Germany: A Country Straight Out of a Fairytale
Germany might not always top the European bucket list but trust me—it should. It’s a place where history, culture, and adventure collide in the most magical ways. Think timber-framed villages nestled in lush forests, modern cities buzzing with energy, and a food-and-beer scene that rivals the best in the world. Having spent time living in Germany, I’ve explored everything from the cozy corners of Stuttgart to the Bavarian charm of Munich. And let me tell you—Germany has a way of captivating your heart and leaving an impression that lasts long after you’ve gone.
Stuttgart and Beyond: A Southwest Treasure Trove
Let’s talk about Stuttgart, the auto capital of Germany and a city that feels both urban and green. It’s surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, and while the world knows it for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, it’s so much more than fast cars. Start your visit in Schlossplatz, the heart of Stuttgart. This vibrant square is a people-watching paradise, with street performers, open-air concerts, and cafés that invite you to sit and stay a while. Nearby, you’ll find the Kunstmuseum Stuttgart, a contemporary art museum that’s just as much about the architecture as the art inside.
Need a breather? Stuttgart’s parks are the city’s secret weapon. The Mittlerer Schlossgarten is perfect for a laid-back afternoon, especially if you stop by the Biergarten im Schlossgarten for a cold beer and live music under the trees. Feeling adventurous? Head up to the Fernsehturm, the world’s first TV tower. At 218 meters high, it offers panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Black Forest. Bonus: there’s a café and restaurant at the top if you need a mid-climb snack.
And don’t miss Abacco’s Steakhouse. Imagine a sizzling steak arriving at your table on a hot stone, ready for you to cook exactly how you like it. My son loved it so much, we’ve considered adding this to our at-home dinner rotation.
Just outside Stuttgart, the real magic begins. The Black Forest is straight out of a storybook, with dense woods, fairytale villages, and adventures for days. One highlight? The Baumwipfelpfad Schwarzwald in Bad Wildbad. It’s a treetop walk that ends in a 40-meter observation tower with breathtaking views. Oh, and did I mention there’s a slide to get down? It’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids.
Then there’s the Blueberry Pancake Hike—a 10km trail in Pforzheim that leads to the Grunhütte, a hidden gem of a restaurant serving homemade blueberry pancakes. The only way to reach it? By foot or bike. Trust me, it’s worth every step.
Closer to Stuttgart, the charming village of Waldenbuch is home to the Ritter Chocolate Museum, a must for any chocolate lover. And if medieval vibes are your thing, head to Esslingen, where cobblestone streets and 800-year-old monuments make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Munich: Bavarian Charm Meets Big-City Cool
Munich is a city that knows how to blend the old with the new. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a beer in a centuries-old beer hall, then watch surfers tackle man-made waves in the English Garden—one of the largest city parks in the world.
Speaking of the English Garden, it’s not just a park—it’s an experience. Walk along the Isar River, grab a cold beer at one of the many beer gardens, and don’t miss the Surf Eisbach, where locals show off their skills on river waves.
For a taste of history, head to Marienplatz, Munich’s central square since the 11th century. It’s the perfect mix of historical charm and modern buzz. Or, if you’re an art lover, take a stroll through the city’s galleries and museums—each one feels like a treasure trove.
And then there’s the beer. The Hofbräuhaus, Munich’s iconic beer hall, is a must. Founded in 1589, it’s everything you imagine a Bavarian beer hall to be: big mugs of beer, hearty food, and an atmosphere buzzing with energy. And if you’re lucky enough to visit in the fall, Oktoberfest is the ultimate Bavarian experience.
Germany’s beauty isn’t just in its grand castles or bustling cities—it’s in the small, unexpected moments. A cobblestone street that leads to the perfect little bakery. The laughter at a beer garden under the trees. The quiet of a hike in the Black Forest, broken only by birdsong and the crunch of leaves underfoot.
Whether you’re exploring Stuttgart, Munich, or anywhere in between, Germany invites you to slow down, look around, and soak in its charm.
So, pack your bags and get ready for adventure. Germany is waiting, and it’s wunderbar.
