Germany, balanced on the cusp of Western and Eastern Europe, has a colourful history and a host of elegant cities, mingled with great food and drink and some stunning countryside.

Europe’s largest economy and most populous nation, Germany has played a pivotal role in much of the continent’s history. Forming part of the Holy Roman Empire and later involved in the power struggles between the key powers in Europe for centuries, the country now has a strong presence in the European Union and on the international stage.

The Cold War led to the formation of two German states in 1949 - the western Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) and the eastern German Democratic Republic (GDR) – with their loyalties lying in the West and East respectively. Germany was finally unified in 1990 following the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Germany and the German people have worked hard to rid themselves of the dark shadow of Nazism and the Second World War and the people tend to be warm, endlessly polite and keen to practice their English, while the country itself is brimming with art and culture.

The warmest months to visit are between May and September every year, when many cities have a very European, outdoor culture. Each region of Germany has its own specific character, unique city and landscape and can provide a holiday in itself.

The German capital Berlin is delightfully laid back and consists of wide boulevards and parks, though the widespread graffiti tends to take the first-time visitor by surprise. It is full of charming restaurants, shops and cafes, lively nightclubs, museums charting centuries of German history, fabulous architecture and art.

Key tourist experiences in Berlin include the site of the Berlin Wall, the Reichstag with its great glass dome, the historic Brandenburg Gate and the city’s flea markets.

Cologne, with its spectacular architecture, is a joy to wander around and also houses some important museums and concert halls, while modern Dusseldorf provides a wealth of eating, drinking and shopping experience and Frankfurt all the cultural delights of a 21st century city.

Germany's second largest city, Hamburg, is a beautiful maritime port, full of bridges and picturesque buildings. Drinkers invariably head to Munich, which has much to offer besides its Bierkellers; with the modern world and lively folk traditions clashing among its shops, museums and Gothic buildings.

Away from the cities, Germany has some lovely beach and mountain resorts. The lush, green Black Forest in the Southwest of the country is spectacular, with delightful wooden houses set against deep green pines and firs.

Germany is also dotted with delightful castles, particularly in Bavaria, where they rise out of the trees to greet travellers. For those seeking an active holiday, the country offers a host of pursuits, from hiking and cycling to watersports and skiing.

Flights are becoming increasingly cheap from all UK airports to the major regional cities and Germany still provides an affordable place to holiday. Accommodation is plentiful and a wide range is available across the country, while German cuisine is generously portioned, with delicious meat dishes, cheeses and cakes. The country’s bars and restaurants tend to be lively and welcoming and the beer in all regions is excellent.