Germany vacations

Germany’s capital pushes the boundaries with world-class museums, high-concept cuisine and one of Europe’s most legendary nightlife scenes. Come explore the best of Berlin.

Welcome to Cologne. This lively city on the Rhine boasts Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals and a cultural scene that rivals some of Europe’s heaviest hitters.

With half of the city covered in green space, Dusseldorf can feel like an urban escape hatch. Explore its parks and esplanades, and enjoy some of the best shopping in Germany.

A corporate powerhouse with a fun-loving spirit, Frankfurt draws you in with edgy art museums, modern restaurants and one of Germany’s most wooded urban areas.

Green parks and narrow canals set the scene in Hamburg, a city famous for music and its Beatles connection. Delve into maritime history, innovative art and trendy neighborhoods.

Bavaria’s feel-good capital is best known for its beer and bratwurst. But make sure you also get your fill of its galleries, museums and public green spaces.

In winter, one of the best things to do in Germany is to hit the slopes in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Zugspitze or Sudelfeld. But the fun doesn’t stop in the Bavarian Alps once the snow thaws. In summer, take in beautiful lake scenery along the Eibsee Loop. For more of a challenge, tackle the long-distance hiking route between Lake Königssee and Lake Chiemsee.

Germany’s long, complex history makes for fascinating attractions. Berlin draws countless visitors to landmark monuments like the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie. But beyond the capital, you’ll find a treasure trove of history to explore, from Neuschwanstein Castle in the Bavarian Alps to Munich’s Frauenkirche and Lübeck’s medieval Old Town.

Of all Germany’s annual celebrations, Munich’s Oktoberfest is by far the most famous. But if swigging steins isn’t your thing, there’s a calendar of worthwhile events to enjoy. Wear your wackiest costume and join the crowds to celebrate ‘Fastelovend’ (Carnival) in Cologne. Or get festive with ‘Glühwein’ (mulled wine) and bratwurst at the legendary Christmas markets in Berlin and Nuremberg.

Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Baltic coast at Heiligendamm, Germany’s oldest seaside resort. Spend a day in a ‘Strandkorb’ (sheltered straw beach chair) on Warnemünde’s white-sand beach. Active types won’t want to miss Sylt in the North Frisian Islands, known for its great surfing conditions. Inland, the Mecklenburg Lake District’s beaches are popular for water sports.

From Alpine forests to white-sand beaches, Germany has no shortage of natural wonders. Step into a world of Grimms’ fairy tales with a visit to the Black Forest National Park, or admire Lake Königssee’s emerald waters in Berchtesgaden National Park. Hoping to spot wildlife? Head to the mudflats of the UNESCO-protected Wadden Sea, home to porpoises and seals.

There’s more to restaurants in Germany than just sausages and sauerkraut. In Bavaria, tuck into hearty plates of ‘Schweinebraten’ (roast pork) and ‘Knödel’ (dumplings). And in Baden-Württemberg, treat yourself to a big slice of ‘Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte’ (Black Forest gateau). If you’re visiting Berlin, don’t miss the capital’s famous ‘currywurst’ (sausage with curry ketchup) or the Turkish-inspired doner kebab.

Beyond Berlin’s Museum Island and Cold War landmarks like Checkpoint Charlie and the East Side Gallery, Germany has plenty of cultural showstoppers. Cologne Cathedral is Northern Europe’s largest Gothic church. And Hamburg’s historic Speicherstadt warehouse district is home to canalside museums and entertainment. Love cars? Stuttgart’s Mercedes-Benz Museum is one of the best museums in Germany for motorheads.

The best time to visit Germany for warm weather is between July and August. These are peak tourist times, so consider March to May or October to November if you’re traveling on a budget. Got your sights set on Oktoberfest? Aim to visit between late September and early October. And December is the best month for Germany’s famous Christmas markets.

There are plenty of affordable food and lodging options throughout the country. If you’re trying to plan a cheap trip to Germany, expect to pay under five euros (€) for a coffee or a local beer and less than €20 for an inexpensive meal. An average short taxi ride is €11, but public transportation is generally cheaper in major cities.