8Monschau, Germany
Tucked into the wooded hills of western Germany, Monschau looks as though it was created for a storybook.
The historic center is filled with half-timbered houses, narrow cobbled streets and colorful buildings along the Rur River. Small bridges cross the water, while the surrounding hills provide a beautiful green backdrop.
Many of the historic buildings have been carefully preserved, giving the town an unmistakably old-world character. Monschau is particularly atmospheric in autumn, when the surrounding forests turn golden, and during winter, when its traditional architecture becomes even more magical.
Despite its beauty, Monschau remains considerably quieter than Germany’s major tourist destinations, making it a wonderful choice for travelers who want to discover a less obvious side of the country.
