Life In Germany

German is the most widely spoken first language in Europe and one of the top 10 most spoken languages in the world, with over 120 million speakers spread over Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

While German is neither known for its beauty nor its ease of learning, this notion is more myth than reality. German shares many similarities with the English language, providing English speakers with a solid foundation. A wide range of German courses tailored to various levels and time commitments, make it accessible for learners of all backgrounds. For those looking to learn the language before arriving in Germany, online courses offer a convenient and accessible option. The Goethe Institute is a globally recognised cultural institution dedicated to promoting the German language and fostering international cultural exchange and offers German as a foreign language learning through courses and examinations.

Many Germans have an excellent understanding of English, and it is entirely possible to get by in Germany without speaking the language. However, it is always useful to have a grasp of the basics.

Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of German cuisine.

Germany is a cosmopolitan, multicultural society, and German people enjoy a wide range of cuisines from around the globe. In any city, you are likely to find more Italian or Asian restaurants than traditional German ‘Brauhäuser’. There is something for every taste.

Germany also boasts its own rich culinary heritage, with distinct regional variations. Take, for instance, the iconic Wurst. Germans enjoy many sausage varieties, ranging from white to dark, short to long, and boiled to smoked, reflecting the diverse tastes across the country. Additionally, Germany takes pride in its extensive bread culture, with over 300 types of bread to savour. With a remarkable 1,300 breweries, there's a different beer available for every day of the year, for over three years!

Germany stretches from the Baltic in the north to the Alps in the south. It borders nine countries, including Scandinavian Denmark, Mediterranean France, Alpine Switzerland, and the Bohemian Czech Republic. Two of Europe’s mightiest rivers carve through its landscapes – the Danube and the Rhine, and one of Europe’s largest lakes – Lake Constance – forms its southern border.

Germany’s geography is therefore hugely varied and its landscapes merit discovery. The country is divided roughly in two, between the ‘flat’ north and ‘high’ south.

The north has a strong seafaring tradition and is a popular holiday destination for families and those seeking the fresh sea air. Its coast is dotted with islands, and home to sweeping beaches, broad mudflats and chalky cliffs.

Central Germany is the land of rolling hills and majestic rivers. Vineyards cling to the slopes and produce some of the country’s finest wines.

In the southwest, the Black Forest entices visitors with its spectacular scenery, cuckoo clocks and cherry cake. Icy lakes nestle in Bavaria’s hills, formed from the melting snow of the Alps, which rise on the southern border and provide endless opportunity for outdoor pursuits.

Germany has a predominantly temperate climate, with continental influences. There are four distinct seasons, with warm summers and mild winters. Continental influences can cause periods of extreme heat or cold, but average temperatures are moderate. Snow is common at higher elevations during the winter months, but the lowlands are typically milder, with only the occasional snow flurry.

It is impossible to summarise Germany’s rich and diverse culture in a few short words. However, lying in the centre of Europe places Germany firmly at the heart of European cultural tradition. Germany has a lot in common with its neighbours, and for those moving to Germany from elsewhere in the western world, much will be familiar.

Due to Germany’s long existence as a group of loosely allied micro-states, German culture is highly regionalised, and there are marked differences in language, customs, and culinary traditions across the country. Travelling from one city to another can feel like travelling to a different country, which makes Germany such an interesting place to discover.

Germans have a great appreciation for their own culture and customs, as well as culture in a broader sense. The typical German has a strong affinity to their hometown or region, and local festivities are celebrated with pride. This means that many ancient traditions are kept wholeheartedly alive beneath the shiny veneer of this modern nation.

Cultural activities are abundant, and even small towns and cities typically have a wide array of cultural outlets. Museums and the Arts thrive in Germany, offering something to captivate every interest. Known as the "Land der Dichter und Denker" (the land of poets and thinkers), Germany celebrates its rich literary, philosophical, and artistic heritage with pride.

The healthcare system in Germany is renowned for its excellence, offering comprehensive coverage and access to top-notch medical facilities and services.

Germany has an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including trains, trams, buses, and bike lanes, making it easy to get around without a car.

Germans value work-life balance, with generous vacation days, flexible working hours, and strong labour laws promoting employee well-being.

Germany is a leader in environmental sustainability, with initiatives promoting renewable energy, recycling, and eco-friendly practices.

Situated directly on the river Rhine in western Germany, Cologne is an ideal location for discovering Europe. The city is an important road and rail hub, and destinations in Belgium, France, Luxembourg and the Netherlands are close by. High speed rail links connect Cologne to all major German cities, as well as destinations further afield, including London and Paris. Cologne-Bonn airport serves a wide range of European and long-haul destinations.

Cologne was founded in 50 AD by the Romans, and developed into a thriving trade centre. Vestiges of this ancient past can still be found beneath the city’s streets. The medieval city leaves its mark in the winding streets of the old town, and the walls which still line the city’s ‘Ring’. The Middle Ages also saw construction begin on Cologne’s impressive cathedral, which took over 600 years to complete. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture now towers over the city, and, as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Germany’s most important tourist attractions.

Almost completely destroyed during the war, Cologne rose from the ashes and the modern city is a lively metropolis with a proud sense of tradition. 

Today’s city offers something for everyone, with a busy shopping district, a host of museums, theatres, and concert halls, not to mention thousands of bars and restaurants. For those that prefer the quieter life, there are many peaceful suburbs and the ‘Eifel’ and ‘Bergisches Land’ – areas of great natural beauty – are only a short commute away.

Weekends offer the possibility of discovering the wider region. The spectacular Rhine valley and the Mosel wine growing region lie just to the south, and opportunities for hiking and skiing can be found in the mountainous Sauerland area. The Neanderthal region offers a glimpse into human pre-history, whereas the former West German capital, Bonn, offers insight into the more recent German past.

‘Karneval’ is the high point of the calendar, a weeklong festival during which the city’s population doubles in size. This is one of many events that punctuate the year, all of which are typically accompanied by a ‘Kölsch’, the local beer, served in tall thin glasses.

The shield in the flag of the city of Cologne features three golden coronets ordered horizontally. They symbolise the three wise, holy kings, whose bones had been brought to Köln by emperor Friedrich Barbarossa in 1164. The logo of St.George’s School in Cologne features three crowns, symbolising the city's rich cultural heritage.

Düsseldorf is well located with access to a range of European destinations. Belgium, France, Luxembourg and the Netherlands are only a short distance away, and high-speed rail links connect Düsseldorf with all major German cities. Düsseldorf airport is the most important in the region and connects travellers to destinations across the world. There are daily flights to cities across the UK.

Düsseldorf grew from a medieval fishing village, located where the river Düssel flows into the Rhine. Its strategic importance meant it quickly developed into a fortified town, the remains of which can be seen in the beautiful area of Kaiserswerth, the location of Emperor Barbarossa’s now ruined palace. The bustling streets of the old town still give a sense of the medieval city, chosen by the Dukes of Berg as their capital. Nowadays these streets provide a picturesque backdrop to shoppers and partygoers, visiting ‘the longest bar in the world’, consisting of the district’s 260 pubs and bars.

Modern Düsseldorf is a dynamic and captivating city which boasts a high standard of living. It is a major economic hub, home to numerous multinational corporations and trade fairs, that offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, modern amenities, and scenic beauty. Renowned for its thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and museums and for its grand ‘Königsallee’, one of Europe's premier shopping destinations, the city is a paradise for arts and fashion lovers.

It is a lively hub for nightlife and socialising, especially during events like Karneval (Carnival) and the Altbier festivals and boasts several parks and green spaces where residents and visitors can relax and unwind.

Away from the bustle of the city, Düsseldorf’s suburbs are leafy and calm. There is a wide range of places to live in the area, such as Essen or Duisburg, all well connected by bus, train and tram.

Further afield, there are many places to explore. Picturesque villages dot the hills of the Eifel region and towns and cities in the Netherlands are just a short ride away.

In the flag of Duisburg, situated at the heart of the Rhein-Ruhr area, three towers symbolize the city's fortified walls, reflecting its historical municipal sovereignty and authority. The mural crown in the logo of St. George’s School in Düsseldorf Rhein-Ruhr honours the schools’ location Duisburg and pays homage to the city's enduring status and heritage in the region.

Munich's infrastructure is well-developed and modern, supporting its status as a leading city in Europe for business, culture, and quality of life. The city boasts a world-class healthcare system, with state-of-the-art hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities.  It is a major hub for education and research, with several prestigious universities and research institutions, attracting top professionals and researchers from around the world. Rapid transport links connect the city to Austria, Switzerland and Italy, as well as to all major German cities. Munich airport is a major international hub and offers flights to destinations across the world.

Munich grew from a medieval settlement of monks, from which its name originates. It developed rapidly into an important centre and was chosen by the Bavarian Duke’s as their capital. The grand architecture of the city centre pays testament to its royal status, and the foundation of the Kingdom of Bavaria in the nineteenth century sealed Munich’s status as a cultural centre of global importance.

Although Munich was heavily damaged during the war, it was meticulously rebuilt and retains much of its pre-war character. It is however to all intents and purposes a very modern city, which offers its inhabitants a high standard of living and rich variety of pursuits. The city’s shops rival those of any major European city, and its restaurants and bars account for every possible taste. On the banks of the Isar lies the ‘Deutsches Museum’, the world’s oldest and largest science museum, just one of the many hundreds of cultural establishments in the city, including over 50 theatres, 40 museums, 80 cinemas and several concert halls.

The ‘English Garden’ is Munich’s green and tranquil heart and one of the world’s largest city parks. It is where the locals enjoy a Sunday stroll or refreshment in its sprawling beer garden. Beer lovers will however be most interested by the world famous ‘Oktoberfest’, which attracts over a million visitors to the city in late September.

The surrounding area offers breath-taking scenery and endless opportunities for outdoor pursuits in all seasons. Lakes and rivers provide welcome refreshment from the summer heat, whereas the mountains are the draw in winter months. Whether a simple walk in the hills or something more adrenalin fuelled, the Munich area provides a vast amount to see and do, including world-famous attractions. The fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein lies in the foothills of the Alps and the majestic city of Salzburg is just across the Austrian border.

The poet featured with a book in the coat of arms of the city of Munich is depicted in the logo of the St.George’s School in Munich, as a symbol of literary excellence and cultural heritage.