From friendly locals to a creative atmosphere to great train connections, there's more to Germany's fourth-largest city than Carnival - although the annual celebration is not to be missed - writes former Cologne resident Amy Brooke.
Sunset, deckchairs and a blockbuster under the stars – Germany’s 'Freiluftkinos' are a summer essential. But from language traps to chilly evenings, a little insider knowledge can make all the difference.
With the rising cost of petrol and flight tickets, many people in Germany are opting to travel by train for a summer 'staycation'. Here are five destinations you should visit.
Around six million people visit Germany's Kölner Dom or Cologne Cathedral every year. Admission has so far been free – but from July this will change.
There's little better than cooling off in a river on a warm summer day, but in German cities it can be tricky to know which ones are safe to swim. We've found the cities where you're ok to take the plunge – and a few you're better off avoiding.
New initiative BerlinPay offers free drinks, boat trips and other watery experiences to anyone who acts responsibly around the German capital’s waterways. We look at the perks on offer to residents and visitors.
Munich is a city that's known for its outdoor lifestyle, from sprawling parks to al fresco dining. But on rainy days - which tend to come often in Germany - you can still find plenty to do.
From street parades and fireworks to art weekends, food festivals and more bank holidays than you can shake a stick at – May in Germany is all about shorts, t-shirts and long lunches in the sun.
As spring moves toward summer, parks and open spaces around Germany become the site of loud and wild 'open-airs'. Here's your guide to the outdoor day parties to catch this year, and a few tips for making the most of them.
Whether you're looking to smash the system or dance the day away in a leafy park, May 1st is a big day in the Berlin calendar. Here's our guide for where to protest and/or party, and some practical tips for surviving the chaos.
To mark Walpurgis Night, we look at some of Germany's most famous witches, from saintly abbesses to child‑eating monsters and modern teenage heroines – and everything in between.
Camping can be a great way to explore Germany, spend some time with the country’s natural wonders and save a bit on accommodation. Here are some tips for organising a camping trip that won't break the bank.
From alpine lakes to fairy‑tale castles and Black Forest panoramas, these eight destinations capture Baden‑Württemberg at its most beautiful, surprising and quietly unforgettable.
Ever wondered what it’s like to wake up behind the thick stone walls where royalty and aristocrats once rested their heads? A surprising number of Germany’s castles now welcome overnight guests – and not all of them charge a king’s ransom.
Germany has a strong wellness culture that dates back more than 2,000 years. If you're looking to take a dip in mineral waters or sweat it out in the sauna, spa towns – known as 'Kurorte' – offer the perfect weekend break.
A Berlin-built satellite named after a legendary art squat launched into space last week as part of NASA’s Artemis II mission – connecting the city’s countercultural past with its high-tech future.
From handmade crafts to sweet treats and entertainment, Germany's Easter and spring markets are a great way to gather with people and make the most of spring.
From blazing wheels to silent water, horseback hymns and competitive egg cracking, Easter in Germany is filled with events that are equal parts improbable and endearing. Here are five interesting customs to observe or join in on.
As the weather improves, you'll find Cologne locals sipping a Kölsch by the river, hanging out at parks by the cherry blossoms or attending festivals. Here are some ways to join in the fun as the weather warms.
From cherry blossoms and white asparagus to rock festivals, folk fairs and folklore, April in Germany is packed with reasons to get out and explore – whatever the weather decides to do.
As the days get longer and temperatures rise, people in Germany look forward to getting out and about again. Here's our pick of the best events to help you defrost and shake off the winter blues.
From succulent Weißwurst to hearty Käsespätzle, Bavarian cooking is known for giving German favourites a unique alpine twist. These 10 dishes should be on anyone's lists of must-tries while visiting the region.
Several German destinations have been recommended by travel writers as being among the top places to visit in 2026. Here's our pick of the best, both for local residents and those coming from abroad.
