Germany Vs France

Charming villages and a quaint countryside. That’s France. Bustling cities and contemporary conveniences. That’s Germany. On the face of it, it may seem that these countries are starkly different but you’ll be surprised. France and Germany have more in common than you’d think. Sure, Germany may not have the arts and architecture that France is famous for but it does have its own character. 

France offers an idyllic holiday experience. It’s a destination for those who want to immerse themselves in history and culture. Germany is a holiday destination for those whom antiquity isn’t as important as modernity.

Paris

Fondly known as the ‘city of love’, a holiday to Paris and if you’re not already in love, you definitely will be by the time you leave. A destination for lovebirds, Paris uncovers surprises every step of the way. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the world’s most visited art museum, the Louvre, other notable landmarks in the city include Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, the Paris Opera and Champs-Élysées.  Take a stroll down the picturesque Canal St-Martin or wander through the city’s gardens including Jardines des Palntes, a botanical garden.

What to Eat

While in Paris or anywhere in France for that matter, eat like the French do! If you’re in the mood to spend, try haute French cuisine at one of the many fining dining establishments across the city. For something easier on the pocket, French street food is probably the most exotic to be found the word over. Sample a variety of crepes and baguette sandwiches. French desserts are mouthwatering and you can’t leave France without feasting on authentic crème brûlée, macarons and profiteroles.

Where to Stay

Accommodation doesn’t come cheap in Paris. If you’re on a very generous budget, opt for centrally located luxury hotels like Le Meurice Hotel Paris near the Louvre or Le Bristol Hotel and De Vigny Hotel near Champs-Élysées. Budget conscious travellers can consider Ambassadeur Hotel and Abrial Hotel near Arc de Triomphe or Premiere Classe Bussy Saint and Villa Bellagio Bussy Saint Georges on the outskirts of Paris and approximately a 10 minute drive to Euro Disney.

Berlin

Berlin is where the old and new meet. Being one of the top populous cities in the European Union, Berlin is a prominent hub for technological, construction, pharmaceuticals and biomedical engineering companies. Berlin is also a popular tourist destination and while here, there’s plenty to explore. Travellers who enjoy an urban lifestyle will especially be in for a treat. The Brandenburg Gate is the city’s most prominent landmark and particularly impressive when lit up at night. Checkpoint Charlie is steeped in history as this was the border between West and East Germany. Today, the area is buzzing with corporate offices and businesses. Other sites definitely worth checking out in Berlin include the Potsdam’s Gardens, Berlin Cathedral and the beautiful German square, Gendarmenmarkt. Also, don’t miss taking a riverboat cruise down Berlin’s two large rivers, the Spree and Havel.

What to Eat

While German food doesn’t nearly have the sophisticated reputation that French cuisine does, there are some must-haves. Beer lovers will love the multitude beer gardens and pubs serving local and craft brews. A great way to start the day is with an authentic German breakfast comprising the choicest of breads, cheeses and meats. Other popular German eats are stuffed schnitzels, traditional German sausages called bratwursts and pretzels.

Where to Stay

Hotels in Berlin will not set you back as much as those in Paris as you’ll find far more options across all budgets. In the city centre Mitte of the former East city, choose from Park Inn by Radisson Berlin-Alexanderplatz Hotel, NH Berlin Heinrich Heine Hotel or Best Western Hotel am Spittelmarket. Fancier and pricier options across the city include Grand Hyatt Berlin, The Westin Grand, Berlin Hotel and Rocco Forte Hotel de Rome.

Budgeting for your holiday to France and Germany is dependent on all that you’d like to see and do and where you’d like to go. Here’s an approximate cost comparison of prices in Paris and Berlin:-

Destination	Paris, France	Berlin, Germany
Hotels (centrally located budget accommodation)	Rs. 10,300 per night (single room)	Rs. 6,900 per night (single room)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 4500 per day	Rs. 3,200 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 140 per ticket	Rs. 205 per ticket
Miscellaneous	Rs. 3800 per day	Rs. 2900 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.