Germany
Cargando experiencia inmersiva...
General Travel Guide: The Soul of Germany
Germany is a country of surprising depth and diversity, going far beyond stereotypes. It is a land where the forests of Grimm's tales coexist with Berlin's vibrant art scene, and where the precision of automotive engineering meets the warmth of a Christmas market. From the Alpine peaks of Bavaria to the shores of the North Sea, Germany invites you on a journey through history, culture and nature. Get ready to discover carefully rebuilt cities, strong and delicious gastronomy, and a town that, after a complex past, looks to the future with innovation and welcoming hospitality.
Capital
Berlin
Population
84.607.016
Langue
Alemán
Sites du patrimoine de l'UNESCO
52
Indices de voyage
📊Indices de voyage
Le meilleur de Germany
Expériences uniques
Drinking in a Bavarian 'Biergarten'
On a sunny day, there is nothing more German than sitting in a beer garden under the shade of chestnut trees. Share long wooden tables with locals, enjoy a one-liter mug ('Maß') of fresh beer and accompany it with a giant pretzel, sausages or 'Obatzda' (a cheese preparation). It is the epicenter of Bavarian social life.
Immerse yourself in the Magic of a Christmas Market
During Advent, squares across Germany are transformed into winter wonderlands. The aroma of mulled wine ('Glühwein'), toasted almonds and gingerbread ('Lebkuchen') fills the air. Wander among the ornate wooden stalls, shop for local crafts and get into the festive spirit.
Driving on an Unlimited Section of the Autobahn
For motor enthusiasts, it is a unique experience. On designated sections ('unbegrenzt'), there is no federal speed limit. Driving a German car on these perfectly maintained highways is to feel engineering and freedom at its finest. Always responsibly and respecting the left lane only to overtake.
Hiking through the Black Forest
Delve into one of the most iconic landscapes in Germany. Its dense spruce forests, crystal-clear lakes and traditional farm villages inspired countless fairy tales. Follow one of the many well-marked routes and end the day with a slice of the famous Black Forest Cake.
Tour the Rhine Valley by Boat
The World Heritage-listed stretch of the Middle Rhine is a spectacular cultural landscape. Cruising along the river between Bingen and Koblenz allows you to admire more than 40 medieval castles and fortresses perched on the hills, surrounded by sloping vineyards. The legend of the mermaid Lorelei adds a touch of mystery.
Explore Berlin's Alternative Scene
Berlin is a city of creativity and counterculture. Explore the neighborhoods of Kreuzberg and Neukölln, discover world-famous street art like the East Side Gallery (a piece of the Berlin Wall converted into an art gallery), visit flea markets like Mauerpark, and feel the energy of a city that never sleeps.
Strong Flavors and Regional Tradition
German cuisine is robust, comforting and surprisingly diverse. Each region prides itself on its specialties, with a strong emphasis on meat (especially pork), potatoes, bread and, of course, beer. It is a cuisine that reflects the geography and history of the country.
German cuisine is robust, comforting and surprisingly diverse. Each region prides itself on its specialties, with a strong emphasis on meat (especially pork), potatoes, bread and, of course, beer. It is a cuisine that reflects the geography and history of the country.
The Importance of Bread (Brot)
Germany has an unparalleled bread culture, with more than 300 varieties. From dark, dense rye bread (Pumpernickel) to bread rolls of all kinds (Brötchen) for breakfast. A 'Bäckerei' (bakery) is an institution on every corner.
Kaffee und Kuchen (Coffee and Cake)
The afternoon ritual. Around 3 or 4 pm, Germans pause to enjoy a cup of coffee and a generous slice of homemade cake. It is a social moment and a delicious tradition that is respected throughout the country.
Plats Iconiques
Bratwurst and other Sausages (Wurst)
It is impossible to talk about Germany without mentioning its infinite variety of sausages. Grilled Bratwurst is the most famous, but each region has its own: the Bavarian Weisswurst, the Berlin Currywurst, or the small ones from Nuremberg. They are served on a bun or with sauerkraut and mustard.
Schnitzel
Although 'Wiener Schnitzel' is Austrian and beef, the German version (often pork, 'Schnitzel Wiener Art') is a ubiquitous and beloved dish. A steak breaded and fried until golden brown and crispy, usually served with a slice of lemon and French fries or potato salad.
Sauerbraten
Considered one of the national dishes. It is a roast meat (usually beef) that is marinated for days in a mixture of wine, vinegar and spices, which gives it a characteristic bittersweet flavor. It is cooked over low heat and served with a thick sauce, 'Rotkohl' (red cabbage) and 'Knödel' (potato or bread balls).
Spätzle
A kind of irregular and tender egg pasta, typical of the Swabia region. It is often served as a side dish, but the 'Käsespätzle' version (with melted cheese and fried onion) is a delicious and very popular main dish, similar to macaroni and cheese.
Brezel (Pretzel)
The salty bow found everywhere, especially in the south. The Bavarian pretzel is large, soft inside and with a dark, salty crust. It is the perfect accompaniment to a beer in a 'Biergarten'.
Eintopf
It means 'a pot' and is the German definition of stew. It is a complete meal in a single dish that combines broth, vegetables, potatoes and some type of meat or sausage. There are countless regional variations and it is a very popular dish in the cold months.
Boissons typiques
Beer
The national drink. Germany is governed by the Purity Law of 1516 (Reinheitsgebot). The variety is immense: Pils, Lager, Weissbier (wheat), Kölsch (from Cologne), Bock (stronger)... Each region has its style and the beer culture is very strong.
Wine
Germany is famous for its white wines, especially Riesling, which grows on the steep slopes of the Moselle and Rhine river valleys. They are elegant, aromatic wines with fantastic acidity. There are also good reds, such as Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir).
Apfelschorle
The most popular non-alcoholic drink. It is a simple and refreshing mixture of apple juice and sparkling water. You will find it on all menus and it is the perfect alternative to sugary soft drinks.
Schnaps
A generic term for strong distillates, often fruit distillates (Obstler), taken as a digestif after a heavy meal. Jägermeister is perhaps the most internationally famous German herbal liqueur.
Desserts traditionnels
Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake)
The most famous German cake. Layers of chocolate sponge cake soaked in Kirsch (cherry liqueur), interspersed with whipped cream and cherries. It is decorated with more cream, chocolate shavings and cherries.
Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel)
Although of Austrian origin, it is an extremely popular dessert in southern Germany. A thin rolled dough filled with apples, raisins, cinnamon and breadcrumbs, baked until golden brown. It is served hot, often with vanilla sauce or ice cream.
Lebkuchen
A type of spiced gingerbread, soft and often glazed or covered in chocolate. It is a specialty of Christmas markets, especially those in Nuremberg, and comes in many forms, including the famous hearts with messages.
Rote Grütze
A typical dessert from northern Germany. It is a kind of thick pudding or compote made with a mixture of red fruits (strawberries, raspberries, cherries, currants). It is traditionally served with a vanilla sauce, cream or ice cream.
Que voir par thème
Germany is a country of regions with strong identities. From the maritime culture of the north to the alpine folklore of the south, each area offers a different journey. Here are some thematic ideas to explore it.
Historical and Modern Cities
Discover the mix of history and avant-garde. Berlin, with its turbulent past and creative present. Munich, the elegant Bavarian capital. Hamburg, the 'Venice of the North'. And charmingly rebuilt cities like Dresden, or perfectly preserved medieval gems like Regensburg or Quedlinburg.
Fairy Tale Routes
Follow in the footsteps of the Brothers Grimm along the 'Fairy Tale Route', which runs from Hanau to Bremen. The 'Romantic Road' is even more famous, connecting Würzburg with Füssen through walled towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and dream castles like Neuschwanstein.
Active Nature and National Parks
The Bavarian Alps are a paradise for hiking and skiing. The Black Forest offers routes through forests and waterfalls. Saxon Switzerland, near Dresden, surprises with its sandstone rock formations. And the Mecklenburg Lake District is ideal for water activities.
Historical Memory of the 20th Century
Germany faces its history seriously. Visit the remains of the Berlin Wall, the Dachau Concentration Camp near Munich, the Nuremberg Documentation Center or Checkpoint Charlie to understand the crucial moments that marked the 20th century and the world.
Culture, Music and Art
Berlin's Museum Island is a first-rate cultural complex. Follow in the footsteps of great composers such as Bach in Leipzig or Beethoven in Bonn. Enjoy an opera at the Semperoper in Dresden or explore the Bauhaus art movement in Weimar and Dessau.
Wine Routes
Discover the wine face of Germany. The German wine route ('Deutsche Weinstraße') in the Palatinate region is the oldest. The banks of the Moselle and Rhine rivers offer spectacular landscapes of sloping vineyards where the famous Riesling is produced. Many wineries offer tastings.
Conseils de voyage
Punctuality
Being punctual is very important in German culture. Arriving at an appointment, even a social one, at the agreed time is a sign of respect. Public transport is also known for its punctuality.
Cash (Bargeld)
Although card payment is widespread, Germany is still a cash-intensive society. In markets, small bars, bakeries or for low amounts, it is common and sometimes necessary to pay in cash. Always carry some cash with you.
Sunday Closing (Sonntagsruhe)
The 'Sunday quiet' is a cultural and legal norm. Most shops, supermarkets and shopping centers are closed on Sundays. Only some businesses are open in train stations or airports, in addition to restaurants and tourist attractions.
Deposit System (Pfand)
Many plastic and glass bottles, and cans, have a 'Pfand' or deposit (normally €0.25). You will pay this extra when purchasing and it will be returned to you when you return the empty container to the automatic machines found in all supermarkets.
This guide is a window into the rich and complex nation that is Germany. Each of its 16 federal states ('Länder') offers a different experience. We invite you to explore the most specific guides to plan your trip, whether to immerse yourself in urban culture, enjoy nature or explore history. Gute Reise!
Loading quiz...
Explorez les régions de Germany
Découvrez les plus belles régions et planifiez votre voyage parfait
card.noResults.title
card.noResults.message
TripPlanner
Créez votre itinéraire parfait
Chargement...
Votre profil de voyageur
Découvrez votre style de voyage
Chargement...