Rentals in other areas of Europe

Germany is one of Europe's most prosperous and successful countries. Bordering many other European states, it has coastlines to the north and north-east and Sweden lies a short distance by sea to the north. Its official language is German and its currency is the euro.

Often seen as a major developed, industrialised nation, it is easy to forget that Germany has much to offer the visitor. Covering a large area, Germany's attractions are many and varied, from the gentle rolling green lands and high Alps of Bavaria and the Black Forest in the south, to the sedate Baltic cities of the north and the emergent post-Soviet states of the east. Owing to Germany's past as a number of disparate states, there are many historical cities here, each with its own local characteristics, Berlin, Frankfurt, Freiburg, Dusseldorf and Cologne to name but a few. The countryside brims with medieval towns and villages. The west of the country is skirted by the mighty river Rhine and the fabulous Rhine Valley is home to high green banks dotted with fairytale castles looking down on quaint villages. Germany is home to 33 UNESCO world heritage sites.

There is much to do in Germany, particularly in terms of outdoor pursuits, city breaks and cultural events. Climbing, skiing and hiking are popular.

As a developed country, Germany has much to offer in the way of international food. A sizable Turkish population has introduced excellent Turkish cuisine in some area. German cuisine itself is relatively simple and straightforward, specialities being sauerkraut (pickled cabbage), sausages of many types, many varieties of bread and seasonal asparagus. There are also regional specialities. Of course, Germany is perhaps best known for its beer and the annual beer festival (Oktoberfest) is still a major draw in many German towns. It is, however, also a major producer of wine, with white wines being in abundance, generally sweeter than the wines produced further south in Europe.

Getting to Germany couldn't be simpler. There are numerous airline hubs spread throughout its airports, with international flights operating to most major cities. Set in the centre of Europe, travel by road and rail is easy.

Places to stay in Germany are as varied as the country itself. International hotel chains are in abundance, as are smaller hotels and guesthouses offering bed and breakfast. Self catering apartments and houses can be rented in most cities - these are frequently historic buildings. Look out for chalets and cottages in the forests and mountains.