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By Christian Kramer, The Points Guy
As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials’ guidance, and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we look at travel. Even though limited options have started to open up again, for many, long-haul trips abroad will not be happening this year. However, that hasn’t stopped us from planning future travel.
And Germany is at the top of our list. While you might previously only have thought of Berlin and Oktoberfest when considering a trip here, there are many other facets to the country that make it worth a visit. Its rich culture and history combined with varied landscapes and attractions, as well as decent infrastructure to move around, make it a fantastic, lesser-known summer vacation spot.
So here are four reasons why Germany should be on your summer vacation wish list when the time comes.
Read More: 11 Ultimate Adventure Vacations
Neuschwanstein castle
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When it comes to castles, it probably doesn’t get dreamier than Neuschwanstein, one of Germany’s most famous attractions. Built-in the 19th century, the castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in honor of Richard Wagner, the famous German composer. With 1.5 million visitors each year, it is one of Europe’s most popular tourist attractions and is so magical looking that Walt Disney used it as the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in Disneyland. It’s worth noting that visitor numbers are currently being restricted and you can only see the castle with a guided tour.
Though Neuschwanstein is the most famous castle in Germany, there is no shortage of other, equally picturesque castles and monasteries — particularly those nestled in the more mountainous southern states of Bavaria and Baden Württemberg.
Though Neuschwanstein is the most famous castle in Germany, there is no shortage of other, equally picturesque castles and monasteries — particularly those nestled in the more mountainous southern states of Bavaria and Baden Württemberg.
From mountains to beaches
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Typically, the Alps are associated with Austria, Switzerland, Italy, and France — and winter sports. The mountain range stretches into southern Germany, however, and provides a great setting for a range of summer activities. With walks, hiking, swimming in stunning lakes, and more adrenaline-fueled sports such as gliding and paragliding there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the Alps in the sunshine.
Combine a trip to the mountains with a stop in Munich, the capital of Bavaria, for some culture (and beer) as well as some castle hoping — you’ll be sure to come home with some glorious pictures and even better memories.
Combine a trip to the mountains with a stop in Munich, the capital of Bavaria, for some culture (and beer) as well as some castle hoping — you’ll be sure to come home with some glorious pictures and even better memories.
Rhine and wine
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In addition to the above towns, Worms, and Mainz, along the Rhine, are worth visiting for their cathedrals, museums, and natural beauty while Wiesbaden is a spa town for those seeking to relax and recharge.
Read More: Inside the Biggest Water Park in the World
Berlin
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Berlin should be top of any list of places to see in Germany. It combines history with modern architecture and has blossomed and been heavily invested in since the German reunification in 1990 when it became the capital again.
Whilst you’ll want to see all the attractions you’ll have heard of — the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, the remainder of the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, and a boat trip on the River Spree — it’s worth venturing beyond those main tourist areas. Berlin “Mitte” (the city’s central borough) is home to many of the city’s renowned art galleries and cultural institutions. Museum Island should be on your list, too, given its proximity to the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, and many other well-known sights.
Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg are two neighborhoods a bit more off the beaten track (and you’ll need to get a taxi or public transportation there) but well worth a visit — whether that’s for the bars, restaurants, or some of the well-known Berlin clubs such as the legendarily exclusive Berghain.
Berlin isn’t the only major city in Germany worth visiting though. Given the history of the country, the main cities all have different characters and claims to fame, and others worth a grip include Cologne, Hamburg, and Dresden.
Whilst you’ll want to see all the attractions you’ll have heard of — the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, the remainder of the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, and a boat trip on the River Spree — it’s worth venturing beyond those main tourist areas. Berlin “Mitte” (the city’s central borough) is home to many of the city’s renowned art galleries and cultural institutions. Museum Island should be on your list, too, given its proximity to the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, and many other well-known sights.
Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg are two neighborhoods a bit more off the beaten track (and you’ll need to get a taxi or public transportation there) but well worth a visit — whether that’s for the bars, restaurants, or some of the well-known Berlin clubs such as the legendarily exclusive Berghain.
Berlin isn’t the only major city in Germany worth visiting though. Given the history of the country, the main cities all have different characters and claims to fame, and others worth a grip include Cologne, Hamburg, and Dresden.
See more at The Points Guy
