Those who travel to Germany will find an abundance of historical sites, breathtaking beauty and cultural offerings. This central European country of 16 states boasts picturesque rivers, towering castles, fascinating museums, snow-capped mountains, cutting-edge cities and much more.
Germany’s top scenic destinations include the Bavarian Alps in the south, the Black Forest in the southwest and Saxon Switzerland in the east. Throughout the country, Germany’s cities offer many activities. Berlin, brimming with restaurants and clubs, boasts such famous sites as the Brandenburg Gate, Potsdamer Platz and the Checkpoint Charlie Museum, which documents the history of the Berlin Wall. Many flock to Munich for the annual Oktoberfest and to gaze at the beautiful Marianplatz square with its famous Glockenspiel. Cologne, famous for its 600-year-old, High Gothic cathedral is another top draw. A vacation in Germany should also include a visit to one of its fairy-tale castles; Neuschwanstein, in southern Bavaria, actually inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle at Disneyland. River cruises, spas and Christmas markets are also popular with visitors. And no Germany vacation would be complete without a taste of German beer and sausage.
U.S. citizens can visit Germany for up to 90 days with a valid passport (make sure it doesn’t expire during your trip). Direct flights are available from U.S. gateways into many Germany airports, including Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin/Tegel, Cologne/Bonn, Dusseldorf, Hamburg and Stuttgart. It’s easy to rent a car in Germany. A valid U.S. driver’s license is required, and driving is on the right. Currency is the euro. Germany has a mostly temperate climate, with harsh winters more likely in the east. For more information on Germany travel, log on to www.cometogermany.com, the German National Tourist Board’s website.