Bavaria

Germany

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Munich

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is in southeast Germany near Austria. It is perhaps as busy making history as it is preserving it. Visitors can enjoy the majestic palaces and gardens of the past and appreciate the difficult challenges of wartime memories.

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is in southeast Germany near Austria. It is perhaps as busy making history as it is preserving it. Visitors can enjoy the majestic palaces and gardens of the past and appreciate the difficult challenges of wartime memories. They can then visit modern sports facilities which show Bavarians' passion for athletics and take a trip through the fascinating history of the city's famous carmaker. It goes without saying that beer is on the agenda, as Munich is home to a world-famous Oktoberfest celebration as well as year-round celebrations at breweries and beer halls.
<h2>1. Marienplatz Castle and Christmas Market</h2>
European travelers will quickly realize that any centuries-old city is laid out with a central town hall and a nearby plaza, which is a great place to relax and get oriented. Often there are excellent cafes and shopping in this city center and in Munich, the Marienplatz is no exception to this rule. The "new" city hall from the mid-19th century provides a strong presence here. Christmastime is especially good for shopping with plenty of decoration to provide cheer in the cold weather and an official German "Christkindlmarkt" for three weeks before the holiday. In the warmer days, it's a place for people watching, drinking outside, relaxing and waiting for friends to join you.

[caption id="attachment_1010439" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/157314316-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> photo75 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Nymphenburg Palace</h2>
Called 'Schloss Nymphenburg' in German, it opened in 1675 for the summer enjoyment of members of the house of Wittelsbach, the rulers of Bavaria at the time. It's in the Baroque style, and the palace gardens have evolved from Italian to French and finally English style, preserving elements along the way. The English version was designed in the early 19th century by Friedrich Ludwig von Sckell, also known for the city's famous English Gardens. Both inside and out provide extensive opportunities to get lost in the elegance which Bavaria's ruling family enjoyed.

[caption id="attachment_1010436" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/491938700-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> Jirobkk / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Residenz Royal Palace and Museum</h2>
While Schloss Nymphenburg was the Wittelsbach summer residence, the Residenz was their official residence and royal palace -- all 130 rooms of it. The decorations, architecture and exhibits of the family's collections are open to the public. It is also a great place to get lost and relax since the grounds features ten courtyards. There's a concert hall, a theater a church and stables to visit. Construction of this magnificent complex began in 1385.

[caption id="attachment_1010437" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/491332222-1024x739.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="739" /> Noppasin / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. English Gardens</h2>
In contrast to the formal gardens featured at Munich's palaces, the English Gardens are informal and full of fun things to do. A late 18th-century creation, it covers 1.4 square miles and is one of the largest urban public parks in the world. It came about at the end of the local Wittelsbach dynasty as a legacy of the new ruler. It supplemented the Hofgarden at the Residenz which was previously the public park for the city and home to an excellent art gallery. Here in the English Garden visitors can enjoy a Japanese Tea Garden, nude sunbathing in a designated area, surfing and a temple to the Greek god Apollo, among other things.

[caption id="attachment_1010438" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/517578752-1024x804.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="804" /> gameover2012 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Oktoberfest</h2>
For a bit over two weeks leading up to the first weekend in October, Munich is overrun by visitors to the world's largest volksfest (folk festival). Millions of liters of beer, are consumed by millions of people and there are games, rides and amusements, plus plenty to eat. Visitors will enjoy the traditional music and festive family atmosphere here during the day and maybe pick up a Bavarian hat or some lederhosen (leather breeches) as souvenirs.

[caption id="attachment_1010440" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/116156251-1024x679.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="679" /> luoman / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Bavarian National Museum</h2>
One of Germany's largest art museums and 43rd by area in the world, the Bavarian National Museum is an important center for the European decorative arts. It was founded by one of Bavaria's many rulers who focused their efforts on developing art collections. Visitors can explore pieces dating back to medieval times and before. The collection of nativity scenes dating back centuries is especially notable.

[caption id="attachment_1010441" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/155440803-1024x678.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="678" /> Juergen Sack / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Hofgarten</h2>
This stately Italian style Renaissance garden is located between the Residenz and the English Garden. From the central pavilion dedicated to the goddess Diana, there are eight paths leading away. The garden includes several war memorials, including one to the White Rose group, about whom a film was made telling the story of their nonviolent protests of Hitler's regime and their subsequent execution.

[caption id="attachment_1010442" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/964818438-1024x515.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="515" /> 4FR / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Olympic Park</h2>
The Olympiapark Muenchen is the site of the 1972 Olympic games. The stadium is a unique architectural specimen and the venue was also the location of the Munich Massacre, a terrorist event which took place during the Games. Modern uses of the space and its carillon include religious and worship events as well as social and civic gatherings.

[caption id="attachment_1010443" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/468403180-1024x682.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="682" /> bukki88 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Allianz Arena and Soccer Stadium</h2>
Construction of this 75,000-seat home for FC Bayern Munich began in 2002. The design includes inflated panels on the outside which change color. A variety of specialty individual and group arena tours are available for fans and tourists which include elements such as a behind-the-scenes look at the arena and a retelling of the story of FC Bayern Munich, a chance to kick at a replica of the famous TV "Torwand" and specially designed disabled tour access.

[caption id="attachment_1010444" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/478416517-1024x550.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="550" /> Alexandra Beier / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. BMW Museum</h2>
If you're taking out a new BMW here, you can watch it rise in the elevator before you drive it away. For others, there is still the museum and adjacent BMW Welt (BMW World) to explore. There's lots to see, explore and learn here about BMW's long motorized history plus the architecture of the buildings is carefully designed to provide a novel, engaging "along the road" experience while visiting the dozens of individual exhibition spaces in each.

[caption id="attachment_1010445" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/02/685758966-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> Athanasios Gioumpasis / Getty Images[/caption]

Things to Do in Munich

Berlin is Germany’s sprawling and vibrant capital city. It’s a historic city with a distinctly modern feel, and there's so much to do that it can sometimes seem overwhelming. Whatever your itinerary is when you hit the city, be sure to check out these exciting things to do in Berlin.

Berlin is Germany’s sprawling and vibrant capital city. It’s a historic city with a distinctly modern feel, and there's so much to do that it can sometimes seem overwhelming. The beautiful city has a rich and complicated history. From museums and war memorials to contemporary art galleries, there are so many things to do and so many ways to experience the best and the most difficult sides of Berlin. Whatever your itinerary is when you hit the city, be sure to check out these exciting things to do in Berlin.
<h2>1. Explore Museum Island</h2>
With so many spectacular museums in one city, experiencing the art and history of Berlin is a must. Head to Museum Island to see all the great museums the city has to offer. It was built as a sort of museum complex on the river Spree, and it’s even been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Some of the museums to visit include the Alte Nationalgalerie, the Altes Museum, the Pergamon Museum, and the Bode Museum. If you’re a real museum lover, pick up the 3-day pass and enjoy everything the island has to offer. As an added bonus, you can also see the Berlin Cathedral, also known as the Berliner Dome, while on the island.

[caption id="attachment_1029645" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029645" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/george-kourounis-700222-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Museum Island, Berlin, Germany" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by George Kourounis on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>2. Drink Beer</h2>
No trip to Germany is complete without consuming the delicious variety of beer on offer. Berlin has a huge variety of historic and more contemporary breweries, and Berliners know their beer. Relax in a traditional beer garden or check out one of the hipster bars dotted around the city. From wheat beer to gose to pilsner, you’re sure to find one you love. When you’ve tried all the delicious, more expensive beer, it’s time to try a Sternberg. Head to the closest späti, a local corner store, and grab one of these cheap yet popular street beers.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029646" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_212494894-1024x768.jpg" alt="Smiling bavarian couple wearing traditional dress at Oktoberfest" width="1024" height="768" />


<h2>3. Visit the Reichstag Building</h2>
The Reichstag Building is the historic house of the German Parliament. The building features a glass dome that is said to symbolize transparency in the city’s politics. Reichstag was constructed in 1884 and was home to the Reimer Republic Government until the Nazis took control in 1933. Today, the building is a symbol of Germany’s progressive politics and its commitment to environmental issues. Tours of the building are free, but it’s best to book your tour early to avoid disappointment.

[caption id="attachment_1029647" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029647" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/sven-przepiorka-722850-unsplash-1-1024x679.jpg" alt="Berlin, Germany Reichtagskuppel" width="1024" height="679" /> Photo by Sven Przepiorka on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>4. Experience Art and History at the East Side Gallery</h2>
Experience Berlin’s infamous history and art scene all in one place. The East Side Gallery showcases 105 paintings made by German and international artists. The gallery spans a little under a mile. The best part? These works of art have been painted right on to the Berlin Wall that once divided East and West Germany. Stroll along the Wall, take in the art, and experience this monument of oppression and hard-won freedom.

[caption id="attachment_1029648" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029648" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-175186580-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Abstract berlin wall graffiti - Germany" width="1024" height="683" /> franckreporter / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Enjoy Nature in Tiergarten</h2>
After a few days of pounding the pavement in bustling Berlin, head out to Tiergarten for a relaxing day in nature. Swim in the many lakes, rent a boat, enjoy a picnic or chill out in a traditional beer garden. This park is full of tourists and locals alike, but it’s big enough to feel peaceful and secluded. The park is set right in the middle of Berlin and stretches over 500 acres. Go for a stroll, enjoy some people watching or head to the nearby zoo.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029650" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_688739458-1-1024x768.jpg" alt="Berlin park Tiergarten " width="1024" height="768" />


<h2>6. Go Shopping in Mauerpark</h2>
Berliners love to shop, and flea markets are a popular destination for locals of all ages. The most popular, and the largest, flea market in the city takes place in Mauerpark every Sunday. You won’t find broken hand-me-downs and cheap plastic toys at this market. The Mauerpark Market is full of stylish vintage clothes, shoes, and accessories. You’ll also find great deals on bikes, vinyl records, furniture and more! Shop 'til you drop and then recharge at one of the park’s beer gardens or cafés.

[caption id="attachment_1029653" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029653" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-614048922-1-1024x684.jpg" alt="Some stuff for sale at a flea market in Berlin." width="1024" height="684" /> MarioGuti / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Pay Your Respects at the Holocaust Memorial</h2>
The Holocaust Memorial in Berlin is a memorial to the murdered Jews of Europe. It is a haunting and challenging place to visit, but it’s also incredibly important. The monument is an open space full of concrete structures of varying heights.

Take a guided tour or spend some time alone with the structures. The memorial is a powerful way to pay your respects to and remember all those who were affected by this deeply tragic and terrible part of Germany’s history.

[caption id="attachment_1029654" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029654" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/giulia-gasperini-790085-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, Berlin, Germany" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Giulia Gasperini on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>8. Take a Free Walking Tour</h2>
Berlin is full of free walking tours to join. Find a guide and follow them through the city, visiting the most important neighborhoods, and seeing the historic sites. These donation-based tours allow you to decide how much the tour is worth once it’s over. This way of doing tours encourages guides to make them as interesting and enjoyable as possible.

Some of the best tours in the city are donation-based ones, so definitely give them a try before booking something else. Choose tours that cover everything from WWII, the Cold War, street art, food, and everything in between.

[caption id="attachment_1029655" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029655" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/pablo-hermoso-422530-unsplash-1-1024x590.jpg" alt="Berlin, Germany Streets to Dream" width="1024" height="590" /> Photo by Pablo Hermoso on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>9. Sample the Infamous Currywurst</h2>
Everyone knows that Germany and sausages go hand in hand, but the currywurst can come as a surprise to some visitors. This quintessential Berlin meal is a fast-food favorite in the city. The dish consists of grilled pork sausages that are cut into bite-sized pieces and covered with a curry ketchup sauce. For the full experience, grab some currywurst and fries from a street vendor and wash it down with an ice cold German beer.

[caption id="attachment_1029656" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029656" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/GettyImages-1147380432-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Currywurst german dish of sliced sausage with curry sauce" width="1024" height="683" /> Nikada / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Go Clubbing</h2>
Almost as famous as Berlin’s history is Berlin’s nightlife. You can’t leave the city without spending one night, and most of the morning, dancing at a local club. Berlin is known for its crazy night scene, and there are clubs in every neighborhood for every taste.

Berghain is one of the most famous clubs in Europe, and it's known for its crazy techno scene. Dress as weird as you can and try your luck at getting in. Be warned, the line is always long. Don’t be too upset if Berghain is full though; there are plenty of other popular bars and clubs in the neighborhood to choose from.

[caption id="attachment_1029657" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029657" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/hannes-ri-1323220-unsplash-1-1024x768.jpg" alt="Berlin, Deutschland" width="1024" height="768" /> Photo by Hannes Ri on Unsplash[/caption]

Exciting Things to Do in Berlin

If Europe is the center of classical history, then Germany is its core. This is a country with baroque and Romanesque influenced cities and acres of forest that seemingly goes on forever. Germany is the country that inspired Grimm’s Fairy Tales and its towering castles, and timber villages only show that further.

If Europe is the center of classical history, then Germany is its core. This is a country with baroque and Romanesque influenced cities and acres of forest that seemingly goes on forever. Germany is the country that inspired Grimm’s Fairy Tales and its towering castles, and timber villages only show that further. This is the land on which Hansel and Gretel tricked the wicked witch; where Little Red Riding Hood visited her grandma and Rapunzel threw down her hair. There are many things to do in Germany, all of which are unmissable. Really, who needs Disney World?
<h2>1. Visit the Renowned Cologne Cathedral</h2>
Cologne is one of the largest cities in Germany, and the town itself dates back 2,000 years. It's also the Rhine region's cultural hub, with more galleries per square mile than anywhere in the world except for New York City. Most importantly, Cologne's unreal skyline is dominated by the Gothic towers of Cologne Cathedral. The Cathedral is the third-tallest in the world and the beacon of why the Catholic Church dubbed Cologne a "Holy City." You can visit the Cathedral throughout the year as it opens at 6 am on weekdays. Visitors can also take a guided tour across its roofs which provides incredible panoramas of Germany's warmest city.

[caption id="attachment_1021408" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/463792541-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/463792541-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/463792541-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/463792541-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/463792541.jpg 1200w" alt="cologne cathedral" width="1024" height="683" /> Ultima_Gaina / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Sunbathe on the White Sands of the Island of Rugen</h2>
When you close your eyes and picture Germany, chances are you're not expecting to see a beach vacation. However, all of this should be put to one side as soon as you feast your eyes on the spectacular Rügen Island. As well as being the largest island in the country, its Baltic coastlines are dominated by soft, white sandy beaches and steep chalk cliffs. Inland, there's a whole enchanting countryside to explore as well as resorts and spas that rarely get too crowded. If you like camping, there's also always the chance to take in the glory of the night sky from one of 16 organized sites on the island. Truly, if you want a beach holiday that's unlike anything else, Germany will fill that void.

[caption id="attachment_1021409" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/477218374-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/477218374-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/477218374-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/477218374-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/477218374.jpg 1200w" alt="sellin pier at dusk" width="1024" height="683" /> elxeneize / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Soak Up the Art of the Berlin Wall</h2>
In the 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, Berlin has reclaimed what was once a barrier used to divide the city. What remains now stands as a testament to overcoming a shadowed history, bringing people together rather than tearing them apart. Is there a better way to unite people than with art? Probably not, and the East Side Gallery has risen to notoriety because of this. This open-air gallery is set on the remnants of the wall and consists of a series of murals and paintings from artists all over the world. As it stands, the gallery is a monument to the fall of the wall and peacefully overcoming all differences. As far as Berlin goes, it's definitely a must-see.

[caption id="attachment_1021410" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/453840555-1024x768.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/453840555-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/453840555-300x225.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/453840555-768x576.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/453840555.jpg 1200w" alt="berlin wall street art" width="1024" height="768" /> pensatyva / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. See a Fairytale Come to Life at Neuschwanstein Castle</h2>
If you give yourself time to picture a fairytale castle, what you might unknowingly picture is Neuschwanstein. Probably because the Disney Castle and Hogwarts were actually modeled on it. This enchanting 19th-century palace sits on top of a hill in the middle of a Bavarian forest. It's understandably one of the world's most famous castles, but also has more to offer than just its look from afar. Keen visitors can stay in the small village of Hohenschwangau which surrounds it and then venture up to the castle for a guided tour. That being said, even the village offers its fair share of things to do, including an annual traditional Christmas market.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1021422" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_726354187-1-1024x682.jpg" alt="mountain castle bavaria" width="1024" height="682" />


<h2>5. Walk the Medieval Streets of Rothenburg</h2>
Once upon a time, Rothenburg was the second-largest city in Germany. Rothenburg ob der Tauber - literally meaning 'above the Tauber River - is a dream town. It's picturesque, preserved medieval streets are like something out of 'The Pied Piper of Hamelin' or 'Rumpelstiltskin.' Understandably, they've made the small town a haven for tourists in the thousands, with everyone searching for a piece of its magic. Regardless of this, simply setting foot on the old cobblestone will be enough to give you that. For a less-touristy Rothenburg, book a hotel overnight and explore the town after the sun sets. Before that, climb to the top of the town hall to see the town in all its glory, horses, carriages, and all.

[caption id="attachment_1021412" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/936765344-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/936765344-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/936765344-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/936765344-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/936765344.jpg 1200w" alt="old town of rothenburg" width="1024" height="683" /> serts / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Stroll Under the Brandenburg Gate</h2>
Berlin's Brandenburg Gate is one of the city's most iconic and astonishing sites. Though steeped in wartime history, Brandenburg has seen almost as much as the city itself. It also serves as yet another symbol of the post-Cold War, reunified Germany. The gate was built in the late 18th Century and since then, has stood tall over the now vibrant city. If you visit Berlin during the summer months, you can learn pretty much all there is to know from the gate. However, if you visit for the New Year, you'll be able to join all of Berlin in a huge street party surrounding it. Fireworks, live music, you name it!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1021424" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_495939538.jpg" alt="brandenburg gate berlin" width="1000" height="654" />


<h2>7. Throw the Dice on Museum Island</h2>
Another spot in Berlin is what's known as Museum Island, or Museumsinsel to Germans. Based on a small island in the middle of the Spree River lies a unique collection of museums and galleries. The five glorious, neo-classical museums that call Museumsinsel home house millions of treasures from the entire span of human history. Even if you're not keen on going into any of the museums, you can still opt to take a picnic over to the island where you can sit and admire the surrounding architecture. However, museum-lovers will be in heaven: its museums have everything from Ancient Egyptian artifacts to works by the best of the impressionists.

[caption id="attachment_1021413" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/655582442-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/655582442-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/655582442-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/655582442-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/655582442.jpg 1200w" alt="museumsinsel berlin" width="1024" height="683" /> bluejayphoto / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Take a Picnic to Sanssouci Park and Palace</h2>
Sanssouci Park in Potsdam is often referred to as being the Versailles of Berlin. Looking at photographs of it, you'd also believe it. Seeing it for yourself, however, is an experience that no words in the English language can describe. The park surrounds a sprawling, formerly royal palace, the grounds of which occupy almost 300 acres of land. As well as its main palace, Sanssouci is also the location of several smaller palaces and pavilions including the Chinese House and Orangery Palace.

Note: If you'd like to visit more than one of the locations, it might be worth getting a pass to visit them all.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1021425" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_158124539.jpg" alt="morning in potsdam" width="1000" height="666" />


<h2>9. Venture Down the Fairy Tale Route</h2>
Of course, Germany has its own fairy tale route. It seems only fair, given how much of the country inspired so many of those stories. On the Fairy Tale Route, you can trace the footsteps of the Brothers Grimm through bewitching forests and enchanting towns. The route spans over 300 miles from Hanau to Bremen. Seeing the same sights that inspired so many tales is equally inspiring to those who visit. After all, the route has more than 20 castles, a medieval fortress, and waterfalls that never seem to end. Simply rent a car and invite magic into your passenger seat.

[caption id="attachment_1021415" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/887626518-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/887626518-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/887626518-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/887626518-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/887626518.jpg 1200w" alt="rakotz bridge" width="1024" height="683" /> DaLiu / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Drive Through the Black Forest</h2>
The Black Forest is a huge region in southwest Germany. Lying just on the border with France, its dense, evergreen forests also had a hand in inspiring the Grimm Brothers. The forest is mystical, mythical, and the experience of a lifetime. Its mountainous landscape is haunted by small, quaint villages and idyllic towns dotted throughout the region. Each town also has its own thing to offer its visitors, from the vineyards of the Badische Weinstrasse to the lakeside strolls of Titisee. The Black Forest is a marvel in all seasons, and its romantic gem is truly Heidelberg.

[caption id="attachment_1021416" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1061016470-1024x684.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1061016470-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1061016470-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1061016470-768x513.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1061016470.jpg 1200w" alt="panoramic view of black forest" width="1024" height="684" /> no_limit_pictures / Getty Images[/caption]

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