Germany's Five Largest Cities by Population
Germany has numerous notable cities within its borders, each with its own unique history and attractions. Listed below are the five largest cities in Germany, ordered by their total population. A brief description of each has been provided to help you become more familiar with the various cities. A link to Amazon for each city's travel guide has also been provided if you are planning on visiting the city in question.
#1 – Berlin (Population: 3,459,218)
Berlin, the federal capital of Germany, is the country's most populated city. Housing 3,459,218 residents, the city is well known for its museums, sporting events, and universities, and also for its festivals and active nightlife. Receiving more than six million annual visitors, it's no wonder that tourism plays a large role in Berlin's industry. In fact, it is one of most visited cities in the European Union.
If you are looking for a great travel guide about Berlin, click here.
#2 – Hamburg (Population: 1,786,278)
Officially known as the "Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg (Freie und Hansestadt Hamburg)", Hamburg is Germany's second largest city with a population of 1,786,278. The city is one of Germany's most important media outlets, with around half of the country's newspaper and magazine companies taking root within its city limits.
For a great travel guide about Hamburg, try this one. Bonus, if you love The Beatles, there's also a travel guide of Beatles sites in Hamburg.
#3 – Munich / München (Population: 1,330,440)
With a population of 1,330,440, Munich is Germany's third most populous city. As the capital city of Bavaria, it is located north of the Bavarian Alps on the River Isar. One of Munich's most famous attractions is Oktoberfest, which runs for 16 to 18 days and draws millions of visitors each year who partake in the festivities. Oktoberfest is considered the world's largest people's fair.
If you'll be visiting Munich, consider bringing along this great travel guide.
#4 – Cologne / Köln (Population: 998,105)
Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany with a population of 998,105. It is known as a city of the arts and contains hundreds of galleries and over 30 museums. The city is also home to the University of Cologne, which is one of the oldest universities in Europe.
For a guide that outlines the more unique and unusual sights in Cologne, try this interesting guide book.
#5 – Frankfurt (Population: 671,927)
Frankfurt, which has a population of 671,927, is the largest city in the German state of Hesse and the fifth largest city in all of Germany. Home to the European Central Bank, the city is the financial center for both Germany and continental Europe. Frankfurt is also considered a major transportation hub, containing one of the world's busiest airports and one of Europe's most trafficked railway terminals.
To learn more about the city of Frankfurt, check out this travel guide.
Though Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, and Frankfurt are all highly populated cities, they each have something unique to offer to both residents and visitors alike. Whether it is the nightlife, the festivals, or the world renowned universities that initially draw your attention, something is bound to hold your interest in each of these wonderful cities.
* Population statistics based on 2010 figures.
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