Before you plan your trip abroad, this list shares the most beautiful cities of Germany that you shouldn’t miss!
After living in Germany for nearly four years, I’ve fallen in love with the country’s unique and varied cities. Although Germany’s picturesque small towns are admittedly my favorite places to explore, there’s no denying the big cities have plenty to offer, too!
Here are some of the most beautiful cities in Germany, oozing historic charm and modern allure.
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21 Most Beautiful Cities of Germany
Home to more than 83 million people, Germany has quite a few big cities that are worth visiting! If you’re planning a trip and want to know what the most beautiful cities in Germany are, I totally get it!
This list shares the best German cities for travelers with more than 100,000 inhabitants.
1. Munich
Population: 1,580,000
Munich is Germany’s third largest city and is the capital of Bavaria, arguably the best region to visit in Germany (in my humble opinion). This beautiful German city has a nice blend of historic cultural heritage and modern vibrancy and is a great place to base yourself on exploring the epic Bavarian Alps.
It’s not a trip to Munich without visiting the iconic Marienplatz, the stunning Nymphenburg Palace, and one of its many lively beer gardens.
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2. Potsdam
Population: 176,000
Potsdam is a popular day trip from Berlin because of its many enchanting palaces, gardens, and lakes. The UNESCO-listed Sanssouci Palace, often touted as the German Versailles, is one of the largest draws of Potsdam, as is the quaint and historic Dutch Quarter.
Potsdam is easy to reach via a 50-minute train from Berlin.
3. Hamburg
Population: 1,740,000
Hamburg is a major port city in the north and Germany’s second largest. What makes it so beautiful is its many waterways that cross the city and its industrial, brick-clad Speicherstadt warehouse district. It truly is unlike many other cities in Germany and is great for travelers who appreciate an edgy city break!
4. Trier
Population: 110,000
Trier is Germany’s oldest city and boasts some of the best intact Roman ruins in the whole country! After seeing landmarks like the Porta Nigra and the Roman Amphitheater, the other best things to do in Trier include strolling the charming Old Town and witnessing medieval buildings.
Couple that with its locale in Germany’s Mosel Valley, where rolling vineyards and Riesling wines are poured, and Trier offers the best of pretty city and nature.
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5. Aachen
Population: 246,000
Aachen is a beautiful medieval city steeped in a lot of history. It’s best known for its stunning cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s one of the oldest in Europe and one of the best things to do in Aachen.
Back in the day, Aachen was ruled by the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, whose tomb is in the cathedral today, and you can feel this ancient charm as you stroll the streets!
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6. Tübingen
Population: 91,900
Tübingen is a picturesque university town (one of the oldest universities in Europe, btw) that captivates with its charming old town, cobblestone streets, and the scenic Neckar River.
It may be one of the smallest cities on this list, but you shouldn’t keep on it! Especially with beautiful landmarks like the Hohenzollern Castle and colorful market square.
7. Heidelberg
Population: 160,400
Heidelberg is another charming old city that’s nestled along the Neckar River. It often tops charts as one of the very most beautiful cities of Germany because of its quaint old town and hilltop, romantic castle ruins overlooking the city.
Don’t miss the historic Heidelberg University, the Alte Brücke (Old Bridge), and the Philosophers’ Walk, which enhance the city’s timeless charm.
8. Cologne
Population: 1,145,000
As one of the largest cities in Germany, Cologne may be more modern than others, but its beautiful streets don’t fail to charm. Its most iconic attraction is the impressive Cologne Cathedral, an eye-catching part of the skyline with an observation tower that overlooks the Rhine River.
You only need a day or two to see Cologne, but add places like the Hohenzollern Bridge, the Cologne Chocolate Museum, and a night out on the town to your itinerary.
9. Nuremberg
Population: 541,000
Nuremberg (Nürnberg in German) is the second-largest city in Bavaria and boasts a blend of Franconian and Bavarian cultures. The city features medieval architecture, WWII landmarks, and more, allowing visitors to witness various periods.
The best things to do are in Nuremberg Castle, the historic Old Town, the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds museum, and the Pegnitz River.
10. Dresden
Population: 589,000
Dresden is lovingly nicknamed “Florence on the Elbe” and lives up to the moniker. Home to Baroque wonders like the Zwinger Palace and the Frauenkirche, the old town is filled with fairytale architecture.
The picturesque setting along the Elbe River doesn’t hurt either. While you’re there, you’ll have the opportunity to witness Eastern influences infused with German culture from the city’s time as part of East Germany during the Cold War.
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11. Freiburg im Breisgau
Population: 269,200
Tucked away in Germany’s scenic Black Forest, Freiburg im Breisgau is renowned for its well-preserved medieval Old Town that transports travelers to another time. Ancient gates stand around the city center, really adding to the charm.
Some of the best things to do in Freiburg (not to be confused with the other German town by the same name in the north) are visiting the Freiburg Minster, grabbing a bite to eat at the bustling Markthalle, and maybe considering stopping by for Christmas market season! For those interested in a little hiking, the Schlossberg mountain on the town’s edge offers excellent views.
12. Stuttgart
Population: 636,000
Stuttgart is the capital of Baden-Württemberg and is a city where modern architecture blends beautifully with pops of historic attractions like the ornate Ludwigsburg Residential Palace.
It’s a great place to learn more about Germany’s impressive place in the automotive industry at the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Porsche Museum. And every year, Stuttgart hosts an epic Volksfest in the fall that rivals Munich’s Oktoberfest, which could be a great time to visit for those dying to experience one of the world’s largest beer festivals!
13. Leipzig
Population: 604,000
Leipzig is a city with a rich cultural and musical heritage and is especially famous for its classical music scene where Bach once served as a cantor at the St. Thomas Church. While in Leipzig, you’ll also want to museum hop and wander the old town to witness beautiful old buildings.
From the top of the City-Hochhaus Leipzig, you can catch epic views of the sprawling city and its vibrant neighborhoods like Plagwitz, a trendy and artistic place popular with young people. Other things to do in Leipzig include seeing the historic marketplace and the Battle of the Nations Monument.
14. Bremen
Population: 568,000
Situated in northwestern Germany, Bremen is a charming city that boasts dozens of historic galleries and medieval buildings that’ll transport you to another time. The city sits on the Weser River and has long held economic importance as one of Germany’s big port cities.
Some of the best things to do in Bremen include strolling the Schnoor district, seeing the Town Musicians of Bremen statue, and the Bremen Cathedral.
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15. Düsseldorf
Population: 640,000
Düsseldorf is a modern and cosmopolitan city along the Rhine River. It has a thriving fashion, art, and architecture scene. Unlike many of Germany’s most beautiful cities, Düsseldorf is more modernly attractive.
It’s also home to the largest community of Japanese immigrants outside of Japan, which means there are some seriously good Asian eats to enjoy! While there, I recommend strolling the Altstadt (Old Town), MedienHafen, and the Rhine promenade.
16. Würzburg
Population: 126,100
Würzburg is in the northern Bavarian region of Germany, along the banks of the Main River. It’s known for its thriving wine scene and is part of Germany’s Franconia region, which thrives along the banks of the passing Main River.
The city is also celebrated for the Residenz Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Marienberg Fortress, built between the 16th and 18th centuries. When strolling through Würzburg, the city’s beautiful baroque architecture will certainly take you in.
17. Lübeck
Population: 216,300
Pops of green and medieval architecture wow along the streets of Lübeck, a city in northern Germany nearly completely surrounded by the Trave River. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Holstentor, a brick gate guarding the Old Town.
The Lübeck Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings you can witness, dating back to the 1100s. The best things to eat in Lübeck include marzipan treats, a centuries-old tradition.
18. Münster
Population: 361,600
Münster is a captivating city in northwest Germany. Best known for the medieval St. Paulus Dom and the iconic Prinzipalmarkt square, it’s easy to get lost in the city’s ancient history. The Old Town’s narrow alleyways, lined with cobblestones, provide a pleasant walk on sunny days.
Indulge in culinary delights at bustling cafés and breweries, then immerse yourself in art at the renowned LWL Museum of Art and Culture. Beyond the city, you can soak up the beauty of Münster’s green spaces found along Lake Aa, offering relaxing opportunities for a picnic. A great place to eat in the city is Prinzipal Kreuzberg, a beautiful joint with exceptional cocktails.
19. Augsburg
Population: 300,000
Augsburg is one of Bavaria’s most beautiful hidden gems and one of the largest stops on Germany’s Romantic Road, just 45 minutes from Munich. It’s brimming with historical treasures, such as the Augsburg Cathedral and Fuggerei, the world’s oldest social housing complex.
Art lovers should make a point to visit the Maximilian Museum, where masterpieces from the Renaissance to the Baroque era are on display. After a long day exploring the Altstadt and Lech River, quench your thirst with locally brewed beer at one of the city’s many breweries.
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20. Regensburg
Population: 129,200
Regensburg is a Bavarian city nestled along the Danube River that exudes rich, medieval charm. Its major draw is its UNESCO-listed Old Town, which is adorned with Gothic architecture and ancient stone bridges. You’ll want to take care to snap photos of the Regensburg Cathedral and the historic Porta Praetoria, remnants of the Romans who once called the area home.
Regensburg is also famous for its eye-catching narrow cobblestone streets with colorful buildings, bustling cafés, and local shops. Other worthwhile things to do in Regensburg include cruising through the Danube Gorge and witnessing the Thurn und Taxis Palace.
21. Bamberg
Population: 77,500
Bamberg, a picturesque gem in Bavaria, treats visitors to timeless beauty and rich history. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is brimming with medieval and baroque architecture, charming half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets. While there, be sure to explore the enchanting Rathaus (town hall) perched on an island in the middle of the Regnitz River.
You’ll also want to admire the impressive Bamberg Cathedral and Altenburg Castle, which offers panoramic city views. Bamberg is a true fairytale destination with its traditional breweries, historic sites, and romantic ambiance!