Having lived in Germany showed me firsthand how diverse the whole country is. As one of the biggest countries in Europe, it offers everything a visitor can think of - great cities full of an exciting life, small mountain villages sitting under Alpine mountains and things to do everywhere you go.
While you might think that visiting one city gives you a proper insight into history or culture, you cannot be further from the truth. Each of the biggest cities has its own character that is worth experiencing. Some of them could also be on your river cruise route! I guarantee you will be thrilled.
Visiting a castle, surfing in a river, taking a tour around the world with a miniature train, or simply dining out and shopping? Here is a brief list of what and where you can get the best of it!
Berlin
World Heritage Site Museum Island offers five different museums ranging from art to history. Those into history should visit the Memorial of the Murdered Jews as well as Checkpoint Charlie. The Berlin Zoo is one of the most popular zoos in Europe, with over 1500 different species to see. For relaxation, try one of the thousands of swimming lakes surrounding the city.
Munich
Though Munich might be best known for Oktoberfest, there is much more to explore in this city. Marienplatz is the center of the city, a social hotspot surrounded by beautiful, historic architecture. The massive Englisher Garten offers vast lawns and groves and even surfing in the Eisbach River. Car lovers can also enjoy the BMW museum, which even houses Elvis Presley's BMW. Another must-see is St. Peter's Church, where you can enjoy an incredible view of the city from the top of the tower.
Cologne
This historically significant city is situated on the Rhine River and is home to the Cologne Cathedral, the most visited landmark in Germany. Here you can view artifacts dating as far back as the 10th century. For more modern art, the Ludwig Museum features avant-garde and pop art. And no trip to Cologne is complete without visiting Old Town, where you can experience what the city was like before it was destroyed in World War II.
Hamburg
This port city's most popular spot is Speicherstadt, a warehouse district with plenty of visitor attractions. The oldest warehouse is home to the International Maritime Museum, which has artifacts dating back thousands of years. Another warehouse is filled with Miniature Wunderland, where those who love miniature trains can enjoy models of cities around the world. The city's tallest building is the new Elbphilharmonie, which is not only a great place to enjoy music, but the architecture with curved windows is a wonder all its own.
THINKING OF A RIVER CRUISE?
Dusseldorf
Another city situated on the Rhine river, Dusseldorf, is the perfect place for those who love to dine out and shop. The Rheinuferpromenade is a highlight as a long, sunny strip lined with cafes and shops. For high-end shopping, visit Konigsallee, another strip that features premium shops. And if you're into exciting nightlife, the old town Altstadt offers over 300 bars and nightclubs. But the city does offer museums of modern art such as the North-Rhine Westphalia.
And this is not even half of what you can experience! Each city is full of unique places that it seems impossible to see it all. And more so, to plan it on your own with a limited vacation time.
My firsthand experience of living in this country with a combination of my knowledge as a travel agent will ensure that your trip to Germany will give you the best of the best and leave you with memories of a lifetime. I will be with you at every step and help you do an end to end planning.
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