2 Best Sights in Franconia and the German Danube, Germany

The world's most comprehensive collection of European glass is housed in the historic Wilder Mann complex. The proud history of glassmaking in Central Europe—centered on Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic—is captured in more than 30,000 items, half of which are on display at any one time across the 35 rooms. Opened in 1985 by (rather randomly) Neil Armstrong, the museum is home to everything from beautiful baroque creations to eye-catching art deco pieces.

A refreshingly modern attraction in the heart of town, the Neues Museum is devoted to international design since the mid-20th century. The building itself is a work of art, with its mix of traditional pink-sandstone ashlars and flowing glass edifice achieving the perfect synthesis between old and new, while its interior is all cool stone floors and white walls, with a ramp that slowly spirals up through the gallery. Inside, extraordinary things await, including an extensive collection of Gerhardt Richter's eclectic works, along with thought-provoking temporary exhibits. English language information can be a little patchy, but the expressive paintings, sculptures, photography, and video installations usually speak for themselves.