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For many, August is synonymous with holidays, especially in Europe, where it is the peak vacation season.
If you’re still looking to snag a last-minute getaway, you might try browsing holiday deal websites like Secret Escapes and Last Minute. These websites offer a wide range of options to suit any budget and preference. So why not take advantage of the remaining days of summer and book a spontaneous trip to create some unforgettable memories before the autumn leaves start to fall?
The meteorological autumn will officially begin on September 1st, marking the start of a new season.

If you’re looking for some inspiration and information for your upcoming holiday plans, we’ve compiled a list of some amazing pages that are sure to help you plan your holidays. 

Time Zone

During Central European Time (CET) in winter, Germany is one hour behind South Africa. This time difference remains until the last Sunday in March when daylight saving time (Summertime) begins.

Season

Winter.

January in Germany is the height of winter, with short days, cold temperatures, and often snow, creating a quiet, serene atmosphere perfect for winter sports and cosy indoor activities.

Weather

January in Germany marks the heart of winter, with cold temperatures and shorter days. Snowfall is common, especially in the southern and eastern regions, creating a picturesque winter landscape. The average temperature ranges between -1°C and 3°C, with some areas experiencing even colder conditions.

Outdoors

Travel in the Schengen Area

Travel within the Schengen Area “The Schengen Area is a zone comprised of 29 European states which have officially abolished passports and other types of border control at their mutual

Tourist accommodation types

Types of Tourist accommodation in Germany Germany, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s

Travel ideas within Germany

Germany is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes and many regional specialties.To add your suggestions please submit it via this form Below are some travel inspiration for each German

Fun Activities

Public Holidays and Observations

DateHolidayInformationStatesType
08.08Augsburger FriedensfestCommemorates the end of religious conflict and the granting of religious freedom to Protestants in Augsburg.BY (Augsburg only)Public Holiday
15.08Mariä HimmelfahrtFeast of the Assumption of Mary, a significant religious holiday in Catholic regions.BY (in Catholic areas), SLPublic Holiday
12.08International Youth DayUN-recognised day to celebrate and promote the role of youth in global society.AllObservation

World Children’s Day (Weltkindertag)

Weltkindertag, celebrated on September 20th, is dedicated to honouring children’s rights and well-being in Germany. Schools, kindergartens, and communities often organise special events, games, and activities to give children a joyful day. In some federal states, such as Thuringia and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, it’s even a public holiday. The day also carries a serious message: raising awareness of children’s needs, equality, and protection. It’s both a festive occasion for families and a reminder of society’s responsibility to create a safe and nurturing world for the youngest generation.

World Children’s Day (Weltkindertag)

Weltkindertag, celebrated on September 20th, is dedicated to honouring children’s rights and well-being in Germany. Schools, kindergartens, and communities often organise special events, games, and activities to give children a joyful day. In some federal states, such as Thuringia and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, it’s even a public holiday. The day also carries a serious message: raising awareness of children’s needs, equality, and protection. It’s both a festive occasion for families and a reminder of society’s responsibility to create a safe and nurturing world for the youngest generation.

World Children’s Day (Weltkindertag)

Weltkindertag, celebrated on September 20th, is dedicated to honouring children’s rights and well-being in Germany. Schools, kindergartens, and communities often organise special events, games, and activities to give children a joyful day. In some federal states, such as Thuringia and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, it’s even a public holiday. The day also carries a serious message: raising awareness of children’s needs, equality, and protection. It’s both a festive occasion for families and a reminder of society’s responsibility to create a safe and nurturing world for the youngest generation.

World Children’s Day (Weltkindertag)

Weltkindertag, celebrated on September 20th, is dedicated to honouring children’s rights and well-being in Germany. Schools, kindergartens, and communities often organise special events, games, and activities to give children a joyful day. In some federal states, such as Thuringia and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, it’s even a public holiday. The day also carries a serious message: raising awareness of children’s needs, equality, and protection. It’s both a festive occasion for families and a reminder of society’s responsibility to create a safe and nurturing world for the youngest generation.

Start of Autumn (Herbstanfang – astronomical)

The astronomical start of autumn (Herbstanfang) in Germany usually falls on September 22nd or 23rd, marked by the autumn equinox when day and night are nearly equal in length. Unlike the meteorological date, this change is tied to the Earth’s position relative to the sun. While not a public holiday, it carries cultural and seasonal significance: many Germans associate it with harvest time, cosy evenings, and the turning of leaves into golden reds and yellows. It’s a natural milestone that ushers in the heart of autumn traditions, from wine festivals to the first tastes of hearty seasonal dishes

Start of Autumn (Herbstanfang – astronomical)

The astronomical start of autumn (Herbstanfang) in Germany usually falls on September 22nd or 23rd, marked by the autumn equinox when day and night are nearly equal in length. Unlike the meteorological date, this change is tied to the Earth’s position relative to the sun. While not a public holiday, it carries cultural and seasonal significance: many Germans associate it with harvest time, cosy evenings, and the turning of leaves into golden reds and yellows. It’s a natural milestone that ushers in the heart of autumn traditions, from wine festivals to the first tastes of hearty seasonal dishes

Start of Autumn (Herbstanfang – astronomical)

The astronomical start of autumn (Herbstanfang) in Germany usually falls on September 22nd or 23rd, marked by the autumn equinox when day and night are nearly equal in length. Unlike the meteorological date, this change is tied to the Earth’s position relative to the sun. While not a public holiday, it carries cultural and seasonal significance: many Germans associate it with harvest time, cosy evenings, and the turning of leaves into golden reds and yellows. It’s a natural milestone that ushers in the heart of autumn traditions, from wine festivals to the first tastes of hearty seasonal dishes

Start of Autumn (Herbstanfang – astronomical)

The astronomical start of autumn (Herbstanfang) in Germany usually falls on September 22nd or 23rd, marked by the autumn equinox when day and night are nearly equal in length. Unlike the meteorological date, this change is tied to the Earth’s position relative to the sun. While not a public holiday, it carries cultural and seasonal significance: many Germans associate it with harvest time, cosy evenings, and the turning of leaves into golden reds and yellows. It’s a natural milestone that ushers in the heart of autumn traditions, from wine festivals to the first tastes of hearty seasonal dishes

Make your own delicious Rote Grütze, a traditional German berry compote, and serve it with a generous scoop of creamy ice cream, decadent Milchreis, or silky pudding to enhance the flavours. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests. If you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, you can find some additional mouth-watering recipes here. 

Aperol Spritz

Some of the best summer drinks are: 

Have you ever wondered about the intriguing differences between Ice Cream and Gelato? Taste Atlas has created an excellent infographic that breaks down these differences in a visually appealing way. One of my all-time favourite treats that showcases the delightful world of ice cream is Spaghettieis, a unique dessert that resembles a plate of spaghetti but is made entirely from delicious ice cream. It is a must-try for anyone who enjoys frozen desserts!

It is the exciting start of the Pumpkin season, a time that brings a variety of vibrant colours and delicious flavours. For further inspiration, be sure to visit our page dedicated to all things pumpkins in Germany

A true taste of the German summer, Zwetschgen — the slender, dusky cousins of regular plums — are the star of many a beloved July dessert. Their tangy-sweet flavour shines brightest in the iconic Zwetschgenkuchen or Zwetschgendatschi, sold in bakeries all over the country. Best enjoyed with a generous swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Can’t find Zwetschgen? Mirabellen make a charming stand-in.

Rote Grütze mit Vanillesauce

 A classic German summer dessert that’s as vibrant in colour as it is in flavour. Originally from Northern Germany, this jewel-toned dish is made from a mix of red berries—typically raspberries, strawberries, red currants, and cherries—gently simmered with sugar and thickened with a bit of cornstarch or sago. Served chilled, it’s often accompanied by a generous drizzle of vanilla sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Rote Grütze strikes that perfect balance between tart and sweet

Fruit and veggies in season

Vocabulary

Holiday / Vacation der Urlaub
Holiday home das Ferienhaus
Accommodation die Unterkunft
Lake der See
Ocean das Meer
Beach der Strand / der Badestrand
All inclusive price die Pauschale
Sun protection der Sonnenschutz
Deck chair der Liegestuhl
Barbecue / Grill der Grill
Outdoor pool das Freibad
Summer festival das Sommerfest

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Cycling

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Braai Season

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