How to spend a perfect weekend in Germany like a local doing the best activities

Ever wondered on a Friday evening what activities can you do on the weekend? We eagerly look forward to the weekend but when it arrives most of the time we don't have a plan on how to spend it.

Most of the expats don't have a lot of family and friends around them and it is very important to be out and about for the physical and mental well being.

A lot of countries have a mall and multiplex culture where a visit to these places is the norm on the weekends and holidays. But I have not seen that in Germany. Saturdays are meant for shopping as all the shops are closed on Sundays including the malls. However, there is a higher preference for being active and fit in your chosen way rather then going to the movies. 

Of course, like any other place you can join a gym or a hobby club or play a sport by getting in touch with interested individuals with the help of the many available apps. But there is more that you can do occasionally!

Come rain or shine there are many new experiences to have and things to do in Germany throughout the year. Spring and summer are especially so beautiful that I find it difficult to sit at home on weekends and holidays. However, when the weather is cold, cloudy and rainy you need extra motivation to step outside. Don't let the weather dampen your spirits! Over the years I have observed my neighbours, friends and colleagues routinely go for at least one of the activities listed here.

Depending on your fitness level and interest here are some of the best things to do in Germany. Enjoy!

Hiking

One of the hiking trails in Eifel national park

Germany has 16 national parks spread across the country. You can find ample information online about the amazing hiking trails 😎in these parks suitable for all levels. There are more options to chose from like the small hills with vineyards or hiking trails leading up to a beautiful castle. 
If hiking is not your thing, you can choose to walk around the lakes, beautiful river banks or parks in the city. Many cities have a well manicured Japanese garden in one of the parks. German countryside is stunning as seen in the above picture. Go explore it! Spending time in nature is wonderful for the body and mind. It gives us an opportunity for some introspection and inspiration. 😇

Nordic walking

Nordic walking is a walking technique with the help of specially designed walking poles. You can spot people of all age groups (except children) on the hiking trails with these poles. It provides a full body workout. Nordic walking is now also a separate category in short and half marathon competitions.

Cycling

Electric bicycles on a cycle path

Cycling is popular not just to travel in the city or to work but also as a sport. If you are on the highway on a weekend or around the holidays, you will spot a lot of cars mounted with bicycles. Some of these are mountain bikes while others are just the 'normal' bikes. Carrying them with you on trips is quite handy. But if you don't want to do that, worry not! You will find a lot of bike/e-bike renting options almost everywhere. Once you reach the destination, you can use the carefully planned and marked cycle routes to explore the scenic countryside.

RV parking spot near vineyards

A very popular way of traveling to a destination is in a RV. Once you reach your destination and park in the designated parking area for RVs, you can go for any of the above-mentioned activities and come back to your temporary home and enjoying a home like meal. The RV parking spots are typically near a river or a vineyard or in the middle of a national park. Perfect to spend quality time in nature! 😍

Geocaching

If you loved to participate in treasure hunts as a kid, then this activity is definitely for you! It is super fun to find a geocache and feel that sense of achievement while doing some physical activity and getting fresh air outside.

Bouldering

Bouldering has become increasing popular everywhere in recent years. It is like rock climbing but indoors, safe and you can choose the rock wall as per your level. It is a great way to build strength and technique while also getting a full body workout.

Water sports

Kayaking lessons in river Elbe

In the summer months, water sports are very popular in the abundant lakes and rivers. Everyone wants to get as much sun as possible! Most popular being swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, water skiing and stand-up paddle boarding. The water bodies are clean and have clear instructions related to safety and what is not allowed. For example, some lakes allow swimming while some don't. So do check the rules before venturing into any water body. 
After some fun in the water, have a barbecue along the shore or the 'beach'. Most of the lakes and rivers have a designated beach area with ample sand and even a beach volleyball court. So, even if you are not interested in water sports do consider spending a lazy Sunday afternoon sitting in the sand with a drink in your hand. That is definitely my most favourite activity! 😊

Skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding are extreme winter sports and not everyone's cup of tea. If you have never tried them it is better to book a trial lesson with an instructor. I had no idea how popular snowboarding was until I visited an indoor ski slope. From little kids to older adults everyone was learning and having a good time on the snow. It was very exciting to watch the skiers and snow boarders slide at high speeds on the advanced slope. 
Germany is blessed with a vast number of snow-capped mountains. In places like Winterberg or Fichtelberg the slopes are sprayed with artificial snow! So indoors or outdoors, in natural or artificial setting you have many ways of having fun in the snow. Spending time in a ski resort makes for great family holiday.  

Thermal baths and saunas

Therme Euskirchen

After doing so many sports and considering the weather all year round, it is no wonder that thermal baths and saunas are extremely popular in Germany. The abundance of natural hot springs is another reason for the popularity of the thermal baths. Some are attracted to them due to the healing powers of the mineral water while others just want to relax. If you come across a town whose name has 'Bad' in it then it is a spa town. 
The saunas are normally mixed gender and sans bathing suits. Some saunas have a dedicated day only for ladies. In the bigger spa and wellness centres you will find multiple sauna rooms with varying degrees of temperatures and themes. The theme is reflected in the decor and the aromas floating in the vapours. 
You don't have to wait for a visit to a spa town to relax in a sauna. Many gyms and swimming pools are also equipped with a sauna.
You can also find a lot of Turkish baths or hamams in all cities. They are a variation of the steam baths.
Tip: I spent my birthday in Therme Euskirschen and the entry was free for me!! So check out for special offers for special occasions before making your trip.

I hope this post gave you some ideas on what you can try next.

What is your favourite thing to do in Germany? 
Is there any other activity that you enjoy and I have missed? 
Do leave a comment!