Contact Us

Germany Travel Guide

Johnnie Stanton -
Last Updated: July 11, 2025

Overview

Germany is a must-visit European destination packed with bucket list experiences from fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein to Berlin’s historic Wall. and the Black Forest, but there’s so much more to explore.Whether you love beer festivals (Oktoberfest!), road trips on the Romantic Road, or Christmas markets, this Germany travel guide has you covered.

Quick Facts About Germany

Language

German (Danke = Thank you)

Currency

Approx Euro (€)

Visa

Schengen visa required for many nationalities.

Power Plugs

Type C / F (230V)

Religion

Christianity (mostly Protestant & Catholic)

Capital

Berlin

Climate

Best time to visit Germany? May–September for warmth, December for markets.

Apps

DB Navigator (trains), Uber (limited cities), FlixBus (budget buses)

Flights Information for Germany

Fly into Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC), or Berlin (BER). Use Skyscanner for deals. Trains (DB Navigator app) are efficient but book early for budget travel. Frankfurt is a major international hub with direct flights worldwide, while Munich and Berlin also have strong global connections. Smaller airports like Hamburg (HAM) and Cologne (CGN) are useful for regional travel. Use Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare prices.

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Germany

Wondering, Is Germany safe to visit? Yes, but watch for pickpockets in crowds. Avoid protests in big cities. Petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) can happen in crowded tourist areas and public transport keeps valuables secure. Protests occasionally occur in big cities (especially Berlin), so avoid large gatherings if tensions seem high.
One thing to note: Germany is cash heavy in many places (small shops, markets), so always carry some euros. Also, public transport operates on an honor system, but ticket checks happen and fines are steep if caught without one!

Climate

Germany has a temperate climate, meaning four distinct seasons:

  • Spring (Mar–May): Mild, perfect for sightseeing.
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm (20–30°C / 68–86°F), great for outdoor festivals.
  • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Cool, ideal for fall foliage and wine regions.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold (often below freezing), but magical with Christmas markets.

I visited in October, and the weather was crisp but comfortable great for exploring without summer crowds.

Budget & Costs

Germany is mid-range for Europe, not as cheap as Eastern Europe but more affordable than Scandinavia.

  • Hostels: From Approx €20/night.
  • Meals: Save at bakeries/döner shops Approx (€5–€10).
  • Transport: FlixBus for cheap intercity trips.
  • Hotels: Approx €60–€150/night

Other Must-Know Tips

✔ Public Transport is Excellent Trains (Deutsche Bahn), trams, and U-Bahn (subway) are efficient.
✔ Tipping is Polite but Not Excessive Round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants.
✔ Sundays are Quiet Most shops are closed; plan ahead.
✔ Tap Water is Drinkable. Save money and skip bottled water.

Final Thoughts

Germany is a dream destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and city explorers alike. Whether you’re sipping beer in Munich, wandering Berlin’s art scene, or road-tripping through Bavaria, it’s a country that delivers unforgettable experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Germans speak English?
Yes, especially in cities and tourist areas, but learning a few German phrases is appreciated.
Is Oktoberfest worth it?
Absolutely, but book accommodation early Munich gets packed!
How do I get around without a car?
Trains and buses are reliable. For flexibility, consider a German Rail Pass.

Johnnie Stanton

Editor in Chief & General Manager

Johnnie Stanton covers visas and entry requirements for Travel and Diaries. His guides explain what travelers actually need at the border visa-on-arrival rules, eVisa application steps, passport validity requirements, and regional visas like the East African Tourist Visa -sourced directly from government immigration portals and official embassy pages, with each guide dated so readers know when the rules were last verified. Visa policy changes fast and misinformation is everywhere; Johnnie's standing rule is that if a claim can't be traced to an official source, it doesn't get published. He works alongside the Travel and Diaries visa assistance team.

View Bio>

Explore Other Travel Guides
Senegal Travel Guide

Senegal Travel Guide

Senegal is a vibrant West African gem packed with ‘bucket list’ experiences. From the bustling markets of Dakar (one of the top Dakar tourist attractions) to the pink waters of Lake Retba and the historic Gorée Island, this country offers a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. The wildlife-rich Niokolo Koba National Park and the surf-friendly beaches of Cap Skirring make it a dream for nature lovers. Whether you’re exploring the Saint Louis jazz scene or soaking up the sun on the Petite Côte, Senegal delivers unforgettable moments.

Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Saudi Arabia is a land of contrasts and hidden gems, blending ancient history with futuristic cities. From the towering skyscrapers of Riyadh to the UNESCO listed ruins of Al Ula, this country offers a mix of culture, adventure, and tradition. For history buffs, the Nabatean tombs of Hegra (Madain Saleh) rival Jordan’s Petra, while beach lovers can unwind on the pristine shores of the Red Sea. Whether you’re exploring the bustling souks of Jeddah or trekking through the dramatic dunes of the Empty Quarter, Saudi Arabia is full of surprises.