German Attractions : Germany

For centuries the German-speaking regions of Europe were a loose association of many sovereign states with many small and large “residences” or capitals. Nearly all of them had a long and individualistic cultural tradition, as can be seen to this very day from the numerous cathedrals, palaces, castles, libraries, museums, art collections, gardens and theaters in every part of the land.

Upon the reunification of Germany in 1990, the wealth of tourist attractions was further enriched by classical centers of German culture such as Weimar, Eisenach and Dresden as well as scenic landscapes in the east.

There are many enticing destinations. In the north visitors are drawn by the North Sea and Baltic Sea coasts and islands as well as by the sea climate. Tourists also flock to the lakeland areas in Holstein and Mecklenburg, to the Central Uplands and the Alps for hiking, or to the many lakes scattered all over the country tor water sports. Those looking for romantic scenery choose the valleys of the Rhine, Main, Mosel, Neckar, Danube, Elbe and Saale rivers.

There are nearly 100 “tourist routes”, such as the “German Fairy-Tale Route”, the “Romanesque Route” or the “German Wine Route”, which take visitors away from the major traffic arteries, opening up the country’s traditional landscapes and providing access to a great variety of attractions in idyllic old towns and villages. They lead through regions with breathtaking scenery. The best known among them is the “Romantic Route”, which brings to life the Middle Ages, especially in the towns of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbuhl and Nordlingen.

Tourists pick up the tracks of the country’s long history even in places that are not mentioned in travel guides. In some spots time appears to have stood still. Visitors can expect hospitality and the famous German “Gemutlichkeit”. There are plenty of opportunities to meet local people at the countless regional and town fairs, wine festivals and other traditional festivals.