Cities & Culture

More than 10,000 German towns and cities between the North Sea and the Alps are just waiting to be discovered. Each and every one of them has its own unique character and impresses visitors with unforgettable highlights.

Germany's museums set the bar high. With an unparalleled variety of themes, genuine treasures, unique concepts and internationally renowned collections that open up completely new perspectives.

Shoppers will be in heaven in Germany. You can find everything you could ever wish for: from bargains to haute couture, from second-hand knick-knacks to futuristic finds, from international to typically German. Always efficient, easily accessible and, every now and again, at unbelievably great prices. Or would you rather become an explorer? Then visit one of the numerous adventure worlds

The "Historic Highlights of Germany" are 17 cities combining historical heritage with modern urban lifestyles, each making its own specific contribution to culture, business and science.

From Old Masters to modern masterpieces, Germany is home to extraordinary treasures of the art world spanning every period and century. Guests marvel at fine art in all its forms of expression and discover architectural wonders that defined their eras.

The tradition of the German Hanseatic cities goes back to the Middle Ages. In the course of time more and more cities joined the merchant association. Even if not all of them are located in the north of the country, the most famous are to be found here.

Fancy paying a visit to film sets where the likes of Brad Pitt and Halle Berry do what they do best? Think that means you need to hop on a plane and travel all the way to Hollywood? Think again! You may not have realised it until now, but there are plenty of German towns and cities that double up as film sets for major cinematic releases. Here's a look at just some of them...

Festive sparkle in Germany: candles, mulled wine and snow-laden woods

When a thick blanket of snow covers the country, lights sparkle on Christmas trees and the air is filled with aromas of cloves and cinnamon, the festive season has arrived. From baking cookies to making Christmas decorations or singing songs: Germany's many Christmas traditions create a very special atmosphere in December and help children in particular to pass the long days until Christmas Eve when the 'Christkind' or Father Christmas delivers their presents.

Germany celebrates 1700 years of Jewish Life this year.

No more hanging around on draughty platforms: Germany's train stations have branched out to become a haven for (window) shoppers and diners. And, of course, there are still places to buy snacks and reading materials for the journey.

From Schinkel to Foster, Baroque to modern: Germany is a country of architecture. Architects left their mark here, Bauhaus was founded here and there is a wide variety of icons, both great and small, to choose from.