Germany
Germany is a Western European country with a landscape of forests, rivers, mountain ranges and North Sea beaches. It has over 2 millennia of history. Berlin, its capital, is home to art and nightlife scenes, the Brandenburg Gate and many sites relating to WWII. Munich is known for its Oktoberfest and beer halls, including the 16th-century Hofbräuhaus. Frankfurt, with its skyscrapers, houses the European Central Bank, Bavaria has a series of castles, and you can ski in the Alps during the winter months.
It’s one of the safest countries in Europe and a large part of the population speaks English, making your travels easy and stress-free! Whether you’re looking to eat and drink your way around the country or you want to immerse yourself amongst churches, castles, or museums, Germany has something for every traveller.
Best Time To Visit
In Germany, the “peak season” runs roughly from May through September. Summer has its advantages: the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, very long days (light until after 21:00), and the busiest schedule of tourist fun. Pack light clothing and expect large crowds if you visit during the summer months.
Travel during spring and fall is easier and can be less expensive.
As for festivals, Oktoberfest takes place from late September to early October, and the famous Christmas Markets begin at the end of November, where you can treat yourself to a German Sausage or some hot Mulled Wine.
For a month by month look, click here
What To Expect
Capital: Berlin
Language: The official language of Germany is German. You will find that most Germans can speak English very well. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in German: “Hallo” and “Danke”
Currency: The currency of Germany is the Euro (EUR). Euro (click here for current conversion rates)
Visa: 90-day Schengen visa on arrival for most nationalities (click here for more info)
Credit Cards & ATMs: Germany is a predominately a cash-focused society, you will have no problem using your credit card when in Germany. ATMs or Cash Machines in Germany are known as Bankomat. Use Google Maps to find ATMs by searching “Bankomat”. DO NOT USE Euronet ATMs, these will charge you a ridiculous amount of commission and a give you a poor exchange rate.
Plugs: For Germany there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type F is the plug which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Germany operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz I recommend buying a Universal Power Adapter
Safety: Germany is one of the safest countries to visit in Europe. You can feel safe going out at night. Safety Rating: Ranked 22 on the Global Peace Index with a score of 1.55
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Germany, reasons to visit Germany, and how to travel Germany on a budget.
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Our Favourite Experiences
Check out our favourite experiences in Germany that should be on your list!
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Germany
Tucked away in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle seems straight out of a fairy tale. Commissioned by the reclusive King Ludwig II in the 19th century, this Romanesque revival palace is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Its ornate towers, sprawling balconies, and dramatic mountain backdrop make it one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, visitors can traverse opulent rooms, grand corridors, and admire the king’s vision of a medieval dreamworld. The nearby Hohenschwangau Castle and serene Alpsee lake add to the allure of this enchanting region.
Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate stands as a symbol of unity and hope. Built in the late 18th century and once a symbol of division during the Cold War, it now embodies the spirit of a reunited Germany. Walking beneath its grand neoclassical arches, one is transported back to pivotal moments in history. Nearby, the poignant Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe offers a sobering reflection on the past. The bustling Unter den Linden boulevard, lined with historic buildings and modern cafes, makes for a perfect continuation of a Berlin exploration.
When autumn arrives in Munich, the city bursts into a jubilant festival spirit with Oktoberfest, the world’s most famous beer festival. Thousands gather in traditional Bavarian attire to revel in merriment, with beer mugs in hand, sausages on plates, and folk music in the air. Sprawling tents host enthusiastic crowds where they toast, sing, and dance. Beyond the beer, there are colourful parades, thrilling amusement rides, and artisanal craft stalls. While Oktoberfest is emulated worldwide, nothing quite matches the authenticity and zest of celebrating it in its homeland.
The Rhine River, with its meandering course, is the essence of romantic Germany. A cruise along this river offers unparalleled views of medieval castles, terraced vineyards, and quaint villages. The Lorelei Rock, a steep slate rock on the river bank, is enveloped in legends and provides a dramatic highlight to the journey. Along the way, stops in historic towns like Rüdesheim and Koblenz offer delightful detours, with local wines, cobblestone streets, and regional folklore adding to the charm.
The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, is a vast expanse of wooded hills in southwestern Germany. Its dark fir trees, misty valleys, and folkloric tales make it a mystical destination. Hiking or cycling through its scenic trails often leads to serene waterfalls, secluded lakes, and traditional farmhouses. The region is renowned for its cuckoo clocks, cherry cakes, and thermal spas. A stay in towns like Baden-Baden or Freiburg, with their half-timbered houses and bustling markets, encapsulates the timeless appeal of the Black Forest.
Germany Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – €20–€40 / £17–£35 / $22–$44
- Hostel Private Rooms – €50–€100 / £43–£87 / $55–$110
- Budget Hotels – €60–€120 / £52–£104 / $66–$132
- Airbnb Private Rooms – €40–€80 / £35–£70 / $44–$88
- Airbnb Apartments – €80–€150 / £70–£130 / $88–$165
- Campsites – €15–€30 / £13–£26 / $17–$33
Transportation
- Local Bus or Tram – €2–€3.50 per ride / £1.75–£3 / $2.20–$3.85
- Intercity Train (ICE) – €20–€80 (advance booking) / £17–£70 / $22–$88
- Regional Train (RB/RE) – €10–€30 / £8.70–£26 / $11–$33
- Taxi (per km) – €1.50–€2 / £1.30–£1.75 / $1.65–$2.20
- Car Rental (per day) – €30–€70 / £26–£61 / $33–$77
Food
- Budget Meal – €7–€15 / £6–£13 / $8–$16.50
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – €20–€40 / £17–£35 / $22–$44
- Coffee – €3–€5 / £2.60–£4.30 / $3.30–$5.50
- Beer – €3–€6 / £2.60–£5.20 / $3.30–$6.60
Activities
- Museum Entry – €5–€15 / £4.30–£13 / $5.50–$16.50
- Guided Tours – €30–€60 / £26–£52 / $33–$66
- Beer Tours – €30–€50 / £26–£43 / $33–$55
- Castle Entry (e.g., Neuschwanstein) – €15–€20 / £13–£17 / $16.50–$22
Germany Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – €50–€70 Per Day
A backpacking budget allows you to stay in hostel dorms, cook some of your meals, and use public transportation like trains and buses. You can enjoy free and low-cost activities such as exploring parks, joining free walking tours, and visiting attractions with discounted student or youth tickets.
If you plan to enjoy Germany’s famous beers, add an extra €5–€10 per day for drinks. Shopping at grocery stores like Aldi or Lidl and preparing your own meals will stretch your budget further.
Midrange – €120–€150 Per Day
A mid-range budget offers comfort with a private room in a hostel, Airbnb, or budget hotel. You’ll have the flexibility to dine out at mid-range restaurants, enjoy a few drinks at pubs, and explore museums and landmarks like Neuschwanstein Castle or Berlin’s Museum Island.
This budget also covers intercity travel on regional trains or buses and occasional guided tours to enhance your experience. It provides a balance between comfort and affordability while letting you experience Germany’s highlights.
Upscale – €250+ Per Day
A luxury budget ensures a stay in boutique hotels, high-end Airbnbs, or historic accommodations like castle hotels. You can indulge in fine dining, private guided tours, and exclusive experiences such as river cruises on the Rhine or attending a classical music performance in cities like Leipzig or Munich.
This budget also covers first-class train tickets or car rentals for convenient travel across the country. You’ll have access to seamless transportation and the freedom to enjoy Germany’s best attractions and experiences without compromise.
Germany Money-Saving Tips
Germany can be an expensive destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money while exploring its rich culture and history. Here are some updated tips:
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water in Germany is safe to drink, and you can refill your bottle at public fountains or cafes. This saves money and reduces plastic waste.
Take Free Walking Tours – Many cities, including Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, offer free walking tours. They’re a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture. Remember to tip your guide €5–€10 if you enjoy the tour.
Cook Your Own Meals – Many hostels and Airbnbs in Germany have kitchen facilities. Buy fresh produce and groceries from stores like Aldi, Lidl, or Edeka to save on dining costs.
Use Regional Day Tickets – For intercity travel, regional day tickets (like the Bayern Ticket or Niedersachsen Ticket) offer unlimited travel on regional trains for groups or individuals at a fixed price, saving money on transportation.
Stay in Budget Accommodation – Hostels from Hostelworld and budget hotel chains like Meininger or Motel One offer affordable stays. Booking in advance often secures better rates. Use Booking.com for hotel search!
Walk or Cycle – Most German cities are walkable or bike-friendly. Renting a bike for around €10–€15 per day is an affordable way to explore cities like Munich or Leipzig.
Take Advantage of Free Attractions – Many landmarks and museums in Germany, like the East Side Gallery in Berlin or public parks such as Englischer Garten in Munich, are free to visit.
Use Public Transport – Germany’s public transport is extensive and affordable. Day passes for buses, trams, and metros typically cost €7–€10, offering unlimited travel in cities.
Avoid Taxis – Taxis in Germany can be pricey. Opt for ride-hailing apps like Bolt or stick to public transport for cost-effective travel.
Travel Off-Season – Visit Germany in the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) to enjoy lower accommodation rates, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.
Buy Museum or City Passes – Many cities offer passes, such as the Berlin WelcomeCard or Munich CityTourCard, which provide discounts on attractions and include free public transport.
Shop at Local Bakeries – German bakeries offer delicious and inexpensive snacks, such as pretzels or sandwiches, making them a great option for budget-friendly meals.
How to Get Around in Germany
Germany boasts a highly efficient and well-developed transportation network, making it easy to explore cities, towns, and countryside. Here’s a guide to navigating the country affordably and efficiently:
Walking
Walking is the best way to explore Germany’s cities and towns. Urban areas like Berlin, Munich, and Heidelberg are pedestrian-friendly, with attractions, parks, and cafes often within walking distance.
Public Transportation
Germany’s public transport system is extensive and reliable, including buses, trams, metros, and suburban trains (S-Bahn).
- Fares: Single tickets cost €2–€3.50, while day passes are around €7–€10, offering unlimited travel within cities.
- Monthly Passes: If staying longer, consider a Deutschlandticket (€49/month), which allows unlimited travel on regional and local transport across Germany.
Trains
Trains are the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between cities and regions. Operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB), they include high-speed trains (ICE), intercity trains (IC), and regional trains.
- High-Speed Trains (ICE): Fares range from €30–€150 depending on distance and booking time. Berlin to Munich, for instance, costs around €100 for a standard ticket.
- Regional Trains: Ideal for shorter distances; day tickets like the Bayern Ticket offer unlimited travel within a state for around €25–€30 for one person and small additional fees for group travel.
- Recommended Train Ticket Provider: Trainline
Buses and Coaches
Long-distance buses, like those operated by FlixBus or BusBud, are an affordable alternative to trains.
- Fares: Start at €10–€30 depending on the route and booking time.
- Routes: Popular for intercity travel, such as Berlin to Hamburg or Munich to Frankfurt.
Airport Transfers
Most major German airports are connected to city centres via trains or shuttle buses.
- Munich Airport: The S-Bahn (S1/S8) costs around €12 and takes 40 minutes to reach the city centre.
- Frankfurt Airport: Regional trains cost €5–€10, while an ICE to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof costs around €15–€20.
- Taxis: Airport transfers via taxi can range from €30–€70 depending on the distance.
- Recommended Airport Transfer: Welcome Pickups
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
Taxis are available but expensive.
- Base Fare: Starts at €3–€4, with an additional €1.50–€2 per kilometre.
- Apps: Ride-hailing apps like Bolt, Uber, and Free Now are available in most cities and offer slightly cheaper alternatives.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a great option for exploring rural areas, the Romantic Road, or the Black Forest.
- Costs: Rentals start at €50–€100 per day.
- Requirements: An International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required for non-EU drivers.
- Recommended Car Rental: DiscoverCars Germany
Cycling
Germany is extremely bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and rental stations in most cities.
- Bike Rentals: Cost around €10–€15 per day.
- Tips: Cycling is a fantastic way to explore cities like Munster (known as Germany’s cycling capital) or scenic routes along the Rhine River.
Tips for Getting Around
- Book Train Tickets Early: Advance bookings on the Deutsche Bahn website or app can save up to 50% on fares.
- Travel Off-Peak: Avoid peak hours to save money and enjoy less crowded trains and buses.
- Use Regional Day Passes: These provide unlimited travel within specific regions and are ideal for day trips.
- Validate Your Tickets: Remember to stamp your ticket at validation machines before boarding trains or trams to avoid fines.
- Opt for Public Transport in Cities: It’s more affordable and convenient than driving or taking taxis.
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