Germany is a country where storybook villages meet cutting-edge cities, where centuries-old castles tower over rivers, and where landscapes stretch from the windswept Baltic Sea to the dark, mysterious Black Forest. While millions of travelers from abroad flock to explore its iconic sights, there’s another side of Germany that often goes unnoticed—the places Germans themselves love to visit.
Hiddensee: The Baltic’s Hidden Gem
Andrea Schulte-Peevers, a Berlin-based guidebook author, escapes to Hiddensee when she needs a break from the city. This peaceful, car-free island in the Baltic Sea is a sanctuary of rolling dunes, wide beaches, and old-world charm. Traditional thatched-roof cottages and untouched landscapes make it a perfect retreat even in peak summer.
Her favorite village is Kloster, a laid-back town filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. A short walk leads to the iconic Dornbusch Lighthouse, where sweeping views inspired generations of artists, including Nobel laureate Gerhart Hauptmann, whose summer home is now a museum.
Though Kloster offers a few hotels, many, like Andrea, opt for vacation apartments for added privacy. Seafood lovers should try the freshly grilled fish at Schillings Hafenamt, while Bäckerei Kasten serves classic breads and homemade cakes.
Spreewald: Germany’s Fairytale Forest
Colombian photojournalist Juan Martinez discovered the enchantment of the Spreewald—just an hour from Berlin—on his first visit and has been returning for years. Designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve, the Spreewald is known for its maze of canals, lush forests, and tranquil setting that evokes a scene from a Brothers Grimm tale.
Whether paddling through the waterways or hiking woodland trails, Juan finds peace in the area’s quiet beauty. A local delicacy not to miss? Pickles—offered in everything from schnapps to jam at Lübbenau’s lively farmers’ market.
Lübbenau is a great base, offering both rustic homestays like Spreemilia Gurkenbude and historic stays such as Schloss Lübbenau, where visitors can sleep like royalty. Year-round festivals, like September’s Lehde Festival with boat parades and fireworks, bring local traditions to life.
Münsterland: Castles, Culture, and Countryside
Tucked in western Germany, Münsterland may not be as famous as the Black Forest, but it’s beloved by locals—especially those who enjoy scenic bike rides and quiet countryside. Blogger and social media consultant Alexandra Kryaneva suggests starting in Münster, a charming city rebuilt after WWII with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and rich cultural offerings.
Top attractions include the LWL Museum of Art and Culture and the Picasso Museum, while the weekly markets offer a feast of local products. For dinner, Pinkus Müller brewery is a cozy spot for regional dishes and craft beer.
For a day trip, head to Lüdinghausen and visit Burg Lüdinghausen and the moated castle of Burg Vischering. Rent a pedal boat or enjoy treats from the castle’s bakery. To extend your visit, Alexandra recommends the boutique Hotel No. 11 for a quiet overnight stay.
