Top 5: Cities in Germany

Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich are Germany’s centers of commerce, culture and history, but they don’t stand alone. The country’s smaller, lesser-known cities boast some of the most authentic experiences and Germany’s most beautiful landmarks.

Dresden

Dresden is known as the Florence at the Elbe, due to its idyllic location, its Baroque architecture and world-renowned art. Though much of the city’s historic center was destroyed in World War II, all landmarks have been beautifully restored to their former splendor. Must-see landmarks include the pink and white Frauenkirche church, the Zwinger Palace and the Semperoper opera. The city’s river landscape and waterfront castles offer lovely backdrops for outdoor events like the open-air Elbhangfest Festival, concerts and move nights.

Hamburg

Germany’s second-largest city has one of the largest harbors in the world, giving it a special maritime charm with more bridges than Amsterdam and Venice combined —manyfortunately spared during World War II. Visit the Neoclassical City Hall, the open-air market and Binnenalster, a huge lake in the middle of the city. Hamburg is also renowned for its nightlife hub Reeperbahn, home to the city’s red light district.

Potsdam

With a rich historical heritage as the seat of the Prussians, Potsdam is the capital of the German state of Brandenburg. The city presents a unique combination of baroque and neoclassical architectural styles, with breathtaking landmarks like the palaces of Neuer Garten and Babelsburg. The main city square, Old Market, is home to the church of St. Nikolai and City Hall. The beautiful Sanssouci Park and Palace was home to Friedrich the Great, who designed the summer palace in the iconic Rococo tradition.

Freiburg

Freiburg is one of the oldest and loveliest destinations in Germany — it’s surrounded by the Black Forest and receives more sunshine than any other city. Take in the local culture at the city’s farmers’ stands; its many cafés, breweries and restaurants; and its historic city center, home to an impressive 380-foot-tall Gothic Cathedral. The city also offers a wide variety of festivals throughout the year, like the Internationalen Kulturbörse and extravagant Christmas market.

Heidelberg

The destruction Germany experienced during World War II was significant, but Heidelberg was one of few cities spared. Today it boasts original old world charms including its narrow cobblestone streets and Heidelberg castle — the oldest university in the country. For some of the most picturesque views in Germany, head to the city’s idyllic river valley — a well-known source of inspiration for some of the world’s most famous writers, painters and philosophers including Mark Twain and his book The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.