Campsite in Germany

Do you love hiking and getting back to nature? Then Germany is the place for you. Nearly 10 national parks, 4 nature parks and 3 UNESCO-recognised Biosphere Reserves showcase Germany's natural wonders. Germany makes sure hikes and trails are well-signposted, so you don't need to worry about getting lost. You can reach most of the parks and reserves by bus or train.

Are you a history and culture buff who prefers an urban vibe? Germany's cities are fascinating places to explore. 

Starting with the capital, Berlin, which is intoxicating and grandiose, but also has a moving past. Visit the Reichstag, the seat of the German Bundestag, the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Zoo and other fascinating attractions. In the evening, enjoy the Berliner lifestyle on a café or restaurant terrace, and sample the local specialities.

Lots of other cities are well worth a visit, including Leipzig, the city of classical music par excellence, Nuremberg and its historic past, the lively Munich, Stuttgart with its delicious food, Frankfurt where nature and culture combine, Cologne and its carnival, Bremen for a picturesque interlude....

Do you love wild swimming? Germany has a range of unusual, off-beat spots to enjoy a swim.

Fancy swimming around the crater of a volcano? Then head to Pulvermaar in the Volcanic Eifel Geopark in Rhineland-Palatinate.

On hot summer days, take a refreshing dip in the River Isar which flows through the fashionable Bavarian city of Munich.

The Baltic Sea is another option, particularly in the Acheter wasser lagoon on the sunny island of Usedom.

Lake Constance is a must for visitors after grandiose landscapes. Holidaymakers who want an more off-beat experience can head to Großer Bullensee, near Kirchwalsede in Lower Saxony. You'll dive into a lake of black water. Don't worry though, it owes its colour to the high level of humus in this marshy region. The water can reach 30°C in summer!

If you're after a more luxurious experience, then have a soak in the historic thermal baths of Emperor Frederick, the Kaiser-Friedrich-Therme. A former Roman steam bath, where you can enjoy a moment of pure relaxation.

How about a leisurely start to your discovery of Germany with a river cruise? The country is dotted with waterways and rivers that criss-cross stunning landscapes, pass hillside vineyards and meander through picturesque towns and villages.

7 cruises tour the country, including ones on the Rhine for a romantic escape and visits to enchanting castles.

Neuschwanstein Castle showcases Bavarian palatial architecture. It's globally famous and inspired Disney's castle logo, so no surprise that it's nicknamed "fairytale castle". Built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, it stands over 200 metres high, offering breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps and its surrounding forests. 1.4 million visitors flock to this landmark every year. So booking your entry tickets online is a must.

The nearby Hohenschwangau Castle is also well worth a visit. Our tip: buy a combined entry ticket, so you can visit both castles in one day. A stop at the Marienbrücke viewpoint will give you the best angle for Insta-worthy snaps of these architectural beauties.