Berlin has been completely rejuvenated in the largest ongoing construction project in Europe. It now boasts a distinctly modern air that rivals Paris and London. The tallest structure in Berlin is the Fernsehturm Television Tower and can be seen from most points in the city. Potsdamer Platz is a busy and popular square that houses shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, and an active nightlife. The beautiful Tiergarten is a park that sits in central Berlin and covers more than 625 acres with its flowers, ponds, trees, and natural wildlife. The Tiergarten even boasts a secluded section that is reserved for sunbathing nudists.

Berlin has many museums and fine art exhibits. There is no shortage of World War II historical sites, landmarks, and monuments including the famous Checkpoint Charlie. Museum Island is considered a “must see” for visitors to Berlin. It houses five world-class museums including the Egyptian Museum, which boasts ancient artifacts that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Fine arts connoisseurs will appreciate the plethora of sculpture and painting galleries that are so abundant in Berlin and house works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, and many other masters.

Other notable tourist destinations include the Brandenburger Gate and Unter den Linden, the Schloss Charlottenburg, and the Spandau Citadel.

The Brandenburger Gate was built in the 18th century under the supervision of Friedrich Willhelm II as a visual representation to citizens of peace. It is now one of Berlin’s most visited landmarks. The Unter den Lingen begins at the Brandeburger Gate and boasts huge linden trees and unique architecture that line the avenue for its full mile stretch. Much of the modern construction and sculptures represent Berlin’s new life and ambition as one of Europe’s premier cities. The Schloss Charlettenburg is a restored palace that is more than 300 years old that is considered an imperative stop on the Berlin visitors’ site-seeing agenda. Finally, the Spandau Citadel is Berlin’s oldest standing structure that is not affiliated with religion. Constructed in the 1500’s, this fortress is complete with a moat and is located in one of the most beautiful areas of the city.

Munich is home to many castles, landmarks, and churches will keep the fine arts lover, history buff, and anyone else busy for days, even weeks, trying to see them all.

Considered to be the “must-see” destination for visitors to Munich, the Nymphenburg Palace was built in the 17th century as a gift from Ferdinand Maria to his wife, Henriette. His heir, Maximilian Emanuel, expanded to the palace by adding symmetrical buildings that span from the central structure. The Nymphenburg Palace also features a large landscaped park with meticulously manicured lawns, trees, shrubs, and fountains. The associated pavilions include Amalienburg, a hall that is secular in shape and lined with mirrors; Badenburg, which houses the first modern heated pool; Pagodenburg, which was built with a mixture of French and Oriental designs; and Magdaleneklause, which was constructed to resemble ruins and built to honor Mary Magdalen.

The astounding BMW Museum features the history and technological advances of BMW. Motor sports fans will enjoy the history of BMW’s role in sports racing and its array of various prototypes on display. The BMW Museum is currently temporarily closed to the public for renovation, but will reopen in early 2007.

Historic churches of note that are often visited in Munich include Alter Peter or the Church of Saint Peter, the Cathedral Church of our Lady, Theatinerkirche, and Asamkirche.

Munich is the home of the world-famous Oktoberfest festival and houses the Beer and Oktoberfest museum, which is open year round. The museum gives visitors a lesson in the history of beer and Oktoberfest and is housed in one of Munich’s oldest historical buildings.





The Oktoberfest festival celebrates Bavarian Beer and lasts for several weeks each year starting in September and ending in October. The tradition is nearly 200 years old and is probably Munich’s largest attraction each year. Festival events include the Oktoberfest Costume and Rifleman’s Parade, open-air music, beer tents, and distinct German cuisine feasts. Oktoberfest draws over six million visitors each year, with rates of attendance increasing with each passing year.

Munich is a very modern and cosmopolitan city and is an imperative hub to the high-fashion and glamour industry. Famous, world-renowned artists, designers, clothiers, actors, and models flock to the city to set trends, be seen, and make themselves known to the world.

It is also a very active community for the family and outdoors enthusiasts. The Zugspitze is the highest mountain in Germany, towering over 2,900 meters above sea level. The Munich Zoo is a popular attraction and houses over 460 species of domestic and exotic animals. It has the distinction of being the first “geo zoo” in the world. Finally, the Isar River is a well-loved target for rafting fans for its natural beauty.

Perhaps a majority of Frankfurt’s visitors come to the city as a result of business ties. Additionally, there are several economic and business-related fairs and demonstrations that draw hundred of thousands of foreign visitors each year.

Frankfurt also boasts many galleries and museums that showcase the country of Germany’s appreciation for the fine arts. Frankfurt has made great efforts to distinguish itself not only as an economic and development hub of Europe, but also as an attraction for art and literature connoisseurs. The famous author Johann Wolfgang von Goethe lived here. Furthermore, the city has etched a name for itself in the stage arts, boasting many revered dance and acting companies that receive worldwide critical acclaim.

The city has a skyline of skyscrapers that give a more “Americanized” look to it than a more European flair. The business districts contain some of the tallest buildings in Europe, including the Commerzbank tower that climbs to more than 980 feet above the ground.

Much of the construction in Frankfurt is relatively new, replacing devastation left by Allied bombing campaigns that took place in World War II. The result is a modern, bustling financial powerhouse that continues to grow in leaps and bounds and has established itself as a cornerstone of European and worldwide commerce.






Some of the most visited tourist destinations in Frankfurt include:

• The Museum of Ethnology
• The Museum of Applied Arts
• The Communications Museum
• The Städel Institute of Art
• The German Film Museum
• The Goethe House, birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
• St. Paul’s Church
• Römerberg Square

Frankfurt is an excellent place to enter Germany by commercial airline, since it is such a large hub. Typically, since most traffic in and out tends to be business-related, many travelers have received good deals on airfare if their schedules are flexible. Furthermore, obtaining transportation to other parts of Germany from Frankfurt is quite easy. Rental car services, trains, and other means of transportation are readily available and like air line flights, may be obtained at very reasonable prices.
Always a main attraction and destination, the River Main runs through Frankfurt. More than 10,000 pedestrians cross it each day using the Eiserner Steg, a large bridge built in the 19th century. The city is very attractive for those with active lifestyles and even hosted some of the matches for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Frankfurt is also the home of the fairy tale themed amusement park Taunus-Wunderland, a popular family attraction that has a vast array of rides, attractions, and shows.

Hamburg hosts several large events annually. Hafengeburtstag celebrates the anniversary of Hamburg becoming a free port. Hafengeburtstag takes place in early May and is a large draw for Germans across the country. Alstervergügen, an international festival that takes place in August, presents fireworks displays, sailing, and watercraft events. The single largest fair in north Germany is Hamburger Dom, which takes place three times a year; from March to April, July to August, and November to December. The festival allows Germans to enjoy their fair weather with rides such as roller coasters and Ferris wheels and other attractions.

Hamburg is a popular destination for its stage productions, particularly large musicals and plays. Ballets, variety shows, cabarets, concerts, and circus-like performances are also plentiful in Hamburg, cementing the city as a strong player in the stage arts worldwide.

Hamburg Port is a large tourist attraction as well as being the economic backbone of the city. There are tours available all year long. A site that no visitor to the city will want to miss is the Elbe Tunnel, which runs underneath the river all the way across. Museums, shops, and cafés line the harbor, making it a fantastic spot to spend the day or even multiple days.






Families will enjoy Carl Hagenbeck’s Tierport; one of Europe’s most respected and respected zoos. It houses over 2,000 animals and has a variety of elephant, dolphin, and other wildlife exhibits and shows.

Visitors to Hamburg interested in more risqué affairs will possibly be drawn to the city’s red light district of St. Pauli. The city has made advances to capitalize on the notoriety of the area and it is now a viable and mostly respectable place for legitimate night life. The area is well-policed and is considered exceptionally safe. St. Pauli now boasts upscale bars, taverns, nightclubs, and restaurants in addition to the seedier offerings for which it has become famous. Reeperbahn is the name of a famous street here. The name is derived from the term “rope street,” which it was called because it used to be a major manufacturer of strong hemp rope.

Hamburg is a shopper’s paradise, with upscale malls and shopping arcades almost everywhere. Mudsberger Centre is a very popular point for shopping as well as another located Rathausmarkt and Jungferstieg. Credit cards are not always as accepted in Germany as in other countries, such as the United States, so it is probably best to plan ahead. It is little surprise that Hamburg offers shops and distributors of fine items, as it is called home by more millionaires than any other city in Germany.

Germans typically wait until introduced by a host to shake hands. Typically, older parties in a group or more senior persons reserve the right to extend their hand for a handshake first. Attendees of small parties will always take the time to shake hands with one another when greeting, as opposed to larger functions where hand shakes are very rarely performed. The act of shaking hands in passing is considered rude. If one takes the time to shake hands, it is considered a precursor to at least a brief chat. Additionally, it is considered to rude to shake hands while the other hand is in your pocket.

In formal settings, it is still considered custom to kiss a lady’s hand when introduced, though the lips should never actually touch the hand. When being introduced to adults, little German girls will occasionally courtesy in greeting. Furthermore, unlike in the United States, children will rarely thank someone for a compliment.

Addressing Others in Germany

The female term “Fraulein” is only used to address particularly young, unmarried girls. The shorter “Frau” is used to address older, unmarried young ladies and women since it is considered a more mature greeting. Also unlike in the United States, a married woman is not addressed by her husband’s first name (e.g. Mrs. John Smith), but by her own first name (e.g. Frau Jane Smith).

Common Business Etiquette in Germany

“Du” and “Sie”

The method of addressing others by saying “you” is divided into the formal and informal manners of “Du” and “Sie.” “Du” is considered informal and should be reserved only for close acquaintances, friends and family. To avoid seeming disrespectful when meeting new persons, especially in a formal or business environment, it is generally accepted that “Sie” is the proper form to use.

Attire

American standards of business dress have relaxed in certain niche industries in recent years, but that doesn’t mean that the same is true of Germans. It is typically customary for business attire to be worn in nearly every business setting. Jeans, T-shirts, and similar clothing will typically be frowned upon. When in doubt, always opt to possibly slightly overdress than to take the risk of under-dressing.

Meetings and Functions

Unlike many other cultures, Germans will typically send invitations that outline not only when a meeting or function will begin but also when it will end. It would be considered good manners to use this time as a queue to bid a proper farewell. Though no one will expect every one to jump up and run out the door at the exact time, it can be considered rude to ignore the outlines set up by the hosts.

The Black Forest

Secluded pine-laden woodlands located in southwestern Germany, the Black Forest is famous for being the origin of cuckoo clocks. The area gets its name from the dark shadows of the fir and pine trees that grow very thick there. The black forest offers first rate hiking, camping, and some skiing. Travelers on a budget can find great deals on lodging and accommodations in the towns that surround the Black Forest.

The Frisian Islands

These islands actually span along the coastlines of three countries: Germany, Denmark, and The Netherlands. Sylt is the largest and most populated of the islands and is a known destination for Europe’s jet-set as well as nudists. Amrum is also a hot tourist spot but less crowded. The pristine beaches, panoramic views, and relative seclusion continue to draw in visitors looking to escape the bustle of more traditional destinations.

Oktoberfest

Munich makes that claim that it is the home of beer and if 6 million visitors is any indication, that claim seems to be valid. Oktoberfest is known worldwide as a celebration of Bavarian beer and lasts several weeks long, from mid-September to early October. The 200 year old festival includes events such as parades, beer tents, music features, feasts of authentic German cuisine, and exhibits.

City of Berlin

Berlin is Germany’s largest city and is the country’s capital. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall almost two decades ago, the city has grown and evolved into a modern, bustling metropolis that prides itself on looking to the future while preserving the past. There are landmarks to remind visitors of the strains that history has put on the city, but much of Berlin now has an unmistakable American feel to it. Berlin should be on every German visitor’s list to visit.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Located near the Austrian border, Neuschwanstein Castle has the title of the most photographed building in Germany. It is also the most famous of all of the German castles and was the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle located in Disneyland. Neuschwanstein Castle was built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II. Photography of the interior of the castle is strictly prohibited, as it is copyright-protected.

Lake Constance

Lake Constance lies between Germany, Austria, and Switzerland and is fed by the Rhine River, one of the longest in Europe. It is a freshwater lake that is relied upon for water consumption by nearby cities and towns. Recreation draws many tourists from across Europe and beyond each year.

Germany’s popularity as a world-renowned vacation destination continues to grow exponentially. Each year, more people visit Germany from hundreds of countries spread throughout the world. Over 2.2 million Americans made Germany their choice for travel in the first six months of 2006 alone. Your travels throughout this magnificent country can be enhanced greatly by knowing a few laws and regulations native to Germany and Europe.

Entry and Travel in Germany

A valid passport is required to enter and move about Germany. For business visitors staying less than 90 days, a Visa is not required for Germany and other countries that are members of the Schengen Group that includes neighboring countries Belgium, Netherlands, France, Denmark, and Austria.

European regulations require that passports be stamped for documentation of entry into countries, but not all German points of entry are staffed to ensure this function is carried out. It may be necessary to arrange in advance to ensure that a proper stamp is available upon entry. Travelers without this stamp may be questioned at their time of exit without this proper documentation.

Safety in Germany

No matter how rare occurrences happen, travelers should always be aware of possible terrorist organization activity. While these instances occur in Germany much less frequently than in other parts of the world, its open border agreement with other European nations should be noted. Additionally, there have been a few, isolated past incidents of racial discrimination and aggravation of travelers. It is recommended that travelers avoid as much as possible areas where protests and demonstrations take place to maintain a maximum level of security. Know the locations and emergency contact numbers of local German law enforcement whenever traveling in Germany.

Driving in Germany

Driving in Germany can be a surprisingly pleasant experience for many visitors from other countries due to Germany’s distinct courtesy standards that its citizens enjoy and follow.

For many, a vacation in Germany wouldn’t be complete without a drive down the world-famous Autobahn, which has stretches that are devoid of speed limits. Accidents and automobile fatalities are notoriously low even on high-speed stretches of highway due to Germany’s laws governing driver courtesy. It is generally illegal to pass on the right side, where slower traffic is to stay. Additionally, the legal blood-alcohol limit can be significantly less than in other countries than in Germany, helping to ensure public safety.

Seatbelts are required to be worn by all vehicle passengers in Germany. Traffic officers can typically collect fines on-the-spot in routine traffic stops. If the driver does not have the funds to pay the ticket immediately on hand, the vehicle may be impounded until the fine is collected in certain circumstances.

Be sure to review local German laws regarding BAC limits and driver safety before getting behind the wheel.

Importing/Exporting

Germany has particularly stringent laws that apply to bringing in items and paraphernalia that pertain to World War II. Additionally fascist, racist, and Nazi propaganda in print or on computer or audio media is strictly forbidden to be transported in or out of country unless for very select circumstances – usually reserved for official historical and research purposes only.

For some visitors, Germany may be their first exposure to Europe and its small, but apparent differences in their culture. Here are some tips for traveling to and staying in Germany:

• Germany has adopted the Euro for its currency for the ease of trade across its borders. Virtually every financial institution around the world will be able to accommodate currency exchanges, current exchange rates, and will be able to determine if your credit cards and debit cards will be accepted in most places. Credit cards are typically not accepted quite as much as in other countries, particularly the U.S. so planning ahead is a good idea.
• One of the first things travelers will notice when settling into a hotel room in Germany is the different style of electrical outlet. Compared to, say American 110 Volts, Germans much higher 220 Volt outlets put out much more power. There are adapters available, but you would be much better served by bringing along a voltage regulator with an interchangeable adaptor. The extra voltage being sent to your electrical device without regulation can cause major malfunctions. This is particularly true of relatively fragile electronics such as laptops.





• Speaking of laptops, if you like to stay connected then you will likely want to know how to get online while on vacation in Germany. Many Americans have become accustomed to paying a flat rate for unlimited use of access to the internet, but German ISPs typically charge a per minute rate. Though many hotels do offer Wi-Fi service, they too are typically billed at a daily or weekly rate. Wi-Fi would definitely be the way to go when accessing the web since an adaptor will be needed to plug in. Additionally, it is a good idea to specifically ask about rates and availability at your hotel’s front desk before plugging in – many German hotels’ long distance rates pack a punch!
• If your cell phone provider uses GSM technology, then your phone may work in Germany. If not, then you are probably out of luck. Verizon, Cingular, and T-Mobile have all moved towards GSM technology in recent years in an attempt to satisfy trans-Atlantic needs. Check with your carrier on availability.
• If you are from a major metropolitan area in the U.S. or other country, then you may be familiar with a problem many Germans also face – parking. If you rent a car in Germany, then parking will likely become an issue when visiting the larger cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. There are also frequent tolls, narrow streets, one way streets, and no shortage of pedestrians to look out for. Germany’s public transportation system is one of the best in the world and will usually be cheaper than renting a car, so you may want to use the trains whenever possible to avoid some potential stress.

Relax and Travel by Train to Enjoy Germany’s Beauty

The European rail system is renowned world wide as one of the most reliable, efficient, affordable, and all-around convenient ways to travel. Germany is certainly considered to be the Crown of Europe in the way that it has made its own rails a large draw for passengers both that are both local and visitors to this exquisite country.

Rail travel can range from no-frills packages that cater to the budget-minded traveler to the prestigious and luxurious offerings that cater to visitors that wish to indulge and pamper themselves in well-appointed settings and a one-of-a-kind experience.

Travel options and tickets for traveling through Germany by train are conveniently available at train stations in each city.

Rental Cars Available in Germany for Visitors

Enjoy the freedom and privacy of traversing the countryside and exploring Germany’s unique and beautiful cities from your own rental car. Foreign-licensed drivers can rent a wide range of automobiles hassle-free in Germany.

A trip to Germany for many is not complete without taking a drive down the world-famous German Autobahn. Though the Autobahn boasts stretches of road that are free of speed limits, it is remarkably safe and free from accidents due to its unique design and distinct German courtesy for its fellow travelers. Slower-moving vehicles stay right at all times, allowing the faster-moving left lane to be left clear for passing. Typically, once the vacationer gets the taste of the courteous and efficient nature of German driving, they will appreciate the friendly nature of Germans even more.

Take a Boat Trip through Germany’s Scenic Rivers

Travel by boat is often a secret left to German visitors that are “in the know.” This unique method of traversing Germany affords the traveler an exclusive experience that can be much more relaxing and enjoyable than traditional methods of reaching German destinations.

Several companies offer one-way and round-trip treks through German water ways that never fail to enthrall passengers and enhance their overall German vacationing experience. Availability can vary by season, but the vacationer “in the know” will not pass up this journey in the German springtime.

Traveling through the German countryside and through its city streets augments the experience of experiencing German culture and scenery for the vacationer. While in Germany, don’t hesitate to enjoy the varying means of taking in Germany’s sites that are available. Each of the methods described above offers its own enjoyable and fulfilling criteria for enhancing your German vacation and ensuring that it will be a positive memory that lasts a lifetime.

Travel to and from Germany with ease and in style can be a relaxing and pleasant experience in and of itself. Depending on where the visitor is coming from, Germany can be reached by boat, airline, automobile, or train. With all of these options available, there is a safe, convenient, and affordable option accessible for travel to Germany for every one!

Air Travel to Germany

Air travel affords the world traveler speed and convenience. Germany can be reached as an air destination from major airlines located across the globe. The most accessible German cities by air include Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt. Germany’s own airline Lufthansa accesses over 75 countries, reaching more than 175 cities. No matter what continent the German tourist is located on, there is a flight headed to Germany nearby.

For the budget-minded traveler, there are a variety of no-frills air fare packages available. Some of the airlines to consider when flying affordably are Air Berlin, Ryanair, Germanwings, and Easyjet. For the most recent and up-to-date deals on airfare to Germany near you, contact your local favorite airline.

Travel to Germany on an Ocean Liner

For the traveler that isn’t in as much of hurry, or wants to combine their German vacation with another unique and memorable experience, visiting Germany by way of a cruise can be the perfect choice for relaxation and fun. The benefits of a cruise to Germany include avoiding the hustle and bustle that can be associated with flying and another option to reaching Germany from an overseas destination than via a plane.

Rates vary substantially with packages, but cruise lines typically offer great deals on packages and for the traveler that is available on a flexible schedule. In fact, some cruise lines can offer rates that come out to be pennies on the dollar when compared to premium air line rates!

Popular cruise lines that port in Germany are Norwegian Cruise Lines and Sea Cloud cruises.

Visit Germany by Train

European transportation is world famous for its efficiency, speed, and affordability. So for the budget-minded traveler, catching a train to Germany is an option that the traveler can’t afford not to look into!

But don’t discount the amenities available aboard trains! Packages offered by German rail travel can vary from the no-frills to the extravagant. There is truly something available for everyone.

Trains allow tourists visiting Germany to relax and enjoy the countryside without the added stress that can come with airline travel. Meeting new people and sharing the experience is a traditional aspect of vacationing in Europe and traveling by train affords the vacationer a unique opportunity to have the option of mingling with their fellow passengers if they want or to ride in privacy if they wish – something no long flights in a plane can present.