By Mark Johnson

Posted: 2nd March 2012 08:34

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is arguably the most romantic city of Germany.  Its location is directly at the foot of the hilly Odenwald, a typical German mountain range full of forests and rivers.  Heidelberg is famous for its castle with its morbid flair. The famous English painter and artist William Turner visited Heidelberg several times and his painting of the Heidelberg castle is archetypical.

Heidelberg is the location of the oldest university of Germany (founded in 1386). The university is still one of the most prominent in Germany and Europe and the urban life of Heidelberg is dominated by students. Nevertheless, the region offers a element of escapism and beauty in rural Germany.

Rhine Valley

Running along the bank of the Rhine River from Bonn to Wiesbaden, this hiking trail passes through some of the most picturesque forests, villages and vineyards in Germany.  The trail through the Rhine valley gives you spectacular views of mountains, castles, mineral springs and small country inns.  The area from Bingen to Koblenz is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting 40 castles and stately homes.

Berlin

The vibrant German capital offers a lot of entertainment as well as cultural delights.  You can see most of the city from a boat trip on the Spree River.  Tours usually go around Museum Island, past the government buildings and reveal the most picturesque parts of the city.  Particularly attractive is the night tour, which allows you to see the city in a totally different light.  If not from the waterways, discover the city walking along its streets and squares, such as the most famous, Unter den Linden or Kurfuerstendamm alleys and the former East Berlin centre – Alexander Platz or the only recently adapted to a shopping and entertainment centre Potsdamer Platz.

Munich

Munich, although known as a large and sophisticated business centre, is a city that carries a warmth and charm unlike many other of Germany's major urban areas.  It appears that the Prussian formalism ingrained in much of country's north missed Bavaria and Munich.  The inhabitants of Munich genuinely like to enjoy themselves and the feeling is infectious.

Munich offers numerous galleries, exceptional museums, wonderful opera and a world-class symphony orchestra.  History is on display in the delightful Old Town, which is a charming area to walk.

The city is a really great experience; compact and park-like, it offers much to see and do.  In the nearby areas of Bavaria, you will find some of the best castles in Germany and other interesting attractions.

Neuschwanstein Castle

King Ludwig’s castle, south of Munich is the Romanesque building that inspired the Disney castle.  Although over run with tourists this doesn’t detract from the perfection of this castle both inside and out.  The most beautiful and picturesque view of the structure is from Mary’s Bridge, a stop half way up the hill towards the castle.  You can be taken there by horse drawn carriage making this an even more fairytale like experience.  Nearby is the equally beautiful Hohenschwangau Castle.

Cologne

Cologne is another great place to visit in Germany.  Right at the top of the list would be the famous Cologne Cathedral which is everything it is stated to be and more.  Dedicated to the three Wise Men, it is a treasure trove of spirituality, history, and Gothic architecture, all moulded into one supreme experience that will enchant and exhilarate.  If you’re on a round of churches, there are about ten more showcasing various period architecture and bits of history with a touch of the mystic in some cases.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a great German city to visit.  Famous for its fabulous airport, the city is awash with visitors most of the year.

While here, you should certainly visit the fantastic Alte Nikolaikirche known for its red and white edifice.  It dates back to the 13th century and has plenty of historic facts to add to its allure.  The Alte Oper or the Opera House is another magnificent building with a beautiful fountain that will take your breath away.  Looking at this vibrant piece of architecture you’ll be hard put to believe that it was almost totally destroyed in the world war bombing.  After admiring the building you might want to stay back for a concert or ballet.