Why travel to
Germany is a great place to travel to because it is rich in culture, history, and attractions. It offers something for everyone, from natural beauty to metropolitan cities. Germany is also known for its incredible gastronomy, so there are plenty of delicious traditional dishes to try. Plus, with its excellent public transportation network, it's easy to explore all the many sights, sounds, and attractions the country has to offer.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Germany can vary widely depending on the individual and their lifestyle. Factors such as location, type of accommodation, cost of utilities and food, transportation costs, and entertainment expenses will all have a significant impact on the overall cost. Generally speaking, Germany is an affordable country to live in and basic necessities are reasonably priced.
Safety
Yes, it is safe to travel to Germany. The German authorities take the measures necessary for all travelers to Germany to remain safe and healthy during their stay. Make sure to check the travel and health advice supplied by the German authorities before you go.
Places to visit
- Berlin - Germany’s vibrant capital, a city of creativity, culture, history and fun. Must-see attractions here include the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe.
- Munich - The Bavarian capital is famed for its Oktoberfest, but there’s plenty more to discover besides beer. Explore Marienplatz square, visit the Nymphenburg Palace or just enjoy the city’s relaxed lifestyle.
- Neuschwanstein Castle - Step into a fairytale at this spectacular 19th-century castle perched on a high hill in the Alps. It inspired the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty and it’s a great place to take in the stunning Bavarian scenery.
- The Black Forest - An enormous stretch of evergreen trees and coniferous forest, ideal for exploring by car, bicycle or even on foot. Visit Lake Titisee, make a stop at one of the many spa towns, go skiing or visit nearby attractions such as the Strasbourg Cathedral.
- Hamburg - One of Germany’s largest cities, with a wide array of things to see and do. Walk along the bustling Reeperbahn, browse the many shops and enjoy some of the city’s unique nightlife. Don’t forget to take a river cruise along the Elbe.
- Frankfurt - The bank and finance hub of Germany, but with plenty of things to do. Visit the Main Tower, explore the city’s modern Skyline Plaza shopping mall, visit the town of Heidelberg and see the amazing Roemerberg Market Square.
- Dresden - A picturesque city which suffered huge damage during World War II, but has been meticulously reconstructed. The key attraction here is the Zwinger Palace, once home to the royal rulers of Saxony and now a beautiful museum and art gallery.
- The Rhine Valley - A rural paradise along one of Europe’s largest rivers. Explore small villages, mesmerizing vineyards, old castles and visit the Lorelei Rock, a huge craggy outcrop rising from the river. Don’t forget to take a boat ride along the river too.
Food to try
- Schnitzel – A crumbed and fried cutlet of pork, beef or veal.
- Bratwurst – A grilled pork sausage seasoned with marjoram, nutmeg, coriander and other spices.
- Currywurst – A grilled sausage covered with ketchup and curry powder.
- Sauerkraut – Shredded cabbage fermented in salt and spices.
- Kartoffelpuffer – Shallow-fried pancakes made of grated potatoes, eggs and flour.
- Spätzle – Hand-cut egg noodles usually served with cheese and herbs.
- Apfelstrudel – A traditional Austrian dessert made of thinly-rolled dough filled with spiced apples.
- Black Forest Cake – A rich chocolate cake layered with cherries and cream and topped with chocolate shavings.
- Bockwurst – A large pork sausage typically served with sweet mustard and a pretzel.
- Käsespätzle – Egg noodles mixed with cheese and fried onions.
Souvenirs
- Beer Stein – an iconic mug for beer lovers made from earthenware and usually decorated with iconic German imagery.
- Cuckoo Clock – a Black Forest carved and painted time-keeping masterpiece made in the heart of Germany.
- Nutcracker – a toy featuring a nut-like figure that cracks open nuts when pressure is applied.
- Lederhosen – traditional semi-tight leather trousers with suspenders popular with mountain dwellers.
- Beer Mugs – made of glass, ceramic, or enamel and decorated with an array of German symbols.
- Christmas Pyramids – wooden stands featuring rotating tiers that lift tealights with hot air generated from the candle.
- Music Box – an antique trinket featuring an exquisitely carved surface, often with a self-playing music mechanism.
- Steiff Bear – the world-renowned German teddy bear crafted entirely from mohair, with a brass button in its ear.
- Pretzels – a salty, oven-baked treat found all throughout Germany, often consumed with beer.
- Hand-painted Plates – collectable open-rimmed plates, featuring traditional German artwork.