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Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich are rich centers of commerce, culture and history, but they don’t stand alone. The country’s other cities boast some of the most authentic experiences and offer some of the most beautiful landmarks.

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In the small city of Bremen, which served as the setting of a Grimm Brothers fairytale, you’ll find ornate Gothic architecture, iconic street musicians and a palpable history of industry and craftsmanship. The city’s most beautiful landmarks, including the incredible City Hall and original medieval walls, can be found in Old Town.

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Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city with one of the largest harbors in the world, giving it a special maritime charm, with more bridges than Amsterdam and Venice combined. The city is also renowned for its nightlife and lively red-light district, Reeperbahn.

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With a rich historical heritage as the seat of the Prussians, Potsdam is the capital of the German state of Brandenburg. The city is a unique architectural combination of Baroque and Neoclassical, with breathtaking constructions like Neuer Garten and Sanssouci Park and Palace, the Rococo-decked summer home of Friedrich the Great.

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Freiburg is one of the oldest and loveliest destinations in Germany, with more sunshine than any other city. Take in the local culture at the city’s farmers’ stands; its many cafés, breweries and restaurants; and its historic city center, home to an impressive 380-foot-tall Gothic cathedral.

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Destruction in Germany during World War II was extensive, but Heidelberg was one of the few cities spared. Today it boasts original old-world charms including its narrow cobblestone streets, café-lined Marktplatz and 14th-century Heidelberg castle — the oldest university in the country.

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Founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago, Cologne is one of Germany’s oldest cities and a leading cultural hub. With the stunning Cathedral of Cologne at its center, the city boasts a rich Gothic architectural history as well as a thriving contemporary art scene and the largest carnivals and festivals in Germany.

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Dresden, the capital of Saxony, is known as the Florence at the Elbe due to its idyllic riverfront location, Baroque architecture and world-renowned art. Though much of the city’s center was destroyed in World War II, all landmarks have been beautifully restored to their former splendor.