Budget Travel in Germany
Good news for budget travellers: Germany is a relatively cheap country to visit. Berlin, its capital, even ranks among the most inexpensive big cities in Europe.
And we have some advice for you that will make the euro go even further – without taking the fun out of your vacation. Have a look at these Germany budget travel tips and save money, from flights and hotels to restaurants, public transportation, and sightseeing.
1. Save on Flights
The earlier you book, the cheaper the flight – in general. You can lower your airfare even more by visiting Germany in the off-season. The most expensive times to fly to Germany are in summer (June-August) and during the holiday season(December).
So how about traveling to Germany between January and May, or during October and November? Prices and crowds will be much smaller.
Flying within Germany and Europe can also be quite inexpensive. Berlin to Rome for 40 euros? Why not!
We always check flights on Skyscanner.com
2. Rental Cars and Train Tickets
If you want to rent a car in Germany, reserve it online while you are still back home. You will get much better deals if you get your rental car in advance and prices are often quoted in the currency you are booking from.
Want to see Germany by train? Stretch the Euro with special passes and discount train tickets like day passes, which allows you to travel to your heart’s content for a whole day for just 42 Euro. Book via Bahn
3. Pick-up a City Card
Most German cities offer discount city cards like the Berlin Welcome Card. These special passes allow for unlimited travel on the public transportation system and get you discounts or even free entry to many landmarks, museums, restaurants, and events. Ask at the Tourism Office or at the reception of your hotel/hostel.
We recommend using our partner:
4. Stay in a Hostel
Get a good night’s sleep without worrying about money by staying in a German hostel. Most hostels offer single and double rooms (between 30 – 90 Euro / £25 – £80) with private bathroom facilities.
Many hostels aren’t just cheap. Try the rooftop apartment of the Circus Hostel or get a little weird by staying in a 1930 caravan indoors (along with hotel, where we stayed in Germany).
If you don’t mind sharing a dorm with other travellers, you can save even more money and rest your head for as little as 12 Euro (£10 / $13) a night.
5. Eat Cheap
Eating out in Germany doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, it shouldn’t.
There are many inexpensive and delicious eateries, traditionally known as Imbiss. Try some German specialties like Bratwurst and Currywurst that come as a meal (with Pommes – fries) for less than 5 euro (£4 / $6).
For something less German sausage, try favorites falafel or Döner Kebab, a meal you shouldn’t pay more than 3 euros (£2.50 / $4) for.
If you are craving fresh sandwiches, rolls, or pastries, stop by a local Bäckerei (bakery).
6. Bring your student I.D
If you have an international student ID, bring it! You’ll be rewarded with discounts on everything from sights, shows, and museums, to movie theatres, swimming pools, and hostels.
Several organizations, like the ISIC, supply student IDs that offer further discounts.
7. Free Museums
Pay a visit to a German museum, but don’t pay for the ticket. Many German museums have an entry-free day, so check the museum’s website and don’t miss this opportunity.
Example – Topography of Terror in Berlin is free.
8. Best things are free
Many landmarks and attractions in Germany are free.
Take our self-guided Berlin walking tour (INSERT NEW POST LINKS) that leads you to the best (and free) sights of the city, stroll through the Old Town of Munich, visit the Hamburg Harbor, celebrate at local wine festivals and traditional Christmas Markets, climb the Alps, hike in the Black Forest and swim in the Baltic Sea – all without paying a single euro.
9. Extra tips
- Walking tours are a great way to get your bearings when you arrive in a new city, and give you an idea of the main sights you want to go back to. Most hostels in big cities offer walking tours daily that are usually free with a recommended tip for your guide at the end.
- Renting a bike can typically cost around 15 EUR (£12 / $16) a day but allows you to see more of the city or outdoors area than you could walking!
- If you are going to be exploring the outdoor region, like the Black Forest or Berchtesgaden National Park, consider hiking by yourself instead of as a guided group.
- Spend an afternoon having a picnic in one of Germany’s beautiful parks, like the Englischer Garten in Munich.
Book Tours and Purchase Tickets
Travel to Germany doesn’t have to be overly expensive! Make sure Germany is on your list!
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