Oktoberfest; for those who don’t already know is the world’s largest and most famous beer festival based in Munich Germany. My best friend moved to Germany when she decided to study there, so I can rely on her as a reliable beer fest source. It would be rude not to wouldn’t it? Unfortunately, I’ve not had a chance to go to one yet – but they do look pretty awesome. Germany as a whole looks amazing in fairness, so I do really need to set time aside amongst my travel plans and visit these German cities at some point.
When I had a quick look at the Oktoberfest itself I couldn’t help but look into how much a traditional beer stein would cost. At 10 euros a pint (roughly £9/$10), it looks like I’d have to do a lot of saving not only to get there but to have a few drinks too!
Before I go spending my money on stuff like this, I think I’d rather use it to see the country first. I know that probably sounds boring, but I’d rather feel like I’ve gone and seen what a country has to offer, you know what I mean? Munich does have other things to offer other than the festival itself. Described as one of the most beautiful and greenest cities in Germany, there’s plenty of museums and amazing architecture to see.
There are so many other things to see and do in Germany, I’ve taken a look at a few of the other cities and what’s worth going to see.
Berlin
Not only is Berlin the capital of Germany, but it’s also the biggest city in the country. Described as the most cosmopolitan and exciting city in Germany for art, architecture, and nightlife – Berlin has it all.
Cologne
As one of Germany’s oldest cities, it obviously has a lot of history. At the centre of the city is the famous Cathedral of Cologne. It’s also famous for its largest carnival which is held in November.
Düsseldorf
If you’re looking for a mix of old and new, here’s where you need to be. From traditional breweries to futuristic architecture, Düsseldorf has it covered. Treat yourself at Koenigsallee where you’ll find a street full of luxury shopping.
Frankfurt
As the financial centre of the country, you’ll expect to see some pretty tall skyscrapers. Frankfurt also holds numerous events through the year. If you’re a bookworm then you need to be here in October for the International Book Fair, one of the biggest book fairs in the world.
Hamburg
Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany which has one of the biggest harbours in Europe. A great place to take a stroll across the bridges and canals and take in some of the sights. There’s also plenty of shopping places to check out. Once you’ve done that, stop by the Japanese garden for some relaxation time. During the Summer, Hamburg hosts a massive fun fair festival full of carousels, roller coasters, beer tents and candyfloss stands which looks like so much fun!
Heidelberg
Heidelberg hosts a fantastic firework display on the first Saturday of June, second Saturday of July and first Saturday of September every year, so if you’re there during these times you need to check this out. There’s also some impressive 18th and 19th-century buildings and a castle overlooking the city. Inside the castle, you’ll find ‘The Heidelberg Tun’, which is the biggest wine barrel in the world that holds 220,000 litres of wine – that’s a lot of wine!
Koblenz
Speaking of wine, if you’re a fan like me this city is a must. Located near the beautiful Rhine and Moselle Valley the views are spectacular. Be sure to visit a vineyard or two. Mines a large red, Merlot or Shiraz, I’m not fussy – ta very much!
Leipzig
This is where my friend first emigrated to, and now I know why. It’s a very cultural city with relatively cheap rent and great nightlife too. What’s not to love?
Nuremberg
A bit premature of me but whenever I think of Nuremberg I think of Christmas! There are ‘only’ 97 days until the festive season after all. Did you know that Nuremberg is also really famous for their delicious gingerbread? They’ve baked it there for more than 600 years, and it really is something else. So how does this plan sound; once you’ve eaten your own body weight in the delicious biscuits, you can wash it down with a few pints of beer. Nuremberg is one of the many German cities that brew their own delicious alcoholic beverages. After all that, don’t forget to check out the amazing architecture which has a real gothic vibe.
Have you ever been to any of these German cities? I’d love to hear from you if you have. Any travel tips would be welcomed, Prōst!
