The largest country in Western Europe by population, Germany is both exciting and diverse. While Berlin is a vast, attractive destination in itself, there are many other large cities worth visiting in the rest of the country. For example, Munich in Bavaria has a very different feel to Hamburg in the north. Germany's rural retreats are easily accessible by train too, whether on an active cycling holiday with your family, or a romantic couple's break.
Germany throughout the seasons
Germany in spring
Springtime is an ideal time of year to visit Germany's biggest cities. The weather in Berlin, for example, is pleasantly warm without being too hot. Visiting Germany in April or May is a delightful experience. You'll find fewer crowds in the period between Easter break and the beginning of summer. Munich is further south and tends to be a touch warmer than Berlin.
This is also a great time to visit the Bavarian countryside. You can travel by train from Munich to Füssen, at the foot of the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, in 2h 2m. Trains to Hannover in central Germany allow you to visit the magnificent Herrenhausen Gardens. Created as a homage to Versailles in Paris, these grounds come to life in spring and are among the prettiest in Europe.
Germany in summer
Explore the great outdoors, whether at urban parks or in splendid rural destinations such as the Black Forest. You can enjoy a picnic in Central Park before heading from Stuttgart to Baden-Baden for a day trip, arriving at the heart of the forest in around 1h 5m. Germany's northern coast is also best enjoyed in the summer.
Head to the sleepy town of Cuxhaven, where you can sit and enjoy romantic sunset views at the old quay and savour fresh German seafood. This is also a magnificent destination for sailing enthusiasts and allows you to enjoy one of Europe's best-kept coastal secrets. Trains from Bremen to Cuxhaven take just 1h 13m.
Bremen itself is glorious in the German summer when you can marvel at sights like its Old Town district and UNESCO World Heritage-listed town hall. Bremen Hauptbahnhof station is a superb starting point for seeing more of the coast, too.
Germany in autumn
When the school holidays are over and many have returned to work, you can take advantage of this quieter time to do some urban exploring. Frankfurt is Germany's economic powerhouse, and you can admire its glittering skyline from atop the 56-storey Main Tower. The staircase-shaped facade of the Römer (Frankfurt's town hall) is just one example of the city's historic legacy.
If you're interested in history, Dresden in former East Germany is one of the country's most fascinating destinations. The majority of its historic core was destroyed during World War II, although what has been rebuilt is a testament to the country's recovery since 1945. The old town is compact enough to walk between the main sights, and the weather remains pleasant throughout the autumn months.
Autumn is also a wonderful time to visit Berlin, with shorter waits to get into the many attractions and an opportunity to see its landmarks with fewer crowds. These include the Brandenburg Gate, East Side Gallery, and Berlin Cathedral.
Germany in winter
Many of the traditions we associate with Christmas, such as decorating trees, eating gingerbread, and enjoying mulled wine, originated in Germany. What better place to celebrate the holidays and share some Yuletide merriment with your travel companions? Across the country, in large cities and small towns alike, Germany lights up for unrivalled Christmas celebrations. Some of the most famous festive markets include those in Nuremberg, and at Potsdamer Platz in Berlin.
Germany is also known for its fabulous ski resorts. Right before you reach the Austrian border is the Zugspitze ski resort, located close to the Garmisch-Partenkirchen station. You can travel by train from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in just 1h 20m. This makes it possible to head to the slopes for a day of skiing before retreating to your accommodation in Munich by night. Of course, staying at the resort for several days of skiing or snowboarding is a wonderful option too, where you'll be shredding the slopes uninterrupted.
Germany, an all-season destination by train
Whether travelling by train from abroad or starting in Germany itself, rail transport means it's easy to make the most of your time in this beautiful country. Germany's rail system is renowned for its economy and efficiency, and you can quickly get across this country's expanses when you go by train. We're here to offer a wide selection of train trips, great prices, and special offers.
If you're planning a different kind of beach holiday or want to escape the dreary surroundings back home, Germany always delivers. Enjoy magnificent historic sights, fairytale castles, bracing coastlines, and scintillating forestscapes when you travel by rail in Germany. Book in advance with us to get started with your journey!
Need more information on the German rail network? Check out our dedicated page to trains in Germany.