Well, the "most overrated" thread seems to have brought out some interesting opinions. How about the flip side? What little-known gems or less appreciated destinations do you think don't get the credence they deserve? Here are some of my nominees.
Hamburg This is one of the most visited cities in Germany, but much of the traffic is trade-show related, and it's not on the typical list of North American travelers. I traveled there almost soley to check out the amazing Miniatur Wunderland, but the city really impressed me. Even though it was hit heavily during WWII, much of the city is restored to its Gründerzeit glory. Of Germany's five largest cities, I would rate it overall the most attractive.
Speaking of the Gründerzeit, Leipzig is another city that completely surprised me. I don't understand how Rick Steves can call this city "architecturally bland". True, only a handful of buildings remain from before the second half of the 19th century, but considering that this was one of the wealthiest periods of German history, it really shows through in Leipzig. And, it's a really lively place with a large student population. Finally, it has the best zoo in Germany, which would be the equivalent of being the best wine in France, or best beach in Greece.
I mostly think the Black Forest is well known in the English speaking world because the name translates easily. There's nothing wrong with it, but it's only one of about fifty forested mountain ranges that criss-cross southern and central Germany. However, if you want to see the one, that's really special, head to the Hartz and check out some of the towns at the feet of the mountains. Mainly, the amazing Quedlinburg (if you like Fachwerk, prepare to get drunk off it here), Wernigerode and Goslar. Other than their lack of defensive walls, any one of these towns could give Rothenburg a run for it's money.
Other than the fact that I find the skiing there subpar, I have nothing against Mürren and find it a very nice place to enjoy the Alps. But what if you wanted to stay in another high-altitude Alpine town, one that feels more genuinely... well, Swiss, rather than an international resort? My suggestion would be Flumserburg. It's not so much a distinct village, but rather a series of small hamlets spread across a mountain side. Although the skiing and hiking are top-notch, it has a much more laid-back feel. Like a place where Zürich citizens head to unwind over a weekend.
A few years ago, I would have included Ghent on this list, but now that Rick Steves mentions it in his book, it seems to be getting a fair amount of attention.