Germany is a country of culture and diversity. Cosmopolitan cities bustling with life and steeped in history lie between stretches of unrivalled nature - Germany is home to some of the most pristine and bio-diverse woodland in the world and is famed for drawing on its natural resources in innovative ways, keeping old traditions alive whilst keeping up with the times. However, if the history is what pulls you, then there are cultural
guided tours available which are themed to cater for the culture vulture traveller's interests - these tours take in some of the most historic cities in Germany, focusing on the Imperial cities and palaces, and places of significance that would be on any history buff's itinerary. From robust Berlin to pretty Heidelberg, every city has its own story, and on a guided tour you can uncover the network of details that weave these places together to form the cultural fabric of this impressive country.
Berlin is the heart of
Germany and a popular tour stop-off. This capital city is brimming with history, standing in the shadow of the world-famous Brandenburg Gate. Though the city now stands united, remnants of the old divide are to be found throughout the streets, from the broken pieces of the old wall to the DDR museum with its collection of relics and memorabilia from its time under Soviet occupation. The Reichstag, the home of German Parliament, is not only a historical building but can be climbed for views out over the city and its interesting mix of architecture. Just make sure you register in advance as this glass-roofed panorama is a popular spot. Just a short S-bahn ride away from the city lies Grunewald, the largest forested area in Berlin. Even here, the history of the capital is not far away - Teufelsberg, a man-made hill, towers above the trees. It was made from rubble from the city, dragged here by the Allies after World War Two.
Dresden is another city full of history. During World War Two, many of its oldest buildings and constructions were destroyed during the air raids. However, the city has undergone massive regeneration. The city's main attraction, the impressive Frauenkirche, has come to represent the changing history of Germany - reconstructed from its twenty-year state of rubble, the cathedral features some of the charred stones found on the site after the raids razed the original building to the ground. It has become a symbol of a unified Germany not only logistically but in terms of its past and present, standing, finally, as one. The Royal Castle is also worth a visit, and look out for the pretty Seufzer Bridge, which connects the palace and the Hofkirche.
If your idea of history stretches back even further, to the times when the great castles were being built, then Heidelberg will hit the spot. The mighty Heidelberg Schloss looms over the city's Old Town, and, untouched by war, the city remains suspended in time. Access to the castle gardens is free, but you will have to pay to enter the courtyard and the main castle. Guide books are available at the ticket office, and if you really want to explore and get the most out of the castle, they're worth the money. Whilst you're in the area, have a stroll around the Old Town (Altstadt). The city is full of architectural gems, from the Old Bridge to the sprawling University that made Heidelberg its international name. There's even a Philosopher's Walk which allows you to tread in the footsteps of Hegel and other local luminaries. With its mild climate, the flora here is beautiful in summer, and you get great views over the Neckar valley and the castle.
From Wiesbaden to the Rhineland, Bavaria to Berlin, the many corners of Germany are yours to explore on a cultural guided tour. And, with a guide at your convenience and a handy holiday package sorted even before you set off, you're free to enjoy the sights and sounds of Germany at your leisure.
