Hamburg

Hamburg is one of Europe’s most important cities, and it’s also one of the most interesting. If you only ever visit one city in Germany, make sure it’s this. The sheer number of things to do here is incredible, from quirky architecture to buzzy nightlife.

Consider visiting in early December, when the iconic Christmas markets set up shop and you can enjoy all sorts of festive treats. Meanwhile, pretty towns like Lüneburg await nearby year-round.