Germany
Germany, officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany, is located in Central Northern Europe. As one of the largest countries on the continent, it covers an area of approximately 357,104 square kilometers. Germany shares its borders with nine countries: to the east, it is bordered by the Czech Republic and Poland; to the west, by France and Luxembourg; to the north, by Denmark; and to the northwest, by the Netherlands and Belgium. The southern borders are shared with Austria and Switzerland.
As of 2021, Germany has a population of around 83,990,269 inhabitants, making it the 19th most populous country in the world. A significant majority, about 76.3%, resides in urban areas. The ethnic composition is predominantly German at 88.2%, with notable communities from Turkey (3.4%), Italy, Greece, Serbia, Russia, among others.
Germany is divided into 16 federal states, each with its own authority to enact laws and policies. These states include: Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hesse, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, Saxony, Thuringia, and Berlin, which is the capital city.
Most Beautiful Cities in Germany
Among the most beautiful cities in Germany that are highly recommended for visitation are as follows:
Berlin
As the capital and largest city of Germany, Berlin is renowned for its global appeal and vibrant atmosphere. The city features extensive green spaces, with numerous forests and lakes, and is famous for its diverse tourist attractions, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern architecture that sets it apart from other German cities. The iconic view stretching from the Brandenburg Gate to the German Federal Chancellery narrates the tale of a nation, while Berlin has emerged as a central hub for music and art, making it one of Europe’s most dynamic destinations.
Munich
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, serves as a gateway to the Alps and is considered one of Germany’s most scenic green cities. It boasts impressive museums known for their traditional architectural styles and hosts the world-famous Oktoberfest, attracting over six million visitors annually. The city’s culture heavily revolves around football and music, featuring three renowned art museums, 61 theaters, and 36 museums. Additionally, Maximilianstraße is the primary shopping thoroughfare, lined with global brand outlets extending from the central square to Karlsplatz.
Frankfurt
Frankfurt is regarded as Germany’s financial hub and a pivotal point for Europe, largely attributed to the presence of Frankfurt Airport. The city is characterized by numerous skyscrapers and hosts an annual significant event, the International Book Fair in October, recognized as the largest of its kind globally. With about 13 museums, including the Museum Embankment featuring several 19th-century buildings and modern establishments like the Museum of Modern Art, Frankfurt holds substantial cultural importance. It supports institutions such as the Opera House and is home to the University of Frankfurt, established in 1914 and named after the famous resident Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, making it a major tourist attraction in the city.
Hamburg
Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany, situated in the northern part of the country. Its port ranks as the second largest in Europe and one of the biggest globally. Today, Hamburg serves as a primary transportation hub in northern Germany and features numerous waterways, earning it the title of “Venice of the North.”
Cologne
Cologne ranks as the fourth-largest city in Germany and the largest in North Rhine-Westphalia. Historically, it was one of Europe’s prominent transport centers, with approximately eight trains passing through every minute in the past. The city is home to various national and regional television and radio companies, boasts the largest university in Germany, and ranks second to New York in the number of art galleries. Recognized as a holy city by the Catholic Church, Cologne houses the world’s largest functional bell, named Peter, in its cathedral tower, weighing about 24 tons. The city features 22 nature reserves, with plants covering around 15% of its territory.
Dresden
Dresden, the capital of Saxony, stands as the third-largest city in Eastern Germany, following Berlin and Leipzig. It is situated along both banks of the Elbe River, 30 km north of the Czech border and 160 km south of Berlin. The city is abundant in parks and cultural landmarks along the Elbe River and includes cable car systems and an aerial tramway. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, Dresden holds many artistic treasures, and despite suffering about 80% destruction during World War II, it has been rebuilt and restored to its former beauty.
Leipzig
Located in the western part of Saxony, Leipzig is a significant industrial, artistic, and cultural center. It has been home to numerous renowned German artists for an extended period. Although nearly a quarter of the city was destroyed during World War II, it was reconstructed under communist policies and has played a pivotal role among European cities, gaining notoriety for residents’ demonstrations during the peaceful protest of 1989, which contributed to the fall of Berlin and the conclusion of the communist regime in East Germany. The city’s landscape is adorned with scenic plains that enhance its visual appeal.
Heidelberg
Heidelberg is one of the few German cities that remained undamaged during World War II, granting it a charming aesthetic. The city is characterized by its narrow, cobblestone streets and is famous for the beautiful Heidelberg Castle. It also hosts Germany’s oldest university and features the picturesque Neckar River, making it one of the country’s most attractive tourist destinations.
Weimar
Weimar is celebrated as the center of classical literature in Germany, with its cultural zenith occurring in the 18th century when it became home to famed figures such as Goethe, Schiller, and Nietzsche. In the 19th century, the city significantly contributed to the arts, attracting exceptional composers and nurturing artistic schools. It was the birthplace of the Bauhaus movement and several prominent painters. In 1998, UNESCO added Weimar to its World Heritage Sites list, preserving its status as one of Germany’s historical and vital cities.
Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf, situated in North Rhine-Westphalia, blends both its historic and modern elements. This character reflects from traditional factories to striking architectural designs. Renowned for its upscale shopping street, Königsallee, the city also hosts the largest fashion trade fair in the world and is home to an art academy that has produced many notable artists in Germany.
Most Remarkable Attractions in Germany
Germany is home to numerous remarkable tourist attractions, including:
- Neuschwanstein Castle: Nestled in the Alps and designed in 1869, this fairytale-like castle features a dazzling artificial cave, a throne room embellished with a gigantic crown-shaped chandelier, and an extravagant concert hall.
- Europa-Park: As the largest amusement park in Germany, it offers a wide range of entertainment and attractions.
- Brandenburg Gate: Adorned with the Winged Victory goddess riding a chariot pulled by four horses, this iconic gate symbolizes national unity, representing the reunification of Germany.
- Cologne Cathedral: The third tallest cathedral in the world, its Gothic architecture took over 600 years to complete.
- Maria Laach Abbey.