WEEKEND BREAKS IN GERMANY

FREIBURG

Freiburg is located in an enviable location close to the French and Swiss borders and on the edge of the Black Forest in the Baden region. The city receives some of the best weather in Germany making it a city to get out and explore.

There are many things to do in Freiburg for a great weekend break for the whole family. You could start with the Bachle which is a unique feature of Freiburg. It is a series of small, open waterways that flow through the city. From there head to the Freiburg Minster which has been standing since the 12th-century – not even the war could destroy it.

If you are lucky, one of the weekly markets will be taking place around the walls of the cathedral when you visit. You can take a cable car from the city centre to Schlossberg hill. From the top of the hill, you will get some amazing views of the city stretching into the mountains surrounding. 

You can get outdoors at the Mundlehof which is an open-air zoo and green zone where people go to walk and eat. And, if you are a football fan, Freiburg S.C plays in the Bundesliga and has a stadium near the city centre

Food in Freiburg has both a German and French feel and the city is lively when it comes to eating out with its many cafés, bars, and restaurants. The Martins Brau Brewery in the city centre brews its own beer and serves freshly cooked meals. And you should definitely give Flamkussen, a regional specialty, a try when you are in town.

Contribution and Photo from Mark of Wyld Family Travel

AACHEN

Aachen is a western German town close to the border of Belgium and the Netherlands. It has been a spa city since Roman times, which is just one great reason to visit the city for a weekend getaway.

The main attraction in the city is Aachen Cathedral which is under UNESCO World Heritage protection. In the middle ages (8th-century), Aachen was the capital for Charles the Great, King of the Franks, and he is now buried in the cathedral. It was also the place of coronation for German kings for 600 years. The cathedral was finished in the year 798 but has been rebuilt a few times over the centuries. Most of the marble used in its construction was taken from Ravenna and Rome.

The Cathedral Treasury has a collection of liturgical objects and over the centuries they have collected different reliquaries. These were located in different chapels during different time periods, and for the last 80 years, they have been in the Allerseelenkapelle.

Other great things to see and do in Aachen include the Aachen Rathaus, which is the 14th-century town hall that is still in use, and the ‘Concours Hippique International Officiel’ which is the biggest equestrian meeting in the world. Aachen is also known for awarding the Charlemagne Prize for the Unification of Europe each year in the Rathaus, with one owner of this award being Pope Francis.

After a day of exploring, you should go to the oldest bar in town, the Domkeller, for a good lager and then go to the Scotch Club, which was the first discothèque in the world.

Contribution from Džangir of Dr Jam Travels

ROMANTIC ROAD

The Romantic Road in southern Germany just celebrated its 70th birthday and has become one of the top tourist travel routes in the country. Millions of hotel nights are booked each year by a flood of international guests eager to see the sights and history along the way.

A weekend break on the Romantic Road is definitely feasible, although many take up to a week to explore its historic walled towns with timbered buildings, lively cities and a rousing climax at the southern end of the route as the visitor passes Neuschwanstein Castle on the way towards the Alps.

Travelling south through the Tauber valley from Würzburg, the route heads first to one of its highlights, the town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, with its picturesque streets and walled centre.

Rothenburg is well worth a stop but, in high season, some may wish to spend more time in the attractive towns of Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen further south and with their own historic walled centres and timber-framed buildings.

The city of Augsburg halfway along the route makes a sensible stopping point for a weekend break. The Dom Hotel is, as the name suggests, near Augsburg’s cathedral and within easy walking distance of the city centre. One of the sights there is the Fuggerei, the world’s oldest public housing and still used today. While visiting, make a stop at the Tafeldecker restaurant for some Bavarian tapas and local beer.

The second day on the route has a different character as it winds its way through the Bavarian countryside and small towns of the Pfaffenwinkel before passing the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein just outside Schwangau. The final town, Füssen, is the former summer residence of the bishops of Augsburg, with a lovely position on the Lech river and views of the Alps.

Contribution and Photo from Steve of Romantic Road Germany

BAMBERG

Bamberg, located in Bavaria in the south of Germany, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage town. It makes the perfect weekend getaway for those interested in history and culture and is just one hour by train from the well-known town of Nuremberg.

A truly enchanting town, Bamberg’s architecture is renowned in Europe for its strong influence from the Renaissance and late medieval periods. In the late 18th century, Bamberg was known as the centre of the ‘Enlightenment. In fact, several important and well-respected philosophers and writers came from the town. Bamberg is also home to the grave of Pope Clemence II, the only Pope to be buried outside of Italy.

Today, Bamberg’s postcard-perfect town centre, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, is the main attraction. Incredibly, Bamberg escaped almost untouched following WWII bombings, meaning the town is home to some of the best-preserved medieval structures in Europe, all of which line its beautiful cobblestone streets. Make sure to stop by the Altes Rathaus, which is also known as the Old Town Hall – a must-see site in Bamberg. It was built in 1462 on an artificial island in the middle of the Regnitz River, and its unusual location and interesting design make it one of the most photographed spots in Bamberg.

Bamberg is pretty famous for its beer, so ensure to factor in a stop at the renowned Schlenkerla brewery, which has been operating since 1405. And if you visit in December, then you can take in Bamberg’s excellent Christmas Market. Unlike nearby Nuremberg, the market in Bamberg is a truly authentic affair with far smaller crowds.

Contribution and Photo from Clair of Stoked to Travel

GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, sometimes shortened to GaPa or GP, is a quaint and beautiful Bavarian town that is an easy train ride from Munich. It is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and outdoor sports like hiking and skiing, which can be enjoyed year-round, all of which make it a perfect place for a weekend getaway.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is where the Zugspitze is located—the highest peak in Germany situated in the Bavarian Alps. For a great experience, you can take a cog-wheel train or a gondola to the top for some incredible views of the Alps and the striking valleys below. There are many gondolas in the area to take in the incredible and dramatic sights this region provides.

Also recommended is a hike through the beautiful rocky Partnatch Gorge with its waterfalls, rapids, and calm basins. This area is the start of many scenic hikes to enjoy the incredible Bavarian countryside. And in the winter, Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers some of the most incredible Alpine skiing for all levels.

Alternatively, you can explore the quaint and charming historic town center of Partenkirchen, walking the main street of Ludwigstrasse to take in the traditional Bavarian architecture. Enjoy the restaurants like Zum Wildschütz serving up the hearty Bavarian fare. There is a little something for everyone in this charming town that hosted the 1936 Winter Olympics.

In addition to how beautiful this area is, the friendliness of the people is also sure to make your visit memorable. Whether you are raising a beer, hiking, or just taking in the sights of this beautiful area, a weekend break in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is one you are unlikely to forget.

Contribution from Sam of My Flying Leap

LAKE CONSTANCE

As the most southern tip of Germany, Lake Constance is a popular all-year-round holiday destination. It sits at the foothills of the majestic Alps, offering the perfect combination of a beautiful lake, charming towns, castles, and delightful gardens. Many are attracted to this area because of hiking, biking, swimming, and sailing.

Konstanz, the largest town on Lake Constance, has preserved its past dating back to the 7th-century. Perhaps its most historic building is the cathedral, Konstanz Minster. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the 193 steps to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city and Lake Constance. Konstanz offers a lot of options for accommodations and dining, as such, makes for a great home base. Why not pamper yourself and stay and dine at the 5-star Riva boutique hotel, just steps from the waterfront.

On the opposite side of Lake Constance sits Meersburg. The name literally translates to ‘Castle on the Sea’ and is home to two castles. The oldest of the two, simply referred to as the Old Castle (Alte Burg), is a well-preserved 7th-century medieval fortress. This charming seaside town makes for a lovely day to wander the winding quaint streets of the old town.

Lastly, one of the most popular attractions around Lake Constance is the spectacular 110-acre flower island of Mainau which includes a castle built in 1746.

Lake Constance straddles both Austria and Switzerland. There is also a certain novelty in the fact that you could wake up in Germany, cycle into Switzerland for the lunch, and then go to Austria later that afternoon for coffee and a strudel.

Contribution from Renee of Dream Plan Experience

COLOGNE

Cologne is a great weekend break in western Germany with plenty to see and do. If you are looking for family holidays to Germany, there is also plenty here for all ages.

Start with the must-do Farina Museum which is the oldest fragrance house in the world. Here you can find out about the history of perfumes and get to sample the original cologne made to the same recipe from the 18th-century.

One of the country’s best-preserved Gestapo prisons, the NS-Documentation Center is a suffocating, unpleasant look at Cologne’s more recent past but really important to keep remembering. The Koln Zoo is well worth a trip and the chocolate factory, where you can see Lindt chocolate being made, find out about the history of this brand, and get to sample some of the delights shouldn’t be missed.

Enjoy the centre where you see the amazing Cologne Cathedral then take a wander over the Rhine via the Hohenzollern Bridge which is filled with love locks and gives great views of the city. Hang out in the cool Ehrenfeld district which is ideal for a wander. Try your hand at the 3D glow in the dark golf and finish up at the amazing vegan restaurant of Bunte Burger where everything on the menu will make you want to order it.

Stay at the Statthaus, a gorgeous, quirky series of apartments with views over to the cathedral from the top floors and it is easy to walk to everything. The nearby Bastians Bakery is absolutely ideal for a breakfast feast.

Contribution from Nichola of Family Hotel Expert

HAMBURG

Hamburg is a perfect weekend city break in northern Germany because it has something for everyone.  Whether you like history, architecture, art, the outdoors, or food, there is plenty to keep you entertained.

As Germany’s largest seaport, you must take time to see the city from the water either on a tour or ferry.  You will pass through the warehouse district, Speicherstadt, which is a UNESCO site, see the Elbphilharmonie, which is the new concert hall, and more.  You can also cross the Elbe River using the Elbe Tunnel, which is quite a unique experience.

Take time to visit St. Nicholas’s Church which is now in ruins after bombings during World War II.  Go up the tower for fantastic panoramic views and visit the museum to learn more about the history.  On a lighter note, Miniatur Wunderland is a fun place to spend a few hours. It is a model village that is more detailed than you can ever imagine.

You also do not want to miss Rathaus, the Town Hall, which is architecturally quite impressive.  Art lovers can visit the Kunsthalle, which is the largest art museum in Germany housed in a 19th-century Italian Renaissance-style building.

To save money on these attractions and transportation, be sure to get the Hamburg Card.  It also includes discounts for restaurants like Cafe Ponton where you can dine right by the water. Public transportation in Hamburg is excellent, so you don’t need to stay in the city center. You will get great value for your money at the Holiday Inn Hamburg or if you like a boutique hotel experience, the Henri Hotel is an excellent choice.

Contribution and Photo from Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

NUREMBERG

Located in the heart of Bavaria is the historic city of Nuremberg a rather pleasant place for a city break. The city of Nuremberg dates back to Roman times where it was classed as a Free Imperial City.

The beautiful old town area of the city is surrounded by 5 km of medieval walls with a castle, gates, and towers incorporated within. As with most old town areas throughout Europe, there are many churches to visit or admire from outside. These, alongside the castle, make Nuremberg a very interesting place for people with a passing interest in history.

Some of the must-visit places in the city are the Imperial Castle, St Lorenz Church, and the Frauenkirche – all three of which are stunning and very interesting to visit. During December Nuremberg hosts the Christkindlmarkt and is known as one of the most ‘Christmassy’ places on earth. This is a great time to visit, soaking up the history as well as the seasonal vibe

Since the middle ages, the city has produced a distinctive red beer known as Rotbier. This has great flavours and is a must-try for beer aficionados. The city also has its own Nuremberg Sausage which is traditionally served with three in a bun with sauerkraut. For visitors looking to dine out, the area alongside the pretty River Pegnitz is the place to head. A great place to dine out is Heilig-Geist-Spital, an eatery with traditional Bavarian food, and a relaxing vibe.

For somewhere to stay the budget Invite Hotel, just outside the city walls, is a nice value place to stay. The hotel is clean, has parking and a sauna for guests to unwind.

Contribution and Photo from RJ of RJ on Tour

TRIER

Trier, situated in Germany, is one of the country’s oldest cities. The city proudly stands as one of the impressive eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. The city is situated in the west of the country and attracts thousands of tourists from around the world. There can be a whole list of reasons why you must visit the city at least once in your lifetime – one of them being the Roman feel to the city.

The city was founded in 16 BC by emperor Augustus. After its establishment by Roman emperors, the city quickly developed to become a Roman metropolis and you will find a large number of preserved Roman monuments here. Being the main city of Roman northern territories, people know it as “Rome of the North”. The city is a diverse combination of well-preserved history and the best dining.

If you love a getaway with dance, music, wine, cafes, and entertainment, Trier is a great destination for you. From strolling around the lively streets of the city to experiencing the Roman monuments, there are many things you can do on your visit. For example, you must visit the top sights including Hauptmarket Square (the city’s largest market square), St. Peter’s Cathedral, and the Church of Our Lady. There is a special train for tourists known as Toner Express that will take you on a tour of the city to see these main sights.

The city offers beautiful hotels for your stay, one of the best is the Romantik Hotel Zur Glocke. You can take a stroll in the evening by stepping out of your hotel and then enjoy delicacies at Burgeramt Trier. Apart from that, you can also do some shopping for popular recycled clothing brands to make your tour complete. Trier is considered a shopping paradise!

Contribution from Paulina of Paulina on the Road

DRESDEN

Dresden, in the northeastern region of Germany, is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway for anyone who loves culture and architecture.

The city’s most iconic and famous building is the Dresdner Zwinger. It is among the most important baroque buildings in Germany and houses many renowned museums such as the “Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments”. Surrounded by a wide garden, the Dresdner Zwinger is also a great place for an extensive walk.

Only a few steps from the Zwinger and near the Elbe River is the Semperoper – a beautiful opera building. Whether you are a fan of opera, concerts, or ballet, make sure to book a ticket for one of the many great performances.

Another very prominent building in Dresden is the Frauenkirche church located at Neumarkt. The most special attraction of this church is the viewing platform on its dome. Located at 67 meters above the ground, it offers a magnificent view of Dresden and its surroundings. A short elevator ride, narrow stairs, and a steep ladder stairway make it an even more adventurous experience! If you suffer from claustrophobia or fear of heights, it is better to not go up there.

For lunch or a cup of coffee, head to the Kunst Café Antik which is close by. It is a unique place with an extraordinary interior and a very cozy ambiance. The restaurant “brennNessel” is the perfect address for vegetarians or vegans as it offers a big selection of mouthwatering dishes.

A good and affordable place to stay is the hotel “underSTAYtement am Schloss” at the Dresden Castle. It’s a bit outside the city center but a tram station can be reached within a 10-minute walk.

Contribution and Photo from Alina of World of Lina

HANNOVER

Hannover is a great place for a weekend away. Located towards the north of the country, there’s plenty to do here on a short city break.

The old town is quite small, but a great place to wander. There are some pretty streets that lead down to the Leine River and seem key sights to take in.  Most notable is the New Town Hall (Neue Rathaus), a stunning building sitting on a small lake.  Inside are replicas of how the city was laid out at various points in its history.  History lovers will find it fascinating to see the vast swathes of Hannover that were destroyed during the Allied bombings. There is also a tilted elevator here where you can ride the 97 metres to the top of the building and take in the spectacular views over the city.

Hannover is also ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with some walking in the fresh air.  It’s a really green city, with the 1,600-acre Eilenreide (actually a city forest), as well as the Maschsee.  This is a man-made lake, spanning almost 80 hectares, and is a beautiful spot to walk around, particularly in the evening.

Not to be missed, however, are the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen. There are three gardens here, all different in nature and design. One is an immaculately pristine geometrically lawned garden with Europe’s highest fountain. Another is a wilder, more botanical, garden. The third is modelled on an English landscape garden.

For those staying longer, there are also some interesting day trips outside of the city, including Celle with its 500 half-timbered medieval buildings.

There is a good choice of places to stay in Hannover, including the Mercure Hotel Hannover Mitte which offers good value for money in a central location. For eating-out options, the venues in the Ballhofplatz Square are worth checking out; this is a lovely area for pre-dinner drinks and an evening meal.

Contribution and Photo from Emma of Travel on a Time Budget

RHINE VALLEY

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley, or Rhine Gorge as it is more commonly called, is an incredibly picturesque 40-mile stretch of the Rhine River between Koblenz and Bingen.  The steep sides of the river valley are topped with over forty castles and covered in woods or terraced vineyards, making this UNESCO World heritage center a wonderful area to explore.

You can visit on a Rhine River cruise, stopping off along the way, or you can drive or take a train, which runs alongside the river. The cruise gives a unique way to see the castles and is recommended.

Along the way, there are also several gorgeous towns with half-timbered buildings. Visiting them is a highlight of your trip to the Rhine Valley. A few of these towns are:

• Koblenz, which in addition to its historic center, has a large fortress on the opposite bank that you can reach via cable car. This is also the start of cruises down the Moselle River.
• Boppard with its beautiful twin-steepled St Severus church, ancient Roman fort walls, and many adorable taverns. This is also the heart of wine country. The Bopparder Hamm winery is recommended – you can hike and stop off to sample their wines.
• Bacharach where you can sample more wines, visit the fascinating gothic Werner Chapel and even stay in the beautiful Stahleck Castle (it is now a youth hostel).

There are several other castles you can visit (or stay in) including Rehinges Castle and Rheinstein Castle.  Other vineyards that you should go to include Didinger Vineyard in Osterpai and, for red wine, Assmannshausen.

If you love castles, wine, hiking, cruising, or just wandering around beautiful villages, you will love the Rhine Valley.

Contribution from James of Travel Collecting

POTSDAM

Located a quick S-Bahn metro ride from Berlin, Potsdam is a beautiful choice for a weekend break in Germany. You are sure to enjoy relaxing on the banks of the Havel River and exploring UNESCO World Heritage site Sanssouci Palace and its corresponding park. In fact, Sanssouci Palace is the largest UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany. Built for Frederick the Great in 1745, the palace is known as “the Versailles of Germany” for its golden opulence, and its parks are filled with rose gardens, an orangery, and other fancy buildings to explore. You can’t miss a visit here and should budget at least half a day to make the most of your visit.

Today Potsdam serves as the capital of Brandenburg but maintains the distinct feel of taking a step back in time. It is a relaxing place to visit for its rich history and gorgeous lakefront vistas. Home to the 1945 Potsdam Conference, where world leaders charted a path forward for postwar Europe, you can visit the site where the big decisions were made at Cecilienhof Palace.

Potsdam also has a lively Dutch Quarter with the largest quantity of Dutch-style houses outside of the Netherlands, where you will surely enjoy the red-brick architecture and quaint boutiques. If you are more a fan of Russian architecture, Potsdam is also home to “Russian Town,” built in the 19th century to welcome Russian immigrants. For excellent shopping, check out the Brandenburgerstraße area and specifically the ritzy Karstadt Stadtpalais mall.

If you are in the mood for a bite to eat, Potsdam has a well-earned reputation as quite the foodie destination. For German food with a Dutch twist, check out Dutch Quarter gem Zum Fliegenden Holländer. For lakefront vistas paired with house-brewed craft beer and quintessential German fare, check out Meierei Brauhaus. Lastly, right in Sanssouci Park is Potsdam Zur Historische Mühle, a Mövenpick restaurant, and the Drachenhaus café-restaurant for a quick bite.

As for lodging, you can splurge a bit and stay at Hotel Villa Monte Vino, located (as its name suggests) on a hill behind the Sanssouci Park vineyards. If you are seeking more budget accommodations, check out the Hotel Brandenburger Tor, near one of the city’s historic gates.

Contribution and Photo from Tegan of Why Not Walk

MEISSEN

Dresden is a big and beautiful city on the River Elbe, but just 25 km from Dresden, is a pretty little town called Meissen which makes a great weekend break in Germany. It was the old capital of Saxony until the 15th-century and, like Dresden, is on the River Elbe.

The first thing you see as you approach the town from the east bank is the Burgberg (castle hill), the castle on the hill, and a cathedral that seems to pierce the castle and reach up to the sky. The long and checkered history of Meissen makes it a great destination for those interested in history and architecture.

Meissen is well known for the exquisite porcelain that was invented here during the rule of Augustus II, the Strong. In fact, the company that once was created and owned by the ruler, to manufacture and export the finest porcelain is still in business. Examples of these ceramics are everywhere, inside the castle, the cathedral, the museum, and stores too.

The Meissen Porcelain Manufactory and the museum, located some distance away, is a must-visit. The larger-than-life porcelain statue of “Saxonia” is sure to take away one’s breath.

The castle, at the top of Burgberg, is called Albrechtsburg and is one of the finest examples of late Gothic architecture. The current version of the castle has been standing for the last 600 years or so, however, it is said that there was a smaller fort here since the early 10th century! The inside of the castle has been converted into a museum and is well worth a visit.

The area of the castle is also shared by the Meissen Cathedral which is also built in the Gothic style. It is said to have taken 150 years to build this cathedral. The view of the region, from the top of the cathedral, is astounding and is not to be missed.

There are also many other places like squares, markets, churches, museums, and restaurants in the vicinity for a wholesome and enjoyable weekend.

Contribution from Nisha and Vasu of Le Monde, the Poetic Travels

STUTTGART

As one of the largest cities in southern Germany, Stuttgart’s charm is apparent from its first glance at the hills overlooking the valley. The city sits comfortably in a valley with hills all around and its city center surrounded by beautiful buildings.

Stuttgart has some well-known places to see and things to do that make the city a bit more well known in the region. As the city of automobiles, Stuttgart is known for its many car-producing factories such as Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. The ever-popular Mercedes-Benz Museum has over 150 cars located on multiple levels and tells the entire history of the automotive industry in a fascinating way. The museum is enjoyable not only for car lovers but even kids and families.

Stuttgart also has the largest zoo/botanical garden in Europe with plants and animals from numerous countries and continents and an amazing outdoor garden in the center. Easily reached by tram, the gardens have two on-site restaurants serving traditional German food.

For traditional German food, Carl’s Brauhaus serves traditional Swabian cuisine that is sure to delight any traveler looking to try local food. A visit to the Markthalle in the center is also a great way to further explore the local tastes Stuttgart has to offer. The Markthalle is located right next to the city’s main town hall, the Rathaus, which has a fascinating elevator, known as the paternoster elevator, it has no doors and continues to move as people step in and out on various floors.

Staying central to the center is key, especially if utilizing the extensive train system. The Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin is in a great location and a comfortable hotel stay for anyone looking for a weekend break.

In addition to places in Stuttgart, there are plenty of day trips from Stuttgart to nearby locations that provide a more in-depth look at the Swabian countryside.

Contribution from Dandt & Diana of The Elusive Family

COCHEM

If you are looking for a tranquil and relaxing weekend break in Germany, nothing beats a getaway to Cochem. You can’t leave Cochem, Germany without falling for this enchanting Mosel River town. The beautiful city on the river is located near many German destinations, but it is full of natural charm and plenty of fun activities.

One of the main reasons to visit Cochem is the river itself. The natural feature defines the city and adds a layer of serenity over the city. The Mosel River is surrounded by sloping hills rows and rows of wine-producing grapes. One of the best things to do is stroll the Mosel Promenade, a scenic walkway that traces the banks of the river. You can also enjoy Cochem from the river itself and book a Mosel river cruise to take in the landscape and admire neighboring cities from the water.

Cochem is full of history with a medieval city center and a historic castle looming over the town from its highest hilltop. Visitors love to wander around Cochem’s Market Square. There you will discover local boutiques, outdoor cafes, cobbled streets, and a bubbling fountain. The spot is perfect to do some window shopping or just relax and do some people-watching. While Market Square can fill with tourists, you cannot help but feel at peace in the beautiful surroundings of the oldest part of Cochem.

Of course, enjoying the local wines of Cochem is another great reason to visit. During a weekend getaway, you can sample tastings of local white and rose wines at any of the wine cellars. You can even have a glass while checking out Cochem Castle and enjoying views of the valley below.

Contribution and Photo from Derek & Mike of Robe Trotting

MUNICH

Munich is a Bavarian city in the southern part of Germany. It has 1.5 million inhabitants in the core of the city and a total of 6 million in the metropolitan area with a big percentage of the population (38%) being a foreigner. This city from the 12th-century is located north of the Alps on the River Isa and was established by Benedictine monks.

Much of Munich was bombed during WWII and the city was levelled to the ground but the city was rebuilt quickly. Munich is known for its strong economy and they are many big factories such as BMW, MAN, and Siemens.

Munich’s Altstadt (Old Town) is one part of the city you shouldn’t miss. In the center of Munich’s Old Town, you can find the Marienplatz, which was the heart of the city from its beginning. Around this central square you will find Old and New Town Halls where you can hear the glockenspiel ring, St Peter’s Church (the oldest church), and Frauenkirche, a cathedral with 100 metre high towers for great views of the city. Munich is also considered a city of culture and has many museums, most of which can be found in the museum quarter called Kunstareal.

For sports fans, you can try surfing Eisbachwelle which is an artificial wave about half a metre high on part of a man-made river in Munich. Football is the most popular sport, so when in town you should go to a game at Allianz Arena and watch Bayern Munich play. The city also hosted the Summer Olympics in 1972 with the Olympiastadion of 70,000 attendees.

In wintertime, you should visit one of the Christmas markets and enjoy Glühwein, a mulled wine, or in autumn is Oktoberfest a festival of beer that you shouldn’t miss. As for food, give Hofbräuhaus Inn a try where you order a beer and pig knuckles!

Contribution from Džangir of Dr Jam Travels

BERLIN

A weekend in Berlin can encompass amazing architecture, a look at the darker side of human history as well as amazing art and museums to explore in Germany’s capital.

The Brandenburg Gate is possibly the most famous site in Berlin. The gate was built in the 1730s and for a large part of the 20th-century was inaccessible due to the Berlin Wall curving around it. Next to the gate is the stunning Reichstag building which houses Germany’s parliament. You can get a great view across the city by climbing the glass dome that sits atop the building. Tickets are free but must be booked in advance.

Another great place to get a view of the city is from the top of the Berliner Dom. But not before you’ve taken in the breath-taking interior. You can also explore below the ground where the crypt contains over 90 sarcophagi as well as the tombs of Prussian Kings.

Elsewhere on the aptly named Museum Island are five world-class museums to explore. Two of the most famous exhibits are the Pergamon altar, which the Pergamon Museum was built to house, and the famous bust of Egyptian Queen Nefertiti which can be found in the New Museum.

No visit to Berlin would be complete without exploring the darker side of the city’s history. Remnants of the Berlin wall can be found across the city, from individual panels to longer stretches. The East Side Gallery contains some of the famous images that were painted on the wall in the months following the wall falling. The Berlin Wall Memorial allows visitors to see a preserved section of the wall to better understand how it kept the city divided.

Monuments to the holocaust can be found throughout the city. The largest is the block size Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe which contains 2,711 concrete slabs as well as a small museum. The memorial to the Sinti and Roma victims is a small oasis near the Reichstag with the names of concentration camps engraved on stones surrounding a black memorial pool.

Finally, at Grunewald station, Platform 17 (Gleis 17) is a memorial to those who were loaded onto trains to take them to concentration camps from this very spot. Metal plates line the platform and contain the numbers of people, the date, and their destination.

There is just so much to see and do in Berlin, you will definitely have an amazing weekend getaway!

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO GERMANY

• Learn the fascinating royal history of 25 of Germany’s best castles and the compelling personal stories of the families that lived in them.
• For all things Germany, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his Germany travel guide, full episodes of his TV show, or download his app for excellent audio tours.