The main search area for the majority of detectorists. Deserted villages, militaria, coins from all eras – the range of finds is greatest here. Best time: after the harvest and in spring, when fields have been ploughed.

Millers were wealthy, respected people. Busy delivery traffic and manual work mean a higher rate of finds of historical coins and everyday objects. Particularly productive: the area around the access routes.

Prominent solitary trees along paths or in clearings served as meeting points, resting places and landmarks. Often historical meeting places where coins were lost.

Common locations of historical watchtowers and early warning systems. Linked by lines of sight to other towers – important nodes of old communication networks.

Romans threw coins into the water with good wishes when crossing bridges. At fords on historical routes, travellers rested and watered their horses – rich find spots.

Ideal for retrieval magnets. Wells: weapons, ammunition, historical coins, tools. Jetties: fishing hooks, engine parts, lost items of all kinds. Caution: magnet fishing now requires a permit in many places.

Castle ruins are usually protected as archaeological monuments – searching here is only allowed with an express special permit. The surroundings outside the ramparts can be more rewarding and easier to access legally.

Common places of worship and sacrifice, meeting points and ancient observatories. The full range of finds is possible, with an increased likelihood of prehistoric finds from the Bronze and Iron Ages. Often registered as archaeological monuments.

Very interesting during renovations, with the owner's consent. Old vaulted and wine cellars yield rare finds. The walls should also be searched with the detector – hiding places from times of hardship.

Ancient places of shelter, sacrifice, burial and hidden treasure. The furthest corners are particularly promising. Caution: Avoid from October to April – bats hibernate there and are strictly protected.

Germany is criss-crossed by old, disused sunken lanes. Once busy trade routes – the range of finds goes back to the Bronze Age. Deep cuttings reveal how intensively they were used.

Places of sacrifice dedicated to Germanic gods. Offerings were made here until the early Middle Ages. Very high probability of prehistoric metal objects – but usually protected as an archaeological monument or nature reserve.

Rich finds: militaria, coins, badges, identity tags, buttons. Take special care with ammunition finds! If in doubt, do not dig, keep your distance and call the police and the explosive ordnance disposal service.

Probability of finds almost 100 percent. Modern coins are practically guaranteed. A lot of junk means patience is required – good practice areas for beginners to learn how to use the detector.

Probability of finds almost 100 percent – coins and lost jewellery are the rule. Experienced detectorists have paid for their holidays this way. Historical beach finds washed ashore are also possible.