Germany Travel Guide

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Getting Around

Whether planning a short trip or an extended stay, getting around Germany can be a breeze. With its vast transportation network, you can easily travel around the country safely and efficiently. There are many transportation options, from the intercity rail system to regional buses.

This article will help you find the best and most efficient way of getting around Germany:

Transportation Options

Germany has an extensive and comprehensive public transportation system consisting of buses, trains, underground trains (U-Bahn), and trams. Each city also has its own set of public transportation options to get around.

  • Bus: cities in Germany have a large number of city buses available for transport. Buses are considered the least expensive way to get from one place to another, with ticket prices ranging from a few Euros for short trips to 10-15 Euros for long distances. The most popular bus companies in Germany are Flixbus and Deinbus, which serve significant cities such as Berlin and Munich.
  • Train: the Deutsche Bahn is Germany’s public railway network, providing fast connections between most cities. High-speed and regional express trains often cover longer distances, while local trains might be required for shorter trips inside or between neighboring cities. Most tickets can be bought online or at train stations upon arrival.
  • U-Bahn: underground trams are widely used in many major German cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich, while smaller suburban towns usually rely solely on regular buses or other ground transportation like trams. The U-Bahn runs all day long, providing more rapid connections between destinations than other means of transport, with ticket prices starting at around two Euros per journey depending on destination zones.
  • Tram: many German cities have a tram network connecting them with suburban towns or neighboring towns outside their territorial boundaries. However, it is often slower than all other forms of transport, including the U-Bahn, as it only runs at scheduled times due to limited networks within specific locations, especially when traveling long distances from the city center to the suburbs. Ticket prices vary from 1-3 euros depending on trip distance duration.

Cost of Transportation

Transportation costs can become a significant expense for travelers on a budget who plan to explore Germany’s numerous historical and cultural attractions. Luckily, Germany offers an extensive network of public transportation. So whether you need to get around on local transport or travel long distances, there are many cost-conscious options for getting around the country.

For traveling within cities, most cities have reliable bus and tram networks run by companies such as BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) in Berlin and RMV (Rhein-Maine-Verkehr AG) in Frankfurt am Main. Travel within cities is also available at reasonable prices with ride-sharing apps such as Uber, taxi, and DriveNow, depending on your destination. In addition, there are offers of integrated tickets like the HVV ProfiTicket, which allow users access to all modes of public transport in an area at a reduced price.

For traveling between cities or longer distances within Germany, Deutsche Bahn—Germany’s national rail operator, is a widely used option. It offers frequent trains at reasonable prices with affordable rates for pre-booking up to three months in advance; however, tickets bought on short notice tend to be more expensive than those booked early. Other low-cost options Deutsche Bahn offers Sparpreis tickets, exclusive discounts for travel within one day or over the weekend, and Lander Tickets tailored for regional trips that can be used for up to 5 persons traveling together!

In addition, several low-budget buses are operating from the main intercity bus terminal ZOB that offer discounted tickets – perfect if you plan! Lastly, BlaBlaCar—an online ride-sharing platform offers travelers a way to share rides at discounted fares based on factors such as distance traveled, availability of space, etc., giving them the option to compare prices against other available options before making a decision making them easy for getting around in Germany.

Accommodation

Finding accommodation in Germany can be daunting, but this guide will provide helpful tips to make the task easier. Various accommodation options are available in Germany, from cheap hostels to luxurious stays. This guide will overview the different accommodation options, how to book them, and the best areas to find.

Types of Accommodation

When planning a vacation to Germany, you must consider the type of accommodations that best suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a suite in a luxurious vacation resort or a simple bed and breakfast, Germany has something for everyone. Here is an overview of the types of lodging available in Germany:

  • Hotels: Hotels are the most ubiquitous accommodation option for travelers to Germany. Hotels are available in just about every region and city, from luxury five-star resorts to more modestly-priced establishments. Room rates vary greatly depending on amenities, location, and star rating, so it pays to shop around before booking your stay.
  • Guest Houses/B&Bs: Bed and breakfasts are often cheaper than hotels and provide travelers with a more intimate sense of hospitality than they would find in larger establishments. Most guesthouses offer basic amenities such as private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and laundry services but don’t expect high-end offerings like room service or pools.
  • Self-Catering Accommodations: For those with a sense of adventure, self-catering apartments offer an independent experience without sacrificing convenience; many Self Catering Accommodations come fully equipped with all the necessary comforts for an enjoyable stay away from home, such as kitchens, entertainment systems, and possibly even private gardens or balconies with views of the surrounding countryside or cities.
  • Campgrounds: Campsites offer extraordinary outdoor adventures with canvas tents pitched right on the grounds or surrounded by natural lakeshores and forested hillsides. In addition to camping sites (known as “steppes”), some campgrounds also feature caravan sites, so packed-up motorhomes can enjoy visiting scenic locations without sacrificing creature comforts too far from home. Many also feature additional attractions, such as guided hikes which can add extra fun to your experience on top of these little-known gems.

Cost of Accommodation

Accommodation costs in Germany vary depending on the location and type of accommodation you choose. Hotels range from budget to luxury and can range between €50-€400 per night. Airbnb also offers rental options and is available all over Germany, with prices varying but are usually comparable or cheaper than hotels. Hostels in Germany are generally more affordable and start from around €15-€30 for a bed in a dormitory room, with private rooms, also often available at a marginally higher cost.

Upon arrival, the most convenient way of finding accommodation is to go to the nearest tourist information center, where you can inquire about hotels, hostels, Airbnbs, and other suitable options. Alternatively, you can use online booking platforms such as Booking.com, Expedia, or TripAdvisor to find and book your accommodation before arriving in Germany.

Attractions

Germany is a beautiful country with attractions and cultural sites that attracts millions of tourists annually. From the stunning Black Forest to the romantic Rhine, Germany offers a variety of scenic landscapes and exciting activities for travelers.

Take a look at some of the top attractions that you must visit when you travel to Germany:

Popular Tourist Attractions

Germany is a vast country, and with its rich history, culture, and never-ending list of attractions, it’s no wonder it has become a major tourist destination. From iconic landmarks to world-famous museums and picturesque cities, there’s something for visitors of all ages and interests to enjoy.

Famous tourist attractions in Germany include:

  • Neuschwanstein Castle: Famed as the real-life inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle, Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Europe’s most visited castle ruins. Located in southern Germany near Munich, this magnificent structure requires at least half a day to explore.
  • Berlin Wall: Though not much of the Berlin Wall remains intact today, visitors to Berlin can still find remnants of this powerful symbol of the Cold War that divided Germany into two countries for nearly 30 years.
  • Museum Island in Berlin: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located on an island in Berlin’s Spree river, Museum Island houses some of Europe’s finest art collections from ancient times until today.
  • Romantic Road: This famous road connects approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) between Würzburg and Füssen through one of Bavaria’s most beautiful routes. The mix of quaint medieval towns and picturesque countryside makes it a popular choice among travelers seeking relaxation, romance, or both.
  • Black Forest: An expansive expanse stretching across Germany’s southwest corner towards Switzerland and France, this area is known for its beautiful mountain scenery dotted with charming villages—perfect for taking leisurely hikes or day trips beyond just visiting one single town alone.

Must-See Attractions

Germany is incredibly diverse, with an impressive range of attractions ranging from historical landmarks and picturesque countryside to architectural wonders and exciting cities. While visitors could spend weeks, or even months, exploring the many sights Germany offers, there are several must-see attractions that no trip would be complete without. From iconic castles and palaces to stunning cathedrals and famous monuments, here are some of the most popular attractions in Germany:

  • Berlin – Berlin is one of Europe’s great cities and has plenty to explore, including the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, Alexanderplatz, and the Bundestag building. Don’t miss a visit to the Reichstag dome for breathtaking views of Germany’s capital city.
  • Neuschwanstein Castle – Built as a Romanesque fortress in 1869 by King Ludwig II, Neuschwanstein Castle is now one of Germany’s top tourist destinations. This enchanting castle features sweeping turrets and grand halls that were said to have been inspired by Richard Wagner’s operas.
  • The Cologne Cathedral – Constructed between 1248-1473 in Gothic style architecture, Cologne Cathedral stands at the height of 157 meters, making it one of the tallest churches in Europe. It also contains beautiful stained glass windows and relics from all over Europe on its walls.
  • Bavarian Alps – The Bavarian Alps are home to superb mountain scenery with lush forests, soaring peaks, and deep blue lakes surrounded by picturesque villages throughout the region. Popular activities include walking through Füssen’s old town or rafting on a breathtaking river near Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
  • Heidelberg Castle – Set high above Heidelberg on steep hills overlooking the city is Heidelberg Castle- an immense German Renaissance castle complex featuring towers, terraces, and courtyards filled with incredible artwork and sculptures dating back centuries!

Food & Drink

Germany offers a varied and diverse culinary landscape to explore. With a long history of regional cuisines and a variety of local dishes, you will find something to tantalize your taste buds no matter where you travel.

German food combines hearty dishes and lighter fare, focusing on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Bavarian specialties like schnitzel and sauerbraten pair nicely with a cold beer, while the regions of northern Germany have a more coastal flair with classic seafood dishes. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something for everyone in Germany.

Traditional German Cuisine

German cuisine varies from region to region, with local specialties such as pork dishes in the Rhineland, Bavaria’s beer and sausages, and the food of Thuringia. Generally speaking, traditional German cuisine is hearty and made with fresh ingredients. German cuisine has its roots in peasant dishes that are still served today. These dishes include protein-rich foods like meat and eggs, seasonal vegetables, dairy products like cheese and sour cream, and mushrooms such as bockwurst or white sausages. Potatoes are also commonplace in most meals as they are plentiful in Germany.

Classic German dishes to try include:

  • Pork schnitzel with crispy breadcrumb coating and a side of potatoes.
  • Bratwurst sausage served with sauerkraut (pickled cabbage), spätzle (a type of egg noodle), or potato salad.
  • Eintopf – a hearty stew made of potatoes, beans, and root vegetables.
  • Breiwolle – a deep-fried pastry topped with fruit or syrup.
  • Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake) – layers of chocolate cake filled with whipped cream.
  • Apfelstrudel – an apple-filled pastry covered by thin dough layers.

In Germany, it is easy to find a snack on the go like currywurst: chopped sausage grilled or fried with curry ketchup sauce served on top of hot French fries. You can also find fresh pretzels and different types of brötchen (bread rolls). A popular drink is a beer, although there’s a wide selection of non-alcoholic beverages too, including birnenmost – a popular fermented fruit drink available in many flavors throughout Germany.

Regardless of your budget level, you will always find meals that complement your palate while exploring the sites across Germany.

Popular Restaurants and Bars

Germany is known for its variety of traditional cuisine, with 330 distinct regional types. It’s easy to find a restaurant or bar that offers something unique. German food menus typically include several meat-based dishes, while vegetarian options are growing in popularity. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a more casual atmosphere, Germany has plenty of opportunities to satisfy your appetite.

Popular restaurants and bars:

  • Heurige: Enjoy traditional Austrian dishes at one of these rustic restaurants. The warm atmosphere makes it a great place for groups and families alike.
  • Berliner Pubs: These cheerful pubs offer beer and snacks in a lively atmosphere that echoes the city’s traditional beer halls.
  • Kneipe: Kneipes (pubs) serve local beers, wine, cocktails, and snacks. They’re perfect for those who need a break from sightseeing or are looking for an evening out on the town!
  • Currywurst Stalls: A popular savory snack in Germany is Currywurst (curry sausage). There are Currywurst stalls all over the country where you can enjoy this delicacy with fries or a bread roll.
  • Weinstube: Visit Weinstubes (wine bars) to sample some of Germany’s famous wines in an elegant setting.
  • Eiscafe: Enjoy ice cream sundaes alongside the locals at one of Germany’s many Eiscafes (ice cream cafes).

Shopping

Germany is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Europe. From the bustling streets of Berlin to the quaint towns of Bavaria, there are plenty of shopping opportunities. From souvenir shops to designer stores, you can find various items to choose from. So whether you’re looking for traditional German souvenirs or the latest trends, there’s something for every shopper in Germany.

Let’s explore the German shopping scene in more detail:

Shopping Districts

Germany offers various shopping experiences, from small boutiques to larger department stores. Shopping districts in many of Germany’s cities are known for their diverse selection of stores, appealing to both tourists and locals alike.

The Kurfürstendamm in Berlin is Germany’s answer to the Champs-Élysées. It houses a variety of trendy clothing stores, jewelry shops, luxurious boutiques, and some excellent restaurants and cafes. The district also carries some of the world’s top designers, such as Prada, Louis Vuitton, Versace, and more.

Munich is home to the famous Maximilianstrasse – renowned for being one of the upmarket shopping areas in Europe. The avenue leads right into Marienplatz square, where shoppers will find big international brands alongside smaller local businesses selling Bavarian art and homeware products. Delicatessen is plentiful here, too, with cheese, cured meats, and seasonal treats found in abundance.

Karl Wilhelm is an eclectic melange in Frankfurt that features artisanal shops as well as well-known German fashion houses such as Helmut Lang, Herve Leger, and others; there is something for everyone here – art galleries, cinemas, chic clothing stores, and tea salons can all be found alongside each other on this bustling street.

Finally, head over to Essen’s High Street’ Limbecker Platz’ that offers both luxury and budget shopping options within proximity to one another; it also contains a range of entertainment offerings like cinema and theatre venues that provide additional activities for those wishing to make the most out their shopping experience in the city.

Popular Items to Buy

Germany is famous all around the world for its excellent engineering, craftsmanship, and products that span from cars to toys. So if you’re visiting Germany soon, it might be wise to plan and consider some items you can take home with you as souvenirs or gifts. Here are a few of the most popular things to buy in Germany:

  • Food and drink – Germany is home to many delicious specialties, such as bratwurst, schnitzel, spätzle, pretzels, strudels, beers, and wines. Bavarian chocolates also make a great gift or souvenir. There are also many smaller food stores where German candies and sweets make perfect gifts.
  • Mid-price gifts – For mid-priced items such as jewelry or hand-crafted clothing pieces that show off German artistry and culture in an affordable way are readily available in the country’s shopping districts like Munich’s Marienplatz or Cologne’s Neumarkt. You can find more traditional accessories like scarves and hats made from locally sourced wool and crafted with iconic designs from towns all over Germany, like Berlin Bear Cuffs and Münster Schwurbriefe (translation: symbolic letters).
  • High-end gifts – If you’re looking for something extra special to give someone back home or treat yourself to a luxurious experience for your trip to Germany, why not visit one of Berlin’s luxury boutiques? The city has an impressive range of international designer labels at all price points – perfect if your budget allows it! You can experience the richness of the markets first-hand with unique finds such as watches by Meissen or designer bags by Helmut Lang.

No matter what item you’re looking for when shopping in Germany – be sure to take advantage of the large variety of choices! From high-end fashion labels to familiar favorites – there truly is something for everyone!

Safety

Traveling to Germany can be an exciting and secure experience. Germany is generally a very safe country with a low level of crime. That said, travelers should always practice common sense and be aware of their surroundings.

It is essential to stay vigilant and know the risks when traveling in any foreign country. This section will discuss the safety risks of traveling to Germany and how to avoid them.

Tips on Staying Safe

Germany is generally a safe place to travel. However, it is still advisable to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips on how to stay safe while traveling in Germany:

  1. Learn the language basics – Knowing a few German phrases will help you communicate better with locals. It can be especially useful if you need help or directions during an emergency.
  2. Don’t carry large amounts of cash – Carry a debit/credit card instead to easily access funds if needed.
  3. Avoid pickpockets – Be aware of your surroundings and don’t flash large amounts of cash or overly expensive items such as jewelry in public areas.
  4. Don’t wander late at night – While Germany is generally considered safe, some places become unsafe after dark and may put you at risk of mugging or assault. It’s best to stay in public areas with lots of people if you plan to go out after dark.
  5. Research safety tips before traveling – Read up on general safety precautions and specific warnings for where you are visiting before you arrive in Germany so that you are fully prepared for any situation that may arise.

Emergency Contact Information

In case of an emergency in Germany, please get in touch with the local authorities. The German police can be reached on 110 or 112. In non-emergency situations, you can visit a police station or call the local police to report any criminal activities you may have witnessed. For medical emergencies, dial 112 or find your nearest hospital.

In addition to the German authorities and medical support available, the following contacts are helpful if you find yourself in need of assistance while traveling in Germany:

  • Embassy staff – your home country’s Embassy in Germany can assist with missing passports, stolen valuables, and flight changes.
  • Your travel insurance provider – if you need to claim lost/stolen items.
  • Tourist information offices – for information about services offered near your destination, such as tour operators, language schools, and recreational facilities.
  • Non-emergency support lines – such as helplines provided by the government or charitable organizations that may be able to advise on social and health issues, family matters, or legal questions related to your visit to Germany.
  • Emergency services abroad – additional phone numbers are available through the EU website for other emergencies (e.g., fire brigade, coast guard, etc.).