States of Germany
Germany is divided into 16 federal states, three of which are cities with a status equivalent to a state: Bremen, Hamburg and Berlin. German states are roughly grouped into northern, central and southern regions as well as separate locations, which are the German Alps, Frankfurt Rhine-Main area and Lake Constance. This information may help when travelling across the country or choosing an investment location.
Northern States of Germany
Bremen
The oldest of Germany's coastal cities, Bremen began as a fishing village, but eventually became one of the most important ports in the country, second only to Hamburg. Bremen is situated on the river Weser, 70 km upriver from where it flows into the North Sea. The central Marktplatz is surrounded by 13th century historic buildings, many of which were rebuilt by the citizens themselves after World War II.
Hamburg
Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany. Diverse, large-scale, full of energy, luxurious in the centre, green on the outskirts, with countless ships and cranes in the port, and bridges over canals. Housing prices in Hamburg are rising faster than the national average, the population is increasing, the proportion of renters in the city centre is around 65%, allowing for income generation not only from renting the property out but also from its increment.
Lower Saxony
Lower Saxony is the only state in Germany having a sea coast and mountains. To the north there is access to the North Sea, and to the south lies the low mountain range of the Harz, which is abundantly used for tourism and sporting purposes. Every year, Lower Saxony attracts millions of people with its high-rate tourism services, highly-developed infrastructure and huge number of sights.
Schleswig-Holstein
Schleswig-Holstein is washed by the Baltic Sea to the east, the North Sea to the west, and shares the border with Denmark to the north. This windy seaside region is especially beautiful in spring and autumn. There are many seaside resorts here: Travemuende, Amrum Island and the famous Sylt Island, a favourite holiday spot of the Germans. The region lies entirely in the North German Plain, which explains its flat landscape and the lack of mountains.
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has an outlet to the Baltic Sea and a wide, sandy coastline. The second name of the land is the land of a thousand lakes. This Baltic state has over 30 seaside resorts, the most popular of which are on the island of Ruegen. Towns in Mecklenburg are among the most beautiful in Germany. This federal state is one of the most promising for the tourism business.
Central States of Germany
Berlin
Berlin, the capital of Germany, has the status of the state. The city is full of modern vibes, while preserving all of its vast historical heritage. Berlin's landmarks include the rebuilt Charlottenburg Palace, the glass-domed Reichstag building, the Brandenburg Gate and the Bundeskanzleramt. The construction of new residential developments here is proceeding apace. Due to high demand and rising rents, Berlin can generate a steady income for investors.
North Rhine-Westphalia
North Rhine-Westphalia is in the west of Germany. It is the most densely populated region in the country, bordering Belgium and the Netherlands. The tranquil and quiet environment of the nature reserves is perfectly combined here with the dynamic life of the cities. Valleys and forests cover much of the area. The Land is known for its health resorts and hiking trails, clean air and numerous outdoor museums. All this makes the region very attractive to investors for tourism development.
Saxony
Saxony is the eastern German state with its capital Dresden. The region is famous for its unique natural landscapes, fascinating towns, wineries, ancient castles and fortresses. The land borders the Czech Republic and Poland, and there are two international airports. The region is home to many well-known companies like Porsche and BMW, but Saxony still remains the “green heart of Europe”. Real estate here is cheaper than in the west, but can generate good rental income.
Saxony-Anhalt
Saxony-Anhalt is one of the most sparsely populated lands in Germany located in the east of the country. It has lots of rivers and mountains, parks and old towns, and all sorts of sightseeing. The region invests heavily in science and has two university cities: Halle and Magdeburg. In recent decades, most towns have undergone renovation and modernisation and now look modern and attractive. The region offers residential properties of excellent quality you can purchase at a profit.
Thuringia
Land Thuringia lies in central Germany. Its largest cities are Gera, Jena and Erfurt. The latter is the capital of the land and has the only merchants' bridge in the country, the Kremerbruecke, with houses built on both sides. To the north of the region lies the largest virgin forest in the country, Hainich, untouched by man. There is also the Kyffhaeuser mountain range. Many Thuringian towns have the prefix “Bad”, signifying their specialisation in health-care. Affordable treatment in the local health centres and a wealth of sightseeing attract many tourists to the region.
Brandenburg
Brandenburg is the second largest state in Germany. It’s hallmarks are crystal-clear lakes, unspoilt natural landscapes and a large number of historical sites. The region has 11 nature reserves and 3 biosphere reserves, a national park and many spa resorts. Potsdam, with its modern houses and lovely low-rise buildings, is one of the cities best known and most attractive in terms of real estate.
Hessen
Hessen is a federal land in the very centre of Germany. Its capital is Wiesbaden with its famous casino. It is home to the world's largest exhibition devoted to modern art, museums, a mountain park and unique fountains. The largest city in the region is Frankfurt am Main. The land is regarded as one of the most dynamic in the country. The impressive nature with its leisurely rivers, verdant hills and numerous sights makes Hessen one of the most attractive regions for tourists.
Southern States of Germany
Bavaria
Bavaria is the largest state in Germany. It lies in the foothills of the Alps in the beautiful valley of the Main and Danube rivers. There is a national park, the Bavarian Forest. Munich, the capital of the region, is the most attractive city in the country in terms of real estate investments. The ancient Roman town of Regensburg and the “party city” Nuremberg are no less interesting. Bavaria has burgeoning industry, but the local nature with its forests, lakes and mountains is like a fairy tale, just as it was in ancient times.
Baden-Württemberg
Baden-Württemberg is situated in the southern part of Germany and is the warmest and sunniest part of the country. It is home to Lake Constance and the Black Forest, with its coniferous and beech forests. Every year the region is visited by many tourists. The presence of representative offices of reputable companies makes the land wealthy - the earnings here are very high. Consequently, investments in real estate are very profitable. The capital of the land is Stuttgart.
Saarland
The Saarland is considered a slice of France on German soil. Here, in French parlance, the atmosphere is like that of Montmartre in Paris. The region is renowned for its vineyards and wine-making traditions, and vigorous development of science. The Saarland is home to the only artificial intelligence centre in the country. In close proximity are France and Luxembourg. The capital of the land is Saarbruecken. Owning a property in the Saarland brings a steady rental income.
Rhineland-Palatinate
Rheinland-Palatinate, with its capital in Mainz, is located in south-west Germany. Forests cover 42% of the land area. The region is steeped in history and has many historic monuments. Most sights can be found along the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Rhineland-Pfalz is famous for its mineral springs and thermal baths. The Mosel valley is regarded as a tourist destination.
Other locations in Germany
The German Alps
The German Alps are also called the Bavarian Alps because they are located in Bavaria between the Salach and Lech rivers. It is a southern region that attracts tourists not only for its skiing activities but also for its numerous sights. The enormous coniferous massif and the snowy white mountain slopes leave a long-lasting impression. Skiers of all ages and skills can ski here, which is why the local chalets, villas and houses are in constant demand.
Metropolitan area
Frankfurt-Rhine-Main
The metropolitan area of Frankfurt-Rhine-Main is the geographical centre of Europe and one of the most important parts of Germany with a highly developed economy. It is home to an enormous number of transport and trading companies, information and research centres. Frankfurt am Main is the fifth largest city in the country where ultra-modern skyscrapers rub shoulders with medieval houses. Within the city limits there is a beautiful forest and a multitude of museums on the waterfront. Local real estate is in high demand and generates a good income.
Lake Constance
Lake Constance is known for its many spas and quiet, picturesque villages. There is a monkey park on the shore, and the 23m-high Rhine Falls are particularly popular. The German towns of Meersburg, Konstanz and Lindau on the lake shore are visited not only by Germans but also by people from other countries. Tourists have the opportunity to combine rest and health improvement with an interesting excursion programme.