Holiday in Germany – Part 1

For many people, vacation means traveling to faraway countries and exploring exotic places. But what if paradise is just around the corner? Germany, with its rich history, cultural diversity and breathtaking natural landscapes, offers more than enough to spend an unforgettable and relaxing vacation. Something that is often overlooked is the beauty and diversity of traveling your own homeland. Why travel far away when the good things are so close?

Holidays in Germany

A holiday within Germany has many advantages: no long and stressful flights, the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine and culture, and above all the opportunity to travel in an environmentally conscious way. In times when sustainability and environmental friendliness are becoming increasingly important, it is all the more advisable to minimize your own ecological footprint and at the same time discover the hidden treasures of your own country.

Berlin – The vibrant capital

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a city full of contrasts and history. The Berlin Wall and the Brandenburg Gate are not only symbols of German division and reunification, but also important monuments that bring the city's eventful history to life. A walk along the East Side Gallery transforms history into a work of art on over a kilometer of wall.

Berlin is a paradise for culture and art lovers. The Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to five outstanding museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Old National Gallery. With a variety of galleries, from classical art to contemporary exhibitions, Berlin offers something for every taste.

Families with children will love Berlin. The Berlin Zoo, one of the oldest and most species-rich zoos in the world, offers not only animal encounters but also educational experiences. The Legoland Discovery Centre takes builders of all ages into a colorful world of Lego bricks, while the Technology Museum and the Museum of Natural History offer exciting and interactive exhibitions for young explorers.

Munich – tradition meets modernity

Munich combines tradition and modernity in a charming way. Marienplatz with the New Town Hall and the Frauenkirche are landmarks of the city and offer impressive historical backdrops. A walk through the heart of the old town leads to numerous other historical buildings and squares.

What would a visit to Munich be without a trip to one of the famous beer gardens? In the English Garden, one of the largest city parks in the world, you can enjoy the sun with a cold beer and Bavarian specialties. The Viktualienmarkt, Munich's most important food market, tempts you with a variety of fresh products and culinary delights.

Munich also has a lot to offer families. The Deutsches Museum, one of the largest scientific and technical museums in the world, delights visitors with exciting exhibitions and hands-on stations. The Hellabrunn Zoo, beautifully situated in a nature reserve, offers children and adults fascinating insights into the animal world.

Hamburg – The gateway to the world

Hamburg, often referred to as the gateway to the world, captivates visitors with its impressive maritime atmosphere. A harbor tour is a must to experience the massive container terminals and majestic cruise ships up close. From the historic Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its picturesque brick buildings, to the modern HafenCity with the architectural masterpiece of the Elbphilharmonie - the development of the Hanseatic city is shown here at its best.

Hamburg is home to some of Germany's most exciting museums and cultural institutions. The Miniatur Wunderland, the largest model railway in the world, captivates visitors of all ages with its detailed landscapes and scenery. The traditional Hagenbeck's Zoo offers animal lovers a fascinating insight into the animal world and delights with its spacious enclosures and exotic animals.

Hamburg is also known for its rich theater scene and the variety of musicals. From the glamorous "Lion King" to gripping dramas and comedies - the city offers a diverse cultural program that guarantees entertainment for the whole family. The numerous art galleries and museums, such as the Kunsthalle or the Museum of Arts and Crafts, also invite you to go on a journey of discovery through different eras and art styles.

Cologne – A city on the Rhine

Cologne Cathedral, an outstanding masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is undoubtedly the highlight of Cologne. This imposing building with its impressive towers and ornate decorations captivates millions of visitors every year. A climb to the south tower is rewarded with a breathtaking view over the city and the Rhine.

A stroll through Cologne's old town, with its picturesque alleys and preserved Roman relics, brings history to life. Here you will find quaint breweries where you can try the famous Kölsch, and historic buildings such as the town hall and the fragrance museum in the Farina House, which celebrates the long tradition of perfume production in Cologne.

The Rhine promenade is perfect for relaxing strolls, watching the hustle and bustle on the river and enjoying the picturesque view. A visit to the Chocolate Museum not only offers insights into the history and production of chocolate, but also the opportunity to try some sweet delicacies.

Cologne also offers a number of attractions for families. Phantasialand in Brühl, just a short drive from Cologne, is an amusement park with exciting rides and shows that delight both children and adults. Cologne Zoo, one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Germany, is home to a variety of animals and offers exciting insights into the animal world. The flora and botanical gardens also invite you to take relaxing walks and explore.

With its mix of historical splendor, cultural treasures and entertaining leisure opportunities, Cologne offers something for every taste and is always worth a visit.

Heidelberg – pure romance | Romantic old town and castle

Heidelberg, often referred to as the city of romance, delights visitors with its picturesque old town and the imposing Heidelberg Castle, which stands majestically above the Neckar. The historic streets and squares exude a unique charm that brings history to life. Heidelberg Castle, one of the city's landmarks, not only offers impressive architecture, but also a fascinating journey through the history of the nobility and the Holy Roman Empire. From the castle ruins you have a wonderful view of the old town and the Neckar.

The Philosopher's Walk on the opposite side of the Neckar is another highlight. The path leads through lush nature and offers breathtaking views of the city, the castle and the surrounding landscape. It's no wonder that poets and thinkers have used this path for inspiration.

Heidelberg is also an ideal destination for families. The imposing castle and the historic bridges, such as the Old Bridge, fascinate not only adults. The Königstuhl fairytale paradise, an enchanting amusement park for children, invites you to a magical day full of adventure and games. Here children can immerse themselves in the world of fairytales and enjoy various attractions.

Heidelberg also offers numerous opportunities for leisure activities and recreation. The Neckarwiese is a popular place for locals and tourists alike, who come together to picnic, play games or just relax on the river bank. The Kurpfälzisches Museum in the city of Heidelberg offers interesting insights into the art and cultural history of the region and delights with a variety of exhibits, from archaeological finds to paintings and sculptures.

With its combination of history, nature and family-friendly attractions, Heidelberg is a city that enchants and captivates every visitor.

Black Forest – pure nature | Hikes and nature experiences

The Black Forest, an enchanting region in the southwest of Germany, is known for its unspoiled nature and a variety of hiking trails that lead through dense forests and along crystal-clear lakes. The Black Forest National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and offers numerous activities for the whole family. Whether cycling, hiking or simply admiring the impressive flora and fauna - the Black Forest has something to offer everyone.

A visit to the Black Forest would not be complete without trying the famous Black Forest gateau. This culinary specialty, consisting of layers of chocolate sponge cake, cream, cherries and a dash of kirsch, is a delight for any foodie. But the regional cuisine has much more to offer - from hearty dishes such as Black Forest ham and cheese spaetzle to hearty stews that make every hike an enjoyable experience.

There is a very special highlight for families: Europa-Park in Rust. As one of the most famous and largest theme parks in Europe, it offers an incredible variety of attractions and themed areas that have something for every taste. From the thrill of fast-paced rollercoasters to imaginative themed rides and spectacular shows - Europa-Park ensures unforgettable experiences and shining eyes for children.

In addition to the well-known attractions, there are also numerous picturesque villages and towns to discover in the Black Forest. Triberg, with its famous waterfalls, and Baiersbronn, known for its Michelin-starred cuisine, are just a few examples. Historic monasteries, such as Maulbronn Monastery, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and traditional craft businesses, where you can watch classic cuckoo clocks being made, offer cultural highlights and deeper insights into the region.

With its mixture of impressive nature, culinary delights and varied leisure activities, the Black Forest is a travel destination that appeals equally to both adventure seekers and those seeking peace and quiet.

Dresden – Baroque splendour

Dresden, often referred to as the "Florence on the Elbe", delights visitors with its baroque splendor and impressive architecture. Rebuilt after the destruction of the Second World War, the city now shines in new splendor and attracts culture and history enthusiasts from all over the world. The outstanding buildings include the Zwinger, the Frauenkirche and the Semperoper, all of which shape the cityscape and cultural identity of Dresden.

The Zwinger, a magnificent baroque building, houses several important museums, including the Old Masters Picture Gallery, the Porcelain Collection and the Mathematical and Physical Salon. The Frauenkirche, a symbol of reconstruction and reconciliation, impresses with its majestic dome and lovingly restored interiors. The Semperoper, one of the most renowned opera houses in the world, offers not only musical highlights but is also an architectural masterpiece.

Dresden offers numerous attractive destinations for families. Dresden Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Germany, is home to an impressive variety of animals and offers hours of excitement for young and old. The Africa House and the new Giraffe Farm are particularly popular. The Dresden Transport Museum in the Johanneum on Neumarkt offers fascinating insights into the history of transport. From historic steam locomotives to old-fashioned bicycles to airplanes and cars - the history of technology is brought to life and vividly presented here.

Other family-friendly attractions include the German Hygiene Museum, which has interactive exhibitions on human health, science and culture, and the Great Garden, a spacious city park that is perfect for walks, bike rides and picnics. In summer, the Carolasee lake is a popular place to go pedal boating. The park railway, a historic narrow-gauge railway that runs through the Great Garden, is also a highlight for children.

Dresden skilfully combines culture, history and modern leisure opportunities and thus offers a wide range of activities for every taste and every age. Whether visiting the iconic sights or discovering the numerous family-friendly activities - Dresden enchants with its diversity and charm.

Rügen – Germany’s largest island | Natural beauties and beaches

Rügen, Germany's largest island, impresses with its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. The iconic white chalk cliffs in Jasmund National Park are an unmissable highlight and offer breathtaking panoramic views over the Baltic Sea. These majestic cliffs, especially the famous Königsstuhl, are a popular destination for hiking and photo tours.

The island's endless sandy beaches invite you to take long walks, sunbathe and enjoy water sports. The Baltic Sea resorts of Binz and Sellin are among the most popular holiday resorts on Rügen. Binz impresses with its wide beach promenade, which is lined with numerous cafes, restaurants and boutiques, as well as the impressive resort architecture. Sellin, on the other hand, is known for its historic pier, which invites you to take romantic walks and watch atmospheric sunsets.

Rügen also has a lot to offer children. The Rugard adventure world in Bergen on Rügen is a particularly exciting destination. Here, children and their families can discover numerous attractions, including a summer toboggan run, climbing walls and an observation tower that offers a fantastic view of the island. Also not to be forgotten is the Dino Park in Klein Stresow, where visitors can marvel at life-size dinosaur models and learn interesting facts about these fascinating prehistoric animals in a playful way.

Other family-friendly activities include visits to the Rügen Natural Heritage Centre, where a treetop walkway offers impressive views of the treetops and surrounding landscapes. The associated information centre offers interactive exhibitions on the regional flora and fauna. Also very popular is the Ozeaneum in Stralsund, a little further away but easy to reach, which impresses with its huge aquariums and informative exhibitions about the world's oceans.

Rügen is not only a paradise for nature lovers and beachgoers, but also a place full of adventure opportunities for children and families. From the impressive chalk cliffs and idyllic Baltic Sea resorts to the wide range of leisure activities - the island offers a perfect mix of relaxation and fun for young and old.

Lake Constance – Three countries, one lake | Cultural and historical sights

Nestled between Germany, Austria and Switzerland, Lake Constance is a true cultural and natural gem. The entire region offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages to explore.

The island of Mainau, also known as the flower island, is famous for its lush flower and plant arrangements. The island is adorned with different colors in every season - from tulips and daffodils in spring to roses in summer and dahlias in autumn. The magnificent gardens and the impressive baroque palace make Mainau an ideal destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.

The Unteruhldingen pile dwellings offer exciting insights into life in prehistoric pile dwelling villages. This open-air museum shows detailed reconstructed houses and, through exhibitions and guided tours, gives a vivid impression of everyday life in the Neolithic and Bronze Ages.

For water sports fans and those seeking relaxation, boat trips on Lake Constance are a must. Whether a leisurely round trip, a trip to the neighboring towns or a sporty sailing tour - the possibilities are varied. The lake also offers numerous bathing areas and beaches where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

The Salem Monkey Mountain is another extraordinary destination for families. This outdoor enclosure is home to over 200 Barbary macaques, who roam freely and come very close to visitors. Interactive feedings and informative lectures make the visit an unforgettable experience.

Ravensburger Spieleland is also a highlight for families. This amusement park offers countless attractions and play options based on the popular games from the German manufacturer Ravensburger. With themed rides, interactive games and creative workshops, Spieleland provides hours of fun and entertainment for children and adults.

There are also numerous other attractions on Lake Constance, such as the historic town of Konstanz with its charming old town center or the baroque monastery island of Reichenau, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The towns of Lindau and Friedrichshafen also invite you to linger with their picturesque promenades, museums and cultural events.

Lake Constance offers a perfect mix of natural experiences, cultural treasures and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a relaxing holiday in nature, exciting historical discoveries or action-packed theme park visits - the Lake Constance region has something to suit every taste.

These outstanding examples show that a holiday in Germany can be not only varied and relaxing, but also sustainable and environmentally friendly. Germany's cultural and natural treasures are waiting to be discovered - and enable a holiday that enriches both mind and soul.

To be continued... please stay tuned