This list of sites comprises what I believe to be the best online tools for immersing yourself in the German language. While this list is geared for the advanced beginner and intermediate student, anyone with an interest in the German language can enjoy listening to the authentic radio broadcasts and reading some of the greatest poetry ever written, in the original language.

Dw-World

Deutsche Welle is not only an amazing resource of current events, social commentary, political news and entertainment articles, but this particular section contains audio links to the daily news articles. The audio is slowly and clearly spoken and each day features a different person reading, so the listener can experience a wide range of native speakers. The archive goes back quite far also.

Geo

While the stem directory of Geo has a wealth of content for the German language student, this interactive section of the site is of particular interest. Here you can participate in the forum, take tests and listen to audio from the site.

Iee

To help with any troublesome words you may encounter, this bilingual dictionary has 209,000 entries to assist you in working through your translations. The dictionary also organizes the different parts of speech for easy reference and handy “Umlaut” buttons in case you don’t have them on your keyboard.

German Grammar

This wonderful site has everything the aspiring German speaker needs to effectively integrate grammar into his/her studies. There are 35 online lessons with audio, a section for reading literature and poetry, and a chat room.

Poesie Liebesgedichte

Lastly, here is a large repository of German love poems, guaranteed to make any German beauty swoon. The directory is organized alphabetically by author and is huge! While you are there, make sure you read my favorite poem, Glück und Traum, by Goethe.