Germany

Germany: general info for travelers

Germany is a country located in central Europe. It is the second-most populous country in Europe and has a rich history, varied landscapes, and a vibrant culture. The country is known for its iconic landmarks such as the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, and the fairy-tale-like castles nestled in the Black Forest. Germany has produced many famous historical figures such as Martin Luther, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Albert Einstein, and Ludwig van Beethoven. The country is also famous for its delicious cuisine, including sausages, beer, and sauerkraut. Germany is an efficient and well-organized country, with world-renowned industries such as automobiles, machinery, and chemicals.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Germany, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Germany: places to visit

Certainly, here are some of the main places to visit in Germany, along with a short description of each: 1. Berlin: As the country's capital, Berlin offers a mix of historical and modern attractions to explore. Visit the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, the Reichstag building, and Museum Island, along with trendy neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Mitte.
2. Munich: Known for its lively beer culture, Munich offers a blend of traditional Bavarian charm mixed with modern city life. Highlights include the Marienplatz, Neuschwanstein Castle and Oktoberfest.
3. Frankfurt: As a commercial center of Germany, Frankfurt features an impressive skyline and modern architecture. Take a tour of the European Central Bank, visit the famous Römerberg square and enjoy the contemporary art exhibitions at the Städel Museum.
4. Hamburg: This northern port city is known for its maritime heritage and vibrant nightlife. Highlights include the Miniatur Wunderland, the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and the lively St. Pauli neighborhood.
5. Cologne: Situated along the Rhine River, Cologne is famous for its stunning cathedral, as well as its museums and galleries. Take a boat ride on the river, visit the Chocolate Museum and climb the KolnTriangle observation deck for stunning views of the city.
6. Heidelberg: This charming, medieval university town offers stunning architecture and an idyllic riverside location. Explore the old town, visit the romantic Heidelberg Castle and take a stroll along the Philosopher's Walk for stunning views of the city.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Germany. Each city has its own unique charm and culture, making it easy to find something that appeals to everyone.
There is more to see and do in Germany: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Germany: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Germany, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Germany experiences four distinct seasons, with varying temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year: - Spring (March to May): temperatures range between 5°C - 15°C with occasional rain. This is also a popular time to visit due to the blooming of cherry blossoms and other flowers.
- Summer (June to August): temperatures range between 20°C - 30°C with occasional rain or thunderstorms. This is a great time to attend outdoor events and festivals.
- Autumn (September to November): temperatures range between 5°C - 15°C and may have occasional rain and fog. This is a great time to visit the countryside and see the beautiful autumn foliage.
- Winter (December to February): temperatures range between -10°C - 5°C with snow and occasional freezing rain. This is a popular time to visit for Christmas markets and winter sports.
The best time to visit Germany depends on your personal preferences and interests. If you enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, then summer is the best time to visit. If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy beautiful fall colors, then autumn is the best time to visit. If you want to experience Christmas markets and winter sports, then the winter season is the best time to visit.

Germany: activities and what to do

Germany has a lot to offer when it comes to activities and sports to do on holiday. Here are some suggestions: 1. Hiking: Germany has a stunning landscape, and hiking is a great way to explore its beauty. The Bavarian Alps offer some of the best hiking trails in the country.
2. Skiing and snowboarding: During the winter months, Germany's ski resorts attract skiers and snowboarders from around the world. The Black Forest and the Bavarian Alps are popular destinations for winter sports.
3. Cycling: Germany is known for its excellent network of cycling routes. The country has more than 70,000 km of cycling paths, making it a paradise for cycling enthusiasts.
4. Water sports: Germany has several lakes, rivers, and seaside resorts that offer various water sports activities such as swimming, sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing.
5. Golf: Germany has more than 700 golf courses, and many of them are located in scenic regions of the country.
6. Cultural activities: Germany is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are numerous cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions throughout the year.
7. Adventure sports: There are several adventure sports such as bungee jumping, rock climbing, and paragliding that you can enjoy in Germany.
These are just a few ideas, and there are plenty of other activities and sports to do in Germany depending on your interests and preferences.

Germany: few words on history and culture

Germany has a rich history and culture that spans back thousands of years. The region that is now modern-day Germany has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and has been influenced by a variety of cultures and civilizations throughout its history.
One of the most significant periods in German history was the Holy Roman Empire, which existed from the 10th to the 19th century and was a major political and cultural force in Europe.
In more recent times, Germany is known for its contributions to the fields of philosophy, music, art, literature, and science. Some of the most famous German cultural figures include Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Ludwig van Beethoven, Johann Sebastian Bach, and Albert Einstein.
Germany today is a modern, thriving country with a strong economy and a diverse population. It is known for its cities, such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, as well as its stunning natural landscapes, including the Black Forest, the Alps, and the Rhine River Valley.

Germany: how to move around on holiday

Germany has a well-developed transportation system, and there are several options available to reach and visit the country. Some of the best means of transport include: 1. Plane - Germany has several international airports, and flying is a quick and convenient option to reach the country.
2. Train - Germany has an extensive rail network, and traveling by train is a comfortable and scenic way to explore the country.
3. Bus - Long-distance bus services are available in Germany, and they offer a cost-effective way to travel between cities.
4. Car - Renting a car is a popular option for travelers who want to explore the country at their own pace. Germany has well-maintained roads and highways, making it easy to navigate.
5. Bike - Germany has a well-connected network of bike lanes, and cycling is a popular option for exploring the countryside. Many cities also offer bike rental schemes.
In summary, the best means of transport to reach and visit Germany depends on your preferences, budget, and itinerary. To hire a car to visit Germany, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Germany: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Germany with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some typical foods in Germany along with a brief description: 1. Bratwurst: This is a type of sausage that is made from pork, beef, or a combination of both. It is typically grilled or fried and served with mustard, ketchup, or sauerkraut.
2. Schnitzel: This is a thin, breaded and fried cutlet of meat, typically made with either pork or veal. It is often served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or red cabbage.
3. Spätzle: This is a type of soft egg noodle that originated in southern Germany. It is often served with stews, roasts, or topped with cheese.
4. Sauerkraut: This is a dish made from finely shredded cabbage that has been fermented with vinegar and salt. It is often served as a side dish with sausages or pork dishes.
5. Pretzel: This is a large, soft, chewy bread that is shaped into a twisted knot. It is typically served as a snack food with mustard or cheese.
6. Black Forest Cake: This cake is made with layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream and cherry filling, and topped with chocolate shavings and cherries. It is a famous dessert from the Black Forest region of Germany. 7. Beer: While not exactly a food, beer is a very important part of German culture and cuisine. Germany is famous for its beer, which is brewed according to strict standards and has a wide variety of styles and flavors.

Germany: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Germany can be relatively expensive for tourists compared to some other European countries, but it is still possible to travel on a budget if you plan carefully. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can vary, with larger cities generally being more expensive than smaller towns. However, there are also many free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Germany, such as visiting museums, parks, and markets. It's always a good idea to research prices and plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your budget.

Germany: where to find accodation

There are many options for finding accommodation in Germany, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some popular websites to start your search: 1. Booking.com – This is one of the most popular websites for booking accommodation in Germany and around the world. You can browse a wide range of hotels, apartments, hostels, and guesthouses, with plenty of user reviews and ratings to help you make a decision.
2. Airbnb – Another popular option for finding accommodation in Germany is Airbnb. This website allows you to book private apartments, homes, or rooms from local hosts, providing a more personal and authentic experience of living in Germany.
3. Hostelworld – If you are looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Germany, Hostelworld is a good place to start. You can choose from a range of hostels and budget guesthouses, with many options available in major cities such as Berlin and Munich.
4. Expedia – This website offers a wide variety of accommodation options in Germany, including hotels, apartments, and holiday homes. You can also bundle your accommodation with flights and car rentals for added convenience.
5. Trivago – One of the best websites to compare hotel prices in Germany is Trivago. This site compares prices from multiple booking sites to help you find the best deal for your preferred accommodation.
Remember to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel season in Germany.
You can check hotel prices in Germany here:
Booking.com

Germany: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Germany is a popular tourist destination and receives approximately 37 million tourists annually. The peak tourist season is typically from May to September, and some of the most crowded periods are during the Christmas markets in December and during major events such as Oktoberfest in Munich. It's important to keep in mind that some attractions and destinations may have different busy seasons, so it's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to avoid crowds and have a more enjoyable experience.
Germany is generally a safe country for tourists. However, as with any country, there are certain areas that tourists should avoid, especially at night. These include some parts of large cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt. It's important to research the areas you are planning to visit beforehand and take necessary precautions such as staying alert and aware of your surroundings, not leaving valuable items unattended, and sticking to well-lit and populated areas. Additionally, it's always a good idea to keep your passport and important documents in a safe place and be mindful of local laws and customs. Overall, if you exercise common sense and take sensible precautions, you can enjoy a relatively trouble-free trip to Germany.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Germany on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Germany: events for tourists

Germany has a lot of interesting events throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones are: 1. Oktoberfest - Munich hosts the world-famous Oktoberfest, a 16-day beer festival in September and October.
2. Christmas Markets - German Christmas Markets are famous worldwide and take place all over the country from late November to December.
3. Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) - one of the most important film festivals in the world held in February.
4. Carnival - celebrated throughout Germany in February and March with various parades and festivities.
5. Rhein in Flammen (Rhine in Flames) - an impressive fireworks festival held in various cities along the Rhine River during the summer.
6. Wagner Festival - held annually in Bayreuth and dedicated to the works of the composer Richard Wagner.
7. Documenta - a contemporary art exhibition that takes place every five years in Kassel.
8. Bremen Freimarkt - the oldest fair in Germany, held in Bremen in October.
9. Leipzig Book Fair - the second-largest book fair in Germany and one of the most important of its kind in Europe, held in March.
These are just a few examples, and Germany offers many other events and festivals throughout the year that cater to different interests and tastes.

Germany: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Germany, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here is a suggested two-week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Germany: Day 1-3: Berlin – Explore the city’s historic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Reichstag. You could also visit the Berlin Wall or the Holocaust Memorial.
Day 4-5: Dresden – Visit the famous Zwinger Palace and Dresden Castle. You could also take a scenic walk along the Elbe River.
Day 6-7: Nuremberg – Visit the Nuremberg Castle and the historic Old Town. Don't miss the chance to try the famous Nuremberg sausages! Day 8-9: Munich – Visit the Marienplatz in the heart of Munich, as well as the stunning Neuschwanstein Castle. You could also enjoy a traditional Bavarian beer festival, like Oktoberfest.
Day 10-11: Heidelberg – Visit one of Europe’s oldest and most famous universities, or take a boat ride on the Neckar River.
Day 12-13: Cologne – Visit the Cologne Cathedral and the Museum Ludwig. Stop by the Alter Markt to experience local culture and food.
Day 14: Hamburg – Spend the day exploring Germany’s second largest city. Take a stroll in the Stadtpark and visit the Elbphilharmonie.
Of course, this is just a general idea and you can customize it according to your interests and preferences. Safe travels!

Germany: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Germany described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Augsburg is a city located in the south of Germany, in the state of Bavaria. It is the third oldest city in the country and has a rich history, as it was founded by the Romans in 15 BC. It has a popul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Augsburg
- Baden-Baden is a famous spa town located in southwestern Germany, in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The town is situated on the western slopes of the Black Forest mountain range and is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baden-Baden
- Bamberg is a town in Upper Franconia, Germany, located on the Regnitz river. It is known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bamberg is also famous for its brewerie... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bamberga
- Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany. It is located in the northeastern part of the country and has a population of approximately 3.7 million people. Berlin is known for its rich history,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Berlin
- Bremen is a city in northwest Germany, located along the river Weser. It is the capital of the state of Bremen and has a population of over 570,000 people. Bremen is known for its rich maritime histor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Brema
- Bremerhaven is a city in the north of Germany, located on the shore of the North Sea. With a population of around 115,000 people, it is known as an important port city that has been a center of mariti... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bremerhaven
- Coburg is a town located in the northern Bavaria region of Germany. It has a population of around 40,000 people and is known for its historic architecture, including the Veste Coburg fortress which da... CONTINUE here for a trip to Coburgo
- Cologne is a city located in the western part of Germany, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. With a population of approximately 1 million people, it is the fourth largest city in Germany. Cologne... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cologne
- Dessau-Roßlau is a city located in the eastern part of Germany, specifically in the state of Saxony-Anhalt. The population of the city is around 80,000 people. It is located at the junction of the riv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dessau-Roßlau
- Dresden is a city located in eastern Germany, with a population of approximately 550,000 people. It is the capital of the state of Saxony and is known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dresda
- Düsseldorf is a city located in western Germany, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is known for its fashion industry, contemporary art scene, and its famous carnival celebrations. The city is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Düsseldorf
- Erfurt is a city located in central Germany, in the state of Thuringia. It has a population of around 210,000 people and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, historic landmarks such as t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Erfurt
- Essen is a city located in the west of Germany, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It has a population of around 590,000 people, making it the ninth-largest city in the country. Essen is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Essen
- Frankfurt is a city in central Germany, located on the Main river. It has a population of approximately 760,000 people, making it the fifth-largest city in Germany. It is an important financial hub, h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Frankfurt
- Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a picturesque town located in the Bavarian Alps in southern Germany. It is known for its world-class ski resorts, stunning mountain landscapes, and traditional Bavarian archi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen
- Halle is a city in the central-eastern part of Germany, located in the state of Saxony-Anhalt. It has a population of around 240,000 and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historic architectu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Halle
- Hamburg is a bustling port city located in northern Germany. It is the second-largest city in Germany after Berlin and home to over 1.8 million people. Hamburg is situated on the River Elbe, which con... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hamburg
- Hannover is a city in northern Germany and the capital of the state of Lower Saxony. It has a population of around 535,000 people and is located on the banks of the river Leine. Hannover is known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hannover
- Hannover-Linden is a district in the western part of the city of Hannover, located in the Lower Saxony region of Germany. It has a population of around 50,000 and is known for its diverse mix of cultu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hannover-Linden
- Heidelberg is a town in southwestern Germany situated on the banks of the Neckar River. It is located in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg and is famous for its picturesque Old Town, Heidelberg Universit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Heidelberg
- Heidelberg-Neuenheim is a district located in the city of Heidelberg, in southwestern Germany. It is situated on the north bank of the Neckar River, just east of the city center. Neuenheim is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Heidelberg-Neuenheim
- Hildesheim is a city located in the southern part of Lower Saxony, Germany. It has a population of around 100,000 people and is situated on the banks of the River Innerste. The city is known for its m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hildesheim
- Kassel is a city located in the north of the German state of Hesse. It has a population of approximately 200,000 people. The city has a rich history dating back to the 10th century and has been a cult... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kassel
- Kiel is a city located in northern Germany, in the state of Schleswig-Holstein. It serves as the capital of this state and is a major port city situated on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea. Kiel is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kiel
- Lipsia is the Latin name for the city of Leipzig, which is located in the eastern part of Germany. It is the largest city in the federal state of Saxony, and has a rich cultural and historical heritag... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lipsia
- Magdeburg is a city located in the eastern part of Germany, near the Elbe River. It is the capital of the state of Saxony-Anhalt and has a population of around 240,000 people. The city has a rich hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Magdeburg
- Magonza-Kastel (also known as Mainz-Kastel) is a borough located in the city of Wiesbaden, Germany. Situated on the west bank of the Rhine River, it has a population of around 12,000 people. It is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Magonza-Kastel
- Mainz is a city in southwest Germany, located on the banks of the Rhine River. It is the capital of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate and has a population of approximately 220,000 people. Mainz is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mainz
- Munich is the third-largest city in Germany, located in the southern state of Bavaria. With a population of over 1.4 million people, it is a major center of culture, science, and technology. Munich is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Munich
- Nuremberg is a city in the northern Bavaria region of Germany. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, which is surrounded by a wall and towers. Nuremberg is also known for its role in ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nuremberg
- Oberhausen is a city in the western part of Germany, located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The city has a population of approximately 210,000 people and covers an area of 77.04 square kilome... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oberhausen
- Oldenburg is a city in the state of Lower Saxony in northwest Germany. It has a population of around 170,000 people and is the fourth-largest city in Lower Saxony. Oldenburg has a rich history dating ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oldenburg
- Quedlinburg is a historic town located in the Harz Mountains of Germany. It is famous for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, particularly its timber-framed houses and more than 1,300 hal... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quedlinburg
- Regensburg is a city located in the southeastern part of Germany, in the state of Bavaria. It is situated on the banks of the Danube River and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Regensburg
- Rostock is a city in northern Germany, located on the coast of the Baltic Sea. It is the largest city in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and has a rich history dating back to the 13th centu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rostock
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a town in the Franconia region of Bavaria, Germany. It is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, surrounded by walls and towers. The town's major attractions inclu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Schwerin is the state capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, a federal state in northern Germany. It is situated on the shore of Lake Schwerin, the fourth largest lake in the country. The city is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Schwerin
- Sure, Spremberg is a small town located in the state of Brandenburg, Germany. It has a population of around 24,000 people and is situated in the eastern part of the country, close to the border with P... CONTINUE here for a trip to Spremberg
- Stuttgart is a city located in southwest Germany and is the capital of the state of Baden-Württemberg. It has a population of around 634,000 people, making it the sixth-largest city in Germany. The ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stuttgart
- Weimar is a quaint and charming town located in central Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It was the birthplace of the famous Bauhaus school of architecture an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Weimar
- Wiesbaden-Biebrich is a district of the city of Wiesbaden, in the state of Hesse, Germany. It is located on the right bank of the Rhine river, just a few kilometers west of the city center of Wiesbade... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wiesbaden-Biebrich
- Wiesbaden is a city in southwestern Germany, located in the state of Hesse. It has a population of around 280,000 people and is known for its hot springs, beautiful parks, and historic architecture. W... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wiesbaden
- Wolfsburg is a city in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is located about 230 kilometers west of Berlin and has a population of approximately 125,000 people. The city is known for being the global headq... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wolfsburg
- Würzburg is a city located in the northern region of Bavaria, Germany. It is situated on the banks of the Main River and has a long history dating back to the 10th century. The city is known for its s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Würzburg


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