What to do in Germany

It was the unique history of Berlin that defined the 20th century like no other, with the rise of Hitler in 1933 making it the infamous capital of the Third Reich. After WWII, it was divided by the Allies, becoming a symbol of the Cold War. The Berlin Wall cut right through the center of the city, leaving a jagged scar, finally falling in 1989. Most of it was demolished in the following weeks, but there are still sections that remain, including the famous East Side Gallery. The world’s longest open-air gallery, it features over 100 vibrant murals providing a visual history of Europe’s darker past.

BMW is one of the world’s most famous vehicle brands, with a reputation for engineering brilliance and luxury. In Munich, you can learn all about Germany’s motor history by visiting the BMW Museum Munich and the BMW Welt, which together, honor the “ultimate driving machine.” At the museum, you’ll learn about the brand from its beginnings through the present, with vehicles, designs, and prototypes that have made history. At BMW Welt, explore some of the latest models and experience the joy of driving firsthand.

The Dresden Frauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady,” stands out for its symbolism and history. Originally built in the 18th century, the Lutheran church, and nearly the entire city, were destroyed during WWII bombings. The church was initially left in ruins as a memorial of the war of sorts. Decades later, the Baroque masterpiece was restored, using thousands of stones that had been salvaged. It reopened in 2005 and was topped by a gold cross provided by Britain as a symbol of international goodwill, as it was the country’s bomb that had wrought much of the devastation.

While there are week-long cruises on the Rhine, it’s also possible to take a day cruise along the middle portion of the river that reveals legendary hilltop castles, terraced vineyards, charming wine villages, and more. There are multiple options, including excursions that start from Koblenz and provide a spectacular view of the riverside city itself, the famous Deutsche Eck, and the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. The vessel turns around at the mouth of the Moselle before making its way up the Rhine to Braubach and Marksburg Castle.