Top 5 Interesting Facts about Germany

Germany was first established as a state in 1871. The country shares its borders with nine other countries. Composers Bach, Handel, Beethoven and Wagner were all born here. Germany is home to the tallest church in the world. Germany’s Oktoberfest has been celebrated annually since 1810.

Germany Cruise Holidays

Germany’s history helps to explain the rich diversity you’ll find throughout the country. Just a loose collection of states until 1871, each German region still retains a certain unique character. Despite its relative youth as a unified state, Germany’s history is much, much older. From Roman ruins to medieval timbered houses, Renaissance-era architecture to the birth of Modernism, the country has seen and retains the evidence of many historical changes.

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Germany Cruise Holiday Highlights

With an evening in Hamburg on selected Northern Europe cruise holidays, you've even more time to explore the city's many sights.

Take a trip to UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt; the largest warehouse district in the world. Marvel at the gigantic red-brick Gothic buildings and perhaps take a leisurely stroll to the Elbphilharmonie, a spectacular concert hall perched on top of an old warehouse.

Don't miss the lively Town Hall Square while exploring the city. You can admire the beautiful Neo-Renaissance City Hall and perhaps wander over to the Jungfernstieg area to browse the many shops, or simply treat yourself to a drink by the water.

If you want to explore more recent 20th century history on your cruise to Germany, there’s plenty to discover on that front too. Museums and artefacts related to the two world wars as well as tours around old concentration camps help to bring home the complexities and tragedies of the previous century.

Reasons to visit Germany on a cruise holiday

A boat with passengers on the Alster (a tributary of the Elbe River) next to the Hamburg City Hall

Museums and Arts Venues

There are lots of museums and arts venues around the city, including the International Maritime Museum, the Kunsthalle gallery and the Hamburg State Opera House. You’ll also find great restaurants, excellent shopping districts and some picturesque mediaeval towns within easy reach too.

Christmas Markets

Tradition and history combine at the wonderfully festive Christmas markets in Hamburg. The Town Hall Christmas market is filled with quaint stalls selling hand-made Christmas decorations and gifts. Look out for traditional decorations from the Erzgebirge region of Germany, and wooden creations from the Tyrol region made by local carpenters and craftsman.

History and Food

Sampling some of Germany’s hearty cuisine is also a must on any visit here. There are street stalls selling bratwurst and chips, including a relatively new variation called currywurst, which is a sausage topped with spicy sauce and dusted with curry powder. It’s a must!

Germany Cruise Ports

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