Incredible countries to visit during your exchange in Germany

Studying in Germany is a transformative experience that goes far beyond exploring beautiful German cities. Thanks to the privileged location and the ease of getting around in Europe, who does exchange in Germany you have the opportunity to visit several neighboring countries, further enriching the trip. In this article, we will list some unmissable destinations for you to include in your itinerary during your exchange in Germany.

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Countries that border with Germany

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Germany is strategically located in the heart of Europe, bordering nine countries:

1. France

2. Belgium

3. Netherlands

4. Luxemburg

5. Denmark

6. Poland

7. Czech Republic

8. Austria

9. Switzerland

This means that, when study and work in Germany, you can easily explore these neighboring nations, whether on weekend trips or extended holidays. Next, we'll highlight some of the best options.

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France: the charm of Paris just a few hours away

Paris, the City of Lights, is one of the most romantic and coveted destinations in the world. Located just a 3-hour train ride from Frankfurt, the French capital offers iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. In addition, France is a gastronomic paradise, with delicious cheeses, wines, and breads.

Distance from Frankfurt: 570 km

Travel time by train: 3:30

Be Easy tip: plan your visit to the Palace of Versailles, one of the largest and most opulent castles in Europe.

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Belgium: Medieval, Sophisticated, and Delicious

Belgium may be small in size, but it's a giant in history, architecture, and cuisine. Brussels, the capital, is home to the famous Grand Place, considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, and the Atomium, a futuristic monument. Bruges, on the other hand, seems like something out of a fairytale, with its cobblestone streets, canals and medieval facades. Be sure to try the famous Belgian beers, chocolates and French fries, which are a true institution here.

Distance from Munich: 760 km

Travel time by train: 7h

Be Easy tip: visit the European Parliament in Brussels and attend a plenary session to better understand the functioning of the European Union.

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Holland: windmills, tulips and enchanting canals

Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, is a unique city, with its charming canals, narrow houses, and world-renowned museums, such as the Van Gogh and the Anne Frank House. In spring, be sure to visit the tulip fields at Keukenhof, a spectacle of colors and perfumes. Another must-see attraction are the iconic Zaanse Schans mills.

Distance from Berlin: 650 km

Travel time by train: 6h

Be Easy tip: rent a bike to explore Amsterdam like a local and discover the city's hidden charms.

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Luxembourg: small country, great charm

One of the smallest countries in Europe, Luxembourg amazes with its unique mix of medieval history and modernity. Luxembourg City, the country's capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its impressive fortifications and the picturesque historic district of Grund. The country is also home to several European Union institutions, making it an important financial and political center. Be sure to visit the Grand Ducal Palace and explore the Moselle wine region.

Distance from Frankfurt: 250 km

Travel time by train: 3:30

Be Easy tip: Take the opportunity to visit the Casamatas do Bock, a fascinating system of fortified tunnels dating back to the 17th century.

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Denmark: Scandinavian design and quality of life

Copenhagen, the Danish capital, is famous for its innovative design, first-class cuisine, and cycling culture. The city is a true paradise for lovers of Scandinavian architecture and design. Visit the iconic Little Mermaid, explore the colorful port of Nyhavn, and have fun at the Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. The city is also renowned for its dining scene, including several Michelin-starred restaurants.

Distance from Hamburg: 340 km

Travel time by train: 4:30

Be Easy tip: explore the city by bike like a true local and be sure to try the famous Smørrebrød, the traditional Danish open sandwich.

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Poland: rich history and surprising cities

Poland offers a fascinating mix of medieval history and modern renaissance. Krakow, with its preserved historic center, is home to Europe's largest medieval square and the impressive Wawel Castle. Warsaw, the capital, impresses with its reconstructed Old Town and its exciting museums, such as the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews. The coastal city of Gdansk enchants with its Hanseatic architecture and Baltic Sea beaches.

Distance from Berlin: 520 km (to Warsaw)

Travel time by train: 6h

Be Easy tip: visit the famous Wieliczka Salt Mines, near Krakow, an impressive underground complex with over 700 years of history.

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Czech Republic: Beer, Architecture, and Medieval History

Prague, the “City of One Hundred Towers”, is one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe, with its preserved historic center, the largest ancient castle complex in the world (Prague Castle) and the famous Charles Bridge. The city is famous for its high-quality beer and affordable prices. In addition to the capital, cities like Český Krumlov and Karlovy Vary offer unique experiences with their medieval architecture and thermal waters, respectively.

Distance from Dresden: 150 km (to Prague)

Travel time by train: 2:30

Be Easy tip: take a tour of Prague's oldest brewery, U Fleků, which has been operating since 1499, and sample local craft beer.

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Switzerland: Alpine beauty and efficiency

With its majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes and charming cities, Switzerland is a true postcard. In Zurich, explore the lake's shores and the bustling cultural and dining scene. Lucerne, on the other hand, is the gateway to the Swiss Alps, with its breathtaking landscapes. For winter sports lovers, Zermatt and St. Moritz are must-see destinations.

Distance from Munich: 300 km (to Zurich)

Travel time by train: 4h

Be Easy tip: try the famous cheese fondue, a typical Swiss dish perfect for cold days.

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Austria: music, history and lush nature

Vienna, the Austrian capital, breathes music and history. Home to great composers such as Mozart and Beethoven, the city is home to impressive palaces, such as Schönbrunn and the Hofburg, as well as a vibrant art and cultural scene. Salzburg, Mozart's hometown, enchants with its baroque historic center and Alpine scenery. For nature lovers, the crystalline lakes of the Salzkammergut region are breathtaking.

Distance from Munich: 440 km (to Vienna)

Travel time by train: 4h

Be Easy tip: attend a concert by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra at the legendary Musikverein, an unforgettable experience.

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How to get around Europe during your exchange

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Traveling around Europe during your exchange in Germany is an incredible experience that can become even more special when you know the best ways to get around. With so many transportation options available, it's important to understand the advantages of each one to make the most appropriate choice for your travel style and budget.

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Eurail Pass: your passport to European railways

The Eurail Pass is one of the most popular ways to explore Europe, offering flexibility and convenience for travelers. This pass allows you to travel by train through several European countries, with different options to suit your itinerary:

• Global Pass: Unlimited access to 33 European countries
• One Country Pass: Perfect for exploring a single country in depth
• Select Pass: Freedom to choose 2, 3, or 4 connected countries

One of the greatest advantages of the Eurail Pass is the possibility of spontaneous trips, in addition to offering extra benefits such as discounts at partner hotels and tourist attractions. To make the most of your pass, book night trains in advance and download the official app to check schedules and routes.

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Comparison of means of transport

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Choosing the ideal mode of transportation will depend on several factors, such as distance, available time, and budget. Here's an overview of the main options:

train

European trains are renowned for their comfort and efficiency. In addition to reaching city centers, they offer breathtaking landscapes along the way. Prices vary depending on distance:

• Short trips (1-2h): €20-40
• Average trips (2-4h): €40-80
• Long trips (4h+): €80-150

FlixBus

The FlixBus bus network stands out as an economical and comfortable option, offering free Wi-Fi and individual sockets. It's an excellent alternative for travelers on a budget:

• Short trips: €10-20
• Average trips: €20-35
• Long trips: €35-60

Low-cost airlines

For longer distances, low-cost airlines can be surprisingly cost-effective. The main ones are Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air and Vueling. Remember to consider the extra costs for luggage and transportation to the airport.

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Essential apps for your journey

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Technology can be your best ally while traveling. We recommend some essential apps:

For Planning:

• Google Maps: General navigation and public transport information
• Rome2Rio: Comparison of routes and prices between different modes of transport
• DB Navigator: A must for train travel in Germany

For Reservations:

• Homie: Complete platform for comparing and buying tickets
• Trainline: Specialized in train travel around Europe
• Skyscanner: Search for cheap flights with price alerts

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Do your exchange in Germany with Be Easy

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Transform your exchange in Germany into a unique experience with the specialized support of Be Easy. Our team offers not only assistance with your course, but all the planning necessary to explore Europe, with personalized itineraries, accommodation tips, and full documentation and travel insurance support.

Get in touch right now and discover how we can make your dream of studying abroad a reality. With Be Easy, you have a partner committed to making your international experience memorable from start to finish.

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