When you think of Germany, what comes to mind? Oktoberfest in Munich, Cold War history in Berlin, Holocaust Memorials or hamburgers in Hamburg? Most people would mention at least one of these quintessentially German things. But there is so much more to Germany than the highlights. If you are looking for something more picturesque and authentic, Germany is for you! It offers a whole range of romantic spots, from fairytale- like landscapes to romantic towns ideal for honeymooners. Take it from me, I grew up in Germany. I am revealing 13 Towns in Germany That Will Leave You Smitten...
Bamberg
When in Bavaria, you absolutely can’t miss one of the loveliest towns in the region: Bamberg. Luckily, Bamberg was relatively untouched during WWII, so it remains one of the best-preserved medieval villages in all of Germany. Head to the Old Town for cobblestone streets, arched bridges and Town Hall built in 1467. Old Town is almost completely devoid of modern buildings.
Jessie's Tip: Sample some local brews in one of the 10 breweries dotted throughout town.
Rüdesheim
This tiny little town is nestled on the banks of the Rhine River and is a popular wine producing town in beer loving Germany. Rudesheim has a yearly wine festival, and it’s amazing to find a wide variety and quality wines in a small town. Don’t miss the sky lift that will take you to the top of the mountain, enabling you to wander through the vineyards at your own pace.
Jessie's Tip: Try the Rudesheim Coffee; it's amazing! And I am pretty sure there are no calories in it.
Frieburg
A city that is at odds with itself, Freiburg, is both a hip college town and a quaint German village. Since it is near France, Switzerland and the Black Forest, Freiburg is the perfectly located. It’s hard to imagine that you won’t find something to love in Freiburg. The university attracts people from all over the globe, so there is a wide variety of things to see and do. On the other hand, you also have the quaint architecture and lovely canals flowing through the heart of the city. According to local legend if you fall into one of the canals, you will fall in love with a local and never leave Freiburg.
Jessie's Tip: Check out the street art! Graffiti is legal in Frieburg, so there is tons of amazing artwork all around
Heidelberg
The beauteous Heidelberg has a long history of inspiring great minds. Mark Twain, Goethe and Earnest Hemingway all found themselves strolling along the banks of the Neckar River. Heidelberg was spared from WWII bombings, so you will find numerous Renaissance architectural masterpieces.
Jessie's Tip: Don’t miss the Heidelberg Castle at the top of a hill and overlooks the adorable city below.
Meissen
Built along the River Elbe, this romantic city is famous for its porcelain, which it has been producing since the early 1500s. But there is more to Meissen than porcelain. It is the oldest town in Saxony, which is a famous wine region.
Jessie's Tip: If you love a dry wine, make sure to make a stop in Meissen to stock up on wine.
Dinkelsbuhl
Located on the Romantic Road is Dinkelsbuhl. This charming little city dates back to the 8th century. It’s a village that is quintessentially German. It also is less touristy than other cities on the Romantic Road. You will be able to stroll through town without worrying about crowds and people taking hundreds of selfies.
Baden Baden
Located in the Black Forest, Baden Baden is the perfect place to explore the forest. Nature lovers will thrill at the hiking, biking and kayaking. Baden Baden is also home to geothermal spas, making it Germany’s premier spa destination. So, if you aren’t terribly adventurous (like me) you can spend your days taking in the healing waters.
Jessie's Tip: Visit the Villa Stephanie. They have the most amazing medi-spa in Baden Baden!
Rothenburg od der Tauber
If you want proof that fairy tales are based in truth, look no further than Rothenburg od der Tauber! Located in Bavaria, it is Germany’s best preserved medieval walled city. The half-timbered houses, winding alleys and adorable markets combine to the perfect setting for a romantic stroll.
Trier
Having recently celebrated its 2030th birthday, Trier is the oldest city in Germany. If you are a history buff, you will not want to miss the “Rome of the North”! Don’t miss: The Roman gate, the imperial baths, the amphitheater and the 4th-century basilica. After a morning immersing yourself in history, treat yourselves to a romantic dinner with views to the old town.
Koblenz
Where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet, you will find amazing Koblenz. It is the gateway to the terraced vineyards and ruined castles of the Rhine Gorge. Looking for an outstanding view, take the gondola ride up to the hilltop ruins Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. My husband and strolled through town stopping at beer gardens when the mood struck. Probably one of my favorite do nothing days.
Quedlinburg
One of the best-preserved medieval towns in all of Europe, Quedlinburg is a tiny town in the Harz Mountains. Politically it is unique, because Quedlinburg was a semi- independent state, ruled by aristocratic women for 800 years. Napoleon ruined (what I assume was a perfect place to live) when he invaded. But you can still spend the afternoon getting lost on the cobblestone streets that snake their way around red-roofed half-timber houses.
Cochem
Situated on the Moselle River, Cochem is the perfect stop on a river cruise. This idyllic riverside town is surrounded by greenery, with forests, hills and, of course, vineyards. The pride and joy of Cochem is the towering, romantic castle built in the 11th century, it overlooks the city, giving a fairy tale feeling to the whole town.
Nuremberg
Every year, as we approach the holiday season, Nuremberg starts popping up on ‘Holiday Must Visit’ lists. Its magical Christmas Market is the reason. The city is transformed into a veritable wonderland of wooden huts, twinkling lights and shiny ornaments. But Nuremberg is worth a visit throughout the rest of the year to explore the Old Town streets with its timber-framed houses, the medieval city walls, and the ancient castle. Nuremberg was very important in WWII.
Jessie's Tip: While The Nazi Congress Hall and Historic Exhibition. It isn't as fun as the Christmas Market, but it is very important.
I could add another 20 places to this list, because Germany is full of adorable, romantic towns. But I wanted to highlight some of my personal favorite places.
And now I want to hear from you all. Let us know in the comments your personal favorite German towns. Do you have favorite towns in Germany, that you feel I should have included?