Everything You Need To Know For Germany
Geographical Position And Climate Of Germany
Germany is located in Central Europe, where it is bordered to the north by Denmark, to the east by Poland and the Czech Republic, to the south by Austria and Switzerland, and to the west by France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
The climate in Germany is a temperate seasonal climate. It has moderately cold winters with average temperatures close to freezing point and mild summers with temperatures averaging between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The country also experiences precipitation throughout the year, with the western regions typically receiving more rainfall than the eastern parts. Extreme temperatures are rare, though they can occur during summer heatwaves or cold winter spells.
Brief History Of Germany
Germany has a rich and complex history. The region that is now Germany was inhabited by various Germanic tribes before becoming part of the Roman Empire in the first century B.C. In the Middle Ages, it became a collection of numerous small states and principalities, which were later consolidated under the Holy Roman Empire.
The modern nation-state of Germany began to take shape in the 19th century. Following the fall of Napoleon, the Congress of Vienna in 1815 established the German Confederation, a loose grouping of 39 German-speaking states. The push for unification gained momentum, and in 1871, following victory in the Franco-Prussian War, the German Empire was proclaimed with Prussia’s King Wilhelm I as its emperor.
The empire saw rapid industrialization and economic growth but also militarization, leading to World War I. Defeated in 1918, the Treaty of Versailles imposed heavy reparations on Germany, contributing to economic hardship and political instability. This turmoil paved the way for Adolf Hitler’s rise to power and the establishment of the Nazi regime, which led Germany into World War II.
After the war, Germany was divided into East and West Germany during the Cold War. The Berlin Wall, built in 1961, became a symbol of this division. In 1989, the wall fell, and Germany was reunified in 1990. Today, Germany is a federal parliamentary republic and a leading economic power, known for its contributions to science, arts, and culture.
Religion
The majority of the population are Christians. There are Roman Catholics and Protestants. There are also Muslim and Jewish minorities. A fairly large percentage of the population are atheists.
Language
German is the country’s official language. A large part of the population also speaks English.
Germany is a popular tourist destination known for its diverse attractions, ranging from stunning natural landscapes to historic cities and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore the picturesque castles and fairy-tale villages along the Rhine Valley, hike in the majestic Bavarian Alps, or relax on the beaches of the Baltic Sea.
Places You Must Visit In Germany
Before You Visit Germany
Travel to Germany
Getting to Germany is convenient due to its central location in Europe and well-developed transportation infrastructure. The country is accessible by air, land, and sea, offering various options for international travelers:
By Air
Germany has several major international airports with Frankfurt Airport (FRA), Munich Airport (MUC), and Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) being the primary gateways. These airports serve numerous airlines that connect Germany with destinations all over the world.
By Train
Germany is connected to the European rail network, making it easy to travel from neighboring countries like France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, and Poland with high-speed trains such as ICE, TGV, and Eurostar.
By Road
An extensive network of autobahns (highways) and roads make driving into Germany straightforward from neighboring countries. Long-distance buses also operate across Europe, providing an economical way to reach Germany.
By Sea
For travelers coming from Scandinavia or the Baltic states, ferries to Germany are available. Major ports include Kiel, Lübeck, and Rostock, which have ferry connections to countries such as Denmark, Sweden, and Finland.
Visas for Germany
Germany is a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Area, which allows for the free movement of people between 26 European countries. Here are the general visa requirements for Germany:
Schengen Visa
Non-EU nationals who wish to visit Germany for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) may need to apply for a Schengen visa, depending on their nationality. This visa permits travel within the Schengen Area.
Types of Visas
- Tourist Visa: For those visiting for leisure or sightseeing.
- Business Visa: For business-related activities.
- Visitor Visa: To visit family or friends residing in Germany.
- Cultural/Sports/Religious Event Visa: For participation in various events.
- Airport Transit Visa: Required for some nationalities who are transiting through German airports.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of some countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Brazil, do not require a visa for short stays. They can enter with just a passport and stay for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
Long-Stay Visas
For stays longer than 90 days, such as for work, study, or family reunification, a national visa (D-visa) is required.
Best time to visit Germany
The best time to visit Germany largely depends on your interests and the activities you plan to enjoy. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you decide:
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a delightful time to visit with the blooming of flowers and warmer weather. The crowds are fewer than in summer, making it ideal for sightseeing and attending outdoor events like the spring festivals.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak tourist season, offering long days and the warmest weather. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the countryside. This is also when many festivals, including the famous Oktoberfest in Munich (which starts in late September), are announced.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings stunning fall foliage, particularly in regions like the Black Forest and Bavarian Alps. The weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Wine festivals in regions like the Rhine and Mosel valleys celebrate the grape harvest.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is ideal for Christmas markets, which Germany is renowned for. Cities and towns are beautifully decorated, offering a festive atmosphere. It’s also the season for winter sports in the Alps and other mountainous regions.
Generally, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer a good balance of mild weather and reduced tourist traffic. Always check the calendar for specific events you may want to attend and remember that regional climates can vary, so pack accordingly.
Important Information
Capital – Berlin
Territory – 357,600 km2
Currency – Euro
Time Zone – UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST)
Population – 84,607,016
Demonym – German