Germany, located at the heart of Europe, shares its borders with nine other countries. With the biggest economy on the continent, more inhabitants than any other European country, and a cosmopolitan culture intermingled with a rich history, it is no surprise that more and more people are choosing to visit and explore this fascinating country. Divided into 16 states, each region of Germany has their own unique traditions and local customs, making it an excitingly diverse destination to visit.

Berlin
Berlin is said to be the creative hub of the country, which came about due to its multicultural population and buzzing underground scene. If nightlife is what you are after, then Berlin is the city to visit, as it is one of the most liberal cities in Europe, with a hedonistic nightclub scene. With strong roots in music and the arts, Berlin has a vibrant culture, but is still relatively inexpensive when compared to other European cities. The Berlin Wall, which divided the city for almost 30 years, has sections that are still standing today. To learn more about German history, there are plenty of world-class museums that document what life was like under the rule of the Nazis and the Soviets.

Bavaria
Located in southern Germany, Bavaria is known for its unspoiled natural surroundings, laid-back attitude and welcoming hospitality. Visitors can spend days exploring the numerous medieval castles, baroque churches and grand palaces, and if you time your trip well, you can also take part in some of the traditional Bavarian festivals. In total, Bavaria has over 100,000 architectural monuments and over 1200 museums, as well as 40 exceptional theater and opera venues, making it ideal for a cultural break. Bavaria is also home to the Bavarian Alps, the most spectacular mountain range in Germany, and the gorgeous landscapes are comparable to those you would find in Switzerland and Austria.

Cologne
Cologne, located on both sides of the Rhine river in west Germany, is most famous for their impressive Gothic cathedral, the Kolner Dom, which used to be the tallest building in the world. It is so breathtaking that it is no surprise that it holds the title of Germany’s most-visited monument. Visitors to the cathedral also have the option of climbing the 509 stairs to the top, which may seem tiring but the view makes it completely worthwhile. A great way to explore Cologne is by a river cruise, which will take you through towns and mountains along the Rhine. Be sure to stop off at one of the many traditional brewpubs along the way, where local beer is served. Foodies will love Cologne’s cuisine, with many rediscovered traditional dishes being served by fantastic restaurants.

Berlin, Bavaria and Cologne are only 3 of the many amazing destinations within Germany. When visiting this magnificently diverse country, it would be best to explore as many cities and towns that you can within your time frame, so that you can truly appreciate all that Germany has to offer.