Visitors to Germany discover a rich cultural heritage stretching back more than 2,000 years. This multi-faceted country boasts an incredible array of marvels, including 37 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – from historic monuments and cathedrals to natural wonders. Travelers here find über-chic city centers, world-renowned museums and festivals, affordable hospitality and, of course, wonderful cuisine. German cooking has long been associated with Gemütlichkeit, that sense of warmth and coziness one feels when sharing good company and great food. Each region takes pride in its own specialties: sauerbraten in the Rhineland, hearty potato dumplings in the east, seafood in the north, egg noodles and sweet treats in the south.
In the last 20 years, however, the spirit of Gemütlichkeit has taken a decidedly gourmet twist, with a barrage of innovative chefs who have put the country on the world culinary map. This is particularly true in the capital of Berlin. Home to some of the world’s greatest cultural attractions – including the Brandenburg Gate, remains of the Berlin Wall and Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the city currently boasts 13 of the country’s 249 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three with two stars. Berlin’s gastronomes are often found gathered at Michelin two-star eatery Restaurant Margaux, an elegantly intimate venue located in the heart of the city. The acclaimed restaurant is headed by chef Michael Hoffmann, who performs culinary alchemy with produce from his own organic garden. Each dish offers a sophisticatedly complex composition of textures, temperatures and flavors that is pure joy for the palate. Across the street at Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, executive chef Hendrik Otto also claims two coveted Michelin stars for exciting, European-influenced fare. Located in the historic Hotel Adlon Kempinski, this exquisite dining room offers an equally enticing wine cellar and breathtaking views of the Brandenburg Gate.
For passionately prepared haute cuisine with a side of panoramic cityscape, try chef Thomas Kammeier’s Hugos Restaurant. Located on the 14th floor of the InterContinental Hotel Berlin, Hugos consistently surprises and delights diners with inspired fare that plays upon the different tastes and textures of ingredients without losing their natural character.
Of course, Germany’s epicurean pleasures stretch far beyond its capital. The country’s winemaking heritage dates back to the ancient Romans; in the Saxony region, exceptional wines have been produced along the river Elbe for more than 850 years. The most northeasterly of Europe’s wine regions, as well as one of its smallest, Saxony vineyards cultivate a wide variety of grapes, and are the sole growers of the winter-hardy white grape, Goldriesling. Visitors can gain insight into the region’s viniculture history at Schloss Wackerbarth, the Saxony state winery complete with Baroque castle and landscaped gardens. Have a glass of sparkling wine over freshly prepared seasonal cuisine in the estate’s restaurant. Another region producing exceptional wines is Saale-Unstrut, which spreads across three federal states: Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia and Brandenburg. Home to more than 30 grape varietals, Saale-Unstrut produces high-quality, dry white wines known for their fruity bouquets and soft, crisp character. The nearly 40-mile-long wine route winds through picturesque landscape dotted with storybook castles, tiny villages such as Memleben (noted for its Benedictine Abbey) and major urban centers including Leipzig and Weimar.
Want to celebrate your gastronomic bounty in a tastefully stylish ambiance? Be sure to visit the town of Meissen, renowned for its porcelain. Started in 1710, the town’s famous porcelain factory operates today as Staatliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Meissen GmbH, where pieces are still marked with the signature blue-crossed swords. And when you’re ready to embark on a culinary tour across Germany, ask us to arrange a custom-designed palate-pleasing vacation just for you.
AT A GLANCE
Potsdam’s Culture and History
About a half-hour southwest of Berlin lies Potsdam, capital of the state of Brandenburg and former royal seat of Prussia, recognized across Europe for its magnificent parks, gardens and Baroque palaces. Potsdam offers a spectacular wealth of culture and history. Today, the Palaces and Parks of Potsdam – including some 1,235 acres of parkland and 150 connected buildings – comprise Germany’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a journey back in time while visiting must-see monuments such as Sanssouci Palace, New Palace, Cecilienhof House and Babelsberg Palace.
AT A GLANCE
Berlin Airport Soars
The new airport completed in 2013, centers around a 96,000-square-foot Market Place offering dining options and more than 150 world-class shops. In front of the terminal, the Airport City service center provides additional amenities, including hotels and conference facilities.
River cruises and Germany tours offer a variety of travel options for the region. Take advantage of early booking discounts.
