Published on April 30, 2024 · Written by Belinda Ferreira
For those seeking a travel destination that has medieval towns with castles and big cities featuring modern architecture, Germany offers the best of both worlds. This travel guide will help you make the most of your German adventure by providing recommendations for sightseeing, cuisine, transportation and general travel tips.
Top Travel Resources for Germany
| # | Service | Best for | Why we recommend it | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Go City | City passes | Bundles top city attractions into one pass at up to 50% off individual tickets. | Visit site |
| 2 | QEEQ | Car rental | Compares major car rental desks and offers price-drop protection on bookings. | Visit site |
| 3 | EKTA | Travel insurance | Travel insurance with online claims, including adventure sport options. | Visit site |
| 4 | Drimsim | eSIM & data | Pay-as-you-go travel eSIM: you pay only for the data you use. | Visit site |
| 5 | AirHelp | Flight compensation | Claims compensation for delayed or cancelled flights on your behalf, for a success fee. | Visit site |
| 6 | Radical Storage | Luggage storage | Flat-rate luggage storage near stations and attractions. | Visit site |
| 7 | WeGoTrip | Self-guided tours | Self-guided audio tours for cities and museums, at your own pace. | Visit site |
| 8 | AutoEurope | Car rental | Long-established car rental broker for Europe and the UK. | Visit site |
Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Germany
Take some time to learn some simple German greetings, such as “Guten Tag” (good day), “Auf Wiedersehen” (goodbye), and “Danke schön” (thank you very much). It’s also important to note that Germans are generally quite reserved and may seem unfriendly or distant to some visitors. Personal space is respected, and it’s not common to strike up conversations with strangers in public.
Health and Safety in Germany
Germany is one of the safest countries in Europe and has an excellent healthcare system. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas like train stations and markets, especially in large cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich. Keep your bag zipped and in front of you in crowds.
Travel Insurance in Germany
Travel insurance is recommended to protect you from unexpected costs related to medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost luggage. Medical expenses in Germany, particularly for emergency care or prescription medications, can be substantial, making travel insurance a worthwhile investment.
Visas and Required Documents
You do not need a Visa for short stays (up to 90 days). If you are planning to stay longer than 90 days, a Visa will be required. EU citizens do not require a visa to visit Germany for any duration, but they must carry a valid passport or national identity card.
Weather
May to October are the warmer months that are the ideal time to visit if you want to do some hiking, sightseeing and go to outdoor festivals (Munich’s Oktoberfest starts in late September and runs until the beginning of October). December to February are the colder months, ideal for Christmas markets and winter sports.
Transportation in Germany
Germany offers a variety of public transportation options for getting around, including trains, buses, and trams. There are various ticket options available, including single tickets, day passes, and rail passes. Biking is another excellent alternative to get around the city. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the small towns that are not well-connected by public transportation.
Money and Tipping in Germany
While Germany is becoming more card-friendly, cash is still widely used. If you plan to visit small towns or local markets, it’s a good idea to have some euros on you, just in case. Taxes are included in the price of goods and services, which means that the displayed price is the final price that you will pay. Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars.
The Best Cities to Visit in Germany
Germany is home to numerous amazing cities, each with its unique vibe, rich history, and captivating attractions. Whether you’re into history, art, nightlife, or food, Germany has something for everyone.
Berlin
The capital city is rich in history, culture, and art. From the Berlin Wall to the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag, Berlin is rich in landmarks. Berlin is famous for its vibrant, underground nightlife scene. From techno clubs to casual bars, there’s always something happening.
Top Attractions: Berlin Wall Memorial, Museum Island, East Side Gallery, Alexanderplatz, and the Berlin Cathedral.
Munich
Munich is known for its festive atmosphere, especially during Oktoberfest. The city has a unique blend of traditional Bavarian culture and modern influences, featuring excellent beer gardens, stunning parks, and historic architecture.
Top Attractions: Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, English Garden, and the Hofbräuhaus beer hall.
Hamburg
Hamburg is known for its modern architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and iconic harbour. The city seamlessly blends modernity with history and boasts a fantastic food scene, particularly in seafood.
Top Attractions: Miniatur Wunderland (the largest model railway), Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and the historic Speicherstadt district.
Cologne
Cologne is renowned for its stunning Gothic cathedral, the Cologne Cathedral, also known as the Kölner Dom. The city is a hub for art, culture, and history, situated on the banks of the Rhine River, offering stunning views and a laid-back atmosphere.
Top Attractions: Cologne Cathedral, the Old Town (Altstadt), and the Museum Ludwig.
Dresden
Dresden boasts incredible baroque architecture, beautiful gardens, and a rich cultural heritage. It’s particularly famous for its restored landmarks after World War II.
Top Attractions: Zwinger Palace, Frauenkirche, and the Semper Opera House.
Heidelberg
A picturesque university town, Heidelberg boasts a romantic atmosphere with its cobbled streets and scenic views overlooking the Neckar River. The city’s famous castle is perched on a hill above the town.
Top Attractions: Heidelberg Castle, the Old Bridge, and the Philosopher’s Walk.
Leipzig
A smaller but vibrant city, Leipzig has a growing reputation for its alternative arts scene, historic sites, and lively cultural life. It’s also known for being a hub of music and the birthplace of famous composer Johann Sebastian Bach.
Top Attractions: St. Thomas Church, the Leipzig Zoo, and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Nuremberg
Nuremberg is rich in medieval history, with beautiful old buildings, a castle, and a quaint Old Town. It’s also known for its role in World War II history, with the Nuremberg Trials held here.
Top Attractions: Nuremberg Castle, Albrecht Dürer’s House, and the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
Food and Drink to Try in Germany
German food and drink are a major part of the country’s culture, and there’s a huge variety depending on which region you’re in. When in Germany, be sure to try as many national and regional dishes as possible.
Bratwurst
A popular grilled sausage, typically made with pork, beef, or veal and served in a bun with mustard or sauerkraut.
Schnitzel
A thin, breaded, and fried cutlet, typically made of pork or veal.
Pretzels (Brezn)
A classic snack: soft and chewy on the inside, with a salty, crisp crust on the outside. Pretzels are often served with mustard or as a side dish with sausages.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, meaning “sour cabbage” in German, is a traditional German dish made from shredded cabbage that has been fermented with lactic acid bacteria, often served alongside pork, sausages, and potatoes.
Spätzle
Spaetzle are small dumplings or noodles made with eggs, flour, and milk.
Rouladen
Rouladen is a dish consisting of thinly sliced and pounded strips of beef, rolled up, stuffed with mustard, pickles, onion, and bacon, and simmered in a rich gravy.
Kartoffelsalat
Kartoffelsalat is a unique spin on potato salad, consisting of boiled potatoes, cucumbers or pickles, apple, and fresh onion.
Currywurst
A beloved street food, it’s a sliced sausage served with a tangy curry ketchup and often accompanied by fries.
Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)
Black Forest cake is made with layers of rich chocolate sponge, whipped cream, cherries, and a hint of Kirsch, a cherry schnapps that gives it that signature kick.
German Beer
There’s such a wide variety, pilsner, weissbier, dunkel, bock, kölsch, or hefeweizen. According to the Reinheitsgebot (German beer purity law), only water, hops, yeast and malt are permitted as ingredients in its production.
Final Thoughts: Visit Germany
Germany offers a diverse range of attractions, making it an excellent travel destination. It is a country rich in history and culture, boasting breathtaking landscapes, iconic food, charming villages, modern cities, and a vibrant arts and music scene. Whether you’re there for the history, food, beer, or just to experience the culture, there’s something for everyone. Use Skyscanner to find the best flights to Germany.
FAQs about Visiting Germany
When is the best time to visit Germany?
In Spring (April to June), the weather is mild and comfortable, making it perfect for outdoor activities, and there are fewer tourists. Summer (June to August) is an ideal time to enjoy beer gardens and festivals. You can see the stunning fall foliage from September to November. Germany in winter (December to February) is ideal for those who love Christmas markets, which are renowned worldwide.
Is Germany expensive to travel around?
Germany can be an affordable travel destination if you plan your trip wisely and utilize budget-friendly options. Some tips to help you save money include booking flights in advance, travelling off-peak, using public transportation, staying at a hostel instead of a hotel, finding free activities and attractions, and opting for street food over eating at restaurants.
Can I get by without speaking German?
Yes, you can speak English in Germany, especially in cities, tourist areas, and with younger people. English may be less common in small towns or rural areas, where older people or locals may only speak German. Signs, ticket machines, and announcements are often available in English, especially in airports and train stations.
