Hallo meine Lieben! With great pleasure, I welcome you to the Ultimate Germany Travel Guide, where we will explore Germany's stunning scenery, fascinating history, and dynamic culture. I'm thrilled to share undiscovered treasures, insider knowledge, and unforgettable experiences that showcase Germany's distinct charm as a former resident.
Geography and Climate
Germany is a country with a wide variety of scenery, stretching from the tranquil North Sea and Baltic shores to the majestic Alps in the south. Germany is located in the center of Europe. The central part of the nation is distinguished by gently sloping hills, thick woods, and picturesque river basins, which include the well-known Rhine and Danube rivers. Different regions have different climates; the south has a more continental climate with chilly winters and pleasant summers, while the north has a marine climate with mild winters and cool summers.
I was living in Kaiserslautern, a small city near Mannheim, which is located in the southwestern part of the country. We didn't have harsh winters when you compare it to the northern parts but it snowed for sure, actually multiple times! It was starting to get warmer during May and probably you will not believe it but we had really hot summers! Due to its location, it was easy for me to travel to other countries by train, which is the cheapest option you can find! Going to Strasbourg, France took approximately 2,5 to 3 hours while Luxembourg was only 2 hours!
History and Heritage
The history of Germany is a mosaic of noteworthy occasions and artistic triumphs. Germany has always been at the core of European history, from its early beginnings as a component of the Roman Empire to its important position in the medieval Holy Roman Empire. Important historical sites include the Romanesque Speyer Cathedral and the Gothic Cologne Cathedral, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. I have to say that the structure I find most fascinating in Germany is the Cologne Cathedral! You can not get enough of looking at it. And if you decide to visit, let me give you a hidden gem: When you are facing the cathedral just before the stairs taking you to the main square that the cathedral stands on, look to your left and you will see a stone, gate-shaped structure. This is the old town gate!
During the Middle Ages, strong city-states emerged, along with the Hanseatic League, a significant defense and trade alliance. Important locations from the Reformation era include the Wittenberg Castle Church, where Martin Luther infamously nailed his 95 theses, and Berlin's Brandenburg Gate.
Under Prussian leadership, Germany unified throughout the 19th century, which helped it become a significant European force. Berlin in particular still bears the scars of the twentieth century, which included two World Wars and the split caused by the Cold War. Parts of the Berlin Wall, which has now been mostly destroyed, remain as evocative reminders of the time.
Cultural Diversity
Germany's diverse history and geographical location have contributed to the country's mosaic of cultures and traditions. Every area has its unique traditions, languages, and cuisine. The elegant allure of Berlin's art scene and the joyous Karneval celebrations in the Rhineland contrast with the Bavarian culture of Oktoberfest and Lederhosen.
German food is flavorful and varied, with staples like Sauerkraut, Pretzels, and Bratwurst. Every area has its specialties when it comes to food, such as the rich flavors of Rhineland Sauerbraten and Bavarian Weisswurst and Pretzels. With more than 1,300 breweries producing a wide variety of beers while adhering to the Reinheitsgebot (beer purity legislation), Germany is known for its beer culture worldwide.
Germany Food Guide
I would love you to get to know these amazing staples and specialties I have mentioned above!
Pretzels
Traditionally twisted into a knot shape, pretzels are a type of baked bread product that are renowned for their distinct flavor and chewy texture. They are frequently topped with coarse salt. It is thought that pretzels came from monasteries in Europe when the monks prepared them as a treat for kids who mastered their prayers. It is said that the unique knot shape resembles crossed arms in prayer.
If you like savory pastries, that is a really good one for you. You can try "mit Butter," which means "with butter." This was my go-to snack!
Bratwurst
German sausages made from pork, beef, or veal are known as Bratwurst. The Old High German terms "brät" (finely chopped meat) and "wurst" (sausage) are the source of the name. In Germany, Bratwurst has a lengthy history that dates back to the 14th century. Every region has a unique variety that is frequently connected to regional celebrations and customs.
Sauerkraut
Raw cabbage that has been coarsely chopped and fermented by different lactic acid bacteria is known as Sauerkraut. Its characteristically sour taste results from the lactic acid that is produced during fermentation. Because of its extended shelf life and high vitamin C content, which helped sailors and soldiers avoid scurvy, it has been a mainstay of German cuisine for centuries. It is also well-known for the probiotics that the fermentation process produces, which are good for digestive health.
Sauerbraten
A classic German pot roast, Sauerbraten is marinated and slow-cooked, generally with beef. Sauerbraten is considered one of the national dishes of Germany, with variations found in different regions. Originally, the purpose of marinating was to preserve and tenderize harder portions of meat before refrigeration.
Bavarian Weisswurst
A classic Bavarian sausage, Weisswurst is made of minced veal and pork back bacon. Because there are no nitrates in the sausages, they are white. In Munich, Weisswurst was created in 1857. Because it is cooked fresh in the morning without preservatives, it is usually consumed before midday. It's traditional to pair the sausages with wheat beer, Pretzels, and sweet mustard.
I would love to share two amazing foods that I have eaten a lot in Germany although they are not originally from there! They can be other countries' specialties, but Germans are doing something right when they cook those for sure!
Käsekreiner
Small bits of cheese, typically Emmental, are mixed into Käsekreiner sausages and melt during cooking to provide a cheesy, juicy filling. Originally from Austria, Käsekreiner is a staple at outdoor festivals and fairs, reflecting the region's fondness of pairing rich, creamy cheese with hearty meat meals. It is particularly popular in Bavaria.
Raclette
Named for the semi-hard cheese used in the meal, Raclette is a famous Swiss dish in Germany. Boiled potatoes, pickles, and cured meats are topped with melted cheese. In the Swiss Alps, raclette first appeared as a result of herdsmen melting cheese over a campfire and scraping it onto bread or potatoes. It has grown to be a well-liked communal dish in Germany, particularly in the winter, highlighting the friendly and social aspect of the meal.
They even have a special oven-like thing for cooking and eating Raclette! A German friend invited a couple of us to her house and put this oven-like thing in the middle of the table. We all had our little pans- shaped like a pizza slice and there were lots of things on the table. We choose what we want for the base and which cheese we would like and, put our pans in the "oven," then eat it while it is really hot. I have been told that it is a dish that is being served like this, especially in small gatherings.
Must-Visit Destinations
Berlin
The dynamic capital, Berlin, is a city of contrasts where modernity and history collide. The Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Museum Island, which is home to renowned museums like the Pergamon Museum, are must-see sights. The city's vibrant cultural scene is exhibited in its many areas, like Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg.
If you are planning to go, you should definitely take a city tour with a guide because every stone has a historical background there. And if you would want an entertaining museum experience, you should visit Berlin Global. When you enter the museum, they give you an electronic bracelet, and in the museum, you need to make some decisions. There are separate doors or mini game-like things and the bracelet collects which decisions you have made. In the end, you will get a paper looking like a receipt, which gives you a small character analysis based on the decisions you have made!
Munich
Bavaria's capital, Munich, is well-known for its exquisite architecture, beer gardens, and yearly Oktoberfest. Highlights are the stately Nymphenburg Palace, the neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus on the Marienplatz, and the tranquil English Garden.
If you are planning to go, plan it in October so you can enjoy this joyous Oktoberfest, drink lots and lots of German beer, and see how they party! If you want, you can also buy Lederhosen or Drindl so that you can blend in!
The second-biggest Oktoberfest is being held in Stuttgart at the same time as Munich. If you have already been to Munich's Oktoberfest, Stuttgart can be an option for you, but if not, Munich needs to be your number 1!
Hamburg
Hamburg, the second-biggest city in Germany, is known for its contemporary Elbphilharmonie concert venue, its bustling waterfront, and the old warehouses in the Speicherstadt neighborhood. For those looking for exciting entertainment, a trip to the Reeperbahn, renowned for its nightlife, is a need.
A foodie recommendation from me would definitely be the Block House in Bergedorf. There are branches of this restaurant in other places, including in Hamburg city center, but I went to the one in Bergedorf and was very pleased. They have a unique hamburger presentation; let me give you a disclaimer in advance! A perfect hamburger patty comes with a slice of toasted garlic bread and a mini-baked potato. With sour cream sauce on the side, the taste is legendary! Just an unusual presentation. The reason why I specifically recommend this place to you is this: This restaurant is located in a very beautiful square in Bergedorf and is a building that has existed since really old times. As it is the first guest house in the region, you are dining in history and the waiters are very sweet and friendly people!
Heidelberg
Heidelberg is a charming city that served as an inspiration to poets and artists, with its majestic castle perched above the Neckar River. It's the ideal place for those who love history and culture because of the picturesque Old Town and the ancient university. The city is really romantic, that's why I would recommend you to go here with your lover for sure! You will feel like you are in a fairytale. And if you are going there in summer, make sure that you check the events. There are many festivals on the grounds of the castle!
The Black Forest
The Black Forest region, with its dense woods and charming villages, is ideal for nature lovers. Triberg, known for its waterfalls, and the spa town of Baden-Baden are popular spots. The region is also famous for its cuckoo clocks and the delectable Black Forest cake.
The Romantic Road
For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Black Forest region is perfect because of its lush forests and quaint villages. Popular locations include the spa resort of Baden-Baden and Triberg, which is well-known for its waterfalls. In addition, the area is well-known for its delicious Black Forest cake and cuckoo clocks.
Practical Information
Currency and Payment
Germany uses the Euro (€). Although debit and credit cards are generally accepted, having some cash on hand is a good idea, particularly in smaller towns and rural locations.
Language
German is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Transportation
The effective public transport system in Germany consists of buses, trams, and trains. Major cities and villages are connected by the Deutsche Bahn (DB) railway network, which makes traveling around the nation simple. Renting a car is a good alternative if you want more flexibility, especially if you want to explore gorgeous areas like the Romantic Road.
Personally, I would recommend you buy the "49-Euro-Ticket", which is a train ticket that gives you access to all regional transportation. You are not allowed to use ICE, IC, and EC trains, which are Intercity Express or, in general, "fast" trains, but if you have an additional 2 hours for your journey, you can choose to travel with RE or RB trains or S-Bahn which are regional trains and trams. When an ICE ticket costs approximately 50 Euros, you can get a "Deutschland Ticket," which is the same thing as the "49-Euro-Ticket" and travel freely for one whole month! Really important information about this is that you can only buy it in the previous month. So if you are going to be there in August, you should buy your ticket latest on 31st July. This is a yearly ticket subscription, so you need to cancel it. Cancellations can only be done till the 10th of the month. So if you are in Germany in August and going back to your home country, which means you will not need the ticket for September, you should cancel it by the 10th of August!
Visa Requirements
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. EU citizens do not need a visa, while visitors from many other countries can enter for short stays without a visa. Always check the latest regulations before your trip.
Festivals and Events
Germany has a lot of festivals and events all year round. The largest beer festival in the world, Oktoberfest in Munich, draws millions of tourists each year. One of the most prominent film festivals in the world is the Berlin International Film Festival or Berlinale. A few other noteworthy occasions are the Leipzig Book Fair, the Cologne Carnival, and the Christmas markets, which turn cities and towns into enchanted winter wonderlands around the holidays.
Religious Sites
Germany has magnificent cathedrals and churches, as well as a rich and diverse religious legacy. Two must-see locations are the Frauenkirche in Dresden, which was renovated during World War II, and the Cologne Cathedral, a marvel of Gothic architecture. Notable sites include the Aachen Cathedral, which is home to Charlemagne's last resting place, and the Pilgrimage Church of Wies.
Shopping
Germany has a variety of shopping options, including traditional markets and upscale retailers on Kurfürstendamm in Berlin. Christmas markets, like the ones in Dresden and Nuremberg, are great places to get original presents and indulge in seasonal fare.
Adventure Tourism
The diverse landscapes of Germany provide a wealth of outdoor sports. Bavaria's Alps provide fantastic hiking, snowboarding, and skiing experiences. Wine tasting and river cruises are great activities in the Rhine Gorge. Hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation are all made possible by the Harz Mountains and the Bavarian Forest.
Health and Wellness
Even though Germany is not highly known for its wellness establishments, it has both contemporary wellness centers and conventional spas. The thermal springs in Wiesbaden and Baden-Baden are well-known. Numerous health resorts provide thalassotherapy and massages among other therapies in tranquil natural settings.
Ecotourism
Germany has many national parks and other protected regions, and the country is dedicated to sustainable tourism. Two great destinations for eco-friendly travel are the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea and the Bavarian Forest National Park. Travelers can minimize their environmental effects while hiking, bird watching, and visiting varied ecosystems.
Traveling to Germany is an amazing experience because of its unique combination of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical sites. There is something for everyone, whether you choose to hike in the Black Forest, enjoy Bavarian cuisine in Munich, or explore the colorful streets of Berlin. Begin arranging your trip to Germany right now and explore everything that this amazing nation has to offer!
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