Willkommen in Deutschland
In the heartland of Europe and with a seminal place in world history, Germany is a diverse country of cosmopolitan cities, rich cultural traditions, fairy tale castles and huge tracts of imposing dark forest. Famed for its oversize mugs of frothing beer, pagan festivals and Brothers Grimm scenery, it’s also a thoroughly modern country offering all the trappings of 21st-century life.
Visa & passport
Australian citizens holding a valid passport may stay up to 90 days without a visa every half year.
Local customs
A handshake accompanied by a verbal greeting of Guten Tag, and Tschüss when leaving, is customary. Visitors must carry passports with them at all times. Smoking is banned in public places, including bars and restaurants.
Languages
German; English is widely spoken and some French.
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Electricity
230V 50Hz
Oktoberfest
A pilgrimage of sorts for many, Munich’s famous Oktoberfest is an annual extravaganza of beer, bratwurtz and music. The festival actually begins in September and lasts for 16 days, ending on the first Sunday in October. Its historical roots go back to 1810, when a huge fair was held to celebrate the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Thérèse of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Today it’s estimated that over six million litres of beer is consumed, with each of Germany’s breweries represented in cavernous beer tents. A lively, raucous affair, it’s not for the faint-hearted, as row upon row of beer lovers sample the never-ending delights! The opening ceremony is definitely worth catching, as the brewery’s horse-drawn wagons roll in to the sound of brass bands and merry making, followed in the evening by a folk concert.
Shopping, shopping, shopping
The cities of Germany are a shopaholic’s delight, with no end of department stores, markets and boutiques waiting to be explored. Berlin is home to KaDaWe; established in 1907, it is one of the country’s oldest stores, best known for its sumptuous food hall on the top floor. In the heart of Munich is the Fünf Höfe (five courtyards), with an excellent blend of cafes and boutiques, while Dusseldorf is widely considered Germany’s fashion capital, home to a hotbed of international designers.
Brandenburg Gate
One of Germany’s most iconic structures, don’t miss the chance to visit the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. Commissioned by Friedrich Wilhelm II in 1791, it was designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans to signify peace and is the only remaining of his 18 city gates. In 1793, Johann Gottfried Schadow’s ‘Quadriga’ sculpture and winged ‘Goddess of Victory’ were added to the top. During the Cold War, the Gate was incorporated into the Berlin Wall, but today is used as the city’s enduring symbol of peace and unity.
Accommodation
Your family will love these favourite child-friendly hotels...
1. Excelsior Hotel, Frankfurt
Conveniently located opposite the main railway station and
close to countless sights, making exploring the city easy.
2. Holiday Inn Express, Berlin
Well located near public transport and the remarkable Potsdamerplatz.
3. Intercity Hotel, Munich
Centrally located, adjacent to the main railway station and
within walking distance of the Old Town.
Activities
The whole family will enjoy these favourite activities…
1. Hop-On Hop-Off, Munich
See all the sights in the capital of Bavaria on board this Hop-On
Hop-Off tour.
2. Frankfurt City Tour, Frankfurt
See the most important sights of old and modern Frankfurt, including St Paul’s Cathedral and the Old Opera.
Accommodation
Step back in time with these historical hotels…
1. Frankfurter Hof, Frankfurt
Experience the grandeur of the past finely combined with
modern-day comforts and amenities.
2. Kings Centre Hotel, Munich
Typical Bavarian-style accommodation, located in the city centre and within walking distance of the Old Town.
3. Hotel California, Berlin
Housed in a historical turn-of-the-20th-century building, this hotel offers a quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
Activities
Experience Germany’s rich history with these great tours…
1. Royal Castles of Neuschwanstein & Linderhof, Munich
Hidden in the seclusion of the mountains, you will discover two of the most extraordinary castles of King Ludwig II.
2. Potsdam & Sanssouci, Berlin
Famous for it’s splendid palaces and gardens, just a short
distance from Berlin.
Accommodation
Enjoy these great hotels in an excellent location…
1. Daniel Hotel, Munich
Great location, close to Marienplatz and the main railway station.
2. Intercity Hotel, Frankfurt
Centrally located in the heart of Frankfurt next to the main train station. Within walking distance of the international fairgrounds.
3. Courtyard City Centre, Munich
Spacious and comfortable, located close to the main railway station and only a few minutes walk from the Hoftbrauhaus.
Activities
Enjoy these value-packed activites…
1. Rhine Valley & Wine Tasting, Frankfurt
Cruise down the Rhine River on a steamer, passing medieval
castles, villages and vineyards.
2. Romantic Road and Rothenburg, Munich
Travel the Romantic Road stopping at Harburg, one of the oldest and best preserved castles in southern Germany.
Currently, there is no product for this specific listing.
If you are interested this destination please contact a travel agent to find a great package or further information.
Currently, there is no product for this specific listing.
If you are interested this destination please contact a travel agent to find a great package or further information.