Best of Germany

Germany comes with a strong reputation for order, efficiency and a twentieth century that weighs on everything. That image is accurate as far as it goes, and it describes only the entrance. Beyond it, the country is remarkably varied, with regions and cities that each keep their own character, food, crafts and pace of life. Germany keeps its history in full view, in memorials, museums and rebuilt streets, and at the same time reinvents itself constantly, with a contemporary scene in art, music and design that is very much alive. What makes it worth knowing is the way the weight of the past and the energy of the present sit side by side.

GERMANY HIGHLIGHTS

Fernwayer approaches Germany through this variety, with no single route and no single way of seeing the country. Our experiences connect you with local hosts and experts who know their cities and regions from within. In Berlin, you move between history, photography, architecture, art and the city’s subcultures. In Hamburg, you follow the port and its history, the city’s music and its Christmas markets. In Munich and Bavaria, you visit churches and castles, and learn about local crafts and beer, in the city and across the region. The section below is where to begin. See all Germany experiences here.

OUR GERMANY DESTINATIONS

FERNWAYER'S THINGS TO DO IN GERMANY

Fernwayer takes you into Germany’s capital, Berlin, Bavaria’s royal heart, Munich, and the Hanseatic port city of Hamburg. In Berlin, you follow the history of the Wall and the architecture of Museum Island, then move into photography, art and the city’s subcultures. In Munich and Bavaria, the Frauenkirche and Neuschwanstein Castle sit alongside local crafts and beer culture, from the city out into the wider region. In Hamburg, the port and the Speicherstadt tell a story of trade, while the Elbphilharmonie and the Christmas markets bring music and seasonal traditions into the city.

Berlin

What to do in Berlin? Berlin is a city that never stops changing, and it keeps the traces of every change it has gone through. Fernwayer follows those changes with people who know the city through their own work and community. A photo walk looks at the city through an architect’s eye. Alternative Berlin and its subcultures come to life with a local artist who belongs to that community. Another experience is devoted to the political revolutions linked to the GDR and the Berlin Wall. An expert in history addresses the twelve years of Nazi rule. Beyond the city, Potsdam and Sachsenhausen widen the picture and carry the story past Berlin’s own borders.

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How long should I stay in Berlin? Three days is a good minimum for Berlin, enough to see the Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island, visit the Berlin Wall Memorial, spend an evening in Kreuzberg, and include one experience focused on architecture, alternative culture, or the city’s political history. Berlin is spread out, so getting from one area to the next takes real time. With four or five days, you can add more experiences, give Museum Island a full afternoon, and include a day trip beyond the city without rushing.

Munich

What to do in Munich? Munich is the old seat of Bavaria’s rulers, and it cultivates a Bavarian identity that has outlasted kings, wars and regimes. Fernwayer experiences move through that story, from the royal past to the artists of today. A scholar leads the way through churches and noble palaces, following the history of a royal treasure. A local artist guides guests through the artists’ quarter and welcomes them into their own studio. Bavarian cooking comes through the palate of a foodie who knows every small spot in Munich. Another experience immerses guests in the history of the Third Reich through the traces Nazi rule left in Munich. Beyond Munich, the castles of King Ludwig lead to the Bavaria that kept its identity after losing its sovereignty.

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How long should I stay in Munich? Two to three days is enough for Munich itself, since the old town around Marienplatz, the Residenz, the English Garden and the museum district sit close together. With four or five days, Munich becomes a base for Bavaria, with Neuschwanstein Castle, the Alps around Garmisch and the old town of Nuremberg each within about two hours by train. That length leaves room for one outing a day, returning to the city each evening.

Hamburg

What to do in Hamburg? Hamburg is a city that has always lived from what arrives by water, and it still carries the habits of a place that trades with the world. Fernwayer experiences follow that character through the city’s history, maritime traditions, music and art. Along the canals at night, a photographer’s eye picks out the light, the forms and the rhythms of a city that looks very different by day. Someone who knows Hamburg’s history in depth opens the folds of the city’s past and brings its concealed stories to light. Beside the merry traditions of the Christmas markets sit darker, more unsettling ones, and a guide who knows them all brings both into view.

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How long should I stay in Hamburg? Two days is the practical minimum: one for the harbour, the Speicherstadt and the Elbphilharmonie, and one for the Alster lakes and an evening in St. Pauli. A third day allows a slower pace, with time for the Schanzenviertel and a morning along the Elbe. Lübeck and Lüneburg are each under an hour from Hamburg by train, which makes a day trip easy to add.

WHEN TO GO

FEB

Berlin turns to cinema during the Berlinale.

FEB

Berlin turns to cinema during the Berlinale.

MAY

Beer garden season starts.

MAY

Beer garden season starts.

JUL

Rhein in Flammen festival with fireworks along the Rhine.

JUL

Rhein in Flammen festival with fireworks along the Rhine.

SEP

Oktoberfest takes over Munich.

SEP

Oktoberfest takes over Munich.

OCT

Berlin’s landmarks light up for the Festival of Lights.

OCT

Berlin’s landmarks light up for the Festival of Lights.

DEC

Christmas markets across Germany.

DEC

Christmas markets across Germany.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the best time of year to visit Germany? Germany is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience. Late spring and early autumn are particularly good for exploring cities, visiting museums, walking through historic neighbourhoods and discovering the countryside. Summer brings long days, outdoor festivals, beer gardens and ideal conditions for exploring the Bavarian lakes and Alpine foothills, although popular destinations can be busy. Winter is especially rewarding for Christmas markets, seasonal food and cultural events, while autumn brings harvest festivals and the Oktoberfest season in Munich. Weather varies considerably between northern Germany and the Alpine south, so the best timing depends on your itinerary. How many days do you need for a trip to Germany? Ten days is a good starting point for a first trip to Germany if you want to combine two or three destinations without spending too much time travelling. A week works well for Berlin and Hamburg, or Munich and Bavaria. With two weeks, you can combine the capital with northern and southern Germany, adding regional excursions and smaller towns along the way. Germany's extensive rail network makes multi-city itineraries possible, although distances are considerable and it is worth allowing enough time in each destination rather than trying to cover the whole country in one trip. What is the best way to travel between German cities? Trains are generally the most convenient way to travel between major German cities. Deutsche Bahn operates high-speed ICE services connecting major cities, alongside regional trains serving smaller towns and destinations. Booking long-distance tickets in advance can help secure better fares, particularly during weekends and holiday periods. Domestic flights are available but are often unnecessary for routes well served by rail. For rural areas, Alpine villages and destinations outside the main railway network, renting a car or arranging a private transfer can offer greater flexibility. Should I rent a car in Germany? It depends on the destinations included in your itinerary. A car is generally unnecessary in Berlin, Munich and Hamburg, where public transportation is extensive and parking can be inconvenient. It becomes much more useful when exploring Bavaria beyond the main cities, particularly the Alpine foothills, lakes, smaller villages, castles and countryside areas with limited public transport connections. If you plan to combine Munich with regional excursions, a rental car can give you greater independence and flexibility. Can I use my credit card everywhere in Germany, or do I need cash? Credit cards are widely accepted in German hotels, supermarkets, department stores and most restaurants. However, some smaller independent establishments, particularly traditional pubs (Kneipen), local cafés and neighbourhood businesses, may still accept cash only. ATMs are readily available. What are the must-try regional foods in Germany? German cuisine varies considerably from one region to another. In Bavaria, traditional dishes include Weißwurst, pretzels, roast pork, dumplings and regional cheeses, often served in beer gardens and traditional inns. Berlin is known for its currywurst, Döner kebab and a diverse street food culture reflecting its international communities. In Hamburg, fish sandwiches, fresh seafood and traditional dishes such as Labskaus reflect the city's maritime heritage. Across the country, regional breads, sausages, seasonal produce, local beers and wines offer an opportunity to discover the culinary traditions of each destination. Is Germany safe for tourists? Germany is generally a safe country to visit, including for solo travellers and families. As in other major European destinations, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, on public transport and around major railway stations. It is advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings, particularly in busy tourist areas and during large public events. Standard travel precautions are generally sufficient for a comfortable visit. Do I need a visa to travel to Germany? Germany is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of the European Union can travel freely with a valid identity card or passport. Many non-EU visitors, including travellers from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia, can enter visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Time spent in other Schengen countries counts towards the same limit. Other nationalities may need to obtain a Schengen visa before travelling. Entry requirements can change, so check the official regulations applicable to your passport before booking. Are shops and museums open on Sundays in Germany? Shops are closed on Sundays in Germany, as Sunday opening is restricted by law. Exceptions include bakeries, kiosks, florists, pharmacies and petrol stations, as well as shops inside main train stations and airports. In Munich, the supermarkets at the Hauptbahnhof and the Ostbahnhof are open on Sundays. In Berlin, shops serving tourists’ needs are also allowed to open. Restaurants and cafés are open as usual. Museums are open on Sundays. Their weekly closing day is usually Monday, and some also close on Tuesdays. Opening hours and temporary closures differ from one museum to another, so checking the official website before the visit is recommended. How does public transportation work in German cities? Germany has an extensive public transportation network, with U-Bahn (underground trains), S-Bahn (urban and suburban railways), trams and buses operating across its major cities. Berlin, Munich and Hamburg each have integrated transport systems, with tickets generally valid across different means of transport within the selected fare zones. Tickets can be purchased through transport operators' apps, ticket machines and authorised sales points. If travelling beyond city limits, check whether your ticket covers the surrounding regional transport network. What are the main festivals and cultural events in Germany? Germany has a rich calendar of festivals, fairs and cultural events throughout the year. Munich's Oktoberfest, held from late September into early October, is one of the country's best-known celebrations, with beer tents, traditional music and Bavarian food. Christmas markets bring seasonal traditions to cities and towns across the country from late November through December. Berlin hosts major events dedicated to contemporary art, film and music, while Hamburg has a strong programme of music festivals and maritime celebrations. Carnival, known as Fasching or Karneval depending on the region, is another important tradition, particularly in late winter.