Rich history, cultural diversity and breathtaking scenery are synonymous with Germany. The countryside is bursting with natural beauty and endless activities for you to enjoy. These range from absolute relaxation at a healing spa in the Black Forest to hiking through the alpine villages in southern Germany. Pristine white sand beaches that offer dream-like settings await you in the northern part of the country.
There are more than 10,000 German towns and cities waiting to be discovered. Each has its own unique character. Spend time in the places you visit so you can immerse yourself in the culture. Not only is this rewarding at the time but the memories you make will trigger the same happy feelings long after you have returned home.
With so many interesting cities to explore, here are just a few you should spend some time visiting. Berlin is known as the capital of culture from museums to street art. Munich is Germany’s lifestyle capital and boasts one of the country’s most beautiful city centres. Dresden is known for its culture and beauty and includes some of the world’s greatest cultural achievements.
Germany's endless array of fairytale castles and palaces will easily transport you into the past. As you make your way through any of these stately sites, listen carefully to the stories that are told and feel them come to life as you move from room to room. There are many unique experiences where you can immerse yourself into history. Imagine reliving life as Knight at a Medieval dinner, attending a local open-air concert inside the courtyard of a grand castle, or living a royal life with an overnight stay in a luxury palace. There are many options to explore and below are a few ideas.
One of the most famous castles is King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein. Many recognize it from Disney, but seeing in person in the breathtaking mountainous setting is an image you will not forget. How the castle was built is also a feat during its time considering where it is situated. And, there are stories that await you about the king himself. You will have to visit to find out more.
Standing proudly above the town of Heidelberg on a mountain terrace is one of Europe’s most iconic castles. The setting of the castle ruins, overgrown with ivy, is a nod to the grandeur of the former residents. It was built as a fortified castle with towers and moats. Heidelberg Castle represents the very embodiment of German Romanticism, which makes visitors feel a little as though they have been transported to another world.
This palace is famous around the world as a masterpiece of baroque architecture dating back to the time of Augustus the Strong. Most of the rooms inside the palace are now home to museums, including the Dresden Porcelain Collection, which is one of the largest in the world. The armoury is another highlight featuring a magnificent collection of weaponry and garments. The Semper Gallery contains a globally significant collection of paintings dating from the Renaissance to the baroque period, including The Sistine Madonna by Raphael.
Germany hosts many festivals and events throughout the year ranging from the famous Oktoberfest in Munich to traditional Christmas markets held throughout the country. You will definitely feel like you have stepped into German culture when you join in these festivities. There may be a possibility that you will find yourself going home with your own lederhosen and/or dirndl, one of the most recognizable country-specific outfits in the world.
If you love the scenery with themed routes, then you will be happy to know that Germany has more than 150 of them including wine, fairytale, and alpine routes. There are scenic routes (also known as paths to happiness) to meet anyone’s interests. Here are a few to perk your interests:
Travel through the striking landscapes of the Black Forest and Baar region to follow in the footsteps of famous German clockmakers. Learn more about the clock tradition while visiting the factories, workshops and studios along this route.
View captivating old-German style craftsmanship that will take you on a journey through 1,000 years of history. When you explore the idyllic countryside and romantic little towns along this route, not only will you experience the architecture of half-timbered houses, you will also take in Baroque and romantic religious buildings, Medieval witches’ towers, vineyards, along with many markets and festivals.
This road has it all from nature, culture to friendly hospitality. It ticks off all the boxes for art fanatics, festival-goers, history buffs and those who enjoy outdoor adventures. Along with picturesque sites such as those found in the Franconian wine region and the Alpine peaks, you will have plenty of chance to enjoy fine wine and tasty beer at open-air historical festivals.
Let yourself become part of a community when you spend time in the smaller towns. Wander through the cobbled stone streets of the Old Town in Miltenberg where you can enjoy a traditional German meal with beer at the oldest operating inn in the country.
Christmas is always in season when you visit Seiffen, offering family-friendly activities and shops filled with the fine craftsmanship of Christmas wood products.
Enjoy sipping a glass of wine on the bridge in Würzburg talking to the locals while taking in the view of a majestic castle that sits proudly above you.
If you enjoy wine and beer, you will want to discover the 13 wine-growing regions, along with the many types of beer produced from the 1,300 breweries in Germany. Local vineyards often host gatherings in local “wine houses,” which bring people together to celebrate while enjoying their wines and foods.
During the colder seasons (especially at the Christmas markets), you will want a Glühwein to warm your soul. Beer gardens are fun and also provide great opportunities to mix with the locals. German brewers still adhere to the Purity Law, which is recognized worldwide as a seal of quality.
Discover traditional regional dishes from all over Germany. Bratwurst sausages have come to be symbolic of Germany so you will want to taste a few.
Did you know that there are more than 300 restaurants in Germany that serve Michelin-starred cuisine, with concepts ranging from inspired new takes on simple and regional classics to new creations incorporating international influences?
Germany is a thriving country where you can easily immerse yourself into its culture whether you visit its impressive cities or explore its quaint Medieval towns. It is a country that is welcoming to all communities.
