For those planning their next getaway, the sheer number of potential holiday destinations across Europe can often feel bewildering. With countless remarkable locations just a short flight from the UK, making a choice is no simple task. However, one seasoned journalist and self-confessed travel enthusiast has distilled his extensive experience into a definitive recommendation after a summer of interrailing.
A Continent Explored, A Country Cherished
Having journeyed through 27 different nations, the writer recently embarked on an interrailing adventure across Europe, which led him to discover a new favourite. This destination, he reveals, offers 'endless experiences', combining a profound historical tapestry, breathtaking natural scenery, and a culinary scene he believes is vastly underrated.
Brian Dillon from The Express shared his enthusiasm: "Jumping from hostel to hostel between seven cities in these five countries, Germany blew me away. I had been to Germany in the past, and every time I go there, I have a completely different experience."
The Allure of German Cities
While he had previously visited Berlin, his summer trip included extended stays in Munich and Stuttgart, each providing a distinct and unique perspective on German life. For Brian, the highlight was unequivocally Munich.
"This city simply blew me away," he explained. "First arriving in the Bavarian city on a train from Vienna, I was impressed by the architecture. It seemed like at every turn, there was another stunning building to gawk at."
He described the historic Old Town as superbly charming, creating a palpable sense of being transported back to a centuries-old Germany. Yet, it was Munich's approach to urban green spaces that captured his heart most profoundly.
"Every major city has some nice parks to explore. But Munich does it differently. Not only are the green spaces here stunning, but they all have lovely beer gardens where you truly feel like you are living like a local when you sit there, sipping a local beer and taking in the unique surroundings."
Contrasting Urban Experiences
Stuttgart offered a quieter, more subdued atmosphere, which Brian found perfect for a day of leisurely exploration before moving on. Berlin, meanwhile, retained its status as a 'thrilling city', not only because of iconic tourist attractions like the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall but also due to its unique bars, vibrant markets, and what he described as 'otherworldly' nightclubs.
Beyond the Urban Landscape
The appeal of Germany, however, extends far beyond its city limits. Brian was equally captivated by the nation's natural beauty. Recounting a sleeper train journey between Brussels and Prague, he wrote:
"Much of my journey was spent speeding through the stunning German countryside. The sweeping green fields, the old-time villages and the staggering mountains were a sight to behold. Waking up in a train cabin and seeing all of this first thing in the morning is an experience I will never forget."
A Destination for Return Visits
For travellers seeking inspiration, Brian posits Germany as a fantastic and versatile option. He added a compelling personal endorsement: "If you were to tell me that for my next holiday, I had to go back to a country I had been to before, I would book a flight to Germany. Although I have been to three different cities and through stunning countryside, I suspect that this country has a lot more for me to experience."
His German bucket list remains enticingly long, featuring the port city of Hamburg, the historic cathedral city of Cologne, the famous Christmas markets of Dresden, and the classic architecture of Nuremberg. For a journalist who has circled the globe, Germany's depth and variety have cemented its place as an unforgettable European destination.
