Explore where locals vacation in Germany

Our latest series highlights hidden gems that are frequently missed by tourists but treasured by locals. Here, we consult four experts on Germany for their top recommendations.

Germany, known for its lively cities, charming half-timbered villages, historic castles, and a varied landscape that stretches from the sandy beaches of the Baltic Sea to the lush forests of the Black Forest, has always been a beloved spot for travelers seeking both beauty and adventure.

With so many excellent choices available, have you ever thought about where locals prefer to take their holidays in their own homeland?

Hiddensee: A sandy beach paradise in the Baltic Sea

Andrea Schulte-Peevers is a Berlin-based author of travel guidebooks

Whenever I seek a refreshing escape, my go-to refuge is Hiddensee, a charming little island in the Baltic Sea. With its sandy beaches, rolling dunes, vast heathlands, and picturesque thatched cottages – all free of cars! – it’s the perfect getaway. Even during the peak of summer, it’s easy to find tranquility away from the crowds, especially if you stay overnight.

My favorite spot is Kloster, the northernmost of Hiddensee's three main villages, which features a delightful maze of streets filled with gift shops, art galleries, and cafes. The iconic Dornbusch Leuchtturm, a brilliant white lighthouse topped with a quirky red turret, is just a 2km stroll away. From this vantage point, you can truly appreciate the island's wild beauty that has long inspired artists, painters, and poets, including the playwright and Nobel laureate Gerhart Hauptmann, whose summer residence is now a museum.

Kloster offers a few hotels and guesthouses, but most, including myself, prefer the seclusion of a holiday apartment. When it's time to eat, a fantastic option is Schillings Hafenamt at the harbor, where you can savor freshly grilled fish and burgers from happy cows. For tasty traditional bread and homemade pastries, visit Bäckerei Kasten.

Spreewald: Step into the enchanting world of Hansel and Gretel

Juan Martinez is a Colombian travel photojournalist and blogger who has resided in Germany for over ten years.

Even before my first trip to the Spreewald (a UNESCO biosphere reserve) ended, I was already plotting my next adventure there. Six years later, I still find enchantment in its verdant forests and winding waterways. Just an hour from Berlin, the Spreewald (Forest of the Spree) is a unique oasis in Germany. Here, numerous canals embraced by dense woods create a picturesque sanctuary for nature lovers and inquisitive travelers seeking a weekend escape.

After countless visits, I still struggle to pinpoint my favorite aspect of Spreewald. Perhaps it’s the peace of gliding along its waterways or the charm of exploring its magical forests and hidden hiking paths. For first-time visitors, tasting the local gherkin pickles is an absolute necessity. From pickle schnapps to pickle preserves, Lübbenau's farmers' market delights with a range of innovative treats featuring this regional specialty.

If you're planning a longer stay, Lübbenau is the ideal town. Accommodations like Spreemilia Gurkenbude offer a cozy, traditional experience, while Schloss Lübbenau lets you immerse yourself in the elegance of the 18th century.

This charming location is a year-round destination with festivals celebrating each season. During these festivities, locals don traditional attire, breathing life into age-old traditions. The upcoming Lehde Festival, happening on the last weekend of September, will feature fireworks and a Kahn parade. As autumn sets in, Lübbenau transforms into a bustling fall market, showcasing the best of the region's harvest.

Münsterland: Charming towns and medieval castles

Alexandra Kryaneva is a writer, blogger, and social media consultant based in Dortmund.

Situated in western Germany, Münsterland may not attract as many international visitors as the Black Forest, but it’s definitely worth a visit for a scenic escape. It's a renowned biking hotspot due to its extensive cycling paths weaving through lush fields and pine forests. Additionally, it boasts numerous historic towns and castles.

Münster, the regional capital, is an ideal starting point to explore the area. This lively, bike-friendly city, with roots dating back to the Middle Ages (though much of it was reconstructed after WWII), showcases its history in its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. Notable highlights include the LWL Museum of Art and Culture and the Art Museum Pablo Picasso. For dining, check out the weekly markets (Wochenmarkt) on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, offering a delightful range of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods—perfect for breakfast or lunch.

In the evening, the Pinkus Müller brewery is a favored destination, renowned not only for its beer but also for its delightful regional dishes. It's a cozy place to enjoy a meal and relax.

For day trips, I suggest a 30-minute drive to Lüdinghausen, where you can explore the stunning city castle, Burg Lüdinghausen, and the charming water castle, Burg Vischering. At Burg Vischering, you can rent a pedal boat and enjoy fresh bread and pastries from the castle’s own bakery, Terjung. If you’re considering an overnight stay, I highly recommend Hotel 11.