Germany
Destination Guide

The Ultimate Guide Before You Plan for your Next Trip

One of the world’s prominent economic powers, Germany has a dynamic urban landscape and each city is alive with a spirit that is unique to the region it lies in. The towns are equally intriguing, steeped deep in history; some have been inhabited since the medieval ages and some date back to Roman times. Although known primarily for their beers and cars, Germans also have world-class science and research facilities. From Baltic Sea coast to Middle Rhine Valley and Bavarian Alps to Black Forest, you will find diversity across Germany.

Attractions in Germany

Oktoberfest, Munich

Held annually, this 16-day fest is more than just a celebration. Running from late-September to the first weekend of October, the event is held at the Theresienwiese in Munich and more than six million people attend it every year. Beer is consumed at large quantities along with traditional food like Schweinebraten (roast pork), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick) and Obatzda (spiced cheese-butter spread).

The Zwinger, Dresden

The most standout Baroque building Germany has ever built, the Zwinger is an extravagant palace The Crown Gate is adorned with statues of Greek gods and the Rampart pavillion has the splendid Nymphs’ Bath, the best fountain in the country. Raphael’s Sistine Madonna is displayed elegantly along with other marvelous artworks at the Semper Gallery and the armoury showcases an exquisite collection of weaponry and ceremonial suits.

Schwarzwald (Black Forest), Baden-Württemberg

An ancient mountain range, Black Forest is recognised for its marvelous black fir trees that add a charm to the wooded area. The mountains are a great place to hiking, mountain biking, paragliding and during winters, skiing. The slopes, however, are not very steep, but very good for novice skiers. The city of Freiburg, along the mountains, is fondly called the "Jewel of the Black Forest."

Neuschwanstein Castle

This royal palace in the Bavarian Alps of Germany was built as a private refuge for King Ludwig II, dubbed as “Mad King.” Its delicate beauty is a result of blending Wagnerian architectural style with the dramatic background of the Alps. The two-storey Throne Room was designed in Byzantine style and was adorned with imitation porphyry and lapis lazuli. However, the most intriguing thing about the Throne Room is that there is no throne.

Rhineland-Palatinate

The largest wine-producing area in Germany, this beautiful state has an eternal charm. Drive along the romantic Disney-like road or hike along the bewitching nature trails, both passing by serene villages, vast vineyards, picturesque meadows and magnificent castles.

Altes Rathaus, Bamberg

A town with an angelic medieval feel, Bamberg is famous for its town layout and architecture, which later became an inspiration for European architects. Altes Rathaus, the town hall, is one such architectural marvel that was built in the mid-15th century on the river Regnitz.

Rugen

This splendid island, largest in Germany, draws travellers with its sheer white cliffs that edge the coastline, appearing as if covered with freshly laid snow. This pastoral place is great for escaping the crowds. The resort and spas on Rugen date back to the 18th century, giving you opportunity to holiday amidst luxurious antiquity.

North Sea islands

Endowed with immense beauty, Germany's North Sea islands are home to numerous beaches, some of which are marked by the comfy Strandkorb chairs. The islands have pleasant climate making them ideal for various recreational activities like snorkelling, diving, kite-surfing and jet-skiing.

In the Spotlight

German food is appreciated for its tasteful meat roasts, mouthwatering stews and mellow desserts. In the afternoon, going out for Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cakes) is common in Germany and you will find cafes in every city, town and village. For a remarkably-tuned palate, here is a list of the finest restaurants in Germany: Kellerrestaurant im Brecht-Haus, Berlin: This restaurant serves delicious fleischlaberl (spicy meat patties) and scrumptious Wiener Schnitzel. In summers, you can dine outdoors in the splendid garden. Altes Hackerhaus, Munich Innenstadt: This esteemed old tavern is the best to relish typical Bavarian cuisine like calves’ lung and bread dumplings as well as crispy roast pork knuckle with potato dumplings. Bistro Organic, Munich: Sausage and pretzels along with focaccia, cheeses and fruit salads are best served here. Topping that, this place also serves freshly-squeezed apple juice and yoghurt-based flavoured lassi. Fischereihafen, Hamburg: Located on the riverside in Altona, this decent restaurant serves the city’s best seafood specialities. Zum Gemalten Haus, Frankfurt: Try the local delicacies like green sauce, ribs with sauerkraut and Appelwoi cider.

Part of the European Union, Germany’s currency is Euro. Currency exchange desks are available at airports, hotels and major shopping centres across the country. An ATM is called Bankomat and is the easiest way to get money. Several banks like the Deutsche Bank has agreements with Barclays that reduces bank charges when using ATM. Note that most credit cards are not acceptable at many places. A majority of shops, cafes, bakeries and even restaurants only accept cash of German EC cards. Therefore, check with the vendor prior to ordering something or have cash ready at hand at all times

Entertainment & Event

Festivals

Festivals

Festivals

With a significant Christian population, Germany celebrates all of the traditional Christian holidays, with most popular being Christmas and Easter. On the third of October, German Unification Day is celebrated throughout the country. This day of East and West Germany reunion is marked by a federal holiday. Plus Germans love their beer and celebrate it with many beer festivals in different region round the year. The most popular German festivals include:

Christopher Street Day - Celebrated annually in July to mark the recognition of gay rights with processions on the streets, stage shows, and barbeques. The best places to be part of the celebrations are Cologne, Munich and Hamburg. Cologne Carnival - For six days up to Ash Wednesday (February-March), German put on a great show on the streets of Cologne with dance, music, parades and of course, beer. Oktoberfest - The biggest beer bash in the world is celebrated in Munich. Berlin Beer Festival - Observed in August, this is another event celebrating beer that is brought here in more than 2,000 varieties from over 80 countries. Stuttgart Beer Festival - Celebrated between the last week of September and mid-October, this fest is another honour to beer that is marked by rollercoaster rides, colourful floats, music and dance. Samba Carnival - Giant masks, ornamented plumes and groovy beats of drums make this February festival a great experience in north German towns. Rhine in Flames - In Bonn, the first Saturday of May comes to life with millions gathering here to partake in this festival. Thousands of fireworks lit up the sky above Rhine, giving an illusion of Rhine being on fire. Berlin International Festival - The biggest music festival in Germany, this one offers a great fusion of pop, rock and jazz music in September. BachFest - This major cultural festivals in Leipzig commemorates the great musician Johann Sebastian Bach.
culture

culture

Culture

German is the official language of the country with over 95% population using it as their first language. English is also quite common, especially in metro cities. Other languages recognised in Germany are Sorbian (East Germany), Frisian (around the Rhine estuary) and Danish (along the Danish border). German society is one of the world’s most advanced nations, advocating gender equality, disability rights and homosexual rights. Majority of Germans follow Christianity and rest are divided into Jews, Muslims and other minorities. The popular theologists from Germany are Luther, Feuerbach, Melanchthon, Rudolf Otto and Schleiermacher.

Germans are also known for their contributions to the classical music. Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms and Richard Wagner are some names etched in the history of classical music.

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Germany Destination Guide