DK Travel - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Germany

Inspire / plan / Discover / experience

Southern Germany

Western Germany

Northern Germany

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t Cologne skyline at sunset

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t The riverside avenue Brhlsche Terrasse, a highlight of Dresden

With so many famous sights and hidden gems, Germany offers an adventure of discovery, even on a short visit. From breathtaking mountains and stunning valleys to exciting cities and traditional towns, wherever your trip takes you, this DK Eyewitness guide is the perfect travel companion.

In terms of natural beauty, the country offers windswept beaches and sandy islands along its Baltic coastline, while the south boasts some of Europes finest lakes as well as deep, mythical forests and the mighty peaks of the Bavarian Alps. In between lie no fewer than 16 national parks, 14 biosphere reserves and close to 100 nature parks. Winding rivers, fairy-tale castles and medieval churches, plus a network of scenic routes for driving, hiking and cycling, thread them all together.

Germany is also renowned for its prodigious contributions to art, culture and science, which can be experienced through fascinating exhibits at world-class galleries and museums in cities such as Munich, Berlin and Hamburg, as well as smaller, historic towns such as Nrnberg, Dresden and Leipzig. In almost every town visitors will find traces of the countrys extraordinary and often turbulent history, that spans almost 2,000 years.

It may seem challenging to plan a trip to such a large and varied country, not to mention working out itineraries to fit in all the must-see sights and local secrets. This guidebook breaks down Germany into easily navigable chapters, full of expert local knowledge, ideas for walks and drives, and simple yet comprehensive maps to help you get around. With the Need to Know section providing all the key facts every traveller needs, this Eyewitness guide will help you make the most of all that the country has to offer. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Germany.

Boys in traditional Lederhosen hiking in the Bavarian Alps.

Crowds of Christmas shoppers in Heidelberg.

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This guide divides Germany into 14 colour-coded sightseeing areas, as shown here. Find out more about each area on the following pages.

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Snow-capped mountains, sandy shores, modern cities and fairy-tale castles Germany really does have it all. There are many reasons to visit this beautiful country, but here are the highlights no visitor should miss.

t Germany has over 20,000 , many of which offer stunning views and glimpses into Germanys past through lavish interiors and historical exhibitions.

Discover Reasons to Love Germany

t Traditional German food is as diverse as it is delicious. Feast on amazing breads and sausage, and enjoy regional dishes such as .

Discover Reasons to Love Germany

Fascinating History

t German history spans almost 2,000 years. Take to the streets and youll find architecture, monuments and whole cityscapes that are testament to Germanys incredible heritage.

Discover Reasons to Love Germany

A Sporting nation

t Germans are justly proud of their successes in football, tennis and motor racing. If youre here during a big event, youre sure to find yourself swept up in the excitement.

Discover Reasons to Love Germany

Spas

t play an important role in German wellness culture, so choose one of the nations dedicated spa towns or secluded health resorts and soak away your cares.

Discover Reasons to Love Germany

Cultural Legacy