Located in central Europe, Germany is made up of the North German
Plain, the Central German Uplands (Mittelgebirge) and the Southern German
Highlands. The Bavarian plateau in the southwest averages 1,600 ft (488 m) above
sea level, but it reaches 9,721 ft (2,962 m) in the Zugspitze Mountains, the
highest point in the country. Germany's major rivers are the Danube, the Elbe,
the Oder, the Weser, and the Rhine.
The German climate is variable, so it is best to be prepared for all types of
weather throughout the year. That said, the most reliable weather is from May to
October. This coincides, naturally enough, with the standard tourist season
(except for skiing). The shoulder periods can bring fewer tourists and
surprisingly pleasant weather. There is no special rainy season.