Do you already know where to go for your upcoming Christmas vacation? If not, we have a suggestion for you. That’s why, In this article, we will reveal some fascinating Fairytale places in Germany to visit. As you all know, the country is home to the Grimm brothers and, therefore, is the cradle of some worldwide known tales, like Snow White, Hansel and Gretzel, and so on.
Introduction to Fairytale Places in Germany
Firstly, why should you discover Fairytale Places in Germany? The answer is that you will fall in love with fairytale-like places with winding alleys, medieval townhouses, and countless photo spots. Beyond castles, Oktoberfest, and industrial culture, modern German cities like Berlin and Frankfurt offer vibrant experiences. But the countryside has some of Europe’s most picturesque scenes. We recommend enjoying cobblestoned streets, spires, historic town squares, and other charming places.
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Our list of the most popular Fairytale Places in Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle
First of the Fairytale places in Germany, you know for sure. Namely, it is that famous. The Neuschwanstein Castle sits atop the Bavarian Alps, inspiring Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, and that’s why it is one of the most famous fairytale places in Germany. This magnificent castle was built in 1886 and is one of Germany’s most visited places. Ludwig II of Bavaria commissioned the palace to honor Richard Wagner, the famous composer. Ludwig II was known as The Fairy Tale King, and he wanted to pay tribute to Wagner by decorating many rooms in the castle’s interior with characters from Wagner’s compositions. If you’re in the area, visit the enchanting Christmas Markets in nearby Nuremberg.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming village in Bavaria, southern Germany. In addition, this picturesque town is famous for its winding cobbled alleys and colorful half-timbered houses. It inspired the city in the 1940 Disney movie “Pinocchio” and was featured in several “Harry Potter” films.
That’s why this fairytale-like town is a popular tourist destination yearly but attracts a massive crowd during Christmas. To avoid the crowds, staying in the Old Town and visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber in the morning, late afternoon, or evening is recommended.
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Bamberg
Bamberg is an ancient Bavarian village that traces its roots back to 1002 when the Duke of Bavaria ascended to the throne of Germany. More importantly, he chose Bamberg as his grand capital. Consequently, magnificent edifices began to be constructed. These structures are situated at the hill’s summit, providing a breathtaking view of Bamberg.
Tip: One of the highlights in Bamberg is the old Town Hall building.
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Kassel
If you love the Fairytale places in Germany, this one should be on your bucket list. More importantly, fans of Grimm’s Fairy Tales should be aware of Kassel, where the famous brothers lived and worked for 30 years as librarians. Additionally, Kassel boasts many attractions, including the excellent Bruder Grimm Museum, which houses the first edition of the Fairy Tales annotated by the brothers. Visitors can also enjoy the romantic Lowenburg Castle, a medieval knight’s castle that adds to the city’s charm.
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Heidelberg
Heidelberg is renowned for its university, medicine, and castle – the Heidelberg Castle (Schloss Heidelberg). More importantly, Schloss Heidelberg towers over the entire Old Town and offers some of the most spectacular views in Germany.
Tip: If you are interested in Frankfurt am Main, you can visit Heidelberg as a day trip or the other way round and make Frankfurt your day trip. So, why not combine the cosmopolitan Frankfurt with one of the cutest Fairytale places in Germany? Sounds like a win-win combination.
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Black Forest
Are you afraid of wicked witches? If so, this place might not be the perfect place for you.
Joking aside, in southwest Germany is the Black Forest, where Hansel and Gretel encountered the evil witch, and Little Red Riding Hood met the Big Bad Wolf. The region is also renowned for cuckoo clocks and delicious cherry-topped chocolate cake! So, be sure to put this on your Germany vacation ideas list.
Marburg
Are you ready for an adventure? But be aware! The “Grimm dich” path in Marburg an der Lahn is not for the faint-hearted. It has fifteen stops, 109 meters of climbing, and 282 steps, making it a challenging option for fairy tale lovers in good physical shape. The name “Grimm dich” is a clever play on words, similar to “get in shape” in German, and it’s a perfect fit. Throughout the old town, artist Pasquale Ippolito has created larger-than-life figures of famous fairy tale characters, such as Hansel and Gretel, the Frog Prince, and Snow White’s high heels. The city’s charm lies in its narrow and spectacularly intricate buildings, including old half-timbered houses, and the steep climb to the castle hill with the Landgrafenschloss. Moreover, the city has a student atmosphere, as the university was founded in 1527 and has the slogan: “Other cities may have a university, but Marburg is a university.” So, get ready to challenge yourself and explore the beautiful city of Marburg!
Hamelin
Famous locations exist in storybooks and real life, such as the Land of Seven Mountains, Rapunzel’s tower, and Sleeping Beauty’s castle. Hamelin is a town in the Weserbergland known as “The Pied Piper of Hamelin.” The weekly open-air Pied Piper play, puppet show, and musical “Rats” portray the story. Walking through the old town with its Weser Renaissance buildings is a beautiful experience. The Pied Piper House from 1602 is one of the most magnificent buildings in the city.
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Cochem
Cochem is a town on the Moselle River. Its 11th-century hilltop Imperial Castle offers stunning views. You can reach it by chairlift or sample the region’s Riesling wine. Stroll down the riverfront and take a boat to Beilstein.
Note: If you’d like to learn more, please read our article about Cochem.
Conclusion of the Fairytale Places in Germany
Firstly, we must confess that we have selected only a few such places; otherwise, the article would be too long. Don’t you think so too? Anyhow, we would like to hear your opinion. Which fairytale place was your favorite?
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