Google Stars are nice. Our friends at Latinometrics recently created an infographic on the most-reviewed landmarks in Latin America – here’s our adaptation for Germany. Our graphic shows travelers where the majority of other travelers have enjoyed their visits. And true to the motto “So many people have been there, it must be good,” these locations also make it onto the list, ideally accompanied by a summary from an online review. Of course, you can go where everyone else goes; it makes choosing easier. On the other hand, one might ask: Do I really need to visit Sanssouci Palace in Brandenburg if it only has 4.7 stars?
Or are there perhaps places that are just as appealing but far less popular? Could a traditional travel guide be more helpful than an online rating system? Do I need other people to suggest what I should find exciting or beautiful — and what I shouldn’t?
Where is it beautiful, and what is a “must-see”?
Most travelers initially head to places where “everyone” has been because these destinations are considered must-sees. However, online reviews might leave gaps. Nobody who visits Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate will skip Alexanderplatz or the Cathedral. Anyone visiting Dresden’s Zwinger Palace will almost certainly also visit the Frauenkirche. But has anyone ever seen a mention of the Spreewald in a review of the Zwinger? The beauty and tranquility of this natural biosphere are best experienced on a traditional punt boat ride — just 130 kilometers from Dresden.
Frankfurt’s Römer is undoubtedly a “must-see” when in Hesse. Just 50 meters away is St. Paul’s Church, considered the cradle of German democracy — perhaps this should also be on your list? What’s often missing from such reviews are links to other nearby attractions. For example, there’s no mention of the lovingly restored half-timbered old town of Seligenstadt, just 20 kilometers away, or Goethe’s House, which is only a ten-minute walk from Frankfurt’s Römerberg.
Two Alternatives to Online Reviews
This list could easily be extended for every federal state. Rating graphics are useful for orientation. However, if you want to explore your destination beyond mere star ratings, it’s worth opening a good old travel guide. Alternatively — since there’s a Facebook group for almost everything—you could join a group dedicated to your current location. With a bit of luck, local members can provide tips on genuine sights and offer more nuanced recommendations than just three, four, or five stars.
