How to Backpack Through Germany
Germany is one of the more overlooked destinations for a backpacking vacation. However, ever since the Iron Curtain came down in the early 1990s, Germany has experienced a rebirth of culture and entertainment. In Germany you will find everything from traditional lederhosen and beer festivals to museums full of contemporary art.
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Instructions
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Before You Leave
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Purchase an Austria-Germany Rail Pass that will allow you unlimited train travel throughout Germany (and Austria, if you go that far west) for up to two months.
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Decide what route you will take through Germany. It is a big country with many distinct regions.
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Make hostel reservations before you leave. This will leave you more time during your vacation to explore Germany, rather than trying to find a safe, clean hostel in each city you visit.
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Brush up on your German. Although many Germans speak English, many do not. Learn the basic phrases, such as "Thank-you" and "How do I go to..."
Where to Go in Germany
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Begin your backpacking vacation in Berlin. The city is home to a variety of sights to see, including the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag.
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Ride the train north to the city of Hamburg. Although it is known for its red light district, there are plenty of other, less unsavory activities to do in Hamburg. Enjoy a walk along the Elbe River and or visit one of the many museums within the city.
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Head southwest to Heidelberg. Home to the oldest university in Germany, this charming European city has a happening nightlife, thanks to its student population. Visitors can also explore the city's medieval castle and old town.
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Continue south to Bavaria. Known the world over as the home of Oktoberfest, Bavaria looks like a storybook come to life, with charming cottages surrounded by majestic mountains and forests. A must see in Bavaria is the famous castle, Neuschwanstein, the inspiration behind Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
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Turn north to Dresden. Once famous for its beautiful pottery, Dresden was nearly destroyed during WWII. Today however Dresden is classified as a Unesco World Heritage site. Visitors enjoy the Elbe Valley, which extends 18 km along the river from Übigau Palace and Ostragehege fields to the Pillnitz Palace.
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Tips & Warnings
You will be doing a lot of traveling around Germany, so forgo cumbersome suitcases or duffel bags and pack light. An ergonomically correct backpack is all you want to have to worry about.
