Germany, my favourite places

I first visited Germany in 1995 on an exchange with school. The trip enabled me for the first time stay in the country and see things in a less touristy way. Since then I have been back to Germany a number of times and seen the beautiful beaches of the Baltic Sea, visited the historic city of Hanover and seen Bach's home in Leipzig. There is so much to be explored in Germany for people with a number of interests whether you want your next holiday to be focused on partying, culture, nature, or history Germany has it all, it's just a matter of finding it.

Here are some of my top highlights in Germany: 
Rugen Island
Germany’s largest island, Rugen, boasts 574km of beautiful coastline that stretch through the blue waters of the Baltic. Connected to the mainland by the Rugendamm Bridge, Rugen Island is accessible by both rail and road and each summer Germans flock to the island to enjoy the dazzling beaches, lush foliage, national parks and nature reserves.
Leipzig
JS Bach worked in Leipzig from 1723 to 1750, conducting the St. Thomas Church Choir and the university church of Leipzig (destroyed in 1968). The composer Richard Wagner was born in Leipzig in 1813.Robert Schumann was also active in the Leipzig music scene in 1843. Gustav Mahler was second conductor at the Leipzig Theatre from June 1886 until May 1888. He completed his own 1st Symphony whilst living in Leipzig.
Dachau 
For many, Germany’s history is overshadowed by the events of the Second World War and it was at Dachau, the first Nazi concentration camp that many of these horrific events occurred. History buff or not, a visit to Dachau is as disturbing and eye-opening as it is compelling and fascinating. From Munich, take the S-2 train to the centre of Dachau town, then take the free shuttle bus to the camp.
Cologne / KolnCologne is a major cultural centre of the Rhineland and has a vibrant arts scene. Cologne is home to more than 30 museums and hundreds of galleries. Exhibitions range from local ancient Roman archeological sites to contemporary graphics and sculpture. Koln also has a fabulous medieval cathedral which reminds me very much of Lichfield Cathedral in Staffordshire, England.
Heidelberg
Romantic and picturesque, Heidelberg is at once a vibrant, lively university city and a charming baroque old town. Unless you’re here to study, make the most of beautiful Heidelberg and spend your days exploring the magnificent Castle, which dominates the city’s skyline and is the main draw for the tourists who flock here, as well as the Altstadt, which is home to spectacular architecture and fantastic views.
Rhine Valley
Often referred to as ‘The Romantic Rhine,’ the Rhine Valley is an area of breathtaking natural beauty which stretches to roughly 80km. The Valley is perhaps the most well known area of the Rhine River and it runs between the cities of Mainz and Bonn in western Germany. Best seen aboard a cruise, a trip along the Rhine is a truly magical experience, laden with lush mountains and stunning castles.