17 uniquely German heritage cities await you all across the country: from north to south, east to west and in the very heart of Germany: Vibrant, charming places with walkable historic centers and cosmopolitan flair that dish up great food and drink!

Take the roads less traveled, but with easy access: via high-speed train or the iconic autobahn.
Travel back in time while you visit in style enjoying all modern amenities. And that’s just the beginning.

Don’t forget Gemütlichkeit: German hospitality from within.
Best experienced in a café, a restaurant, at the farmer’s market or a special event. Sample delicious classics like Bratwurst and Schnitzel, but also get a taste of seasonal veggies and sweet treats. Cheer at beloved beer or wine festivals, traditionally celebrated, but also with new twists and glorious views. Countless events are celebrated year round across our cities – with Christmas and Easter markets being just two of hundred irresistible occasions to become part of the community.

Herzlich willkommen, welcome to one-of-a-kind city destinations where history comes to life.

You’re cordially invited to experience our 17 German heritage cities with the locals like a local:
Aachen, Augsburg, Bonn, Erfurt, Freiburg, Heidelberg, Koblenz, Lübeck, Münster, Osnabrück, Potsdam, Regensburg, Rostock, Trier, Tübingen, Wiesbaden and Würzburg.

P.S. While every Historic Highlight easily stands out on it own, as each city’s shaped the course of German, European and sometimes world history over the centuries, we recommend you visit at least a few. With always a friendly neighboring heritage town in close proximity, why just see one?

With roots deep in Europe’s incredible rich history, each of our 17 German heritage cities is at least 700 years old. Some date back way longer — as far as 16 BC.

Step into a live story book as you’ll stroll along cobble stone streets: past impressive cathedrals and stunning architecture. Discover cobble-stone streets, grand architecture, impressive cathedrals, monuments and museums — all in a the context of historical yet vibrant university towns.

Known as the Historic Highlights of Germany, these city destinations foster your wanderlust and encourage you to take the roads less traveled.  Located in close proximity to major cities like Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich, but also Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, these urban towns with century old roots set themselves apart through unique identities.

© Image Rights: Augsburg – Regio Augsburg, Aachen – ATS, Bonn – Bonn Information/Michael Sondermann, Heidelberg – Heidelberg Marketing, Freiburg – FWTM/Mende, Koblenz – Koblenz Tourism, Lübeck – LTM, Münster – Münster Marketing, Osnabrück – Tourismusverband Osnabrücker Land, Potsdam – Sanssouci Palace/SPSG, Regensburg – RTG, Tübingen – Barbara Honner, Wiesbaden – WICM, Christmas Market – TTM, Draft Beer – Riegele Brewery, European Hanse Museum – LTM/Olaf Mahlzahn, Two Women in Freiburg – FWTM