Posted on October 14, 2025 by Temi’s Travel Journal
First Impressions: A Blend of Old and New
When I landed in Germany, I immediately felt a mix of excitement and calm. The air was crisp, the trains ran like clockwork, and everywhere I looked, there was a perfect blend of modern life and old-world charm. From sleek glass buildings to centuries-old cathedrals, Germany felt like a country that truly respects its history while embracing the future.
Exploring Berlin: History Comes Alive
My first stop was Berlin, a city that wears its history openly. Standing at the Brandenburg Gate felt surreal — a symbol of unity and peace that once divided East and West. Walking along the remains of the Berlin Wall, covered in vibrant murals, I was struck by how this city transformed pain into art and remembrance.
I also visited the Reichstag Building, with its glass dome offering a 360° view of the city. It was both symbolic and breathtaking — transparency and democracy literally reflected in architecture.
Bavaria: Fairytale Castles and Alpine Dreams
Next, I traveled south to Bavaria, and it felt like stepping into a storybook. The countryside was green and peaceful, dotted with charming villages and snow-capped mountains in the distance. Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle — the very one that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty — was a dream come true. Perched high on a hill, surrounded by forests and lakes, it looked like something out of a painting.
I also spent a few days in Munich, where I enjoyed hearty Bavarian food: pretzels, sausages, and of course, a frothy stein of local beer at a traditional beer garden. The people were warm, the atmosphere was lively, and there was a sense of community that made me feel right at home.
The Romantic Rhine and Cologne
One of the highlights of my trip was cruising along the Rhine River. With every bend, a new castle appeared on the hills, overlooking charming riverside towns. The view was so beautiful that I almost forgot to take photos. Each stop along the way — from Koblenz to Rüdesheim — had its own character, with cobblestone streets and cozy cafés perfect for an afternoon break.
In Cologne, I was mesmerized by the Cologne Cathedral — its towering spires and intricate Gothic design took my breath away. Climbing to the top was a workout, but the panoramic view of the Rhine made it all worth it.
German Cuisine: A Tasty Journey
I’ll be honest — I didn’t know what to expect from German food, but it completely won me over. Every region had its specialties: schnitzel in the south, currywurst in Berlin, and black forest cake in the southwest. One evening, I sat at a small restaurant in Heidelberg, enjoying roast pork with dumplings, and thought, “This is what comfort food feels like in Germany.”
Final Thoughts: Why Germany Stole My Heart
Germany surprised me in the best ways possible. It’s a country of contrasts — historic yet modern, structured yet full of creativity, efficient yet warm. What stood out most was the sense of pride Germans have in their culture, traditions, and environment. Everywhere I went, people were friendly, respectful, and eager to share their stories.
As my plane took off from Frankfurt, I looked down at the patchwork of forests, cities, and rivers and knew I’d be back someday. Germany isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place to experience, one story, one bite, and one memory at a time.
2 Comments
Anna M.
October 14, 2025 at 10:15 am
Such a lovely post! I’ve been to Munich and your description brought back so many memories. ❤️
Lukas
October 14, 2025 at 2:40 pm
Great storytelling! Germany truly has a charm that stays with you.