Berlin

Places to See in Berlin

The country’s capital city has much to offer travelers. There are many important landmarks that serve as historical reminders. First, there is the Berlin Wall. This is a remnant of the Soviet occupation, when there was still an Eastern and Western Germany. It was erected in 1961 and was taken down in 1990. Travelers can see what is left of the concrete wall, and tours include a visit to the wall museum and the observation tower.

For a glimpse of the country’s Cold War past, visit the Hohenschoenhausen Prison. Located in East Berlin, this prison was the home of many political prisoners. Travelers can learn about the GDR (German Democratic Republic) and the secret police called Stasi, as well as the various surveillance and interrogation techniques used during the Cold War.

Brandenburg Gate or the Brandenburger Tor is an important landmark, often found in postcards depicting the cityscape of Berlin. It was built in the 18th century and is the only remaining gate of what once was a series of 18 gates leading to Unter den Linden or the capital to the Kingdom of Prussia. It was commissioned by Friedrich Wilhelm II as a symbol of peace. The gate’s design uses 12 Doric columns and atop it is a chariot drawn by the Roman Goddess Victoria.

Go to the Holocaust Memorial located just past the Brandenburg Gate. Also known as the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, this trip is a moving and highly emotional experience for many travelers. Above ground, there is a detailed description of some of the personal lives of the victims, although there is an underground portion of the memorial. The concrete memorial resembles modern tombstones, lending the site a haunting look.

There are many museums in Berlin, such as the Neues Museum, which features an extensive Egyptian collection, or the Deutsches Historisches Museum, which is a museum of German history.

On Museum Island (Spree Island) is the Altes Museum, which borrowed heavily from neoclassical Greek architecture in Athens. It is the repository of the art collection of the royal family of Prussia and had been declared as a World Heritage Site in 1999 by UNESCO. Bode Museum, a historically-preserved museum, also located in Museum Island has an eclectic collection ranging from Coptic Egypt, Byzantine, Middle Ages, Italian Gothic to Renaissance works of arts, including coins, medals, paintings and sculptures. However, many travelers go to the Pergamon Museum. Located on Museum Island, this museum features some of the most amazing ancient artifacts, such as the Altar of Zeus dating back to the 2nd century BC, as well Babylon’s Ishtar Gate. There are also painted panels from Syria. History lovers will appreciate the Greek and Roman collection, Ancient Middle East wing and the Museum of Islamic art. It also contains the carefully-reconstructed full-size Market Gate of Miletus and the Pergamon Altar, with parts taken directly from the excavations done in Turkey.

Museum Island or Museuminsel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the location of the three famous museums of Germany, the Pergamon, Altes and Bode, although there are a total of five museums here, including the Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery) and the Neues Museum. The Berlin Cathedral and the Lustgarten are also located in Museum Island complex.

An important landmark to see is the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. This is one of the major concentration camps used during World War II and is located 35 miles outside of Berlin, in the town of Oranienburg. It was used from 1936 to 1945 to house many political prisoners. Here, as many as 30,000 inmates died from executions, medical experimentation, malnutrition, disease and other illnesses. Some of the important prisoners here were the family of Rupprecht, Crown Prince of Bavaria, Gottfried Graf von Bismark-Schönhausen who was a grandson of Otto von Bismark, and a number of critics of the Nazi army and supporters of the Jews. During its time, this was where officers were trained to handle other concentration camps in the country. This might prove to be a very moving and highly emotional experience for many travelers.

Things to Do in Berlin

Take a stroll on Karl-Marx Strasse all the way to Alexanderplatz. This would give travelers an idea of the life during the communist rule in Germany. Pick up some souvenirs and check out what Berlin has to offer shoppers at Potsdamer Platz. This is a shopping district that is sure to delight travelers. Pass by the Gendarmenmarkt, a town square where travelers can sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee at any of the nice cafes at the square or enjoy a meal at any of the fine restaurants. Take pictures of the Konzerthaus, French Cathedral and the German Cathedral while here, as well as the statue of Friedrich Schiller, a German poet, at the center of the square. One of the best times to visit is at night to see the symmetry of the square, as well as to enjoy the lights.

Travelers would enjoy listening to the Berlin Philharmonic and listen to some of the great classical works by German composers, such as Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, George Frideric Handel, Richard Wagner, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Robert Schumann, Felix Mendelssohn and Johannes Brahms. There are times when lunchtime concerts are given for free.

Munich

Places to see in Munich

Go to the Marienplatz and see the Glockenspiel. The Marienplatz is a town square that dates back to the 12th century. The Marian column with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, in honor of St. Mary, is a tribute to the Swedish history of the city. The Glockenspiel is the tower located in the new city hall or Neues Rathaus. Since 1908, the clock chimes at 11am and at noon daily and also at 5pm from March to October. It features 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures. The upper section depicts the 16th century scene of the marriage of the Duke Wilhelm V (founder of the Hofbräuhaus brewery) and Renata of Lorraine in 1568, and a jousting game between a Frenchman and a Bavarian man. Below it are barrel makers or coopers dancing the Schäfflertanz or coopers’ dance. The 15-minute spectacle is sure to delight travelers of all ages due to the intricacy of the craftsmanship on the figures and the different music the Glockenspiel plays. The show ends when a golden bird emerges from the top and chirps three times. The new city hall is very interesting and imposing. This is where the city mayor holds office. The building is built in the Gothic architecture style and has several statues on the upper floors, including gargoyles and dragons. On top of the tower is a statue of the monk-child, Münchener Kindl. The old city hall or Altes Rathaus on the other hand has traces of different architecture styles due to renovations, and now contains a toy museum.

Take a trip to the town of Füssen. Here, you’ll see Mad King Ludwig II’s personal castle, Castle Neuschwanstein. If it looks familiar, it’s because this Romanesque Revival building is the castle that Disney architects used as model for Sleeping Beauty’s castle found in Disneyland. It was completed in 1892. Since 1886, visitors have been allowed into the castle, and since then, more than 60 million people have been through its doors.

You might also choose to do a daytrip to Berchtesgaden. This is where Hitler went when he wanted to get a little R&R in the Bavarian region. Located 6,148 feet on top of Mount Kehlstein, is Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s teahouse, and offers travelers an amazing view of the Alps. During the winter season, travelers can instead visit the Königssee Lake, said to be Germany’s cleanest lake or the salt mine for its light and sound show instead of Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest. On the way to this teahouse is a plateau where Hitler’s house, the Berghof is located.

Things to do in Munich

Travelers like Munich for Oktoberfest. In fact, over six million visitors flock to Munich during Oktoberfest, which starts at the last week of September and lasts till the first week of October. This is the beer-drinking city of Germany, as the Bavarian Region is known to have the highest beer consumption in the country. Have an ice cold pint as you relax and enjoy the sights in any of the beer gardens in the city. Even if you aren’t a beer drinker, you can enjoy the celebrations by watching the parades, enjoying the carnival rides or picking up some souvenir items.

If you want to slow things down, stroll down Englischer Garten (English Garden). This is the biggest urban city park in Europe. Visit the top attractions at the park – a 25-meter high Chinese Pagoda, a Japanese teahouse and two beer gardens. One of the largest beer gardens in Munich, which can seat 7,000 people, is located within the Chinese Turm while another one is located near the Kleinhesseloher Lake, also within the garden. Get the chance to see a traditional Japanese tea ceremony that is regularly held at the Japanese teahouse. A small 16-meter high Greek temple, the Monopteros is also in the garden.

Do not miss visiting the city’s icon, the Frauenkirche Cathedral with the twin onion-domed towers. The windows of the cathedral are hidden behind inner columns. The most significant thing to see here is the foot stamp near the cathedral entrance, said to be the foot of the devil.

There are so many places to see and things to do in Marienplatz alone that you may miss taking a picture of the Fish Fountain or Fischbrunnen at the eastern corner of the square. It is a small sculpture of a fish atop a pedestal. The fountain with very blue water dates back to the 1300s. It is the oldest fountain in Munich.

At the southern side of the Altes Rathaus is a bronze statue of Juliet, Verona’s gift to the city. It is customary to place some flowers in her hand. You will surely not miss taking a look at the Munich Residenz, a 5,000-year old, very large and imposing palace. Rub the bronze lion’s head on the western side of the palace for good luck before you take a tour of the Residenz Museum where you would be awed by gold-filled rooms of Wittelsbach, the Bavarian crown jewels, portraits, painting, busts and sculptures. Do not miss on seeing the statue of Perseus holding the head of Medusa, the crystal and shell-encrusted statue of Mercury, the Cross of Queen Gisela, a small statue of Saint George who slayed the dragon, Turkish daggers, Chinese porcelain and Egyptian antiquities.

Take a stroll down Ludwig Strasse, Munich’s answer to the Avenue de Champs Élysées of Paris. At the intersection of Ludwig and Leopold Strasse is the Victory Gate or Siegestor.

During the summer season, travelers who enjoy the outdoors could do some hiking on the Bavarian Alps. During the wintertime, the Bavarian Alps are transformed into a winter’s paradise, perfect for enjoying outdoor winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.

Rhine River Valley

Places to See in the Rhine River Valley

There are many castles that line the Rhine River Valley. These can easily be seen while on any of the day cruises along the river. Castle Marksburg is the only hill castle left along the Rhine that is still intact. Those who want to stay in the area could spend the night in Castle Liebenstein Hotel. Maus Castle has been fully restored and could be booked for parties and other events. In its ground is a house where live falcons and eagles shows are scheduled twice a day from March 20 to October 1 of each year.

Things to do in the Rhine River Valley

One of the most enjoyable ways to see Germany is to take a cruise along the Rhine River. Located between Koblenz and Rudeshein, the area is very scenic and picturesque and travelers will immediately fall in love with the splendid views. Take a quick two-hour cruise ride along the river or enjoy a romantic dinner cruise. Another option is to take a hike and visit the castles by going through the many walking trails.

Hamburg

Places to see in Hamburg

Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany, next to Berlin. One of the most visited spots in Hamburg is the Harbor Area. It is one of the busiest harbors in all of Europe. It is here where some of the largest ships in the world are built. There are several museums, including one that will particularly appeal to children, the Miniatur Wunderland. It has largest model railway layout in the world where the panoramas include the Alps, the American West and parts of Hamburg. There is also an exhibit of automated ships in the water from Scandinavia and planes the taxi and fly, which are included in the airport exhibit.

Germany’s answer to the Red light district of Amsterdam is the Reeperbahn. This is an interesting take on the nightlife of Germany, wherein travelers can find all sorts of entertainment from various dance clubs, strip clubs and bars.

The historic section of the town is a must see. This is referred to as Altstadt. Travelers should go to the City Hall or the Rathaus. The sandstone building was built in 1897 and guided tours along its magnificent halls are conducted except when official events are held. Art lovers would appreciate the galleries located at the Neuer Wall in the Golden Triangle, with Gänsemarkt and the elegant Jungfernstieg. The Golden Triangle is also a shopping area where you could buy items carrying top international labels. Trendy little shops, self-service restaurants and elegant centuries-old houses are part of the charm of Hamburg’s Golden Triangle.

To see some of the oldest homes in the city dating back to the 17th to 9th century Germany, go to the 14th century street called Deichstrasse. The oldest warehouse in the city, Peterstraße 27, which was built in 1780, is still there. For a bird’s eye view of the harbor and the beautiful city, go up St. Michaeliskirche or St. Michael’s Church. After climbing 453 steps, travelers would be treated to a spectacular view of the city. The Protestant Church is Hamburg’s landmark. Its Baroque spire, measuring 132 meters is covered totally in copper and used as a landfall mark by ships cruising on the Elbe River.

Things to do in Hamburg

A harbor cruise is one of the enjoyable things that travelers can do to tour the city from the water. Travelers could see the beautiful hillside houses of Blankenese from the River Elbe. On Sunday mornings, travelers can catch the Fischmarkt or fish market, a boisterous gathering of fishermen selling the fresh catch of the day. To relax after a day of touring, travelers would surely relish going to the Hamam Hafen Hamburg or a Turkish Bath.

Frankfurt

Places to See in Frankfurt

As the financial capital of Germany, Frankfurt is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the country. This is Germany’s fifth largest city and where you could find skyscrapers and other tall buildings. The city is the location of the German Stock Exchange as well as the European Central Bank. At the same time, Frankfurt is the birthplace of Germany’s most important writer, Johann Wolfgang Goethe.

One of the highest buildings in Frankfurt is Main Tower. Travelers who wish to get a bird’s eye view of the city should go here for a 360-degree view of the city, soaring 200 meters from the ground.

Travelers with children may enjoy a visit to the Senckenberg Natural History Museum (Naturmuseum Senckenberg). This is the place to find a huge collection of dinosaur fossils, over 2,000 stuffed animals and giant birds as well as other creatures. On the grounds are large-scale models of dinosaurs. Of note are the museum’s features such as the museum’s mascot, the Triceratops, Tyranossaurus rex, Titanosaurus, the crested Parasauroliphus, Oviraptor, Psittacosaurus and an Iguanadon.

If you are looking for some art you would find it in the 19th century Liebieghaus Villa. The castle-like structure is itself a sight to behold. Inside, you could find a number of sculptures that date back to the Medieval, Roman, Renaissance and Baroque periods. You will even find Egyptian, Roman and Greek sculptures in the villa’s museum.

The finest and oldest museum in the city is considered to be the Städel Museum or the Städelsches Kunstinstitut und Städtische Galerie. The museum’s collection dates back to the 16th century. There is a permanent collection made by German artists, as well as a number of art pieces from the Medieval period. The museum has art works by Picasso, Degas, Renoir, Vermeer, Chagal, Ernst, Klee and Rodin. It recently opened an underground wing to provide more room for its increasing collection. Illumination for the underground extension is enhanced by the numerous circular skylights lining the grassy courtyard.

Palmengarten is a botanical paradise. This is where you would find a number of exotic flowers and tropical plants. Travelers with children would enjoy the train rides that go around the park. Depending on the season, there are different flower exhibits throughout the year. It is also the venue for concerts, plays and other cultural activities. You could take a stroll and enjoy the greenery or feed the ducks.

For a taste of historic Frankfurt, travelers should visit the Frankfurt Romans or the Frankfurter Roemer. Since 1405, this has served as the city hall of Frankfurt. Travelers would feel like they stepped back in time, so be sure to bring your camera and take pictures of some of the most picturesque and quaint buildings in the city. The market square dates back to the 12th century and you could buy food items from the many stalls. During Christmas time, this is one of the most beautiful places in the city and is a great place to buy Christmas decorations. You would find it interesting to note that although the timbered houses look just like they did in the olden times, these were actually reconstructed in the 1980s, since much of the original structures were destroyed in World War II.

An important religious site to visit is the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew. For over three centuries, the cathedral was used as a coronation site of Holy Roman Emperors. It was rebuilt in the 1950s after the Second World War. For a spectacular view, go up the 328 steps of the cathedral’s tower to see a panoramic view of the city.

Things to Do in Frankfurt

Travelers who want to taste the nightlife in Germany would find it most enjoyable to do so in Frankfurt. Check out the number of bars and clubs in the city, especially those found on Berger Street or Berger Strasse or at the Sachsenhausen. Frankfurt is a city with some of the trendiest restaurants in the country. Order some Frankfurter Grüne Sosse, and Handkäse mit Musik (hand cheese with music), which is a local cheese served with onions and oil for flavor. Be sure to offer a toast with a glass of Ebbelwoi or apple wine.

Do not forget to dress well and fashionably, as Frankfurt is the fashion capital of the country. Frankfurt’s answer to New York’s Fifth Avenue is the Zeil. This street is lined with a number of chic boutiques.

Frankfurt is a city known all over the world for its awesome trade fairs. Travelers going to Frankfurt in October should visit the International Book Fair. This is the largest book fair in the world. In the summer, there is the Frankfurt Auto Show, which features the newest developments in the auto industry.

Go to the Museum Embankment or the Museumsufer. The area is so named because of the 12 museums that are located along the banks of the River Main. It becomes the venue for concerts and crafts festival come August and a large flea market every Saturday. It’s a good place to relax, unwind and take a scenic stroll along the river.

Dresden

Places to See in Dresden

Dresden is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, and has often been called the “Florence at the Elbe.” Dresden is located in the Eastern portion of Germany. The city is regarded as the cultural and economic center of the Federal Republic of Germany. Travelers would find many fine examples of Baroque architecture in the city.

The largest mural in the world that is made of porcelain is found here, called the Procession of the Princes of Fürstenzug. This measures 330 feet long and is constructed out of over 25,000 Meissen tiles. The mural is located outside the Royal Mews in Augustusstrasse. It depicts a procession of the rulers from the House of Wettin starting from 1127, and features a total of 93 people, 35 of which are noblemen. At the head of the procession is Konrad the Great and the last one is Friedrich August III.

The Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche) dates back to 1726. It is a beautiful Lutheran Church that was built during the 18th century in the Baroque style. However, it was completely reconstructed in the 20th century after it was destroyed by air raids in World War II. One hundred eighty million Euros were spent to rebuild the church, mostly from private donations, and took eleven years before reconstruction was completed. The largest single donation for its reconstruction came from Nobel Prize for Medicine awardee, Günter Blobel, who donated his entire prize of close to one million US dollars to the project in 1999.

Zwinger Palace or Der Dresdner Zwinger features late Baroque architecture. It was built in the 18th century and was traditionally used for court tournaments and other festivities. Today, travelers would find museums here, the most famous of which is the Old Master’s Picture Gallery or theGemäldegalerie Alte Meister. Some of the famous paintings include Raphael’s Sistine Madonna, Sleeping Venus by Giorgione, Vermeer’s The Procuress, Dresden Marienaltar by Jan van Eyck, The Tribute Money by Titian and Rembrandt van Rijn’s The Prodigal Son in the Tavern. The museum complex also houses the Dresden Porcelain Collection, the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments and the Armory. The porcelain collection is very impressive, featuring more than 20,000 porcelain items from China (Ming and Qing dynasties in particular) and Japan, and Meissen and Saxon porcelain.

Brühl’s Terrace or Brühlsche Terrasse is one of the original ramparts in the city and is part of the garden of the Royal Palace, situated near the Elbe River. It is also called “The Balcony of Europe” and a favorite spot for people watching, walking and for having some quite moments with a cup of coffee. Nearby is the Academy of Fine Arts, several monuments as well as the Albertinum Museum where you would find the New Masters Gallery and the sculpture collection from the Dresden State Art Collections, showcasing modern art that spans about a 200-year period. The museum is home to fine artwork from the 19th and 20th century, such as pieces created by van Gogh, Monet, Dix and Degas, as well as new masters Caspar David Friedrich and Gerhardt Richter.

The Green Vault of the Grünes Gewölbe is where you would find the royal treasures. The museum is located at the Dresden Castle. It was founded by August the Strong and dates back to the 18th century. The whole museum is one large treasure trove, occupying two floors of the castle and housing a very impressive collection of over 4,000 items such as jewelry and goldsmith masterpieces, Limoges enamel works, amber artworks, carved ivory, gold and silver items, bronze statues, the crown jewels and other family treasures of the Saxon-Polish royalty. You would definitely spend a lot of time looking at the impressive showpieces from the entire collection, including a golden coffee service set and a 2-feet high jewel-encrusted sculpture called The Moor with Emerald Cluster.” The emerald cluster was naturally formed and came from a mine in Colombia. The Jewel Garnitures is Europe’s largest jewel collection, which includes the 49.71-carat Dresden White, a cushion-shaped diamond and a sapphire from Peter I of Russia that weighs 648 carats. A very fine masterpiece of micro-carving is the item called Cherry Stone with 185 Carved Faces. Another fantastic item to look out for is the world’s only green diamond, the Dresden Green Diamond that decorates a hat clasp. It is inside the Watzdorf Cabinet.

Things to Do in Dresden

Have a breather by taking pictures of the greenery found in Dresden. Walk along the banks of the Elbe River and take pictures of the mountains. You might also enjoy a coffee cruise in the afternoon. Have a slice of German cake as you glide down the river on a paddle steamer and see the Saxon scenery.

In the summer, the banks of the Elbe River banks are the venues for one of the largest outdoor theaters in the country. Catch a movie flick in the outdoors, called the Dresdner Filmnächte, which is held in the months of July to September.

Try some of the local cheese from the Pfund’s Dairy (Pfund Molkerei). According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this is the most beautiful dairy shop in the whole world. The dairy shop was founded in 1880 and is decorated with hand painted porcelain tiles created by Villeroy and Boch of Dresden, which dates back to the neo-Renaissance times. Purchase some home made ice cream to satisfy your sweet tooth or some cheese to take home. Have a glass of fresh buttermilk and try any of the dairy products at the store.

For the culture vulture, going to the Semperoper is a must. The opera house is an architectural masterpiece by German architect Gottfried Semper. It was built in 1841 and today is a venue for classical symphony music, ballet productions, operas, youth programs and premieres.

Leipzig

Places to See in Leipzig

The city of Leipzig is a center for art and culture in the country. It is here where Bach worked and where Goethe studied as a student. In the modern times, the city was host to the peaceful demonstrations that clamored for the fall of the Berlin wall in 1989. The backdrop for this historical event is in the equally historical 12th century structure, St. Nicholas Church.

The Monument to the Battle of the Nation is one of the largest monuments in the country and in all of Europe. It stands 300 feet tall and features the battle of Leipzig during the Napoleonic Wars in 1813. Travelers could climb up the 364 steps to have a spectacular view of the city.

The Bach Museum is a wonderful place to visit to learn about the life of one of the most famous composers of Germany, Johann Sebastian Bach. You could drop by St. Thomas Church. This is the same church where the budding composer worked as a cantor for almost three decades. It is also here where Bach’s remains were buried.

If you enjoy a bit of mystery and espionage you would definitely enjoy a visit to the Stasi Museum Runde Ecke. You’ll get to see documents, surveillance equipment, photos and other items used by Germany’s secret service. There’s no fee to enter so it’s one of the more fascinating and entertaining things to see in the city.

One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world is the Leipzig Botanical Garden Leipzig or Leipziger Botanische Gärten. The garden dates back to the 1500s and is also the oldest botanical garden in the country. It contains a systematic order of over 7,000 different species of fauna from all over the world, planted or displayed in geographical order. There is also a butterfly house within the garden.

Things to Do in Leipzig

You would enjoy having a drink at one of the oldest pubs in the country, the Auerbachs Keller. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is said to be one of the favorite hang outs of young Goethe. So inspired was Goethe by the pub that he wrote it in a scene in his famous play, Faust. Its bar is called Mephisto.

Travelers should try to catch a performance of the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra. This orchestra has been around since the mid-18th century and is known as the oldest symphony orchestra in the world. Some of the most famous musical directors that have taken the helm of the orchestra include Felix Mendelssohn and Kurt Masur. The current conductor laureate is Herbert Blomstedt.

Düsseldorf

Places to See in Düsseldorf

The Old Town or Altstadt is the first stop for many travelers going to Düsseldorf, because it is one of the loveliest sections of town. This is where travelers could go beer-tasting in authentic taverns, or simply walk around to enjoy the sights and see the charm of the city. From here, you could find your way to Oberkassel. Located just across the Rhine, this is a great place to dine in a restaurant and enjoy the art nouveau architecture of the affluent neighborhood. It has a large Japanese community that has built schools, a cultural center and a Buddhist temple. The St. Antonius Church is a Roman Catholic Church that was built in 1909 while the Evangelical Resurrection Church was constructed around 1913.

One of the most famous places to visit and hang out in Düsseldorf is Rheinuferpromenade. You could take a stroll and check out the various restaurants, bars and cafes that line the river. This is a historic section of the city and is one of the most scenic. The ambience around here is basically Mediterranean.

For modern architecture, pass by the Media Harbor or Medienhafen. A building designed by American architect Frank Gehry is here. This is the modern part of the city. Travelers looking for something more traditional will like the Rococo-styled Schloss Benrath. This is a beautiful baroque castle built in 1770 that has been opened to the public as a park. What used to be a forest has been transformed into beautiful gardens with jogging and biking paths for the public. The area is surrounded by lush magnolia trees, providing a quiet backdrop to the grand castle. The castle itself has two symmetrical wings, which are home to the Museum of European Garden Art on the east wing, and the Museum of Natural History in the west wing. Benrath is being proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to Do in Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf is a shopper’s paradise since the luxury shopping street Köenigsallee is found here. It is the “calling card” of Düsseldorf. It’s the city’s answer to LA’s Rodeo Drive. International name brands such as Armani, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Zara, H&M and Michael Kors can be found here.

If you are planning to visit Düsseldorf in July, you’ll be lucky to attend the Largest Fair on the Rhine, held around the third week of the month. It attracts more than 4 million visitors each year. The 9-day celebration is marked with open-air markets, food tents, beer tents, arts and crafts, amusement park rides and a host of other activities. This is celebrated in honor of the sanctification of the Basilika St. Lambertus and Apollinaris of Ravenna, the patron saint of the city.

Düsseldorf organizes several large-scale trade fairs in the city, including the largest fashion fair in the world. The city is also the home of Altbier, a hop-based German beer, so do not leave the city without tasting it. November 11 at exactly 11:11 in the morning marks the start of the Düsseldorf Karneval, one of the city’s biggest celebrations. A huge parade culminates the event, called Rose Monday or Rosenmontag and formally ends on Ash Wednesday.

Try to sample a serving of Düsseldorf’s traditional meals like Himmel und Äd or Heaven and Earth, a black pudding served with mashed potatoes and stewed apples and Düsseldorfer Senfrostbraten, which is roasted steak with Düsseldorf mustard. The city’s mustard is as famous as the Dijon mustard from France, having been included in the still life painting of Vincent van Gogh, contained in a traditional pot called Mostertpöttche.

While taking a stroll around the city, you will not fail to notice the Rheinturm TV Tower whose lights show the biggest digital clock in the world. Aside from the numerous museums that are within the city environs, you would be impressed with a very colorful building, which is incidentally called the Colorium. Its façade looks like a Mondrian painting.

Cologne

Places to See in Cologne

The city of Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany, which is why travelers enjoy seeing the traditional architecture of the city. It is also home to the third oldest university in Europe. You could have the choice of choosing from over 30 museums in the city, as well as a hundred galleries. This is why Cologne is also known for its contemporary art scene. Today, Cologne is the 4th largest city in the country.

The Cologne Cathedral or the Gothic Cathedral is one of the most visited places in Germany because of its amazing architecture and is an important city landmark. This cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and was constructed for Saint Peter and the Virgin Mother. Up until 1880, long before the Eiffel Tower and the Washington Monument, the Cathedral was the tallest building in the world. Five hundred nine steps will take you up to the top of the tower on the south where you can have an uninterrupted view of the whole city.

For fans of Batman and the Gotham City, a fine example of this style of architecture is right in Cologne, in the form of the Die Kölner Synagoge. Pope Benedict XVI was only the second pope to have ever visited a synagogue, which he did when he was here in 2005.

Some of the world’s best museums are in Cologne. You could pass by the Schokoladenmuseum orChocolate Museum, the German Sport Museum and the Rautenstrauch-Joest-Museum of Ethnography, the Wallraf-Richartz Museum and the Roman-German Museum.

Things to Do in Cologne

One of the reasons travelers go to Cologne is to participate in the city’s exciting Carnival or Mardi Gras Festival, which is held during the late winter season. The street parade on Rose Monday is a must see. Over a million people come here to witness and participate in one of the liveliest Carnival celebrations in Europe.

For a bit of shopping head off to the Schildergasse, which is the busiest shopping area in Cologne. This shopping street is filled with boutiques and international department stores and at the same time, is historical because it dates back to the Roman period. One of the best souvenirs to pick up while in Cologne is a bottle of cologne! Purchase a bottle of Eau De Cologne 4711 from the original structure still found in Glockengasse. This is where the scented liquid was first invented over two centuries ago.

Gape in awe at the wonderful stained glass windows of the 12 Romanesque churches that could be found in the city. For the romantics, take a look at the Hohenzollern Bridge where couple place padlocks on the bridge railings and throw away the keys to signify their love for one another.

For a taste of something only found in Cologne, you should try a pint of Kölsch, which is a local beer brewed only in the city. This is best enjoyed in Cologne’s Old Town, where the Kölsch is served in long thin glasses resembling poles, which is why it is called Stange. A stange holds 0.2 liter of beer.

Black Forest

Places to See in the Black Forest (Schwarzwald)

The forest showcases the beautiful natural landscape of Germany. Legends say that these forests are homes of witches, werewolves and other enchanted creatures. This is said to be the sunniest place in Germany, making it the perfect wine growing region in the country.

When in the Black Forest region, one of the best things to see is the Freiburg Cathedral in Baden-Württemberg. The cathedral dates back to the 16th century and is built in Romanesque and Gothic style. Outside, visitors could take advantage of the marketplace where fresh flowers, local produce and various trinkets are sold.

In Baden-Baden, you could go to Lichtentaler Allee. This is a park which dates back to 1655 is where a casino is located, but is also where locals go to relax, unwind and take a stroll to enjoy the natural scenery. Some travelers prefer to take a stroll along the Platanenbaume while others enjoy feeding the ducks in the river. Travelers find that being here is like being in a postcard, replete with colorful springtime flowers and lush greenery.

Triberg Falls is one of the highest in Germany as its elevation is between 711 to 872 meters. The water from the falls descends from a height of 163 meters.

The Black Forest Open Air Museum Vogtsbauernhof or Schwarzwälder Freilichtmuseum Vogtsbauernhof is a wonderful place to take a look at what the farming life is like in Germany during the 17th century. Of the six fully-furnished farmhouses in the museum, only one was built on-site. The rest were carefully dismantled from their original locations and transported and put back together at the museum.

Things to Do in the Black Forest

This region of Germany is famous for cuckoo clocks, as the area has been in the cuckoo clock-making business since the 17th century. Purchase a cuckoo clock for a great authentic German souvenir. For a history of clock-making it is best to visit the Deutsches Uhrenmuseum or the German Clock Museum.

When in Baden-Baden, go to the Friedrichsbad Roman-Irish Bath. These bathing rooms are over a century old. You’ll be treated to a unique bathing experience that uses pure thermal water to complete a sixteen-stage spa experience.

Some things of rarity that can only be seen in Black Forest are the Black Forest Cattle of Hinterwälderberg breed, the hard-working horse called Black Forest Foxes and the giant earthworm called Lumbricus badensis.

Aside from the world-famous cuckoo clocks, Black Forest is also renowned for its wood carving. If you are hunting for souvenirs, these will make good presents. Black Forest is also where the Black Forest Cherry Cake or Black Forest Gateau and the Black Forest Ham originated. The superb local cuisine is very well known and the region boasts of having 17 Michelin-starred restaurants, two of which have received three stars (the highest and rarest award) from the prestigious publisher of restaurant guides. Overall, Germany has eight restaurants that have received the three-star rating.

Heidelberg

Places to See in Heidelberg

One of the most famous attractions here is the Heidelberg Castle ruins. This castle was built in both a Gothic and Renaissance style and is known as the center of the Romanticism period in the country. In modern history, the castle has also played an important role. During World War II, American soldiers made the castle a garrison. The castle also served as the base of the NSDAP political party during the Nazi regime. The halls of the castle are now the venues for special events such as banquets, theater performances and balls. The castle is also the site of the Heidelberg Castle Festival held every summer where classical performances by the Heidelberg Philharmonics, operas, theater performances and open-air musicals are held on its grounds. It is also home to the German Pharmacy Museum.

Heidelberg is one of the few cities in Germany that wasn’t completely destroyed during the Second World War. This means that travelers can still walk around cobblestone streets in the Old Town. The oldest university in the country is also located here.

Things to Do in Heidelberg

The summer season is one of the best times to visit Heidelberg. There is an annual music festival here where travelers can watch a number of concerts featuring performers from around the world. Heidelberg is easily accessible from Frankfurt as it is only an hour away.

If you are planning to have a vacation in Heidelberg in February, time it for the celebration of the Ball of the Vampires and have a blast in the large-scale vampire-themed costume party. Heidelberg hosts a lot of festivals and something is happening each month. The Classic Music Festival and the International Easter egg market are in March and April and the bridge and the castle are illuminated with a ceremony in May. The Old Town Autumn Festival happens on the last Saturday of September. This is also the time for the samba to rock music fest, a medieval market as well as an arts and crafts and flea market. A jazz festival and the Heidelberger Theater Days happen in October or November as well as an arthouse film festival. The Christmas market is held in December wherein the most popular souvenir item is the Heidelberger Studentenkuss made of chocolate.

Walking is a great way to see the city and one of the famous paths to take is the Philosophers’ Walk at Heiligenberg on the northern side of the Neckar River. It gives a very good view of the castle and the old town.