Neuschwanstein is known all over the world as a symbol of idealised romantic architecture and for the tragic story of its owner. After losing sovereignty in his own kingdom, Ludwig II withdrew into his own world of myths, legend and fairytales.

High-octane thrills are on the agenda at Europa-Park in Rust, along with themed European worlds and spectacular events with a Europe-wide reputation.

Building first began in 1248 on what eventually became one of the finest ecclesiastical edifices in the world and the epitome of high-Gothic cathedral architecture in its purest possible form.

After the Berlin Wall was built in 1961, Brandenburg Gate became impassable for 28 years. As a signature attraction and symbol of German reunification, it now represents the past and present of the German capital in exemplary fashion. The gate is supported by six Doric columns, forming five passageways with pedestrian-only access. The famous quadriga depicting the goddess of victory, Victoria, riding a four-horse chariot was added in 1794.

From 1961 to 1989 the Berlin Wall divided the city in two. Most of this concrete structure has since been torn down, but fragments do remain a feature of the city. The Berlin Wall Trail, a route for walkers and cyclists split into 14 sections, follows the path of the former wall. Information panels installed at 30 points tell the story of the Berlin Wall. The colourful and recently restored East Side Gallery in Friedrichshain is a piece of the hinterland wall that in 1990 was painted by artists from 21 countries. On Bernauer Strasse, where there is a replica section of the Berlin Wall, you can also visit a memorial site, a documentation centre and the Chapel of Reconciliation.

One of Europe's most famous landmarks, the romantic ruins of Heidelberg Castle have been attracting visitors since the 19th century.

A UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the city, Berlin's Museum Island is a hugely popular attraction both with locals and international tourists. One of the world's most important museum complexes, it is home to priceless cultural treasures. Collections at the Museum of the Ancient World, New Museum, Old National Gallery, Bode Museum and Pergamon Museum take visitors on a fascinating journey through art and culture from the cradle of civilisation in Mesopotamia through Egypt, Classical Greece and Rome, Byzantium, the Islamic World and the Middle Ages right up to the modern age and 19th century Romanticism.

The Tropical Islands resort, 60km south of Berlin, is a fascinating tropical world that stretches across an area of 66,000m² and features the world's largest indoor rain forest, a tropical village with traditional buildings from countries such as Bali and Borneo, Europe's biggest tropical sauna suite and Germany's highest water slide. Every day there's a programme of shows and evening entertainment.

HSituated at the foot of the castle, it enchants visitors with its wealth of romantic lanes and many of the town's most fascinating attractions, such as pretty little squares, ornate Renaissance buildings and imposing churches. At its heart is the market square with its rustic cobblestones and impressive fountain. The old quarter is brimming with delightfully cosy pavement cafés, restaurants and bars which are always full of life. The area is very compact making it easy to explore on foot.

Sanssouci Palace – the Prussian arcadia:an outstanding example of architectural and landscape design