Germany Top Tourist Attractions 2010

Millions of visitors flock to Germany each year and each year passes that number grows. The United States alone accounts for nearly 3 million visitors each year. Visitors come to Germany for the hospitality and the friendliness of people, landscapes and natural beauty, and world-class accommodations available for every budget-minded traveler to the jet-set celebrity. Here is a list of some of the major attractions that are considered "mandatory" in Germany, in no particular order.

The Black Forest

Isolated pine-Laden is located in southwestern Germany, the Black Forest is famous for being the origin of cuckoo clocks. The area gets its name from the dark shadows of the firs and pines that grow very thick there. The black forest offers first class tours, camping and skiing. The budget travelers can find the best deals on lodging and accommodations in cities around the Black Forest.

Frisian Islands

These islands actually span along the coasts of three countries: Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands. Sylt is the largest and most populated of the islands and is a popular destination for European jet-set and nudists. Amrum also a hot tourist spot, but with fewer people. The beaches, panoramic views, and the relative isolation continue to draw visitors looking to escape the bustle of more traditional destinations.


Oktoberfest

Munich does say it is the home of beer and if 6 million visitors is any indication, that claim seems valid. Oktoberfest is known worldwide as a celebration of Bavarian beer and lasts several weeks long, from mid-September to early October. The 200 year old festival includes events such as parades, beer tents, music features, feasts of authentic German cuisine and exhibitions.

City of Berlin

Berlin is Germany's largest city and is the nation's capital. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall almost two decades ago, the city has grown and evolved into a modern, bustling metropolis that prides itself on looking to the future preserving the past. There are landmarks to remind visitors of the strains that history has put on the city, but much of Berlin now has an unmistakable air of America with it. Berlin should be on every visitor's list to visit Germany.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Located near the Austrian border, Neuschwanstein Castle has the title of most photographed building in Germany. It is also the most famous of all the castles of Germany and was the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle located in Disneyland. Neuschwanstein Castle, built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II. Photography inside the castle is strictly prohibited, as it is protected by copyright.

Lake Constance

Lake Constance lies between Germany, Austria and Switzerland and is fed by the Rhine River, one of the longest in Europe. It is a freshwater lake based on water consumption by nearby cities and towns. Recreation draws many tourists from across Europe and beyond each year.