Germany's finest viewing platforms

For a truly stunning panorma, head up to the AlpspiX viewing platform in Bavaria's Wetterstein mountain range. A short walk from Osterfelderkopf summit station, the steel structure extends several meters over the mountain cliff. At an elevation of roughly 2,000 meters (6,562 ft), you can admire Germany's highest mountain, Zugspitze, and plenty more.

The 2-kilometer-long (1.2 mi) Philosophers' Walk leads from Heidelberg's Neuenheim district all the way up to the Heiligenberg mountain. The path provides fantastic views of the university town below; but be warned: the walk is quite steep at the start. It probably got its name from local students and professors who found its quiet perfect for serious reflection.

For a glorious view of Germany's famous river hairpin bend, the Saar loop, head up to Cloef, a rocky lookout point. It is located 180 meters (590 ft) above the river, close to the town of Orscholz. This remarkable river section is one of the Saarland's most famous sights.

The 581-meter (1,907 ft) tall Orensberg has one of Rhineland-Palatinate's most remarkable summit plateaus. At the top, there's also an ancient circular rampart. From here, you can take in splendid views of the Palatine Forest and Upper Rhine Plain. Weather permitting, you might even spot some paragliders sailing through the sky.

If you're a fan of art and great vistas, head for the city of Duisburg. Perched on a hill dubbed "Magic Mountain," you will find the "Tiger and Turtle" installation, a roller coaster-shaped artwork that is also a staircase and viewing platform. As an added bonus, you'll also be rewarded with fabulous views of the surrounding area.

The two-story Weser-Skywalk near Würgassen on the eastern fringe of North Rhine-Westphalia provides breathtaking views of the upper Weser valley. The 80-meter (262 ft) vantage point features a platform that juts out over the cliffs below. Stepping out onto the open grating feels a bit like you're floating in the air.

One of the most visited attractions in Germany's Elbe sandstone mountain range is the Bastei rock formation. These are Saxony's most beautiful viewpoints, and they also offer a unique panorama of the lush forests nearby. The magnificent 19th-century sandstone bridge connecting the rocks is a must-see.

The Reichstag building, home to the German Bundestag, was given a major makeover in the 1990s. British star architect Norman Foster added a 23-meter-high glass dome to the roof and opened it to the public. It quickly became a visitor magnet, attracting some 3 million people annually. The dome also provides some spectacular views of the cityscape.

When Hamburg's iconic Elbphilharmonie concert hall opened in 2017, the stylish structure soon became one of the city's most popular landmarks. While tickets for concerts are highly sought-after and sell out quickly, visitors can easily access the public viewing platform to marvel at the city's lively port and city center.

If you are visiting northeastern Germany, be sure to head for 118-meter (387 ft) tall Königsstuhl, or King's Chair, chalk cliff. Situated in Jasmund National Park on the Baltic Sea island of Rügen, it features jaw-dropping views that are not to be missed. A wheelchair-accessible path means everyone can enjoy the stunning panorama.