If you’re wondering where to start on a city break to Germany, make Berlin your first stop. The German capital does a blinder in shopping, sightseeing, and iconic food and drink. And that’s not to mention the city’s turbulent history. If you have to choose just three famous landmarks to visit, make them the Brandenburg Gate, the Holocaust Memorial, and the graffitied remains of the Berlin Wall.
Fairytale castles, mysterious forests, and shuttered alpine chalets – the classic image of Germany comes from the southeast state of Bavaria. Munich, Bavaria’s capital, really hits the spot when it comes to food and drink, too. There are six breweries here, and a bevy of beer halls, so you won’t be short of a thirst-quencher while exploring the city. For a snack, try a traditional bratwurst sausage.
A blend of easy-on-the-eye vistas and picture-perfect villages are what you'll find in Germany’s Black Forest region. Tucked away in the south-west corner of the country – just across the border from France and Switzerland – you'll find steep mountains, sweeping meadows, and rivers winding through the untouched countryside. There are also plenty of walking trails, from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging hikes.