Germany Things to Do

Germany’s biggest port and one of Europe’s largest port cities, set on the mighty River Elbe, Hamburg is one of Germany’s most popular cruise destinations, drawing millions of visitors each year. The city’s main charm lies in its effortless pairing of the old and new, with its historic old town set against a crop of modern buildings lining the new Hamburg Harbor City.

One of the country’s most modern cities, Frankfurt is the financial center and main transport hub of central Germany, boasting the third largest airport in Europe. With a vast number of international and domestic flights passing through each day, Frankfurt has become a popular stopover as well as a tourist destination in its own right. If you’re staying in town for a spot of sightseeing, here are a few tips for how to get around in Frankfurt.

Germany’s largest state is also one of its most scenic – a fairytale landscape of towering mountains, sweeping valleys and pretty mountain villages, dotted with medieval castles and idyllic beer gardens.

With its bustling port and network of waterways and transport links, Hamburg makes the perfect base from which to explore the sights of northern Germany. Here are a few ideas for day trips from Hamburg.

With 26 cities, some 25,000 medieval castles and a myriad of historic sites dotted around the country, you could spend months exploring Germany. With only one week to spare, you’ll need to plan your itinerary in advance to maximize your time. Whether you want a non-stop city sightseeing tour, a laid-back river cruise or a cultural trip around scenic Bavaria, here are 3 varied 1-week itineraries to fuel your wanderlust.

One of Germany’s principal classical music showcases, the Dresden Music Festival is a hugely popular event, drawing crowds from all over the globe and cementing Germany’s reputation as a forerunner in international opera, ballet and classical composition.

Held annually over 3 weeks, the festival features over 150 events and concerts held at the city’s most prestigious concert halls, palaces, cathedrals and gardens and culminating in a dramatic fireworks display over the River Elbe. Since its conception in 1978, the festival has quickly built an international following, known for its celebration of timeless classical music and showcasing a range of world-renowned soloists, orchestras and composers. The modern festival, based on the traditional Saxon festivities once held in the city, includes a nod to its roots with a series of grand operas and ballets, while more contemporary additions include jazz, dance and world music performances.