Germany is a country with a wealth of heritage and culture and beautiful geography, and is therefore a preferred tourist destination for many visitors. The country boasts of having vibrant cities such as Berlin with its numerous shopping centers and night life, to fairy tale castles in Bavaria. However, in your pursuit of going around this interesting country, there are some basic things that you need to know especially on how to get a Germany visa which is your ticket to this country.
Whether you are thinking of touring around Germany to visit places like the Brandenburg Gate or you are planning to celebrate Oktoberfest or even visiting the Black Forest, it is very important that you have the right visa before you travel. Germany visa may differ depending on the type of visit either for tourism, business or to visit relatives. This knowledge of the type of visa needed and the papers that are required for the visa will assist in the planning of the trip and ensure that all the regulations that are required before entering this beautiful country are met.
Besides, the German cities and historical landmarks, the country is famous for its culture and traditions, the most known festival being Oktoberfest holding millions of tourists annually. Once you get a valid visa for Germany you will be able to fully experience the German culture, taste delicious German food, and make great memories. If you are ready to learn about the visa process and prepare beforehand, you will be able to concentrate on the number of opportunities that are waiting for you in Germany and, therefore, your trip will become an amazing journey of discovering new things.
Here are the top five things and places that make Germany renowned worldwide:
1. The Brandenburg Gate (Berliner Tor)
The Brandenburg Gate is situated in Berlin Germany and is widely known as a symbol of Germany’s reunification and history. This one was constructed in the late 18th century and was initially used as a city gate. The neoclassical structure with the Quadriga has seen many a history from Napoleonic Wars to the fall of Berlin Wall in 1989. Today it is iconic landmark of peace and unity and millions of tourists from all corners of the world visit it to contemplate its majesty and the famous square of Pariser Platz.
2. Neuschwanstein Castle
Located in the southern Germany’s region of Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle is considered to be the fairy tale castle of Germany. Originally built in 19th century by order of King Ludwig II, this place has the Romanesque style of architecture and marvelous views of the mountains. The towers and turrets of this castle were used to model the Sleeping Beauty Castle of Walt Disney. The public has a chance to see its rich decoration and visit the King’s Room or the Singers’ Hall, as well as enjoy the views of the area. The castle hosts more than 1, 300, 000 people per year, thus being one of the most visited sites in Europe.
3. The Black Forest (Schwarzwald)
The Black Forest is a large mountainous area in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg in South West Germany well known for its thick forest, beautiful villages, and the manufacture of cuckoo clocks. It features many hiking and biking paths for tourist to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The region is also famous for its food and drink such as the Black Forest gateau (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte), a cake made of chocolate sponge, cherries and whipped cream. The Black Forest region, the charming town of Triberg where Germany’s highest waterfalls are located and the picturesque Lake Titisee are not to be missed.
4. The Oktoberfest
The October fest, which is held in Munich is the biggest Volksfest globally, being a beer festival, and a traveling fun fair. This festival lasts for 16-18 days and is visited by millions of people from different parts of the world to taste traditional Bavarian beer, to try local cuisine, and to attend loud parties. The first was staged in 1810 on the occasion of the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese, and has since become an extravaganza of beer halls, fun fairs, processions and oompah bands. The Oktoberfest is a perfect chance to try the German hospitality and get acquainted with the traditions of German people.
5. The Berlin Wall
The Berlin Wall which separated East and West Berlin from 1961 to 1989 is one of the most iconic images of the Cold War and the fight for liberty. Today parts of the Berlin Wall can still be seen in the city, however the most famous part is the East Side Gallery. This is actually a mural painted on the walls of buildings with artists from all over the world and the theme was unity and world peace. The Berlin Wall Memorial provides information on the wall and people’s experiences during the time it was standing. The collapse of the wall was one of the most important events that paved way for the reunification of Germany and the dismantling of the cold war.
Conclusion
Germany is well known for its historical past, beautiful nature and active cultural life. From the Brandenburg Gate, through Neuschwanstein Castle, the Black Forest, the spirit of Oktoberfest, to the Berlin Wall, each of those places and events adds to the character of the country. History lovers will never be bored in Germany and those who like nature, will also find many things to do there as well as gourmands.
