Germany’s quaint medieval towns, imposing castles, bustling cities, and breathtaking landscapes have enchanted travelers for centuries and as a result, the country remains one of Europe’s top tourist destinations. From the vineyards of the Rhine River Valley to the fishing villages along the Baltic Coast, the frescoed houses of Bavaria to the woodlands of the Romantic Road, and the fast-paced cities of Frankfurt, Berlin, and Munich to the fairy-tale atmosphere of Heidelberg and the Neckar Valley, each of Germany’s varied regions offer its visitors a wide range of activities, sightseeing opportunities, cultural experiences, and quintessential German charm.
Fortunately, due in large part to Germany’s tourist-friendly reputation, there are a number of helpful and informative Internet websites dedicated to German tourism. Along with destination guides for nearly every region, major city, and historic town, many of these sites also provide the traveler with trip planning advice, travel tips, event schedules, and services such as hotel booking.
The following is a list of five of the best Internet sites on German tourism:
1. German National Tourist Board
www.germany-tourism.de
As the official website of the German National Tourist Board, www.germany-tourism.de works in close cooperation with the German government in order to promote both foreign and domestic tourism. The site offers a wealth of information on all aspects of Germany, from destinations and culture to recreational activities, facts, and figures. As an added bonus, the site features a collection of panoramic photos of several of Germany’s cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and castles, parks, and gardens.
2. About Germany
www.about-germany.org
In addition to the visitor information one might expect to find on a typical tourism website, www.about-germany.org goes a step further by including sections on living and working in Germany, purchasing real estate, and learning the German language. Geared toward not only those who choose to visit, but also those who are planning to move to Germany, www.about-germany.org is an invaluable resource for both.
3. Germany Travel
www.justgermany.org
Yet another all-inclusive website chock-full of both travel and relocation advice, www.justgermany.org also includes interesting information on German culture, such as recipes, history, and festivals. In addition, its extensive section on visas, work permits, and German embassies provides answers to many of the red-tape- related questions that tourists, students, and business-people might have prior to entering the country.
4. German Places
www.germanplaces.com
German Places is an award-winning website filled with colorful photos and comprehensive information on all things German. Its “Tourist Information” area features a great deal of advice related to money matters, driving in Germany, shopping, time differences, and climate, while the “Sights and Attractions” section of www.germanplaces.com touches on famous German cities, castles, themed roads, and other sights of interest.
5. Travels Through Germany
www.travelsthroughgermany.com
Recognized by the Wall Street Journal and the winner of an award presented by the International Association of Web Masters and Designers, www.travelsthroughgermany.com includes several unique features, such as a discussion board, live city cams, and a selection of products from and about Germany which are available for purchase.
Sources
www.germany-tourism.de
www.about-germany.org
www.justgermany.org
www.germanplaces.com
www.travelsthroughgermany.com
