Oktoberfest, Munich (September-October) - The granddaddy of all beer festivals. Think giant pretzels, traditional outfits, and beer by the litre. It's like Disneyland for adults who love a good brew.

Carnival in Cologne (February) - Imagine Halloween but with more glitter and less spooky. It's a week-long street party where everyone's in costume, dancing, and just having a blast.

Berlin Film Festival, Berlin (February) - Lights, camera, action! It's one of the world's leading film festivals. Perfect for movie buffs and star-spotting.

The Wave-Gotik-Treffen, Leipzig (May) - It's a gothic and alternative culture bash that's so unique, it's like Halloween and a rock concert had a beautiful, dark, and artsy baby.

Rock am Ring, Nürburg (June) - Rock and heavy metal fans, this one's for you. Held at the legendary Nürburgring racetrack, it's where headbanging meets horsepower.

Dresden Music Festival, Dresden (May-June) - For a more classical vibe, this festival offers everything from orchestral concerts to contemporary music. It's like a musical smorgasbord in a historic city.

Frankfurt Book Fair, Frankfurt (October) - Bookworms unite! This is the world's largest trade fair for books. Imagine rows upon rows of books and literary stars. It's basically book heaven.

The Christmas Markets (December, various cities) - These markets pop up all over Germany, turning cities into winter wonderlands. Think mulled wine, twinkling lights, and that warm, fuzzy holiday feeling.

Christopher Street Day (Gay Pride), various cities (June-July) - Germany's pride parades are a celebration of love and diversity. It's like a rainbow exploded in the best way possible.

Bayreuth Festival, Bayreuth (July-August) - Opera enthusiasts, this one's for you. A month-long festival dedicated to the works of Richard Wagner in a theatre he designed. It's as grand as it sounds.

Germany's nightlife is as diverse as a Spotify playlist on shuffle – whether you're into chill vibes, techno beats, or something quirky, there's a spot with your name on it.

Now, let's hit up some bars and clubs!

• Buck and Breck, Berlin - This place is so hidden, you might think you need a treasure map. It's a speakeasy bar with a cool, minimalist vibe and cocktails that are out of this world. Perfect for those "I-know-a-cool-place" moments.

• Little Link, Cologne - It's like a cocktail lab where the drinks are as creative as a Picasso painting. Their innovative cocktails and cosy atmosphere make it a must-visit for a laid-back evening.

• Die Goldene Bar, Munich - Picture this: a bar in a 1930s building with walls covered in gold-leaf maps. It's historic, it's chic, and their drinks are gold standard. Literally!

• Berghain, Berlin - The holy grail of techno clubs. It's as legendary as a unicorn in the clubbing world, and getting in is a badge of honour. Inside, it's a world of thumping beats and non-stop dancing.

• Pacha, Munich - Want to feel like you're at an Ibiza party? Pacha's your place. It's all about glitz, glam, and beats that make your heart dance.

German cuisine isn’t just about sausages and beer (although, let's be real, they're pretty awesome). It's a culinary adventure that ranges from hearty comfort foods to avant-garde dishes that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance. First up, you've gotta try the legendary Schnitzel - a crispy, golden-brown delight that's the rockstar of German menus. Don't forget to jazz it up with a squeeze of lemon for that zesty kick. Then, brace yourself for the mighty Bratwurst. This isn't just any sausage - it's a flavorful journey through Germany's regions, each with its own twist on this classic. Pair it with a dollop of mustard and a side of sauerkraut for the ultimate German experience. Got a craving for something a bit cosy? Dive into a bowl of Käsespätzle, Germany's answer to mac 'n' cheese. It's cheesy, it's comforting, and it's like a hug for your stomach.

Restaurant recommendations:

• Vendôme, Bergisch Gladbach (near Cologne) - Chef Joachim Wissler takes you on a gourmet journey that's like a symphony for your palate. It's fine dining with a modern twist, nestled in a grandiose hotel.

• Tim Raue, Berlin - Buckle up for an Asian-inspired culinary ride. Chef Tim Raue mixes Berlin's edginess with exotic flavours, creating dishes that are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.

• Tantris, Munich - This place is a legend! It's like the Rolling Stones of German restaurants. Classic, with a touch of the 70s, serving dishes that are both sophisticated and unforgettably tasty.

• Schwarzwaldstube, Baiersbronn - Nestled in the Black Forest, it's a cosy spot that serves up traditional German dishes with a side of forest charm. It's like a comforting hug in food form.

• Restaurant Bareiss, Baiersbronn - Another Black Forest gem, this restaurant offers a culinary experience that's both down-to-earth and top-notch. Think of it as a culinary fairy tale in the heart of nature.