Visiting Germany: From Berlin to Munich and Frankfurt
Germany, a destination with cosmopolitan cities, charming towns, dense forests and castles straight from a fairy tale, offers a unique selection of beers.
Climate
Germany, situated in the middle of Europe, experiences a temperate seasonal climate. The best weather can be found from May to October. Winter is cold and wet.
Berlin
Following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1990, Berlin transitioned from being the central focus of the cold war to a vibrant and creative city. Today, Berlin is home to numerous theaters, musical venues, imposing public buildings, exceptional museums, refined restaurants, and a variety of pubs and clubs.
Transport
There aren't many direct flights to Berlin, connections are often made through major hubs like Frankfurt or Amsterdam. Berlin can be reached by bus from most European cities, and German trains operate regularly and punctually.
Berlin's U/S Bahn underground system promotes pedestrian and cyclist transport. A new tram system is available in the city's eastern parts.
Climate
Rainfall is a possibility in any month. Winter months from November to early March are gloomy and temperatures often fall below freezing.
Accommodation
For a range of options, location and cost of hotels in Berlin, check online databases.
Events
Berlin showcases an array of annual fairs, festivals, concerts and parties.
- February: Berlinale (Berlin International Film Festival)
- April: Festage (Festival Days)
- June: Christopher Street Day
- August: JazzFest Berlin
- November: Christmas Markets
Munich
Munich, the capital of the southern province of Bavaria, is renowned for its lederhosen and beer steins. Additionally, Munich hosts substantial cultural offerings, including numerous museums and a lively arts scene.
Transport
Flights from Europe, New York and Sydney arrive at Munich's Franz-Josef-Strauss Flughafen, either directly or via a connection from Frankfurt. Rapid trains connect Munich with major German cities as well as Vienna, Prague, Zurich, Rome and Paris.
Munich has a sterling public transportation network with buses and an underground system. The city is cyclist-friendly.
Climate
Optimal weather occurs from May to September. Mild weather during April-May and September-October. November to March experiences below freezing temperatures and lack of sunshine.
Accommodation
Online sources provide information on the range, location and cost of Munich hotels.
Events
Munich hosts events and festivals all year.
- Fasching (January)
- Starkbierzeit (March)
- Fruhlingsfest (April)
- Munich Film Festival (June)
- Christopher Street Day (July)
- Oktoberfest (September)
Frankfurt
Often perceived as a business city, Frankfurt invests heavily in the arts. The city is host to numerous museums.
Transport
Frankfurt is a major hub for rail and air transport in Europe. Frankfurt's Flughafen Frankfurt-am-Main international airport and Hauptbahnhof train station connect it to the rest of the world. Long-distance buses provide connectivity to most eastern and western European countries.
Given the city layout, Frankfurt isn't well-suited for walking. However, it houses an excellent public transport system of buses, trams, S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines. Cycling is a viable option as most streets have bike lanes.
Climate
Freezing winters with frequent storms. Hot summers from June to August are prone to afternoon thundershowers.
Accommodation
Online resources can provide information on Frankfurt hotels regarding their range, location and cost.
Events
- Pre-Lent Fastnacht parades (February)
- International Music Trade Fair (March)
- Summer events celebrating Frankfurt's famed apple wine
- Museumsuferfest with arts, music and exhibitions (July)
- World's largest Book Fair, International Jazz Festival (September/October)
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