Our five favourite German cities of 2020
2020 was a year of discovering diverse and beautiful German cities, each with its unique charm and history. Here are our five favourites from that year.
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1/5
Meissen
Meissen is a city in Saxony that is known worldwide for the Meissen porcelain manufactory. The city's silhouette is formed by the Meissen Cathedral and the castle Albrechtsburg. The castle is considered the first German palace. The city itself shows many ceramic murals made from Meissen porcelain.
Meissen: Porcelain Capital
Meissen, located in Saxony, is world-renowned for its exquisite porcelain. The town's rich history and beautiful architecture make it a delightful destination.
Highlights:
- Meissen Porcelain Manufactory: Visit the birthplace of European porcelain and explore its fascinating museum and workshops.
- Albrechtsburg Castle: This stunning Gothic castle offers panoramic views of the Elbe River and houses a museum detailing its rich history.
- Meissen Cathedral: An architectural gem, this cathedral is known for its beautiful Gothic design and serene atmosphere.
Why visit?
Meissen's blend of history, art, and scenic beauty makes it a must-visit. The town's porcelain heritage, combined with its stunning architecture, provides a unique cultural experience.
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2/5
Potsdam
- Country Germany
- Region Brandenburg
- Year 2020
Potsdam is the capital of Brandenburg and the former residence of the kings of Prussia. The city is rich in parks and castles and the cultural landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Babelsberg film park is one of Europe most modern film studios, in 1926 “Metropolis” by Fritz Lang was produced here.
Potsdam: Royal Splendour
Potsdam, just outside Berlin, is famous for its royal palaces and beautiful gardens. It served as the residence of Prussian kings and German emperors, making it a city rich in history and elegance.
Highlights:
- Sanssouci Palace: The former summer palace of Frederick the Great, known for its beautiful Rococo architecture and stunning gardens.
- Neues Palais: An opulent palace showcasing the grandeur of the Prussian empire, with lavishly decorated rooms and extensive art collections.
- Park Babelsberg: A picturesque park featuring beautiful landscapes, historical buildings, and stunning views of the Havel River.
Why visit?
Potsdam's royal heritage and magnificent architecture make it a captivating destination. Its palaces and gardens offer a glimpse into the opulence of the past, providing a truly regal experience.
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3/5
Kassel
Kassel is the third largest-city in Hesse. It once was the capital of the Landgraviate and later of the Electorate of Hesse. That's why the city impresses with castles and parks such as the orangery or the Wilhelmshöhe mountain park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The documenta Kassel is also well known.
Kassel: Art and History
Kassel, located in central Germany, is a city known for its rich artistic heritage and historical significance. It hosts the renowned Documenta art exhibition and is home to beautiful parks and palaces.
Highlights:
- Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning gardens, impressive water features, and the majestic Wilhelmshöhe Palace.
- GRIMMWELT: An interactive museum dedicated to the Brothers Grimm, showcasing their life and work in a modern and engaging way.
- Fridericianum: One of the oldest public museums in Europe, hosting contemporary art exhibitions and historical collections.
Why visit?
Kassel's blend of art, history, and natural beauty makes it a dynamic and engaging destination. Its unique attractions and vibrant cultural scene provide a diverse and enriching experience.
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4/5
Quedlinburg
- Country Germany
- Region Saxony-Anhalt
- Year 2020
Quedlinburg is a town in the Harz Mountains in Saxony-Anhalt. The old town, with about 2,000 half-timbered houses from eight centuries and some Art Nouveau villas, is one of the largest area monuments in Germany and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also has a railway station for the Harzer Schmalspurbahn.
Quedlinburg: Medieval Marvel
Quedlinburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a beautifully preserved medieval town in Saxony-Anhalt. Its half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets create a charming and historical atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Quedlinburg Castle and St. Servatius Church: A historic castle complex with a stunning Romanesque church, offering insights into the town's rich history.
- Fachwerkmuseum im Ständerbau: A museum dedicated to half-timbered architecture, showcasing the history and construction techniques of these charming buildings.
- Quedlinburg's Old Town: Wander through the picturesque streets lined with beautifully preserved half-timbered houses.
Why visit?
Quedlinburg's medieval charm and rich history make it a captivating destination. Its well-preserved architecture and serene atmosphere provide a unique and enchanting experience.
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5/5
Regensburg
Regensburg is the capital of the Bavarian district of Upper Palatinate and lies on the Danube. From 1663 to 1806 it was the seat of the Perpetual Diet of the Holy Roman Empire. Since 1748 the noble family Thurn and Taxis are residing in St. Emmeram Castle. The old town with Stadtamhof is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Regensburg: Roman Heritage
Regensburg, located on the Danube River in Bavaria, is a city with a rich Roman and medieval heritage. Its well-preserved old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a wealth of historical and cultural attractions.
Highlights:
- Regensburg Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral known for its impressive architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
- Schloss Thurn und Taxis: A grand palace with beautiful gardens and opulent interiors, offering a glimpse into the region's aristocratic past.
- Regensburg's Old Town: Explore the charming streets and squares of Regensburg's old town, with its well-preserved medieval buildings and vibrant atmosphere.
Why visit?
Regensburg's blend of Roman and medieval history, combined with its vibrant cultural scene, makes it a fascinating destination. Its well-preserved old town and scenic riverfront provide a rich and immersive experience.
Our journey through Germany in 2020 was filled with discoveries of diverse cities, each offering unique cultural and historical experiences. From the porcelain heritage of Meissen to the royal splendour of Potsdam, these cities captivated us with their charm and significance.
Narrowing this list down to just five of our favourite cities was no easy task, so here are five honourable mentions:
A map showing our five favourite German cities we have been to in 2020.
Discover all the places we have been to in 2020.
2020
The year we survived the pandemic and had to stay at home.