Germany is a large country whose major cities are vibrant and exciting with superb architecture, great shopping and a buzzing night life.

But the heart of German romanticism is in picturesque castles and enchanting palaces with there own enthralling history that is well preserved within their walls.

Germany has a vast choice of places to shop, from its markets to shopping centres full of shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafes and is made up of several distinct regions.

Once divided, Berlin has developed into one of eastern Europe’s most exciting cities. Four times the size of Paris, Berlin is a massive city yet one of the greenest in Europe. Most of the  sights are found in and around central Mitte. Here is the 18th-century Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of the city’s reunification.

Dusseldorf is a posh and modern city and one of the richest in Germany. The traffic free Altstadt, the old town centre is home to shops, boutiques and pubs. Cologne’s mighty cathedral, which survived the Allied bombing campaign, is today one of Germany’s top tourist attractions and reputedly home to the tomb of the Magi (the Three Wise Men).

The Bavarian capital Munich is a cultural and architectural treat. Marienplatz is the city’s heart, with its famous 19th-century neo-Gothic town hall, and the legendary Frauenkirche, the 500-year-old Gothic cathedral said to contain the Devil’s footprint.

Frankfurt boasts Germany’s most impressive skyline which has inspired its other nickname, Mainhattan’ – a play on the River Main which flows through the city. Hamburg is famous for its historic harbour and nightlife., Hamburg today is a cosmopolitan city of many faces.