Book excerpt: You can count on Rick Steves to tell you what you really need to know when traveling in Germany. This guidebook takes you from fairy-tale castles, alpine forests, and quaint villages to the energetic Germany of today. Get the details on cruising the romantic Rhine or summiting the Zugspitze. Have a relaxing soak at a Black Forest mineral spa or take an exhilarating summer bobsled ride in the Bavarian Alps. Flash back to Berlin's turbulent past at Checkpoint Charlie; then celebrate the rebirth of Dresden and its glorious Frauenkirche. Rick's candid, humorous advice will guide you to good-value hotels and restaurants. He'll help you plan where to go and what to see, depending on the length of your trip. You'll learn which sights are worth your time and money, and how to get around Germany by train, bus, car—and even boat. More than just reviews and directions, a Rick Steves guidebook is a tour guide in your pocket.