Top 10 Most Popular Attractions in Germany — "Neuschwanstein Castle" Comes in Second

▲ Europa-Park was voted the most popular attraction for foreign visitors in Germany. (Photo / Screenshot from Europa-Park’s Facebook fan page)

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With the advantage of the euro exchange rate, many people have extended their travel plans to European countries this year. Germany, with its highly developed infrastructure, rich history and culture, and shopping opportunities, has also become a key destination for many traveling to Europe. The German websitehttp://www.dw.com/learngermanrecently released a list of the 10 most popular tourist attractions among foreign visitors. In addition to familiar sites like Neuschwanstein Castle and Cologne Cathedral, the theme park "Europa-Park" took the top spot.

1st Place: Europa-Park
Covering 90 hectares, Europa-Park is Germany’s largest theme park and the second most popular amusement park in Europe. The park features many highlights, including themed areas based on various European countries, as well as elements like a water park and roller coasters.

▲ Neuschwanstein Castle is the design prototype for the Disney logo. (Photo / Screenshot from Wikipedia, the same below)

2nd Place: Neuschwanstein Castle
Visited by 1.4 million visitors annually, Neuschwanstein Castle is a dreamy castle built by Bavarian King Ludwig II, constructed in 1869. The castle’s elegant appearance has also served as the prototype for castles in many cartoons and picture books. This includes the castle in the Disney logo, which was designed based on Neuschwanstein.

▲ Cologne Cathedral is the second tallest church in Germany.

3rd Place: Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Cathedral stands 157.3 meters tall with a floor area of 7,914 square meters, making it the second tallest in Germany and the third tallest in the world. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is regarded as a perfect representation of medieval Gothic architecture and decorative elements.

▲ Heidelberg’s old town exudes an antique charm.

4th Place: Heidelberg
Heidelberg Castle is an iconic landmark of Germany. Though built before 1240, it was damaged during the war in 1693. Today, the castle remains a famous and romantic ruin. The traditional old town is also rich in cultural atmosphere, and Heidelberg University, founded in 1386, is one of the oldest universities in Europe.

▲ Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate has witnessed many historic events in Germany.

5th Place: Berlin Brandenburg Gate
Taking a commemorative photo in front of the Brandenburg Gate is almost a must-do for tourists visiting Berlin. Ordered by Prussian King Frederick William II, the gate is not only a symbol of Berlin but also a witness to numerous historical events in Germany and the world. It has a rich story behind it and is also known by titles such as Germany’s No. 1 Gate and the German Arch of Triumph.

▲ Rothenburg is located at the junction of the Romantic Road and the Castle Road.

6th Place: Rothenburg Old Town
Rothenburg is where the Romantic Road and Castle Road meet in Germany and is home to the best-preserved medieval old town, hailed as the “Treasure of the Middle Ages.” In Rothenburg’s old town, it feels as though time has stood still from the medieval era — from its squares and spires to its many taverns, every corner is filled with historical echoes. The unique atmosphere of Rothenburg has also made it a popular destination for many Japanese tourists visiting Europe.

▲ The picturesque Lake Constance.

7th Place: Lake Constance
Located at the borders of Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, Lake Constance covers an area of 536 square kilometers and is the largest freshwater lake in the German-speaking region. Mainau Island in the lake is a famous garden island, while the lakeside also features Baroque architecture, castles, and other attractions. Meersburg Castle, built in the 7th century, is one of the representative buildings here.

▲ Germany’s highest peak, Zugspitze.

8th Place: Zugspitze
Zugspitze, located on the border between Germany and Austria, stands at 2,962 meters above sea level, making it Germany’s highest mountain. On clear days, the Alps can be seen in the distance. The summit also features Germany’s highest cable car station, highest ski resort, and highest post office.

▲ The Berlin Wall.

No. 9: The Berlin Wall
The Berlin Wall, which divided Germany into East and West from 1961 to 1989, witnessed the development of German history. Today, three relatively long sections of the Berlin Wall still remain. The stretch along the Spree River is known as the East Side Gallery due to its numerous graffiti artworks.

▲The nearly 400-kilometer Romantic Road features many ancient towns and small cities along the way.

No. 10: The Romantic Road
Making its first appearance in the top 10, the Romantic Road (Romantische Straße) stretches nearly 400 kilometers from Würzburg to Neuschwanstein Castle. It passes through castles, old towns, and picturesque villages, making it one of Germany’s most popular tourist routes.