A restored synagogue in Berlin

Germany is located in Western Europe and shares its borders with Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Czech Republic, Poland and France.

Germany has 16 different regions. A popular way to see the country is by taking a scenic cruise along the Rhine River.

Germany is home to many historic castles, one of the most famous being Neuschwanstein Castle, built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, which has featured in films such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Timekeeper and Spaceballs.

Opportunities for outdoor activities abound in Germany. There are hundreds of miles of trails for cyclists as well as terrific camping facilities in regions such as the Black Forest.

Germany is also famous for its traditional Christmas markets which sell handicrafts, gifts, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. Over 2,500 of these are staged from the last week of November until Christmas Eve.

Germany's highly-regarded beer-brewing tradition draws thousands of visitors to its annual Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich.

Berlin

Berlin is the capital of Germany and was for many decades a divided city - the focal point of the Cold War conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. Images of the Berlin Wall, both its construction and its demolition, are seared into the minds of many.

Since Germany's reunification, Berlin has again become an international focal point, but this time as a thriving metropolis with a vibrant arts scene and nightlife concentrated around the Mitte district. Shopping is excellent in Berlin, most famously along its major boulevard Kurfurstendamm. The city also boasts plenty of green space and a stroll in the Tiergarten - a large central park - is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.

Survival guide

Accommodation in Germany ranges from luxury five-star luxury hotels to hostels, chalets, campsites and traditional guesthouses.

Germany has international airports in Berlin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hanover and Munich.