The best city break destinations in Germany

Published: 25 March 2025

Ready for an unforgettable weekend getaway? You need to travel a little bit far to experience this fantastic city break, but it’s totally worth it! Germany boasts a wide range of stunning cities, each offering its own unique charm and rich history. Whether you're interested in vibrant metropolises or hidden gems, here are 10 fantastic cities to explore on your next city trip in Germany!

Top 10 city breaks in Germany

  • Hamburg
  • Cologne
  • Düsseldorf
  • Frankfurt
  • Essen
  • Aachen
  • Oberhausen
  • Berlin
  • Bremen
  • Dortmund
     

1. Hamburg

With its vibrant harbour, lively districts, and incredible nightlife, Hamburg is a city that must be experienced. Take a boat tour around the harbour, explore the historic Speicherstadt district, or enjoy the buzzing Reeperbahn. For a stylish stay, opt for The Westin Hamburg at the Elbphilharmonie, or the maritime 25hours Hotel HafenCity, both offering comfort with a unique twist.

Accommodation in Hamburg

2. Cologne

Cologne's stunning cathedral is an absolute must-see, but there’s so much more to this charming city. Wander through the Belgian Quarter, visit the fascinating Perfume Museum, and stroll along the Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with thousands of love locks. The Hilton Cologne offers fantastic views of the cathedral, while the Excelsior Hotel Ernst provides a luxurious, historical experience.

Accommodation in Cologne

3. Düsseldorf

Known for its fashion-forward culture and elegant vibe, Düsseldorf is a city of style. Shop the luxury boutiques of Königsallee ("Kö"), visit the striking Media Harbour with its modern architecture, and enjoy a traditional Altbier in the Altstadt (Old Town). For a luxurious experience, book the Breidenbacher Hof, or choose the contemporary Steigenberger Parkhotel Düsseldorf for something more modern.

Accommodation in Düsseldorf

4. Frankfurt

Often referred to as “Mainhattan” for its impressive skyline, Frankfurt blends modern architecture with deep history. Explore the historic Römerberg square, visit Goethe’s birthplace, and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere. Choose from the luxurious Sofitel Frankfurt Opera, or opt for the centrally located, affordable Flemings Selection Hotel Frankfurt-City.

Accommodation in Frankfurt

5. Essen

Essen offers a fascinating mix of industrial history and modern cultural experiences. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Zeche Zollverein, and enjoy a relaxing walk in Gruga Park. The Atlantic Congress Hotel Essen offers a comfortable stay, while the stylish Boutique Essen City puts you right in the heart of the city, making it a perfect base to explore.

Accommodation in Essen

6. Aachen

Aachen is famous for its impressive cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its rejuvenating thermal baths. For a luxury experience, the Art Hotel Aachen Superior features a top-notch spa, while the modern INNSIDE by Meliá Aachen offers spectacular views from its rooftop terrace.

Accommodation in Aachen

7. Oberhausen

Oberhausen is a shopping and entertainment hub. Spend the day at the massive CentrO shopping centre, enjoy the marine life at SEA LIFE, or take in the view from the Ferris wheel. Hotel Oberhausen Neue Mitte by Meliá offers a comfortable stay close to the attractions, while the B&B Hotel Oberhausen at Centro provides a more budget-friendly option.

Accommodation in Oberhausen

8. Berlin

The capital city of Germany, Berlin, is a fascinating blend of history and modern culture. From the iconic Berlin Wall to Museum Island, and vibrant districts like Kreuzberg, there’s so much to explore. For a unique stay, consider the Provocateur Hotel, inspired by Paris in the 1920s, or the jungle-themed 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, which offers stunning views over the zoo.

Accommodation in Berlin

9. Bremen

Bremen is a charming city with a wealth of historical landmarks, from the picturesque Schnoor district to the Bremen Town Musicians statue. The Parkhotel Bremen is perfect for a luxurious stay, while the H+ Hotel Bremen offers a cosy, budget-friendly option in the city centre.

Accommodation in Bremen

10. Dortmund

Dortmund is a paradise for football fans, but also offers plenty for culture lovers. Visit the famous Signal Iduna Park, home of Borussia Dortmund, and explore the artsy U-Tower. The Radisson Blu Hotel Dortmund offers a luxurious stay, while the B&B Hotel Dortmund-City provides a more affordable option for those on a budget.

Accommodation in Dortmund
 

Book your city break in Germany with Hotelgiftcard

Have you decided on your dream city? Now it's time to book your accommodation! With the Hotelgiftcard, you can easily reserve a stay at one of the many partner hotels across Germany. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a cosy guesthouse, or a relaxing countryside holiday park, the Hotelgiftcard offers a flexible and convenient solution for both spontaneous weekend getaways or well-planned trips.

Gift a city break with the Hotelgiftcard

Looking for a unique and thoughtful gift? The Hotelgiftcard is the ideal present for those who love to travel. The recipient can choose their destination and accommodation, making it the perfect gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because—after all, who doesn’t love the gift of travel?

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