Overview of Germany
If you have beer on the brain, there’s no better travel destination than Germany. Say auf wiedersehen to Australia and guten Tag to adventure when you visit Deutschland.
Berlin
Berlin is often described as a hip, modern hub for the contemporary arts, but it wasn’t always this way. A city that was divided not so long ago, was once more rough around the edges. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall, young, stylish residents have been flocking to Berlin to give it a more upbeat and sophisticated reputation with cutting-edge architecture and technology.
Berlin Wall
The famous wall that divided Berlin to the East and West for almost 30 years, came crumbling down during the liberation in 1989. However, a long stretch still stands to plant a reminder of democracy and freedom. A popular tourist destination for students and families alike, it has mostly been covered with a fresh breath of life, as many of Berlin’s artists have painted murals onto the wall. You can take a tour of the East Side Gallery or be guided along the wall, receiving the history of this one-time barrier.
Berlin Zoo
The Berlin Zoo is not only the oldest zoo in Germany but also the best known. Consisting of over 20,000 animals, the zoo presents the most comprehensive collection of species in the world. You can view polar bears, Asian elephants, penguins, Arctic wolves, lions and giraffes, among others. This would be a perfect activity for children.
Charlottenburg Palace and Gardens
The Charlottenburg Palace is the largest palace in Berlin and hosts a large formal garden, belvedere, mausoleum, theatre and pavilion. With a tour of the grounds, you can visit the old palace and the new wing, including areas of the old palace with baroque decoration and in the new wing, the opulent State Apartments of Frederick the Great.
Gemaldegalerie
The Gemaldegalerie in Berlin is one of the world’s leading collections of European paintings from the 13th to 18th century. Here you can find masterpieces by Durer, Van Eyck, Raphael, Titian, Rubens, Rembrandt and more. There is a particularly strong focus on German and Italian paintings, of which the gallery prides itself.
Photoautomaten booths
Remember those old photo booths from your yester-year? Take a stop in one of the many all around the city and make those memories last with a photo strip. These are great for larger groups or even for just you and your partner. Make sure you add in a few funny faces to laugh about later.
Nuremberg
Old and new meet in this bustling city. If you are travelling anywhere this Christmas, Nuremberg should be at the top of your list.
Nuremberg’s Old Town
Along the cobblestone streets, you are transported back to a simpler time. Look on in wonder at the wood-framed houses with high peaked roofs, the Imperial castle with its mighty tower, or one of the many ancient churches that have survived years of wear.
Nazi party rally grounds
For the history buffs, this will show a glimpse into the days when the Nazis held power. These grandiose buildings were originally built to be a collection of many, but it never actualized. You can view the permanent exhibition, ‘Fascination and Terror’ that displays the causes, contexts and consequences or the Nazi tyranny.
Nuremberg Trials Museum
This museum in the east wing of Nuremberg’s Palace of Justice is housed in the same building that allies tried the Nazi officials for crimes against peace, war crimes and crimes against humanity. Here you can receive a tour of the courtroom where the trials took place and learn the history of the event.
Zum Guldenen Stern
Starting in 1419, this restaurant has served up its hearty roasted pork sausages for travellers and locals alike. Dubbed the oldest sausage restaurant in the world, the sausage at Zum Guldenen Stern is said to still be made with the traditional recipe as it is handcrafted by local butchers.
Nuremberg’s Christmas market
If you are lucky enough to be visiting during the magical holiday season you will have the opportunity to experience all that this exciting Christkindelsmarkt has to offer. You can purchase dolls and figurines alike, take in the wondrous decor and sparkling lights.
Munich
Arguably the beer capital of Germany, strap on your lederhosen when you visit Munich.
Marienplatz
The centre square of Munich is dedicated to St. Mary and is a good place to stop for street performers, events and excellent people-watching. A wonderful Christmas getaway, in December you can enjoy the Christmas market. This is a great starting point to explore all the city has to offer.
Residenz Royal Palace
Bask in the light of former royals at the Residenz Royal Palace. This sprawling piece of beautiful architecture contains 130 rooms and 10 courtyards. Experience the gold baroque decor in the halls or take in all of the crown jewels magnificently displayed.
BMW Museum
For the car collectors, this is one of the most exciting places to visit. You can visit the museum of the world-famous BMW and see where it all started as well as take in the design and integration that goes into BMW production.
English Garden
The Englischer Garten, or English Garden, in Munich is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of busy Munich. Visit the Japanese Tea Houses, go surfing on the waves created by the water pump, or stroll along the Steinerne Bank. This will bring you a little closer to nature, while you’re still experiencing all that Munich has to offer.
Oktoberfest
Another seasonal event, this is perhaps one of the most famous and well known events in the world. Oktoberfest is well known for the beer-focused itinerary, with 14 large beer tents but the event also features Bavarian food, rides and music for a family-friendly time.
Bonus: If you are feeling rather adventurous, you can take an hour and a half trip outside of Munich and view the extraordinary Schloss Neuschwanstein. This castle is a breathtaking sight to take in, perched atop a hillside. It will make you feel as though you have stepped into a fairy tale.
Frankfurt
Drop by for a frankfurter and some sauerkraut; we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.
Römerberg
The old centre of Munich gives you a look into centuries past with a visit through town hall and the numerous historic building surrounding. This is a perfect spot to start in the city as you can enjoy many restaurants, cafes, and shops in the vicinity.
Palm Garden
The largest garden of its kind in Germany, this beautiful botanical garden exhibits many different species of plants and trees, organized by their acclimated greenhouses. Palm Garden is a perfect location to relax and breathe in the fresh air, especially after a long walking tour or busy conference.
Main Tower
This incredible work of architecture is the 4th largest tower in Frankfurt and the 4th largest tower in Germany. Main Tower boasts five underground floors and two viewing platforms. The significant features of this building are not only its soaring height, but also its cylinder shape, the blue glass of which it is made and the transmission tower antenna on its roof.
Zeil
One of the most famous and busiest streets in Germany, you will find a plethora of shopping to fulfil all of your retail desires at Ziel. This is also a hub to enjoy beautiful architecture and exciting artworks.
Sachsenhausen Cider Taverns
A light alcoholic cider is the signature drink of Frankfurt and this area of town will hold some of the best cider taverns on old cobblestone streets. Sit among the aged taverns and watch the passers-by as they stroll along the area or enjoy a beautiful lunch with a group of friends.
Tavern options include:
- Zur Sonne
- Zur Schönen Müllerin
- Mosenbach
Düsseldorf, Old Town
Altstadt, or Old Town, is the heart of Dusseldorf, the perfect place to start your city adventure. You’ll find more cobblestone streets, old churches and aging breweries to duck into and share a drink. Head to the shopping boulevard or take a quiet stroll along the Rhine River.
Media Harbour
Mixed along the old warehouses and buildings from another era, is the Media Harbor. This is the new playground for contemporary lovers, media companies and fashion design studios. You’ll find hip, trendy bars and post-modern buildings creating the new “it” spot in the city.
Rhine River Promenade
An area that used to be completely banned to cars, is still popular for its traditional use. You can find walkers and bikers enjoying the view of the Rhine or sitting for a chat along the green grass. This is a great spot to enjoy lunch, perhaps pack a picnic or even just to catch up on a favourite book.
Königsallee
For the upscale shop lover, this is Dusseldorf’s high fashion street. You can find all of the top designers here but even if fashion isn’t your niche, you can still enjoy a beautiful walk along the landscaped canal.
Uerige
What would a trip to Germany be without experiencing a grand beer hall? The cavernous, old world establishment gives the feel of true localism. So much beer is ordered that waitresses carry around trays with full ones rather than waiting for them to be ordered.
Eating in Germany
There are a few favourites that you will find no matter where you go, but it may also be exciting to try the local specials.
Schnitzel mit Pomme Frites is a popular dish to try, consisting of thin-sliced pork covered in egg and bread crumbs, fried and served with fries. The Rinderroulaude mit Rotkraut und Knödeln is made up of thinly sliced beef rolled around bacon and a pickled cucumber, served with cabbage and potato dumplings.
You can’t visit Germany without trying the Bratwurst, or sausages and also anything from the German bakeries, as Germans are very fond of their bread.
Concerned you might not have the right manners to eat gracefully in Germany? Learn how to tip around the world and be prepared for your German holiday.
Seasonality
Weather is decently temperate in Germany with the summer only reaching around 19-30 degrees and winter going as low as 2 degrees. Spring lasts from March until May, with summer beginning in June and reaching until August. The leaves will begin to change around September and the winter season officially begins in December.
Travel tips
It is very important to know that punctuality is of the utmost importance to Germans so you should always be on time for an appointment. With this, they are also fond of properness. You will obtain much more help by using titles for people and also excusing yourself from troubling the person, if you need help in a shop or elsewhere.
No visa is needed when travelling to Germany, just remember to have enough blank pages on your passport. Also, remember the importance of travel insurance whenever you travel internationally.