More than 20 Fairy Tale Towns in Germany- Inspiring Travel Ideas

16.01.2023.

The colourful towns full of charm take the rule in Germany. The half-timbered houses shine in their magic and painted houses are even more unbelievable. Even the most ordinary houses delight with simple images. Where lies the German habitude to paint their houses?

Enticing colours make the romantic journey alive as you seek the natural treasures, specially in Bavaria. The fairy tale feeling is so powerful in lovely German towns.

I collaborated with about 20 amazing bloggers to take you to these magical places.

Southern Germany

Füssen, contributed by myself

Füssen lies on the threshold of the famous Neuschwanstein castle. Offering pure delight, it perfectly blends with the famous castle. Only 5 minutes by bus to Hohenschwangau village, Füssen is an amazing basis. From Munchen it takes 1,5h by train, though not directly.

Within 1 km from the Austrian border, Füssen and its surroundings deserve the road trip.

The colourful town entices its magic at every corner and many hiking paths give it even more prettiness. Füssen is surrounded by five lakes, which adds to its relaxing atmosphere. A lovely castle dominates the town, where you can admire the emerald colours of Lech river. The waterfall Lechfall pours more charm to Füssen, though only artificial.

Füssen is a cradle of violin making and you can explore its history in the local museum.

Where to stay

The vintage vibes of Hotel Ludwigs in the old town of Fussen makes it a fantastic place to stay. The rich offer of restaurants includes vegan treats and feels like a fairy tale to enjoy some of them.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, contributed by myself

Garmisch-Partenkirchen consists of two towns, within walking distance from one another. Partenkirchen might be prettier but Garmisch bursts with restaurants and bars. Within 1h by bus or train you can easily reach this pretty town.

Its idyllic atmosphere owes the fairy tale vibes to plenty of scenic spots in the nature. This famous skiing town is close to the highest German peak, Zugspitze (2962m).

Both are very colourful, though allure of Partenkirchen is more charming.

The iconic street of Partenkirchen, Ludwigstrasse, offers the feast to the eyes thanks to the painted houses.

Visiting Partnachklamm is the most popular activity in the town, where you can admire small river canyons. Only 6 km from Garmisch lies the gorgeous Eibsee in the tranquil shine of the Grainau village.

Richard Strauss Villa is an imposant museum dedicated to the famous composer.

Hiking trails & where to stay

Among many hiking trails King’s Haus in Schachen is the most exquisite one. Within 3 hours you’ll reach the hunting shelter of King Ludwig II.

Biohotel Garmisch delights with the stunning views and delicious food.

Mittenwald, contributed by Ben Reeve from The Sabbatical Guide

Mittenwald is a beautiful little town in Karwendel mountain range in southern Germany, which we visited on a trip to see friends in Munich as part of a sabbatical. It is known for its colorful houses and buildings, adorned with intricate frescoes and wood carvings. The town is also famous for its violin-making tradition, with the Geigenbaumuseum (Violin Making Museum) showcasing the history and craftsmanship of this art. In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Mittenwald offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the winter months.

Some popular things to see in Mittenwald include the St. Peter and Paul Church, the Wallfahrtskirche Maria Himmelfahrt (Pilgrimage Church of Mary Ascension), and the Kranzbergbahn cable car, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain range. The cable car also leads to the Kranzberg mountain, which has a network of well-marked trails for hikers of all levels.

How to reach & where to stay in Mitternwald

To get to Mittenwald, we tool a train from Munich to the Mittenwald railway station. From there, it is a short walk to the town center. Alternatively, you can drive to Mittenwald using the A95 motorway, which connects Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

For accommodation, the Hotel Alpenhof Mittenwald is a highly rated hotel located in the heart of the town. It offers cozy rooms, a restaurant with traditional Bavarian cuisine, and a spa area with a sauna and steam bath. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of many of Mittenwald’s attractions and is the perfect base for exploring this charming town and the surrounding region.

Bamberg, contributed by Brandon from Zimmin Around The World

Bamberg is a Bavarian city located in Upper Franconia. Due to the 
historical significance, architecture, and buildings like the old town 
hall, the whole town of Bamberg is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage 
Site. Bamberg is a prime example of a preserved cultural and 
historical town with its cobblestone streets, churches, and buildings 
that date back hundreds of years. The most stunning and recognizable 
building in Bamberg is the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall). The Altes 
Rathaus is perched on the side of a building located on a bridge 
hanging over the Regnitz River. After stopping for a few photos of the 
Altes Rathaus, it is recommended to walk the small alley ways, visit 
the Cathedral, and try a smoked beer. Visitors can try a famous smoked 
beer at Schlenkerla, a historic brewery in the heart of the Bamberg’s 
downtown area.

How to reach & where to stay

Bamberg is easily accessible by either car or train. If taking a 
train, Bamberg has a main train station. It’s about a 15–20-minute 
walk to the old historic center of Bamberg from the train station. 
Bamberg deserves a full day of exploring. If staying for an extended 
period, there is an Ibis hotel in the historic center of Bamberg.

Berchtesgaden, contributed by Rachel from Means To Explore

Berchtesgaden is an adorable alpine town in the Bavarian Alps. It’s home to the stunning Berchtesgaden National Park and Germany’s cleanest lake, Konigssee.

Visit St Bartholoma’s Cathedral and enjoy an afternoon at the biergarten, surrounded by mountains on three sides and accessible only via the all-electric ferry boat fleet from the lake.

Explore the local landscape at the House of the Mountains Museum, or dive into local history and take a tour of the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine. If you have time, visit Schloss Berchtesgaden for a guided tour of this still privately owned castle!

No visit to Berchtesgaden would be complete without a trip up the mountainside to Kehlsteinhaus, once Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest chateau for wining and dining VIPs. Today, it’s a full-service restaurant and biergarten, perfect for amazing 360° views.

How to reach & where to stay

The most flexible way to get to Berchtesgaden is to drive yourself. Alternatively, hop a train to Salzburg, Austria and take Bus 840 for a day trip to Berchtesgaden.

For a stay in town, try the Hotel Grunberger, right in the city center and on the Berchtesgadener Ache river. 

Oberammergau, contributed by James Ian from Travel Collecting

Oberammergau is one of Bavaria’s quintessential fairytale towns. The village is surrounded by the scenic woodsy Ammergau Alps and the center of the small town is filled with brightly colored, and extremely well-preserved, painted houses. 

The village was traditionally famous for wood works, as locals filled the dark winter months with carving beautiful handicrafts. It is still possible to buy artisanal handicrafts in the stores around town.

The reason, however, that the painted houses in Oberammergau are so well-preserved, is the wealth of the habitants derived from the famous outdoor Passion Play that is held for several months once every ten years. 

But it is the ornately decorated houses covered in beautiful frescoes called Lüftlmalerei that make this town look like something straight out of a fairytale. Religious scenes are common, as are recognizable scenes from popular fairytales including Hansel and Gretel and Little Red Riding Hood. 

Where to stay

It is easy to visit Oberammergau as a day trip from Munich, but staying overnight will give you more time to explore the town and its environs at your leisure. A lovely place to stay is Hotel Alte Post. Built in 1612, it is covered in beautiful hand paintings, but has modern conveniences and is located right in the center of town. 

Donaueschingen, contributed by Iris Veldwijk from Mind Of A Hitchhiker

The origin of Europe’s second-longest and most international river, the Danube, is in a German town called Donaueschingen. This mighty river has inspired poetry and compositions across the old continent, but further upstream at its origins, it has a very different character.

In the center of picturesque Donaueschingen next to St. Johan’s Church, there’s an effervescent spring called Donauquelle which is the symbolic origin of the Danube. Where the smaller rivers Breg and Brigach meet, that’s where the real Danube begins, which flows through ten European countries to the Black Sea.

The entire town is made up of small pedestrian-friendly streets and old buildings where you can experience the Black Forest cuisine and hospitality, including the local brew from Fürstenberg Brewery.

How to reach & where to stay

There are several guesthouses and hotels to choose from, such as the Wyndham Garden. The most scenic way to arrive in Donaueschingen is by taking the Schwarzwaldbahn train line in the daytime. One of the tunnels passes beneath the watershed of the Rhine and Danube rivers. Other good ways to arrive are by bus, bicycle (pedaling the international cycleway Donauradweg), and car. The best way to depart Donaueschingen is by kayaking the Danube downstream.

Esslingen, contributed by Diana from Travels in Poland

Esslingen, a beautiful town, with buildings over 200 years old, showcases some of Germany’s beautiful architectural features, as well as the charm of small cities. Gothic churches are sprinkled across the town such as the Frauenkirche, which took over two hundred years to build.   Esslingen’s winding alleyways lead visitors through some beautifully styled homes, half-timbered homes alongside the River Neckar. Klein Venedig, known as Little Venice,  is the area where the Neckar meets other river branches, creating small canaled areas that reflect a miniature version of Venice.  The city’s Rathaus (town hall) is over five hundred years old, currently painted a bright red with an ornate clocktower showcasing several clocks up through the tower. 

The town holds an annual Medieval Christmas Market, a very popular Christmas market in Baden Württemberg.  It is one of the largest Christmas markets in the region with Medieval shows including jugglers, basket and candle makers, archers, and numerous other craftsmen showing off their tradecraft.

The vineyards of Esslinger

The city has many vineyards on gentle slopes overlooking parts of the city.  At different times of the year, individuals may participate in helping vineyard owners pick grapes for winemaking.  Local wines from the region are very popular, and one particular sparkling wine is made here as well, Kessler Sekt, making Esslingen a great destination for wine lovers.

Central Germany

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, contributed by Marianne from Pasta, Pretzels and Passports

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming and picturesque Medieval town located in the Franconia region of Germany. Known for its well-preserved city walls and half-timbered houses, it’s one of the most easily recognized and photographed towns in the country.

Once you arrive, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a completely walkable town, and there are plenty of things to see and do. The cobblestoned main street is filled with wonderful shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants to explore.

One of the most popular attractions in Rothenburg is the main square or Marktplatz. During the summer, Marktplatz is home to a wonderful Farmer’s Market. But during the winter, the square is transformed into one of Germany’s best Christmas Markets.

And if you are visiting for more than a day, be sure to explore outside the city walls as well! There you will find several well-marked hiking trails that take you around the city limits, and down to the Tauber River Valley.

Where to stay & how to reach

If you are planning to spend the night in Rothenburg, one of the best places to stay is the Hotel BurgGartenpalais. This hotel is located between the Marktplatz and the Burggarten.

The hotel offers large family rooms, onsite parking, and free breakfast. Be sure to check out their beautiful rose garden and outdoor terrace!

Rothenburg is located approximately 2 hours (177 km) from Frankfurt, making it a great day trip, or even overnight adventure, for families. The easiest way to get to Rothenburg is by car, but there are also guided tours available.

Tübingen, contributed by Kristin from Global Travel Escapades

A fairy town in Germany that’s easily accessible by bus from the Stuttgart International airport is Tubingen. This enchanting town is the perfect place to spend a weekend and has plenty of attractions that will make your visit even more magical!

For example, take in the beauty of the city on a walk along the Neckar waterfront, which has lots of colorful half-timbered houses. Afterward, head over to the market square, which is the main gathering place in the city. A local farmers market is hosted in the morning some days, and there are often live music events in the evening! And of course, take some time to explore Tubingen University, which is one of the oldest universities in Europe and features lots of old-world architecture!

Where to stay

Finally, if you’re looking for someplace to stay during your trip, Ibis Styles Tuebingen offers comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. So, if you’re looking for a quaint town to visit in Germany, be sure to consider Tubingen!

Heidelberg, contributed by Cassie Yoshikawa from the Cassie’s Compass

Heidelberg is a university town in southern Germany. However, Heidelberg earns its place as one of Germany’s best fairy-tale towns due to its enchantingly picturesque Old Town. Historical sites like Schloss Heidelberg, a 13th-century castle dating back to the Middle Ages, and Alte Brucke, an 18th-century bridge that goes over the Neckar River, help create an atmosphere of magic and romance in this charming city.

These grandiose landmarks are hidden away among the cobbled lanes and colorful houses of the Old Town, making Heidelberg an ideal destination for those looking to be immersed in a fairytale. To get to Heidelberg, head south from Frankfurt via A5 and A67. You can also reach it via the metro which stops directly in Old Town.

Where to stay

Stay in Old Town at the Hotel Am Kornmarkt, a boutique hotel just steps from the tram up the hill to Schloss Heidelberg. You can even see the castle lit up at night directly above the hotel.  

Trier, contributed by Jackie Rezk from Jou Jou Travels

Trier is the oldest city in Germany founded in 16BC and is truly a magical place resembling a fairytale. It is located in the Moselle wine region near the border of Luxembourg. In fact, you will likely fly into Luxembourg or Frankfurt to reach Trier.

Trier was founded by the Romans and contains many Roman style architecture like the Porta Nigra Gate and the ruins of a Roman Bath.

The Porta Nigra Gate is the best-preserved city gate and a visit to it is a definite must. It feels like you’re stepping back in time wandering the stunning grounds. When visiting Trier you will also likely stumble upon the main market which is very colorful, known as Hauptmarkt. The Amphitheatre and Roman Bridges are also sites you shouldn’t miss.

Where to stay

You can pair a visit to Trier with the Eltz Castle which is not too far away and is one of the best fairytale castles in Europe. Cozy and modern stay offers the Best Western Hotel Trier.

Bad Ems, contributed by Rachel Heller from World Heritage Sites Net

Back in the 19^th century, the great spa towns of Europe drew the noble classes and the just plain wealthy to “take the waters” every year. They came for their health, but also for networking and matchmaking as they strolled the landscaped parks; drank the warm, mineral-rich spring waters; or attended concerts by Europe’s master musicians.

The promenade passes a formal park as well as fountains where you can taste the natural spring water yourself. It also passes the very grand Kuursaal, which still houses a casino and the ornate halls used, then and now, for concerts.

Take the Kurwaldbahn up the hill for a view of the surrounding mountains, the luxurious villas and the Russian Orthodox Church on the river’s opposite bank.

Where to stay & how to reach

Bad Ems was one of these spa towns, and its core still looks much as it did back then. Häcker’s Grand Hotel was then, and still is, the place to stay. It’s a vast palatial place with an in-house spa, right by the riverside promenade.

Bad Ems is about 30 minutes away from Koblenz by train, 20 minutes by car.

Bacharach, contributed by Sophie from Just Heading Out

In the middle of the UNESCO Heritage region Upper-Middle-Rhine-Valley, lies the picturesque town of Bacharach. The region, and this town in particular, became very popular during the Romantic movement of the 19^th century. Famous artists like Victor Hugo and Heinrich Heine visited Bacharach. They, and other painters, poets and writers were inspired by the beauty of the Rhine region.  

When you see the half-timbered houses, castle, and Gothic chapel, it is easy to understand why. Walking through the historic city gates feels like stepping into an old German fairytale. 

The Rhine valley is a well-known wine region, and the area hills around Bacharach are dotted with vineyards. Weingut Friedrich Bastian has a restaurant with a lovely terrace where you can try their wines and local delicacies. 

How to reach & where to stay

Bacharach lies on the Rheinsteig hiking route and is a popular stop for river cruises as well. Due to the local train station, it is also possible to reach Bacharach by train. 

When you’re in Bacharach, I recommend staying at the Hotel am Markt. This charming family run hotel is centrally located and has a traditional façade but modern rooms. 

Cochem, contributed by Chris Heckmann from Around the World With Me

One of the most charming towns in a country full of fairy tale villages lies on the banks of the Mosel River in western Germany. Cochem is the de-facto capital of Germany’s gorgeous wine region, which produces some of the best Riesling in the world. The Mosel River winds through the German countryside, flanked by steep hills covered in vineyards and topped by medieval castles. Cochem Castle rises above the town below and is the main landmark of this region of Germany. In true Mosel fashion, the hill that Cochem Castle sits atop is covered in vineyards.

While exploring Cochem be sure to walk along the Skagerak-Brucke bridge across the river for a picture-perfect view of the town.

Where to stay & how to reach

The views from the castle are equally amazing as well, looking out over the Mosel as it snakes its way on to more historic German castles, like the famous Burg Eltz. Or if you’d prefer to have a view from your room, it doesn’t get much better than Hotel am Hafen, just across the bridge from downtown Cochem.

Cochem isn’t the most accessible place in Germany. You’ll need a rental car or to take a hopper train from Koblenz on the Rhine. But those who venture to Cochem will find themselves wanting to return again and again!  

Monschau, contributed by Renee of Dream Plan Experience 

Monschau is a wonderful fairytale town in Germany. Tucked away in the northern hills of the Eifel National Park near the Belgian border, this pretty town makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Historic timbered houses and narrow cobblestone alleyways have been perfectly preserved for three centuries. Tiny footbridges offer the best views of the Rur River running through this charming town.

Take the Panoramic Road or Panorama Weg trail for its stunning views of Monschau from its elevated stone terrace. From here, explore the 13th-century Monschau castle where you can venture a little higher still to enjoy panoramic views of this picturesque town.

Find a seat at one of the tiny bistro tables and chairs on the market square. Take part in the tradition of kaffee und kuchen where delicious apple strudel is on every menu.

Where to stay

For overnight stays, look no further than Haus Stehlings, a guest house steps from the market square with views and sounds of the Rur River.

This pretty little town is straight out of a fairy tale, and a destination worth seeking out.     

Northern Germany

Quedlinburg, contributed by Sharon from Dive Into Germany

If you are looking for fairy tale towns in Germany, your first stop should be in Quedlinburg. It’s just gorgeous.

Its Old Town is UNESCO World Heritage listed thanks to being one of the best preserved Medieval and Renaissance towns in Europe. There are over 1300 well-preserved half-timbered buildings, and you’ll feel like you are in a Medieval fairy tale as you walk around.

You can go even further back in time by heading up to Castle Hill (Schlossberg) which was founded in 922 by King Henry I. He was buried here and the buildings were constructed in the 10th-12th centuries.

The Fachwerkmuseum Im Ständerbau (Half Timbered Museum) is a must visit to learn more about this housing style and there are galleries and churches to enjoy as you wander around.

How to reach & where to stay

To get to Quedlinburg, there are buses and trains. It’s easiest from Berlin. Otherwise, you’ll probably find you need to make a change or two to each here. It’s worth it though.

A great place to stay is Quartier am Brunnen especially if you like private, apartment style accommodation. It’s located in the heart of the Old Town moments from the main square in a renovated Baroque half-timbered house.

Schwerin, contributed by Ali from Berlin Travel Tips

Schwerin is a charming town in northern Germany best known for its stunning castle. The old town is worth seeing for its quaint cobbled streets, the main square called Marktplatz, and the impressive Schwerwin Cathedral. While you’re at Marktplatz, be sure to check out the quirky Lion Monument. It shows Henry the Lion, who founded Schwerin, being greeted on his way into town by townspeople had dropped their pants to moon him.

The highlight of Schwerin- its castle

But the real star of Schwerin is its fairy tale castle. The town sits among several lakes, and the castle is on an island that has had a castle on it in some form since at least 942. What you see today is mostly from the mid 1800s, but there are some sections of the facade that date back to the Renaissance. The castle grounds are gorgeous too, with ornate gardens and a large park.

Schwerin is one of the best day trips from Berlin, but the castle is closed on Mondays. If going inside is important to you, plan your visit for another day. The grounds are open 24/7.

Where to stay

If you decide to spend the night in Schwerin, check out the Weinhaus Uhle hotel. To reach Schwerin from Berlin, the easiest option is to take the RE2 train, which takes about 2 and a half hours with no switches.

Hammeln, contributed by Carina Klein from Bucketlist2life

The German Fairytale Route starts in Hanau in central Germany and runs for about 600 kilometres (370 mi) all the way to Bremen in Northern Germany. It’s a must for lovers of Grimm’s fairytales with more than 60 Brothers Grimm and fairytale-themed stops along the way.

Hameln is famous because of the Brothers Grimm fairytale of the Pied Piper of Hamelin. A piper lured the town’s children into a cave after the mayor refused to pay him for taking care of the town’s rat plague.

But don’t worry. Nowadays, you’ll neither find a rat plague nor are children in danger from pipers. Nowadays, you’ll find cute half-timbered houses as well as the beautiful Weser river.

Where to stay & how to reach

Our hotel of choice in Hameln is Hotel Stadt Hameln right next to the Weser river.

Hameln in Lower Saxony is pretty much in the middle of the fairytale road. In case you want to road trip along the fairytale road, Frankfurt (Main) is your airport of choice. The closest airport to Hameln is in Hanover, the capital of Lower Saxony. From here, it’s a quick and easy ride with a local train.

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