Germany consists of 16 states, which means 16 reasons to visit the country. Each state is diverse and my main travel tip is to visit each one multiple times. Germany has 15 international airports and its position in central Europe means that almost all its corners are easily accessible from other European countries by bus or train, and these two types of transport are also recommended for intercity travel. Join us on our journey across the cities and the German countryside.
The country’s capital is the cosmopolitan city of Berlin and it’s a really large city, so it’s best if you start exploring with a guided tour where you’ll visit all the most important historical and other landmarks, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Berlin Wall. You’ll also hear the stories of the famous Berliners. But if you’re more interested in the urban scene, street art and colourfulness of Berlin in all its glory, then opt for an alternative experience of the city. Tourism is well developed, but one can still find quite a lot of non-touristy spots. Another city worth visiting is Dresden, thought to be one of the most beautiful cities in eastern Germany, which is evident from its second name: Florence of the Elbe. The main landmark is the Zwinger, a baroque palace consisting of galleries, pavilions and halls, all lavishly decorated as is appropriate for baroque buildings. Enjoy a truly unique travel experience – a gala concert in the Zwinger. A point of interest is the Frauenkirche, a church that was bombed during World War II, but was rebuilt in the 1990s to its former splendour. One of Germany’s most beautiful squares is here, the Theaterplatz, with the state opera building. The thriving city of Leipzig has always had an important commercial role, since it lies at a junction of various roads and it was there that famous people, such as Bach, created their masterpieces. Don’t forget to explore the secret underpasses and avenues in the old town.
Next up is the trip to Bayreuth, Bavaria, chosen by Richard Wagner for his opera scenes. There are visible remains of the medieval city in the narrow streets, the typical Bavarian elongated city square and the Gothic town hall. One of the most beautiful Bavarian cities, Nuremberg has lived through 950 years of history. Go for something different this time and take a bike tour where, in addition to old town attractions, you’ll also pass by the Nazi party rally grounds. The city is especially wonderful during the Christmas market. West from there lies Rothenburg, one of the most well-preserved medieval villages with traditional architecture of colourful houses travellers will find most interesting. Tourism is booming there, but you can still experience the charm of the by-gone days and the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. The village is located on a Romantic Road that leads from the wine regions of Franconia to the foothills of the Alps and appeals to all your senses. The Road measures 350 kilometres in length and connects Augsburg with Würzburg. There are numerous medieval towns, villages and castles steeped in history and abundant in fairy tale architecture along the Road, offering travellers endless possibilities when it comes to exploring.
It’s time to travel to Bavaria’s capital, Munich, where you can stay at the HI hostel by the river Isar because there are plenty of things to explore in the surroundings. You can go on a day trip to two of the most romantic German castles, Neuschwanstein and Linderhof, the magical works of art by Ludwig II of Bavaria. In Munich, you can explore the old town and the square where buildings reaching up to the sky await you. If you need to take a break, the English park will be a perfect place for that. It’s one of the largest city parks in the world.
Set out on a different kind of journey and sail down the Rhine. Noblemen rivalled one another as to who would build more royal mansions and castles with a view over the sluggish river. The landscape is gorgeous and full of rolling hills and vineyards. Go on a full-day cruise and visit the places that were already admired by Goethe and are today protected by UNESCO. There are 40 departure points with medieval towns just waiting to be explored. When you’re done relaxing, head to Frankfurt and explore the city’s modern present mixed with historical charm. To the south lies Heidelberg, one of the rare German cities that weren’t bombed during the war. Take a walk down the cobbled streets of the old town that used to be the centre of the German Romanticism. Especially recommended is a guided tour of the oldest university in Germany where you can take a look at the student cells.
Travellers who are interested in the old industrial German heritage should head to the Ruhr region. It has large natural coal and iron deposits and is therefore dotted with old industrial cities that have converted into modern green centres. Essen is one such example. You can visit the Zollverein industrial complex for an introduction to the operation of the facility and everyday life in the 19th century. Today, the hearts of many Germans beat for football and their national team, the Elf, so head to the German Football Museum in Dortmund, which will take you on an emotional and exciting journey. The northern Ruhr region is home to Düsseldorf, a city offering an interesting mix of old and new, from traditional breweries to inns and futuristic architecture. It also hosts the world’s largest fashion fair. Of course, when listing cities in western Germany one cannot help but mention Cologne, one of the oldest German cities. At Cologne’s core lies the towering Cologne Cathedral, one of the most important architectural landmarks in the country. Then there’s also the famous carnival. But if you want to discover the city’s dark secrets, embark on a nightly tour where all the mystical secrets about ladies dressed in white and ghosts will be revealed to you.
Northern Germany is a world on its own. According to the main travel tip, you simply must take time and visit the flat landscape and dunes by the North Sea. This is where you’ll find Germany’s second largest city, Hamburg. Its harbour is one of Europe’s largest and it’s just begging to be explored. You can watch the harbour light show from an old barge. Hamburg is a cultural city with many famous museums. And don’t forget, the city has more bridges than London, Venice and Amsterdam combined. There are vast fields of fruit trees nearby known as Altes Land. To relax completely from the trip around Germany, it’s best to take a rest on the island of Heligoland where cars aren’t allowed, or maybe in one of the famous resorts on the Frisian Islands.
Wherever you go, your trip can be safe, with simple and customisable international travel insurance for solo travellers and families. Get travel insurance through World Nomads and get a policy with 24-hour assistance and transport for medical emergencies, as well as cover for more than 220 sports and leisure activities on snow, water, air and land. The insurance policy may include, among other things, coverage for experiential activities, such as au pairs – part-time or voluntary work with children, working in a bar, fruit picking, office work, teaching and some other work abroad. Protect yourself or your family with World Nomads travel insurance.
Enjoy your trip around Germany and don’t forget to send postcards with MyPostcard. All HI members get 25% off. New users can send their first postcard for free with the HIGlobetrotter promo code through the Globetrotter profile. You can read more about it here.
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