Hamburg

Hamburg is the country's second largest city and located in the North of Germany. Hamburg's official name, Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg mirrors its medieval history in the Hanseatic League, as a free imperial city of the Holy Roman empire. With its water canals running through its centre, the city has a charm that combines Amsterdam and Venice but also features one of the biggest harbours in the world. With a bustling nightlife that also hosts a red light district, the city also features several parks and gardens. Don’t miss the Historic Warehouse district, the St. Michaelis’s Church, and the “Hafencity” (the modern district of Hamburg).

Dresden

Dresden, situated on the banks of the river Elbe in Saxony, is also called "Florence at the Elbe" thanks to its perfect location, the stunning Baroque architecture, and world-renowned art. It was the royal residence of the King of Saxony that gave the city for centuries its cultural and artistic splendour. Despite the impact of the bombing during World War II and 40 years of urban development during the East German communist era all landmarks have been rebuilt to their former splendour and since the German reunification in 1990 it has regained importance as one of the cultural, educational, political and economic centres of Germany. Don’t miss the Church of Lady, the Semper Opera, and the Elbe River Banks.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt Am Main, commonly called Frankfurt, is a major hub of Germany and Europe thanks to its International airport. Skyscrapers and hectic cultural life with important events such as the International Book Fair in October (the biggest in the world) make this city the financial centre of the country. Don’t miss Saint Bartholomew’s Cathedral, the Archaeological Garden, Saalhof building, the Old Opera House, the Hauptwache, a Baroque building.

Nuremberg

Situated in the State of Bavaria, Nuremberg was an early centre of humanism, science, printing, and mechanical invention. The city contributed much to the science of astronomy, but also printers and publishers have a long history in Nuremberg. The city is also very famous for the academy of fine arts, the oldest art academy in central Europe and looks back to a tradition of 350 years of artistic education. The Christmas market draws many people every year.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Part of the beautiful territory of Baviera, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most romantic cities of Germany – overlooking the Tauber River - and one of the richest ones in medieval history. Restored after World War II, Marktplatz (Market Square), core of the city centre with the Rathaus, the City Hall, that features two different architecture styles: the Gothic style and the Renaissance one. Also visit the Baumeisterhaus. With elegant settings and colourful tones, the best feature is the ancient outer city walls that are walkable in part. Among the must see, the Jakobskirche Church.

Written by: Elisa della Barba