There is no denial that some of the best sights in Europe can be found in Germany. The scenery is simply fantastic. You can enjoy rolling hills filled with farms and forests, flower-filled meadows, the Alps, and so many great rivers. Then, you can enjoy churches and castles of practically all variations. You will walk through half-timbered German villages, eat wonderful strudels, and can have a beer that you will always remember.
Some Of The Best Places To Visit In Germany
Germany offers access to fantastic travel activities all throughout the country. And you will find some of the very best here:
- Berlin – The capital of Germany is vibrant, features incredible museums, modern architecture, evocative monuments, and a really trendy nightlife.
- Munich – The center is traffic-free. You can enjoy museums, stately churches, convivial beer gardens, rowdy beer halls, Baroque palaces, and some of the most beautiful parks in the world.
- Bavarian Alps – Bavaria’s southern end boasts fairytale castles like Hohenschqangau, Linderhof, and Neuschwanstein. The alpine scenery is simply fantastic and you really want to visit Zugspitze and Oberammergau.
- Rothenburg – This should include the fantastic Romantic Road. The medieval city is well-preserved and features countless half-timbered buildings, together with cobbled lanes. The medieval walls are walkable and you can also visit other stunning towns, like Nordlingen and Dinkelsbuhl once in the area.
- Mosel Valley – Enjoy this meandering river sleepy area filled with cobbled towns like Beilstein and Cochem.
- Rhine Valley – Visit some incredible storybook villages that cluster right under beautiful castles, like Marksburg and Rheinfels.
- Nurnberg – This city features great museums, several reminders of the Nazi pass, and old-fashioned houses made out of sandstone.
- Dresden – This art-filled city gives you access to incredible museums, Nazi memorabilia, and great museums.
- Wurzburg – This is where you can see the Residenz Palace, which you absolutely have to experience if in the area. Also, the wine bars are pretty lively.
- Frankfurt – Frankfurt is the bustling banking center of the continent. The skyscraper skyline is alluring and gives you a glimpse into modern Germany.
- Cologne – You will be greeted by an incredible Gothic cathedral right in the middle of a museum-packed, busy city located on the banks of Rhine River.
- Trier – The oldest city Germany has to offer. The market square is fun and you will love the present Roman monuments.
- Leipzig – In the past, this was considered to be East Germany’s second city. Nowadays, it is completely rejuvenated, welcoming tourists with Cold War and Bach travel attractions.
- Hamburg – The port city is filled with Beatles, World War II, and emigration history. Also, the nightlife is similar to what you would expect in Las Vegas.
What To Know Before Going To Germany
Few people know this but Germany is the third-largest economy in the world. Also, it has a history that you will not be able to unpack even after 100 visits. The population is over 80 million and it is quite impossible to generalize things about the country. You can expect to be hit by contradictions, some social norms that seem weird, and more stunning things. This is especially the case when visiting Berlin since stereotypes will be shattered.
Before you go to Germany to enjoy historic sites or extreme travel activities, here are some things you surely want to be aware of.
Cycling In Germany
Riding bikes is highly loved in Germany as a means of transport. You can find many bike lanes and ride across very popular cycling routes present in the regional areas. Also, bike-sharing schemes can be used. In some of the cities, you will even find some shared cargo bikes that you will want to love. Just be cautious and never leave your bike unattended.
To make matters even more interesting, check out the National Cycling Plan 3.0, which will improve the infrastructure by the year 2030, together with its safety.
Book Your Train Tickets In Advance
The ICE high-speed trains that are now run by Deutsche Bahn make it so simple to travel around the country. The problem is that tickets are expensive when you opt for last-minute travel. This is also the case with the major holidays. You want to reserve your seat in advance or you will end up riding on the floor.
When you travel with toddlers or babies, opt for the Kleinkindbereich. It is a special closed compartment that is designed for families with small ones traveling together. There is even carpeted space available for safe crawling around.
Do Not Shop On Sundays
Generally, you should not shop during Sundays. This is when retail outlets and supermarkets are closed. The law actually states it. When you need something during Sundays, go to a bus or train station. Everything else does run as you would expect, including cafes, bakeries, and major tourist attractions.
Keep in mind that the locals spend Sundays hanging out in parks, trawling flea markets, hiking, and enjoying cafes. When in Berlin, it is also when you go clubbing.
Carry Cash
People in Germany do still prefer cash. It will simply be so much easier for you when you have some on you wherever you go. This includes having coins to use at public toilets and enjoying some of the smaller bakeries and cafes that simply do not accept credit card payments. Usually, this is stated right at the door.
Speaking English While In Germany
In Germany, German is the official language. Most people speak it. However, the next language that is common and very widely used is English. This is particularly the case in the big cities, like Frankfurt, Berlin, and Munich. Even so, it is definitely a good idea to know some words in German, like Bitte (meaning please) or Danke (meaning thank you).
Will Locals Be Friendly In Germany?
The German way does not involve many smiles, pleasantries, and small talk. If you are chatty, you might not enjoy it. You need to get ready for that. Even customer service is a little colder than what you might be used to. This is particularly the case when referring to Berlin.
Transportation Options In Germany
Germany is where the Autobahn was born. With this in mind, it should be no surprise to see one of the most reliable, well0integrated, and extensive networks you will ever see. All roads are well-maintained and well-designed. All public transportation in metropolitan area is efficient and beautifully planned. The intercity network designed for trains is the same. It does not matter what transport option you choose, Germany is hard to match.
Make the most of the network with these facts:
- Take Advantage Of Germany’s Train Networks
The national train operator of the country is Deutsche Bahn. It offers you a reliable, modern, and very comprehensive rail network. Private operators are also available but they do operate right under the main one’s aegis. You can obtain a discount if you are traveling with someone else.
You should also be aware of the fact that children under 14 will travel for free. However, this does mean you need to book your tickets in advance.
- Use Germany’s Roads
If you want to drive around Germany, you will be faced with a great network of incredible roads. Car rental agencies are widely available and you can also use car sharing apps.
- Use The Bus As A Cheap Train Travel Alternative
The rail network in Germany is very good but in many cases you should actually consider a bus. It is cheaper and a much better option in different areas, like some parts of the beautiful Bavarian Forest and the rugged Harz Mountains. Fares are kept low and the standards are high because there is a healthy competition going on between the bus companies. The main service in Germany is FlixBus.
- Cycling In Germany Is A Good Idea For Tourists
So many parts of the country are cycle-friendly. You can get touring bikes with ease in many larger centers. Cycling tours should be added to the itinerary whenever you are fit enough for it.
You should know there are over 200 miles of long-distance, well-marked cycle trails across Germany. This includes options like Elberadweg and Altmuhltal Radweg.
- Don’t Forget About Boats And Ferries
Boats and ferries are a wonderful way to travel rivers, lakes, and the coast. Two sea borders exist with Germany and there are so many lakes. There is a huge possibility you will travel over water. Several scheduled boat services will take you across the Danube, the Elbe, and the Rhine.