Germany has played a large part in the history of the world and is significant to many Americans. If you've never been, there are several landmarks that you need to see. Traveling through Germany is a unique experience in itself. You'll go from medieval castles to an extremely modern neighborhood without much of a transition. There is nothing else like it in the world.
The culture of Germans is drastically different from that of Americans. While you may think that Germans are being rude or short, they feel that they are being courteous. For example, in the United States, we think that small talk and nice remarks are appropriate. When we first meet someone we try to get to know a little about them and possibly say something nice. When Germans meet you they tend to be more direct. They skip the small talk and greatly value honesty. If you think someone is being blunt, they're really just being nice.
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
Of the ultramodern areas in Germany, the capital city of Berlin is probably the most amazing. While the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, the city is still somewhat divided into two distinct areas. On the West side, reside the more high-class neighborhoods. On the East side, you'll still see remnants of the crushed communist regime. Some of the more impressive monuments in Berlin are the Bradenburger Tor and the Stasi Museum. Inside the Stasi Museum sits the State Security Service where the communists overlooked their people. The Brandenburger Tor was built in 1792 and is still a sight to be seen.
Another historic landmark in Germany is the Aachen Dom. This cathedral was built by Charlemagne over 1000 years ago. It is the oldest attraction in all of Germany. It possesses quite a collection of rare artifacts, including a cloth that was supposedly worn by Jesus himself.
In the 19th Century, King Ludwig built several beautiful castles. They can still be seen and visited across the German countryside. Depending on what time of year you go, you may be lucky enough to experience a medieval festival. The small villages and towns have these annually and are quite unique.
Another great German city is Munich. If you like beer, this is where you need to go. They hold the world-famous Oktoberfest beer festival every year. Besides alcohol, there are great deals of other activities in Munich. It is a cultural haven with ballet, opera, and theater everywhere.
| Castle Neuschwanstein King Ludwig II
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Aachen Cathedral
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Eastern Germany is now becoming a popular place for a visit as well. Dresden is famous for its own style of architecture. Many of its buildings were built in the 1800's and are still exceedingly spectacular today. Situated on the scenic Elbe River, Dresden possesses a unique blend of natural beauty and modernized architecture. It is the perfect combination of old and new world. This is also a popular region for tasting the fantastic wines that are produced in Germany. The banks of the Elbe River are a great place to make wine due to the climate and fertile land.
If you like the great outdoors, you might want to consider visiting Hamburg. Although it is Germany's second largest city, the majority of it is covered with parks and lakes. It is a truly beautiful city to tour on foot.
Throughout Germany, there are greatly varying landscapes from one area to the next. You can see some beautiful coastline, mountains, or a magnificent forest. Germans pride themselves on their thick forests. The most well-known forest in Germany is The Black Forest. Its high elevation gives it a unique look unlike most other forests that you've seen. Some of the forests offer complete solidarity. You could travel some lesser known paths and not see a person for days. There are literally miles of uninhabited forest land in Germany and almost all of it is exceptionally beautiful. This is an outdoorsman's paradise.
Another natural area with significance is the Lake Constance area. This is the country's largest freshwater lake. It experiences a very warm climate which makes it ideal for fruit and wine production. This area's climate is unique for Germany and provides a great backdrop for a daytrip.
Munich
With so much to see and do in Germany, one may have a hard time getting to it all. Luckily Germany possesses one of the best railroads in the world. Many of the trains offer something for every type of passenger. You can save money and just stick with a basic package, or travel in luxury with every amenity imaginable. It is a great and reliable way to see the country.
Another great way to see the country is by boat. While this is not as well-known as the railroad, many of the river trips offered are very relaxing. There are several companies that offer a different way to observe Germany.
Germany also possesses a well-built and complex highway system. The world famous Autobahn is fun to experience for the first time. While there are many areas where there is no speed limit, there are a few areas that are limited. It's important to remember that while you are on the Autobahn, be extremely careful. German drivers are very aggressive and can be considered dangerous for unprepared drivers. If it is your first time on the Autobahn, be very careful. Look over your shoulder before switching lanes. Motorcycles going 150 miles per hour can come out of nowhere.
The Romantic Road is also a well-known trek through Germany that spans a distance of about 200 miles. This area became popular during the 1950's. It was an area that American soldiers inhabited and took their families to on vacation. Today it is a very international area that offers something for many nationalities.
While Germany is a very internationally friendly country, it offers a distinct look, all its own. Nowhere else will you see such a mixture of old-time and modern cultures. If you are looking for a truly unique vacation experience, Germany could be right for you.