Germany (Lonely Planet, 6th Edition) - Andrea Schulte-Peevers [676]
Several dozen indies have joined together in an alliance known as the Backpacker Network (www.backpackernetwork.de, partly in English). Some hostels can also be booked via this site. Other recommended online booking systems are www.gomio.com, www.hostelworld.com, www.hostels.com and www.hostels.net.
Hotels
Hotels range from small family-run properties to cookie-cutter international chains to luxurious designer abodes. Those serving only breakfast are called Hotel garni. An official classification system exists, based on a scale of one to five stars, but it’s voluntary and few hotels participate. Even so, this being Germany, you can generally expect even budget abodes to be spotlessly clean, comfortable and well run.
In older, family-run hotels, individual rooms often vary dramatically in terms of size, decor and amenities. The cheapest may have shared facilities, while others come with a shower cubicle installed but no private toilet; only the pricier ones have their own bathrooms. If possible, ask to see several rooms before committing.
If you’re the romantic type, consider staying in a Schlosshotel, a modernised castle, palace or country manor that drips with character and history. Some belong to an association called Romantik Hotels (www.romantikhotels.com). Also try www.castles.de.
Long-Term Rentals
If you’re going to stay in any particular German city for a month or longer, consider renting a room or a flat through a Mitwohnzentrale (flat-sharing agency). These agencies match up visitors with fully furnished vacant flats, houses or rooms in shared houses. Rates vary by agency, city and type of accommodation, but the final tally is likely to be less than what you’d pay for a similar standard in a hotel. Many Mitwohnzentralen now also arrange short-term stays, although prices are higher.
Home Company (www.home-company.de, in German and English) is a nationwide network of agencies; its website has all the details. Apartments Apart (www.apartmentsapart.com) arranges Europe-wide holiday rentals. Do-it-yourself types with some German skills could also try www.zwischenmiete.de.
Pensionen, Inns & Private Rooms
Pensionen and Gasthöfe/Gasthäuser (inns) are smaller and less formal, and are an excellent low-cost alternative to hotels; the latter usually have restaurants serving regional and German food to a local clientele. Expect clean rooms but minimal amenities – maybe a radio, sometimes a small TV, almost never a phone. Facilities may be shared. What rooms lack in amenities, though, they often make up for in charm and authenticity, often augmented by friendly hosts who take a personal interest in ensuring that you enjoy your stay. Rates always include breakfast.
Privatzimmer – essentially guest rooms in private homes – are ubiquitous and great for catching a glimpse into how locals live, although privacy seekers may find these places a bit too intimate. Tourist offices keep lists of available rooms; you can also look around for ‘Zimmer Frei’ (rooms available) signs in house or shop windows. They’re usually quite cheap, with per-person rates starting at €13 and usually topping out at €25, including breakfast. If a landlord is reluctant to rent for a single night, offer to pay a little extra. For advance reservations, try www.bed-and-breakfast.de or www.bedandbreakfast.de.
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BOOK YOUR STAY ONLINE
For more accommodation reviews and recommendations by Lonely Planet authors, check out the booking service at www.lonelyplanet.com/hotels. You’ll find the true, insider low-down on the best places to stay. Reviews are thorough and independent. Best of all, you can book online.
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ACTIVITIES
No matter what kind of activity gets you off that couch, you’ll be able to pursue it in this land of lakes, rivers, mountains and forests. There’s plenty to do year-round, with each season offering its own special delights, be it hiking among spring wildflowers, swimming in a lake warmed by the summer sun, biking among