7 Things You Must See as an International Student in Germany

#1 The Brandenburg Gate

Starting off strong with what is possibly Germany’s most iconic monument, the Brandenburg Gate is hard to miss if you’re based in Berlin!

Located at Mitte, the central locality of Berlin, the Gate dates back to 1788 and has since acquired a fascinating and deeply symbolic history. During the Cold War, it marked the border between East and West Berlin, and was the site of a much-hailed meeting between the leaders of the two German governments after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

Standing one block from Reichstag building, which houses the German parliament, it remains a powerful symbol of European unity (and makes for an excellent view while you sip your morning coffee in Pariser Platz).

#2 The Berlin Botanical Garden

If you ever feel the need to break up study sessions with some fresh air and greenery, a trip to the Berlin Botanical Garden might be just the ticket.

Established in 1679 as a kitchen garden growing produce for the royal brewery, it has since developed into the world’s second largest botanical garden.

You’ll be able to explore over 43 hectares containing 22,000 plant species, including giant water lilies, orchids and tropical ferns – and visit the garden’s adjoining museum to learn more about its long history.

#3 The Liquidrom

Postgraduate study is challenging, and sometimes all you need is to zone out to the dulcet tones of underwater techno while floating in a heated pool encased by a huge white tent.

That’s where the Liquidrom, Berlin’s uniquely futuristic spa and lounge, comes in. Enjoy saunas, a Japanese-inspired garden and the Liquidrom’s pièce de resistance, a sound pool surrounded by multicoloured lights and complete with underwater speakers.

#4 Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival and travelling carnival, attracting over six million visitors per year. It takes place across 17 days every Autumn in Munich and has been an important feature of Bavarian culture since 1810.

Visitors can enjoy fairground rides, games, traditional food and, of course, the finest Bavarian beers, of which an average of 7 million litres are consumed per festival. Oktoberfest is an experience well worth the trip, whether you’ll be based in Munich of further afield!

#5 German Christmas markets

Germany is famed for its Christmas markets, which have inspired similar events held across Europe every year. Whichever city you pick for your Masters or PhD, you’re sure to find a local market selling mulled wine, culinary treats and handmade goods once the festive season rolls around.

#6 St Nicholas’ Church

This Gothic cathedral was originally completed in 1195, becoming the second church in all of Hamburg, and did a brief stint as tallest building in the world between 1874 and 1876.

Sadly, it was partially destroyed during World War II, but remains one of Hamburg’s tallest structures. A 274ft high platform (accessible by lift) offers breath-taking views of the city.

#7 Imhoff Chocolate Museum

This riverside attraction in the student hotspot of Cologne is a must-visit for anyone whose interest in history matches up to their sweet tooth. The museum will walk you through the 5,000-year history of chocolate, from the ‘ambrosia’ offered to their gods by the ancient Aztecs, to the mass-produced confectionary of the modern day.

You can also get a glimpse of the production process in a glass-walled chocolate factory and satisfy your cravings at the museum’s Grand Café.