Germany is one of the biggest countries in Europe since 1989 reunification, since then it has also become the third largest economy in the world. The country is divided into 16 federal provinces and there are 82 million people living in Germany, 80% of which do so in urban areas.
Geographically speaking Germany has a varied landscape that goes from the shores of the Baltic and North Sea to the Alps, located in central Europe it shares borders with many countries like, Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Poland, Switzerland and more, making it an ideal location from which to travel from. The climate is also varied between east and west but mainly winters are cold and summers are warm.
| City Size | City Highlight | Nightlife | Cost of Living | Transportation | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berlin | Large | European cultural capital | $$ | Metro, bus, tram ... | ||
| Frankfurt | Large | Financial centre | $$$$ | Train, bus, underground and tram | ||
| Freiburg | Medium | Ecological city | $$$ | train, bus and tram | ||
| Hamburg | Large | Cosmopolitan and Cultural | $$$ | Ferry, bus, metro and light rail | ||
| Heidelberg | Medium | Romantic town | $$ | Bus and train | ||
| Lindau | Small | Small Island and Great Experience | $$ | Bus, train, Bicycle | ||
| Muenster | Medium | University & bicycle town | $$$ | Bus, bicycle, Tram | ||
| Munich | Large | Bavarian culture and friendliness | $$$ | Bus, Subway, Train |
Berlin is one of the most interesting cities in Germany. Not only because it is the political centre but also because it has so much to offer in the areas of history, culture and leisure. Over 3.5 million people live in Berlin, making it the biggest German city by both population and size.
This multicultural city is energetic and thriving, with numerous street festivals and parades conducted each year, like the "Carnival of Cultures" and the "Love parade". In the city museums and exhibitions you can find out all you need to know about the unique German history and/or explore the contemporary art world.
Frankfurt is Germany’s financial centre; its economy rests on two pillars: banking and international fairs. This city is a cosmopolitan trading centre, there are 100 high-rise buildings, mainly banks or office blocks, project up into the sky epitomizing the city's thriving economy. The modern architecture and financial clout give the city a decidedly American feeling; hence nicknames like 'Bankfurt' or 'Mainhattan'.
But Frankfurt also sports various cultural highlights: Goethe's birthplace and the Museumsufer, an embankment crowded with museums, are just two that come to mind. And if all the sightseeing and cultural activities become too much hassle it is always fun to try Frankfurt's specialty called apple wine in a cozy tavern.
Freiburg is a city located in the extreme south-west of Germany alongside the River Driesam. One of the oldest German university towns, Freiburg was incorporated in 12th century and developed into a major commercial and intellectual centre of the upper Rhine region.
The city is known for its ancient university and its medieval cathedral as well as its exceptionally high standard of living. The city is situated in the heart of the wine growing region and is an ideal place to experience the idyllic country life available in this part of Germany. According to meteorologists Freiburg is the warmest and sunniest city in Germany.
Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany, home to over 1.8 million people. It has a beautiful port which is the third largest in Europe. Located in the north of Germany it is a popular destination for domestic and overseas visitors giving it a diverse culture and ideal setting to learn a language.
Hamburg has many architectural treasures ranging from its many churches to its modern day look and a few skyscrapers which add to the cosmopolitan feel of the city.
The school is located centrally close to public transport, bars and cafes.
Heidelberg is the oldest university town in Germany and also attracts students from all over the world. The beautiful river location; on the Neckar, the small old-town alleys and numerous cozy student pubs, make it a very special place to learn German. This city has been the home to many famous German writers and philosophers over the past centuries. During the summer months the river banks are a meeting place to enjoy the sunny atmosphere.
Lindau, is an international trading town with a historical centre, situated in Southern Germany on Lake Constance, the biggest lake in Europe that borders three countries Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Lindau is only two hours away from Munich and Zürich and extremely close to the Alps. The town is situated on a small island and is a prime destination for holiday makers. This town and its surrounding areas provide the best possible setting in which to relax and study German.
Muenster has a huge university population with approximately 55,000 students; this city is the third largest university town in Germany and one of the most popular places to study German. Young people create a special, lively atmosphere and the bicycle is the main means of transport and has long been a symbol for this environmentally conscious city.
The historical centre of over a thousand years old with many churches and museums offering a delightful contrast to the many examples of modern architecture. The Promenade, which surrounds the entire city centre, the many parks and the Aasee Lake are ideal for relaxing outdoors.
Munich is the capital of Bavaria and idyllically situated at the foot of the Alps. With approx 1.3 million people it’s a thriving and prosperous city with many impressive historical buildings in the neoclassic style from the 19th century. The mix of traditional values and attitudes plus world famous events such as the "Oktoberfest" beer festival and the popular “Weihnachtsmarkt" Christmas markets bring many visitors each year. In the summer you can relax in one of the many beer gardens and in the winter, when the city is covered in snow, enjoy ice skating or sledging in the park. Interesting exhibitions, museums, galleries, theaters, fairs and concerts add to its popularity as a great year round destination.