Alemania en Tren

About the destination: Hamburg, a city with centuries of trading history, is a bustling blend of Hanseatic commercialism and cosmopolitanism. A very attractive city, although severely damaged during WWII, much of the copper-roofed brick architecture so characteristic of northern Germany remains, while beautiful parks and lakes give rise to Hamburg’s claim that it is the Venice of the north. An active cultural life adds further vitality to this expansive port city. Hamburg’s old town is interspersed with wonderful canals running from the Alster to the Elbe. The richly decorated Rathaus dominates the city centre. Nearby is the equally impressive St. Michaeliskirche. Climb the massive spire of this beautiful baroque church for a splendid view. Near the Rathaus are the Börse, suitably grand for this city of commerce, and the devastated St Nikolai church. Its remains are considered an anti-war memorial. Shopping enthusiasts should head towards Pöseldrof, a charming district of upscale homes, small cafes, boutiques and antique shops. The night owls will have a great time in the notorious St. Pauli district. Hamburg will surprise visitors with its dynamic and cool atmosphere. In this city absolutely everyone can find a good place to suit their taste. Its numerous parks, canals, bridges and beautiful lakes formed by the river Alster, will make you forget its apparent austerity.

About the destination: Capital city of Germany, Berlin is one of the most exciting and historic places in Germany and in Europe. No other German city has more "visible" history to offer, despite all the scars of WW2 and the division during Cold War times. No other German city has such a rich cultural life. Berlin's architecture is quite varied. It is now possible to see representatives of many different historic periods in a short time within the city centre, from a few surviving medieval buildings near Alexanderplatz, to the ultra-modern glass and steel structures at Potsdamer Platz. Because of its tumultuous history, Berlin remains a city with many distinctive neighbourhoods. Berlin has so many faces. It is attractive, cosmopolitan, multicultural and multiethnic city with very friendly locals and lots to do and see.

About the destination: Munich, situated on the river Isar in the south of Bavaria, is renowned for its world-class museums, stunning parks, the annual Oktoberfest beer festival and architecture. The gorgeous public buildings and monuments are a testament to the imperial ambitions of the Wittelsbach family, who ruled Bavaria from the 12th to the 20th century. Despite being heavily damaged by allied bombing during World War II, many of its historic buildings have been rebuilt and the city centre looks mostly as it did in the late 1800s, including its largest church, the Frauenkirche, and the famous city hall (Neues Rathaus). A peculiar blend of proud traditionalism and cutting-edge culture will keep you engaged and active, and the town does stay awake until the wee hours, with its many students and down-to-earth Bavarian zest for life.

About the destination: Zurich labours under the misconception that it is nothing more than a sterile banking city – don't believe a word of it. True, Zurich is home to one of the largest stock exchanges in the world and is the financial engine of Switzerland itself, but step back from the markets and share prices and you'll find an arty, trend-conscious and vibrant city. Just hang about in Zurich West for a while. Its former warehouses, viaducts and ship building caverns have been converted into art centres, funky bars and quirky boutiques. Along Langstrasse, the city’s notorious red light district, you’re now as likely to take home a stylish handbag crafted by an emerging designer as you are a piece of skirt. Zurich’s character blares from the speakers of the annual Street Parade, a massive techno festival that weaves through the city with DJs and minimally-clad dancers on floats. There isn’t a banker’s tie in sight. If there is in the pretty east bank quarter of Niederdorf, it’s loosened. These medieval streets are buzzing with cafés on corners, trendy taprooms and world-class restaurants. It’s easy to while away an afternoon just soaking up its laidback atmosphere, especially in summer when the riverside takes on a beach vibe. Winter is special too. Under the spell of snow, the cobbled alleyways, fountains, lakeside promenades and stunning architecture of the Old Town were made for the stroke of an artist’s brush. This is when one of Europe’s best Christmas markets rolls into town and the warming citruses and cinnamons of the glühwein (mulled wine) stalls fill the air. Shoppers will be in their element here at any time of year. Zurich’s flashy side is evident in the upmarket designer boutiques of Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main shopping drag. But this is no longer a city for the smart set alone; there are plenty of unusual shops to be discovered down hidden streets. Sitting astride the River Limmat and the northern tip of Lake Zurich, Mother Nature certainly smiles down on Switzerland’s biggest city. Architects were courteous in their additions too - just check out the Fraumünster and Grossmünster churches, which face each other across the river. Then, when you’ve had enough of the city’s diverse array of restaurants, top-notch museums and pulsing nightlife, there’s always the nearby Uetliberg mountain or a boat trip on Lake Zurich to enjoy – if only to catch your breath before diving back into the city’s delights again.

About the destination: Famous for being the home of Mercedes-Benz's headquarters, many would have you believe that Stuttgart is a grey industrial city, but it could well be the greenest city in Europe. Over half of its surroundings are covered by orchards, meadows, forests and more than 500 vineyards that produce top-notch wines. The city is undergoing a complete transformation. The city is gradually changing the urban fabric, previously designed mainly for cars, to make more room for pedestrians. After the Second World War, the architectural gems of the city were rebuilt. Today it draws in nearly half a million tourists every year thanks to its impressive museums and an air of relaxed prosperity. The city is situated in a valley west of the Neckar River. Stretching south-west from the Neckar River to the city centre is the Schlossgarten, a vast strip of parkland and ponds, complete with swans, street performers and modern sculptures. Nearby, in the heart of the city centre, is the Schlossplatz, one of the most beautiful squares in Stuttgart. On the south edge of the Schlossplatz, the Neues Schloss, a baroque palace which now houses government offices, stands proudly. The palace stands adjacent to the Old Castle, home to the Württemberg State Museum, the main historical museum of the state of Baden-Württemberg. One of the most attractive and popular places is the Mercedes-Benz Museum showcasing unique exhibits of rare cars and cutting-edge models. It's also worth noting that the museum building itself is very interesting from an architectural point of view. Stuttgart is brimming with charm and a certain flair, offering visitors a range of historic and cultural attractions, despite its modernity.