Germany Travel Guide

Last Updated on 26 January 2026 by Johan

Germany lies in central Europe. It borders Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, and France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands to the west. The North Sea and the Baltic Sea form its northern coastline. Berlin, the capital, is located in the northeast and is a hub of culture, politics, and history.

Explanation of the name: Germany

The name Germany comes from the Latin word Germania, used by the Romans to describe tribes east of the Rhine. In German the country is called Deutschland, derived from the Old High German word diutisc, meaning “of the people.” Over time the name evolved, and today both Germany and Deutschland are used internationally. The federal states also retain historic names such as Bavaria and Saxony, reflecting centuries of regional identity.

History: Germany

Germany was part of the Holy Roman Empire in the Middle Ages. In 1871 the German states were unified under Prussian leadership, creating the German Empire. The country became a major power but was devastated by two world wars in the 20th century.

After World War II Germany was divided into the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) and the German Democratic Republic (East Germany). Berlin was split by the Berlin Wall. In 1990, following the fall of the wall and the collapse of the Soviet Union, Germany was reunified. Since then it has become Europe’s largest economy and a leading member of the European Union and NATO.

Germany is a federal republic made up of 16 states (Bundesländer): Baden‑Württemberg, Bavaria, Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hesse, Lower Saxony, Mecklenburg‑Western Pomerania, North Rhine‑Westphalia, Rhineland‑Palatinate, Saarland, Saxony, Saxony‑Anhalt, Schleswig‑Holstein, and Thuringia. Each state has its own government and constitution.

Tourist information: Germany

Germany offers a wide range of attractions, from historic cities to natural landscapes. Berlin is a vibrant capital with museums, galleries, and nightlife. Munich is famous for Oktoberfest and Bavarian traditions. Hamburg is a major port city with canals and theatres. Cologne is known for its Gothic cathedral. Dresden and Leipzig showcase Saxon culture.

Attractions

  • Brandenburg Gate, Pariser Platz, Berlin. A symbol of unity and peace, once part of the Berlin Wall. Today it is a landmark of German history and democracy, and visitors gather here to experience the heart of Berlin.
  • Pergamon Museum, Museum Island, Berlin. This museum houses treasures from antiquity including the Pergamon Altar and Ishtar Gate. It is one of the most visited museums in Germany and offers insight into ancient civilisations.
  • Cologne Cathedral, Domkloster 4, Cologne. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Gothic churches in Europe. Visitors admire its twin spires and stained glass windows, and the cathedral remains a centre of faith and culture.
  • Heidelberg Castle, Schlossberg 1, Heidelberg. Overlooking the Neckar River, this Renaissance ruin is a highlight of the Romantic period. The castle gardens and views attract many visitors, and its history reflects centuries of German heritage.
  • Neuschwanstein Castle, Neuschwansteinstraße, Schwangau, Bavaria. Built by King Ludwig II, this fairy‑tale castle is one of the most visited sites in Germany. Its towers and halls inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, and the surrounding Alps add to its charm.
  • Nuremberg Old Town, Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg. Famous for medieval architecture and the Christmas market. The Imperial Castle and historic streets show the city’s heritage, and visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • The Black Forest, Baden‑Württemberg. Known for hiking and spa towns, the region offers dense forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages. It is also famous for Black Forest cake and cuckoo clocks.
  • Saxon Switzerland National Park, near Dresden. Famous for sandstone cliffs and climbing routes, it is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The Bastei Bridge offers panoramic views of the Elbe Valley.

Museums

  • Deutsches Museum, Museumsinsel, Munich. The world’s largest museum of science and technology. Exhibits range from aviation to astronomy, and visitors explore interactive displays.
  • Städel Museum, Schaumainkai 63, Frankfurt. Displays European art from the Middle Ages to modern times. Visitors enjoy works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso, and the museum is a cultural highlight of Frankfurt.
  • Hamburg Museum of Arts and Crafts, Steintorplatz, Hamburg. Focuses on design, fashion, and applied arts. It is one of the oldest museums of its kind, and visitors discover collections of furniture, jewellery, and textiles.
  • Dresden Green Vault, Taschenberg 2, Dresden. A treasury museum with jewels, gold, and precious objects. It showcases the wealth of Saxon rulers, and its exhibits are among the finest in Europe.
  • Germanisches Nationalmuseum, Kartäusergasse 1, Nuremberg. The largest museum of cultural history in Germany, with collections spanning art, archaeology, and folklore. Visitors gain insight into German traditions and everyday life.

Fun things for children

Families can enjoy Europa‑Park in Rust, Germany’s largest theme park with rides and shows. The Berlin Zoo offers animals from around the world. Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg is the world’s largest model railway. Legoland Germany in Günzburg has attractions for children of all ages. The Sea Life centres in Berlin and Munich introduce marine life.

Local events in 2026

  • Oktoberfest, Theresienwiese, Munich. Scheduled for 19 September to 4 October 2026, it is the world’s largest beer festival. Visitors enjoy Bavarian food, music, and traditions.
  • Berlin International Film Festival, Potsdamer Platz, Berlin. Taking place in February 2026, it showcases global cinema. The Berlinale is one of the most important film festivals in the world.
  • Frankfurt Book Fair, Messe Frankfurt, Frankfurt. Planned for October 2026, it is the largest publishing event worldwide. Authors, publishers, and readers gather for exhibitions and talks.
  • Wagner Festival, Bayreuth Festspielhaus, Bayreuth. Running from July to August 2026, it presents operas by Richard Wagner. The festival is renowned for its unique theatre and performances.
  • Christmas Markets, Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg. Held in December 2026, they are among the oldest and most famous in Germany. Visitors enjoy crafts, food, and festive atmosphere.

Culinary destinations

German cuisine is diverse. In Bavaria visitors enjoy pretzels, sausages, and beer. In the Rhineland dishes include sauerbraten and potato pancakes. The Black Forest is known for ham and cherry cake. Wine regions such as the Mosel and Rhine produce Riesling and other varieties. Kaiserschmarrn, a shredded pancake, is a popular dessert. Local markets offer fresh bread, cheese, and seasonal produce.

Cycling and walking routes

Germany has more than 320 long‑distance cycling routes. The Romantic Road runs from Würzburg to Füssen, passing castles and towns. The Rhine Cycle Route follows the river through vineyards and historic cities. The Altmühl Valley Cycle Route is ideal for beginners. Saxon Switzerland National Park provides climbing and walking routes. The Bavarian Forest offers hiking and nature walks.

Seasonal activities

Winter brings skiing in Bavaria and the Alps. Spring is ideal for hiking and cycling. Summer offers festivals and lake swimming. Autumn is harvest season with wine festivals and Oktoberfest. Each season provides unique experiences across the country.

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