10 things not to miss in Germany

Germany is a country with a long history, rich culture, and enough attractions to keep you occupied for months. Put on your walking shoes and pack your stretchy pants, you’ll be tacking on the kilometres while enjoying enough food and beer to keep your memories alive for years to come.

Take a Photoautomaten Selfie

Photo booths are a fun nod to your youth and a great way to make candid memories from a place or time. Take a stop in one of the many around Berlin and make those memories last with a photo strip. These are great for larger groups or even for just you and your partner. The best photo strips come from disregarding all of your proper ways and just being silly.

Explore Nuremberg’s Old Town

Take a step back to a simpler time, along the cobblestone streets of Nuremberg. Look on in wonder at the wood-framed houses with high peaked roofs, the Imperial castle with its mighty tower, or one of the many ancient churches that have survived years of wear.

Nuremberg’s Christmas Market

If you are lucky enough to be visiting during the magical holiday season you will have the opportunity to experience the wonderland that all of Germany, specifically Nuremberg, becomes during the Christmas season. You can purchase dolls and figurines alike, take in the wondrous decor and sparkling lights.

BMW Museum

Everyone is familiar with BMW, one of the world’s most loved and coveted car brands. You don’t have to be an auto aficionado for this to be one of the most exciting places to visit. You can visit the museum of the world-famous BMW and see where it all started as well as take in the design and integration that goes into BMW production.

Walk the Berlin Wall

Another one of history’s most famous events was the fall of the Berlin Wall, the famous wall that divided Berlin to the East and West for almost 30 years, came crumbling down during the liberation in 1989. However, a long stretch still stands to plant a reminder of democracy and freedom. It has mostly been covered with a fresh breath of life, as many of Berlin’s artists have painted murals onto the wall. You can take a tour of the 'East Side Gallery' or be guided along the wall, receiving the history of this one-time barrier. It stands as a remembrance for the thousands of Berlin families that were torn apart for decades.

Sachsenhausen Cider Taverns

A light, alcoholic cider is the signature drink of Frankfurt and this area of town will hold some of the best cider taverns on old cobblestone streets. Drink cider the way it was originally taken in by sitting among the aged taverns and watch the passer-by as they stroll along the area or enjoy a beautiful lunch with a group of friends.

Schloss Neuschwanstein

This beautiful, white fairy-tale castle located just under two hours outside of Munich is a spectacle to behold. It is one of the most photographed sites in Germany and known all over the world as a symbol of idealized romantic architecture.

Memorium Nuremberg Trials

The Nuremberg trials become one of history’s most prominent events when the Nazis were tried for their heinous crimes against peace. The museum is located in the east wing of the Palace of Justice, the same building where the actual trials took place. Here you can receive a tour of the courtroom where the trials happened and learn the history of the event.

Marienplatz

The centre square of Munich is dedicated to St. Mary and is a good place to stop for street performers, events and excellent people watching. Around Christmas you can enjoy the Christmas market. This is a great starting point to explore all the city has to offer.

Oktoberfest

A truly once-in-a-lifetime event to attend, Oktoberfest is a seasonal event, perhaps one of the most famous and well-known events in the world. It is well-known for the beer-focused itinerary, with 14 large beer tents but the event also features Bavarian food, rides and music for a family-friendly time.

Römerberg

The old centre and historic heart of Frankfurt gives you a look into centuries past with a visit through town hall and the numerous historic building surrounding. This is a perfect spot to start in the city as you can enjoy many restaurants, cafes, and shops in the vicinity.

English Garden

The Englischer Garten, or English Garden, in Munich is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of busy Munich. Visit the Japanese Tea Houses, go surfing on the waves created by the water pump, or stroll along the Steinerne Bank. This will bring you a little closer to nature, while you’re still experiencing all that Munich has to offer. Many of the hop-on/hop-off busses will pass by the English Garden so that you can view it if you don’t have time to have a visit.

Spend a week or two exploring Germany and see how many of these things you can cross off your to-do list. Before you leave on this international jaunt though, consider comprehensive travel insurance for your holiday. It will keep you protected from the small annoyances of travel while giving you broader medical and travel health cover as well.

Image courtesy of Flickr user cooperman13