2-Week Germany Itinerary: Northern Capitals, Castles & Lakes

Resting on the southern point of the Jutland Peninsula, the historic port city of Hamburg certainly lives up to its reputation as Germany's 'gateway to the world'. It is both the country's largest port and the second-busiest in Europe, despite being located astride the River Elbe, some 100 kilometres from the North Sea. Hamburg's maritime spirit infuses the entire city; from architecture to menus to the cry of gulls, travellers always know they're near the water. Spend the day sampling some delicious local food served in a diverse range of fine restaurants, party all night at one of the trendy upmarket nightclubs, or enjoy a relaxing picnic on the banks of the lovely inner-city lakes. With its abundance of renowned museums and art galleries, its astonishing variety of luxurious theatres, excellent music venues and a world-class ballet company, Hamburg has more than enough cultural interest to keep even the most avid culture enthusiast blissfully engaged.

No tour of Germany would be complete without a visit to its vibrant capital which, despite its turbulent history, finds itself at the cutting-edge of European art, architecture, culture, entertainment and nightlife. There is an array of fascinating sites to interest history buffs including the previous site of the Berlin wall, Museum Island which contains the magnificent Berlin Cathedral, the formidable Brandenburg Gate and the eerily haunting Holocaust Museum. However, even non-historians will find plenty to do in the hip, funky neighborhoods emerging in the former Eastern part of the city where the streets are strewn with trendy eateries, quirky boutiques, innovative art galleries and thriving nightclubs. Energetic travellers can enjoy a cycle along the Spree riverfront or a stroll through one the city’s wonderful parks. No matter your preference, there is always plenty to see and do in this fascinating, dynamic, modern city.

Frankfurt is a city of bizarre contrasts and contradictions. As the economic powerhouse of Germany, its famously futuristic skyline glistens with massive, ultramodern skyscrapers, and its street are abuzz with large herds of suits scurrying around the avant-garde superstructures of its central business district. But Frankfurt is by no means all work and no play. At its heart lies an unexpectedly traditional, medieval Alstadt (old city) complete with half-timbered buildings housing apple-wine taverns which serve hearty local dishes, and village-like neighbourhoods brimming with quirky boutiques, trendy galleries and cutting-edge street art. Add to this melting pot a slew of museums, theatres and opera houses, as well as an unbeatable 24-hour party scene, and you’ll find that this sophisticated, cosmopolitan city has much more to offer than initially meets the eye.

Heidelberg offers romance and historical intrigue in equally large measure as it rests on the banks of the Neckar River in southwestern Germany. As the home of countless lively beer gardens, Germany’s oldest university, and, of course, the world’s most famous castle ruins, this remarkable city offers a virtually unrivalled variety of culture and entertainment. The highlight is undoubtedly the magnificent Heidelberg Castle, which towers majestically above the Neckar Valley, offering panoramic views of the exquisite baroque Old Town and the surrounding forested hills. Venture beyond the tourist hotspots, and discover an array of beautiful old monuments and churches interspersed with exclusive boutiques, cosy student pubs, breweries and wine bars at every turn. This lively metropolis, with its picturesque scenery and pleasant climate, appeals to various tastes and satisfies almost any interest.

Munich, the lively capital of Bavaria and the third-largest city in Germany, lies on the banks of the River Isar. A modern hub complete with state-of-the-art skyscrapers and an exciting nightlife scene, the city revels simultaneously in its traditional customs and its sense of innovation. Some of the phenomenal historical attractions include spectacular Schloss Nymphenburg and the grand Residenz Museum, along with countless others. Nicknamed ‘city of art and beer’, Munich is strewn with impressive and diverse galleries (top choices include the Kunstareal Art Quarter and other-worldly Pinakothek der Moderne) and offers sublime beer-tasting opportunities in a variety of wonderful beer houses and gardens. Locals claim this is the culinary capital of the country - make sure to visit the Viktualienmarkt and dedicate some time to the metropolis’ restaurants. Gorgeous parks, jaw-dropping sports venues, and world-famous festivals (including legendary Octoberfest) complete the package.

Resting on the eastern banks of Lake Constance, the Bavarian town of Lindau is best known for its historic Old Town set on an island, which is connected to the mainland. The town features ancient winding alleyways hugging Medieval buildings, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the lake. The mainland is scattered with wonderful museums, art galleries, theatres, lakes, and lush parks, such as the historical Lindenhof Park. Visitors can stroll along the promenade, soak in the views of the Alps while taking a boat tour, and view the famed harbor entrance with its Bavarian lion statue and white lighthouse.