Rothenburg ob der Tauber
For many travelers, Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria looks like THE picture-book town from the Middle Ages. Because the cityscape is characterized by traditional cobblestones and half-timbered houses. The most romantic spot – and one of the most photographed sights in Germany – is the picturesque street corner Plönlein, including the city gate and crooked houses. Don’t miss: a walk on the city wall with its gatehouses, towers and corridors. In addition, museums and exhibitions on the medieval past can be found all over the city, including a crime museum with torture devices.
Tip: There is also a lot to discover from a culinary point of view when visiting Rothenburg. A delicacy made from shortcrust pastry, for example, is the “snowball”.
Boards
The medieval town of Bretten with its beautiful half-timbered houses is located near Karlsruhe and awakens to flourishing life in the summer months. Because over the years Bretten has made a name for itself for a unique festival in the warm season: the medieval “Peter and Paul Festival”. In addition to craftsmen and costumes in medieval tradition, very good, authentic food and an entertainment program, including dances, are offered. Even skeptics become fans of the Middle Ages here!
Tip: Anyone who wants to set up a stand at the Peter and Paul Festival or be a guest can look forward to summer 2022. Because then all the colorfully dressed fans will finally gather again on the market square of Bretten.
Worpswede
Not far from Bremen is the artist’s place Worpswede. In the middle of the unique landscape of the Teufelsmoors, well-known artists founded a special gem in the early 20th century, including the painter Paula Modersohn-Becker (1876–1907), who saw her “wonderland” in the artist’s village. The poet Rainer Maria Rilke (1875–1926) also spent some time here and described the atmosphere with the words: “A heaven of indescribable variability and size.” The cityscape is characterized by spacious half-timbered houses in a park landscape, surrounded by rivers and meadows. The center is the Bergstrasse with its museums.
Tip: In addition to the exhibitions in the official museums, many of the local artists also offer courses and seminars, which you can find out about on the joint website of Worpswede Contemporary Art.
Wismar
Wismar on the Baltic Sea coast is the third important Hanseatic city in the region after Rostock and Stralsund. The port in the sheltered bay was once an important port of call for merchant shipping. You can still admire the warehouses and the harbor from the heyday of the Hanseatic League. Gothic brick buildings such as the St. Nikolai Church are also an integral part of Wismar’s history. And in the middle of the market square is the large fountain, the “Wasserkunst”, which once served to supply drinking water.
Tip: If you have a few days to explore the area around Wismar, you should also visit pretty Schwerin and the Baltic Sea resort of Boltenhagen.
Plön
The beautiful village of Plön near Kiel is surrounded by water and not yet overrun by the stream of tourists. This is exactly what makes it the perfect destination for decelerating and discovering. The large Plöner See and the castle are the highlights of this recreational region. With the twelve lakes in the urban area, there are various water sports on offer, but the Plön Lake District also has a lot to offer culturally. The idyllic old town, for example, is perfect for a relaxing walk.
Tip: During the city tour by canoe you almost have a Venice feeling. Paddling is worthwhile, because the water offers a particularly beautiful view of the castle. A tour stop on Prinzeninsel is perfect for swimming.
Lindau
Lindau is best known for its listed old town, which is located on an offshore island. Here you can admire the beautiful town hall from the 15th century. Then it goes to the harbor, along the promenade. There are some beautiful yachts here and the cafés are the ideal place to stop for a break after visiting the city.
Tip: The Lake Constance circular route connects the highlights of Lake Constance and can be explored on foot or by bike. Among other things, it also leads through Lindau.
Esslingen
The city of Esslingen near Stuttgart is located on the Neckar River. Here you can admire, among other things, the city’s galleries in the Villa Merkel. In addition, Esslingen Castle with its castle wall and restaurant is well worth a visit. The zoo Nymphaea with its wild animals and small lakes on the island in the river is a highlight.
Tip: The medieval and Christmas markets, which are due to take place again this year during Advent, are particularly romantic.