National Geographic Traveler: Germany

From Munich's famous beer halls and the fairy-tale castle at Schloss Neuschwanstein to Frederick the Great's sumptous palaces at Potsdam and the vital and vibrant hub that is 21st-century Berlin, this newly revised and updated guide to Germany covers everything you need to know to visit this very popular and appealing tourist destinations. Covering the entire country region by region, the tour begins in the youthful capital of Berlin and proceeds to Mecklenburg, Hamburg, Niedersachsen, Rheinland Pfalz, Hessen, Thuringe, Sachsen, northern Bavaria, Munich and the Alps, and finally Baden-Wurtemberg. The guide includes a detailed account of the country's rich history and culture, as well as a chapter full of practical information, including how to get to Germany and an extensive listing of hotels and restaurants. Interesting narratives describe the best sites to visit (as well as some lesser-known ones), complete with detailed background descriptions and how best to tour each one. Special features include self-guided tours. You can stroll along the streets of ever changing Berlin, for instance, or through a breathtaking corner of the Black Forest; and don't miss the drive along the Romantic Road past picturesque vineyards and enchanting medieval towns along the Rhine River. You'll find three-dimensional drawings that highlight some of Germany's most spectacular architectural masterpieces, including Koln cathedral and the Reichstag, as well as museum floor plans for some of the more important museums. Adding further depth are informative sidebars that focus on a particular angle of German history or culture: the Berlin Wall (pre- and post), Karneval in the Rhineland, and the Green political party are a few.