The Most Popular Vacation Destinations in Germany

More than 90 percent of Germans travel at least once a year - preferably with a partner or the whole family. You don't necessarily have to travel far for a varied vacation: Romantic lakes, wild mountain landscapes, and fine sandy beaches can also be found in Germany. Among the most popular vacation destinations for Germans are the quaint villages in Bavaria, the East and North Sea coasts, and the bustling cities from Munich to Hamburg to Berlin. We show you where to find the most beautiful landscapes, the best wellness hotels, and which major cities are worth a short trip.

The fact that major cities are popular not only with foreign travelers but also with German vacationers is evidenced by the increasing visitor numbers. Particularly, each year millions of tourists from all over the world flock to Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, and Cologne. In Berlin, vacationers experience the unique charm of the city and the ever-present history of the capital. Or they visit the famous Hamburg Fish Market in the early morning hours and spend the evening on the legendary Reeperbahn. However, smaller cities like Trier, Freiburg, or Konstanz are also more than worth a short visit. Our top ten most beautiful German cities also include Potsdam and the cultural city of Weimar, where you can walk in the footsteps of Goethe and Schiller. The Hanseatic city of Lübeck, on the other hand, is known more for its marzipan and its proximity to the Baltic Sea.

Relaxing wellness short trips are on trend: Preferred vacation destinations here are also German cities, the quaint places on the Baltic Sea, and in the southern part of the country. For those seeking relaxation, the Allgäu tops the list of favored vacation spots in Germany. Nature walkers, hikers, and wellness enthusiasts are drawn to the Upper Swabian region. There are also numerous excellent wellness hotels around Lake Constance, Chiemsee, or Walchensee in Bavaria or in the Black Forest. Surprisingly, some of the best wellness temples can be found in North Rhine-Westphalia. Known more for its carnival strongholds and coal mining, the Siebengebirge area southeast of Bonn has developed into a wellness oasis for those seeking relaxation in recent years. Excellent hotels include the Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe, which has been named the best wellness and relaxation hotel multiple times by the Relax Guide. The Gräflicher Park Grand Resort in Bad Driburg in North Rhine-Westphalia has also received high marks for its spa area and the grand 60-hectare hotel park.

Whether vacationing by the lake, at the sea, or enjoying varied holidays in the mountains, Germany offers diverse landscapes, culinary delights, and culture. There are several regions and federal states that are particularly appealing to vacationers. Here is an overview of the top 5 most popular federal states among German travelers:

You will experience a different kind of vacation at the many amusement parks in Germany. From Europa-Park in Rust to Heide-Park Soltau to the seaside Hansapark: German amusement parks attract up to 25 million visitors each year. Zoo visits, concerts, or shows also make for special experiences during vacations in Germany. Or you can discover German landmarks like the fairy-tale castle Neuschwanstein, famous pilgrimage routes, or the most beautiful places from the water.

Tip: Find our top amusement parks in Germany here!