1. Miniature Wonderland Hamburg
There's only one way to describe Miniature Wonderland in Hamburg: the biggest model railway in the world. Visitors are taken on a journey through different countries and continents, through realistic miniature landscapes and worlds of fantasy.
2. Europapark
If you haven't already been to Europa-Park in Rust, then what are you waiting for! Located in south-west Germany between Freiburg and Offenburg, Europa-Park is the biggest theme park in the German-speaking countries and one of the few that is open in winter.
3. Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein is known all over the world as a symbol of idealised romantic architecture and for the tragic story of its owner. After losing sovereignty in his own kingdom, Ludwig II withdrew into his own world of myths, legend and fairytales.
4. Mainau Island
The Lake Constance region, where Germany borders Austria and Switzerland, is a holiday paradise set around Central Europe's third largest inland lake. The most popular excursion is to the Flower Island of Mainau, famous for its magnificent park and gardens surrounding the baroque family residence of Count Bernadotte.
5. Rothenburg
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a small town with a big reputation. Nowhere else will you find such a wealth of original buildings dating from the Middle Ages. You can't help but ask yourself whether time has stood still, as you amble past the beautiful old houses, secluded squares and tucked-away corners of the old quarter.
6. Dresden
There are many ways to interpret or define culture. But it can be easily summarized with just one word: Dresden. The sheer abundance and splendor of the city's cultural treasures are enough to take your breath away. And since Dresden also just happens to be set amidst a stunning river landscape, your amazement is soon accompanied by pure delight.
7. Heidelberg
One of Europe's most famous landmarks, the romantic ruins of Heidelberg Castle have been attracting visitors since the 19th century. Take the Philosophers' Walk, Heidelberg's best-known and most scenic trail, and look out over the old quarter and the castle amid the peace and quiet of nature.
8. Phantasialand
A whole host of international stars, including Michael Jackson, have visited Phantasialand, the multi-award-winning, family-friendly theme park in Brühl, some 20km from Cologne. It also opens for a winter season that features a programme of unmissable shows.
9. Hellabrunn Zoo Munich
Munich's Hellabrunn Zoo opened in 1911 in the Isar floodplains conservation area. With more than 19,000 animals in around 40 hectares of grounds, it is one of the biggest and most bio-diverse zoos in Germany and was the world's very first 'geo-zoo'.
10. The Moselle Valley
The Moselle Valley is the oldest wine-growing region in Germany and a diverse recreational area that offers something for every taste.
