Overview
Everything you need to know before visiting Germany. From visa requirements to local customs, we've compiled the essential information to help you travel confidently and avoid common pitfalls.
Currency
Euro (€)
Best SIM Provider
Telekom
Main Ride App
Uber
Payment
Cash preferred
Visa & Entry Requirements
Visa requirements vary based on your passport country. For the most accurate information, always check with your country's embassy or the official immigration website.
Want personalized visa info?
Generate a custom guide based on your passport and travel dates.
Freelance Visa (Freiberufler)
Self-employment visa for freelancers. Apply at German embassy. Requires proof of clients and income.
Official applicationMedication Restrictions
General medications
Carry prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Up to 3 months' supply.
Essential Apps
UberWorks with local taxi companies
Free NowMost popular for taxis
BoltBerlin and major cities
Notes for Visitors
- DB Navigator works with international cards for buying train tickets
- Many restaurants don't accept cards - always carry cash
- The Deutschland-Ticket (€49/month) covers all local/regional public transport nationwide
SIM Cards & Internet
Get an eSIM or local SIM. Telekom has best coverage. O2 and Vodafone are good alternatives. Data is affordable - 10GB for ~€10-15.
- eSIM works well with Airalo, Saily
- Free WiFi is less common than in other European countries
- DB trains offer WiFi in ICE (1st class free, 2nd class basic)
WiFi Reliability
Cafe WiFi is improving but not as widespread as in other countries. Coworking spaces offer reliable 50-100 Mbps.
eSIM Options
Skip the airport SIM queue with an eSIM
We may earn a commission from partner links at no extra cost to you.
Money & Banking
Cards vs Cash
Germany is surprisingly cash-heavy. Many restaurants, bakeries, and smaller shops only accept cash (Bargeld). Cards are improving in cities, but always carry euros. Visa/Mastercard accepted at larger retailers and hotels.
ATM Tips
Use ATMs at banks (Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank). Many ATMs are free for EU cardholders. International cards may incur 3-5€ fees. Withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees.
Tipping Culture
Tipping 5-10% is customary at restaurants. Say the total amount you want to pay including tip when paying (e.g., 'Stimmt so' = keep the change). Don't leave tip on the table.
- Many businesses display 'Nur Barzahlung' (cash only) signs
- EC/Girocard (local debit) is more widely accepted than Visa/Mastercard
Recommended Travel Cards
Avoid foreign transaction fees with these travel-friendly cards
We may earn a commission from partner links at no extra cost to you.
Track your trip prep
Get a personalized checklist you can tick off as you go — free to set up.
Getting Around
From the Airport
Fast train connections from major airports to city centers. Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin all have direct rail links.
Available at all major airports
Lufthansa Express Bus and local options available
Local Transport
Excellent metro/suburban rail in all major cities
Comprehensive networks, especially in eastern German cities
Regional trains connect nearby cities efficiently
Lime, Tier, Bolt scooters available in all cities
Driving & Rental Cars
International Driving Permit not required
Most visitors can drive in Germany on their home license alone. If your license isn't in the Latin script, carry a certified translation just in case.
Umweltzone low-emission zones require a windscreen sticker to enter many city centers — cameras and police checks fine cars without one.
Side of road
Right
Speed limit (km/h)
50 city
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Right on red
Not allowed
Min rental age
21
Nervous about driving in Germany?
Autobahn speeds, right-before-left junctions and unfamiliar signs can feel overwhelming. Practice real roads in 360° video before you go and take the wheel with confidence.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Renting a car in Germany
- Book early for busy seasons, and book an automatic ahead of time if you need one (manual is the default in many countries)
- Choose a "full to full" fuel policy so you only pay for the fuel you use
- Use a credit card in the driver's name, since the desk will hold a deposit on it
- Photograph or film the car at pickup, including every existing scratch
- Ask about tolls, cross-border fees and extra drivers before you sign
- Minimum rental age here is 21, and drivers under 25 often pay a young-driver fee
EconomyBookings
Compare rental car prices in Germany across hundreds of agencies — often cheaper than booking direct.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Safety & Accessibility
For Women Travelers
- Germany is very safe for solo female travelers
- Well-lit streets and reliable public transport at night
- Emergency number 112 works everywhere
LGBTQ+ Friendliness
Same-sex marriage legal since 2017. Berlin is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the world. Cologne Pride is the largest in Germany.
- Berlin's Schöneberg is the historic LGBTQ+ quarter
- Cologne and Hamburg also have vibrant scenes
In Partnership With
Everywhere Is Queer
Want to check out local queer businesses on your trip? Everywhere Is Queer maps queer-owned bars, cafés, restaurants, and shops so you can spend your money where it matters. Not every city is on the map yet, but coverage is growing fast — check if your destination is live.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Germany has strong accessibility laws. Most public transport, museums, and public buildings are wheelchair accessible.
- Newer U-Bahn/S-Bahn stations have elevators
- Accessible taxis available in all cities
- Many pedestrian zones are well-maintained
Pickpocket Hotspots
- Berlin Alexanderplatz
- Munich Marienplatz and Oktoberfest
- Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof area
- Cologne Cathedral surroundings
Travel Insurance
Don't travel without coverage
We may earn a commission from partner links at no extra cost to you.
Scams to Watch Out For
Fake petition signers
People approach with 'petitions' near tourist sites, then demand donations or pickpocket while you sign.
Prevention: Politely decline and walk away. Don't engage.
Ticket machine confusion
Strangers 'help' with ticket machines then ask for payment or distract while an accomplice steals.
Prevention: Use the DB Navigator app instead. Decline unsolicited help.
Street game scams
Shell games (Hütchenspiel) near tourist areas - always rigged.
Prevention: Never participate. Walk away.
Traveler Safety Essentials
Traveler Safety Essentials
These safety tips apply everywhere you travel. Small habits can prevent the most common security problems travelers face — from phone theft to home break-ins.
Don't forget anything
Turn these tips into a trackable checklist so nothing slips through the cracks.
Weather & Climate
Germany's climate varies by region. Here's a seasonal overview to help you plan.
Dec – Feb
-1-4°C (30-39°F)
Low rainfall
Cold, Carnival season
Mar – May
5-14°C (41-57°F)
Medium rainfall
Mild spring, Easter
Jun – Aug
15-25°C (59-77°F)
Medium rainfall
Warmest month, occasional heatwaves
Sep – Nov
6-13°C (43-55°F)
Medium rainfall
Autumn colors, cooler
Packing Tip
Check the specific month you're traveling for detailed packing suggestions. Weather can vary significantly by region and elevation.
Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend things we'd suggest to a friend.
Tap Water
Tap water is safe to drink.
Taste can differ from home, and some people prefer filtered or bottled water anyway. A refillable bottle saves money and plastic.
Power & Electricity
Voltage
230V
Frequency
50Hz
Plug Types
C, F
Standard European Type C/F (Schuko) plugs. US/Canadian devices need adapter and may need converter for non-dual-voltage devices.
What You May Need
- •From US/Canada/Japan: Likely need adapter and possibly converter for non-dual-voltage devices
- •From UK: Likely need adapter, voltage usually compatible
- •From Europe/Australia: Check plug type, voltage usually compatible
EPICKA 70W GaN travel adapter
3 USB-C + 2 USB-A ports with 70W GaN fast charging, so the whole family's devices charge off one plug. Not a voltage converter.
Shop on AmazonAnker power bank
A dead phone is as useless as a stolen one. Compact fast-charging backup power.
Shop on AmazonSome links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend things we'd suggest to a friend.
Most modern phone chargers and laptops work with 100-240V. Check your device's power adapter for compatibility before traveling.
Language & Communication
Languages Spoken
Official Language(s)
English Proficiency
Good English in major cities, tourist areas, and among younger people. More limited in rural eastern Germany.
Essential Phrases
Hallo
Hello
HAH-loh
Danke
Thank you
DAHN-keh
Bitte
Please / You're welcome
BIT-teh
Entschuldigung
Excuse me / Sorry
ent-SHOOL-dee-goong
Wie viel kostet das?
How much does it cost?
vee feel KOS-tet dahs
Die Rechnung, bitte
The bill, please
dee REKH-noong BIT-teh
Dietary Options
🌱 Vegan Friendly
Germany, especially Berlin, is one of the most vegan-friendly countries in the world. Supermarkets have extensive vegan sections. Many dedicated vegan restaurants.
🥗 Vegetarian Friendly
Very easy to be vegetarian. All restaurants offer vegetarian options. Look for 'vegetarisch' on menus.
🌾 Gluten-Free Friendly
Awareness is growing. Supermarkets stock gluten-free products. Ask for 'glutenfrei' at restaurants. Traditional cuisine is bread-heavy though.
Traveling with a Pet
Standardized compliance with EU 2026/131 framework requiring digital government endorsement.
Timeline
21 days minimum
Quarantine Risk
None if compliant
Regulatory Framework
EU Regulation 2026/131 framework.
Key Constraints
Strict verification of microchip registration sequence at airport checkpoints. Must enter via an official Designated Travelers' Point of Entry. Max 5 pets per vehicle.
Pet Culture
Unmatched infrastructure. Abundant fenced and off-leash dog forests (Hundeauslaufgebiete). Allowed on all public transport grids.
Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend things we'd suggest to a friend.
Cultural Tips
Punctuality is extremely important - being late is considered very rude
Shops are closed on Sundays by law, including most supermarkets
Quiet hours (Ruhezeit) are strictly observed: no noise 10 PM - 6 AM and all day Sunday
Recycling is serious - learn the Pfand (bottle deposit) system
Don't jaywalk - Germans wait for the green light even on empty streets
Greet people with a firm handshake, not a hug
Local Quirks & Fun Facts
Germans love sparkling water (Sprudel) - still water costs extra and you have to ask specifically
Bread culture is intense - there are over 3,000 types of German bread
Air conditioning is rare - Germans believe 'Durchzug' (drafts) cause illness
FKK (nudism) is common at lakes, parks, and saunas - don't be shocked
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not carrying cash - many places don't accept cards
Shopping on Sunday - everything is closed
Being loud in residential areas during quiet hours
Not validating your public transport ticket - fines are €60+
Expecting free tap water at restaurants - you usually have to buy drinks
Jaywalking in front of children - locals will scold you
Tours & Experiences
Book ahead — the best tours sell out fast.
Tours and experiences in Germany
Browse bookable tours, tickets and day trips on Viator, our tours partner.
Browse tours on ViatorWant the tour list shown right here?
Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend things we'd suggest to a friend.
Gear to make your trip easier
Pack smart
4BAGAIL compression packing cubes
Six compression cubes plus vacuum bags and a hand pump, so you can squeeze bulky items down hard when mesh alone isn't enough. Sold as a bundle; every piece is also available on its own.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Notabag packable backpack/tote
Folds into its own pocket, then opens into a backpack or tote for market runs, day trips, and overflow on the way home.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
FYY electronics organizer
Keeps chargers, cables, and adapters untangled in one place, so you're not digging through your bag at security.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
TSA toiletry containers (3oz set)
Refillable, TSA-approved bottles so you carry your own products in a carry-on without the airport surprise.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Rest on the way
7Mavogel sleep mask
Blocks light completely for sleep on planes, in bright rooms, or across time zones — contoured so nothing presses on your eyes.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Sea to Summit Aeros neck pillow
Inflatable, so it packs down to nothing but still holds your head up on long flights and buses.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Twelve South AirFly SE
Pairs your own headphones with any 3.5mm jack — seatback screens, gym equipment, whatever doesn't have Bluetooth. Reusable, so you're not relying on (or wasting) a disposable pair every flight.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Children's EarPlanes
Reduces the pressure change in a child's ears during takeoff and landing — less pain, less crying. 3-pair value pack.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Pedialyte electrolyte powder packets
Single-serve oral rehydration packets — lightweight, no fridge needed, and often not available at your destination.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Compression socks
Keep your legs from swelling and aching on long flights and bus rides — the cheap habit frequent flyers swear by.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Loop Quiet earplugs
Reusable, low-profile earplugs that dull engine drone, snorers, and noisy streets so you actually rest.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Keep it safe
9
NordPass
Keep every login and a passport photo encrypted, so losing your phone doesn't lose your accounts. Use code TRAVELREDDI for 4 months free on a paid plan.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
NordVPN
Encrypts your connection on sketchy public and hotel WiFi. Use code TRAVELREDDI for 4 months free on a paid plan.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Apple AirTag
Slip one into a checked bag, daypack or even your wallet, then find it in Find My. For iPhone users.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Tile tracker
The same idea for Android and iPhone. Great in luggage, a daypack, or a wallet.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Pacsafe crossbody
Locking zippers and a slash-resistant strap. The bag I wish I'd had when mine got unclipped.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Peak Gear money belt
A hidden belt for cash and a backup card, out of reach of pickpockets.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Guard Dog door lock
For when you're in the room. Adds a sturdy lock to almost any hotel or rental door so no one can open it while you're inside or asleep.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
TSA locks with cable
For when you're out. Use the cable to lock your bags to each other or to a fixed piece of furniture, so they're harder to grab and more obvious if someone tries. TSA-approved, 2-pack.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
TORRAS phone lanyard
Keeps your phone on your body, much harder to snatch out of your hand.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Weather ready
3BAODINI mini umbrella
Packs into a daypack and blocks both UV and sudden downpours — a travel-day staple when the forecast can't make up its mind.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Diveblues portable fan
Rechargeable handheld fan for hot, humid days and stuffy transit — stands hands-free when you need both hands.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend things we'd suggest to a friend.
Nearby destinations
Ready to plan your Germany trip?
Get a personalized checklist and timeline based on your travel dates and passport.