Important information:
Am 10. April 2024 wurden das Kundenportal sowie der Web-Zugriff auf das Kartenkonto eingestellt. Bitte laden Sie die Swiss Bankers App herunter, um weiterhin uneingeschränkten Zugriff auf alle Dienste zu haben.
Are you a Swiss Bankers sales partner?
Hier geht es zum Partnerportal.
Forget the hustle and bustle of the Berlin Wall and the hectic pace of Frankfurt’s financial district. Leave behind the crowds with their selfie sticks at Cologne Cathedral and the throngs of visitors at Neuschwanstein. Discover a different side of Germany – full of secret castles, hidden trails and unspoilt towns. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to charming villages, crystal-clear lakes and ancient forests. Let yourself be enchanted by the magical atmosphere of these places and rediscover Germany.
10.07.2024
Miryana
Contents:
The Saxon Switzerland National Park in Saxony is a dream destination for walkers, climbers and nature lovers. This breathtaking region, part of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, offers a unique landscape of impressive rock formations, deep gorges and dense forests. The bizarre sandstone cliffs, shaped by erosion over millions of years, characterise Saxon Switzerland. A highlight is the Bastei with its historic bridge, which offers spectacular views of the Elbe Valley. The landscape ranges from dense forests and rolling hills to rugged cliffs.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal due to the pleasant temperatures and the colourful landscape. Summer is often busy, whilst winter offers tranquillity and snow-covered scenes.
Activities
The Rakotz Bridge, also known as the Devil’s Bridge, is a fascinating structure in Kromlau Park in Saxony. This impressive bridge is a technical marvel of the 19th century and a place steeped in myths and stories. The Rakotz Bridge was built in the 1860s at the request of Knight von Kittlitz. Its semi-circular arch and its reflection in the water together form a perfect circle, lending the bridge a mystical character and making it a popular photo opportunity.
Best time to visit: The Rakotz Bridge is a worthwhile destination at any time of year. In spring and summer, the park is in full bloom; in autumn, the colourful foliage is enchanting; and in winter, the snow-covered bridge offers a fairytale-like sight.
Activities
The Blautopf in Blaubeuren is a fascinating natural wonder in the Swabian Alb. This karst spring captivates visitors with its deep blue water, which exudes a mysterious aura and attracts numerous visitors. The Blautopf is the second-largest karst spring in Germany; it rises from an underground cave system and has an intense, deep-blue colour. This is caused by the high limestone content and the refraction of light. The Blautopf is not only of geological interest but is also steeped in legend.
Best time to visit: The Blautopf is well worth a visit at any time of year. In spring and summer, nature is in full bloom; in autumn, the colourful foliage is enchanting; and in winter, the snow-covered Blautopf has a special charm.
The Nordstrandischmoor tramway is an unrivalled experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers. This unusual rail link runs through the Wadden Sea, connecting the Hallig of Nordstrandischmoor with the mainland. Originally used to transport building materials, the tramway now also serves the island’s residents and visitors. A journey on the open-air tramway offers a unique perspective on the impressive landscape of the Wadden Sea.
Best time to visit: The Lorenbahn operates all year round. The best time for a trip is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and visibility is clear. Spring and autumn are also ideal due to the pleasant temperatures and beautiful colours of the countryside. In winter, the rugged landscape offers a special experience.
Video: The Minecart Railway
The Fuggerei in Augsburg, founded in 1521 by Jakob Fugger, is the world’s oldest surviving social housing estate. It has always provided affordable housing for citizens in need and is a unique historical complex. The Fuggerei consists of 67 houses with 140 flats in a charming, walled settlement. The picturesque alleyways, well-tended gardens and historic buildings offer a fascinating insight into social welfare in the 16th century.
Best time to visit: The Fuggerei is charming all year round. In spring and summer, the gardens are in bloom, whilst in winter the settlement offers a contemplative atmosphere with festive lighting.
The Spreewald in south-eastern Brandenburg is a unique landscape of rivers and floodplains that offers nature experiences, culture and relaxation. Famous for its intricate network of waterways, dense forests and traditional villages, the Spreewald is a fascinating destination. The Spreewald consists of a labyrinth of rivers and canals stretching for around 1,300 kilometres. This landscape, formed during the last Ice Age, is now a protected biosphere reserve and ideal for nature lovers and water enthusiasts.
Best time to visit: Spring and summer offer mild weather and lush vegetation. Autumn entices visitors with its colourful foliage, whilst winter offers tranquillity and snow-covered landscapes.
The Sanspareil Rock Garden in Wonsees, Bavaria, is a unique destination that combines nature and art. This historic garden complex was laid out in the 18th century on the orders of Margravine Wilhelmine of Bayreuth and impresses with its bizarre rock formations, romantic ruins and well-tended parkland. The Sanspareil Rock Garden, named after the French expression ‘sans pareil’ (without equal), is a masterpiece of garden design. Natural rock formations have been complemented by architectural elements to create a landscape reminiscent of ancient mythology. Walks through the garden constantly offer new perspectives and impressions.
Best time to visit: Open all year round, though the vegetation is at its most vibrant in spring and summer. Autumn brings colourful foliage, and winter offers snow-covered rocks.
Video: Sanspareil Rock Garden, Wonsees, Bavaria
Eltz Castle, near Wierschem in Rhineland-Palatinate, is one of Germany’s most impressive and best-preserved castles. This medieval fortress rises picturesquely in a wooded valley and offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Owned by the Eltz family since the 12th century, the castle impresses with its fairytale architecture, well-preserved interiors and idyllic setting. Visitors can explore magnificent rooms, historic furniture and an impressive collection of weapons.
Best time to visit: Open from April to November. Particularly beautiful in spring and autumn, when nature is in full bloom or the forests are ablaze with colour.
Video: Eltz Castle, Wierschem, Rhineland-Palatinate
The Obersee in the Berchtesgadener Land, Bavaria, is a crystal-clear mountain lake and a hidden gem in the German Alps. Nestled within a breathtaking landscape, the lake offers ideal conditions for hiking, photography and enjoying the great outdoors. Obersee is situated in the Berchtesgaden National Park near the Austrian border and can only be reached on foot or by boat. The lake impresses with its crystal-clear, tranquil waters, which reflect the surrounding mountains and forests.
Best time to visit: spring to autumn. In summer you can go for a swim, and in autumn you can enjoy the colourful autumn foliage.
Video: Obersee, Bavaria
Rügen, Germany’s largest island in the Baltic Sea, is a paradise for nature lovers, history buffs and those seeking relaxation. With its famous chalk cliffs, sandy beaches and seaside resorts, Rügen offers a wealth of experiences. Rügen impresses with its chalk cliffs in Jasmund National Park, rolling hills, meadows and idyllic Bodden waters – ideal for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers.
Best time to visit: spring to autumn. Summer for beach holidays, spring and autumn for hiking.
The Externsteine, a striking sandstone formation in the Teutoburg Forest, are one of Germany’s most fascinating natural and cultural monuments. These rock formations boast a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. The Externsteine consist of 13 sandstone cliffs, up to 40 metres high, which were formed around 120 million years ago. They have been used and shaped by people over the course of millennia.
Best time to visit: All year round. Spring and summer for hiking, autumn for the changing colours of the leaves, winter for a peaceful atmosphere.
The Partnachklamm near Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria is an impressive gorge with thundering waterfalls and spectacular views. The Partnachklamm stretches for 700 metres and is up to 80 metres deep. Carved out by the erosive power of the Partnach river, it is a popular destination for walkers and nature lovers.
Best time to visit: All year round. Summer brings a strong flow of water, whilst winter features frozen waterfalls and icicles.
Tip: Discover Munich’s top sights and the city’s coolest spots in our blog post
The Triberg Waterfalls in Triberg, in the Black Forest, are Germany’s highest waterfalls and an impressive natural wonder. The waterfalls plunge 163 metres down seven tiers and are surrounded by dense forest. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Best time to visit: All year round. Spring and summer for hiking, autumn for the colours of the foliage, winter for frozen waterfalls.
Video: Triberg Waterfalls
Cochem, a charming little town in Rhineland-Palatinate, is picturesquely situated amongst the vineyards of the Moselle Valley. It captivates visitors with its rich history, charming old town and the imposing Reichsburg Castle. Cochem boasts historic buildings, winding alleyways and half-timbered houses that create a medieval atmosphere.
Best time to visit: All year round. Spring and summer for wine tastings and boat trips, autumn for the grape harvest, winter for Christmas markets.
The Eifel National Park in North Rhine-Westphalia is an impressive nature reserve with a diverse range of flora and fauna, extensive forests and picturesque lakes. The 110-square-kilometre park, established in 2004, protects native plant and animal species. Ancient beech forests and a rich variety of wildlife, including wildcats and black storks, can be found here.
Best time to visit: All year round. Spring and summer for flowering meadows, autumn for the changing colours of the leaves, winter for tranquil landscapes.
Video: Eifel National Park, North Rhine-Westphalia
Tiger & Turtle – Magic Mountain in Duisburg is a unique sculpture modelled on a rollercoaster but accessible to pedestrians. It offers a visual experience and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Opened in 2011 and designed by Heike Mutter and Ulrich Genth, the sculpture combines industrial aesthetics with the natural surroundings of Angerpark. The name ‘Tiger & Turtle’ symbolises the contrast between speed and slowness. Whilst a rollercoaster normally represents speed, here it is experienced slowly and on foot. Be inspired by the creative energy and impressive aesthetics of this special work of art and experience Duisburg from a completely new perspective.
Best time to visit: All year round. Spring and summer offer mild weather; autumn brings colourful scenery; and winter, when there is snow, is particularly atmospheric.
Video: Tiger & Turtle – Magic Mountain, Duisburg
Germany’s famous sights have their charm, but the true heart of the country beats in its hidden corners and undiscovered gems. From the mystical Externsteine to the thundering Triberg Waterfalls and the historic Reichsburg Cochem on the Moselle – there is so much more to see and experience. Above all, it is an ideal destination for a short break from Switzerland.
These hidden treasures offer not only fascinating stories and breathtaking landscapes, but also the chance to escape mass tourism and enjoy authentic, unforgettable experiences. Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of these places and discover a side of Germany you’ve never experienced before. Pack your bags and set off – adventure awaits!
© Swiss Bankers 2026
Compare cards and conditions
