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Discover Germany

Germany is a country of contrast, where historic castles meet cutting-edge cities and rich traditions blend with modern innovation. Come explore its beautiful landscapes, multicultural communities, and unique local customs.

About Germany

  • Germany is home to over 600.000 associations or clubs, called Vereine, which play an important role in German society. There’s even one dedicated to creative facial hair.
  • Beer is a traditional part of the German diet as well as culture. While there is a large variety of different beers, most brewers adhere to strict rules about the brewing process that have been in place since the 16th century: the Reinheitsgebot.
  • Germany has an enormous number of castles and palaces, from grand palaces like the Mannheim Schloss (with 1 more window than Versailles) to smaller local strongholds, to a literal Disney-style castle called Schloss Neuschwanstein.
  • For about 40 of the last 80 years, during the cold war, the Germany we know today was actually divided into West and East Germany, before being reunified in 1990. The echoes of this period of division are still visible in German politics and culture today.
  • It’s common for young people to live in shared apartments, known as WGs, short for Wohngemeinschaften. This popular setup provides an affordable and social living option, especially for students and young professionals in urban areas.
Simple map of germany and the surrounding countries
Population: 82 million
Language: German
Capital: Berlin
Currency: Euro

Food

Maultaschen

Maultaschen are traditional German dumplings from Swabia, often filled with a savory mix of meat, spinach, onions, and herbs. They’re typically served in broth, pan-fried, or topped with onions.

Döner kebab

This popular street food, based on a 17th century Ottoman dish, was popularised by Turkish immigrants in Berlin in the 1970s . Typically made with seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and various sauces in a warm flatbread, you can now get a kebab pretty much anywhere in Germany.

Black forest cake

Black Forest cake, or Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is a classic German dessert featuring layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries, often flavoured with cherry brandy (Kirsch), and topped with chocolate shavings.

Festivals

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest, held annually in Munich, is the world’s largest beer festival, featuring traditional Bavarian clothing, lively music, amusement rides, and enormous beer tents. It’s a celebration of German culture and camaraderie.

Karneval

Karneval, celebrated mainly in the Rhineland, is Germany’s version of Carnival and features parades, costumes, and lively street parties. This festive period leads up to Lent and is especially popular in cities like Cologne and Düsseldorf.

Christmas Markets

During December, Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) transform cities and towns across Germany. These markets offer traditional gifts, handcrafted goods, mulled wine (Glühwein), and plenty of delicious but heavy food, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.

Famous for

Engineering

Germany is renowned for its engineering excellence, particularly in the automotive industry, home to world-famous brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, historically known for quality and innovation.

Classical Music

Germany has a long-standing tradition in classical music, being the birthplace of famous composers such as Beethoven, Bach, and Brahms. Their work continues to be celebrated in concerts and festivals worldwide.

Castles

Germany’s landscape is dotted with breathtaking castles, from the romantic Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria to the impressive Heidelberg Castle. These historical sites are a testament to Germany’s medieval and royal past.

Tips for exchange students going to Germany

  • Embrace the German sense of order and respect for rules—whether it’s waiting at crosswalks or being on time, following local customs goes a long way.
  • The German communication style can be quite direct and to the point, which might take some getting used to. However, if you embrace it you’ll see it can also be very effective.
  • Keep in mind that Sundays are considered rest days, and practically every shop will be closed.
Aerial view of Heidelberg, the Neckar river, a large roman bridge, and the Heidelberg castle
A view of Heidelberg and the river Neckar

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