Experience Germany

One of the best things about traveling is to become as “local” as possible while still sightseeing. Unfortunately sightseeing usually means you are likely going to be spending most of your time with other tourists and not the locals. Fortunately there are some off the beaten path activities you can do to experience Germany as the locals do and get an inside glimpse into German culture.

Germans love to be outside as much as possible, so why not visit one of the many nature parks in Germany? Nature parks are typically large areas with walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic benches. They make for a perfect escape from a long drive to stretch your legs, let the kids burn off some energy, and the perfect picnic spot to get an inside glimpse into German life, since the majority of people visiting the nature parks are Germans. You can also combine nature with sightseeing. I recently did a nice 15km hike to Hohenzollern Castle in the Swabian Alps which was a fantastic way to experience Germany.

Germans love their coffee and cakes just as the English love their afternoon tea, so why not go to one of the many cafes found in Germany? The selection of cakes will not disappoint and the cafes are frequently in beautiful historic buildings. Sometimes they are even in the nature parks with outdoor seating. Going to a cafe in Germany is an event and one that feels so much more luxurious than just simply going for coffee. Trying new cafes is a great low key way to experience Germany.

To test the limits of your cultural inhibitions visit a sauna in Germany. The sauna is an experience enjoyed by many Germans, especially in the winter. It is typically an event that is relished over several hours with friends. Sound good so far? The catch is that you must be naked and the saunas are usually mixed (both men and women), although some saunas have a "woman's day" once a month. Clothing is not optional and is not allowed. Nevertheless, by going to the sauna you will experience Germany, perhaps in a unexpected way. People who are pregnant, have high blood pressure, heart disease, etc. should not use saunas. Check with your doctor first if you are not in good health before going to a sauna. You want to experience Germany, but likely not a German hospital (although they are very good).

Indulging in German culinary delights is a key element to experience Germany and by trying the local food which varies from region to region you will experience more of Germany. Of particular note is Schwabian food from the south of Germany which consists of large portions of noodles and pork schnitzel. Of course no trip to Germany is complete without trying spätzle, a type of German noodle from the state of Baden Württemberg. German beers also vary from region to region and are very good, so head to the nearest biergarten (beer garden) to try a local brew and people watch. Mulled wine in the winter months is also popular.

Germany is famous for its festivals, most of which are regional. Oktoberfest comes to mind for many people. But contrary to popular belief Oktoberfest is not celebrated throughout all of Germany, but primarily in Munich with smaller festivals in the surrounding area. Carnival is another popular festival occurring in February of each year in the central part of Germany in Cologne, Dusseldorf, Mainz and the Black Forest. Festivals are attended by tourists in Germany, but also by many Germans who celebrate the regional festivals and may even don costumes for the occasion. Christmas markets held throughout Germany every December are also popular and a must see if you are in Germany in December. Check to see if any festivals are occurring during your visit to Germany.

Germany is a fascinating country, rich in history and full of tradition. By taking part in some of these popular activities you will experience Germany as the Germans do, making your vacation in Germany that much more enjoyable.