Germany in shoulder season — best decision I made

Visited Germany in shoulder season deliberately and the decision paid off completely. Checkpoint Charlie without peak crowds is a totally different experience. Munich felt lived-in rather than touristy. Found a small place doing the best pretzels I've ever tasted — something that would have been invisible in high season when everything fills with visitors.

vibrant arts scene in Berlin was particularly magical with fewer people around. The weather was fine. The prices were better. If you have flexibility, avoid peak season.