Germany

Germany is famous for many things… picturesque villages, fairytale castles, the Volkswagen Beetle… but there's one defining invention that sets it apart from the rest, beer. If you're thinking of visiting the most efficient nation on earth, your first point of call must be a traditional German bräuhaus. Once you've finished your first stein of beer, feel free to explore Germany's many fantastic cities and towns.

Berlin, the capital city of Germany, may not be the oldest city in Europe, but it certainly makes up for it with its astonishing architectural monuments. Potsdamer Platz is an important public square at the heart of the city, and the impressive roof of the Sony Building is bound to be in more than a few holiday snaps. The Brandenburg Gate is truly a sight to behold, and was the site of JFK's 'Ich bin ein Berliner' speech.

Hamburg is the second largest city in Deutschland. Acting as the major transport hub of Northern Germany, it's the third largest port in Europe, Hamburg offers more than just container ships. Miniatur Wunderland is the world's largest model railway. Reeperbahn is one of the most popular entertainment and clubbing precincts of Hamburg, and home to the city's red light district. Hamburg is sometimes called Germany's capital of sport, as no other city has more A-league teams and sports events.

Munich may be known around the world for its annual Oktoberfest celebrations, but that's not its only drawcard. Considered one of the most liveable cities in Germany, München is home to approx 1.35 million people. Famous attractions include the BMW Museum, the New Town Hall (Rathaus) at the Marienplatz, the Hofbräuhaus (you can't see Munich without stopping at this well known tourist spot) and the beautiful English Gardens (where you can actually surf in the canal!).

Outside the cities, Germany continues to shine. The Romantic Road is a scenic highway route in southern Germany between between Würzburg and Füssen. Points of interest along the drive include Nördlingen and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle - it's what the Sleeping Beauty's Castle at Disneyland is inspired by.