you all the way up.

You access this elevator through the passageway that leads to the inner courtyard. Keep an eye to your left for a discrete elevator and take it up, then follow the arrows, show your ticket to the (permanently grumpy) staff member, and they’ll point you towards the final elevator that will zip you all the way up. Enjoy!!

4. Viktualienmarkt

Steps away from Marienplatz, you’ll find Munich’s thriving food market, featuring stalls crammed with colourful produce, fresh bites to go, a bustling beer garden, and plenty of wonderful local products to bring home.

This (to me) is a much classier place to go souvenir shopping than the tourist shops that line some of Munich’s main streets, but regardless of whether you want to shop or not, this market is well worth a nosy perusal!

Keep an eye out for the market’s large maypole, identifiable by its blue and white pattern and figures representing the different trades that can be found in and around the area.

Maypoles are a common sight around Bavaria – every town will have one, and most beer gardens too. They’re typically erected at the beginning of May and guess what? This one is carved out of the large Christmas tree that is set up every year for the big Christmas Market in Marienplatz!

FUN FACT: You are allowed to bring food/picnics into any of Munich’s beer gardens, so if you aren’t completely stuffed to the nose from your breakfast, you can grab some food from one of the vendors, buy a beer, and enjoy in the sunshine.

5. Wander around Altstadt

This is by far the most scenic part of Munich, and where I’d recommend focusing your attention if you only have one day in Munich to explore. Munich’s Altstadt today is pretty much the area enclosed within the old city walls, marked by gates like the Karlstor (at Karlsplatz), Isartor and Sendlinger Tor, and the non-gate, Odeonsplatz.

Wandering within this area for a few hours is a must, and while I’d love to provide a mega-efficient route for seeing everything, the truth is some backtracking is bound to be involved, but that’s all part of the journey 😉

So, here’s what I’ll do: I’m going to share with you some of the best points of interest in the Munich Altstadt and let you choose your own adventure… just make sure you eventually end up at Odeonsplatz because that is where our itinerary will continue.

So, here are a few points of interest within Munich Altstadt that you should check out during your day in Munich:

Frauenkirche

The iconic onion domes of Munich’s Frauenkirche are undoubtedly one of the most important landmarks of Munich, so you should definitely take a peek while you’re in the area. While the interior is not as stunningly ornate as some other churches in the city, it does have a very peculiar attraction: a ‘Devil’s Footprint’ in the back of the church.

This iconic beer hall is a must-visit in Munich, even if you don’t have time to stop for a beer. It’s a touristy place, but lots of fun, with a leafy beer garden, beautiful interior décor, live music and even a beautiful Festhalle upstairs (which many visitors miss, so be sure to head up the stairs for a look!)

The Residenz

The Munich Residenz is this massive epic palace right in the middle of the city, where for centuries rulers and decisionmakers lived in opulent splendor. While sadly, much of the Residenz was destroyed during WWII, it has been gradually restored over the years and is open to visitors today. While you might not have time to actually tour the museum inside, even walking by, admiring the facades and courtyard is well worth it.

Maximilianstrasse

If you’re a baller looking to shop, this is your place. This is the most luxurious shopping street in Munich, with high fashion brands for days. As for the rest of us, perhaps window shopping will have to suffice, but it’s a lovely street for a quick perusal, especially with the Maximilianeum at the end, home of Bavaria’s state parliament, and also, if you can believe it, a hyper-exclusive student residence.

Max-Joseph Platz

This is the square where you’ll find Munich’s National Theatre, with its striking neoclassical façade. This is one of the most photogenic spots in Munich, especially with the beautiful buildings opposite the theatre, with outdoor seating that spills out into the street in summer months.

Kaufingerstrasse

This is Munich’s main pedestrianized shopping street that leads all the way to Karlsplatz. It contains all the usual suspects of European retail: think Zara, H&M, etc. The stores here are not terribly unique or special, but walking down Kaufingerstrasse can be an experience in itself

As far as opulent churches go, this tiny church wedged between shops is by far the most ornate. Located near Sendlinger Tor, this Baroque beauty is worth the little detour.

Intended originally to be a private church (designed by rich artists for themselves, go figure), permission was only granted to build the church after they promised access would be for everyone.

This is great news for us, because the church is free to access for all people (even tourists!) today, and trust me when I say it’s worth a look.

Located along the old city gate Karlstor, Karlsplatz (also known by its more popular name, Stachus) is a large square in Munich that acts as the end of the pedestrian shopping zone leading from Marienplatz.

It’s a lovely square flanked by beautiful buildings, including the Justizpalast across the street, one of my favourite hidden gems in Munich (which is free to enter!), but mainly this is a jumping point for shopping or nights out. You’ll even find a network of shops underground below the square, just follow the escalators down.

Theatinerkirche

This mustard yellow church in Odeonsplatz divides people – you either love it or hate it, but I personally LOVE it. The interior is all white and incredibly detailed – such a truly beautiful church that in my opinion can’t be missed!

6. Odeonsplatz

Alright, we now find ourselves in Odeonsplatz, one of Munich’s main squares. While it dates back to the early 19th century, what’s especially striking about this square is if you look back on historical photos, it has remained largely unchanged.

Its focal point, the Feldherrnhalle is actually inspired (or well, copied) from the famous Loggia dei Lanzi in Florence. Today, you’ll usually find Odeonsplatz as the stage for countless festivals and events (beer and wine festivals are common in the summer!), as well as the preferred drinking place of unruly youths up in the steps of the Feldherrnhalle 😉

Historically, Odeonsplatz is also a noteworthy spot for your day in Munich. That’s because back in 1923, it was here that the final conflict broke out during the infamous Beer Hall Putsch, a failed coup d’etat led by Hitler and the Nazi party. 16 Nazis and 4 police officers were killed as a result, which led to Hitler’s arrest a few days later, when he was charged with high treason and thrown in prison, where he wrote Mein Kampf.

Whew. I know it’s a lot of history to take in, and pretty surreal when you look at historical photos too showing the Nazi rallies and speeches that took place here… but let’s not dwell too long on the past and lighten things up a bit with our next stop.

7. Hofgarten

Behind the Residenz is a garden as opulent as you might expect from Bavarian royals, designed in Italian Renaissance style in an ideal location between the Residenz and the sprawling English Garden.

Today, the Hofgarten is a public garden that you are free to access, and for us, it makes the perfect shortcut to visit Munich’s largest and most famous public park. Keep your eye (and ear) out as you pass the Dianatempel (Diana Pavilion) in the center. It’s a twelve sided gazebo that usually has some beautiful classical musician playing in the middle, and you might even recognize it from the Three Muskateers (2011) which filmed here!

This little garden is one of the most beautiful parts of Munich, and the perfect place to cross over to the English Garden.

PS: The Bavarian State Chancellory building (Bayerische Staatskanzlei) is here on the East Side of the garden. It’s a beautiful building to admire (which many do), but most miss the moving memorial hidden in the building’s courtyard.

Finding it is easy – step down the stairs and head into the center where you’ll find a covered pit, which houses a statue of an unknown soldier, dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

8. The Eisbachwelle and its River Surfers

From the Hofgarten, cross the street over to the Haus der Kunst, an imposing art gallery that was constructed in the 1930s as a museum showcasing Germany’s finest art.

It is considered to be the first example of Nazi architecture. If you keep your eyes open, you might also notice a sign for “P1”, Munich’s swankiest nightclub, known as the preferred playground for the rich and famous.

If you continue forwards you might soon hear the sounds of the famous Eisbachwelle, Munich’s unique standing wave which hosts a consistent stream of river surfers.

Actually, this is very close to where I live, so I can confirm that there are surfers here day and night, no matter the weather conditions. Sometimes, they even bring their own spotlights!

The best is when you come in the early morning and see some of the surfers changing from their wetsuits into their business suits for work, as they cycle away surfboard in tow. This is one of those things that are quintessentially Munich, and a must-do when you’re in town!

9. English Garden

The English Garden is a MASSIVE park that some say is the largest city park in the entire world. Yup, it’s even larger than Central Park in New York.

But while it’s huge, the best bits are definitely located in this portion of the garden. Stroll around to admire the Japanese Tea Room and garden, the Greek Monopteros, and slowly make your way to the Chinese Tower, one of Munich’s most famous landmarks, that (to be honest with you) is not at all Chinese in any form.

PS: Don’t be alarmed if you spot a nude person or two. Nude sunbathing and swimming is allowed in sections of the English Garden, and no, they are not secluded spots that are covered from the public eye, so if you get an eyeful, know that I warned you so 😉

10. Lunch time at the Chinese Tower

The Chinese Tower Beer Garden is one of the most popular hang-out spots in Munich, for locals and tourists alike (although it’s definitely one of the most popular beer gardens for visitors!)

Here, you’ll find a huge food selection of traditional Bavarian foods, and of course, plenty of giant beers to keep you going.

Grab a tray, grab a beer, grab some food and then head to a table and enjoy the atmosphere.

Do note that they will charge you a deposit for your glasses called “pfand”, so they’ll add an extra euro to your bill per glass and give you a silver token for you to bring back with your glass. When you bring it back, you get your money back!

TIP: If you want a more “local” vibe and you don’t mind a detour, my favourite beer garden is nearby and it’s called Seehaus. It’s perched along a little lake and it’s much quieter and less touristy than the Chinese Tower, although both are good.

11. Universität

From the Chinese Tower, walk back through the garden and head to the Universität U-Bahn stop. This is where you’ll find the main building of LMU (Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität), where I did my Study Abroad Program!

From here, you can also see Siegestor, Munich’s Victory Arch, a monument built to honour the glory of the Bavarian army. On a vain level, it’s also a very aesthetically pleasing place for a photo 😉

Before hopping onto the U-Bahn for our next stop, I would recommend walking up to the entrance of the university at Geschwister-Scholl-Platz” (“Scholl Siblings Square” if you have time.

Here, you’ll find a subtle but moving memorial dedicated to the “White Rose Resistance Group”, an anti-Nazi resistance group run by LMU students, including the Scholl siblings for which the square is now named.

The White Rose was a non-violent group that campaigned against Nazi rule through graffiti and leaflets. They were soon arrested and executed. In their memory, you will now see bronze replicas of their leaflets embedded in the square’s cobblestones.

Virtually no tourists (or even students!) stop to look at this, but I think it’s one of the most moving memorials in the city.

If that story has left you drained and sad, there is an amazing ice cream place behind the university called Der Verruckte Eismacher, known for the Alice in Wonderland aesthetic and erm, let’s say ~inventive~ rotation of ice cream flavours, which includes Bavarian treats like Augustiner beer and sometimes even sauerkraut. Yup!

12. Olympiadorf

Alright, next stop: get off at Olympiazentrum.

Taking the U3 towards Fürstenried West, you’ll be here in 10 minutes.

… Once there, let me say: Welcome to my old stomping grounds! The Olympic Park is where I first lived when I moved to Munich, in the Olympic Village to be precise, which is where athletes lived during the 1972 Olympics, and have since been converted into student housing.

Before you head out to explore the park though, I want to show you one of my favourite hidden gems in Munich, the Olympiadorf, an amazing student residence/open air art gallery.

This is one of my personal favourite secrets of Munich, so please be respectful 😉

This is the student village where I once lived, and it has officially been recognized as one of the coolest student residences in the world for one simple reason: all the students live in small cube houses called bungalows which they can paint however they wish.

This, over the years, has created an amazing array of colourful and artistic facades on each house, with nods to pop culture, inside jokes and more. Be sure to stop for a quick walk around here before exploring the rest of the park – it’s easy to get lost in each of these streets!

… And stop by L4 to see the bungalow that I personally painted myself back in 2015.

13. Olympiapark

The architecture of Munich’s Olympiapark is worlds removed from the historic Old Town, and I love it. While it may look incredibly futuristic, it was all built for the 1972 Olympics, and the park continues to be a popular venue for sporting and cultural events. In fact, pretty much all the big concerts in town happen right here, in either the Olympiahalle or Olympiastadion.

Take some time to explore the park at your own pace. There’s loads to see here! The Olympiasee for instance is a lake that is lined with Munich’s own little ‘Walk of Fame’, with handprints and signatures embedded into the ground from famous celebrities (mostly musicians) who have visited the city.

There’s also the Olympic Tower, rotating exhibitions at the Small Olympic Hall, the BMW Headquarters (with a distinctive building shaped like the four cylinders of a car engine) and even SEA LIFE Munich.

I also highly recommend you visit the free Munich 1972 Massacre Memorial, which is an open air multimedia installation in the park that honours the victims of the massacre that occurred at the 1972 Munich Olympics.

This was a very dark chapter of Olympic history, when the Palestinian terrorist group Black September held eleven members of the Israeli Olympic team hostage in the Olympic Village here, eventually killing them all.

The events were horrific and terrifying, but the installation here does an incredible job of summarizing everything and memorializing the victims. A harrowing experience, but a worthwhile one.

Alright, let’s end this park visit on a high.

The Olympiapark is by far one of my favourite places in Munich to catch sunset. You have two options here, depending on your budget and um, desired romance level.

For a free place to watch sunset, climb Olyberg, a big hill that overlooks the park. You get a truly incredible vantage point over the city from here, and you can even see the alps on a clear day!

For bonus romance points, there is an Edeka supermarket near the Olympiaznentrum U-Bahn stop where you can pick up some wine, beers, or snacks. Alternatively, you can grab some take-out pizza or Asian food (the stuff from “Asian Kitchen” is surprisingly good) and climb up this hill for an amazing view.

If you don’t mind paying, the Olympic Tower is a truly incredible place to watch sunset. With the view being so much higher than Olyberg, you see way more and it’s breathtaking, but both are amazing in their own way.

Experience-wise, I much prefer sunset from Olyberg, but maybe it’s because I’ve had my fair share of romantic memories there. Heh. Heh.

15. BMW World

After sunset, make your way to BMW World, which is open until midnight daily.

This is an amazing free alternative to the pricey BMW Museum, and it has GREAT bathrooms, which I’m sure you might need after those sunset drinks 😉

BMW World is effectively a massive showcase to the BMW Brand, which is of course based here.

It’s a lot of fun though – you can look at all these amazing cars, get in them, hop on some motorcycles, and even (if budget allows) indulge in one of the most expensive fine dining experiences Munich has to offer, at the top-floor restaurant Esszimmer.

Two friends of mine ate their once, apparently they even offer to drive you home in a BMW after.

If however budget does not allow you to drop the 180 euros for a 7 course meal (wine NOT included), it’s time to head back into the city center for dinner.

16. Dinner time in Altstadt

Assuming you are staying somewhere decently central, after sunset, I’d recommend hopping on the U-Bahn and going back to Marienplatz. Munich by night is magical, and seeing all those same monuments lit up at night is a special way to wrap up your day in Munich.

For dinner, there are a few places in the city center that I recommend. You can also click  here to check out my full list of recommended Munich restaurants.

Augustiner Klosterwirt

Address:  Augustinerstraße 1

My favourite favourite favourite place to enjoy traditional Bavarian food, and where I take every visitor who comes to town.

Located in the shadow of the Frauenkirche, it is a place that is tourist-friendly enough that there are English menus and the servers won’t scowl at you for not speaking German, but it’s authentic and tasty enough that you’ll find plenty of locals here enjoying their meals too.

The schweinebraten is my go-to. I would hook myself up to an IV of their gravy if I could… plus Augustiner is the best brewery in town (as is the popular opinion with most locals).

Address: Sparkassenstraße 6

I concede, while my heart belongs to Augustiner Klosterwirt, the knödel at Haxnbauer is better. They are like jiggly little balls of crack.

Haxnbauer is maybe the most famous place to try pork knuckle in Munich, thanks largely to its fame in guidebooks and also its tantalizing display of pork knuckles that rotate hypnotically at the restaurant front.

The lines here are long, but the food is pretty good. It’s not my go-to place because it’s kind of pricey and touristy, but you WILL have a good meal here.

Address: Lenbachplatz 8

If you want something very cheap with a nice ambiance and aren’t feeling for Bavarian food, L’Osteria is a chain of pizza places around Europe that have a super classy ambiance for rock bottom prices. Their gigantic pizzas can easily feed two, and they’re only 10-12 euros each! Combined with a dim, candle-lit atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a casual, cheap meal without it “feeling” cheap. Also, the BBQ chicken pizza is heavenly.

Address: Liebigstraße 14

Not quite in the Altstadt area, but not far away from the Lehel U-Bahn stop is my favourite neighbourhood Bavarian place, Liebighof. If you are coming during Christmas time, EAT HERE! The food is good, affordable, and the décor during Christmas time is next level magic.

They serve Bavarian food, but not the typical dishes you’ll find in every Bavarian restaurant in the center. Rather, they specialize in pfanne, pans of goodness with assorted meats, potatoes, etc. So simple but so good, and more of a local feel for sure.

Now time to sleep off your food coma and think about how wonderful Munich is forever.

PS: Looking for a map version of this Munich in 1 Day itinerary?

Here is one for your convenience:

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

One day in Munich

How to make the most of your time and spend one day in munich, germany.

Munich is a fabulous city. Beautiful architecture, excellent food, and museums everywhere you look. There are just so many things to do in Munich . But depending on your Germany itinerary, sometimes time is short. Which really is no problem, because you can have an amazing 24 hours in Munich nevertheless .

As a local, I know all the highlights and historical sites inside out. In this guide , I’m going to show you exactly what you need to see and what you can skip . I’m also going to walk you through some alternatives, so you’ll enjoy your one day in Munich the best possible way.

I’m not going to lie, though. 3 or 4 days is probably what you would need to cover the basics ( click to check out a 3 day itinerary ; here’s a break-down of how many days you need in Munich ideally ). You will have to make some hard decisions and you will have to skip some highlights. Obviously, there is no time for any of the beautiful day trips from Munich or for the many beautiful fairy tale castles in Bavaria .

Note: I earn a small commission from purchased made through links in this article

The basic one day Munich itinerary

As time is precious, I do recommend you to start your day early . Most museums and attractions don’t open before 9:00 am, so you are somewhat limited in your choices though. I recommend you to buy the Munich Card ( buy it here ), as it will give you discounts for all the entrance fees and free public transport.

• 8:30 am: Start at Odeonsplatz and check out the beautiful Theatinerkirche ; You might also want to drop by at the adjacent Hofgarten park
• 9:00 am: Head to the Munich Residenz Palace (don’t go on the extended tour)
• 10:50 am: Walk towards Marienplatz , enjoy the Glockenspiel & climb Alter Peter for the best views of the city.
• 11:45 am: Lunchtime ; Check out the Viktualienmarkt and buy some snacks. It’s a good location to sit down in the beer garden to enjoy a stein of local beer (or maybe two).
• 1:00 pm: Walk down the pedestrian area towards the Church of our Lady
• 1:30 pm: Now it’s time to marvel at Königsplatz (walk or take the subway from Marienplatz) where the Art Quarter starts.
• 2:00 pm: Alte Pinakothek is probably the most famous museum, but if you don’t like Old Masters (Da Vinci, Raphael, etc), pick the Museum Brandhorst for contemporary art.
• 4:00 pm: Now you can either visit one more museum or head towards Englische Garten (take bus #100 to Odeonsplatz or walk). Walk past the Monopteros temple and check out the beer garden at the Chinese Tower.
• 5:00 pm: Walk towards the Eisbachwelle – surfing spot right in the middle of the city
• 6:00 pm: Head towards Hofbräuhaus . There’s usually live music, excellent traditional food, and of course Bavarian beer. Stay as long as you like and then walk home. Munich is perfectly safe at night .

Alternatives

The above 24 hours itinerary for Munich is my recommendation, but of course, we are all different and you might want to change things up a bit. Which is quite easy, as you’ll skip a couple of attractions on the way. I do want you to know, however, that Munich really is worth visiting and you should consider skipping other cities like Frankfurt or Cologne. Anyways, here are some further options.

• In the pedestrian area are two amazing churches: 1) St. Michael’s Church, where you will find the crypt of the Bavarian Kings . And the Asamkirche, a fantastic (yet tiny) baroque masterpiece .
• In the afternoon, the Englische Garden is a beautiful spot, but you could also head towards Nymphenburg palace (takes about 30 minutes from the central station) if you want to see another palace and a beautiful park. The famous Munich zoo could also be an option if you are traveling with kids
• In terms of museums, I would like to point out the Deutsche Museum , which is an extremely huge and fun technical museum (aviation, physics, computer, geology) sitting on an island on the river Isar. Here is a list of the top museums in Munich for some further alternatives.
• You can also choose to do the extended tour inside the Residence Palace and check out the fantastic Treasury Museum . Then you’ll need 4 hours instead of 2, though.
• It’s also possible to use the whole afternoon and take a suburban train to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial . If you start around 2 pm, you should be able to make it work easily.
• Instead of the Hofbräuhaus, you could also attend a performance at the Bavarian National Opera, which happens to be one of the opera houses in the world

Munich has an amazing public transport system and you can basically walk most of the time, as the inner city isn’t all that large. Still, I wouldn’t crowd my day too much because it’s easy to underestimate the transfer times. And always remember there are so many beautiful photo locations in Munich that just walking around can be rewarding.

Oh, and just in case you were wondering if you should visit Munich or Berlin , I wrote a detailed guide about that too.

Where to eat in Munich

The whole pedestrian area is full of restaurants, cafés, and bars, so you will have to problem finding a place to eat. If you don’t want to eat at the Viktualienmarkt or the Hofbräuhaus, there are plenty of amazing alternatives.

One thing you should know is that Germany is famous for its bread. You will find a bakery around every corner and they all sell lovely pastries & sandwiches for a euro or two. This is the cheapest way to eat. Butcheries usually also have some nice takeaway options (try Leberkässemmel!). There are also little Turkish kebab restaurants all over the city, which is another excellent street-food option very popular among locals.

Almost all the traditional restaurants in the immediate city center are touristy. Local’s really don’t go there. But as probably don’t want to eat pizza or sushi, there is somewhat no way around it.

The Rathskeller directly below the city hall is one of these touristy places, that is nevertheless quite lovely (beautiful ceiling murals). Donisl , also on Marienplatz is also a popular budget alternative for traditional bavarian food. If you don’t mind paying a little premium, then the Spatenhaus an der Oper is an excellent choice with beautiful interiors (go on the second floor!!). The Augustiner Bräustuben is also quite wonderful.

But like I said, in summer I’d recommend eating at a beer garden (while you can bring your own food, there is also tons of traditional options you can order there). One of my favorite’s is the Wirtshaus Zum Straubinge r . The Schneider Bräuhaus is also quite an institution.

Where to stay

One day in Munich is short, so you will want to stay somewhere in the city center or near the central station. Please be aware that Munich is an incredibly expensive city, and it’s almost impossible to find a hotel in the direct city center for less than 100 USD a night.

Luxury hotels in Munich’s city center:

• Bayerische Hof
• Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten
• Rocco Forte The Charles

Mid-price options

• Motel One Sendlinger Tor
• NH Collection München

budget hotels in the city center

• King’s Hotel CityStay
• Arthotel Munich

How long does it take to the city center from Munich Airport

Do you have a long layover at Munich airport and now you are wondering if you can use that time to see Munich while you are waiting? Well, I do have to break the news to you that this will be somewhat problematic. There is no highspeed airport connection, only a regular suburban train. It takes about 40 minutes from Munich airport to the central station .

There are coin lockers at the central station (or the airport) where you can store your luggage. The problem is: the suburban train leaves only every 20 minutes and it takes you quite a while to get out of security, etc. So, for the transfer to the city center and back, y ou have to calculate 3 hours to be on the safe side .

If you got a layover of 6 hours or more, I’d say its worth it. Otherwise, it might be better to check out the beer garden at the airport 😉

FAQ: Things you should know before you plan your one day in Munich

• Is there a tourist card? Yes, the Munich Card and gives you free public transports and discounts for most attractions ( but it here ). The Munich Pass costs 39,90 (free entry and tours), but probably not worth it
• Most museums are closed on Mondays All the state-run museums are closed on Mondays. But harken, a lot of them are just 1 euro on Sundays.
• National holidays There are 13 national holidays in Bavaria. Please be aware that shops won’t be open, some museums are closed. Some national holidays are “silent”, which means loud music and dancing are prohibited. Definitely something to check before you visit.
• Opening hours All the shops are closed on Sundays. Grocery stores usually open around 7:00 am, but all shops close at 8:00 pm or earlier. So, if you plan some shopping, don’t come to late.
• Bring cash Credits cards are not universally accepted, especially in small shops and bars. You should definitely bring some cash. Museums, palaces, etc accept them, though.
• Trade Fairs & Festivals There are quite a couple of large trade fairs in Munich. Especially the BAUMA and the Heim+Handwerk. Also, the Oktoberfest and the Christmas Markets. Hotels will be booked out quite a long time in advance and will be considerably more expensive. Do your research in advance!

This was my guide for spending one day in Munich. I hope I was able to help you put together your own itinerary, but feel free to ask any questions below.

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One Day in Dusseldorf Itinerary – Top things to do in Dusseldorf, Germany

Dusseldorf, Germany, is one of the few cities in the world that, while rich enough in sights and sounds to fill out a whole season of traveling, is also perfect for an adventurous and wholesome one day itinerary. Whether you’re in the city for business or fun, you will find that there is a lot you can do in Dusseldorf in a day. In this article, we’ll share some fun facts about the city, as well as explore some of the fun things you can do and places you can go to while visiting.

Plan your trip to Dusseldorf

1. What’s the best time to visit Dusseldorf? 2. A few facts about Dusseldorf 3. One Day in Dusseldorf Itinerary 3.1. Start your day at Medienhafen 3.2. Climb the Rhine Tower 3.3. Walk the Rheinuferpromenade 3.4. Go window shopping in Konigsallee 3.5. Visit the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen 3.6. Have dinner in one of the restaurants 4. Where to stay in Dusseldorf, Germany 5. Day Trips from Dusseldorf 6. Extra tips for visiting Dusseldorf, Germany

Dusseldorf Itinerary Video Preview

What’s the best time to visit Dusseldorf?

As with many other cities around the world, the best time to visit Dusseldorf is greatly influenced by the weather. The months of September to December are especially good in this respect, followed by the period between May and June . These months include mild temperatures that make the city a pleasant experience.

A few facts about Dusseldorf

I know, for one, that I was curious about where the name ‘Dusseldorf’ comes from. It sounds very interesting. So, what are its origins? Many kilometers east of Dusseldorf are the sources of the Little Dussel River and the Dussel River. These two rivers meet and combine into one that flows west for many kilometers, until it splits into 4 rivers at a small delta which joins the Rhine.

It is that delta that defines the origins of Dusseldorf. It started as a small fishing village, known as a Dorf. Dusseldorf literally translates into “fishing village of the Dussel River”.

The city has a rich history and has been through a lot since its inception, going through many different regimes. It has been under the Romans, the Bergs, the Prussians, the French, the Nazis, the Allies, and the Federal Republic of Germany. It has been taken over, freed, demolished, and rebuilt many times over the hundreds of years since its inception.

Throughout its existence, the city has been a mainstay of politics, occupying a prominent position today as the administrative capital of the German state of Nordhein-Westfalen.

Today, Dusseldorf is a cultural center, not just a political one, and is one of the main places to go in Germany if you have a proclivity for the finer things in life. So sure are the inhabitants of this that they have been known to refer to their city as the cradle of culture. Quite frankly, after my visit there, I reckon the name is apt.

One Day in Dusseldorf Itinerary

There are quite a lot of things to see and do during your one day in Dusseldorf, no matter what time of year you visit. Here are the best among them – enjoy!

TIP:  Check out the best tours in Dusseldorf !

Start your day at Medienhafen

The name Medienhafen refers to the docks on the Rhine, which date back over a hundred years to the end of the 19 th century. The docks were a major part of the industrial boom of the city after the First World War. Take a walking tour of the harbor houses and see how the area has changed over time

The local industry began to wane in the twentieth century and, beginning in the ‘90s, it has morphed into an office district of sorts for media firms and fashion brands, though it has more than its fair share of cinemas, bars, and restaurants. So, starting your day here with a breakfast or morning coffee seems like a great idea, and Greger Cafe is the perfect place for that!

Climb the Rhine Tower

The Rhine Tower is the tallest building in Dusseldorf, and stands in the office district of Medienhafen, on its east side. It is a communications tower standing 240 meters tall, with a restaurant and observation deck at a height of 170 meters.

For a small fee of 9 Euros, you get to enjoy some of the most breathtaking panoramas you will ever experience. Also, if you come before 11 am or after 10 pm, that fee will only be 5 Euros, so it’s a perfect post-breakfast stop for your itinerary!

Walk the Rheinuferpromenade

The Rheinuferpromenade is a famous promenade on the right bank of the Rhine, and people love to come here and let their hair down when the sun comes out. It’s just north of the Medienhafen, so you can go for a nice stroll once you’re done there and enjoy the sun and the views. The walkway itself is well positioned so it gets sunshine no matter what time of day it is. If you decide to visit in the summer, you will be wowed by how similar the scene is to a Mediterranean destination.

Go window shopping in Konigsallee

Königsallee (known among the locals as Ko) is the defining luxury boulevard in Dusseldorf. It stands on either side of a canal, lined with beautiful trees, about a kilometer long, and there’s hardly a luxury brand whose shop you won’t find along it. For most people, Ko provides an excellent opportunity to do some window shopping while enjoying the ambiance and taking endless photos. However, if you feel like doing some real shopping, there’s not a famous brand you can’t find here.

Visit the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen

The North Rhine Westphalia is an art museum that spans the K20 and K21 .

The K20 is a work of architectural art clad in granite. It contains art from different movements, including Fauvism, Cubism, Expressionism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, Dada, and New Objectivity, among others. The K21 contains works by Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, Picasso, Ernst-Ludwig, Braque, and many others. For any art lover out there, this is simply a must!

Have dinner in one of the restaurants

As is the case with any great city, Dusseldorf has plenty of great restaurants to offer, and you’d really miss out on something special if you didn’t end the day in one of them.

Munstermann Kontor , for example, was featured in Michelin Guide for 2020, and it offers a great blend of traditional German dishes and French cuisine. Ristorante La Luce Due is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something Italian, and Oktopussy Bar & Restaurant (cool name, huh?) changes its menu on a daily basis and offers a great selection of wines.

Where to stay in Dusseldorf, Germany

  Adersstrasse 8, Karlstadt, 40215 Düsseldorf

The Fritz is a boutique hotel and culinary hotspot in the heart of Dusseldorf not far from the Königsallee and features a restaurant with a Michelin star! Comfortable and modern rooms come with a minibar and a private bathroom (among other things), so you can really enjoy yourself and relax here.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Capella Breidenbacher Hof 

Königsallee 11, Düsseldorf Centar, 40212 Düsseldorf,

Breidenbacher Hof takes luxury to the very highest level. This five-star fortress of decadence is right in the city center in an absolutely beautiful building. Big rooms, indoor pool, award-winning cocktails, excellent service… they’ve got it all here, so if you want to pamper yourself, this is most certainly the place.

Business Wieland Hotel

Wielandstr. 8, Düsseldorf Centar, 40211 Düsseldorf

Business Wieland Hotel is one of those places that don’t necessarily stand out that much but make you feel extremely glad you booked a room there. Every room is modern and very comfortable, plus it comes not only with a flat-screen TV but also a Samsung tablet, which can give you some great tips about the city. No matter if you’re here on business or not, you’ll enjoy your stay here!

  Immermannstr. 7, Düsseldorf Centar, 40210 Düsseldorf

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more affordable, BLK Hostel is ideal for those traveling on a limited budget. The rooms look amazing and are very clean, plus the rooms come with a flat-screen TV. On top of that, the location is great,very close to the city center. If you’re looking for a hostel in Dusseldorf, this is it.

Day Trips from Dusseldorf

Should you decide to spend more than one day in Dusseldorf, a day trip to some other place may be in order. There are plenty of fine locations to choose from, and here are a few excellent suggestions.

Spending one day in Cologne is certainly a great choice. It is among Germany’s oldest cities with remarkable architecture. Even though Cologne is most famous for its cathedral, which is definitely a must, there are lots of other places to attend, such as Karneval celebrations and the local brew Kölsch.

Hohenzollern Bridge is a tiered-arch bridge between the cathedral and KölnTriangle, which was restricted to rail and pedestrian traffic, so you can a great view on the city

The city is famous for the largest Designer Outlet Centre in the Benelux countries – Designer Outlet Roermond, where you may find lots of branded clothes for a fair enough price. Roermond is situated in the southeastern part of the Netherlands and it will take you only about an hour to get here by car.

Going to Duisburg you should visit the Innenhafen (Inner Harbour) and plan a trip to Landschaftspark and Tiger & Turtle – Magic Mountain . The walkable sculpture provides a magnificent view. On bright days, it is possible to see from the city center along the Rhine up to Düsseldorf. Distance from Düsseldorf to Duisburg is 23 kilometers, so you can easily reach it by car, bus or train.

Extra tips for visiting Dusseldorf, Germany

– Use the Rhine Tower to orient yourself while in the city. It’s a useful landmark for finding your way around.

– Dusseldorf is one of the most fashion-conscious cities in the world. Many of the establishments have an unwritten dress code that tends toward stylish, so dress to impress, especially when hanging around Ko.

– There are over 100 galleries in the city. They all have incredible art, so try to visit as many as you can.

– Counter-intuitively, Dusseldorf has lots of Japanese culture. It is home to the third largest Japanese community in Europe. The city celebrates the contributions of its immigrants with parties and fireworks displays toward the end of May. You can also find great Japanese food year-round in Schadowstrasse.

– Always have some cash in hand, no matter what you’re doing. There are very few establishments that take cards or mobile pay.

– You’ll have to be friendly to restaurant personnel and understand their ways. For example, the waiters only come to you when called, and in the right way. You don’t get to snap your fingers or whistle. You only get to raise your hands and wave in their direction. In breweries, a thumbs up gesture or simple eye contact is enough.

– To further the point, when walking on the streets, don’t mistake cold stares and the lack of greetings. The Germans are obstinately formal, and a polite stare is often as much of a greeting as you will ever get.

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Emma Coffinet

Emma Coffinet is a content creator for websites, blogs, articles, white papers, and social media platforms. She has done gigs for Assignment Help UK , a dissertation writing service , as well as Best Dissertation Writing Service . She is keen on capturing the attention of a target audience. She keeps herself well-read with the changing trends of the web world. Emma loves to pen down her knowledge in an engaging and simplified way. She also enjoys leading, motivating and being part of a productive team. She is also equally comfortable working on her own initiative.

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Adventures of Alice

One Day in Frankfurt, Germany: The Best Frankfurt Itinerary

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Frankfurt was the first city we visited in Germany and it was a great experience. It’s one of those places that feel kind of underrated, yet hold so much charm and interesting architecture once you look beneath the surface. We spent a few days here, but I know that many people only spend one day in Frankfurt, whether on a long layover or a road trip through western Germany. 

The city is, at heart, a dynamic international financial hub. But it also harbours a rich culture, vibrant history, and plenty of attractions worth visiting. If you find yourself in Frankfurt for just one day, I’ve created the ideal itinerary that will let you explore the best of this fascinating city. 

✅ Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s the best river cruise in Frankfurt , the hotel we stayed at during our time there. And, to see the best of Frankfurt, I highly recommend getting the Frankfurt Card

Where to stay in Frankfurt, Germany

As I mentioned, this city is the financial capital of Germany. There are lots of places to stay here as many use it as a layover city or a stop on a German road trip. As such, there are lots of places to stay, from fancy business hotels to charming apartments overlooking the city. Here are some of my recommendations for where to stay in Frankfurt:

• £££ –  Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof – This incredibly stylish 5* hotel is in the heart of Frankfurt. The luxurious rooms have elegant furnishings, modern bathrooms, and comfortable beds. There is also an on-site restaurant, a beautiful bar area, and a spa with a Turkish Bath. The ultimate place to relax!
• ££ –  Boutique Kaiser Hotel and Apartments – These stylish apartments are the perfect way to get a home-from-home feel. Located just 400 meters from the city centre, you’ll find a fitness centre, bar, and restaurant. The large apartment rooms have modern self-catering facilities and a large bed.
• £ –  Bristol Hotel Frankfurt City – An affordable 4* hotel located in the centre of the city. The Bristol City Hotel has a modern glass facade, cosy, contemporary rooms, and a delightful breakfast buffet.

✅ Discover more of the best places to stay in Frankfurt

One Day in Frankfurt Itinerary

So, without further ado, here’s the ultimate itinerary for the perfect day in Frankfurt. You’ll get a taste of the city’s best architecture, see some great views, and visit one of Europe’s best museums. 

9:00 – Start Your Day at Frankfurt Cathedral

Cost: Free to enter. But €3 to climb the tower

Start your day with a visit to the Frankfurt Cathedral, known in German as ‘Kaiserdom.’ This Gothic-style building is steeped in German history. It’s also one of the most impressive buildings you’ll see and the spire towers into the skyline.

The inside is also pretty impressive. The cathedral’s Gothic architecture is breathtaking, and you’ll also find lots of brilliant stained-glass windows that dapple the light on the inside.

As the former election and coronation church for the Holy Roman Emperors, this cathedral has played a pivotal role in German history since the 14th century. 

Today, you can climb the 328 steps to the viewing platform, which offers panoramic views.

✅ Buy the Frankfurt City Card

9:30 – Stroll Along the River Main

Cost : Free

After you’ve explored the cathedral, take a scenic stroll towards the River Main. This river runs straight through the city centre and is a great place to admire both sides of Frankfurt and breathe in the fresh air. 

I actually found it interesting how the city was laid out along the river. One side seemed to be the older side of the city, and then, on the other bank, you could see all the skyscrapers and high-rise buildings of the financial side. 

You can walk along the whole bank of the river, but for this Frankfurt itinerary, just head to the Iron Footbridge. If you want, you could even head back to the Alte Brucke, a beautiful historic bridge, cross this to the other side of the river, and walk to the Iron Bridge from there.

10:00 – Admire the Iron Footbridge

Next, you’ll arrive at the Iron Footbridge, also known as the Eiserner Steg Bridge. This is Frankfurt’s answer to a love lock bridge and you’ll see countless padlocks covering this striking metal structure. 

The bridge connects the central district with the diverse neighbourhood of Sachsenhausen and has stood as a historical monument since it was created in 1869. It was also reconstructed after WWII.

The bridge offers a spectacular view of all the skyscrapers in the financial district, a stark contrast to the more traditional architecture on the other side. It’s an ideal spot for photographers and sightseers alike and you may also see some street performers along the bridge.

10:30 – Explore Römerberg Square

Now, we’ve arrived at one of the most well-known spots in the city, but an absolute must-see, even if you only have one day in Frankfurt. Römerberg Square is beautiful. The lively square is surrounded by colourful half-timbered houses. 

These were actually reconstructed after the Second World War and it really takes you back to what times must’ve been like. The style of the houses is from the 15th and 16th centuries and in the centre, you’ll find the Fountain of Justice.

Today, Römerberg is a great spot to snap photos, enjoy outdoor cafes, and immerse yourself in the frequent markets and festivities, including the famous Frankfurt Christmas market which transforms the square into a winter wonderland every year.

11:30 – Admire St. Paul’s Church

Just a short walk away, you’ll find St. Paul’s Church. Created in the 19th century, it gained its fame as the place where the first national assembly took place. In 1848, it became the seat of the Parliament, the first publicly and freely elected German legislative body.

Though the church was almost entirely destroyed during World War II, it was one of the first structures to be rebuilt, mainly because of its symbolic importance. 

Nowadays, it is a venue for prestigious events and a church. You can explore the impressive circular interior as well as its historical importance. 

12:00 – Explore Hauptwache

Finish this morning’s exploration with a tour of Hauptwache. One of the most famous plazas in the city, this bustling square has everything from a medieval defensive tower to a police station. 

The name ‘Hauptwache’ comes from the baroque guardhouse that was built in 1730, which once served as the city’s main guard post. Nowadays, it has been converted into a café and shopping centre, offering a diverse range of restaurants and shops.

The square is also home to the Old Stock Exchange and Frankfurt’s most famous statue, depicting German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. 

Hauptwache is the perfect spot to sit and people-watch, take in the surrounding architecture, or venture out to explore other nearby attractions such as the Zeil shopping street or the historic Zeppelin Museum. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat!

12:30 – Lunch

Since you’re already in one of the city’s best lunch spots, it makes sense to grab a bit to eat from the Hauptwache area. This bustling square is full of great restaurants and cafes, or you could also head inside one of the shopping centres for lunch.

13:30 – Visit the Goethe House

Cost : €10 per adult

After lunch, head to one of the most interesting places to visit during your one day in Frankfurt – Goethe House . No trip here is complete without visiting the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Okay, admittedly, this building is actually a restored replica. However, the original is another building in Frankfurt that was destroyed in World War II.

As you step inside, you’re transported back in time; the large wooden staircase, period furniture, and family portraits all tell the story of the Goethe family’s life and society during that era.

The house also exhibits several of Goethe’s personal belongings and writings. You’ll also find the historical museum next to the house where you’ll find a collection of artworks from Goethe’s time.

14:30 – Visit Frankfurt’s Alter Oper

Cost : Free to view. Tickets vary.

This stunning building is just a short walk from the Goethe House. Surrounded by high-rise skyscrapers, the building looks incredibly grand and beautiful. 

With an intriguing history that dates back to its opening in 1880, the opera house has survived the tests of time, including near destruction during World War II.

Following the war, it underwent substantial renovations and was reopened in 1951. Today, it is acclaimed for its world-class performances, ranging from classic operas to contemporary pieces. 

It’s well worth admiring the building during your one day in Frankfurt, even though you might not have time to go inside. 

15:30 – Visit the Senckenberg Nature Museum

Cost : €12 per adult

Next, let’s head to one of the city’s best museums. The Senckenberg Nature Museum is one of Europe’s largest natural history museums. We found it completely fascinating and a great way to end your day in the city.

It’s a fair walk from the Opera House – 22 minutes – or a 10-minute tram. But well worth it for the expansive collection of dinosaur bones you will find inside.

Open since 1821, you can explore a lot of Earth’s history within its walls and learn about a vast collection of creatures.

Included in this are the original dinosaur skeletons which you’ll see as soon as you enter the museum. They are huge and it’s quite terrifying to think creatures that large once roamed the earth!

Additionally, the museum has many biodiversity exhibits, from the deep sea to the expanses of outer space. With educational programs and interactive exhibits, it’s a great place for exploring the wonders of nature and the importance of its conservation for future generations.

17:30 – Admire the Views from the Observation Deck

Cost : €9 per adult

After you’ve explored the fantastic Natural History Museum head to the best place to view the city.  It’s roughly a 25-minute walk from the Senckenberg Nature Museum, or alternately, you could always hop on the public transport system. A tram will get you there in just over 10 minutes.

I love a panoramic view and this observation deck is without doubt the best place to see the skyline of Germany’s financial capital. 

Named after the city’s river, the Main Tower has an impressive height of 200 meters. Once you reach the observation deck, you’re greeted with a 360-degree panorama that stretches out over Frankfurt and beyond. 

You can see the tiny dots of people on the streets below, the contrasting blend of historical and modern architecture, and on clear days, even spot the distant peaks of the Taunus mountain range. 

The observation deck is not just for sightseers; photographers are also drawn to capture the city’s beauty, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light makes the cityscape look beautiful. Capturing the sunset from above the city seems like the best way to end your day in Frankfurt.

✅ Book tickets to Main Tower and a Guided City Tour

Is One Day in Frankfurt Enough?

Possibly not. We actually spent two days in Frankfurt and it was plenty of time to explore the historic old town, several of the museums, and both sides of the river. With just one day in Frankfurt, you’ll be pushing it to see that much.

You’ll likely only have time for one museum, even if you change some of the things on this itinerary. All in all, I recommend spending at least two days in Frankfurt, but if you only have time for one, this itinerary will allow you to see the best of the city.

If You Have More Than 1 Day in Frankfurt

If you are blessed with more time in this magnificent city, there are plenty of ways you could extend your itinerary. Frankfurt has lots of fantastic museums and attractions. Here are some of the things you could add to your list:

Visit the Städel Museum

The Stadel Museum is one of the most popular art galleries in Frankfurt and the whole of Germany. It contains a fantastic collection that spans over 700 years of European art, from the early 14th century to the present. It’s a must-visit destination for art lovers.

Visit Quaint Old Sachsenhausen

The cobblestone streets of Old Sachsenhausen are a pocket of the city that has retained its historical charm. Known for its traditional apple wine taverns, quaint shops, and remarkable half-timbered houses, this district is the perfect place for a stroll or a bite to eat.

There are lots of great pubs and restaurants here. In the summer months, the streets are alive with al-fresco diners.

Explore the Historisches Museum

Frankfurt’s Historisches Museum is a great way to explore the city’s evolution. Located on the banks of the River Main, this museum offers an insightful look into Frankfurt’s urban history, cultural life, and transforming landscape throughout the ages.

Take a Day Trip to Cologne

This was how we spent our third day in Germany. We actually spent 3 nights in Frankfurt, but on the third day, we took a train to Cologne . It was very easy to do – we just headed to the main train station and hopped on a direct train.

It was also relatively affordable, and a great way to see more of Germany’s magnificent cities. Plus, if you’re visiting in the winter months , it’s a great way to eat a lot of Christmas food as the markets in both of these cities are magnificent.

Getting Around Frankfurt in a Day

Frankfurt is a very easy city to get around, which is great because, if you’re short on time, you’ll likely not want to spend all day walking.

Luckily, Frankfurt’s public transport system is both efficient and user-friendly. The U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (commuter train), trams, and buses can pretty much take you anywhere you want to go in the city. 

To make things even easier, consider grabbing a Frankfurt Card — a travel pass offering unlimited travel within the city’s public transport system and discounts on many tourist attractions.

However, if you’d rather not use public transportation at all, then the central city is very walkable. To see all of the things on this day itinerary, you’d only need to do just over one hour of walking – not too bad for a full day!

Getting From Frankfurt Airport to the City Centre

However, despite the transport in the city being easy peasy, you’ll need to be careful when it comes to getting from the city to the airport. Frankfurt has two airports.

Frankfurt International Airport is the hub for Lufthansa, is located near the centre of the city, and you can get transport to the city centre any time of day by bus, train, or taxi in around 20-30 minutes. 

On the other hand, Frankfurt Hahn Airport is much more of a problem. It’s basically what London Luton Airport is to London – not really in London at all. Typically, because flights with Ryanair were the cheapest, this was the airport we flew into!

If you fly into this airport, your options are either a very expensive taxi or take a bus that will get you there in about 2 hours. On our first night in Frankfurt, we caught a late flight in and didn’t end up getting to our hotel until about 3 in the morning.

Not an ideal start to a trip, but we learnt our lesson! Next time, we will be landing at Frankfurt International Airport!

The Best Time to Visit Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a year-round destination. However, to dodge the summer tourist surge and premium hotel rates, I recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn.

That way, you’ll enjoy the city’s charm without the crowds. Alternatively, winter in Frankfurt is fantastic and the Christmas markets are some of the best in Germany .

Final Thoughts on Spending One Day in Frankfurt

Though one day in Frankfurt only just scratches the surface, it is enough to whet your appetite for a longer stay.

It is the ideal layover city because so many airlines fly into their main airport, it’s well connected to the rest of Germany and other European cities via its main train station, and you can easily see a lot of attractions if you only have a day in this wonderful city. 

Nonetheless, if you truly want to see everything, you might want to consider staying for two days or longer. Because, from historic sites to modern buildings, Frankfurt is much more than meets the eye.

P.S. If you want to explore other destinations in Germany, I recommend Baden-Baden , Hohenbaden Castle , Bastei Bridge , and Dresden .

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – thank you so much! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a travel blogger, content creator, and founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy, she embraced her passions and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

Based in the UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and going off-the-beaten-path, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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Germany Footsteps

The Absolute Best Places To Visit In Germany In Summer That You’ll Love ☀️

The summer months in Germany reveal a treasure trove of captivating destinations just waiting to be explored. With sun-soaked days and bustling events, this is the perfect time to immerse yourself in vibrant cities, quaint towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Each location brims with unique experiences, inviting you to discover the heart and soul of German culture.

As the sun rises earlier and sets later, you’ll find that Germany comes alive with energy and excitement. Picture yourself wandering through lively street fairs, savoring delicious local cuisine, or enjoying leisurely strolls along picturesque rivers.

Whether you’re hiking in the lush Black Forest, indulging in a refreshing beer garden, or admiring stunning medieval architecture, summer offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

This journey will guide you through some of the best places to visit in Germany during the summer. So, get ready to pack your bags, embrace the warm weather, and discover the enchanting beauty and rich heritage that make Germany a must-visit destination this season!

Love Germany?  Click here to download your free guide to 25 Incredible Things You Must Do In Germany In Your Lifetime . You won’t want to miss them!

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Table of Contents

Why Visit Germany In Summer

Visiting Germany in summer offers an incredible experience filled with vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and a plethora of activities.

One of the most compelling reasons to travel during this season is the long daylight hours. With the sun shining well into the evening, you’ll have extra time to explore historic sites, savor delicious meals outdoors, and enjoy the lively atmosphere that only summer can bring.

The weather during summer is generally warm and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking in the Black Forest or lounging by the lakes in Bavaria. However, it’s essential to remember that rain can surprise you at any moment, so packing a light rain jacket or travel umbrella is a wise choice to ensure you’re always prepared for unexpected showers.

Summer also marks a time of celebration throughout Germany. Numerous festivals, outdoor concerts, and cultural events fill the calendar, allowing you to immerse yourself in local traditions and festivities.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that summer is peak tourist season. Popular attractions can become crowded, and accommodation prices often rise in response to the influx of visitors. Despite this, escaping the tourist hordes is easy if you venture into smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path destinations – some great choices are below. For example, we visited the Harz Mountains in August and felt like we had it to ourselves!

Exploring less-traveled areas can provide a more authentic experience while still allowing you to enjoy Germany’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

In summary, summer in Germany is an exhilarating time full of adventure and local charm. With proper planning and an adventurous spirit, you can take full advantage of everything this beautiful country has to offer while creating unforgettable memories.

13 Best Places To Visit In Germany In Summer That You’ll Love ☀️

Hamburg shines brightly in the summer, becoming a hub of activity and vibrancy. Picture yourself strolling along the bustling harbor, where you can watch ships sail in and out while enjoying the fresh breeze from the Elbe River. The waterfront is dotted with charming cafes and restaurants, inviting you to savor a meal al fresco while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

In addition to exploring the famous Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district, you can unwind in the beautiful parks scattered throughout the city.

Spend lazy afternoons in Planten un Blomen, where you can find stunning botanical gardens and unique water light shows during the evenings. With various festivals and events taking place, including the iconic Hamburg Port Anniversary, summer is the perfect time to experience this dynamic coastal city.

Click here for our guide to visiting Hamburg.

Sylt is a gem of an island in the North Sea, known for its stunning beaches, charming villages, and unique landscapes that make it a summer paradise. As you step onto the island, you’ll be greeted by miles of beautiful sandy shores complemented by lush dunes and scenic beach chairs.

Relaxing by the water, you can enjoy various activities like sunbathing, swimming, or trying your hand at windsurfing.

The island’s vibrant towns, such as Westerland and Kampen, offer a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Stop by seafood restaurants to taste fresh catches from the North Sea, or indulge in local specialties at beachside bistros. With stunning sunsets and the soft sound of waves, Sylt provides a perfect getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure during the summer months.

Bremen is a charming city that truly comes alive during the summer, with its historical architecture and vibrant cultural scene. You’ll love wandering around the UNESCO-listed Market Square, where the stunning Town Hall and Roland Statue stand tall, symbolizing the city’s independence and rich history.

Here, you can relax at outdoor cafes, taste local delicacies, and soak up the lively atmosphere around you.

As summer arrives, Bremen hosts a plethora of events and festivals that showcase its rich cultural heritage. Experience music concerts, outdoor markets, and artistic performances that add to the city’s festive spirit.

Don’t forget to explore the enchanting Schnoor quarter, with its narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses, art galleries, and boutiques, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and memorable photo opportunities.

Click here for our guide to visiting Bremen.

Rostock is a vibrant maritime city nestled along the Baltic Sea, where summer transforms the atmosphere into a lively playground for tourists and locals alike. You’ll find yourself enchanted by the beautiful beaches, like Warnemünde, where soft sand and clear waters create a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming.

With opportunities for sailing and windsurfing, this coastal city promises an action-packed summer experience.

Rostock’s historic charm adds to its appeal, with rich Gothic architecture and charming streets waiting to be explored. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit during the famous Warnemünde Week, a thrilling maritime festival filled with boat races, cultural events, and delicious local cuisine.

The combination of sun, sea, and culture makes Rostock an unforgettable summer destination.

5. Harz Mountains

The Harz Mountains are a summer hiker’s paradise, offering breathtaking landscapes and a wealth of outdoor activities. As you explore this picturesque region, you’ll encounter dense forests, serene lakes, and charming towns full of character.

The well-marked trails cater to all fitness levels, allowing you to experience the natural beauty at your own pace.

One of the must-see highlights is the historic Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany, which provides expansive views and a sense of accomplishment after the hike. The area is also rich in folklore, making it both an adventurous and culturally enriching experience.

Visit the towns of Wernigerode and Goslar with their half-timbered houses, and savor the region’s hearty local cuisine after an exhilarating day of exploration.

Click here for our guide to visiting Quedlinburg in the Harz Mountains.

6. Elbe Sandstone Mountains

The Elbe Sandstone Mountains are a spectacular national park in Saxony, where summer unveils the beauty of jagged rock formations and lush green valleys along the Elbe River. As you hike the numerous trails, you’ll encounter breathtaking vistas and unique geological features that feel straight out of a fantasy novel.

Be sure to visit the iconic Bastei Bridge, where panoramic views will leave you in awe.

In addition to hiking, this area offers opportunities for climbing, photography, and exploring quaint villages with rich history. The charming town of Bad Schandau serves as an excellent base for your adventures and provides excellent local dining options.

With its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, the Elbe Sandstone Mountains are a delightful summer escape for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

7. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fairy tale come to life, particularly enchanting during the summer months. As you stroll through its well-preserved medieval streets, you’ll be captivated by the colorful half-timbered houses and lively atmosphere.

The town feels as if it has been plucked from a storybook, inviting you to explore every charming alley and picturesque square for endless photo opportunities.

During the summer, Rothenburg hosts various festivals and events, including the famous Rothenburg Summer Festival, showcasing local crafts, food, and music. Don’t miss the chance to taste traditional Franconian cuisine in outdoor cafés.

Afterwards, take a walk along the city walls for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. With its rich history, bustling market square, and friendly locals, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a must-visit for anyone seeking a magical summer experience in Germany.

Click here for our guide to visiting Rothenburg.

Munich bursts with life and excitement in the summer, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all kinds. The city is famous for its beautiful parks, especially the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world.

Here, you can enjoy picnics, paddle boating, or simply soaking up the sun while watching locals practice tai chi or play frisbee.

Summer is also the perfect time to experience Munich’s vibrant beer garden culture. You can tantalize your taste buds with authentic Bavarian food—think pretzels, sausage, and locally brewed beer—while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere.

Additionally, numerous festivals, celebrate Bavarian culture with music, food, and dancing, offering a delightful glimpse into the local way of life. With its unique blend of history, culture, and fun, Munich is a summer destination you won’t want to miss.

Click here for our guide to visiting Munich.

9. Zugspitze

The Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, is a breathtaking destination during the summer months. As you ascend to the summit, you’re greeted with breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Whether by hiking or taking the cable car, the journey to the top is an adventure in itself, revealing the stunning beauty of the surrounding mountains.

At the summit, you can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from hiking trails suitable for all skill levels to mountain biking for the adventurous spirit. The area also offers cozy mountain lodges where you can savor traditional Bavarian dishes while taking in the spectacular alpine scenery.

With its blend of thrilling activities and awe-inspiring vistas, Zugspitze is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for an unforgettable summer escapade.

10. Lake Constance

Lake Constance is a beautiful destination where Germany, Austria, and Switzerland converge, offering a stunning setting during the summer. The region is perfect for a variety of water sports, including sailing, swimming, and paddleboarding. You can also enjoy leisurely boat trips across the lake, taking in picturesque views of the Alps in the background.

The charming towns surrounding the lake, like Lindau and Meersburg, invite you to explore their historic streets filled with shops, cafés, and stunning gardens.

Summer is also prime time for local festivals and events, such as the colorful flower shows and wine tastings that showcase the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Whether you’re relaxing by the water or hiking along the scenic trails, Lake Constance promises a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal summer getaway.

11. Black Forest

The Black Forest is a spectacular natural paradise that thrives in the summer. This enchanting region is renowned for its dense forests, scenic hiking trails, and charming villages. You’ll find yourself immersed in lush greenery, with countless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and even swimming in the cool, clear lakes.

As you explore the area, be sure to visit quaint villages like Freiburg and Triberg, where you can sample local specialties, including the famous Black Forest cake.

Summer also brings lively festivals celebrating traditional crafts and local cuisine, offering an authentic taste of the region’s rich culture.

The combination of stunning landscapes and rich traditions makes the Black Forest an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking adventure during the summer months.

Click here for our guide to visiting the Black Forest.

12. Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a romantic city that captivates visitors with its charm and beauty, especially in the summer. The historic old town is a delight to explore, with narrow streets lined with boutique shops, cafes, and stunning baroque architecture.

The iconic Heidelberg Castle, perched above the city, provides a picturesque backdrop and offers guided tours that delve into its rich history.

Summer brings vibrant outdoor events, including concerts and festivals that fill the streets with music and laughter. You can also enjoy a leisurely walk along the Neckar River or take a boat cruise to relish the scenic beauty surrounding this picturesque city.

With its blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views, Heidelberg is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable summer experience.

Click here for our guide to visiting Heidelberg.

13. Monschau

Monschau is a charming town nestled in the Eifel region, and it’s particularly delightful in the summer. Its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses create a fairy-tale atmosphere that beckons you to explore. You’ll love wandering through this quaint town, discovering local shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés that offer a taste of the region’s culinary delights.

Summer is ideal for taking advantage of the stunning surrounding landscapes, with numerous hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore nature.

Be sure to sample Monschau’s famous mustard, which is produced here, and soak in the tranquillity of the surrounding countryside. With its picturesque beauty and rich local culture, Monschau is a hidden gem that promises a charming and relaxing summer getaway.

Click here for our guide to visiting Monschau.

As summer approaches, Germany becomes a canvas of vibrant experiences waiting to be explored. From the charming streets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber to the breathtaking views atop Zugspitze, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the diverse beauty and rich culture of the country.

Whether you’re seeking adventure in nature, indulging in local cuisine, or soaking up the lively atmosphere of festivals, Germany has something for everyone.

No matter which places you choose to visit, you’re sure to create lasting memories while enjoying all that summer in Germany has to offer. So, embrace the warmth, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting country that you’ll surely fall in love with!

Considering winter? Here’s our guide to summer vs winter in Germany here . Also check out our guide to the best seasonal festivals in Germany here , most colorful towns here and top travel tips here . You can also find all our guides to planning a trip to Germany here .

Related Articles:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon first fell in love with Germany back in 2000 on her first visit. She loves the long history, the picturesque Old Towns, the castles, the food, everything really! Since then, she has visited many times and loves writing about Germany here so you can enjoy it too. In fact, Sharon loves German culture so much that she sent her kids to a German primary school in Australia. She especially loves Berlin and towns with charming Old Towns like Celle and Quedlinburg. Sharon also has a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and understands the nitty gritty of travel planning. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to Germany whether it's your first or tenth time!

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15 Coolest Day Trips from Berlin in 2024

Who else is guilty of making the same New Years Resolutions every year? My resolutions come down to just a few things in essence: try to like running, consume less cheese, and finally become a grown-up. The fact that none of these things seem to ever happen is somehow reassuring (#foreveryoung).

This year I did try another resolution though: travel more within Germany .

For the past three years I’ve been feasting on this European buffet of fantastic countries, going to every place I had ever imagined. I’ve hit the big ones: France, Spain, Italy, England. I’ve hit some smaller ones too: Croatia, Denmark, Czech Republic. But the number of cities I’ve been to in Germany? I could count those on one lonely hand.

Luckily for anyone coming to Berlin and perusing this list, I didn’t get too ambitious with my Germany travel and instead have a bunch of amazing day trips from Berlin – most of which are within 2-3 hours of the city where you can go to unwind and take a break from the pervasive smell of Döner kebap.

You’ll find both Berlin excursions that get you into nature, as well as cities close to Berlin you can just enjoy for a different pace. I absolutely recommend adding a few day trips to your Berlin itinerary .

Are you sold? Let’s get started.

Best Berlin day trips

The easiest way to reach all of these places is by renting a car. Driving in Germany is much more straightforward than a lot of other European countries.

If you’re able to drive in Germany, I highly recommend DiscoverCars as someone who takes a lot of road trips in Europe.

Without further ado, here are the absolute best Berlin day trips I personally recommend, based on my experience living in the city for nearly 7 years.

1. Potsdam and Sanssouci Palace (The Versailles of Germany)

• Distance: 36 kilometers (22 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour each way
• Reach by: Tour or public transit

Potsdam is a posh town right outside of Berlin, charming and worth strolling through, however the main draw is undoubtedly the Schloss Sanssouci (Sanssouci Palace).

If you’ve been to Versailles during a trip to Paris, you might notice some similarities right away. Sanssouci has large, dedicated gardens, as well as smaller buildings along the grounds that you can go up into. The interior isn’t as vast, but the design of the palace rooms is just as elaborate and showy.

A stop in Potsdam and Sanssouci is easily the most popular Berlin day trip for first-time visitors to the city, and for a good reason. It’s beautiful, affordable, and easy to reach.

Especially if you’ve been to Versailles you’ll appreciate when I say this: comparatively few tourists visit Sanssouci. You don’t have to push your way through to see everything or fight people for a photo. Instead, it’s possible to just walk through, do some reading, and learn some history!

That said, buying tickets in advance is highly recommend during the high Summer tourism season to avoid waiting in a long line. Tips on that below.

How to reach Potsdam from Berlin

To reach Potsdam, take the S-Bahn (S7) to the Potsdam Hauptbahnhof (Postdam Main Station). Directly in front of the stations are busses that will connect you to the palace.

But as with most historical areas, it can be 10x more interesting when you have someone to explain the history to you. Personally, I’m so much more likely to actually remember things from a tour as opposed to passively reading signs inside the palace. This particular Potsdam + Sanssouci tour includes an English-speaking guide, tickets to the palace, and 1,000+ positive reviews.

2. Harz Mountains

• Distance: 239 kilometers to Wernigerode (142 miles)
• Travel time: 2.5 hours each way
• Reach by: Car

Germany’s Harz Mountains is a stunning forest region located 2.5-3 hours west of Berlin. Here you’ll find some of the best-preserved medieval towns in the entire country. But if you love nature, then waterfalls, forest hikes, traditional German food, and blissfully poor cell phone reception all await you in Harz .

But there’s something even more incredible about Harz you might not expect…

The absolute lack of foreign tourists. German travelers flock to Harz to get a taste of traditional Germany, see famous locations from Goethe’s Faust , and to fulfill the stereotype of being obsessed with hiking.

But apart from a healthy dose of Danes, Harz has completely flown under the international tourism radar. Which is a little surprising given how Instagram-worthy its towns full of Fachwerkhäuser (half-timbered houses) are.

Take, for example, a look at this sinister-looking Rathaus (town hall) in Wernigerode .

We spent an entire week in Harz and still ran out of time to do everything. In a leisurely day trip, you could definitely make it to Wernigerode to see the town hall (above), hike to the castle (first photo), and visit a traditional brewery. If you wake up early with a car, you could probably also add Goslar and Quedlinburg to your trip and visit all three major in a super packed day.

Read my dedicated Harz Mountains guide for details on the Harz National Park, the best towns to visit, where to stay in Harz, and how to extend your trip for a week or weekend.

The Harz Mountains in Germany are a gorgeous highland area famous for forests, medieval towns, and witches of yore. Find out the best things to in Harz in this detailed travel guide.

How to get to Harz from Berlin

It’s best and fastest to get to Harz by car, which will shave 45 minutes off your arrival and departure trips. Plus, trains and busses in this region leave infrequently so this gives you much more flexibility.

It is possible to reach some of the main towns in Harz like Wernigerode , Goslar , and Quedlinburg by train in roughly 3 hours.

3. Saxon Switzerland

• Distance: 230 kilometers (142 miles)
• Travel time: 3 hours each way

Saxon Switzerland is a stunning national park and hilly region near the Elbe Valley, located about 230 kilometers southeast of Berlin. It’s one of the most beautiful places in East Germany, especially overlooking the Bastion Bridge ( Basteibrücke , shown above).

From Saxon Switzerland, you can also get sweeping views of the River Elbe . The most popular things to do in Saxon Switzerland include hiking, climbing, cycling, and visiting rock formations and vantage points beloved by landscape photographers. Perfect for either a single day or a weekend escape.

If you want to experience nature in Germany and take a break from the city, this is the best day trip from Berlin I can recommend to you. Here’s how to get there from Berlin.

How to reach Saxon Switzerland from Berlin

Reaching Saxon Switzerland from Berlin takes about 3 hours of travel each way, and is best done by car. Again, my recommended car rental company for Europe roadtrips is DiscoverCars .

Since Saxon Switzerland is a popular day trip for Berlin locals (especially during school holidays and weekends) visit during the week when possible.

4. Spreewald

• Distance: 100 kilometers (62 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Reach by: Car or train

Spreewald is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve located just 100 kilometers outside of Berlin in the state of Brandenburg. It features over 200 canals you can navigate by kayak, canoe, or a traditional punting boat (called Spreewaldkahn ) for a total of 276 kilometers.

Besides being able to paddle around, you’ll also get a glimpse into the traditional Sorbian village of Lehde . This region was originally settled by the Sorbs and Wends, who came here over 1,400 years ago from the Carpathian mountains. In fact, the word “Berlin” originally comes from the Slavic word for “swamp”!

Spreewald is a gorgeous day trip from Berlin in any season, but Summer and Autumn are especially beautiful. It’s also a great example of local tourism, as you’ll find very few other foreigners here.

How to reach Spreewald from Berlin

The most efficient way to reach Spreewald from Berlin is by renting a car. Again, DiscoverCars is my go-to. Otherwise, it is possible to reach Spreewald by train from Berlin by disembarking at the Lübbenau/Spreewald stop.

Read my dedicated guide to Spreewald, Germany for more details on visiting this gorgeous forest in Brandenburg, and things to do in the area.

• Distance: 55 kilometers (34 miles)
• Travel time: 1 hour by car or train

Are you into so-called “Dark Tourism”? Beelitz is a former Sanatorium, now completely dilapidated and overgrown with trees. Today, you can walk through the canopy on a treetop walk, called the Beelitz Baumkronenpfad (“Beelitz Canopy Path”).

Some say the hospital ruins are haunted, and when you take a tour through the parts of it that are still accessible, you might get an idea why. It was originally built to treat tuberculosis patients en mass , before being repurposed as a military hospital to treat Nazis during World War II and Soviet soldiers until the 1990s. You can go inside some parts of the former hospital today on a guided tour:

Most famously, some World War II-era scenes from The Pianist were shot at Beelitz. It was also featured in a Rammstein music video. If you like visiting abandoned places and learning about their history — or just think the treetop walk looks awesome — make your way to Beelitz.

How to reach Beelitz Sanatorium

The easiest way to reach Beelitz is by car, and takes just one hour of driving. There’s a lot of parking at Beelitz, as the Sanatorium and Treetop Walk has been converted into a proper attraction with tours (including in English) and food stalls. Car is how we reached Beelitz ourselves.

It’s also possible to reach Beelitz by train, as there is a train station right at Beelitz-Heilstätten . From Alexanderplatz, it takes about 1 hour to get there.

• Distance: 190 kilometers (118 miles)
• Travel time: 90 minutes by express train, 2.5 hours by car
• Best reached by: Car or train, but bus is also possible

Looking for an off-beat city trip? Leipzig is your answer. Just a 90-minute train ride from Berlin, and you’re in a place that the New York Times won’t stop calling “The New Berlin”.

As someone who used to live in Leipzig, I disagree. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a great city.

Leipzig is hip, it’s cheap, and it’s a little bit like what Berlin must’ve been like 15-20 years ago. Leipzig used to be one of the biggest cities in East Germany before the wall came down, but saw a mass exodus of people when the country was reunited. That’s why real estate prices are low, there are a lot of abandoned buildings, and the city has struggled to recover to its former glory.

That said, Leipzig has a lot to offer in a small, concentrated package, so it makes for a wonderful Berlin day trip.

What makes Leipzig unique? Leipzig, in some ways, is like a time capsule. Although the city is modernizing, demolishing, and rebuilding, the city’s architecture is distinctly East German. Combine that with the youth and university culture, Leipzig is a place where you can have a good time on little money without having to go far.

Best things to do in Leipzig

Of course I have to turn this into a blog post at some point, but here’s a quick rundown of the things I would say are essential for having a city trip in Leipzig.

• Visit the Christmas market – Leipzig has one of the most charming Christmas markets I’ve ever visited, and it happens right in the middle of the car-free city center.
• Go for a walk through Clara-Zetkin Park – If you look on a map, you might be shocked to see exactly what the relative size of this park is to the rest of the city. In the summer, people gather on the Sachsenbrücke to drink beer al fresco and create live music.
• Check if you’re in town for the Bier Börse , an annual beer festival. You’ll get to try a variety of German beers (and beers from the Czech Republic, Belgium, pretty much anywhere in Europe that’s known for beer).
• Take a walk through the city center and absorb the main sights : Augustusplatz, Leipzig Opera, Thomaskirche (where Bach is NOT buried, but they say he is). There’s a local brewery near the Thomaskirche which always has a different seasonal beer on tap.
• Spend an afternoon in trendy Plagwitz, a neighborhood west of the center. Here you’ll find the Baumwollespinnerei , a former textile factory turned into art exhibits. There’s a lovely beer garden, as well as an fabulous art store (where only university students and “unknowing tourists” can shop), great for gifts.
• Visit the Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Monument to the Battle of Nations), which is pictured above. It celebrates the fact that Napoleon was defeated at Leipzig in a big way. Fun fact: This is where the Backstreet Boys performed when they visited Leipzig.
• Go for a beer my favorite beer garden in all of Germany : Substanz in Reudnitz, the district best known for student life. The best time to go is when the beer garden is open from late Spring through early Autumn. If you can’t make it, there’s still the piano bar. The burgers are divine.

Restaurant recommendation in the city center: Imperii

How to reach Leipzig from Berlin

There’s a train between the two cities that runs every hour between main stations – you can decide between a fast train and a slow train. 1 hour 45 minutes). These trains are possible to book directly in the station, although you will save some money by booking in advance. Booking the same day means the trip costs about 50 EUR, and in advance can bring it down to half that.

Besides trains, you can take a bus between Berlin and Leipzig , which will run you between 10-20 EUR. The most comfortable option of all would be booking the express train (ICE) far enough in advance.

7. Bad Muskau

• Distance: 163 kilometers (101 miles)
• Travel time: 2 hours by car

Bad Muskau is home to the Muskau Park, officially called the Fürst-Pückler-Park Bad Muskau . It’s one Central Europe’s largest and most famous gardens. This town is right on the border to Poland if you want to easily add another country to your own personal count. The Muskau Park was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2004.

Today you can go to the Museum, walk around the gardens, go to the cafe, and have a picnic. Bad Muskau is just down the street from Kromlau Park (listed below) so if you’re going to one, it makes sense to combine them for a day trip.

How to reach Bad Muskau

Drive southeast from Berlin for about 2 hours along the A13 and then the A15. You’ll basically follow the signs to Cottbus for most of the way, and will drive right through Spreewald as you do. Trying to do this trip by train would take 12+ hours, so if you want to see this area, coming by car is virtually your only option.

8. Germany’s Devil’s Bridge in Kromlau

Kromlau is a small town on the border between Germany and Poland, and Kromlauer Park is a hidden gem, visited by a very small number of foreign tourists.

This 200-acre park is home to the Rakotzbrücke, also called Germany’s Devil’s Bridge for the legend behind it that the devil helped build it in exchange for the first living soul to cross it once completed. In Autumn, this park is absolutely breathtaking, although lacking a lot of the flowers and ponds that would otherwise be there in Spring.

What makes Kromlau unique? It’s not a city, it’s not on any major tourism website – it’s a local sanctuary that few find out about. If you want to see something in Germany that few others have, Kromlau is waiting for you!

How to reach Germany’s Devil’s Bridge from Berlin

The trip can be a half-day trip if you’re going by car, but will most likely require a full day if you’re going to take public transit. By car, you’ll start driving towards Dresden, and then towards Cottbus as soon as you see signs for it. By public transit, you’ll take the train to Cottbus and then transfer to an old steam train to make it into Kromlau.

This legendary bridge in Saxony, Germany will make you feel like you've fallen into a fairytale. It's one of those places where it's just as magical in photos as it is in real life.

• Distance: 26 kilometers (16 miles)
• Travel time: 50 minutes
• Reach by: Car or S-Bahn

Wannsee has a dark history behind it, but nonetheless is a beautiful area to visit from Berlin. Nowadays, people mostly come to Wannsee to visit the lake, which is one of the most popular sandy beaches surrounding the city. On a hot day it can get crowded, but there’s plenty of beer and beach food to keep you comfortable.

Wannsee is most famous for being the site of the Wannsee Conference, where senior Nazi officials met to plan the Final Solution to the “Jewish Question”. The location of this meeting, the Wannsee Villa, has been converted into a free exhibition where you can read real clipping from the newspapers and internal documents alike, demonstrating how the Jews were targeted and blamed for Germany’s problems. Honestly it’s unsettling to be in the same building where this happened, but seeing the original words of the people involved is eye-opening nonetheless.

What makes Wannsee unique? I’d say the fact that you can have a really balance day of learning about history, and then relaxing on the lake. Neither has to be a full-day activity, so there’s some real variety to this day trip.

Quick tips for visiting Wannsee:

• The Haus der Wannsee-Konferenz (House of the Wannsee Conference) is a free exhibit, where you’ll pass through several rooms, all overlooking the beautiful Wannsee .
• Another villa, the Liebermann Villa , hosts artist Max Libermann’s paintings of his home and garden. Unlike the Wannsee villa, it is not free to enter.
• Pfaueninsel is a nearby nature reserve, which tops numerous other lists of best day trips from Berlin. I went last Summer and it was a really nice trip to enjoy some of the nature around Berlin.

Pfaueninsel, as it's called in German, is home to a charming Prussian castle and only a short S-bahn ride outside of Berlin. Here are things to do on Pfaueninsel and how to get here!

How to reach Wannsee

You’ll take the S-Bahn S1 line, which passes through major stations throughout Berlin such as Potsdamer Platz, Brandenburger Tor, and Friedrichstraße. The S7 line is also an option, which passes through Alexanderplatz, Hackescher Markt, and Hauptbahnhof (Berlin main station).

10. Britzer Garten (in Spring)

• Distance: 12 kilometers (7.4 miles)
• Travel time: 45-60 minutes

Germans love nature, and nature loves the Germans – nowhere is it clearer than Britzer Garten, a large park featuring a lake, rose, tulip, and dahlia gardens, a functioning windmill, and a Liebesinsel (Love Island). Both dogs and bicycles are banned in this park, so it’s guaranteed to be peaceful. There’s a cafe overlooking the lake, as well as convenient spot for ice cream.

Come here if you’re looking for an early taste of Spring – when everything else is still waking up from their winter’s sleep, the cherry blossoms at Britzer Garten are already showing off how pretty they are.

You don't have to go to Japan to experience cherry blossom season. Berlin has over two kilometers of cherry blossoms waiting to be wandered through, admired, and photographed! Here are the best places in Berlin to enjoy cherry blossoms.

When we came to Britzer Garten, we packed for a picnic and ate right across from the Love Island. Everything was fine and dandy until a swan decided he wanted to share our meal! I pretty much thought he was going to fight us, but somehow we managed to defend our food.

What makes Britzer Garten unique? Like Kromlauer Park, Britzer Garten is a place enjoyed mostly by locals who are looking for some time out of the city. You’re unlikely to get stuck behind hoards of tourists trying to snap an identical photo – you can just come here to wind down in the middle of a busy tour through Germany.

How to get to Britzer Garten. You can take the U6 U-Bahn south in the direction of Alt-Mariendorf. From there, transfer to the 179 Bus towards Gerlinger Str. and disembark at Sangerhauser Weg. A short walk (6 min, 550 meter) down the same road and you’re there!

11. Müggelsee

• Distance: 21 kilometers (13 miles)
• Travel time: 50 minutes by S-bahn from Alexanderplatz
• Reach by: S-bahn

Berlin is surrounded by countless lakes, and if you come in Summer on a weekend, you’ll see the public transit full of people who are clearly heading for a day at the beach. Müggelsee is one of the most popular lakes in Berlin, given its shallow waters make it one of the warmer options. You can bring your family or set up solo. There are some snacks available at the lake (for a premium) or bring your own food and drinks.

How to get to Müggelsee. The easiest way to get to Müggelsee is to take the S-bahn (S3) to Köpenick and then ride your bicycle around the lake. Otherwise at Köpenick you can connect to a bus that will take you closer to the lake. All in all the trip takes between 50-80 minutes depending on where you’re starting in the city.

12. Wittenberg

• Distance: 112 kilometers (69 miles)
• Travel time: 90 minutes by car, 1 hour 40 minutes by train

If you learned about the Protestant Reformation in school, there’s a good chance you’re familiar with Wittenberg’s most famous resident: Martin Luther. It was in Wittenberg that he nailed the 95 theses to the door of the church, and if you come here you can see the exact door that he nailed it on.

The city isn’t huge but you can come by and explore some small shops, get an ice cream, and give yourself a small historical tour. Near the church there is also a museum about Martin Luther and the protestant reformation.

How to get to Wittenberg

You can simply book a train directly from Berlin to Wittenberg, or opt for renting a car if you prefer. You can book a train on the Deutsche Bahn English website .

• Distance: 349 kilometers (216 miles)
• Travel time: 4 hours by car, 4.5 hours by train

It’s arguably a stretch to call Prague a day trip, but if you really want to see Prague from Berlin it’s doable. You need to get up early, and you need to come back late, but it can be done! I’ve done it as a day trip from Leipzig before.

Plus, the Czech Republic is probably the easiest of all the countries near Berlin, Germany to visit.

Prague may be one of the most popular cities with tourists coming to Europe and it’s no surprise why – the architecture is beautiful, the prices are still rather low, and there is a ton of things to do in this historic city.

How to reach Prague from Berlin

In the interest of time, the best way to get here is by car. It’s also possible to take a train which will add an hour on to your travel time, or even to take a six hour bus. At six hours I would argue it’s easier (and probably costs just as much) to take a plane!

14. Hamburg

• Distance: 289 kilometers (179 miles)
• Travel time: 2 hours by express train, 4 hours by car

I’ve only been to Hamburg once in the dead of Winter and it was cold and dreadful. But in the Summer, Hamburg is known to be one of the prettiest cities to visit in Germany. It’s a port town, with nautical vibes up and down. You can take a walk along the sea, participate in its famous nightclub scene, or infamous Reeperbahn.

How to get to Hamburg. Trains run regularly from Berlin to Hamburg, so you’ll have no issue booking one with Deutsche Bahn. If you prefer you can also go by bus via Flixbus, but it will take much longer.

15. Dresden

• Distance: 193 kilometers (119 miles)
• Travel time: 2 hours 25 minutes by car or train

I have to admit – I’ve never been to Dresden! I’ve always wanted to go but never quite made the time. Which is a shame because it’s so close to Berlin and is meant to be very beautiful. You can spend a weekend here and enjoy the history of the city, which came under heavy fire during the second world war. Today you can visit the reconstructed version of Dresden’s most famous sight, the Frauenkirche (Church of our Dear Lady).

How to get to Dresden. Similarly to Hamburg, there are plenty of regular trains at your disposal as well as bus service. Dresden is close to Saxon Switzerland so if you’d like, you can combine these trips into one.

Have you ever been to these cities and towns outside of Berlin?

What’s your favorite daytrip you’ve even taken outside of a major city? For me, Kromlau is my absolute favorite out of Berlin (although Leipzig might contend if I were truly a first-time visitor). Versailles was also cool, but way too crowded! Let me know what your favorites are in the comments!

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About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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Epic Day Trips from Amsterdam to Germany: Everything You Need to Know for a Fantastic Trip

Are you considering getting out of Amsterdam on a day trip and wondering where to go? Amsterdam is a great spot to use as a home base for a lot of Western Europe and Germany would be a great option to add to your trip. Here’s everything you need to know to have a really fun day trip!

This article may contain affiliate links . If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Starting your Day in Amsterdam

Embarking on day trips from Amsterdam to Germany unravels a tapestry of experiences, blending the allure of beautiful cities with the serenity of the Dutch countryside and the rich history of Western Europe. You’ll find yourself navigating through quaint canals, lush tulip fields , and vibrant city centers, all within a stone’s throw from Amsterdam Centraal.

The diversity of destinations offers something for everyone, from the art lover in Den Haag to the history aficionado in Cologne. Direct trains and efficient road trips make these adventures not just dreams but easily attainable realities. Your journey will be enriched by guided tours, offering deep dives into the heart of German culture and its scenic landscapes, making every moment an exploration of diverse cultures and the beauty of the Netherlands.

Key Takeaways:

• Seamless Accessibility: Direct trains and road trips simplify travel between Amsterdam and top German destinations.
• Cultural Immersion: Guided tours enhance the experience with insightful explorations of Germany’s rich history and vibrant local lifestyles.
• Diverse Experiences: From historic cities to picturesque countryside, these day trips offer a wide range of activities and sights.

Why Choose Germany for Your Day Trip from Amsterdam?

Germany is an excellent place for those starting in Amsterdam and seeking an adventure filled with diverse cultures and a rich history. The Rhine River flows through old towns and beautiful cities, marking a perfect place for both relaxation and deep dives into Western Europe’s medieval history. Museums abound, offering informative tours of locations where history comes alive, telling stories of times long past.

Germany’s blend of the old and the new creates an unforgettable trip. Imagine strolling through small towns or embarking on a boat ride that transports you through picturesque landscapes, each turn revealing another layer of the country’s most famous symbols. Envision standing before the Brandenburg Gate, a moment capturing the essence of an entire trip. This experience isn’t just a journey; it’s a deep exploration of what makes Germany the perfect place for a quick visit that will have you planning when you can come back to spend more time.

Planning Your Day Trip: Essentials to Know

Before setting foot on the direct trains to start your day trip to Germany or venturing onto the roads, you must consider the essentials.

Booking tickets in advance stands as the best way to ensure a seat on your preferred mode of transport, whether that be the comfort of Amsterdam Centraal’s direct lines or the freedom of a rental car. Checking train schedules meticulously will save much time, allowing for more exploration in this beautiful country.

Guided tours offer an excellent opportunity for a deep dive into the local culture, history, and beauty of the Netherlands and beyond. Opting for a small group tour could provide insightful and informative tours of locations otherwise overlooked. This planning phase lays the foundation for an amazing day trip, filled with unique experiences and the chance to see some of the country’s most famous symbols up close.

The Best Way to Travel: Train, Car, or Tour Group?

Deciding on the best mode of transportation from Amsterdam to Germany requires balancing convenience with experience. Trains stand out for their ease of access and lack of additional costs tied to parking or rental. Direct trains from Amsterdam Centraal can whisk you to major German cities in just a few hours, offering a blend of comfort and efficiency. However, this option might limit how much time you can spend exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Opting for a rental car opens the door to the scenic Dutch countryside and the flexibility to stop at quaint little towns along the Rhine River. The road trip itself becomes part of the adventure, allowing for a deeper dive into Western Europe’s beauty. Yet, navigating foreign roads and managing parking in bustling city centers can prove challenging.

Small group tours present an excellent balance, delivering informative explorations of iconic sites without the stress of planning the entire trip yourself. These tours often include guided visits to locations like the Cologne Cathedral affording a closer look at the diverse cultures within easy day trip distance from Amsterdam. The downside might be the lack of personal freedom to explore at your own pace, as these tours follow a set itinerary.

Amsterdam Centraal: Your Gateway to Germany

Amsterdam Centraal, a bustling hub in the heart of the city, stands as your premier gateway to exploring the charm and history of German cities. Direct trains, departing frequently, offer a seamless journey from the Dutch capital to various destinations across Western Europe, eliminating any concerns about complex transfers or excessive travel times. A trip to cities like Cologne or Düsseldorf turns into an effortless adventure, highlighting Amsterdam Centraal’s strategic importance for eager explorers.

With tickets in hand and a short walk to the platform, you’ll find yourself embarking on an unforgettable road trip. The station, not just a point of departure, is a testament to the beauty of the Netherlands, blending rich history with modern efficiency. From this iconic starting point, the entire region unfurls at your feet, inviting you on a myriad of amazing day trips.

Top German Cities to Explore from Amsterdam

The variety of direct trains and travel options make every destination within an easy day trip’s reach. The magic of the Amsterdam Centraal station serves as your gateway, unlocking the beauty of Western Europe’s picturesque landscapes and the rich history of its cities.

Cologne: A Fusion of History and Modernity

You’ll find Cologne an excellent place for an easy day trip from Amsterdam. Effortlessly accessible by direct trains, this German city showcases a vibrant blend of past and future. Experiencing the majestic Cologne Cathedral , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, feels like a deep dive into medieval history. Yet, just outside, the city pulses with modern life.

Strolling along the Rhine River offers a captivating view of Cologne’s picturesque skyline. Here, the rich history of Western Europe meets a dynamic urban lifestyle. Whether you join a guided tour or explore on your own, Cologne promises ample time to discover its beauty. This city effortlessly balances its historic churches, ancient town hall, and charming old town with hip districts like the Belgian Quarter, where local cuisine and diverse cultures thrive.

Düsseldorf: Where Tradition Meets Lifestyle

You’ll find Düsseldorf offers a unique juxtaposition, where centuries-old buildings stand in harmony with vibrant art installations. This beautiful city along the Rhine River promises both serenity and pulsating culture. Inexpensive trains from Amsterdam Centraal will have delivered you here, where the journey unfolds into an exploration of tradition meeting contemporary lifestyle.

Intriguing guided tours will likely lead you through little towns that embody the rich history of Western Europe , yet urge you to embrace the modernity woven through Düsseldorf’s streets. Small group tours or a leisurely boat ride along the river give ample time to reflect on how this city balances its historical roots with a forward-thinking ethos. Whether it’s marveling at the gothic architecture of historic churches or enjoying a contemporary performance in the Kunst im Tunnel, Düsseldorf exemplifies how seamlessly the old and new can coexist.

Pre-trip Tips: Making the Most Out of Your Day

Embarking on a day trip from Amsterdam to Germany requires a well-thought-out plan. You’ll need to check train schedules carefully; direct trains offer the most relaxing way to traverse the countryside. Booking tickets ahead of your travel date can spare you from unnecessary stress and additional cost.

Packing for your journey demands simplicity yet preparedness. Bring essentials that cover the day’s activities, from a guided tour of Cologne’s historic city to a leisurely boat ride on the Rhine River. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Remember, the weather can be unpredictable; carrying a lightweight raincoat ensures you’re ready for anything.

Lastly, immersing yourself in the local cuisine enhances the entire trip. Secure restaurant reservations in advance, especially in popular destinations like Düsseldorf or Cologne. This foresight ensures not just a table at sought-after spots but also a deeper dive into the diverse cultures and rich history of Western Europe, making your excursion an unforgettable one.

Local Delights: Dining and Shopping in Germany

Germany teems with delightful indulgences for the curious traveler. You will find the local cuisine intoxicating, a blend of traditional flavors and innovative creations. Dive into quaint beer halls in Düsseldorf, where hearty meals serve as a prelude to a night of exploration. Shops along the cobblestone streets offer artisan crafts and luxury wares, perfect for finding that unique memento.

In Cologne, the aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the scent of local sausages, enticing you to small, family-owned eateries. These spots, often hidden gems, provide an intimate glimpse into German culinary traditions. The Rhine River promenade beckons for an afternoon stroll, dotted with boutiques showcasing the beauty of local artisanship. Here, shopping transforms into a cultural deep dive, each purchase a story of the country’s rich history and diverse cultures.

Guided Tours vs. Exploring on Your Own

Embarking on a day trip from Amsterdam to Germany opens up a spectrum of enriching experiences. You face a crucial choice: opting for an informative guided tour or diving into the adventure of independent exploration . Both paths offer distinct advantages tailored to different traveler types.

On one hand, a guided tour guarantees a deep dive into the rich history and diverse cultures of German cities. Professional guides, equipped with extensive knowledge and can bring the beauty of the Netherlands and Western Europe alive.

Plus, travel time flies by with engaging narratives, transforming even the journey into an educational delight. You won’t fret about missing the best views or local cuisines; these tours ensure you get a closer look at the country’s most famous symbols without the extra cost and hassle of planning.

Conversely, setting off on your own promises an unscripted adventure where each turn could lead to unexpected discoveries. Amsterdam’s central location, with direct trains and easy day trip options to small towns and major Dutch cities alike, empowers you to embrace the charm of Western Europe at your pace.

This route invites a personal connection with charming villages and bustling city centers, offering the freedom to explore local delights and diverse cultures on whims. The thrill lies in navigating the unknown and crafting a unique journey that reflects your preferences and curiosity.

Cultural Insights: Embracing the German Lifestyle

You’ll find that embracing the German lifestyle adds an unforgettable dimension to your trip. Germany’s rich history and diverse cultures offer ample opportunities to dive deep into local traditions. A great day trip bound for cities such as Cologne or Düsseldorf opens doors to exploring the very essence of Western Europe.

Tasting local cuisine stands out as one of the best things to do. Imagine savoring a slice of traditional Sauerbraten in an old town tavern or biting into a freshly made Bratwurst in a lively food market. Participating in local events can equally enrich your entire trip.

Don’t shy away from striking conversations with pleasant employees at small cafes or asking your tour guide for insider tips. This approach not only opens you up to the warm hospitality characteristic of German cities but also enables a deeper connection with the charming villages, bustling city centers, and the picturesque countryside you traverse.

Capturing Memories: Photography and Souvenirs

The beauty of the Netherlands and the charm of German cities offer countless opportunities for capturing memories. You would find the Cologne Cathedral, with its towering spires and intricate façades, an excellent place for photography. This iconic landmark serves as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage that define the region. Guided tours often provide additional insights, making your photos even more meaningful.

In Düsseldorf, the Rhine River promenade presents a most relaxing way to enjoy the views. Here, a boat ride at sunset can afford you the best view, combining the tranquility of the river with the vibrant life along its banks. Souvenirs that embody the essence of your German adventure might include small replicas of the Cologne Cathedral or traditional beer steins from local markets. These items are popular attractions among visitors for their craftsmanship and authenticity.

Back in Amsterdam, the quaint canals of Giethoorn and the historic windmills at Zaanse Schans offer picturesque scenes straight out of a storybook. Capturing these moments allows you to take a piece of the Dutch countryside home. Consider local artisan crafts or Dutch tulip bulbs as souvenirs, reflecting the country’s most famous symbols and offering a lasting reminder of your journey.

Safety and Etiquette in Germany

While embarking on a road trip to the rich history and diverse cultures of Germany offers an amazing day trip opportunity, you should still understand how to stay safe and honor the local etiquettes in this new environment for a pleasant experience.

First and foremost, acknowledging local customs will endear you to the residents. Simple gestures, such as greeting shopkeepers in their native language, can make a significant difference. Remember, the best way to immerse yourself in the culture is by showing respect. For safety, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Pickpockets are not uncommon, and a moment of negligence could dampen your entire trip. Moreover, being aware of the country’s most famous symbols and their meanings can prevent unintentional disrespect.

Lastly, navigating through the cities and small towns safely involves using public transportation or renting a car responsibly. Always adhere to local traffic rules and ensure you have ample time to return to your base in Amsterdam. This blend of caution and appreciation for local traditions will ensure your day trips from Amsterdam to Germany remain a cherished memory, full of delightful discoveries and respectful encounters.

FAQ: Day Trips from Amsterdam to Germany

Can you take a day trip to germany from amsterdam.

Yes, you can take a day trip to Germany from Amsterdam. With direct trains and efficient road connections, several German cities are easily accessible within a few hours, making for an exciting and manageable day trip.

What German city is closest to Amsterdam?

The closest major German city to Amsterdam is Düsseldorf. It is approximately 2 hours away by train, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a day trip.

Is there a high-speed train from Amsterdam to Germany?

Yes, there are high-speed trains, such as the ICE (InterCity Express), that connect Amsterdam to various German cities. These trains offer a quick and comfortable way to travel between the two countries.

What is the best day trip from Amsterdam?

The best day trip from Amsterdam depends on your interests. Popular options include Cologne for its stunning cathedral and vibrant city life, and Düsseldorf for its blend of traditional charm and modern culture. Both cities offer rich experiences and are easily accessible by train.

How far is Amsterdam from Germany?

Amsterdam is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the German border. The distance to specific cities like Cologne or Düsseldorf is around 200-250 kilometers (124-155 miles), which can be covered in a few hours by train or car.

Is it doable to visit both Amsterdam and Berlin in five days?

Yes, it is doable to visit both Amsterdam and Berlin in five days, but it will be a packed itinerary. You can spend a couple of days in each city and use a high-speed train or a short flight to travel between them. This plan will allow you to experience the highlights of both cities within a limited timeframe.

Can you drive from Germany to Amsterdam?

Yes, you can drive from Germany to Amsterdam. The road trip offers scenic views of the countryside and the flexibility to stop at various points of interest along the way. The journey can take a few hours depending on your starting point in Germany.

Final Thoughts: Day Trips from Amsterdam to Germany

As the train whisks you back to Amsterdam Centraal from the heart of Germany, the sights, sounds, and tastes of your day trip begin to settle in your memory. The majestic Cologne Cathedral, and the charming streets of Düsseldorf have given you a taste of the rich history and diverse cultures that Western Europe has to offer. You’ve experienced firsthand why these destinations are among the best day trips from Amsterdam.

Amsterdam serves as a perfect place for launching into even more explorations across Western Europe. With direct trains and flights readily available, places like Den Haag, Keukenhof Gardens , and even further destinations are easy options for your next adventure.

Writer | Planner | World Traveler

Jessy Hamel is a syndicated travel writer and the traveler behind Brighter Things. She is hoping to inspire people to travel more through her blog and sharing her personal trips. You can also travel with her as she hosts small group tours to Europe through Brighter Things Boutique Group Tours.

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