Which German city should I visit first?

Berlin, for most travellers — it's the capital, has the richest mix of history, museums and nightlife, the best flight connections, and pairs naturally with Munich to the south.

Berlin or Munich — which is better?

They're complementary, not rivals. Berlin is edgy, affordable and history-rich with world-class nightlife; Munich is traditional, polished and the gateway to the Alps and beer culture. With a week, do both.

The Best Places to Visit in Germany

Germany's headline cities each have a distinct character — the creative, history-laden capital; traditional, Alpine-gateway Bavaria; and the maritime north — and they're linked by fast trains. Here's how they compare and what each is best for.

1Berlin
The reunified capital: WWII and Cold War history, Museum Island, the Brandenburg Gate and legendary nightlife. Affordable, creative and worth three days or more.
2Munich
The capital of Bavaria — beer halls and gardens, Oktoberfest, grand squares and the easiest gateway to the Alps and Neuschwanstein castle. Two to three days.
3Hamburg
Germany's great port city: the Speicherstadt and HafenCity, the Elbphilharmonie, the Alster lakes and the Reeperbahn nightlife strip. Two days.

FAQ

Which German city should I visit first?: Berlin, for most travellers — it's the capital, has the richest mix of history, museums and nightlife, the best flight connections, and pairs naturally with Munich to the south.
Berlin or Munich — which is better?: They're complementary, not rivals. Berlin is edgy, affordable and history-rich with world-class nightlife; Munich is traditional, polished and the gateway to the Alps and beer culture. With a week, do both.

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