best places to visit in germany for nightlife

12 Best Party Cities in Germany for Nightlife Lovers

German culture may not have the hot-blooded, dance-addicted reputation of that of its Latin brethren, but rest assured that there are nonetheless plenty of cool spots all over Germany to get your groove on, no matter your personal taste or budget.

From world-renowned dance clubs to the best drinks on the continent, these nightlife jewels have it all.

In this quick guide, let’s take a good look at the best party cities in Germany and find out what makes them so special!

Table of Contents

People partying at summer Strandbar beach party near Spree river at historic Museum Island with famous Berlin TV tower in the background at night

If you are short on time or funds and can only afford to see one of the famous nightlife cities in Germany , make it Berlin.

Famous for its extravagant, 24/7 clubbing scene that ranges from addictive to outright hedonist (depending on whom you ask), the capital is where you’ll find many of the best nightclubs in Germany. Standouts include the Berghain , KitKat , and Tresor .

The Kaiserkeller music club in the St. Pauli quarter of Hamburg, Germany, near the Reeperbahn. Hamburg is one of the best party cities in Germany.

Germany’s charming metropolis by the sea is where the Beatles famously played some of their first live concerts, and to this day it’s retained its reputation as a major Mecca for members of the clubbing and live music scene.

The neighborhood of St. Pauli is the most internationally renowned for its nightlife. Here, you’ll find many famous clubs and bars, including the Chug Club and the Cotton Club . The latter has been a favorite among jazz lovers since the 50s!

More daring travelers are welcome to further explore in and around the infamous Reeperbahn, a narrow, long street within St. Pauli renowned for its underground dance clubs, brothels, and all sorts of other symbols of excess and all-night partying.

The capital of Bavaria is an obvious choice if you like your nights out accompanied by generous (think keg-sized) doses of beer. That Munich’s brews are some of the best and most famous in the world is the cherry on top, of course! No wonder it’s also one of the most popular party cities in Europe !

The city’s legendary bars and pubs deserve an article of their own – some of my favorites include the Tap House and the unabashedly Irish Ryan’s Muddy Boot .

But beyond that, excellent nightclubs and concert venues like Blitz and Harry Klein really prove that the heart of Bavaria is worth the trip if you’re itching for excitement and fun.

Try the area around Schwabing; it offers both laidback jazz clubs as well as more hot-blooded venues covering just about any taste.

Cologne Dom and city skyline at night, Cologne, Germany

The beating heart of the Rhineland and capital of Germany’s largest state, Cologne is a student-rich, modern cosmopolis with a casual, laidback atmosphere.

Suffice it to say that all this makes it an excellent destination if you’re looking for the best nightlife in Germany and beyond. Among party cities in Germany, it’s really difficult to outdo Cologne without straying much farther east or north.

Univiertel (the University district) and the Old Town offer the highest concentration of nightclubs, dance halls, pubs, and Brauhäuser – the traditional Rheinland-style beerhouse that has become a symbol of the Cologne area.

Try the Cubana for some of the most extravagant cocktails in the country, or let your hair out and prepare to dance all night long at Diamond ‘s , the self-professed best nightclub in Germany.

Dresden, Germany at Neumarkt Square and Frauenkirche at night

While it’s unfortunately acquired the reputation of “the poor backpacker’s Berlin” in recent years, Dresden is so much more than its close neighbor’s budget-friendly alternative.

Full of culture, stunning Baroque architecture, and some of the former East’s best restaurants, alternative cafés, and bars like the 200-year-strong Gin House , to name just one.

City icons like the Standesamt , Katy’s Garage , and more offer excellent opportunities for socializing and enjoying a diverse offering of music on and off the dancefloor.

6. Stuttgart

Night view of a street in the center of Stuttgart, Germany

Home to both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, Stuttgart is South Germany’s industrial powerhouse.

Since the end of World War II, Stuttgart has welcomed a significant US military presence spread out across a series of military bases within the city limits – at its peak during the Cold War, there were over 30 of them!

Because of this, much of Stuttgart’s nightlife scene caters to the English-speaking crowd and American-style music. Jazz is incredibly popular alongside RnB and Hip-Hop, as well as more widespread genres throughout the rest of Germany and Western Europe like House and various genres of EDM.

Theodor-Heuss-Strasse near the center is where most of the city’s cutting-edge nightclubs are located. For a good drink, look around the opulent Schlossgarten, a relic of Stuttgart’s aristocratic past. Now as in the 1700s, it’s full of authentic breweries and beer houses.

7. Frankfurt

The banking capital of Germany is famous for its role in international finance and business , which has admittedly given it a reputation for being a bit stuck-up and overly serious.

However, one good look at Frankfurt’s legendary nightlife scene is enough to prove these preconceptions all wrong.

Since at least the 60s, Frankfurt has displayed an eclectic variety of nightlife options. These range from the speakeasy-esque, countercultural vibes of famous institutions like Club Voltaire to excellent jazz and blues bars and even hardcore techno dance clubs like the Elfer .

Leipzig is one of the biggest urban centers of the former East Germany, a defining hub of Össi culture and nostalgia. Its dense Old Town streets brim with pubs and excellent vintage-style taverns, while the modern downtown fully embraces late-night clubbing and EDM culture.

Snoop around the neighborhood known as Drallewatsch to discover some of Leipzig’s best and oldest pubs – some have been here since before the reformation!

As for the club scene, there is no one neighborhood that will suit every taste, but I suggest starting where it all began, at the Distillery . This legendary club has been operating since the late 1990s and is largely responsible for the boom in popularity of Leipzig following a slump during the Cold War era.

9. Wuppertal

Long exposure of trains stopping and going at Völklinger Strasse, one of 20 Schwebebahn Railroad Stations in Wuppertal, Germany, at dusk

Known for its iconic Schwebebahn , a futuristic type of tram that drives hanging from metal girders suspended above the city (but that was actually built in the late 1800s!), Wuppertal offers a staggering clash of old and new.

At Wuppertal’s varied nightclubs like the famous U-Club , genre-bending lineups meet an eclectic, international clientele that keeps the local clubbing scene going strong and exciting, more than 25 years on.

Meanwhile, dozens of quality breweries, discothéques, arcades, and other venues offer a bit of late-time fun for just about any flavor of a night owl. That easily makes Wuppertal one of the best party cities in Germany!

10. Leverkusen

Located just outside of Cologne, Leverkusen offers much of that same uniquely West German charm – warm locals, an energetic cityscape, and a fun-loving atmosphere.

As a much smaller city, however, Leverkusen offers a more local, pared-down vibe. Excellent for those who prefer an outing at a blues bar to moshing all night, the city impresses with its broad selection of cool entertainment and nightlife options – some among the best in Germany.

For jazz fans, look no further than Topos , one of Leverkusen’s oldest clubs – which also happens to serve some of the best cocktails in Germany!

Meanwhile, live music fans of all kinds will be well served at Shadow , a trailblazing club that has been a part of the local landscape forever and continues to refuse labels to this day.

Night view of Marktplatz in the center of Bonn, Germany

Beethoven’s historic birthplace and the capital of the former West German state, Bonn has seen a lot of history.

Especially in and surrounding the former diplomats’ quarter (which still today contains many important offices of German government bodies), Bonn is brimming with cafés, clubs, bistros, and dance halls.

Here, in the colorful downtown, waltzing is as popular as punk rock and 70s funk. Try any of the city’s incredibly diverse dance floors and you’re sure to find something up your alley.

12. Düsseldorf

People enjoy music bars and restaurants at night in Dusseldorf old town

The largest city in Germany’s west after Cologne (and the only one in the region to administer itself as a city-state), Düsseldorf is rich in history, culture, and entertainment.

Known today as one of the most livable and popular party cities in Germany, especially for foreigners, Düsseldorf impresses with its vibrant and diverse nightlife scene.

For many, Düsseldorf’s highlight is its incredible variety of pubs and brew bars. For a primer, have a few drinks at the Goldener Ring ; its lavish interior dating to the 16th century is sure to impress, and their recipe for Altbier is almost as ancient.

Meanwhile, places like Engel serve up a heavy dose of rock for those so inclined, Stahlwerk excels in avant-garde cabaret and stand-up alongside dance-heavy nights fueled by electronica, and Tonhalle is home to some of the best classical performances on the continent.

What more could you ask for?

Smiling man standing at pub with friends and passing pint of beer to his friend

That’s it for today’s roundup of the best party cities in Germany! Whether you’re planning a big cross-country tour or just a short weekend trip and whether you’re looking mainly for an adrenaline boost or your next favorite evening drink, I am sure that a stop at any of these top picks will satisfy your goals.

Did I miss any of the best party places in Germany? Let me know in the comments and bis bald !

8 Exciting Cities To Experience Nightlife In Germany

You’re in Germany and want to turn night into day? Partying in Germany means having plenty of choices, from the deep Bavarian south to the North Sea coast. Some cities stand out in particular.

I’ll introduce you to the country’s most beautiful party cities and tell you what they have to offer. You’ll also learn about other ways to enrich your nightlife besides just “partying”.

You’ll see; it’s no problem at all to stay up all night and fall into a deep sleep during the day. However, I advise you to use at least one day for daylight sightseeing. Germany looks very different at night than during the day.

Anyway, get ready for an exciting holiday and expect that German can have a hot temper if they want. Some of them are really good at partying and flirting, and the range of captivating games in Germany’s casinos doesn’t leave much to be desired either.

At A Glance

1. Frankfurt am Main

5. düsseldorf, 7. stuttgart, 8 top cities in germany to visit for excellent nightlife.

Many German cities reach the top of the party scale, and some of them can certainly keep up with places like Amsterdam , Dubai or London. In Frankfurt am Main the party suitability is particularly high. The same applies to the German capital Berlin and Hamburg in the high north.

The high numbers of bars, clubs and casinos are to blame for that, as much as the long opening hours and the multicultural clientele. And, in the big cities, there’s a good transport infrastructure that allows you to reach your party hotspots at relatively low costs by public transport.

Let’s have a look at those shimmering jewels!

The skyscrapers of the banking metropolis Frankfurt am Main can’t be overseen. Not only in terms of money but also concerning partying, Frankfurt has a lot to offer. It scores with super-chic clubs, big rock parties and indie music festivals.

The Bahnhofsviertel is becoming more and more popular in the party scene. The old factory buildings there have been transformed into trendy clubs with long opening hours.

By the way, Frankfurt is home to the youngest people on average, because there are so many students living in the city. Overall, the German average age reaches 44.6 years – in Frankfurt, the rate is down to 40,9 years.

Munich; 12 Cities to Celebrate This Christmas

There, you get delicious white sausage with sweet mustard, pretzels and Pork and certainly a ride on a dizzying carousel. Many people wear Bavarian costumes at the Oktoberfest. Get yourself a pair of lederhosen or a dirndl and dance to the typical German brass band music. This is more fun than you might expect!

Besides this special festival, Munich also has its nightclubs, bars and gastronomy. Thus, it’s no fault to visit this city in another month than October. Don’t forget to enter the Hofbrauhäus, which also has a hearty Bavarian atmosphere with a very atmospheric touch.

Cologne Cathedral exterior

2 Cologne specialities are well known all over the world: The Kölsch beer and the one big party in February, the carnival. Both in combination attract lots of tourists, at least as many as those who want to see the Cologne Cathedral.

This city on the banks of the great river Rhine has more youth hostels than any other German town. So, you can get a centrally located accommodation relatively cheaply if you’re not particularly demanding.

Don’t miss the Belgian Quarter if you want to have an unforgettable party weekend! It’s one of the hippest neighbourhoods of the city. On warm, sunny days, people meet for a beer on Brüsseler Platz. When it gets colder – or darker – the party people head for the surrounding bars, and there are really lots of them.

In Cologne, the hipster sits beside the ecologists. Together, they enjoy the pulsating city life all year round. But I especially recommend coming here for the carnival to enjoy the joyful parades. Then, the whole city becomes one wild party and you’re right in the middle of it.

Bring a funny disguise so that you don’t stand out. And hook yourself in while swaying with the other carnivalists!

The Schanze has long been known as Hamburg’s most trendy district – and St. Pauli with its Reeperbahn are cult, not only in Germany itself. Both are open around the clock, and the club and bar density is incredibly high. It helps that the venues are all quite affordable.

To go by bus or train from your hotel to the desired party destination is relatively cheap. And if you get hungry, there’s always one of the famous “Fischbrötchen” (fish roll) at hand. Don’t hesitate!

But let’s take a quick look at the Schanzenviertel; This trendy district is full of restaurants, cafes and small boutiques and it also has a party mile of its own. It has undergone a widely acclaimed upgrade; many old houses have been redeveloped.

The streets Schanzenstraße, Susannenstraße, Schulterblatt and Bartelsstraße form the centre of this pop-cultural place. Pubs and cosy cafes invite you to linger, many trendy boutiques frame them. The local partygoers appreciate the special atmosphere of their home territory: The quarter has not yet been conquered by tourism as much as the world-famous Reeperbahn.

Just like Cologne, Düsseldorf is considered a carnival hotspot und and once a year it really lives up to its name. The carnival parades and parties make the number of visitors skyrocket, but Düsseldorf also offers numerous entertainment options outside the carnival season.

Just think of the “longest bar in the world”, as Düsseldorf’s old town is called! There are not only many nostalgic houses lining the street, dating back to the time of the city’s founding in the 13th century, but also lots of cosy pubs.

The above title stems from the fact that if you lined up all the counters of the several hundred bars in the historic quarter, the result would be the longest bar in the world. Some of these bars have their own breweries, and there are uncountable clubs and lounges spread over this comparatively small area of half a square kilometre.

But the Altstadt (Old Town) is just one of 50 Düsseldorf districts, and most of the others also have their own nightlife attractions. A special place to go is the nightclub Nachtresidenz at the Bahnhofstraße. The building used to contain a theatre and cinema and has kept the noble ambience until now.

On weekends, up to 2.000 guests celebrate there. They use the whole 1800 square metres for dancing and flirting. The domed hall is equipped with mirrored walls and chandeliers, the roof is 12 metres high. There’s a certain titanic feeling, but hopefully without the accompanying doom.

Really legendary are the folk festivals at the Stuttgarter Cannstatter Wasen. The Wasen is a 35-hectare festival site on the banks of the Neckar in the Stuttgart. The name of the site is a designation for grassland. For Germany’s standards, the age average of this city is quite low, the atmosphere here is correspondingly spirited.

The party mile named “Theo” gathers around the Theodor-Heuss-Strasse. It’s a popular meeting place for night owls and is known far beyond Stuttgart’s borders. In the many bars and clubs of this area, party people are celebrating until the early hours of every weekend.

In most bars, admission is free; you just pay for the cocktail, beer or hearty Germany snack that you order; the best prerequisite for a long night of exciting bar hopping! Around the Hans-im-Glück-Brunnen, a striking fountain in the old city of Stuttgart, another popular nightlife district has established itself.

Both the Theo and the old city can easily be reached by public transport. Buses and trains run all night and also in the early morning hours. So, nothing will get in your way if you want to party in Stuttgart.

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Venturing through the street art in Berlin, Germany

The German capital is popular with tourists and locals alike for its club and bar scene. In comparison to other cities, the prices are quite low. Furthermore, some of Berlin’s clubs belong to the best ones in the world!

Currywurst and Kebab are part of the cityscape, not only by day but also by night. So, there’s always a bite to eat for all the night owls wandering the streets. Not to forget the 4 big casinos in Berlin that are visited by more than 600.000 guests annually.

But don’t get the idea of showing up there as a newcomer without prior practice! There are numerous digital training sites for your first steps on the casino floor. Users find the chosen providers neatly listed with all their most important features. With one click, you get to the online casino you prefer most – and begin your virtual training.

Afterwards, you visit the Spielbank Berlin, sit down at the Poker or Roulette table and begin the game of your life. Get dressed up for this special event and be prepared to need a long breath.

Every country has its own culture, and it’s certainly not a mistake to savour it in Germany.

Isabel Leong

Full-time travel blogger at Bel Around The World and SEO coach roaming the world at a whim, Isabel helps aspiring content creators and brands get the most out of their online presence by attracting organic leads/traffic and achieving financial freedom with her Skyrocket With SEO course. She's closely involved in and has been featured as a speaker in other travel & digital nomad networks & podcasts such as Traverse, Travel Massive, The Nomadic Network and Location Indie.

Hi! I'm Isabel, a full-time traveller and digital nomad from Singapore. In the past 10 years, I've lived in New Zealand , Japan , Kauai Hawaii , Mexico , Costa Rica and Bali . Pulling from my own world travel adventures and blogging lessons, I share my tried and tested tips, so that I can get YOU to work LESS and play MORE!

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Best cities for partying in Germany | Hit famous clubs & pubs

Europe trip is undoubtedly the most adventurous and exciting holiday trip to plan. With the breathtaking views, stunning architecture, history, and savoring food you will get to witness everything. You can start your European trip from one of the biggest European countries, Germany. Doesn’t matter if you are visiting for the first time, or second, or tenth time, each time you would come across a unique thing about Germany.

Oh, and the party animal will have a barrel of fun nightlife in Germany. If after-party fun, dancing until morning, DJ night, and chilled drinks are your thing then you have arrived at the right place. In this article, we have included the 8 best cities for nightlife in Germany .

We are well aware that most people visit Germany for its magnificent and historic monuments , foods and drinks, and mesmerizing train rides . We have included bars, nightclubs, festive events, and pubs in each city that will allow you to have a blast Germany’s nightlife .

List of best cities for nightlife in Germany (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

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Berlin, Germany

Berlin is the most cosmopolitan city in Germany that has a powerful Erasmus community. The evening in Berlin is everything you will ask for. There is something for everyone and no one feels left out in the crowd. The culture and tradition of Germany can be seen clearly in Berlin. The nightlife in Berlin is similar to the nightlife in major France cities like Paris.

Hackesche Höfe And Oranienburger Straße are some of the most hyped places to witness the perfect nightlife in Berlin, Germany . It is the hub of nightclubs, restaurants, and bars and gives you a chance to hope from one bar to another. The open party space, this region is the center of attraction for night owls.

Another crazy place to witness the nightlife is Kreuzkölln . Its artistic scenes grab the attention of the visitors. The bars and pubs are open all night and provide the best services to the party animals. As the sun sets the crowd starts to gather at Kreuzkölln and the wild party goes on until morning. If you want to experience a crazy summer music festival , visit Berlin.

Location: Berlin, Germany

Average cost to visit (two people): $1,738 for a week

Best time to visit: May to September

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Munich, Germany

We all drink cocktails in bars and nightclubs, have you ever drunk in Erding spring bath? The chances are slim. Munich is the capital of Bavaria and hence life in this city is fast and busy. The nightlife in Munich, Germany is nothing less than wild and adventurous. Who does not wish for some filled-out and laid-back moments in their life? If you are planning to do so, the jazz bars and piano bars in Munich are some of the best places for nightlife.

For young and noisy party lovers Kultfabrick is the go-to place. Located next to Munich East station, Kultfabrick incorporates the clusters of nightclubs and pubs. Once an industrial area turned into a party arena this place is perfect for party lovers.

Location: Munich, Bavaria, Germany

Average cost to visit (two people): $1,998 for a week

Best time to visit: March to May

Cologne, Germany

This city has many universities and colleges and therefore the streets are always dominated by the young and over-enthusiastic students. Not only universities, but the beautiful architectural sites you will also witness. The Cologne Dinner Cruise is the splendid overview of evening party howls at the luxury ship in River Rhine is the perfect place to spend quality time with friends and family. The overboard cruise travel is what is missing from the perfect nightlife.

Ona-Mor is one of the smallest bars in Cologne. It is situated next to the student neighborhood but does not mistake it with a casual student bar. The luxury bar design, rich wine, and gourmet cocktail will make you feel elated. The beautiful and sophisticated bars of Cologne make it one of the top cities for nightlife in Germany.

Location: Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Best time to visit: September and October

Hamburg, Germany

The third-largest port and second-largest city of Germany, Hamburg will welcome you like no other city in Germany. It is the prime place for sailors and the best place to spend an exciting and fun nightlife in Germany. The night in River Albe allows you to experience the thrilling DJ nightclubs, crowded jazz clubs, and euphonious live-music performances. There are many bars and nightclubs at the luxury cruise and ships that provide the best cocktails all over the city.

Location: Hamburg, Germany

Average cost to visit (solo): $1,379 for a week

Best time to visit: May and October

Bonn, Germany

Planning to spend a quality weekend in Bonn then you have varieties of places to hang out alone or with friends. The Jazz Galerie is the hottest place to spend a memorable night. Besides wild parties every night, you can witness the Salsa Chula, the Latin party night on Thursday.

For sports lovers, visit Lanxess Arena where you can witness grand sports events. Not only this, but this place also features big music concerts for the people. Delicious food in Bonn will allow you experience heaven on earth.

Location: Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Average cost to visit (two people): $1,945 for a week

Best time to visit: June and August

6. Baden-Baden

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Baden Baden, Germany

Well, this city is quite hot and humid and visiting here at the time of summer would be the wrong decision. However, the summer season also brings many festive hubs to this city. You can indulge in lots of activities and can take part in various events. The spa, lake, forest, and spring bath are all available in this city. Equipage is the perfect place to party all night dancing, singing, and drinking at a cocktail bar. The modern atmosphere indulges you in its trendy and sophisticated nightlife and allows you to have never before experienced it. This is why it is the best nightlife city in Germany.

Location: Baden Baden, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Average cost to visit (two people): $1,949 for a week

Dresden, Germany

Nightlife in Dresden is similar to other countries in Germany. Located at a distance of 2 hours from Berlin, Dresden has many traditional and modern bars and nightclubs. For the fashionistas, this is the best place to quench your thirst for trendy clothes.

Location: Dresden, Saxony, Germany

Average cost to visit (two people): $1,328 for a week

Best time to visit: May to September

8. Stuttgart

Stuttgart, Germany

The museum of luxury cars like Porsche and Mercedes, this city is the hub of the automobile industry. It also has many places for the party crawling who are looking for places for wild parties. The castles and libraries are another hot visiting place in Stuttgart. You can enjoy your nightlife in Stuttgart Germany in Jigger & Spoon, Spielbank, John-Cranko-Lounge, and Sky Beach Stuttgart.

Location: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Average cost to visit (solo): $1,481 for a week

Best time to visit: Mid-May to late September

Final Thoughts

So these are the top 8 cities for nightlife in Germany . If you have already visited this beautiful country, you can share your exciting experiences with us by commenting below. We will love to hear the interesting and adventurous stories of your nightlife in Germany .

The post Best cities for partying in Germany | Hit famous clubs & pubs appeared first on World Tour & Travel Guide, Get Travel Tips, Information, Discover Travel Destination | Adequate Travel .

The 6 Best Party Cities In Germany For Nightlife

Many travelers think of Germany as a straight-laced, orderly country where travel consists of perfectly preserved castles, medieval villages, and important historic sites. But they don’t often think of it as a place to let their hair down and head out to the clubs. And that’s a huge mistake!

After all, this is the same country that became the center of the world’s house and electronic music scene across various cities, and its capital is known for having one of the most vibrant, eclectic, and creative nightlife atmospheres in the world!

This country is a fantastic place to party, you just need to know where to look. Keep reading for our list of the best party cities in Germany.

Table of Contents

We couldn’t start this list off with any other city. Berlin is an absolute mecca for anyone who wants to get loose on a dance floor or spend their nights bar-hopping while they watch wild performance art or listen to fantastic live music. In fact, Berlin is notorious for having one of the “craziest” nightlife scenes in all of Europe.

There’s something for everyone here, and it would take months before you saw all of the best parts of Berlin nightlife that the city has to offer. Take a look at some of the best districts for visitors who want to experience the capital after the sun sets:

Warschauer Strasse: Located in what was formerly known as East Berlin, Warschauer Strasse is not just the techno center of Berlin – it’s the techno center of the country! Here you’ll find trendy bars, clubs, and discotheques, all set against the grungy industrial backdrop of the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district.
Kreuzberg: For alternative bars, hipster venues, unique party space, late-night art and performance exhibitions, and any of your other counter-cultural needs, head to Kreuzberg.
Mitte: Translating to “middle,” Mitte is very much the center of nighttime activity for tourists, because of its proximity to many major city attractions. Rosenthaler Platz and Alexanderplatz are worth checking out for their bars and underground music venues.
Nollendorf Platz: Nollendorf Platz has long been the LGBTQ+ heart of the German capital, and it remains so to this day. Many of the venues along the Motzstrasse and Fuggerstrasse are owned and operated by members of the gay community.

The major commercial and financial center of Germany, it’s no surprise that Frankfurt has a nightlife to match. And despite what you might be thinking, it’s not full of swank wine bars with mind-blowingly expensive drinks, or exclusive cocktail lounges for traveling bankers and businessmen. In fact, compared to neighboring cities it is best known for its very active house and techno scene, as well as its large student presence (so you know people are partying!) and a solid group of live jazz venues to boot! If that wasn’t enough, Frankfurt is considered by many to be one of the birthplaces of trance music.

If you’re looking to get down and dirty in the Hessian capital, these are the best places to check out:

Sachsenhausen: The traditional drinking center of the city, with plenty of affordable bars and taverns serving the famous and ubiquitously enjoyed local beverage apfelwein (a strong regional apple cider). A good place to mingle with locals and other tourists. Just west of here you’ll find Robert Johnson, one of the world’s most iconic techno clubs.
Bockenheim: located in central Frankfurt, this is known as a student district, populated with cheap bars and plenty of late-night parties.
Bahnhofsviertel: The so-called “red light district” of Frankfurt, with some of the city’s most popular bars, and only a short drive from Tanzhaus West, one of the city’s best underground clubs.
Bornheim: A rather upmarket area of the city, where you’ll find luxury nightclubs and more expensive bars.
Salzhaus: Cocktail bars abound in Salzhaus, making it the perfect spot for a fun date night or a night out with the girls (or guys!)

Believe it or not, the city of Hamburg is considered by many to have one of the most underrated nightlife scenes in all of Europe! This shouldn’t so surprising, as this Hanseatic city is the second-largest in Germany, and the largest port city, and has long been referred to as Germany’s “Gateway to the World.”

When people think of Hamburg nightlife they tend to think of the Reeperbahn, a single road packed with lively bars, clubs, theatres, and live music. The Reeperbahn is the heart of Hamburg after hours and a must if you are visiting the city. But it isn’t the only great spot for partying. Here are the top areas to check out in Hamburg if you’re looking for nightlife:

Reeperbahn: the aforementioned party street is home to iconic live music venues like Grosse Freiheit 36 and Zwick St. Pauli, and fantastic cocktail bars such as Clouds (the highest bar in Hamburg), Glanz & Gloria, and 3Freunde Cocktailbar.
Große Freiheit: A sidestreet from the Reeperbahn, Große Freiheit is packed full of colorful bars, burlesque clubs, and adult entertainment venues.
Sternschanze: The Sternschanze is the alternative district not far from the Reeperbahn, perhaps best known for the infamous Rote Flora theatre. While you’re here check out the ever-changeable Kulturhaus 73, atmospheric Absinth Bar, and the moody Le Fonque which hosts live DJs every night.
Altona: Though it is a more quiet residential area, Altona has its share of excellent lounge bars, theatres, and cinemas, if you’re looking for a more laidback night. It is also home to Altes Mädchen, a historic brewery with an excellent selection of craft beers.

Considering that Oktoberfest, the world’s biggest beer festival is held here every year, you’ll be forgiven for thinking that Munich’s nightlife is largely comprised of beer halls. And while Bavarians do love their beer, there’s much more to the city’s part scene than that.

In fact, every other month of the year the city nightlife is largely known for its trendy, upscale bars and clubs. As a result, revelry in Munich is also a little more expensive than other German party cities like Berlin and Hamburg, but it’s a great spot for those who like their fun a little upmarket and sophisticated. Here are some of the best spots to check out during a stay in the Bavarian capital:

Zephyr Bar: With its exotic and everchanging drink menu, this elegant gin bar is a well-loved establishment in the city center – make sure you go early to grab a seat!
Zum Wolf: Zum Wolf is a trendy, red-lit speakeasy that has long been a central hub for Munich’s thriving LGBTQ+ community.
Harry Klein: One of the most popular clubs in Munich, Harry Klein is a vibey, minimalist with two floors and excellent lineups including local and international DJs.
MMA: Built in an old abandoned warehouse (in typical German party tradition), this industrial space is used both as a nightclub and a venue for art exhibitions and events.

Cologne is known for its effortless charm and centuries’ worth of priceless history, from its museums, galleries, archaeological sites, and historic buildings. But when the sun sets, it’s very much a modern metropolis full of plenty of things to do and see. It even has the highest number of pubs in the country, per capita!

Here is our pick for some of the best bars, pubs, and nightclubs that you absolutely must visit during your next trip to Cologne:

Seibert’s: If you’re in the city you can’t miss Seibert’s! This comfy, ambient bar is the definition of atmosphere, and even made the list of the “10 most influential bars in Europe”.
Spirits Bar: A high-quality bar popular with travelers and locals alike, you’re sure to enjoy any drink you try, whether it’s a signature experimental cocktail or a local craft beer.
1460: One of the most unique hideaways you can find almost anywhere, 1460 is a gorgeous and atmospheric cocktail lounge hidden under the arches of the Klein St Martin chapel, a 500-year old institution of the city.
Engel & Weiss: Translating to “Angels & White,” you won’t be surprised by the frills and snow-white decor of this next establishment. A mix between cocktail bar and nightclub, you can easily spend the night dancing and schmoozing here.

Known by many as a trendy alternative to booming Berlin just two hours drive away, Leipzig has fast become one of Germany’s most liveable cities . So naturally, as more students and young professionals have flocked to the city, the local nightlife has grown with it. If you’re traveling in Leipzig and want to make the most of your night, we recommend stopping by at some of these excellent establishments:

Distillery: Opened not long after the fall of the Berlin Wall, Distillery is one of the oldest house and techno clubs in the country. It still holds fast to its stellar reputation and regularly features some of Germany’s best DJs and techno acts.
Auerbachs Keller: Nestled in the heart of Leipzig’s old town, Auerbachs Keller is one of the city’s oldest wine bars (built in the 1500s!) and is a must-see attraction for any history lover, or indeed anyone who just wants to enjoy a drink.
La Boum: Art lovers are sure to fall in love with this unique bar, both for its excellent drinks menu and the abstract art that covers its walls.
Täubchenthal: Located in a former trading estate hall, this enormous club is one of Leipzig’s hottest venues. It’s a great place to catch both local and international acts, or just to enjoy a boogie with your friends on the weekend.

Which German city is best for nightlife?

Berlin is widely considered to be the best place for nightlife , and the city prides itself on its immense range of activities, attractions, and top-notch venues for people who want to party. It offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking for high-brow theater or exhilarating burlesque shows, if you want to enjoy mellow jazz at a swank cocktail lounger, raucous rock music, or world-class DJs.

Does Germany have a vibrant nightlife?

There are plenty of vibrant nightlife opportunities to be found in Germany, it just depends on where you’re staying. Some smaller cities are far quieter and have quite a restrained nightlife. But all in all, the major German cities have a great reputation for partying and late-night entertainment, with some of the best clubs and music venues in Europe if not the world.

Where do German people go to party?

Like all countries across the world, most of Germany’s cities have their own central districts that are known for having popular clubs, bars, and other entertainment venues. In Germany, people tend to party in bars and nightclubs, though beer halls and traditional German taverns are also popular amongst locals. Music festivals are also commonly attended by the younger German population.

What are the most popular party destinations in Germany?

Aside from Berlin, which has the largest population and the most famously vibrant nightlife in the country, cities like Frankfurt and Hamburg are also known for their impressive range of clubs, bars, and other late-night venues. These three are widely considered to be the best party cities in Germany.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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Germany Nightlife: An Ultimate Guide To Experience A Kaleidoscope Of Drinks And Music

23 Mar 2023

Germany is a country where the modernity beautifully blends with the medieval culture. Despite being the land of nature’s splendored beauty, ancient past and half-timbered towns, the country also has different folds of nightlife. The Germany nightlife is unique in its own way, with a large number of techno-playing clubs, cocktail bars, and nightclubs located at every corner of the street.

Famous Party Areas In Germany

To get away from all the confusion, here is a quick guide to explore the nightclubs and bars in Germany.

1. Hackesche Höfe And Oranienburger Straße Berlin

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Located in Mitte of Central Berlin, this is one of the most hyped regions for witnessing the best nightlife in Germany. The streets are packed with nightclubs, bars and restaurants which gives the leisure to walk out from one bar and barge into another nightclub. Giving a vibe of open air party space, this place attracts many enthusiastic party people

Must Read: Shopping In Germany: A Look At The 10 Best Shopping Boulevards, Flea Markets & More

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best places to visit in germany for nightlife

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2. Kreuzkölln Berlin

Another area which is the so called party arena in Germany lies between Kreuzberg and Neukölln and is known for its artistic scene. In the daytime the area is filled with people crowded at cafes and just as the sun sets, the bars and nightclubs open their doors to welcome the party animals.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Museums In Germany That’ll Give You A True Glimpse Of The Country’s Historic Past

3. Reeperbahn Hamburg

Being one of the topmost nightlife mile at Hamburg, Reeperbahn is also the largest red light district in Europe. The streets at this area are evenly lined up with bars, restaurants, theatres and clubs which gives the best chance to experience the Germany nightlife.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Museums In Germany That’ll Give You A True Glimpse Of The Country’s Historic

4. Schwabing Munich

The nightlife in Munich is much more relaxing than the other cities of Germany. While in the city, the best region to experience the best nightlife in Germany is Schwabing. Crowded with swanky and hippy clubs, bars and restaurants, this place will let you enjoy a relaxing time in the night.

5. Kunstpark Ost Munich

Another hub for the party lovers, this area is located just adjacent to the Munich East station which was once an industrial area. Now it is known for its large numbers of Clubs in Europe. Featuring a huge complex divided into two, the Kultfabrik is perfect for the young and noisy party lovers, whereas the Optimolwerke is for the refined and classy party goers.

Suggested Read: 15 Top Things To Do In Germany That Offer A Glimpse Of Its Kaleidoscopic Culture

6. Innenstadt und Alt-Sachsenhausen Frankfurt

The inner city of Frankfurt is known for its upscale bars, clubs and restaurants and also cheap spots for the people running on a budget. Apart from this the Sachsenhausen region in Frankfurt has traditional bars which offers the local cider-like drink called the ebbelwoi

Best Bars and Clubs In Germany

1. milla berlin.

If you still wander and groove at the beats of 80’s music, then Milla is the perfect to barge in Berlin. One of the best places to enjoy the underground music and move up with the beats of jazz bands. Along with this the vintage decor and furniture completes the vibe of an 80’s bar.

Ratings: 4.4/5 Location: Holzstraße 28, 80469 München, Germany

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Berlin You Can’t Afford To Miss On Your Germany Trip

2. Hofbräuhaus Munich

Munich is the hub of nightclubs and bars serving crafted beers at every corner of the street. One of the beer hubs is Hofbrauhaus which serves the traditional quality beer by Bavarian lasses and it is a unique experience to be witness while being part of the Germany nightlife.

Ratings: 4.2/5 Location: Platzl 9, 80331 München, Germany Opening Hours: 9AM-11.30PM

3. Dauth Schneider Frankfurt

A visit to Frankfurt is incomplete without tasting the “Ebbelwoi” which is a signature drink popular among the locals. It is a light alcoholic apple city which is served at this old tavern located at the cobble-stoned street of Frankfurt.

Ratings: 4.2/5 Location: Neuer Wall 5-7, 60594 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Opening Hours: 11.30 AM-12 AM

Further Read: 8 Best Restaurants In Germany To Explore On Your Next Holiday In The Deutschland

Excited to witness a different side of Germany after dark? Then don’t wait and book your personalized Germany holiday package with TravelTriangle and indulge into a ravishing surrounding of music and bavarian drinks!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Germany Nightlife

What is Germany known for?

Germany is a beautiful country which is located at the heart of Europe and is nestled amid the vast forest terrains, valleys, rivers, and mountains. Known for its rich history, culture, and car brands, Germany is a great place for a relaxing and peaceful vacation.

When is the best time to visit Germany?

The months between May and September is slightly warm and are perfect for outdoor explorations and is the best time to visit Germany.

What is there to do in Germany?

Here are some of the best things to do in Germany: 1. Stroll around the Brandenburg Gate 2. Admire the magnificent Cologne Cathedral 3. Explore the Neuschwanstein Castle 4. Walk along the famous Berlin Wall 5. Explore the amazing Museum Island

Does Germany have good nightlife?

Just like the place, the nightlife in Germany is quite unique. A large number of techno-playing clubs, cocktail bars, and nightclubs located at every corner of the street makes Germany an excellent place to enjoy the nightlife.

Which city in Germany has the best nightlife?

Hamburg, a small city in Germany is known to have the best nightlife in the world.

Is Germany safe at night?

Germany is mostly safe at night but make sure you avoid going out alone at night. There are certain regions of the city that must be avoided at all costs.

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Nightlife cities: paradise for night owls

In some cities – or at least neighbourhoods – things really get going as the sun goes down. In the streets and, even more so, the bars and clubs, punk starts to play. And techno. And jazz, rock, blues and much more. The main thing: these cities don't sleep!

Düsseldorf: just Altbier, or what?

Düsseldorf: Fireworks over the Rhine, in the background the Media Harbour with Rhine Tower and New Customs Yard by Frank O`Gehry

The phrase "längste Theke der Welt" (longest bar in the world) first appeared in a carnival hit and was probably definitively established as a phrase in a cover version by local punk heroes, "Die Toten Hosen". In any case, everyone knows what is meant by the phrase: Düsseldorf Old Town , with its 300 or so pubs, discos, restaurants and breweries. But inexperienced outsiders such as trade fair visitors, art dealers, fashion designers (the Rhine metropolis is Germany's number one fashion city ) should watch out: in the breweries, unless you cover your empty glass with a beer mat, you'll often be served the next one without being asked. A clever move, but one that could have consequences for the following day. Which would be a shame, because North Rhine-Westphalia's capital also has a lot to offer during the daytime. Three examples: 1. The modern Media Harbour, including the new customs yard by star architect, Frank Gehry. 2. The 240-metre-high Rhine Tower with its revolving restaurant. And 3. the Königsallee, or Kö for short, which at 87 metres is not only Germany's widest street but also one of Europe's leading luxury shopping streets. Another decent shopping street, even with a hangover, is the Rhine enbankment promenade – without any bling-bling.

Munich: more than just Oktoberfest

München: Mann mit Gamsbart schaut auf Oktoberfest

Munich and partying: many people's minds go straight to the former bohemian district of Schwabing, which remains popular among night owls, or to the Oktoberfest . At the "Wiesn", AKA Oktoberfest, the world's largest folk festival, beer flows down the throats of over six million visitors every year. And when these two extraordinary weeks are over? When the weather no longer suits chilling by the renaturalised Isar river and in beer gardens large and small, for which the Bavarian capital is famous? That's when the party-goers are drawn inside even more. The colourful Glockenbachviertel, the club mile between Maximiliansplatz and Sendlinger Tor, as well as the Werksviertel, the lively and exciting successor to the legendary "Kultfabrik", even if it is much less busy at night, promise a hotspot for bar and club energy. By the way, if you happen to see a steamship on a bridge during your city tour, you haven't just had one too many: the "Alte Utting" with its open-air grounds, the "Bahnwärter Thiel" bar made of train carriages, and the new Volkstheater, inaugurated in 2021, form a cool new nightlife area.

Hamburg: great freedom, great variety

Fondly referred to as the "most sinful mile in the world", the Reeperbahn is strictly speaking not a mile at all. Nevertheless, visitors should allow several hours, or even nights, for the 950 metres between Nobistor and Millerntor. Rarely have so many discos, theatres, bars, fast-food stalls, nightclubs and, yes, dubious red-light establishments, especially in Herbertstraße, been concentrated in such a small area. Hotspots around Beatles-Platz and Große Freiheit can also be visited by "normal" guests, proven not least by the many nightly city tours to infamous clubs, table dance bars or neighbourhood pubs. Nightlife in this Elbe metropolis can also be quite different, whether in the trendy Schanzenviertel the Portugiesenviertel at Landungsbrücken, or in one of the many musical theatres.

Berlin: there's always something going on

Berlin: Beach bar at the Bodemuseum_leitmotif German Summer Cities

Three aspects in particular ensured that Berlin was labelled the second best party city in the CNN rankings a few years ago, above even New York and London. 1. Venues' extremely long opening hours, i.e. virtually around the clock. 2. Very unusual places like RAW-Friedrichshain, where you can find subcultures of all kinds. And 3. A disproportionately high amount of music, and good music at that, be it in the form of renowned band performances or internationally successful DJs who really heat things up in Berlin's around 200 clubs. They are particularly concentrated around the Spree, in Mitte, Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain. And between these three districts there are countless theatres, large and small, musical stages, karaoke shops, and more than 500 bars.

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An a to z of health and wellness, archaeological museums: celts, romans, vikings, germany has a (wine) queen, colourful and completely relaxed - autumn holidays in germany, old towns with unesco world heritage status, wine experiences from the ahr to württemberg.

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The 17 best clubs in Berlin

From canalside boogies to techno raves, these are the best clubs in the German party capital

There’s a reason that Berlin is oh-so notorious for its party culture. Sometimes you have to see it to believe it, and Berlin is one of those places. But the rumours are true: the parties here start late and finish early (depending which way you look at it), and sometimes go on for 72 hours at a time.

And it’s not all about Berghain, either. The clubs in Berlin range from LGBTQ+ nights to raves in industrial warehouses and floating clubs right on the water. It’s home to some of the best clubs in the world, and if you get it right, chances are you won’t stop talking about your night out in Berlin for a very long time. Here are the best clubs in the city.

RECOMMENDED: 🍴 The best restaurants in Berlin 🍷 The best bars in Berlin 🪩 The best nightlife spots in Berlin 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Berlin

This guide has been updated by Kate Bettes . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

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The best Berlin clubs

1. Berghain

Friedrichshain

If you’re talking about Berlin and clubs, obviously Berghain has to be at the top of your list. It’s the most infamous club in Berlin, and possibly the world, too. Once you’ve been there in person, you’ll know why. The venue was formerly a power station for East Berlin, but it’s now a magical place full of wild characters, dark rooms, and a distinct feeling of freedom. Berghain gets a lot of shtick for its door policy, in which security can let you in or turn you away seemingly ad-hoc, but the atmosphere inside is more welcoming than you might expect. Guests at Berghain are free to party as they please, safe from judgment, cameras and the outside world. It’s a club like no other – but preparing a Plan B wouldn’t be the worst idea.

2. Anomalie

Come for the clubbing, and stay for the art: Anomalie Art Club is home to some of the most spectacular visual designs on Berlin’s club scene. Over the past few years, this place has played host to techno DJs from around the world, alongside artists working in sound, light, and installation. Anomalie also hosts film screenings, art exhibitions, pop-ups and open-air raves, so be sure to check what’s on before planning your next night out.

3. Trauma Bar Und Kino

In recent years, TRAUMA BAR UND KINO has emerged as one of the most exciting new destinations in Berlin’s club circuit. Tucked away in a quieter corner of Berlin near the city’s central station, it’s easy to miss but an absolute must-visit. The space itself lends itself to a wide range of events and projects: In addition to the capacious dancefloor, there’s a screening room, a maze and rotating art installations, meaning that no two nights out are ever the same. Both the curation and door policy at TRAUMA are inclusive and expansive: Come ready with good vibes and your best behaviour, and you’ll fit right in.

4. Sisyphos

You don’t make the trek out to Sisyphos just for a snoop and a couple of beers. It’s an ‘in for a penny, in for a pound’ sort of place, where the party begins on Friday and trundles on non-stop until Monday. Vast indoor and outdoor spaces at this former dog biscuit factory help create a Burning Man-esque festival atmosphere that’s particularly enjoyable on longer sunny days. Music ranges from pumping techno inside to house tunes out by the ‘lake’ – more of a scummy pond, really. Crowd-wise, expect it all; fresh-faced student revellers and aging former club kids are among the regulars.

5. KitKat

This legendary sex and techno club for all is a labyrinthine complex of half a dozen dancefloors, a dubious swimming pool and plenty of swings. For pure polysexual hedonism, look out for cult party Gegen , which splits its time between KitKat and RSO. Outside of that, kinksters and those looking to explore their sexuality are always welcome; some nights are racier than others, so it’s well worth checking the dress code before planning your night on the tiles. Many nights have a fetish dress code (except Electric Mondays) so if you arrive wearing jeans and a t-shirt, be prepared for a literal dressing down by the door staff.

6. Salon zur Wilden Renate Friedrichshain

If you want to get lost in the music, arts and culture in Berlin, look no further than Salon zur Wilden Renate Friedrichshain , located in an unrenovated and abandoned residential building, The colourful house party that is a night here feels like partying in a literal maze, complete with winding corridors, confusing flights of stairs, and hidden corners that are perfect for meeting strangers, and sharing shots of minty-Luft or life stories. The music is particularly diverse here, with a mix of techno, house and disco across the three floors. Need a break? Thre is a garden courtyard for that. Like many other Berlin clubs, Salon zur Wilden Renate is a photo-free zone.

7. Fitzroy

There’s something for everyone at Fitzroy , one of Berlin’s newest nightlife contenders. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix-and-match of live sessions and club nights showcasing everything from experimental pop to trance. Fitzroy’s booking philosophy is forward-thinking and a little more diverse than most of Berlin’s techno-heavy clubs. Look out for pre-sale tickets online before you head out, but don’t worry if you missed your chance to secure a spot at an event: There are usually a handful of tickets available at the door, so prepare to come early and stay late.

8. Kater Blau

Kater Blau is the X-rated part of the family-friendly Holzmarkt development. Sitting on the banks of the River Spree, this space makes the most of its alfresco location, with a moored boat, a roaring fire at night and hammocks. Meanwhile, a fine roster of electronic DJs spins away unendingly – sometimes for four days straight. The vibe is more rough-and-ready than chic, and increasingly so as the weekend unravels. In the summer, it captures that festival feeling from its roost in the heart of the city. If you have the stamina (and courage) to last well into Monday afternoon, expect to encounter some of Berlin’s strangest creatures.

9. YAAM

Please note: YAAM’s indoor facilities are closed until further notice

Yet another victim of Berlin’s Mediaspree development, YAAM was forcibly evicted from its previous home – but you can’t keep a good club down. It quickly found another riverside spot, so it’s business as usual for this legendary beach bar and cultural centre. By day, you’ll see people enjoying jerk chicken and kids playing a laid-back game of volleyball; by night, the space hosts leisurely concerts and parties to the tune of hip-hop, dancehall and Afrobeats.

10. Club der Visionaere

This canalside venue emerged from the ashes of a devastating fire in 2019, and is today one of the city’s most popular spaces for open-air drinking and dancing. There’s a small indoor dance floor and a rickety open-air wood-deck terrace with a large jetty stretching out across the water. You can drop into Club der Visionaere during the week for a beer, but the place comes to life at the weekend, filling up with an after-hours crowd, happy to chill, drink and dance the day away. For a waterfront party in the colder months, head to the nearby Hoppetosse boat at Arena Berlin.

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THE 10 BEST Germany Nightlife Activities

Nightlife in germany.

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25 FANTASTIC THINGS TO DO IN BERLIN AT NIGHT

There are many things to do in Berlin at night. The city’s nightlife is legendary, but its charm goes beyond its world-renowned clubs.

From vibrant markets to culinary delights, this city has transformed into a treasure trove of cultural opportunities after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

If you are looking for where to go in Berlin at night or things to do at night in Berlin, don’t worry!

This post will take you on a spectacular journey through Berlin’s illuminated streets and hidden corners.

This city is a haven for history enthusiasts since you can get a chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, one of the famous Berlin night activities.

Whether you are a night owl seeking the best dance floors, a culture enthusiast seeking exhibitions, or a foodie craving Berlin’s delectable late-night bites, this guide will help you discover the best Berlin night attractions.

So turn up the volume and make some unforgettable memories; it’s time to embrace Berlin’s wild, vibrant, and utterly fabulous nights!

I recommend you buy this Berlin Welcome Card and Easy City Pass which will help you navigate the city with ease.

If you want to rent a car to explore Berlin city at night, check out Rental Cars , which has a wide range of car options with affordable pricing.

If you are looking for things to do at night in other major European cities, check out these posts:

BEST NIGHTLIFE IN EUROPE – 25 EUROPEAN CITIES FOR AMAZING NIGHTLIFE

39 FUN THINGS TO DO IN PRAGUE AT NIGHT

50 FANTASTIC THINGS TO DO IN BARCELONA AT NIGHT
NIGHTLIFE IN SPAIN – A TOTAL GUIDE TO PARTYING AND FUN

10 TOP PARTY CITIES IN SPAIN FOR NON-STOP FUN

15 cities for the best nightlife in the uk.

17 BEST THINGS TO DO IN BUDAPEST AT NIGHT
36 FANTASTIC THINGS TO DO IN PARIS AT NIGHT

Check out my collections of nightlife quotes and party captions for Instagram if you want a quirky photo caption for your social media.

Table of Contents

TOP THINGS TO DO IN BERLIN AT NIGHT

If you are in a hurry, I recommend booking these tours at the first place:

Berlin: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus with Boat Options
Berlin: TV Tower Restaurant Inner Circle Ticket & Fast View
Berlin: Jewish History Walking Tour
Old Berlin Tour: Brandenburg Gate, Unter den Linden & More
Hitler’s Germany: Berlin During the Third Reich & WWII
Berlin: Dinner Cruise – Fine Dining
Berlin: Guided Craft Beer & Cultural Tour with Snacks
Berlin: Kreuzberg Guided Walking Evening Tour
Berlin: River Spree Sightseeing on an Electrified 1920s Boat
Berlin Reichstag: Rooftop Dinner at the Käfer Restaurant
Berlin: Illuminated Berlin by Lit-up Bike Taxi
Berliner Residenz Orchestra Concert in Charlottenburg
Berlin: Icebar Entrance with Complimentary Drinks
Berlin: Evening Sightseeing Tour by Bus with Live Commentary

ADMIRE THE STUNNING CITY VIEWS FROM THE BERLIN FERNSEHTURM

One of the most exciting things to do in Berlin at night is to take in the beautiful city vistas from Fernsehturm, the iconic TV Tower and the tallest building in Berlin in Panoramastraße 1A.

Originally conceived as a symbol of communist power, the Berlin TV Tower has since transformed into a representation of the city’s strength and influence.

Rising a staggering 368 meters into the night sky, it is not only Berlin’s tallest structure but the tallest in the entire country.

To reach the tower’s summit, you have two options: climb 986 steps or opt for a swift elevator ride.

Once at the top, just above the visitor’s platform, you will find the Telecafe restaurant – a luxurious dining spot offering some of the most beautiful city vistas.

For an even more remarkable dining experience, consider the Window Table Restaurant Ticket at the Sphere restaurant.

The restaurant hosts live music events featuring various artists and genres, making your meal an auditory delight.

You can even buy a ticket which covers admission, a welcome drink, and a sumptuous three-course meal.

To make the most of your visit, don’t miss Bar 203, perched a whopping 203 meters above the ground.

This spectacular bar offers the ultimate vantage point to soak in Berlin’s vibrant nightlife from a unique perspective.

Its spacious, modern design allows you to fully immerse yourself in the ever-changing views that stretch out before you.

What sets Bar 203 apart is its 360-degree rotation every 30 minutes.

As you sip your favourite cocktail, you will be treated to a mesmerizing tableau of Berlin’s cityscape, evolving before your eyes.

Don’t miss this chance to elevate your Berlin adventure to new heights – book your tickets here and prepare to be dazzled.

Recommended Tours:

Berlin: TV Tower Fast View Ticket
Berlin: TV Tower Fast-Track Ticket & Window Seat Reservation
Berlin TV Tower: Fast View Entry with 3-Course Dinner
Berlin: TV Tower Fast View and VR Experience Tickets
Berlin: TV Tower Fast View Flexible Ticket

DINE AND DANCE AT CLÄRCHENS BALLHAUS

One of the best places to visit in Berlin at night for a state-of-the-art wine, dining and dance experience is Clärchens Ballhaus.

Clara Bühler and her husband Fritz founded Clärchens Ballhaus, which has served locals and tourists since 1913.

It has been a top-notch entertainment place for Berliners, making it one of the fun things to do in Berlin at night.

Throughout its rich history, Clärchens has delighted patrons with delectable dinners and hosted live band performances that ignite the dance floor.

When you step inside, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Hall of Mirrors, meticulously preserved in its original splendour.

If you are with your partner or loved one, you are in for a special romantic dinner and a few graceful dance moves.

Did you know that Clärchens is today the last surviving ball house from the twentieth century, a testament to its enduring legacy?

So don’t miss visiting this one of the unique Berlin night activities.

CHILL OUT AT BERLIN ICE BAR EXPERIENCE

One of the top things to do in Berlin at night is to visit the Ice Bar in Spandauer Straße.

Witness a frosty wonderland adorned with jaw-dropping ice sculptures.

At Ice Bar, everything is crafted from ice, from the seats to the glasses which will be served for your drinks.

The catch is its limited capacity. With space for only ten guests at a time, you will want to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot. Book here .

Your booking includes a welcome drink and two more icy concoctions, all served in the most fantastic setting in town.

And don’t worry about the cold – they will provide warm jackets and gloves, so you can stay toasty while you chill.

The Ice bar will usually be open from 5 PM until midnight from Wednesday to Sunday, making it one of the famous Berlin evening activities.

Berlin: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Icebar Ticket Combo

VISIT THE PARLIaMENT BUILDiNG

One of the best things to do in Berlin at night is to visit the Parliament building, also called the Reichstag, located on Platz der Republik.

The Reichstag holds a special place in Berlin’s history.

It serves as the seat of the German parliament and represents a powerful symbol of democracy for the entire nation.

But visiting this monumental landmark at night unveils an entirely different and mesmerizing experience.

A massive mirrored fountain in the dome’s heart creates a stunning spectacle, reflecting the dwindling sunlight, a sight to behold.

Initially constructed in 1894, the Reichstag faced a tragic fire that led to the complete collapse of its central dome in 1933.

During the turbulent years of war, it endured brutal attacks, resulting in a complete reconstruction of the building in the 1960s, except for the dome.

However, after the reunification of Germany in the 1990s, a marvellous modern dome was constructed, offering the panoramic view visitors adore today.

So, consider dining at the rooftop restaurant to make the most of your Reichstag experience.

It offers a splendid vantage point to admire the illuminated cityscape below while enjoying a delightful meal.

Book your tickets here to witness this iconic landmark.

Berlin: Government District around the Reichstag Guided Tour
Berlin: Government District Evening Walking Tour
Berlin: Plenary Chamber, Dome & Government District Tour
Berlin: Government Quarter Tour and Reichstag Dome Visit
Berlin: Reichstag, Plenary Chamber, Cupola & Government Tour
Berlin Reichstag and Glass Dome Private Tour
Berlin: Rooftop Apéro at Käfer in the Reichstag Dome

VISIT THE BRANDENBURG GATE

If you are a history buff looking to explore the city’s nook and corners to learn more about Berlin, head to Brandenburg Gate.

Inspired by the Acropolis in Athens, this monumental structure boasts twelve majestic neo-classical columns.

It holds a profound place in Berlin’s history, making it one of the cool things to do in Berlin at night.

Built in 1791 under the patronage of the Prussian Hohenzollern monarchy, the gate served as a dramatic and ceremonial entrance to the Kingdom of Prussia.

Originally named the Peace Gate, it was commissioned by Frederick William II during the late 1700s.

The gate features five passageways, though citizens were initially only allowed to use the outer two on each side.

On the top of the gate was Quadriga, a magnificent chariot bearing the goddess of peace drawn by four horses.

In 1806, after defeating the city, Napoleon made a triumphant entry through the gate and carried off Quadriga to France.

Berlin eventually recovered it in 1814, transforming the gate and its triumphant goddess into a symbol of victory adorned with an iron cross and an eagle.

Subsequently, during the Nazi regime’s rise to power, the gate was co-opted as a symbol for their party.

Despite suffering damage during World War II, the Brandenburg Gate remained standing at the war’s end.

In 1989, it once again assumed a new role, symbolizing freedom and the reunification of Berlin when the Berlin Wall fell.

Today, the Brandenburg Gate transcends its historical roots, standing as a powerful symbol of European unity and peace.

As you explore its imposing presence on a self-guided tour , please take a moment to reflect on its storied past and the enduring spirit of unity that it represents.

Check out these night tours to witness this piece of history.

Berlin – Brandenburg Gate: Self-Guided Audio Tour
Berlin: 1-Hour Guided Tour of the Historic Center
Berlin: Brandenburg Gate and Government District In-App Game

DISCOVER THE ALLURE OF OBERBAUM BRIDGE ON A WALKING TOUR

Built as a symbol of reunification in the 1800s, the Oberbaum Bridge is another iconic attraction and is one of the cool places to visit in Berlin at night.

This magnificent bridge gracefully spans the peaceful River Spree, acting as a vital link between the vibrant neighborhoods of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg .

Take a night walking tour to witness this architectural marvel adorned with medieval turrets and arches that harken back to a bygone era.

Recommended Tour: Berlin: Kreuzberg Guided Walking Evening Tour

What adds to the Oberbaum Bridge’s mystique is its adorned façade, a canvas for mesmerizing street art and graffiti.

This infusion of urban creativity has led to its cameo appearances in renowned films like “Run Lola Run” and “The Bourne Supremacy.”

Meet the locals around who can provide unique insights into the bridge’s history and its enduring significance.

EXPLORE THE MUSEUM ISLAND

One of the top and most exciting things to do in Berlin at night is to explore Museum Island, nestled along the banks of the beautiful River Spree in the heart of Berlin.

Museum Island is home to five of Berlin’s most renowned museums, which include the New Museum, the Altes Museum, the Bode Museum, the Pergamon Museum and the Berlin National Gallery.

As a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Museum Island captivates visitors with its architectural grandeur, illuminated under a tapestry of artificial lights.

Collectively, they form Berlin’s Acropolis of the Arts, making it one of the cool Berlin things to do at night.

Their exhibits represent an invaluable cultural and architectural legacy given to the world.

Take the S-Bahn to Alexanderplatz or Hackescher Markt, both conveniently accessible gateways to this gorgeous realm of culture and history.

GO ON MIDNIGHT EXPEDITION AT THE LONG NIGHT OF THE MUSEUMS

One of the best Berlin things to do at night is participate in the Long Night of the Museums.

This unique event, which started in 1997, unfurls once a year, typically in August, and is one of the top things to do in Berlin at night.

Around 75 museums swing open their doors to the public, inviting explorers to delve into art, history, and culture until the clock strikes 2 AM.

Museums taking part include many on Museum Island and exclusive gems like the Stasi Museum and the private Samurai Art Museum.

If you time your visit right, you will witness a treasure trove of rare artefacts often concealed from public view.

These museums also treat visitors to engaging activities, from fascinating trivia sessions to exciting talks, all while indulging in delectable dishes that tantalize the taste buds.

I recommend booking your tickets in advance since this is one of the best Berlin night activities.

Berlin: Berlin Story Museum Entry Ticket
Berlin: Jewish Museum Berlin Entrance Ticket
Berlin: DDR Museum Tickets
Berlin: Cold War Museum Entrance Ticket
Skip-the-Line: Berlin Wall Museum at Checkpoint Charlie

CrUISE UNDER THE STARS

One of the most romantic things to do in Berlin at night is to go on a boat tour along the River Spree.

You will be greeted with a German cuisine four-course meal and a complimentary welcome drink, beer or wine.

As you drift along the gorgeous 400 km River Spree, the lifeline of Berlin, you will be treated to a 2.5-hour guided boat tour that unveils fascinating insights about each iconic attraction you pass.

Admire the historic Museum Island, the captivating government district, the majestic Bellevue Palace, and the Reichstag Building, all beautifully illuminated against the dark canvas of the night.

Start your evening adventure by purchasing advance tickets here for the cruise.

There are many customized cruise options available which offer various drinks and beverages.

Most of them set sail from the vibrant Friedrichstraße.

Book your cruise here .

Berlin: Sightseeing Cruise from Berlin Main Station
Berlin: 1-Hour City Tour by Boat with Guaranteed Seating
Berlin: Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco
Berlin: Evening Sightseeing River Cruise on the Spree
Skip-the-line Boat Cruise and Berlin’s Old Town Guided Tour
Berlin: Boat Tour on a Solar-Powered Catamaran
Berlin: 3.25-Hour Spree & Landwehrkanal Boat Tour
Boat tour | Christmas Highlight Tour with Audio Guide

SEE THE SIGHTS ON AN EVENING SIGHTSEEING TOUR BY BUS

One of the best things to do in Berlin at night is to hop aboard a sightseeing tour bus.

This enchanting 75-minute ride runs through the heart of the city and is one of the must-do Berlin night activities.

Sit on the top of the bus, feel the wind in your hair and witness the city’s transformation into a dazzling masterpiece.

Opt for an audio guide , which is usually available in multiple languages.

You will pass iconic landmarks like Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate, Alexanderplatz, Potsdamer Platz and Museum Island.

If you are wondering which Berlin places to visit at night, secure your tickets here for this extraordinary bus tour in advance and let the city’s beauty captivate your heart.

You can also opt for a 1.5-hour comedy bus tour for more fun.

Book your tickets for the Berlin night tour bus here .

Best of Berlin: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour Ticket
Berlin: Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour by Bus and Boat
Berlin: Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus with Boat Cruise Option
Berlin: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Berlin: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Live Commentary

ENJOY A DINNER IN THE DARK AT UNSICHT-BAR

One of the unique things to do in Berlin at night is to embark on a culinary adventure at Unsicht Bar.

While Berlin city at night boasts diverse European cuisines, Unsicht-Bar is an extraordinary dining experience that redefines how you perceive food.

At Unsicht-Bar, one key element of the dining experience is intentionally removed: your sight.

This unique restaurant invites you to explore the world of flavours, textures, and aromas with heightened senses, all while dining in complete darkness.

It’s a journey that places your taste buds at the forefront.

Guiding you through this exceptional culinary experience are the restaurant’s trustworthy guides, all blind or visually impaired.

They skillfully navigate the dark place, assisting whenever needed.

Unsicht-Bar eliminates external distractions, such as lights and screens, allowing diners to fully immerse themselves in the sensations of taste, touch, and smell.

The three-course dinner promises to tantalize your senses and challenge your perceptions.

Book your tickets ahead of your trip for this unique adventure.

DISCOVER BERLIN’S DARK SECRETS ON A WALKING TOUR

One of the exciting things to do in Berlin at night, especially if you are a history buff, is to go on a medieval walking tour.

Exploring Berlin in the evening is a magical experience in itself.

But this spine-tingling experience takes you through Berlin’s best-kept secrets, steeped in the eerie ambience of the Dark Ages.

On this tour , your guide will escort you through contemporary Berlin.

Learn about the myths, legends, witch hunts, and medieval-style torture, all set against the backdrop of modern-day Berlin.

You will pass by intriguing sites like Alexanderplatz, also known as the “Devil’s Pleasure Garden,” where you will unravel the mysteries of Germanic witch hunts.

Throughout the tour , you will hear gripping stories of Berlin’s resilience in the face of significant disasters.

If you have more time, head to the city centre to uncover its lesser-known attractions, hidden even from the locals.

The tour usually starts in front of Commerzbank, opposite the Alexanderplatz S-Bahn station.

Book your tour here for this exciting Berlin evening activity.

Berlin: Mysterious Dark Ages Walking Tour
Mystical Berlin Tour
Berlin: The Dark Side of The Capital Tour
Berlin: Guided Walking Tour by Night
Berlin: Guided Walking Tour of Life in 1920s Berlin
Berlin: Hidden Backyards Walking Tour in German

ENJOY A ROYAL DINNER AT CHARLOTTENBURG PALACE

If you want to enter a bygone era of luxury and extravagance, visit the Charlottenburg Palace on Spandauer Damm, one of the cool things to do in Berlin at night.

At this palace, candlelight dances on gilded surfaces and the strains of classical music fill the air.

This architectural masterpiece, built in the 17th century in the grand German baroque and rococo style, stands as one of the city’s most luxurious palaces.

It bears the name of Prussia’s first Queen consort, the accomplished harpsichord player and Italian opera singer Sophie Charlotte.

Upon her death at 36, the palace and its surroundings were named Charlottenburg in her honour.

Your evening at Charlottenburg Palace unfolds with a sumptuous three-course dinner in the Palace Orangery.

As you indulge in culinary delights by the soft glow of candlelight, you will be serenaded by the renowned Berlin Residence Orchestra.

Their performances feature Bach, Handel, and Mozart’s masterpieces, creating an atmosphere transcending time.

Adding to the magic, the orchestra’s talented musicians often attire themselves in period costumes, complete with elaborate white wigs—an awe-inspiring sight.

If you opt for a VIP ticket , you will receive a glass of champagne during the intermission.

But the experience doesn’t end there. Your ticket also grants you access to the palace for self-guided tours, where you can immerse yourself in history and culture.

As the night deepens, step out onto the terrace for panoramic views encompassing Bellevue Palace and the Reichstag.

To reach this lovely destination, hop on the metro and enter the nearby Richard-Wagner-Platz station.

Book your tickets to this historical wonder here .

Skip-the-line Charlottenburg Palace Private Tour & Transfers
Charlottenburg: 2-Hour City Walking Tour

FUN THINGS TO DO IN BERLIN AT NIGHT

Explore berlin’s haunted places.

On my trip, I was looking on my list for things to do in Berlin tonight.

I am a history buff, and I usually don’t miss any tours related to the city’s history and dark past, especially in Europe.

So, I booked this ghost walking tour . You will be led to some of the city’s lesser-known and more macabre locations.

You will unravel the city’s darkest and most spine-tingling secrets through a live theatrical performance guiding you through Berlin’s dimly lit streets.

fun things to do in Berlin for young adults

As you venture forth, your eerie guide, clad in chilling attire, will regale you with tales that will send shivers down your spine, making this one of the most exciting things to do in Berlin at night.

You will hear stories about notorious murders, cursed mummies and whatnot!

I recommend you book your tour here in advance. It usually starts from the Klosterruine at the U Klosterstraße subway station.

Gruseltour Berlin Haunted Ghost Walk 90-minute at Berlin Mitte city center
Berlin Dungeon: Entrance Ticket
Berlin: Haunted Guided Live Theatre Tour in German

RELAX AT LIQUIDROM

If you are looking for one of the relaxing things to do in Berlin at night, treat yourself at the Liquidrom Spa in the heart of Berlin-Kreuzberg in Möckernstraße.

The iconic Unter den Linden boulevard and its historic buildings come to life when the sun dips below the horizon.

Liquidrom, housed in an abstract tent, greets you with its futuristic spa, where holistic therapies harmonize with pulsating techno beats.

On the guided tour , you will learn that this structure was a bustling train station during World War II.

You will have many options here to treat yourself, including various treatments, saunas, and baths.

However, the true gem of Liquidrom Spa is its expansive saltwater floating pool.

Take a refreshing dip in this pool surrounded by grand arches.

The pool is usually illuminated with dim lights, and the soft music adds charm to the scene.

The best part is you will also find the rhythm of the water synchronized with an eclectic soundtrack, spanning from classical melodies to electrifying techno tunes.

SWAY TO THE TUNES AT QUASIMODO

If you are looking for a cosy cafe with live music, head to Quasimodo, a stone’s throw from Zoologischer Garten, one of the fun things to do in Berlin at night.

As the clock strikes five from Wednesday to Sunday, Quasimodo, Berlin’s oldest live music pub, comes to life, serving a delightful assortment of beverages.

Check-in early and head to its idyllic patio, a perfect spot for an evening libation, especially on those balmy summer nights.

But the real magic unfolds below in the basement.

Since its inception in 1975, Quasimodo has been drawing music enthusiasts into its intimate underground venue.

Enjoy various varieties of music and live bands featuring jazz, funk, blues, soul, and even a touch of Motown and indie pop.

Drinks flow freely, the tunes are spot-on, and the crowd exudes an infectious energy. Isn’t it a perfect recipe for an ideal Berlin Friday night?

EXPERIENCE THE COSMOS AT WILHELM-FOERSTER-STERNWARTE

One of the fun things to do in Berlin at night is to visit the Wilhelm-Foerster-Sternwarte Observatory at Munsterdamm, especially if you are into space and the cosmos.

Nestled at the base of a gorgeous hill, the Planetarium am Insulaner at this observatory beckons with its illustrious artificial starry sky, captivating 360-degree voyages through the night sky.

Don’t miss the exclusive twilight sessions at this observatory, where the celestial canvas above is unveiled, and the secrets of the night sky are laid bare.

If you want more fun and gain a deeper understanding of the cosmos, there are powerful telescopes which are your gateway to the stars.

Prices for admission to the planetarium start at just €12.

VISIT BERLIN PHILHARMONIKER

If you are into theatres, you should visit Berlin Philharmoniker, between Tiergarten and Potsdamer Strasse, one of the fun things to do in Berlin at night.

Located in the city’s heart, this building is the brainchild of the famous German Architect Hans Scharoun.

He sought to create not just a building but a vibrant cultural and theatrical hub at the heart of Berlin.

In 1963, his dream became a reality, and the result was extraordinary.

Its distinctive tent-like shape, painted in a vibrant shade of yellow, captures the imagination even before you step inside.

Enjoy a show of ballet, opera or any other theatrical performance by talented local artists.

Don’t miss the renowned orchestra, which has proved its excellence in classical music for ages.

Their repertoire is as diverse as it is enchanting, ranging from the timeless compositions of Tchaikovsky to the soul-stirring works of Brahms.

They even feature special performances that spotlight their cellists or string sections, adding a unique touch to their shows.

Note that this is one of the famous Berlin evening activities. So the tickets sell out quickly. Book your tickets here .

Recommended Tour: Private Tour: Berlin Architecture Tour

GO ON A PUB CRAWL

If you want to get tipsy in Berlin, go on a Pub Crawl tour , one of the exciting things to do in Berlin at night.

It’s an experience that seamlessly weaves the vibrant tapestry of Berlin’s culture with its iconic beer scene, making it one of the fun things to do in Berlin for young adults.

Make new acquaintances on your Pub Crawl tour and explore Berlin’s low-key bars, each with unique craft beers .

Visit shisha bars and electro lounges, with the grand finale at the ‘big’ club.

These pub crawl tickets are incredibly reasonable and include complimentary shots.

Whether you call it a Pub or a Bar Crawl, this experience is about hopping from one fantastic establishment to another.

Trust me, this will be one of the crazy things to do in Berlin, leaving you with memories to cherish forever.

Book your Original Berlin Pub Crawl tour here.

Berlin: Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Club Entry
Berlin: Private Pub Crawl Tour
Private German Beer Tasting Tour in Berlin Old Town

DINE AND UNWIND AT KULTURBRAUEREI

If you are looking for an all-in-one entertainment centre and a top-notch brewery, visit KulturBrauerie on the western side of Prenzlauerberg, one of the fun things to do in Berlin at night.

This sprawling 25000 square meter venue boasts six expansive courtyards and an ensemble of 20 red and yellow clinker buildings that pulse with the city’s energy.

Soak in a world of clubs, bars, restaurants, cinemas, and museums, all under one roof.

Dive into the legendary nightlife of Berlin at SODA, a prominent nightclub housed within the converted boiler house.

Discover Franz Club for the best experience that goes beyond a typical club. Here, you will find a restaurant, a beer garden, and a lounge all in one.

The best part is as the seasons change, so does the spirit of Kulturbrauerei.

In the spring, witness the Walpurgis Night celebration, a joyous gathering featuring dances and a grand bonfire in the courtyard.

When the holiday season arrives, immerse yourself in the enchanting Christmas markets at the venue.

Stroll through the stalls, indulge in delectable food, and savour drinks that warm your spirits.

Recommended Tour: Prenzlauer Berg Tour: Kulturbrauerei, Kollwitzplatz & More

STEP BACK IN TIME AT TANTE LISBETH

If you are looking for one of the retro bars in Berlin, visit Tante Lisbeth in Kreuzberg.

Tante Lisbeth, which translates to ‘Aunty Lisbeth’, will take you back to the 70’s with its interiors.

As you step inside, you will be greeted by the allure of retro furnishings, shag carpets and kitsch decor.

Tante Lisbeth offers two separate bowling zones that can be rented by the hour.

Don’t miss to check out the area by the window adorned with captivating furniture and wallpaper that sets the perfect backdrop for your journey back in time.

The bar’s distinctive drinks cabinet, complete with closets and cupboards, evokes the ambience of an ardent alcoholic’s cosy living room.

The catch is the bar’s intimate setting can only accommodate around 60 patrons at a time. So, book your seats ahead of your travel.

Also, please note that Tante Lisbeth operates on cash only.

Be sure to have plenty of euros on hand to savour their reasonably priced drinks and indulge in a few rounds of bowling.

VISIT FLEA MARKET AND ENJOY A KARAOKE IN THE MAUERPARK

One of the fun things to do in Berlin at night is to visit Mauerpark in Prenzlauer Berg district.

This vast green oasis, shaped as a linear park, is cherished among locals and visitors alike.

It’s a place where nature, shopping, and entertainment come together to create a diverse nighttime adventure.

On Sunday afternoons, Mauerpark comes alive with its enchanting flea market, drawing tourists and residents for a delightful shopping and culinary experience.

As you wander through this bustling marketplace, you will discover stalls filled with vintage clothing, unique accessories, and a wide array of curiosities.

From retro fashion finds to one-of-a-kind treasures, the market caters to all tastes.

German street food is another highlight of the Mauerpark flea market.

Satisfy your cravings with delicious local treats, offering a taste of Berlin’s culinary diversity.

Head to the area where independent musicians gather to stage spontaneous performances.

The park’s amphitheatre serves as a hub for entertainment, hosting a unique form of karaoke known as Bearpit Karaoke.

Bearpit Karaoke is a fun-filled event that starts at 3 PM and continues into the early morning hours.

Don’t be shy – step onto the stage and share your vocal talents with an enthusiastic crowd.

The park is easily accessible by a 10-minute walk from the nearest underground station, Eberswalder Straße.

Recommended Tour: Berlin’s Alternative Side: The Urban Jungle Tour

HOP ON A GASTRONOMICAL TOUR

One of the fun things to do in Berlin at night is to explore the German Gastronomy.

Many food tours take you through the prime locations across the city.

Savour authentic German cuisines or try other international cuisines with a tinch of German blend in the ingredients.

This is a must-do Berlin night activities, especially if you are a foodie.

Check out these tours, some of which last more than four hours and will take you through the local favourites and some hidden food gems across Berlin.

Some of these tours are dependent on the season. So book your tours here in advance to avoid last-minute hassle.

Berlin: 3-Hour Secret Food Tour
Berlin: Mitte Culinary Food Tour
Berlin: East Berlin Food and History Walking Tour
Berlin: Gourmet Food & Cultural Walking Tour
Berlin: Culinary guided tour with delicious samples
Berlin : No Diet Club Food Tour – Street Food Paradise
Berlin: Food Walking Tour with Quintessential Tastings
Traditional German Food and Berlin Old Town Private Tour

DIScOVER BERLIN’S RICH BEER CULTURE

Berlin is a renowned beer location, especially if you visit in October for the world-famous Oktoberfest.

There are various ways to immerse yourself in this delightful tradition, from guided beer tours to exploring Berlin’s top biergartens independently.

The guided beer tours take you to iconic breweries and beer halls, where you will learn about the city’s brewing history, beer-making techniques, and the cultural significance of beer in Berlin.

The best part is some of these tours run all night until early morning, making it one of the exciting things to do in Berlin at night.

Engage your taste buds with various local brews and discover the nuances of German beer.

To elevate your beer experience, consider trying beer and food pairings at specialized venues.

If you are looking to have the best Friday night in Berlin, check out these top beer tours which will make your weekend cherishable:

Berlin offers establishments that expertly pair different beers with carefully crafted dishes, enhancing the flavours of both.

Check out some of my top venue recommendations to enjoy a pint or two in Berlin.

Zollpackhof: Situated near the Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Zollpackhof offers a large beer garden with stunning views of the Spree River and the Reichstag building.

Prater Garten: This is the oldest beer garden in the Prenzlauer Berg neighbourhood, dating back to 1837.

Enjoy an array of German beers and traditional food in a beautiful outdoor setting.

BRLO Brewhouse: Located in the former train depot at Gleisdreieck Park, BRLO Brewhouse is known for its incredible craft beers.

Tiergartenquelle: Located in the heart of Tiergarten Park, Tiergartenquelle offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

It’s a perfect place to unwind with friends and family after a busy day.

Raise a glass, share a toast with the locals, and savour the delicious brews that make Berlin a beer lover’s paradise. Prost!

Berlin: Guided Brewery Tour and Craft Beer Tasting
Berlin: Mampe Schnapps Brewery Tour and Tasting

WHERE TO STAY IN BERLIN AT NIGHT?

Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin : 5-star hotel located in Berlin’s Mitte, includes a double Michelin-star restaurant and a shopping arcade.

KPM Hotel & Residences : Set within 1.2 mi of Kurfürstendamm, Reichstag is 2.2 miles from this hotel. The rooms are fitted with a private bathroom, and some rooms have a balcony.

Wilmina Hotel : This property is around 1.4 miles from Messe Berlin, 1.8 miles from Kurfürstendamm and 2.1 miles from Zoologischer Garten Metro Station.

The Circus Hostel : The Circus Hostel offers private rooms as well as shared dormitory rooms.Berlin Central Train Station is 1.6 mi from The Circus Hostel.

Pfefferbett Hostel : This hostel lies in the trendy Prenzlauer Berg district of central Berlin, steps from the Senefelder Platz Underground Station.

MAP OF THINGS TO DO IN BERLIN AT NIGHT

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Nightlife districts in Berlin

Clubs and bars in your neighbourhood

While Berlin is exciting during the day, some districts only reveal their full beauty once the evening begins. When life plays out on the streets and the restaurants, bars and pubs begin to fill up. When Berliners and guests from all around the world meet up. When the evening never ends and night becomes day. Then you’ll experience a whole other side of the city and will truly have arrived in Berlin.

ŒLGARTEN - Beers & Bites

Beers & Bites is a unique beer garden + open-air bar event that opens its doors from Wednesday to Sunday in a beautiful garden right on the banks of the Schleusenufer in Kreuzberg.

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Berlin loves techno – and that’s why it’s only in Berlin where you can realise how varied and electrifying this music can be. With Berghain and Watergate you have the choice between two of the best clubs in the world, guaranteed. You don’t have to worry about closing times, which is something quite contrary to other European cities. And even the public transport service has been designed with the lively party scene in mind: on the weekend most trains and buses will transport you to the most happening districts around the clock.

There are no restraints placed on your party mood. Whether iconic Berlin, fashionable, alternative or vibrantly electronic: You’ll find the perfect way to spend the evening in each neighbourhood.

Auguststraße and Torstraße : Artistic celebration
Hackescher Markt and Oranienburger Straße : Nightlife in the city centre
Eberswalder Straße : Partying in Prenzlauer Berg
Oranienstraße : Vibrant and lively
Weserstraße : The whole world in one neighbourhood
Wrangelstraße : Wet and wild partying by the River Spree
Simon-Dach-Straße : Berlin’s most diverse restaurant scene
City West : From chic elegance to iconic neighbourhood flair
Winterfeldtplatz : Queer neighbourhood
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8 Best Nightclubs & Nightlife Spots in Berlin

By Krystin Arneson

Germany Berlin Night Club Salon zur Wilden Renat

Berlin’s nightlife scene is legendary—and for good reason: The city is the home of influential clubs that helped define and advance the techno scene, and even today, its legendary venues attract the world’s best DJs. If thumping electronica isn’t quite your thing, then several eclectic venues provide wonderland-like complexes, whether you’re at a debaucherous themed party in a former apartment building or a Spree-side beach club that will transport you straight to the Caribbean. And of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the most iconic club of all: the notorious Berghain. Click through for eight of the best clubs in Berlin—and get ready for a night to remember.

Kater Blau Arrow

Parties go on for the majority of the weekend at Kater Blau, which, aptly or not, translates to "blue hangover." The Spree-side club has an arty, pleasantly anarchic energy about it, and between the confetti rain and the permanently floating-ship-cum-dance floor, good vibes abound—once you get in. DJs are booked far in advance, with most of them spinning techno, house, and electronic—luckily, there are more than a few places to catch the music, so feel free to bounce among the dance floors. Go in the summer, when the sun is out and when Berliners recover from their winter hibernation by dancing the night and day (and day and night) away.

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Berghain Arrow

If you’ve ever heard anything about Berlin’s club scene, you’ve likely heard about Berghain. The imposing building, a former power plant, is the city’s most iconic club, and has been dubbed the “world capital of techno”—and its DJ lineup holds fast to that tradition to this day. If you’re going clubbing for the first time in Berlin, this is probably going to be your first hit: A night spent on its darkly industrial dance floors is practically a rite of passage. That being said, it’s notoriously hard to get into, but definitely not impossible: black clothing, creative—but not arrogant—style, and a nonchalant attitude in line will help you get past the notoriously strict doormen. Saule, which primarily plays experimental music; Lab.Oratory, an LGBTQ+ club, and Panorama Bar, which does more disco and funk, are located inside as well—so there’s truly something for everybody in here.

Salon Zur Wilden Renate Arrow

If you’re looking for a place to stumble down a dreamy rabbit hole, Salon zur Wilden Renate is the perfect place, thanks to an atmosphere that screams debaucherous party—in your grandma’s house. On its famous theme nights, don’t be surprised to see trippy and individually decorated rooms, dance floors blaring everything from electro to disco and everything in between—and maybe even an indoor treehouse. There’s also an outdoor courtyard area with its own bar that makes for a great space to catch your breath before diving back into the madness.

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Often compared to both a music festival on the beach and "Alice in Wonderland," Southeast Berlin's Sisyphos is not one to miss. Once you get past the gates (it used to be a former dog food factory), you’ll find a beach, an abandoned bus, a lake, more than a few dance floors, and a pizza place. Open nonstop from Friday night at midnight to Monday at 10 a.m., it’s one of Berlin’s eclectic—and most magical—spots to dance the weekend away.

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YAAM—short for Young African Arts Market—is a sprawling Spree-side beach club that makes for an oasis in a grittily post-industrial section of Berlin. After passing through the gate, you'll see the complex unfold along street-art bedecked partitions to reveal a concert hall, as well as a sandy beach area (complete with loungers), African and Caribbean food stands, and a basketball court. This delightfully eclectic club is one of Berlin's quirkiest spots to dance all night, chill on a sunny afternoon, or pop in for a special event.

Watergate Arrow

Stylish and sleek, with fantastic LED disco lights illuminating the tunnel-like main dance floor and bar, Watergate is one of Berlin's more modern clubs. It also boasts incredible views over the Spree from its dance floor, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows and a terrace that's directly on the water. The club attracts well-known electro and techno DJs; doi some lineup research before planning a night out here—especially since the bouncers might quiz you on the DJ du jour.

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A 30-year-old icon of Berlin's clubbing scene and a huge influence on the country's techno culture, Tresor was originally located in the vault of a department store in East Berlin. After some years of difficulty, it reopened in 2007 in a 236,000-square-foot abandoned power plant. The new digs carry on its techno revolution tradition: The derelict space of the factory, complete with a state-of-the-art sound system and red lighting, is an ultra-intense experience for even the most passionate clubber.

KitKatClub Arrow

KitKatClub is one of Berlin's most iconic clubs—it's been around almost 25 years, and nights like CarneBall Bizarre and Electric Mondays are well-attended by locals. Nights at KitKatClub are always somewhat erotic and subversive—this is Berlin, after all, and club nights aren't the sparkly-minidress-and-Top-40 affairs they are in many other cities. Instead, the dance floor is—depending on the night—almost whimsical and full of sexy energy, unlike the heavy, thudding, darkly industrial energy of Berghain, another of Berlin's most famous clubs. If you're feeling a bit adventurous, you'll want to make this a stop on a night out—just play it cool in the queue, and don't rock up in street clothes. If you just want to dip your toes in the water, come for Electric Monday, where you can wear what you want, so long as you bring good vibes.

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Nightlife in Munich: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

GettyImages / golero

For some people, the name Munich is synonymous with beer. After all, the German state with the most breweries, the region where the Rheinheitsgebot stands strong, and the hometown of Oktoberfest . But there is much more to nightlife in Munich than just great brews—the city also boasts a wealth of upscale bars and clubs to go with its beer halls. Nightlife in Munich is more restrained and expensive than bohemian Berlin , but it is still active and safe with revelers staying out late every weekend.

So put on your drinking shoes and get ready to yell, "Eins, Zwei, g’suffa!" (One, two three, chug!). Here is the best of Munich's nightlife.

Bars in Munich

Die Goldene Bar : Located within the Haus der Kunst museum, the walls of this bar are plastered with maps from the 1930s. An eclectic crowd mingles here under modern furnishings, enjoying the bar's signature cocktails. This location is truly lovely when the terrace is open and you can enjoy Munich's (occasionally) beautiful weather . Be warned: even on the rainiest first Thursday of the month, art lovers will crowd the bar after enjoying Munich museums' monthly free entry day.
Schumann's Bar : Named after Germany’s most famous bartender—as well as movie star, model, and author—Charles Schumann, the vibe at this institution changes from restaurant to bar every night around midnight. Expect classic cocktails and an elegant clientele. Those in the know will find themselves in Les Fleurs du Mal , a bar within a bar.
Zephyr Bar : Zephyr provides a top shelf gin experience with local favorites like Duke Munich Dry Gin to Monkey 47 Schwarzwald. The drink menu is ever-changing, fresh, and quirky with names to match.
Trisoux : Synonymous with award-winning design, everything here is tasteful, from the organic wines to the carefully curated cocktails and funky lights.
Zum Wolf : This unique take on a Bavarian speakeasy is a go-to location for visitors to the area of Glockenbach, home to Munich's LGBTQ+ community. There are imported liquors from the American south, a thoughtfully selected cocktail menu, beer, wine and a blues-filled soundtrack straight from the ’50s and ’60s.
The Boilerman Bar : Located within the upscale hotel chain of 25hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian, this is a great hotel bar. All rich texture and gold lighting fixtures (are those pineapples?), this hipster haven is the perfect after work hang.
The High : This bar is peak hipster with plants fighting for space among the liquor bottles and a younger, trendy crowd sipping everything from coffee to bourbon.
Cocktail House : A standard in Munich's bar scene, this is the place for a date or a sophisticated group outing before things get wild.
Negroni Bar : For a drink and a bite to eat, this place is hard to beat—particularly for Negroni fans. There are seven different types on the menu, best enjoyed in the comfort of the bar's dark wood and leather-clad interior.
Keg Bar : This rowdy sports bar is just the place if you want to catch a live sporting event or meet up with the foreigner community in Munich. Order a beer and some pub grub and be ready to make friends.
Café Kosmos : Cheap drinks and an alternative vibe combine to create a one-of-a-kind hipster dive bar.
Das Labor : German for "laboratory, this bar sticks to the theme with bartenders in lab coats and radioactive shots in test tubes.

Breweries in Munich

Beside the traditional breweries you will find at the massive tents at Oktoberfest, Munich has a few interesting up-and-coming breweries for you to consider.

CREW Republic : This crew isn't afraid to call it like it is and do things a little differently. Known for their variety of inventive ales, they also step outside German tradition to create some truly experimental brews.
Giesinger Bräu : This brewery takes a departure from traditional Bavarian beer with a studious approach. Mostly famous as a local brewery, their beers are still hard to find outside of Munich - so drink up!

Biergartens and Beer Halls in Munich

Biergartens and beer halls are a thing in Germany, particularly in Munich, and they get their very own article.

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Best Beer Halls in Munich

Wine Bars in Munich

Weinhaus Neuner : Munich’s oldest wine bar has been in operation since 1892. This legendary location features a restaurant, pub, and bar with a wine list focused on Teutonic labels. Ask the knowledge staff for their recommendations and pair it with their lovely food offerings.
GRAPES Weinbar : Housed within hotel Cortiina in the center, this wine bar features a huge collection of great wines and events like regional tastings.

Distilleries in Munich

Munich Distillers : This interesting startup is all about the booze. They offer finely crafted gin, vodka and even German rum. Grab a drink onsite and buy a bottle as a unique gift from Munich.
Duke Gin : Started by two students, this distillery is now one of the main suppliers of quality gin in Munich. Everything is bio, made from local ingredients.
SLYRS : You may not have heard of German whiskey, but that is about to change. This small, locally-owned distillery is outside of Munich but provides world-class whiskey crafted from the area's Alpine water and nurtered into maturity in views of the Alps.

Clubs in Munich

Harry Klein : This Munich club is always in good standing with an upstairs and downstairs and dance floor that is always moving. Their is an eclectic list of DJs and even a focus on regularly featuring females DJs.
Blitz : Located in what was once the Deutsches Museum, this massive location is optimized for sound. There are several bars and high security where you have to in your phone to enter certain areas.
Barschwein : Downstairs is a lively bar where chatter and drinks create a commotion. Upstairs the energy explodes with a dance floor and a crowd that doesn't stop.

Festivals in Munich

Oktoberfest : You can't talk about anything Munich without mentioning Oktoberfest. The world’s largest folk festival, known primarily for the beer, is the can't miss festival in the city for two weeks every September. More than six million visitors converge on the city to consume over seven million litres of beer every year.

Munich Christmas Markets : Munich's many Christmas markets are a hallmark of the holiday season. A place to shop, eat, and be merry, the good cheer can run unto the night with endless orders of Glühwein ( mulled wine) and Wurst (sausage) to stay warm as you chat and listen to yuletide carols.

Starkbierfest : Munich's strong beer festival has been called the "Insiders' Oktoberfest". Held every year at the end of winter, this is beer created by monks who drank these very strong, heavy beers to make it through the last of the dark months and Lent before spring. Beware! This is the strong stuff.

Frühlingsfest: The sister festival of Oktoberfest takes place takes place in the same fairgrounds as the larger festival and celebrates the spring. It shares many of the same activities from beer tents to Tracht (traditional clothing) to songs.

Kocherlball: This oddball event got started by the working class wanting to enjoy their own party... even if that was at 5 am. Today the event takes place on a Sunday in July in the Englishergarten's Chinese Tower in the very early hours of the day.

Tollwood Festival: Taking place every summer and winter, this festival just outside the city features international music acts and two weeks of festivities.

Tips for Going Out in Munich

The legal drinking age in Germany is 16, but hard liquor is only available from the age of 18. These laws are laxly enforced, especially if the minor is the presence of their family.
Entry into clubs is usually only available for 18 and over. IDs will be checked at the door.
It is uncommon for bars in Germany to have a “last call.” Businesses usually have a suggested closing time, but may close earlier if there are not enough customers or stay open as long as there are patrons.
Clubs open late. Most don't even open until 11 p.m. and can be quiet until 12:30 a.m.
Bars may be closed on Sunday or Monday, so always check hours if you’re in town on those two days.
Munich has a well-connected public transport system, MVV , as well as readily available taxis in the center.
Munich is the most expensive city in Germany and the nightlife reflects that in drink prices and cover prices. Beers in restaurants are about 4-6 Euros, wine is about 6-7, and craft cocktails can cost 9-10 Euro. Water might be your most expensive purchase, but try to stay hydrated.
Munich is a more conservative city than places like Berlin so expect to dress up for a night out, but with tights and limited cleavage. It is all about the preppy/yuppie vibe here.
Open-container laws are uncommon in Germany and you may see people drinking in the parks, by the river, or on the go with a Wegbier . However, in Munich it is looked down upon to be drunk on the street and may out you as a tourist.
Don't drink and drive. Your punishment will include high fines and losing your driver's license.
Tipping is typically optional in Germany, but if you want to leave something in a restaurant or a bar/pub with table service, the range is between 5 and 15 percent. Taxi drivers don't expect tips, but you can round up your fare to the nearest euro.

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Frankfurt Nightlife • A Complete Guide

Welcome to Frankfurt’s premier nightlife guide.

On this page, you’ll discover the vibrant and varied nightlife scene in Frankfurt. You’ll find the perfect venue for you and your preferred night out. Whether you want to go all-out clubbing or if you’d like a more laid back dinner and drinks with a view, we’ve got your covered.

A little introduction to Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a metropolis and the largest city of the German federal state of Hesse, and its 746,878 (2017) inhabitants make it the fifth-largest city of Germany after Berlin , Hamburg, Munich, and Cologne. On the River Main (a tributary of the Rhine), it forms a continuous conurbation with the neighboring city of Offenbach am Main, and its urban area has a population of 2.3 million. The city is at the center of the larger Rhine-Main Metropolitan Region, which has a population of 5.5 million and is Germany’s second-largest metropolitan region after the Rhine-Ruhr Region. Since the enlargement of the European Union in 2013, the geographic center of the EU is about 40 km (25 mi) to the east of Frankfurt’s central business district. Like France and Franconia, the city is named after the Franks. Frankfurt is the largest city in the Rhine Franconian dialect area (West Central German).

Frankfurt is an alpha world city and a global hub for commerce, culture, education, tourism, and transportation. It is the site of many global and European corporate headquarters. Frankfurt Airport is among the world’s busiest. Frankfurt is the major financial center of the European continent, with the headquarters of the European Central Bank, Deutsche Bundesbank, Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Deutsche Bank, DZ Bank, KfW, Commerzbank, several clouds and fintech startups and other institutes. Automotive, technology and research, services, consulting, media and creative industries complement the economic base. Frankfurt’s DE-CIX is the world’s largest internet exchange point. Messe Frankfurt is one of the world’s largest trade fairs. Major fairs include the Frankfurt Motor Show, the world’s largest motor show, the Music Fair, and the Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest book fair.

Frankfurt is home to influential educational institutions, including the Goethe University, the UAS, the FUMPA, and graduate schools like the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management. Its renowned cultural venues include the concert hall Alte Oper, Europe’s largest English theatre and many museums (e.g. the Museumsufer ensemble with Städel and Liebieghaus, Senckenberg Natural Museum, Goethe House, and the Schirn art venue at the old town). Frankfurt’s skyline is shaped by some of Europe’s tallest skyscrapers. The city is also characterized by various green areas and parks, including the central Wallanlagen, the City Forest and two major botanical gardens, the Palmengarten, and the University’s Botanical Garden. Very important is also the Frankfurt Zoo. In electronic music, Frankfurt has been a pioneering city since the 1980s, with renowned DJs including Sven Väth, Marc Trauner, Scot Project, Kai Tracid, and the clubs Dorian Gray, U60311, Omen, and Cocoon. In sports, the city is known as the home of the top tier football club Eintracht Frankfurt, the Löwen Frankfurt ice hockey team, the basketball club Frankfurt Skyliners, the Frankfurt Marathon and the venue of Ironman Germany.

The Nightlife in Frankfurt

Although it is known to be the financial center of Germany, Frankfurt surprisingly well for a major nightlife : in this city, indeed, were born several famous clubs and some of the best DJs world famous Germans. If during the day the German city is interesting for its important attractions, including the Museum of modern art, the Main Tower or the Romerberg Square, even after sunset Frankfurt is able to entertain even tempers more revelers with a wide choice of trendy bars and restaurants very well attended. The nightlife of Frankfurt could hardly be described in words only. Thanks to a prominent student population and a wide range of night entertainment spread throughout the city, the backpackers looking for a great night out rarely leave Frankfurt unsatisfied.

Frankfurt also has a city center bursting with sights like the church that held Germany’s first democratic parliament, and the childhood home of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Under the gaze of those skyscrapers are fun-loving neighborhoods like Sachsenhausen, where taverns serve traditional Apfelwein and there’s always something going on at night.

In Frankfurt’s ever-growing forest of skyscrapers, there is still only one tower with a public viewing platform. The 200-meter Main Tower opened in the year 2000 and is the fourth-tallest building in the city, which also makes it the fourth-tallest in Germany. And being on the east side of the Bankenviertel there is a clear view from the top over the Altstadt and the Main. On Fridays and Saturdays, the observation deck is open a little late, so you come up in late-evening to see Frankfurt in lights. The tower was designed by Schweiger und Meyer, and in the foyer are two pieces of modern art:

Senckenberg Natural History Museum

If you have a child currently going through his or her dinosaur phase, Germany’s second largest natural history museum needs to be on the agenda during your stay in Frankfurt City. There are anatomically up-to-date, life-sized models of dinosaurs welcoming you at the entrance, and inside are fossils of a triceratops, iguanodon, t-rex, Diplodocus, and a Psittacosaurus.

There’s much more to see apart from dinosaurs, like an enormous catalog of animal specimens that includes a quagga, a species of zebra extinct since the 1880s. You can also view a cast of Lucy, a 3.2-million-year-old skeleton of an Australopithecus afarensis a close ancestor to modern humans.

Apfelwein (Ebbelwoi)

The only true pairing for a serving of green sauce is a glass of tart Apfelwein, which despite the name, is best compared to cider. Apfelwein has been the drink of choice at Frankfurt’s taverns (Kneipen) for more than 250 years. And like best traditional drinks, Apfelwein has its own paraphernalia: It will be brought to you in a Bembel, a stoneware pitcher painted with filigree patterns, and is poured into a glass with a ribbed pattern, known as a Gerippte. You will also be handed a Deckelchen, a small wooden disc to keep flying insects out of your glass, and as for the flavor, well it’s both refreshing and sour and cuts through the creaminess of the green sauce. If you really catch the Apfelwein bug there’s a tourist train serving the best taverns in summer.

Friday late Night-Plank Cafe-Bar-Studio

Named after legendary sound engineer Conny Plank, Plank Cafe-Bar-Studio is just an eight-minute walk from Frankfurt Central Station and is a popular place to spend the hours before your train leaves. Drinks are offered from 6 pm (it’s a cafe by day) and in warmer months, you can join the people milling around outside. See the chalkboard for specialty cocktails such as the Russian spring punch—a blend of Koskenkorva vodka, Crème de Cassis de Dijon, Crémant de Loire, lemon juice, simple syrup, and black currant – or Vesper X-tra Strong, which adds a splash of Lillet Blanc to a mix of Elephant gin and Koskenkorva vodka and finishes it off with a lemon twist.

Best Bars in Frankfurt

Frankfurt has many things, but not boring. For many, a perfect evening’s entertainment starts at a traditional apple wine pub. Others prefer to kick things off with an al-fresco barbeque. Later, when night has fallen, locals, as well as out-of-towners, like to continue their nocturnal activities with a cruise on the River Main or, alternatively, a visit of one of Frankfurt’s countless bars and clubs. Those who prefer a little less action and activity will be happy to hear that they too have plenty of options to choose from:

Hunky Dory Bar

Too lazy to leave the comfort of your seat? No worries; at Honky Dory bar, just dial up your drink. In this cocktail bar crammed with flea market finds from the 1930s and 1940s, seven wooden booths have black vintage rotary phones on speed dial to the bartender, who will deliver signature cocktails such as the BreakPoint (hibiscus vodka, apricot brandy, agave syrup, lime and pickled chili) or Penicillin (Dewar’s 12 scotch, honey, lemon, ginger and Laphroaig 10 scotch whiskey served in a syringe) directly to your table. You can also sit at the bar, which seats up to 22 people, or on the rooftop for views of Frankfurt skyline. For a small bite, tapas-style dishes range from salmon and tuna tartare to Flammkuchen (pizza with crème Fraiche, chopped onions and smoky bacon). While the name Hunky Dory is an homage to David Bowie – it is the title of the English musician’s fourth album – you won’t find any rock and roll memorabilia among the model sailboats, medicine bottles, badminton rackets and other tchotchkes inside.

Bockenheimer Weinkontor

Located in the Bockenheim district, Bockenheimer Weinkontor was once a blacksmith’s workshop – you will need to cross under an arched cast-iron gate and descend down a stairway to reach it. This hidden gem of a wine bar draws wine enthusiasts during both summer and winter with a cobblestone courtyard either blooming with green foliage or glowing from the log-fire fireplace. Space for around 150 people consists of booth seating and bar stools topped with colorful pillows; simple wooden planks form the bar, at which a section of 50 German and European wines from mostly family-run wineries start at just 4 euros a glass. Flammkuchen (German pizza) and small plates of cheese, salami, and vegetables with humus stave off hunger.

Tom Hagen Bar

A bit out of the way in the Eschersheim district, the Tom Hagen Bar makes the case that you can only drink so many Moscow Mules. You will only find highly innovative cocktails here, which change on a monthly basis and are often theatrically served. Take the gin, fresh lemon, and orange juice, and thyme-honey syrup Thyme Bee’s Knees: It is served under a glass dome filled with aromatic herbal smoke which disperses once the dome is removed. Every Tuesday and Sunday is movie night; popcorn is served and a big screen shows cult favorites you’ve likely already seen – meaning you can still focus on your conversation and the cocktails. Football fans will also be able to catch some of the big matches projected here. The casual interior seats around 35 people on vintage upholstered furnishings. With a pre-reservation and a minimum charge for two people, the bar offers round-trip transport, but there are some criteria: this taxi does not pick up the visibly drunk.

An extensive drink menu has classics and signature cocktails – When a Man Loves a Woman (champagne, quince gin, lemon, almond and plum bitters) goes down silky smooth. Background beats to get you on the dance floor range from RnB and hip hop to house music. The 30-foot long mural by famed graffiti duo Herakut also attracts regular visitors. On Wednesday nights, a live band plays covers and dance classics, and free sushi comes with every drink ordered. Reservations are possible for four or more, with minimum consumption of 30 euros per person on Thursdays; Fridays and Saturdays reservations can be made for up to six people for a flat rate of 300 euros. While entrance with no reservation is free, you may have to wait in line and there is a strict door policy – dress sharp.

Best Bar Restaurants in Frankfurt

Frankfurt sits in traditional-minded Hesse, restaurants tend to serve heavy meats and the region’s famous green sauce with boiled potatoes and eggs – and apfelwein (apple wine), of course! That’s the sour, fermented liquid that doesn’t taste quite like beer or apple cider, though it looks similar, and can be found in pretty much every restaurant and bar. So after a day of checking out all the great attractions being offered, there is nothing better than sitting down to eat in one of Frankfurt’s best restaurants. Just keep in mind that the majority of Frankfurt’s restaurants are closed on Mondays, so double check hours before making the trip. In order to fulfill your desire, we have got you covered here with a comprehensive list of Frankfurt’s best bar restaurants good enough to eat on the go:

Emma Metzler

Emma Metzler’s beautiful decor and design make it look like an extension of exhibition space – fitting for a restaurant in the city’s museum embankment (Museumsufer) and on the grounds of the sleek Museum für Angewandte Kunst. The spacious bistro’s sleek lines are softened by colorful artwork on the white walls, lobster-red furniture pieces, a wall of glass blocks and thick, navy blue curtains. If the weather is nice, eat outside and take a walk over the Eiserner Steg bridge after your meal, especially at night when you can see Frankfurt’s skyline alit before you. If you visit on the last Saturday of the month, your museum entrance is free.

Seven Swans

Only two vegetarian restaurants in Germany have a coveted 2018 Michelin Star, and Seven Swans is one of them. Don’t rush down the Mainkai or you will miss the narrow building – Frankfurt’s narrowest, in fact-that houses it. Considered among the best restaurants in the world, Seven Swans offers a seasonal menu (choose from five or six fixed courses) using regional ingredients like fennel, leeks, pumpkin, apple, and asparagus; take a look at the restaurant’s well-curated Instagram page to see the extraordinary attention to detail on every plate. Reservations here are a must, and the intimate candlelight dining, complete with a view of the Main River, is optimal for two people.

Café Mangold

Don’t miss this charming café, located on the quiet, eastern end of the busy Zeil shopping promenade close to the city’s zoo. Once you enter beneath the green striped awning you will find an eclectic dining space with reclaimed furniture and mirrors, separated into distinctly-decorated rooms. In the main dining space, lamps glow just brightly enough to illuminate the stunning, gold floral wallpaper. Mangold’s daily menu includes fresh salads (like one topped with grilled halloumi cheese, pomegranate seeds, pistachios, and pomelo), soups and pasta, like penne with marinated chicken or the standout, homemade gnocchi. For dessert, try the brownie-in-a-glass with coffee, and if you are dining in the summer, try snagging a table on the terrace beneath twinkly string lights.

Goose Gourmet

GOOSE’s sweet charm is not just the Citroën food truck it’s housed in, but the owners themselves. The über friendly business partners, Gökhan Kaba and Patrik Bruch, take their truck to locations across Frankfurt, serving up waffle creations for lunch and dessert. Among the available toppings are caramelized goat cheese, beet mousse, grapes confit, vegetable chips, sliced mussels, roasted pine nuts, and sweet potatoes. For sweet tooths, Kaba recommends the peanut butter cheesecake with salted caramel or double chocolate brownie.

Best Nightclubs in Frankfurt

A bustling commercial city, Frankfurt is essentially a cosmopolitan paradise. Nightclubs in Frankfurt offer a wide range of fun things to do, with dancing and drinking being on the top of the list. When in Frankfurt, tourists can hop from one club to another in the hunt for the best nightclubs, but what is even better is that we have listed the best of the lot for you. Apart from regular bars and lounges, Frankfurt is also known for its eclectic nightlife. Most of these places offer fun-filled nights, with some of the best sound systems and lighting.

Velvet Club

A typical party place here in Frankfurt, Velvet Club should be on your list of disco-hopping if you like dancing the night away. You can expect it to be a little crowded, mainly because of its popularity. The nightclub has two dance areas, where you have your typical pop, RnB, or house music playing. You mostly have a crowd of young people, and it’s definitely great fun. Be warned beforehand, the drinks could be a little expensive than what you may be used to in and around Frankfurt. Here again, it is important to dress accordingly, so find out the kind of party you are heading to and dress well!

Robert Johnson (Nordring 131, Frankfurt am Main)

Situated on the banks of the river main, Robert Johnson is one of the best techno music clubs in the world and a true Legend of nightlife in Frankfurt. It is precisely here that developed the genre house-techno of Frankfurt and the club is still loved and known by all fans and the world’s best DJs. This club is focused on music quality rather than on the aesthetics of the room. The Interior is, in fact, small (the capacity is about 300 people), minimalist is resigned-looking. Even the lighting is kept to a minimum, and to illuminate the Interior there are only colored neon on the ceiling, while the dance floor is set in a large bare room with a bar and a DJ. Above the DJ there is a row of old TVs that broadcast some surreal video.

Opened in 1976, the Batschkapp It is the perfect place for those who love rock and alternative music. This legendary live music club is a reference to the nightlife in Frankfurt for over 40 years and continues to host some of the most acclaimed concerts in Germany and Europe. The nightclub is relatively small but the acoustics are great and you are really close to the stage: Undoubtedly, the best place to hear live music concerts and dance in Frankfurt. Many important artists have played here: Eric Burdon, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ginger Baker, Robert Cray, The Pogues, and many others. Every Friday and Saturday night, various DJs turn the place into a disco.

TheO25 is located in an old fire shelter, used as a disco. Space is dark and smoky, with two main rooms with different music styles every night. The place through for a young crowd, including many students, and the music selection ranges from years ‘ 80 to pop, up to reggae and techno Goa.

Open from 1952 and known all over the world, the Jazzkeller is undoubtedly the most famous jazz club in Frankfurt. Located in a cellar in the heart of downtown, the club has hosted some of the greatest jazz artists of all time, like Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, Eddie Harris, and Chet Baker. Apart from the various concerts and live events, the club organizes Jam Sessions Wednesdays, While they dance on Friday night.

Videos To Watch To Discover

To sum up the things here, we went through a brief introduction of the city of Frankfurt along with a brief introduction of its norms and culture. We also went through different activities and place to enjoy the nightlife of Frankfurt. Such activities provide a great source of fun and entertainment for tourists around the world and locals as well.

We then went through a comprehensive list of bars available in Frankfurt. No doubt, Frankfurt has some of the swankiest and great bars to cater to your boozing needs. To fulfill your food craving we also looked at a list of bar-restaurants which provide delicious and exotic food along with a touch of booze. This delightful and amazing combination of food and booze really pushes the limits of Nightlife entertainment and adds a great value tour. And finally, we explored a detailed list of nightclubs that provide premium nigh-time entertainment. Make sure to give a try the above recommendations which will really add value to your visit in Frankfurt, so that you won’t regret choosing bad options at all.

Keep exploring!

Hip Hop Clubs in Frankfurt

RnB Clubs in Frankfurt

Gay & LGBT Clubs in Frankfurt

Techno Clubs in Frankfurt

Gibson Frankfurt VIP Table

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Best places to visit in germany.

Full of culture, lively locals and great beer, Germany is home to many captivating travel destinations. Whether you're looking to soak up art, architecture and history or imbibe at Oktoberfest, this country appeals to a variety of tourists. U.S. News weighed factors like sights, food, culture, accessibility and value, in addition to expert and traveler opinions, to determine the best places to visit in Germany. Vote for the destinations you love below to help shape next year's ranking.

Black Forest

Berchtesgaden, saxon switzerland national park, neuschwanstein, rüdesheim am rhein.

One of the best places to see Germany's natural splendor is the fairy tale-inspiring Black Forest. This section of Baden-Württemberg encompasses more than 2,000 square miles of enchanting waterfall-filled forests, rolling hills and lengthy valleys dotted with half-timbered villages. A great introduction to the Black Forest is driving along its scenic namesake highway (Schwarzwaldhochstrasse); be sure to start or end your journey in the spa town of Baden-Baden to benefit from its thermal springs. You'll also want to save time for visiting gorgeous natural wonders like the picture-perfect Triberg Waterfalls, Lake Titisee and the Feldberg, the Black Forest's highest peak.

Germany's capital city is akin to Paris and London in that you just can't visit the country without going. Like many large cities, Berlin offers something for everyone, from a lively nightlife scene to restorative green spaces. Those looking take in the arts can explore the impactful East Side Gallery (on the Berlin Wall) or visit the more traditional art galleries at Museum Island. Berlin also pays homage to its ominous past with powerful and humbling attractions. Must-visit historical sites include the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.

Visitors flock to Munich every fall to take part in Oktoberfest, a two-week-long ode to Bavarian traditions featuring Germany's best beers and bratwurst. But Munich, one of the largest German cities, offers so much more than just this festival. The city is home to beautiful gardens, exquisite churches and engaging museums worth exploring. Wander around Munich's charming neighborhoods and spend some time in Marienplatz, a central square that's home to the world-famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel and hosts a popular Christmas market.

First-time visitors to this historic German city should make a beeline for Cologne Cathedral – this breathtaking example of Gothic architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city's most popular landmark. Meanwhile, travelers with a sweet tooth should make time in their schedule for a tour of Cologne's Chocolate Museum. Other activities include relaxing on the lawn at Rheinpark, exploring Cologne's Old Town, cruising the Rhine River and taking in spectacular city views from a cable car. Visit in February or March when Cologne's annual Carnival celebration takes place, an event featuring festivities like masked balls, parades and parties.

For a memorable vacation in the Bavarian Alps, visit Berchtesgaden. This destination, which sits on the Austrian border, captivates visitors with its massive peaks, cascading forests, deep valleys and Alpine lakes and river that make up Berchtesgaden National Park. Start your journey driving the scenic Rossfeld Panoramastrasse road before traveling south to awe-inspiring Lake Königssee and the Eagle's Nest, a mountaintop chalet and beer garden with a dark history. If you enjoy skiing, arrive in winter when Jenner Mountain is blanketed with snow.

Go off the beaten track on your next getaway by heading to this Bavarian city in southeast Germany. Boasting centuries-old architecture and a prime location along the Danube River, Regensburg is known as one of Germany's oldest and best-preserved medieval cities. Most of Regensburg's top attractions can be found in the city's UNESCO-listed Old Town, including landmarks like St. Peter's Cathedral, Haidplatz Square and the Old Stone Bridge. Other sights worth visiting include St. Emmeram's Palace and Walhalla, a hall of fame honoring exemplary German-speaking figures throughout history.

Dresden is made for architecture enthusiasts. The city, which is located in eastern Germany near the Czech border, features remarkable facades and edifices adorned with ornate architectural details. Though you'll have your pick of stunning structures, make sure you visit the Dresden Zwinger (a Baroque-style palace) and Dresden Royal Palace (a Renaissance landmark where the Fürstenzug, the world's largest porcelain picture, resides). If you prefer modern architecture, head to Kunsthofpassage to gaze at its quirky buildings, one of which has singing drainpipes. And those visiting during festive season can't miss Striezelmarkt, one of Germany's oldest and largest Christmas markets.

This city in southwestern Germany is well known for housing the country's oldest university. However, its good looks and superb location along the Neckar River also make it a great destination to enjoy old-world character and a small-town ambiance. To see as much of this beautiful city as possible, take a long stroll through Heidelberg's old town and across its picturesque Old Bridge. Then, ride the funicular railway to Heidelberg Castle, and continue on to Königstuhl for impressive views. Additional must-see sights to add to your vacation itinerary include the Philosopher's Walk, Heidelberg Zoo and the Student Prison at Heidelberg University.

Boasting elaborate churches and palaces around every corner, Würzburg is a photographer's paradise. From the Baroque-style Würzburg Residence to the Romanesque Würzburg Cathedral, there are countless buildings worth exploring. Not only can travelers enjoy beautiful architecture, they can expect manicured gardens and parks, such as Ringpark and the University of Würzburg's Botanical Garden, along with numerous vineyards and estates offering wine tastings (Würzburg is located in Germany's Franken wine region). When you're not sipping on delicious vino, consider snapping a photo of Würzburg's iconic Old Main Bridge.

Home to Germany's largest cruise port, the Elbe river and numerous canals flowing through the city center, Hamburg is a great place to explore by boat. But for those on foot, many top attractions are clustered in the heart of the city, including the Alter Elbtunnel and Planten un Blomen park. Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth visiting, offers Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway system that enraptures visitors of all ages. Plus, Hamburg is a haven for music lovers with its impressive Elbphilharmonie complex, which features two concert halls and a plaza with sweeping city views.

Saxon Switzerland National Park stands out for its collection of unique rock formations. You'll find sandstone structures, which come in various shapes and sizes, scattered throughout the park, along with scenic gorges and the winding Elbe river. Saxon Switzerland's most popular attraction is undoubtedly the Bastei Bridge, which is surrounded by stately formations and provides incredible views of the area. Other fascinating spots worth visiting include Painters' Way (the Malerweg trail), the Elbe Cycle Route and Felsenbühne Rathen, an open-air theater built into the park's rocks.

Leipzig offers an array of attractions and activities (think: various museums, an impressive zoo and top-notch nightlife venues) to satisfy both residents and visitors. Prioritize visits to the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, which celebrates Napoleon Bonaparte's defeat and retreat from the city, and the unique Panometer, a converted gasometer-turned-gallery that features 360-degree art installations. If you're a music lover, also save time for exploring the Leipzig Music Trail and seeing St. Thomas Church, which houses Johann Sebastian Bach's remains.

Though Neuschwanstein Castle was never meant for visitors, it has become one of Germany's most popular tourist attractions. King Ludwig II commissioned the castle as a place of refuge from public life. Today, more than 1 million people stroll through the property every year. The castle's Romanesque Revival-style is certainly romantic; in fact, it inspired Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. But what elevates this castle to bucket list status is its unbelievable setting, perched in the Bavarian Alps. From the castle, travelers can get an eyeful of the surrounding mountains, Alpine lakes and striking foliage (especially during fall).

Frankfurt is best known as the financial capital of the eurozone thanks to it housing the European Central Bank, but don't assume the city is nothing more than a concrete jungle. Frankfurt doubles as a tourist-friendly destination with all kinds of attractions. Here, you'll find the Frankfurt Museum Embankment, a riverside perimeter that comprises dozens of museums, including the popular Städel Museum. Other noteworthy sights include the city's colorful old town, the Main Tower observation deck and the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden.

Head to this small medieval city in northern Bavaria to feel as if you've stepped back in time. Bamberg is famous for housing notable Enlightenment-era writers and philosophers like E.T.A. Hoffmann and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Plus, Bamberg boasts a gorgeous location along the Regnitz river and a collection of exquisite architectural beauties, including the Romanesque and Gothic Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. But no visit would be complete without seeing the dreamy rose garden at the New Residence palace.

Primarily known for its winemaking capabilities, Rüdesheim am Rhein is a small village located at the base of the Taunus Mountains in Germany's Upper Middle Rhine Valley. While you'll surely want to spend the majority of your time here sampling Rüdesheim am Rhein's famous riesling, you should save time for other activities as well. The restaurant- and market-lined Drosselgasse alley is a perfect place to hear live music, and you'd be remiss to skip the one-of-a-kind Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet during your trip. Another worthwhile activity is a castle cruise along the Rhine River.

The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is a must-visit destination due to its well-preserved history (both medieval and more recent). The city's darker World War II connections are on display at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials museum. Go further back in time with a visit to the vast, all-encompassing Germanisches Nationalmuseum, which includes artwork from prehistoric times to today. Then, wind your way through old town's endearing streets, where you'll find half-timbered houses, a 14th-century fountain and the imposing Imperial Castle, which dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

Located roughly 20 miles southwest of bustling Berlin, Potsdam makes for a perfect day trip. The city offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere complete with parks and eye-catching historical landmarks. The city's most popular attraction, Sanssouci Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so breathtaking that it is often compared to Versailles. The palace's name means "without a care," so plan on spending unhurried hours there taking in its splendor and the surrounding grounds. You'll also want to save time for visiting the Museum Barberini and strolling through the charming Dutch Quarter.

Sitting on the banks of the Rhine River about 80 miles northwest of Frankfurt, Koblenz is overlooked by the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This idyllic setting is an added bonus to the city's strong cultural offerings, which range from institutions like the DB Museum Koblenz and the Ludwig Museum Koblenz to sights like the German Corner. You should also make time for a ride on the Koblenz Cable Car, which offers panoramic views of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Plus, with access to both the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is an excellent destination for a river cruise (many routes take travelers past vineyards, castles and more).

Upon first glance, Lübeck might look like any other mid-size German city. However, this northern destination with Nordic beauty holds plenty of historical significance, so much so that UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site. Between the 12th and 16th centuries, Lübeck was considered one of Europe's most important trading ports. The city still remains a hub for maritime commerce with its location on the Baltic Sea. After learning more about Lübeck's maritime roots at the European Hansemuseum, travelers can check out the stately Holsten Gate in the city's charming old town or explore its many waterways during a boat tour.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Germany

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Located in the heart of Europe, Germany today maintains the continent’s most powerful economy. However it is probably best known for its World War II history and the country’s even more recent times when it was split into East and West; everybody knows about the Berlin Wall, which came down less than 30 years ago. There’s a load of culture, natural beauty, and much older history to discover in this large European nation.

You’ll find much of this in Bavaria, southern Germany , where you can soak up the Bavarian Alps, explore some truly charming medieval towns, and get involved in the infamous Oktoberfest. In the north, you can explore beaches and old port towns from the Hanseatic period .

Map of Germany

Berlin wows with its famous clubs and huge museums, as does Frankfurt with its skyscraper-laden cityscape. Plan your trip to this fantastic European travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Germany.

17. Regensburg

Lying at the spot where the Danube, Naab and Regen rivers meet, Regensburg in Bavaria is one of the oldest towns in the whole of Germany and a very popular tourist destination. Founded by the Romans in 179 AD, it boasts almost two thousand years of history, with its remarkably well-preserved medieval old town the star of the show.

Here you’ll find loads of fine architecture and important historical landmarks, with countless churches, chapels and monasteries dotted about its ancient streets. Of its many tourist attractions, the gorgeous Gothic cathedral and impressive 12th century Stone Bridge should not be missed out on; they represent the best of the area’s art, architecture and engineering.

Renowned for its historical and architectural treasures, Regensburg also has a laidback, youthful feel, as well as a lively cafe and bar culture. It is this easy-going atmosphere that has regularly seen it referred to as the ‘northernmost city of Italy.’

16. Hamburg

Located on the banks of the Elbe River , just a hundred kilometers from the North Sea, Hamburg has long been one of Europe’s busiest and most important ports. Once part of the Hanseatic League , it is now Germany’s second-largest city and is noted for its maritime identity and pulsating nightlife.

Much of life in the city and its history, culture, and heritage is linked to the canals and waterways that weave through town. Next to the harbor, for instance, you can find the strikingly modern Elbphilarmonie concert hall and old brick warehouses . One of the city’s main landmarks is its beautiful Neo-Renaissance Rathaus.

Hamburg is also famed for its seedy red-light district, where you can find live music venues, cool cocktail bars, and trendy clubs. It is actually here on the Reeperbahn that The Beatles got their big break and forever changed the world of music.

15. Rugen Island

Favored for its remarkable landscapes and romantic seaside resorts, Rugen Island has flourished as a popular tourist destination since the 18th century. Located in the Baltic Sea as part of the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Rugen Island is the largest island in Germany, connected to the mainland by the Rugen Bridge and Rugen Causeway.

Charming villas, historic old towns and beautiful beaches all draw tourists to Rugen Island, but the star attraction is the Jasmund National Park , famous for its unique chalk cliffs rising 161 meters over the sea. Of these majestic cliffs, the largest is known as Konigsstuhl, or King’s Chair. Legend has it that in ancient times, a newly crowned king would climb to the top of this cliff and sit in a chair to demonstrate his power.

Another notable feature of Rugen Island is Cape Arkona , East Germany’s northernmost tip, where tourists can visit an old lighthouse, remnants of a Slavic castle and a picturesque fishing village.

Among the island’s many seaside resorts, a few most popular include Binz, Sellin, Gohren and Sassnitz. Tourists will find a wide variety of recreation here ranging from golf to horse riding, cycling, windsurfing and hot air balloon trips.

Rugen Island can be reached by car across Germany’s longest bridge, by train and ferry service. Within the island, buses run between all major towns. Many of the main attractions are car-free, so walking and cycling are good alternatives. A great way to explore Rugen Island is by its steam-powered train, called Racing Roland.

14. Lake Constance

The third-largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Constance is nestled in the foothills of the Alps straddling the German, Austrian and Swiss borders. It is made up of three main parts, with the Obersee – or ‘Upper Lake’ – connected to the Untersee (Lower Lake) by Seerhein – a small section of the Rhine River.

Long a popular place to go, Lake Constance is blessed with crystal clear waters and a mild and sunny climate, as well as lots of gorgeous scenery. This makes it ideal for swimming, sunbathing and sailing. Cycling along its serene shores and hiking in the surrounding vineyards and orchards are popular pastimes.

Besides the ample recreational activities, the lake is also noted for the picturesque towns and villages hugging its shores. On the German side, visitors can delight in exploring the lively and historic university city of Konstanz and the idyllic island town of Lindau .

On the Swiss side, phenomenal views of the lake can be enjoyed from atop the 2,500 meter high Santis Mountain. Bregenz, in Austria , is famed for its floating stage that hosts concerts and operas in the summer.

13. Bamberg

Widely considered one of Bavaria and Germany’s most attractive towns , Bamberg is built over seven hills, with various canals and the Regnitz river running through it. It was once the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bamberg, and, for a brief period, the center of the Holy Roman Empire , so wealth poured into its streets, with architectural marvels erected around town.

As such, history and heritage can be found wherever you go. The narrow medieval streets of Altstadt are particularly enthralling to explore. Here you’ll find an impressive Romanesque cathedral and centuries-old Rathaus. The twin spires of Michaelsberg Abbey and the turrets of Altenburg Castle can be spied nearby.

Nowadays, Bamberg is a very pretty and pleasant place to visit and is home to an abundance of pavement cafes, bars and restaurants. Many of these serve its famous smoked beer, which can also be sampled in the numerous breweries scattered around town.

12. Cologne

It may have been nearly destroyed from heavy bombing during World War II, but Cologne today is one of the largest cities in Germany and a major European metropolis. Situated on the Rhine River in the German federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Cologne offers several interesting tourist attractions , a buzzing nightlife, stylish hotels , and a stellar arts and culture scene.

The city’s informal symbol, the Cologne Cathedral , a stunning Gothic church that claims to contain the gifts of the Magi mentioned in the Bible is must visit. Moreover, the Twelve Romanesque Churches are magnificent examples of medieval architecture.

As a leading culture center in the Rhineland area, Cologne boasts an outstanding collection museums. Two of the most important include the Wallraf-Richartz Musem for its fine medieval art, and the Farina Fragrance Museum, which details the history and production of the city’s famous perfume, Eau de Cologne.

Every year, Cologne hosts one of Europe’s largest Carnival festivals, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors, and filling the streets and pubs with costumed people, music and dancing. However, even outside of festivals, tourists will find no shortage of nightlife choices in this city of many pubs, bars and clubs. Cologne is known for its unique beer, called Kolsch, which is served cold and fresh in every bar in town.

11. Leipzig

The largest city in Germany’s federal state of Saxony, Leipzig is often called the City of Heroes for its leading role in the 1989 democratic revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall. Leipzig is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene shaped by famous music composers like Bach, Richard Wagner and Felix Mendelssohn. Tourists today can enjoy performances of Bach’s music at the St. Thomas Church where Bach once served as choir leader and is now buried.

In addition to numerous museums and historic sites like the Old Town Hall, the city boasts several of Germany’s oldest and most impressive structures such as the Napoleonic Monument to the Battle of the Nations and Reichsgericht, the former high court of the Reich.

One of Europe’s largest town squares, the Augustusplatz, is situated at the central campus of the city’s university, which is the second-oldest university in Germany. What’s more, Leipzig is home to Germany’s oldest botanical garden and one of the country’s largest zoos.

Leipzig is host to a number of annual festivals such as the Bach Festival , the world’s largest Goth festival and an international balloon festival. For nightlife, tourists will find a variety of pubs, bars and dance clubs within the city, especially along the street of Karl-Leibknecht-Strasse, nicknamed “Karli.”

10. Nuremberg

Once the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire and home of several German kings, Nuremberg is now the second-largest city in Bavaria and acts as an important economic, cultural and social center.

Due to its wealth and prestige, arts, architecture and culture have long flourished in the city. Marvelous museums, gorgeous Gothic churches, and an impressive imperial castle can be found dotted about its medieval old town. Much of its historic center was rebuilt and restored following the heavy bombing campaigns that destroyed most of Nuremberg in WWII.

Many people now associate the city with the infamous Nuremberg Trials ; however, its rich art and cultural scene, interesting historical sights, and fantastic cuisine and nightlife make it a popular place to visit. It also hosts the largest Christmas Market in Germany, where visitors can buy gingerbread and local handicrafts and sample traditional sweets and gluhwein.

9. Black Forest

Named after the dark, dense woods that cover its valleys, hills, and mountains, the Black Forest is nestled in the southwest corner of Germany. One of the most picturesque and popular places to visit in Germany, it is home to lots of natural sights and charming towns and villages.

Tucked away amidst its confines are gushing rivers, sparkling lakes, and flower-filled meadows, as well as a myriad of lovely hiking trails and cycling paths that take you past stunning scenery. The sunniest and warmest part of the country lends itself perfectly to outdoor activities, with skiing and snowboarding available in the winter months.

The forested mountain range also has its fair share of historic towns. Freiburg – the ‘Jewel of the Black Forest’ – and the spa town of Baden-Baden attract the lion’s share of visitors. In addition, centuries-old abbeys and monasteries can be found here and there, as well as scenic vineyards, fairytale castles , and modern ski resorts.

As one of the largest Baltic seaports in Germany, Lubeck is located in the country’s northern-most state, Schleswig-Holstein. Founded in 1143, Lubeck served for several centuries as the capital seat of the Hanseatic League . Although it was the first German city to be bombed and damaged during World War II, Lubeck still retains much of its medieval architecture, making it a popular tourist destination.

Dominated by seven Gothic churches, the city’s Old Town presents an attractive setting of romantic medieval architecture intertwined with modern day infrastructure. A walk through the old, narrow streets offers views of historic sites like the stunning cathedral, the 12th century Town Hall, the famous Holstentor (the old city gate) and the house of Thomas Mann, the 1929 winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature.

The bustling streets of Huxstrasse and Fleischhauerstrasse are lined with restaurants, art galleries, book stores and souvenir shops. A stroll along the city’s harbor allows tours of old Hanseatic warehouses and old shipping vessels now fashioned into museums.

Lubeck is well known for its production of the confection, marzipan . Local legend says that marzipan originated in Lubeck during a time of famine when almonds and sugar were the only available staples. The city also boasts its own wine specialty called Rotspon, which can be found in every shop of Lubeck.

7. Romantic Rhine

Stretching between the cities of Bingen and Bonn, Germany, the Middle Rhine flows through a dramatic geological formation called the Rhine Gorge. This region features a spectacular landscape dotted with medieval castles , picturesque villages and terraced vineyards.

Tourism flourished here after aristocrat travelers brought much attention to the area during the Romanticism period of the 19th century and the area became known as the Romantic Rhine. The inspiration behind poems, painting, operas and legends, the Romantic Rhine today is a major tourist destination in Germany.

A journey through the Romantic Rhine presents splendid views of medieval castles perched on nearly every hillside. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, these castles range from ruins to fortresses and majestic palaces. One of the most well-preserved is the Marksburg Castle while other significant ones include Stolzenfels, Pfalzgrafenstein, the Electoral Palace and the Stahleck Castle, which offers overnight accommodation.

Bathed in color and history, the charming villages along the Rhine Gorge provide excellent sightseeing opportunities as well as cafes, shops and hotels. The town of Bacharach is particularly beautiful in its setting of half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets and terraced vineyards.

The region’s most famous natural attraction is the Lorelei, the deepest and most narrow section of the Rhine Gorge, which features a large, treacherous rock that caused several boating accidents prior to the 19th century. Because of its unique echo, the rock inspired a legend that claims a beautiful siren sat upon the summit, luring sailors to their deaths.

The best way to experience the Romantic Rhine is by a riverboat cruise . However, there are also highways and trains that run along both sides of the river. Additionally, tourists can explore the beautiful region by scenic walking trails and cycling routes .

Before it was severely damaged from World War II bombings, Dresden was known as the Jewel Box because of its lavish collection of stunning art and architecture. After many years, the city has restored much of its former glory. The capital of the federal state of Saxony, Dresden is one of the largest urban districts in Germany, serving as an important center of government and culture.

Dresden offers several interesting landmarks such as the beautiful plaza of Bruehl’s Terrace and the magnificent palace complex known as the Zwinger . The Old Town also contains a number of historic sites like the stunning Frauenkirche cathedral . Impressive art galleries and museums abound in the city, particularly the Green Vault, which houses thousands of exquisite precious gems, jewelry pieces and fine art works.

An important culture center, Dresden boasts many cultural institutions of which the Semper Opera is most widely esteemed. The city plays host to several annual events that include Europe’s largest Jazz festival, the Dixieland Festival.

Amid the bustling city, open green spaces like the Big Garden offer outdoor leisure activities and relaxation while the River Banks presents summer sports, barbecues, concerts and outdoor cinema. Getting around the city center is easy by walking, cycling and bike taxis.

5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Renowned for its magnificent medieval old town, its well-preserved architecture, and charming cobbled streets, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most popular stops along Germany’s Romantic Road. Rothenburg is also famous for the stores that carry Christmas items all year round and for having an outstanding Christmas market each December.

Overlooking the banks of the Tauber River, the Franconian town looks very much as if it has just emerged out of a fairytale. Beautiful old buildings can be found within its ancient walls. Be sure to visit the Town Hall , the seat of city government since medieval times. Climb the steps of the 13th-century hall’s tower for stunning views of the city.

Remarkably, it was actually Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s outstanding beauty that spared much of the town from being destroyed in WWII. The US Secretary of War called off bombing raids to protect and preserve its history and heritage.

Nowadays, however, its picture-perfect nature means that Rothenburg ob der Tauber can get quite crowded. It is well worth staying the night, as when evening falls, most tourists depart, and peace and romance returns to its lovely lamplit streets.

4. Heidelberg

With historic treasures like the medieval Old Bridge, the Heidelberg Castle , the Church of the Holy Spirit and the Knight St. George House, it is no wonder that Heidelberg is a popular tourist attraction . The city center’s main street, Haupstrasse, is packed with pubs, restaurants, open-air cafes, hotels and shops selling the likes of beer steins, cuckoo clocks and German sausages.

Not far from the Old Town is Thingstatte, an outdoor amphitheater, originally constructed by the Nazi regime to promote propaganda events. Today, this intriguing site is the scene of concerts, celebrations and other special events.

Home to Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg’s long academic history can be retraced along the Philosopher’s Walk , a scenic footpath often walked by many earlier philosophers and professors. Likewise, the city’s arts and history can be experienced in its many theaters, galleries and museums that include the Carl Bosch Museum, Palatinate Museum and Bonsai Museum.

The city hosts several lively annual festivals and cultural events such as the Ball of the Vampires, Carnival, Classic Music Festival, International Easter Egg Market and Christmas Market.

Set in a scenic spot at the foot of the Alps, Fussen is the last stop on the Romantic Road and can be found right in the south of Bavaria, just a kilometer from the Austrian border. While the enchanting town is well worth exploring in itself, most people visit for the three fairytale castles that lie nearby.

Although Hohenschwangau and Hohes Schloss look impressive with their prominent hilltop positions, arresting architecture, and imposing turrets and towers, the real showstopper is Neuschwanstein Castle . Commissioned by King Ludwig II, the one-time royal retreat looks so magical that Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle was modelled on it.

Fussen has a quaint, well-preserved old town that is home to pretty, pastel-colored buildings and the 9th century St. Mang’s Abbey. The nearby hills and mountains also have countless nature trails for visitors to explore, which boast breathtaking views.

Best known as the origin of the world famous Oktoberfest , Munich is a major international hub for research and technology. The capital of the state of Bavaria, Munich is Germany’s most prosperous city, boasting research universities, global companies like BMW and state-of-the-art science museums such as the Deutsches Museum.

However, Munich is not all business. This vibrant city offers one of Germany’s best culture scenes, presenting several sophisticated opera houses and theaters like the National Theater. The city center is an attractive blend of classic and modern architecture, teeming in historic churches, medieval walls and royal palaces as well as bustling shopping centers and art galleries.

Munich’s neighborhoods also offer their share of lush green spaces, which include the English Garden , one of the world’s largest public parks. Munich is home to sports teams consisting of basketball, ice hockey and a championship football club.

Munich’s Oktoberfest began in 1810 with a royal wedding celebration. Today, this famous beer festival draws millions of visitors every year to take part in the revelry that involves several gigantic beer tents, delicious Bavarian food, fun competitions and millions of liters of beer. No matter what time of year tourists visit, they can experience Munich’s beer gardens and beautiful beer halls.

A federal state and the capital city of Germany, Berlin is widely associated with its World War II history and former division of East and West Germany by the Berlin Wall during the Cold War. Since the fall of the historic wall in 1989, Berlin today is now a vast, unified city diverse in ethnic groups and abundant in sightseeing attractions , culture and nightlife.

Many tourists are drawn to Berlin’s famous historic structures, which include the Brandenburg Gate , Reichstag and the Holocaust Memorial . Although most of the Berlin Wall was demolished, there are some portions still standing near Checkpoint Charlie and the Reichstag .

Berlin is respected for its high concentration of museums , namely Museum Island , which comprises a collection of museums that house impressive relics, temples and even reconstructed villages from many of the world’s ancient civilizations.

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Reader interactions.

October 29, 2019 at 7:20 pm

I just spent two weeks in Germany and can’t wait to return. Travelled by train, so many beautiful sights to see. Rothenburg was a favourite. Oktoberfest was so much fun! I now have a new list of cities to visit.

January 28, 2019 at 9:17 am

I love Dresden and went to Koblenz, Cologne and Aachen last year. I love travelling with Deutsche Bahn too but it’s just so expensive – even compared to back home in the UK. Still, train travel is definitely my favourite mode of transport.

November 4, 2018 at 7:19 am

Neuschwanstein for sure! Though, all of these places look like beautiful places to visit. I’d like to travel the world someday and overcome my anxiety that has held me back all my life. My wonderlust is still very strong and prominent! Germany is a beautiful country and I would like to visit as many cities, towns and villages there as possible!

December 19, 2017 at 7:47 am

Nuremberg should have been included in the list.. A very nice place. I think most of the places in Germany are really worth seeing.

May 16, 2017 at 5:42 am

February 18, 2017 at 2:42 pm

It will be my first time in Germany this April and will be in Munich. I’m planning day trips and therefore would realy considering comments about places to visit. But would definitely go to Baltic sea.

December 14, 2016 at 2:32 am

Berlin is one of the best cities I have visited so much to see

November 16, 2016 at 7:18 am

I can not believe Nuremberg is not on this list. Great history, architecture, museums and the best bratwurst on the planet,

September 18, 2016 at 9:45 am

I definitely like the northern parts. Last week I came back from vacation in Darss and I have to say it was really amazing.

March 17, 2016 at 1:15 pm

One of the fastest growing pilgrimage sites does not make this list, but Augsburg is quickly becoming a major pilgrimage site in Eastern Bavaria. The church on the main square, St. Peter am Perlach holds the image of Our Lady Untier of Knots whom the world would not know too much about unless it were for Pope Francis. Having visited the shrine a few times, I can tell you she is beautiful and a very powerful intercessor!

December 7, 2015 at 3:48 am

You definitely forgot Hamburg. It is one of the most beautiful cities in germany. At least at the top 3 in germany. My list is, okay i live in hamburg, its my number one but for tourists i think you must see the capital.

1. Berlin 2. Hamburg 3. München 4. Köln

November 21, 2015 at 2:40 am

I believe that Regensburg should also be on this list – right on the Rhine and beautiful…

July 20, 2015 at 6:08 pm

I visited Munich, beautiful city, the Marienplatz is amazing.

June 15, 2015 at 2:22 pm

Heidelberg is the best in my opinion…I lived there for 6 and a half year’s.

March 24, 2015 at 1:22 pm

I believe that Nuremberg should be sitting right in the middle of this list. Certainly a more beautiful city than Berlin.

October 18, 2014 at 8:11 pm

Good list, it will help during my visit to Germany. I like Germans & Germany.

September 23, 2014 at 2:40 pm

August 24, 2014 at 12:07 pm

Good list, HOWEVER, I would consider Hamburg a much nicer overall city than Cologne or Leipzig. Cologne is basically famous for its dome and Leipzig has some nice architecture, but in Hamburg almost every part of town is worth seeing and is a great shopping destination.

In general, all the typical old university towns are worth a visit: Freiburg, Heidelberg, Bonn, Tuebingen, Marburg and Konstanz come to mind.

July 1, 2014 at 10:39 am

Germany is my dream country. Its my prayers to visit Germany.

May 19, 2013 at 10:09 pm

Great list!

Discovering Deutschland: The Best Places to Visit in Germany

I f you've ever dreamed of exploring grand castles, basking in rich culture and history, or indulging in some of the world's best beer, Germany is the place to be . With a myriad of breathtaking landscapes, bustling cities, and quaint towns, it's a place where old-world charm meets modern elegance.

Germany, Europe's second most visited country, has a unique blend of historical wonders and modern innovation.
The country is renowned for iconic sites such as Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
From the lively atmosphere of Berlin to the romantic landscapes of the Rhine Valley, Germany offers a varied travel experience.

Beholding the Magnificence of Berlin

Berlin, the country's capital, is a city of rich history and vibrant life. Don't miss the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall's remnants, a stark reminder of the city's turbulent past. Meanwhile, the Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site housing five world-renowned museums. It's truly a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts.

Bavaria: Castles, Beer, and Beautiful Landscapes

Bavaria is Germany's picture-perfect region. Here, you'll find the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, perched atop a rugged hill, overlooking the serene Hohenschwangau valley. Bavaria is also home to Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival. A journey along the Romantic Road is a must-do, showcasing medieval towns and pristine countryside.

The Romantic Rhine Valley

The Rhine Valley, with its steep vineyards, ancient castles, and charming towns, is postcard-perfect. A river cruise on the Rhine is the best way to soak in the beauty of this region. Don't forget to sample the local Riesling wine!

Heidelberg: A Blend of Romance and Academia

Heidelberg is a quintessential university town, renowned for its baroque architecture and romantic setting. The Heidelberg Castle, overlooking the Old Town and the Neckar River, is a sight to behold. Wander around the Old Town, with its narrow lanes and historic buildings, for a leisurely day.

Maritime Charm of Hamburg

Hamburg, Germany's gateway to the world, is a city of canals, bridges, and elaborate buildings. The Elbphilharmonie, a stunning concert hall, and the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district are among the must-see sites in the city.

Germany, with its mesmerizing blend of old and new, is sure to leave you enchanted. As American travel writer Rick Steves says, ""Germany is a beautiful combination of deep history and modern innovation, offering visitors a chance to explore ancient castles, picturesque villages , and bustling cities."" Pack your bags, and let Germany weave its magic on you!

Black Forest: Germany's Enchanted Woodland

For nature enthusiasts, the Black Forest is a paradise. The region offers some of the best hiking trails in Germany, winding through dark fir forests, serene lakes, and charming villages. Don't miss the chance to visit the Triberg Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in Germany, or the quaint town of Baden-Baden, famous for its thermal spas.

Leipzig: City of Music and Art

Leipzig, often known as 'the new Berlin', is a buzzing city with a thriving arts scene. It's famed for its musical heritage - as the city where Johann Sebastian Bach spent a large part of his life and where Felix Mendelssohn established Germany's first musical conservatoire. The city is also home to Spinnerei, a former cotton mill turned art hub, where artists create, exhibit, and sell their works.

Nuremberg: Stepping Back in Time

Nuremberg, a city steeped in history, offers a fascinating glimpse into Germany's past. Visit the Nuremberg Castle, a symbol of the city, and explore the Old Town with its half-timbered houses and gothic churches. The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a museum on the site of former Nazi party rallies, provides insight into one of the darkest times in human history.

Frankfurt: The Manhattan of Germany

Frankfurt, known for its impressive skyline, is a bustling metropolis with a lot to offer. The city is the financial heart of Germany, hosting the European Central Bank. Don't miss the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden, or the Städel Museum, one of Germany's preeminent art institutions. And for a taste of traditional Frankfurt, visit the cider taverns in the Sachsenhausen district.

German Cuisine: Beyond Bratwurst and Beer

German cuisine is hearty and diverse, with each region having its specialties. Try bratwurst, a type of German sausage, or pretzels in Bavaria, Sauerbraten (pot roast) in Rhineland, and fresh seafood dishes in the northern regions. Don't forget to taste German beer and wine - with over 1,300 breweries and vineyards along the Mosel and Rhine river, there's plenty to sample!

Kevin Erickson, your experienced travel guide, hopes that this journey through the captivating landscapes, historic landmarks, and unique culture of Germany inspires you to pack your bags and explore the country yourself. Remember, the best travel experiences often come from veering off the beaten path and making your unique journey.

What is the best time to visit Germany?

Germany can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on your activities. For sightseeing and city tours, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal, while winter is perfect for Christmas markets and skiing.

What are some must-try foods in Germany?

Bratwurst, pretzels, Sauerbraten, and currywurst are must-try dishes. Don't miss the local beers and wines, and try a piece of Black Forest Gateau in its place of origin!

Is Germany expensive to visit?

Germany is relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries. Costs can vary depending on the region and the type of travel experience you prefer.

Do I need to know German to travel in Germany?

While it's always helpful to know a few phrases in the local language, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas in Germany.

What are some local customs I should be aware of?

Germans value punctuality, so be on time for any appointments. When eating, it's polite to say 'Guten Appetit' before starting. Always use formal addresses ('Sie' in German) unless invited to use the informal 'du'.

German National Tourist Board
Rick Steves' Europe
Official Website of Neuschwanstein Castle

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10 Best Places to Visit in Hamburg in June 2024

Hamburg, a vibrant port city in northern Germany, offers an eclectic blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. With its picturesque canals, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife, Hamburg is a city that caters to every traveler’s whim. If you’re planning a trip to Hamburg in June 2024, here are 10 places you won’t want to miss:

June is an ideal time to visit Hamburg, as the weather is generally pleasant with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. The city comes alive during this time, with numerous festivals, events, and outdoor activities taking place throughout the month. Whether you’re interested in history, art, music, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Hamburg in June has something to offer every visitor.

Hamburg is easily accessible by air, rail, or road, with its international airport and central train station connecting it to major cities across Europe. Getting around the city is also a breeze, with an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, trains, and ferries. While Hamburg is a relatively safe city, it’s always advisable to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas.

1. Miniatur Wunderland

Step into a world of miniature wonders at Miniatur Wunderland, the largest model railway exhibition in the world. With over 15,000 feet of track, 2,600 buildings, and 10,000 figures, this meticulously crafted display transports visitors to a vibrant world of tiny landscapes, bustling cities, and iconic landmarks. From the Swiss Alps to the American Southwest, Miniatur Wunderland offers a unique and captivating experience for all ages.

2. Elbphilharmonie

Soaring above the Elbe River, the Elbphilharmonie is Hamburg’s architectural masterpiece and a symbol of the city’s cultural renaissance. This stunning concert hall is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and panoramic views over the city and the river. Take a guided tour to explore the building’s impressive interior, or catch a world-class performance in one of its three concert halls.

3. Speicherstadt and Kontorhausviertel

Step back in time as you wander through Speicherstadt, the historic warehouse district that has been lovingly restored and transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. Admire the grand brick facades of the former warehouses, now home to museums, galleries, and restaurants. Just across the water, the Kontorhausviertel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the distinctive brick expressionist architecture that characterized Hamburg’s early 20th-century development.

4. Hamburg Kunsthalle

Immerse yourself in art at the Hamburg Kunsthalle, one of Germany’s most prestigious art museums. Its extensive collection spans from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, featuring masterpieces by Rembrandt, Monet, Cézanne, and many more. Don’t miss the impressive collection of German Expressionist art, which includes works by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Emil Nolde, and Franz Marc.

5. Planten un Blomen

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in the tranquil oasis of Planten un Blomen, a beautiful park that stretches from the city center to the Elbe River. Stroll through its themed gardens, marvel at the stunning floral displays, and relax by the tranquil lake. During the summer months, the park hosts numerous cultural events, including concerts, theater performances, and open-air cinema screenings.

6. St. Michaelis Church

Ascend the tower of St. Michaelis Church for panoramic views of Hamburg. Affectionately known as “Michel” by locals, this Baroque masterpiece is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Climb the 453 steps to the viewing platform and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas over the city, the harbor, and the surrounding countryside.

7. Hagenbeck Zoo

Discover the wonders of the animal kingdom at Hagenbeck Zoo, one of the oldest and most respected zoos in the world. With its emphasis on animal welfare and conservation, Hagenbeck Zoo provides a unique opportunity to observe a wide range of species in naturalistic habitats. Visit the impressive elephant enclosure, marvel at the graceful movements of big cats, and encounter fascinating creatures from all corners of the globe.

8. Rickmer Rickmers

Step aboard the historic sailing ship Rickmer Rickmers and embark on a journey through maritime history. This beautifully preserved vessel, built in 1896, offers a glimpse into the era of tall ships and transatlantic voyages. Explore the ship’s decks, learn about the life of a sailor, and marvel at the intricate details of its rigging and sails.

9. Chilehaus

Admire the architectural prowess of Chilehaus, a striking expressionist building that dominates the city center. Designed by Fritz Höger, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of brick architecture, with its distinctive prow-shaped facade and intricate detailing. Take a guided tour to explore the building’s interior and learn about its fascinating history.

10. Reeperbahn

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hamburg on the Reeperbahn, a legendary entertainment district. This iconic street is lined with bars, clubs, and theaters, catering to every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking for live music, DJ sets, or simply a night of revelry, the Reeperbahn is the place to be. But be warned, it’s not for the faint of heart!

Culture in Hamburg

Hamburg is steeped in culture and history. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and concert halls, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences. Music plays a particularly important role in Hamburg, which is known for its vibrant live music scene and has produced influential bands such as The Beatles and Hamburg Blues Band.

Best Months to Visit

While Hamburg is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the summer months, from May to September. The weather is generally pleasant, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and festivals.

Nearby Transportation

Hamburg International Airport (HAM) is the main airport serving Hamburg. It is well-connected to major cities across Europe and beyond. The airport is located about 15 kilometers from the city center, and there are regular train and bus services connecting the airport to the city.

Local Food in Hamburg

Hamburg is known for its hearty and flavorful cuisine. Some of the city’s signature dishes include Franzbrötchen (a sweet cinnamon pastry), Labskaus (a beef and potato stew), and Rote Grütze (a fruit pudding). The city is also known for its fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed at various restaurants and markets around the city.

Best Hotels in Hamburg

Hamburg offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious five-star hotels. Some of the most popular hotels in the city include The Fontenay, The Westin Hamburg, and the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Hamburg.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, music, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Hamburg in June 2024 has something to offer every visitor. With its rich culture, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife, Hamburg is a city that will leave a lasting impression.

Nathan David is a passionate traveler and an avid writer who delights in sharing his global adventures through captivating narratives. With an insatiable curiosity for exploring diverse cultures and uncovering hidden gems, Nathan has embarked on numerous journeys across the globe, each experience enriching his understanding of the world.

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

The historic city of Prague with its classic stunning architecture

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Things to See and Do
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

Aerial view of Greek town along the Mediterranean ocean, with mountains in the background

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

Albania Travel Guide
Austria Travel Guide
Belgium Travel Guide
Belarus Travel Guide
Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
Bulgaria Travel Guide
Czechia Travel Guide
Croatia Travel Guide
Denmark Travel Guide
England Travel Guide
Estonia Travel Guide
Finland Travel Guide
France Travel Guide
Germany Travel Guide
Greece Travel Guide
Hungary Travel Guide
Iceland Travel Guide
Ireland Travel Guide
Italy Travel Guide
Latvia Travel Guide
Lithuania Travel Guide
Malta Travel Guide
Moldova Travel Guide
Montenegro Travel Guide
Netherlands Travel Guide
Norway Travel Guide
Portugal Travel Guide
Poland Travel Guide
Romania Travel Guide
Scotland Travel Guide
Slovakia Travel Guide
Slovenia Travel Guide
Spain Travel Guide
Sweden Travel Guide
Switzerland Travel Guide
Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

a traditional Austrian home overlooking the snow capped mountains and rolling hills in the Austria countryside

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

The famous steam train from Harry Potter crossing an old bridge in Scotland

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

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5 of the best places to eat in the Trastevere neighbourhood of Rome

Visit this picturesque cross-river quarter known for its vibrant colours, lively nightlife and delicious food scene. Trastevere has something to offer culinary-minded visitors at every hour of the day, from little shops selling artisanal salumi to classic trattorias.

Literally meaning ‘the other side of the Tevere (Tiber River)’, Trastevere is one of the most historic neighbourhoods of Rome. It used to be a working-class district, and although much has changed since those times, plenty of its charm has remained: the tight alleys with fascinating angles, laundry hanging from building to building, old men playing cards in the bars, the smell of tomato sauce wafting from homes and trattorias alike. Its streets abound with historical sights such as churches and palazzos to explore. And at night, you can find the same streets buzzing with huge crowds of young people out for a drink and a bite in one of Trastevere’s many bars, or in its extraordinary piazzas. Here are a few of the best places to eat while in Trastevere.

1. La Norcineria di Iacozzilli

Near the characterful San Cosimato market, this family-run deli shop has just turned a century old and is still where locals do their shopping. The market itself is well worth a visit, while this old-school deli — with all the retro vibes of a corner shop from the movies — is the perfect spot for a snack or a light lunch. It has a large variety of salami, hams and other types of cured meat, as well as cheeses and a very good porchetta (pork roast), which you can have in the form of a panino, if you want, with the addition of mozzarella.

Fruits and vegetables are on display at the outdoor San Cosimato market in Trastevere, Rome

2. Supplì Roma

It’s traditional to have fritti (a variety of deep-fried bites) before a pizza in Rome and Naples. The classic Roman fritti are deep-fried courgette flowers ( fiori di zucca ) stuffed with mozzarella and anchovies; deep-fried cod fillet ( filetto di baccalà ); and supplì , little rice balls dressed with tomato sauce and stuffed with mozzarella, then breaded and fried. Some compare supplì to Sicilian arancini , but they’re supposed to be different, both in size and in condiment. Supplì Roma in Via di San Francesco a Ripa has gained fame for making its supplì using other traditional Roman recipes such as cacio e pepe , aubergine parmigiana and even non-traditional options such as pulled pork — the latter two are especially popular. Many locals have these supplì for a workday lunch.

A woman walks down a tight alley in Trastevere, Rome.

3. Alice Pizza Trastevere

There’s a Roman tradition of pizza al taglio that is quite unmatched in the rest of Italy. Literally meaning pizza by the slice, pizza al taglio is made in large trays, topped with a variety of ingredients that can be quite far from the classic round pizza flavours, and is sold in the quantity you want — so it’s a perfect solution for a little snack, a light lunch or feeding a big crowd at a party. Alice Pizza, born 35 years ago in Rome, is famous for its light and highly digestible pizza dough, which manages to retain its quality across branches throughout the country. Alice’s toppings, however, are locally provided, which means the pizzas in different cities are not quite the same. Go for the classic potato and the amatriciana if they’re available.

4. Taverna 51

This one of Rome's oldest and most classic trattorias, run by generations of trasteverini who have been making the same dishes for more than 70 years. It’s a trusted institution run by generations of trasteverini . They make tonnarelli (a fresh pasta not unlike spaghetti) in house and serve it with amatriciana, carbonara, gricia or cacio e pepe — all the Roman classics to try. Another standout menu option at Taverna 51 is the tonnarelli with mussels and pecorino — an unlikely but very interesting combination. For the main, the meatballs ( polpette ) and saltimbocca alla romana (veal with ham and sage cooked in wine), are highly recommended choices.

A woman at a restaurant holds a large forkful of pasta above her plate.

5. Fiordiluna

For over 25 years, this small gelateria has been a source of refreshment on cobbled Via della Lungaretta. The pleasantly surprising element about Fiordiluna is its attention to the ingredients; not only does it source them from fair-trade and local producers — many of which are organic — it also takes particular care to use as few ingredients as possible for each gelato flavour. You can also find sugar-free gelato that’s truly indistinguishable from the conventional kind.

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10 of the best things to do in Thailand

Dec 21, 2023 • 9 min read

People may think of Thailand as a food-focused destination, or a place for great nightlife or even a wellness center and somewhere to go and be pampered.

The truth is, Thailand is all of those things and more. You could be snorkeling in bright blue waters near a glorious beach , hiking to Thailand’s highest temples, slurping down a roadside bowlful of spicy noodles , plying the city’s waterways in a long-tail boat or simply dozing off next to a pool with a book on your chest.

Create your own adventure to remember in the Land of Smiles with our guide to the best things to do in Thailand.

1. Make your way to a temple

Thailand is home to more than 40,000 temples, which makes the decision on exactly where to visit that much more difficult. Although most people will say that visits to Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Wat Pho are musts, some other temples scattered throughout the kingdom might end up being the ones to lodge themselves permanently in your memories.

In the far Northern town of Chiang Rai , Wat Rong Khun – otherwise known as the “White Temple” – features a “bridge of rebirth” that takes visitors over a “lake” of outstretched hands representing human suffering. Further south near Pattaya , the Sanctuary of Truth stands as Thailand’s largest wooden building, painstakingly carved using traditional techniques. And on the border between the North and Northeast regions in Phetchabun, Wat Phra Thad Son Kaew displays a series of giant Buddha images sitting in each other’s laps inspired by Russian nesting dolls, surrounded by Gaudi-like mosaics and a vast tapestry of stunning mountains.

If you do decide to stay in Bangkok, Wat Arun (aka “Temple of the Dawn”) is a beautiful and less-touristy temple on the banks of the Chao Phraya, while Wat Po also houses a massage school said to have been the birthplace of Thai massage.

Fishing village of the Koh Panyee settlement built on stilts in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand

2. Island hop in the Andaman Sea

This is what the kingdom is likely most known for: its dramatic, green-speckled islands and celadon waters. The best place from which to experience this is Phuket , Thailand’s largest and most-visited island. From its two marinas, you can hire a boat to survey the Andaman Sea and its many blessings, including the iconic Ko Khao Phing Kan (also known as James Bond Island) featured in the movie The Man With a Golden Gun (1974), which resembles a tree-furred exclamation point (one of many striking limestone karsts) in Phang Nga Bay .

Planning tip: Boat rentals can range from US$60 a day on a fishing boat to US$140 a day on a “luxury” cruiser with lunch and dinner included. You can also head to Rassada Pier to take a ferry to tour Phang Nga Bay as a day trip. Book a ticket online in advance in case they sell out.

3. Shop at one of Thailand's best markets

Thais love to shop, so it’s little surprise that Thailand is liberally peppered with markets of all types, from morning fruit markets to weekend craft markets to raucous night markets and even all-hours markets. The most famous of these is probably Bangkok’s 24/7 Flower Market , where a panoply of gorgeous blooms makes ideal Instagram fodder against the background of the Chao Phraya River. Also in Bangkok, Or Tor Kor is widely considered – even among persnickety Thai aunties – to be the best food market in the country, especially revered for its traditional sweets and pristine produce.

Up North, Chiang Mai’s Saturday Walking Street and Sunday Walking Street are predictably famous, but the Walking Street in Chiang Khan on the banks of the Mekong is just as extensive and far more picturesque. If it’s crafts you’re looking for, Cicada Market in the beach resort town of Hua Hin offers art, clothing and knick-knacks and is only a short walk from the beach. And if it’s a floating market that floats your boat, tree-lined Khlong Lat Mayom is only 1.5 hours from Bangkok and is far less touristy than Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market and the floating markets of Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa . All are worth visiting, but beware of crowds.

Two people in silhouette stand on a large rock in a pool with a waterfall flowing nearby

4. Splash around in a waterfall

If you loved to splash around in fountains as a kid, then Thailand’s many, many waterfalls will surely delight your inner child – or even your actual child. From close to Bangkok (in Khao Yai National Park , a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok) to its farthest reaches (in Ubon Ratchathani , on the edge of Thailand’s northeast), Thailand has a waterfall to suit any type of swimmer or nature lover, from little paddlers to experienced hikers.

Made famous by the movie The Beach (2000), Khao Yai’s Haew Suwat is not necessarily Thailand’s most towering waterfall (it’s 20m/66ft high), but it does host an emerald-green pool perfect for midday dips. Located in Erawan National Park in western Kanchanaburi , the eponymous Erawan Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the country, thanks to its seven mighty tiers and the tiny fish that nibble at your toes at the bottom. Meanwhile in the far northeast lies the isolated Soi Sawan waterfall in Ubon Ratchathani , near where wildflowers bloom in the cool season and numerous hiking trails lead to amazing viewpoints.

Planning tip: If you do plan to beat the heat with a quick plunge, bring a towel and a swimsuit, but remember that changing rooms are few and far between.

5. Learn more about Thailand at its top museums

Thailand is chock-a-block with museums, but some are far less stultifying than others. Belying the image of a fusty old building harboring ancient relics from a far-off land, Museum Siam in Bangkok tells the story of how the “Land of Smiles” came to be through a series of creative, interactive exhibits geared mainly at children. Also in Bangkok, the Jim Thompson House Museum keeps the spirit of the Thai silk tycoon (and rumored CIA agent who disappeared in 1967) alive by making his former home and collection of art and antiques accessible to the public. And only 40km (25 miles) southeast of Bangkok, Muang Boran (the Ancient City) is a faithful reconstruction of Ayutthaya-era Siam, set over 200 acres and labeled the world’s biggest open-air museum.

Detour: If you can make it out of the Bangkok area, the lengthily titled Hellfire Pass Interpretive Centre and Memorial Walking Trail , situated 100km (62 miles) from Kanchanaburi, was created in memory of the WWII POWs who helped build the Burma-Thailand railway, also known as the “Death Railway” immortalized in the 1957-film Bridge Over the River Kwai .

A hiker takes some tentative steps out onto a suspended wooden walkway that clings to the side of a mountain

6. Take a hike along trails and through forests

In spite of its reputation as a classic fly-and-flop destination, Thailand also manages to be generously laden with hiking trails tailored to all levels of experience. Only 25km (15.5 miles) south of the resort town of Hua Hin, Pranburi Forest Park features a 1km-long (0.6 mile) boardwalk along mangrove forests and pine trees, allowing even toddlers the chance to stretch their legs while surrounded by greenery.

Up north, close to Chiang Mai, the 13km (8-mile) Buddha’s Footprint Trail is a simple out-and-back walk popular among birdwatchers for the diversity of both wildlife and foliage on display (a guide is required and can be hired among the Hmong villagers).

Meanwhile, adrenaline junkies – and devout Buddhists or meditation enthusiasts – will love Wat Phu Thok , also known as the “Lonely Mountain” and located in Northeastern Bueng Kan. Visitors are encouraged to ascend a 359m-high (1,200ft) peak by way of steps, carved paths and eventually rickety-looking wooden slats. The experience, meant to mirror the seven levels to nirvana, is supposed to encourage meditation and focus on the “now” as walkers negotiate every strenuous (and occasionally daunting) step.

Local tip: Walkers who are afraid of heights should steer clear of the Lonely Mountain or ascend only the first few levels. The seventh level is said to be riddled with snakes, so no need to go further than the sixth.

7. Cruise Bangkok's Chao Phraya River

Before it became known as a mecca for traffic jams, Bangkok was once described as the “Venice of the East,” crisscrossed with canals branching from the Chao Phraya River , which once served as the kingdom's main artery of commerce and diplomacy. Although far fewer Thais use the Chao Phraya as part of their daily lives today, it remains a potent reminder of the city’s waterborne past.

Many boats – from small long-tailed boats to water buses to larger dinner cruise-type ships – ply the waters for visitors in search of a glimpse of Bangkok’s past, or who simply want to avoid the traffic. The most famous of these boats is likely the Chao Phraya Express Boat . From downtown Sathorn, the boat goes as far as the northern suburb of Nonthaburi, and prices range from 16 to 33 baht.

Local tip: You can also rent your own long-tail boat for a cruise of the city’s many canals for 2,000–5,000 baht, depending on the size of the boat. Reserve online to secure a spot.

People sit at outside tables enjoying street food meals

8. Taste Bangkok's best street food in Chinatown

Rejuvenated after a COVID-era economic slump, Bangkok’s street food scene is newly vibrant, especially in areas like the Old Town , along Charoen Krung Road, on Bantadthong Road, and by the Victory Monument . The birthplace of Thai street food (and restaurants) is Chinatown – also known as Yaowarat. Chinese–Thai dishes like oyster omelets, soup noodles, rice porridge and black sesame-stuffed dumplings tempt passersby along Yaowarat Rd, which becomes a neon-lit roadside buffet at night. Just remember: many street food stalls are closed on Monday, so be sure to check your chosen vendors beforehand.

Planning tip: While in Chinatown, check out one of Bangkok’s hippest nightlife spots, Nana Road (in Chinatown, not on Sukhumvit). Here, famous watering holes like Tep Bar , Teens of Thailand and the taxes-themed TAX rub shoulders with picturesque shophouses and noodle joints.

9. Cycle around some incredible ruins

Before Bangkok was even a gleam in King Rama I’s eye, the country’s capitals lived further up from the Chao Phraya River, first in Sukhothai and then in Ayuthaya . Now both UNESCO World Heritage sites, their ruins testify to the power and beauty of what was formerly known as Siam. Ranging over 70 sq km (27 sq miles), Sukhothai Historical Park showcases Wat Mahathat at its center, arranged like a lotus among 193 ruins. Visitors can explore the grounds by rented bicycle before heading to Ramkhamhaeng National Museum .

At the larger Ayutthaya Historical Park, active from the 14th to 18th centuries, 425 unearthed archaeological sites include Vihara Phra Mongkol Bophit, home to one of Thailand’s largest bronze Buddha statues. You can also hire a bicycle to survey the park or head on out with a guide, and even rent traditional Thai costumes for a photo shoot.

10. See marine life on a snorkeling or diving trip

Marine life lovers or even avowed “water babies” will find all that they desire under the Andaman Sea or Gulf of Thailand. With its warm water, striking coral reefs and many manta rays and whale sharks , Thailand is thick with top-tier diving sites for all experience levels off of Phuket , Ko Phi-Phi , Ko Tao and Ko Pha-Ngan . If it’s snorkeling you’re after, the waters of Ko Chang and Ko Tarutao Marine National Park host bountiful marine life in clear blue water.

Local tip: For the most part, October to April is considered prime diving season, while May to September is deemed best for snorkeling.

This article was first published Aug 24, 2021 and updated Dec 21, 2023.

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12 Best Party Cities in Germany for Nightlife Lovers
7. Frankfurt. The banking capital of Germany is famous for its role in international finance and business, which has admittedly given it a reputation for being a bit stuck-up and overly serious. However, one good look at Frankfurt's legendary nightlife scene is enough to prove these preconceptions all wrong.
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8 Top Cities In Germany To Visit For Excellent Nightlife. Many German cities reach the top of the party scale, and some of them can certainly keep up with places like Amsterdam, Dubai or London. In Frankfurt am Main the party suitability is particularly high. The same applies to the German capital Berlin and Hamburg in the high north.
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The castles and libraries are another hot visiting place in Stuttgart. You can enjoy your nightlife in Stuttgart Germany in Jigger & Spoon, Spielbank, John-Cranko-Lounge, and Sky Beach Stuttgart. Location: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Average cost to visit (solo): $1,481 for a week.
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The 6 Best Party Cities In Germany For Nightlife. May 30, 2023 Reece Toth. Many travelers think of Germany as a straight-laced, orderly country where travel consists of perfectly preserved castles, medieval villages, and important historic sites. But they don't often think of it as a place to let their hair down and head out to the clubs.
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One of the best places to enjoy the underground music and move up with the beats of jazz bands. Along with this the vintage decor and furniture completes the vibe of an 80's bar. Ratings: 4.4/5 Location: Holzstraße 28, 80469 München, Germany. Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Berlin You Can't Afford To Miss On Your Germany Trip. 2.
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2. The 240-metre-high Rhine Tower with its revolving restaurant. And 3. the Königsallee, or Kö for short, which at 87 metres is not only Germany's widest street but also one of Europe's leading luxury shopping streets. Another decent shopping street, even with a hangover, is the Rhine enbankment promenade - without any bling-bling.
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The best Berlin clubs. Photograph: Camille Blake. 1. Berghain. Clubs. Friedrichshain. If you're talking about Berlin and clubs, obviously Berghain has to be at the top of your list. It's the ...
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9. Berghain. 980. Bars & Clubs • Dance Clubs & Discos. Friedrichshain. By H1038YRmalcolms. There's also the smaller Panorama bar which plays house, is more light and has a bar in it if you want something less... 10. Tresor.
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9. Berghain. There's also the smaller Panorama bar which plays house, is more light and has a bar in it if you want something less... 10. Tresor. It is a techno club, which plays some house music too, and it caters to a diverse crowd. 11.
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Hackescher Markt and Oranienburger Straße: Nightlife in the city centre. Eberswalder Straße: Partying in Prenzlauer Berg. Oranienstraße: Vibrant and lively. Weserstraße: The whole world in one neighbourhood. Wrangelstraße: Wet and wild partying by the River Spree. Simon-Dach-Straße: Berlin's most diverse restaurant scene.
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2. Cologne. Cologne (Köln) is known for its liberal climate and its wealth of historic sights. Taking its name from the Romans (who founded it in the first century CE as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium), it's been a major center of German history for centuries.
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Naïv: Craft beers have been sweeping through Germany and this is the best place in Frankfurt to enjoy over 100 beers from around the world, including several house-brewed options. Frankfurt Art Bar: This busy bar has an active event schedule of jazz concerts, cabaret, and readings. On Fridays, there are local and international DJs offering an ...
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12 Best Party Cities in Germany for Nightlife Lovers

6. Stuttgart

7. Frankfurt

9. Wuppertal

10. Leverkusen

12. Düsseldorf

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8 Exciting Cities To Experience Nightlife In Germany

1. Frankfurt am Main

Isabel Leong

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Best cities for partying in Germany | Hit famous clubs & pubs

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6. Baden-Baden

8. Stuttgart

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The best Berlin clubs

1. Berghain

2. Anomalie

3. Trauma Bar Und Kino

4. Sisyphos

5. KitKat

6. Salon zur Wilden Renate Friedrichshain

7. Fitzroy

8. Kater Blau

9. YAAM

10. Club der Visionaere

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3. Berlin Icebar

4. SANDEMANs NEW Europe - Berlin

5. Ramones Museum Berlin

6. Cosmic Comedy Club Berlin

7. KitKatKlub

8. Auerbach's Keller

10. Berghain

11. Alternative Berlin Tours

12. Klunkerkranich

13. Augustinerkeller

15. MarktHalle

16. Der Boiler

17. Holzmarkt 25

18. Hirschgarten

19. Clärchens Ballhaus