Germany

Located in central Europe and bordered by nine countries, Germany spans approximately 357,000 km² and is home to one of the continent's largest economies. Berlin serves as the capital and largest city. German is the official language, and the euro is the currency. The country's cultural identity is shaped by regional distinctiveness — each of its sixteen federal states maintains its own character, traditions, and dialect.

Germany is a member of the Schengen Area, meaning many nationalities — including those from the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK — can enter visa-free for short stays. Other nationalities may apply for a Schengen visa. The EU's ETIAS pre-travel authorisation system, when operational, will apply to visa-exempt non-EU travellers. Always confirm requirements through official channels before travelling.

Neuschwanstein Castle rises from a forested ridge in Bavaria, its turrets drawn from 19th-century Romantic fantasy. The Brandenburg Gate in central Berlin has stood as a symbol of division and reunification. Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic structure begun in 1248, dominates the Rhine skyline. The Romantic Road connects medieval walled towns including Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Zugspitze, at 2,962 m, is Germany's highest peak. The Black Forest in Baden-Württemberg offers dense woodland and traditional villages.

Germany has a temperate seasonal climate. Summers are generally mild to warm, averaging 20–25 °C in most regions, with the south occasionally warmer. Winters are cold, typically 0–5 °C in lowlands and well below freezing in the Alps and upland areas. Late spring through early autumn is the most comfortable period to visit. The north is wetter and windier; Bavaria sees heavy snowfall in winter. A light waterproof layer is advisable year-round.

• Home to over 1,500 breweries producing distinct regional beers.
• Invented the printing press via Gutenberg around 1440.
• Has the largest economy by GDP in the European Union.
• Autobahn sections legally have no general speed limit.
• Christmas markets originated in Germany during the 14th century.

• germany.travel — German National Tourist Board official travel portal
• auswaertiges-amt.de — Federal Foreign Office, visa and entry information
• bahn.de — Deutsche Bahn, national rail network and timetables
• dwd.de — Deutscher Wetterdienst, Germany's national meteorological service