As Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation (after Russia), Germany is a key member of the continent's economic, political, and defense organizations. European power struggles immersed Germany in two devastating World Wars in the first half of the 20th century and left the country occupied by the victorious Allied powers of the US, UK, France, and the Soviet Union in 1945. With the advent of the Cold War, two German states were formed in 1949: the western Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) and the eastern German Democratic Republic (GDR). The democratic FRG embedded itself in key Western economic and security organizations, the EC, which became the EU, and NATO, while the Communist GDR was on the front line of the Soviet-led Warsaw Pact. The decline of the USSR and the end of the Cold War allowed for German unification in 1990. Since then, Germany has expended considerable funds to bring Eastern productivity and wages up to Western standards. In January 1999, Germany and 10 other EU countries introduced a common European exchange currency, the euro.

Berlin — the reunified and reinvigorated capital of Germany; known for its division during the Cold War — and the Berlin Wall. Today its a metropolis of diversity with elegant clubs, galleries and traditional restaurants. It is also a haven for shoppers.

Museumsinsel

Literally "Museum Island", this area is best known for the vast Pergamon-Museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek, ancient Middle-Eastern and Islamic art and architecture. Other museums which belong to the Museum Island are the Altes Museum (with the Egyptian and the antique collection), the Alte Nationalgalerie (with mainly German paintings of the 19th century) and the reopened Bode-Museum with its fantastically presented sculpture collection and Byzantine art. The Neues Museum is under restoration and will open in 2009, it will harbour the Egyptian collection then.

Deutsches Historisches Museum

Unter den Linden 2. German historical museum covering everything from pre-history right up to the present day. One can spend many, many hours here!

Jüdisches Museum

Lindenstraße 9-14. 10AM-8PM. Jewish Museum. Learn about the history of Jews in Germany. Permanent exhibition on two millennia of German-Jewish history, changing exhibitions and impressive modern architecture by Libeskind. There is a small unrelated Jewish Museum at the Oranienburger Straße Synagogue.

Gemäldegalerie

Matthäikirchplatz. At the Kulturforum. Thousands of European paintings from the 13th to the 18th century. Works from Dürer, Raffael, Tizian, Caravaggio, Rembrandt and Rubens.

Neue Nationalgalerie

Potsdamer Straße 50.  At the Kulturforum. Art from the 20th Century. This museum often houses temporary exhibitions during which the permanent collection is usually not on display.

Museum für Naturkunde

Near the main railway station. Natural science museum with a big collection of dinosaur skeletons, fossils and minerals. Reopened after restoration in late 2007.

Mauermuseum at Checkpoint Charlie

This museum is situated at the most famous historical checkpoint between the two Germanys.

Museum of European Cultures

The biggest of its sort in Europe. At the museum district of Dahlem.

Ethnological Museum

Again one of the world's most comprehensive museums. At the museum district of Dahlem. Well worth a visit for its splendid collection of Pre-Columbian archaeology!

Topography of Terror

This open-air museum documents the terror applied by the Nazi regime. It consists of excavated prison cells located directly under a remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall.

DDR Museum

Karl-Liebknecht-Straße 1, 10178 Berlin. This small museum just over the river from the Berliner Dom. Really interesting with all the displays in German and English, it gives a good insight into life in the former GDR.

Musikinstrumenten-Museum

Tiergartenstraße 1 (am Kulturforum), 10785 Berlin. This museum is part of the Staatliches Institu für Musikforschung PK and has an amazingly wide range of historic and unusual instruments on display.

Berliner Medizinhistorisches Museum der Charité

Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin. Interesting exhibition charting the development of European hospitals from the 14th Century to the present day.

Ramones Museum BerliN

The Ramones Museum Berlin pays tribute to the Punk band The Ramones. It displays more than 300 unique and original Ramones memorabilia.

Art Center Berlin Friedrichstraße

Friedrichstraße 134. Four floors of exhibitions with a relatively good variety of genres and artists. A very nice oasis of calm from the busy Friedrichstraße.

boxoffberlin (a/k/a bob)

Zimmerstraße 11. Exhibitions of Berlin Artists. Bob is also a shop for Berlin-Design-Souvenirs and a Café.

Galerie Eigen & Art

Auguststraße 26. One of the most famous German art galleries, home to the Neue Leipziger Schule (Neo Rauch et al.)

loop -- raum fur aktuelle kunst

Jägerstrasse 5, 10117. Known for being the "incubator" of future famous Berlin artists. Primarily featuring sculpture video, and painting.

Berliner Dom

The biggest and most impressive church in Berlin, built at the turn of the century (19th/20th) as an expression of imperial power. Located next to the museum island. Entrance is €5, and you can climb on top of the dome for a beautiful view over the Berlin center.

The Twintowers of the Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral) and the Französischer Dom (French Cathedral) face each other at the Gendarmenmarkt in Central Berlin, flanking the Konzerthaus.

Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche

Highly symbolic church, dating back to 1891-95, with two modern buildings designed by Egon Eiermann in 1961, a hexagonal bell tower and an octagonal worship hall, aside the ruins from World War II.

Marienkirche

Located near Alexanderplatz, this is not only the highest church tower in Berlin (90 m), but also one of the oldest churches left in the historical center of Berlin (which is totally torn down in this area). Entrance is free and inside are many treasures from the old days.

Nikolaikirche

The oldest church in Berlin, dating back to the beginning of 13th century (at least the stones next to the ground). Does not serve as a church. Changing exhibitions inside, entrance free.

St. Hedwigs Kathedrale

Domed Church located at Bebelplatz/Unter den Linden, the oldest (mid 18th century) and one of the biggest Catholic churches in Berlin, interior was redesigned in a modern style in the 1950s - but still many treasure chambers in the basement.

Friedrichswerdersche Kirche

Nice church located near Unter den Linden/Museum Island, finished in 1830 by Schinkel - English Neogothic style. Nice exhibition inside (neoclassical statues and an exhibition about Schinkel's life and work upstairs), entry is free.

Reichstag

The German Parliament building, near the Brandenburg gate, was renovated by Sir Norman Foster and reopened in 1999 with a spectacular new glass dome, which offers a great view of Berlin. Be prepared for long lines (sometimes 1 hour) and an extensive security check. Free entrance is through the West portal. The Reichstag is open from 8AM-midnight, daily, however the last entrance is at 10PM. Visitors may pre-book free tours of the building, avoid standing in line for the dome, and enter with confirmed reservation at scheduled times through the north portal.

Berliner Funkturm

150 meter high lattice tower with open-air observation deck 124 meters above ground. Only observation tower on insulators! Located in the Western fair district, out of city center.

Berliner Fernsehturm

Alexanderplatz. The TV tower is Germany's tallest construction: 368 meters high. Observation deck 204 meters above ground. Costs €10,00 as of Sep 2009. Be wary of the weather changing; the fog can come in during the rather long queues and you may not be able to see anything at the top. There is a restaurant and a bar in the observation deck. You need to buy tickets from the ticket office, then join a separate queue to get into the tower.

Siegessäule (Victory Column)

Tiergarten. An old (1865-1873), 60 meter high monument with panoramic views of the very center of the city. Unfortunately there is no elevator, so be prepared for 285 steps. The statue of Victoria on the top is the place where the angels congregate in the famous film "Der Himmel über Berlin" by Wim Wenders. It has also become something of a symbol for the annual Love Parade techno music festival.

Kollhoff Tower

Potsdamer Platz. The fastest elevator in Europe takes you approximately 100 meters high.

Europa Center

Zoologischer Garten. Shopping center with a panorama floor at the 20th floor (90 meters). In Budapester Straße, overlooking Kaiser-Wilhelm-Memorial Church. Entrance is €4 or €2 if you show a receipt from one of the restaurants in the Europa Center.

Europe Centre-Berlin Window

100 meter high building in Berlin City West with a breathtaking 360 degrees view over the capital. An elevator takes you to the 20th floor.Upstairs you can have a drink if you'd like. 4,50 EUR for adults, 3 EUR for seniors, students and groups.Daily 10AM-6PM. Tauentziestrasse 11, next to Saturn Market(enter on the first floor)

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Opened in the spring of 2005, this gigantic abstract artwork covering an entire block near the Brandenburg Gate, including an underground museum with extensive details on the Holocaust and the people who died during it. The blocks start out at ground level on the outer edges of the memorial, and then grow taller towards the middle, where the ground also slopes downwards. 3.5 million visitors in the first year make it one of the most visited memorials in Berlin - and it's worth it, as it's one of the most impressive memorials in Berlin.

Berlin Wall

A large stretch of intact Wall can be found to the east of the city center along the River Spree in Mühlenstraße near the Oberbaumbrücke.

Berlin Wall Memorial (Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer)

(U-Bahn Bernauer Straße U8 or S-Bahn Nordbahnhof S1, 2, or 25, follow the signs in the stations - wall is Mauer in German). Often missed by tourists but an absolute must for anyone interested in this part of the city's history. It's a memorial to those who died crossing so you won't, fortunately, get the tackiness of the Checkpoint Charlie area; instead you will be left with a haunting feeling of what life with the wall may have been really like. The monument itself is a gigantic wasted opportunity, blank and featureless. The inscription on the outside, declaring it a monument to the victims of the "communist reign of violence", has sparked emotional debates and angered many local residents. The documentation center across the street on Bernauer Straße is excellent although most of the documentation is in German. The viewing platform gives you a tiny hint of the true scale of the Wall and how terrifying the "no man's land" between the two sections of walls must have been. When the documentation center is closed, both walls can be visited. There is some space between the concrete plates which allow you to look at the area between the walls. There are also several small holes.

Checkpoint Charlie

Checkpoint Charlie, a crossing point between East and West Germany during the Cold War, is no more.

Tempelhof airport

Tempelhof airport was used in the Berlin Airlift (Berliner Luftbrücke) in 1948-49; in 1951 a monument was added to commemorate the airlifts over the Berlin Blockade. The airport was featured in movies like Billy Wilder's "One Two Three". The terminal building is still fascinating; the halls and neighbouring buildings, intended to become the gateway to Europe, are still known as the largest built entities worldwide, and was described by British architect Sir Norman Foster as "the mother of all airports".

Berlin Zoo

The largest range of species in the world. The zoo lies directly in the heart of the City West (opposite Bahnhof Zoo at Hardenbergplatz) and is especially famous for its panda bears and Knut, the polar bear cub born in captivity in late 2006. The Elephant Gate (Budapester Straße) is the second entrance next to the Aquarium and a traditional photo stop for most visitors because of the architecture.

Aquarium

Part of the Berlin Zoo, located at Budapester Straße in an historic building. Still the largest aquarium in Germany and a host to an amazing variety of fishes, crocodiles etc. One of the best places on a rainy day with children.

Tierpark Berlin

Located in Friedrichsfelde, the Tierpark is more spacious than the historic Berlin Zoo and has been open for some 50 years. The compound also comprises a small château with its adjacent park.

Hamburg — Germany's second-largest city, famous for its harbour as well as its liberal and tolerant culture. Don't miss the Reeperbahn with its night clubs and casinos. Hamburg is also popular for its many musicals.

The Hamburg Dungeon

The Hamburg Dungeon is a live-action presentation of the "darker times" of Hamburg. It is probably mostly suited for a younger, easily impressed audience. But it might not be suitable for young children.

The Miniatur Wunderland

The world's largest model railway layout. The panoramas include parts of Hamburg, the Alps, the American west, and a Scandinavian exhibit which features automated ships on a body of water. It is in the Speicherstadt close to the Hamburg Dungeon.

Behind the Speicherstadt is the area of Hamburg's HafenCity. It is Europe's largest project of city development, creating a whole new quarter from scratch in a former harbor region. The Kesselhaus also houses an exhibition (Am Sandtorkai 30, in the Speicherstadt, Open Tu-Su 10AM-6PM, free admission.

The Hamburg Cruise Center

Where cruise lines land in Hamburg, is in the HafenCity. Its terminal building is constructed out of 40 sea containers. Nearby, directly at the river Elbe, you find an orange observation tower called HafenCity View Point, allowing nice views on the HafenCity, the harbor, and the river (free admission).

Alter Botanischer Garten with Tropenhaus

Planten un Blomen

A park in the city with an emphasis on flower displays. Subway station Dammtor.

Ohlsdorfer Friedhof

One of the world's biggest graveyards.

The Stadtpark (city park)

Has a pretty good Planetarium situated in an old water tower in the middle of the park.

Alstervorland

At the Außenalster.

Jenischpark

Baurs Park, and Garten der Alma l'Aigles, down the river Elbe close to Teufelsbrück.

Neuer Botanischer Garten

Hagenbecks Tierpark

Hamburg's Zoo

Altonaer Museum

Dedicated to Altona's, Hamburg's and northern Germany's cultural history.

BallinStadt Auswanderwelt Hamburg (BallinStadt — History of Emigraton)

Veddeler Bogen 2. Originally built in 1892 under the guidance of Albert Ballin, the complex was built to provide medical care and accommodation to immigrants, who were emigrating to the United States on HAPAG ships. The complex was converted into a museum, though, it's original design and layout is not the same because parts of the complex were destroyed. The museum is dedicated to the five million persons who emigrated via Hamburg.

Deichtorhallen

The Deichtorhallen is one of the best known exhibition galleries worldwide. The historical buildings are divided into an exhibition hall for contemporary art and the "House of Photography". Together the two buildings organize a highly diverse program of changing exhibitions.

Deutsches Zollmuseum

(admission free).

Kunsthalle

Kunsthalle Glockengießerwall near Hauptbahnhof. Open Tu-Su 10AM-6PM, Th 10AM-9PM. The museum houses an important collection of paintings from the 19th century with works from Max Liebermann, Lovis Corinth, Philipp Otto Runge, Caspar David Friedrich, Adolf Menzel, and modern arts. It rises on both sides of a paved court. The Baroque building on one side has the older works. The areas under the courtyard and the other, modern looking building house an extensive collection of very modern art. There are some extremely fine pieces, but the quality is uneven and the curacy curious at times. For instance, in a far back corner with minimal climate control and no observation are four or five gorgeous French Impressionist paintings which are among the finest in the museum.

Museumshafen Övelgönne

(admission free).

Museum für Kommunikation

Gorch-Fock-Wall 1, near Stephansplatz (U1). Open Tu-Fr 9:00-17:00, Sa, Su, Public holidays 10:00-18:00, Closed 24., 25., 31. Dec. and 1. Jan., Adults 3,50 €, Concessions 2 €, Children under 18 admission free. The museum exhibits the history of 400 years of communication.

Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe

Glockengießerwall, just to the southeast of Hauptbahnhof, Open Tu-Su, 10AM-6PM, Th 10AM-9PM, €5. The museum is a leading centre for art, applied art, and design. Its collections of work from Europe and the Middle and the Far East are of the finest-quality and span all epochs from the Ancient World to the present day. They also have many activities and concerts (see the Classical Music section). The museum is housed in an 18th century palace, which has the original roofs and ceilings.

Hamburg-Museum (former: Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte)

Holstenwall, close to Underground station "St. Pauli". This is the museum of city history, bringing the past to life with a lot of models showing the development of the harbour and the city. The club "MEHEV" is showing a 40-year old and one of the largest scale-1 model railroads here.

Museum für Völkerkunde

Rothenbaumchaussee, Museum of Ethnology.

Spicey's Gewürzmuseum (Spice Museum)

Located in the Speicherstadt. They claim to be the world's only spice museum. Entrance is €3.

Synagoge Hamburg

Situated in the traditionally Jewish Grindel neighbourhood.

Christianskirche

Baroque church in Ottensen.

Dreieinigkeitskirche St. Georg

Baroque church in Sankt Georg.

St.-Marien-Dom St. Georg

Since 1995, this neo-romanesque church is the cathedral of the youngest Roman Catholic archbishop of Germany. Though the church has not the splendor one might expect, next to it you may find the first statue world wide of the late pope, John-Paul II.

Flussschifferkirche

Germany's only floating church in Rothenburgsort

Imam-Ali-Mosque

Biggest of all mosques in Hamburg. Centre of the religious and cultural life of the huge Iranian community. The Imams of Hamburg happen to have played important roles in Iran's religious and political everyday life since their installation in the 1950s.

Munich (München) — Bavaria's beautiful capital city and Southern Germany's primate city. Third largest city in Germany, Munich is the site of the famous Oktoberfest and the gateway to the Alps.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

An incredible and sobering experience, this is a worthwhile excursion. Not recommended for small children. Tours depart from Munich; the memorial has audio guides and guided tours as well. See the listing at Dachau.

Deutsches Museum

Located in Haidhausen. The Deutsches Museum is quite probably the largest technical museums in the world. It has a hands-on, interactive section for natural science, engineering, construction, etc. as well as an impressive collection of full-scale aerospace vehicles. Plan lots of time if you want to try and see everything. There is also a major transportation exhibition branch located near Theresienhöhe (above the Oktoberfest grounds).

Pinakotheken

The Alte Pinakothek features 15-18th century religious paintings, the Neue Pinakothek 19-20th century Impressionist and Expressionist art and the Pinakothek der Moderne has 20th century paintings, modern art, design and architecture sections.

Statue of the Bavaria

Theresienhöhe 16 (U4 or U5 to Theresienwiese). A nearly 20 m high statue, standing on the west border of Theriesienwiese next to the Hall of Fame. There is a small viewing platform inside her head. €3.00/€2.00.

Glyptothek

Antique Grecian sculpture collection housed in an impressive classical Greek building. Certainly worth a visit in the center of the museum district.

National Museum of Egyptian Art

In the Royal Residence.

National Bavarian Museum

One of the most important cultural history museums in Europe, housing a large collection of European artifacts from the Middle Ages until early 20th century. There's a wide range of important antiques here, from medieval armor to pottery, from furniture to porcelain, and seasonally displaying the world's largest collection of nativity scene sets.

Die Neue Sammlung (Museum of Applied Arts)

Founded in 1925, this design museum displays around 70,000 objects in the world's largest permanent collection on design.

German Theatre Museum

Founded around 100 years old, the German Theatre Museum is full of memorabilia and offers an insight into the development of German Theatre.

City Museum of Munich

Offers a fascinating insight into the diverse history of Munich. Houses eye-opening displays of war torn Munich as well as an excellent musical instruments museum and puppetry museum (both of which stand as exemplary collections on their own!). Seasonal exhibitions are also usually worthwhile.

Jewish Museum

Newly opened museum at St. Jakobsplatz with one permanent exhibition which illuminates aspects of Jewish history and culture in Munich, and a range of changing exhibitions.

Villa Stuck

A collection of Jugendstil art primarily by Franz von Stuck. Interesting seasonal exhibitions as well, all located in a well maintained historical mansion once owned by the artist including period furniture.

Schack Gallery

A private collection of 19th Century art.

Lenbach House

A gallery exhibiting numerous works of the Blauer Reiter school of German expressionist art (Kandinsky, Macke, Mark). Highly recommended.

Haus der Kunst

An exhibition hall that flaunts its National Socialist architectural design, presents ever-changing graphic arts exhibitions.

Museum Brandhorst

Most recent addition to Munich's museum district; a collection of modern and contemporary art (paintings, sculptures and installations) by Udo and Anette Brandhorst.

The BMW Museum

For a BMW enthusiast, this museum is a must see on your itinerary.

The Treasury in the Munich Residenz

A stunning collection of Bavarian Royal jewels, furniture and art.

Englischer Garten

Located in Schwabing. Entry is free, and it is a wonderful place to relax. Munich's second-biggest beer garden is located here and it is a nice place to stay and talk to the locals. Just drive to "Münchner Freiheit" or "Ostbahnhof" by S- or U-Bahn and take bus number 54 to "Chinesischer Turm".

Riemer Park

Riemer Park was built from the area of the 2005 German Garden Festival (BuGa 2005). This huge park with a lake remains a top recreation spot. On a hot day take U2 to Messestadt West and don't forget your swimsuit!

Hirschgarten

Located in Neuhausen— Enjoy a drink amongst deer at Munich's biggest beer garden. With a capacity for over 8000, you only need to find out who is buying the drinks!

Tierpark Hellabrunn

Tierpark Hellabrunn (The Munich Zoo) is in Thalkirchen— Even if you're not a zoo enthusiast, there is plenty to keep you interested at one of the world's largest zoos. See animals roaming in their natural habitats, take the little ones to the childrens zoo, and look up above in the large aviary. You can visit the zoo daily 8AM to 6PM (in winter 9AM-5PM); admission is 9€ ($11) for adults, 6€ ($7.20) for students and seniors, 4.50€ ($5.40) for children ages 4 to 14, and free for children 3 and under. To reach the park, you can take bus no. 52, leaving the Marienplatz, or U-Bahn U3 to Thalkirchen. (Zoo website)

Schloss Nymphenburg

Schloss Nymphenburg is in Neuhausen & Nymphenburg. Baroque palace that was the summer residence of the rulers of Bavaria. Also the 8,000-seat Hirschgarten beer garden is just around the corner.

Residenz

Residenz is in the City Center, near to Marienplatz. Built in 1385, the Residenz was originally a small moated castle, and was gradually expanded by the Wittelsbach rulers who used it until 1918 as their residence and seat of government.

Schloss Schleißheim

Not really in Munich, but you can take the S1 S-Bahn to Oberschleißheim to get there. A jewel of Baroque architechture. Built during the reign of Elector Max Emanuel, it was intended as a Royal residence, though the Elector himself was forced into exile and never lived here. Building work begun in 1701 by Zuccalli and continued between 1719-26 by Joseph Effner the Younger. French architectural features are evident in the facade and the most impressive rooms are the Große Saal, the Viktoriensaal and the Große Galerie. Worth noting is a terrific 980-seat beer garden, Schlosswirtschaft Oberschleissheim, literally on the palace grounds.

Schloss Dachau

Also not in Munich. You might visit Dachau on your excursion to the concentration camp memorial anyway. Don't miss the opportunity to also check out the historic city center and the castle overlooking the area, with a nice view of Munich from the distance, and a small but beautiful flower garden. The people of Dachau will be grateful if you'll remember their town not only for the concentration camp that Hitler had built here.

Cologne (Köln) — Germany's fourth-largest city. Cologne was founded by the Romans and is 2000 years old with its huge cathedral, Romanesque churches, and archaeological sites. Cologne also well known for its carnival and its Christopher-Street-Day parade. Don't forget to try the local cuisine and of course the local beer, called "Kölsch".

Kölner Dom

 (U-Bahn: Dom / Hbf). Monday - Sunday: 6.00 - 19.30. Protected by UNESCO, Cologne's Dom is the first sight you will notice when taking the main exit from the central station. (If you don't see it, you've taken the back exit.) If you are in good shape, take the 509 stairs to the top of the south tower. It takes about an hour, so wear comfortable shoes, but it's worth the hike. Touring the Cathedral is forbidden during Mass. Entry into the cathedral is free but you will be asked for a donation. Admission to the tower costs (regular/reduced): €2.50/€1.50. Admission to the treasury costs (regular/reduced): €4/€2, however, a combined ticket granting you admission to the treasury and tower can be purchased for (regular/reduced): €5/€2.50.

Die Kölner Synagoge

Roonstraße 50 (U-Bahn: Zülpicher Platz). The synagogue is notable for its architecture that looks, well, right out of Gotham City. In August of 2005 Pope Benedict XVI visited the synagogue, becoming the second pope to ever visit a synagogue.

Veedel

City Quarters. Cologne is well known for its "Veedel" or traditional neighborhoods. Here, most notably in the bohemian Agnesviertel, you can find independent designers, bookshops, bars, and art galleries. There are also historical monuments, such as the North City Gate or Eigelsteintorburg in the Agnesviertel, very near to Fort X, built to protect the city from French attacks, and Agneskirche, a late neo-gothic church on the boulevardesque Neusserstrasse. Neusserstrasse also has a yoga school, an Aikido school, a great japanese restaurant, a well-stocked bookshop, and a range of pubs. Nearby you will find the Alte Feuerwache, where there are regular exhibitions on political topics and a surreal flea market every four weeks in summer. Opposite Alte Feuerwache is the Artclub, with regular exhibitions of contemporary art, and on Ebertplatz there is a cinema (Metropolis) which shows English language films in the original. On nearby Lübeckerstrasse, you will find the uncompromisingly Arty Filmpalette cinema. To round off a trip to the Agnesviertel, you might like a kölsch in the Lapidarium (right beside the North City Gate) or a coffee in Cafe Schmitz, Cologne's grooviest poser hangout (they also do a great breakfast.) All of these great places are within a short walk of Ebertplatz U-Bahn. Other "Veedel" include Ehrenfeld, Nippes, and the historical Südstadt.<see name="Agnesviertel, Ehrenfeld, Südstadt" directions="U-Bahn: Ebertplatz (Agnesviertel) Körnerstrasse (Ehrenfeld) Chlodwigplatz (Südstadt)"

12 Romanesque Churches

St. Kunibert (with wonderful stained glass windows), St. Severin, St. Maria Lyskirchen, St. Andreas, St. Aposteln, St. Gereon, St. Ursula, St. Pantaleon, St. Maria im Kapitol, Groß-St. Martin, St. Georg and St. Cäcilien

Parks

Cologne has 2 park areas (Grüngürtel) encircling the city (immediately outside the medieval city limits) and nearly the entire town, respectively, which were set aside as public recreation areas after World War I. The inner Grüngürtel is probably more easy to reach for tourists who only stay a few days. Most notably are Volksgarten, Hiroshima-Nagasaki- (colloquially known as Aachener-Weiher-) and Stadtgarten parks where thousands of people come together to enjoy the sun, play and barbecue when the weather is fine. All these parks have an associated beer garden. Be aware to dispose any packaging, charcoal etc into the wastebins (which are unfortunately few and far between), as the city has begun to employ anti-littering patrols that will levy a stiff fine on anyone seen littering. Metro: Eifelplatz for Volksgarten, Universitätsstraße for Hiroshima-Nagasaki-Park, Hans-Böckler-Platz/Bahnhof West for Stadtgarten.

Museum Ludwig

Bischofsgartenstraße 1 (U-Bahn: Dom/Hbf). A museum of modern art, near central station and the Dom hosts a worthy regular exhibition, as well as temporary exhibitions.

Museum für Angewandte Kunst

An der Rechtschule (U-Bahn: Dom/Hauptbahnhof). Tuesday - Sunday: 11PM – 5PM. Museum für Angewandte Kunst has a collection of popular design items, as well as temporary exhibitions. Admission: Regular: € 4.20, Reduced: € 2.60.

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Martinstraße 39 (U-Bahn: Dom/Hauptbahnhof plus 10 minutes walk, Tram Heumarkt, Bus Rathaus or Gürzenich). Thu 10PM - 8PM, Wed-Fri 10PM - 6PM, Sat-Sun 11PM - 6 p.pm.. The Wallraf-Richartz Museum is an art gallery with a collection of fine art from the medieval period to the early twentieth century. Admission: (permanent collection and special exhibition) € 9,-/reduced € 6,-. 

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Roncalliplatz 4 (Adjacent to the Cathedral's right side from its main facade.). Tuesday - Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM. Römisch-Germanisches Museum explores the history of Roman history in Cologne and the surrounding area. The museum's tour guides are exceptionally dull and can make any visit seem like it lasted just as long as the Roman empire. If you can, wander around the museum by yourself. Admission: €6.45 or €7.45 including admission to the praetorium (an excavation of various buildings).

Rautenstrauch-Joest-Museum für Völkerkunde

Ubierring 45 (U-Bahn: Ubierring). Tuesday to Friday: 10PM – 4PM Saturday and Sunday: 11PM – 4PM. North Rhine-Westphalia's only ethnological museum, it has a fine collection of Amerindian and Australian-Polynesian artifacts. Admission (including temporary exhibits): Regular: €4, Reduced: €3.

Kolumba

An architectural wonder and a feast for the senses; this museum, built in concordance with the ancient foundations of the shrine of mary in the rubble contains a selection of historical and contemporary religious art. Worth visiting just to explore the spiritually inspiring spaces and the beautiful walkway through the ruins of the past .

Schokoladenmuseum Köln GmbH

Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a, D-50678 Cologne, [26]. Opening hours: Tues. to Fri. 10PM to 6PM Sat., Sun., holidays* 11PM to 7PM closed on Mondays (* see visitors' information) Last admittance one hour before closing. Chocolate Museum in Cologne. It's a short visit but very interesting exhibits.

Dresden - Once called 'Florence on the Elbe', and world-famous for its Frauenkirche and historic center which was destroyed during the war, the city offers more than what the average traveller can expect: Great festivals, all kinds of cultural entertainment, vibrant night life, and surrounded by beautiful natural vistas. Dresden hosts the Staatlichen Kunstsammlungen Dresden (Dresden State Art Collections) which is one of the world's most impressive museums and collections. The art collections consist of eleven museums, of which the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister and the Grünes Gewölbe are the most well-known.

Zwinger Palace

The baroque palace features a nympheum, many sculptures of Permoser, a bell pavilion and famous art collections. Do not miss the "Alte Meister" - you'll find the famous Madonna Sistina of Rafael there including the well known angels. There is also a very nice museum on the arms of Saxon kings, the "Rüstkammer". Entry is free to the palace but some collections like the porcelain exhibition have an entry fee.

Semperoper

The building is well worth visiting, as it is one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world. The acoustics and the orchestra, the Staatskapelle, are marvelous. Its history saw many operas of Wagner and Strauss having their first nights there. Nowadays productions are of lower quality and follow the German "Regietheater" fashion. Make sure to inquire about the production in advance, or you might have unpleasant surprises. Make sure to also book tickets in advance. Some last-minute tickets are available from the box office shortly before the performance starts. Seats which do not have a good view are very cheap, and you can sit on benches behind the seats, right at the top of the auditorium, for free. When there is no rehearsal or performance, the opera offers an interesting tour behind the scenes (7 euro, 3.50 euro reduced and a 2 euro photography pass, but they don't check if you have it).

Frauenkirche

The reconstructed Church of Our Lady was completely destroyed during WWII, and has now been reopened. The City of Coventry, which was raided by the Luftwaffe in WWII, donated the golden cross for the dome of the church. Check out some ruins in the basement. Do not miss the tower visit and bring good shoes to climb in (otherwise you will not be admitted in!).

Fürstenzug

This biggest porcelain painting of the world shows (almost) all Saxon princesses and kings on their horses and splendid parade uniforms. It leads to the "Stallhof" - the last preserved tournament place contained in a European castle. This place is in winter the location of a very romantic Christmas market with a big fireplace.

Albertinum Museum

The collections of "Neue Meister" feature a wonderful collection ranging from romantic painters (Caspar David Friedrich etc.) up to Rotloff and Van Gogh.

Gläserne Manufaktur

Lennestr. 1, 01069 Dresden, Mon-Sun 8AM-8PM. The transparent factory is the site where Volkswagen builds its luxury sedan Phaeton. There is a tour (English language) offered by Volkswagen (4 euro, 2 euro reduced).

Schloss und Grünes Gewölbe

The Green Vault is Europe's most splendid treasure chamber museum. You can see the biggest green diamond and the court of Aurengzeb and its precious crown jewels.

Staatliche Kunstsammlungen

This website provides a comprehensive overview of all important museums in Dresden

Kassematten

Kassematten under the Brühlsche Terrasse (the terrace at the Elbe river) are the remains of the old fort. Gives you a glimse of what a fort in a medieval European town was like.

Schwebebahn Dresden

A unique aerial tramway.

Museum of Mineralogy

One of Dresden's most important museums.

Dresden History Museum

Neue Synagoge

Hasenberg 2.

Elbe valley

This used to be on the UNESCO World Heritage List, until the government decided to build a four-lane highway Waldschlösschen Bridge through the heart of it. So now as "the only un-UNESCO'd site in the world" still a tourist attraction.

Dresden Neustadt

Very nice, lively part of the town. From heavy alternative style in the 90s it has become more and more "pseudo-exclusive" and expensive. But still you can still find some of the older ways. Check out the Bunte Republik Neustadt festival in June. But you shouldn't leave your bicycle unattended without a good lock, as there can be a serious risk of damage to your bicycle as well as your car, especially on weekend nights.

Elbwiesen (River Banks)

Go to the (mostly) green river banks, especially in hot summer evenings/nights for a very nice view of the old parts and lot of people playing sports, having barbecues and parties. There are often big concerts and a huge movie screen offers "outdoor cinema."

Großer Garten (Big Garden)

Recommended for relaxing and sports (rollerblades are very common). It is Dresden's "green lung" and can be reached easily by tram. You can also go on a ride on a miniature train through the park.

Kunsthofpassage

It is a passage in the middle of Neustadt where you may find two different buildings, many little stores and some bars.

Erich-Kästner-Museum

Architectural concept museum.

Military Historic Museum

Military Historic Museum Has many items and machines regarding military in history. A must for the interested. Easily accessible with tram lines 7 and 8 and bus line 91 at stop "Stauffenbergallee". It is free of charge.

The Artists' Court

A nice complex of inner courtyards artistically decorated. The complex offers art galleries as well as coffee shops.

Weber Museum

Dedicated to the Dresdner most famous composer.

German Hygene Museum

Near the Big Garden. A comprehensive museum dedicated to hygene in various times and cultures.

Pfunds Molkerei

Pfunds Molkerei is a milk store which is in the Guinness Book as the most beautiful milk store in the world, which is decorated with 247.90 square meters of handmade tiles.

Japanisches Palais

On the north bank of the Elbe between Augusbrücke and Marienbrücke. The palace was bombed out, and in its partially restored state holds several small museums, including the museum of natural history of the region, museum of prehistory and a display of assorted exotic garments (ethnological collection).

Kuegelgenhaus

Museum of Dresdener Romantic Art

Kunsthaus Dresden

An exhibition hall for contemporary art.

Leonhardi Museum

A private art collection of DDR art including works by the collector himself.

City Gallery of Dresden

Art from the 16th Century to the present day.

Dusseldorf (Düsseldorf, Duesseldorf) — Germany's capital of fashion, the capital city of North Rhine-Westphalia offers a wide scale of fascinating new architecture. Right along the shores of river Rhine, the "Altstadt" and the "Medienhafen" are among the best places in Germany to enjoy a vibrant nightlife. Being one of the country's wealthiest cities, the atmosphere is very pleasant. Germans call it "the only metropolis ending with -dorf (German for village)".

Old City, (U-Bahn stop: Heinrich-Heine-Allee)

16-1. The Old City is the place to go for nightlife. It's sometimes called the longest bar in the world because of all the bars and pubs. In the daytime, it's just enjoyable to walk around and get a feel for the area. Some notable buildings: Heinrich Heine's birthplace, the Schlossturm (Castle Tower), St. Andreas Church, Neander Church.

Rhine Promenade

Along the river bordering the Old City, it leads all the way down to the Media Harbor.

Media Harbor

Media Harbor, (Tram stop: Platz des Landtages). has several interesting buildings designed by Frank Gehry, Claude Vasconi, and David Chipperfield.

Rhine Tower

Rhine Tower, (Tram stop: Platz des Landtages). Adults: € 3.50.  editThe 240-meter high Rhine Tower is right on the Rhine river, near the Media Harbor. It offers a 360-degree view from the restaurant, at 172 m. The restaurant is overpriced, but it is worth a trip for the amazing view.

Night of Museums

Once a year, like in many other German cities, a Night of Museums is organized by the City of Dusseldorf and the consulting firm Ernst & Young.

The annual Christmas market, which centres around the Altstadt.

Benrath Palace and Park, (Tram stop: Schloss Benrath, S-Bahn stop: Benrath S)

The Corps de Logis is the central building of the three-wing maison de plaisance, which was erected for the Palatine Elector Carl Theodor by his garden and building director Nicolas de Pigage. Construction was completed in 1770 - it is a complete work of art that unites architecture and nature in one overlapping concept, and is rated as one of the most beautiful palaces of the rococo epoch. The park beside the Palace is enormous, nearly 62.000 square meters.

Frankfurt — Germany's leading financial center, transportation hub, seat of the European Central Bank (ECB), international trade fair center (Book Fair, Motor Show), hub of multicultural activity (30% Immigrants), and site of numerous world-class museums and theaters. It is also Germany's only city with enough skyscrapers to have a skyline.

Architektur Museum (German Architecture Museum)

Schaumainkai 43. The Architecture Museum displays various types of exhibits about buildings and architecture. Their tagline is "From Primordial Hut to Skyscraper". There's also a small cafe in the DAM. Mon closed, Tu, Th-Su 10AM-5PM, We 10AM-8PM. €6.00 for adults.

Deutsches Filmmuseum (German Film Museum)

Schaumainkai 41. The German Movie Museum displays—as the name implies—the art and history of film making. Mon closed, Tu,Th,F,Su 10AM-5PM, We+Sa 10AM-8PM. €4.00 for adults, €1.50 for children.

Städel-Museum

Dürerstrasse. Fully named the "Staedelsches Kunstinstitut" (named after Johann Friedrich Staedel), the museum displays various works of arts, both modern and old. There are also varying exhibitions at any time. Behind the museum is the Städelschule, an art school with a cheap cafeteria. Mon closed, Tue, Fri, Sun 10AM - 5PM, Wed + Thu 10AM - 9PM. €8.00 for adults; students € 5.00; children under 12 free.

Museum Giersch (Museum of Regional Historic Art and Culture)

Schaumainkai 83. The broad exhibition range covers all types of art – painting, photography, sculpture, graphic art, architecture and applied arts. Usually the exibitions focus on artist that have some sort of connection to Frankfurt or the Frankfurt region. It presents works on loan from public and private owners, which are often stored in depots or private collections and therefore not otherwise accessible to the general public. There are also varying exhibitions at any time. Public guided tours for groups such as pupils or adults by arrangement. Tu-Fr 12-7PM, Sa + Su 11AM-5PM, Monday closed €4.00 for adults, €2.00 for children.

Museum für Angewandte Kunst (Museum of Applied Arts)

The museum for applied arts and design hosts just that in a beautiful Richard Meier designed building. The small park around it is a popular hangout in summer and there is a small posh restaurant on the ground floor.

Liebieghaus (Liebieg House)

Schaumainkai 71. Large collection of sculptures and statues from all over the world. Very nice cafe in the garden. Mon closed, Tue, Thu-Sun 10 AM - 5 PM, Wed 10 AM - 8 PM.

Museum der Weltkulturen (Museum of World Cultures)

Museum für Kommunikation (Museum of Communication)

Schaumainkai 53. Formerly known as the postal museum, it explains the history of communication with a strong focus on postal services and telecommunication. A lot of old telegraphs, phones, fax mashines etc. can be tried out so it is fun for not too young kids. Don't miss the small but impressive art collection, hosting works with communication themes from the early 19th century up until today. Mon closed, Tue - Fri 9 AM - 5 PM; Sat-Sun 11 AM - 7 PM. € 2 for adults; € 1 for children.

Jüdisches Museum (Jewish Museum)

Untermainkai 14/15. This is not on the actual Museumsufer but on the other (north) bank of the river. - The Jewish community in Frankfurt can look back on over 850 years of history in Frankfurt and is the second oldest community in Germany. The well funded museum in the old Rothschild (they originate from Frankfurt) palais pays reference to this history with a strong focus on the holocaust. Mon closed, Tue-Sun 10 AM - 5 PM, Wed 10 AM - 8 PM. Adults 2.60 Eur, children 1.30 Eur. NB.

Museum Judengasse

Museum Judengasse is part of the Jewish Museum, but at a differing address (not anywhere near the Museumsufer), Kurt Schumacher-Straße 10. Here are exhibited the foundations from the Jewish Ghetto dating back to 1462, as well as information about life as a Jewish person in this ghetto during the Middle Ages. Info is in English & German. Outside of this museum is the "Holocaust Memorial Wall" with over 11,000 names of Frankfurts' murdered Jewish citizens on it. It surrounds the medieval Jewish cemetery dating back to 1272. There is another outpost of the Jewish museum near by, which hosts exibitions on a regular basis. It is housed in a 4 story world war II overground bunker. Mon closed, Tue-Sun 10 AM - 5 PM, Wed 10 AM - 8 PM. Adults 2.0 Eur.

Naturmuseum Senckenberg (Nature Museum Seckenberg)

Senckenberganlage 25.  Mo-Tu and Th-Fr 9AM-5PM, Wed 9AM-8PM, Sa-Su 9AM-6PM. Commonly just called Senckenberg museum it is one of the most famous museums of Frankfurt. The Senckenberg has various exhibits on natural history; plants, animals, minerals, and so on; the biggest attraction are the dinosaur skeletons and the collection of preserved animals that were hunted and stuffed in a less enlightened age. Highly recommended for anybody interested in the subject. Also suitable for children, who can touch some of the exhibit (like replicas of Dinosaur skeletons). To get to the museum, take the tram or subway to Bockenheimer Warte, then walk. There are no parking spaces available at the museum. €5.00 for adults, € 1.50 for children.

Museum für Moderne Kunst (Museum of Modern Art)

Domstraße 10. Mon closed; Tue, Thu-Sun 10AM-5PM, Wed 10AM-8PM. € 6.00 for adults, € 3.00 for children. Has an associated restaurant Triangolo.

Deutsches Ledermuseum (German Leather Museum)

The leather museum is actually in Offenbach.

Geldmuseum der Deutschen Bundesbank (Money Museum of the German National Bank)

A museum about money and its history.

Archäologisches Museum (Archaeological Museum)

Kunsthalle Schirn

A museum specializing in contemporary art. It's located just off the Römerplatz. There are two exhibition spaces that rotate every month or two.

Portikus

Portikus exhibition hall located in the Leinwandhaus building, Weckmarkt 17 (Subway statiom Römer). M closed, Tue-Sun 11 AM - 6 PM, Wed 11 AM - 8 PM, also closed when there is no current exhibition and on some public holidays. Admission free.

Bibelhaus

Dommuseum

Fotografie Forum international

Frankfurter Apfelweinmuseum (part of the Historisches Museum)

Frankfurter Kunstverein

Frankfurter Kunstverein features varying contemporary art exhibitions

Goethehaus und Goethemuseum

Located in the birthplace of Germany's most famous author.

Haus der Stadtgeschichte

Heinrich-Hoffmann-Museum

Ikonen Museum

Historisches Museum

Institut für Stadtgeschichte

Kommunale Galerie im Leinwandhaus

Klingspor-Museum

Stoltzemuseum im Stoltzeturm

Struwwelpeter-Museum

Struwwelpeter-Museum In the same building as the Schirn Kunsthalle (see above). This small museum specializes in the famous children's story.

Lange Nacht der Museen (Long Night of Museums)

One night a year (in the End of April), most Frankfurt museums are open to the public until the early morning of the next day. Special bus lines will take visitors from one to the next. Various special events are organized; for example dances, music performances, special exhibits, games, and so on. It is very crowded but also highly recommended; be prepared for very long lines. Buy a ticket in advance so you do not have to waste time during the night of the event on this, and do not forget to pick up a schedule of the events and map of the bus routes. Similar events are organized in other German cities as well.

For a view of the skyline try the Main river bridges. The eastern bridges offer the best view. Also, when you approach the city from the airport via the subway, stay to the right side of the train. Just before the train approaches the Frankfurt central station it enters a big curve, and from here you will have a nice first glance of the skyline.

Take a walk from Schweizer Platz northwards for another good view of the skyscrapers.

The Main Tower

 (Subway station Willy-Brandt-Platz or S-Bahn-station Taunusanlage) building is special as it is the only Frankfurt high-rise that is open to the public. For 5.00 Euro, you can take the elevator to the viewing platform at a height of 200 meters. From here, you will have a good view of Frankfurt and the surrounding area. Make sure to go on a clear day, and if you're in Frankfurt in Fall or Spring you might wish to try to go up a short while before sunset. That way, you can witness how the city changes from day to nightlife. The Main Tower is something that you should not miss during your stay. The viewing platform will be closed during severe weather.

The European Central Bank

The European Central Bank in downtown Frankfurt (Subway station Willy-Brandt-Platz) - easily recognized by its hexagonal layout and the big neon color € statue in front of the entrance - might be of some special interest as this is the seat of European financial power and decisions. It's not open to the public, although a small gift shop downstairs will sell you all the Euro-related memorabilia you want.

Römerberg

Römerberg is a central, old place in downtown Frankfurt. It features various buildings and a church from the 14th and 15th century (in theory; the buildings were mostly destroyed during World War II but completely rebuilt afterwards). The Römer itself is the town hall of Frankfurt. Cafés and shops can be found at the square itself and in the vicinity. A definite tourist attraction. Within walking distance of the Zeil shopping area and the Main river, it is located just north of the Eiserner Steg bridge.

Zoo

Alfred-Brehm-Platz 16 (take subway U6 or U7, get off a Zoo station). Winter: Daily 9AM - 5PM, Summer: Daily 9AM - 7PM. €8 adults, €4 children.

Palmengarten

Palmengarten ("palm garden") botanic gardens. Siesmayerstraße 61 (Entrance Palmengartenstraße: subway U4, U6, U7 Station Bockenheimer Warte; Entrance Siesmayerstraße: U6, U7 Station Westend). Nov-Jan: Daily 9AM-4PM; Feb-Oct: Daily 9AM-6PM. The Palmengarten is Frankfurt's botanic garden. There are special exhibitions and events throughout the much of the year. €5 adults, €2 children. Prices during special events & exhibitions: €7 adults, €2.50 children. (German language part of the website has a lot more information than the English part)

Grüneburgpark

Grüneburgpark This is Frankfurt's largest public park. Even though there are many parks in Frankfurt, the Grüneburgpark is probably the most liked. Located close to two campuses of the university, many young people meet there, and many business people jog there after work.

Frankfurt Airport

Frankfurt Airport has a public viewing platform. Bus tours of the airport are available. Take S8/S9 direction Wiesbaden.

Turmpalast

The Turmpalast (Kino am Turm) shows movies in English.

The Eiserner Steg (Iron bridge)

Relatively well-known bridge for pedestrians, built in 1869. Good view of the skyline.

Ebbelwei Express

The RMV offers a tour of the city in the so-called Ebbelwei Express, a special tram that offers music, apple wine, and pretzels. Probably very stereotypical and more suited for people who do not mind "tacky" tourist traps.

About once a month, an old steam engine train rides along tracks on the northern riverbank of the Main. Prices vary, starting at €4 for an adult.

Alte Oper (Old Opera)

Renaissance Opera Building in the center of the city (take U6 or U7 station Alte Oper, or any line to Hauptwache and walk a few minutes); a busy square with fountains can be found in front of it. Originally opened in 1880, it is not used for operas any more since the rebuilding after the war, but for concerts, congresses, and similar "fancy" events.

Oper Frankfurt (Opera)

This modern building is where to go to see an opera performance. State subsidized performances make this a relatively affordable place to see high quality productions

Paulskirche

Paulskirche (St. Paul's Church) was the seat of the first democratically elected parliament in Germany in 1848. It is located directly next to the Römer.

There are a number of trade fairs held in Frankfurt every year. From the central station take S-Bahn lines S3, S4, S5 or S6 on platform 104 (underground) to station Messe or subway lines U4/U5 to station Messe/Torhaus; trains to the trade fairs will be announced in English.

Bornheim

A nice residential quarter with a lively market and beautiful medieval houses which survived the war intact (unlike the city centre). The most important and lively street is the Berger Straße, which runs from downtown all the way to the oldest parts of Bornheim. The more central downtown part of the Berger Straße (actually in the Nordend district) features a variety of small and often trendy little stores, cafés, and restaurants, whereas the older parts of Bornheim are famous for its historic Ebbelwoi (a local cider) taverns.

Bremen - One of the most important cities in northern Germany, its old town will be of interest to travellers who want a slice of history.

Rathaus (Town Hall)

This is one of the finest in Europe and as such has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Building work started in 1410 and it is seen as an important display of the wealth and freedom of the city. Tours of the interior are conducted by the Tourist information office at 11AM, noon, 3PM and 4PM

Dom St Petri

Dom St Petri (Cathedral of St Peter) is over 1200 years old, and its huge towered façade dominates the main square. the interior is impressive with some fine painted details on the ceilings. There is a treasury displaying the collection of the cathedral. Entrance is free, for €1 you can climb the Southern Tower offering nice views over the whole city

Roland

This statue on the main square is of the Knight Roland who was a protector of trade. It appears in many European cities especially those involved in the Hanseatic league. Bremen's is considered one of the finest and is included with Town Hall on the World Heritage List.

Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten

Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten (Town Musicians of Bremen) perhaps the most well known figures associated with Bremen are the characters from the Brothers Grimm Fairy Tale, their image adorns many of the souvenirs in the city. Next to the Town Hall is a much photographed statue of them.

Böttcherstrasse

The incredible Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) street that runs from the main square towards the river. There are many fine façades and courtyards all with large amounts of design detail. There is an impressive Glockenspiel that chimes at regular intervals. There are lots of shops and several Museums, including the impressive Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum. Haus Atlantis (now the Hilton) has an impressive spiral staircase just inside, at the top of which is the staggering Himmelshaal (unfortunately it is not normally open to the public).

Am Wall

A lovely park next to the former defensive moat which offers a nice place to sit and relax.

Schnoor

This area of twisting lanes is a lovely place to wander aimlessly looking at in the many shops and also at the world smallest hotel (see Sleep)

Nuremberg (Nürnberg) — Second largest city in Bavaria, after WW2 over 90% of the old-town was destroyed. Today it has already been reconstructed, including the Gothic Kaiserburg Castle (Emperor's Castle of the Holy Roman Empire of German Nation). You can also visit the Nazi party rally grounds, the Documentation Centre and Courtroom 600 - venue of the Nuremberg Trails.

Castle

The castle dominates the north-western corner of Nuremberg's old town. In the west (on the right, when coming from the city) the castle starts with Luginsland tower. Between it and the five-cornered tower is the Kaiserstallung. It was built in 1495 in only one year and served originally as a storehouse for grain. Today it is used as a youth hostel. The five-cornered tower was constructed before 1050 and is the oldest building of the castle and city. Further east are the entry to the castle garden and the castle gate. Through the castle gate one gets to the Freiung, where you can enjoy one of the best views of the old town. If you want to look further you can climb the round tower (Sinwellturm) in the first court of the castle. There you also find the deep well (Tiefer Brunnen). In the main court is the Kemenate on the right and the Palas on the left side. The Palas houses the castle museum, further rooms including the two-storey chapel can be seen on a guided tour. (Note: The guided tour offered by the Castle is only in German. However, another company offers English and other language tours of the town and castle for € 8-10. Information is available inside the Tourist Information Center in the Market Square, where the tour starts). € 6 (''Museum, guided tour, Sinwellturm and Tiefer Brunnen. Outside areas free.'').

City Walls

Originally Nuremberg's city wall had a length of five kilometers and five gates: Laufer, Spittler-, Frauen-, Neu- und Tiergärtner Tor. From the 13th to the 16th century the wall was continuously strengthened and is one of the reasons why the city withstood all attacks during this time. Nearly four kilometers of the wall are still standing. Only on the east side between the main station and Rathenauplatz are large gaps. The city moat, which was never filled with water, still exists in its full wide for about two kilometers. Between Färbertor and Spittlertor (Plärrer) you should avoid the inner side of the wall, as it runs along Nuremberg's red light district.

Castle Quarter (Burgviertel)

Numerous old buildings here survived the war. The street Fuell with its sand stone houses is a typical merchant's street. The craftsmen lived in timber-framed houses, many of which have been restored in Weissgerbergasse. More timber-framed houses can be seen in Obere and Untere Kraemersgasse. In Untere Kraemersgasse 16 you can often look into the tiny courtyard.

St Sebald Church (Sebalduskirche)

Built from the 13th to 15th century. In the center of the church is the grave of the city saint, depicting scenes of his life.

St Lawrence Church (Lorenzkirche)

Built from the 13th to 15th century. Among its many treasures are the Tabernacel by Adam Kraft and the Greeting Angels by Veit Stoss.

Nurembergs Underworld (Nürnberger Felsengänge)

Bergstraße 19. For many hundreds of years, the sandstone bedrock of Nuremberg's castle hill has been riddled with vaulted cellars and "secret" passageways. Rock-Cut Beer Cellars, Casemates, Water Supply Conduits and World War II Art Bunker. The total square footage today known 20.000 m2.

Way of Human Rights (Straße der Menschenrechte)

A monumental outdoor sculpture, opened on October 24, 1993. It is sited on the street between the new and old buildings of the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, connecting Kornmarkt street and the medieval city wall.

Nuremberg Exhibition Centre (Nürnberg Messezentrum)

Messezentrum, D-90471 Nürnberg. The Nürnberg Exhibition Centre is relatively new. The exhibition centre offers over 160,000 m² of display area in twelve halls grouped around the central park.

St. John.

The old suburb west of the old town is best seen on a 30-minute walk from Tiergärtnertor to Hallertor. Still within the walls, the house opposite Dürerhaus is called the house of Pilate. It is the start of the way to St. Johns church, with stations of the cross made by Veit Stoss. Follow this way through the gate, across the main street and turn left. At the next street (Burgschmietstrasse), turn right and follow it until it joins Johannisstrasse which leads us along a few remaining timber-framed houses to St. John's cemetery. Many famous citizen of Nuremberg are buried here. After visiting the cemetery, turn right into Lindengasse, then left into the small alley called Riesenschritt. Here are the entrances to some restored baroque gardens. These small gardens are called Hesperidengaerten. At the lower end of Risenschritt you may wander through the romantic lanes of Gross- and Kleinweidenmuehle. Finally walk through the park along the river back into the city.

Reich Party Rally Grounds (Reichsparteitagsgelände)

Bayernstraße 110 (Tramway #9 (from main station) or #6 (from Plärrer) or bus #36 (from Hauptmarkt) to Doku-Zentrum). Soon after they came to power in 1933 the Nazis designated Nuremberg as place for their annual party rallies. To demonstrate their power they planned a set of gigantic buildings. Only a fraction of these were actually built, including a colossal Congress Hall and the reviewing stand at the Zeppelin field. The actual rally grounds cover a large area, if you want to tour the area plan to spend one or two hours. It is advisable to start with a visit of the Documentation Center (museum in the stadium wall - see Museums below). In regards to the Grosser Strasse, unless you want a long walk there is nothing really interesting to see other than a modern long road. A couple industrial businesses are located along the road, as well as a couple footpaths for wooded trails around the lake.

Zoo (Tiergarten)

Am Tiergarten 30 (Tramway #5 (from main station) to Tiergarten). Every Day, Summer 8AM-7.30PM, Winter 9AM-5PM.. The Nuremberg Tiergarten is one of the most beautiful zoos in europe. Located in a beautiful landscape on the Schmausenbuck Hill in the Nuremberg borough Zerzabelshof (Zabo). The Tiergarten get on the top of media interest, when the polar bear baby Flocke (Snowflake)were born in December 2007. The zoo is set in old quarries in the large forest at the eastern edge of the city. € 6.50, Families €15.

Kraftshof Village Church

Kraftshof (Tramway #9 (from main station) or #4 (from Plärrer) to Thon. Change there to bus #31). In the middle ages only towns had the right to build a wall, villages were unprotected against raiding troops. Therefore many villages built walls around the church yard. Kraftshof is a good example. From Kraftshof it is a 30 minutes stroll to Neunhof.

Neunhof Manor, (Schloss Neunhof)

Neunhofer Hauptstraße (Tramway #9 (from main station) or #4 (from Plärrer) to Thon. Change there to bus #31). Easter-Sept Sa, Su 10AM-5PM (closed in winter). Nuremberg's patricians had numerous manor houses in the surrounding villages. This is a good example, built in the 16th century. Adjoining is a small baroque garden.

Germanisches Nationalmuseum

Kartäusergasse 1. Tu, Th-Su 10AM-6PM, W 10AM-9PM. One of the largest museum of art and crafts in the German-speaking countries. €4 (€5 during major exhibitions. W from 6PM free.).

Transportation Museum (Verkehrsmuseum)

Lessingstraße 6 (Subway #2, stop Opernhaus). Tu-Su 9AM-5PM. This museum contains two collection the DB Museum (museum of the national railway) and the Museum for Communication. The railway museum displays the development of railways in Germany from the beginnings in 1835 to today. It has a collection of historic stock and a large model railroad. Its children's areas makes it a good place to visit for families. The museum for communication displays the history of mail and telecommunications. €3.

New Museum

Klarissenplatz. Tu-Fr 10AM-8PM, Sa/Su 10AM-6PM. Museum showing art and design from 1945 to today. € 3.50 (Sundays free). 

Medieval Dungeons

Rathausplatz 2 (Near the main market square). Medieval prison and torture museum under the city hall, open for guided tour only. €3.

Courtroom 600

Nuremberg Trials, Fürther Straße 110. Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m, Tour Every hour on the hour. During renovation from April 2008 to autumn 2009 closed.. Courtroom 600 can only be visited with a guided tour (supplemented by a short introductory film based on historical footage). The guided tours are in German, English information is also available.

Museums on the municipal ticket

The following museums participate together in a single ticket program; a ticket from any one of these museums (€5 or €2.50 for students) is valid for entry at all other museums on the same day. The website for the museum cooperative provides further information.

Albrecht Dürer's House

Albrecht-Dürer-Straße 39. Every day 10AM-5PM (''Th -8PM, closed M Oct, Nov, Jan-Jun''). The house in which the painter Albrecht Dürer lived and worked from 1509 until 1528. Representative of a wealthy house of that period. Exhibition about life in the house and the way Dürer worked. €5.

Documentation Center at the Reich Party Rally Grounds (Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelände)

Bayernstraße 110 (Tramway #9 (from main station) or #6 (from Plärrer) or bus #36 (from Hauptmarkt) to Doku-Zentrum). Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Last entry 5 p.m.. The Documentation Center is in the north wing of the Congress Hall of Reich Party Rally Grounds. Topics shown in the documentation centre are: How the Nazis rose to power, The organization of the party rallies - how the Nazis fascinated the masses, How the party rallies are connected to the Nazi crimes against minorities and to the world war. The audio guide (included with admission price) is highly recommended for non-German speakers (and Germans as well). €5.

Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum)

Karlstraße 13-15. Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sa,Su 10AM-6PM (every day during Christikindlesmarkt and toy fair). Nuremberg was on of the centres of the German toy industry. The exhibition shows wooden and metal toys, dolls and doll houses, model railways and modern toys. €5.

Fembohaus Citymuseum

Burgstraße 15. Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sa/Su 10AM-6PM. A merchant's house built about 1600. Exhibition about the history of the city. €5.

Museum of Industrial Culture

Äußere Sulzbacher Straße 62 (Tramway #8 from main station, direction Erlenstegen, stop Tafelwerk). Exhibition about the industrial revolution, along a museum street you see how living conditions, social life and technology developed during the 19th century. €5.