Austria’s JJ won the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest on Sunday, with his operatic song “Wasted Love” triumphing at the world’s biggest live music television event.

From the limits of freedom of speech to the prevalence of annoying neighbours and Germany’s not-so-proud tradition of coming last in Eurovision, here’s what we’ve been talking about at The Local this week.

Saturday’s Eurovision Song Contest final features artists from 26 countries battling it out to win viewers’ hearts and claim the coveted microphone-shaped trophy.

Germany is home to countless beautiful villages. Here are 8 of The Local’s recommendations for some of the most charming ones to visit this summer for a day trip or as part of a longer tour.

The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly skilled people from outside the EU. Why does Germany issue by far the most compared to other EU states?

Whenever you’re having an off-day and struggling to get a grip on things, it may be handy to have this German word in mind – that is, if you can remember it.

If your visa to visit or move to Germany is rejected after the start of July, you will no longer be able to use a free government review process to challenge it.

Just days after taking office, Germany’s new black-red coalition is already facing setbacks, with new data suggesting the government could have far less money to work with than previously thought.

Merz opposes relaunch of Nord Stream 2 pipeline, German teenagers among world leaders for screentime, Lufthansa extends Tel Aviv flight suspension, and more news from around Germany on Friday.

Home to Germany’s largest airport, you can expect to find direct flights from Frankfurt to most major US cities. Here’s a look at some of the lesser-known destinations with direct connections this summer.