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.