At first glance you may not think Germany is a great place to go on holiday. But don’t let naive stereotypes fool you- it’s actually a brilliant country to visit. Overflowing with culture, packed full of history and hiding some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, once you dig a little deeper you’ll see that Germany is actually a brilliant destination.
Located in pretty much the centre of Western Europe, Germany is incredibly accessible and cheap go get to. Whether you’re travelling by car, rail, plane or ferry, it’s only a short hop from the UK and you can be there in a day with bags of time to spare. This is the main reason why it’s an essential European business centre, and why it benefits from tourism.
The climate of Germany is much the same as everywhere else in Europe, especially the UK. While it doesn’t win any awards for the best winters by any means, the summer months can be very nice indeed with temperatures regularly exceeding 30 degrees. Southern Germany in particular is a region that benefits from cold winters and hot summers as forested and alpine areas are ideal for walking and skiing alike.
On the surface, Germany seems like a clinical and orderly country with a lack of personality, but once you’ve been there a few days you’ll learn that certainly isn’t the case. Every German city has its own character, and while you might want to avoid certain areas in what used to be East Germany, places in the old West are thriving hubs of activity. From the annual Love Parade in Berlin to the legendary Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich, give the Germans a chance to have fun and they’ll bite your hand off!
There aren’t many other countries in Europe that have as much modern history as Germany. Having been through countless political, philosophical and economic revolutions, two World Wars, one Cold War, Olympic Games and World Cups, among numerous other things, there’s certainly a lot to learn about and take in. While you don’t have to spend all day walking around museums, taking time to appreciate how Germany has been shaped is certainly worthwhile.
The most popular destination in Germany is its capital city- Berlin. Certainly a global city by any stretch of the imagination, Berlin is renowned for being a centre of culture, media, politics, science and history. Just walking around the place it’s easy to see why people flock there in huge numbers. With enough art galleries, museums, exhibitions, cinemas, theatres, restaurants and hotels to shake a stick at, there’s definitely no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re taking in the impressive architecture of Potsdammer Platz, following the route of the Berlin Wall, visiting the Berlin Zoo or tasting traditional currywurst and other cuisines, Berlin is a city you’ll want to come back to time and time again.
The Bavaria region in southern Germany is also incredibly popular and boasts a fantastic ski season and some of the most picturesque landscapes of anywhere in Europe to enjoy in the summer. The Black Forest is a must visit area if you’re looking for a quiet break away from it all as it’s like going back in the 1920s; quaint and tranquil, there’s no better place to relax and recharge your batteries.
If getting to Germany is easy, finding somewhere to stay is simpler still. There’s a phenomenal amount of hotels and hostels to choose from, so whether you’re looking to spend a few weeks, a few days or a night, you can pay certainly find something to meet your requirements. From cheap hotels to 5 star luxury hotels, the Germans know a thing or two about quality, and places like the Regent Berlin and the Steigenberger Frankfurt certainly keep the standard high.
Germany is also known for its network of hostels, so people on gap years, or inter-railing trips around Europe will have no trouble finding somewhere to stay for cheap. Whether you’re city bound or taking it easy in the country, typical German efficiency means it’s impossible to get lost as maps and road signs galore point you in the right direction. If you’re looking for adventure, Germany is the place to start!
The fact is that Germany is one of the most important countries in Europe culturally, financially, politically and historically. You can capitalise on its central location and fantastic travel links, and have an incredible holiday. From city breaks to last minute holidays, Germany really is the place to go all year round!
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