Germany
Explore Germany’s historic cities, charming villages
and diverse landscapes, from the Bavarian Alps to the Baltic coast.
OVERVIEW ⎯
A Country of Endless Discovery
From medieval towns and fairytale castles to dramatic mountain landscapes and scenic river valleys, Germany offers something around every corner. Explore historic cities, charming villages and unforgettable road trips through a country where rich history meets natural beauty.
Fairytale Castles
Romantic palaces, medieval fortresses and stories from the past.
Scenic Landscapes
Alpine peaks, forest trails and beautiful lakes to explore.
Historic Cities
Discover charming old towns, grand architecture and vibrant city life.
Wine Routes & Road Trips
Winding river roads, vineyard-covered hills and unforgettable journeys.
TOP DESTINATIONS ⎯
Heidelberg
Travel Guide
Heidelberg’s romantic old town, hilltop castle and riverside views in one of Germany’s charming cities.
Füssen
Travel Guide
Explore Füssen’s colourful old town, Alpine scenery and nearby Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria.
Dresden
spend a day here
Discover Dresden’s Baroque architecture, historic landmarks and riverside promenades in Saxony.
Explore the
Mosel Valley
Follow winding river roads through vineyards, medieval castles and picturesque wine villages.
GOOD TO KNOW ⎯
Good to Know
Before You Go
From the best time to visit and getting around the country to local traditions and practical travel tips, find everything you need to plan a smooth and unforgettable trip to Germany.
Explore Germany by Car
Discover Germany’s scenic roads and hidden gems at your own pace.
Find Hotels in Germany
Find boutique hotels, city stays and countryside retreats.
Discover Germany’s Best Experiences
Explore castles, scenic boat trips and outdoor adventures.
EXPLORE GERMANY ⎯
Discover the
Best of Germany
Germany is a country of contrasts, where medieval towns, grand castles and vibrant cities meet dramatic mountain scenery, dense forests and peaceful river valleys. Every region has its own character, traditions and landscapes waiting to be explored.
From the Bavarian Alps and the romantic Mosel Valley to historic cities like Dresden and Heidelberg, Germany offers endless possibilities for memorable trips. Discover charming villages, scenic drives and cultural highlights with our guides to the country’s most beautiful places.
NICE TO KNOW ⎯
German Travel Notes
Prepare for your trip with essential information on transport, local customs, money, safety and everyday essentials to help you explore Germany with confidence.
Entry & Visa
Germany is part of the Schengen Area, and entry requirements depend on your nationality and travel documents. Check whether you need a visa or whether your passport or national ID card is sufficient before travelling.
Local Customs
Punctuality, politeness and respect for personal space are valued in Germany. Greet people when entering smaller shops, respect quiet hours in residential areas and remember that Sundays are generally quieter than weekdays.
Getting Around Germany
Germany offers an extensive network of trains, buses, trams and underground services. Public transport is convenient for city trips, while renting a car gives you more freedom to explore castles, villages and scenic countryside.
Tap Water & Drinking Water
Tap water in Germany is generally safe to drink and meets strict quality standards. Bring a reusable bottle to refill throughout the day. Restaurants often offer bottled water, including still and sparkling varieties.
Electricity & Power Plugs
Germany uses Type C and Type F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. It’s like the most common one in all over Europe. If your devices use different plug types, bring a suitable travel adapter.
Money & Payments
Germany uses the euro (€). Card payments are widely accepted, especially in cities, hotels and larger restaurants, but some smaller businesses may prefer cash. Carry a little cash for markets, bakeries and rural areas.
Public Holidays & Sunday Closures
Most shops and supermarkets in Germany close on Sundays and public holidays, although restaurants, cafés, stations and some tourist attractions may remain open. Plan grocery shopping and errands ahead, especially around major holidays.
Food & Dining Etiquette
German cuisine varies by region, from Bavarian specialities to Swabian dishes and fresh seafood in the north. In restaurants, service may be less frequent than in some countries, so politely signal when you need something. Tipping around 5–10% is common for good service.
A few
German words
can go a long way.
LOCAL LANGUAGE ⎯
German Basics
Learn useful German words and everyday expressions to navigate your travels more easily, communicate with locals and experience German culture beyond the usual tourist spots.
TRAVEL TIPS ⎯
Germany
Travel Tips
Everything you need to plan a seamless trip through Germany, from getting around and local customs to money, accommodation and essential travel advice.
In this article
01 – Before You Go
Entry Requirements
Germany is part of the Schengen Area, making travel straightforward for visitors arriving from many European countries. EU and EEA citizens can generally enter with a valid national ID card or passport, while travellers from outside the EU may need a visa depending on their nationality. Your permitted length of stay and required travel documents depend on your circumstances, so check the official entry rules before departure.
Good to Know
Keep your passport or national ID card accessible during your journey. Even within the Schengen Area, checks can take place, and airlines may require specific identification documents before boarding.
In this article
02 – Money & Costs
Cards, Cash & Everyday Costs
Germany uses the euro (€). Cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is still useful at bakeries, markets and smaller businesses. Costs vary by destination, with major cities generally more expensive than smaller towns.
ATM's
Cash machines are available in cities, towns and at major railway stations. Check your bank’s fees before withdrawing money.
Card Payments
Girocard, Visa and Mastercard are widely used. Acceptance can vary at small shops and independent businesses.
Cash
Cash is useful for market stalls, smaller cafés, bakeries and businesses that do not accept cards.
Currency
Germany uses the euro, €. Prices displayed to consumers generally include VAT.
03 – Getting Around
The Best Ways to Travel
Germany offers excellent transport connections between major cities, historic towns and scenic regions. High-speed trains are ideal for longer journeys, while buses and rental cars make it easier to explore beyond the main cities. Here are the best ways to get around Germany.
By Car
Explore Germany at your own pace, from the Romantic Road and Mosel Valley to the Bavarian Alps. A rental car is especially useful for rural areas, small villages and scenic stops.
By Bus
Long-distance buses are often an affordable way to travel between German cities, while local buses connect smaller towns and attractions.
Main providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
By Train
ICE high-speed trains connect major cities, while regional trains are great for day trips and exploring nearby destinations.
Main provider: Deutsche Bahn (DB)
Tip: If you plan to travel using regional trains, or if you are staying in Germany for an extended period, we recommend the Deutschland-Ticket.
By Ferry / Boat
Ferries connect Germany with islands such as Rügen and the North Sea islands, while scenic boat trips operate along the Rhine, Moselle and Elbe rivers. They are a great way to enjoy coastal landscapes, vineyards and historic towns from the water.
Main providers: FRS, DFDS, KD (Köln-Düsseldorfer)
By Taxi
Taxis are available in cities, at airports and at major stations. They are convenient for short trips but generally cost more than public transport.
Main providers: Local Taxi Companies, FREE NOW, Uber
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Useful Travel Resources
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*Explore at your own pace.
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*Book unforgettable experiences.
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*Stay connected wherever you go.
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Travel Insurance
*Stay safe on every journey.
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04 – Safety
Is Germany Safe?
Germany is generally a safe country to explore, whether you’re visiting major cities, historic towns or the countryside. Most trips are trouble-free, but it’s sensible to stay alert in busy train stations, crowded tourist areas and nightlife districts. In rural regions, mountain trails and remote areas, preparation and awareness of local conditions are important.
Our Tips for a Safe Trip
✓ Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and on public transport.
✓
Avoid leaving valuables visible inside a parked rental car.
✓
Stay aware of your surroundings at busy stations and tourist hotspots.
✓
Follow marked hiking trails and check mountain weather conditions.
✓
Be careful when cycling and crossing roads, especially in unfamiliar cities.
✓
The emergency number for police is 110. Ambulance and fire services is 112.
✓
Always carry a valid ID or passport, as police have right to request it.
✓
Keep a close eye on your beverages at bars and clubs
Explore the
Beauty of Füssen
Alpsee
Enjoy crystal-clear waters and some beautiful Alpine views at this peaceful lake near Füssen.
Füssen Old Town
Explore colourful historic streets, charming squares and traditional Bavarian architecture.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Discover Germany’s fairytale castle, set against a spectacular backdrop of mountains and forests.
05 – Culture & Etiquette
Useful Things to Know
Germany has a rich regional culture shaped by local traditions, historic towns and distinct food specialities. From friendly greetings to dining customs and respect for quiet hours, a little local knowledge helps you feel at home wherever you travel.
Sunday Closures
Most shops and supermarkets close on Sundays, so plan your shopping ahead. In tourist areas, things may be different.
Greetings
From “Hallo” and “Guten Tag” to the northern “Moin”, western German “Tach”and Bavarian “Servus” or “Grüß Gott”, greetings vary by region across Germany.
Local Specialities
Try regional dishes, from Bavarian pretzels or Pork knuckle to Swabian Maultaschen and northern German fish dishes.
Regional Traditions
From Bavarian beer gardens and traditional festivals to wine celebrations along the Moselle, every region has its own customs, food and traditions.
06 – What to Pack
Packing Essentials
From sunny lakeside days and city walks to snowy Alpine adventures and Christmas markets, Germany’s weather varies considerably by season and region. Pack according to your travel plans and be prepared for changing conditions.
What to Pack for Summer:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat
- Swimwear for lakes and beaches
- A light jacket for cooler evenings
- Comfortable hiking shoes for outdoor adventures
What to pack for Winter:
- A warm, insulated winter jacket
- Thermal layers and warm sweaters
- Waterproof winter boots with good grip
- Gloves, a scarf and a warm hat
- Thermal socks for cold days outdoors
- Waterproof clothing for snow and rain
07 – Best Time to Visit
When to Go
Germany is worth visiting all year round, with each season offering something special. Spring is ideal for hiking and exploring blooming landscapes, summer brings lively city parks, refreshing lakes and beaches along the North and Baltic Seas, autumn paints forests and vineyards in golden colours, while winter offers snowy Alpine scenery, skiing and magical Christmas markets.
ALL GERMANY GUIDES ⎯
All Guides & Travel Itineraries
Dresden
Discover Dresden’s Baroque architecture, historic landmarks and beautiful riverside views along the Elbe.
Füssen
Explore turquoise lakes, Alpine scenery, charming old town and the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria.
Heidelberg
Wander through Heidelberg’s charming Old Town, visit its hilltop castle and enjoy views over the Neckar River.
Mosel Valley
Follow winding river roads past steep vineyards, medieval castles, local restaurants and picturesque wine villages.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Step into a fairytale town filled with half-timbered houses, cobblestone lanes, cute cafes and medieval charm.
BEST TIME TO VISIT ⎯
Best Time to Visit Germany
Best Time to
Visit Germany
For us, Germany is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. From spring hikes and summer days by lakes and the sea to colourful autumn forests and snowy winter landscapes, here’s our little overview to help you choose the best time for your trip.
March – May
Spring brings blooming landscapes, fresh greenery and milder temperatures to Germany. It’s a lovely time to explore historic towns, wander through forests and enjoy the countryside before the busy summer season.
🌿 WHY VISIT IN SPRING?
- Enjoy blooming gardens and colourful countryside
- Explore cities comfortably in milder weather
- Discover scenic hiking trails as nature awakens
- Visit popular attractions before peak summer crowds
- Experience spring festivals and traditional markets
QUICK TIP
The best time to visit Germany depends on your plans. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking, sightseeing and exploring colourful landscapes. Summer is perfect for swimming in lakes, enjoying coastal beaches and outdoor festivals, while winter brings magical Christmas markets, snowy Alpine scenery and excellent skiing opportunities.
June – August
Summer is perfect for enjoying Germany outdoors, from swimming in clear lakes and relaxing in city parks to hiking in the Alps and exploring coastal towns along the North and Baltic Seas.
☀️ WHY VISIT IN SUMMER?
- Swim and relax at lakes and beaches
- Enjoy long days and outdoor dining
- Explore the Bavarian Alps and scenic hiking trails
- Experience open-air festivals and local events
- Take road trips through picturesque villages and valleys
QUICK TIP
The best time to visit Germany depends on your plans. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking, sightseeing and exploring colourful landscapes. Summer is perfect for swimming in lakes, enjoying coastal beaches and outdoor festivals, while winter brings magical Christmas markets, snowy Alpine scenery and excellent skiing opportunities.
September – November
Autumn transforms Germany’s forests, vineyards and rolling hills into beautiful shades of gold, orange and red. Cooler temperatures make it a wonderful season for countryside drives, wine regions and cosy historic towns.
🍁 WHY VISIT IN AUTUMN?
- Admire colourful forests and vineyard landscapes
- Explore the Moselle and Rhine wine regions
- Enjoy hiking in crisp autumn air
- Experience regional wine festivals and harvest celebrations
- Discover popular destinations with fewer summer visitors
QUICK TIP
The best time to visit Germany depends on your plans. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking, sightseeing and exploring colourful landscapes. Summer is perfect for swimming in lakes, enjoying coastal beaches and outdoor festivals, while winter brings magical Christmas markets, snowy Alpine scenery and excellent skiing opportunities.
December – February
Winter brings a special atmosphere to Germany, with festive Christmas markets, historic towns illuminated by seasonal lights and snow-covered landscapes in the Alps. It’s also the best season for skiing and winter sports in southern Germany.
🌨️ WHY VISIT IN WINTER?
- Visit traditional Christmas markets in historic cities
- Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the Bavarian Alps
- Discover charming towns decorated for the festive season
- Experience cosy cafés and traditional winter dishes
- Enjoy snowy mountain scenery and peaceful winter walks
QUICK TIP
The best time to visit Germany depends on your plans. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking, sightseeing and exploring colourful landscapes. Summer is perfect for swimming in lakes, enjoying coastal beaches and outdoor festivals, while winter brings magical Christmas markets, snowy Alpine scenery and excellent skiing opportunities.
Monthly Weather Overview
These are average daytime temperatures across Germany. Conditions vary by region, with the north generally cooler, the south warmer in summer, and the Bavarian Alps experiencing colder temperatures and more snow in winter.
❄️
⌀3°C
Jan
🌨️
⌀4°C
Feb
🌿
⌀8°C
Mar
🌸
⌀13°C
Apr
🌼
⌀19°C
May
🌤️
⌀22°C
June
☀️
⌀24°C
July
☀️
⌀26°C
Aug
🍂
⌀19°C
Sep
🍁
⌀13°C
Oct
🌧️
⌀7°C
Nov
❄️
⌀3°C
Dec
❄️
⌀37°F
Jan
🌨️
⌀39°F
Feb
🌿
⌀46°F
Mar
🌸
⌀55°F
Apr
🌼
⌀66°F
May
🌤️
⌀72°F
June
☀️
⌀75°F
July
☀️
⌀79°F
Aug
🍂
⌀66°F
Sep
🍁
⌀55°F
Oct
🌧️
⌀45°F
Nov
❄️
⌀37°F
Dec
TOURS & ACTIVITIES ⎯
Tours & Activities in Germany
Discover Germany’s fairytale castles, medieval towns, dramatic Alpine peaks and peaceful lakes. Explore historic cities, charming villages, scenic river valleys and the country’s rich regional culture.
TRAVEL TIP
Book popular attractions like Neuschwanstein Castle in advance, especially during peak season. Explore Germany with scenic river cruises, regional train journeys and guided hikes, or experience traditional festivals and wine celebrations throughout the year.