🇩🇪 Germany Travel Guide
Germany is one of the most diverse countries we’ve traveled through. It offers everything from big cities to fairy-tale castles and riverside villages. Each region has its own personality, traditions and food, making every trip feel new. Berlin mixes modern creativity with layers of history, Munich blends Bavarian culture with lively beer gardens and Cologne is known for its stunning cathedral and amazing Christmas markets.
For travelers, Germany makes exploring easy. The train connects the bigger cities to the smaller towns, letting you experience both the highlights and the hidden spots. Whether you’re walking along the Berlin Wall, enjoying Oktoberfest in Munich, climbing the cathedral towers in Cologne, or strolling through Bremen’s market square, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
This Germany travel guide brings together our favorite destinations and tips from our trips so far. We’ll start with the cities we’ve explored most, Berlin, Munich, Cologne, Bremen, and Nuremberg. We will continue adding as we travel more in Germany.
Berlin:
History, Street Art and Food Culture
Berlin blends old and new like no other city in Germany. Walk along remnants of the Berlin Wall, explore world-class museums on Museum Island or spend an afternoon in the trendy Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg neighborhoods. Berlin’s food scene is just as varied, from currywurst stalls to Michelin-starred dining. It’s also a great city for teens, with interactive museums, street art tours, and plenty of parks to explore. Read our Berlin guide →
Munich:
Bavarian Culture and Oktoberfest
Munich combines Bavarian tradition with modern city life. Explore the historic Marienplatz, tour the Nymphenburg Palace and relax in the English Garden, one of Europe’s largest urban parks. If you visit in September or October, Oktoberfest takes over the city with lively tents, classic Bavarian food and traditional music. Munich is also a great base for day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle and the Alps.
Read our Oktoberfest guide →
Cologne:
Riverside Views and Gothic Landmarks
Cologne’s skyline is dominated by its famous cathedral, but the city has much more to explore. Wander the Old Town’s colorful streets, visit the Chocolate Museum, and enjoy a walk along the Rhine promenade. In winter, Cologne is known for its Christmas markets, while summer brings open-air festivals and riverside dining. Read our Cologne Christmas Market guide →
Know Before You Go: Germany
Best Time to Visit
May to September for warm weather, festivals and outdoor exploring. Late November to December for Christmas markets. January to March is peak ski season in the Bavarian Alps.
Currency
Euro (€).
Language
German is the official language but English is widely spoken in major cities.
Getting Around
Germany’s train system connects major cities and smaller towns, making it easy to explore without a car.
Travel Tip
Book Oktoberfest hotels and tables early if you are visiting Munich in late September since spots fill up fast.