Sharing its borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France and Luxembourg, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands is the country of Germany. Rising to its highest elevation of almost 3000 metres in the German Alps to dip flat by the North Sea, Germany is also covered with major rivers such as the Danube, Rhine, and Elbe. It also has the greatest number of zoos of any other country in the world. Germany is the largest economy in the EU, a member of the United Nations and has one of the world’s largest economies, along with an exceptional standard of living. It’s also a hugely diverse country, segmented into 16 different states, many of which have their own specific traditions and cultures. Germany has a population of around 82 million, and its capital is Berlin.
Berlin lies to the East of the country, and has a population of around 4.5 million inhabitants living in its main metropolitan area. As well as a diverse range of museums, art galleries and landmarks, Berlin is notable for its rich, and often troubled past. To the east of the city, there remain preserved portions of the Berlin wall, and the city has its own Holocaust memorial near the Brandenburg Gate. Head to the Berlin zoo to see the greatest range of species anywhere, including giant pandas, polar bear and mongooses! Because it’s such a vast city, it’s often recommended to take a themed tour, for example the Alternative Berlin tour focuses on more underground sites, while the Berlin Experts Tour focuses on architecture and history.
Hamburg, the country’s second largest city is best known as a city-state, harbour and has a mercantile lineage. Channelled by waterways, one of the best ways to explore the city is by boat tour. There are also classical music venues, theatres and musicals to attend. The city also has several quirky festivals, with the Harbour Birthday every May involving a ship parade to please crowds, or the Cherry Blossom Festival celebrating Japanese culture in an explosion of fireworks and flower. Across the country, Munich is Bavaria’s capital, and is known for its architecture, incredible city hall and, of course, Oktoberfest. Among the sights, the technical museums, tranquil parkland and palaces are highly recommended.
Beyond Berlin, there are vastly different activities for any traveller. The Romantic Road, starting in Wurzburg and ending in Fussen will be preferred by those seeing pretty castles, medieval cities, lederhosen and beer halls. For something more adventurous, there’s skiing in the Alpine areas in Bavaria. For those seeking relaxation, almost every town in Germany has a spa. For literature enthusiasts, there are several literary tours on offer in Germany, and Shakespeare is particularly revered.
Last Edit by Site Administrators on 7/05/2012 EDIT NOW >>
