<P> Germany comprises sixteen states that are collectively referred to as Länder . Each state has its own state constitution and is largely autonomous in regard to its internal organisation . Due to differences in size and population the subdivision of these states varies , especially between city states ( Stadtstaaten ) and states with larger territories ( Flächenländer ) . For regional administrative purposes five states , namely Baden - Württemberg , Bavaria , Hesse , North Rhine - Westphalia and Saxony , consist of a total of 22 Government Districts ( Regierungsbezirke ) . As of 2009 Germany is divided into 403 districts ( Kreise ) on municipal level , these consist of 301 rural districts and 102 urban districts . </P>
<P> Germany comprises sixteen states that are collectively referred to as Länder . Each state has its own state constitution and is largely autonomous in regard to its internal organisation . Due to differences in size and population the subdivision of these states varies , especially between city states ( Stadtstaaten ) and states with larger territories ( Flächenländer ) . For regional administrative purposes five states , namely Baden - Württemberg , Bavaria , Hesse , North Rhine - Westphalia and Saxony , consist of a total of 22 Government Districts ( Regierungsbezirke ) . As of 2009 Germany is divided into 403 districts ( Kreise ) on municipal level , these consist of 301 rural districts and 102 urban districts . </P>
how many states are within germany 's borders
how many states are within germany 's borders
sixteen
sixteen