Ultimate Germany Travel Guide
Destinations
Best time to go
The best time to visit Germany depends on your interests and preferences. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (June to August) is popular for outdoor festivals, beer gardens, and exploring the countryside, but it can be crowded, especially in tourist hotspots. Winter (December to February) is magical with Christmas markets, but it can be cold, particularly in the north and east, and snow is common in the south and mountainous regions.
Average Temperature By Month
January: 0°C (32°F)
February: 1°C (34°F)
March: 5°C (41°F)
April: 9°C (48°F)
May: 14°C (57°F)
June: 18°C (64°F)
July: 20°C (68°F)
August: 20°C (68°F)
September: 16°C (61°F)
October: 11°C (52°F)
November: 5°C (41°F)
December: 1°C (34°F)
What To Expect
Time Zone:
Central European Time (CET), UTC+1.
Currency:
The official currency of Germany is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Language:
German is the official language of Germany.
Airport:
Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Munich Airport (MUC) are the two main international airports in Germany, serving as the primary entry points for international travelers. Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is another major airport in the capital.
How To Get Around
Public Transport: Germany has an efficient public transportation network, including trains, trams, buses, and metros. The Deutsche Bahn (DB) operates an extensive rail network, connecting cities and regions across the country. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg have comprehensive public transport systems, including U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (commuter trains).
Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Germany’s scenic countryside and charming towns, offering flexibility and freedom. Roads are well-maintained, and signage is clear, making self-driving relatively easy. However, driving in major cities can be challenging due to congestion and parking limitations.
Taxis/Uber: Taxis are readily available in major cities and tourist areas, but they can be expensive, especially for longer journeys. Uber is also available in many cities, providing a convenient alternative for transportation.
Average Temperature By Month:
January: 0°C (32°F)
February: 1°C (34°F)
March: 5°C (41°F)
April: 9°C (48°F)
May: 14°C (57°F)
June: 18°C (64°F)
July: 20°C (68°F)
August: 20°C (68°F)
September: 16°C (61°F)
October: 11°C (52°F)
November: 5°C (41°F)
December: 1°C (34°F)
Plugs:
Germany uses Type C and Type F electrical plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
VPN:
Using a VPN is advisable for secure internet browsing, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks.
Safety:
Germany is generally safe for travelers, but it's essential to exercise standard precautions, such as safeguarding belongings and staying aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Credit Cards and Banks
Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in Germany, especially in major cities, tourist areas, and larger establishments. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted, while American Express and Discover may have more limited acceptance. However, smaller businesses, particularly in rural areas, may prefer cash payments or have minimum purchase requirements for card transactions.
Debit Cards: Debit cards, known as “EC-Karte” or “Girocard” in Germany, are extensively used for everyday purchases and ATM withdrawals. Most German banks issue debit cards to their account holders, and these cards are typically equipped with chip-and-PIN technology for enhanced security. It’s advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans to ensure seamless card usage abroad and to inquire about any potential foreign transaction fees.
ATMs: ATMs, known as “Geldautomaten” in German, are widespread throughout Germany. They can be found in cities, towns, train stations, and even in rural areas. German banks often charge their own customers minimal fees for ATM withdrawals, but foreign banks may impose additional fees for international transactions. To minimize the risk of card skimming, it’s recommended to use ATMs located within bank branches or in well-lit, secure areas.
Currency Exchange: The official currency of Germany is the Euro (EUR). It’s advisable to exchange your currency to Euros upon arrival. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, exchange offices (Wechselstuben), some post offices, and at airports. US dollars and British pounds are often accepted for exchange, especially in tourist areas and major cities.
Banks: Germany has a robust banking sector, with several major banks and regional savings banks (Sparkassen) serving customers nationwide. Some of the largest banks in Germany include Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, and DZ Bank. These banks offer a wide range of financial services, including current accounts, savings accounts, loans, and investment options. Many banks in Germany also provide online banking services and have extensive branch networks.
Traveler’s Checks: Similar to other countries, traveler’s checks are becoming less common in Germany and may not be widely accepted. While some banks may still cash traveler’s checks, they are not as commonly used as in the past. It’s recommended to carry cash or use alternative payment methods such as credit/debit cards or ATMs for transactions.
Tips for Banking in Germany:
- Notify your bank before traveling to Germany to inform them of your travel plans and avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
- Keep your PIN and card information secure, especially when using ATMs in crowded areas or tourist hotspots.
- Familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate to ensure fair transactions when exchanging currency.
- Carry a mix of cash and cards for flexibility, but avoid carrying large amounts of cash for security reasons.
Understanding the banking system in Germany can help ensure a smooth and convenient financial experience during your travels in the country.
Locations
TRAVEL FACTS
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
US Embassy/Consulate
[49] (30) 8305-0; US Embassy in Berlin, Clayallee 170, 14191 Berlin, Federal Republic of Germany; https://de.usembassy.gov/; BerlinPCO@state.gov
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
49
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Germany: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, tickborne encephalitis, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19.
Climate
Temperate, and marine; cool, cloudy, wet winters and summers; occasionally warm mountain (foehn) wind
Currency (Code)
Euros (EUR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages
German
Major Religions
Roman Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, other, none
Time Difference
UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Brandenburg Gate; Cologne Cathedral; Black Forest; Neuschwanstein Castle; Miniatur Wunderland & Historic Port of Hamburg; Heidelberg; Dresden; Nuremberg; Munich; Saxon Switzerland State Park; Rhine Valley; Berlin’s Museum Island; Rothenburg and the Romantic Road
Major Sports
Soccer, handball, basketball, ice hockey, volleyball
Cultural Practices
Punctuality is considered a virtue in Germany. Being on time is not just a social nicety: it’s considered a matter of respect.
Tipping Guidelines
Round up the bill in a restaurant. If the service is particularly good, you may add a few euros and/or leave a 5-10% tip. Tip taxi drivers 5-10% of the total fare. Tip porters 1-2 euros per bag. Leave 1-2 euros for housekeeping per night.
Souvenirs
Carved wooden cuckoo clocks, music boxes, nutcracker figurines, and Christmas ornaments; crystal, porcelain, and glassware; traditional clothing, beer steins and glasses, Steiff teddy bears, Hummel figurines, antiques
Traditional Cuisine
Sauerbraten — beef braised in a marinade typically consisting of red wine vinegar, cloves, nutmeg, peppercorns, cinnamon, ginger, and juniper berries and simmered in a pot for several hours; typically served with potato dumplings and red cabbage
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) – To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information – Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada – 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas – +1 202-501-4444
Central Intelligence Agency.
The World Factbook.
/the-world-factbook
(May 8, 2024)
