Discover Germany
Discover the best of what Germany has to offer: the best sites, beaches, national parks, day trips, bars and restaurants, and much more.
The key advice I wish I’d known before my disastrous Oktoberfest
Thinking about your first Oktoberfest? Readers say it's all about planning ahead, pacing yourself and looking after your friends. Unfortunately, The Local's Tom Pugh had to learn those lessons the hard way.
TELL US: What are your top tips for surviving Oktoberfest?
Every autumn, Munich’s Theresienwiese transforms into the site of the world’s largest folk festival. With upwards of six million visitors expected from around the globe, we’d love to hear your advice on how to make the most of the experience - or just survive.
Nine fruit and vegetables eaten in Germany that aren’t common elsewhere
From white asparagus festivals to wild garlic leaves gathered in forests, Germany has a surprising collection of fruits and vegetables that many newcomers have never encountered before. Here are nine worth getting to know.
Germany's best 'Kur' towns for wellness and why you should visit
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.
What's on in Germany: Nine unmissable events in September
As summer gives way to autumn, Germany comes alive with world-famous festivals, major sporting events, cutting-edge art, classical music and centuries-old traditions.
'It's a lifestyle': How you can learn to sail in Germany
Sailing or boating is a great way to experience Germany's lakes, rivers and seas to the north. The Local spoke with a German sailing instructor to find out his favourite things about sailing and how to earn a boating licence.
How to plan a trip to Germany's Baltic Sea coast
With sunny weather forecast across Germany this week, we take a look at how to reach the Baltic Sea coast, what to expect once you're there, and a few tips for making the most of your trip.
Germany scoops three spots on list of Europe's most beautiful ice cream parlours
Residents in Berlin, Frankfurt and Nuremberg have a sweet reason to feel proud after three local ice cream parlours were named among Europe’s most beautiful, combining standout interiors with artisan gelato.
Germany's top destinations for sailing, surfing and paddling
Looking for a fun and watery way to make the most of late summer in Germany? From Baltic kitesurfing hotspots to scenic canoe routes and white-water rafting trips, the country offers adventures for every level.
How to watch the Perseid meteor shower in Germany
Germany is buzzing about the solar eclipse on August 12th, but after the sun has set another astronomical show will light up the night sky. Here's when, where and how you can see shooting stars this week.
How to view the solar eclipse from Germany on August 12th
Up to 90 percent of the Sun will disappear over Germany on Wednesday in the country's most impressive eclipse for decades to come.
What’s on in Germany: Nine unmissable events in August 2026
Whether you prefer music festivals, jousting, e-sports or watching fireworks over the river with a glass of wine in hand, August in Germany offers something for everyone. Here are nine of the best events taking place across the country.
Six laptop-friendly Berlin cafés with air-conditioning
Cooling devices are increasingly hard to come by as Germany remains under the influence of back-to-back heatwaves, making it increasingly hard for remote workers to keep cool and get work done. We've found some Berlin spots that have good AC.
How to check the water quality when swimming in Germany
Swimmers in Germany love heading to its lakes, rivers and the Baltic and North Sea beaches. Here’s how you can check the water quality before you take a dip.
Eight of the coolest places in Germany to visit on hot summer days
If you're not a fan of hot and humid days in Germany, here are a few places you can go to cool down - and discover more of the country.
Eight German castles where you can spend the night
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.
Are these the most beautiful natural swimming pools in Bavaria?
With the water quality standards of a city swimming pool, but the chlorine-free natural aesthetics of a lake, Germany's 'Naturbäder' are definitely worth the visit. Here are some of the best ones to visit in Bavaria.
How to make the most of Germany's open‑air cinemas this summer
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.
Eight of the most beautiful German villages to visit this summer
Germany is home to countless beautiful villages. Here are eight of The Local's recommendations for some of the most charming ones to visit this summer for a day trip or as part of a longer tour.
Sommerlochtiere: Germany's wildest summer 'silly season' stories
From runaway caimans to lovestruck swans, and lions that turn out to be wild boars, Germany has elevated the slow-news-day animal story into an art form.
Five summer holiday destinations in Germany you can reach by train
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.
Where can you go surfing in Germany?
The country may not be known as a surf destination, but that doesn't stop sporty Germans from hanging ten.
Six of the most charming Bavarian towns to visit this summer
If you are looking for places to visit in the German state of Bavaria this summer, here are six of the most beautiful towns and villages to put on your list.