Practical tips
Best time
May to September brings milder weather and long days. Munich’s Oktoberfest fills late September/early October. The Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte), in December, are an experience in themselves. Winter is cold and grey, but magical at the markets.
Languages
German is the official language; English is widely spoken, especially in Berlin and big cities, and by younger generations. A “Hallo”, “Danke” and “Bitte” go down well. The large diaspora also makes Turkish, Arabic and African languages common in urban daily life.
Etiquette
Punctuality is taken seriously — being on time is respect. Rules are followed (don’t cross on red, even with no cars; sort your rubbish for recycling). The formal “Sie” is used with strangers. Direct isn’t rude: it’s clarity. And carry cash (see Money).
What to see & culture
Places
The Brandenburg Gate and the remains of the Berlin Wall; Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria; Cologne Cathedral; the Black Forest and the Romantic Road; Hamburg and its harbour; and the Rhine Valley with its castles.
Culture
Land of Bach, Beethoven and Goethe, and today a European capital of electronic music (Berlin’s techno scene is legendary). Dense history — from the Holy Roman Empire to reunification — that the country faces head-on. Strong beer, club and green-space culture.
Food
Sausage in a thousand versions (currywurst, bratwurst), pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe), pretzels and rye bread; the döner kebab, a Turkish legacy, is almost the urban national dish. Pair with a draught beer (the 1516 purity law still rules) and, in winter, mulled wine at the markets.