Places to visit in Southern Germany: The essence of vacationing in Germany is possibly best summed up by its history, culture, and natural beauty.
When it comes to picking unique places to visit in this stunning region of Europe, travellers are spoilt for choice thanks to its numerous historic cities and charming small villages, as well as an abundance of forests and mountains.
If you want to go sightseeing or enjoy the arts, the best places to do it are in the larger cities like Munich or Frankfurt.
Consider the 11 best places to visit in Southern Germany which include areas like the magnificent Bavarian Alps, the Black Forest, or the Rhine Valley if you’re seeking leisure activities.
Table of Contents
Southern Germany
In addition to being the region with the strongest economy, southern Germany is also home to some of the nation’s most stunning landmarks.
It is a place where you can see the Alps, the Black Forest, and numerous rivers like the Rhine, Danube, and Rhone.
Fairy tale castles line the banks of rivers across the area, wineries produce some of the best vintages in the world, and sheer mountains glisten in the distance. Here are a few of Southern Germany’s most popular tourist destinations.
11 Best Places to Visit in Southern Germany
1) Fussen:
The picturesque village of Füssen, which can be found at the foot of the Alps, serves as the southern terminus of the Romantic Road. The nearby castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau often serve as the most memorable part of visitors’ experiences in southern Germany.
The magnificent Hohes Schloss, also known as the “high castle,” can be found right in the middle of the town. On the outside of this medieval building is a stunning clock tower, as well as a charming Trompe l’oeil facade, which is an optical illusion.
These two features are among the most famous aspects of this building.
In addition, there is a historic Benedictine monastery known as St. Mang that can be found in the village. If you do decide to leave the hamlet, there are a lot of lakes and beautiful trails in the surrounding area.
Even while most of the highlights can be viewed in one or two days, it is still worthwhile to take some time to enjoy the nice environment that can be found here.
2) Rothenburg ob der Tauber:
The historic Imperial City of Rothenburg, one of Germany’s most beautiful locations, has barely changed since its thirty-year battle in 1618. The attraction, which keeps its medieval splendour, houses the Imperial Church, St. James Church, City Museum, and Town Hall.
No introduction is necessarily necessary for the city of Rothenburg, right? However, are you familiar with Rothenburg ob der Tauber? One of Rothenburg’s most stunning tourist destinations is in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which is situated on the lovely banks of the Tauber River.
The location is a tribute to both the local and national histories of Germany. The towers and the surrounding walls are immaculate and unaltered.
Here, strolling through the streets is the finest way to enjoy yourself. Visit Plönlein, one of the most scenic locations in the area, if you can.
3) Munich:
Munich is among the greatest German cities to live in overall. Why is Munich such an attractive tourist destination? Simply put, there are numerous explanations, all of which will become evident upon your arrival!
As a stopgap measure, however, we present the following list of what non-native speakers, international students, and native Germans alike agree are the best features of Munich.
Munich has traditionally been ranked as the safest city in Germany by German crime statistics. And that’s helpful information to know if you’re going to a new city abroad!
You’ll be completely safe even if you’re outside of the city because Munich has excellent crime statistics that also cover the surrounding areas!
It offers all the services, activities, and possibilities that a big city provides, but its lush vegetation and a blend of old and new buildings seem to break up the hectic energy that other big cities of this size seem to exude.
Even after a few years of residing in a city, you can still explore it and discover new hangouts, stores, and spots.
Interested Post: 10 Best Eco-Tourist Places in France to Enjoy Ecotourism in France
4) Frankfurt:
Visitors frequently experience Germany for the first time at Frankfurt, where flights entering Frankfurt Airport land. You can witness a fusion of modern high-rise buildings and historical architecture here. Frankfurt is the place to be if you’re seeking that big-city energy.
With its striking skyscrapers, Frankfurt is frequently referred to as “Manhattan” and feels more like New York than a German metropolis.
How could that be? Frankfurt fell within the American zone when Germany was partitioned into four regions by the Allies following World War II.
On one side, it may appear to be all business, while on the other, historical ruins like the Römerberg provide a window into the past.
We will suggest you check the 10 day Germany Itinerary if you are planning to trip in Germany for 7-10 days.
5) Black Forest :
The collection of fairy tales that Grimm compiled comes to life in this region of the world, which is well-known for its myths and stories.
This mountain range is well-known for its timepieces, such as watches and cuckoo clocks; in addition, it is home to a number of craftsmen who have been responsible for the creation of these items for a number of generations.
The steep terrain, picturesque lakes, and extensive network of trails winding through the Black Forest make it an excellent place to enjoy sports such as hiking and mountain biking throughout the summer months.
The mountainous landscape of the Black Forest makes for some fantastic ski slopes throughout the winter months.
6) The Rhine Valley:
The scenic Rhine Valley can be found a short distance beyond the state border of Hesse. The Rhine, the Mosel, and the Saar are the three primary waterways that have had a significant impact on the formation of the region.
Today, the area is teeming with activity and is highlighted by a large number of castles, both in ruins and in the process of being reconstructed.
Travel along the Romantic Rhine to Bacharach, a quaint half-timbered town with cobblestone alleys and Riesling-flavoured ice cream, after spending a few hours in Rüdesheim am Rhine, a charming little half-timbered town at the foothills of vineyards.
7) Bamberg:
The historic district of Bamberg is particularly well-known for the beautiful architecture that can be found there.
Notable attractions include an antique sculpture referred to as “Dom,” which represents a teenage rider who is unknown to the artist.
The second structure is called the Alte Rathaus, and it is a building that is situated in the middle of the river and has chambers that are suspended over the water.
Sandkerwa is a folk event that lasts for a total of six days and deserves special recognition. In the month of August, Bamberg sees an influx of several hundred thousand tourists who come for the city’s cuisine, wine, beer, and traditional sports like fish jousting.
You can also consider exploring the best places to visit in Northern Germany
8) Heidelberg:
Not only does Heidelberg stand out as one of the most romantic cities in southern Germany, but it is also recognised as one of the most prestigious university cities in all of Germany. I was a student at this university, so I can personally attest to the city’s reputation for romance.
You can experience this romance by taking a walk through the Altstadt (City Center), over the Alte Brücke (Old Bridge), and along the Neckar River, as well as by paying a visit to one of the most picturesque ruined castles, the Heidelberg Castle.
Visitors from all over the world come to Heidelberg in the hopes of retracing the steps of American author Mark Twain, which has resulted in the city being ranked as one of the most popular tourist destinations in southern Germany.
Despite this, Heidelberg still manages to maintain its allure and charm. Taking a trip there during the time of the Christmas Market simply serves to accentuate its already stunning beauty.
9) Lake Constance:
This glacial lake, which is one of the largest in Europe, can be found straddling the international boundary between the three countries of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The lake presents visitors with a wonderful opportunity to view both natural and historical beauties.
Along the shores of Lake Constance (known as Bodensee in Germany), there are a number of castles and monasteries, in addition to a number of breathtaking mountain vistas, orchards, vineyards, and wetland areas. All of these natural features are easy to find.
Additionally, there are three distinct ferry routes that connect the major cities on the lake, which are as follows: from Germany, between Friedrichshafen and Konstanz or Romansburg in Switzerland; and between Konstanz and Meersburg.
In addition, there is a railway that goes around the lake and makes stops at each of the attractions along the way.
10) Wurzburg:
If beer isn’t your thing, but wine is, then Würzburg might be the place for you because vines cover virtually every available inch of ground encircling the entire city.
During the warm summer months, the city centre frequently plays host to wine festivals where attendees can sample a wide range of wines made in the surrounding area.
The Marienberg Fortress, which sits on a hill overlooking the town, provides some of the most iconic views of the town’s medieval city centre, which was completely destroyed during World War II but has since been restored to its former splendour.
The Residenz, which was formerly the residence of the prince-bishop, is located on the eastern side of the city and dominates that side. You are currently experiencing the largest ceiling fresco in the world.
11) Lindau:
When planning a trip to Germany to see the sights, Lindau should be one of the first stops you make. Even beyond their rich cultural and historical significance, the city’s most magnificent beauty may be found in its little backstreets and byways.
It may be found on the shores of the world-famous Lake Constance and is sometimes referred to as “The Garden of Eden.” There are half-timbered structures and vegetation common to Alpine regions, adding to the natural splendour of the area.
In the summer, you may rent a private boat and cruise across the lake to Switzerland, Austria, and the Alps, all of which are home to spectacular natural scenery.
Finally About the Best Places to Visit in Southern Germany
After two weeks in the south, you will have seen approximately half of Germany, sampled the country’s varied cuisine, and (hopefully) picked up some of the customs that are practised there.
You will have travelled to a good number of the cities in southern Germany that I place high on my list of recommendations for the greatest in the world.
It’s possible that after your road trip across northern Germany, you’ll have such a strong desire to return that you’ll want to take another trip there.
FAQ
Bavaria and its capital Munich
Southern Germany is gorgeous, and every town has a rich history and culture, whether you’re visiting one of the largest cities in Southern Germany or a small village.
The black forest, the Alps, and the many rivers like the Danube, Rhine and Rhone.
You may also like:
- The 5 Best Vlogging Cameras in 2022
- Top 25 Cool Travel Gadgets – A Traveller Must Have in 2022
- Uttarakhand Trip: Treat The Adventure Junkie In You With My Trip to Uttarakhand
