Located in the heart of Europe, the map of Germany shows exciting highlights that should not be missed on any visit. Each of the 16 federal states has its own unique impressions. From Lower Saxony in the north to Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria in the south, travelers can look forward to local specialties. Public transportation makes a trip through Germany easy, with well-developed rail and bus routes making many of the attractive destinations easily accessible.
The history of Germany is an exciting journey through time. For example, Berlin was officially founded in 1237 and became the country’s capital in 1990. Germany was and is a country of trade, two of its best known exports being cars and beer. The country boasts prominent and world-famous names, above all Goethe and Schiller, Wagner and Beethoven. Germany is famous for its punctuality, the German soccer league and its diverse range of breads – there are said to be well over 300.
When you travel to Germany, you will experience a country that is second to none in terms of leisure activities and attractions. The four megacities of Berlin, Hamburg, Munich and Cologne alone have a lifestyle to offer that makes each city unique, in addition to world-famous sights. But even away from the tourist strongholds, Germany offers beautiful corners and hidden places. For example, artists’ communities such as Ahrenshoop, Worpswede or Willingshausen transport visitors to a different, decelerated world.
As for food: Germany offers more than sauerkraut, Maultaschen and schnitzel. The young, inspired cuisine has varied street food, top-class star restaurants and gastronomic offerings for the whole family. Still popular in all variations – of course also vegan – is the currywurst. Traditionally 22 cm long and divided into eleven pieces, it has been part of German gastronomy for ages. Two of the best addresses for this classic street food dish are Curry 36 in Berlin-Kreuzberg and the Bratwursthaus in Bochum.
Destinations
Best time to travel
There is really no best time to visit Germany. Germany offers you wonderful attractions, sights, festivals, landscapes and things to do at any time of the year. In spring and autumn it rains every now and then, and in winter the weather can drop to temperatures below zero. During the summer, however, temperatures may easily reach over 30 °C. Nevertheless, it is not least the weather in Germany that makes the country so varied. Beautiful spring days at the seaside, city trips in summer, the forests of the low mountain ranges in autumn and the Christmas markets all over the country on snowy winter days make every trip to Germany an unforgettable experience. How many days should you spend in Germany? It’s clear: as many as possible at different times of the year, because each one has its own charm.
Weather
If you travel to the north of Germany or to the southern Alps, you can still expect quite stiff breezes in spring, the wind blows cold and strong. Cities are awakening from hibernation, blooming landscapes are great photo opportunities.
Events and celebrations
On Walpurgis Night, the night from April 30 to May 1, you can experience a witch’s dance on the Brocken in the Harz mountains as a very special kind of folk festival. In the south of the country and in the Rhineland, Carnival and Fasching are celebrated in spring.
Price development
Spring is not directly in the main travel season for Germany, so prices for flights and accommodation are relatively moderate. Please note that prices rise during vacation periods in Germany depending on supply and demand.
Weather
The pleasantly cool wind at the North Sea and the Baltic Sea or the refreshing climate in the Alps make the summers an experience for you. If you decide to go on a city trip, prepare for warm to very warm weather – and appropriate sun protection! – one. Freiburg im Breisgau is one of the warmest cities, with an average of 145 days of sunshine per year.
Events and celebrations
Rock im Park, Southside and Wacken are just three of the many festivals that take place every summer. In Markgröningen, Baden-Württemberg, there is a special highlight: the Schäferlauf (shepherd’s race), where people run with bare feet across mown stubble fields.
Price development
Summertime is peak travel season in Germany. The summer vacations, which start at different times depending on the state, are also reasons for the increased prices. Attractions and sights can often be busy or even overcrowded.
Weather
A first icy breeze and ground frost can announce it, the autumn. Warm clothes should not be missing in your luggage, even if a short T-shirt can suffice during the day. Temperatures vary considerably between about 5 °C and 22 °C.
Events and celebrations
No need to mention the Munich Oktoberfest or the Stuttgart Volksfest on the Cannstatter Wasen. Also exciting are the many small funfairs, harvest festivals or church fairs that take place in the villages.
Price development
In autumn, prices go down, the low season begins. The fall vacations can once again cause a price push, but in contrast to the summer season, prices in hotels and hostels tend to be moderate.
Weather
Even if the snow often waits in the cities and plains: in higher areas pure snow fun beckons! Ski resorts in the Alps and low mountain ranges leave nothing to be desired. Temperatures below 0 °C invite you to enjoy mulled wine and punch at the many Christmas and Advent markets.
Events and celebrations
Christmas markets like the one in Frankfurt or the Christkindlmarkt in Munich are open to you throughout December. But even smaller places offer crafts, treats and a unique atmosphere at beautiful Christmas markets, an overview can be found here.
Price development
The winter season picks up again with the prices. Winter sports, Christmas markets and more make Germany a popular destination for people from all over the world at this time of year.
Itineraries and plans
Visa, currency and restrictions
Where to stay
Photo gallery
