From History and Culture to Natural Wonders: Germany Has it All
I’m not just recommending you visit Germany; I’m strongly suggesting you’ll need more than one trip to enjoy everything it has to offer.
Germany has a rich history. It has been at the core of Europe for centuries – and has castles and historic towns which are stunning. It also has a diverse geography. Think vast forests, mountain ranges, the majestic river Rhine, and coastal areas in the north. When you add culture, hospitality and bustling cosmopolitan cities, there are great reasons to book that trip to Germany right now.
This short post shows my highlights.
After those, some honourable mentions are listed, for the many other things which could have been included.
Reasons to Visit Germany: Get an Oktoberfest Under Your Belt
Nothing is more synonymous with German hospitality, beer, and music than the annual Oktoberfest.
This is 16-to-18-day beer festival, it begins in late September, and is timed to end on the first Sunday or October. Oktoberfest takes place in Munich, in the Bavarian region of Germany. As anyone from Bavaria will happily tell you – they are different from other Germans. If you have ever met anyone from Yorkshire, I’m sure you understand the idea.
Oktoberfest is a bucket-list item for millions of people – and the events get crowded. Last year, more than six million people attended. If you plan to go, then an early flight and hotel booking is recommended.
Once you attend, I’m sure you’ll want to go back.
Berlin: History and Culture
Berlin is best known for the wall, and its key role in the ending of the cold war.
This is of course a must-see, with Checkpoint Charlie and the Holocaust memorial also poignant reminders of Europe’s dark past.
Once those are out of the way, you’ll get to experience a fresh side of Berlin that is unexpected for many visitors. This city has a thriving arts scene. It encompasses street art, music, and a bohemian café culture. For those of partying age, you’ll find world-class nightclubs and bars in Berlin too.
Berlin has an entire island dedicated to museums. This UNESCO world heritage site could take more than a day to fully explore. When you have finished, there is a vibrant street food scene to give you a boost for further exploring.
Fantastic Reasons to Visit Germany: Fairy Tale Castles
Germany is blessed with multiple fairy tale castles, though none take your breath away in the same way that Neuschwanstein Castle will.
This castle is located close to the small town of Fussen, close to the border with Liechtenstein. It was built between 1886 and 1889 by King Ludwig II. With majestic turrets and imposing fortification, the outside is breath taking. Head inside on a guided tour to see the lavish interiors.
Visiting the Black Forest: Nature Meets History
The Black Forest covers a vast area in the southwest of Germany. The dense forest and rolling hills provide a natural wonder. Between the trees are historical towns including Baden-Baden and Freiburg. You will see traditional farmhouses with sloped thatched roofs almost to the ground too.
Alongside outdoor pursuits, food is a highlight. I recommend you try locally cured ham – which has just the right amount of fat to be delicious.
This area has its quirks. Exploring the world of crafted cuckoo clocks should be on everyone’s list. Head north to the city of Stuttgart.
Bavaria: Worth a Separate Visit to Germany Alone
Bavaria already got a mention for Oktoberfest. This area of Germany is more than worth a visit on its own. Bavaria boasts beautiful scenery, with outdoor activities including skiing, kayaking, and biking.
There are multiple historical towns that are worth a day of your vacation each. They include Rothenberg, Neuschwanstein Castle (covered above), Nuremburg, Augsburg, and the flowers of Lake Constance. The Linderhof palace is worth a trip, it was modelled on Versailles, and includes wonderful, sculpted gardens.
Head to the capital, Munich, for a vibrant city that mixes Bavarian hospitality with museums, restaurants, and beautiful historic squares.
Honourable Mentions: Germany Won’t Disappoint You
Hamburg, Potsdam, Bamberg, Gorlitz, a cruise along the Rhine, relaxing in the Mosel valley, or exploring Dresden… the list could go on and on.
I’m also a fan of some amazing German bands, though that is another story for another website.
More Travel Highlights and Packing Tips Pages:
- Surviving the World’s Longest Flights
- Sunside from American Tourister
- Gibraltar Guide + Packing Tips
- Wonderful Waterfalls Worldwide
- Which Seaside Towns Get the Most Visitors
- Packing Guide: The Cotswolds
