Fairytale Towns in Germany: 50+ Places Like Out Of a Storybook

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One of my favourite things in the world are fairytale towns and beautiful old towns. And Germany has A LOT of them. So welcome to my blog post about some of my favourite fairytale towns in Germany.

A colourful town with a majestic castle on a hill overlooking the river valley, town and surrounding hills in Cochem, Germany

I initially wanted to make an article with about 20 magical towns but then started to make my list and could not even stop when I hit 50. Every time I visit Germany, I end up discovering more and more beautiful places. From half-timbered houses, unique churches and cobblestone roads – these towns and cities got it all.

The places are in no specific order, so just scroll through and see which fairytale towns in Germany you like best! For some of the towns, I will recommend some hotels and eventually also tours and for others you can use the search bar to find hotels for your visit.

1. Cochem – My very favourite fairytale town in Germany

Starting off strong with one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Located in the gorgeous Moselle valley, it is located right next to the river with a beautiful town and a massive castle located on a hill called “Reichsburg Cochem”.

When you first see this town, you will literally feel like you just stepped into a storybook – that’s a promise.

Cochem is one of the most popular places in the region but for a good reason. I recommend visiting in spring and trying to avoid weekends and holidays to beat the crowds.

What to do and see in Cochem?

  • Climb up to the Reichsburg Cochem and visit the inside of the castle
  • Take a hike to the nearby Burg Eltz
  • Visit a winery and do wine tasting
  • Take a boat tour along the Moselle
  • Bike or hike along the Moselle
view from a table at a café of a stunning riverside fairytale town in Germany, Cochem with coffee and sparkling water on the table
Charming alley in an old town leading to the church tower in Cochem, Germany with restaurant and shop signs
View of a stunning river-side town with a castle on a hill and colourful houses in Cochem, Germany and a perfect reflection in the water

I recommend staying in Cochem for a few in nights to explore the town and beautiful region. There’s many more fairytale towns on this list that are very close by!

Where to stay in Cochem?

Low budget stays:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels:

2. Dinkelsbühl – A hidden storybook town in Bavaria

Another favourite of mine that is a bit less popular and located along Germany’s Fairytale Route. A very pretty old town with colourful houses, medieval watchtowers and cobblestone roads. 

Dinkelsbühl is also often mentioned in articles as one of the most beautiful fairtytale towns in Germany and I can only agree! If you ever make it to this region in Germany, make sure to add a stop here. Dinkelsbühl is located very close to the more popular Rothenburg ob der Tauber and hosts one of my favourite underrated Christmas markets in Germany.

A fountain surrounded by flowers in a colourful fairytale town in Germany called Dinkelsbühl
Colourful houses, cobblestone roads and cafés and restaurants in Dinkelsbühl, Germany
A row of colourful houses with high roofs, partly half-timbered in Dinkelsbühl with greenery in the foreground

3. Idstein – A dreamy town made of half-timbered houses

I checked out this little medieval town on my last roadtrip through Germany and am so glad I did. The old town is full of beautiful traditional half-timbered houses and super picturesque. 

I think I took over 100 pictures during my short visit, I literally stopped around every corner.

Idstein is part of the German Timber-Frame route and should not be missed on your Germany itinerary, if you love fairytale towns.

Fountain below a tree with beautiful half-timbered houses and cobblestone roads in the Idstein, Germany
Traditional half-timbered houses, a church and outdoor seating area on the main square in Idstein, Germany

4. Eltville – Like stepping into a fairytale

This beautiful little town is located along the Rhine river and home to a beautiful castle, half-timbered houses and cobblestone roads.

I did actually visit Eltville twice already, once during christmas time and once in spring. During christmas time there isn’t much happening there but in spring it came to life and everything was super colourful and blooming.

I recommend doing a roadtrip along the Rhine river at least once in your lifetime and also add a stop in Eltville. An hour or two here are enough to walk through the small old town.

A unique castle in the back of a colourful garden with many roses and trees in the fairytale town of Eltville in Germany
Blooming roses in front of a beautiful alley with half-timbered houses leading to the church in Eltville, Germany
A beautiful garden with a seating area, roses, green grass and an old castle tower and castle walls in Eltville

5. Ravensburg – The city of towers and gates

I’ve been to Ravensburg twice already and loved both times! The old town there is super beautiful and also very underrated. I highly recommend visiting during christmas time, their christmas market is in of my favourite underrates ones in Germany and worth a visit!

Ravensburg is also known as the city of towers and gates, there are multiple worth seeing here. It’s also popular around the world for being home of the world-renowned Ravensburger game and puzzle publishing company.

Things to do and places to see in Ravensburg:

  • Blaserturm Tower
  • Weekly Saturday market
  • Mehlsack Tower
  • Museums (Humpis-Quartier, Ravensburger)
  • Marienplatz & Old town
  • Veitsburg Castle
Old town road with a view of the Blaserturm, colourful houses and market stands in Ravensburg, Germany
woman standing on the windy walkway up a hill and views of a white tower and old town in late autumn in Ravensburg
View from a tower to the old town below with christmas decorations in the foreground and beautiful house facades, christmas market stands and people below

6. Berchtesgaden – A fairytale town in the German Alps

Berchtesgaden is special. Located in the German Alps, not only are there many amazing hikes, mountains and lakes in the region but also the town itself is super worth a visit. 

With the mountain backdrop it looks almost like out of a fantasy but it’s real and waiting to be explored!

When in Berchtesgaden make sure to plan a few days here to enjoy the nature there.

What to see and do in and around Berchtesgaden:

  • Königssee
  • Wimbachklamm (one of my favourite gorge hikes in Europe)
  • Ramsau (the next small town after Berchtesgaden)
  • Hintersee
  • Maria Gern
  • Almbachklamm
  • Schärtenspitze
A beautiful mountain lake with clear, green water, a few boats and mountains in the background -Hintersee, Bavaria
Hintersee
View from a hillside road of a beautiful town and massive mountains in the backdrop in Berchtesgaden, Germany
view of Berchtesgaden
A wooden walkway through a picturesque gorge with a lot of moss and waterfalls - Wimbachklamm
Wimbachklamm

Where to stay in Berchtesgaden?

Low budget stay:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels:

7. Lohr am Main – Welcome to the home town of Snow White

This town is literally out of a fairytale! It’s said that Lohr am Main was the home of the real Snow White. The old town also looks like out of a storybook. Cobblestone roads, half-timbered houses and Snow White’s castle.

It’s located by the beautiful Main river that is best explored on a road trip – the entire region is beautiful and known for it’s beautiful towns and wine production. Quite a few more fairytale towns on this list will also be in the same area, so can perfectly be combined on a trip.

Beautiful view of an old town with cobblestone roads, a church and traditional half-timbered houses in Lohr am Main, Germany
A white castle with two high towers, timbered elements and green grass and trees in the foreground

8. Sigmaringen – Impressive castle in a small town

Sigmaringen is a small town and while the town itself is nice too, the main attraction here is the beautiful Sigmaringen castle. 

It’s built on a cliff above the Danube river and gives fairytale vibes upon first sight.

I only did a short stop here and took a glimpse of the storybook castle from the outside, but it’s also possible to visit the inside, if you are interested in that.

An impressive castle built on a rock along the Danube river with perfect reflections in the water and greenery around in Sigmaringen, Germany

9. Bad Urach – Fairytale town in Germany with a waterfall

Bad Urach does have a very pretty 15th-century old town with half-timbered houses and cobblestone roads but also a beautiful and quite unique 37-meter waterfall just outside town. 

It’s also known for it’s healing thermal mineral springs and multiple spa hotels.

Definitely worth a stop and you could easily spend a few days here full of wellness and nature.

A beautiful town with half-timbered houses, a golden traditional sign and flowers in the foreground in Bad Urach, Germany
A picturesque waterfall hidden in a forest with mossy surfaces and multiple cascades with little water in Bad Urach, Germany

Where to stay in Bad Urach?

There’s many apartments available in Bad Urach but also a few selected hotels. Here are some that come with great ratings and recommendations:

10. Bad Wimpfen – “The most beautiful old town in Germany”

I came across this fairytale town accidentally this spring and instantly fell in love. Only after my visit I discovered that it has recently been named “the most beautiful old town in Germany” by a large travel magazine.

And I can definitely wee why. Cobblestone roads, traditional half-timbered architecture, the largest imperial palace (Kaiserpfalz) north of the Alps and postcard-perfect views all over the old town.

Pink roses along an outdoor seating area of a café on a cobblestone street with beautiful half-timbered houses in Bad Wimpfen, Germany
Cobblestone road leading to a medieval tower with a unique roof surrounded by beautiful houses in the fairytale town of bad Wimpfen

11. Braubach – A hidden storybook town along the Rhine

When doing a roadtrip along the Rhine, there’s many fairytale towns to be discovered. Braubach is in my opinion one of the most underrated and charming ones.

When I visited this spring, there were hardly any other tourists around and I was able to enjoy the beautiful little town with half-timbered houses almost to myself. 

It’s a very small town but very charming and home to an impressive castle on the top of a hill (Marksburg).

Traditional half-timbered houses in the small town of Brauchbach in Germany with vine in the foreground and cobblestone roads
Large castle on top of a hill above a little charming town along the Rhine river in Germany

12. Rothenburg ob der Tauber – One of the most popular fairytale towns in Germany

This place is located along the German Fairytale route and is said to have inspired Disney’s version of Pinocchio. 

It’s very popular amongst local and international tourists but very well worth the hype.

The medieval old town is incredibly picturesque and one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.

I’ve visited twice so far, once during christmas time , which was specifically beautiful. But a visit here is worth it year-round. I recommend exploring early in the day and to avoid weekends and holidays to beat the crowds. Personally, I would stay here overnight for a night or two.

Medieval old town wth traditional houses in one of the most beautiful fairytale towns in Germany - Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Hand holding a painted Christmas tree ornament with a half-timbered house in a gift shop in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Historic fountain with christmas decorations in the medival town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber with traditional houses and a gate

Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber?

Low budget stays:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels:

13. Trier – The oldest city in Germany

This stunning city was founded in 16 BC and hold significant historic value and charme. The Roman city has a very beautiful old town with medieval buildings. 

It’s located in the Moselle valley (one of my favourite regions in Germany) and should’t be missed on your Germany itinerary. 

I personally visited twice so far, once during Christmas time and highly recommend visiting their beautiful Christmas market, which is one of my favourite underrrated Christmas markets in Germany. You can easily stay here for 2-3 nights without getting bored!

Search for a suitable hotel for your stay here:

Charming old town with beautiful houses and a church tower during blue hour in the oldest city in Germany - Trier
The beautiful foretress-style Trier Cathedral in Baroque & Gothic architecture with multiple towers

14. Füssen – The home of the world’s most famous castle

Füssen is one of the most popular fairytale towns in Germany, mainly known as the home of the Neuschwanstein castle. It’s actually located a few kilometres from Füssen but easily accessible from there. It’s located in the German Alps but right at the border to Austria.

While the fairytale castle is definitely a must see once in your life, there is much more to do there.

Things to do and places to visit around Füssen:

  • Füssen old town
  • Alpsee
  • Hohenschwangau castle
  • Forggensee
  • Tegelberg
  • Schwansee
  • Lechfall
bird's eye view of the impressive Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany with lots of greenery around and lake Forggensee in the distance
Old town with colourful houses, a pedestrian zone and a castle in the end of thr street in Füssen, Germany
Yellow hillside castle with multiple towers on top of hill with green vegetation around - Hohenschwangau Castle

I recommend staying i the area for a few nights and explore everything it has to offer. Within a short drive, there’s many more beautiful places to see like for example the Plansee in Austria.

Where to stay in this fairytale town in Germany?

Low budget stays:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels & stays:

15. Wertheim am Main – A medieval gem along the Main river

Another fairytale town that’s located along the Main and a very unique one. It’s quite a gem and not very busy. 

A small historic old town with an impressive hillside castle towering in the back. 

Also been twice here, once during christmas and once in spring. Both times fell for the charme of Wertheim and enjoyed a stroll through the town and up to the castle.

Colourful housefront with a medieval tower along a small river with a couple of boats docked alongside the shores in Wertheim am Main, Germany
A large castle towering above a small medieval town along a river with green vegetation all around
Colourful old town road with cobblestones leading to a church in the fairytale town of Wertheim am Main in Germany

16. Kempten – 2000 years of history close to the German Alps

This fairytale town in Germany is special to me, because I live there for a few months or at least had an apartment there and visited a couple of times from 2023-2025. 

I fell in love with the city because you have easy access to the Allgäu mountains from there and the old town is also very charming. It’s a university city with lots of students and there’s a lot going on. 

If you’re wanting to explore the beautiful Allgäu region but base yourself in a city with many restaurants etc., Kempten can be a great base for that.

A church with two identical towers with beautiful architecture, blue skies and blooming trees in Kempten, Germany
Christmas market in the historical center of Kempten with many stalls, some persons, christmas decorations and the beautiful Rathaus

17. Michelstadt – One of the prettiest fairytale towns in Germany

This place should absolutely be on your bucket list, if you love charming old towns.

On my way through the region, I recently stopped there just for a brief visit and loved the atmosphere in the old town, the traditional architecture and cute little shops and cafés.

The beautiful historic town hall alone already makes Michelstadt worth a visit.

Beautiful traditional city hall with half-timbered architecture and a church in the background in the storybook town of Michelstadt in Germany

18. Würzburg – A magical city you’ll fall in love with

I’m not a huge city person but this one is different. With it’s stunning location along the Main river and the towering fortress (Marienberg Fortress) and historic old bridge, Würzburg looks quite literally like out of a fairytale.

Its perfect for a city trip combined with hiking, wineries and some impressive attractions.

One of my favourite things in Würzburg is their traditional “Brückenschoppen”. Locals and tourists alike visit the old bridge during golden hour and have a few glasses of wine with a view there. It’s such a lovely vibe and screams holiday!

Also a must when visiting: The Residence with it’s absolutely stunning architecture and the gardens there.

View of the city of Würzburg from a viewpoint on the other side of the Main river with many landmarks including the old bridge visible
Castle on a hill surrounded by forests and some houses below with views of the Main river and a bridge in Würzburg
Gardens with statues, grass, flowers and trees with a beautiful castle-like building in Würzburg, Germany

I would definitely recommend staying in Würzburg for 2-3 nights, as there is so much to see there!

Where to stay in this fairytale town in Germany?

Low budget stays:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels:

19. Oberwesel – A hidden fairytale town along the Rhine

Another stunning town with multiple medieval towers, a castle, church and more along the Rhine river.

It’s one of the more underrated towns along the Rhine and definitely worth a stop in my opinion. I only did a brief stroll through the old town but really enjoyed it.

Old town with traditional houses, cobble stone roads, a church and hillside castle in Oberwesel along the Rhine river in Germany
Vines in the foreground of an old town with traditional houses, some parked cars along the road and a medieval tower

20. Lindau am Bodensee – Scenic island old town on Lake Constance

If you love lakes and fairytale towns in Germany – this one needs to be on your list!

Lindau is located right at the shores of Lake Constance and it’s old town is situated on a little island with a beautiful harbour, swimming spots and cobblestone roads.

Visiting here gave me the vacation vibes instantly. I even considered moving here when I was relocating to Germany but unfortunately I could not find a suitable apartment.

It’s perfect for a summer getaway on Lake Constance but I can highly recommend Christmas time as well. Lindau’s Harbour Christmas market is one of my favourite unique Christmas markets in Germany.

Lighthouse at Lake Constance with a ship passing and mountains in the distance in Lindau am Bodensee, Germany
Red roses in the foreground of a beautiful old town with a line of colourful houses and cobblestone roads in Lindau at Lake Contance
Partly illuminated balloons available for purchase at the christmas market in Lindau

Lindau is a perfect base, if you want to spend a few nights at Lake Constance. I’d definitely recommend spending a couple of nights at this stunning lake!

Where to stay in Lindau?

Affordable stays:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels & stays:

21. Bad Mergentheim – A town along the Romantic Road

Another fairytale town in Germany I recommend stopping at when doing the German Romantic Road.

It’s much less popular than other places along the route but super charming and worth exploring.

Bad Mergentheim is also known for being a spa town with multiple health, spa and wellness facilities. So if you’re into that, it might be worth staying over for a couple of nights. And in December it’s got a small and charming Christmas market too!

A cobblestone road leading to a church at the end of it with christmas decorations and vendor stalls on both sides in Bad Mergentheim, Germany
Colourful half-timbered houses on a cobblestone road in the fairytale town of Bad Mergentheim with some closed Christmas market stalls

22. Miltenberg – A medieval old town worth visting

Miltenberg is located along the Main river and often referred to as one of the most beautiful fairytale towns in Germany! And for a good reason. It’s popular for it’s half-timbered architecture, hilltop castle and picturesque old town.

Miltenberg is one of the more popular places along the Main but is still very worth a visit in my opinion.

Discover the many hidden alleys and make your way up to the castle for the best views.

Half-timbered houses on a medieval square with a fountain, some flowers, cobblestone roads and a statue in Miltenberg - one of the most beautiful towns in Germany
Partly obstructed view of a medieval town with a church along the Main river in Miltenberg, Germany
Cobblestone roads filled with half-timbered houses leading to a church in the medieval storybook town of Miltenberg

23. Bremen – A storybook-like city in the North of Germany

This is one of the only places on my list that’s located in the Northern parts of the country. 

During my visit to Bremen, I specifically fell in love with it’s stunning old town. It’s a popular destination for a city trip, so I recommend exploring the old town early in the day.

In fact the fairytale of the Brothers Grimm called “The town musicians of Bremen” was inspired by Bremen!

Places to see and things to do in Bremen:

  • Walking tour through the old town
  • Statue of the town musicians of Bremen (obviously) 
  • Böttcherstraße
  • Boat ride along the Weser
  • Schnoor quarter
  • Schlachte (river front)
  • Überseestadt
Statue of the 4 Bremer town musicians with traditional houses with high roofs in the background in Bremen, germany
Rising sun between traditional houses with high roofs in Bremen's Schnoor quarter - a charming part of the old town with cobble stone roads and beautiful houses
Historic town hall and Bremen cathedral with Gothic towers and beautiful architecture

Where to stay in Bremen?

Low budget stays & hostels:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels & stays:

24. Hirschhorn – A hidden gem along the Neckar

This fairytale town in Germany was one of my favourite finds this year! Super stunning setting along the river, half-timbered houses, a castle and beautiful views!

The best part: No tourists at all in sight when I visited. Probably during holidays and weekends there are people visiting but still not a whole lot.

Walk over the bridge to the other side of the river for the best views of the beautiful riverside town.

charming medieval old town with statues, a tower gate, half-timbered houses and plants in Hirschhorn, Germany
Hirschhorn - a medieval fairytale town in Germany along the Neckar. View of the town with a castle, beautiful houses and riverfront

25. Baden-Baden – A magical spa town in Germany

I have only visited Baden-Baden briefly during christmas time and it was magical with some of the craziest christmas decorations I have ever seen. (around restaurant Laterne)

But also the rest of the town is very pretty with lots of gardens, beautiful architecture and spas.

I will definitely come back here in spring or summer to explore more of Baden-Baden.

Christmas decorations with a Christmas tree, a small red train and teddy bears in the old own of Baden-Baden, Germany
Green House facade with Christmas decorations made of teddy bears and glitter elements in Baden-Baden

26. Bacharach – A medieval fairytale town in Germany’s Rhine valley

This is one of my personal favourite fairytale towns in Germany.

It’s quite a hidden gem along the Rhine river and not as busy as other towns. 

Beautiful traditional half-timbered architecture, a castle, multiple towers and the beautiful river front. 

Someone once commented on an Instagram post about Bacharach “that place is so boring” and it’s kinda true – there isn’t much to do here. And that’s what I like most about it. Nor rush, no crowds, not much to do, just a pretty little fairytale town that feels like frozen in time.

Charming medieval storybook town with cobblestone roads, vine, half-timbered houses during sunset in Bacharach, Germany
Unique church in the historic center of Bacharach with Romanesque and early Gothic style
Flowers and green vegetation in an hirstoric old town with view of a hillside castle and half-timbered houses

27. Esslingen am Neckar – A city that feels like straight out of a fairytale

Just outside Stuttgart, you can find this beautiful city with a beautiful old town, cobblestone roads and beautiful houses surrounded by vineyards.

During Christmas time, Esslingen hosts one of the most unique Christmas markets in all of Germany – a Medieval Christmas market with about 180 stalls.

I highly recommend visiting during Christmas time but also any other time of the year this city is well worth a visit!

Historic old town view from a hill with vineyards in the fairytale town of Esslingen, Germany
Historic old town view of a church with two identical towers and a half-timbered house built on a man-made island on the Neckar in Esslingen
Unique castle tower of a medieval castle surrounded by a garden with flowers and city walls in Esslingen am Neckar

28. Oberstdorf – the gateway to some of Germany’s most beautiful hikes

While the small town of Oberstdorf is very charming itself, the real highlight here are the surrounding mountains and hikes.

If you are looking for a beautiful getaway in the mountains, this town in Germany should be very high on your list. 

Hikes to do and places to visit in and around Oberstdorf:

  • Schrecksee
  • Unterer Gaisalpsee
  • Breitachklamm
  • Rappensee
  • Judenkirche
  • Stuibenfall

I highly recommend staying in Oberstdorf for a few nights to enjoy the beautiful town and surrounding mountains to the fullest.

Traditional mountain town in Southern Germany with a church and partly wooden houses with decorations in Oberstdorf - Germany
Impressive gorge with massive rock walls on both sides with a walkway with greeen handle and a small hut in the distance: Breitachklamm
Breitachklamm

Where to stay in Oberstdorf?

Low budget hostel:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels & stays:

29. Rüdesheim am Rhein – A fairytale town surrounded by vineyards

Probably the most popular town in the Rhine valley – for a good reason.

After strolling around the town’s cobblestone roads (including the famous “Drosselgasse”), make sure to take the cable car over vineyards to a viewpoint of the Rhine river and town. 

I personally visited twice already, once during Christmas time and I can highly recommend both, spring and Christmas time. It’s a popular destination, also for American tourists, so expect quite a few people there, especially during Christmas market opening times. The Chrismtas market of Nations is one of my favourite unique Christmas markets in Germany.

Charming cobblestone alley with vine and traditional half-timbered houses in Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany
Unique castle with an ancient castle tower built into a traditional house surrounded by vineyards in Rüdesheim, Germany
Charming old town of the fairytale town of Rüdesheim am Rhein with a traditional half-timbered tower, houses and greenery

30. Marktbreit – A small hidden gem along the Main

This town is one of the best kept secrets in the region and I totally fell in love when I visited. 

It’s very small and can easily be explored in less than an hour. 

One of the most beautiful spots in town looks a little bit like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, another one of my favourite fairytale towns in Germany.

Historic bridge over a small river with a building on top and traditional half-timbered houses on each side im Marktbreit - a hidden gem in Germany

31. Lichtenstein – A dramatic castle like out of a storybook

Yes, the town itself is lovely as well but the true star here is the absolutely stunning Lichtenstein castle. 

The name makes it sounds like it’s located in the small country of Lichtenstein but well, it’s not.

The castle is built on top of a dramatic cliff overlooking the town. It’s easily one of the most beautiful castles in Germany. I didn’t personally go inside the castle itself but the sheer look of it from the outside was well worth a stop.

Impressive Lichtenstein Castle built on top of a large rock and connected to the hill by a brige with greenery in the surroundings
Historic bridge with multiple arches going over a small stream with water plants, surrounded by greenery and a half-timbered house in Lichtenstein, Germany

32. Beilstein – The Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle region and easily in my top 5 favourite fairytale towns in Germany

This one is truly special. It’s one of these places that truly feel like stepping into a fairytale.

Beilstein is a very small town that has become increasingly popular in recent years – for a good reason.

It is located in the beautiful Moselle valley, just a few kilometres from Cochem (my number 1 favourite fairytale town in Germany). Surrounded by vineyards and full of stunning half-timbered houses and a towering castle ruin on top of the hill.

This place should definitely be on your bucket list, if you love fairytale towns in Germany as much as I do. 

I recommend staying in the Moselle valley for a few days and explore all the beautiful towns there. I would personally base myself in Cochem (my number 1 fairytale town on this list) and explore other places from there.

A charming fairytale town in Germany with half-timbered houses, vine and traditional restaurant signs in Beilstein
bird's eye view of a small riverside town with traditional houses, a hillside castle ruin and a ship docking at the shores of the river in Beilstein, Germany
Half-timbered houses surrounded by vine and other plants on a small square with cobble stone roads and a cafe with outdoor seating area in Beilstein

33. Quedlinburg – A UNESCO World Heritage city

This is the only one on this list that I have not personally visited yet but am planning to visit in a few weeks from now. 

I have heard so many good things about this city and the pictures look just too good to be true. Half-timbered architecture and a stunning castle.

Even though I have not visited yet, I feel 100% confident to recommend this medieval city and include it in my list.

Historic old town with half-timbered houses, a church and some pedestrians in the UNESCO city of Quedlinburg in Germany
Photo by Robert | Visual Diary on Unsplash

34. St. Goarshausen – A hidden gem on the Rhine river

This town is one of my favourite fairytale towns in Germany along the Rhine valley. It’s much less popular than others and I fell in love with it upon first sight.

It’s full of the typical half-timbered houses and also features a beautiful castle (Burg Katz) overlooking the town.

From St. Goarshausen you can look right across the river to St. Goar – it’s slightly more popular twin town, which is also worth a visit!

fairytale town along the Rhine river with flowers in the foreground and a hilltop castle in St. Goarshausen, Germany
Charming fairytale town in Germany along the Moselle with half-timbered houses, cobblestone roads and vine in St. Goarshausen

35. Nördlingen – A fairytale town surrounded by Germany’s only completely intact town wall

This town is special in so many ways! Not only is it home to the only intact town wall in Germany but it’s also located inside a massive crater.

I have visited Nördlingen twice and loved it both times. The architecture there is absolutely stunning and I loved exploring the town. Also highly recommend visiting their Romantic Christmas market, which is one of my favourite underrated Christmas markets in Germany. It’s truly stunning and absolutely worth a stop.

bird's eye view of a historic town center during Christmas time with market stalls, Christmas lights and traditional buildings in Nördlingen, Germany
Road leading to a large church with colourful houses on each side and cars parked along the road in Nördlingen

36. Dettelbach – A historic Bavarian wine town

I actually came across this hidden gem on my roadtrip along the Main river and fell in love instantly.

Dettelbach features and almost fully intact city wall with many beautiful watch towers. But also the rest of the town is super beautiful.

It’s not touristy at all, which is one of my favourite parts. I did not see any other tourists while there and I explored the charming old town for over an hour. Definitely worth a quick stop on your Germany itinerary.

Historic town with multiple watchtowers and a city wall with greenery and flowers in Dettelbach, Germany
Historic town gate with a half-timbered house built on top with a staircase leading and cobblestone roads in front in Dettelbach

37. Wangen – “The City of Beautiful Fountains”

A colourful medieval old town in the Allgäu region. With over 25 unique fountains, Wangen is also called “City of Beautiful Fountains”.

The old town is very well preserved and features ancient defensive towers, colourful facades and historic gates.

It’s quite small and can easily be explored in a couple of hours. I recommend a leisurely stroll through the old town and getting lost in one of the many alleys.

Old town with a historic tower, flowers, a cafe with outdoor seating area and traditional houses in Wangen, Germany

38. Heidelberg – One of the most beautiful fairytale towns in Germany

This city is very popular with tourists for a good reason. The stunning castle and beautiful old town surrounded by the stunning Neckar river valley.

To be honest, for me personally it was a bit too busy and I therefore didn’t love it as much but no doubt it’s absolutely stunning and worth seeing once in your lifetime.

I would personally recommend trying not to visit on a weekend or holiday to avoid crowds and to get there relatively early in the day. 

Historic castle in Heidelberg, Germany surrounded by trees and a view of the storybook city in the distance

39. Blaubeuren – A town famous for it’s magical karst spring

While the old town of Blaubeuren is very beautiful and worth a visit by itself, most people come here for a different reason.

The “Blautopf” is an intensely glowing blue-green karst spring, looking like something straight out of a fairytale.

It’s a perfect picture motive and very popular for a good reason. Definitely worth a quick stop but I also recommend visiting the beautiful old town as well as the medieval Benedictine monastery there. 

Mystical karst spring with clear blue water surrounded by green trees and one half-timbered traditional mill in Blaubeuren, Germany
Monastery church with towers and beautiful architecture in Blaubeuren, Germany

40. Garmisch-Partenkirchen – A fairytale town in the German Alps

If you love mountains and pretty towns – this one needs to be on your list. The town itself is very picturesque and full of colourful traditional houses.

From there you also have access so many beautiful hikes in the surrounding areas. It’s also a popular destination in winter for skiing and other winter activities.

Best hikes and places to visit around Garmisch-Partenkirchen:

  • Partnachklamm (gorge hike)
  • Höllentalklamm (gorge hike)
  • Zugspitze (Germany’s highest mountain – per gondola or hike, if you are very experienced)
  • Eibsee (Germany’s most beautiful lake)
  • Riessersee
Woman standing on the rocky shores of a beautiful mountain lake with crystal-clear water with mountains in the backdrop - Eibsee
Eibsee
Historic mountain town with a traditional church and colourful houses, flowers and trees on the other side of the road in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
dramatic mountain view from the top of Germany's highest mountain the Zugpsitze with rocky surfaces, some snow and fog
Zuspitze

I recommend staying in Garmisch-Partenkirchen or it’s surroundings for a few nights to explore this stunning area of Germany in depth. 

Where to stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen?

Low budget hotels:

Mid range hotels:

Upscale hotels & stays:

41. Gemünden am Main – The charming “Three-River-Town”

Gemünden is where 3 rivers flow together: Main, Fränkische Saale and the Sinn. 

It’s a very charming town with featuring dramatic medieval castle ruins overlooking the historic old town.

I first drove by the town and did not plan to stop but it just looked too good not to explore, so I turned the car around and went to check it out. It’s small but definitely worth a visit in my opinion.

bird's eye view of a medieval town with a historic tower, church and castle ruins with train tracks in Gemünden am Main, Germany
Red roses in the foreground of a beautiful old town with a line of colourful houses and cobblestone roads in Gemünden am Main

42. Bad Tölz – A charming Bavarian spa town

It’s famous for it’s historic “Marktstraße” lined with colourful painted facades.

A very beautiful little town center, perfect for a stroll. It’s located on the Isar river and a perfect getaway South of Munich. 

It’s an official health resort (Heilklimatischer Kurort) and mud bath known for wellness and health treatments.

A fountain on a cobblestone road of the historic old town with colourful houses and a church in Bad Tölz, Germany

43. Karlstadt -One of the most underrated cities in Germany

During my roadtrip along the Main River, I fell in love with this city! 

The historic old town is truly special and the surrounding vineyards perfectly underline it’s beauty.

Opposite from the old town there is a beautiful castle ruin from where you have the best views of the old town with it’s many towers and city wall.

During my visit here I even did a scenic plane flight overlooking the city and Moselle valley – a bucket list experience I will remember forever.

Old town with a historic watch tower with sharp roof, half-timbered houses, flowers and an outdoor seating are of a restaurant in Karlstadt, Germany
Hand holding a glass of white wine with a view of a river valley with vineyards and rolling hills along the Main river
Traditional half-timbered houses on a cobblestone road with restaurant outdoor seating areas and some trees in Karlstadt, Germany

44. Harburg (Schwaben) – A fairytale town along Germany’s Romantic Road

If you are planning a roadtrip along Germany’s beautiful Romantic Road, this charming town is very worth a short stop.

I enjoyed strolling through the small town, over the historic stone bridge and short climb up to the castle.

Schloss Harburg is one of the best-preserved and oldest Castles in Southern Germany and very picturesque.

Historic castle with multiple towers and well-kept gardens in one of the most underrated fairytale towns in Germany - Harburg (Schwaben)

45. Traben-Trarbach – A historic wine town along the Moselle river

Another very charming town in the Moselle valley surrounded by vineyards and beautiful architecture.

The town is split up in two parts, connected by a bridge across the river and both parts are equally charming but very different. 

Around 1900 it was one of the largest wine-trading centers in Europe leaving behind a massive underground cellar labyrinth, which you can visit on a tour.

A walkway with handles on the side of the road leading to historic bridge towers and a small old town in Traben-Trarbach
A small road with vine ranks leading to a church and an historical clock tower in Traben-Trarbach, Germany

46. Schongau – A hidden gem in Bavaria

This town is very underrated and definitely worth a stop, if you’re in the area.

It’s known for the very well preserved medieval town wall and old town. The location close to the Alps and along the Lech river makes it a perfect stop, also for nature lovers.

Historic center of Schongau in Germany with cobblestone roads, a church, colourful typical houses and an outdoor seating area

47. Ochsenfurt – Town of the towers in Franconia

Ochsenfurt is a small town along the Main river with a well preserved medieval old town including many towers.

Even when seeing Ochsenfurt from afar you can already take a glimpse at many of it’s impressive towers.

But the old town also features beautiful half-timbered houses and cobblestone roads to fall in love with. It’s located close to Würzburg and other fairytale towns on this list, so can easily be combined into a roadtrip.

View of a historic town with multiple towers and beautiful architecture from a bridge above the Main in Ochsenfurt, Germany
Line of beautiful half-timbered houses in a fairytale town in Germany called Ochsenfurt with roses in the foreground
Golden light shining on a historic gate with a house and watch tower surrounded by trees and a walkway in Ochsenfurt, Germany

48. Gengenbach – Small town with the largest advent calendar house in the world

This might be on of the most underrated fairytale towns in Germany! This little town was on my list for it’s unique Advent calendar during Christmas time, where the entire facade of the historic town hall is turned into the world’s largest Advent calendar house. Check out my blog post “Unique & underrated Christmas markets in Germany” for more information.

I did visit during Christmas time and enjoyed it a lot. Many half-timbered houses and beautiful architecture.

Cobblestone alley between half-timbered houses and vine without leaves in the small town of Gengenbach in Germany
House facade with colourful paintings, each window with a number - the world's largest Adventcalendar in Gegenbach

49. Schorndorf – the beautiful birth place of Gottlieb Daimler, the co-founder of Mercedes-Benz

Not only is this town special for being the birthplace of Gottlieb Daimler, but it’s also incredibly beautiful with half-timbered houses and a charming old town.

The historic market square is stunning and perfect for a relaxed afternoon. It’s located i the romantic Rems Valley, perfect for nature lovers and hikers.

Traditional town in Germany with a church tower, cobblestone roads, half-timbered houses and trees in Schorndorf

50. Bernkastel-Küs – A riverside town that feels like straight out of a fairytale

Another very favourite of mine. This town is also located along the Moselle river, like many others on this list. 

It’s truly stunning and worth a visit all year round, but I especially recommend Christmas time for a visit. The whole town turns into Christmas magic and it’s one of my favourite underrated Christmas markets in Germany.

Like many other towns in this region, Berkastel-Kues is also home to stunning half-timbered houses, a hillside castle and vineyards.

A charming old town square with a fountain, typical half-timbered houses, outdoor seating area and flowers in Bernkastel-Küs
A riverside town along the Moselle with green hills, historic houses and buildings, docked ship and hillside castle - Bernkastel-Kües, Germany
Old town square with outdoor seating areas, cobblestone roads, a church and traditional houses in the fairytale town of Bernkastel-Kues

51. Sommerach – One of the prettiest towns along the Main river

On my list of favourite fairytale towns in Germany, I included quite a few different towns along the Main river and this is one of the most beautiful.

Sommerach is a tiny town with wineries, half-timbered houses and a holiday-kinda vibe, if you know what I mean. 

When visiting the area, Sommerach is definitely a must stop.

A road in a charing town leading to a church lined with some parked cars and traditional houses in Sommerach, Germany

52. Schwäbisch Hall – A picture-perfect storybook town in Germany

This is one of my personal favourite fairytale town in Germany. Schwäbisch Hall is home to a magical medieval old town, stunning views and half-timbered houses.

I always love coming back here, just having a stroll along the river and through the hillside old town. Can especially recommend visiting during Christas time, the Christmas market here is very charming!

Half-timbered houses built on a hill of an old town along a river with a man-made island and dam in Schwäbisch Hall, Germany
Half-timbered houses and a church along a river with perfect reflection in the water and a historic bridge with arches in Schwäbisch Hall

53. Saarburg – The “waterfall fairytale town in Germany”

This town is not only super pretty but also home to multiple man-made waterfalls in the charming historic town center.

There’s cafés and restaurants next to the water and a beautiful church as well. The surrounding areas are filled with vineyards and beautiful landscapes, so perfect for a walk or hike.

Also recommend visiting the small castle ruins in Saarburg, which are really cool and offer great views of the storybook town.

Man-made waterfall in the historic town of Saarburg with a bridge leading over it, houses and restaurant outdoor seating areas
Castle on a hill with trees and some houses around and a river ship docked in front in the fairytale town of Saarburg in Germany

54. Volkach am Main – A charming wine town in the Main valley

And last but not least, another stunning town along the Main river. It’s also surrounded by vineyards and has a stunning old town.

I also did a little canoe tour along the old Main river, which was stunning. Also recommend checking out the Vogelsburg, from where you have a great view of the valley.

Highly recommend adding this fairytale town in Germany to your list.

Colourful sunset in a charing town with a historic tower, beautiful houses, roses and colourful outdoor seating area in Volkach am Main
hillside view of the Main river valley with lots of greenery and islands as well as vineyards
Cobblestone road leaving to a historic town gate tower lined with houses, vine and outdoor seating area in Volkach am Main

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cover image with text and images of different unique Christmas markets in Germany