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Best of Germany

Lonely Planet: The world's number one travel guide publisher*

Lonely Planet's  Best of Germany   is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. See storybook castles rise from the Bavarian forest, raise a stein to an oompah band in a Munich beer garden and take in the vibrant Berlin arts scene - all with your trusted travel companion. Discover the best of Germany and begin your journey now!

Inside  Lonely Planet's  Best of Germany :

• Full-colour  images throughout
• Highlights   and itineraries  help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests
• Insider tips  to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots
• Essential info   at your fingertips  - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, prices
• Honest reviews for all budgets  - eating, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss
• Cultural insights  provide a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, art, food, wine, sport, politics
• Free, convenient pull-out map  (included in print version), plus easy-to-use colour maps to help you navigate

Berlin, Potsdam, Neuschwanstein, Heidelberg, The Black Forest, Dresden, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Cologne, The Romantic Rhine Valley, The Moselle Valley and more

ISBN: 9781786573902

Edition: 2nd

Publication Date: May 2019

Walker, Benedict

Christiani, Kerry Di Duca, Marc Le Nevez, Catherine Ragozin, Leonid Schulte-Peevers, Andrea

324 pages,67 maps | Dimensions: 128mm width × 197mm height

Next edition due: None planned

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13 Best Germany Travel Guide Books

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Germany Travel Guide…

Planning on traveling to Germany? Whether it’s solo traveling, backpacking, or traveling with family, exploring Germany is going to be a wonderful travel experience. Germany is a huge, diverse, and amazing country. That’s also why you need travel guides to Germany. The country is also famous for its beer, sausages, majestic castles, and incredible hiking trails. It’s recommended to take your time and don’t rush while you’re visiting the country. Hence, you may want to have a basic plan or itinerary to make the best of your trip. To start your planning process, you can always refer to Germany travel guide books.

These travel guide books will help you figure out what to do, what to see, ways to get around, and show you everything you need to have the experience of a lifetime. Germany tour guide books also give you a little of the history of the places you visit. So, you can understand the culture better.

How To Choose The Best Germany Travel Guide Books?

Choosing the best Germany travel guide books helps you travel through Germany as seamlessly as possible. But, when you look at the shelves in the bookstore or online, it can be overwhelming. There are different aspects you should consider when selecting travel guides to Germany. Here are some of them!

Publisher/author

There’s a full range of guide book publishers. Choosing one of the known publishers or authors gives you up to date, inspiring, and trustworthy information. World-class guide books are written by expert writers that really know and familiar with the city, places, and others. Some well-known authors also write the guidebook based on their own experiences.

Paperback, hardcover, or digital version? Some travelers who look for the best Germany travel guide books may prefer physical books (either it’s paperback or hardcover). Though it may not be handy, these books are useful when you need to take notes, use the maps, or look at the photos for preferences. Most publishers also provide a digital version for travelers who prefer practicality more.

There are different kinds of Germany tour guide books you can choose from. Some books focus on relaxation, adventure travel, and traveling with children. Other books aim at travelers with different budgets. For example, if you want to visit Munich for its famous Oktoberfest, you can choose a guidebook that focuses on the festival and places you can stay near Oktoberfest itself. Are you planning to hike in the Alps? Then, choose a guidebook about Bavarian Alps with information about the mountain treks and detailed information, such as elevation, the trail, and more.

Whichever traveling style you have, the best Germany tour guide books should give you all the information you need. Some travelers may like guidebooks with stunning photos, others may like those with the history or background about the region or the places they’re visiting. If you plan to have road trips or walking tours, getting a guidebook with maps and noted sights along the way is the best choice. What’s more, good guidebooks provide you handy tips and tricks from the insiders.

What should a travel guide include?

A good guidebook should include information about everything that useful for travelers, including places (regions), sights, and activities. Other information, like restaurants and accommodation, may be outdated, but still, it helps travelers to get a recommendation. Plus, the travel guide book that contains historical and cultural information and maps of varying details will be very useful.

German Survival Guide

Traveling in Germany without speaking a word of German is possible. But, having German Survival Guide is not only giving you language and cultural information about the country but also provides a lot of vocabulary and basic instruction that all focused on travelers’ needs. This why this book is on our list of Germany travel guide books.

Knowing a few phrases helps you making friends and ensuring a rich and rewarding travel experience. You can buy last-minute tickets to the opera, how to get help in an emergency or to find things to do in Berlin including discovering a hidden bar. For every purchase, you’ll get two cassettes and a small glossary/dictionary. All these make it one of your best travel guides to Germany.

The book has three parts, including phrases and grammar. It also includes full of cultural notes, like how not to look like a tourist, why not use first names, how to tip, and how to have good table manners. So, you understand daily social expectations, know what to expect and how to deal with them. You will find German pronunciations written throughout the book. With this, you’ll always have guidance on how to pronounce new words and phrases. Besides, the book provides an extensive index to help readers find the topics they want.

Long-term travelers, backpackers, business, and student travelers

101 Amazing Things to Do in Germany

If this is your first time traveling to Germany, 101 Amazing Things to Do in Germany is one of the best Germany tour guide books to get. It offers you clear explanations about Germany and it’s compact enough to take everywhere.

This book provides the insight track on the most amazing and coolest things to see and do around the country. Whether you’re visiting popular attractions in Cologne , Hamburg, Dusseldorf, Stuttgart, and Bonn, or visiting incredible festivals, from electronic festivals with world-famous headliners to the Berlin International Film Festival.

It also includes good information and travel tips, like where you want to dine, the places where you can party like a local and make new friends, and where to shop for authentic souvenirs. Visiting the fairytale castles that inspired Disney movies? You can find information about the coolest historical and cultural sights that you can’t miss. What’s more, there are some recommendations for outdoor activities and destinations for nature and outdoor lovers.

Adventurers, backpackers, photographers, party-goers, art, and cultural lovers

The Ultimate Guide to Oktoberfest

You can find Oktoberfest around the world, but Munich is the place where you can get an authentic experience in its original place. The book is written based on the author’s knowledge and experiences from countless visits to the festival for years, making it one of your best travel guides to Germany. It gives visitors of Oktoberfest extensive practical advice and a clear idea of things to do and see during the festival, no matter if you come as single travelers, couples, groups, or family.

You will find everything about the event in 39 pages of The Ultimate Guide to Oktoberfest . There is a section about Oktoberfest’s background to give you some insight into the world’s biggest folks and beer festival. The table of contents guides you on the essential information, like How to get there, What to Wear, What to do if you don’t have a reservation, and What to eat and drink.

Some sections give you a description of each tent (14 big beer tents and more than 20 small and medium-sized tents). Get the details about The Parades, such as the Traditional Costume Parade and Opening Parade. You will also find the lyrics to few German songs. So, you can join in the singing in the beer tents.

Food travelers, photographers, party-goer travelers, groups, and family travelers

The Rough Guide to Germany

If you’re looking for Germany travel guide books in the Kindle version, The Rough Guide to Germany is your best choice. Whether you’re planning to cruise down the Rhine Valley, go wine-tasting along the Mosel Weinstrasse, or enjoy the Schauinsland cable car, it helps you discover Germany and get the most of your visit that suits every traveler’ budget.

It provides detailed regional coverage, including off the beaten track or more tourist destinations like Berlin and Brandenburg. The book also includes ideal places and attractions to visit, such as Schloss Neuschwanstein, Elbe Sandstone Mountains, and Berlin Wall Memorial along the way to help you organize your trip itineraries. Plus, recommendations to sleep, eat, drink, and shop.

Rough Guide books are written by expert authors who are passionate about both writing and travel to deliver insight and priceless information. The Rough Guide to Germany is full of a stunning and rich collection of inspiring color photography. Plus, there are full-color maps that you can use without needing to get online. There’s even essential basic pre-departure information, including getting there, local transports, and background information about history, books, film, and music. So, if you need Germany tour guide books for your traveling, this is the one.

Family or group travelers, solo travelers, backpackers, photographers

DK Eyewitness Travel: Back Roads Germany

DK Eyewitness Travel: Back Roads Germany is one of the best Germany travel guide books for travelers who want to discover the real soul and charm through the back roads of Germany. The book provides you twenty-four researched routes, each lasting one to five days. The book reveals hidden gems, breathtaking views, and authentic local experiences that you can only discover on road.

Get the unexpected experience on each tour that is burst with information and loaded with ideas for varied activities. These include cycling trips, short walks, and longer hikes to days on the beach, watersports, to wine tours. This book includes glossy color photos and a pull-out map of the entire region for easy navigation between tours and zip code information for use with a GPS device.

Plus, it has practical information you would need, including road conditions, length of the drive, parking information, and opening hours. On top of that, the authors also put the best-value hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants specializing in regional produce. All this information making it your best travel guides to Germany.

Adventurers, backpackers, family/group travelers, and photographers who want to experience Germany on a road trip

Journey Through Germany

Journey Through Germany offers you a guide from north to south Germany that offers many different natural and cultural landscapes. These include the plains of northern Germany, the midlands hills to the highest point in the land, the Zugspitze, the coastal mudflats, and the popular islands of Sylt and Rügen. Besides, there is also additional essence about Germany, like Goethe and Schiller, Ludwig II of Bavaria and his palaces, plus the castles on the Rhine and Saale.

This travel guides to Germany book has the cover picture of Neuschwanstein Castle and more famous sights presented in the book. It gives a good overview of rich and turbulent past places in Germany, from the fairytale castles of Ludwig II of Bavaria to the Romanesque cathedrals of the German emperors. You will find that the book contains 75% photos and 25% text. Plus, there is short (yet informative) information for each image.

It provides a wide variety of photos, including churches, castles, small towns, big cities, people in local costumes, landscapes, and food that can be your photos’ inspirations. The book also includes Medieval cities and modern architectural constructions that harbor many highlights of Germany’s artistic and cultural history.

Photographers and the tech-savvy travelers

Walking in the Bavarian Alps

Planning to hike the Bavarian Alps on the border of Germany and Austria? You should get Walking in the Bavarian Alps before going. This guidebook provides information on mountain walks and treks in Bavarian Alps, (southern Germany) between Lake Constance and Berchtesgaden. There are 70 routes range from half-day walks to 3-day hut-to-hut treks you can choose from, making it one of the best Germany travel guide books that all hikers and adventures need.

Some treks, including Partnach, Königssee and Breitach, and Höllental gorges are accessible from Munich, Salzburg and Innsbruck. This Bavarian hiking guide in the English book helps you narrow down your hike routes. Also, it gives you detailed information, including elevation gain, what there is to see along the way, a nice description of the trail terrain, and difficulty level. Along the way, you’ll find its detailed hiking map very useful. It also includes color photos, transport advice, and good tips for accommodation and refreshment stops.

Adventurers, hikers, outdoor lovers, and photographers

National Geographic Traveler Germany (4th Edition)

If you’re looking for Germany travel guide books that mention smaller towns in Germany outside the cities, National Geographic Traveler Germany (4th Edition) is a great choice. For example, the book gives a short page of information about the city of Münster, but with quite detailed facts and interesting things to do in Münsterland and the area around Münster. It also the perfect Germany Travel Guide book for getting to know the countryside, complete with detailed background descriptions and self-guided walking and driving tours. This guidebook will satisfy your eyes with lots of fabulous photos from National Geographic.

If you want to take a walk up to the Summit of the Brocken, you will get everything you need to know about the information on walking or taking a train. Also, there are details on how hard the walk is, what is not to be missed, and how long it will take you. Besides, the book covers the entire country region by region, from the capital city of Berlin, Rheinland-Pfalz, Thuringe, Sachsen, northern Bavaria, Munich, and the Alps, and finally Baden-Wurtemberg.

What’s more, it provides you the insider tips on favorite or little-known sites and events. These include attending the medieval festivals celebrated at many castles in the Rhine Valley, surfing and windsurfing off the northern Baltic coast, touring underground Berlin, and learning how to brew beer in Bavaria.

Backpackers, adventurers, hikers, and photographers who look for enriching and authentic experience

Kids’ Travel Guide Germany

Traveling with kids can be challenging. If you plan a family trip to Germany for the first time, Kids’ Travel Guide Germany is one of the best Germany travel guide books to give your kids. It’s a smart and fun way to keep your children interested in traveling from an early age. It focuses on four main destinations in Germany: Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt/Main, and Hamburg. The book helps them (and also you or other adults) to get more familiar with the country and ready for the journey.

It includes activities before leaving, even suggestions for what to pack. Children can learn a little about the country, from flags and symbols, geography, food, history, and even some useful word in Germany.

With the help of a fun, educational, and engaging tour guide, Leonardo, kids can read relevant facts about Germany. The texts are well written and simply accompanied by big drawings and pictures. This unique travel guide and activity book in one also includes puzzles, useful tips, quizzes, coloring pages, and special tasks to keep them interested during the trip. What’s more, they can document and write about their experience in the several journey pages in the book. Not only available in paperback, but it’s also available for e-book readers.

Kids and family travelers

Fodor’s Travel Essential Germany

Whether you’re planning to visit Munich, Berlin, and the Bavarian Alps for the first time or third, Fodor’s Travel Essential Germany is a great guidebook to make the best travel experience. Fodor’s travel guides are written by local writers who know the destination better than anyone else.

It’s divided into regions to help planning your trip. From the capital city Munich, the art scene of Berlin, to the more traditional region of Bavaria. Whether you’re interested in Germany’s beautiful scenery, vibrant nightlife, and hearty food and drink, the book gives recommendations, up-to-date references, and important facts.

It also includes useful details, such as where to eat and stay, climate throughout the year, and when attractions are closed. Plus, there are full-size street maps that will help you get around confidently. Spectacular color photos give you some guides and inspirations of the ultimate places and attractions throughout Germany. What’s more, there are some sample itineraries to help you plan. These include a map with travel times by train and recommended scenic bike rides and drives. Get this full-color travel guide book on paperback and digital version, where you can get it on Kindle.

Backpacker and adventure travelers, family or group travelers, business travelers, food travelers, and party-goers who are looking for insider tips from local experts

Rick Steves Germany 2020

Rick Steves Germany 2020 is one of the most useful Germany travel guide books you can have. It helps you in preparation if you plan on visiting Germany for the first time and don’t know where to start. The book is easy to navigate, full of advice, and also focuses on details like money and transportations. So, you can create unique itineraries aligned with your interests for a multi-week trip through Germany on budget. Whether you’re visiting modern cities, alpine forests, remarkable villages, or fairytale castles, it has it!

Even before you leave, the book already helps by providing a packing checklist. It also gives historical information and how to get the most out of your time visiting top sights and hidden gems. The book is divided into some cities to help you find the destination easily. Plus, there are sections with helpful tips on finding places to sleep, eat, and see. You will also find information about transportation and travel tips to connect with local culture or self-guided walking tours. On top of that, this comprehensive travel book includes a German phrasebook and a fold-out map.

Backpackers and adventurers

Lonely Planet Best of Germany

Lonely Planet is here with one of the best Germany travel guide books. It always comes with loads of information in a short amount of time. As one of the world’s best travel guidebook brands, Lonely Planet Best of Germany provides trustworthy information for every kind of traveler. You’ll find info on several top major cities, like Berlin, Cologne, Neuschwanstein, Potsdam, and Dresden, as well as Germany’s most popular attractions. So, you can get the best cultural insights about history, art, food, and more!

The book is available on both digital (Kindle) and paperback versions. The paperback version is small and sleek, making it easy to carry around during your traveling. It also includes several suggested itineraries with some information about various aspects of the trips. You’ll find recommendations about things to see and do, places to eat, places to avoid, and how to get to and from. Though it doesn’t provide lodging recommendations, the book provides some brief information on the different areas to stay in town. Besides, our website has covered that section for you!

At the end of the book, there are two short sections about German history, food, beer, and wine. Also, the arts and architecture of Germany, the German outdoors, and Germans as a people. It has full-color pictures of Germany’s interesting places. What we love the most is that the book has several detailed maps.

Backpackers, group travelers, photographers, family travelers, and tourists who prefer short stays in different places

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Germany

Filled with information, DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Germany is a book that any traveler would need. Like others DK Eyewitness Travel Guide, this book is written by their expert travel writers and researchers. This guidebook is divided into states and major cities by a color-coding on the page edge. So, you will find the best attractions easily, from its Christmas markets, festivals, popular beer halls, to beautiful castles. Also, the book provides detailed itineraries and “don’t-miss” destination highlights with insights into history and culture. This makes it great for planning your visit.

There’s a breakdown of each state into smaller cities that are filled with a Visitor Checklist, several walking tours, and a map. It includes practical information about each location, like hours of operation and a phone number. Plus, the book provides about federal holidays. What’s more, there are hotel and restaurant listings for your recommendation.

The book also includes hand-drawn illustrations and hundreds of beautiful photographs. Our favorite is the 3D image of the Castle in Heidelberg with complete tags. All show what each part is and when it was completed. Sits at the top of our list of the best Germany travel guide books, it’s the next best thing to have a personal guide at your side. It’s also available in Kindle if you prefer the digital version.

Any type of traveler, from business travelers, family or group travelers, long-term travelers, backpackers, to solo travelers, and more

Author:  Adam G

As a travel enthusiast and experienced adventurer, I have spent years exploring the world and discovering hidden gems in every corner of the globe. From backpacking through Europe to trekking in the Himalayas, I have chased my passion for travel and embraced every opportunity to learn about different cultures and ways of life. Now, as a travel writer, I channel my love of exploration into creating informative and inspiring content for fellow travelers. Whether you're planning a solo trip to a remote destination or seeking family-friendly activities in a bustling city, I am dedicated to providing you with the tools and knowledge you need to make the most of your journey. With a keen eye for detail and a love of storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid descriptions and engaging narratives, highlighting the unique experiences and attractions that make each place so special. So join me on this journey of discovery, and let's explore the world together!

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7 Best Travel Books About Germany

“The best education is found by a clever person when travelling.”

Over 150 million tourists flock to Germany each year, making it the eighth-most visited country on the planet. And it’s clear to see why. One of the most culturally vibrant destinations in the world, Germany has become renowned for its festivals, history, arts, nightlife, and cuisine. It is also one of the most picturesque tourist hotspots, with its stunning natural landscapes ranging from pristine sand beaches to dense alpine forests plucked straight out of a fairytale. With transportation to and around Germany superb and the cost of everything, from a Bratwurst to an Erdinger beer, remaining excellent value, join us at What We Reading as we guide you through the country with the best travel books for your next trip! 

Lonely Planet Germany – Lonely Planet 

Kicking off our list of the best Germany books for all travellers and nomads looking to uncover all the country has to offer is Lonely Planet’s comprehensive guide. As the world’s number one travel guide company, Lonely Planet has the expertise and the trust of the travel world. In their Germany edition, they blend practical travel trips with wanderlust-inspiring descriptions to bring together a resource that both inspires and guides readers through a visit to the country. 

From steep castles rising out of the Bavarian forests to the vibrancy of Berlin’s art scene, Lonely Planet Germany comes with highlights, itineraries, coloured maps, high-quality photographs, a translation dictionary, cultural insights and a wealth of handy information ranging from opening hours, transport links, phone numbers and budgeting guides. From taking in the top sights to discovering the country’s best-kept secrets, Lonely Planet Germany is the ultimate travel companion.

Berlin: Imagine A City – Rory MacLean

Berlin is one of the most enigmatic, lively cities in the world. From being devastated by Allied bombs, split in half by a wall to emerging re-united and reborn as one of the most progressive and creative centres in the world, Rory MacLean’s Berlin: Imagine a City is the ultimate lens into all things that make Germany’s capital a place like no other. 

Through a cast of five Berliners living across five centuries ranging from medieval balladeers to Communist functionaries, MacLean lifts the lid on the rich, varied and unseen parts of the city’s history. As much a tour through history as it is through the city itself, Imagine a City is a beautifully constructed biography of one of Europe’s most incredible cities, and is sure to fuel the wanderlust of any traveller thinking about giving it a visit. 

The Ultimate Guide To Oktoberfest – Munich Germany Travel Guide – Marion Kummerow

What list of the best Germany books would be complete without a spotlight for Oktoberfest ? Arguably the country’s most famous holiday, Marion Kummerow gives readers the lowdown on the biggest folks and beer festival in the world in her Ultimate Guide to Oktoberfest . 

Having lived in Bavaria for over two decades, Kummerow condenses all of her experiences and knowledge into one updated and revised guide to ensure readers enjoy all that Oktoberfest has to offer. From background insights on the origins and development of the festival, information on how to get to it, reserve spots in all the tents, where to stay, what to wear and, most crucially, what to eat and drink, it is the only book on Oktoberfest any beer-lover needs! 

Rick Steves Germany – Rick Steves

Rick Steves has established himself as one of the most trusted voices when it comes to European travel, and his edition on Germany remains one of the most treasured works for those looking to get the most out of their trips. 

Steves takes readers through the cobbled streets in off-beat picturesque villages, through sprawling alpine forests and into the upper reaches of fairytale castles, covering all the sights and attractions every visitor to Germany has to see. He employs a personalized approach and provides practical guides, making his travel book on Germany an invaluable resource for checking off everything on the bucket list without draining the wallet.

Ghosts On The Shore: Travels Along Germany’s Baltic Coast – Paul Scraton

Having been inspired by his wife’s collection of family photographs dating back to the 1930s and her memories of growing up in East Germany, Paul Scraton takes readers along a stunning journey across Germany’s Baltic coast in Ghosts on the Shore . 

Beginning in the gothic-filled streets of Lübeck and ending on the island of Usedom touching the Polish border, Scraton unveils a region of the country swirling in mythology and still reeling from some of the most turbulent events in Germany’s history. From gentrified fishing villages, Socialist summer camps to Hanseatic trading towns , Ghosts on the Shore is a travel memoir about Germany where stories, history, folklore, politics and lost legends all collide. 

DK Eyewitness Back Roads Germany (Eyewitness Road Trips) – DK Eyewitness

Looking for a Germany travel book that specialises in the lesser-walked parts of the country? Look no further than DK’s Germany edition of their Eyewitness Road Trips series. This guidebook comes with twenty-four uniquely-themed drives, each one lasting between one and five days. 

These stunning road trips reveal breathtaking views, hidden gems and overlooked authentic experiences. DK utilises local insider knowledge to present ideas on what to fill an itinerary with, with suggestions ranging from short and long hikes, wine tasting, spa days and watersports. With all routes and attractions hand-picked by expert authors, Back Roads Germany also comes with a host of practical tips and resources such as full-colour maps, opening times, road conditions and zip codes.  

Along The Wall And Watchtower: A Journey Down Germany’s Divide – Oliver August

The German partition profoundly impacted the social, political, and cultural fabric of the country, and people can still feel its legacy to this day. In Along the Wall and Watchtower , Oliver August traces the path of the Berlin Wall , documenting the remnants of the Iron Curtain’s border, and exploring the lasting imprint it had on Germany as a whole. 

Incorporating a variety of his observations, interviews with locals and historical insights from the watchtowers and barriers that kept Germany’s capital divided, August’s book sheds light on the experiences of those on both sides of the fortified border, and the wider-stretching consequences. A skillfully crafted travelogue, narrated from a historical perspective, awaits any traveller seeking to immerse themselves in the spirit of Berlin.

Check Out These German Books Before Your Visit

Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).

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Andrew Eames

Travel writer, author and editor, do you know this man.

With a career that is now entering its fifth decade, Andrew Eames ( @mounteagle ) is one of the most experienced and prolific travel writers around today. Just look at the wrinkles.

He’s written five travel books of his own, two of which were ‘Book of the Week’ on BBC Radio Four, and edited many, many more. He runs a website about Germany, speaks at book festivals and travel writing seminars, and can be heard on the radio (but reckons he’s too shy for TV).  UK Press Gazette  ranked him 6th in the UK’s top 50 travel writers, and the  Sunday Times  rated his latest book,  Blue River Black Sea , in the top six published in 2010.

Besides all that, he continues to contribute to a wide range of magazines and national newspapers, from the FT to the Sunday Mirror , see Latest News for links.

So why isn’t he already a millionaire?

It’s a question I’ve been asking myself.

•   Thursday, April 25, 2024
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• Travel to Germany

Plan Your Trip to Germany- Tips and Best Travel Books Germany

As I may have mentioned before, I’m a planner and a list maker . This means that before I take a trip, anywhere, I do lots of research and get my travel plans organized. Travel is expensive, believe me, I know, so I don’t want to waste time when I get there wondering…. “what do I do now?”. Now, don’t go thinking I have every minute of my day and night scheduled, I just like to have a basic plan or outline, so I can hit the ground running! To kick-start my planning process, I always refer to guidebooks. When you look at the shelves in the bookstore, it can seem kind of overwhelming. Let me share some of my favorite Germany travel guidebooks, and how I put things all together for a smooth trip. 

How I Plan my Trip to Germany

My last trip to Germany needed a lot more planning. My parents, my husband, and I spent four weeks on a journey to visit family … but also to visit the places my parents came from. Basically, we were crisscrossing Germany (and beyond) with a big list of “things we wanted to see and do”. Reservations, maps, tickets, hotels. All of this needed to be organized so that things didn’t go sideways, or get forgotten. I have a habit of using a portable accordion file (just a slim 6-pocket one) for each trip I take. Information about different cities goes in each file, along with the reservations I will need along the way. Receipts and ticket stubs, brochures, and business cards go back inside.

But this trip needed something more.

In the initial planning stages, I used a planning tool that I found on Etsy. I downloaded this Google Sheets based Travel planner template and used it to input reservations (with the links). I could also use it to make wish lists of “things to see”, or restaurants. It helped keep track of itinerary, and timing. (It also calculated the budget). In the past, I’ve always used a spiral binder for this process, but it was interesting to see how things slotted together when it was all in one program. I could print out an itinerary for everyone in the group (I could also access it online if needed). If you are interested in trying something like this, you’ll find it here->

My Personal Travel Guide

I fully admit, I’m an over planner, a belt and suspenders person.  I also admit that I don’t always trust that I will be able to access tickets or reservations online due to wifi or power issues (I once had to walk blocks to get a signal so I could retrieve the key code for an Airbnb). Basically, I like to have everything printed and in my hand when I go somewhere. Obviously, that means a big pile of paper when taking a longer trip.

I came up with a plan. (Now, I know, most of you will say… WHAT THE HECK! THAT’S NUTS!) but hear me out). I made my own travel guide.

I took a simple lined journal, and created a single book to carry with us. The inside cover had the itinerary…. I gave each destination a tab in the book. Inside I added reservation numbers and times (museum reservations require a time block, hotels have check-in times), important phone numbers, basic directions, and a few extra “things to do” ideas. Then I photocopied relevant pages from my travel guide books and stuck them in to the book. Each destination had a few extra pages to make notes. ( Note- for this trip, I was traveling with my parents, who are in their 80s. I can be freewheeling when I’m alone )

How did that work out? Well, it was a LOT of work. But the book proved invaluable on the trip. Addresses were handy, phone numbers were right there. Parking tips for museums (it’s not always straight forward) and even “what to look for in the museum”. This way everyone in the car could look to see what was happening next. And it fit in my purse.

What would I change? The driving directions ended up being unnecessary… our car came with a navi system (on my last trip, it wasn’t)… And I always carry a small road atlas with me. (Like I said, belt and suspenders.)

Best Travel Books Germany

What makes a good Travel Guide book … to me, it isn’t the listings of hotels or restaurants (these things will make a book dated rather quickly)… I love photos and insider tips. I am a huge fan of walking tours (with maps and noted sights along the way). I also like a guidebook to have a little history or background about the region I’m visiting.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I earn a percentage from sales at no cost to you.

DK Eyewitness Travel Germany-

Hands down, my favorite Travel Guides of all time come from DK Eyewitness Travel. These guides have never let me down. The DK Eyewiness Travel Germany guide is FULL of information that any traveler would need. States and major cities are divided by a color coding on the page edge, so they are easy to find. Then within the state you get a breakdown of smaller cities, as well as maps. The smaller cities then have a Visitor Checklist, a map , and a numbered walking tour. Each location has a paragraph of information, including exact location, hours of operation, and even a phone number. For example… heading to North Rhine Westphalia? The first page is a history of the area, then comes a 2 page spread with walking information for the city of Münster, and then a driving tour of the surrounding area… as well as other cities in the state you will want to see.

Photo taken of the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Germany

The bigger the city, the more the book drills down. Heidelberg has a 3D image of the Castle, complete with tags showing what each part is, and when it was completed. The Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Dresden Gallery of Old Masters) shows the layout of the museum, including the exact locations of some of the major works with a bit of information about them. And the section on Wine Growing in Germany breaks down everything you ever wanted ot know about the different types of wines, and where they come from. This book is the next best thing to having a personal all knowing guide at your side (or in your pocket).

You will also find practical information… like post office hours and federal holidays. There is a chapter on restaurants and hotels, should you be looking.

Find the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Germany Here–>

Rick Steves Germany

We all know Rick Steves from his travel show on PBS, but his books are LOADED with advice for planning your trip. You do get information about sites, but Rick focusses on the details… transportation, money, how to get as much out of your trip as possible, what to see, and what to avoid. He also updates his hotel and restaurant guides every year, so if you buy the latest book, you will be up to date on what’s available. These books are focused on the budget conscious traveler who doesn’t want to be encumbered by luggage or things (instantly, this makes it hard for me… I like packing more than 3 shirts… and I always need an extra bag for the things I buy to take home.). Still, if this is your first time in Germany (or your 5th) and you want that extra help without having to do the research yourself, these are the books for you. (I would suggest getting this book AND the DK Eyewitness Germany book to cover all bases).

National Geographic Traveler Germany

When you are looking at National Geographic, your expectation is that the book will be loaded with FABULOUS photos, and it is. With National Geographic Germany , it’s more about the experiences outside the cities. For example, the city of Münster gets a short page… but the Münsterland, and the area around Münster are quite detailed with facts and interesting things to do. This is the perfect Germany Travel Guide book for getting to know the countryside. Want to take a walk up to the Summit of the Brocken (where the witches gather at Walpurgisnacht)? You will find detailed information on walking or taking a train part of the way in either direction, along with a list of what is not to be missed, how hard the walk is, and how long it will take you. This is one of the few books to mention smaller interesting towns (like Bad Homburg) that are near the big cities. (This is why I have multiple books)

Photo taken of the National Geographic Traveler Guidebook

Again, there is also practical information. You will find some listings for hotels and restaurants by price in the blue section at the back of the book, as well as a few important vocabulary words.

Find the National Geographic Traveler Germany Guide Book here–

DK Back Roads Germany

I really just picked up this book a week ago, and I’m completely excited by it. For part of my next trip to Germany we will be renting a car and driving. Back Roads Germany is the perfect way to make the most of your time on the road! Get off the Autobahn, and take the regular roads. Get to know the countryside! Each “drive” is completely laid out for you with distances and time it takes to travel… and there are highlights to visit along the way. It’s like you have someone to hold your hand a bit, or nudge you into a direction you may not have considered. And don’t think it’s ALL about driving. The driving bit is just to get you there… walks and hikes are also described.  The book is filled with maps and pictures. It even recommends where to park (you may scoff… but it’s not always obvious where to park in some cities). This one is going in the travel bag FOR SURE (all marked up!).

Insight Guides Germany

The Insight Guides Germany book is more about history and maps. You do get a lot of background on each of the cities you might want to visit. Also, there are loads of maps showing the details of downtown areas. The book isn’t broken down as much as the other guide books. It’s almost like the story of a town or a specific area is being told… and then special names are highlighted and numbered to match the map. This book is fine for self-guided tours (especially if you are driving). For walks, it may be a little bulky, and the information travels over a few pages, instead of being all on one page. It could be a great book for reading at home, to get to know the areas you plan to visit… and find out what’s near by.

Photo taken o fInsight Guides Germany

You will find some travel tip about Germany in the back of the book, but Insight Guides do not list hotels. Some cafes or restaurants are mentioned in the description of the area, sort of as another feature.

Find the Insight Guides Germany book here–>

Berlin Walks

My daughter kept this book in her satchel at ALL times while studying in Berlin. This is the book you need when you really want to get to know a city well. There are guided walks through neighborhoods with turn by turn instructions (wonderful for exploring). Unlike the other guide books, I do appreciate the restaurant guides and suggestions, because they really know the neighborhoods (and she found some of her favorite cafes using the guide). A pull out map is included…

And, of course… I LOVE MAPS

The Michelin map of Germany is HUGE! So I spread it out across the dining room table. This way I can really see where everything is, and how far it is from the next place I want to visit. Bliss…. (And naturally, I do it with DRAMATIC FLAIR…. swoooosh, everything is swept aside, and the map is spread out.) I add those little sticky arrows to places I want to see. Then follow the roads with my finger to see what else is along the way.

While searching the map… I double check my Brown Signs along the Autobahn book . Is there something worthy of getting off for? Usually there is. This little book tells you where all the brown signs are, and what you see when you get there.

Planning can be fun

As you can see, I LOVE planning my trips to Germany. For some of you, it may sound terrible… where’s the spontaneity? Don’t panic! I always leave space (you’ll find me spending hours in a cafe, lingering with a coffee and cake)  and I’m flexible about changing things up. It’s just that my time in Germany is often too short, so I want to make sure I don’t miss something that’s just off the road…. So. Guidebooks, notes…. make lists, then GO!

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25 Best Books About Germany to Read Before You Visit

If you’re planning a trip to the land of sausages, beer, and lederhosen, allow me to suggest a little light reading before you set off. No, I don’t mean a German-English dictionary (although that wouldn’t hurt either), I mean some of the finest literature on the subject of Germany. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or just a lover of a good yarn, there’s a book out there for you. 

The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich

Let’s start with the classics. If you’re interested in a bit of history, “The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich” by William L. Shirer is an absolute must-read. It’s an exhaustive account of the Nazi regime, and it’s all true. You’ll be amazed at how much you didn’t know about that dark period in German history. 

The Tin Drum

But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom. As Mark Twain once said, “If you don’t like the news, go out and make some of your own.” And that’s exactly what Germans did after WWII. They took a long, hard look at themselves and started to rebuild. “The Tin Drum” by Günter Grass is a great example of this. Set in the aftermath of WWII, it’s a darkly comedic and absurdist novel that will have you laughing and crying in equal measure.

Berlin Blues

If you’re more interested in contemporary Germany, “Berlin Blues” by Sven Regener is a great choice. It’s a comedy about a group of friends living in Berlin in the 1980s. It’s a hilarious and heartfelt look at a city in transition, and it will give you a good idea of what life in modern-day Germany is like. 

Don’t Worry, Be German

And, if you’re looking for something a bit more lighthearted, “Don’t Worry, Be German” by Adam Fletcher is a fun and entertaining guide to German culture. It’s full of useful tips and humorous anecdotes that will help you navigate your way around the country.

Grimm’s Fairy Tales

I highly recommend reading “Grimm’s Fairy Tales” before taking a trip to Germany. This classic collection of stories, originally compiled by the Brothers Grimm, offers a glimpse into the cultural and folkloric heritage of the country. The tales, such as “Rapunzel,” “Cinderella,” and “Hansel and Gretel,” are not only entertaining, but also provide insight into the old beliefs and traditions of the German people. Reading these stories will enhance your understanding and appreciation of Germany’s rich history and culture.

Mr Norris Changes Trains & Goodbye to Berlin

“Mr Norris Changes Trains” (1935) and “Goodbye to Berlin” (1939) by Christopher Isherwood are a chronicle of early-1930s Berlin and provide a vivid and detailed picture of the city during that time period. The books were also the basis for the movie “Cabaret”, which further showcases the cultural and political atmosphere of the city during that time. They are a must read for anyone interested in understanding the history and culture of Germany, especially in the era before the World War II.

RELATED Best Cities to Visit in Germany Best Things to Do in Germany

Lately, there has been a significant growth in the amount of books written on Germany, and in particular, about World War II and the Holocaust. You can learn more about German history, people, and politics by reading the books I mention below, many of which are written by outstanding German authors from the past and today.

Before the Deluge: A Portrait of Berlin in the 1920s, by Otto Friedrich

Berlin Journal 1989–1990, by Robert Darnton

Berlin Noir, by Philip Kerr: Bernie Gunther

Billiards at Half-Past Nine, by Heinrich Böll

Bismarck, by Edward Crankshaw

Buddenbrooks, by Thomas Mann

Europe Central, by William T. Vollman

Five Germanys I Have Known, by Fritz Stern

Frederick the Great, by Nancy Mitford

German Family Research Made Simple, by J. Konrad

The Germans, by Gordon Craig

Germany 1866–1945, by Gordon Craig

Here I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther, by Roland Bainton

Hitler: 1936–1945: Nemesis, by Ian Kershaw

The Last Jews in Berlin, by Leonard Gross

A Tramp Abroad, by Mark Twain

The Unmasterable Past: History, Holocaust, and German National Identity, by Charles S. Maier

When in Germany, Do as the Germans Do, by Hyde Flippo

Witness to Nuremberg, by Richard Sonnenfeldt

So there you have it, folks, a few of the best books about Germany to read before you visit. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just a good laugh, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab a book, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. 

About the Author: Elle Johnson, travel writer living in Germany, an avid explorer fueled by wanderlust, uncovers Germany's hidden treasures. From mountains to luxury hotels, spontaneous trips to meticulous planning, she embraces diverse experiences. Join her in unraveling Germany's wonders and creating lifelong memories.

The Best Berlin Guide Books for Every Traveler [2024 Update]

Although I visited Berlin last summer, I didn’t get to explore the city as much as I’d wanted, and I’m looking forward to re-visiting the German capital this summer.  So, I recently sat on my balcony with a can (or two…) of German radler and a pile (or two!) of Berlin travel guide books for a marathon trip-planning session.

In addition to learning a lot about Berlin and discovering some amazing “must-see” attractions in Berlin, I quickly became an expert on Berlin guide books.  I learned exactly which book had the best walking tours, the best photos, the best budget travel advice and the best background information.

If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, don’t just wing it!  Berlin is too big, too exciting, too diverse and too interesting to be explored and enjoyed without a plan.  Instead, invest in one, two or three of these Berlin guide books, which will help you maximize every minute of your time in Berlin.

I’ve noted exactly which Berlin travel guide books you should buy, borrow (from the library) and skip , so you can find the perfect book for your travel style.  Read on for the complete guide!

( Wondering about radler ? Radler is the German word for cyclist, or the English word for “delicious beverage”.  Okay, that’s a lie.  Radler does mean “cyclist”, but it is actually only one specific kind of delicious beverage – a fifty-fifty blend of beer and lemonade or lemon soda.  If you’ve ever had a shandy, it’s the same thing, but more German.  I’ve been told it goes by the “cyclist” moniker because it’s perfect for hydrating after a long bike ride.)

Lonely Planet Germany – The Best Berlin Guide Book for Trips Across Germany

The Lonely Planet Germany is a massive, countrywide guidebook clocking in at 848 pages.  The guidebook’s Berlin section spans seventy pages at the front of the book.  Coverage begins with two detailed maps of the city, and then segues into comprehensive listings of sights, hotels, dining options, nightlife, shopping and general tourist information.

One-, two-, and three-day itineraries are suggested, and there are two-page spreads dedicated especially to the Berlin Wall and Museum Island.  There is also an additional twenty-page guide to destinations around Berlin, like Potsdam, Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp and Spreewald.

The Lonely Planet Germany would be my top choice of guidebook for anyone visiting Berlin and then going on to explore other parts of Germany, because it is the most thorough Germany travel guide book on the market.  However, it is also thick and heavy, so consider buying the Kindle edition rather than the cumbersome paper copy.

Buy, borrow or skip?  Buy it, but consider the electronic version.  I bought the Kindle edition, which I can read on my phone as I’m out and about in Berlin.

National Geographic Walking Berlin – The Best Berlin Guide Book toCarry Around the City

I didn’t expect much from this little Berlin travel guide book.  However, in the end, National Geographic Walking Berlin – The Best of the City turned out to be my favorite Berlin travel guide!

Unlike the hulking Lonely Planet, this guidebook is five inches wide, seven inches tall and less than two hundred pages.  It slips easily into a small purse or daypack without adding much weight.

I loved this book because it’s organized into thirteen different walking tours, each with an easy-to-follow, full-color map, lots of color photos, and interesting information about the things you can expect to see along the way.

This book completely aligns with my travel style, which is heavy on the wandering around and exploring at a leisurely pace, and light on the rushing from tourist attraction to tourist attraction.  With this book in my purse, I can quickly learn about the things I stumble upon and the lesser-known places nearby that I might otherwise miss.

Buy, borrow or skip?   I bought this book and brought it with me to Europe!

Insight Guides Explore Berlin – Best Berlin Travel Guide Book for People Who Are Too Cheap to Buy the eBook

At first, I had a hard time finding anything that differentiated this book from some of the other Berlin travel guide books.  However, as I was skimming through a second time, I noticed that the Insight Guides Explore Berlin guidebook has one very unique feature: a free eBook !

By downloading the Insight Guides app (available from the App Store and Google Play), scanning a QR code from inside the physical book and registering with Insight guides, you can access a free digital travel guide to Berlin.  The process of downloading the book was a little bit confusing, but once I’d figured it out I was pleased to discover that you literally get the entire book for free!  The electronic version is effectively organized (hyperlinks help you navigate between references to the same things) and contains all the same full-color photos.

Buy, borrow or skip?   Borrow, obviously!  Sign this book out of your local public library, scan the code inside and use the digital version for free!  (I clearly don’t have a future in book sales…)

Interlink Cultural Guides Berlin – The Best Berlin Travel Guide for Readers

I was not expecting this!  The Interlink Cultural Guides Berlin travel guide book reads more like a first-year college textbook than a typical travel guide.

This Berlin guide book contains almost 240 pages of dense text, supplemented with only a handful of photos (in fact, the first photo doesn’t appear until page 26).  The book is divided into chapters including Geography & Topography, Landmarks, Leisure & Pleasure and Spending Power.  Each chapter then includes several sub-chapters focusing on a very specific aspect of Berlin.  For example, the Geography & Topography chapter is further divided into Water: Rivers, Water: Canals, Water: Lakes, Green Spaces: Forest and Hills, and Green Spaces: Parks.

Similar to a textbook, this Berlin travel guide also features a short glossary of common German terms that you’ll read throughout the book (from alt to Westen) and a reference list of books and websites that can provide more information for inquisitive readers.

Buy, borrow or skip?  Voracious readers and academic travelers should definitely buy this one, while others should borrow it and just read the sub-chapters pique their interest.

Eyewitness Travel Berlin – The Best Berlin Guide Book for Visual Travelers

The motto at Eyewitness is “the guides that show you what others will only tell you”, and that’s especially true in the case of their Berlin travel guide book.

Eyewitness Travel Berlin was updated in spring 2023.  The new edition contains almost 300 pages of full-color photographs, annotated diagrams and easy-to-follow maps.  These stunning images are supplemented with text, but it’s clear that visuals are the focus in this book.

This is a fantastic book to rifle through in the days leading up to your trip.  It’s impossible not to be inspired by the images inside, from the double-page photograph of the illuminated Brandenburg Gate to the illustrated cross-section of the Marienkirche church.  However, the book is weighty and wouldn’t be great for carrying around Berlin during a day of sight-seeing.

Buy, borrow or skip?   Borrow this one from the library if you’re considering booking a trip to Berlin.  By page ten you’ll have whipped out your credit card and you’ll be comparing flights online!

The Rough Guide to Berlin – The Best Berlin Guide Book for Budget Travelers

I’ve always had a soft spot for Rough Guides.  Sometimes, they feel like the neglected younger sibling of the Lonely Planet series. However, when you actually crack one open, you realize that Rough Guides have stayed true to their budget travel roots (unlike some “other” travel guide book series…).

The Rough Guide Berlin is an excellent example of a guide book that really caters to budget travelers.  It has more than three hundred pages of affordable travel advice, including a full-color guide to seventeen “can’t miss” spots in Berlin, customized itineraries (including one focused on budget travel, and another on the city’s nightlife) and well-curated directories of affordable accommodation and restaurant options.

Although the full edition was last updated in 2016, a brand new pocket edition was released in March 2020.  Check it out if you want a smaller, more current publication from this great series!

In my opinion, the only downside of The Rough Guide to Berlin is the editors’ choice to put all of the maps at the back of the book.  This makes it harder to visualize which attractions are close together, or what would be the best walking route between different sights.

Buy, borrow or skip?  Budget travelers should buy this one. By following the tips for smart, inexpensive travel in Berlin, you could easily save the equivalent of the price of the book in your first few hours in Berlin.

Rick Steves Germany – The Best Germany Travel Guide Book for Your Grandmother

The latest version of this Germany guidebook was published in December, 2022.  Click here to order the latest edition.

Rick Steves is a pretty cool guy.  He’s dedicated his life to encouraging Americans to explore Europe in a way that embraces and shows respect for the local people and culture.  So, I always feel a bit sad that I can’t personally get behind his guidebooks.

First, the good stuff. The Rick Steves Germany guidebook is updated every year, so you never have to worry about outdated information.  As well, it’s even longer than the Lonely Planet Germany guidebook (it’s more than 1050 pages long!) but, thanks to its tissue-thin paper, is smaller and lighter than its counterpart.  The Berlin section in this book is about 130 pages long.

So, why don’t I love this Germany travel guide book?  Well, there are two huge reasons.

First, Rick Steves books have the worst maps of any guidebook I’ve ever seen.  Each map is hand-drawn in a simple style, and they often leave out smaller streets and lesser-known landmarks.  There have been several occasions where I’ve planned a walking trip based on a Rick Steves map, thinking my destination is only five or ten blocks away, and later discovered that the map didn’t include dozens of smaller streets along the way.  His maps are so confusing!

Second, I find that the travel tips in Rick Steves guidebooks cater more to older, less-able or less-experienced travelers. For an experienced traveler the tone can be a bit patronizing, and for a younger traveler, trendy or up-and-coming attractions are only ever mentioned in passing.

Buy, borrow or skip?  Borrow this Germany travel guide book from the library before your trip, or buy it as a gift for your grandparents if they’re heading to Germany.

Frommer’s Berlin Day by Day – The Best Berlin Travel Guide Book for Short City Breaks

Another pleasantly purse-sized Berlin travel guide book, Frommer’s Berlin Day by Day is a good option for travelers taking a short city break in Berlin.

The book opens with one-, two- and three-day itineraries, each with a full-color map, descriptions of the highlights you can expect to see, recommendations for where to eat and some color photographs.  Next, there are recommendations based on particular interests (including beer, art and East German history) and six easy-to-follow neighborhood walking tours.

The last half of the book is a typical travel directory of hotels, restaurants, nightlife, day trips and travel directories.  There’s also a quick list of useful German expressions at the back of the book.

Overall, Frommers Day by Day Berlin is a solid Berlin travel guide book.  However, I still prefer the National Geographic Walking Berlin, mainly because its maps have more details and it contains significantly more color photographs.

Buy, borrow or skip?   I’d recommend borrowing this Berlin guide book from your local public library.

Eyewitness Top 10 Berlin – The Best Berlin Travel Guide Book for Travelers with a Short Attention Span

TikTokers take note – The Eyewitness Top 10 Berlin is the Berlin guidebook of your dreams, and it was just updated in late 2023!

Unlike Eyewitness’ comprehensive Berlin city guide (discussed above), this unique book has fewer than 200 pages, divided into almost 100 “Best of Berlin” lists.  The book begins with one hundred fascinating facts, divided into the top ten things to know about each of Berlin’s top ten tourist attractions.  The next section is more topical, featuring two-page spreads like the Top 10 Historic Buildings in Berlin and the Top 10 Festivals and Fairs in Berlin. Finally, it closes with the Top 10 highlights in each of Berlin’s ten most interesting districts.

Buy, borrow or skip?   This is a great Berlin travel book to gift to the non-reader in your life who needs to be convinced to join you on a trip to Berlin.  It’s as breezy and skimmable as a gossip magazine, so buy it as a gift for them!  If you’re already sold on a trip to Berlin, borrow this from the library and flip through it on your coffee break at work.

Fodor’s Berlin – The Best Berlin Travel Guide Book for People Who Hate Trip Planning

Where some other Berlin travel guides have attempted to include everything under the sun (or should I say, everything under the Reichstag dome?), Fodor’s Berlin offers a much more curated look at Germany’s capital city.

This short Berlin travel book opens with a “Best of Berlin” section before transitioning into a neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide to the city.  This content makes up the first third of the book, and the latter two thirds are a typical travel directory. Fodors’ correspondents often give their highest ratings to expensive service providers.  For example, one of their recommended restaurants has prices starting at € 115 for dinner (!) and the ultra-expensive Hotel Adlon is one of their top picks for accommodation in the city.

Buy, borrow or skip?   I think that most readers of my blog can skip this Berlin guide book.  It doesn’t offer anything unique compared to the other Berlin travel guide books I’ve recommended, and constantly reading about experiences that are out of your price range isn’t very much fun!

Heading to Berlin? Check out my list of the 25 Best Things to Do in Berlin (no Berlin guide book required!).

There are lots of cool hotels in Berlin, but there’s one in particular that strikes the perfect balance of design, affordability, comfort and luxury.  Read about my stay at Casa Camper Berlin .

Traveling on a tighter budget?  I know a central Berlin hotel with comfortable private rooms at hostel prices!  Read about my six-night stay at Hotel 38 Berlin . 

There is an alternative to expensive hop-on, hop-off bus tours of Berlin that still lets you see the city from the second floor of a double-decker bus.  Read about the secret €3 Berlin sightseeing bus tour .

Then, check out my guide to finding the best vegetarian food in Berlin (and the rest of Germany too!).

Browsing for Berlin guidebooks later?  Pin this post to your trip-planning board!

20 Solo Female Travel Quotes to Inspire Your Next Journey

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13 Books About Germany For Your Germany Vacation

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  disclaimer policy.

If you’re excitedly waiting for your trip to Germany to begin, want to know more about German food, culture, language and history, or are looking for a fun way to prepare your kids for your trip, check out these books about Germany!

• 1 #1 – Germany – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture
• 2 #2 – Rick Steves German Phrase Book & Dictionary (Rick Steves Travel Guide)
• 3 #3 – National Geographic Complete National Parks of Europe: 460 Parks, Including Flora and Fauna, Historic Sites, Scenic Hiking Trails, and More
• 4 #4 – Grimm’s Complete Fairy Tales
• 5 #5 – Kids’ Travel Guide – Germany: The fun way to discover Germany – especially for kids (Kids’ Travel Guide series)
• 6 #6 – There Are Lots of Places to See in Germany! Geography Book for Children
• 7 #8 – Berlin & Wanderlust: An Adult Coloring Book
• 8 #9 – The Wines of Germany
• 9 #11 – Beyond Bratwurst: A History of Food in Germany
• 10 #10 – A Concise History of Germany
• 11 #12 – A Very German Christmas: The Greatest Austrian, Swiss and German Holiday Stories of All Time
• 12 #13 – Short Stories in German for Beginners: Read for pleasure at your level, expand your vocabulary and learn German the fun way!

#1 – Germany – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Culture Smart! Germany offers valuable insight into the German way of life and how to be a sensitive guest while traveling there. This compact book helps travelers have a richer and more meaningful experience in Germany through a better understanding of local culture and their hosts. The tips on etiquette and communicating in this book will also help travelers navigate unfamiliar situations in Germany.

This is the cultural guide I always buy when I travel! You can get this book in paperback or on Kindle. I highly recommend bringing this book with you so you can read it before and throughout your trip.

#2 – Rick Steves German Phrase Book & Dictionary (Rick Steves Travel Guide)

If you’re not sure you’ll have a consistent connection to google translate on your phone while traveling, tuck this pocket-size phrase book in your day bag — or download the Kindle version to your phone! This pocket phrase book is an informative, concise, and practical book with German words and phrases that travelers can use in a variety of situations.

Join our FREE Germany Trip Planning Facebook Group!

This essential travelers’ guide contains an English-German and German-English dictionary, tips for small talk and local lingo, key phrases with phonetic spelling useful for everyday circumstances, and a tear-out cheat sheet to practice the German language. Get it here in hard copy or on Kindle.

Rather use an app to learn some German? Try Duolingo! I use it to keep up my French and Spanish skills and it’s a lot of fun.

#3 – National Geographic Complete National Parks of Europe: 460 Parks, Including Flora and Fauna, Historic Sites, Scenic Hiking Trails, and More

This highly rated book is a comprehensive guide for discovering Europe’s wilderness from Croatia’s coastline to Scotland’s highlands to Germany’s beautiful forests. It contains photos, maps, and tips for 460 national parks of Europe. Offering a glimpse of walking trails, thousands of species in Germany’s Bavarian forests, breathtaking tours, and much more, this book is an inspiring and informative guide that will help you experience wilderness adventure in Europe, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. If you’re interested in nature, get this beautiful and informative book about Europe’s national parks here.

#4 – Grimm’s Complete Fairy Tales

Reacquaint yourself with the legendary fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm! This edition includes the stories of Snow White, Rumpelstiltskin, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and many more. These tales begin with the familiar “once upon a time”, but have an unexpected and enchanting ending. Get this book in hard copy or Kindle here.

#5 – Kids’ Travel Guide – Germany: The fun way to discover Germany – especially for kids (Kids’ Travel Guide series)

The Kids’ Travel Guide — Germany is a unique travel guide and activity book especially designed for children. This educational book is a fun and entertaining way to discover Germany’s geography, flags history, food, culture, and many more. Parents can also participate in the children’s activities to learn more about Germany.  Get this book in hard copy or on Kindle here!

#6 – There Are Lots of Places to See in Germany! Geography Book for Children

This book makes studying the geography of Germany fun for children. This books’ combination of easy-to-read texts and vibrant images will help your child increase their understanding of Germany’s geography and get excited about your upcoming trip. You can get this book in hard copy or Kindle here.

#8 – Berlin & Wanderlust: An Adult Coloring Book

This paperback book offers a collection of coloring patterns featuring Berlin. It’s perfect for relaxation and stress relief while getting ready for your big trip to Germany. The original designs have two copies, for two chances to color. Get this adult coloring book here!

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

#9 – The Wines of Germany

If you’re interested in German wine, this is the book for you! The author explores 13 wine regions, as well as German wine laws. Get this book in hard copy or Kindle here!

#11 – Beyond Bratwurst: A History of Food in Germany

This book explores German food through the lens of culture, geography, and traditions. If you’d like to know more about food and drink like beer, bread, Stollen, and Lebkuchen, get this book in hard copy or on Kindle!

#10 – A Concise History of Germany

If you’re looking for a book about German history from the early middle ages to the early 2000s, this is a good one. I read this book back in college! Whether you read it before or after your trip to Germany, you can get the paperback version here.

#12 – A Very German Christmas: The Greatest Austrian, Swiss and German Holiday Stories of All Time

This book is a collection of traditional and contemporary holiday stories from Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. It contains classic works by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Heinrich Heine, Rainer Maria Rilke, Thomas Mann and Arthur Schnitzler, as well as more recent tales by writers like Heinrich Böll, Peter Stamm and Martin Suter. You can get this book in hard copy or on Kindle here.

#13 – Short Stories in German for Beginners: Read for pleasure at your level, expand your vocabulary and learn German the fun way!

Want to practice your German before your trip to Germany? This collection of eight German short stories is written for young and adult learners who’d like to practice their beginner to intermediate German language skills by reading science fiction, crime, history, and thrillers. You can get a hard copy, audio copy or Kindle copy of this book here!

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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Here’s how we can help you plan your perfect trip in 2024.

GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

TICKETS & TOURS:  For guided tours, day trips, private tours, and skip-the-line tickets,  Get Your Guide  is our go-to!

TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

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10 of the best travel books

We may not be able to venture far right now, but these travel books, from classics to comic travelogues, take us on journeys around the world Share your favourites in the comments below

Venice by Jan Morris

Recent reports suggest the now-quiet canals of Venice are at their clearest for 60 years, with swans spotted in recent days. The city, of course, has always had a touch of fantasy about it. “Venice is a cheek-by-jowl, back-of-the-hand, under-the-counter, higgledy-piggledy, anecdotal city,” writes Jan Morris in this 1960 masterpiece . “She is rich in piquant wrinkled things, like an assortment of bric-a-brac in the house of a wayward connoisseur, or parasites on an oyster-shell.” The book pens a portrait of a city thick with atmosphere and stuffed with history, conjuring an intoxicating sense of place with Morris’s trademark wit and wisdom. Faber

Jerusalem: Chronicles from the Holy City by Guy de Lisle

Canadian cartoonist Guy de Lisle is no standard travel writer – and his books are far from standard travelogues. Using simple, unfussy, comic-strip illustrations, he recounts his first-hand experiences of living in some of the world’s knottiest destinations, from Myanmar to North Korea. The result is a series of graphic memoirs that brilliantly juggle the subtleties and oddities of being a stranger in a strange town. Jerusalem: Chronicles from the Holy City is the product of a year-long stay in the region and, over the course of more than 300 pages, tries to make sense of somewhere rarely less than complex. Jonathan Cape

Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle by Dervla Murphy

Few travel writers of any era compare to Dervla Murphy. Now in her late 80s, she’s been responsible for dozens of travel books , dwelling on destinations as varied as Cuba, Laos, Romania and Cameroon. Her 1965 debut remains her best known work, and tells the account of an astonishing solo bicycle expedition to Delhi. “Within a few weeks my journey had degenerated from a happy-go-lucky cycle trek to a grim struggle for progress by any means,” she writes, before encountering wolves, broken ribs and heat exhaustion. She also packs a .25 pistol, and has more than one cause to use it. Eland

The Crossway by Guy Stagg

This searingly honest account of an on-foot, 10-month journey from Canterbury to Jerusalem found its way onto more than one awards shortlist following its publication in 2018, and for good reason. Guy Stagg, a self-proclaimed non-believer and non-hiker, undertakes the trek as a form of self-healing, following years of coping with depressive thoughts that “stung and reeled”. If the pretext is downbeat, the journey itself is an odyssey, encountering memorable characters and a rippled patchwork of different cultures and beliefs. Almost unbelievably, he sets off from Kent in the dead of winter, requiring a crossing of the Alps in snow. And he writes like a dream. Picador

Stranger on a Train: Daydreaming and Smoking around America with Interruptions by Jenny Diski

After spending three weeks crossing the Atlantic on a cargo ship (“at night, the rabble of stars demanded to be watched”), Jenny Diski travels around the perimeter of the USA by rail . The joy of the book lies as much in her portrayal of characters she encounters en route as the immersive detail of the country she’s passing through. Or, as she writes, “it is much more as if America is passing through you, what you are, what you’ve known”. Part-memoir, and written around 20 years ago, Stranger On A Train captures an America that still feels familiar – albeit with cigarettes in place of smartphones. Virag

French Revolutions: Cycling the Tour de France by Tim Moore

Few writers since Bill Bryson have nailed the comic travelogue as well as Tim Moore. Dogged in pursuit of an adventure, he’s pedalled the former Iron Curtain on an East German shopping bike, walked the Camino de Santiago with a donkey and, most recently, crossed the USA in a breakdown-prone Model T Ford. He’s also properly, consistently funny, as evidenced in 2001’s French Revolutions , which sees him attempt to cycle the entire course of the Tour de France. The acknowledgement in the title pages (“The Tour de France press office, without whom none of this would have been difficult”) sets the tone for a hugely entertaining read. Yellow Jersey

Black Lamb and Grey Falcon: A Journey Through Yugoslavia by Rebecca West

Readers get evangelical about this vast book, originally published in two volumes, which ostensibly describes Rebecca West’s travels through what was then Yugoslavia in 1937 . It is, however, far more than just a keen-eyed journal. Gathering up centuries of history and blending them with her own often piercing observations, West uses the book to paint a deep and intricate picture of a region on the brink of the second world war. The New York Times has called it a “masterpiece of history and travel”, while Time magazine would later describe West as “indisputably the world’s number one woman writer”. Canongate

Dark Star Safari: Overland from Cairo to Cape Town by Paul Theroux

“All news out of Africa is bad. It made me want to go there…” So run the opening words of Paul Theroux’s 2002 classic, Dark Star Safari . Written more than two decades after his first long-distance travelogues, and some four decades after living in Africa as a young teacher, the book follows Theroux on a compelling, north-to-south journey down the continent. The narrative doesn’t shy away from harsh judgements – in Kenya “tourists yawned at the animals and the animals yawned back”, while aid workers also come in for some barbed criticism – but the people and landscapes he encounters are portrayed so vividly you can almost feel the equatorial heat from the pages. Penguin

Around the World in 80 Trains: A 45,000-mile Adventure by Monisha Rajesh

Monisha Rajesh has form when it comes to rail travel. This globe-straddling journey is the follow-up to 2010’s well received Around India In 80 Trains , and sees her undertake a 45,000-mile (72,000km) journey through Europe, Asia and North America. Her gift for detail means characters, as well as places, are brought to life. And from a high-altitude ride into Tibet to a trans-Canadian epic – not to mention a homecoming trip on the Venice Simplon Orient Express – the book does a fine job of affirming the things, large and small, that make rail travel such an absorbing way of seeing the world. Bloomsbury

A Short Walk In The Hindu Kush Eric Newby

“CAN YOU TRAVEL NURISTAN JUNE?” With this 1956 telegram – sent by disillusioned London fashion executive Eric Newby to a diplomat friend – begins an engrossing, at times comical, mountaineering journey into Afghanistan. The pair lack anything like the requisite climbing experience, but undergo a brief training period in Wales before travelling to the unforgiving peaks of Asia, with the aim of conquering the 5,800-metre Mir Samir. Newby’s prose is sharp and lively throughout , drawing the reader into remote villages and the “spiky and barren-looking” Hindu Kush, where hardships (and a chance hillside encounter with steely adventurer Wilfred Thesiger, who sneers at their air-beds) await. HarperCollins

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In the footsteps of German poets

Germany is characterised by its poets and thinkers. Those who want to follow in the footsteps of Goethe, Thomas Mann, and other famous figures can embark on a literary journey.

How it all began

A goldsmith from Mainz invented something groundbreaking in the 15th century: Johannes Gutenberg discovered modern letterpress printing and paved the way for the worldwide distribution of books on a large scale. Even independently of this, Germany was simultaneously developing as a stronghold of literature thanks to world-renowned poets and thinkers. Alongside the great names of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Friedrich Schiller, and Thomas Mann, the Brothers Grimm wrote themselves into the hearts of their readers in the first half of the 19th century with their fairytales. A contemporary of the Brothers Grimm, Heinrich Heine, also attracted a great deal of attention with his satirical verse epic "Germany. A Winter's Tale". In it, he criticises the political rigidity of Germany in the first half of the 19th century, the time of the Restoration. Ten German authors have been awarded a Nobel Prize for Literature since the conception of the awards in 1901. Among them are famous names such as Thomas Mann, Hermann Hesse, Nelly Sachs, Heinrich Böll, Günter Grass and Herta Müller.

Goethe once drank here

Weimar/thuringia, leipzig/saxony.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of the most important and influential poets in the history of German literature, produced epoch-making works such as the drama "Faust", the play "Iphigenia on Tauris", countless poems and ballads and the novella "The Sorrows of Young Werther", a story about unrequited love. His life and work are inextricably linked with the Thuringen city of Weimar , which with its museums, castles and poets' residences brings together European cultural history in a very confined space and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When he was 27 years old, Goethe was appointed to the court in Weimar. There, he directed the court theatre for 25 years and was even elevated to the peerage in 1782. The Goethe National Museum with Goethe's residence in Weimar offers fascinating insights into Goethe's life and work. In Leipzig , Saxony, it is also possible to walk in Goethe's footsteps. The poet studied law here from 1765 to 1768. During this time, he frequented a local student pub, where he later famously wrote "Faust".

Hanseatic Lübeck: Old town and Trave river at sunset ©Lookphotos (H & D Zielske) Poet of the North

Lübeck/Schleswig-Holstein

The German author Thomas Mann's most well-known work, "Buddenbrooks" won him the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1929, and confirmed his place as one of the most important storytellers of the 20th century. In this social novel, Thomas Mann describes the decline of a wealthy merchant family who feel they belong to the Hanseatic upper middle class. Mann's own family history and his home town of Lübeck provided the setting and blueprint for the novel. Today, it is still possible to sense the atmosphere that inspired Mann with the imposing brick architecture of this charming north German city. If you want to follow in the footsteps of the Mann family, you will find numerous testimonies from that time in the Buddenbrookhaus museum, which bring Thomas Mann's narrative work to life at first hand.

Berlin, Alexanderplatz with the World Clock and the TV Tower ©DZT (Francesco Carovillano) Literary melting pot

Germany's vibrant capital city Berlin has produced a particularly large number of literary figures. With a book in hand, you can immerse yourself in many eras – in the Prussian Berlin of Theodor Fontaine, in the Roaring Twenties with the novel "The Gift" by Vladimir Nabokov (who was famous for his novel "Lolita") or in the post-reunification period with Lutz Seiler's bestseller "Stern 111". The list of works written or set in Berlin seems endless, including excellent books such as "Berlin Alexanderplatz" by Alfred Döblin or Isherwood's novel "Goodbye to Berlin", on which the musical "Cabaret" was based. The award-winning thriller series that is currently sweeping the world is " Babylon Berlin ", featuring the police inspector Gereon Rath, set in 1929 Berlin, and based on Volker Kutscher's novel "Der nasse Fisch" (The Wet Fish).

Frankfurt am Main: View over the Main to the skyline ©DZT (Francesco Carovillano) A backdrop for thrillers

Frankfurt am Main/Hessen

Frankfurt am Main is not only the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, but is also one of the most important literary cities of Germany. Important institutions related to books and writing are concentrated here, such as the International Book Fair , the German Publishers and Booksellers Association (which awards the German Book Prize), the German National Library and numerous publishing houses. As such, Frankfurt provides fertile ground for new literary trends and discoveries. The literary crime scene is exciting, making use of the contrasting backdrop of the Main metropolis with its high bank towers and dodgy railway station district. Crime novels from Jan Segher about the eccentric police inspector Robert Marthaler, or books from Nele Neuhaus about the investigation duo Pia Kirchhoff and Oliver von Bodenstein appear regularly on the bestseller list.

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17 Famous Authors From Germany

Over the years, famous authors from Germany have shaped not only the country’s literature but also influenced today’s novelists. In this article, you’ll learn more about these influential German writers and how they contributed to the literary movement in Germany.  

Table of Contents

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe lived a full life of creativity. Incredibly, it took Goethe fifty years to complete his magnum masterpiece, Faust . 

It is a two-act play based on the ancient narrative of a man who sold his heart to the devil. But Faust isn’t just about a man making a deal with the devil; it’s also a commentary on modern man’s alienation from and inability to understand the world around him. 

Aside from Faust, German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is also known for  The Sorrows of Young Werther . 

Thomas Mann

Nobel laureate and social critic Thomas Mann was born in Lubeck in 1875. His writing career began in Munich, where he lived. Later, he received an honorary doctorate from the University of Bonn in 1919. Throughout the Nazi period, Mann was a vocal  opponent  of Hitler and the Nazi Party. 

Mann’s famous work is  The Magic Mountain ,  which won him the Nobel Prize in 1929. 

Thomas Mann’s son, Klaus Mann, was among the famous authors from Germany. Like his father, he is an outspoken critic of the Nazi regime. 

His early play “Anja and Esther” demonstrated his skill at depicting ardent romantic attraction. Soon after Hitler’s rise to power in 1933, Klaus escaped to Amsterdam, where he contributed to the anti-Nazi publication  Die Sammlung . 

Regrettably, Klaus had to deal with financial issues and criticisms of his book Mephisto . In 1949, Klaus died because of a sleeping drug overdose.

Friedrich Hölderlin

John Chrysostom Friedrich Hölderlin was a  literary  master who affected Hegel and Schelling while they were young philosophers. But it wasn’t all roses; he struggled financially and had a scandalous love affair that contributed to his mental breakdown. 

Friedrich Nietzsche

Friedrich Nietzsche is a German philosopher and cultural  critic  whose attacks on European ethics, religion, and philosophy caused a stir in the middle of the 1800s. 

He advocated challenging long-held beliefs and adopting innovative  principles . His ideas greatly inspired several 20th-century philosophers, notably Martin Heidegger, Michel Foucault, and Jean-Paul Sartre. 

Thus Spoke Zarathustra is one of Friedrich Nietzsche’s most famous works. 

Hermann Hesse

Swiss author, artist, and poet Hermann Hesse was born in 1877 in Calw. Many young Germans of his generation related to the themes of meaning and wholeness in his works, such as  Siddhartha   (1922) and   Steppenwolf   (1927). Another great book to read is  The Glass Bead Game . 

He was well-known and influential in Germany, but his international fame began much later. 

In 1964, the prestigious Calwer Hermann-Hesse-Preis (or Calwer Hermann Hesse Prize) was established in honor of the late author.

Walter Moers

Walter Moers is not only a famous author from Germany but also a cartoonist, painter, and sculptor. 

His comic strips, such as “The Little Asshole” and “Adolf,” caused a stir and ultimately led to his being labeled a  persona non grata  by the political right in Germany. 

Moers’ fantastic and one-of-a-kind writings often combine lightheartedness and elements of children’s literature with a more serious and adult undercurrent. 

His Zamonia books and graphic novels have become international bestsellers and have been translated into different languages. 

Andreas Eschbach

Andreas Eschbach has been writing since he was 12. Since then, he has had many  short stories  and novels published. His background in aerospace engineering and software development gives him a unique point of view when he writes. 

His book,  The Carpet Makers ,  is a sci-fi novel about a mysterious society that weaves life stories into carpets. 

Rainer Maria Rilke

Rainer Maria Rilke, a famous author from Germany, is known for his groundbreaking work in lyrical poetry and profound insights into the human condition. 

Although struggling with despair and writer’s  block  for 13 years, Rilke produced his masterwork,  The Duino Elegies , in 1922. 

Günter Grass

The life of Nobel Prize winner and author Günter Grass was full of contrasts. He was a prolific writer and publisher despite participating in the Nazi Youth and the Waffen-SS during World War II. 

He wrote about his past sins in his autobiography,  Beim Häuten der Zwiebel , and was criticized for doing so. But that didn’t stop him from writing two more autobiographical books and telling the world about his life. 

Heinrich Böll

In addition to being a literary genius, did you know that the famous author from Germany, Heinrich Böll, also served in World War II? Born in 1917, Böll served on multiple fronts during World War I, where he solidified his antiwar, nonconformist beliefs. 

After the war, he turned to writing and became a prominent figure on the German left. To further solidify Böll’s place in literary history, he received the Literature’s  Nobel  Prize in 1972. 

Bertolt Brecht

Bertolt Brecht’s talents extended much beyond those of a dramatist or poet. He forged new territory and encountered many unexpected challenges throughout his adventurous life. 

He became well-known in the 1920s and 1930s for his epic theater style. But things weren’t always peachy; in 1933, with the rise of the Nazis, he was compelled to leave Germany. 

Brecht penned classics like  Mother Courage and Her Children  during his eight years in exile. 

Friedrich Schiller

Although Friedrich Schiller is best known as a playwright (his works include “Don Carlos” and “William Tell”), he was also an esteemed philosopher and professor of aesthetics. 

Schiller wrote on weighty topics like individual liberty, fairness, and morality. His death at such a young age, at 45, was tragic, yet his legacy lives on in modern German literature.

Heinrich Heine

Heinrich Heine was an exceptionally talented individual. In addition to establishing his reputation as a poet with  The Book of Songs , a collection of bittersweet love songs, he also dabbled in prose with  Travel Pictures .

Erich Maria Remarque

The multitalented Remarque, born in 1898, held jobs as diverse as a teacher, race car driver, and gravestone carver. Yet, it was his writing that made him famous. 

Around  40  million copies of  All Quiet on the Western Front  were purchased in Germany during the first year of publication. 

Alfred Döblin

Alfred Döblin was forced to leave Germany because of his Jewish origin and socialist beliefs. Still, he continued to pursue his love of writing in France and the United States. 

His most well-known work,  Berlin Alexanderplatz , is about a Berlin proletarian’s attempts at self-improvement. Döblin’s use of vernacular and Berlin slang generated an engaging rhythm that encapsulates the fracturing social order of the period. 

Michael Ende

With over 35 million copies sold and translations into more than  40  languages, Ende is one of the twentieth century’s most well-known and widely-read German authors. His odd blend of reality and fiction enthralled readers of all ages.

The Neverending Story and Momo   are some of Ende’s best works. 

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