Germany's popularity as an international travel destination is well-deserved. Attractions like the Black Forest and Kiel Canal attract adventure seekers in droves each year. And for those looking for romance, Germany's romantic road offers some of the most charming sights and experiences in Europe.

But there's another side of Germany that often blows visitors away: its awe-inspiring historic places. Visiting these incredible sites is a great way to learn more about Germany's fascinating past. Adventure seekers and history buffs alike will find plenty of amazing attractions to explore, each one offering a unique insight into this incredible country's past. Whether one is visiting for a few days or a few weeks, here are ten incredibly preserved places in Germany that are sure to leave an impression that will last a lifetime.

10 Aachener Dom

This beautiful cathedral stands in the city of Aachen, nestled in the mountains of Western Germany. Consecrated in 805 AD, the cathedral has been a major pilgrimage destination since the Middle Ages and was even the coronation site for thirty-one German kings and twelve queens.

Visitors can explore its stunning interior with its Romanesque-style arches and grand stonework and marvel at this incredible feat of engineering and craftsmanship.

  • Recommended: Visit the Aachen Cathedral in the late afternoon when the sun's rays illuminate its stained-glass windows and grand domes.
  • Note: The cathedral is usually closed to tourists during church services.

9 Wartburg Castle

Perched on a cliff high above Eisenach, this castle is the very embodiment of German romanticism. Built in 1067 AD by the Landgrave of Thuringia, it has served as a refuge for many important figures during the Protestant Reformation.

Visitors can explore its many towers and rooms on a guided tour.

  • Recommended: Take a guided tour for an in-depth look into its history and learn about some of its most famous residents.

Related: 10 Castles In Germany Which Will Make You Feel Like Royalty

8 Schloss Mespelbrunn

This fairytale castle stands in the Spessart Mountains of Western Germany. Built in the 15th Century, its location amidst a breathtaking forest makes it one of the most romantic sites in Germany. Visitors can explore its grand interiors and view the intricate carvings and decorations on display here.

  • Recommended: Visit the Mespelbrunn castle during summer and take a boat ride along its moat for an unforgettable experience.

7 Würzburg Residenz

This baroque masterpiece stands in the city of Würzburg, a popular tourist destination in Bavaria. Built in the 1700s, the Residenz is one of the most impressive examples of German baroque architecture.

Visitors can explore its grand halls and rooms to see intricate frescoes, sculptures, and carvings on display here. There are also two impressive courtyards, as well as a large garden and park.

  • Recommended: Take a guided tour for an in-depth look into its history and learn about some of its most famous residents.

6 Limes Germanicus

This incredible Roman fortification, built in the 1st century AD, is one of Germany's most remarkable archeological sites. Spanning 568 kilometers, the Limes Germanicus had an incredible 60 forts and 900 watchtowers.

It stretched from modern-day Holland to Austria and served as a defensive barrier for centuries. Today, visitors can explore its many fortifications and revel in the ingenuity of the Romans and their engineering prowess.

  • Recommended: Visit some of the best-preserved parts of the Limes Germanicus near Bad Homburg and take a guided tour for an in-depth look into its history and importance.

5 Kloster Maulbronn

This stunning monastery stands amongst rolling hills and lush forests in the state of Baden-Württemberg. Built in 1147 AD, it is one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors can explore its grand architecture - marveling at the intricate stonework and decorations on display here. There are also many impressive frescoes and sculptures to see, as well as a large library and gardens.

  • Note: Avoid visiting on public holidays as the monastery is often crowded.

4 Trier

Trier is Germany's oldest city. Founded by the Romans in 16 BC, it is home to some of the most impressive Roman ruins in Europe.

Visitors can explore its grand monuments and revel in the engineering prowess and artistry of the Romans. Among its many attractions are Porta Nigra (external), Augustus Bridge, and Barbarathermen.

  • Recommended: Visit the Trier Archeological Museum for an in-depth look into its history and learn about some of its most famous attractions.

Related: The Roman Frontier: What Do Know Of Roman Ruins In Germany

3 Schweriner Schloss

This stunning Baroque palace stands in the city of Schwerin, a popular tourist destination in Northern Germany. Built by Duke Friedrich Franz II between 1847 and 1857, the palace is a stunning example of German Baroque architecture.

There are also many impressive courtyards and gardens to explore, as well as a beautiful lake where visitors can take boat rides.

  • Recommended: Visit the palace during summer when the gardens are in full bloom and take a guided tour for an informative look into its history and importance.

2 Rakotzbrücke

This incredible natural wonder stands in the city of Bad Sackingen, a popular tourist destination in Southern Germany. Its 18-arched bridge stretches across the River Neckar and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany.

The original bridge was built between 1075 and 1200 AD, while the second was built in 1753. Improvements were made in 1777 and later in 1814. Visitors can admire the stunning views of the river below.

  • Recommended: Visit the Devil's Bridge in the evening when it is illuminated by magical lights, and take a stroll across its impressive arches for some truly stunning views.

1 Welterbe Zollverein

This incredible industrial complex was built in 1847 and is now one of Germany's most iconic landmarks. It stands as a testament to Germany's rich industrial heritage and is one of the most impressive examples of coal mining in Europe.

Visitors can explore its vast network of tunnels, and there are also many fascinating exhibits to see, as well as a special museum dedicated to the history of coal mining in Germany.

  • Recommended: Visit Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex and take a guided tour for an in-depth look into its history and importance.