Best Monuments in Germany That are Unmissable

A symbol of peace and unity, the Brandenburg Gate symbolizes the reunification of Germany. During the Cold War between East and West Berlin, the structure stood on neutral grounds. The military monument representing both victory and separation is now located at Pariser Platz. The gate is open 24/7. During the day, it's lively, and at night, it looks surreal as it is illuminated. It is centrally located, close to the subway.

Cologne Cathedral, known as Kölner Dom in German, is a renowned Gothic masterpiece situated in the heart of Cologne, Germany. Located adjacent to the main railway station (Köln Hauptbahnhof) and near the Rhine River, it is celebrated for its immense twin spires, each soaring to 157 meters, making it one of the tallest churches globally. A climb of approximately 533 steps to its south tower's viewing platform offers panoramic vistas of Cologne and the Rhine River.

Berlin’s iconic TV Tower is part of the city’s old architecture, just like most other historical attractions in the capital city. It is located in the Alexanderplatz. Standing at 368 meters, it is the tallest building in Berlin and offers unforgettable panoramic views of the entire city, especially at sunset or night. It features an observation deck and a rotating restaurant. The elevator ride to the top is fast and comfortable, but be prepared for ear pressure changes.

Among the natural monuments in Germany, the Bastei Bridge stands out for its dramatic setting in Saxon Switzerland National Park. Originally built in wood and later reconstructed in sandstone in the 19th century, this breathtaking bridge connects towering rock formations above the Elbe River. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Elbe Valley, explore the nearby medieval Felsenburg Neurathen ruins, and hike scenic trails surrounded by striking landscapes.

Easily one of the most photogenic monuments in Germany, Neuschwanstein Castle looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. Commissioned by King Ludwig II in the 19th century, the castle features romantic architecture, frescoed halls, and breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps. It even served as inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Tours of the interior provide a glimpse into royal Bavarian life, and nearby hiking trails offer postcard-worthy perspectives of the structure.

Berlin’s most popular monument, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, is dedicated to the Jewish victims who lost their lives here. It is located in close proximity to other popular tourist spots, Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz. There is a free underground museum showcasing more exhibits on the Holocaust. Free cloakroom and a charged audio guide service are available.

East Side Gallery is a segment of the Berlin Wall that has been converted into an open-air gallery. As illustrated on the wall, artists from all over the world expressed that era's global euphoria through political statements, personal musings and artistic visions. It is located in Berlin-Friedrichshain and features over 100 murals.

Dachau Concentration Camp is a historic site in Dachau. Visitors go to Dachau to learn about the Holocaust, pay their respects, and remember the victims of Nazi persecution during World War II. Approximately 41,500 people died at Dachau due to execution, forced labor, disease, and starvation. Today, the site is a memorial and museum, preserving the memory of those who suffered and died there.

The Reichstag is the seat of the German Parliament, called the Bundestag. Its most striking feature, the glittering glass dome, is accessible by lift for a magnificent 360-degree view of the city. It is located on Platz der Republik. If you want an inside tour, you need to pre-book your visit on their website. Also, you need to bring your passport as proof of ID.

Northwest of the Alstadt, this Nymphenburg palace with its lavish gardens sprawl around 5km. There are a number of attractions worth visiting here - the Nymphenburg Porcelain Manufactory, the Marstall Museum, two concert halls, the Museum of Mankind and Nature, the magnificent garden pavilions and the palace itself.

The Berlin Cathedral is located in the northern side of Spree Island. Situated on Museum Island in the heart of the city, the cathedral is a magnificent example of Neo-Renaissance and Baroque Revival architecture. Visitors can climb around 280 steps to the dome's observation platform for a stunning 360-degree view of Berlin. Lockers for bags and coats are available for €1 or €2.

Overlooking the Danube River, Walhalla is a stunning neoclassical temple modeled after the Parthenon. Built by King Ludwig I in the 19th century, it honors notable Germans through an interior filled with marble busts of artists, scientists, and national heroes. As one of the lesser-known yet equally significant monuments in Germany, it combines scenic beauty with cultural reverence, making it a peaceful and educational stop near Regensburg.

Best Time: May - September