The second castle is perhaps the more famous of the two: New Swan Stone Castle, or Neuschwanstein Fussen Germany. With its spiraling towers and brilliant walls, this castle looks like it was brought straight out of a fairytale. Beauty and elegance intertwine to create a breathtaking treat for the eyes. Ludwig II originally ordered construction on the great building in 1869, but it was never completely finished. The King was a tremendous fan of Richard Wagner and the castle was named after the Swan Knight in Wagner's opera. Ludwig's love of the composer is quite evident as you walk through Neuschwanstein's luxurious passageways--many paintings hang on the walls that depict scenes from Wagner's operas. The best view of this enchanting castle, and the waterfall, is from the nearby Mary's Bridge. Be sure to bring your camera, because your friends will be astounded by the pictures of Neuschwanstein Fussen Germany.
Despite its small size, the town retains an immense popularity and Fussen tourism flourishes to its beautiful surroundings and incredible historical landmarks.
Vacation Germany travel attractions tourist information Germany travel. Find deals and information on attractions in Germany,helpful tips to plan a vacation Germany
Fussen - Two grand castles
Two grand castles are within a short distance of Fussen, Germany. The first is Schloss Hohenschwangau ("Castle of the High Swan Country") a remarkable place where King Ludwig the II spent the days of his youth. The location of Hohenschwangau was originally a fortress called Schwanstein that belonged to a family of knights. However, by the beginning of the 19th century, the fortress had been abandoned and had fallen into ruin. Crown Prince Maximilian discovered the location and was charmed by the landscape. He immediately commissioned the construction. The castle served as the family's summer residence and the future Kings Ludwig II and Otto I spent many years there as children. The castle did not suffer any damage during World War II so when you walk through its halls, you're walking along the same floors that Germanic nobility did over a hundred years earlier. Guided tours are available in many different languages. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come to Hohenschwangau each year, helping to maintain Fussen tourism.
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Fussen
Fussen
Standing in sharp contrast to the bustling metropolises of Germany, Fussen Germany is a remarkable town nestled at the foot of the Bavarian Alps. Despite the town's comparatively small size--14,357--Fussen tourism is quite strong because of its amazing vistas and the remarkable historic attractions nearby. Two historic castles are also located nearby--Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein Fussen Germany.
Fussen is the highest town in Bavaria, sitting at a lofty 808 meters (2,650 feet) above sea level. The river Lech, originating in Austria, flows through Fussen and adds further magic to the mountain town.
The Romantic Road--a road that runs across the countryside and features beautiful old walled towns, gorgeous meadows, and picturesque villages--comes to its end in Fussen, and what an end it is. Looking out upon the hills and mountains of Germany is breathtaking, and you haven't even seen the castles yet.
Fussen is the highest town in Bavaria, sitting at a lofty 808 meters (2,650 feet) above sea level. The river Lech, originating in Austria, flows through Fussen and adds further magic to the mountain town.
The Romantic Road--a road that runs across the countryside and features beautiful old walled towns, gorgeous meadows, and picturesque villages--comes to its end in Fussen, and what an end it is. Looking out upon the hills and mountains of Germany is breathtaking, and you haven't even seen the castles yet.
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Fussen
Frankfurt - museums - Palmengarten
Further shattering the stereotype as a town for business and nothing more is the incredible stretch of museums along both sides of the river Main. Thirteen museums can be found there, and another twenty more can be found throughout the city. Frankfurt tourism is cultivated by hosting new exhibits on a regular basis.
Of all the places to visit in Frankfurt Germany the most aesthetically pleasing is probably the Palmengarten. It was established in 1868 by the citizens of Frankfurt; fifty acres of gardens bloom with flowers and other unusual plants throughout the year. During the summer, concerts and festivals are held and during the winter, flowers are grown inside greenhouses. In the Palmengarten in Frankfurt, Germany it's okay to stop and smell the roses.
However, there's more to Frankfurt tourism than just what is within the city limits. Within an hour by car or bus you can find places to try local wine or even take a ride on the river Rhine to Loreley Rock. Nearby are mountains and forests which are excellent for hiking.
Feeling overwhelmed by all the different options? Don't worry, there are plenty of guided tours that stop by most of the interesting places to visit in Frankfurt Germany. Day trips are an excellent way to get to know the city leaving your evenings free to explore the bustling nightlife.
Of all the places to visit in Frankfurt Germany the most aesthetically pleasing is probably the Palmengarten. It was established in 1868 by the citizens of Frankfurt; fifty acres of gardens bloom with flowers and other unusual plants throughout the year. During the summer, concerts and festivals are held and during the winter, flowers are grown inside greenhouses. In the Palmengarten in Frankfurt, Germany it's okay to stop and smell the roses.
However, there's more to Frankfurt tourism than just what is within the city limits. Within an hour by car or bus you can find places to try local wine or even take a ride on the river Rhine to Loreley Rock. Nearby are mountains and forests which are excellent for hiking.
Feeling overwhelmed by all the different options? Don't worry, there are plenty of guided tours that stop by most of the interesting places to visit in Frankfurt Germany. Day trips are an excellent way to get to know the city leaving your evenings free to explore the bustling nightlife.
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Frankfurt
Frankfurt
Frankfurt Germany has had the reputation for sometime as being a center for business and finance. By no means is this incorrect. It is home to the European Central Bank and is one of the major finance centers on the continent. However, there's so much more to the city than the business flowing through its streets and the skyscrapers that dominate the view. Beneath the surface, Frankfurt tourism actually thrives on the arts.
Located in the state of Hesse, Frankfurt is a thriving metropolis full of international and local cultural flavors. Located along the banks of the Main River, the city serves as an essential trade hub for the rest of Europe. Yet the atmosphere is surprisingly open and relaxed for a city famed for its business. Since 1980, the city has even organized a drive to bring back those who were driven away from the city because of National Socialism. Frankfurt Germany has striven to make its population even more cosmopolitan and can boast a foreign population of more than 25%.
There are plenty of interesting places to visit in Frankfurt Germany and, much like the rest of the country, many of them relate to history. Poetry lovers will of course pay a visit to the birthplace of Frankfurt's own Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Meanwhile, the Imperial Cathedral, known as the Kaiserdom, is an excellent historical landmark. It was within those hallowed walls that the leaders of the Holy Roman Empire were chosen. Over the years it witnessed the coronation of ten Emperors.
Located in the state of Hesse, Frankfurt is a thriving metropolis full of international and local cultural flavors. Located along the banks of the Main River, the city serves as an essential trade hub for the rest of Europe. Yet the atmosphere is surprisingly open and relaxed for a city famed for its business. Since 1980, the city has even organized a drive to bring back those who were driven away from the city because of National Socialism. Frankfurt Germany has striven to make its population even more cosmopolitan and can boast a foreign population of more than 25%.
There are plenty of interesting places to visit in Frankfurt Germany and, much like the rest of the country, many of them relate to history. Poetry lovers will of course pay a visit to the birthplace of Frankfurt's own Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Meanwhile, the Imperial Cathedral, known as the Kaiserdom, is an excellent historical landmark. It was within those hallowed walls that the leaders of the Holy Roman Empire were chosen. Over the years it witnessed the coronation of ten Emperors.
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Frankfurt
Dresden - Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche is definitely one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dresden Germany. Designed by Dresden’s architect—George Bähr a master of the Baroque style—in the 18th century, the church featured an usually large 314 foot high dome. The dome weighed 12,000 tons and contained no internal supports. However, the Frauenkirche was destroyed during World War II. Reconstruction was attempted throughout the years, but it wasn’t until 1993 that the revival actually began. The price was steep, over $200 million, but by 2004 the outside of the church had been restored. The inside was due to be finished just in time for the city’s 800 year anniversary. Upon completion, the Frauenkirche further cemented its status as a great tourist site in Germany.
Perhaps the single greatest hardship suffered by the citizens of Dresden, Germany was the firebombing that took place toward the end of World War II. On Valentine’s Day, 1945, Allied planes carpet bombed the Altstadt (Old Town). Dresden was not considered militarily strategic, but the allies unleashed a bombing campaign because the Soviet army was merely fifty miles east of the city. The bombing was to aid the advance of the Red Army. The goal was to create a fire storm amidst the factories and buildings and prevent German resistance. However, ideal weather conditions caused a massive inferno that gutted tens of thousands of buildings. Yet it is because of this damage, and the subsequent attempt at revival, that makes Dresden a popular tourist site in Germany.
Perhaps the single greatest hardship suffered by the citizens of Dresden, Germany was the firebombing that took place toward the end of World War II. On Valentine’s Day, 1945, Allied planes carpet bombed the Altstadt (Old Town). Dresden was not considered militarily strategic, but the allies unleashed a bombing campaign because the Soviet army was merely fifty miles east of the city. The bombing was to aid the advance of the Red Army. The goal was to create a fire storm amidst the factories and buildings and prevent German resistance. However, ideal weather conditions caused a massive inferno that gutted tens of thousands of buildings. Yet it is because of this damage, and the subsequent attempt at revival, that makes Dresden a popular tourist site in Germany.
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Dresden
Dresden
Dresden Germany is the capital city of the state of Saxony and sits in an area that races back human habitation to the Neolithic period. In approximately 600 B.C., Germanic tribes settled in the Elbe river region. These settlers left about a thousand years later, making way for the Slavonic peoples who eventually founded Drezdany—a settlement where Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) currently stands. It’s from Drezdany that the later settlement of Dresden would derive its name. There are some sections of the city—Zschertnitz and Gompitz—that show its Slavonic roots. Dresden’s rich cultural heritage makes it a popular tourist site in Germany.
Perhaps the best way to start off a trip through Dresden is by taking a walk through the Old Town. Many of the main tourist attractions in Dresden Germany can be found under a mile from there. Old Town suffered heavy damage during World War II, but since reunification, efforts have been undertaken and Old Town is in the process of being restored to its former elegance.
Some of the highlights of Dresden travel include its many historic structures. Built during the 18th century, Zwinger Palace today houses several museums and contains more than 2000 paintings; the foremost among the paintings is the famous Sistine Madonna by Raphael. One can also find other relics of Saxony inside. Another of the popular tourist attractions in Dresden Germany is the Semper Opera House—a building that exemplifies neo-renaissance architecture. It was destroyed by fire in both 1869 and 1945, but the building that stands there today is an exact replica. Typically the only performances you’ll see here are classic opera. If you’re looking for contemporary works, you’re best served to check out the Kleine Szene Theater.
Perhaps the best way to start off a trip through Dresden is by taking a walk through the Old Town. Many of the main tourist attractions in Dresden Germany can be found under a mile from there. Old Town suffered heavy damage during World War II, but since reunification, efforts have been undertaken and Old Town is in the process of being restored to its former elegance.
Some of the highlights of Dresden travel include its many historic structures. Built during the 18th century, Zwinger Palace today houses several museums and contains more than 2000 paintings; the foremost among the paintings is the famous Sistine Madonna by Raphael. One can also find other relics of Saxony inside. Another of the popular tourist attractions in Dresden Germany is the Semper Opera House—a building that exemplifies neo-renaissance architecture. It was destroyed by fire in both 1869 and 1945, but the building that stands there today is an exact replica. Typically the only performances you’ll see here are classic opera. If you’re looking for contemporary works, you’re best served to check out the Kleine Szene Theater.
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Dresden
Cologne - Kölner Dom - history
However, what draws most to visit Cologne Germany is its cathedral. Known as Kölner Dom, this popular landmark is the unofficial symbol for the city. Construction began in 1248 A.D., but it took over 600 years to complete this mammoth gothic church. Its twin towers are 157 meters (515 feet) tall and the church is 144 meters (472 feet) long. The cathedral is under the control of the Roman Catholic Church and is the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne. For a time it held the honor of the world's tallest structure until the Washington Monument was finished. However, the cathedral remains the tallest Gothic edifice in the world and is an essential part of Cologne Germany history.
Another piece of Cologne Germany history that has made the city bears its namesake: Eau de Cologne. The perfumed water was first created in Cologne during the 18th century by an Italian merchant who had moved to Germany to make his fortune. Initially it was marketed as a cure-all before eventually evolving into what we commonly know cologne as today.
Adding to Cologne Germany history are its numerous museums. Of particular note is Schokoladen Museum which is dedicated solely to the process of chocolate making and includes state of the art methods. If you've got a sweet tooth, you won't want to miss it.
If you're looking for Cologne Germany travel and want take in the city from a distance, an hour tour on the Rhine is the perfect solution. You'll find plenty of these cruises between April and October.
Another piece of Cologne Germany history that has made the city bears its namesake: Eau de Cologne. The perfumed water was first created in Cologne during the 18th century by an Italian merchant who had moved to Germany to make his fortune. Initially it was marketed as a cure-all before eventually evolving into what we commonly know cologne as today.
Adding to Cologne Germany history are its numerous museums. Of particular note is Schokoladen Museum which is dedicated solely to the process of chocolate making and includes state of the art methods. If you've got a sweet tooth, you won't want to miss it.
If you're looking for Cologne Germany travel and want take in the city from a distance, an hour tour on the Rhine is the perfect solution. You'll find plenty of these cruises between April and October.
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Cologne
Cologne
Cologne, or Köln, Germany is the fourth largest city in the country behind Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich. Located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Cologne rests along the Rhine river. Initially founded by the Roman Empire, Cologne is one of Germany's oldest cities. Each year many tourists are attracted to Cologne Germany travel due to its fascinating history.
When you visit Cologne Germany you're sure to be enchanted by the blend of Romanesque churches, simple post-war buildings, and classic modern architecture. Like many of the other cities of Germany, Cologne suffered many air raids during World War II (262 in total). It was the site of the first 1,000 bomber raid by the Royal Air Force as well. As a result of such heavily focused fire, many of the old buildings were destroyed. However, efforts have been lead to reconstruct these buildings, including the twelve Romanesque churches in order to draw more to visit Cologne Germany. Many who look to Cologne Germany travel for visiting historic monuments; the majority of the classic buildings have been restored.
When you visit Cologne Germany you're sure to be enchanted by the blend of Romanesque churches, simple post-war buildings, and classic modern architecture. Like many of the other cities of Germany, Cologne suffered many air raids during World War II (262 in total). It was the site of the first 1,000 bomber raid by the Royal Air Force as well. As a result of such heavily focused fire, many of the old buildings were destroyed. However, efforts have been lead to reconstruct these buildings, including the twelve Romanesque churches in order to draw more to visit Cologne Germany. Many who look to Cologne Germany travel for visiting historic monuments; the majority of the classic buildings have been restored.
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Cologne
Berlin - the Berlin Wall - tours
Of course, one cannot mention Berlin without speaking of the Berlin Wall. There isn't terribly much left of the structure that split the city in twain, but the Brandenburg Gate still stands, serving as a reminder of the past. If you want a better understanding of the history behind the wall, you should visit the Berlin Wall Museum in Berlin.
Getting around Berlin isn't difficult. Sightseeing tours are available, but for those looking to conduct their own tours, there are plenty of other choices. Buses run throughout the city and are certainly a cheaper option than a guided tour. There are plenty of beautiful walks to be found along Berlin's many jogging paths. Cycling fans will find plenty of routes as well. It's even possible to explore Berlin by boat; the city has more bridges than Venice.
Berlin is the center of German film and cinema, shown by the famous Berlin Film Festival. Held each February, the Berlin Film Festival has been a mainstay in the city since 1951. Placing an emphasis on international productions, the festival has had a tradition of showing films from both the west and the east, despite the wall that divided the city. The Berlin Film Festival continues to this day, giving awards--known as the Gold and Silver Bears, as the bear is the symbol of Berlin--to top films from across the world.
Getting around Berlin isn't difficult. Sightseeing tours are available, but for those looking to conduct their own tours, there are plenty of other choices. Buses run throughout the city and are certainly a cheaper option than a guided tour. There are plenty of beautiful walks to be found along Berlin's many jogging paths. Cycling fans will find plenty of routes as well. It's even possible to explore Berlin by boat; the city has more bridges than Venice.
Berlin is the center of German film and cinema, shown by the famous Berlin Film Festival. Held each February, the Berlin Film Festival has been a mainstay in the city since 1951. Placing an emphasis on international productions, the festival has had a tradition of showing films from both the west and the east, despite the wall that divided the city. The Berlin Film Festival continues to this day, giving awards--known as the Gold and Silver Bears, as the bear is the symbol of Berlin--to top films from across the world.
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Berlin Overview
Berlin - Shopping
As you can imagine, all these different events has had a profound effect on Berlin, Germany, transforming it into a unique and beautiful city. Its mix of the past and the present creates a feeling of magic and wonder as you walk through the streets. One day you might pay a visit to the Charlottenburg Palace, home of the first Prussian King; on the next day you might go to Potsdamer Platz Arcades, a shopping center containing over a hundred modern stores.
Fans of history will be not be disappointed in Berlin Germany. The city has many popular museums that feature cultural, technological, and natural history. There are also countless historic sites like the Deutscher Dom, a cathedral built three hundred years ago.
Shopping is another popular pastime in Berlin. As mentioned above, Potsdamer Platz is a great center and possesses many cafes and restaurants for those who need a break from their shopping. However, there's much more than Potsdamer Platz. Friedrichstrasse has many shops from international designers as well as upscale delicatessens. Those looking for something a little less mainstream will love Hackescher Market, an area that hosts countless small shops that feature items containing their own unique style.
Fans of history will be not be disappointed in Berlin Germany. The city has many popular museums that feature cultural, technological, and natural history. There are also countless historic sites like the Deutscher Dom, a cathedral built three hundred years ago.
Shopping is another popular pastime in Berlin. As mentioned above, Potsdamer Platz is a great center and possesses many cafes and restaurants for those who need a break from their shopping. However, there's much more than Potsdamer Platz. Friedrichstrasse has many shops from international designers as well as upscale delicatessens. Those looking for something a little less mainstream will love Hackescher Market, an area that hosts countless small shops that feature items containing their own unique style.
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Berlin Overview
Berlin - History
Berlin is perhaps the best point for starting your vacation in Germany. Located in the north east part of the country, this capital city is surrounded by the state of Brandenburg. Berlin Germany is the proud host for many of the nation's institutions of higher learning, economic facilities, and centers for the arts. Berlin has a rich history and its people possess an old and intricate cultural heritage--largely due to the number of changes that Berlin has seen over the years.
Originally the capital for Prussia, Berlin Germany has served as a cultural center for hundreds of years. The first written information of the city comes from as early as 1244 A.D. Berlin Germany has swung between times of flourishing and times of darkness. The Thirty Years War in the seventeenth century saw a third of the homes damaged and half the population was lost. However, following this devastating blow, Frederick William--a Duke, and later King of Prussia--instituted a policy encouraging immigration and religious freedom. A great number of people moved to Berlin Germany in the following years and the city quickly rebounded. This caused the population to become far more cosmopolitan with a full 20% being French. Following the dissolution of the Empire, the Weimar Republic was proclaimed in Berlin. The seizure of power by the National Socialists in 1933 saw Berlin as a focus once again by declaring it the capital of the Third Reich. Following the end of World War II, the city was split into two halves--East Berlin was held by the Russians and communism while West Berlin was held by the allies and democracy. In 1961, the infamous Berlin Wall was constructed, further separating the two halves. However, the wall was torn down in 1989 and the country was unified once more.
Originally the capital for Prussia, Berlin Germany has served as a cultural center for hundreds of years. The first written information of the city comes from as early as 1244 A.D. Berlin Germany has swung between times of flourishing and times of darkness. The Thirty Years War in the seventeenth century saw a third of the homes damaged and half the population was lost. However, following this devastating blow, Frederick William--a Duke, and later King of Prussia--instituted a policy encouraging immigration and religious freedom. A great number of people moved to Berlin Germany in the following years and the city quickly rebounded. This caused the population to become far more cosmopolitan with a full 20% being French. Following the dissolution of the Empire, the Weimar Republic was proclaimed in Berlin. The seizure of power by the National Socialists in 1933 saw Berlin as a focus once again by declaring it the capital of the Third Reich. Following the end of World War II, the city was split into two halves--East Berlin was held by the Russians and communism while West Berlin was held by the allies and democracy. In 1961, the infamous Berlin Wall was constructed, further separating the two halves. However, the wall was torn down in 1989 and the country was unified once more.
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Berlin Overview
Germany History
German travel typically begins in one of the country’s major cities. The capital, Berlin, is always a popular destination, particularly with the renovation it has undertaken to the city center since the fall of the Berlin Wall. The Potsdamer Platz is soon to be completed and will be one of the must-see architectural attractions in Germany. However, there are more metropolises beyond Berlin to experience and many are drawn to jaunty Oktoberfest in Munich, the elegant Baroque architecture of Dresden, or Hamburg, known as the Green City on the Water due to its plethora of parks and lawns. Each of the cities offers a different experience to the German tourist.
History is one of the central attractions in Germany and those with a fondness for its study will be richly rewarded. Numerous castles dot the land, including the famous ones built by King Ludwig II, as well as great cathedrals such as the rebuilt Frauenkirche—a tremendous Baroque church that was heavily damaged during World War II. The many museums that can be found will delight and serve to uphold Germany’s reputation as the land of poets and thinkers.
If you are a German tourist with a passion for the nightlife, you will find no better place in Europe than Berlin. The capital city is well known for its all-night parties located in techno-clubs, but if those do not meet your taste do not fear, there are a host of more sophisticated lounges available that feature customized cocktail menus and elegant interiors.
As a member of the European Union, Germany uses the Euro as its currency. German tourists are able to change their currency in banks, post offices, and many major hotels. It is recommended that you exchange at least some money before leaving your own country to avoid long lines in airports. Many ATMs can be found across the country, but they often charge higher fees for international transactions ($5 or more). Credit cards are also accepted in many, but not all, places. However, you may incur a slight fee for the currency conversion.
Those from outside the E.U. will need their passport. Even if you are from the E.U. and possess your identity card, it is advised that those interested in German travel bring their Passport.
History is one of the central attractions in Germany and those with a fondness for its study will be richly rewarded. Numerous castles dot the land, including the famous ones built by King Ludwig II, as well as great cathedrals such as the rebuilt Frauenkirche—a tremendous Baroque church that was heavily damaged during World War II. The many museums that can be found will delight and serve to uphold Germany’s reputation as the land of poets and thinkers.
If you are a German tourist with a passion for the nightlife, you will find no better place in Europe than Berlin. The capital city is well known for its all-night parties located in techno-clubs, but if those do not meet your taste do not fear, there are a host of more sophisticated lounges available that feature customized cocktail menus and elegant interiors.
As a member of the European Union, Germany uses the Euro as its currency. German tourists are able to change their currency in banks, post offices, and many major hotels. It is recommended that you exchange at least some money before leaving your own country to avoid long lines in airports. Many ATMs can be found across the country, but they often charge higher fees for international transactions ($5 or more). Credit cards are also accepted in many, but not all, places. However, you may incur a slight fee for the currency conversion.
Those from outside the E.U. will need their passport. Even if you are from the E.U. and possess your identity card, it is advised that those interested in German travel bring their Passport.
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Germany
Germany overview
With a rich cultural tradition and gorgeous landscapes, it’s easy to imagine why so many find a wealth of attractions in Germany. The country possesses a bustling nightlife, numerous holidays and festivals, and picturesque scenery. Composed of sixteen states, each with their own personality, Germany is a major industrialized nation, but don’t let that fool you—there are miles and miles of natural wonders to behold: from the Black Forest to the Bavarian Alps to the beaches on the Baltic and North Seas.
Since reunification in 1990, Germany has reclaimed its position as the crossroads of Europe. It links Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia in the north to the Mediterranean countries in the south, and from the countries of the Atlantic to the west—such as France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands—to those of the east—Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic. As a result, there is a large amount of traffic passing through the country. However, German engineers are known for more than just automobiles; the roads running through the Rhineland, particularly the famed Autobahn, are exceptionally well-designed and maintained. Whether you’re in a bus, a car, or a train, German travel is safe and efficient.
The majority of the nation enjoys a temperate climate with winds out of the west. However, the Gulf Stream moderates the temperature to the north, with mild winters, cool summers, and a fair amount of rain year-round. To the east, the temperatures vary a bit more widely, with colder winters and hotter summers. Depending on location, central and southern Germany can resemble the north or east in temperature.
Since reunification in 1990, Germany has reclaimed its position as the crossroads of Europe. It links Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia in the north to the Mediterranean countries in the south, and from the countries of the Atlantic to the west—such as France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands—to those of the east—Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic. As a result, there is a large amount of traffic passing through the country. However, German engineers are known for more than just automobiles; the roads running through the Rhineland, particularly the famed Autobahn, are exceptionally well-designed and maintained. Whether you’re in a bus, a car, or a train, German travel is safe and efficient.
The majority of the nation enjoys a temperate climate with winds out of the west. However, the Gulf Stream moderates the temperature to the north, with mild winters, cool summers, and a fair amount of rain year-round. To the east, the temperatures vary a bit more widely, with colder winters and hotter summers. Depending on location, central and southern Germany can resemble the north or east in temperature.
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Germany
Stuttgart City Guide -Art Museum - Württemberg State Museum - Wilhelma
Kunstmuseum (Art Museum)
What is claimed as the world's most significant collection of works by 20th-century German painter Otto Dix forms the backbone of the collections here. Housed in a striking new building right in the heart of the city centre, the gallery additionally features special exhibitions throughout the year.
Kleiner Schlossplatz 1
Tel: (711) 216 2188.
Website: www.kunstmuseum-stuttgart.de
Admission charge.
Landesmuseum Württemberg (Württemberg State Museum)
Situated in the Altes Schloss (Old Palace) on historic Schillerplatz, the State Museum is home to sculptures and artefacts from the Stuttgart region and dating back to prehistoric, Celtic and Roman times. It also displays the Württemberg Crown Jewels, watches and clocks, furniture and jewellery collections.
Schillerplatz 6
Tel: (711) 279 3400.
Website: www.landesmuseum-stuttgart.de
Admission charge.
Wilhelma
Extensive zoological and botanical gardens in the north east of the city, in gardens created by King Wilhelm I of Württemberg during the 1850s. Redeveloped following WWII, the park now provides home to around 10,000 animals and 5,000 species of exotic plants.
Neckartalstrasse
Tel: (711) 54 020.
Website: www.wilhelma.de
Admission charge.
What is claimed as the world's most significant collection of works by 20th-century German painter Otto Dix forms the backbone of the collections here. Housed in a striking new building right in the heart of the city centre, the gallery additionally features special exhibitions throughout the year.
Kleiner Schlossplatz 1
Tel: (711) 216 2188.
Website: www.kunstmuseum-stuttgart.de
Admission charge.
Landesmuseum Württemberg (Württemberg State Museum)
Situated in the Altes Schloss (Old Palace) on historic Schillerplatz, the State Museum is home to sculptures and artefacts from the Stuttgart region and dating back to prehistoric, Celtic and Roman times. It also displays the Württemberg Crown Jewels, watches and clocks, furniture and jewellery collections.
Schillerplatz 6
Tel: (711) 279 3400.
Website: www.landesmuseum-stuttgart.de
Admission charge.
Wilhelma
Extensive zoological and botanical gardens in the north east of the city, in gardens created by King Wilhelm I of Württemberg during the 1850s. Redeveloped following WWII, the park now provides home to around 10,000 animals and 5,000 species of exotic plants.
Neckartalstrasse
Tel: (711) 54 020.
Website: www.wilhelma.de
Admission charge.
Stuttgart City Guide - Mercedes Benz Museum - State Gallery
Mercedes Benz Museum
Opened in 2006, this impressive new museum traces the history of motor vehicles from their invention by Gottlieb Daimler, a native of Baden-Württemberg and founder of Daimler-Benz, precursor of the modern luxury car brand, to the present day. Its collection includes 160 historic vehicles, plus 130 new models.
Mercedesstrasse 100
Tel: (711) 173 0000.
Website: www.museum-mercedes-benz.com
Admission charge.
Staatsgalerie (State Gallery)
An art gallery in three buildings, the oldest of which dates from the 1830s and contains works ranging from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. The new section contains collections by Picasso, Braque, Chagall, Klee and other 20th-century artists, while Germany's largest assembly of drawings and printed graphics also features.
Konrad-Adenauer-Strasse 30-32
Tel: (711) 470 400.
Website: www.staatsgalerie.de
Admission charge.
Opened in 2006, this impressive new museum traces the history of motor vehicles from their invention by Gottlieb Daimler, a native of Baden-Württemberg and founder of Daimler-Benz, precursor of the modern luxury car brand, to the present day. Its collection includes 160 historic vehicles, plus 130 new models.
Mercedesstrasse 100
Tel: (711) 173 0000.
Website: www.museum-mercedes-benz.com
Admission charge.
Staatsgalerie (State Gallery)
An art gallery in three buildings, the oldest of which dates from the 1830s and contains works ranging from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. The new section contains collections by Picasso, Braque, Chagall, Klee and other 20th-century artists, while Germany's largest assembly of drawings and printed graphics also features.
Konrad-Adenauer-Strasse 30-32
Tel: (711) 470 400.
Website: www.staatsgalerie.de
Admission charge.
Stuttgart City Guide - Sightseeing
Stuttgart suffered heavy damage during WWII bombing raids, and the city centre is characterised by modern buildings. However, there are a number of impressive exceptions, notably the huge baroque Neues Schloss (New Palace), which dominates Schlossplatz, a large open grassy square right in the heart of the city.
Other central highlights include the Schillerplatz, around which historic buildings such as the Altes Schloss, a palace dating back in parts to the 1300s, and the Alte Kanzlei delight the eye. Stuttgart is notable for its extensive range of museums and galleries housing numerous important collections.
The marketplace, although dominated by post-war architecture, does offer the historic Stiftskirche church. The art nouveau Markthalle nearby is a fascinating working indoor market, while a short distance to the south is the Bohnenviertel (Bean Quarter), the oldest part of the city, now known for its many cafés, bars and restaurants.
Away from the city centre, major attractions include the spectacular new Mercedes Benz Museum and the Wilhelma, a park containing a large zoo.
Tourist Information
Touristik-information ‘I-Punkt'
Königstrasse 1A
Tel: (711) 222 8240 or 22280.
Website: www.stuttgart-tourist.de
The tourist information office is located immediately opposite Stuttgart central station at the head of Königstrasse, the city's main pedestrianised shopping street.
Other central highlights include the Schillerplatz, around which historic buildings such as the Altes Schloss, a palace dating back in parts to the 1300s, and the Alte Kanzlei delight the eye. Stuttgart is notable for its extensive range of museums and galleries housing numerous important collections.
The marketplace, although dominated by post-war architecture, does offer the historic Stiftskirche church. The art nouveau Markthalle nearby is a fascinating working indoor market, while a short distance to the south is the Bohnenviertel (Bean Quarter), the oldest part of the city, now known for its many cafés, bars and restaurants.
Away from the city centre, major attractions include the spectacular new Mercedes Benz Museum and the Wilhelma, a park containing a large zoo.
Tourist Information
Touristik-information ‘I-Punkt'
Königstrasse 1A
Tel: (711) 222 8240 or 22280.
Website: www.stuttgart-tourist.de
The tourist information office is located immediately opposite Stuttgart central station at the head of Königstrasse, the city's main pedestrianised shopping street.
Stuttgart City
Stuttgart, capital of the southern state of Baden-Württemberg, has a lengthy past, but for a period served a pivotal role in the history both of its surrounding region, and later in the formation of modern Germany.
First impressions on entering the city centre (the visitor's first view is highly likely to be on emergence from the central railway station) are of a predominance of modern architecture.
The centre nevertheless has an attractive ‘open' feel. That it is at the heart of one of Germany's most prosperous regions is evident in the high quality of its shops, the many restaurants and its general atmosphere of calm well-being.
It is not without its historical monuments, but the overriding feel is one of a smart modern city entirely in keeping with the image of one of its principal exports, Mercedes Benz cars. Other major industries associated with the city include the Bosch empire.
The capital of the former Kingdom of Württemberg lies close to the banks of the River Neckar, and boasts, in its Bad Canstatt district, some of western Europe's biggest mineral spas.
During the Cold War period, Stuttgart served as headquarters for US forces throughout Europe and Africa (EUCOM). It achieved a certain notoriety during the 1970s, when it was a focal point for the Baader-Meinhof activities terrorist group's trials.
Stuttgart today is an interesting, if not architecturally stunning, city, with a pleasant atmosphere and a strong emphasis on arts, in the heart of rich surrounding winelands.
First impressions on entering the city centre (the visitor's first view is highly likely to be on emergence from the central railway station) are of a predominance of modern architecture.
The centre nevertheless has an attractive ‘open' feel. That it is at the heart of one of Germany's most prosperous regions is evident in the high quality of its shops, the many restaurants and its general atmosphere of calm well-being.
It is not without its historical monuments, but the overriding feel is one of a smart modern city entirely in keeping with the image of one of its principal exports, Mercedes Benz cars. Other major industries associated with the city include the Bosch empire.
The capital of the former Kingdom of Württemberg lies close to the banks of the River Neckar, and boasts, in its Bad Canstatt district, some of western Europe's biggest mineral spas.
During the Cold War period, Stuttgart served as headquarters for US forces throughout Europe and Africa (EUCOM). It achieved a certain notoriety during the 1970s, when it was a focal point for the Baader-Meinhof activities terrorist group's trials.
Stuttgart today is an interesting, if not architecturally stunning, city, with a pleasant atmosphere and a strong emphasis on arts, in the heart of rich surrounding winelands.
Labels:
Stuttgart City
Munich City Guide - Nymphenburg Palace - Bavaria Film Studios
Schloss Nymphenburg (Nymphenburg Palace)
Located on the western edge of the city, the Nymphenburg Palace was built between the 17th and 19th centuries. Highlights within the main palace include the late-rococo Steinerner Saal (Hall of Stone) and the ‘Gallery of Beauties' - a collection of portraits of beautiful women commissioned by Ludwig I. The extensive grounds conceal four miniature palaces within their landscaped confines, one of which, the Amalienburg, is considered the most attractive rococo palace in Germany. The Nymphenburg complex also includes the Marstallmuseum, which houses royal coaches and riding equipment, as well as the Bäuml Collection of Nymphenburg porcelain, with exhibits from 1747 until the 1920s.
Menzinger Strasse
Tel: (089) 179 080.
Website: www.schloesser.bayern.de
Admission charge.
Bavaria Film Studios
The tour of Germany's ‘Film City', where around 150 hours of cinema and TV films are produced every year, reveals the tricks of the film industry, including the making of films such us Das Boot (1981), Cabaret (1972), Die Unendliche Geschichte, better known as The Neverending Story (1984), and Perfume - The Story of a Murderer (2006), with Dustin Hoffman, as well as many German TV series. English tours are available at 1300 daily.
Bavariafilmplatz 7
Tel: (089) 6499 2000.
Website: www.filmtour.de
Admission charge.
Located on the western edge of the city, the Nymphenburg Palace was built between the 17th and 19th centuries. Highlights within the main palace include the late-rococo Steinerner Saal (Hall of Stone) and the ‘Gallery of Beauties' - a collection of portraits of beautiful women commissioned by Ludwig I. The extensive grounds conceal four miniature palaces within their landscaped confines, one of which, the Amalienburg, is considered the most attractive rococo palace in Germany. The Nymphenburg complex also includes the Marstallmuseum, which houses royal coaches and riding equipment, as well as the Bäuml Collection of Nymphenburg porcelain, with exhibits from 1747 until the 1920s.
Menzinger Strasse
Tel: (089) 179 080.
Website: www.schloesser.bayern.de
Admission charge.
Bavaria Film Studios
The tour of Germany's ‘Film City', where around 150 hours of cinema and TV films are produced every year, reveals the tricks of the film industry, including the making of films such us Das Boot (1981), Cabaret (1972), Die Unendliche Geschichte, better known as The Neverending Story (1984), and Perfume - The Story of a Murderer (2006), with Dustin Hoffman, as well as many German TV series. English tours are available at 1300 daily.
Bavariafilmplatz 7
Tel: (089) 6499 2000.
Website: www.filmtour.de
Admission charge.
Munich City Guide - Key Attractions 4
Jüdisches Museum (Jewish Museum)
From March 2007, a museum dedicated to the long history of Jewish culture in the Bavarian capital is a new place of interest on St-Jakobs-Platz, on the site of a pre-war synagogue. It succeeds a much smaller attraction on Maximilianstrasse, and offers three floors of exhibitions, including a special section explaining general Jewish history and religious topics.
St-Jakobs-Platz 16
Tel: (089) 2339 6096.
Website: www.juedisches-museum.muenchen.de/en
Admission charge.
BMW World
From its opening in the summer of 2007, the new BMW Welt centre, located adjacent to the BMW Building and the Olympic Complex, will ultimately incorporate a new and expanded museum dedicated to the iconic Bavarian motor company and its history. The new museum is scheduled to open towards the end of 2007, however until that time there is a special exhibition located adjacent to the Olympiaturm (Olympic Tower).
BMW Museum (until late 2007), Am Spiridon-Louis-Ring
Tel: (089) 3822 5652.
Website: www.bmw-welt.com
Admission charge.
From March 2007, a museum dedicated to the long history of Jewish culture in the Bavarian capital is a new place of interest on St-Jakobs-Platz, on the site of a pre-war synagogue. It succeeds a much smaller attraction on Maximilianstrasse, and offers three floors of exhibitions, including a special section explaining general Jewish history and religious topics.
St-Jakobs-Platz 16
Tel: (089) 2339 6096.
Website: www.juedisches-museum.muenchen.de/en
Admission charge.
BMW World
From its opening in the summer of 2007, the new BMW Welt centre, located adjacent to the BMW Building and the Olympic Complex, will ultimately incorporate a new and expanded museum dedicated to the iconic Bavarian motor company and its history. The new museum is scheduled to open towards the end of 2007, however until that time there is a special exhibition located adjacent to the Olympiaturm (Olympic Tower).
BMW Museum (until late 2007), Am Spiridon-Louis-Ring
Tel: (089) 3822 5652.
Website: www.bmw-welt.com
Admission charge.
Munich City Guide - Jewish Museum - BMW World
Jüdisches Museum (Jewish Museum)
From March 2007, a museum dedicated to the long history of Jewish culture in the Bavarian capital is a new place of interest on St-Jakobs-Platz, on the site of a pre-war synagogue. It succeeds a much smaller attraction on Maximilianstrasse, and offers three floors of exhibitions, including a special section explaining general Jewish history and religious topics.
St-Jakobs-Platz 16
Tel: (089) 2339 6096.
Website: www.juedisches-museum.muenchen.de/en
Admission charge.
BMW World
From its opening in the summer of 2007, the new BMW Welt centre, located adjacent to the BMW Building and the Olympic Complex, will ultimately incorporate a new and expanded museum dedicated to the iconic Bavarian motor company and its history. The new museum is scheduled to open towards the end of 2007, however until that time there is a special exhibition located adjacent to the Olympiaturm (Olympic Tower).
BMW Museum (until late 2007), Am Spiridon-Louis-Ring
Tel: (089) 3822 5652.
Website: www.bmw-welt.com
Admission charge.
From March 2007, a museum dedicated to the long history of Jewish culture in the Bavarian capital is a new place of interest on St-Jakobs-Platz, on the site of a pre-war synagogue. It succeeds a much smaller attraction on Maximilianstrasse, and offers three floors of exhibitions, including a special section explaining general Jewish history and religious topics.
St-Jakobs-Platz 16
Tel: (089) 2339 6096.
Website: www.juedisches-museum.muenchen.de/en
Admission charge.
BMW World
From its opening in the summer of 2007, the new BMW Welt centre, located adjacent to the BMW Building and the Olympic Complex, will ultimately incorporate a new and expanded museum dedicated to the iconic Bavarian motor company and its history. The new museum is scheduled to open towards the end of 2007, however until that time there is a special exhibition located adjacent to the Olympiaturm (Olympic Tower).
BMW Museum (until late 2007), Am Spiridon-Louis-Ring
Tel: (089) 3822 5652.
Website: www.bmw-welt.com
Admission charge.
Munich City Guide - Key Attractions 2
Allianz Arena
Opened in 2005 prior to the German hosting of the 2006 World Cup football tournament in which it featured as a leading match venue, the spectacular 69,000 capacity Allianz Arena replaced the Olympic Stadium as home for Munich's two leading clubs, Bayern Munich and 1860 Munich. Located in the Fröttmaning district, about 15 minutes by S-Bahn from Marienplatz, it offers behind-the-scenes tours on non-match days.
Werner-Heisenberg-Allee
Tel: (01805) 555 101.
Website: www.allianz-arena.de/en
Admission charge.
Englischer Garten (English Garden)
The English Garden is the largest urban park in Germany, and is a quiet oasis in the heart of busy Munich. Attractions include the Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower), with its great beer garden (one of the focal points of the Oktoberfest), the Japanisches Teehaus (Japanese Teahouse) and the Monopteros, a Greek-style temple. The Kleinhesselhoher See (a lake in the centre of the park) and the Amphitheater offer lots of activities in the summer months. The Haus der Kunst (home of the State Gallery of Modern Art), which hosts excellent temporary exhibitions, and the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum (Bavarian National Museum) are located on Prinzregentenstrasse, on the southern edge of the park.
Haus der Kunst
Prinzregentenstrasse 1
Tel: (089) 2112 7113.
Website: www.hausderkunst.de
Admission charge.
Bayerisches Nationalmuseum
Prinzregentenstrasse 3
Tel: (089) 211 2401.
Website: www.bayerisches-nationalmuseum.de
Admission charge.
Opened in 2005 prior to the German hosting of the 2006 World Cup football tournament in which it featured as a leading match venue, the spectacular 69,000 capacity Allianz Arena replaced the Olympic Stadium as home for Munich's two leading clubs, Bayern Munich and 1860 Munich. Located in the Fröttmaning district, about 15 minutes by S-Bahn from Marienplatz, it offers behind-the-scenes tours on non-match days.
Werner-Heisenberg-Allee
Tel: (01805) 555 101.
Website: www.allianz-arena.de/en
Admission charge.
Englischer Garten (English Garden)
The English Garden is the largest urban park in Germany, and is a quiet oasis in the heart of busy Munich. Attractions include the Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower), with its great beer garden (one of the focal points of the Oktoberfest), the Japanisches Teehaus (Japanese Teahouse) and the Monopteros, a Greek-style temple. The Kleinhesselhoher See (a lake in the centre of the park) and the Amphitheater offer lots of activities in the summer months. The Haus der Kunst (home of the State Gallery of Modern Art), which hosts excellent temporary exhibitions, and the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum (Bavarian National Museum) are located on Prinzregentenstrasse, on the southern edge of the park.
Haus der Kunst
Prinzregentenstrasse 1
Tel: (089) 2112 7113.
Website: www.hausderkunst.de
Admission charge.
Bayerisches Nationalmuseum
Prinzregentenstrasse 3
Tel: (089) 211 2401.
Website: www.bayerisches-nationalmuseum.de
Admission charge.
Munich City Guide - Allianz Arena - English Garden
Allianz Arena
Opened in 2005 prior to the German hosting of the 2006 World Cup football tournament in which it featured as a leading match venue, the spectacular 69,000 capacity Allianz Arena replaced the Olympic Stadium as home for Munich's two leading clubs, Bayern Munich and 1860 Munich. Located in the Fröttmaning district, about 15 minutes by S-Bahn from Marienplatz, it offers behind-the-scenes tours on non-match days.
Werner-Heisenberg-Allee
Tel: (01805) 555 101.
Website: www.allianz-arena.de/en
Admission charge.
Englischer Garten (English Garden)
The English Garden is the largest urban park in Germany, and is a quiet oasis in the heart of busy Munich. Attractions include the Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower), with its great beer garden (one of the focal points of the Oktoberfest), the Japanisches Teehaus (Japanese Teahouse) and the Monopteros, a Greek-style temple. The Kleinhesselhoher See (a lake in the centre of the park) and the Amphitheater offer lots of activities in the summer months. The Haus der Kunst (home of the State Gallery of Modern Art), which hosts excellent temporary exhibitions, and the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum (Bavarian National Museum) are located on Prinzregentenstrasse, on the southern edge of the park.
Haus der Kunst
Prinzregentenstrasse 1
Tel: (089) 2112 7113.
Website: www.hausderkunst.de
Admission charge.
Bayerisches Nationalmuseum
Prinzregentenstrasse 3
Tel: (089) 211 2401.
Website: www.bayerisches-nationalmuseum.de
Admission charge.
Opened in 2005 prior to the German hosting of the 2006 World Cup football tournament in which it featured as a leading match venue, the spectacular 69,000 capacity Allianz Arena replaced the Olympic Stadium as home for Munich's two leading clubs, Bayern Munich and 1860 Munich. Located in the Fröttmaning district, about 15 minutes by S-Bahn from Marienplatz, it offers behind-the-scenes tours on non-match days.
Werner-Heisenberg-Allee
Tel: (01805) 555 101.
Website: www.allianz-arena.de/en
Admission charge.
Englischer Garten (English Garden)
The English Garden is the largest urban park in Germany, and is a quiet oasis in the heart of busy Munich. Attractions include the Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower), with its great beer garden (one of the focal points of the Oktoberfest), the Japanisches Teehaus (Japanese Teahouse) and the Monopteros, a Greek-style temple. The Kleinhesselhoher See (a lake in the centre of the park) and the Amphitheater offer lots of activities in the summer months. The Haus der Kunst (home of the State Gallery of Modern Art), which hosts excellent temporary exhibitions, and the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum (Bavarian National Museum) are located on Prinzregentenstrasse, on the southern edge of the park.
Haus der Kunst
Prinzregentenstrasse 1
Tel: (089) 2112 7113.
Website: www.hausderkunst.de
Admission charge.
Bayerisches Nationalmuseum
Prinzregentenstrasse 3
Tel: (089) 211 2401.
Website: www.bayerisches-nationalmuseum.de
Admission charge.
Deutsches Museum (German Museum)
The vast Deutsches Museum presents a dauntingly comprehensive survey of science and technology, from prehistoric tools to space age inventions. Permanent interactive exhibitions are organised around various themes, including Aerospace, Computers, Mining, Technical Toys and Telecommunications. Next door, the Forum der Technik (Technology Forum) houses a planetarium and an IMAX theatre. Flugwerft Schleissheim (Schleissheim Aerodrome), located at Germany's oldest aerodrome, is a branch of the museum that focuses on aviation history.
Museumsinsel 1
Tel: (089) 21791.
Website: www.deutsches-museum.de
Admission charge.
Flugwerft Schleissheim
Effnerstrasse 18, Oberschleissheim
Tel: (089) 315 7140.
Website: www.deutsches-museum.de
Admission charge.
Museumsinsel 1
Tel: (089) 21791.
Website: www.deutsches-museum.de
Admission charge.
Flugwerft Schleissheim
Effnerstrasse 18, Oberschleissheim
Tel: (089) 315 7140.
Website: www.deutsches-museum.de
Admission charge.
Munich City Guide - Key Attractions - The Three Pinakotheks
The Alte Pinakothek (Old Pinacotheca), constructed in the 19th century for King Ludwig I, is home to one of the world's oldest and most important collections of paintings by European Old Masters, including Dürer, Raphael, Rembrandt and Rubens.
The Neue Pinakothek (New Pinacotheca), located opposite in a modern building, was conceived by Ludwig I, as a showcase for contemporary art. The museum houses European painting and sculpture from the second half of the 18th century to the beginning of the 20th century. German painting of the 19th century forms the core of the collection. The entrance price includes an audio-guide, which is available in English.
The third Pinakothek der Moderne (Pinacotheca of Modern Art) is a collection of contemporary art, architecture and design, taken from disparate collections throughout the city to complement the works housed in the first two galleries. The Glyptothek (ancient Greek art) and the Antikensammlung (antiquities collection) are located nearby at Königsplatz.
Alte Pinakothek
Barer Strasse 27
Tel: (089) 2380 5216.
Website: www.pinakothek.de/alte-pinakothek
Admission charge.
Neue Pinakothek
Barer Strasse 29
Tel: (089) 2380 5195.
Website: www.pinakothek.de/neue-pinakothek
Admission charge.
Pinakothek der Moderne
Barer Strasse 40
Tel: (089) 2380 5360.
Website: www.pinakothek.de/pinakothek-der-moderne
Admission charge.
The Neue Pinakothek (New Pinacotheca), located opposite in a modern building, was conceived by Ludwig I, as a showcase for contemporary art. The museum houses European painting and sculpture from the second half of the 18th century to the beginning of the 20th century. German painting of the 19th century forms the core of the collection. The entrance price includes an audio-guide, which is available in English.
The third Pinakothek der Moderne (Pinacotheca of Modern Art) is a collection of contemporary art, architecture and design, taken from disparate collections throughout the city to complement the works housed in the first two galleries. The Glyptothek (ancient Greek art) and the Antikensammlung (antiquities collection) are located nearby at Königsplatz.
Alte Pinakothek
Barer Strasse 27
Tel: (089) 2380 5216.
Website: www.pinakothek.de/alte-pinakothek
Admission charge.
Neue Pinakothek
Barer Strasse 29
Tel: (089) 2380 5195.
Website: www.pinakothek.de/neue-pinakothek
Admission charge.
Pinakothek der Moderne
Barer Strasse 40
Tel: (089) 2380 5360.
Website: www.pinakothek.de/pinakothek-der-moderne
Admission charge.
Münchener Residenz
Münchener Residenz (Munich Residence)
The Munich Residence dates from 1385, when it originated as a small castle. Successive members of the Wittelsbach dynasty expanded the original 14th-century castle to create a complex of palaces around seven courtyards. The elaborate rooms contain antiques, sculptures, paintings and tapestries amassed by the Wittelsbachs between the 16th and 19th centuries - some rooms can only be visited during the morning or afternoon. Other royal treasures are on show in the Schatzkammer (Treasury). The entire Residenz complex, including the rococo Cuvilliés-Theater, was rebuilt and restored after being reduced to rubble during WWII.
Residenzstrasse 1
Tel: (089) 290 671.
Website: www.residenz-muenchen.de
Admission charge.
The Munich Residence dates from 1385, when it originated as a small castle. Successive members of the Wittelsbach dynasty expanded the original 14th-century castle to create a complex of palaces around seven courtyards. The elaborate rooms contain antiques, sculptures, paintings and tapestries amassed by the Wittelsbachs between the 16th and 19th centuries - some rooms can only be visited during the morning or afternoon. Other royal treasures are on show in the Schatzkammer (Treasury). The entire Residenz complex, including the rococo Cuvilliés-Theater, was rebuilt and restored after being reduced to rubble during WWII.
Residenzstrasse 1
Tel: (089) 290 671.
Website: www.residenz-muenchen.de
Admission charge.
Labels:
Münchener Residenz
Munich City Guide - Key Attractions - Around Marienplatz
Around Marienplatz
Marienplatz has been at the heart of Munich since the city's foundation in 1158. The area is now a major hub for the urban transport network. For centuries, it was known as the Schrannenmarkt (the place where farmers and merchants came to buy and sell their goods) but was renamed in 1854, after the statue of the Virgin Mary in the centre. The north side of Marienplatz is entirely dominated by the neo-gothic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), built in the 19th century. Miniature statues of Bavarian rulers and other characters adorn the hall's façade, while the 85m (279ft) tower houses a glockenspiel consisting of 43 bells. The bells are accompanied by mechanical marionettes that perform scenes from Munich's history. Visitors can ascend the tower by lift.Nearby, other buildings of note include the 15th-century Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), which houses a delightful toy museum, and the Frauenkirche - Munich's cathedral. Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, on the site of the Romanesque Marienkirche, the austere cathedral houses the tomb of Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian, and the legendary ‘Devil's Footprint' intriguingly embedded in the church floor.
Neues Rathaus
Marienplatz 8
Tel: (089) 23300.
Admission charge.
Altes Rathaus Toy Museum
Marienplatz
Tel: (089) 294 001.
Admission charge.
Frauenkirche
Frauenplatz 1
Tel: (089) 290 0820.
Admission free (charge for tower).
Marienplatz has been at the heart of Munich since the city's foundation in 1158. The area is now a major hub for the urban transport network. For centuries, it was known as the Schrannenmarkt (the place where farmers and merchants came to buy and sell their goods) but was renamed in 1854, after the statue of the Virgin Mary in the centre. The north side of Marienplatz is entirely dominated by the neo-gothic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), built in the 19th century. Miniature statues of Bavarian rulers and other characters adorn the hall's façade, while the 85m (279ft) tower houses a glockenspiel consisting of 43 bells. The bells are accompanied by mechanical marionettes that perform scenes from Munich's history. Visitors can ascend the tower by lift.Nearby, other buildings of note include the 15th-century Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), which houses a delightful toy museum, and the Frauenkirche - Munich's cathedral. Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, on the site of the Romanesque Marienkirche, the austere cathedral houses the tomb of Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian, and the legendary ‘Devil's Footprint' intriguingly embedded in the church floor.
Neues Rathaus
Marienplatz 8
Tel: (089) 23300.
Admission charge.
Altes Rathaus Toy Museum
Marienplatz
Tel: (089) 294 001.
Admission charge.
Frauenkirche
Frauenplatz 1
Tel: (089) 290 0820.
Admission free (charge for tower).
Munich City Guide - Sightseeing
Marienplatz, where the main pedestrianised streets converge, is the undisputed centre of the city. Weinstrasse, which becomes Theatinerstrasse, runs north from Marienplatz to Odeonsplatz, while Kaufinger Strasse/NeuhauserstrasseStrasse, which becomes Neuhauserstrasse, runs west to Karlsplatz - known locally as Stachus.
Many of the city's main attractions are in the immediate vicinity, so sightseeing can easily be done on foot or by hopping on and off trams. Worth seeing are the 16th-century Michaelskirche, with its imposing barrel-vaulted interior, and the Asamkirche, considered a masterpiece of south German Rococo architecture.
The oldest part of the city is the area to the east of Marienplatz, including the Alter Hof (the original royal residence) and the world-famous Hofbräuhaus. The Residenz complex lies to the north.
The wide boulevard and grand palatial architecture of Ludwigstrasse and Leopoldstrasse stretches north of Odeonsplatz to the Siegestor. These grand building schemes were commissioned by Ludwig I, as were those around Königsplatz, in the part of the city known as Maxvorstadt - home to some of Munich's most important museums and galleries.
From the Siegestor, Leopoldstrasse forms the central artery of the popular district of Schwabing. The former artists' quarter is now considered the most fashionable part of the city, with numerous cafés, bars, restaurants and nightlife venues.
To the east of Leopoldstrasse, side roads lead off to the Englischer Garten, a quiet retreat from the busy city.
Many of the city's main attractions are in the immediate vicinity, so sightseeing can easily be done on foot or by hopping on and off trams. Worth seeing are the 16th-century Michaelskirche, with its imposing barrel-vaulted interior, and the Asamkirche, considered a masterpiece of south German Rococo architecture.
The oldest part of the city is the area to the east of Marienplatz, including the Alter Hof (the original royal residence) and the world-famous Hofbräuhaus. The Residenz complex lies to the north.
The wide boulevard and grand palatial architecture of Ludwigstrasse and Leopoldstrasse stretches north of Odeonsplatz to the Siegestor. These grand building schemes were commissioned by Ludwig I, as were those around Königsplatz, in the part of the city known as Maxvorstadt - home to some of Munich's most important museums and galleries.
From the Siegestor, Leopoldstrasse forms the central artery of the popular district of Schwabing. The former artists' quarter is now considered the most fashionable part of the city, with numerous cafés, bars, restaurants and nightlife venues.
To the east of Leopoldstrasse, side roads lead off to the Englischer Garten, a quiet retreat from the busy city.
English Garden (Englischer Garten)
The Englischer Garten, measuring 3.7 square kilometres (1.4 square miles), is one of Europe’s oldest urban landscaped parks, originally laid out in 1789 by American Benjamin Thomson as a garden for the military. It was soon opened to the public, however, and has been popular with locals and visitors ever since due to the natural landscapes and wide open spaces which make it an oasis in the centre of the city. Popular activities include boating on the Kleinhesselhoher Lake and sunbathing (there is even a special area for naturists). In winter, the garden hosts a Christmas market and in summer there are open-air concerts and plays performed in the amphitheatre.
Contact Addresses
Verwaltung des Englischen Gartens München, Englischer Garten 2, 80538 Munich, Germany
Tel: (089) 3866 639-0
Contact Addresses
Verwaltung des Englischen Gartens München, Englischer Garten 2, 80538 Munich, Germany
Tel: (089) 3866 639-0
Munich Residence (Residenz München)
The Munich Residence, located in the centre of the city, is a magnificent complex of buildings constructed by the powerful Wittelsbach family who ruled Bavaria for 800 years. Although originally dating from the 14th century, subsequent additions and alterations gave the Residence a variety of architectural styles, right up until the fall of the Wittelsbach dynasty in 1918. Renaissance features predominate and one of the most impressive rooms in the complex is the Imperial Hall. The Antiquarium, built in 1571, is the oldest part of the palace and houses the family’s collection of antiquities, whilst the Schatzkammer (treasury) holds an exquisite array of diamonds, rubies and other precious stones.
Air: Munich International Airport. Rail: Train: München Hauptbahnhof (Munich Station). Underground: Odeonsplatz or Marienplatz. Tram: 19 (Nationaltheater).
Contact Addresses
Residenz München, Residenzstrasse 1, 80333 Munich, Germany
Tel: (089) 290 671
Website: www.schloesser.bayern.de
Air: Munich International Airport. Rail: Train: München Hauptbahnhof (Munich Station). Underground: Odeonsplatz or Marienplatz. Tram: 19 (Nationaltheater).
Contact Addresses
Residenz München, Residenzstrasse 1, 80333 Munich, Germany
Tel: (089) 290 671
Website: www.schloesser.bayern.de
Munich City
Located to the north of the Bavarian Alps, on the River Isar, Munich (München) is Germany's third largest city, and is where the country's wealthy trendsetters like to ‘be seen'.
Founded by Duke Henry the Lion in 1158, within a century, the city had become the seat of the Wittelsbach dynasty, who ruled the duchy, electorate and kingdom of Bavaria until the end of WWI.
Their influence is evident in the concentration of grand gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and neo-classical architecture adorning Munich's streets. Perhaps most importantly, the Wittelsbachs' patronage of the arts and extensive collections provided the basis for this affluent city's world-class museums and galleries.
The city acquired the name München (‘home of the monks') from its first monastery, founded in the eighth century. Monasteries have since played an important role in the history of the city, not least by starting the beer brewing traditions for which the city has received worldwide renown.
Successive rulers, detecting a profitable source of tax revenue, actively encouraged beer production as a means both of raising money and keeping the populace happy at the same time.
Following recent mergers, the city's six breweries have been reduced to four - Augustiner, Hofbräuhaus, Paulaner (who now own Hacker-Pschorr) and the merged Spaten-Löwenbräu. Beer quality is still based on the Reinheitsgebot (Purity Edict), introduced by the Bavarian Duke Wilhelm IV, in 1516, which forbids the use of anything other than the core ingredients of barley, hops and water in the brewing process.
Drinking a foaming Mass (measure) of beer in one of the city's beer halls or gardens is an essential part of the Munich experience.
The period between the wars represents the low point in Munich's history and tends to be glossed over by tourist brochures. The city was the cradle of the Nazi movement after WWI and was the scene of Hitler's first attempt to seize power - the infamous ‘Beer Hall Putsch' on 8 November 1923.
Moreover, in 1938, the treaty that surrendered a large portion of Czechoslovakia to the Nazis was signed by Germany, Great Britain, France and Italy in Munich - an act of appeasement that started the slide towards WWII.
The city suffered intensive bombing damage during Allied air raids at the end of the war but the economic success of the post-war years has supported a comprehensive rebuilding and restoration programme, making the city one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany.
The citizens of Munich demonstrate a cosmopolitan refinement as well as genuine passion for the region's many traditions, and tourists flock to the city for the world famous Oktoberfest, to indulge in an orgy of beer and revelry.
The stereotypical images of lederhosen-clad Bavarians quaffing vast portions of beer and sausage might apply at this time, however, with a strong cultural scene, richly endowed art collections and excellent shopping, the city, also home of BMW cars and centre of the German film industry, certainly has more to offer than just light entertainment.
With warm summers accommodating lovely garden restaurants and open-air stages, and snowy winters with romantic Christmas markets, Munich is a place to visit all year round.
Founded by Duke Henry the Lion in 1158, within a century, the city had become the seat of the Wittelsbach dynasty, who ruled the duchy, electorate and kingdom of Bavaria until the end of WWI.
Their influence is evident in the concentration of grand gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and neo-classical architecture adorning Munich's streets. Perhaps most importantly, the Wittelsbachs' patronage of the arts and extensive collections provided the basis for this affluent city's world-class museums and galleries.
The city acquired the name München (‘home of the monks') from its first monastery, founded in the eighth century. Monasteries have since played an important role in the history of the city, not least by starting the beer brewing traditions for which the city has received worldwide renown.
Successive rulers, detecting a profitable source of tax revenue, actively encouraged beer production as a means both of raising money and keeping the populace happy at the same time.
Following recent mergers, the city's six breweries have been reduced to four - Augustiner, Hofbräuhaus, Paulaner (who now own Hacker-Pschorr) and the merged Spaten-Löwenbräu. Beer quality is still based on the Reinheitsgebot (Purity Edict), introduced by the Bavarian Duke Wilhelm IV, in 1516, which forbids the use of anything other than the core ingredients of barley, hops and water in the brewing process.
Drinking a foaming Mass (measure) of beer in one of the city's beer halls or gardens is an essential part of the Munich experience.
The period between the wars represents the low point in Munich's history and tends to be glossed over by tourist brochures. The city was the cradle of the Nazi movement after WWI and was the scene of Hitler's first attempt to seize power - the infamous ‘Beer Hall Putsch' on 8 November 1923.
Moreover, in 1938, the treaty that surrendered a large portion of Czechoslovakia to the Nazis was signed by Germany, Great Britain, France and Italy in Munich - an act of appeasement that started the slide towards WWII.
The city suffered intensive bombing damage during Allied air raids at the end of the war but the economic success of the post-war years has supported a comprehensive rebuilding and restoration programme, making the city one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany.
The citizens of Munich demonstrate a cosmopolitan refinement as well as genuine passion for the region's many traditions, and tourists flock to the city for the world famous Oktoberfest, to indulge in an orgy of beer and revelry.
The stereotypical images of lederhosen-clad Bavarians quaffing vast portions of beer and sausage might apply at this time, however, with a strong cultural scene, richly endowed art collections and excellent shopping, the city, also home of BMW cars and centre of the German film industry, certainly has more to offer than just light entertainment.
With warm summers accommodating lovely garden restaurants and open-air stages, and snowy winters with romantic Christmas markets, Munich is a place to visit all year round.
Labels:
Munich City
Hanover City Guide - Eilenriede park - The zoo - Maschsee - Street Art
Eilenriede
Eilenriede park is virtually a city forest and Hanover's ‘green lungs'. It covers an area of 650 hectares (1,943 acres), larger than Central Park in New York. The park comprises woodland and meadows, crisscrossed by a network of paths and fitness trails and dotted with numerous monuments, a mini golf course, a toboggan slope, restaurants, cafes and beer gardens. The northern part of Eilenriede encompasses a bird sanctuary and the popular Erlebnis Zoo Hannover, which houses over 2,600 animals.
The zoo is much better than many of its ilk, with visitors able to explore four unique Zoo Adventure Worlds - Zambezi, Jungle Palace, Gorilla Mountain and Meyer's Farm. A fifth Zoo World, representing the vast Alaskan wilderness of ‘Yukon Bay', is under construction - a model can be viewed near the Jungle Palace.
Erlebnis Zoo Hannover
Adenauerallee 3
Tel: (0511) 2807 4163.
Website: www.zoo-hannover.de
Admission charge.
Maschsee
The 68-hectare (168-acre) Maschsee Lake was dug out between 1934 and 1936, providing the city with an enviable aquatic playground. Pleasure seekers can enjoy summer boat trips or illuminated evening cruises (including dinner), operated by the local transport organisation from Rudolf-von-Bennigsen-Ufer. The Maschsee fleet includes a solar-powered catamaran with a capacity of up to 55 people. The lake is surrounded by parkland and has a number of restaurants, beer gardens and a casino on its shores. During summer, Maschsee provides the perfect setting for a popular cultural and entertainment festival (see Special Events).
Rudolf von Bennigsen Ufer
Tel: (0511) 700 950.
Website: www.uestra-reisen.de/content/maschsee
Free admission.
Street Art
Hanover's bountiful street art is a highlight of visiting the city. Much of the innovative public art dates back to the 1970s, with a plethora of weird and wonderful creations, from multi-coloured shapes through to surreal sculptures, such as a stag with a figure of a man sitting atop its antlers. Perhaps the most famous work are the three buxom ‘Nanas' placed on the banks of the Leine river. These characters were creations of French artist Niki de St Phalle, who died in 2002. Many of the city's bizarre fountains are also works of art in themselves, as are a number of Hanover's bus stops.
Eilenriede park is virtually a city forest and Hanover's ‘green lungs'. It covers an area of 650 hectares (1,943 acres), larger than Central Park in New York. The park comprises woodland and meadows, crisscrossed by a network of paths and fitness trails and dotted with numerous monuments, a mini golf course, a toboggan slope, restaurants, cafes and beer gardens. The northern part of Eilenriede encompasses a bird sanctuary and the popular Erlebnis Zoo Hannover, which houses over 2,600 animals.
The zoo is much better than many of its ilk, with visitors able to explore four unique Zoo Adventure Worlds - Zambezi, Jungle Palace, Gorilla Mountain and Meyer's Farm. A fifth Zoo World, representing the vast Alaskan wilderness of ‘Yukon Bay', is under construction - a model can be viewed near the Jungle Palace.
Erlebnis Zoo Hannover
Adenauerallee 3
Tel: (0511) 2807 4163.
Website: www.zoo-hannover.de
Admission charge.
Maschsee
The 68-hectare (168-acre) Maschsee Lake was dug out between 1934 and 1936, providing the city with an enviable aquatic playground. Pleasure seekers can enjoy summer boat trips or illuminated evening cruises (including dinner), operated by the local transport organisation from Rudolf-von-Bennigsen-Ufer. The Maschsee fleet includes a solar-powered catamaran with a capacity of up to 55 people. The lake is surrounded by parkland and has a number of restaurants, beer gardens and a casino on its shores. During summer, Maschsee provides the perfect setting for a popular cultural and entertainment festival (see Special Events).
Rudolf von Bennigsen Ufer
Tel: (0511) 700 950.
Website: www.uestra-reisen.de/content/maschsee
Free admission.
Street Art
Hanover's bountiful street art is a highlight of visiting the city. Much of the innovative public art dates back to the 1970s, with a plethora of weird and wonderful creations, from multi-coloured shapes through to surreal sculptures, such as a stag with a figure of a man sitting atop its antlers. Perhaps the most famous work are the three buxom ‘Nanas' placed on the banks of the Leine river. These characters were creations of French artist Niki de St Phalle, who died in 2002. Many of the city's bizarre fountains are also works of art in themselves, as are a number of Hanover's bus stops.
Hanover City Guide - New Town Hall - Lower Saxony State Museum
Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall)
An object of derision when it opened in 1913, the monumental architecture and copper-coated dome of Hanover's ‘new' Town Hall have since made it the city's main landmark. Visitors can ascend the dome by means of the unique curving lift, for an excellent bird's-eye view of the city and Maschsee. Below the dome, the huge vaulted central hall houses four models of the city, representing Hanseatic Hanover in 1689, 1939 pre-war Hanover, 1945 after the devastating bombing raids and finally the present day city - the latter model is constantly updated to reflect the rapidly changing face of modern Hanover. Council chambers are only open to visitors on an official guided tour.
Trammplatz 2
Tel: (0511) 1684 5333.
Admission charge.
Niedersächsisches Landesmuseum (Lower Saxony State Museum)
This museum is housed in a neo-Renaissance building opposite the Maschpark. It contains a selection of paintings and sculptures spanning nine centuries, as well as interesting archaeological, ethnological and natural history exhibits. The stars of the archaeological collection are the bodies of prehistoric homo sapiens found in the local peat bogs.
Willy-Brandt-Allee 5
Tel: (0511) 980 7686.
Website: www.nlmh.de
Admission charge.
An object of derision when it opened in 1913, the monumental architecture and copper-coated dome of Hanover's ‘new' Town Hall have since made it the city's main landmark. Visitors can ascend the dome by means of the unique curving lift, for an excellent bird's-eye view of the city and Maschsee. Below the dome, the huge vaulted central hall houses four models of the city, representing Hanseatic Hanover in 1689, 1939 pre-war Hanover, 1945 after the devastating bombing raids and finally the present day city - the latter model is constantly updated to reflect the rapidly changing face of modern Hanover. Council chambers are only open to visitors on an official guided tour.
Trammplatz 2
Tel: (0511) 1684 5333.
Admission charge.
Niedersächsisches Landesmuseum (Lower Saxony State Museum)
This museum is housed in a neo-Renaissance building opposite the Maschpark. It contains a selection of paintings and sculptures spanning nine centuries, as well as interesting archaeological, ethnological and natural history exhibits. The stars of the archaeological collection are the bodies of prehistoric homo sapiens found in the local peat bogs.
Willy-Brandt-Allee 5
Tel: (0511) 980 7686.
Website: www.nlmh.de
Admission charge.
Hanover City Guide - Sea Life Hannover - Sprengel-Museum
Sea Life Hannover
Located in the Herrenhäusen Gardens, the aquarium offers a perfect alternative to the royal gardens when it is raining and an interesting aside at other times. A tropical underwater world, it includes life from the shores of the Caribbean to the tropical rainforests of the Amazon, with 30 tanks including piranhas and sharks. The highlight is a deep-water tank with an 8m- (26ft-) long glass tunnel running through it.
Herrenhäuser Strasse 4A
Tel: (01805) 6669 0101.
Website: www.sealifeeurope.com
Admission charge.
Sprengel-Museum
Opened in 1979, the Sprengel Museum combines the endowment of Dr Bernhard Sprengel with the 20th-century art collections of the state of Lower Saxony and the city of Hanover. Offering a comprehensive educational programme, the museum now rates as one of the most important centres of modern art in Germany. Exciting exhibitions of contemporary art, photography and new media complement a permanent collection of modern classics, including works by Picasso, Klee and Schwitters.
Kurt-Schwitters-Platz
Tel: (0511) 1684 3875.
Website: www.sprengel-museum.de
Admission charge.
Located in the Herrenhäusen Gardens, the aquarium offers a perfect alternative to the royal gardens when it is raining and an interesting aside at other times. A tropical underwater world, it includes life from the shores of the Caribbean to the tropical rainforests of the Amazon, with 30 tanks including piranhas and sharks. The highlight is a deep-water tank with an 8m- (26ft-) long glass tunnel running through it.
Herrenhäuser Strasse 4A
Tel: (01805) 6669 0101.
Website: www.sealifeeurope.com
Admission charge.
Sprengel-Museum
Opened in 1979, the Sprengel Museum combines the endowment of Dr Bernhard Sprengel with the 20th-century art collections of the state of Lower Saxony and the city of Hanover. Offering a comprehensive educational programme, the museum now rates as one of the most important centres of modern art in Germany. Exciting exhibitions of contemporary art, photography and new media complement a permanent collection of modern classics, including works by Picasso, Klee and Schwitters.
Kurt-Schwitters-Platz
Tel: (0511) 1684 3875.
Website: www.sprengel-museum.de
Admission charge.
Hanover City Guide - Herrenhäuser Gärten - German Museum
Herrenhäuser Gärten
Although little remains of the original palace buildings, the Herrenhäusen Gardens are one of the city's most popular attractions, particularly during the summer months when there are festivals, fireworks and theatre performances. The symmetrical baroque landscape of the Great Garden (Grosser Garten) was laid out by Duke Johann Friedrich of Calenberg, at the end of the 17th century, and includes the oldest hedge theatre in Europe, an enormous fountain (70m/230ft at full pressure) and ornamental flower beds. In contrast, the Berggarten (the former palace utility or herbal garden) features a botanical collection of more than 12,000 different plants. To complete the picture, in the 19th century, a romantic ‘English' Garden (Georgengarten) was created around Herrenhäuser Allee in honour of George IV.
The Wilhelm-Busch-Museum/German Museum for Caricature & Critical Drawing is housed in Wallmoden Palace in the Georgengarten. The museum features a collection of work by German satirical artist Wilhem Busch and exhibitions by contemporary cartoonists.
Herrenhäuser Strasse 4
Tel: (0511) 1684 7576.
Admission Charge.
Website: www.hannover.de/herrenhausen/index.html
Wilhelm-Busch-Museum/German Museum for Caricature & Critical Drawing
Georgengarten
Tel: (0511) 1699 9911.
Admission Charge.
Website: www.wilhelm-busch-museum.de
Although little remains of the original palace buildings, the Herrenhäusen Gardens are one of the city's most popular attractions, particularly during the summer months when there are festivals, fireworks and theatre performances. The symmetrical baroque landscape of the Great Garden (Grosser Garten) was laid out by Duke Johann Friedrich of Calenberg, at the end of the 17th century, and includes the oldest hedge theatre in Europe, an enormous fountain (70m/230ft at full pressure) and ornamental flower beds. In contrast, the Berggarten (the former palace utility or herbal garden) features a botanical collection of more than 12,000 different plants. To complete the picture, in the 19th century, a romantic ‘English' Garden (Georgengarten) was created around Herrenhäuser Allee in honour of George IV.
The Wilhelm-Busch-Museum/German Museum for Caricature & Critical Drawing is housed in Wallmoden Palace in the Georgengarten. The museum features a collection of work by German satirical artist Wilhem Busch and exhibitions by contemporary cartoonists.
Herrenhäuser Strasse 4
Tel: (0511) 1684 7576.
Admission Charge.
Website: www.hannover.de/herrenhausen/index.html
Wilhelm-Busch-Museum/German Museum for Caricature & Critical Drawing
Georgengarten
Tel: (0511) 1699 9911.
Admission Charge.
Website: www.wilhelm-busch-museum.de
Hanover City Guide - The Red Thread - the Neues Rathaus
The Red Thread (see Tours of the City), a 4km- (3-mile) red line painted onto the road, is a definitive walking route linking 36 city centre attractions, and is the most obvious way for new arrivals to experience the city for the first time.
More independent-minded visitors might wish to begin their own explorations from the Hauptbahnhof, under the equestrian statue - the city's favourite meeting place. From this busy plaza, a number of routes radiate out, although the most obvious is the Bahnhofstrasse, which leads up to another hub at Kröpcke, the city's central square, linked to Opernplatz and Georgsplatz by Georgstrasse, the main pedestrian thoroughfare.
To the west lies the Old Town, with interesting small shops, pubs and restaurants. The best surviving examples of half-timbered medieval architecture and street layout can be found in Marktplatz, whose highlights include the 15th-century Old Town Hall.
Characteristic north German red brick buildings include the 15th-century Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), the Kreuzkirche (Church of the Holy Cross) and the Marktkirche (Market Church), both dating from the 14th century.
South of the Old Town, the Neues Rathaus (Town Hall) overlooks the Maschsee Lake. The baroque Herrenhäusen Gardens are a few kilometres to the west, while the Eilenriede (a forest within the city) lies beyond the main station to the east. The huge Messegelände convention and exhibition centre and the Expo 2000 site lie immediately to the southeast of the city.
Hanover's streets may not have the grandeur of those in Berlin or Munich, but one thing that brings them to life is the street art. The urban streetscape is enlivened by brightly coloured sculptures known as ‘nanas' (once mocked and now almost a symbol of Hanover), and a series of extravagant bus stops, created by international designers.
More independent-minded visitors might wish to begin their own explorations from the Hauptbahnhof, under the equestrian statue - the city's favourite meeting place. From this busy plaza, a number of routes radiate out, although the most obvious is the Bahnhofstrasse, which leads up to another hub at Kröpcke, the city's central square, linked to Opernplatz and Georgsplatz by Georgstrasse, the main pedestrian thoroughfare.
To the west lies the Old Town, with interesting small shops, pubs and restaurants. The best surviving examples of half-timbered medieval architecture and street layout can be found in Marktplatz, whose highlights include the 15th-century Old Town Hall.
Characteristic north German red brick buildings include the 15th-century Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), the Kreuzkirche (Church of the Holy Cross) and the Marktkirche (Market Church), both dating from the 14th century.
South of the Old Town, the Neues Rathaus (Town Hall) overlooks the Maschsee Lake. The baroque Herrenhäusen Gardens are a few kilometres to the west, while the Eilenriede (a forest within the city) lies beyond the main station to the east. The huge Messegelände convention and exhibition centre and the Expo 2000 site lie immediately to the southeast of the city.
Hanover's streets may not have the grandeur of those in Berlin or Munich, but one thing that brings them to life is the street art. The urban streetscape is enlivened by brightly coloured sculptures known as ‘nanas' (once mocked and now almost a symbol of Hanover), and a series of extravagant bus stops, created by international designers.
Hanover City
Hanover (Hannover in German) has risen since the dark days of the WWII to become one of Germany's wealthier cities.
Although much of the city on the bank of the River Leine was laid waste by Allied bombers during the 1940s, medieval highlights remain to delight the eye, particularly in the Old Town, whose Market Place, with its distinctive timbered buildings, and 15th-century Old Town Hall are definite ‘musts' for the visitor.
Elsewhere, the city offers elegant parkland, a range of interesting museums and galleries - and all the attractions of a modern city, for business and leisure visitors alike.
The city's economy is dominated by the Messegelände to the southeast, Germany's largest, and one of Europe's most high-tech show and exhibition grounds, which hauls in millions of visitors every year to attend the various business and leisure events. This vast area was also home to Expo 2000, the first World Expo ever to be held on German soil.
Despite the rather less than spectacular success of the event itself, the Expo 2000 site has proved to be a valuable legacy for the city, and certainly placed Hanover firmly on the city breaks map.
Hanover's history dates back to the days of the Hanseatic League, when this north German city used its proximity to the Baltic Sea to emerge as a serious economic player. The golden age came in the 17th century, when at the same time Hanoverian George I became the British king, despite the fact that he could not speak English and chose to spend much of his time holed up back in his native city.
Other famous residents have included 18th-century composer Handel, astronomer William Herschel, former German chancellor Gerhard Schröder, and 1970s rock band the Scorpions.
Like many of the bigger German cities, Hanover is very much a mix of ancient and modern. But it is without doubt an attractive destination, offering all the facilities, shopping and entertainment (it has more than 40 theatres alone) demanded by the modern traveller.
Although much of the city on the bank of the River Leine was laid waste by Allied bombers during the 1940s, medieval highlights remain to delight the eye, particularly in the Old Town, whose Market Place, with its distinctive timbered buildings, and 15th-century Old Town Hall are definite ‘musts' for the visitor.
Elsewhere, the city offers elegant parkland, a range of interesting museums and galleries - and all the attractions of a modern city, for business and leisure visitors alike.
The city's economy is dominated by the Messegelände to the southeast, Germany's largest, and one of Europe's most high-tech show and exhibition grounds, which hauls in millions of visitors every year to attend the various business and leisure events. This vast area was also home to Expo 2000, the first World Expo ever to be held on German soil.
Despite the rather less than spectacular success of the event itself, the Expo 2000 site has proved to be a valuable legacy for the city, and certainly placed Hanover firmly on the city breaks map.
Hanover's history dates back to the days of the Hanseatic League, when this north German city used its proximity to the Baltic Sea to emerge as a serious economic player. The golden age came in the 17th century, when at the same time Hanoverian George I became the British king, despite the fact that he could not speak English and chose to spend much of his time holed up back in his native city.
Other famous residents have included 18th-century composer Handel, astronomer William Herschel, former German chancellor Gerhard Schröder, and 1970s rock band the Scorpions.
Like many of the bigger German cities, Hanover is very much a mix of ancient and modern. But it is without doubt an attractive destination, offering all the facilities, shopping and entertainment (it has more than 40 theatres alone) demanded by the modern traveller.
Labels:
Hanover City
Hamburg City Guide - Museum of Hamburg History - Sunday Fish Market - St Michael's church
Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte (Museum of Hamburg History)
The Museum of Hamburg History brings to life the story of the city, from the feared pirate Störtebeker to the Beatles at the Star Club. There are some impressive large scale exhibits and interactive displays, all with English captions.
Holstenwall 24
Tel: (040) 42813 22380.
Website: www.hamburgmuseum.de
Sunday Fish Market
Good street food, live music, souvenirs, tremendous food bargains and the type of stall-holder banter which will make even non-German speakers smile have all made this early-morning market a city legend.
In and around Fischmarkt
Michaeliskirche (St Michael's church)
Visit this city landmark at noon (daily) for the three-organ concert, then ascend the tower for great views over the harbour and the city.
Englische Planke
Tel: (040) 3767 8100.
Website: www.st-michaelis.de
The Museum of Hamburg History brings to life the story of the city, from the feared pirate Störtebeker to the Beatles at the Star Club. There are some impressive large scale exhibits and interactive displays, all with English captions.
Holstenwall 24
Tel: (040) 42813 22380.
Website: www.hamburgmuseum.de
Sunday Fish Market
Good street food, live music, souvenirs, tremendous food bargains and the type of stall-holder banter which will make even non-German speakers smile have all made this early-morning market a city legend.
In and around Fischmarkt
Michaeliskirche (St Michael's church)
Visit this city landmark at noon (daily) for the three-organ concert, then ascend the tower for great views over the harbour and the city.
Englische Planke
Tel: (040) 3767 8100.
Website: www.st-michaelis.de
Hamburg City Guide - Harbour Tours - Cruising the Alster Lake
Harbour Tours
Hamburg owes its prosperity, past and present, to its docks, so a trip around the harbour (daily noon, March to November with English commentary), sailing past huge container vessels and spotting ships from all over the world, is essential.
Landungsbrücken, Brücke (pier) 1
Tel: (040) 3178 2231.
Cruising the Alster Lake
There are many ways to cruise the Alster, the best being the Alster-Kreuz-Fahrten option, which makes nine stops on a leisurely two-hour trip, allowing you to hop on and hop off at will, visiting bucolic lakeside cafes and restaurants or stopping for a picnic.
Jungfernstieg (landing stage)
Tel: (040) 357 4240.
Website: www.alstertouristik.de
Hamburg owes its prosperity, past and present, to its docks, so a trip around the harbour (daily noon, March to November with English commentary), sailing past huge container vessels and spotting ships from all over the world, is essential.
Landungsbrücken, Brücke (pier) 1
Tel: (040) 3178 2231.
Cruising the Alster Lake
There are many ways to cruise the Alster, the best being the Alster-Kreuz-Fahrten option, which makes nine stops on a leisurely two-hour trip, allowing you to hop on and hop off at will, visiting bucolic lakeside cafes and restaurants or stopping for a picnic.
Jungfernstieg (landing stage)
Tel: (040) 357 4240.
Website: www.alstertouristik.de
Hamburg City Guide - historical
Sightseeing is concentrated in two main areas, the city centre and the harbour.
Hamburg's historical centre has twice been consumed by flames, once by accident in 1842 and once by Allied bombing in 1943. It is consequently mostly modern with only a few surviving churches and ancient houses standing alongside neoclassical facades, some new, many expertly restored. The city centre looks onto its signature feature, the Alster Lake, of which the outer section (Aussenalster) is particularly attractive.
The other principal sightseeing centre is the harbour and the adjoining red-light district of St Pauli with its infamous main street, the Reeperbahn. The harbour is the second biggest in Europe and provides visitors with boat tours, museum ships, the Speicherstadt warehouse museums and the colourful comings and goings of any major port.
The once notorious St Pauli is not as dependent on the sex industry as it used to be (though it is still no place for the prudish) and large parts of it have been transformed into the city's leading nightlife area, with numerous theatres and respectable nightspots.
Hamburg's historical centre has twice been consumed by flames, once by accident in 1842 and once by Allied bombing in 1943. It is consequently mostly modern with only a few surviving churches and ancient houses standing alongside neoclassical facades, some new, many expertly restored. The city centre looks onto its signature feature, the Alster Lake, of which the outer section (Aussenalster) is particularly attractive.
The other principal sightseeing centre is the harbour and the adjoining red-light district of St Pauli with its infamous main street, the Reeperbahn. The harbour is the second biggest in Europe and provides visitors with boat tours, museum ships, the Speicherstadt warehouse museums and the colourful comings and goings of any major port.
The once notorious St Pauli is not as dependent on the sex industry as it used to be (though it is still no place for the prudish) and large parts of it have been transformed into the city's leading nightlife area, with numerous theatres and respectable nightspots.
Hamburg City - guide
The second biggest city in Germany (after Berlin), Hamburg has the cosmopolitan feel, the conspicuous consumption and most of the cultural accoutrements of a north European capital.
Culturally Hamburg is said to have more in common with its trading partners and neighbours in the Low Countries, Denmark and even England, than it does with southern Germany. Its people are famously modest, yet worldly and usually very helpful.
Visitors will find Hamburg easy to get around thanks to its compact centre and excellent transport system. There are relatively few major landmarks, and nothing of iconic status except perhaps the red-light district of St Pauli where Hamburg sailors traditionally took their R'n'R.
This is a double-edged sword for the city, yet one it has handled well in recent years, bringing in new and respectable nightlife while retaining the edgy atmosphere of the district's former existence. It is easy to forget that music (and not just sex) has always been a major part of the area (the Beatles among many other luminaries paid their musical dues in St Pauli) and on weekend nights the Reeperbahn and surrounding streets throb with activity.
By contrast to the seamy port area, the city's major open space, which begins right in the very centre of town, is the Alster Lake. On a warm summer's day do as the locals do and take a cruise from the Binnenalster (Inner Alster) to the Aussenalster and its parkland fringes. Within just a few minutes you will have swapped the steely grey metropolis for a balmy world of green and blue.
Culturally Hamburg is said to have more in common with its trading partners and neighbours in the Low Countries, Denmark and even England, than it does with southern Germany. Its people are famously modest, yet worldly and usually very helpful.
Visitors will find Hamburg easy to get around thanks to its compact centre and excellent transport system. There are relatively few major landmarks, and nothing of iconic status except perhaps the red-light district of St Pauli where Hamburg sailors traditionally took their R'n'R.
This is a double-edged sword for the city, yet one it has handled well in recent years, bringing in new and respectable nightlife while retaining the edgy atmosphere of the district's former existence. It is easy to forget that music (and not just sex) has always been a major part of the area (the Beatles among many other luminaries paid their musical dues in St Pauli) and on weekend nights the Reeperbahn and surrounding streets throb with activity.
By contrast to the seamy port area, the city's major open space, which begins right in the very centre of town, is the Alster Lake. On a warm summer's day do as the locals do and take a cruise from the Binnenalster (Inner Alster) to the Aussenalster and its parkland fringes. Within just a few minutes you will have swapped the steely grey metropolis for a balmy world of green and blue.
Labels:
Hamburg City
Frankfurt City Guide - Frankfurt Zoo - Palm Garden - Goethe-Museum
Frankfurt Zoo
Frankfurt's zoo is one of the most attractive in Europe and is very popular with both locals and visitors. It celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2008, and is Germany's second oldest after Berlin. There are 13 different areas in these 14 hectares (35 acres) of land, where thousands of animals from all over the world, including eight endangered species, can be observed. The obvious highlight is the Grzimek Haus, where artificial darkness is created in order to observe nocturnal animals going about their business.
Alfred-Brehm-Platz 16
Tel: (069) 2123 3735.
Website: www.zoo-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Daily 0900-1900 (summer); daily 0900-1700 (winter).
Admission charge.
Palmengarten (Palm Garden)
The Palm Garden is a wonderland of tropical plants and exotic birds. Hidden away from the bustle of the city centre, the attractions of this botanical garden include glasshouses, some 300 different palms and a boating lake. There are concerts staged here in summer, as well as a number of exhibitions and events. Free guided tours (in German) are available on Sundays.
Siesmayerstrasse 63
Tel: (069) 2123 3939.
Website: www.palmengarten-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Daily 0900-1600 (Nov-Jan); daily 0900-1800 (Feb-Oct).
Admission charge.
Goethe-Museum and Goethe-Haus
Completely destroyed by Allied bombers in 1944, the house where Goethe (1749-1832) was born and spent most of his youth was rebuilt after the war, in 1951, and restored to its former 18th-century glory. Visitors can see the family music room, library, living room and Goethe's own puppet show and study. Next door, the Goethe-Museum displays German paintings and sculpture from the late baroque period up to early Romanticism. There are daily guided tours (in German) of the house at 1400 and 1600, and audio-visual guides are available to rent in several languages. Tours of the museum can also be arranged on request.
Grosser Hirschgraben 23-25
Tel: (069) 138 800.
Website: www.goethehaus-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 1000-1800, Sun 1000-1730.
Admission charge.
Frankfurt's zoo is one of the most attractive in Europe and is very popular with both locals and visitors. It celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2008, and is Germany's second oldest after Berlin. There are 13 different areas in these 14 hectares (35 acres) of land, where thousands of animals from all over the world, including eight endangered species, can be observed. The obvious highlight is the Grzimek Haus, where artificial darkness is created in order to observe nocturnal animals going about their business.
Alfred-Brehm-Platz 16
Tel: (069) 2123 3735.
Website: www.zoo-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Daily 0900-1900 (summer); daily 0900-1700 (winter).
Admission charge.
Palmengarten (Palm Garden)
The Palm Garden is a wonderland of tropical plants and exotic birds. Hidden away from the bustle of the city centre, the attractions of this botanical garden include glasshouses, some 300 different palms and a boating lake. There are concerts staged here in summer, as well as a number of exhibitions and events. Free guided tours (in German) are available on Sundays.
Siesmayerstrasse 63
Tel: (069) 2123 3939.
Website: www.palmengarten-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Daily 0900-1600 (Nov-Jan); daily 0900-1800 (Feb-Oct).
Admission charge.
Goethe-Museum and Goethe-Haus
Completely destroyed by Allied bombers in 1944, the house where Goethe (1749-1832) was born and spent most of his youth was rebuilt after the war, in 1951, and restored to its former 18th-century glory. Visitors can see the family music room, library, living room and Goethe's own puppet show and study. Next door, the Goethe-Museum displays German paintings and sculpture from the late baroque period up to early Romanticism. There are daily guided tours (in German) of the house at 1400 and 1600, and audio-visual guides are available to rent in several languages. Tours of the museum can also be arranged on request.
Grosser Hirschgraben 23-25
Tel: (069) 138 800.
Website: www.goethehaus-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 1000-1800, Sun 1000-1730.
Admission charge.
Frankfurt City Guide - Municipal Gallery - Museum of Modern Art
Städelsche Kunstinstitute und Städtische Galerie (Städel Art Institute and Municipal Gallery)
An exemplary and comprehensive collection of European painting from the 14th to the 20th centuries is housed in this museum (commonly known as just Städel) on Frankfurt's legendary Museumsufer (Museum Embankment). German masters, such as Cranach, Holbein and Beckmann, are displayed alongside the likes of Botticelli, Rembrandt and Rubens. Around 500 sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries are also on show, including works from artists such as Rodin, Kirchner and Picasso. There is also a cafe, and an excellent bookshop.
Dürerstrasse 2
Tel: (069) 605 098 200.
Website: www.staedelmuseum.de
Opening hours: Tues, Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Wed and Thurs 1000-2100.
Admission charge.
Museum für Moderne Kunst (Museum of Modern Art)
The outside of the Museum of Modern Art alone would count as one of the city's major attractions. It is therefore a bonus that this museum, designed by Viennese architect Hans Hollein, is filled with a superb collection of post-war art, predominantly by German and American artists, including Roy Lichtenstein, Claes Oldenburg, Andy Warhol and Joseph Beuys. There is also a cafe-restaurant.
Domstrasse 10
Tel: (069) 2123 0447.
Website: www.mmk-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Tues, Thurs-Sun 1000-1700, Wed 1000-2000.
Admission charge.
An exemplary and comprehensive collection of European painting from the 14th to the 20th centuries is housed in this museum (commonly known as just Städel) on Frankfurt's legendary Museumsufer (Museum Embankment). German masters, such as Cranach, Holbein and Beckmann, are displayed alongside the likes of Botticelli, Rembrandt and Rubens. Around 500 sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries are also on show, including works from artists such as Rodin, Kirchner and Picasso. There is also a cafe, and an excellent bookshop.
Dürerstrasse 2
Tel: (069) 605 098 200.
Website: www.staedelmuseum.de
Opening hours: Tues, Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Wed and Thurs 1000-2100.
Admission charge.
Museum für Moderne Kunst (Museum of Modern Art)
The outside of the Museum of Modern Art alone would count as one of the city's major attractions. It is therefore a bonus that this museum, designed by Viennese architect Hans Hollein, is filled with a superb collection of post-war art, predominantly by German and American artists, including Roy Lichtenstein, Claes Oldenburg, Andy Warhol and Joseph Beuys. There is also a cafe-restaurant.
Domstrasse 10
Tel: (069) 2123 0447.
Website: www.mmk-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Tues, Thurs-Sun 1000-1700, Wed 1000-2000.
Admission charge.
Frankfurt City Guide - Römerberg - Sankt Bartholomäusdom
Römerberg
In 1240, this low hill (the main square and heart of the Old Town) was the site of the city's first official trade fair. The Römerberg is bordered by half-timbered houses (Fachwerkhäuser), reconstructed after total destruction in 1945, and the former court chapel - the Nikolaikirche (Church of St Nicholas). The main attraction, however, is the Rathaus Römer (Frankfurt's city hall since 1405) with its gothic stepped gables made of Frankfurt's trademark red sandstone. The coronation of German emperors was celebrated by banquets in the Kaisersaal (Emperor's Hall) on the upper floors. Portraits of 52 emperors, from Charlemagne to Franz II, now hang on the walls. It is a working town hall, however, and there are currently no tours. The Christmas market that takes place on Römerberg every December is one of the best in Germany, and has taken place here since the late 14th century.
Römerberg, Römer
Sankt Bartholomäusdom (Cathedral of St Bartholomew)
Between 1562 and 1792, German emperors were crowned in the Cathedral of St Bartholomew, hence its other name - the Kaiserdom (Emperor Cathedral). In the 1950s, this was Frankfurt's tallest building, at 96m (315ft), which illustrates just how much the city has developed since then. The cathedral has a red sandstone facade and interior and is one of Frankfurt's most recognisable landmarks. The present structure was rebuilt after WWII but contains a number of original carvings. There are also great views of the city from the tower. A museum, the Dommuseum, is adjoined to the cathedral and is packed full of ancient archaeological findings.
Domplatz 14
Tel: (069) 297 0320.
Website: www.dom-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs and Sat 0900-1200 and 1430-1800, Fri and Sun 1430-1800, until 1700 in winter (cathedral); Tues-Fri 1000-1700, Sat-Sun 1100-1700 (museum).
Free admission to the cathedral; charge for the museum.
In 1240, this low hill (the main square and heart of the Old Town) was the site of the city's first official trade fair. The Römerberg is bordered by half-timbered houses (Fachwerkhäuser), reconstructed after total destruction in 1945, and the former court chapel - the Nikolaikirche (Church of St Nicholas). The main attraction, however, is the Rathaus Römer (Frankfurt's city hall since 1405) with its gothic stepped gables made of Frankfurt's trademark red sandstone. The coronation of German emperors was celebrated by banquets in the Kaisersaal (Emperor's Hall) on the upper floors. Portraits of 52 emperors, from Charlemagne to Franz II, now hang on the walls. It is a working town hall, however, and there are currently no tours. The Christmas market that takes place on Römerberg every December is one of the best in Germany, and has taken place here since the late 14th century.
Römerberg, Römer
Sankt Bartholomäusdom (Cathedral of St Bartholomew)
Between 1562 and 1792, German emperors were crowned in the Cathedral of St Bartholomew, hence its other name - the Kaiserdom (Emperor Cathedral). In the 1950s, this was Frankfurt's tallest building, at 96m (315ft), which illustrates just how much the city has developed since then. The cathedral has a red sandstone facade and interior and is one of Frankfurt's most recognisable landmarks. The present structure was rebuilt after WWII but contains a number of original carvings. There are also great views of the city from the tower. A museum, the Dommuseum, is adjoined to the cathedral and is packed full of ancient archaeological findings.
Domplatz 14
Tel: (069) 297 0320.
Website: www.dom-frankfurt.de
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs and Sat 0900-1200 and 1430-1800, Fri and Sun 1430-1800, until 1700 in winter (cathedral); Tues-Fri 1000-1700, Sat-Sun 1100-1700 (museum).
Free admission to the cathedral; charge for the museum.
Frankfurt City Guide - Skyscrapers - museums - Sachsenhausen
Skyscrapers housing major financial institutions dominate the scene in the central business district. The Westend is both a residential and business district. Nearby, the Marktplatz (former Market Square), Römer (City Hall), the Kaiserdom (Emperor Cathedral), Paulskirche (Church of St Paul) and the Nikolaikirche (Nicholas Church) are among the attractions of the Altstadt (Old Town). The Bahnhofsviertel (around the main railway station), especially Kaiserstrasse, is the city's red light district, although the ubiquitous seediness has developed into a popular and lively entertainment scene.
Fourteen museums make up the longest mile of museums in Europe - the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) on the southern bank of the Main, reached on foot via Eiserner Steg. Most of Frankfurt's museums are closed on Monday and open until 2000 on Wednesday.
Sachsenhausen, the oldest district in Frankfurt, lies on the south side of the river, and is one of the traditional entertainment areas with bars, clubs and restaurants housed in traditional buildings. The best views of the city can be gained from the observation platform of the Main Tower. Students and artists contribute to the bohemian atmosphere of the Nordend around Eschenheimer Tor.
Fourteen museums make up the longest mile of museums in Europe - the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) on the southern bank of the Main, reached on foot via Eiserner Steg. Most of Frankfurt's museums are closed on Monday and open until 2000 on Wednesday.
Sachsenhausen, the oldest district in Frankfurt, lies on the south side of the river, and is one of the traditional entertainment areas with bars, clubs and restaurants housed in traditional buildings. The best views of the city can be gained from the observation platform of the Main Tower. Students and artists contribute to the bohemian atmosphere of the Nordend around Eschenheimer Tor.
Frankfurt City Guide
The fifth biggest city in Germany, Frankfurt on Main (Frankfurt am Main) has gained enormous economic power (both within Germany and abroad) thanks to its position as a key transport hub and its status as a major venue for international trade fairs and other business events.Located in the middle of the highly productive Rhine-Main region, right at the centre of Europe, the city is the financial heart not only of Germany but also of the European Union, pumping euros into the world economy.
A settlement since at least 3000BC, Frankfurt's long and successful history of commerce stemmed initially from its central geographical location on the Main River and the Frankfurt Messe (fair). The Messe has been going since the 12th century (it is mentioned in a Jewish manuscript dating from 1160) and the city received its official Imperial privilege to hold an annual trade fair in 1240. Frankfurt got its name around AD500, when the Franks ruled the area and the settlement along the Main Fort transportation route became known as ‘Franconovurd'.
Frankfurt's substantial political and cultural prestige is based on a fortunate history of decisive events. In 855, it became the election city for future monarchs. From 1562, the coronations of German emperors were held in the city's Cathedral of St Bartholomew. The Frankfurt Börse (Stock Exchange) began trading in 1585, moving to Börsenplatz, its current home, in 1879.In 1815, Frankfurt was declared a free city and part of the German Union, with the Bundestag, the Union's highest committee, located here. Frankfurt University, which took the name of the city's most famous son, Johann Wolfgang Goethe, in 1932, opened in 1914, just before the war that would forever change the face of Germany and indeed all of Europe.
If Frankfurt's political aspirations were dashed by the choice of Bonn as capital of the Federal Republic in 1949, the city has directed its post-war energies all the more wholeheartedly into its uncontested financial role. The modern skyscrapers of banks and corporations in the central business district are potent symbols of Frankfurt's economic strength and create a skyline that is more North American than European. ‘Bankfurt' or ‘Mainhattan' is home to some of the tallest buildings in Europe, including the 300m (984ft) Commerzbank tower. These modern behemoths have replaced parts of the old city that were destroyed by Allied bombers at the end of WWII. However, examples of pre-war Frankfurt can still be experienced in the reconstructed buildings on the Römerberg, including the cathedral and the Römer - Frankfurt's city hall since 1405.
With Europe's second busiest airport (after London Heathrow) and a vital junction on the national road and rail network, Frankfurt is a focal point of international transportation and communication.Not only is the city home to the European Central Bank and many other financial institutions, but it also commands thousands of companies, including the moguls of the German publishing industry, as well as a number of companies involved in public relations, marketing, media and telecommunications. As Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860) commented in 1843, ‘here, you see and hear what is going on in the world'.
Most of Frankfurt's visitors come for one of the numerous trade fairs, exhibitions and congresses. Among the largest on the international circuit are the International Book Fair (Buchmesse Frankfurt) and ACHEMA (chemical engineering, environmental protection and biotechnology).But Frankfurt (to the surprise of many) has got another side to reveal to its focused business visitors. As the birthplace of Germany's most revered writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832), the city is at pains to impress with its cultural pedigree. Excellent museums, high-calibre performance groups and local festivals should entice the discerning guest away from the boardroom and the exhibition hall.
The city's climate is generally mild and well balanced with warm, occasionally wet, days in summer, with temperatures sometimes reaching 30°C (90°F) and more, and chilly winter days, when temperatures range between - 10°C (14°F) and 10°C (40°F).
A settlement since at least 3000BC, Frankfurt's long and successful history of commerce stemmed initially from its central geographical location on the Main River and the Frankfurt Messe (fair). The Messe has been going since the 12th century (it is mentioned in a Jewish manuscript dating from 1160) and the city received its official Imperial privilege to hold an annual trade fair in 1240. Frankfurt got its name around AD500, when the Franks ruled the area and the settlement along the Main Fort transportation route became known as ‘Franconovurd'.
Frankfurt's substantial political and cultural prestige is based on a fortunate history of decisive events. In 855, it became the election city for future monarchs. From 1562, the coronations of German emperors were held in the city's Cathedral of St Bartholomew. The Frankfurt Börse (Stock Exchange) began trading in 1585, moving to Börsenplatz, its current home, in 1879.In 1815, Frankfurt was declared a free city and part of the German Union, with the Bundestag, the Union's highest committee, located here. Frankfurt University, which took the name of the city's most famous son, Johann Wolfgang Goethe, in 1932, opened in 1914, just before the war that would forever change the face of Germany and indeed all of Europe.
If Frankfurt's political aspirations were dashed by the choice of Bonn as capital of the Federal Republic in 1949, the city has directed its post-war energies all the more wholeheartedly into its uncontested financial role. The modern skyscrapers of banks and corporations in the central business district are potent symbols of Frankfurt's economic strength and create a skyline that is more North American than European. ‘Bankfurt' or ‘Mainhattan' is home to some of the tallest buildings in Europe, including the 300m (984ft) Commerzbank tower. These modern behemoths have replaced parts of the old city that were destroyed by Allied bombers at the end of WWII. However, examples of pre-war Frankfurt can still be experienced in the reconstructed buildings on the Römerberg, including the cathedral and the Römer - Frankfurt's city hall since 1405.
With Europe's second busiest airport (after London Heathrow) and a vital junction on the national road and rail network, Frankfurt is a focal point of international transportation and communication.Not only is the city home to the European Central Bank and many other financial institutions, but it also commands thousands of companies, including the moguls of the German publishing industry, as well as a number of companies involved in public relations, marketing, media and telecommunications. As Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860) commented in 1843, ‘here, you see and hear what is going on in the world'.
Most of Frankfurt's visitors come for one of the numerous trade fairs, exhibitions and congresses. Among the largest on the international circuit are the International Book Fair (Buchmesse Frankfurt) and ACHEMA (chemical engineering, environmental protection and biotechnology).But Frankfurt (to the surprise of many) has got another side to reveal to its focused business visitors. As the birthplace of Germany's most revered writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832), the city is at pains to impress with its cultural pedigree. Excellent museums, high-calibre performance groups and local festivals should entice the discerning guest away from the boardroom and the exhibition hall.
The city's climate is generally mild and well balanced with warm, occasionally wet, days in summer, with temperatures sometimes reaching 30°C (90°F) and more, and chilly winter days, when temperatures range between - 10°C (14°F) and 10°C (40°F).
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Frankfurt City Guide
Checkpoint Charlie Museum (Haus am Checkpoint Charlie)
Checkpoint Charlie was the monitoring tower used to control the area around the Berlin Wall that divided the city during the Cold War. It was demolished soon after the 1989 revolution, but the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie museum that stands in its place is well worth a visit to discover the historic significance of this apparently unremarkable site. A cinema shows films on the Third Reich and the Cold War era, and the museum also details the history of the Berlin Wall, a piece of which still stands a short distance from the museum, complete with decorations on the western side.
Contact Addresses
Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, Friedrichstrasse 43-45, 10969 Berlin–Kreuzberg, Germany
Tel: (030) 253 7250
Website: www.mauer-museum.com
Transportation
Air: Berlin Tegel Airport, Berlin Schönefeld Airport. Rail: Train: Bahnhof Berlin Zoologischer Garten Station or Lehrter Bahnhof Station. Underground: U6 Kochstrasse or U1 Stadtmitte. Road: Bus: Public services. Coach: Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) am Funkturm.
Contact Addresses
Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, Friedrichstrasse 43-45, 10969 Berlin–Kreuzberg, Germany
Tel: (030) 253 7250
Website: www.mauer-museum.com
Transportation
Air: Berlin Tegel Airport, Berlin Schönefeld Airport. Rail: Train: Bahnhof Berlin Zoologischer Garten Station or Lehrter Bahnhof Station. Underground: U6 Kochstrasse or U1 Stadtmitte. Road: Bus: Public services. Coach: Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) am Funkturm.
Pergamon Museum (Pergamonmuseum)
One of the world’s great museums, the Pergamon Museum lies on Berlin’s Museumsinsel (Museum Island) complex, which is situated between the River Spree and Kupfergraben. Five museums were built here between 1824 and 1930 to house archaeological treasures and art collections. The last of the five to be built was the Pergamon Museum which was designed by Alfred Messel and houses spectacular works of architectural antiquities, including collections of Greek, Assyrian, Islamic and Far Eastern art.
Air: Berlin Tegel Airport. Rail: Train: S-Bahn to Friedrichstrasse or Hackescher Markt. Tram: Regular services. Underground: Friedrichstrasse. Road: Bus: Regular services.
Contact Addresses
Pergamonmuseum, Bodestrasse 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany
Tel: (030) 2090 5577
Website: www.germany-tourism.co.uk
Air: Berlin Tegel Airport. Rail: Train: S-Bahn to Friedrichstrasse or Hackescher Markt. Tram: Regular services. Underground: Friedrichstrasse. Road: Bus: Regular services.
Contact Addresses
Pergamonmuseum, Bodestrasse 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany
Tel: (030) 2090 5577
Website: www.germany-tourism.co.uk
German Parliament (Reichstag)
The imposing neo-Renaissance Reichstag, located in the heart of Berlin’s city centre near the River Spree and the Brandenburg Gate, was completed in 1894. It was home to the Deutscher Bundestag (German Parliament) until 1933, when a huge fire destroyed the building – an event that coincided with Adolph Hitler assuming dictatorial control of the country. In 1999, following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and German re-unification, the parliament moved permanently to a renovated and renewed Reichstag. A new glass dome symbolises the transparency of the democratic process, and visitors can walk along the different levels of the dome to watch the government in session below.
Air: Berlin Tegel Airport. Rail: Train: S-Bahn 1, 2 or 25 to Unter den Linden. Road: Bus: Public services to Reichstag/Bundestag. Car: Signs are marked for the Reichstag in Berlin city centre.
Contact Addresses
Deutscher Bundestag, Besucherdienst (Visitor Services), Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany
Tel: (030) 2273 2152
Website: www.bundestag.de
Air: Berlin Tegel Airport. Rail: Train: S-Bahn 1, 2 or 25 to Unter den Linden. Road: Bus: Public services to Reichstag/Bundestag. Car: Signs are marked for the Reichstag in Berlin city centre.
Contact Addresses
Deutscher Bundestag, Besucherdienst (Visitor Services), Platz der Republik 1, 11011 Berlin, Germany
Tel: (030) 2273 2152
Website: www.bundestag.de
Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)
Built in 1791 as a triumphal arch, the Brandenburg Gate, the only remaining town gate in the country, is an enduring symbol of Berlin. The design, by architect Carl Gotthard Langhans, is modelled on the entrance to the Acropolis in Athens, and is crowned by a statue of a horse-drawn chariot, which symbolises Victory. The overall effect was intended to testify to the might and power of the Prussian Empire. It has survived multiple wars, including the long Cold War, during which it was sealed off in no-man’s land by the Berlin Wall, and became a symbol of division between east and west. In 1989 it was reopened to the public following the destruction of the Berlin Wall.
Contact Addresses
Berlin Tourism Marketing, Am Karlsbad 11, 10785 Berlin, Germany
Tel: (0180) 575 4040
Website: www.btm.de
Transportation
Air: Berlin Tegel Airport. Rail: Train: S-Bahn to Unter den Linden. Underground: Friedrichstrasse, Französische Strasse or Mohrenstrasse. Road: Bus: Public services (to Pariser Platz).
Tourist Information
Deutsche Zentrale für Tourismus e.V. (German National Tourist Office)
Beethovenstrasse 69, 60325 Frankfurt/M, Germany
Tel: (069) 974 640. Fax: (069) 751 903. E-mail: gntofra@d-z-t.com
Website: www.germany-tourism.de
German National Tourist Office
PO Box 2695, London W1A 3TN, UK
Tel: (09001) 600 100 (recorded information and brochure request line; calls cost 60p per minute) or (020) 7317 0908 (general enquiries). Fax: (020) 7495 6129.
E-mail: gntolon@d-z-t.com
Website: www.germany-tourism.de
Contact Addresses
Berlin Tourism Marketing, Am Karlsbad 11, 10785 Berlin, Germany
Tel: (0180) 575 4040
Website: www.btm.de
Transportation
Air: Berlin Tegel Airport. Rail: Train: S-Bahn to Unter den Linden. Underground: Friedrichstrasse, Französische Strasse or Mohrenstrasse. Road: Bus: Public services (to Pariser Platz).
Tourist Information
Deutsche Zentrale für Tourismus e.V. (German National Tourist Office)
Beethovenstrasse 69, 60325 Frankfurt/M, Germany
Tel: (069) 974 640. Fax: (069) 751 903. E-mail: gntofra@d-z-t.com
Website: www.germany-tourism.de
German National Tourist Office
PO Box 2695, London W1A 3TN, UK
Tel: (09001) 600 100 (recorded information and brochure request line; calls cost 60p per minute) or (020) 7317 0908 (general enquiries). Fax: (020) 7495 6129.
E-mail: gntolon@d-z-t.com
Website: www.germany-tourism.de
Berlin City Guide - Neue Nationalgalerie - Jewish Centre - New Synagogue
Neue Nationalgalerie
Kulturforum, Potsdamer Strasse 50
Tel: (030) 266 2951.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge; free Thurs evening.
Centrum Judaicum - Neue Synagogue (Jewish Centre - New Synagogue)
The Neue Synagogue was completed in 1866. Its location in the heart of the Scheunenviertel (Berlin's Jewish district) suffered serious bomb damage in 1943. Thanks to renovation in the mid 1990s, its Moorish dome can now be seen in its original glory. The synagogue houses a Jewish Centre, with an exhibition. The Alter Jüdischer Friedhof (Old Jewish Cemetery) is a short walk away, at Schönhauser Allee 23-25 (open Monday to Thursday 0800 to 1600 and Friday 0800 to 1300).
Oranienburger Strasse 28-30
Tel: (030) 8802 8300.
Website: www.cjudaicum.de
Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 1000-1800, Fri 1000-1400 (Oct-Mar); Sun and Mon 1000-2000, Tues-Thurs 1000-1800, Fri 1000-1700 (Apr-Sep); closed on Jewish holidays; guided tours Sun 1400 and 1600, Wed 1600. Dome closed Oct-Mar.
Admission charge.
Kulturforum, Potsdamer Strasse 50
Tel: (030) 266 2951.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge; free Thurs evening.
Centrum Judaicum - Neue Synagogue (Jewish Centre - New Synagogue)
The Neue Synagogue was completed in 1866. Its location in the heart of the Scheunenviertel (Berlin's Jewish district) suffered serious bomb damage in 1943. Thanks to renovation in the mid 1990s, its Moorish dome can now be seen in its original glory. The synagogue houses a Jewish Centre, with an exhibition. The Alter Jüdischer Friedhof (Old Jewish Cemetery) is a short walk away, at Schönhauser Allee 23-25 (open Monday to Thursday 0800 to 1600 and Friday 0800 to 1300).
Oranienburger Strasse 28-30
Tel: (030) 8802 8300.
Website: www.cjudaicum.de
Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 1000-1800, Fri 1000-1400 (Oct-Mar); Sun and Mon 1000-2000, Tues-Thurs 1000-1800, Fri 1000-1700 (Apr-Sep); closed on Jewish holidays; guided tours Sun 1400 and 1600, Wed 1600. Dome closed Oct-Mar.
Admission charge.
Berlin City Guide - Philharmonie und Kammermusiksaal - Musikinstrumenten-museum - Gemäldegalerie
Philharmonie und Kammermusiksaal
Herbert-von-Karajan-Strasse 1
Tel: (030) 2548 8999 (ticket hotline).
Website: www.berlin-philharmonic.com
Opening hours: Shows generally Fri-Sun 1600 and 2000 (depending on programme); guided tours daily 1300.
Admission charge.
Musikinstrumenten-museum
Tiergartenstrasse 1
Tel: (030) 254 810.
Website: www.sim.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed, Fri 0900-1700, Thurs until 2200, Sat and Sun 1000-1700.
Admission charge; free Thurs evening.
Gemäldegalerie
Kulturforum, Matthäikirchplatz 4-6
Tel: (030) 266 2951 (information).
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge; free Thurs evening.
Kunstgewerbemuseum (closed second quarter of 2008-August 2009)
Kulturforum, Herbert-von-Karajan St 10
Tel: (030) 266 2951 (information).
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues-Fri 1000-1800, Sat and Sun 1100-1800.
Admission charge.
Herbert-von-Karajan-Strasse 1
Tel: (030) 2548 8999 (ticket hotline).
Website: www.berlin-philharmonic.com
Opening hours: Shows generally Fri-Sun 1600 and 2000 (depending on programme); guided tours daily 1300.
Admission charge.
Musikinstrumenten-museum
Tiergartenstrasse 1
Tel: (030) 254 810.
Website: www.sim.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed, Fri 0900-1700, Thurs until 2200, Sat and Sun 1000-1700.
Admission charge; free Thurs evening.
Gemäldegalerie
Kulturforum, Matthäikirchplatz 4-6
Tel: (030) 266 2951 (information).
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge; free Thurs evening.
Kunstgewerbemuseum (closed second quarter of 2008-August 2009)
Kulturforum, Herbert-von-Karajan St 10
Tel: (030) 266 2951 (information).
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues-Fri 1000-1800, Sat and Sun 1100-1800.
Admission charge.
Berlin City Guide - Schloss Charlottenburg and museums - Schloss Charlottenburg - Kulturforum (Cultural Forum)
Schloss Charlottenburg and museums
The Charlottenburg Palace was built in 1699, as a summer residence for Sophie Charlotte, the wife of King Frederick 11. Visits to the Old Palace are by guided tour only. Prices and hours vary for the New Wing, the Orangerie, the mausoleum and other parts of the complex. The museums and galleries that are in and around the palace include the Berggruen Collection, opposite the palace, which contains 100 artworks by Picasso, as well as a representative collection of his contemporaries.
Schloss Charlottenburg
Spandauer Damm 10-22
Tel: (030) 320 911.
Website: www.spsg.de
Opening hours: Old Palace: Tues-Sun 0900-1700, last tour at 1600; Tues-Sun 1000-1700 (Apr-Oct); New Wing: 1100-1700 (Nov-Apr); grounds open daily 0600-2100 (summer); daily 0600-2000 (winter).
Admission charge.
Museum Berggruen
Westlicher Stülerbau, Schlossstrasse 1
Tel: (030) 3267 4811.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues-Sun 1000-1800.
Admission charge.
Kulturforum (Cultural Forum)
Located in the west of the city, the Kulturforum is a cultural centre, grouping together all the museums that have European art as their chief focus, including a Musikinstrumenten-museum (Musical Instrument Museum), a hall for chamber music and the Philharmonie concert house, home to the Berlin Philharmonic orchestra. The opening of the Gemäldegalerie (Painting Gallery) in 1998 brought a stunning collection of 13th- to 18th-century paintings to the site. It joined the Kunstgewerbemuseum (Museum of Decorative Arts) and the Neue Nationalgalerie (New National Gallery). The latter, built to the designs of Mies van der Rohe, contains German Expressionist and Realist art, as well as other works of the 20th century. There is also a sculpture garden.
The Charlottenburg Palace was built in 1699, as a summer residence for Sophie Charlotte, the wife of King Frederick 11. Visits to the Old Palace are by guided tour only. Prices and hours vary for the New Wing, the Orangerie, the mausoleum and other parts of the complex. The museums and galleries that are in and around the palace include the Berggruen Collection, opposite the palace, which contains 100 artworks by Picasso, as well as a representative collection of his contemporaries.
Schloss Charlottenburg
Spandauer Damm 10-22
Tel: (030) 320 911.
Website: www.spsg.de
Opening hours: Old Palace: Tues-Sun 0900-1700, last tour at 1600; Tues-Sun 1000-1700 (Apr-Oct); New Wing: 1100-1700 (Nov-Apr); grounds open daily 0600-2100 (summer); daily 0600-2000 (winter).
Admission charge.
Museum Berggruen
Westlicher Stülerbau, Schlossstrasse 1
Tel: (030) 3267 4811.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues-Sun 1000-1800.
Admission charge.
Kulturforum (Cultural Forum)
Located in the west of the city, the Kulturforum is a cultural centre, grouping together all the museums that have European art as their chief focus, including a Musikinstrumenten-museum (Musical Instrument Museum), a hall for chamber music and the Philharmonie concert house, home to the Berlin Philharmonic orchestra. The opening of the Gemäldegalerie (Painting Gallery) in 1998 brought a stunning collection of 13th- to 18th-century paintings to the site. It joined the Kunstgewerbemuseum (Museum of Decorative Arts) and the Neue Nationalgalerie (New National Gallery). The latter, built to the designs of Mies van der Rohe, contains German Expressionist and Realist art, as well as other works of the 20th century. There is also a sculpture garden.
Berlin City Guide - Altes Museum - Deutsches Historisches Museum - Jewish Museum
Altes Museum
Am Lustgarten
Tel: (030) 2090 5577 (recorded info) or 266 3660.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Mon-Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge; free for last four hours on Thurs.
Deutsches Historisches Museum
Unter den Linden 2
Tel: (030) 203 040.
Website: www.dhm.de
Opening times: Daily 1000-1800.
Admission charge.
Pergamonmuseum
Am Kupfergraben
Tel: (030) 2090 5577 or 266 3660.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Mon-Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge.
Alte Nationalgalerie
Bodestrasse
Tel: (030) 2090 5577 or 266 3660.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge.
Judische Museum (Jewish Museum)
The striking design of this Daniel Libeskind-designed memorial to Jewish life in Berlin is based on a shattered Star of David. Even before the installation of the permanent exhibits (recalling the life and history of German Jews through the centuries), visitors came to experience the evocative spaces within this incredible structure.
Lindenstrasse 9-14
Tel: (030) 2599 3300.
Website: www.juedisches-museum-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues-Sun 1000-2000, Mon 1000-2200; closed on Jewish holidays.
Admission charge.
Am Lustgarten
Tel: (030) 2090 5577 (recorded info) or 266 3660.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Mon-Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge; free for last four hours on Thurs.
Deutsches Historisches Museum
Unter den Linden 2
Tel: (030) 203 040.
Website: www.dhm.de
Opening times: Daily 1000-1800.
Admission charge.
Pergamonmuseum
Am Kupfergraben
Tel: (030) 2090 5577 or 266 3660.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Mon-Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge.
Alte Nationalgalerie
Bodestrasse
Tel: (030) 2090 5577 or 266 3660.
Website: www.smb.spk-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2200.
Admission charge.
Judische Museum (Jewish Museum)
The striking design of this Daniel Libeskind-designed memorial to Jewish life in Berlin is based on a shattered Star of David. Even before the installation of the permanent exhibits (recalling the life and history of German Jews through the centuries), visitors came to experience the evocative spaces within this incredible structure.
Lindenstrasse 9-14
Tel: (030) 2599 3300.
Website: www.juedisches-museum-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues-Sun 1000-2000, Mon 1000-2200; closed on Jewish holidays.
Admission charge.
Berlin City Guide - Gedenkstätte - Mauermuseum - Unter den Linden and the Museumsinsel
Gedenkstätte
Bernauer Strasse 111
Website: www.the-berlin-wall.de or www.berlinermauer.de
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 1000-1700 (visitors centre).
Free admission.
Haus am Checkpoint Charlie (Mauermuseum)
Friedrichstrasse 43-45
Tel: (030) 253 7250.
Website: www.mauer-museum.com
Opening hours: Daily 0900-2200.
Admission charge.
Topographie des Terrors
Niederkirchnerstrasse 8
Tel: (030) 2548 6703.
Website: www.topographie.de
Opening hours: Daily 1000-2000 (May-Sep); 1000-dark (Oct-Apr).
Free admission.
Unter den Linden and the Museumsinsel
One of Berlin's most recognisable landmarks, the Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate), stands at the western end of Pariser Platz. Stretching eastwards from here is Unter den Linden, along which some of the city's richest cultural treasures lie. These include the Deutsche Staatsoper (German State Opera), the Neue Wache (New Guardhouse), which is now a memorial to the victims of fascism and tyranny, and the Zeughaus (Arsenal), which houses the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum).
The Museumsinsel (Museum Island), at the eastern end of Unter den Linden, offers the Pergamonmuseum, containing a host of antiquities, including the enormous Pergamon altar, Bodemuseum and the massive, neo-baroque Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral), opened in 1905 and recently renovated. Within the refurbished Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery) is the 'Galerie der Romantik', a large collection of German and Austrian paintings from the first half of the 19th century. These include paintings by Caspar David Friedrich. There are also Impressionist works by Manet, Monet and Degas.
The Altes Museum (Old Museum) is a striking neoclassical building, designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, which opened in 1830. The main floor houses a collection of antiquities, while the upstairs galleries house the collections of the Egyptian Museum, which will remain there until 2009 when they will move to the Neues Museum (currently being refurbished). It is possible to buy a joint ticket for all of the Museum Island museums.
Bernauer Strasse 111
Website: www.the-berlin-wall.de or www.berlinermauer.de
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 1000-1700 (visitors centre).
Free admission.
Haus am Checkpoint Charlie (Mauermuseum)
Friedrichstrasse 43-45
Tel: (030) 253 7250.
Website: www.mauer-museum.com
Opening hours: Daily 0900-2200.
Admission charge.
Topographie des Terrors
Niederkirchnerstrasse 8
Tel: (030) 2548 6703.
Website: www.topographie.de
Opening hours: Daily 1000-2000 (May-Sep); 1000-dark (Oct-Apr).
Free admission.
Unter den Linden and the Museumsinsel
One of Berlin's most recognisable landmarks, the Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate), stands at the western end of Pariser Platz. Stretching eastwards from here is Unter den Linden, along which some of the city's richest cultural treasures lie. These include the Deutsche Staatsoper (German State Opera), the Neue Wache (New Guardhouse), which is now a memorial to the victims of fascism and tyranny, and the Zeughaus (Arsenal), which houses the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum).
The Museumsinsel (Museum Island), at the eastern end of Unter den Linden, offers the Pergamonmuseum, containing a host of antiquities, including the enormous Pergamon altar, Bodemuseum and the massive, neo-baroque Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral), opened in 1905 and recently renovated. Within the refurbished Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery) is the 'Galerie der Romantik', a large collection of German and Austrian paintings from the first half of the 19th century. These include paintings by Caspar David Friedrich. There are also Impressionist works by Manet, Monet and Degas.
The Altes Museum (Old Museum) is a striking neoclassical building, designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, which opened in 1830. The main floor houses a collection of antiquities, while the upstairs galleries house the collections of the Egyptian Museum, which will remain there until 2009 when they will move to the Neues Museum (currently being refurbished). It is possible to buy a joint ticket for all of the Museum Island museums.
Berlin City Guide - Reichstag - Berlin Wall
Reichstag
British architect Norman Foster has transformed the Reichstag, which was built at the end of the 19th century and has long since been emblematic of the German State. It was damaged in the fire of 1933, which marked Hitler's consolidation of power, and has now been renovated for the Bundestag (People's Assembly) of a reunited Germany. The dome is meant to symbolise the transparency of the democratic government and visitors can pass between its layers to witness the decision-making chamber of the government. There are free hourly talks on the visitor's gallery of the plenary during weeks when parliament is not in session - check this on the website and book in advance. Talks in English take place at 1200 on Tuesdays. Guided tours of the Reichstag also take place when parliament is not sitting. They last 90 minutes and are held at 1030, 1330, 1530 and 1830. Booking in advance in writing is recommended. The walk through the dome itself is stunning, culminating in sweeping views of the city. The rooftop restaurant (tel: (030) 2262 9933) provides a way to beat the queues.
Platz der Republik
Tel: (030) 2270.
Website: www.bundestag.de
Opening hours: Daily 0800-2400 (last admission 2200).
Free admission.
Berlin Wall
Much of the Wall or the 'Anti-Fascist Protection Rampart', as the GDR (German Democratic Republic) authorities liked to call it, has succumbed - first to enthusiastic revellers and souvenir hunters and then more significantly to developers; only a few sections remain. The East Side Gallery (website: www.eastsidegallery.com), along Mühlenstrasse (S-Bahn Ostbahnhof), emerged in the post-Wall years as a poignant symbol of new hope, as it was covered with inspiring artwork. The Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer is a small graffiti-free stretch of the Wall that has been preserved by the authorities. A visitor centre has information about the Wall years, while a chapel is dedicated to the 80 or so victims that died trying to cross it. Perhaps the best place to get a sense of what the divided city was like is the Mauermuseum Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, located next to the site where the famous border-crossing stood. A number of permanent exhibitions document the history of the Wall and place it into context, as well as record the famous paintings on the Western side of the division.
A short walk from Checkpoint Charlie is the Topographie des Terrors, an informative open-air exhibition focused around a preserved section of wall and the former headquarters of the SS and Gestapo (demolished). Torture and suffering is documented, and an audio tour in English is available.
British architect Norman Foster has transformed the Reichstag, which was built at the end of the 19th century and has long since been emblematic of the German State. It was damaged in the fire of 1933, which marked Hitler's consolidation of power, and has now been renovated for the Bundestag (People's Assembly) of a reunited Germany. The dome is meant to symbolise the transparency of the democratic government and visitors can pass between its layers to witness the decision-making chamber of the government. There are free hourly talks on the visitor's gallery of the plenary during weeks when parliament is not in session - check this on the website and book in advance. Talks in English take place at 1200 on Tuesdays. Guided tours of the Reichstag also take place when parliament is not sitting. They last 90 minutes and are held at 1030, 1330, 1530 and 1830. Booking in advance in writing is recommended. The walk through the dome itself is stunning, culminating in sweeping views of the city. The rooftop restaurant (tel: (030) 2262 9933) provides a way to beat the queues.
Platz der Republik
Tel: (030) 2270.
Website: www.bundestag.de
Opening hours: Daily 0800-2400 (last admission 2200).
Free admission.
Berlin Wall
Much of the Wall or the 'Anti-Fascist Protection Rampart', as the GDR (German Democratic Republic) authorities liked to call it, has succumbed - first to enthusiastic revellers and souvenir hunters and then more significantly to developers; only a few sections remain. The East Side Gallery (website: www.eastsidegallery.com), along Mühlenstrasse (S-Bahn Ostbahnhof), emerged in the post-Wall years as a poignant symbol of new hope, as it was covered with inspiring artwork. The Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer is a small graffiti-free stretch of the Wall that has been preserved by the authorities. A visitor centre has information about the Wall years, while a chapel is dedicated to the 80 or so victims that died trying to cross it. Perhaps the best place to get a sense of what the divided city was like is the Mauermuseum Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, located next to the site where the famous border-crossing stood. A number of permanent exhibitions document the history of the Wall and place it into context, as well as record the famous paintings on the Western side of the division.
A short walk from Checkpoint Charlie is the Topographie des Terrors, an informative open-air exhibition focused around a preserved section of wall and the former headquarters of the SS and Gestapo (demolished). Torture and suffering is documented, and an audio tour in English is available.
Berlin City Guide - Potsdamer Platz and the New Centre - Potsdamer Platz
Potsdamer Platz and the New Centre
After lying desolate for decades, except for the platform that allowed Westerners to peer over the Wall into the East, Potsdamer Platz is again part of Berlin's thriving centre - in the 1930s, it was the busiest square in Europe. In just a few years, the forest of cranes has given way to a new precinct full of shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. The best place to see it all (as well as terrific views over the rest of Berlin) is from the Panorama-Point, at the top of the Kollhof building, reached by what is claimed to be one of the fastest lifts in Europe.
One of the more interesting constructions is the Sony Centre, with its piazza covered by a futuristic sail-like roof. On the ground floor is the Filmmuseum Berlin, which recalls some of the city's great achievements in the early days of cinema and devotes considerable space to Marlene Dietrich.
Potsdamer Platz
Filmmuseum Berlin
Potsdamer Strasse 2
Tel: (030) 300 9030.
Website: www.filmmuseum-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2000.
Admission charge.
Panorama-Point
Potsdamer Platz
Tel: (030) 2529 4372.
Website: www.panoramapunktotsdamerplatz.de
Opening hours: Daily 1100-1930.
Admission charge.
After lying desolate for decades, except for the platform that allowed Westerners to peer over the Wall into the East, Potsdamer Platz is again part of Berlin's thriving centre - in the 1930s, it was the busiest square in Europe. In just a few years, the forest of cranes has given way to a new precinct full of shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. The best place to see it all (as well as terrific views over the rest of Berlin) is from the Panorama-Point, at the top of the Kollhof building, reached by what is claimed to be one of the fastest lifts in Europe.
One of the more interesting constructions is the Sony Centre, with its piazza covered by a futuristic sail-like roof. On the ground floor is the Filmmuseum Berlin, which recalls some of the city's great achievements in the early days of cinema and devotes considerable space to Marlene Dietrich.
Potsdamer Platz
Filmmuseum Berlin
Potsdamer Strasse 2
Tel: (030) 300 9030.
Website: www.filmmuseum-berlin.de
Opening hours: Tues, Wed and Fri-Sun 1000-1800, Thurs 1000-2000.
Admission charge.
Panorama-Point
Potsdamer Platz
Tel: (030) 2529 4372.
Website: www.panoramapunktotsdamerplatz.de
Opening hours: Daily 1100-1930.
Admission charge.
Berlin City Guide - Sightseeing
Sightseeing Overview
Berlin can be a sightseeing nightmare - the vast sprawl that is the city has no definite centre and pockets of attractions are dotted all over. That said, the state museums are grouped in clusters - on the Museumsinsel, at the Kulturforum, in and around Schloss Charlottenberg and in the southwestern suburb of Dahlem.
There are also a large number of attractions either at Potsdamer Platz or very close to it, including the Kulturforum to the southwest. To the north lie the Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate) and the Reichstag, sporting Lord Foster's glass dome. The Brandenburg Gate is situated on Berlin's main east-west axis. To the west lies the Siegessäule (Victory Column), which provides a view over the surrounding Tiergarten and the Western city centre, to the southwest of the column.
West Berlin's centre has less to offer and is better for shopping and nightlife than for sightseeing. Nevertheless, visitors should take a look at the broken shard of a church, the Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche, which serves as a brutal reminder of WWII. The zoo is nearby.
The densest array of sights lies to the east of the Brandenburg Gate, on either side of Unter den Linden, lined with many 18th- and 19th-century buildings. At its end are the artistic and architectural treasures of the Museumsinsel, where the city's main cathedral, the Berliner Dom, can be found. Further on is the Communist-era Fernsehturm (television tower), on Alexanderplatz, which marked the centre of East Berlin. Just south of the Brandenburg Gate is the controversial Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, which opened in 2005.
Due to ongoing restoration work, some of the city's museums are prone to closures and some of the collections are temporarily relocated.
Tourist Information
Berlin Tourismus Marketing GmbH
Tel: (030) 250 025.
Website: www.visitberlin.de
Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)
Opening hours: Daily 0800-2200.
Brandenburg Gate (South Wing), Pariser Platz (East Berlin)
Opening hours: Daily 1000-1800, opens later Apr-Oct.
Another tourist information office is located at the Alexa Shopping Centre near Alexanderplatz. There is a Berlin Info Store, Grunerstrasse 20, Ground Floor, open Monday to Saturday 1000 to 2200, Sunday 1100 to 1500, extended hours April to October. The City of Berlin provides online information (website: www.berlin.de), some of it in English.
Passes
Berlin Tourismus Marketing offers the WelcomeCard, (website: www.berlin-welcomecard.de) which gives discounts on museums and attractions (including Schloss Sanssouci and Zoologischer Garten) as well as guided tours, boat trips and performances in both Berlin and Potsdam. The pass is available for 48 or 72 hours and covers one adult and up to three children. Also included in the price is unlimited travel on all buses and trains in zones A, B and C. The card can be purchased at tourist offices, transit ticket offices and some hotels.
There is also the SchauLUST Museen Berlin three-day tourist pass, which gives free admission to more than 70 museums, including the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, the Pergamon Museum and Gemäldegalerie. The pass is available at the main tourist offices.
A day pass for all of the region's Prussian palaces and gardens can be purchased at Schloss Sanssouci.
Berlin can be a sightseeing nightmare - the vast sprawl that is the city has no definite centre and pockets of attractions are dotted all over. That said, the state museums are grouped in clusters - on the Museumsinsel, at the Kulturforum, in and around Schloss Charlottenberg and in the southwestern suburb of Dahlem.
There are also a large number of attractions either at Potsdamer Platz or very close to it, including the Kulturforum to the southwest. To the north lie the Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate) and the Reichstag, sporting Lord Foster's glass dome. The Brandenburg Gate is situated on Berlin's main east-west axis. To the west lies the Siegessäule (Victory Column), which provides a view over the surrounding Tiergarten and the Western city centre, to the southwest of the column.
West Berlin's centre has less to offer and is better for shopping and nightlife than for sightseeing. Nevertheless, visitors should take a look at the broken shard of a church, the Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche, which serves as a brutal reminder of WWII. The zoo is nearby.
The densest array of sights lies to the east of the Brandenburg Gate, on either side of Unter den Linden, lined with many 18th- and 19th-century buildings. At its end are the artistic and architectural treasures of the Museumsinsel, where the city's main cathedral, the Berliner Dom, can be found. Further on is the Communist-era Fernsehturm (television tower), on Alexanderplatz, which marked the centre of East Berlin. Just south of the Brandenburg Gate is the controversial Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, which opened in 2005.
Due to ongoing restoration work, some of the city's museums are prone to closures and some of the collections are temporarily relocated.
Tourist Information
Berlin Tourismus Marketing GmbH
Tel: (030) 250 025.
Website: www.visitberlin.de
Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)
Opening hours: Daily 0800-2200.
Brandenburg Gate (South Wing), Pariser Platz (East Berlin)
Opening hours: Daily 1000-1800, opens later Apr-Oct.
Another tourist information office is located at the Alexa Shopping Centre near Alexanderplatz. There is a Berlin Info Store, Grunerstrasse 20, Ground Floor, open Monday to Saturday 1000 to 2200, Sunday 1100 to 1500, extended hours April to October. The City of Berlin provides online information (website: www.berlin.de), some of it in English.
Passes
Berlin Tourismus Marketing offers the WelcomeCard, (website: www.berlin-welcomecard.de) which gives discounts on museums and attractions (including Schloss Sanssouci and Zoologischer Garten) as well as guided tours, boat trips and performances in both Berlin and Potsdam. The pass is available for 48 or 72 hours and covers one adult and up to three children. Also included in the price is unlimited travel on all buses and trains in zones A, B and C. The card can be purchased at tourist offices, transit ticket offices and some hotels.
There is also the SchauLUST Museen Berlin three-day tourist pass, which gives free admission to more than 70 museums, including the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, the Pergamon Museum and Gemäldegalerie. The pass is available at the main tourist offices.
A day pass for all of the region's Prussian palaces and gardens can be purchased at Schloss Sanssouci.
Cologne City Guide - Dom (Cathedral) - Römischer-Germanisches Museum - Imhoff-Stollwerck-Museum - Museum Ludwig - Romanesque Churches
Dom (Cathedral)
Unmissable in every sense, this behemoth is one of the most awe-inspiring buildings in the world and holds a number of treasures, including the golden casket holding the remains of the Magi, the ninth-century Gero crucifix, the Stefan Lochner triptych and medieval stained glass windows. Climb the 509 steps to the viewing platform of the 157m- (515ft-) high South Tower for the dizzying views and down below look in the Schatzkammer (Treasury Museum).
Domkloster
Tel: (0221) 1794 0200.
Website: www.koelner-dom.de
Römischer-Germanisches Museum
This museum celebrates Cologne's importance as the capital of Roman Germany and is built around a superbly preserved mosaic floor (the best of its kind in north Europe) comprising over 1 million pieces.
Roncalliplatz 4
Tel: (0221) 22304 or 24438.
Website: www.museenkoeln.de/english
Imhoff-Stollwerck-Museum
Set in a stunning building on the Rhine, this entertaining and educational exhibition (all captions in perfect English) studies every possible aspect of the fascinating history of chocolate and features a real working production line culminating in a chocolate fountain.
Rheinauhafen 1A
Tel: (0221) 931 8880.
Website: www.schokoladenmuseum.de
Museum Ludwig
This world-class modern art museum is full of eye-catching pop art icons from the late 20th century, including masterpieces from Andy Warhol (Munroes and Campbell soups), Roy Liechtenstein and René Magritte, plus several hundred lesser works by Pablo Picasso. Dalí's huge La Gare de Perpignan is worth the entrance fee alone.
Bischofsgartenstrasse 1
Tel: (0221) 26165.
Website: www.museenkoeln.de/english
Romanesque Churches
The city boasts 12 wonderfully atmospheric churches, largely unassuming from the outside, which were originally built between the 10th and the mid 13th centuries, then rebuilt and restored after severe war damage. Don't miss Gross St Martin, St Aposteln, St Gereon, St Maria im Kapitol, St Cäcilien (now home to the Schnütgen Museum of Sacred Art) and especially St Ursula with its amazing and macabre Goldene Kammer bone chapel and reliquary room.
Unmissable in every sense, this behemoth is one of the most awe-inspiring buildings in the world and holds a number of treasures, including the golden casket holding the remains of the Magi, the ninth-century Gero crucifix, the Stefan Lochner triptych and medieval stained glass windows. Climb the 509 steps to the viewing platform of the 157m- (515ft-) high South Tower for the dizzying views and down below look in the Schatzkammer (Treasury Museum).
Domkloster
Tel: (0221) 1794 0200.
Website: www.koelner-dom.de
Römischer-Germanisches Museum
This museum celebrates Cologne's importance as the capital of Roman Germany and is built around a superbly preserved mosaic floor (the best of its kind in north Europe) comprising over 1 million pieces.
Roncalliplatz 4
Tel: (0221) 22304 or 24438.
Website: www.museenkoeln.de/english
Imhoff-Stollwerck-Museum
Set in a stunning building on the Rhine, this entertaining and educational exhibition (all captions in perfect English) studies every possible aspect of the fascinating history of chocolate and features a real working production line culminating in a chocolate fountain.
Rheinauhafen 1A
Tel: (0221) 931 8880.
Website: www.schokoladenmuseum.de
Museum Ludwig
This world-class modern art museum is full of eye-catching pop art icons from the late 20th century, including masterpieces from Andy Warhol (Munroes and Campbell soups), Roy Liechtenstein and René Magritte, plus several hundred lesser works by Pablo Picasso. Dalí's huge La Gare de Perpignan is worth the entrance fee alone.
Bischofsgartenstrasse 1
Tel: (0221) 26165.
Website: www.museenkoeln.de/english
Romanesque Churches
The city boasts 12 wonderfully atmospheric churches, largely unassuming from the outside, which were originally built between the 10th and the mid 13th centuries, then rebuilt and restored after severe war damage. Don't miss Gross St Martin, St Aposteln, St Gereon, St Maria im Kapitol, St Cäcilien (now home to the Schnütgen Museum of Sacred Art) and especially St Ursula with its amazing and macabre Goldene Kammer bone chapel and reliquary room.
Cologne City Guide - Sightseeing
Sightseeing Overview
Sightseeing is concentrated around the Dom (cathedral) with two major museums adjacent and a third less than 100m (328ft) away. Also very close by is the most attractive part of Cologne, the heart of the Altstadt (Old Town) beside the river Rhine, which becomes an attraction in its own right when the weather is warm.
Dotted around the city centre are 12 superb examples of Romanesque churches. The Dom precincts are deliberately bare and open in order to give the best possible views of the city's pride and joy. In winter, however, this area can be bitterly cold and desolate; it is best to come in December when the colourful and vibrant Christmas markets use the Dom as a dramatic backdrop and bring it to life.
In the colder months, the northern ‘sightseeing boundary' is the church of Santa Ursula (five minutes from the Dom) while a 10- to 15-minute walk in the opposite direction following the river brings you to the southernmost sight, the Imhoff-Stollwerck chocolate museum. Don't miss a visit to either. Summer sightseeing extends north to the zoo, botanical garden and cable car, around 2km (1.2 miles) along the river from the Dom.
Tourist Information
Cologne Tourist Board (Kölntourismus)
Opposite the cathedral entrance, Unter Fettenhennen 19
Tel: (0221) 30400.
Website: www.koeln.de/tourismus
This is the main tourist office in the city. There is also an office at the airport, Terminal 2, arrivals level and at the Kölnmesse when trade fairs are on. Rooms can be booked at the main office and at the airport office.
Passes
If you intend visiting most of the sites, it may be worth investing in the Köln Welcome Card which gives reduced-price admission to most attractions and excursions as well as free travel on all public transport. The card is available from the tourist office.
Sightseeing is concentrated around the Dom (cathedral) with two major museums adjacent and a third less than 100m (328ft) away. Also very close by is the most attractive part of Cologne, the heart of the Altstadt (Old Town) beside the river Rhine, which becomes an attraction in its own right when the weather is warm.
Dotted around the city centre are 12 superb examples of Romanesque churches. The Dom precincts are deliberately bare and open in order to give the best possible views of the city's pride and joy. In winter, however, this area can be bitterly cold and desolate; it is best to come in December when the colourful and vibrant Christmas markets use the Dom as a dramatic backdrop and bring it to life.
In the colder months, the northern ‘sightseeing boundary' is the church of Santa Ursula (five minutes from the Dom) while a 10- to 15-minute walk in the opposite direction following the river brings you to the southernmost sight, the Imhoff-Stollwerck chocolate museum. Don't miss a visit to either. Summer sightseeing extends north to the zoo, botanical garden and cable car, around 2km (1.2 miles) along the river from the Dom.
Tourist Information
Cologne Tourist Board (Kölntourismus)
Opposite the cathedral entrance, Unter Fettenhennen 19
Tel: (0221) 30400.
Website: www.koeln.de/tourismus
This is the main tourist office in the city. There is also an office at the airport, Terminal 2, arrivals level and at the Kölnmesse when trade fairs are on. Rooms can be booked at the main office and at the airport office.
Passes
If you intend visiting most of the sites, it may be worth investing in the Köln Welcome Card which gives reduced-price admission to most attractions and excursions as well as free travel on all public transport. The card is available from the tourist office.
Düsseldorf City Guide - Tours of the City
Coach tours (in German and English) depart from the railway station in the morning and Königsallee in the afternoon daily. Both include admission to the Rhine Tower, and the afternoon tour includes a boat cruise to the Media Hafen. There is no need to book. In winter there is also a one-hour tour of the city by night. Tours depart daily except for Carnival Thursday and Monday, Fun-Fair Sunday, Christmas and New Year. Tours are by Reisebüro Adorf (tel: (0211) 418 970; website: www.stadtrundfahrt-duesseldorf.de). Boat tours also ply the Rhine, offering a number of cruises by day and moonlit dinner, disco and jazz cruises by night. The main operators are Weisse Flotte (tel: (0211) 326 124; website: www.weisseflotteduesseldorf.de) and KD Schiffstouren (tel: (0211) 323 9263; website: www.k-d.com).
Düsseldorf City Guide - Altstadt - Docks area - Museum Kunst Palast
Altstadt
In addition to the myriad eating and drinking opportunities don't miss the charming 16th-century Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square), the churches of St Andreas and St Lambertus, the grotesque Battle of Worringen (1288) monument on the Burgplatz next to the tiny River Düssel and the quiet leafy southern part of the Old Town adjacent to Karlstadt.
Free admission.
Rheinturm (Rhine Tower)
An icon for the city, the 360-degree views from its large glass windows at 164m (538ft) take in the whole city and river; the extraordinary building immediately below is the new Landtag (regional parliament).
Stromstrasse 20
Tel: (0211) 863 2000.
Admission charge.
Media Hafen (Media Harbour)
This recently revitalised harbour is so named for its new tenants, who have colonised its striking waterside buildings, including designs by Frank Gehry; visit on a sightseeing cruise then come back for the nightlife.
Docks area
Free admission.
K20 Kunstsammlung NRW (Nordrhein-Westfalen Art Collection)
The superb permanent collection here features 20th-century masterpieces by Kandinsky, Matisse, Picasso, Mondrian, Klee and Kirchner, and American art after 1945 with works by Warhol, Rauschberg and Pollok; plus world-class temporary exhibitions.
Grabbeplatz 5
Tel: (0211) 838 1130.
Website: www.kunstsammlung.de
(Note: the gallery may be closed for renovation from early 2008 onwards, see website for details.)
Admission charge.
Museum Kunst Palast
The eclectic and extensive collections here comprise works from the Middle Ages, the Baroque period and the Düsseldorf School of Painting, right up to some startling contemporary artworks and cutting-edge temporary exhibitions.
Ehrenhof 4-5
Tel: (0211) 899 6241.
Website: www.museum-kunst-palast.de
Admission charge.
In addition to the myriad eating and drinking opportunities don't miss the charming 16th-century Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square), the churches of St Andreas and St Lambertus, the grotesque Battle of Worringen (1288) monument on the Burgplatz next to the tiny River Düssel and the quiet leafy southern part of the Old Town adjacent to Karlstadt.
Free admission.
Rheinturm (Rhine Tower)
An icon for the city, the 360-degree views from its large glass windows at 164m (538ft) take in the whole city and river; the extraordinary building immediately below is the new Landtag (regional parliament).
Stromstrasse 20
Tel: (0211) 863 2000.
Admission charge.
Media Hafen (Media Harbour)
This recently revitalised harbour is so named for its new tenants, who have colonised its striking waterside buildings, including designs by Frank Gehry; visit on a sightseeing cruise then come back for the nightlife.
Docks area
Free admission.
K20 Kunstsammlung NRW (Nordrhein-Westfalen Art Collection)
The superb permanent collection here features 20th-century masterpieces by Kandinsky, Matisse, Picasso, Mondrian, Klee and Kirchner, and American art after 1945 with works by Warhol, Rauschberg and Pollok; plus world-class temporary exhibitions.
Grabbeplatz 5
Tel: (0211) 838 1130.
Website: www.kunstsammlung.de
(Note: the gallery may be closed for renovation from early 2008 onwards, see website for details.)
Admission charge.
Museum Kunst Palast
The eclectic and extensive collections here comprise works from the Middle Ages, the Baroque period and the Düsseldorf School of Painting, right up to some startling contemporary artworks and cutting-edge temporary exhibitions.
Ehrenhof 4-5
Tel: (0211) 899 6241.
Website: www.museum-kunst-palast.de
Admission charge.
Düsseldorf City Guide - Sightseeing Overview
Sightseeing Overview
Düsseldorf has no iconic attractions and the Rheinturm is its only major landmark. Its K20 Kunstsammlung NRW art collection is undoubtedly world class but the real attraction of the city is the Altstadt and its huge range of places to eat and drink, which has earned it the nickname of ‘the longest bar in the world.' On a summer's evening, when the whole Altstadt parties alfresco, the atmosphere is more akin to a Mediterranean resort than a north European banking metropolis.
An attractive promenade now runs the whole way from the Altstadt to the recently developed uber-trendy Media Hafen, featuring world-class architecture by Frank Gehry and co. When the sun shines the Altstadt riverfront is the place to be, boarding a river cruise, feasting on locally caught fish, drinking Düsseldorf Altbier or maybe chilling out with your feet in a mini paddling pool in the Havana Bar, listening to salsa while watching the Rhine barges passing to and fro.
Düsseldorf has no iconic attractions and the Rheinturm is its only major landmark. Its K20 Kunstsammlung NRW art collection is undoubtedly world class but the real attraction of the city is the Altstadt and its huge range of places to eat and drink, which has earned it the nickname of ‘the longest bar in the world.' On a summer's evening, when the whole Altstadt parties alfresco, the atmosphere is more akin to a Mediterranean resort than a north European banking metropolis.
An attractive promenade now runs the whole way from the Altstadt to the recently developed uber-trendy Media Hafen, featuring world-class architecture by Frank Gehry and co. When the sun shines the Altstadt riverfront is the place to be, boarding a river cruise, feasting on locally caught fish, drinking Düsseldorf Altbier or maybe chilling out with your feet in a mini paddling pool in the Havana Bar, listening to salsa while watching the Rhine barges passing to and fro.
Düsseldorf City
The little village (dorf) on the tiny river Düssel, a tributary of the mighty Rhine, has grown to become the economic powerhouse of the region and one of the three wealthiest cities in Germany.
Since the terrible destruction of WWII, which left 85% of Düsseldorf in ruins, it has become ‘the office of the Ruhr,' acting as the administrative and financial centre for Germany's famous heavy engineering district, growing wealthy while keeping itself free from industrial blight. The large number of banks and international head offices sited here means Düsseldorf is a very cosmopolitan city with around 100,000 foreigners - one in six of the total population.
With prosperity has come patronage of the arts and fashion world, reflected in the ultra-trendy shopping street Konigsallee and the city's many galleries and art museums. Both the quantity and quality of dining options is also witness to how affluent and cosmopolitan the city is.
Visitors will spend most of their time in the Altstadt (Old Town), a warren of cobbled streets huddled by the river, where alongside vestiges of the past, there are over 200 very well patronised bars, restaurants and nightspots. Uniquely in Germany, the Altstadt opens directly onto the Rhine, a recent initiative that has ‘reclaimed' the riverfront to the delight of locals and visitors.
Since the terrible destruction of WWII, which left 85% of Düsseldorf in ruins, it has become ‘the office of the Ruhr,' acting as the administrative and financial centre for Germany's famous heavy engineering district, growing wealthy while keeping itself free from industrial blight. The large number of banks and international head offices sited here means Düsseldorf is a very cosmopolitan city with around 100,000 foreigners - one in six of the total population.
With prosperity has come patronage of the arts and fashion world, reflected in the ultra-trendy shopping street Konigsallee and the city's many galleries and art museums. Both the quantity and quality of dining options is also witness to how affluent and cosmopolitan the city is.
Visitors will spend most of their time in the Altstadt (Old Town), a warren of cobbled streets huddled by the river, where alongside vestiges of the past, there are over 200 very well patronised bars, restaurants and nightspots. Uniquely in Germany, the Altstadt opens directly onto the Rhine, a recent initiative that has ‘reclaimed' the riverfront to the delight of locals and visitors.
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Düsseldorf City
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