There is nothing better than getting to explore a new city and Germany offers some of the best gems in Europe.Great food, rich histories, unique attractions and a collective commitment to sustainability, the cities of Germany rank best in class for all. To help you plan your next getaway, we are taking you through the top 5 cities in Germany for a city break.
Berlin
Berlin, the capital city of Germany, is known as the city of art, artists, museums, and classical music. Its recognition as a leading hub for classical music is due to the Berlin Philharmonic as well as the city’s three huge opera houses. On the architecture side, Berlin is also loved for its unique combination of past and present with its mix of historic and contemporary buildings.
Top things to do on your trip to Berlin include the Brandenburg Gate and a visit to Gendarmenmarkt Square where you can find the German Cathedral, French Cathedral and the Konzerthaus Concert Hall. If you are looking for a more chilled vibe you cannot miss a visit to Alexanderplatz Square. The fantastic Hackesche Höfe is home to several art galleries, museums, restaurants, pubs, and a great selection of boutiques stores. Berlin is also loved and recognised as Germany’s greenest city due to its large parks dotted around the city.
Munich
Munich, the third largest city in Germany combines history and cultural heritage with modernity throughout all its neighbourhoods. Some of the top things to do in Munich include Marienplatz Square, a popular meeting point where you will be able to find the majestic New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) and its carillon (Rathaus-Glockenspiel), one of the largest in Europe with its forty-three bells. If you visit this exceptional neo-gothic building, try to do so around 11am or 12pm and you may catch the dancing figures move!
Nearby, you will find Munich’s Cathedral (Frauenkirche) and not far from here you will find Königsplatz Square. Located in the Maxvorstadt District, this neo-classical area of the city houses three incredible buildings: the Glyptotek, the Propylaea and the Staatliche Antikensammlungen (State Museum of Classical Art). It is a lovely area to explore, especially during the summer where many events take place.
If you are looking to chill in nature for a bit during your trip, head to Schloss Nymphenburg, a 180-hectare park. Or, if shopping is on your agenda, check out Maximilianstrasse, where you will find plenty of fantastic boutiques.
Cologne
Located on the River Rhine, Cologne is one of the largest cities in Germany and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. The hallmark of Cologne is its cathedral, one of the best European gothic architecture examples of all time. Its construction period extends from 1248 to 1880 and no trip to Cologne is complete without spending some time at this incredible cathedral.
Other popular things to do in Cologne include the Cologne Town Hall, an 800-hundred-year-old building that will take your breath away. There are also plenty of museums to explore with something for everyone from classical art galleries to museums focussed on medieval times. Museum Ludwig is also a must visit on your trip.
Throughout the old town, you will find a fantastic selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops to enjoy during your city break.
Hamburg
Located in the north of Germany, Hamburg is well known for its architecture, lively cultural scene and for being a port city. While there, be sure to check out the famous Fish Market, a popular spot since 1703! Every Sunday, visitors and locals head to the market to experience the impressive atmosphere, sample fresh seafood and also enjoy the rock and jazz music that takes place at the market.
Reeperbahn District, one of the most famous streets in the city, offers so much to enjoy from theatres and galleries to nightclubs and sailor bars. Other must-see attractions include the Panoptikum Wax Figure Museum, The Beatles Monument, Große Freiheit Street and Hans-Albers-Platz.
Speicherstadt UNESCO Site is the world’s largest warehouse complex. Here you will find a variety of attractions to enjoy including Miniatur Wunderland, an enormous model railway system; Hamburg Dungeon, a tourist attraction focused on the spookier side of Hamburg’s history; and you will also find the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg. Finally, St Michael’s Church, Hamburg’s largest church, the City Hall and the Old Elbe Tunnel are three more must dos on your trip to this exciting city.
Dusseldorf
Located in west Germany, Dusseldorf is considered as the fashion capital of Germany with more than 800 fashion showrooms as well as plenty of antique shops, galleries and art dealers. Königsallee, is the city’s shopping district and here you will find all major international brands
Outside of fashion, Dusseldorf is home to numerous magnificent parks and gardens that you can enjoy during your trip. It is also a brilliant city for those who enjoy theatre performances and concerts. In the Old Town, you will also find a large selection of bars and clubs should you wish to dance the night away during your trip.
How to get there?
The great thing about a city break in Germany is that its best cities are just a short flight from Ireland. Below is a guide on flight times from Dublin.
- From Dublin Airport to Berlin approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes
- From Dublin Airport to Munich approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes
- From Dublin Airport to Cologne approximately 2 hours
- From Dublin Airport to Hamburg approximately 2 hours
- From Dublin Airport to Hamburg approximately 1 hour 55 minutes
If you would like to find the best deals on city breaks to Germany, check out our website here, or contact our holiday experts seven days a week on 01-6995329.
