Whether you are visiting Germany for a few days, or staying for several weeks, there are lots to see and do. The following activities will definitely occupy your time in this enchanting and historic European country.
Sightseeing
Historic architecture in Germany is like no other. Although most of the buildings have been through the toughest times and even destruction during the second World War, they remain one of the finest works of historic architecture in Europe. In Munich, look no further than the New Town Hall, which is a highly-ornamented Gothic Revival architectural building. Another fantastic place to visit is the 19th century gothic Neuschwanstein Castle.
In Hamburg, it is difficult to miss the stretch of 19th century multi-storey red brick warehouses called Speicherstadt. They are situated along the port and were established between 1883 to 1927.
Visitors may explore Frankfurt’s top attractions such as the monumental Alter Oper concert hall, Goethehaus, Paulskirche, and the gothic Kaiserdom.
Shopping
Almost everything can be purchased in Germany, where the myriad of shops will leave visitors spoilt for choice. In Munich, the main shopping areas are at Old Town. The specialist shops in Munich are renowned for their quality products, such as paintings, books and even musical instruments. Some other souvenirs to get include the traditional beer mug and Bavarian costumes.
In Hamburg, it would be a mistake not to check out the wares at Fischmarkt, when locals and tourists congregate to hunt for special bargains, grocery and other merchandises.
Large departmental stores such as KaDeWe and Galeries Lafayette will cater to one’s fashion needs in Berlin. Smaller independent stores at Hackescher Markt offer authentic German goods. In addition, there are plenty of opportunities for inexpensive bargains at the city’s flea and antique markets.
The popular shopping district in Frankurt is Zeil, which offers a plethora of shopping opportunities. Department stores include Karstadt and Kaufhof. Fashionistas may head for Kleidoskop and Peek & Cloppenburg.
Dining
In Munich, the famous beer hall, Hofbräuhaus am Platzl, situated near central Marienplatz is not to be missed. It serves delicious German cuisine such as Stiglmeier Gelbwurst and beer with pretzels. Along River Alster in Hamburg, visitors may find many elegant buildings including the Alsterarkaden that houses shops and cafes, where they can relax with a soothing cup of coffee or grab a sandwich. In the metropolis of Frankfurt, Mediterranean cuisine, Italian food, traditional and international cuisine are readily available. When in Berlin, visitors can tuck into a traditional currywurst, Döner Kebab, or Turkish pizza at Hackescher Markt, or savor mouth-watering quiches and baguettes at Fressco in Kreuzberg.
Entertainment
During Oktoberbest, visitors can celebrate with beer and many traditional performances in Munich. Munich’s main arts center, The Gasteig, also hosts a series of events year round. Nightlife is prevalent in Hamburg, especially in Reeperbahn where many good restaurants, bars, and nightlife are concentrated. At the Alter Oper in Frankfurt, visitors may catch a variety of performances, including classical ballet, musicals, comedies, dramas and thrillers.
The bustling nightlife in Berlin, where clubs and restaurants sprout at almost every street, are the haven for night-owls. Some clubs and pubs include Astro Bar, Club Moskau, Junction Bar, Solar, and Watergate. While in Berlin, it would be a mistake to miss concerts by the Berlin Philharmonic at grand music venues such as Konzethaus Berlin and Staatsoper.