travelling around germany

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Top Cities to Visit
• Germany's Islands
• How to Get Around
• Driving in Germany
• Top Attractions
• Germany With Kids
• Best Festivals
• Scenic Road Trips
• Where to Go Hiking
• Best Beaches
• Ski Resorts
• Christmas Markets
• Food to Try
• Beer Regions
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• More to Explore

Getting Around Germany

wastesoul / Getty Images

There are many ways to explore Germany , depending on your itinerary, personal taste, and budget. Find out how you can best travel around the country from renting a car and flying down the Autobahn , to hopping on a plane, to enjoying a relaxing train ride. These are the people that invented the term wanderlust and travel in Germany is proof that it's not always about the destination, sometimes it is the journey.

How to Get From City to City

Robert Harding / Getty Images

What’s the fastest way to get from Berlin to Frankfurt ? Is it cheaper to take the train or opt for a plane if you want to travel from Munich to Hamburg ? Or is it better to rent a car and drive down the Autobahn?

Our series on how to get from one German city to the next offers all of this info, including which transportation options are fastest and most cost-efficient.

Train Travel

huettenhoelscher / Getty Images

One of the best ways to discover Germany (and Europe at large) is by train. Deutsche Bahn or "DB", the German railway system, is very well developed and reliable. You can reach almost every city in Germany by train; not to mention that watching the German landscape stream by your window is a very relaxing and comfortable way to travel.

Driving a Car

GettyImages / Norbert Breuer

Do you want to rent a car and travel on the world-famous German Autobahn? Of course, you do. And driving can help you get around with a family or travel at your own speed.

Driving in Germany is straight-forward, but you need to follow the rules of the road to travel at those high speeds and dispel myths (like there is no speed limit on the Autobahn).

Best Scenic Drives

Of course, sometimes the trip is an attraction in itself. Hop in the car and make the journey your reward.

Germany offers many scenic drives that will lead you past quaint villages , medieval castles , and unspoiled countryside. From the Romantic Road to the Castle Road , from the Fairy Tale Road to the German Wine Route , are some of the roads best traveled in Germany.

Sean Gallup / Getty Images 

Not everyone has the budget for a train or car rental, and buses can be an inexpensive way to see the country.

Bus networks are extensive, extending well beyond Germany's borders. They commonly offer vast discounts with little loss in luxury. Brands like Berlin Linien Bus and Flixbus offer comfortable, environmentally friendly, and wifi-connected coaches.

Sometimes the journey is slightly longer than driving or by train, but the difference is usually slight. Also note that buses are commonly subject to traffic delays on busy travel times like before and after holidays, or heading into the weekend.

Kenneth C. Zirkel / Getty Images

While many international visitors arrive through Frankfurt's International Airport (or less frequently by Munich and Berlin 's airports), traveling by plane is actually one of the worst ways to travel through Germany. You miss the wonderful German landscape and it is often far more expensive than the other options. Many flights also stopover in other countries, making flying inconvenient and longer than necessary.

That said, finding cheap flights is possible. Watch for deals between hubs like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin. There can also be an element of surprise with deals like EuroWings blind booking.

German for Travelers

Bene-Images / Getty Images

Another key element for your travels is speaking a bit of Deutsch . It's true that most Germans speak English, but a little German can go a long way. Speaking German with the sales agent at the ticket counter or your fellow travelers on the train or at a restaurant can make travel easier and more enjoyable.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Germany Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Germany. The country is synonymous with beer, sausages, incredible hiking, majestic castles, serious people, and wild techno parties. It’s huge, diverse, and utterly amazing.

There’s a vibrant art and music scene in Berlin , beautiful forests in the west, majestic cathedrals and castles throughout the country, picturesque “Sound of Music” cities in the south, and overlooked historic cities and beaches in the north.

The more I visit Germany, the more I fall in love with it. Whether you are backpacking, traveling on a mid-range budget, or looking to splash out, traveling around Germany is wonderful.

That said, Germany is a huge country so don’t rush your visit. There’s more to the country than just Berin and those cross-country train rides are longer than you think.

This travel guide to Germany will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Germany

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in germany.

1. Get lost in Berlin

Germany’s hip capital has world-class museums, history, funky neighborhoods, and some of the best nightlife in Europe. From the museums to the art and music scene to the great bars and cheap food, Berlin is electric (and one of the cheapest European capitals). It’s a really amazing city that has grown on me with every visit.

2. See Munich

Berlin’s quiet, upscale cousin, Munich is a city steeped in history, lively beer halls, incredible food, lush parks, and a royal palace. It’s a beautiful destination and there are a lot of Bavarian towns nearby that make for scenic day trips.

3. Party at Oktoberfest

Held annually in September and October, the world’s largest beer festival is filled with huge steins and giant pretzels. I went there for 5 days and had the time of my life. Buy some lederhosen, raise a glass, and sing some German beer songs. Just make sure to plan your trip well in advance as things sell out fast!

4. Explore the Romantic Road

A string of historic cities in Bavaria, the “Romantic Road” is the name for the route through majestic Bavarian towns and their surrounding snow-capped mountains. The area can get quite touristy but it’s a beautiful area and a great choice for road trips and romantic getaways. There are a ton of tour options for the area that are worth checking out. For some of the more further afield attractions, the tours are a must as they are hard to visit without a car.

5. Hike the Black Forest

The Black Forest is so named because of the dark green pine trees that grow here. Spanning over 6,000 square kilometers (2,300 square miles), there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails worth exploring and you can spend some time stopping in towns that are famous for their cuckoo clocks and hearty German fare. If you want to go on a guided hike or adventure activity, you can find a lot here.

Other Things to See and Do in Germany

1. explore lake constance.

Lying along the country’s southwestern border with Switzerland and Austria , Lake Constance (known as Bodensee in German) is Germany’s largest freshwater lake and the third-largest in Central Europe. One of the lake’s main attractions is the island of Mainau, also known as Flower Island, which is home to many specialty gardens, a baroque palace, and one of the largest butterfly houses in Germany. Tickets to visit the island are 10.50 EUR. Be sure to visit the many picturesque medieval villages and castles nearby, enjoy water sports, and go hiking and biking along the 272-kilometer (170-mile) Lake Constance Trail.

2. Visit Hanover

This city was one of the hardest hit during World War II, leaving it with only a few historical landmarks. But what I loved about Hanover were its large green areas of forests and big parks, the River Leine winding through the city, and the Sprengel Museum. Not many people visit, but I think it is one of Germany’s most underrated destinations .

3. Hike Berchtesgaden National Park

This national park, located in the south of Germany along the Austrian border, is an alpine heaven of lush forests, steep rock faces, crystal clear lakes, sleepy villages, and rolling meadows. It’s just you, the chirping birds, and cows ringing their brass bells. Well-marked trails wind through the spectacular scenery, which brims with opportunities for hiking and cycling. While nature is the main attraction, the beautiful red-domed Church of St. Bartholomew (dating to 1697) is a worthwhile stop as well.

4. Check out Trier

Nestled in the Moselle River valley, picturesque Trier is the oldest town in the country. With a 2,000-year-old history, Trier was home to six Roman emperors and contains numerous UNESCO Roman ruins. The most outstanding example is the Black Gate, a monumental structure that was once part of the city walls. Other Roman sites worth visiting include the incredibly well-preserved basilica, the huge amphitheater, the bridge, and the baths. Trier is also home to several important Gothic and Baroque churches, a beautiful main square, and great wine due to its location in the Moselle wine region.

5. Visit Dresden

Dresden, the capital of the German state Saxony, is a vibrant city located along the majestic Elbe River near the Czech and Polish borders. During World War II, the city was subject to one of the most devastating bombings of the war. Tens of thousands of civilians died, and over 90% of the city was razed at the hands of British-American forces. After the war, the city was completely rebuilt. The famous Frauenkirche church, the Neumarkt historic district, the Zwinger Palace, the Royal Palace, and the Semper Opera House have all been restored to their former glory. Other must-see attractions include the Fürstenzug, a unique 102-meter-long (334-foot) porcelain mural dating to the 1870s; and the baroque Grosser Garten, the largest green space in the city.

6. Spend a day in Cologne

Cologne is a cool place to stop in West Germany on your way to or from the Netherlands . The cathedral is the most popular landmark in the city (and one of the most popular in the country), but there’s also a vibrant art scene, incredible international restaurants, and lots of riverside cafes and pubs. It’s an underrated stop worth exploring for a couple of days.

7. See Neuschwanstein Castle

This 19th-century Neo-Romantic palace is the model for the Disney castle and a must for any Germany itinerary. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Europe, with over 1.5 million visitors each year. Perched on a rugged hill in Bavaria near the town of Füssen, the palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and as an homage to Richard Wagner. Visitors can walk around outside and admire the stunning exterior for free, but the interior is only accessible by guided tour at specific times, which must be booked in advance. While the palace is 6,000 square meters (65,000 square feet) in size, only 14 of those rooms were ever finished. The finished rooms were fitted with very modern technology for the time, such as central heating, hot and cold running water, automatic flush toilets, and telephones. Admission is 15 EUR and guided tours are available . I think the guided tours add a lot of context and would really recommend taking one.

8. See Frankfurt

Often considered just a stopover city (there is a huge airport here), Frankfurt is home to a gigantic exhibition hall (one of the largest in the world so tons of events and conferences are held here), an excellent science museum, and a towering 14th-century cathedral. It’s less expensive compared to other cities in Germany and worth spending a day or two visiting.

9. Visit Olympia Park

Located in Munich, this massive complex was originally constructed for the 1972 Olympic Games. It is topped by the largest roof in the world, which spans over 700,000 feet. There is a really good restaurant here too. Tickets to the stadium cost 3.50 EUR while a ticket to the Olympic Tower costs 11 EUR. You can also skate in the ice arena, swim in the Olympic swimming pool, and reserve court time on the tennis courts. The BMW Museum is also nearby and worth a visit.

10. Tour to Schloss Colditz

Originally built to be a Renaissance palace, this interesting structure has a long, bizarre history. Located between Leipzig and Dresden in the region of Saxony, it’s been a hunting lodge, a poorhouse, and even a mental hospital. It is most famous for being a prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. There is a museum within the palace, with tickets costing 4 EUR. A two-hour guided tour through the castle (and escape tunnels built by prisoners) is 10 EUR. There is even a hostel within the castle (30.50 EUR per night).

11. Visit Hamburg

Located in northern Germany, Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city. This port city, home to the second-busiest port in Europe, is famous for its parks and canals. Near its core, Inner Alster lake is dotted with boats and surrounded by cafes. The city’s central boulevard connects the Neustadt (new town) with the Altstadt (old town) and is home to landmarks like 18th-century St. Michael’s Church.

12. See Tierpark Hagenbeck

Located in Hamburg, this zoo and aquarium spans over 60 acres and is home to more than 2,500 animals including polar bears, penguins, and walruses. In addition to the classic attractions, there is a petting zoo, a miniature railway, pony rides, a playground for kids, and a serene Japanese garden. Combination tickets for the zoo and aquarium are 40 EUR.

13. Take a break in Bremen

Located in the north (near Hamburg), Bremen is a smaller city worth exploring. The charming medieval Schnoor district makes for a great stroll, and there is a beautiful cathedral and opulent city hall in the historic market square. The medieval harbor has been converted into the Schlachte, a large pedestrian promenade along the banks of the Weser River lined with countless restaurants, beer gardens, and riverboats. Bremen is also home to several fascinating museums, including the Universum Bremen, an interactive science museum in a modern whale-shaped building. The museum also offers a Dining in the Dark three-hour dinner experience, where you learn to experience food with just four out of your five senses.

14. Explore the Rhine Valley

The longest river in Germany, the Rhine holds incredible importance both historically and culturally. The most popular area to visit is the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. This 67-kilometer (41-mile) stretch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with countless castles, ruins, villages, and vineyards. An extensive network of walking and cycling paths, as well as excellent public transportation, means you don’t even need to rent a car when visiting.

15. Step back in time in Bamberg

Located less than an hour from Nuremberg, Bamberg is one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval towns, home to Europe’s largest intact historic city wall. Founded in the 9th century, the town was important in both the 12th-century Holy Roman Empire and the 18th-century German Enlightenment. It’s an incredibly picturesque town so spend the day wandering around, seeing the old homes, visiting the 13th-century cathedral, the 17th-century palace, the 18th-century city hall, and the seven churches that sit atop each of the seven hills surrounding the village.

16. Take a river cruise

Many of Germany’s major cities lie along large rivers, making river cruises a popular way to see the country. While there are expensive multi-day cruises going from city to city, you can also take a day cruise for a more budget-friendly option . Generally, these are around 15-25 EUR for a 1-2 hour trip. They are super fun.

17. Ascend Germany’s tallest mountain

Located in the Alps along the German-Austrian border, the Zugspitze mountain measures 2,962 meters (9,718 feet) and is a popular destination for winter sports. Even if you’re not into skiing, you can still enjoy the trip up the mountain via one of three different cable cars and a 90-year-old rack railway line. At the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views and several restaurants with traditional Alpine food. Round-trip cable car tickets cost 24-63 EUR depending on the season and which cable car you take. If you don’t want to go solo, day trips are available from Munich and are the best way to get there and around without transportation.

  For more information on specific cities in Germany, check out these guides:

• Berlin Travel Guide
• Cologne Travel Guide
• Frankfurt Travel Guide
• Munich Travel Guide

Germany Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Germany is quite affordable compared to other Eurozone countries. Hostels are plentiful and range from 17-25 EUR per night for a dorm room with 6-8 beds. For a private room, expect to pay 40-60 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices begin around 45-65 EUR for a small double room with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is available everywhere with private rooms going for as little as 30-45 EUR per night and entire apartments or homes starting at 50-75 EUR. Book early though or prices will double (or triple).

While wild camping is illegal, there are a ton of campsites around the country. Expect to pay 5-20 EUR per night for a basic plot for two people without electricity.

Food – Food in Germany is very cheap (and hearty). Meat is a staple of most meals, especially sausages; there are over 1,500 different kinds of sausages in Germany (sausages here are known as “wurst”). Stews are also a popular traditional choice, as are potato dumplings and sauerkraut. Breakfast is usually composed of bread, cold cuts, cheese, and boiled eggs.

You can get sausages and bratwurst from outdoor vendors for around 3-5 EUR. Meals at many of the beer halls around the country cost 9-15 EUR. Pre-made sandwiches cost around 5 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8.50 EUR for a combo meal.

If you eat in the beer halls, a traditional German meal costs around 14-18 EUR. Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Asian food can be found for as little as 5 EUR, while a nicer meal at a sit-down restaurant costs around 25 EUR.

Beer costs around 4 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is around 3 EUR. Bottled water is around 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 40-50 EUR. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat. While they don’t always offer the most variety, the cheapest places are Aldi, Lidl, Penny, and Netto. Bring your own bag if possible.

Backpacking Germany Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Germany, my suggested budget is 55 EUR per day. This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, using local transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like hiking and taking free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add another 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 135 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat a few meals out, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, take the bus between cities, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and castles.

On a “luxury” budget of 245 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, travel between cities via train, eat out at restaurants for all of your meals, drink more, take taxis to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Germany Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Overall, Germany is not an expensive country to visit. Yes, river cruises are expensive. Yes, there’s plenty of high-end cuisine throughout the country. Visiting Frankfurt, the capital of finance, costs a pretty penny. But those are exceptions to the rule. Overall, Germany is quite affordable for a Eurozone country, with plenty of bargains throughout the country. Here are my best tips for saving money in Germany:

• Eat cheap – Throughout Germany, cheap outdoor sausage vendors offer quick eats for only a couple of euros. Additionally, some of the best and cheapest food in Germany is Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine. You can get meals for 5-8 EUR that are delicious and filling. It’s what I mainly eat while in Germany whenever I want to eat out.
• Drink cheap – In Germany, buying beer and walking around — known as a ‘Weg bier’ — is totally acceptable. Take advantage of good weather by sitting outside in Germany’s lovely plazas and lush parks and buy your own drinks from the Späti shops, street kiosks, and supermarkets to save money. Also, find the student areas by the universities as you’ll find the discounted places.
• Take the free tours – The bigger cities in Germany have free walking tours. They’re a good way to see the city, learn about the history, and get your bearings without spending money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Book your train early – Trains in Germany are expensive but you can get a saver ticket that is around 40-50% off the standard fare if you book at least a week in advance. These tickets have limited availability, so be flexible with your travel plans. Also, if you are more flexible with times, try Flixtrain instead, which has fewer routes between bigger cities sometimes at inconvenient times but is way cheaper than Deutsche Bahn.
• Take the bus instead of the train – While not as comfy or romantic, Flixbus or Postbus are two bus companies with super cheap prices. Download the app and you can get tickets last-minute but be aware that prices vary by time and availability so if you need to be somewhere by a certain time or day book in advance.
• Use rideshares – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). You save money and get to spend time with locals. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe (though sometimes rides don’t show up, which is why you need to be flexible). While the bus might be cheaper, this is usually faster (and more interesting). Just make sure to check where the pickup and drop-offs are as sometimes they are not exactly central places or main station.
• Stay with a local – While accommodation in Germany is pretty cheap, if you want to get some local insight into the country, you should Couchsurf. Not only will you save money on accommodation but you’ll meet locals who can help get you off the tourist trail and show you around! Plus, they have occasional meet-ups depending on the city so you can meet other travelers and locals
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Look out for free museum days – Most museums in Germany offer free admission on certain days or evenings. Check their website or ask the local tourism office to find out about discounts.
• Get transportation day passes – If you’re going to be using public transportation a lot in a city, get a day pass. Paying for single rides adds up quickly.
• Get city tourism cards – Most of the major cities in Germany offer city tourism cards. These include free admission to major museums and attractions, discounts on restaurants, and usually unlimited public transportation. If you plan on seeing a lot, these cards can save you money.

Where to Stay in Germany

There are lots of fun and social hostels in Germany. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• St. Christopher’s (Berlin)
• Circus Hostel (Berlin)
• Wombats (Munich)
• Jaeger’s Hostel (Munich)
• Five Elements Hostel (Frankfurt)
• Meininger (Hamburg)
• Generator Hostel (Hamburg)
• Station Hostel for Backpackers (Cologne)
• Black Sheep Hostel (Cologne)
• Lollis Homestay (Dresden)
• Hostel Mondpalast (Dresden)
• a&o Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof (Nuremberg)
• Five Reasons Hostel (Nuremberg)

How to Get Around Germany

Public transportation – Germany has some of the best public transportation in the world. All the cities and larger towns have public transportation that is reliable and efficient. In cities like Berlin and Munich, all the various networks are integrated: one ticket gives you access to buses, trams, U-Bahn (subway), and S-Bahn (above ground train). Fares are determined by zone, but generally, a one-way fare starts from 2.90 EUR. A one-day unlimited pass is generally around 7-9 EUR while a three-day pass costs 17-20 EUR.

Train – Train travel is an incredibly efficient way to get around Germany, though it’s not cheap. Germany’s main rail system is Deutsche Bahn, which has both high-speed trains and regular trains. The high-speed trains are a quick way to get around but are usually much more expensive.

Take advantage of regional group tickets that start at around 22 EUR. These regional discounted tickets are available in Bavaria, Brandenburg-Berlin, Baden-Wüttermburg, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westfalia, Hesse, etc. For example, the Bavarian Bayern Ticket is 58 EUR for a group of 5 tickets for any train in Bavaria from 9am to 3am.

Last-minute tickets from Berlin to Hamburg can cost 50 EUR, but advance bookings start around 20 EUR. Frankfurt to Cologne is also around 20 EUR. It’s always best to book in advance when possible, otherwise, you’ll pay the price for last-minute bookings. You can track schedules and fares on the Deutsche Bahn website.

Another great site for trains around Germany (and into neighboring countries), is Trainline .

A Eurail Pass, which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period, might also be a good option if you’re doing some country hopping. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how Eurail passes work and can save you money .

Bus – Aside from hitchhiking, buses are the cheapest way to get around Germany. They are punctual but slow, with comfortable seats, air-conditioning, rest stops, and usually free Wi-Fi.

I recommend Flixbus for the cheapest rates and most comfortable buses. You can get from Berlin to Dresden for as little as 10 EUR, or from Berlin to Munich for 20 EUR. Munich to Hamburg is around 22 EUR.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Ridesharing – Ridesharing in Germany is very common. Ridesharing means you travel as a passenger with someone in exchange for payment toward fuel costs. It’s usually not as cheap as the bus but it’s often faster and you’ll meet some interesting characters! BlaBlaCar and Mitfahren are the two most popular ride-sharing websites.

Car rental – German is a great country to explore by car. Car rentals start at 30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be at least 21 years old.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Germany

Germany is a year-round destination. Summer is the most popular time to visit as temperatures are hot and everyone’s outdoors enjoying the weather. People flock to beer gardens and to the lakes to swim. This is also the peak season, when prices are much higher than usual. During this time, average temperatures hover around 24°C (75°F) and can soar well into the 30s°C (high 80s°F). You’ll want to book accommodation and transportation early (especially in July and August).

Temperatures warm up fast in spring, and the season is marked by the arrival of cherry blossoms. By May it’s warm enough to walk around in t-shirts and shorts. May 1 (Der Erste Mai) is Germany’s Labor Day, and the country breaks out in full celebration. If you’re lucky enough to be here during this time, take to the streets with your fellow Germans and enjoy the live music, drinking, dancing, and general mayhem.

Thanks to the famous Oktoberfest, autumn is a very popular time to visit Germany (especially Munich). From the end of September to early October, millions of people flock here from all over the world to enjoy the most epic beer-drinking festival in the world. If you’re planning on attending Oktoberfest, book your accommodations in advance. Way, way in advance.

An autumn visit to Germany is overall a great idea, especially in Bavaria when the foliage in the hills and mountains makes for some amazing photography. Temperatures can sometimes be chilly, but with light layers, you’ll be fine.

Winter in Germany can be cold, with temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F), but Germany is known for its Christmas spirit and the holiday markets all over the country are well worth your time, especially in Munich, Berlin, and Dresden. Pack some warm clothes and let the delicious glühwein (mulled wine) warm you up.

Winter in Bavaria is a skier and snowboarder’s dream only around one hour outside of Munich. While people might not think of Germany first in terms of skiing in Europe, these slopes are pristine, truly breathtaking, and way cheaper than neighboring Switzerland. Check out Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Füssen, Kranzberg, Zugspitze, and Laber.

How to Stay Safe in Germany

Germany is an incredibly safe place to travel. However, due to a few high-profile terrorist attacks in the country, I often get asked if it’s safe to travel to Germany. I wrote a whole article about how Germany (and Europe) is safe to visit if that’s a concern of yours.

Generally, you just need to watch out for scams and petty crime as you would anywhere (especially in Berlin late at night). Keep an eye on your valuables when in large crowds and on public transportation. Violent crime is rare so as long as you keep your valuables secure you shouldn’t experience any issues.

Scams are rare but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should feel safe in Germany, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Germany Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Germany Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Germany and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Berlin

Where to Stay in Berlin: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Survive Oktoberfest

The 18 Best Things To Do in Berlin

Munich is Better than Berlin

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Home » Destinations » Europe » Germany » 5-14 Day Germany Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Germany Trip

5-14 Day Germany Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Germany Trip

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here .

Plan Your Perfect Germany Itinerary with These Detailed Templates!

If you’re looking to plan the perfect trip around Germany, you are in luck! We’re passionate about exploring Germany because it’s a great country – and because Lisa is German!

Jokes aside, we’ve been lucky enough (and have made it a point) to see lots of different parts of the country – from the sea in the north to the mountains in the south. That said, Germany can be a tough country to plan a route or road trip through because there is just so much to see and do!

So, whether you’re looking for the best week in Germany or a Germany itinerary that covers 5 days or 14 days – here’s our master guide with 7 detailed Germany itineraries by train and/or by car! We’ve got cities, attractions, hotels and accommodations, directions, and distances to help you plan the best Germany travel route for you!

We’ve got other great posts to help you plan a visit to Germany:

• Must-Knows + Tips for Travelling to Germany for the First Time
• Helpful German Phrases to Get You By
• Discover 30 Beautiful Places in Germany
• Our Top Hostels in Germany (Stayed at all of them)

Table of Contents

Things to Consider When Travelling in Germany

Before you plan your trip to Germany, there are some things that you should know and keep in mind to make planning easier and to have a successful trip. While you probably know that the currency used in Germany is the Euro, here are some other topics that you should consider as well.

Best Time of Year to Visit Germany

Germany is actually a destination that you can visit year round – but it is important to plan accordingly and go in with the right expectations. If you’re planning a trip during the spring – let’s say from March to May – you could absolutely have beautiful weather… but it may also just rain a lot.

Unfortunately, the weather can be quite difficult to predict. However, as long as you prepare for different possibilities, you can have a great time no matter the weather! Generally you can say that Germany has a moderate climate with cool and rainy winters (more snowy the farther south you get) and warm – but not overly hot – summers.

July and August are usually the warmest months with an average temperature around 20°C. However, there can be days where you have 30°C. Of course, this can vary depending on the exact location you’re travelling to. Often, it is colder by the north coast than it is farther south. 

We would honestly recommend that you avoid visiting the country in July if you dislike crowds since this is when the majority of kids are on their summer break from school. As a result, some cities can get quite busy.

Typically, we would recommend travelling in May or June and then from the end of August until the end of September (or even the middle of October). However, there is also a great reason to plan a Germany trip during the winter because of the many beautiful Christmas markets that you could visit at that time of year!

Public Transportation in Germany

Public transportation in Germany is quite good, especially when compared to North America. Yes, sometimes us Germans like to complain about the “Deutsche Bahn” – the German train company – but at the same time we are also super glad that it exists and works well. 

If you’re wondering: Yes, all the itineraries mentioned below can absolutely be done if you want to take the train (minus the odd day trip to a castle here and there). If you want to check a train connection and/or buy tickets in advance you can do so on the DB Website . Alternatively, you can also download the DB app to your phone. We both have it and use it regularly. 

As an alternative to the train, you can sometimes also use the bus to get from one city/town to another. Since 2013 (before this date it wasn’t allowed), long distance buses have established their presence in more and more cities and are now a popular way to get around for people who are more conscious of their money.

Unfortunately long distance train tickets can sometimes get quite expensive if you don’t book in advance – so the bus can be a good alternative in some cases.

The most popular long distance bus company in Germany is probably Flixbus. We have also used them multiple times to get between cities. If you want to look at the schedule and/or book a ticket, you can do so on their website .

In addition to the trains and long distance buses, the public transport within the cities is also usually pretty good – especially in bigger centres. Many of the cities – or transport associations – have their own transport apps. So, if you know where you are going and plan on using the local buses, trams, metros, etc. then downloading the local transport app would be a great idea!

Car Rental in Germany

If you want to rent a car and plan a Germany road trip, then that is certainly an option as well. Driving in Germany is generally pretty safe and people are not usually as reckless as in some countries in the south of Europe. However, it can get a little crazy in bigger cities like Berlin or Munich – especially if you are not used to driving in bigger centres. 

In Germany, you drive on the right side as it is done in the United States, Canada, and many other countries as well. You have probably heard of the “Autobahn” – that’s simply the German name for our highway system. If you follow any of these itineraries, you’ll drive on many different highways. 

While it is true that there is no speed limit in some parts of the Autobahn, there are lots of sections where there are actually speed limits in place. You can usually find limits imposed at/around construction zones along the way – so don’t think you can just speed all the time.

And PLEASE don’t drive on the Autobahn like you would on a highway in the United States or Canada – pass on the left and then get back over . If you’re going slower than other cars, there’s no need for you to be in the left (or even in the middle) lane. You can probably tell that this is something that Lisa complains about in Canada frequently, haha. 

Since Germany is such a popular destination, there are lots of different rental car agencies to choose from. You can compare prices from different agencies for the duration of your trip with this handy rental car comparison tool . Please make sure to read the fine print so you know whether you need extra insurance, etc.

Also please be aware that many people in Germany drive cars with a stick shift. Rental cars with automatic transmissions exist, but the numbers available are usually lower and these cars might be slightly more expensive.

We’d also recommend that you reserve an automatic car well in advance if you need one – just so you can make sure that one is available for you. It probably wouldn’t be fun learning how to drive a stick shift while on a road trip in a foreign country. 

Travel Insurance for Germany

If you’re planning a trip to Germany and you’re not from another EU country, then you should make sure to get travel insurance for the duration of your trip!

While you’ll probably be fine, accidents do happen and it could get really expensive if you’re not covered. That’s why we always travel with insurance.

If you live in another EU country and have health insurance there, you can get the blue health insurance card with which you are covered in other EU countries in emergency cases, as well.

If you don’t have that option – or are from outside of Europe – we recommend that you get private travel insurance.

Germany Itinerary 5 Days

If you only have a few days to travel through Germany, then have a look below at the two 5-day itineraries we have created. For these itineraries, we have assumed that you are not already in the country so they all start and end in bigger cities.

This should help make it easier for you to fly in/out of an airport with good connections if you are coming from overseas.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose between a trip through the northern part of Germany or a trip through the south of the country (mainly Bavaria). If you are interested in bigger cities and/or harbours, then we’d recommend the northern route.

In case you prefer half-timbered houses and beautiful old towns, then you should have a look at the southern route instead. Of course, you can always modify any itinerary to better suit your interests!

Germany Itinerary 5 Days – North

This 5-day Germany itinerary through the northern part of the country can certainly be considered a “sampler-type” of itinerary since you get to see the two biggest cities in the country – but not much more than that.

That’s completely fine though – you can only see so much in five days anyway. If you are interested in bigger cities and don’t have more than a few days, then this itinerary would be great for you!

The total driving time for this itinerary would be about 5 hours 30 minutes with a total distance of approx. 520 km. Of course, this can change depending on the route you are taking and the time of day you are travelling. Commuter traffic could add quite a bit of travel time to your journey.

Day 1+2: Berlin Day 3: Bremen Day 4+5: Hamburg

Day 1+2: Berlin

Berlin is a great place to start your adventure since it is the German capital, has multiple airports close by, and has really good train connections.

Since Berlin is such a popular tourist and business city, the car rental industry is well established and there are many different rental agencies to choose from.

— Compare prices from rental car companies in Berlin here

However, since you are only visiting bigger cities on this relatively short itinerary, we believe that a rental car is probably not necessary. Instead, for this trip, it might make more sense to take the train.

Since Berlin is such a big city with lots of things to do, it is worth it to spend (at least) two days in the city. So, remember to book your accommodation in Berlin for two nights .

Accommodation in Berlin : Berlin is a massive sprawling city with loads of different areas to stay and different accommodation options. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Berlin .

If you are travelling to Berlin with a car, you’ll need a place to park. Check out Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte for a stay right in the middle of the city close to Museum Island and other top attractions. It also has a tasty breakfast. Park Plaza has free parking on the street near the hotel (if available) or else it’s for a fee (but a reasonable price considering you’re in the middle).

If you are arriving into Berlin by train, you can check out NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie . Located in the city centre right near the top sight “Checkpoint Charlie”, this popular hotel is in the heart of the action/attractions and is easy to get to via modes of public transit (metro – called the “U” for U-bahn).

If you are searching for a hostel/hotel, check out PLUS Berlin . Located over near the East Side Gallery (the piece of the Berlin wall with the artwork on it), Eric stayed here and really liked it! It’s also very easy to get to using public transit and is close to other areas to go out, etc.

Must-see Attractions in Berlin:

• Brandenburg Gate
• East Side Gallery (Berlin Wall)

We have also written a whole article about classic tourist attractions in Berlin in case you’d like some more inspiration. If you’re looking for some tips on how you could spend a day in Berlin, have a look at our One Day in Berlin Guide .

Day 3: Bremen

On the third day of your 5 days in Germany, you’ll head for Bremen. We’d recommend that you do the drive/train ride in the morning so you have enough time to explore the city once you get there.

Bremen is a hanseatic city with a nice old town – the market square with the town hall and the cathedral is especially popular. In German-speaking countries, the city is also known for a tale called the “Town Musicians of Bremen” by the Brothers Grimm. You’ll come across the animals of the tale (donkey, dog, cat, and rooster) many times as you stroll through the city.

The drive from Berlin to Bremen will take you approximately 4 hrs 10 min by car , but only around 3 hrs by train . If you take the train, try to book in advance if you can as this will usually save you some money.

Accommodation in Bremen: Bremen is a popular city to explore and it’s also on the larger side so you’ll find plenty of accommodations to suit your needs. There are hotels in the city centre/old town which put you within walking distance of the river and top attractions. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Bremen .

For a popular choice in the historic middle, you should check out the very popular Radisson Blu Hotel Bremen . Funny story – we know there’s underground parking because we parked there when we visited Bremen by car.

If you want to stay closer to the train station just outside the historic centre (but still very central), check out the Dorint City-Hotel Bremen . This lovely and also very popular hotel is close to the pretty Windmill and flower gardens and has water views just outside the old city walls.

Must-see Attractions in Bremen:

• Marktplatz with Town Hall and Cathedral
• Böttcherstraße
• Schnoorviertel

If you want some more tips for Bremen, have a look at our detailed Things to do in Bremen Guide .

Day 4+5: Hamburg

Hamburg is the second-biggest German city and the last stop on this short itinerary. We have been to Hamburg numerous times now and it is actually one of our favourite bigger German cities. You’ll find that the atmosphere of the city is very different than in Berlin. Not necessarily better or worse – just different.

Interesting (and slightly irrelevant) fact: The cities you visit on this itinerary are the three city states that exist in Germany in addition to the 13 area states such as Bavaria, Nordrhine-Westphalia etc.

The drive from Bremen to Hamburg is actually pretty simple and should only take around 1 hour 30 minutes by car and just around 1 hour if you take an ICE (fast train) . The train connection between these two cities is great with trains running pretty frequently. That should make it quite easy to find a train connection that works for your schedule.

Accommodation in Hamburg : Hamburg is popular city with loads of different accommodations and areas to stay in. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hamburg .

If you are travelling to Hamburg with a car, you might want to check out the Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg . Located in an old water tower, this unique hotel has a number of cool features with stunning views and parking onsite. It’s very popular – and also close to public transit for getting around!

If you are travelling to Hamburg by train, ARCOTEL Rubin Hamburg is a great hotel option for you to check out. Located in the cool area of St. Georg, you can easily walk to the hotel from the train station. It’s also walkable to other parts of the city centre and other attractions.

If you are looking for a hostel in Hamburg, you might want to check out Generator Hamburg as a reliable and popular hostel stay close to central station and the heart of the city.

If you want more details about accommodations in the city, we have a more detailed guide on where to stay in Hamburg .

Must-see Attractions in Hamburg:

• Speicherstadt
• Elbphilharmonie
• St. Pauli Piers

As one of our first ever articles on Penguin and Pia, we actually wrote a short Hamburg Guide . Have a look if you want some more Hamburg inspiration. Unfortunately it’s not nearly as detailed as our newer article – looks like it’s time for an update!

Germany Itinerary 5 Days – South

If you would like to explore the southern part of Germany instead of the north, then we would recommend the following 5 days Southern Germany itinerary. Compared to the northern itinerary, this trip includes stops in some smaller towns and cities. So, if you are interested in seeing some places of various sizes, beautiful old towns, and maybe a castle, then this might be a good itinerary for you.

The driving distance of this trip is just around 680 kilometres with a total driving time of approx. 7 hours . Depending on your mode of transportation, this can – of course – vary slightly.

Day 1: Munich Day 2: Regensburg Day 3: Nuremberg Day 4: Stuttgart Day 5: Munich

Day 1: Munich

We are starting (and ending) this itinerary in Munich since it is an easy airport to fly in and out of from other parts of the world. If you are coming from another part of Europe by train, the connections to Munich are also usually pretty good.

Munich is the third-biggest German city and a very popular tourist destination. International travellers often mainly know the city because of the Oktoberfest which happens every year from the middle of September until October.

However, there is so much more to do and see in Munich than just the “Wiesn” (as the Oktoberfest is sometimes called as well). We are always happy to return to Munich because there is just so much to explore.

If you are thinking about renting a car for this itinerary, then you’ll be happy to know that it is quite easy to get a rental car in Munich. You can either pick it up directly at the airport after you land (if you arrive by plane) or in the city centre before you head to the next stop on this journey.

— Compare prices from rental car companies in Munich here

Accommodation in Munich: Munich is very large and popular city so finding a place to stay is no problem. The issue becomes that there are too many places to choose from! That said, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Munich .

Specifically, we stayed at the very popular H2 Hotel München Olympiapark and we would highly recommend it for the value for money. The hotel has nice, cozy rooms, a super great breakfast buffet, and has a metro station steps from the front entrance to take you to the city centre.

There’s also onsite parking which makes this hotel perfect if you are travelling to Munich by car. The famous Olympic Park and BMW Museum are close by, too!

If you want to stay a little more in the city centre, then check out the Platzl Hotel Superior . This trendy hotel is in the heart of the Old Town just steps from top attractions like Marienplatz and the famous Hofbräuhaus. It’s also easy to get to the central train station either walking or on the metro.

If you are looking for more details on accommodations in this massive city, we wrote a detailed guide on where to stay in Munich .

Must-see Attractions in Munich:

• Marienplatz with New Town Hall
• Olympic Park
• Victuals Market
• English Garden

We also have a great little guide on how to spend one day in Munich if you want more details.

Day 2: Regensburg

On day two of your trip you’ll be on your way to Regensburg, a small city in Bavaria on the Danube river. Due to its location by the river, Regensburg is a popular stop for people on a river cruise. So don’t be surprised if you see many different tour groups in the Old Town.

We recently spent a couple of days in Regensburg to get to know the city better and enjoyed our time there. One of the highlights is the Old Stone Bridge in the city centre which was built in the 12th century. We actually filmed a small YouTube video in Regensburg – which you can watch here if you are curious about what the city looks like.

The journey from Munich to Regensburg takes approximately 1 hr 20 minutes by car and around 1 hr 30 minutes by train . If you decide to travel by train – and especially if you are travelling with other people – we would recommend that travel with a “Bayernticket” (Bavaria Ticket). This ticket for train travel within the state of Bavaria usually allows you to save some money compared to regular prices.

Accommodation in Regensburg:  If you are staying a night in Regensburg, you’ll have a number of great accommodations to choose from. To get started, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Regensburg .

When we visited the city, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express – Regensburg and really liked it. It’s a newer hotel and it really shows. The breakfast was excellent and there is even an onsite parking garage if you are travelling with a car. It’s not in the Old Town or near the river – but we did walk there one day and it only took about 15 minutes.

If you are travelling by train and you are on-foot, then check out the Altstadthotel Am Pach . This simple hotel is located right in the heart of the old town so you’re close to everything there is to see and do in Regensburg – including the beautiful Danube River. They also have breakfast included.

Must-see Attractions in Regensburg:

• Old Stone Bridge
• St Peter Cathedral

We are currently still working on our Regensburg Guide – but we’ll link it here once it is published.

Day 3: Nuremberg

On the third day of this 5 day Southern Germany itinerary you’ll drive – or take the train – from Regensburg to Nuremberg. Nuremberg is a medium sized city in a part of Bavaria called Franconia. If you pay attention, you might notice that the dialect spoken here is quite different from that spoken in Munich and other places farther south.

Lisa actually grew up in this part of Germany so she has been to Nuremberg many, many times. Last year we also went to explore the city together and had a great time. Travellers from abroad mainly know the city for the Nuremberg Trials which took place there after World War II. You can certainly learn alot of history in this German city!

Since Nuremberg is quite close to Regensburg the drive won’t be long – giving you slightly more time to explore the city.

The journey takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by car and between 1-2 hours by train depending on which train you take (some stop more often than others). Once again, a regional ticket – such as the Bavaria Ticket – will probably save you some money if you travel with more people.

Accommodation in Nuremberg : Since Nuremberg is a very popular city to visit in Germany, there are many, many places to stay scattered throughout the city centre and around it. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Nuremberg .

When we visited, we stayed at Five Reasons Hotel and Hostel and we really liked it. Located just inside the medieval city walls, we were really close to the train station and yet also steps from top attractions like the Germanisches Nationalmuseum. The place was bright and great value for the price which we liked a lot.

Close to Five Reasons, we had friends stay at the Sheraton Carlton Nuremberg and they loved it. We actually saw it with our own eyes – it had a pool with views of the city among other perks. There’s also a parking lot right across from the hotel if you’re coming to Nuremberg by car. It’s walking distance to the old centre and the central train station so best of all worlds!

Must-see Attractions in Nuremberg:

• Imperial Castle of Nuremberg (Kaiserburg)
• Documentation Center + Nazi Party Rally Grounds
• Albrecht Dürer’s House

As is the case with Regensburg, we are also still working on our article for Nuremberg. Once it’s live, we’ll link it here.

Day 4: Stuttgart

Stuttgart is the capital of the German state called Baden-Württemberg and the only place on this itinerary that is not located in Bavaria. The city is mainly known for being a “car hub” since both Mercedes-Benz and Porsche have their headquarters there. There are also museums dedicated to both car brands.

Stuttgart is a bit smaller than Munich but there is still a lot to see. In fact, one day won’t be enough to see the whole city – but it’ll allow you to get a good first impression. Next to the car museums, you could visit some of the many green spaces and/or old buildings that the city has to offer.

Driving from Nuremberg to Stuttgart by car will take you approximately 2 hours 15 minutes. If you have the time, you could even take a small detour and stop in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, known for its picturesque Old Town.

By train , the journey from Nuremberg to Stuttgart will take between 2 hrs 10 minutes and 2 hrs 30 minutes – depending on the type of train you are taking. Try to book your ticket in advance if possible as this can save you some money.

Accommodation in Stuttgart: There are many places to stay in Stuttgart – especially in the city centre. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Stuttgart .

If you’re travelling to Stuttgart with a car, check out the Abalon Hotel ideal . Located very much in the city centre, this popular hotel has an underground parking garage and offers a good breakfast selection.

If you’re travelling to Stuttgart by train, you can check out the Pension am Heusteig . This guesthouse-style accommodation doesn’t have parking but offers a great breakfast and is a doable walk or metro ride from the train station. Funny enough, these two accommodations are very close to one another!

Must-see Attractions in Stuttgart:

• Schlossplatz
• Mercedes-Benz Museum
• Staatsgalerie Stuttgart

Day 5: Munich

On the last day of your trip you’ll make your way back to Munich since it is usually easier to leave Germany through the Munich airport than smaller airports in the surrounding area.

However, if you don’t have to get to an airport – and/or are taking the train home – you could also stay an extra night in Stuttgart if you wanted. Both cities are worth spending an extra few hours in – so you really just have to see what works best for you.

If you decide to get back to Munich, then the journey from Stuttgart to Munich will take approximately 2 hours 20 minutes by car and just slightly less (2 hrs 15 minutes) by train .

Accommodation in Munich : We already went over accommodations in Munich in Day 1 of this itinerary. So, you can head back up for the full details – but we would highly, highly recommend the H2 Hotel München Olympiapark as great value for money with great breakfast, parking, and a metro stop outside the front door.

Don’t forget we also have our detailed guide on where to stay in Munich if you want to have a deeper look at accommodations in the city.

We also have a post on spending one day in Munich if you want more details about the city!

Germany Itinerary 7 Days

If you have slightly more time to explore Germany, we have also created two 7 day Germany itineraries for you. Similar to the 5 day itineraries, we made two different itineraries since it’s pretty much impossible to see the whole country in just a week.

Instead of a northern and southern itinerary, this time we have focused on the western and eastern parts of the country. But please don’t read too much into that description – we use the terms quite loosely. As always, you’re welcome to modify any part of the itinerary to make it better fit your schedule/interests.

Germany Travel Itinerary 7 Days – West

For this itinerary, the total driving time would be around 14 – 15 hours and the distance would be slightly over 1100 km . For these calculations, we included the day trip to Monschau (and back to Cologne) as well as the day trip to Freiburg im Breisgau (and back to Stuttgart), which would be a longer day trip anyway.

So, depending on which day trips you decide to add on to (or remove from) this itinerary, your driving time and distance could be noticeably different than the estimates given above!

Day 1: Cologne Day 2: Day Trip to Monschau/Aachen Day 3: Koblenz Day 4: Frankfurt Day 5: Heidelberg Day 6: Stuttgart Day 7: Stuttgart / Day Trip to Freiburg im Breisgau

Day 1: Cologne

As we have already explained above, we like to start these itineraries in bigger cities to make it easier for people from overseas to get to Germany and start their adventure without hassle. Cologne is Germany’s fourth-biggest city (by population) and has two pretty good airports (Airport “Köln Bonn” and Airport “Düsseldorf”) close by for those coming from far away.

If you want to rent a car for this itinerary, it should be pretty easy to get one in Cologne since it’s quite an international city with lots of visitors.

— Compare prices from rental car companies in Cologne here

Cologne is a pretty spread-out city so you won’t be able to see the whole city in a day or two. However, the highlight of the city is certainly the Cologne Cathedral which is located right next to the central station and the Rhine River.

Make sure to plan some time to visit this impressive building – we always spend much longer in there than we originally plan. It’s free to enter so it can get very crowded depending on the day and time you’re visiting.

Accommodation in Cologne : Cologne is a very big city with multiple areas to stay in. As such, there are lots of accommodation options across the city. Wherever you book, remember to book your accommodation for two nights since you will go on a day trip and then return to Cologne on the second day. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Cologne .

We have stayed in the Lindner Hotel City Plaza and loved it. The floors all have themes (we got Cologne Zoo with animals), the breakfast buffet is absolutely fantastic, and it’s a short walk to the Cathedral along one main street. There’s also parking available at/near the hotel for those with a car.

If you want to stay more in the heart of the city centre, check out something like the CityClass Hotel Residence am Dom . It’s popular, centrally located with shops and restaurants around, and only a short walk to the train station.

If you are looking for a hostel in Cologne, Eric once stayed at Cologne Downtown Hostel and it was honestly excellent. There’s a grocery store right below it and it’s located in the city centre. It also has a large balcony to enjoy the sunshine from!

Must-see Attractions in Cologne:

• Cologne Cathedral
• Cologne Chocolate Museum

Day 2: Day Trip to Monschau/Aachen

On the second day of this Germany itinerary, you have a few different option: you can either spend another day in Cologne if you feel like you haven’t seen enough of the city yet or take a day trip to Monschau or Aachen. Both of these are two places not too far from Cologne.

Monschau is a popular day trip in the area mainly because of its picturesque buildings in the old town. In fact, you probably have already seen photos of it on social media. To get to Monschau from Cologne, you can either drive or take a combination of trains and buses.

Getting to Monschau takes around 1 hr 40 minutes by car and approx. 2 hours by public transport . To visit Monschau by public transport, you can take the regional train from Cologne to Aachen-Rothe Erde and then take Bus #66 from there to Monschau.

Must-see Attractions in Monschau:

• Monschau Castle

If you want to go on a day trip but don’t want to venture that far, then Aachen would be another great option. This city is actually Germany’s most western city very close to the borders of The Netherlands and Belgium.

We’ve lived close to Aachen for a while and have written a whole guide full of things to do in Aachen that you should read if you want more information. In our opinion, one day is the perfect amount of time to explore the city since it doesn’t have that many attractions and the old town in the city centre is quite compact (but still very pretty).

Getting from Cologne to Aachen is also very easy. It takes approx. 1 hr 20 minutes by car and just around 50 minutes by regional train . You should look into getting a “Schönes Tag Ticket NRW” for the day if you’re travelling with more people as this can save you some money.

Must-see Attractions in Aachen:

• Aachen Cathedral
• Elisenbrunnen

Day 3: Koblenz

From Cologne, your journey continues to Koblenz – another city on the Rhine River. Koblenz is a smaller German city with a population of slightly over 110,000 inhabitants.

There are quite a few castles and nice hikes in the area which are easy to reach from Koblenz – just in case you decide that you don’t want to spend the day in the city. Depending on the time of year, you could also look into booking a boat tour on the Rhine river. This way, you get a unique perspective of the beautiful region.

Getting from Cologne to Koblenz is pretty easy and will take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car and between 50 minutes and 1 hr 10 minutes by train . We really like this train journey since the tracks follow the river for a majority of the trip. As a result, you get some really nice views – and might even spot some of the beautiful castles in the area!

Accommodation in Koblenz: Koblenz is certainly not a huge city – but you’ll still find a good number of places to stay for a night or two. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Koblenz .

For a hotel right in the city centre, check out the Sander Hotel . This lovely hotel is super popular and close to shops and the rivers. If you are arriving to Koblenz by car, there is onsite parking at the hotel. However, since the city is smaller you can also easily reach the hotel by walking from the central train station.

Must-see Attractions in Koblenz:

• Deutsches Eck
• Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
• Koblenz Cable Car

Day 4: Frankfurt

The next stop on your itinerary is Frankfurt, arguably one of the country’s most popular transport hubs due to the busy Frankfurt airport. Frankfurt is an interesting city that divided people: some people really enjoy it while other people don’t like it at all. To be fair, we haven’t spent enough time in the city to really solidify our opinion.

Either way, we do believe that Frankfurt is a stop that you shouldn’t miss if you are trying to get to know different areas of Germany. Known as the financial hub of Germany, this city with its many skyscrapers can feel quite a bit more modern than other German cities. However, the city also has a beautiful, historical market square that you should visit.

The journey from Koblenz to Frankfurt is another easy one – and if you are taking the train (we would recommend that!), you’ll once again follow the Rhine River for big parts of the journey and be rewarded with some great views.

The train ride will probably be between 1 hr 25 minutes and 2 hrs 12 minutes long – depending on the connection you choose. By car , the trip will take around 1 hr 30 minutes . Of course, this can vary depending on traffic.

Accommodation in Frankfurt : There are loads of places to stay in Frankfurt given its popularity and size. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt .

A great option in Frankfurt is the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer . Located very much in the heart of the city centre close to the old town and river, this cool hotel has underground parking if you are arriving to Frankfurt by/with a car. It also serves up a great breakfast!

If you are arriving by train to Frankfurt, you should check out Fleming’s Express Hotel Frankfurt . Located literally right beside the central station (which is in the city centre), this upscale hotel is very popular because it’s very affordable and also has a great breakfast.

Must-see Attractions in Frankfurt:

• Palmengarten

Day 5: Heidelberg

After your day in Frankfurt, you’re heading to Heidelberg which is actually one of our favourite German cities. The highlight of the city is certainly the castle on top of the hill which is visible from many different parts of the city.

Heidelberg is smaller than Frankfurt so you can see quite a bit in just 24 hours. The Old Town is beautiful and lots of attractions are located there. Our highlight was probably the tower climb of the Church of the Holy Spirit. From up there, you get a beautiful view of the Old Town. A very close second was the cable car ride up to the Königstuhl which was lots of fun – even in the rain.

Getting from Frankfurt to Heidelberg won’t take too long. The journey will be approximately one hour by car and between 45 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes by train – depending on which type of train you are taking.

Accommodation in Heidelberg: If you’re heading for Heidelberg (good choice), there are lots of great places to stay. You can check here for hotels and accommodations in Heidelberg .

We stayed a little outside the old town – but close to the train station – at NinetyNine Heidelberg City . This hotel was really, really great. The beds were comfy and the decor has animals everywhere – you have to see it to understand!

There’s onsite parking (paid) and street parking (free, but not guaranteed) if you are travelling with a car. There’s also a tram stop right outside the hotel to get directly into the city centre in minutes.

If you are looking to stay in the historic old town, then check out colourful hotels like  Hotel Holländer Hof  which overlooks the river or Hotel Zum Ritter St.Georg which is literally overlooking the main Marktplatz.

Must-see Attractions in Heidelberg:

• Heidelberg Palace
• Church of the Holy Spirit (mainly tower climb)

If you want to learn some more about Heidelberg and what there is to do, you can read our detailed Heidelberg Guide here .

Day 6: Stuttgart

The next day you will drive to Stuttgart, a city that we’ve already mentioned in one of our Germany itineraries for 5 days. As we have already mentioned, you’ll probably really enjoy Stuttgart if you are interested in cars.

Even if you aren’t, there is still lots for you to explore. Did you know that wine also plays a huge role in Stuttgart and the surrounding region? If this is something that interests you and you’re there in the summer (specifically around the end of August), then you should stop by the “Stuttgarter Weindorf” (“wine village”) – but obviously, please don’t drink and drive.

As for getting from Heidelberg to Stuttgart, the journey will take you approximately 1 hr 20 minutes by car and between 40 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes by train . As mentioned before, the time differs depending on the type of train you are choosing.

Accommodation in Stuttgart: Stuttgart has many places to stay so you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Stuttgart .

Be sure to see the Abalon Hotel ideal if you have a car. This hotel has underground parking available and a tasty breakfast. It’s also in the city centre which makes sightseeing easy.

Those coming to Stuttgart by train should look at the Pension am Heusteig . It’s a guesthouse that is located not too far from the first hotel here and it’s a doable walk or metro ride from the central station.

Day 7: Stuttgart / Day Trip to Freiburg im Breisgau

For this itinerary, you can decide how you would like to spend your last day. You could either spend another day to explore more of Stuttgart (and maybe relax for a bit) or you could head farther south and spend a day in Freiburg im Breisgau. We really enjoyed spending time in this small city in the south of Germany during our visit.

We are currently still in the process of writing our Freiburg guide, but we’ll link it here once it’s done. However, a good way to start your exploration of the city is by wandering the old town.

In Freiburg, you’ll find that many of the cobblestoney streets have small water-filled runnels – called Bächle – running alongside it. Sometimes they even have small yellow ducks in them!

The journey from Stuttgart to Freiburg im Breisgau is slightly longer than most other parts of this itinerary. It takes approximately 2 hrs 30 minutes by car and around 2 hours by train . Since this train journey will probably include at least one ICE (the fast train), we’d recommend that you book your train tickets early if you can to save some money.

Must-see Attractions in Freiburg:

• Freiburger Münster (Cathedral)
• Schlossberg + Tower
• New + Old Town Hall

Germany Travel Itinerary 7 Days – East

If the other week-long Germany itinerary doesn’t interest you and/or you really want to visit the German capital Berlin, then you might prefer this eastern route instead.

The driving time would be just slightly over 10 hours and would be approximately 900 km driving distance – including the day trip to Potsdam (which would honestly be easier with public transport, though)!

Day 1: Berlin Day 2: Berlin / Day Trip to Potsdam Day 3: Dresden Day 4: Erfurt Day 5: Bamberg Day 6+7: Munich

Day 1: Berlin

Once again, this itinerary begins in Berlin since it is one of the big cities that is easier to get to for people coming from overseas. Similar to the five day itinerary that started in Berlin, you’ll stay two nights in the German capital. There is just too much to see to spend only one day – and even in two days you wouldn’t be able to explore everything.

In case you’ve already been to Berlin on a different trip and/or aren’t a huge fan of big cities, we also give you the option of a day trip to Potsdam (a city close by) on the second day. More on that below.

Accommodation in Berlin : Finding a place to stay in Berlin can be tough because there are just so many options. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Berlin .

If you have a car, check out Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte . Located right in the middle of the city close to Museum Island, this hotel has a great breakfast and free parking on the street behind the hotel. Otherwise, parking is paid but for a decent price for the city centre.

Those without a car travelling by train should see the NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie . If you want a hotel close to a top attraction that is easy to get to with public transport, this is definitely one of them!

Across the city, PLUS Berlin is a really good hostel/hotel that Eric stayed at a few years ago. It’s a big place but it was a great stay over by the East Side Gallery (part of the Berlin Wall with the graffiti on it).

As already mentioned above, if you want to read some more about Berlin, check out our articles on Things to do in Berlin and How to spend one day in Berlin .

Day 2: Berlin / Day Trip to Potsdam

On your second day, you can choose between spending another day in Berlin to see more of the German capital or going on a day trip to Potsdam – which is a smaller city not far from Berlin.

Potsdam is actually the capital city of the German state called Brandenburg. It’s most popular attraction is probably Sanssouci Palace with the beautiful Sanssouci Park surrounding it.

During our visit, we also enjoyed walking through the Dutch Quarter with its small shops and cafes. Since the city isn’t too big, one day gives you a chance to get a good impression and check out some of the more popular sights.

It is also very easy to get to Potsdam from Berlin. If you decide to drive , it’ll take you approx. 40 minutes , but it could be longer – traffic depending. We would honestly recommend that you do this day trip by taking public transport. This way, you don’t have to worry about traffic and/or finding a parking spot.

For trains, you can take the S-Train #7 (S7) from Berlin Central Station (as well as other train stations) straight to Potsdam Central Station. The journey will take around 35 minutes with trains running very frequently throughout the day.

Must-see Attractions in Potsdam:

• Sanssouci Palace
• Dutch Quarter
• Cecilienhof

Day 3: Dresden

The third day of this Germany itinerary will take you from Berlin to Dresden which is a German city close to the Czech border. To be honest, we haven’t spend that much time in Dresden yet – and it’s certainly on our list of places to visit this year.

One of the city’s main attractions – the Zwinger – is known across the country and a sight that you shouldn’t miss during your visit. It’s a beautiful palace built in a baroque style.

Fun fact: When Lisa was a kid, she didn’t actually know that the “Zwinger” was a palace. Since that word can also mean “dog kennel” in German, she was always confused as to why people would want to visit it during their time in Dresden!

As for getting from Berlin to Dresden, the drive will take you around 2 hrs 10 minutes by car  and  around 2 – 3 hours by train.  Once again, this depends on which connection you choose.

Accommodation in Dresden:  There are a number of accommodations in the compact “Innere Altstadt” close to the River Elbe for you to choose from. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Dresden .

For a great hotel option right in the old town, look no further than the Star Inn Hotel Premium Dresden im Haus Altmarkt . You’re a short walk to the train station, the river, and all the best old sights in Dresden if you stay here and arrive by train. If you come to Dresden by car, the hotel has discounted underground parking available.

Another option right in the old town (and even closer to the river) is Aparthotel am Schloss . Since this is an apartment-style hotel, it’s a great option if you are looking for more of a base to relax in a “home away from home”. It’s a very popular choice, too – and also has onsite parking.

Must-see Attractions in Dresden:

• Frauenkirche

Day 4: Erfurt

Erfurt is a popular city to visit in the middle of Germany – and it’s also the capital city of the German state Thuringia. We’ve spent some time in Erfurt a few months ago and instantly fell in love with the city. Its size is perfect (in our opinion) – giving you enough things to do without feeling overwhelming.

Maybe you’ve seen photos of one of the city’s most popular attractions, the Krämerbrücke. This bridge is not only pretty to look at and photograph, it’s also unique in the sense that there are buildings on the bridge and when you’re walking on it, you can’t actually see the water running below.

Visiting the bridge and climbing the tower of the Ägidienkirche, a church at one end of the bridge, is something we’d certainly recommend during your time in the city. We actually filmed a short video of our time exploring Erfurt. If you are interested in seeing what parts of the city look like, then you can find our video here .

Getting to Erfurt from Dresden won’t take you too long. It will take approx. 2 hours 20 minutes by car  and between 2 and slightly over 3 hours by train .

Accommodation in Erfurt:  Since Erfurt isn’t a huge city, there aren’t a ton of accommodations – but certainly more than enough to find one that works for your style and budget. You can check here for hotels and accommodations in Erfurt .

We stayed at  Gästehaus in der Gotthardtstraße  and really liked our stay. It’s located in a quiet neighbourhood just north of the city centre – a short walk to the Krämerbrücke. The host was lovely, the room was cozy, and there was secure onsite parking for those driving to Erfurt.

If you want to stay RIGHT in the city centre then you should check out  Hotel Krämerbrücke Erfurt which is right beside the famous bridge. This might be a good place to stay if you are travelling to Erfurt by train and you’re on-foot.

Must-see Attractions in Erfurt:

• Krämerbrücke
• Erfurt Cathedral
• Citadel Petersberg

For more details, have a look at our Things to do in Erfurt article .

Day 5: Bamberg

Bamberg is a small city – or larger town – in the German state called Bavaria. It’s actually located in a region called Franconia, which is noticeably different from the Bavaria that you might know in the area surrounding Munich, etc.

We’ve been to Bamberg multiple times over the years (it’s also close to the part of Germany where Lisa grew up) and are always happy to come back. Bamberg is known for its cute, historic old town which is actually a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the most popular buildings the city has to offer is the Old Town Hall (shown above) which is built on an artificial island. The story behind it is quite interesting.

The drive from Erfurt to Bamberg is doable and will take approx. 2 hrs by car and around 3 hrs by train . On the way, you’ll drive through quite a few tunnels since you’ll drive through an area known as “Thuringian Forest”.

Accommodation in Bamberg: Bamberg is a small place to visit so there aren’t a ton of options but still enough to find what you’re looking for. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Bamberg .

Anywhere you stay is basically in or close to the old town/city centre. For a place to stay with parking (for those arriving by car), check out Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg . It’s located right on the river.

You might also want to see Palais Schrottenberg  to stay right in the middle of the Old Town! For reference, the train station is a short walk to the north of the river – not far from these places in the centre.

Must-see Attractions in Bamberg:

• Bamberg Cathedral
• Old Town Hall
• Alte Hofhaltung

If you want some more information about Bamberg, please read our detailed Bamberg, Germany Guide .

Day 6+7: Munich

From Bamberg, your journey will continue to Munich which will be the last stop on this 7 day eastern itinerary. Not only is this the third biggest city of the country, it is also one of the most internationally known destinations in Germany.

Whenever we come back to Munich, we always enjoy our time there. For some reason, the atmosphere always feels more laid back than in other big German cities and the people are usually quite friendly. We might also be a little bit biased, though, since Lisa grew up in this part of the country and is more used to the mentality, dialect etc. than in other parts of Germany.

For this itinerary, you’ll spend two days in Munich since there is quite a lot to see. Next to the obvious attractions like the Marienplatz with the New Town Hall and the Frauenkirche close by, there are also lots of museums and other things that you can explore.

If you’ve already been to Munich before and/or decide that one day in the city is enough for you, you could also opt for a day trip on one of these days. We’ve just recently written a whole Day Trips from Munich Guide , which you can browse through to get some inspiration!

Driving from Bamberg to Munich will take about 2 hrs 20 minutes by car and between 2 and 3 hrs by train . If you decide to only take regional trains instead of the ICE (fast train), you should look into getting the Bayernticket. This can save you some money, especially when you’re travelling with more people.

Accommodation in Munich:  Since Munich is so large and popular to visit, there is definitely no shortage of places to stay! You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Munich .

That said, we loved our stay at H2 Hotel München Olympiapark . Located up by the famous Olympic Park, we’d highly recommend it since it was amazing value for money. The breakfast was huge and delicious and there’s a metro station outside the lobby door that takes you into the heart of the old town in minutes. There’s also parking if you are arriving by car.

For a hotel that is a little more central, you should see the Platzl Hotel Superior this hotel is really popular – and for good reason. It’s located around the corner from attractions like Marienplatz and the famous beer hall, Hofbräuhaus.

For more help looking into accommodations and neighbourhoods in Munich, check out our where to stay in Munich guide .

(Check out our guide to one day in Munich if you want more details on things to do and see.)

Germany Itinerary 10 Days

Although we have tried to create short itineraries that allow you to see more than just the standard cities, it is no doubt easier to see more of Germany if you are able to travel for longer than one week. To give you a couple different options that you could look at (and then potentially modify), we have created two 10-day Germany itineraries.

Once again, we believe that ten days would not be enough time to see the whole country – and even if you managed to do that it would be too stressful (in our opinion). Both of the following itineraries give you a good mix of bigger and smaller cities as well as a few interesting day trips. So, have a look and see which one you like better!

Germany Itinerary 10 Days – North

If you’re interested in seeing more of the northern part of Germany and experiencing the mentality and way of life of people in the flatter part of the country, closer to the sea, then have a look at the following 10-day itinerary!

The total driving time would be slightly less than 17 hours with a distance of approx. 1470 kilometres. For these calculations, we have included the day trips to Schloss Drachenburg, Lübeck, and Flensburg. So, if you decide to skip any of these, your driving time and distance would obviously be slightly lower.

Day 1: Frankfurt Day 2: Bonn Day 3: Day Trip to Schloss Drachenburg / Cologne Day 4: Münster Day 5: Hanover Day 6: Hamburg Day 7: Day Trip to Lübeck Day 8: Day Trip to Flensburg Day 9+10: Berlin

Day 1: Frankfurt

Similar to some of the other itineraries mentioned in this article, we start this 10-day itinerary in Frankfurt. By now you should probably already know why – Frankfurt has the biggest airport of the country which should make it easier for people coming from overseas to get to Germany and start their adventure.

Furthermore, Frankfurt is quite centrally located so it is easy to get to many different cities from here. So even if you decide against following our itineraries step-by-step, Frankfurt would be a good starting point!

— Compare prices from rental car companies in Frankfurt here

Accommodation in Frankfurt : You’ll find plenty of places to stay in Frankfurt. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt .

One really popular hotel in Frankfurt is the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer . This Motel One is near the river and walking distance to lots of things in the city centre. If you are coming to Frankfurt with a car, Motel One has underground parking which can make life easy! They also have a nice breakfast.

A hotel option closer to the train station is Fleming’s Express Hotel Frankfurt . This hotel is just to the north of the main station which makes it a great option if you are arriving by train and have no car. It’s popular because it has a great breakfast and is good value for money.

Day 2: Bonn

On the second day, you’ll head from Frankfurt to Bonn. As you might know, Bonn used to be the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany during the time that Germany was split into two countries. Later, the capital was relocated from Bonn to Berlin.

If you are interested in learning more about the history of Germany during your time in the country, then Bonn would be a good city to do that in. For example, you could visit the so-called “Haus der Geschichte” which is a museum about the history of the Federal Republic of Germany.

It won’t be difficult to get from Frankfurt to Bonn since the two cities are not too far apart. The journey will take approximately 1 hr 50 minutes by car and between 1 hr 20 minutes and 2 hrs if you take the train . Once again, we’d recommend that you book your train ticket in advance if possible.

Accommodation in Bonn: There are a number of accommodation options in Bonn which you can choose from – many are right in the city centre/old town. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Bonn .

Keep in mind to book your accommodation for two nights for this itinerary. (You could also spend the following night in Cologne if you day tripped to there, though).

For a great hotel in the heart of the old town, check out BrauHotel Bonn . You can easily walk here from the central train station but they also have a and parking garage close by if you arrive by car. There’s also a craft beer bar on the ground floor!

Another option is the Hilton Bonn . This hotel offers you amazing views of the Rhine River. It’s a bit north of the city centre but still very much close to it. There is parking but it can be expensive so keep that in mind when you book.

Must-see Attractions in Bonn:

• Bonn Minster
• House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany (Haus der Geschichte)

Day 3: Day Trip to Schloss Drachenburg / Cologne

On day three of this itinerary, you can choose to stay in Bonn, or go on one of two day trips: to Schloss Drachenburg (a castle not far from Bonn) or to Cologne which is also close by.

Schloss Drachenburg is actually a private villa/mansion that was built to look like a castle in the 19th century. Today, it is a popular attraction in the area.

From Bonn, you can either drive to Königswinter by car (and then leave your car at the car park) or take public transport to the Königswinter/Clemens-August-Straße station. You can find more information about that and opening hours etc. on the offical website .

If you are not a huge fan of castles, then you might opt for a day trip to Cologne instead. In this case, you might even decide to change your base and spend the night in Cologne instead of returning to Bonn at the end of the day. That is definitely an option that you can choose since there are lots of accommodation options in Cologne as well.

Getting to Cologne from Bonn will take you around 40 minutes by car (this can obviously depend on traffic) and only approx. 25 minutes by train . Just a quick warning: Trains can get very full if you are travelling during rush hour traffic – so try to avoid that if you don’t like being surrounded by lots of people in a small space.

Day 4: Münster

The next day you’ll head from Bonn – or Cologne – to Münster. Since Bonn and Cologne are so close, the journey wouldn’t really differ much from either city.

Münster is a smaller German city that we really enjoy. To be honest, it sometimes reminds Lisa of Copenhagen – mainly because of the many bikes that you can see all around the city. The University of Münster plays a big role in the city and the vibe – depending on which part of the city you are in – is noticeably younger.

One of the highlights of the city – for locals and visitors alike – is the lake Aasee which is located quite centrally. When the weather is nice, there are always people sitting on the grass enjoying the sun and maybe even out on the water (depending on the time of year). You can rent a small paddle boat to explore the lake from a unique perspective.

The journey from Bonn to Münster should take you slightly less than 2 hrs by car and between 2 hrs and slightly more than 3 hrs by train . If you want to save some money and are travelling with other people, then you should look into getting an “NRW Schönes Tag Ticket”. With this ticket, you wouldn’t be allowed to travel on ICE’s (the fast train), but the connections using only regional trains wouldn’t be much longer.

Accommodation in Münster: Münster might feel small but it’s actually pretty spread out and offers accommodations for all styles and budgets. You can  check here for accommodations and hotels in Münster .

If you want a popular hotel option right in the centre, the  H4 Hotel Münster  is a short walk to the heart of the historic centre. It also has onsite parking for those travelling to Münster by car – but you can easily walk there from the train station in the south of the city centre.

Must-see Attractions in Münster:

• Münster Prinzipalmarkt
• Historic Town Hall
• Münster Cathedral

For a more detailed guide, have a look at our Things to do in Münster, Germany article .

Day 5: Hanover

The following day you are travelling from Münster to Hanover. In German “Hannover” is actually written with two “n”, so don’t be surprised if you see it being written slightly differently.

Hanover is the biggest city and the capital of the German state called Lower Saxony. Compared to some other cities on this itinerary it is a less popular tourist destination. To be fair, even we haven’t spent that much time in Hanover yet. Hopefully we’ll be able to change that soon. However, that’s not to say that Hanover is not worth a visit.

Not only can you explore some beautiful gardens and interesting museums in the city, but it is also located pretty much halfway between Münster and Hamburg. That makes it a great stop to break up the journey and spent another day in a city that allows you to explore without too many other (international) tourists around.

By car , the journey from Münster to Hanover will take you around 2 hrs . If you choose to travel by train instead, it will take you approximately the same amount of time .

Accommodation in Hanover: Hanover is a larger city but the accommodation are still relatively packed together in and around the historic city centre. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hanover .

For a stay right in the city centre, check out the Hotel Loccumer Hof . This popular hotel is a very short walk from the central station which is perfect if you are arriving to Hanover by train. That said, they also have parking onsite so this hotel works well if you arrive by car!

For another hotel option, check out the Arthotel ANA Prestige am neuen Rathaus . This boutique hotel is directly across from the beautiful New Town Hall in the south end of the city centre by the greenspace and water! They also have a really nice breakfast and parking available.

Must-see Attractions in Hanover:

• New Town Hall
• Marktkirche
• Herrenhausen Gardens

Day 6: Hamburg

On day six of this 10-day itinerary you’re on your way to Hamburg. If you’ve read the details of any of the shorter itineraries in this article, you’ll know that we really like Hamburg.

The city offers modern areas, such as “HafenCity”, mixed with historic (e.g. “Speicherstadt”) and alternative areas (“Sternschanze”) . This makes exploring the city all the more interesting – there is truly something for everyone. During your time in the city, we’d also recommend that you climb the tower of the St. Michael’s Church. From up there, you get a beautiful view of most parts of the city.

The journey from Hanover to Hamburg won’t be long. Depending on the route you are taking (Highway A7 or A1), it’ll take between 1 hr 30 minutes and 2 hrs by car . If you opt for the train , you can expect the journey to take between 1 hr 15 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes . This depends on the connection you choose.

Accommodation in Hamburg : Hamburg has many, many places to stay. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hamburg .

The Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg might be a good option if you have a car while you travel around Germany. This cool hotel is inside an old water tower which gives guests stunning views of the city around. There’s also parking onsite and it’s close to a transit stop for getting around the city.

Located not too far from the central train station, ARCOTEL Rubin Hamburg makes for a good hotel option if you don’t have a car. It’s located in St. Georg which is a lively area within walking distance of the city centre.

Those that need hostel for their stay in Hamburg might be happy with Generator Hamburg . It’s a popular hostel in the city and is close to the train station for easy getting around. If you’re unsure about where to stay, you can always check out our detailed guide on where to stay in Hamburg .

Once again, if you’d like to read our (very) short Hamburg guide, you can find our Things to do in Hamburg article here .

Day 7: Day Trip to Lübeck

For the next couple of days, we decided to include some day trips from Hamburg. This allows you to stay in one accommodation for longer than just one night and gives you the option to see some more of Hamburg as well. If you don’t want to visit any other cities and want to spend more time in Hamburg instead, then feel free to skip one or both of the day trips mentioned.

Lübeck is the closer one of the two day trips mentioned from Hamburg. Within Germany the city is mainly known for its delicious “Lübecker Marzipan” (Lübeck Marzipan) – but of course there is much more to the city than just that. One of the highlights is the Holsentor, a red-brick city gate dating back to the 15th century.

The journey from Hamburg to Lübeck will take you slightly over 1 hr by car and just around 45 minutes by train . In our opinion, that’s great for a day trip since it gives you lots of time to actually see the city instead of spending a lot of time in the car/on the train.

Must-see Attractions in Lübeck:

• Marienkirche
• Heilig-Geist-Hospital

Day 8: Day Trip to Flensburg

For the following day, we have another day trip option for you. The journey to Flensburg is slightly longer than to Lübeck – but it would be worth it. Flensburg is a smaller German city in the north of Germany, very close to the Danish border.

Since it is located close to the water, shipping plays an important role in the city to this day. If you’re interested in learning more about that, then the Maritime Museum would be a good place for you to visit.

Another thing we would recommend is a walk along the Rote Straße. Here you’ll find different “Hinterhöfe” (similar to backyards) with cute cafes and small shops.

Getting to Flensburg from Hamburg should take slightly less than 2 hrs by car and the same amount of time by train . As already mentioned, it would be a longer journey than to Lübeck, but if you want to experience a smaller, maritime city, the trip would be worth it!

Must-see Attractions in Flensburg:

• Historischer Hafen (Historic Harbour)
• Flensburger Schifffahrtmuseum (Maritime museum)
• Museumsberg Flensburg

Day 9+10: Berlin

On the second to last day of this itinerary, you’ll head from Hamburg to Berlin where your journey ends. This allows you to spend two days in the German capital. Since there is so much to do in Berlin, we’d recommend that you do some research beforehand to narrow down which attractions you’d like to visit.

If you’ve never been to Berlin before classics like the Brandeburg Gate and the Reichstag would be a good place to start. We’ve written a few different articles about Berlin – one about classic attractions (link below). Maybe these will be a good starting point to gather some more information!

The drive from Hamburg to Berlin will be one of the longest mentioned as part of this itinerary – so you should keep that in mind. It’ll take approximately 3 hrs 20 minutes by car (with traffic it could be longer), but just 1 hr 50 minutes by train .

It’s a popular train route since it connects the two biggest German cities so trains run frequently throughout the day. Once again, we’d recommend to book your train ticket in advance to get one of the discount tickets and save some money.

Accommodation in Berlin : As the capital city, there are lots of accommodation options for Berlin. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Berlin .

Those travelling to Berlin with a car should look into the Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte for a hotel in the city centre with free street parking available. There’s always paid parking for a reasonable fee if those are full and you’ll be close to top attractions.

The NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie is a popular hotel option for those coming to Berlin by train since it’s close to attractions in the city centre and you can get there very easily with the metro.

Finally, if you need a hostel/hotel, check out PLUS Berlin . This is where Eric stayed a few years back and really enjoyed it. You’ll be close to the East Side Gallery – the part of the Berlin wall with the artwork on it. It’s also easy to get in and out of the city centre from here.

Also feel free to have a look at our guide on Berlin Attractions and tips for a day in Berlin .

Germany Itinerary 10 Days – South

This 10 day Germany itinerary begins and ends in Frankfurt – so it’s pretty much a small loop through the southern part of the country. If you want to be closer to the mountains (for part of the trip at least) instead of the sea, then this itinerary might be better suited for you than the other 10 day version.

For this itinerary, the total driving time would be slightly over 17 hours with a total distance of approx. 1330 kilometres. This includes the day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and Tübingen. So depending on if/how you modify the itinerary, these estimates could differ.

Day 1: Frankfurt Day 2: Würzburg Day 3: Nuremberg Day 4: Munich Day 5: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle Day 6: Day Trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen Day 7: Ulm Day 8: Stuttgart Day 9: Day Trip to Tübingen Day 10: Frankfurt

Similar to the northern version of this itinerary for 10 days, you begin your adventure in Frankfurt. During your day in the city, you shouldn’t forget to visit the Römerberg with the beautiful half-timbered houses. If you want to get a nice few of the city from above, then you should look into visiting the Main Tower as well.

Frankfurt is also a great place to pick up your rental car – if you decide to complete this itinerary by car instead of using public transport. You can either pick up a car at the airport or at different spots in the city centre. This obviously also depends on the rental company you choose.

Accommodation in Frankfurt: Frankfurt is full of accommodation options – from the city centre to the airport. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt .

For a hotel in the heart of the city, check out the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer . Complete with underground parking, good breakfast, and a top location in the centre and close to the river, this hotel is a decent option if you are travelling around with a car.

For those not travelling with a car (and taking the trains around Germany), check out Fleming’s Express Hotel Frankfurt . This nice looking hotel is really popular for its breakfast, price, and the fact that it’s steps from the central train station.

Day 2: Würzburg

On day two of this itinerary, you’ll be on your way to Würzburg, a small German city that we’re always happy to return to. Similar to Stuttgart, Würzburg is located in a region that is known for its wine.

As such, it comes as no surprise that a highlight in Würzburg is to drink a glass of (white) wine on the Old Bridge across the Main river. We’ve done that multiple times and would especially recommend it during the evening when it gets dark.

Another thing you shouldn’t miss in Würzburg is the short walk up the hill to Marienberg Fortress. Up there you can not only explore the old fortress, but you also get a beautiful view of the old town and other parts of the city.

We actually wrote a whole guide about Würzburg (link below) where we not only talk about things to do but also mention some great cafes and restaurants!

The drive from Frankfurt to Würzburg will be a short one. It should only take you around 1 h 20 minutes by car and between 1 h 07 minutes and 1 hr 50 minutes by train depending on the type of train you’re taking (ICE vs. regional train).

Accommodation in Würzburg: Würzburg isn’t a huge city so you’ll find a number of places to stay packed together in the city centre and a number of other hotels and guesthouses around. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Würzburg .

On a recent trip, we stayed at the  Best Western Hotel Würzburg-Süd . It’s a little south of the city centre but the tram stop is right outside the hotel so you’re into the historic city centre in minutes. There is also an onsite parking lot if you’re arriving to Würzburg by car. We booked this one last minute but we would stay again.

If you want to stay a little more central, then you can check out Hotel Strauss . With a location close to the river, the train station, and the city centre – it’s a great option fo those arriving by train.

We also once stayed at  Hostel Babelfish for a budget accommodation and it was honestly not too bad, either. It’s right across from the train station for easy access in and out of the city.

Must-see Attractions in Würzburg:

• Marienberg Fortress
• Würzburg Residence

If you want more tips for visiting Würzburg, have a look at our detailed Things to do in Würzburg Guide (+ insider tips) .

The next day you’ll be on your way to Nuremberg, which is another city in Bavaria that we really like. In German, Nuremberg is actually written/called “Nürnberg” – just an FYI, so you’re not confused when you see this written somewhere.

As we have already mentioned in the description of one of the shorter itineraries, there is a lot of history to be found in the city. Not only can you explore an old castle in the middle of the city, you can also learn a lot about Germany’s dark history if you’re interested.

Getting from Würzburg to Nuremberg will take approx. 1 hr 20 minutes by car and between 53 minutes (ICE) and 1 hr 13 minutes (regional) by train . If you’re travelling with more people and decide to just take a regional train, look into getting a “Bayernticket” as that could save you some money.

Accommodation in Nuremberg : Nuremberg is a larger and well-travelled city in Germany so you will have no problem finding a place to stay! You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Nuremberg .

We ended up staying in the very popular Five Reasons Hotel and Hostel and we enjoyed our stay. The room was bright with new furnishings. It’s also located just inside the old city walls so we were close to the metro, a short walk to central train station, and also close to the heart of the old town!

Very nearby was the Sheraton Carlton Nuremberg – we had friends stay there. They really liked this hotel which had a swimming pool with city views and other great perks. If you are arriving to Nuremberg by car, there’s a parking lot across the street from the hotel as well as street parking around. The train station is very close as well so it’s a great location overall.

• Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

Day 4: Munich

On day four of this Germany trip, you’ll be on your way to Munich. As you might know Munich is the capital of the German state called Bavaria and there are lots of things to do in this city.

That’s why you’ll spend three nights in Munich. This way you can explore the city in more detail if you want or go on a couple of day trips from Munich to see other popular attractions as well. It’s really up to you.

The journey from Nuremberg to Munich won’t be overly long and it’s a route Lisa has driven many times. It’ll take you around 2 hrs by car (of course traffic depending) and between 1-3 hrs by train.

Since this is a popular train route, there are lots of different connections of varying length – some are quick and others are slower trains with more stops. Since that’s the case, we’d recommend that you plan in advance and try to catch a better connection to avoid an unnecessarily long train ride!

Accommodation in Munich: Since Munich is such a popular and large city, there are plenty of accommodation options for you to choose from. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Munich . Just remember to book your accommodation for three nights if you are following this itinerary!

We stayed at the H2 Hotel München Olympiapark which is a very popular hotel because of the price and the value. It was a prefect stay. The breakfast was amazing, they had parking, and the location was great – only a quick metro to the heart of the city centre. You also have the Olympic Park and BMW Museum as top attractions nearby!

If you’re itching to stay right in the heart of the action in Munich, check out the Platzl Hotel Superior . This is a hotel around the corner from Marienplatz in the old town with the famous beer hall Hofbräuhaus just steps away. The central train station is also walkable from here.

Of course, you can learn all about the best areas to stay in more detail with our Munich accommodation and neighbourhood guide .

Learn more about Munich with our one day in Munich post!

Day 5: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle probably doesn’t need a lot of introduction – it is arguably one of the most popular day trips from Munich. If you want to see this fairy-tale castle with your own eyes, then this day trip might be for you.

However, it is such a popular attraction that depending on the time of year it can get incredibly crowded. So if you are planning this itinerary for the middle of summer, we’d honestly recommend that you think twice about whether you really want to do this day trip. A second day in Munich wouldn’t be so bad either, would it?

If you are set on visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, then have a look at our Day Trips from Munich Guide . In that article – under the Neuschwanstein Castle section – we talk about all the different ways you can get to the castle.

In case you don’t want to stress too much about logistics and are not travelling with a rental car, you could always look into a day tour that brings you to Neuschwanstein Castle and then back to Munich. Here are some examples:

• Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Palace  – A very popular tour to check out two castles in one day!
• Just Neuschwanstein Castle  – Grab your live guide and check out the classic castle you came to see!
• Neuschwanstein Castle and Füssen   – Explore the surrounding area on this day trip + see that great castle!

Day 6: Day Trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Another popular day trip from Munich – and the one we would recommend for Day 6 of this itinerary – is a trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the south of Bavaria, close to the Austrian border.

We have been to Garmisch-Partenkirchen recently and really enjoyed our day there. However, that was during the shoulder season, so we can’t really say much about how busy it gets in the summer or during the ski-season.

There are a few good reasons for visiting Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The obvious one is that the town is super close to the mountains and it is very easy to reach the “Zugspitze” (Germany’s highest mountain) from here.

Of course, you don’t have to go that high up – there are also lots of other mountains and great hiking trails in the area if you’re looking for a day in nature.

Other reasons why people come to Garmisch-Partenkirchen is to visit the Partnach Gorge which is quite beautiful and/or the old town where you can admire the decorative paintings found on many houses.

It’s actually quite easy to get from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. By car , it should take you around 1 hr 10 minutes and by train the journey would be approx. 1 hr 22 minutes . It’s actually a nice drive/train ride since you’ll get some great views of the mountains as you get closer to your destination.

Must-see Attractions in/close to Garmisch-Partenkirchen:

• Partnach Gorge

The following day you’ll travel from Munich to Ulm, a small city in the German state of Baden-Württemberg. It is actually located right by the border with Bavaria – “Neu Ulm” in fact is a city on the Bavarian side. When you’re there, it sometimes feels like it is just one bigger city. For you as a visitor, this doesn’t really matter – just an interesting side note.

Ulm is mainly known for having the church with the tallest steeple in the world – so that is something you shouldn’t miss during your visit. Other than that, we’d also recommend that you check out the Fishermen’s Quarter where you can find some beautiful, half-timbered houses.

Getting from Munich to Ulm won’t take you long. The journey will take approx. 1 hr 40 minutes by car and between 1 hr 19 minutes and 2 hrs by train. Once again, this depends on which type of train connection you choose (ICE vs. regional trains).

Accommodation in Ulm: It’s best to stay in the centre of Ulm since it’s not huge and the attractions can mostly be found there. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Ulm .

For a boutique hotel option right in the city centre, check out Boutique 005 Ulm City . This hotel is super walkable to the train station if you are arriving by train but also offers an option for parking. It’s location makes it really close to all the top attractions in the city.

For a stay closer to the river, you can check out the Hotel am Rathaus – Hotel Reblaus . With onsite parking available and a really good breakfast, this more “authentic” hotel is an experience not to be missed in Ulm.

Must-see Attractions in Ulm:

• Ulmer Münster
• Fishermen’s Quarter

Day 8: Stuttgart

From Ulm, you’ll head to Stuttgart on the next day. Stuttgart is a city that we have mentioned a few times in this article already. If you’ve read some of the other itineraries, you’ll know that Stuttgart is known for both cars and wine.

Of course, there’s more to see in the city than that. If you’re interested in architecture, you might enjoy visiting the New Palace at the “Schlossplatz” and if you’re into art, the Staatsgalerie (an art museum) might be for you.

Getting to Stuttgart from Ulm will only take slightly over 1 hr by car and approx. the same amount of time by train . There are slower trains – called RB instead of RE which stands for “Regional Express” – that take longer than that. However, if you plan ahead, you shouldn’t have a problem catching an RE or ICE Train since they run frequently throughout the day.

Accommodation in Stuttgart: Since there are a number of places to stay in, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Stuttgart .

Those with a car can check out the Abalon Hotel ideal because it has an underground parking garage while those travelling to Stuttgart by train can check out the Pension am Heusteig since it’s easy to get to walking or with the metro.

Day 9: Day Trip to Tübingen

On day 9 of this itinerary, you have the choice between either spending a second day in Stuttgart or taking a day trip to Tübingen, a university town not far away.

Tübingen is a popular day trip from Stuttgart and is mainly known across the country for its old university. In fact, some of Lisa’s friends have studied there. When in town, you shouldn’t forget to visit the market square with its 15th century town hall. Another popular attractions is the Hohentübingen Castle on the hill which nowadays is home to a museum.

It won’t take you long at all to get to Tübingen from Stuttgart. That makes it great for a (half-)day trip. The journey should only take around 42 minutes by car and between 43 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes by public transport – depending on the connection you choose.

Must-see Attractions in Tübingen:

• Hohentübingen Castle
• Market Square with Town Hall
• Hölderlinturm

Day 10: Frankfurt

On the last day, you’ll make your way back to Frankfurt. This is where your itinerary ends since it will hopefully be easy for you to get back home from here.

The journey from Stuttgart back to Frankfurt will probably be the longest one for this trip – but it’s still easily doable. It should take you approx. 2 hrs 25 minutes by car and between 1 hr 17 minutes and 3 hrs 30 minutes by train. Once again, this is dependent on the connection you choose (ICE vs. regional trains).

Accommodation in Frankfurt: Since you’re back in Frankfurt, we already went over accommodations in Day 1 of this same itinerary. That said, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt and specifically check out the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer for a central hotel with parking.

Germany Itinerary 14 Days

This Germany itinerary is the longest one that we have for you – for now. If anyone is interested in a 21 day version, please let us know!

The distance you’d cover with this 14 day itinerary would be around 1960 kilometres . The driving time would be approx. 22.5 hours – but of course, this varies depending on traffic and the exact route you decide to take.

As you’ll see below, sometimes the driving time between two cities is longer than 3 hours. So, while this itinerary is totally doable in two weeks – if you wanted to slow down the pace a bit, you could just as easily spend more time in some of the cities and complete the itinerary in more days.

Since you have probably already read about most of these places in some of the itineraries above, we’ll try to keep the descriptions short and not get too repetitive.

Our version here is written as an “incomplete route” from Frankfurt to Munich. However, as with most of our itineraries, you are welcome to reverse the direction if that works better for you and/or start and end in the same city. So, to see a big part of the country, your 14 day Germany itinerary could look something like this:

Day 1: Frankfurt Day 2: Koblenz / Eltz Castle Day 3: Cologne Day 4: Hanover or Celle Day 5+6: Hamburg Day 7+8: Berlin Day 9: Erfurt or Weimar Day 10: Nuremberg Day 11: Stuttgart Day 12: Augsburg Day 13+14: Munich

Once again we begin this itinerary in Frankfurt since it is an easy city to get to. As we have mentioned before, there are a few things to see in the city so you can start exploring on day one!

Frankfurt is also a great city to pick up a rental car. Since many international (business) travellers fly into Frankfurt, there should be many cars available with automatic transmissions. In smaller German towns you’ll find that this is not always the case.

Accommodation in Frankfurt:  If you are making a stop in Frankfurt, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt .

As for accommodation options, the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer has parking available and is located in the city centre close to the Main River. That’s important if you have a car with you but it’s also walkable to the train station, so you know.

Another great hotel option that is even closer to the train station is Fleming’s Express Hotel Frankfurt . This hotel is known for its prime location to the north of the station, its tasty breakfast, nice decor, and fair price. This is definitely a popular place you should at least look into if you are travelling by train around Germany.

Day 2: Koblenz / Eltz Castle

On day two of this itinerary, you’ll be on your way to Koblenz, a small German city on the Rhine river. You can either explore the city or use it as a base to visit one of the many castles close by.

Our suggestion would be a visit to Eltz Castle which is a beautiful medieval castle surrounded by a forest. Please keep in mind that the castle is not open year round. You can check opening hours here .

You could also visit Eltz Castle as a day trip from Frankfurt but then you’d have to return to Frankfurt at the end of the day. This wouldn’t make much sense unless you want to spend some more time in Frankfurt anyway, as Cologne (your next destination) is closer to Koblenz and Eltz Castle than Frankfurt.

The drive from Frankfurt to Koblenz should take around 1 hr 30 minutes by car . If you want to take the train , the journey would take between 1 hr 30 minutes and 2 hrs 15 minutes . From Koblenz, it is only about a 30 minute drive to Eltz Castle.

Accommodation in Koblenz: Since Koblenz isn’t that large, you should have no problem finding and choosing an accommodation that works for you. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Koblenz .

If you want a popular option right in the heart of the city centre, you should see the Sander Hotel . This hotel is located within walking distance to the rivers as well as restaurants and shops in the centre. If you travel by car to Koblenz, they have onsite parking which is handy. That said, you can also easily walk from the hotel to the train station in minutes.

Day 3: Cologne

The next stop on your 14 day Germany itinerary is Cologne, a city we have mentioned already in some of the previous itineraries. As you might know, the highlight of the city is the Cologne cathedral which is quite an impressive sight. As the city is located on the Rhine river, a boat tour might also be a great activity depending on the time of year you are visiting.

Getting to Cologne from Koblenz takes around 1 hr 15 minutes by car  and between 50 minutes and 1 hr 15 minutes by train . The train tracks follow the Rhine river for part of the journey which allows for some beautiful views!

Accommodation in Cologne : There are lots of great places to stay in Cologne. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Cologne .

We recently stayed at the Lindner Hotel City Plaza which was great value for money. The breakfast buffet is incredible and it’s an easy, short walk into the city centre near the Cathedral. It also has parking available for those with a car.

If you want to stay a little closer to the river and the Old Town, check out the CityClass Hotel Residence am Dom . With many things around to keep you busy – like attractions, food, and/or drinks – you’re just a short walk to the central train station if you stay here.

For those looking for a hostel, Cologne Downtown Hostel was a great stay for Eric a number of years ago. It’s really popular, in a great location, and has a nice rooftop balcony to enjoy.

Day 4: Hanover or Celle

Day 4 of this itinerary will take you to either Hanover or Celle depending on your preference. Celle is a noticeably smaller city/town than Hanover and the two places are only a few minutes apart.

Getting from Cologne to Hanover will take approximately  3 hrs 10 minutes by car  and between  2 hrs 40 minutes and 3 hrs 5 minutes by train .

Accommodation in Hanover: Since Hanover is a well-travelled city for people moving around Germany, there are a number of accommodation options in and around the city centre. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hanover .

To stay very close to the central train station in the city centre, you should see the Hotel Loccumer Hof . The location makes it great if you are travelling by train and on foot. They also have onsite parking if you are arriving to Hanover with a car!

To the south of this hotel, the Arthotel ANA Prestige am neuen Rathaus is an option right across from the New Town Hall. This hotel has a beautiful, light style and is also close to the water/parks. Complete with breakfast and onsite parking, you can’t go wrong here!

If you want to spend a night in a smaller German city instead, then Celle is a good option as it is not far from Hanover. That will make it easy to reach the next stop on your itinerary without too much of a detour. The journey from Cologne to Celle would be slightly longer and take around 3 hrs 30 minutes by car and 3 hrs 19 minutes by train .

Accommodation in Celle: Celle isn’t that big at all – so there are only a handful of places to stay. That said, there are still some great options. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Celle .

Of note, check out Hotel Borchers . This hotel – one of only a handful located in the heart of “city centre” is a top pick with a tasty breakfast and an underground car park. You can also walk there from the Celle train station which is located not too far across town.

Must-see Attractions in Celle:

• Celle Castle
• Bomann Museum
• French Garden

Day 5+6: Hamburg

An itinerary across a large part of the country wouldn’t really feel complete without including Hamburg. Since there is quite a bit to see in this hanseatic city, you’ll spend two nights in the city to give you more time to explore.

Getting from Hanover to Hamburg will take you approx. 1 hr 45 minutes by car and between 1 hr 15 minutes and 2 hrs 30 minutes by train . As mentioned before, this varies depending on the type of train connection you choose.

The journey from Celle to Hamburg will be approximately 15 minutes shorter at 1 hr 30 minutes by car . If you opt for the train, you can expect travel times between 1 hr 10 minutes and 2 hrs .

Accommodation in Hamburg : Since Hamburg is a well-travelled city, it makes sense that there are loads of places and areas to stay in. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hamburg .

The Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg might work for those with a car since they have onsite parking. This old water tower is a different hotel than you might be used to but it’s a great experience overall.

Something closer to the central station to get to on foot would be the ARCOTEL Rubin Hamburg which is located in St. Georg. This is an area with shops and restaurants and is very much part of the city centre.

Those looking for a budget accommodation can check out Generator Hamburg which is a popular hostel close to the train station. If you’re ever unsure or want more advice, we have a detailed guide on where to stay in Hamburg .

Day 7+8: Berlin

Of course, we couldn’t forget to include a stop in the capital of the country when planning a longer trip through Germany. Since there is so much to do and see in Berlin you will spend two nights there.

This will also give you some more time to recover from all the driving you have done so far on this journey. Getting from Hamburg to Berlin takes approximately 3 hrs 20 minutes by car (obviously traffic depending) and just about 1 hr 50 minutes by train .

Accommodation in Berlin : There are lots of hotel options in Berlin. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Berlin .

The Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte is a good option in the city centre for those coming to Berlin with a car while the NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie is located right at the attraction “Checkpoint Charlie” in the city centre.

A great option for a hostel/hotel where Eric stayed a few years back is PLUS Berlin . You can find it near the famous East Side Gallery which is a very popular attraction to check out.

As mentioned a few times now, we also have more articles on t hings to see in Berlin and a one day Berlin itinerary .

Day 9: Erfurt or Weimar

For the following day you have the choice between Erfurt or Weimar as your next destination. Both are small cities in the state of Thuringia with Weimar being smaller than Erfurt. If you know anything about Martin Luther, an important figure in the Protestant reformation, then you might have heard of one or both of these places before.

If you’re looking for a place with a beautiful old town and some nice churches as well as buildings for you to explore, then we’d really recommend Erfurt. We had a great time during the days we spent there. The city also has some really nice, cozy cafes if that is something that you care about.

Getting to Erfurt from Berlin will take a while – but it is a great stop on the way to the south of Germany. You can expect the journey to take approx. 3 hrs 40 minutes by car and just around 1 hr 50 minutes by ICE (fast train) .

Accommodation in Erfurt:  With Erfurt being a smaller city with a smaller central area to explore, finding a place to stay isn’t too difficult. You can check here for hotels and accommodations in Erfurt .

When we visited Erfurt, we booked the Gästehaus in der Gotthardtstraße . This was a simple guesthouse with a nice host and cozy rooms located just a short walk north of the Krämerbrücke. There’s also a small parking lot onsite if you’re coming to Erfurt with a car.

For a stay that is more central, check out Hotel Krämerbrücke Erfurt . It’s located basically right beside the Krämerbrücke making it a great option if you are travelling by train and you’re on foot.

Once again, if you want to learn some more about Erfurt before you visit the city, check out our detailed Erfurt Guide here .

If you instead preferred to learn some more about the well-known German writers Goethe and Schiller – or about Germany’s dark past – then you should plan to visit Weimar instead.

Two of the highlights there are Goethe’s and Schiller’s House – now turned into museums. Close to Weimar there’s also the Buchenwald Memorial which was a former Nazi concentration camp. This was the first KZ-Memorial Lisa ever visited. It was a somber experience, but also an important one in regards to understanding more about Germany’s past.

The journey from Berlin to Weimar will be slightly shorter than to Erfurt – at least by car. It’ll take approx. 3 hrs 15 minutes by car and around 2 hrs 20 minutes by train .

Accommodation in Weimar : There are a handful of places to stay in Weimar since it’s a smaller city – but you still have good options. You can check here for accommodations in Weimar .

In particular, check out Amalienhof Hotel und Apartment . This classic and very popular hotel is just south of the heart of the city centre. It features parking onsite and an excellent breakfast. It’s also not too far to walk to the train station if you are arriving on foot.

Must-see Attractions in/close to Weimar:

• Buchenwald Memorial
• Goethe’s House
• Schiller’s House

Day 10: Nuremberg

On day 10 of your itinerary, you’ll drive – or take the train – from Erfurt/Weimar to Nuremberg. This Franconian city has also been mentioned in some of the shorter itineraries.

The journey from Erfurt to Nuremberg will take approx. 2 hrs 40 minutes by car in a southern direction. The drive from Weimar to Nuremberg will just be a couple minutes longer.

If you decide to take the train, the journey would take between 1.5 hrs and 2 hrs from Weimar and between 1 hr 10 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes from Erfurt .

Accommodation in Nuremberg : Nuremberg is a city with loads of history and attractions so it’s very popular. As such, you will find hotels and accommodations all over the city – from the old town to the surrounding areas. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Nuremberg .

We booked a stay at Five Reasons Hotel and Hostel and we would recommend it. You can find the place inside the massive old city walls so the location was great – walkable to the central train station and also to go find top attractions.

On the same trip, friends of our stayed at the Sheraton Carlton Nuremberg . It was close to where we stayed and they really enjoyed it. There’s this great pool on an upper floor with city views as well as a parking lot across the street if you travel to Nuremberg by car. The train station is close as is the old town by walking so it’s great option overall, too.

Day 11: Stuttgart

The following day you will be on your way from Nuremberg to Stuttgart – once again, a city we have mentioned multiple times now during this article. From Nuremberg, it’ll take you around 2 hrs 15 minutes by car  and  between 2 hrs 10 minutes and 2 hrs 30 minutes by train to get to Stuttgart.

As we’ve mentioned before, if you are driving and have the time, you could take a small detour and stop in Rothenburg ob der Tauber for a stroll through its beautiful old town. We’ll leave that up to you!

Accommodation in Stuttgart: You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Stuttgart .

The Abalon Hotel ideal has parking for those with a car while the Pension am Heusteig is a guesthouse close by but is easy to get to by the metro system if you arrive by train to central station and you are walking.

Day 12: Augsburg

On day 12 you’ll be on your way from Stuttgart to Augsburg, a small city in Bavaria and one of Germany’s oldest cities. Around Germany, most people have heard of Augsburg because of its “Fuggerei” – a historic social housing complex where rent has increased very slowly over the centuries. It’s certainly worth a visit!

It’ll take you around  2 hrs by car to get from Stuttgart to Augsburg. If you opt for the train , then you can expect the journey to take approx. 1 hr 40 minutes .

Accommodation in Augsburg: In Augsburg, you will find a number of places to stay around the city centre. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Augsburg .

For a reliable stay, check out Hotel Augusta . This popular hotel – located right in the city centre – features breakfast and has parking available if you are travelling to Augsburg by car.

The nice thing about Augsburg is that because it’s a smaller city, you can easily walk to the hotel from the train station if you are arriving by train.

You might also check out City Hotel Ost am Kö which is another hotel in the heart of the centre walkable to the station. It also has breakfast and parking garage right nearby.

Must-see Attractions in Augsburg:

• Augsburg Cathedral
• Perlach Tower

Day 13+14: Munich

On your second to last day of this itinerary you will drive from Augsburg to Munich. That’s the last stop on your two week Germany adventure. In Munich, there is more than enough to see to spend two days in the city.

Munich also has an airport with good international connections in case you’re coming from overseas and need to take a plane to get back home. If that’s not the case, we’d encourage you to see whether the train would be an alternative to get you back home as well.

The journey from Augsburg to Munich should take just less than  1 hr by car  and  between 30 and 48 minutes by train.  So it’s certainly one of the shortest transitions mentioned in this article.

Accommodation in Munich:  If you’re exploring Munich while in Germany, there is no shortage of places to stay and areas to check out. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Munich . For this itinerary, remember to book your Munich accommodation for two nights.

We really liked our stay at the H2 Hotel München Olympiapark . From the really good breakfast, nice rooms, and excellent location with metro access nearby – you cannot beat the price for Munich. There’s also parking available if you’re travelling with a car to Munich.

For a spot right in the heart of Munich’s charming old town, check out the Platzl Hotel Superior . This is a trendy hotel that puts you super close to all the action at busy Marienplatz and is steps from Hofbräuhaus, the beer hall made famous decades ago. You can also catch the metro or walk to the central train station from here.

If you are looking for more details on accommodations in this city, we wrote a detailed guide on where to stay in Munich .

To learn more about the city – as we have mentioned before – check out our post on Munich in a day if you want more details about the city!

And there you have it – one massive Germany guide with more than one Germany itinerary to suit your travel needs! Whether you’re looking for a short 5 day or a wild 14 day itinerary – we’re sure you’ll have a great time exploring Germany. We’re actually really happy to have created this post – Lisa especially. It’s always fun to help others explore your home country!

As always, Happy Germany Itinerary Waddlin’, – L&E

• Compare flights on Skyscanner
• Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
• Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
• Research plug types and possibly get a travel adapter
• Go over our packing list

Pin it for later!

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Destinations

Privacy policy

Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

Terms of use

© 2024 Creativlier Media Inc.

A 1st Timer’s Guide to Germany Travel: Where to Go, When to Go & More!

Last Updated: August 30, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

While most commonly associated with beers, bratwursts and tight leather pants, Germany is a country full of delightful finds that extend far beyond the stereotypes.

From dreamy castles and fairytale towns to awe-inspiring nature and sprawling cities, Deutschland has a little something for every kind of traveler… although I’ll admit the leather pants are also great.

I first visited Germany on a 6 week backpacking trip across Europe, and as I sipped my comically large beer under the toasty Berlin sun, I felt a strange sense of calm and belonging.

Spurred by this hunch, I moved to Munich. One study abroad later, I loved it so much I stayed for over 5 years… enough to gain so much giddy enthusiasm for this country that I’ve become a thoroughly insufferable dinner guest.

But my social life’s loss is your gain, my friend… because today, I’ve decided to channel all my Deutschland fangirl tendencies into this concise Germany travel guide filled with all my top tips, itineraries, and recommendations.

I hope you find it helpful, and of course, feel free to ask any more questions in the comments section or on Instagram here.

Save this Germany Travel Guide for Later!

I promise it’ll come in handy!

Traveling to Germany Basics

Currency: Euro

Language: German, although accents and dialects vary wildly! In larger cities and tourist hotspots, most Germans also speak excellent English.

Getting Around: Trains, buses and flights are plentiful and affordable in Germany – my best tip is to use Omio to compare options easily. Having a car is ideal for visiting smaller towns, more remote locations and numerous destinations in a short amount of time, but is otherwise not needed for big cities.

Curious about trains in Germany? Read my full step by step guide to German train travel.

Germany Highlights (By the Season)

• Winter: Christmas markets, skiing & alpine sports, Karneval and Fasching season (Carnival), Starkbier (Strong beer) season
• Spring: Cherry blossoms in Bonn , Frühlingsfest (Springfest) in Munich
• Summer: Hiking, Beer Garden season, summer festivals/celebrations
• Fall: Oktoberfest and other Volksfests, the world’s biggest pumpkin festival in Ludwigsburg, the Wurstmarkt (world’s largest wine festival)

My Favourite Places in Germany

Not sure where to go in Germany? Here are some places I can definitely recommend!

Let’s get my mega-biased opinion out of the way first – Munich is the city I called home for 5+ years, and I couldn’t recommend it more… especially if you’re obsessed with beer like I am. This is the birthplace of Oktoberfest after all!

There are lots of fun things to do in Munich , like hopping around the city’s sprawling museum district (many only cost 1 euro on Sundays!), eating up the best Bavarian food that Munich has to offer or soaking in the wealth of historical sites scatered around the city.

It’s also an ideal base for many epic day trips. Going from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle (AKA the real life Sleeping Beauty castle) takes only 2.5 hours. Or, if you want to visit glorious Salzburg from Munich (AKA the birthplace of Mozart and setting of Sound of Music), that’s only 1 hour by train.

Why visit Munich when you travel Germany:

• Amazing beer & beer festivals
• The English Garden – one of the largest city parks in the world
• Beautiful palaces and museums
• Easy base for amazing day trips to the Alps

Berchtesgaden National Park

If it’s natural beauty you’re after, Germany’s Berchtesgaden National Park (near the border to Austria) is a must-visit.

Everything here is breathtaking – from the shimmering turquoise lakes and snow-flecked mountains to the adorable Berchtesgaden town center.

And, if you’re up for it, this is the ideal place to enjoy a typically Bavarian wellness weekend.

Why visit Berchtesgaden National Park when you travel Germany:

• Stunning hikes and scenery
• The glorious boat ride on Königssee to see the equally stunning Obersee
• Historic sights like Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest

Hands down one of my favourite places to visit time and time again is Berlin.

This endlessly fascinating city is home to incredible museums, delicious food, and a unique culture that makes it distinct from the rest of the country, despite its status as capital!

Whether you’re a history nerd, an avid partyer, or a famished foodie, Berlin has plenty to offer.

Why visit Berlin when you travel Germany:

• Fascinating history
• World-class museums and attractions
• A thriving nightlife and food scene

Franconia is a glorious region in northern Bavaria that is divided into Lower, Middle, and Upper Franconia.

To me, it’s one of the most underrated regions in Germany for international visitors, with an abundance of fairytale half-timbered houses, amazing beer, and unique natural landscapes.

Here are some places in Franconia that are absolutely worth visiting:

• Franconian Switzerland
• Würzburg (still haven’t been yet!)

Perhaps the most idyllic entry of this list is Monschau, a sleepy but gorgeous village found near the border to Belgium.

I was lucky enough to come here for Christmas markets a few years ago, and I loved it so much, I skipped the train I’d pre-booked just so I could spend a few more hours there. 

Picturesque half-timbered houses clustered around a roaring central river… oh, and a castle on a hill. Because of course they have one.

Why visit Monschau when you travel Germany:

• Super friendly locals
• Picture-perfect scenes at every turn
• Christina might cry if you don’t

Hamburg is an amazing city I’ve had the chance to visit a few times now. It’s a lifestyle city that reminds me a lot of my hometown, Vancouver.

Home to a mix of classic and modern architecture (including the coolest opera house in the world!), as well as Germany’s #1 attraction – the adorable Miniatur Wonderland, Hamburg has a lot to offer tourists, but perhaps the best way to enjoy it is with a nice beer and sunset along the Elbe.

Why visit Hamburg when you travel Germany :

• Amazing architecture like the Elbphilharmonie
• Fresh and tasty seafood (and a booming foodie scene!)
• A fun, vibrant vibe

Dresden is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, and its beauty is all the more astounding when we consider that much of the city was destroyed completely in WWII.

After decades of reconstruction however, Dresden once again shines with its former glory, establishing itself as one of the most important cultural hotspots in Germany.

… and all only a stone’s throw from Saxon Switzerland, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country!

Why visit Dresden when you travel Germany :

• Stunning architecture and sights
• World-class museums and culture scene
• Its jawdropping Christmas market (the oldest one in the country!)

Stuttgart (and its Surrounding Area)

Stuttgart is the biggest city (and capital) of the German state Baden-Württemburg. 

It’s perhaps best known as the ‘cradle of the automobile industry’, which explains why it’s home to not just one, but two car-centric museums: one belonging to Mercedes-Benz, and one to Porsche.

Besides cars though, the area around Stuttgart offers up some of the cutest small towns you can find in Germany, all easily reachable by public transport, meaning you get the best of all worlds during a visit here.

Why visit Stuttgart and the surrounding area when you travel Germany:

• Fairytale towns like Esslingen, Ludwigsburg, and Tübingen
• Stuttgart’s Stadtbibliothek, one of the most unique and beautiful libraries in the world
• Lots of fun events like Stuttgart’s Christmas Market and the Cannstatter Volksfest 

Thuringia is a state often overlooked by international tourists, but if you’re looking for a truly charming German escape, its capital Erfurt makes an excellent choice.

This beautiful city is famed for its unique Krämerbrücke, which is a gorgeous medieval bridge lined with residential buildings.

But that’s not all – there’s also an impressive cathedral, an imposing fortress, and surprises waiting on every corner… quite literally, because Erfurt is the HQ of the German children’s channel KiKA, and there’s plenty of fun statues of famous characters scattered around town.

Why visit Erfurt when you travel Germany:

• Krämerbrücke, the longest inhabited bridge in Europe
• Quirky and fun children’s channel sculptures all over the city

Cologne, to me, is a city synonymous with fun and celebration. While at first glance, it might not rank among the “prettiest” places to visit in Germany (much of it was destroyed in the war), it still boasts several impressive landmarks and sights, like the epic Cologne Cathedral.

Where Cologne really shines though is during special events – the Christmas markets here are some of the best I’ve been to in my entire life, and the Karneval celebrations… well, those are truly epic!

Why visit Cologne when you travel Germany:

• Bucket list events like the Cologne Christmas Market and Kölner Karneval
• The iconic Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), one of the most famous churches in the world 
• Fun-loving locals who are among the friendliest I’ve ever encountered in Germany

Last but not least, we have Hannover, a city which (in my opinion) is one of the most underrated cities in Germany where tourism is concerned.

Locally, people often joke that Hannover is one of the most boring cities in Germany, but I don’t think that’s true at all. One quick look and you’ll find a stunning palace within the city, an architecturally impressive Town Hall (with a unique elevator offering epic views), and a cool laidback vibe that many compare to what Berlin was like decades ago.

Here are some awesome things to do in Hannover.

Why visit Hannover when you travel Germany:

• Its gorgeous New Town Hall
• The stunning Herrenhausen Palace and its gardens
• A fun, laidback city vibe

Bucket List Experiences in Germany

Germany is full of incredible bucket list experiences. Here are a few of my favourites:

Christmas Markets

German Christmas markets are the stuff of bucket list dreams.

If you adore Christmas, a German Xmas market trip needs to make it on your bucket list, because nobody captures Christmas coziness and joy quite like the Germans do.

The best part (besides the droolworthy assortment of German Christmas Market foods ) is that you’ll find Christmas markets in just about every city, town, and even the smallest of villages, each with their own unique take on traditions.

Trust me, you could never get bored of visiting these.

Here are some full guides to the Christmas markets I’ve visited in Germany:

• Munich’s Christmas Markets
• Berlin’s Christmas Markets
• Cologne’s Christmas Markets
• Esslingen Christmas Market
• Ludwigsburg Christmas Market
• Karlsruhe Christmas Market
• Düsseldorf Christmas Market
• Nuremberg Christmas Market
• Essen Christmas Market

Oktoberfest

Trust me – Oktoberfest , AKA the world’s largest beer festival, is reason enough to make a trip to Germany.

Typically celebrated annually in Munich, this is one of the most incredible events in the world, with millions of people attending, millions of beer served, and a guaranteed recipe for making memories to last a lifetime.

… If you can remember anything after 5L of beer that is.

Read my full Oktoberfest guide for more details.

Visiting Fairytale Castles

If you love castles, I recommend avoiding Germany……. because you might just combust from sheer fangirl joy.

Seriously, Germany is every castle lover’s kryptonite, with elegant palaces and fairytale castles in the thousands. If you’re a Disney gal like me who grew up dreaming of happily ever afters, pack a ballgown and head to Germany ASAP.

I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Here are some castles that you must visit in Germany:

• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Nuremberg Castle

The Cherry Blossoms in Bonn

The cherry blossoms in Bonn (also the birthplace of Beethoven and gummy bear legend, Haribo) are absolutely spectacular, and 100% worth visiting in Spring time. In fact, I’d even say they’re one of the best things to see in Europe at Spring time.

Yes, you, too, can come frolic in these tunnels of pink! Here is my guide on where to find cherry blossoms in Bonn.

Karneval, Fasching, Etc.

Carnival Season is one of the best times to visit Germany if you’re looking for a party.

The grandest celebrations take place just before Lent, and are celebrated throughout the country, although the festivites in North-Rhine Westphalia are probably the best known.

My top recommendation? Go celebrate in Cologne, where the Kölner Karneval draws millions of visitors every year.

My Recommended Germany Itineraries

Germany is a huge country with a massive diversity in sights… so how can you organize your time efficiently and make the most of your trip? Here are some German trip itinerary ideas…

Germany itinerary ideas for a taste of everything:

• Southern Germany Classic: Munich, the Allgäu (for Castles!), Garmisch Partenkirchen, Berchtesgaden National Park, Stuttgart & Area, Black Forest
• Eastern Germany Classic: Berlin, Dresden, Saxon Switzerland
• Western Germany Classic: Aachen, Monschau, Eifel National Park
• Northern Germany Classic: Hamburg, Bremen , Lübeck, Kiel, Sylt
• The Rhine River Classic: Mainz, Koblenz, Burg Eltz, Cochem, Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf
• The Harz Mountains Experience: Harz Mountains, Goslar, Wernigerode, Quedlinburg

Germany itinerary ideas for city breakers and culture hunters:

• The Big City Tour: Berlin and Munich (a 4 hour express train connects them)
• The BaWu Special: Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, Tübingen, Esslingen, Heidelberg
• The Bavaria Special: Munich, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Bayreuth
• The Saxony Special: Leipzig, Görlitz, Dresden
• The Rhine City Hop: Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf
• The Romantic Villages Hop: Würzburg, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Füssen

Germany itinerary ideas for nature lovers:

• Southern Germany Nature Itinerary: Berchtesgaden National Park, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the Black Forest and Lake Constance (Bodensee)
• Bavaria’s Best Nature Itinerary: Berchtesgaden National Park, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Munich’s Lake Region, Franconian Switzerland, Danube Gorge
• Eastern Germany Nature Itinerary: Dresden and Saxon Switzerland National Park

My Top Germany Travel Tips

• If you’re overwhelmed by transport options, Omio is a great resource for comparing trains, buses and flights in Germany at the same time.
• If travelling by train, look into group discount tickets like the Bayern Ticket which give you unlimited train travel for one day on regional trains. It can save you a TON of money.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries nearby (i.e. Switzerland), a Eurail pass might save you money.

Accommodation:

• Booking.com is a great place to search up hotels, and filtering by Free Cancellation allows you to book without paying upfront
• Airbnb can be a very affordable alternative for longer stays/bigger groups

Attractions and Tickets:

• GetYourGuide is a great site for finding tours and attraction tickets
• City passes like the Munich City Pass , Berlin Pass , and the Cologne Card can save you a LOT of money if you plan to visit many tourist attractions in a short time
• If you’re trying to find specific info about a place, try using Google Translate to search in German because German versions of sites always have more info

If you’re past the planning stage and heading to Germany soon, make sure you read this before you go:

• Hilarious must-knows before you visit Germany

More Germany Travel Reads

Feeling inspired to visit Germany after reading all that?

As you can (probably) tell, I’ve written extensively about Germany.

So, here are some more articles that might pique your interest:

• Unique Things to do in Germany (That You Can’t Do Anywhere Else)
• The Best Christmas Markets in Germany
• Hilarious Must-Knows Before You Visit Germany

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

4 thoughts on “A 1st Timer’s Guide to Germany Travel: Where to Go, When to Go & More!”

i found myself reading almost every post in your website for days and days and i ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT and adore and thank you for spending so much time and effort to make it so helpful, informative and fun to read. you have helped me plan my trip to munich in december and i cant wait to visit just because of your enthusiasm 🙂

We would like to Thank you for sharing such a beautiful blog! Very informative.

This Germany Travel Guide truly captures the multifaceted beauty of Deutschland, a country that has something to offer to everyone, from culture enthusiasts to nature lovers. Your personal anecdotes from living in Munich make it come alive, making me yearn for a taste of that amazing beer you’ve mentioned, and a wander around the English Garden! The varied seasonal highlights emphasize how Germany is a year-round destination, offering uniquely charming experiences, from the festive winter Christmas markets to the lively summer festivals. It’s heartening to know that navigating around the country is convenient, making it possible to explore its picturesque small towns and vibrant cities. This guide is a treasure trove for anyone planning to travel to Germany – it gives a well-rounded view of the country, infused with personal insights, which makes it even more valuable. I’m particularly intrigued to visit Munich, the city you so passionately call home.

As a Berliner, I can’t agree more with this guide. Germany truly is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation, natural beauty and urban charm, hearty cuisine and diverse cultures. Moving around in Germany is indeed quite convenient thanks to the well-organized public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams. And yes, English is widely spoken in major cities, so communication shouldn’t be a problem for travelers. As for the varied dialects across regions, it just adds to the unique charm of exploring this beautiful country. Safe travels, fellow adventurers!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

How to Plan a Trip to Germany (Your Step by Step Germany Trip Planner for Traveling to Germany for the First Time!)

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  disclaimer policy.

You’ve decided to visit Germany. Hooray! Whether you’re looking for bustling cities, sandy beaches, alpine hiking, intriguing history, fairytale castles, delicious food, fun festivals or friendly people, Germany is the perfect European vacation destination.

Not only is there a tremendous amount to do, see, eat, and experience in Germany, you can easily combine a visit to Germany with other European destinations. Germany is easy to get around in by train, bus, car or bike, and many people speak English.

You’re probably wondering…where do I even begin with planning my dream-come-true vacation to beautiful Deutschland? 

Where should I go? Is it better to take the train or rent a car? What are the must-see cities and attractions? Which ones should I skip? Where’s the best place to stay? What should I eat and drink?

Join our FREE Germany Trip Planning Facebook Group!

Don’t worry! We’re here to help you narrow down your travel options, plan your itinerary , and book your trip with ease. It’s actually quite easy to plan a trip to Germany by yourself with the information in this article, on this site and with some help of some online booking engines.

To reduce overwhelm and help you plan your ideal vacation, we cover everything you need to know to get started planning your trip to Germany . And if you have any questions, you’re welcome to ask us in our free Germany travel Facebook community or send us  an email . 

Ok, let’s begin!

• 1 Meet Your Germany Travel Guides
• 2 Overview of Regions
• 3 Where to Go in Germany: Itineraries and Planning
• 4 Want more itinerary ideas? Are you a big city person? Check out… 
• 5 Prefer smaller historic, picturesque cities? Check out…
• 6 What about cute little villages with “Fachwerk” (half-timber) architecture? There are so many! Here are a few ideas…
• 7 Looking forward to visiting fairytale castles?
• 8 Like islands and water? Take a look at…
• 9 What about nature, hiking, and national parks? Consider…
• 10 Passports & Visas
• 11 What’s the Best Time to Go to Germany?
• 12 Germany Booking Timeline
• 13 What’s the Weather in Germany Like?
• 14 What Time is it in Germany Right Now?
• 15 What’s the Best Way to Get to Germany?
• 16 Where to Stay in Germany
• 17 Getting Around Germany
• 18 What to Wear in Germany
• 19 My Absolute Favorite Travel Clothing Items
• 20 What to Eat in Germany

Meet Your Germany Travel Guides

Hi, we’re Cate and Aaron, and we love helping people plan amazing trips to Germany. While Aaron has visited Germany several times (and is our chief rental car driver!), I lived there for 4+ years, have spent nearly 30 years of my life going back and forth between the US and Germany, and have traveled to all corners of the country.

I also taught German for several years and have a PhD in German Applied Linguistics, which means I’ve gotten to know Germany from several different angles. We’re so excited to help you plan your dream trip to Deutschland! 

Overview of Regions

Northern Germany  – Hamburg is the largest city in this region but there are other must-visit smaller cities like Lübeck , Stade, Bremen, and Lüneburg. Northern Germany also has the beautiful beaches of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, the Wadden Sea national park, and the islands of Sylt, Flör, and Heligoland. Northern Germany is flat and great for biking. It looks so different from Bavaria! Combine a trip to Denmark with a visit to northern Germany.

Eastern Germany  –  Berlin is of course the feature city in this region, but Dresden, Leipzig, Magdeburg, Quedlinburg, Bautzen, Erfurt, and Weimar are smaller must-see cities. There’s also the Harz mountains, Swiss Saxony national park , Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes in Thuringia, Wernigerode castle, the Schwerin Palace, and Sansouci in Potsdam. Combine a trip to eastern Germany with a visit to Poland or the Czech Republic.

Central Germany  – This region offers bustling cities like Cologne , Düsseldorf, and Frankfurt , smaller cities like Aachen, Wiesbaden, Koblenz, and plenty of cute villages. There’s also the Rhine and Mosel river areas, vineyards, the Eifel national park, castles , and beautiful rolling hills. Combine a visit to central Germany with a trip to the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, or France.

Black Forest/Baden-Württemberg  –  Stuttgart is the largest city in this region, and smaller cities like Baden-Baden, Heidelberg, Freiburg , Tübingen, and Ulm also warrant a visit. Vineyards and wineries, spa towns, castles (such as Hohenzollern or Lichtenstein ), waterfalls, Lake Constance, cute villages, and hiking are also features of the Black Forest /Baden-Württemberg region. Combine a trip to France or Switzerland with a visit to southwestern Germany.

Bavaria/Alps  – Munich is the feature city of Bavaria ( Oktoberfest! ), along with smaller cities like Regensburg, Nuremberg, Würtzburg, Bamberg, and Passau. There’s also the famous Zugspitze, Eagle’s Nest, Neuschwanstein castle , and Chiemsee lake, as well as lovely alpine towns like Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden . Combine a trip to Bavaria with a visit to Austria, Czech Republic or Switzerland.

Click here for what to do in Munich!

Where to Go in Germany: Itineraries and Planning

There’s so much to see and do in Germany! Here’s some info to get you started on your itinerary (you can also check out this article with 10-14 day itinerary ideas ). 

If you have just a few days,  I recommend focusing on one city and a day trip (e.g., Hamburg with a day trip to Lübeck or Munich with a day trip to Neuschwanstein ).

If you have a week,  you could visit 2 cities (plus 2 day trips) in different parts of Germany and allot one day for travel between cities (e.g., a few days in Munich with a day trip to Chiemsee, travel day to Berlin, then a few days in Berlin with a day trip to Potsdam). Or you could spend a week touring one region of Germany (e.g. the Black Forest or the Rhine and Mosel areas).

If you have two weeks,  you can see a lot of Germany! You could, for example, start in Berlin, then visit Hamburg, take a day trip to Lübeck , then visit the Rhein river area, stop in the Black Forest , and end your trip in Munich. You could easily do this trip via train or car. Take a look at a couple 10-14 day itineraries we’ve outlined to give you a sense of how much you can do in that amount of time.

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

How long does it take to travel around Germany by train? 

It’s quick and easy to travel around Germany by train. Here are some sample travel times to give you an idea: 

• Berlin to Hamburg – 1 hour 45 minutes 
• Berlin to Munich – 4 – 4 1/2 hours
• Hamburg to Lübeck – 1 hour 
• Hamburg to Cologne – 4 hours 
• Hamburg to Munich – 5 hours 40 minutes 
• Frankfurt to Nuremberg – 2 hours 
• Stuttgart to Munich – 2 1/4 hours 
• Munich to Berchtesgaden – 2 hours 

I use and recommend the official German rail system website to check travel times and book train tickets (point-to-point, saver tickets, and discounted regional tickets). I book all of our train tickets here!

Want more itinerary ideas? Are you a big city person? Check out… 

• Cologne / Düsseldorf

Prefer smaller historic, picturesque cities? Check out…

What about cute little villages with “fachwerk” (half-timber) architecture there are so many here are a few ideas….

• Wernigerode
• Quedlinburg
• Dinkelsbühl
• Rothenburg Ob der Tauber
• Berchtesgaden

Looking forward to visiting fairytale castles?

• Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau (the “Disney castle”)
• Castles near Frankfurt
• Castles near Cologne
• 16 castles to visit in Germany

Like islands and water? Take a look at…

• Husum (North Sea)
• Timmendorferstrand (Baltic Sea)
• Lake Constance (Bodensee)
• Titisee 

What about nature, hiking, and national parks? Consider…

• Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park
• Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park 
• Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park
• Jasmund National Park
• Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park
• Müritz National Park
• Lower Oder Valley National Park
• Harz National Park
• Kellerwald-Edersee National Park
• Hainich National Park
• Eifel National Park
• Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park
• Saxon Switzerland National Park
• Bavarian Forest National Park
• Berchtesgaden National Park
• Black Forest National Park

How about a road trip? Why not drive the…

• German Timber-frame Road (northern to southern Germany)
• Romantic Road (Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, north/south)
• Castle Road (Bavaria to Baden-Württemberg, east/west)
• Wine Road (Palatinate wine region, north/south)
• Fairytale Route (from Hanau to Bremen, south/north)
• Black Forest High Road (Baden-Württemberg, north/south)
• Alpine Route (Baden-Württemberg to Bavaria, east/west)
• Volcanic Route (Rhein River and Eifel mountains, north/south)

Passports & Visas

If you’re from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries, you do not need a visa to enter Germany (at the time of publishing this article). You do, however, need a valid passport with at least 3 months validity AFTER your planned departure date.

Play it safe and have MORE than 6 months validity on entrance to Germany! You also need at least 2 blank passport pages at the time of your arrival. Check your passport NOW so you have plenty of time to renew it if needed. Do not wait until the last minute to do this (been there, done that – it’s expensive and stressful)!

Germany is part of the Schengen zone, which means you can stay in Germany for up to 90 days without a visa. If you visit other countries in the Schengen zone before or after Germany, that counts towards your 90 days and reduces the amount of time you can spend in Germany. While on the automatic 90-day tourist visa you may not work but you can engage in business.

What’s the Best Time to Go to Germany?

The best time to visit Germany is whenever you can get there! No, seriously! There’s no best time of year for your  Deutschland   tour because there’s no bad time of year to visit. I’ve traveled all over Germany in spring, summer, fall, and winter and enjoyed every single season (Cate here, writing this article, by the way).

When should  you  travel to Germany? Well, it just depends on what you’re looking for…

Summer  is when you’re most likely to have warm (even hot) sunny weather. But it’s not guaranteed. I’ve had hot steamy summers in Germany (like last summer when we traveled during a heat wave), cold rainy summers, and everything in-between.

Fortunately, even if you encounter rain in the summer it likely won’t last more than a few hours or at most a couple days before you’ll see the sun again. The benefit of summer travel is that you’ll have nice long days for sight-seeing because the sun doesn’t fully set until about 10pm. If you’re interested in beaches or mountains, summer is a great time of year to visit.

Note, however, that not all hotels, cars, and restaurants use A/C. If you really hate hot weather, play it safe and avoid Germany in the middle of the summer. (Although, to be honest, in all of the summers I’ve spent in Germany, there have only been a few days in the summer that I’ve found truly unbearable without A/C.) If you  must  have A/C, be sure to confirm that your room or rental car has it.

Summer can also be a more crowded time to travel, since so many families make use of summer break. Book accommodation early for the most options and best prices!

Winter  travel in Germany can be cold but beautiful. One of my favorite times of year to travel in Germany is during the four weeks of advent at Christmas.

Yes, it gets dark early (by 5pm or a bit earlier) but the lights, decorations, and Christmas markets more than make up for it. Plus, you can go skiing and enjoy other winter activities.

I was just in Germany for a couple weeks in December and the weather was perfectly fine 90% of the time. There was only one day where the weather was truly miserable and even on that day there were enough breaks in the weather to enjoy my day trip exploring a new town and a new Christmas market. 

Germans don’t let winter keep them from enjoying outdoor activities, hiking to strolling through a Christmas market or enjoying a coffee at an outdoor cafe. Don’t let it stop you, either! Just bundle up, grab a mug of Glühwein, and you’ll be fine!

Fall and spring  are also great times to visit Germany. In the fall you’ll enjoy crisp mornings and cool evenings and seeing the leaves change color.

In the spring you’ll experience the joy everyone feels when they can once again sit outside at cafes and restaurants. The weather can vary quite a bit day to day but if you travel late in the fall or early in the spring you can score great deals and will find smaller crowds.

Germany Booking Timeline

I’ve booked flights, accommodations , and tours and tickets a few weeks before my arrival, and I’ve booked them several months in advance. Book early if you:

• Are traveling during peak summer, Christmas market or ski season
• Have very specific travel dates or lodging, transportation, sight-seeing needs
• Are visiting big cities
• Are on a tight budget
• Are visiting during a special event, such as Oktoberfest 

I usually start looking at my options as early as possible so I can figure out what a good deal looks like for my travel dates. I then set up flight alerts and start earmarking AirBnB’s and hotels. I begin booking whenever I find something that meets my needs and fits my budget. 

Here’s a general booking timeline to get you started:

6-12 months in advance:

• Research and book your international flights
• Research travel insurance
• Plan your travel itinerary and dates
• Research and book flights within Germany or Europe
• Research travel options within Germany (rental car, train bus, etc)
• Research accommodation options (book if you find great deals or if availability is limited)
• Make sure your passport is up-to-date (you need at least 6 months left on it when you enter Germany) and apply for a new one if it isn’t

3 – 6 months in advance:

• Book accommodation
• Book trains or busses (usually 90 before your travel dates is the earliest you can book but always check if you can book earlier – the best deals go fast)
• Book rental car
• Book tours, events, and tickets
• Book travel insurance 
• Review your travel wardrobe and gear and purchase the items you need  

1 month in advance:

• Book any remaining attractions and tours
• Book airport transfers or plan how you will get to your lodging
• Purchase a sim card for phone or check how you can use your current phone service in Germany (e.g., I can use my Verizon phone service for a $10/ a day fee)

1 week in advance: 

• Print out or ensure that you can easily access all bookings, tickets, and travel info on your phone (make sure you can access everything without data or wifi!)

1 day in advance:

What’s the Weather in Germany Like?

What will the weather be like when you visit Germany? Well, it depends on the time of year and where you are. Weather in Germany can be somewhat unpredictable no matter the time of year.

I recommend being prepared by wearing layers, packing an umbrella or rain jacket, and remembering that the weather will likely change soon. And, as I said earlier, don’t let any kind of weather stop you from enjoying Germany! 

Summer.  Germany comes alive in the summer with everyone and their dog (literally, there are dogs everywhere) outside enjoying the nice weather. Average high in the summer is 80F.  

Be warned…it can rain in the summer but it doesn’t usually last that long. It can also be super hot in the summer…but again, scorching temperatures doesn’t usually last that long.

Fall.  Such a beautiful time of year in Germany with the leaves changing colors and cool, crips mornings and evenings and warm days. One of my favorite times of year in Germany! In September, the average high is 67F and by November it’s around 47F.

Winter.  Bring your scarf, hat, and mittens because German winters can get cold! Average temps hover around freezing with warmer days in the 40s/50sF. While it can snow anywhere in Germany, you’ll find the most snow in southern Germany. Winter weather doesn’t mean everyone hides inside, though. On the contrary! Do what the Germans do – bundle up and enjoy the outdoors.

Spring.  I love being in Germany on the first spring day because  everyone  heads outside to enjoy the sun and everyone is in such a good mood! Early spring will see a high around 47F but by late spring it’s more like 67F.

What Time is it in Germany Right Now?

Germany is in the Central European Time zone (CET) or UTC+2. It’s 6 hours ahead of the US EST, 7 hours ahead of CST, 8 hours ahead of MST, and 9 hours ahead of PST.

Daylight savings in Germany in 2020: time “falls back” on October 25 and “springs forward” on March 29. Write these dates in your calendar so you don’t accidentally miss any flights or trains (been there, done that)!

What’s the Best Way to Get to Germany?

It depends on where you’re coming from and where you’re going.  When flying from outside Europe, many people fly into Frankfurt (FRA), the largest airport in Germany and one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe.

The benefit of flying into Frankfurt is that it has a ton of direct flights, and once you reach Germany you can easily take a commuter flight, train, bus or rental car to your final destination.

The downside? The airport is huge, busy, and I’ve noticed prices into Frankfurt have been higher than regional airports in Germany.

I used to  always  fly into Frankfurt , and then take a train, bus or rental car to my final destination. But recently? I’ve found that it’s easier (and sometimes cheaper) to bypass FRA and fly into other German cities, such as Munich , Hamburg , Berlin , Düsseldorf ( Cologne ) or Stuttgart .

You might even be able to find a direct flight from the US (I’ve flown direct Atlanta – Stuttgart and Washington DC – Munich, for example). Otherwise, you’ll change planes somewhere in Europe and take an easy 1-3 hour flight to Germany. We’ve changed planes in London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Paris, and Vienna, for example. You could also fly into another European city and then take a train, bus or rental car into Germany.  

A Few Notes About Flying Into FRA (Frankfurt Airport) and Traveling Onwards

If you take a commuter flight from Frankfurt  (FRA) to your final destination in Germany, you’ll go through passport control in FRA and then to your connecting gate. Super easy. Most flights from FRA to elsewhere in Germany are an hour or less in duration.

If you’re traveling onward by train from Frankfurt,  you can transfer to the train right at the airport below Terminal 1. If your train leaves from the main station in Frankfurt, you can either take the S-bahn or a regional train from the airport to the Hauptbahnhof (main station) in about 10-15 minutes.  

Important:  you’ll find cheap “savings fare” train ticket prices if you book your ticket online well ahead of your arrival. Be sure to book your ticket for  at least  a few hours after your flight’s arrival time into FRA.

Be warned: getting through passport control, customs, picking up your checked luggage, and making your way to the train station can take longer than you think. And if your plane from the US (or elsewhere) is delayed…well, it’s easy to miss your train and have to buy a new, much more expensive ticket on the spot. Personally, I would book a saver fare train ticket for a train that leaves 3-5 hours after my international flight’s arrival time – at the minimum. And that’s still cutting it close if there’s any kind of delay!

Tip: If you want maximum flexibility and peace of mind, buy a “flex ticket.” You’ll pay more but these tickets aren’t tied to a specific train. So if your flight is five hours late, you can take a train later in the day without changing your ticket or losing money.

These tickets also you to stop somewhere en route to your final destination for a couple hours, and then get back on a different train (e.g., stop in Stuttgart for a couple hours on your way to Munich). So if you arrive on time, you can work in a short excursion on the way to your final destination (store your luggage at a locker in the train station). If your flight is late, just go directly to your destination. These tickets are also refundable before the first day of travel.

For ultimate flexibility and peace of mind, spend the night in or around Frankfurt and book a saver fare train for early the next morning. 

You can also easily pick up a rental car at FRA  and drive to your final destination. Aaron and I have done this a few times and never had any problems.

The one problem we do have? Staying awake long enough to drive to our destination! We usually keep the driving distance to an hour or two on the day of our arrival and drink a lot of coffee. Sometimes we pull over at rest area and take a nap. 

If you want to rent a car at the airport and are concerned about driving while jet lagged, consider picking up the car and then spending the night in nearby town, such as Wiesbaden (I spent an enjoyable few days there before catching my flight home a few years ago). 

If you’re catching a bus  from the city center to travel onwards, S-bahn 8 or 9 will zip you into town quickly and cheaply in about 10-15 minutes. Buy tickets at any of the ticket machines before you board the S-bahn.  

You can also catch busses  into Frankfurt and elsewhere in front of Terminal 1 (arrivals level) and Terminal 2 (level 2).

You’ll find taxis  in the same general area. It takes about 20 minutes to get into downtown Frankfurt by taxi.

Flying to Germany from Elsewhere in Europe

These days it’s super easy and generally inexpensive to fly to Germany from all over Europe. Here are a couple tips:

When booking your international flight, you might be able to include a stop-over in the city where you’ll transfer to your Germany flight. I used to do stopovers in London, and a couple years ago I did an awesome stopover in Iceland. TAP also offers free stopovers in Lisbon or Porto.   

I highly recommend looking into both flying and taking a train (or bus) into Germany, especially if you’re arriving from a neighboring country and not on a stopover. Of course, if you’re flying from cities like London, Barcelona, Rome or Oslo, flying is the best option. But if you’re traveling from Paris, Vienna, Copenhagen or Prague, for example, a train might be the better way to go.

Even if the actual flight is only an hour, you have to factor in the time it takes to travel to the airport, go through security, potential flight delays, and then traveling to your lodging once you land. A 5- or 6-hour train ride might actually take less time than a 1-hour flight when you total it all up!

Traveling to Germany By Train, Bus or Car

Traveling to Germany from other European countries by train, bus or car is easy. Train travel is generally simple, comfortable, and quick. Most train stations in Germany are located in the city center, so it’s easy to get to your lodging via taxi or public transportation. 

If renting a car in another country, just double check that you’re authorized to take the car out of the rental country. If you are, you’ll have no problems crossing the boarder and driving around Germany. 

Busses tend to cost less than trains, and you can find some amazing deals, but to be honest, I still prefer taking trains over busses. Trains are more comfortable, you can get up and walk around, and they’re almost always faster than busses. Plus, they don’t get stuck in traffic.

Tips for Booking the Best Flights with Cash or Miles: 

• Start looking for flights early,  especially if you’re traveling during peak season. I booked our mid-June flights in late January. While we found low mileage flights for very specific weekend travel dates, we could have found better flight times had we booked even earlier. 
• Track flights  through google or look at options in Hopper so you’ll know a good deal when you see one.  
• Look for last-minute deals.  When I decided to go to Germany in December I didn’t start looking for flights until early November (the trip was a last-minute decision). Because I was flexible on travel dates and went early in the month, I found excellent tickets using miles. This doesn’t always happen, but it never hurts to look for deals, even if your travel dates are right around the corner. 
• Fly in or out of smaller regional airports  (e.g., Berlin , Hamburg , Stuttgart , Munich , Düsseldorf). When I booked our flights for mid-June I couldn’t find anything into Frankfurt using miles. But I did find flights into Berlin and out of Stuttgart, and that actually worked even better for that trip ! For my recent December trip , I found that flying in and out of Stuttgart used the lowest amount of miles and had the best schedule. I’ve also flown into Hamburg and Munich airports.

Where to Stay in Germany

Germany has so many options for lodging:

• Vacation rentals (e.g., VBRO, AirBnB)
• Hip boutique hotels
• Quirky hostels
• More traditional HI hostels
• Large hotel chains
• American-styles hotels (Hilton, Marriott, etc)
• Family-run Pensionen (bed and breakfast)
• Camping (RV and tent)

When we’re in Germany we typically opt for AirBnB (I like having a kitchen to make breakfast) or a smaller family-run Pension or boutique hotel. We used to stay in hostels when we was younger (they’re pretty nice in Germany) but even then I found Pensionen to be very affordable – sometimes  more  affordable than hostels – especially when traveling with one or two other people. If we’re spending the night near an airport or train station and want convenience and ease we’ll stay at a larger chain hotel .

Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget accommodations, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Germany! To help you get started, check out our Germany hotel guides.

Breakfast  is often included with lodging in Germany (but not always). Sometimes breakfast will feature fresh bread or Brötchen (delicious German rolls), cold cuts and cheese, butter and jam, and tea and coffee. Other times there will be an extensive breakfast buffet that includes things like yogurt, museli, a variety of breads, meats, cheeses, and even hard-boiled eggs. You’re unlikely to find things like omelets, bacon, pancakes, waffles, and hot oatmeal.

If you’re looking to save money on lodging,  book rooms with a shared bathroom. (This is typically only an option in smaller or older hotels and not an option I come across as often anymore.) Sometimes that will mean sharing a full bathroom with other guests on your floor, and other times you’ll have a sink and/or shower in your room and will share a toilet located in the hallway. Shared bathrooms are more common in smaller Pensionen than in hotels.

These days I prefer the convenience of having a full bathroom in my room but I’m not averse to sharing a hall bathroom when needed (takes me back to my younger backpacking days – ha!). I’ve never had to wait to use a shared bathroom or had any trouble with them. Sometimes there are two or more bathrooms per floor. If you do opt for a shared bathroom, bring flip-flops!

Hostels can be a great option for families,  as many offer family rooms. Hostels typically offer a simple breakfast and sometimes dinner. While accommodations are simple, some hostels can be in spectacular locations. The hostel in Bacharach, for example, is in an old castle on a hill and offers a gorgeous view of the town below and the Rhine river!  

Getting Around Germany

One of the benefits of traveling in Germany is that it’s super easy to get around the entire country. You have so many transportation options.

You can rent a car and drive from place to place. Or you can stick to trains and busses. Or ride a bike – there are tons of bike paths throughout Germany.   

If I’m primarily visiting big cities I prefer taking the train or a bus to get from one city to another. When I spend more time in smaller cities or want to take day trips to harder to reach places, I prefer having a car.

For our recent summer trip to Germany, we rented a car at the Berlin airport and returned it to the Stuttgart airport. We didn’t take trains or busses at all. We got a car so we could go to places that aren’t as easily (or quickly) accessible by train. We didn’t use the car every day, though. We walked and used public transportation when exploring cities.    

Speaking of public transportation, Germany’s is one of the best! It’s super easy to get everywhere you want to go via the S-bahn (above ground metro), U-bahn (underground metro), Strassenbahn (street car), and city bus. Taxis (and Uber/Lyft, where available) are also convenient options, though more expensive than public transport.

There are also car-share programs that you can look into. I haven’t used any of them and don’t know how convenient they are for travelers but it doesn’t hurt to check them out.

German cities are very walkable, so it’s easy to get around by foot. And, if you’d like to bike around like a local, there are lots of places to rent bikes (or scooters!) around town or maybe even at your hotel or AirBnB. If you’re more interested in just one afternoon of biking, try a city bike tour!

A few transportation tips:

• For the best train ticket prices book your ticket via the official German rail system website in well in advance. I book all of our tickets there. Note: if you pre-purchase your ticket at the lowest price you have to take the specific train you booked. If you miss that train, you have to buy another ticket. 
• If you don’t mind taking slower regional trains you can get some really cheap tickets and regional day tickets. You may not want to use these tickets to go from Munich to Hamburg, but they’re great for day trips, whether traveling solo or with others.
• Busses are often less expensive than the train (though not quite as comfortable and often slower).
• There are Eurail options for Germany, and they’re a great choice if you value flexibility and ease or if you want to make stops while traveling (eg., stop in Cologne for a couple hours while traveling from Hamburg to Munich).
• If you plan to rely on public transportation in the cities you visit, buy a day pass (or perhaps a multi-day or week pass) rather than individual tickets. Also check to see if there are group day tickets or if young kids can ride free. Note: there’s often a small additional fee to bring a bike or a large amount of luggage on public transportation. There are often less expensive day passes for travel starting after 9am. 

What to Wear in Germany

Check out my packing list for Germany!

Layer, layer, layer!  The weather in Germany is often unpredictable so your best bet is to bring layers so you can customize your wardrobe on the fly. Since rain is a possibility any time of year, you may want to bring a light rain jacket or an umbrella.

Bring comfortable shoes.  You’ll no doubt walk all day long (often on cobblestone), so bring your most comfortable, supportive shoes. Be sure to break in your shoes  before  you travel. There’s nothing worse than realizing a day into your trip that your shoes pinch your toes or give you huge blisters. (Bring along moleskin, just in case. I always have  this kind  in my day bag!) I typically bring a good pair of walking shoes appropriate for the season (e.g., boots in the winter) and a nicer pair of flats (sandals in the summer).

You can wear jeans.  Some people say  never travel with jeans  but I’m not one of those people. I love traveling with jeans! They’re comfortable, I can wear them a few times without having to wash them, and I feel less like a tourist wearing them because everyone wears them. If you like jeans, wear jeans.

Scarf, hat, gloves.  If you’re traveling in the winter or even late fall or early spring, definitely bring a warm scarf, hat, and gloves or mittens. Or buy them in Germany and take them home as a souvenir! Almost all of my winter accessories are from Germany. Even if you’re not traveling in colder weather, I recommend a  travel scarf with a hidden pocket  for ease and security.

You can wear shorts in the summer.  Shorts are more popular in Germany than they used to be, so if you like them and are comfortable in them, wear them. That said, do also bring summer dresses or skirts and or lightweight pants to wear when shorts are too informal.

Bring a comfortable day bag or purse.  When you’re out and about all day you want a comfortable bag or purse to hold your travel essentials – wallet, phone, camera, ipad/kindle/book, umbrella, journal, etc. For peace of mind, you may even want one with special security features.  Click here to read my guide for buying the best travel purse.

My Absolute Favorite Travel Clothing Items

Merino wool camisole/tank  – These camisoles are the BEST for travel! They’re soft, comfortable, easy to hand wash, and they never stink. This might be TMI but a few years ago, when I was traveling solo around Europe, I wore the same merino wool tank each day for 14 days in warm spring weather. It never smelled bad! Since that experiment I don’t typically go that long without washing my tanks, but I like knowing that I could!  Click here to read more reviews and buy a merino wool camisole/tank.

Foldable flats  – I splurged on a pair of foldable leather flats a few years ago, and after I broke them in I started really liking them. I wouldn’t recommend them for a full day of walking (especially on cobblestones) but I like to bring my foldable flats along for a change of pace or when I want the option of wearing a cute pair of shoes but don’t want them to take up much space in my suitcase.

Merino wool shoes  – I bought a pair of dark grey merino wool walking/tennis shoes a couple years ago and I LOVE them! I can wear them barefoot in the summer, and not only do my feet stay relatively cool, my shoes don’t stink when I take them off at the end of the day. I can throw them in the wash if they get dirty (though mine still look great 2 years later), they pack flat and don’t take up much space in my suitcase or travel backpack, and the heel is thick and cushioned. You can also buy replacement merino wool insoles without having to buy a new pair of shoes.

What I don’t like: the pair I have doesn’t have enough arch support for me and there’s not enough padding under the ball of my foot. The first few times I wore them they were uncomfortable after walking all day and I was super disappointed! But after adding an arch support and a gel insert under the ball of my foot (I like  this one ) I loved them and now wear them all the time while traveling and at home. Many people love them from the start!  Click here to to read reviews and check out merino wool shoes.   

What to Eat in Germany

You’ll never go hungry while traveling in Germany! While you can always find traditional items like Schnitzel, Spätzle, Rouladen, and Bratwurst, there are plenty of healthier options, including those that are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.

Many restaurants now cater to special diets and accommodate allergies, as do some specialty grocery stores. Aaron has a meat allergy and frequently eats gluten-free and has never had a problem finding delicious food in Germany.

These days Germany has a wide variety of restaurants to ft all budgets featuring cuisine from all over the world (except Mexican…I’ve yet to find good tacos in Germany). So you won’t be stuck eating Schnitzel every day – unless you want to!

We usually eat breakfast at our AirBnB or hotel, enjoy a nice lunch at a restaurant we’ve stumbled upon, and then grab a Döner, salad or pizza for dinner. We also often picnic using ingredients from the bakery and grocery store or farmer’s market.

Traditional German dishes to try:   Schnitzel, Spätzle, Rouladen, Bratwurst, Sauerbraten, Schweinehaxen, Maultaschen, Currywurst, Leberkäse, Flammkuchen, Sauerkruat, Kartoffelsalat (potato salad), Quark, all kinds of German breads.

Quick lunches and snacks on the go:  Döner, Falafel, Bratkartoffeln (fried potatoes), Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), Bratwurst, Currywurst, salads, Brötchen filled with meat and/or cheese, fresh pretzels, pastries, cakes. Click here to see the best German street food!

Desserts & sweet treats:  Schwarzwälderkirchtorte (Black Forest Cake), Bienenstich (Bee Sting Cake), cheesecake, Stollen, Frankfurter Kranz, cake, Donauwellen cake, Berliner, Lebkuchen, Pflaumenkuchen (plum cake), all kinds of pastries and chocolate – just to name a few! Click here to see the 10 must-try German desserts and sweets.

Beer:  every kind you could ever imagine! I usually just ask for the local beer unless there’s a specific one I know I want to try.

Christmas: This is the best time of year to be in Germany, partly because of the many delicious holiday treats like Lebkuchen, Stollen, Glühwein, and so much more. Click here to read more about what to eat in Germany during the Christmas season.

Want to try German food now? Click here to see where to buy delicious German food online!

Got a question about traveling in Germany? Join our free Germany trip planning community or  send us an email!

Grab your FREE 10 Germany Gems Cheatsheet Now!

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

Similar Posts

Saxon Switzerland National Park: Germany’s Hidden Gem

Stuttgart Christmas Market Guide for 2024

Are Summer Months the Best Time to Visit? Weather, Climate and Seasons in Germany

Where to Travel in Germany, Austria & Switzerland in 2 Weeks

9 Best Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours For Your Trip To Germany

Best Things to Do in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

Here’s how we can help you plan your perfect trip in 2024.

GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

TICKETS & TOURS:  For guided tours, day trips, private tours, and skip-the-line tickets,  Get Your Guide  is our go-to!

TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

71 Comments

I enjoyed reading this information. My husband and I would like to stay in Germany for 2 to 3 months in 2022. I am interested in staying in the area of Bamberg with the plan of visiting other regions in Germany via a rental car. Either at the end or beginning of our stay we would like to visit France (especially Paris). I have so many questions. But our hope is to have basically our last trip on our own and experience more of the everyday lifestyle. Up to this point we have only traveled via being guest of Viking River Cruise and tours.

Hi Donna! 2-3 months in Germany sounds awesome! Since you’ll be there so long, you might want to consider spending 1 month in 3 different regions or 1.5 months in 2 regions. Otherwise you’ll be doing a lot of overnight or multi-night trips if you want to see other regions. Are you thinking about renting an AirBnB? If you want to experience the everyday lifestyle, I highly recommend it. Feel free to email me if you have questions as you start planning. 🙂

Hi! Thank you for this awesome post. It’s very useful. I wanted to ask you a question. I’m planning to travel to Germany as soon as the pandemic starts to be less dangerous. I want to go to Germany for 2 months, how many cities do you think is possible to visit? And also how much money do you think is possible to use everyday for food if my budget is small? Thank you very much!

Hello! Two months is a good amount of time to visit Germany, and you should be able to see and do quite a lot! Just how many cities depends on how quickly you like to travel and what you want to do in each place (e.g., just see the highlights or live like a local). If you want to stick to big cities you could spend 1-3 weeks in each and take lots of day trips to see the surrounding area.

If that’s the case, you could rent an Airbnb (or similar), which would not only save you money on lodging (they’ll often give discounts for stays of 1 week or longer) but also make it easier to make some inexpensive meals at the Airbnb (and it’s easy to make German dishes “at home”!) and maybe even do laundry for free.

If you want to be on the go the whole time, moving from city to city (big, medium, and small), it will be more expensive unless you stay at hostels (or super cheap hotels). And remember to factor in the constant packing and unpacking, time getting to/from the train station (or airport)…that gets tiring when traveling for a couple months!

I recommend coming up with a budget, then looking at what kind of lodging fits that budget (hotels, hostels, longer Airbnb stays, Couchsurfing, etc). Then think about what you most want to do in Germany (live like a local, just spontaneously explore, see specific sights, have specific experiences, etc) and what you want your daily experience to be like (e.g., do you want to feel relaxed each day and get to know fewer places or be on the go, packing and unpacking, moving from place to place). Neither is better than the other, it’s just important to get clear on what kind of experience you want!

A few ways to reduce your budget: – Eat in fewer sit-down restaurants. Eat breakfast at “home”, buy snacks and drinks at the grocery store and bring them with you each day, cook some meals each week at “home”, pick up lunch from a grocery store or bakery and eat in a park, etc. Make eating dinner in a sit-down restaurant a special occasion. Doing these things will save you money and you’ll eat healthier!

– Take busses or slower trains to travel around Germany. There are regional train passes you can purchase that allow travel in a specific area very inexpensively. Travel will be slower and there are some restrictions on when you travel (often not during rush hour) but you’ll save money and often you’ll see some out of the way sights. You can also get good deals on flights but once you factor in travel to the airport (time and cost), time to check in, waiting to board, potential delays, and then getting from the airport to your final destination, it’s often just easier to take the train.

– Buy standard train tickets in advance. You can get nice discounts on faster train tickets if you book far enough in advance.

This might be more info than you wanted but I hope that helps you start planning your trip! Let me know if you have any other questions. 🙂

• Pingback: Europe Through the Seasons: The Best Time to Visit - Intentional Travelers

Great post full of detailed information on all aspects of travel in Germany. When travel reopens in Europe we’re planning on a 2 week trip in Germany with our adult son. He’s an avid soccer fan so we’ll need to plan the trip around the soccer schedule so he can see as many games as possible. We are considering Eastern Germany with a short trip into Poland or Northern Germany with a few days in Denmark. We’d really appreciate your expertise and suggestions. Although we’ve traveled extensively in many western and eastern European countries, we have not spent a great deal of time in Germany. Thanks. J.

Hello! I’m back working on this site now and am happy to help. I’ve got more articles and resources coming but let me know if you have any specific questions!

Hi Both The Ueckermann family 9-10 adults and 2 little once to experience Germany in Oct 2023. Central G and Netherlands will be awesome. We need to do all planning and funds estimates please assist. We live in South Africa and hopefully COVID 19 not a factor any more. Plan 2-3 weeks depending on the funds regards Engela

Hi Engela! Let me know if you have any specific questions about planning your trip to Germany. Happy to help!

HI, I was having trouble with your email 🙂 so sorry I am just replying here. I was hoping you could help us and I wasn’t sure if you offer buying tickets and guidance of our specific places we would like to visit. Anxiously wanting to hear back from you, Anne

Hi Anne! I just sent you an email. 🙂

Hello Cate! Such a well written article with great info! My husband and myself would like to travel to Germany in Oct. of 2022, possibly with my then 16 year old son as well. We want to go in October so we can also experience Octoberfest. I cant have beer because I have celiac’s. IS THERE OTHER ALCOHOL DURING OCTOBERFEST OTHER THAN BEER? WHAT IS THE WEATHER IN OCTOBER AND DOES OCTOBERFEST RUN THE FULL MONTH? IS THERE A CERTAIN AREA WE SHOULD STAY TO REALLY EXPERIENCE OCTOBERFEST AND ANY POTENTIAL ISSUES TO AVOID DURING OCTOBERFEST? We are overwhelmed with planning our trip because we don’t even travel within the US and I feel like there’s so much we want to experience in such a short period. We would like to go for 2 weeks. We want to go because both our families are from Germany. My family comes from Nuremburg (sp) and my husbands family Bavaria but we are unsure which part. This trip is important for us to try to learn about our family roots. DO YOU KNOW WHERE WE COULD GO IN GERMANY TO LEARN ABOUT OUR GENEOLOGY? We would like a more of a laid back approach to experiencing Germany. I dont want to necessarily feel rushed every single day but I do understand that some events and places we would want to visit would need to be scheduled and we are ok with that. I would like to do the Air bnb but know nothing about them. I would like less stress worrying about transportation such as missing busses. We are interested in castles, picturesque views, experiencing floating on the Rhine River perhaps. ANY SUGGESTIONS ON AIR BNB’S THAT PROVIDE BREAKFAST AND ANY IDEAS ON AREA’S TO VISIT BASED ON EVERYTHING I’VE PROVIDED? P.S……our last name literally translates to “the German”. We have had so many Europeans tell us that when they hear our name…LOL

CORRECTION: This is Lisa Nemec. My hubands family is Bohemian. We believe his family crossed over from Czech.

Hi Lisa! There are plenty of other drinks at Oktoberfest, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding something. The weather at that time of year can vary but in late September to early October it’ll likely be warm during the day and cooler in the evening. Oktoberfest is mostly held in late September but I believe it goes until Oct 2 in 2022. There are a lot of hotels and AirBnB’s within walking distance of Oktoberfest (also walking distance to downtown) but book early because they fill up quickly! You’ll also pay a premium at that time of year. Some people prefer not to stay near the main train station but other people don’t mind it.

As to where you could go in Germany to find out about your genealogy, I’d start by searching the genealogy sites online and get as much specific info as you can. You can then try a site like http://www.genealogienetz.de/index_en.html (I haven’t used it, just found it).

If you have 2 weeks, you could fly in and out of Munich and focus on Bavaria. While in Munich you could take a couple day trips to Salzburg, Berchtesgaden, Neuschwanstein, the Alps, etc. You could see a lot at a laid-back pace in 2 weeks!

AirBnB’s are great if you’re going to be somewhere for at least a few days, want a little extra space, a kitchen, etc. Even just being able to make breakfast, coffee/tea, and keep drinks cold for when you come home in the evening is so nice. But you don’t typically get hotel-like services like a prepared breakfast, new towels each day or linen changes. If you want to be walking distance to lots of things in Munich, a hotel near downtown could be a great option. If you’re ok with being in a neighborhood, an AirBnB could be a good choice. There are so many great neighborhoods in Munich so you really just need to look at price, amenities, and distance to the things you want to see. I’ve stayed at hotels near Marienplatz and in an AirBnB further away (maybe a 10-15 minute walk + U-bahn ride to Marienplazt) and I enjoyed both.

I hope that helps!

• Pingback: 12 Most Popular German Drinks & Beverages You Must Try In Germany | travel-boo | Portugal & Spain Travel Blog

HELP……I have been put in charge of coming up with an itinerary for my hubby and 4 of our friends for travel in July 2022. I truly have no idea what I am doing. What we are looking for are castles, beautiful scenery and history (although I have been told that they do not want to go to concentration camps). The following is the tentative itinerary I have come up with. We are looking also, for moderate priced Inns/quaint hotels and castle stays centrally located. Any changes/suggestions/comments would be GREATLY appreciated. We will be renting 2 cars. 1 night Munich drive to Nuremburg 3 nights Nuremburg – drive to Fussen 1 night Fussen – drive to Ettal 3 nights Ettal – drive to Unterwossen 1 night Unterwossen – drive to Salzburg Austria 3 nights Salzburg Austria drive to Munich 1 night Munich – fly home

Hi Linda! Your itinerary looks good for a 2-week trip. Here are few suggestions:

-If you’re flying into Munich, you could drive right to Nuremburg on the first day, since it’s only a couple hours drive from Munich airport. If you pick up your car, drive into Munich, settle into a hotel, and then drive to Nuremburg the next day, you’re using a lot of time for driving/checking in/unpacking/packing and you won’t get to see much of Munich. If you go right to Nuremburg on arrival day and stay for 3 nights, you could add a night to the end of your trip so you have 2 nights in Munich or add a day to Salzburg and keep Munich at 1 night.

-Fussen and Ettal are pretty close to each other so you could stay 3-4 nights in one and then take a day trip to the other. I like to reduce the number of one night stays as much as I can during 1 and 2 week trips for the reasons I mentioned above. You could also stay in Ettal and make day trips to both Fussen and Unterwossen and cut out 2 1-night stays.

-If you don’t want to see Munich, I’d keep that at 1 night and stay near the airport at the end of your trip. If you do want to see Munich, I’d give that 2 nights minimum.

I hope that helps! I think you’ll really enjoy your itinerary!

• Pingback: Can I Go to Germany Right Now? (Your COVID-19 Questions Answered) - My Germany Vacation

Thankyou for all the wonderful suggestions! I’m visiting Germany closer to Christmas for two weeks.

That’s my favorite time to be in Germany! Everything is so beautiful and festive. You might be interested in my Stuttgart Christmas Market article – even if you won’t be near Stuttgart, it will give you an idea of what you can do, see, and eat at any Christmas market. I also talk about 6 other nearby Christmas markets that are super fun to visit. 🙂 Enjoy your trip!!

I had all but given up on our delayed 25 yr Wedding Anniversary(07/28/2020 delayed to Sept 2021, due to covid) trip to Germany. Then I found your website! It reinvigorated our desire to NOT CANCEL our plans! We have a son in Kaiserslautern(rhein main air force base) , and want to split a 2 week trip between seeing 7-8 days traveling in Germany( Berlin, Munich, Cologne, and Stuttgart) and Paris. And then 6 to 7 day visiting our son. We had all but given up, until I read your article. Thanks! I wish that there were some way to have everything planned for us in advance! But, your post at least has assured us that we can make this happen on our own. Thank you very much!!

Definitely don’t cancel your plans, even if you have to postpone! (We had to postpone our anniversary trip, too – such a bummer!) You can definitely make your trip to Germany happen. Here are a few ideas for you…

You could fly into Paris, then travel to Kaiserslautern to see your son and do a day trip to Stuttgart (visit the Christmas market if you’re there in December or nearby Esslingen any time of year) and then either visit Munich and the area around there (fly out of Munich) or travel up to Cologne and over to Berlin (fly out of Berlin).

It’ll be a lot to try to see Paris, spend several days in Kaiserslautern, and also see Cologne, Stuttgart, Munich, and Berlin but if you can combine things – like if your son can go with you to visit Stuttgart and Munich or Cologne and Berlin, you could see a lot of the places you’re interested in. Flying into one city and out of another will help a lot, too.

You could also fly into Munich, then go to Kaiserslautern via Stuttgart, take a short trip to Paris, then go to Berlin via Cologne and fly out of Berlin. Or do the same but start in Berlin and fly out of Munich.

You’ll have a great time no matter your itinerary! 🙂

Your website is a such a great resource! I have a ton of questions about planning a trip, I’m just going to send you an email.

Thank you Komal

Got it and replied 🙂

We’re planning a trip to Germany at the end of February next year. What is the weather typically like during that time? Our itinerary includes arriving in Frankfurt, spending a day in Cologne, then heading to the Black Forest for about three days, followed by three days in Zurich, and returning to Frankfurt for three more days. Do you think this plan is good, or would you suggest any changes? Additionally, what places would you recommend visiting? Lastly, do you think purchasing a Eurail Global Pass is worthwhile for this trip?

The weather will likely still be cold in February but you could have some sunny days. Rain (or even snow) is always a possibility so bring an umbrella or even a waterproof jacket or shoes.

To best answer your other questions, I recommend booking either an itinerary review or a one-on-one consult in Zoom. I’ve helped hundreds of clients answer questions just like yours. 🙂 You can check out both options and read what previous clients have said here: https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/services/

I’d love to help you get your trip sorted so you have the best trip to Germany ever!

What is a good budget for 2 adults in Germany for two weeks?

It’s nearly impossible to give a guideline because it depends on so many things – your travel style, what kind of transportation you want to use, your accommodation & restaurant preferences, etc. I know that’s not very helpful in the short-term but it would be less helpful for me to give you a specific budget not knowing any specifics about you or your trip plans. Plus, most travelers like to splurge in one area and cut back in another but that’s so different for each traveler.

What I recommend is this: start looking at flights, transportation, and accommodations well before you want to book them in order to get an idea of what each costs for your travel dates. Add everything up for 2 weeks and then decide if you’re ok with that amount so far, keeping in mind you’ll still need to add on food, souvenirs, tickets/tours, insurance, and anything you need to get before you leave (clothes, luggage, passport, etc). I like to do this research before I book flights/transport/accommodations. That way I get an idea of what will be my splurge and where I will need to reduce costs to keep within the budget that’s right for me. Everyone’s ideal budget is so different!

hi i am planning to travail to Germany in December 2021 with my family , any idea

My big tip for Germany in December: visit the Christmas markets (if they’re open this year)! You’ll find one in nearly every German city, town and even small villages. They’re outdoors so dress warmly and enjoy the food, drink, and stalls. They’re a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts, too.

Days are short in December, and some touristy sites do shut down in winter, so keep that in mind. But you’ll still find plenty to do after dark, especially if you’re in bigger cities. As long as you take these two things into consideration, you’ll have a great visit no matter where you go!

Hi, my partner and I are wanting to visit Germany in January 2022. I have previously stayed in Wurzburg for 3 weeks and dream of taking my partner there.Seeing as I went with school a few years ago we didn’t really have a chance to look around other parts of local Germany. Where would you recommend us to go whilst in that area? We like architecture (but not too much…) we’re in our 20’s so we also want to have fun 🙂 we’ll either be driving (we live in France) or we’ll be going by train. Will the Christmas markets still be on? I doubt it but you never know… Thanks

Also, we are wanting to go with our dog. Would that be possible or too complicated?

You could easily go to Munich and spend a few days there – lots to see and lots of places to have fun. (I had a great time there in my 20s!) There are also a lot of day trip options – Berchtesgaden, Salzburg, Neuschwanstein, Passau, Regensburg, etc. You could also stop in Nuremberg on your way to Munich. All of that is easy by car or by train – and if you go by train, you could probably do those day trips using a regional train pass. Or you could do guided day trips and not have to plan anything! I’ve got some listed in my Munich guide – https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/munich-travel-guide/

It looks like the Christmas markets are on for 2021 but they could always get canceled in the coming weeks. Most have their last day on Dec. 24 so unfortunately, you won’t get to see them if you visit in January. That just means planning another trip to Germany for December 2022! 🙂

Germany is pretty dog-friendly so it’s probably do-able. But there are likely museums and other sites that might not allow dogs inside. If you mostly want to spend time outdoors, and your dog is ok with possibly very cold/wet/windy weather, or if you can leave the dog at your lodging for part of the day, it might work ok.

Hope that helps!

Hi Cate, you have put together a terrific planning guide. Thanks. Our 4 children just gave us a trip back to Germany in celebration of our 50th wedding anniversary. We lived in Erlangen from Aug 1972 – 1973. We are excited to go back but we are debating between a Rhine river cruise or going on our own. We’ll probably go sometime in May/June or Sept/Oct 2022.

How exciting!! It’s so fun to go back and revisit where you used to live in Germany. Aaron and I did that in 2019 and had such a good time seeing what had/had not changed. I’m excited for you!

I’ve heard people say great things about Rhine river cruises. If you don’t have time to or don’t want to do much trip planning, that’s a great option. The downside is that you’re more limited to what you can do and see. If you have time and interest in planning your own trip, you can definitely do it. And since travel is coming back, I’ll be focusing on this site a lot more in the coming months and helping people plan their trips, so I’ll be here to help you, too. 🙂

Hi Cate, We have wanted to visit Germany (from the US) for a few years now and have finally decided to make it happen, but had no idea where or how to start. Your article is full of valuable information. Thank you. At least we now have a starting point. Our trip isn’t for another year, but it will go quickly. So excited and thank you for all the information.

You’re welcome! I’m so excited for you already. 🙂 The next year will fly by and you’ll be on a plane bound for Germany before you know it. Now that travel is coming back, I’ll be focusing on this site a lot more so be sure to come back when you’re ready to plan your trip. I’m working on lots of guides and helpful resources! 🙂

Hello. My grandfather expressed interest in going to Germany in 2022. More specifically, he wants to go to ‘The Battle of the Bulge’ where his older brother passed away in World War II. We would also like to go to the Holocaust Memorial. I have been trying to research/plan this trip but would be open to suggestions. We are from the US and could spend about a week out there. I am grateful that I stumbled across your blog as it is very informative and interesting! 🙂

Hello! That sounds like it will be a wonderful trip for your grandfather! If you’re talking about visiting the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin (highly recommended), you could fly right into Berlin (their new airport!) and spend half of your time seeing the city, then head to Brussels and take a Battle of the Bulge day tour! I found one here that you can look at (aff link): https://www.getyourguide.com/bastogne-war-museum-l35043/bastogne-battle-of-the-bulge-tour-from-brussels-t169657/?partner_id_Y5UOFLS It looks like it also goes into Luxembourg so you could get 3 countries in one trip. 🙂 If you have enough time, you could take a day trip to Brugges or Ghent – both are 30-60 minutes from Brussels. You could then fly out of Brussels back to the US. To get from Berlin to Brussels you’d probably want to fly but it’s a short flight and you could probably get an early morning or a late afternoon flight so it wouldn’t take up your whole day. Hope that helps with your planning!

Hi, your site is wonderful and has some great information! I am traveling (solo) to Germany in late April and will be there for one month. I have been to Munich/Bavaria/Salzburg before so I’d planned on focusing my trip on the rest of Germany. I’m flying into Berlin and was planning on staying there 4-5 nights, then I’m not sure where to go. I was thinking of spending a week in an area and going on day trips; for example, the Black Forest, the middle Rhine area, maybe Harz Mountain. But I also want to see some cities like Cologne, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Trier, and Hamburg. So maybe a bit of both cities and countryside? Do you have any thoughts? Thanks!

I definitely recommend choosing 3-4 locations where you can stay for a week or so and then take day trips. You could do longer stays in Berlin and Hamburg – there’s tons to do and see in each city, as well as lots of day trip options. You could also do Cologne or try a smaller town on the Rhein or Mosel and explore that area in more depth. For the Black Forest you could stay in the university town of Freiburg and day trip to towns/hiking in the Black Forest, as well as Basel and Colmar/Strassbourg). You could also choose 3 locations for longer stays (e.g., Berlin, Hamburg and Freiburg) and then do a couple of 2 or 3-night stays as you travel between cities, e.g., a short stay in Wernigerode or Quedlinburg (Harz mountains), Trier, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, or Tübingen on your way to Freiburg. Tip: if you want to do a lot of day trips, make sure you stay where it’s fairly quick and easy to get to the train/bus station! Since you’ll be there for a month you have lots of flexibility and plenty of time to do and see a lot of the areas you mentioned!

@Cate, Thank you so much! I’m really enjoying going through your site, too!

Looking for a good travel guide book for Germany any recommendations?

Rick Steve’s is always a good one! I’ve used his guidebooks a ton. You can get his Germany guidebook on Kindle or as a hard copy (aff link): https://amzn.to/33z7d59

@Cate, Thanks

So excited to find your site! My husband and I will travel from Texas to Bavaria for 7-10 days in September. I am in charge of all the planning. I’m thinking Munich & surrounding area and Salzburg. Do you have any suggestions? I’m also pondering some organized day tours..

Munich is a wonderful home base for seeing lots of great sites in Bavaria! You could easily spend 1-3 days in Munich (especially if you’re there during Oktoberfest) and then take day trips to places like Neuschwanstein, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Salzburg, Linderhof, Chiemsee, Berchtesgaden, Nuremberg…just to name a few! You can easily do all of that by train and mix it up with some organized day tours here and there. I’ve been working on a Munich guide that will have ideas for day trips and tours so keep an eye out for that!

Hello Cate, Your blog is very helpful. Like to seek your help and guidance. I am from Singapore and not familiar with Germany. Both me and my wife intend to fly to Amsterdam where my daughter is attending university and spend 18 days vacation with her in Europe during her break. Am planning 7 days touring Germany. Tentatively looking tourist site at hamburg, Berlin, Stuttgart and then off to another country eg. france, switzerland or Italy for another 7 days. then travel back to Amsterdam to fly home. Any advise how we can optimize the traveling as we are not familiar with these region? Appreciate your kind assistance. regards, Perry

It will be so much fun to travel with your daughter! It might be difficult to fit Hamburg, Berlin and Stuttgart into 7 days. On the train it takes about 6 hours from Amsterdam to Hamburg, 3 hours from Hamburg to Berlin, and over 8 hours from Berlin to Stuttgart. While all three of those cities are amazing, I recommend choosing either northern or southwestern Germany, rather than trying to hit all three (or make the Germany part of your trip 10 days).

You could, for example, travel from Amsterdam to Hamburg, then to Berlin, and fly from Berlin to France or Italy. That would give you plenty of time for travel, city exploring and day trips.

Or take the train from Amsterdam to Stuttgart and explore that area. Stuttgart is close to France, so you could spend several days seeing both southwestern Germany (Stuttgart, villages in the Black Forest, Freiburg, Baden-Baden, etc) and French cities like Strassbourg, Colmar and Mullouse. You could also very easily go to Basel in Switzerland! It’s a long train ride from Amsterdam to Stuttgart so I’d look into flights. Stuttgart is a great airport to fly into!

Hi, my family and I would like to visit Germany this summer. My husband and I have two teenagers (15 and 13), and one of them is reads a lot and it is very interested in history. We would like to visit german cities but also, some concentration camps. Our plans is to spend two weeks there. Any suggestions?

You’re going to have so much fun in Germany! Everywhere you go there’s so much history, so it just depends on what kind of history you’re looking for. For a 2-week stay you could easily visit 2 (maybe 3) different parts of Germany without feeling like you’re spending your whole vacation on the train or in the car. You could, for example, fly into Munich, visit the city and Dachau concentration camp, take a few day trips to Salzburg, the Alps, Neuschwanstein, Nuremburg, etc – there are so many options!…then visit the Black Forest area, the Rhein/Mosel area, the Hamburg area or the Berlin area and fly out of that second city (Stuttgart, Cologne/Düsseldorf, Hamburg or Berlin). If you want to focus on 2 main areas, say Munich and Berlin, you could do a 1-2 night stopover in a city in-between. Hope that helps you get started on your planning! 🙂

@Cate, We are from USA planning on attending next years NfL game if possible. We are a large group 10-15people who would also like to see the culture and history. Open to staying in Berlin, munich, or anywhere else as long as accessible to get to game. We want to fly out wed night from BOS be there Th F S Su (game in Frankfurt) leave M. Anything you would recommend?

Hi! I just now saw your question. If you’re flying into FRA and have Th, F, and S to do some sight-seeing, I’d stick to the Frankfurt area and do day trips. If you go to Berlin or Munich you’ll spend most of your time in transit and checking in/out of hotels. We’ve got a Frankfurt guide on our website and also a castles guide – so you could spend a day exploring FRA, then a day visiting a castle, and then 1 day visiting a nearby city like Heidelberg, Nürnberg or Rothernburg ob der Tauber. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. We’ve also got a Germany Trip Planner and one-on-one travel consults, too. And lots of info on this website. We’re happy to help!

I just found your great website! We have just drafted a 3 week trip plan to Germany and Austria and I would love your thoughts about it!. Is late May better than June? (I really can’t do heat without AC!)

– [ ] 2. Land in Vienna- 2 nights… – [ ] 3. Take tour or just Spend a day in the sprawling Schönbrunn Palace, – [x] 4. Rental car to Take KM 29 for about an hour to Burg Liechtenstein drive an hour to Melk Abbey Then Steyr From Melk, Steyr 1 night stay – [x] 5. Spend a little time, touring the Steyr Mannlicher! – [x] 6. Wake up early and bike 15 minutes to spend the morning exploring more of Halstatt before the day-trippers.. Sky Walk salt mine – [x] 7. After lunch, enjoy more the beauty of Salzkammergut area! on to Salzburg in time to return the rental car. we will stay in the old town (Salzburg 3 nights) – [ ] 8. See Salzburg – [ ] 9. Take guided tour to Eagles nest – [ ] 10: To Munich by 2 hour train.. taxi to hotel, Sleep Munich 2 nights … – [ ] 11. Guided tour all day— Dachau and Munich sites – [x] 12 Slow morning to rest, checkout, cab, 1.5 hour train to Oberarmagau for lunch and stroll. Rent car in Garmish and Drive another hour to Sleep in Hohenschwangau 2 nights Maybe take 30 minute Schloss Hornschwangau Castle tour before closing if time – [x] 13 Visit Neuschwanstein! (Hohenschwangau castle first if not last evening) then rent a bike and go a mile -7 minutes to Tegelberg luge ride – [x] 14 drive 2.5-4 hours but first stop for lunch and see Ulm Cathedral. Going Opposite the crowds arrive in afternoon to stay in nearby Rothenburg 3 nights. See stunning Rothenburg – [x] 15 After coffee and quiet streets, walk the medieval wall. If crowds arrive, leave and drive a short way and tour the Bad Weinsheim Frankonian Open Air Museum – [x] 16 Drive 30 min to Ansbach, park and Take 30 min train and10 min cab into Neuremburgfor day. – [x] 17. leave in early morning and drive 3-5 hours through To St Goar take B9 along the Rhine from Bingen arrive in time to tour Burg Eltz and then maybe return car in Emmelshausen this day or next. Take cab back down to nearby St Goar for 3 nights. – [ ] 18 See Burg Eltz castle if not seen yesterday and then see Marksburg castle – [ ] 19 REST maybe just board a boat for a relaxing Rhine River cruise from Sant Goar. We will disembark to visit small Bacharach and back again by train. – [ ] 20 Depart by 70minute train to Frankfurt airport Or would it be better to do the trip in reverse, starting with Germany first? Thank you!!

It’s not usually super hot in May but it can be hot in mid-late June. The last time we were there in June (2019) it was incredibly hot and there isn’t as much a/c there…but you never know, I’ve had cold and rainy June visits, too. If you want to be more sure of not-super-hot weather, I’d go in mid-late May or early to mid-June — as long as you’re ok with the possibility of some not-so-warm days. If you go in mid-late June and don’t love hot weather, book hotels with a/c, rent a car with a/c, and plan to buy a lot of cold drinks. No matter the weather, it’s always fun to travel around Germany! 🙂

You could easily do your itinerary either way so I’d just look at whether flights are better into Vienna/out of FRA or vice-versa. Check the hotels you want to stay in to make sure they have availability — I’ve actually reversed my itinerary before due to hotel availability!

You’re planning to cover a lot of ground in 3 weeks and be on the go go go, which some people find more tiring than expected…but if you know your travel style, then go for it! 🙂 3 nights in one place gives you 2 full days, which is a good amount of time for most places. 2 nights means 1 full day, which can be enough in some locations but if you do many in a row, it can feel like you’re constantly checking in/unpacking/packing/checking out, and can get super tiring if you’re doing a lot of day trips.

Be sure to plan in time for getting ready, eating breakfast, packing, checking out of the hotel, getting to the train station/car rental – it often takes up more time than you’d expect. Trains aren’t as punctual as they used to be, so keep that in mind for what you plan on arrival after a train trip.

An idea — instead of taking a train to Oberammergau, then to Garmisch to rent a car, then driving to Hohenschwangau, I’d rent a car in Munich and drive to each place. It will probably be less expensive to rent in Munich and easier than doing the train and car pick-up (especially with luggage!).

For the longer drives, plan on them taking longer than what’s estimated in google maps because there’s often traffic! If you miss the traffic and arrive early, it’ll be a nice bonus!

Your idea to add in some guided day tours is a good one – it’s a nice change from having to figure everything out yourself and can feel like a mini vacation from your vacation.

Overall, you’ve got a really fun trip planned!

Hi Cate! I love your clear way of describing and explaining. My husband and I are invited to a wedding outside of Berlin the last weekend in April. From there we would love to head to the spas in Baden-Baden .. what else would you suggest to see in the Baden-Baden area and without driving the best transportation option? We can stay up to about 10 days. Thank you!

Thank you for your nice comment! 🙂 I’d take the train from Berlin to Baden-Baden. It’s about 6 hours and you can relax and see the sights along the way. You could fly from Berlin to Stuttgart but by the time you travel to the airport in Berlin (the new one is further out than Tegel was), check in, wait to board, fly, and then take the train from Stuttgart to Baden-Baden, it’s at least as long as – if not longer – then taking the train.

When in Baden-Baden you could visit Gengenbach, the Black Forest, Triberg (cuckoo clocks & waterfalls), Tübingen, Stuttgart/Esslingen, Lichtenstein Castle, Hohenzollern Castle, Freiburg, Basel (Switzerland), Strassbourg (France), Colmar (France) — just to name a few! You should be able to reach all of these places via train/bus. The Black Forest Open Air Museum is also a lot of fun! I’m working on guides to several of these locations – and some are already on the site – so check back soon for new ones. 🙂

You should be able to get a free KONUS train pass, which enables you to travel throughout the Black Forest region for free. I don’t think it works for every place I listed but it will get you to several of them. Here’s more info about the KONUS card: https://www.schwarzwald-tourismus.info/planen-buchen/konus-gaestekarte (you can switch to English if it’s in German).

You could fly out of Stuttgart airport or travel up to Frankfurt and fly out of there. Strassbourg or Basel might work, too.

@Cate, that really does! Thanks again,

You’re very welcome!

• Pingback: Best 31 Things to Do in Stuttgart, Germany in 2022 - My Germany Vacation
• Pingback: 10 Days in Germany: Itinerary Ideas For the Perfect Trip - My Germany Vacation
• Pingback: Perfect Berlin in 2 Days Itinerary: What to Do & See - My Germany Vacation
• Pingback: Vacation In Germany - Touriago

I am planning a trip with my husband, 18 year old daughter, mother in law and myself. We will have 8 nights total flying Munich to Amsterdam or vice versa. Interested in the Christmas markets, of course, castles (would love if we could stay the night in a castle if that’s possible), and just getting an authentic German experience. My mother in law found family ancestry in Stuttgart, so she would like to stop there. The other areas that we have an interest in are Frankfurt, Cologne (wonder if there is such thing as a day cruise on the Rhine River), and maybe Hamburg (for the canals, but I’m not sure December is the best time of year for that). Although, I’m not sure we’ll be able to see all those cities in just 8 nights, as we would also like 1-2 nights in Amsterdam.

We plan to rent a car and I will be doing the driving. We live in Colorado so I’m familiar with winter driving, but wonder if I can use Google maps while traveling through Germany.

Would love your thoughts or suggestions on this.

Thank you, Lea Ann

Hi Lea Ann, you’ve got the makings of a magical winter trip! All of the places you mentioned will be beautiful in December because of the Christmas markets. Stuttgart, for example, has a huge, old Christmas market (plus there are 2 other really beautiful ones nearby) and there are 2 nearby castles you can visit. Hamburg and Cologne and also wonderful cities (Frankfurt too but I’d skip it on a short trip unless you have a specific reason to go there).Amsterdam is also a lot of fun and a great place to fly in or out of.

It’s a lot to fit into 8 nights so you’ll definitely need to hone in on just a few places, otherwise you’ll spend your entire trip packing/unpacking/driving. 🙂

You can use google maps in Germany and that’ll make getting from place to place easy. But unless you want to stop at specific sights between cities, you could easily take the train, since you’re going to big cities (you don’t need a car in any of the cities you want to visit). If you don’t mind parking the car at each hotel in the city, a car can give you more flexibility.

You can also stay in a castle in Germany! We’ve got a guide for that right here so you can see which one you like best.

It’s hard to get more specific about an itinerary here in the comments without taking to you and getting a better sense of your interests and needs but we’ve got lots of resources to help you — Christmas market guides (definitely take a look at the Stuttgart one!), city and hotel guides , and we’ve also got a Germany Travel Bundle with an interactive Germany Travel Map, City Cheatsheets, and other resources, and I do one-on-one trip planning consults .

And be sure to join our travel planning Facebook group !

@Cate, thank you for your quick response and feedback! I’ll check out the links you shared and I’ve joined your Facebook group.

You’re welcome! Glad you joined the group! 🙂

Hi Cate , I have visited Germany but only Düsseldorf for my sugery. I will like to take my wife and kids with me this time I have an appointment in December might use the opportunity to take them for Christmas holiday . I have 12’night in total . 5 night in Düsseldorf can you please advise which city we can visit for the rest days and we are not leaving Germany until 26th. So I want them To enjoy the Christmas but I don’t know which city to choose .I will you to please give me where the kids can enjoy the trip age 8 ,6 and 3 . Do we fly back from Düsseldorf or from Another city ? Thanks for your help.

If you’d like to fly out of the Düsseldorf airport, you could spend the second part of your trip in Cologne so you could visit the markets there, in Bonn, and surrounding area (e.g. a day trip to Aachen).

If you’re ok with flying out of a different airport, you could go to Stuttgart (good Christmas markets in the area and a couple castles), Munich (good markets and day trips) or Berlin (good markets and day trips) and fly out of any of those airports.

Most everything will be closed on Dec 25 and the latter half of Dec 24 so keep that in mind when doing your daily planning.

Hope that helps with your planning!

Hi, Thank you for the detail page. I and my family will be visiting to watch a NFL game in Frankfurt and had some travel ideas outside of the city that I have not found solutions for. First, are US citizens allowed to rent cars without a permit? We want to travel to Stuttgart and Munich for some museums and possibly Berlin, but I’ve yet to figure how time and distances for the trip as these do seem to be quite a distance from each other. Then, we would end the trip back in Frankfurt to travel back to the US, unless we find an airline in Berlin. Do you have suggestions? This would be a 7-14 day trip, depending on cost. Thank you

Hi Marco! Yes, you can rent a car with just your US driver’s license. While not required, an int’l driver’s license can be helpful if you get pulled over or in an accident (you can get on at AAA). You can check distance between those cities via google maps (it’ll show you both driving and trains). I always add 25% to the times they suggest because there’s a good chance you’ll encounter traffic somewhere. We use google maps for all of our road trips in Germany. You could definitely do Frankfurt – Stuttgart – Munich – Berlin – Frankfurt (stay near airport on the last night) in 14 days. If you don’t want to drive from Munich – Berlin – Frankfurt, you could return the car in Munich and then take the train to Berlin and back to Frankfurt. Hope that helps you get started on your trip planning!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Get around in Germany with these top transportation options

May 4, 2024 • 4 min read

Germany's public transportation network is one of the best in the world (and kids under 15 travel on trains for free) © SbytovaMN / Getty Images

The birthplace of the Autobahn,  Germany is a traveler’s dream. It boasts one of the most extensive, reliable and well-integrated transport networks in the world.

The roads here are well-designed and well-maintained, metropolitan public transportation is beautifully planned and efficient and the intercity train network is unsurpassed. Whatever means of transport you choose, you’ll find Germany easy to navigate.

While large by European standards, few parts of Germany are difficult to access. Cars are available to rent throughout the country, planes shrink larger distances (such as the 790km/490 miles between  Munich and  Hamburg ) and car- and ride-share schemes are well established.

Here's what you need to know to find your way around in Germany.

Make the most of one of the world’s great train networks

Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany’s national train operator, maintains a comprehensive, modern and reliable rail network. There are some private operators on the rails (like  Ostdeutsche Eisenbahn in  Saxony ,  Bayerische Oberlandbahn in  Bavaria and the  Hamburg -based  Nordbahn Eisenbahngesellschaft ) but all operate under the DB aegis.

Download the DB Navigator app before you arrive in the country and you’ll have access to ticketing, maps, timetables and everything else you need from the palm of your hand. If you’re planning on plenty of time on the tracks, DB’s rail passes are designed to allow visitors to take full advantage of the national network. Discounts are possible for two people traveling together on a twin pass and for 12–27-year olds, who qualify for youth passes.

Children up to age of 14 travel for free on German trains

Germany is a great place to take the family . It’s highly developed, clean and well organized. The welcome mat  Deutsche Bahn (DB) rolls out for young rail passengers is exemplary: under-fives travel for free; kids aged five to fourteen travel free with a paying adult. There are designated family areas and surprises for kids on trains.

Drive on Germany's quality roads and Autobahn

Germany is a wonderful place for a driving tour . Visitors will find car-rental agencies everywhere at their convenience, all offering competitive rates on fleets of modern vehicles. Car sharing apps such as  ShareNow are another excellent option, allowing you to prebook and collect a car, drive it for up to 30 days, and return it anywhere in its designated "home area". Petrol stations and EV charging stations are easily found – for the latter, simply use sites such as  Chargemap and PlugShare .

Bus is a cheap alternative to the train

While it’s difficult to go past DB’s rail network, there are times when you might consider taking a bus (it is the cheaper option). In some areas, such as the  Harz Mountains , sections of the  Bavarian Forest and the  Alpine foothills, it’s the only option.

Keen competition between companies keeps fares low and standards high. Buses are modern and comfortable, and usually offer on-board wifi, electrical outlets, toilets and drinks and snacks for longer journeys.  FlixBus is the main German service, but  RegioJet (Czech Republic) also operates in Germany. 

Travel by bike on Germany's long-distance cycle trails

Many areas of Germany are extremely cycle-friendly, and it’s easy to hire good-quality touring bikes in most larger centers. If you have the fitness and inclination, definitely consider including a cycling tour into your itinerary. Rental sites like  ListNRide and  Cycle Europe allow you to pre-hire bikes from local outlets. Good-quality road bikes start from around €38 to €50 per day for hire. Helmets aren’t mandated by law but are always a good idea.

A network of more than 200 well-marked long-distance cycle trail fans out across Germany. Some of the stand-out routes include: the  Altmühltal Radweg , which runs for 167km (104 miles) beside the river Altmühlt in Bavaria’s  Altmühltal Nature Park ; the  Elberadweg , following the Elbe 1300km (808 miles) from its source near  Dresden to its estuary near Hamburg; and the  Donau Radweg , following the Danube for 434km (270 miles) between  Passau and  Neu-Ulm .

Ferries and boats are a lovely way to travel the coast, rivers and lakes

While Germany has only two sea borders, it has plenty of lakes, and there’s a chance you’ll need to travel over water at some point. The Baltic islands off  Mecklenburg–Western Pomerania , the  East Frisian Islands in  Lower Saxony and the  North Frisian Islands in  Schleswig-Holstein all require ferries for access.

Scheduled boat services plying the Rhine, the Elbe and the Danube can be a delightful way to travel along these rivers. The same applied to large lakes like  Chiemsee and Lake Starnberg in Bavaria and  Lake Constance in Baden-Württemberg.

Germany has good accessible transportation

Germany is a rich, civic-minded country with generally excellent provisions for the mobility impaired. Organizations such as the  Association for Barrier-Free Destinations in Germany , Deutsche Bahn and the  German National Tourist Board are serious about reducing obstacles to accessibility and compiling resources for visitors.

This article was first published Jun 11, 2021 and updated May 4, 2024.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

May 5, 2024 • 6 min read

From walking round the old town to exploring further afield by train, bus or tram, get to know Munich with this guide to transportation.

Jul 15, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 20, 2021 • 2 min read

Jan 21, 2020 • 1 min read

Aug 26, 2024 • 8 min read

Aug 20, 2024 • 4 min read

Jul 31, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 31, 2024 • 5 min read

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

Jun 11, 2024 • 7 min read

Destination Germany

Would you like to travel to Germany as a tourist? Here you’ll find all the important information you need for an unforgettable stay.

Whether you love nature or history, mountains or the sea, Germany has something to offer for everyone. From majestic castles set amid picturesque landscapes to the lively streets of Berlin, there are countless hidden treasures to discover in the country. Here you will find valuable information about popular destinations, cultural highlights, local traditions and delicious dishes along with practical travel tips. Get ready for a journey through Germany to explore fascinating cities, breathtaking mountain landscapes and intriguing UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Topics on this page

Entry requirements, how can i get about in the country, travelling on a budget, what do i need to know before the trip, food and drink, the most attractive towns and cities, outdoor excursions, history and technology, history up close, unesco world heritage, the great outdoors, where can i stay the night, germany from a distinctive perspective, germany from a digital perspective.

We have sent you a confirmation email. Please confirm your email address so that we can send you our newsletter in the future.

An error has occurred. Please try again later.

To get you in the mood, we’ve put together a summary of some of Germany’s magical spots, magnificent natural attractions and a few ideas as to what you might like to do on your trip to Germany:

What are the requirements for tourists entering Germany?

Tourists from EU countries in the Schengen area and from many other countries can enter without any further formalities. All other travellers need a tourist visa for a 90-day stay: the type C Schengen visa. Check this list issued by the German Foreign Ministry Auswärtiges Amt to find out if you need a visa:

https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/-/231148

You can obtain a visa from the German embassy or consulate in your country. It will also provide you with details of any requirements that apply.

How can I travel in Germany?

Germany is well-known for its motorways . They criss-cross the country in all directions. With the exception of a few islands, you can get to virtually every point of interest in Germany by car. Travelling by train in Germany is very convenient, too: the local and long-distance public transport network has trains and buses that serve virtually the entire country. The major cities and their surrounding areas in particular offer excellent transportation links. One convenient option for travel between larger towns and cities is that of the long-distance buses. There is also domestic air traffic – though given that Germany is not overly extensive in size, more ecofriendly forms of travel are available.

Here you will find tips for travelling in Germany:

Bonus tip: how can I travel in Germany on a limited budget?

Travelling costs money, and even though there are a lot of countries that are more expensive than Germany, it is certainly not one of the cheapest holiday destinations. The longer you want to spend exploring Germany, the more this applies, of course: travel, accommodation, food and drink are necessary expenses. One option is to earn the cost of your trip in Germany itself while you are there.

Find out all about work and travel in Germany:

What are the most important things I need to know when travelling to Germany?

Germany is made up of 16 federal states , but this won’t affect you in terms of tourist travel. There are no noticeable borders between the states and the same laws apply everywhere throughout the country. Germany has a nationwide system of healthcare consisting of general practitioners and hospitals. In order to keep costs low in the event of illness or accident, tourists are advised to take out travel health insurance for the duration of their visit to Germany. All common means of payment are accepted in Germany, though paying with cash is still widespread, especially in the case of small amounts. Food in Germany is international: Italian, Turkish and Asian cuisine is to be found practically everywhere. German cuisine with all its specialities is an option too, of course.

What can I eat and drink when I visit Germany?

The restaurant landscape in Germany is practically unlimited and highly diverse. In big cities in particular it is possible to find almost every type of international cuisine, often in gourmet quality, too. Virtually every town in Germany has a pizzeria, a kebab restaurant or a Chinese restaurant serving good food that is reasonably priced. But tourists will want to try the country’s own typical dishes and drinks, too. Some dishes require a little tolerance, unlike perhaps the most common German drinks such as beer and wine. When it comes to beer and wine, it’s always a good idea to try regional specialities.

What places should I visit in Germany?

There are hundreds of worthwhile destinations in Germany. Here you will find the most popular places for tourists from abroad to visit in Germany:

Everything you need to know about the most attractive German towns and cities

But this is only a small selection of course. You might be asking yourself: where do I start my trip to Germany? What are the most frequently visited towns and cities in Germany ? Maybe you’d like to get to know the big German cities ? Hamburg, the port city on the North Sea, Berlin, the German capital, Leipzig, the cultural centre in the east, or Cologne, the city with the famous cathedral? Frankfurt, the city of banks and museums? Or Munich, home to the Oktoberfest, situated on the edge of the Alps? Each of these cities has a long and fascinating history, even dating back to Roman times in some cases.

Our bonus tip: “Berlin for free”

You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money if you want to visit Germany. Here we have compiled a special set of tips for those who’d like to get to know Berlin (almost) for free:

Everything you need to know for a trip to the countryside in Germany

Germany has a rich variety of landscapes: the islands in the North Sea and Baltic Sea , extensive plains in the north rising to the lower mountain ranges, and then Germany’s highest point in the far south – the Zugspitze in the picturesque Alps. In all these regions you will find unique and stunning landscapes, romantic river valleys, majestic mountains such as the Brocken in the Harz Mountains or the Feldberg in the legendary Black Forest – and there are even enchanted primeval forests, too.

The different landscapes provide habitats for numerous different animal species. If you are interested in wild animals, this is the right place for you:

Everything you need to know about cultural and historical highlights on your trip to Germany

No one can visit the land of Goethe, Bach and Beethoven without at least encountering in some form the mark left by these and other great artists – or indeed hearing their works. Germany is the country with the most symphony orchestras and opera houses. The Berlin Philharmonic is considered one of the best orchestras in the world, and more than a third of the world’s opera performances take place in Germany. In Berlin alone there are three opera houses, the Semperoper in Dresden is world-famous, too, and then of course there is the Festspielhaus in Bayreuth, where only works by Richard Wagner are performed. Popular music has an equally important role to play: with festivals such as “Rock am Ring” at the Nürburgring motor racing track and concerts ranging from local bands to international superstars, there is something on offer to suit every taste.

Great art treasures in impressive museums

In Germany, cultural education is seen as a responsibility of the public sector, which is why many museums receive funding from the state. This is another reason why the country has countless museums that many millions of people visit every year. Berlin has an entire museum island – a must-see on any visit to the capital. The Alte Pinakothek in Munich, the Städel Museum in Frankfurt, Museum Ludwig and the Wallraff-Richartz Museum in Cologne, the Staatsgalerie in Stuttgart and the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister in Dresden – the list of outstanding exhibition venues is virtually endless. The advantage from your point of view when travelling to Germany: it’s usually not far to go to the nearest major museum.

Spectacular presentations of history and technology

Museums are not only dedicated to the fine arts, of course. The largest technology museum of its kind in the world is in Munich: the Deutsches Museum. 1.5 million people visit it every year. Another spectacular place to see is the Sinsheim Museum of Technology, where a real Concorde is on display – still the fastest passenger aircraft ever. Anyone visiting Frankfurt am Main who is interested in natural history should be sure not to miss the Senckenberg Museum.

German history is featured in numerous museums, with both its dark and bright sides. The largest German-language cultural history museum is the Germanisches Nationalmuseum in Nuremberg. Meanwhile, the Buchenwald memorial on the site of a former concentration camp near the Goethe and Schiller city of Weimar is dedicated to the crimes perpetrated under National Socialism.

Where can I immerse myself in German history up close?

Finding out about history in a museum is fascinating, but here are some tips for you if you want to really immerse yourself in the past. Open-air museums bring bygone times back to life, ancient walls give you history at first hand and historical festivals offer a glimpse of what life must have felt like in past eras.

Unique destinations in Germany: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The United Nations awards a distinctive seal of quality to particularly outstanding natural or cultural monuments. They are declared by UNESCO to be World Heritage Sites . Here you can find out which of these places you should definitely not miss in Germany:

Dieses YouTube-Video kann in einem neuen Tab abgespielt werden

Third party content.

We use YouTube to embed content that may collect data about your activity. Please review the details and accept the service to see this content.

Piwik is not available or is blocked. Please check your adblocker settings.

Are you a nature-lover wanting to get a feel for the great outdoors in Germany?

It is possible to explore cities and landscapes on foot. Those wishing to cover lengthier distances in the countryside may prefer to travel by bicycle. Germany offers numerous opportunities for this, too:

Where can I stay on my trip to Germany?

Germany has hotels in all price categories, ranging from exclusive luxury hotels to budget hostels. You will find accommodation in all price categories via the usual channels on the internet, too. One particular feature in Germany is the concept of the youth hostel: nowadays these can be used by people of all ages, including families. The accommodation they provide is usually quite basic, but inexpensive. Since Germans like to camp, Germany has lots of campsites as well. Motorhome travellers take note: you are allowed to stay for a single night anywhere where it is not expressly forbidden. But one night is the maximum.

Are you looking for what is typical of Germany or what is not so typical?

If it’s winter and you want to experience something typically German: go to a Christmas market! If you like whimsical things, such as cuckoo clocks: set off on the German Clock Road. Here you will find some distinctive ways to explore Germany – not always off the beaten track, but highly recommended:

Bonus tip: I want to visit Germany without travelling!

Want to visit Germany but without travelling? We can help you with that. We’ve put together some great destinations for you to explore digitally. You might like to start with a virtual tour of some of the most impressive spots:

Frankfurt’s New Old Town is a spectacular sight, shown here in 360-degree video:

But there are lots of other ways to explore Germany on the internet without setting foot in the country. Try our tips for a virtual visit to Germany:

The ultimate Germany Travel Guide: the best things to do, see, and eat

Germany has a little something for everyone, from hikes along Alpine paths worn by years of exploration to ancient cobblestone streets lined with shops and restaurants to charming Christmas markets. We love visiting Germany no matter the time of year, so we put together this ultimate Germany Travel Guide to answer all your questions about this unique Central European country.

by Thea Engst

December 20, 2023

If you want your next trip to be to a country that teaches you history, feeds you heartily, and shares its rich cultural roots with you, choose Germany. This nation has a little something for everyone, from hikes along alpine paths worn by years of exploration to ancient cobblestone streets lined with shops and restaurants. We love visiting Germany no matter the time of year, so we put together this ultimate Travel Guide to answer all your questions about this unique Central European country.

The best time to go What to see What to eat and drink What to do Souvenirs to buy What to pack

Germany Travel Guide Basics

Currency: Euro 

Language: While German is the national language, the country has several dialects that originated in different regions with influences from surrounding countries. Most people also speak English, especially in larger cities.

UNESCO-listed sites: Germany is home to an astounding 52 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but some of the most well-known are Cologne Cathedral, the Rhine Gorge, and the city of Berlin.  

Best way to get around: There’s nothing more reliable than the German train system, or the Deutsche Bahn. Some of their trains travel at a regular pace and others are high-speed, getting you to your destination even faster. Either way, the Deutsche Bahn darts commuters and tourists alike to over 300 stations daily, both within Germany and to other countries like France and the Netherlands. So, whether you’re exploring a city or heading to a different part of Germany entirely, you won’t be disappointed (or late).

Phrases to know:

• “Danke” means “thank you.” “Bitte” means “please.”
• “Wo ist die toilette?” means “Where is the bathroom?”
• “Sprechen sie Englisch?” means “Do you speak English?”

Fun fact: A very common response when being asked if someone would like to do one thing or another is “Ist mir wurst,” which translates to “This is sausage to me.” It’s a colloquial way of saying that you don’t have a preference.

When to travel to Germany

The ideal time to go on tour to Germany depends on why you like to travel and what you’re visiting Germany for. “My number one thing about Germany is there is no bad time to travel there. There’s something amazing to see in every season,” said staffer Shannon. Germany has four distinct seasons, each offering ample reasons to visit. If you’re trying to decide when to go, here’s just a glimpse into what you can expect for things to do in Germany depending on the time of year.

Visit in the fall for festivals and pleasant temperatures. If you’re wondering what to do in Germany between October and December, this time of year offers cooler temperatures, fewer crowds (we love a short line!), and, of course, Oktoberfest, which begins in September and ends after the first Sunday of October. Already heading to Germany on our Oktoberfest: Germany, Switzerland & Austria tour ? Here’s everything you need to know .

Visit in the winter for the Christmas markets. You don’t need to be in a big city to stumble upon a Christmas market in Germany. Like most of Europe , the country explodes with these illuminated, joyous marketplaces come late November, and we consider visiting them one of the best things to do in Germany. “Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a quaint town in Germany that is straight out of a storybook,” said staffer Sarah. “While it’s beautiful any time of year, it’s particularly special around the holiday season.” Interested in going to a holiday market? Good news: We offer two tours that highlight Christmas markets in Germany. Check out our Christmas Markets of Historic Germany and Christmas Markets of Germany, Switzerland & Austria tours .

Visit in the spring for the blossoms and crisp weather. The country’s flora and fauna flourish in the spring, and hiking through the Bavarian Alps is brisk, scenic, and one of our favorite things to do in Germany this time of year. You won’t have to worry about overheating easily, so you can focus on spotting alpine snowbells, spring crocuses, and maybe even the rare edelweiss! If you’re looking to go hiking, one travel tip for Germany is to pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.

Visit in the summer for long days of exploration. The longer, warmer summer days mean having more time to enjoy the best things to do in Germany. From swimming in pristine green lakes to tasting wine at vineyards along the Rhine, there are countless reasons why Germany bustles with travelers in the summer months. Visit Germany on tour during this season and see for yourself.

Things to see in Germany

In a country of 52 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you’ll have plenty of options for well-preserved history to admire and cultural experiences to enjoy, as staffer Shannon discovered when she visited. “There’s something for everyone,” she said. “You have the mountains down south with amazing skiing and hiking, castles and walled cities everywhere, and Berlin is especially great if you like museums.” That being said, here are some of our favorite things to see and do in Germany.

Neuschwanstein Castle. There’s no shortage of fairy tale castles to visit in Germany, but Neuschwanstein is one of the most famous. Built by opera enthusiast King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century, we consider it one of the most iconic things to see in Germany. Ludwig never got to see his Robert Wagner-inspired masterpiece completed, but you can view the ornate palace that inspired Walt Disney himself on nine of our tours to Germany . Thinking about traveling to Bavaria to visit this castle? Discover everything you need to know about Neuschwanstein Castle before you go .

The Black Forest. While this region’s name might sound a little intimidating, it’s quite the opposite. Full of year-round festivals, the craft of woodworking, and even luxury spas—Germany’s Black Forest is a must-see for anyone looking to visit an area that’s full of rich cultural traditions and warm hospitality. “Southern Germany is absolutely beautiful,” said staffer Aaron. “The Black Forest—where the Brothers Grimm’s fairy-tales are based, the namesake of culinary classics like Black Forest Cake and Black Forest Ham, and the native home of the cuckoo clock—and Freiburg, the sunniest city in all of Germany, are of particular note.” Read more about why we love to visit the Black Forest , and plan your trip with us on our Switzerland, Alsace & the Black Forest tour .

The Berlin Wall. Large pieces of the Berlin Wall—once a symbol of division, now one of reunification—still stand in the city. Berlin also commemorates its years spent divided with a brick line running through the city noting where the wall once stood. You can visit Checkpoint Charlie, a recreation of a border crossing between West and East Berlin. But beyond the wall, Berlin itself is worth a visit. The city today is akin to Paris in the ’20s—full of young artists, vibrant restaurants, and no shortage of activities from day to night. Check out more tips for traveling in Germany with our list of things to do in Berlin and don’t miss a thing in the iconic city when you go on our Historic Germany: Berlin to Bavaria tour .

Cologne Cathedral. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany, this Gothic cathedral took more than seven centuries to complete. Despite evolving styles and technology, the multiple builders stayed true to the medieval plans (written on parchment paper!), creating a cohesive, astounding triumph of architecture and faith. What’s even more notable? The cathedral still hosts active services, making it one of our favorite things to see in Germany.

Rhine Tower. Located in Düsseldorf, the Rhine Tower offers a remarkable view of the city and the Rhine River. Perhaps surprisingly, it also houses a Japanese restaurant. In the 1970s, several Japanese companies headquartered their European branches in Düsseldorf. The employees who immigrated to Germany for work laid roots there and created a unique cultural fusion with their German neighbors. Today, Düsseldorf has some of the best Japanese food you can get outside of Japan.

What to eat and drink in Germany

No German travel guide is complete without mentioning of food. German cuisine is typically hearty, savory, and protein-packed, and enjoying it is one of the best things to do in Germany. The country’s heritage of craftsmanship and precision extends from its hand-carved cuckoo clocks to its handcrafted signature dishes. Here are just some of our favorite things to treat ourselves to when we’re on tour in Germany .  

Spätzle. Most akin to pasta, this German dish is simple, and generally made of flour, eggs, water, and salt. It’s cooked and seared to achieve a slight crispness on each side, like a tiny, salty, pancake. Spätzle is typically served as a side to a meat dish with a buttery, herbal sauce or tangy sauerkraut. Sometimes, cheese is added to make the spätzle less of a side dish and more of a main event. One of our Germany travel tips? Try multiple renditions of spätzle. (Thank us later.)

Bratwurst. Bratwurst is a fried sausage, which means it can be made with a variety of meats and different herbs. There are more than 40 different styles of bratwurst, so we won’t name them all. We will, however, recommend that, no matter where you are in Germany, you try a few different types.  

Blaukraut. This classic German side of braised red cabbage is sweet and sour, making it an ideal complement to many entrees. The bright taste cleanses your palate between bites and breaks up the rich meat it often accompanies. Duck and blaukraut, for example, are a common pairing for German holiday dinners.

Schnitzel. While schnitzel roots lead to Italy, Germany lays claim to some of the best in the world. Here, schnitzel is made with tenderized meat—usually turkey or pork—then breaded and fried. The main event for German schnitzel is the variety of sauces that you choose to top it with. And, if you’re thinking ahead, you can get a side of spätzle to soak up your remaining sauce.

A Pfannkuchen, Pfalz, Kreppel, Krampfen, or Berliner pastry. One pastry of many names, the Berliner is made of sweet fried dough filled with either jam or vanilla cream, dusted in powdered sugar or coated in a sweet glaze. One thing is certain: No matter how you refer to it, you’ll be calling it delicious.

Schnapps. We all know that Germany makes one-of-a-kind, regulated, delicious, beer. But not everyone knows that Germany excels in making other distilled delights like wine and schnapps. We love trying different schnapps when traveling the country because they’re made with natural, local produce and cover a range of sweet and savory flavors. This author found that a lot of Bavarians like to make (and share) their schnapps.

Check out our Germany tours

What to do in Germany

There are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy when you’re on tour in Deutschland . Here are just a few of our travel tips for Germany.

Pay your respects at the Berlin Holocaust Memorial. We couldn’t create a Germany Travel Guide without mentioning the country’s commitment to remembrance and respect. “The Berlin Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe (a.k.a. Berlin Holocaust Memorial) is an abstract labyrinth of concrete, rectangular blocks of varying heights over multiple city blocks—the view from outside and within the memorial inspires and nearly requires reflection of the lives lost,” said staffer Jordan.

Go off the beaten path to the Moselle Valley. “One of the best trips I ever did in Germany was a visit to the Moselle Valley,” said staffer Michael. “It’s not a big expanse, but a narrow and winding river valley where some of the best and oldest riesling vines grow up on very steep slopes. It’s a part of Germany I suspect many people simply don’t know about, but it’s got a great service culture, beautiful little taverns, and grand country estates. The town of Koblenz is a great starting point for a trip down the Moselle: It’s where the Rhine and Moselle meet, and provides stunning vistas of both rivers. Further down the winding valley, many of its towns are like something out of a storybook. Towns such as Bernkastel-Kues and others are dotted along the river valley and are overlooked by expansive vineyards that date back centuries.”

Snack your way through Berlin. Berlin itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but the city also has a lot of modern attractions to offer. Known for creative cocktail bars and five-star restaurants, the metropolitan, historic German capital has a little something for everyone (much like Germany itself). “The Berlin Wall is a must, but beyond that, there are many treasures to explore,” said staffer Libby. “I would suggest the waterfront bars and pools along the river that are popular in summer.”

Best souvenirs to buy in Germany

Germany is known for well-crafted items, from beer to cars and everything in between. That brings us to our next travel tip for Germany: Save room for souvenirs. Here are some of our favorite things to shop for.

A cuckoo clock. Invented in the Black Forest of Germany, these quirky clocks elicit feelings of fairy tales and days past. Conveniently, for travelers who want to take one home, they’re made in a multitude of sizes.

Christmas ornaments. A Germany travel tip from us: Commemorate your time spent at the various Christmas markets with dressings for your tree.

Dirndl or lederhosen. The dirndl dress and lederhosen are traditional clothes that have been worn in Germany for centuries. These outfits are still donned for festivals, special celebrations, and, most notably, Oktoberfest.

Riesling wine. We could write a Germany Travel Guide solely about what wine to drink there. Instead, we recommend that you bring home one of the tastiest souvenirs possible—a bottle of German wine. The country may be known for its rieslings, but it produces plenty more delicious varietals, too. Try a blaufränkisch if you like a dark, peppery red wine, or go for a pinot noir from the Moselle Valley—which was once famous for white wines like rieslings and elblings but is now producing excellent full-bodied reds due to climate change.

What to pack for Germany

Are you all booked and ready for your trip to Germany ? Let’s talk about the most essential travel tip for Germany: what you need to pack.

Seasonal (and layerable) clothing. We recommend making sure you have a sweater or sweatshirt with you, no matter what time of year you’re there, for when temperatures cool in the evening. If you’re in Germany in the winter, temperatures will range between 30–40 F, so bring a hat, gloves, and winter coat.

Shorts, dresses, or skirts that cover your knees. Want a travel tip for Germany and beyond? Throughout Europe, you may be denied entrance into some churches or cathedrals if your knees are showing. If you’re visiting in the summer and want to explore these religious buildings, make sure your knees are covered.

Comfortable shoes. Whether you’re looking to hike or stroll city streets, one of our top travel tips for Germany is to make sure you pack shoes that are comfortable enough for all-day wear.

A European power adapter. You will need either a type C or type F adapter for use in Germany. We recommend the former; it works in many other European countries, too.

Reusable products. Germany has instituted strict single-use plastic bans, which means you won’t be able to find items like plastic straws, cutlery, or plates. One of the best Germany Travel Guide suggestions we have is to bring anything you normally reuse. This means you should bring your own reusable straw and shopping bag (you will be charged for any bags at stores—even though they aren’t plastic). We always suggest that you bring a refillable water bottle on your travels to help do your part in reducing single-use plastics as well. Want to do more? Get tips on how to travel more eco-friendly here.

Ready to plan your German adventure? Book your trip to Germany today.

About the author

Thea fell in love with travel as soon as she arrived in Venice, Italy on a family trip as a child. Since then, she has made having adventures around the world a priority, with trips like retracing her grandfather’s steps through WWII, climbing glaciers in Alaska, and horseback riding in Iceland. Thea is a nomad at heart, always planning the next trip. In her off-time she is working on a novel inspired by the woman she was named after, mixing cocktails, and watching any procedural crime show she can find.

Related tours

More travel inspiration, save up to $700 by 9/2.

Plus, celebrate the holiday weekend by locking in your lowest price before prices increase next week.†

Looking for the perfect summer trip? Here are the best places to travel in June

Neuschwanstein Castle: Everything you didn’t know about this famous, fairy-tale castle

7 destinations that’ll whisk you to the world of “A Court of Thorns and Roses”

14 solo trips you can book to visit the world’s top solo travel destinations

Guide to German beer: What to know about Oktoberfest & the best beer to try in Germany

Spending Christmas solo? Here’s why you should visit Europe’s Christmas markets on tour

Ready to spend a week in Europe? You don’t want to miss these 10 trips in the off-season

The top-10 traveler-reviewed Europe trips to book this Black Friday

Why Central Europe is the perfect destination for solo travelers

Our favorite LGBTQIA+ friendly cities around the world

8 places to visit in the winter that will make it your favorite travel season

Do you love nature and adventure travel? Visit these 20 cities in the mountains to see the world from new heights

6 best travel experiences to invest in this year

5 Bucket list events not to miss in 2022

Multi-country trips in Europe to book now

Iconic beers to try around the world

6 fairy-tale castles to visit in Germany

14 incredible places to see in Germany

6 travel predictions for 2022: where to travel next year

Germany Travel Guide: Everything you need to plan your trip

Planning a trip to Germany? Great! This Germany Travel Guide will help you with just that.

Germany is situated in Central Europe, is the 7th largest country on the continent and is a member state of the EU and NATO. It’s the most populous nation wholly in mainland Europe, with a population of over 80 million people.

It attracts a similar number of tourists annually, making it one of the most popular destinations in the world. It shares borders with Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Austria, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Russia is the only country in Europe that shares borders with more countries.

Why visit Germany? The country is especially known for its world-class museums, fairytale castles, forests and festivals, which include Christmas markets and beer festivals just to name a few. The capital city Berlin attracts thousands of tourists year-round, while Neuschwanstein Castle was the inspiration for the famous Disneyland Castle.

I found you on Pinterest when I decided to travel outside of the United States for the first time (I’m 54). My husband and I decided to go to Germany, so I read pretty much everything you wrote on that as well as what to pack and how to make it on the long plane ride. I’m still reading your posts and planning on another trip. Thank you for all the good advice!” – Reader Colleen.

Germany travel guide: Quick facts

2. bayern (bavaria), 3. niedersachsen (lower saxony), 4. baden – württemberg, 5. rheinland – pfalz (rhineland – palatinate), 6. sachsen (saxony), 7. thüringen (thuringia), 9. nordrhein-westfalen (north rhine – westphalia), 10. sachsen – anhalt (saxony – anhalt), 11. brandenburg, 12. mecklenburg – vorpommern, 13. hamburg, 14. schleswig – holstein, 15. saarland, entry requirements, travel to germany by train, fly to germany, independent travel around germany, what to pack for germany in summer, what to pack for germany in winter, what to pack for germany in fall and spring, the best time to visit germany, what to eat in germany, famous events in germany, public holidays in germany, things to know when traveling to germany, where to stay in germany, don't forget travel insurance, basic phrases and their pronunciation, is germany safe, the use of cash and cards in germany, calling abroad, wifi and data use in germany, tipping in germany, a brief history of germany, more travel tips for germany germany.

Size: 357,168 km² or 137,847 sq mi

People living there: more than 80,716,000

Capital: Berlin

Governmental structure: Democratic, federal parliamentary republic.

National day: October 3

Time zone: Central European Time (CET) / UTC+1 / GMT+1

Currency: euro (EUR)

Power voltage and socket type(s): 230V, plug types F and C. If these plug types don't match your devices, make sure to pack a universal adapter .

Official religion(s)/Freedom of religion: Freedom of religion. 60% of the population is Christian with the two largest denominations being Roman Catholic and Protestant Evangelical Luthern, followed by non-religious citizens, Muslims, Buddhists, and Hindus.

Official language(s) and general knowledge of English: German is the official language. English is semi-widely spoken.

Drives on this side: right

International driver's licence accepted? yes

Phone code: +49

Vaccinations needed? None mandatory.

Can you drink the tap water? yes.

More interested in quirky and fun facts? Check out this post with interesting facts about Germany .

States of Germany

Germany is a huge country to explore with different sites and places of interest across the country. Here's a breakdown of the main places to consider when planning your German vacation.

There is a plethora of exciting things to see in Berlin, including the Brandenburg Gate, the East Side Gallery, and the Reichstag building. On top of that, there are fantastic museums, restaurants, and parks meaning that the city offers something for everyone.

• Spotting street art at Hackescher Markt in Berlin
• Is the Berlin Welcome Card worth it?

It’s known for lederhosen (leather trousers), sausages, and beer, but there’s a lot more to the region than that, with beautiful old towns, a stunning countryside, and the Berchtesgaden National Park. Neuschwanstein Castle, located in the state, is one of Germany’s most magical experiences.

It’s the most popular travel destination in the country, attracting over 8 million tourists every year. The capital of the region is Munich, where the famous Oktoberfest is held and it’s also the home of Germany’s most successful football team, Bayern Munich.

If you're looking for a lesser-known city, there are plenty of things to do in Nuremberg as well.  

The state capital, Hanover, is where you’ll find the Herrenhausen Gardens, home to an English landscape garden and the Baroque Great Garden. Other important cities are Goslar, home to the Rammelsberg mines, Bremerhaven and its Maritime Museum, and Lüneburg, which boasts the German salt museum. Braunschweig should also be mentioned, due to its huge collection of European art in the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum.  

The capital of this state is Stuttgart, home to the headquarters of both Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, two of Germany’s most famous car manufacturers. Travelers in the region should expect to find hilltop castles, diverse scenery, and tasty cuisine. After Stuttgart, Baden-Baden and Heidelberg are two of the most important towns here.

• Learning about traditional German crafts in the Black Forest
• 4 cities in Baden-Württemberg you need to visit
• Visiting Burg Hohenzollern, the castle that was never a royal residence

The capital of the state is Mainz, where you’ll find Jewish synagogues and cemeteries, as well as a beautiful Romanesque cathedral. The Moselle Valley is another popular spot for tourists, with its quaint riverside towns of Bernkastel-Kues and Piesport. The Rhine also flows through this state, which borders Belgium, France, and Luxembourg.

• How to spend 3 days in the Volcanic Eifel

Away from the capital, there’s Leipzig, home to one of the greatest musical composers, JS Bach. There are tributes to him in the city’s world-famous classical music and fine art museums. There are some smaller historical towns in the state, like Meissen and Görlitz, while the highest fortress in Europe gives spectacular panoramic views across the green countryside.  

The capital of Thuringia is Erfurt, which escaped any major damage in World War II and is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the country. Other places worth a visit are Weimar, the home of the writer Goethe, Jena, where you’ll find the world’s oldest planetarium in operation, and the UNESCO listed Canopy Walk in Hainich National Park.  

However, the best-known city in Hessen is undoubtedly Frankfurt am Main, which is the country’s financial center and the largest city in the federal state. It’s home to one of the largest airports in Europe, offering intercontinental flights, so it’s a great destination to fly in or out of. There’s some interesting stuff in the city too, such as the Städel Art Museum and Goethe House.  

Outside of the cities, one of the top tourist attractions in the area is the 18th century Schloss Benrath, a palace with a museum and a garden. Other important cities in the state are Germany’s former capital, Bonn, and Aachen.

• Things to do in Münster in 3 days
• Restaurants in Münster that will make you crave more
• Celebrating the Peace of Westphalia in 5 Münster museums
• Having a jolly good time at the Münster Christmas market
• 10 things to do in Osnabrück
• 15 fun and free open places to visit in Cologne
• 16 of the best restaurants in Cologne and other foodie hotspots
• 10 fun things to do in Cologne, Germany
• A walk along the Rhine River in Düsseldorf
• 5 things to do in Düsseldorf when the weather's terrible

The capital of the region is Magdeburg, where Otto I, Holy Roman Emperor is buried in the Gothic cathedral. You’ll also find Martin Luther’s home in the town of Wittenburg, the home of the German reformation.

The capital of the state is Potsdam, known for its picturesque Dutch Quarter, a smaller reconstruction of Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, and the Sanssouci Palace. Away from the urban centers, the Spreewald forest is a romantic getaway opportunity, and the Babelsberg Park offers a slice of England on the Havel River.  

Although not well known outside of the country, Schwerin is one of Germany’s most jaw-dropping cities and is home to a castle perched on its own island in the middle of a lake. Other major cities in the region are the port of Rostock, the medieval spa town of Waren, historic Stralsund, and several ancient towns dotted around the federal state.  

However, it’s also an exciting tourist destination thanks to colorful markets, boat cruises, and unique museums. Architecture buffs will love it too – there are several converted warehouses here, with Spiecherstadt being a highlight – where warehouses rub shoulders with neogothic buildings. It’s one of 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites in the city.

Many people visit Hamburg for the nightlife – Reeperbahn, located in the St. Pauli district, is one of the city’s two nightlife centers. It’s actually a red-light district, and it also holds one of the world’s largest techno and nightclub festivals.

• Attending the sparkling Vögelball festival

The capital of this region, situated on the north coast, is the port of Kiel, where you can enter or travel onwards to Scandinavia and Lithuania. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the opportunity to dive into a former German submarine. Another city worth visiting is the pretty Lübeck.  

Some of the region’s must see attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage listed Völklingen Ironworks, especially when lit up with neon lights at night, the treetop walk near Mettlach which gives outstanding views of the Saarschleife, and the red sandstone Schlossberg Caves.  

A city steeped in history with a wide variety of architectural styles, Bremen is a beautiful and interesting place to stay. With Hanseatic buildings in the market square, a Gothic town hall with a Renaissance façade, and medieval crypts and twin spires in the city’s cathedral. Bremen is said to have one of the best Christmas Markets in the whole of Germany.  

How to travel to Germany

Travelers from North America and the rest of the world can enter Germany for up to 90 days without a visa. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after their stay.  

How to get to Germany

Deutsche Bahn and ÖBB (from Austria) also offer a number of overnight trains to major European cities. You can even take the Eurostar between Germany and the UK if you change to a high-speed train in Paris or Brussels.

Look here for train routes and prices from within Europe.  

Return tickets are often cheaper than one way, and it’s a good idea to book well in advance if you’re traveling with your own car.

Check here for ferry routes and prices to Germany.  

Frankfurt is one of the biggest airports in Europe and offers several transcontinental flights. Munich and Düsseldorf also have large airports. Berlin’s Brandenburg airport is due to open in 2020, but for now, flights to the capital arrive to the smaller airports of Schönefeld and Tegel.

Check here for the best flight options to Germany.  

How to travel around Germany

Germany has an excellent road, rail, and bus system so it’s extremely easy to travel around independently with public transport. Trains are the fastest way to get from city to city if you don’t have your own private transport, but buses are often cheaper. The national rail system is run by Deutsche Bahn – you can buy national and international train tickets via their website.

Germany is also great for those who want to rent a car and explore at their own pace. You’ll just need to carry your driving license and have proof of at least third-party insurance with you.  

What to pack for Germany

• light hiking trousers
• a reusable water bottle
• good walking sandals
• light clothing
• a rain jacket
• a warm wind and waterproof coat
• comfortable and warm shoes
• a merino woolen baselayer
• merino woolen socks
• a warm scarf

If you're going to Germany in fall or spring, it's mostly important to pack layers. Early fall can still feel like summer while early spring can still be winter cold. You probably won't need a thick winter coat in these seasons but a warm lightweight jacket is recommended.  

Summer is a great time to travel Germany, especially if you are outdoorsy, but beware this time of year sees price hikes in accommodation and transport.

Most German towns have magical Christmas markets, and the best time to visit these is in November and December. The famous Oktoberfest is another major tourist draw, so if getting on your lederhösen and enjoying a few steins is your idea of fun, head to Germany in October.  

If you truly want to explore Germany, you need to explore its cuisine as well. Get started with the dishes below.

• Bratwurst – A traditional sausage usually served in a bun that you’ll find at every German BBQ.
• Currywurst – Germany’s most loved street food consists of pork sausage, curry powder, and ketchup.
• Spätzle – Handmade noodles that are fried and served with several traditional dishes.
• Sauerkraut – A side dish which consists of fermented sour cabbage. Often served with meat.
• Kartoffelkloesse – Traditional potato dumplings served as a side with meat or as a dish on their own.
• Hasenpfeffer – A rabbit stew braised with onion and wine, with the marinade and sauce thickened with rabbit’s blood.
• Rinderroulade (Beef roll) – Dish from Saxony that consists of beef rolled with onions, pickles, bacon, and mustard before being roasted in red wine.
• Pretzels – A thick, doughy snack often covered in salt or sesame seeds. Eat them on their own or dipped in mustard.
• Lebküchen – Gingerbread cookies sometimes coated in nuts, chocolate, or icing sugar. Popular at Christmas markets.
• Beer – Pilsner, a pale lager is Germany’s most popular beer, but there are many other varieties, including wheat beer and altbier.

Want to know more about German cuisine? Check out this list of German foods .  

• Berlin International Film Festival (February) – the 2nd biggest international film festival in the world, after Cannes.
• Leipzig Book Fair (March) – the largest literary festival in Europe where you can meet your favorite authors and learn about all that’s going on in the world of books.
• Karneval (40 days before Easter) – A German take on the famous Venetian celebration. Cologne’s karneval is the best known in Germany.
• Walpurgisnacht (April) – This festival in Heidelberg takes place in one of the only remaining relics of Nazi architecture, a huge amphitheatre. Thousands of torchbearers climb the mountain and pile inside.
• Hafengeburtstag (May) – Over one million people turn up to this festival in Hamburg which celebrates the city’s birthday with boat shows, concerts, fireworks, and an open-air fair.
• Wurstmarkt (September) – In Bad Dürkheim you’ll find the world’s largest wine festival, with over 600,000 people attending every year.
• Unity Day (October) – The largest national holiday which celebrates the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of East and West Germany.
• Oktoberfest (October) – Traditional Bavarian foods, lederhösen, and of course beer at this huge festival held every October in Munich.
• Onionfest (October) – In the market town of Weimar, all things onion are celebrated and “Queen of the Onion” is crowned. Over 300,000 people attend annually.
• Christmas markets/Weihnachtsmarkts (November/December) – Held across Germany, quaint stalls that sell Christmas gifts, food, and gluhwein. The best are in Nuremberg, Cologne, and Hamburg.

• New Year’s Day
• January 6th – Three King’s Day
• March 4th – Fasching
• Good Friday
• Easter Monday
• May 1st – Labour Day
• Ascension Day
• Whit Monday
• June 20th – Corpus Christi Day
• October 3rd – German Unity Day
• October 31st – Day of reformation
• November 1st – All Saints Day
• December 25th – Christmas Day
• December 26th – St Stephen’s Day

Use sie (the formal version of you) when speaking to strangers, and only use the informal du and first names if you are invited to do so. The greetings that involve you in the basic phrases section below are all the formal version.

When eating, sat ‘guten appetit’ before starting a meal.  

I always look on Booking.com for hotels and guesthouses. This has a bunch of filtering options so I can easily get a list of only the hotels that meet my criteria. If you're looking for accommodation in Germany, I highly recommend you check there .

When I want to book an apartment rather than a hotel, I use Airbnb .  

No matter how well you plan and research a trip, there are always things that happen beyond your control. Something might get canceled, you can get ill or hurt while traveling or one of your electronics might break or get stolen. When misfortune strikes, travel insurance has got you covered. I've had ongoing travel insurance ever since I started traveling to make sure I'm covered for every trip I go on. Don't have insurance yet? You can get a free quote here:

If you’re renting or bringing a bike, make sure you have a good, sturdy lock. Bike theft is also a common occurrence in big cities.  

You will, however, often need cash at small, independent retailers, cafés, restaurants, and markets.  

Those with a SIM card from an EU country don't have to pay roaming charges when calling, texting, or using data in Germany. The same goes for some global phone plans.

If you don't have a EU SIM but still want to have unlimited WiFi, check out Solis Wifi .

Skyroam offers both day passes and monthly subscriptions providing you with 4G throughout your trips. I've been using their daily passes not just when I travel outside the EU (no roaming charges for me in the EU) but also as a backup for when I think I'll go over my phone's data plan.

In Germany, service charges are usually included in the bill and tipping is more of a “thank you” gesture than an obligation. Still, people tend to tip waiters in restaurants and especially other tourism-related workers such as taxi drivers and porters. More on who to tip what in Germany here .

In the 10th century, the German state was known as the Holy Roman Empire. This lasted a long time, and the Catholic and Protestant parts of the empire clashed in the 30 years’ war from 1618 – 48. More than quarter of the population, and half of Germany’s men were killed in this war.

Until 1871, Germany was made up of several small states ruled by Kings and Dukes. A politician called Otto Von Bismarck unified the country using alliances and force.

Germany attempted to compete with other European countries by establishing an empire in Africa and Asia. However, tension from this led to World War 1, at the time the worst war the world had ever seen. The UK, France, and the USA defeated Germany and its allies.

In 1933 Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party came to power. The Nazi party invaded Poland in 1939 leading to World War II. Concentration camps were established across country where many Jews were sent to be murdered. The war ended in 1945, Germany lost, and Hitler committed suicide.

Germany was divided after the 2nd world war into West and East. West and East Germany were an important part of the Cold War and were at the centre of a standoff between the Soviet Union and the West.

Germany opened its borders in 1989 when the Berlin Wall fell.

Nowadays, Germany has one of the most powerful economies in the world and is an important member state of the EU. Angela Merkel is the Chancellor.  

And that's it! I hope this Germany travel guide will help you decide where to go in Germany and plan your own trip there. Safe travels!  

Planning to travel to Germany? Then check out all my Germany posts  

Join 58,000+ other Wonderful Wanderers!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Get our Rail Planner app

Plan your trip, get extra discounts, and show your Pass as you go.

Our favorite offseason routes

Chase the sun long after summer ends with these 7 train routes

All about seat reservations

Everything you need to know about booking your seats

Alternatives to Busy Routes

Travel between popular European cities without seat reservations

Through our Chatbot in the bottom right corner.

Ask the Community

Browse questions from fellow Eurail travellers, or ask your own!

• Plan your trip
• Suggested Itineraries

Germany Travel Itinerary

• Order overview
• Reservations overview
• My Trips & Travelers
• {{translatedTraveler}} {{#promotional}} {{currencySign}} {{standardPrice}} {{/promotional}} {{quantity}}x {{currencySign}} {{finalPrice}}
• Child {{childPasses}}x FREE
• {{translatedPassType}}
• {{translatedValidityPeriodDescription}}
• {{translatedClass}}
• Remove Pass(es)
• {{variant.localizedTravelPackDescription}} {{quantity}}x Free
• {{variant.localizedPassUpgradeDescription}} {{quantity}}x {{currency}} {{price}}
• Your order will arrive by {{expectedDeliveryDate}} 1 x {{currency}} {{price}}

Your cart is empty

Germany is impressive. Picture this: Natural and architectural wonders, distinctive dishes and beers, and a fascinating history. The country is a feast for the eyes, mouth, and mind. Our Germany itinerary takes you on an adventure through five major cities. From skyscrapers to historical landmarks, museums to parties, and a constant cool factor - we've got all interests covered.

We offer one-country passes to Germany at our dedicated German Rail Passes site.

Itinerary highlights

Cities visited on this trip:.

Click here or on the map to view this route in our Trip Planner

Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt is the financial capital of Europe - for proof, just look at its modern skyscrapers and the giant Euro Sculpture in front of the European Central Bank. Go to Main Tower and take an elevator to its viewing platform. On a clear day you’ll be able to see above the entire city, the river Main, and their surrounding areas. Another architectural delight is the My Zeil shopping center, located on Frankfurt’s bustling shopping street Zeil. The building’s remarkable curved glass roof and vortex-shaped facade has to be seen to be believed. Afterwards, step back into nature at the City Forest (Stadtwald), Germany’s biggest inner-city forest.

From Frankfurt to Cologne

Travel time:

Reservation needed:

Frankfurt am Main Hbf

Reservation optional

Cologne, Germany

Cologne (köln), germany.

The magnificent Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) welcomes you when you arrive in Cologne – it lies on the doorstep of the main train station. Reach the top of the South Tower’s spiral staircase and be rewarded with a sweeping view over the river Rhine. The nearby Hohenzollern Bridge is covered with love padlocks. Cultural buffs have a smorgasbord of museums and galleries to discover. Modern art fans should go to Museum Ludwig . If you like big celebrations, time your visit for the crazy Carnival in February, or Christopher Street Day and the Cologne Lights Festival (Kölner Lichter) in July.

From Cologne to Berlin

Berlin, germany.

Berlin. The capital of cool. It has an exciting mix of history, culture, and nightlife, with discoveries at every corner. Make sure you add the East Side Gallery to your Berlin itinerary – it’s the world’s largest open-air gallery with murals painted across almost a mile (1.3 kilometers) of the former Berlin Wall. One of the most iconic symbols of the city is the 18 th century Brandenburg Gate . Minutes away lies the Holocaust Memorial . Its thought-provoking design and underlying museum leave a somber reminder worth reflecting on – definitely a must for your Germany itinerary.

From Berlin to Dresden

Reservation required

Dresden, Germany

Dresden Hbf

Dresden is a cultural and architectural gem. It was called the “Jewel Box” thanks to its former role as the royal residence of the kings of Saxony. Most of Dresden’s historical center was destroyed by bombings in 1945, but much has been restored to its former glory. The city's inner old town holds several treasures, including Dresden's signature landmark the Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche). Its ruins were left untouched for over 40 years after the bombings. Reopened in 2005, it now symbolizes hope and reconciliation. Semper Opera is another architectural masterpiece. It's an opera house, concert hall, and ballet stage, all in one grand setting.

From Dresden to Munich

Munich, germany.

München Hbf

Munich (München), Germany

Munich, Germany: home of proud Bavarians; kingdom of world-class beer. The main square Marienplatz is a great starting point for exploring the Old Town. Minutes away is the Hofbräuhaus , a definite must-see on your Munich itinerary. The world’s most famous beer hall has been around since 1589. Still up for more beer? Take a daytrip to Andechs Monastery , where Benedictine monks have been brewing beer since 1455. To gain an insight into the sad events of the Holocaust, visit the Dachau Concentration Camp . It provides a chilling account of the first National Socialist concentration camp. Tours are free.

For this itinerary we recommend:

• The German Rail Pass
• Travel days:  4 days within 1 month

For ICE trains in Germany it's not mandatory to have a reservation. However, we recommend you to buy a reservation for these trains, especially if you're traveling in a group. If you travel without a reservation, you might get asked to leave your seat because someone else reserved it. 

These reservations are not included in your Eurail Pass. Make sure to book your seats in advance, there are limited seats available for Eurail Pass holders. It's also possible to avoid reservations all together, simply by taking regional trains . 

What are my Pass options?

German Rail Pass The ultimate Pass for train travel in Germany.

Eurail Global Pass Lets you travel in 33 countries, including Germany.

Related Pages

1 week in the netherlands.

France Itinerary

Switzerland Itinerary

Austria itinerary

Change of currency

You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.

The Ultimate Guide to traveling Germany on a budget! (2024)

So, you’re headed to Germany but you want to do Germany on a budget? Well, good news because you’re in luck! Germany, a popular destination in Western Europe, is actually a very economical place to travel to!

In this article we’ll discuss proven ways to save money on your next trip so you can spend less time worrying about money and more time enjoying beautiful, amazing Deutschland!

Table of Contents

It’s probably cheaper than what you are used to!

I’m by nature a frugal person but I skip my way around Germany (and many other European countries) saying “wow, this is cheap!” From food to accommodations, to attractions, things are just less expensive. If you are traveling from the United States, you’ll find this to be especially so.

A while back I did a price comparison and created some illustrations to show just how much more reasonable prices are for tourists to European Countries. Of course, there are some exceptions to this, like Norway and Switzerland but Germany is not one of them!

Let’s compare one of the most recognizable sites in all of Europe: Neuschwanstein Castle, with the Laura Ingalls Wilder House in Missouri. Guess which was more???

Traveling soon? Rookie mistakes people make when traveling in Germany

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. 

Here are the absolute best proven tips and tricks for traveling to Germany on a budget:

My top tip for getting the cheapest flights, and the best deals on car rentals and accommodation is to book early. Last-minute deals are a thing of the past and if you wait too long, you may miss out on the best deals. I try to book at least 6 months out.

Pro tip: DON’T stop there! Once booked your airfare rate is probably locked in but you can still monitor the prices on your accommodations and rental cars! I try to always book options that offer free cancellation. Once a month I will go back and check rates on my rental car and rooms and if the rates go down, I rebook!

The cheapest time to travel to Germany

The short answer: the best time for travelers who are on a budget to visit Germany is during the off-season.

Summer is considered high season in Germany and that’s when you will experience the highest rates on everything from rental cars to accommodations to flights, although comparably still not bad!

Winter, (apart from the Christmas market season) is off season. This is when you will find the best rates on flights, hotels, and rental cars HOWEVER, many attractions close for winter.

( Winter in Germany is a magical time, but get your itinerary set early and carefully check your everything on your itinerary to be sure that everything you want to see will be open.)

shoulder season

If you are looking for a happy medium then shoulder season is your best bet. It’s the perfect balance between lower prices and finding attractions open. Shoulder season in Germany is approximately April and May and again in September and October.

Other benefits of shoulder season:

• fewer crowds: you’ll find fewer tourists and crowds compared to high season
• temperate weather: the weather tends to be better than in the heat of the summer and chill of the winter months!

destination matters

Bigger cities tend to be more expensive than small towns. Budget minded travelers can save more by skipping big cities like Munich and Berlin in favor of small historic cities like the fairy tale town of Rothenburg or small towns in the Black Forest .

The city center of German cities tends to be more expensive than outlying neighborhoods. Pick a place outside of the city center and use inexpensive buses, subways, and trams to get around affordably. main cities.

The small town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a destination all in itself! Their Imperial City Festival just happens to occur during shoulder season and best of all it’s free!

transportation

When it comes to traveling in Germany on a budget, transportation is a significant factor to consider.

Airfare is often one of the most expensive travel expenses. Here are some strategies for saving money on flights:

Flights to Germany: My strategy for finding good deals on airfare is to search flight options on Google Flights. Be sure to set up a price tracker and they will let you know when prices change.

Pro tip : Once you have found a cheap flight and are ready to book, go to the official website of the airline and book there to avoid any issues with 3rd party booking.

In my experience, Frankfurt International Airport is generally the cheapest place in Germany to fly into.

cheap flight notifications

My TOP TIP for snagging flight deals is to sign up for GOING (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights.) You simply give them your email address, tell them your home airport, and they will periodically email cheap flight deals to your inbox! Simple AND Free! sign up now !

FREE FLIGHTS !

We fly to Germany for free with points. Find out how you can fly to Germany for free !

Cheap flights in and around Europe: There are many low-cost airlines that operate in Germany, such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Eurowings. These airlines offer affordable fares to various destinations in Germany and other parts of Europe. However, it is crucial to note that budget airlines often charge extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and other services.

public transportation

Another way to save money while traveling to Germany is to take advantage of public transportation . Germany has an extensive rail network and bus system that is efficient and affordable. Perfect for a day trip to the European cities of your choice! Seamlessly plan your bus and train routes in German with either the Deutsche Bahn app or Rome2Rio .

Trains The German railway system, Deutsche Bahn, offers several types of train services, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains. Regional trains are the most affordable option, but they are slower than intercity and high-speed trains. High-speed trains zip you around in a flash but they cost more. Travelers can save money by booking their train tickets in advance and by purchasing a German Rail Pass, which allows for unlimited train travel if they plan to travel extensively.

Buses Traveling by bus is the most affordable way to get around Germany. Bus tickets are often cheaper than train tickets, but travel times can be longer. Flixbus is the most popular bus company in Germany, and they offer services to various destinations across the country. Some bus companies may charge extra fees for baggage.

Taxis are affordable in Germany. Companies are heavily regulated, so you don’t need to worry about getting ripped off or short changed.

If you’re a free spirit like me and don’t like to be tied to a schedule, you may want a car. I find that car rentals in Germany are typically cheaper than other European countries. The motorway in Germany is called the autobahn and it is toll free.

Potential extra costs for driving:

• Insurance: Some credit cards offer rental car insurance when you book your rental on the card. Check with your card provider. If not, you will need to purchase insurance. (Our Chase Preferred covers this)
• International Driving Permit: you may need an International Driving Permit to drive in Germany, get one at your local AAA office around $30
• other drop off locations : there are significant fees for dropping off a car at a different location
• boarder crossing fee: there is generally a small fee associated with crossing a country border in a rental car.
• navigation system: Most companies charge if you want to use the GPS navigation system. If you don’t have any other way to navigate, I highly recommend it for convenience. We have this Garmin Unit , that we bring when we travel. (European maps cost extra)
• DO NOT BREAK TRAFFIC LAWS. There are cameras everywhere and the drivers license that the rental car company requires you to show is associated with the license plate of the rental car. If you break a traffic law while driving in Germany, you may get a ticket in the mail after you return home!
• Parking in larger cities: This is one place where Germany is right on par with the rest of the world. Parking in a busy city center is expensive, around $25 per day. If you plan to spend most of your time in an area like this, skip the car.

accommodation

Your two biggest expenses when planning a trip to Germany are generally going to be airfare and accommodations. There are a few ways for the budget minded to save on accommodations. (and don’t forget to book early!)

Get outside of the tourist core

Sometimes you only have to get a few blocks away from the busy tourist core of a town to find cheaper rates. Look for accommodations just outside of town that are on the bus route into the city center.

I often consider my accommodations part of the experience. I like to book unique options like castle stays, historic buildings, places with old world charm. I try to avoid chains and sterile accommodations (some of you consider that modern decor and clean lines ha ha.) You get the idea. For that reason, I’m kind of a middle of the road girl, willing to pay a bit more for the experience. That considered, I don’t usually pay more than $250 a night for even my favorite stays! Most places we stay at are about $150 per night based on double occupancy but you can find better rates.

If you want to check the best rates you can find them on Booking.com. Simply sort your results by the lowest prices, but don’t forget to check guest ratings and reviews because a bad experience may not be worth the money you save on a cheap stay!

Solo travelers

Something you almost NEVER find in the US and something I really love about Germany is that single travelers get a break on hotel room rates! Generally, you can get a private room for a solo traveler for a discount off the regular rate! WUNDERBAR!

Hostels are very popular in Europe and a popular option with travelers on a tight budget. Hostels can be a significant savings over a hotel and aren’t just for young people either. There are often private rooms available with a range of amenities such as shared kitchens, laundry facilities, and common areas. Be sure to read the hostel policy (as well as reviews on places like Booking.com and Google Reviews) carefully to be sure it’s something you will be comfortable with. They aren’t for everyone. Hostels in Germany typically charge between €20-€40 per night, depending on the location and time of year.

Some of the most popular hostel chains in Germany include A&O Hostels, Meininger, and Generator Hostels. These chains have multiple locations throughout the country and offer a consistent level of quality and service. My favorite hostel option is located in a castle !

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are great options for larger families or groups, or travelers looking to save money by cooking their own meals. You can book anything from a private room to an entire house.

Check vacation Rental rates on VRBO now !

I hear a lot of negative feedback on Airbnb. I wouldn’t recommend them or personally use them unless I really wanted to stay at a property and Airbnb was the only place it was being offered. I don’t really hear any negative feedback on VRBO so it would be my first option for vacation rentals.

Vacation Rental prices in Germany vary depending on the location and type of accommodation. In general, prices are higher in major cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. However, travelers can often find affordable options in smaller towns and rural areas.

IMPORTANT: READ THE REVIEWS: always read the reviews on a property before you book and choose a host with a good reputation. Search options on VRBO

Search Hotels, Hostels, Vacation Rentals now!

(if you use this link to book your hotels I’ll get a small commission that helps me fund this website!)

Camping is another budget-friendly option for travelers in Germany. The country has a well-developed network of camping sites, ranging from basic tent sites to fully-equipped caravan parks. Camping is particularly popular in the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny.

Camping fees in Germany vary depending on the location and facilities provided. Basic tent sites can cost as little as €5-€10 per night, while fully-equipped caravan parks can cost up to €30-€40 per night.

House and Pet sitting

Sign up for services like Trusted House sitter and you can stay for free! These services match up people who are looking to house and or pet sit and in return you get a free place to stay.

Food and Drink

Germany is known for its delicious food! And in general, I find it quite inexpensive! However, it can add up if you’re eating out every night. Here are a few ways to save on food and drink.

First time in Germany and don’t know what to eat??? Check out my article on the Best Mouthwatering German Food !

it’s cheaper than almost everything else including water and cola.

free breakfast

Many of the hotels and Gasthauses, my favorite type of stay in Germany, offer a free breakfast. German breakfasts are HEARTY! If I fill up on breakfast, I often find I’m not hungry until well after noon. By that time, I can have an affordable meal like Schnitzel and won’t need to eat again that day! We’re talking around €10-€15. ($13 USD) per day for one meal! CHEAP!

Street Food

You don’t want to miss the street food from street vendors in Germany. It’s so good! And is a great option for shoe-string budget travelers. Here are some of my favorite street foods:

• wurst : In Germany, wurst is where it’s at! There are literally hundreds of types of wurst or sausages. My favorite is Currywurst is a popular street food in Germany, made of a sliced sausage covered in curry ketchup. It’s a filling and delicious meal that can be found for around €3-€5.
• Doner kebab is another popular street food in Germany, made of meat cooked on a vertical spit and served in a pita bread with salad and sauce. It’s a great option for a quick and cheap meal, costing around €3-€4.

supermarkets

Supermarkets and grocery stores are a great option for budget travelers who want to save money on food. Aldi and Lidl are two popular discount supermarket chains in Germany, offering a wide variety of food and drink at affordable prices. Visitors can find bread, cheese, cold cuts, and other snacks for a fraction of the cost of eating out. It’s also a great way to try local specialties, such as German beer and sausages, without breaking the bank.

Sightseeing: inexpensive and free things to do

In general, most of the attractions in Germany are quite affordable so don’t let your desire to save money prevent you from doing the fun stuff! I mean you really do only live once, and you’ve been dreaming of being here so just enjoy!

Some of the best things to see and do in Germany are free! Here are some ideas for inexpensive and free things to do to fill out your itinerary:

free attractions

• Find a beer garden and enjoy some live music. Did I mention that beer is cheap? Plus, food at these places is cheap too, think pretzels and brats.
• Churches, Cathedrals, and Abbeys: Germany has some of the best in Europe and they are most often free!
• Museums can be a great way to learn about Germany’s history and culture, but they can also be expensive. However, many museums in Germany offer free admission on certain days or during specific hours. It’s important to check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm their free admission policy.

Famous Landmarks: many of the most famous landmarks in Germany are reasonably priced or free. Here are just a few ideas but be sure to check out my full list of Famous Landmarks in German y!

• Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
• English Garden in Munich
• Porta Nigra in Trier

The Parish Church of St. Sebasian Ramsau is one of my favorite Landmarks in Germany and it’s FREE

It’s free to explore! take in the architecture in Germany’s most beautiful medieval towns , or head to the city for some of the worlds best modern architecture! Make your way down a winding trail, perhaps in the Black Forest and soak up the atmosphere that inspired fairy tales from the Brothers Grimm.

To find information about both guided and self-guided tours check the local Tourist Information office.

Guided Tours A Guided tour can be a great way to learn about a new city, but they can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are many free walking tours available in Germany. These tours are typically led by a local knowledgeable tour guide who is passionate about their city and its history.

Self-guided tours In addition to free walking tours, there are also many self-guided tours available. These tours can be found online or in guidebooks and can be a great way to explore a new city at your own pace. Download free audio guide tours before you leave home.

money matters

Credit cards.

Call ahead to be sure that your credit card doesn’t access foreign transaction fees on purchases. We use our American Airlines card to earn points for free flights, but I also like the Chase Preferred cards because not only does it not have any foreign transaction fees, it also has built in travel protection.

Getting money (ATM)

The easiest and best way to get Euros for your Germany trip is at a reputable ATM. I usually hit one at the airport upon arrival. If I need more, I look for an ATM either in or attached to a bank during business hours. That way if the machine snatches my card I have a good chance of getting it back. This is how you’ll get the best exchange rate and ATM fees are minimal. Don’t forget to refuse the Dynamic Currency Conversion. You want to be charged in Euros not dollars because they will charge you more to convert the money.

Note: Be sure you use your debit card to withdraw money from an ATM. Credit cards consider this a cash advance and that can be very costly!

How much cash do I need?

Really that depends on you. We use our credit cards for almost everything because that’s how we earn free flights. You should have some Euros on you at all times… if nothing else so you have money to use the bathroom because you often have to pay to use the restroom!

Euro to dollar / dollar to Euro exchange rate

Check current exchange rates here.

protect your investment

If your budget minded then you probably don’t relish the thought of losing money! Travel Insurance is a good way to protect yourself. While it is an extra expense, if really pays off if something goes awry. I shop at Travel Insurance for the best policy for my needs.

shopping for gifts and souvenirs

As with most things in Germany, your average souvenirs are reasonable. Consider saving up for a quality purchase in Germany, like an authentic handcrafted cuckoo clock or nutcracker.

I have a whole guide to help you choose the very best Germany Souvenirs but here are some ideas for dirt cheap things to buy in Germany :

• Food items (like Chocolate and other candies)
• Postcards, pretty postcards, are very inexpensive. Start an album when you get home!

where to shop for inexpensive gifts and souvenirs

For bargain shopping search out:

• Flea Markets
• Farmers Markets

staying connected on a travel budget

It’s important to be able to stay connected when we travel. Most cell phone companies offer rates for international travel, but it can be costly, around $10 per day. Check your provider for rates and policies on using your phone in Europe and to find out exactly what your charges will be.

These are some low cost or free options for staying connected:

getting free wi-fi

You’ll either need cell phone service or wi-fi to use these options. Most hotels offer free wi-fi and you can find it at different places around town, such as near the Tourist Information Center.

Is an app where you can make calls, send texts, and video chat through a wi-fi connection. Your contact will need to download Whatsapp so that you can connect.

Facebook messenger

Make calls and video chat with your friends at home who are also on Facebook.

Purchase a phone or a SIM card upon arrival

You can pick up an inexpensive phone when you get to Germany. Alternatively, you can purchase a SIM card to replace the one in your phone. This is an inexpensive option, you can probably get by for under $30 for your entire trip. There are cell phone stores in airports, and almost every town on your itinerary, that can assist with these options.

Wi-fi calling

Find the “allow wi-fi calls” setting on your cell phone. Even though we don’t have cell service in Germany, we are able to make and receive phone calls from the US when connected to wi-fi. We were not able to get this to work for calls within Germany though.

Guest cards and discount passes

Inquire at your hotel, guesthouse, or other accommodations about discount passes and guest cards that may be available to you.

Guest Cards

Often overnight visitors to a town or region are eligible for discount passes that offer free or reduced admission to many area attractions as well as free use of local public transportation.

Discount Passes

You may be able to purchase a single or multi day pass that could save you money depending on how many attractions you plan to visit. To be certain this will save you money, add up the cost of a single ticket entry fee for each attraction and compare it against the cost of the discount pass. It may not be cheaper.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to travel in germany.

The best option for cheapest way to travel in Germany is generally by bus. You may be able to save even more by purchasing day, week, or month passes.

How much should a trip to Germany Cost?

The cost of a trip to Germany can vary greatly depending on your travel style and itinerary. On average, budget travelers can expect an average cost of around 50-70 euros per day on accommodation, food, and transportation. However, this can be reduced by staying in hostels or signing up for house or pet sitting opportunities.

What are the cheapest months to travel to Germany?

The cheapest months to travel to Germany are typically during the winter months of January and February. However, be prepared for colder weather, reduced opening hours or attractions that have temporarily closed, and shorter daylight hours.

What is the cheapest way to get from the US to Germany?

The cheapest way to get from the US to Germany is by booking in advance and being flexible with your travel dates. Budget airlines such as WOW Air and Norwegian Air offer affordable flights to Germany from major US cities. Alternatively, consider booking a flight with a layover or flying into a nearby European city and taking a train or bus to Germany. I’ve found that there are often good deals to fly into Paris.

How can I travel around Germany by train on a budget?

Consider purchasing a rail pass if you plan to travel extensively throughout the country. Purchase online or at the train station. Regional trains are cheaper than high-speed trains and can be a good option for shorter distances. Booking in advance and traveling during off-peak hours can also help save money.

trip planning resources

Planning a trip to Germany? The first thing you should do is purchase a Germany Travel Guide from Rick Steves . It’s the ultimate guide for planning travel anywhere in Europe ! You’ll get the scoop on the best places worth visiting, from big cities to hidden gems!

check out my Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Germany !

Similar Posts

How to find hidden Gems in Europe

Oppressive tourist crowds got you down? Me too! Tired of tourist trap destinations? Indeed! Perhaps it’s time to start seeking out those…

free Germany Itinerary 10 days: Rhine, Neuschwanstein, Black Forest, Rothenburg

Are you looking for an epic Germany 10 day itinerary that covers some major German highlights? Look no further! What to see…

Austrian Landmarks: popular famous Landmarks in Austria (photos!)

Has Austria ever been on your wish list? If not it should be! Austria is blessed with natural beauty, it’s affordable, and…

The best small town oktoberfest alternatives in Germany (2024)

Munich is home to Oktoberfest. The city has been a destination for German beer and fest lovers since 1810. Today, the world-famous…

Magical Rothenburg ob der Tauber ultimate guide (2024)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a frozen-in-time picture perfect little town that is located in northern Bavaria in Southern Germany. This incredibly…

Triberg Germany in the Black Forest, Complete Guide (with photos)

While traveling from the Mosel River Valley to Switzerland, we made a short pit stop in Triberg Germany. We were running short on time,…

• X (Twitter)

Germany Road Trip – The Perfect 7-10 Day Germany Itinerary

Are you looking for a Germany road trip itinerary? Or are you wondering what to do in Germany?

A trip to Germany allows you to see half-timbered houses, fairytale castles, dark forests and bustling cities. You get the chance to try traditional German food, visit stunning palaces and drive on the Autobahn , the highway without speed limits.

We want to show you where to go in Germany and how to plan your trip. This Germany road trip planner does not just help you discover the best of the country, we also give you lots of travel tips. As we are both living here, we know the country well and can tell you precisely what to look out for. Keep reading and start planning your trip now!

Table of Contents

General Advice

About this itinerary for germany.

If you only have around ten days or even less, you won’t be able to see all of Germany. That is why we have focused our post on a Southern Germany road trip. You’ll see lots of famous tourist attractions, like Neuschwanstein Castle, but you’ll also go off the beaten road when visiting the UNESCO pile dwellings at Lake Constance.

We have written this travel itinerary for Germany for 10 days, but you can easily adapt it if you have less time. Skip one day in Frankfurt at the beginning and try to see the highlights of the city on your last day. We would also advise you to skip the hike to Lake Schrecksee and drive onwards to Lake Constance from Neuschwanstein Castle instead.

Last, you can save an additional day by either skipping Würzburg or Blaubeuren. They are both fantastic places to visit, but if you’re pressed for time, you can always come back later to see them.

As an alternative, you can also turn this itinerary into a Frankfurt to Munich road trip. Start from the end, visit the Black Forest, Lake Constance and Neuschwanstein Castle and end your trip in Munich.

Also, this itinerary starts in Frankfurt. The airport of Frankfurt is one of the biggest in Europe, so you should find it easy to fly here. If it’s easier for you, you can look for flights to Munich and start your trip there. This itinerary is a round trip through Germany, so you are free to jump in at any time.

How to rent a car in Germany

We highly recommend that you book your rental car before you come to Germany. During the high season, prices can skyrocket, and it’s often much cheaper to reserve a car in advance.

Among the best websites to do so are rentalcars.com and Discovercars , as they compare prices from different rental car companies. This is much faster than going to the websites individually to find the best price! Plus, you can specifically search for offers that include insurance, and you have lots of filters that help you find the terms and conditions you want.

On the note of insurance, third-party liability insurance is mandatory in Germany, so it has to be included in your offer. However, we recommend covering any damage to the rental car as well, as otherwise, in the case of an accident, you might face high costs.

Click here to search for a rental car in Germany now!

When searching for a car, make sure to double-check the mileage conditions. Some companies offer contracts that include only a limited amount of kilometres. While it may seem cheaper at first, every additional kilometre will cost you so much that it’s usually not worth it.

Also, if you want to start your South Germany road trip in Frankfurt and finish in Munich (or vice versa), you need to specify that you are going to drop off the car in a different location. It might cost you a little extra, but if you have limited time, it’s going to be worth it as it saves you another day of driving.

When to visit Germany

As we just mentioned, you can visit Germany at any time. That said, some seasons are nicer than others.

Summer is generally a good time for a trip to Germany. The weather is great, and it’s fun to spend time outside. As a downside, you’ll run into lots of other tourists, and this is usually the most expensive time of the year.

As an alternative, you could visit during the shoulder season in spring and autumn. The weather starts getting better in May, and you can still experience warm days in September and early October. You’ll also see far fewer tourists than in summer.

In winter, you’ll likely encounter much more rain than during the other seasons. The trees drop their leaves, which can make regions like the Black Forest look slightly desolated. That said, you have the chance to experience some of Europe’s best Christmas markets in December, and you might also encounter snow in winter.

How to get to Germany

For this itinerary, you can either fly to Frankfurt or Munich. Frankfurt’s airport is bigger, so you might find better deals to go here. It’s best to check out both cities, though, so you can find the best deal.

When searching for flights, we usually use websites like Skyscanner that allow us to compare lots of airlines at the same time. It’s very useful for finding a good deal, so go and check out flight prices now .

Germany road trip itinerary – Discover the best of Germany

Days 1-2: frankfurt.

Start your road trip in Frankfurt.

Frankfurt is not just the financial centre of Germany; it also features an Old Town full of half-timbered houses, a pretty riverside and lots of traditional pubs where you can spend your evenings.

We suggest taking your first day easy (especially if you had a long flight) and then spending a whole day in Frankfurt afterwards. Even though this is not enough time to see everything, it allows you to get a good glimpse of the city and its main attractions.

If you only have one week in Germany, skip Frankfurt and pick up your rental car at the airport. You can visit the city’s main attractions at the end of the week when you return here. However, if you’re going to see Germany in 10 days, then you can wait to pick up your car and enjoy your time in Frankfurt first.

Highlights of Frankfurt:

• Römerberg and the Old Town:  The half-timbered houses surrounding Römerberg are amongst the most impressive you can find in Germany. After World War II, most of this neighbourhood was in ruins. Fortunately, the city decided to reconstruct the historic houses, so you can admire them today. Make sure also to take a look at the Town Hall. If you need any further information, you can find the tourist information there.
• Eiserner Steg:  Did you know that Frankfurt is the only German city with that many skyscrapers? From the bridge Eiserner Steg , you have one of the most iconic views of the skyline. It’s especially lovely in the evening when the sun sets behind the high buildings.
• Apfelwein:  The local speciality of Frankfurt is called Apfelwein , which translates to “apple wine”. It’s a drink similar to cider but with no gas and a slightly more tart aftertaste. The best place to try it is on the Southern side of the river Main, in Sachsenhausen. Here, you can find many Apfelwein pubs, which can also serve you traditional foods from the area.
• Visit a museum:  Frankfurt is home to lots of great museums. Our top picks include the Städel Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art, the Goethe House, which is the birth house of the famous writer and the Palmengarten. While the latter is technically not a museum but the city’s botanical garden, it is well worth visiting.

Where to stay in Frankfurt

When planning a trip to Germany, we highly recommend that you look into hotels before you leave. Especially in summer, hotel rooms tend to book out, and prices go up if you wait for too long.

If you’re visiting in winter, you don’t need to worry too much. Nevertheless, for peace of mind, it’ll be great to have a hotel reservation already by the time you land in Frankfurt.

There are many great neighbourhoods for your stay in Frankfurt . However, since you only have a bit more than one day, we recommend you pick a hotel in the city centre. That way, you’ll be close to the city’s main attractions.

Here are our favourite picks for this area:

Mid-Range:  The Moxy Frankfurt City Centre has the perfect location. From here, you can reach Römerberg and the river Main within a few minutes. The rooms are stylish and the beds comfortable, so what else could you wish for? Click here to check out prices and reviews!

A little more comfort: The Hotel Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof has a history of more than 100 years. It dates back to 1876 and is well-known for its elegant and classic interiors. You can find a Michelin-starred restaurant in the hotel as well as a fantastic spa – perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. Find out availability and prices now!

Budget : It’s challenging to find a decent budget hotel in the centre of Frankfurt. Nevertheless, the Hotel Scala Frankfurt City Centre offers affordable rooms and is only a few minutes away from the main pedestrian zone. When it comes to value for money, this hotel is one of the best. Read reviews and book your room now!

Day 3: Würzburg

This morning, take your rental car and drive to Würzburg. The first leg of your round trip around Germany is short, and as a highway connects Frankfurt and Würzburg, it should only take you an hour and a half.

In Germany, the Romantic Road is one of the biggest tourist magnets, especially for international visitors. It starts here in Würzburg and connects many traditional towns and villages with highlights like the Würzburg Residence. While you’re not going to follow it for this trip, it is worth checking out if you ever return to Germany.

For now, though, focus on Würzburg. Besides the Residence, a fantastic palace designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can find many more attractions here. Hike through vineyards, explore the Old Town and drink a glass of local wine on a historic bridge.

Highlights of Würzburg:

• Würzburg Residence: The Würzburg Residence is one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in Germany. After visiting the inside, make sure to also stroll through the gardens. They are gorgeous in summer, but you can also admire the symmetry in winter.
• Marienberg Fortress: On the hike up to Marienberg Fortress, you come past many vineyards and viewpoints. From the top, you then have a fantastic view of Würzburg. If you’re not too tired yet, join one of the guided tours of the interior and explore the Princes’ Hall and the Treasury.
• Old Main Bridge: Explore the Old Town on foot and then end your day with a glass of wine on the Old Main Bridge. While German wine might not be that well-known internationally, the wineries in Würzburg produce some pretty good wine that they sell on the bridge. Go and grab a glass! If the weather is nice, you’ll find many locals joining you to enjoy the evening.

Where to stay in Würzburg

We highly recommend that you book a hotel close to the city centre of Würzburg. That way, you can make the most of your time in this city and can walk home after having a glass of wine in the evening.

Here are a few options:

Mid-Range:  The Franziskaner is known for its clean and modern rooms and its excellent location close to the Würzburg Cathedral. You can find public parking opposite the hotel, and it’s only a short walk to the Old Main Bridge. Click here to read reviews and check availability and prices !

A little more comfort: The Hotel Würzburger Hof offers beautifully decorated rooms close to the city centre. Reviews often mention the friendly and helpful staff, so go and check it out yourself !

Budget: It’s not easy to find a decent budget hotel right in the city centre of Würzburg. The Mainviertelhof, on the other side of the river Main, is a good option, and you can often find great deals here. Click to see availability and prices for your stay !

Day 4: Blaubeuren & Munich

Today, you’ll drive all the way to Munich. Instead of going the shortest route or following Germany’s Romantic Road, though, take the highway A7 south towards Ulm and stop in Blaubeuren.

Blaubeuren is famous for the Blautopf, an impossibly blue pond. If you leave Würzburg early enough and don’t get caught in a traffic jam, you can also visit one of the nearby caves.

Highlights of Blaubeuren:

• Blautopf:  This natural wonder is a must-see during your stop in Blaubeuren. Limestone particles make this pond shimmer in bright shades of blue and green. The colours are most beautiful in the morning, but it’s worth coming here at any time of the day. While the Blautopf looks like a small lake, it is much deeper than you would imagine. Twenty-two metres below the surface, you can find an entrance into a giant cave system.
• Blaubeuren Abbey : Next to the Blautopf, you can find the Blaubeuren Abbey. For a small entrance fee, you can visit the inside. Make sure to also stop by the Bathhouse of the Monks, which you can find behind the abbey. The wall decorations are very unusual, and you’ll get a great insight into how the life of the monks must have been hundreds of years ago.
• Hohle Fels Cave : This cave is a short drive from Blaubeuren, but if you have enough time, make sure to stop here. Humans have sheltered in this cave for around 65,000 years, and archaeologists found the oldest instrument in the world here. If you want to see the instrument (and more man-made exhibits from about 40,000 years ago), make sure also to visit the URMU museum in Blaubeuren.

After having stopped in Blaubeuren, continue your Germany round trip by driving to Munich. Depending on traffic, it takes around two hours to get here. In German, the city is called München, so don’t be confused if you never see any road signs mentioning Munich!

Where to stay in Munich

Stay in one of the hotels close to the centre, so it’s easy for you to explore the city the next day. As you have a whole day in Munich, make sure to book a stay for two nights.

Here are some good options:

Mid-Range : From Hotel Haus im Tal, you can reach the city centre in just a few minutes. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and the staff is very friendly and helpful. Click here to book your stay now !

A little more comfort : If you want maximum comfort, stay at the Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München. The hotel offers stylish rooms with lots of extras and amenities, a fantastic spa with a sauna and a gym. If you want to learn more, click here to read reviews and find out everything the hotel has to offer !

Budget : Hotel Eder provides clean and simple rooms close to the Old Town. Deals often include buffet-style breakfast, giving you excellent value for your money. Check out rates and availability on booking.com !

Day 5: Munich

Today, you have a whole day to explore Munich. The biggest city in Southern Germany offers lots of historic buildings, majestic palaces and the perfect chance to try traditional Bavarian food.

Highlights of Munich:

• Marienplatz : Munich’s central square is one of the best starting points for exploring the city. Here, you can find both the old and the new town hall, a fountain and the Mariensäule, a column to the Virgin Mary that dates back to 1638. If you stop here at 11 am or noon, you can see the mechanical figures on the front of the New Town Hall move and dance to a song.
• Nymphenburg Palace : Even though you only have one day in Munich, try to make it to Nymphenburg Palace. The splendid interior is well worth a visit, and you could spend hours walking through the gardens. As you’re short on time, opt for a brief stroll instead or go for a gondola ride on the canals that surround the palace.
• English Garden : This massive park in Munich is a favourite for both locals and tourists.  In summer, it’s an excellent location for a picnic, but it’s fun to come here at any time of the year. Don’t miss the Chinese Tower, a 25-metre-high pagoda, and make sure to stop by the Eisbachwelle to see local surfers right in the middle of the city.
• Hofbräuhaus : Munich is the perfect place to try traditional Bavarian food. While you’ll see some typical German food all over the country, the state of Bavaria is famous for some dishes you can only find here. If you’re travelling to Germany for the first time, we recommend that you try the Weißwurst with pretzel or go for the Schweinshaxe, the pork knuckle. Both are very traditional dishes. The Hofbräuhaus, a beer hall that dates back to 1589, is the perfect place to try them.

Day 6: Neuschwanstein Castle

This morning, get up early and head to Hohenschwangau, the next stop on your Germany travel itinerary. The little town on the edge of the Alps is home to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. Driving here takes a little less than two hours, which leaves you with plenty of time to see the castle and explore nearby attractions.

Highlights of Hohenschwangau:

• Neuschwanstein Castle : Even though the castle looks as if it had stood here for centuries, it only dates back to the late 1800s. King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who built the castle, only lived here for 172 days until he died under mysterious circumstances. If you want to visit the inside and learn more about King Ludwig, you need to book your tickets well in advance (ideally, the moment you start to plan a trip to Germany). Fortunately, we have written a guide on how to visit Neuschwanstein Castle  to help you prepare for your visit.
• Marienbrücke : Just above Neuschwanstein Castle, you can find the Bridge of Mary. It takes around 20 minutes to walk here, and you’ll get to experience one of the most famous views of the castle. If you continue on the other side of the bridge, you can find even more fantastic viewpoints.
• Hohenschwangau Castle : Make sure also to visit Hohenschwangau Castle, the yellow castle on the other side of the town. King Ludwig II used to spend his summers here, and this is where he got the inspiration to construct Neuschwanstein Castle. As his family lived in the castle for decades, the interior is much more interesting than in Neuschwanstein.

After having explored Hohenschwangau, we recommend that you continue to the nearby town of Füssen. The Old Town of Füssen is well worth a visit , and you’ll have a much better choice when it comes to hotels and restaurants compared to Hohenschwangau.

Where to stay in Füssen

For your Germany trip, planning ahead is sometimes essential. Not only should you book your ticket to Neuschwanstein as early as possible, but we recommend that you also don’t leave your hotel booking in Füssen until the last minute. Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the 10 top tourist attractions in Germany, and the nicest hotels tend to book out early.

Base yourself here for two nights so that you can explore the Alps the next day.

Mid-Range : You can find Hotel Fantasia on the edge of the Old Town of Füssen, in a beautifully renovated traditional Bavarian house. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Alps, or you can go for a stroll through Füssen itself. And the best part? Most deals include breakfast! Go and check out prices and availability now!

A little more comfort : Hotel Hirsch offers really cool themed rooms which are beautifully decorated. Most rates include access to the breakfast buffet, and you also find free parking here. Click here to see reviews and book now !

Budget : It’s not easy to find proper budget accommodation in Füssen, but we have managed to locate an affordable guest house for you. The Maurushaus offers excellent rooms in a great location for little money. Unfortunately, last we checked, they were only taking limited bookings. Nevertheless, you should go and check out if they’re available for your dates!

Budget alternative: An alternative to the Maurushaus, though not quite as nice, is the Motel Füssen Im Allgäu. It’s not quite in the centre, but the Old Town is only a five-minute walk away. Click here to see photos and prices!

Day 7: Hike to Lake Schrecksee

Today, you have a whole day to explore the Bavarian Alps. We recommend going for a hike to Germany’s highest alpine lake, Lake Schrecksee, but you also have many other options.

To hike to Lake Schrecksee, you need to get up early and make your way to Hinterstein. Here, you can leave your car at the parking lot and start your hike to Lake Schrecksee.

It takes about three hours to get to the lake, maybe an hour more if you’re not used to hiking regularly. In summer, make sure to bring your swimsuit so you can cool down and go for a swim during your break.

In winter, the hike to Lake Schrecksee is not feasible. But don’t worry, you can still find lots of things to do in the area. You could either go for a winter hike through the snow or ride a horse carriage through the snowy landscape.

An alternative is to drive to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a cute town near the Austrian border with lots of things to do. Or you could visit the Linderhof Palace, another one of King Ludwig II’s palaces. It’s gorgeous on snowy days.

In Germany, the road conditions in winter are usually good. Nevertheless, on snowy winter days, you might find ice on the roads. Therefore, if you are driving in Germany as a tourist, make sure to respect all speed limits and be careful. Those winding mountain roads can be challenging to navigate for anyone who doesn’t use them regularly.

Day 8: Lake Constance & The Black Forest

Today, get up early to make your way to the Black Forest.

We believe that the best way to travel through Germany by car is by making lots of stops along the way. You can discover so many beautiful places that it’s easy to break up long driving days. And that’s exactly what you’re going to do today, by taking a detour to Lake Constance.

How to visit the prehistoric pile dwellings of Lake Constance

Lake Constance is Germany’s biggest lake, even though not all of it belongs to Germany. The borders with Austria and Switzerland run through this lake, but you’ll be staying on the German side today.

Make your way to Unteruhldingen, where you can visit one of Germany’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the prehistoric pile dwellings of Lake Constance. You need to leave your car at the parking above the village but don’t worry. There are plenty of signs along the way to guide you.

The oldest stilt houses in the area date back to around 4,000 BC, and archaeologists found settlements in nine different locations. A boardwalk takes you around reconstructed pile dwellings, with separate sections dating back to different time periods.

Afterwards, make sure to stop in the museum, where you can see some of the ancient artefacts from the villages in the region.

If it’s lunchtime, walk to the restaurant Häfeli. Here, you can sit at the shore of the lake and enjoy a Dinnele, a traditional dish from the area similar to pizza. Ask for the one topped with fish from the lake to make it a truly unique foodie experience.

Where to stay in the Black Forest

After you’ve visited Lake Constance, the next stop on your 10 days in Germany-itinerary is the Black Forest. You can find lots of cute villages that could serve as a perfect base to explore the region. We suggest that you either stay in Triberg or somewhere further north.

Here are some ideas for excellent accommodation that you’re going to love:

Mid-Range : We stayed at the Bartleshof in the Black Forest and absolutely loved it. This farm rents out rooms and small apartments furnished with traditional furniture from the area. Not only does this make for a lovely atmosphere, but the Bartleshof is also a quiet place far away from all trouble and noises of the city. Click here to check out current rates and availability !

A bit more comfort : The Adler Schiltach Boutique Hotel is located in one of the cute half-timbered houses you can find in the Black Forest. The rooms are spacious, you can find free parking, and breakfast is often included in the rate. Plus, the building might be hundreds of years old, but the rooms are new and recently renovated. Read reviews and find out more information now !

Budget : Finding proper budget accommodation in the Black Forest is not easy. Nevertheless, you can find some decently priced hotels here. The Rommelehof is one of them and often offers reasonable rates. It’s located in a very traditional building from the Black Forest, which means that staying here is a unique experience. Click here to see photos and book your stay !

Day 9: Black Forest

Today, it’s time to visit the Black Forest.

The advantage of going around by car in Germany is that you can stop in lots of small villages along the way. The Black Forest has many of them, and they are all worth a visit! Besides that, you can also visit an open-air museum, see the world’s largest cuckoo clock or experience one of the best scenic drives in Germany.

Amongst the villages that we loved most are Haslach and Wolfach. Strolling through the towns, admiring the half-timbered houses, and sitting down to enjoy traditional food are among the best things to see and do in Germany.

If you like traditional architecture, make sure also to visit Rottweil. This city on the edge of the Black Forest is well worth a side trip, especially if you have some additional days to spend in Germany.

Highlights of the Black Forest:

• Vogtsbauernhof : This open-air museum gives you a fantastic insight into what life was like in the Black Forest more than a hundred years ago. You can explore the old buildings, participate in a guided tour, make your own butter or just watch the staff as they walk around, dressed in traditional clothing from the area.
• The world’s largest cuckoo clock : On the road from Hausach to Triberg, you will come across the world’s largest cuckoo clock. Stop by the Eble Uhren-Park, where you can also see many other cuckoo clocks. If you want to, you can even buy your own in the shop!
• Triberg Waterfalls : The waterfall in Triberg is the highest one in Germany. A trail takes you all the way to its top, from where you can enjoy the view. If you’re interested in hiking through the Black Forest (which was said to have inspired the Grimm Brothers to write their fairytales), you can also find lots of fantastic hiking trails in this area.
• Panoramic Road : The Panoramic Road of the Black Forest, called Panoramastraße in German, invites you on one of the best road trips in Germany. You travel through the Southern Black Forest on winding mountain roads and through tiny villages. Information on the official website is available primarily in German, but you can find a map here  that will help you navigate.

Day 10: Frankfurt

Today, it’s time to drive back to Frankfurt. Make sure to include a few stops along the way. We recommend Nagold, where you can hike up to the castle on the hill behind the city, or Calw. Out of all the places we visited in Germany, Calw has some of the best-preserved Old Towns, with lots of pretty half-timbered houses.

When you return to Frankfurt, your road trip to Germany has come to an end. Enjoy your last evening with a glass of Apfelwein , and spend some time walking along the river Main or visiting some of the sights you missed on your first day here.

If you only have a week in Germany, we recommend that you don’t visit Frankfurt at the beginning of your trip. Instead, pass Nagold and Calw today and head straight back to Frankfurt to see the city. This allows you to squeeze as much as possible into this one week that you have to see the country.

If you have more time

If you have more than ten days for your road trip, we have lots of inspiration for you. You could spend more time in Munich or the Black Forest, or visit a completely different area in the country.

What you can see and do will ultimately depend on how many days in Germany you have. Here are some ideas for you:

• Cologne : From Frankfurt, it’s easy to get to Cologne. You can either use your rental car or go by high-speed train. Cologne is most famous for its cathedral, but it’s also a fantastic city if you want to try local food, explore a chocolate museum and go for long walks along the river.
• The Rhine and Mosel Valleys : The road trip through Germany we described above is only one option, and there are many more road trips in Germany worth doing. If you have enough time, you could extend your trip by visiting either the Rhine or the Mosel Valley – or both. Both are famous for their wine, their castles and their cute villages. Cochem is a great place to relax, or you could explore Eltz Castle, which gained lots of fame through Instagram lately.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber : If you have 2 weeks in Germany, or even more, you could consider adding more stops to this itinerary. After visiting Würzburg, for example, you have the chance to go on a detour to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This cute town looks so typically German that you’ll see it featured on many guidebooks. It’s also part of the Romantic Road, so you can follow that road for a while.

Driving in Germany

If you want to go on a road trip, Germany is the perfect country. Roads in Germany are usually well-maintained, and you have the Autobahn , the highway, connecting major points of interest.

Nevertheless, you might have a few questions about your road trip in Germany, which we are going to answer now.

What side of the road does Germany drive on?

In Germany, the driving side is the right side of the road. This is the same as in all of mainland Europe and North America.

If you’re used to driving on the left side of the road and have never been to a country where you have to go on the right, take it easy for the first few days. I learned to drive on the right side of the road, and when I rented a car in Malaysia, it took me a while to get used to driving on the left.

Eventually, it becomes easier, and you’ll get used to it pretty quickly.

Driving in Germany – road signs

As a tourist, driving in Germany is usually straightforward. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the most common road signs before arriving in the country.

Fortunately, all road signs in Europe follow a European convention. If you’re coming from outside the continent, you only have to learn those signs once, and you’re good to go for most places in Europe.

Wikipedia has a comprehensive overview of German road signs that you might find helpful.

Speed limits in Germany

When driving in Germany, it’s essential to know about speed limits.

As a general rule, the speed limit is 50 km/h in towns, cities and villages and 100 km/h on roads outside populated areas. On the highway, we don’t have a speed limit, so you can go as fast as your car and traffic allow.

That said, you will often see road signs with speed limits, so on large stretches of the Autobahn (and on many roads in and outside cities), you have to respect these limits.

Can you drink and drive in Germany?

No, you can’t. The limit for blood alcohol is 0,5 ‰ and 0,0 ‰ for drivers under 21. If you drink more than that, you can get heavy fines, so it’s better not to risk it.

Are there paid roads in Germany?

In Germany, road toll does not exist – at least not if your vehicle weighs less than 3.5 tons. Regular cars are free to go on the highway and leave it wherever they please without having to pay anything.

Do I need a road map of Germany?

We usually use Google Maps to get around. As this will require you to either have access to data or download many maps before you leave, we recommend using maps.me if you come from outside the EU.

Can I do this itinerary in winter?

You absolutely can! Driving in Germany in winter is not very different from driving in summer.

In the South, you will often see snow in winter, while in the rest of Germany, temperatures are above zero on most days. Drive carefully if there’s any snow and ice covering the roads, and make sure your car has winter tyres. They are mandatory in winter, so double-check when getting your vehicle.

Also, be aware that you won’t be able to hike to Lake Schrecksee in winter. Instead, we recommend staying an extra day in Füssen and going for a winter hike or a ride in a sledge across the frozen lakes.

We hope you found this Germany itinerary for 10 days useful. We don’t like driving much and even we thought that exploring Germany by car was a fantastic experience.

As we live in Germany, we have lots of other resources on our blog to help you plan your trip. Check out the following posts which you’re going to find useful:

• How to visit Neuschwanstein Castle – everything you need to know
• How to spend a perfect day in Frankfurt
• Hike to Lake Schrecksee and see Germany’s highest alpine lake
• Coming in December? Find out how to visit the Frankfurt Christmas Market!

Until your next adventure!

Like it? Pin it!

Ilona is a world traveller passionate about sharing her experiences and giving advice to fellow travellers. Having visited over 70 countries, she is always excited about her next trip.

Related Posts

Jeonju choco pie: everything you need to know, how to get to gamcheon culture village & unmissable things to do there, zurich to liechtenstein day trip – your complete guide.

What a great post! Thank you! Wurzburg is on our itinerary, but we’re also going to Dresden and Berlin. I haven’t seen much of the Black Forest, but perhaps another time.

Write A Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Cookie consent notice

Privacy overview.

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Advertisement cookies help us provide our visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns.

Analytics cookies help us understand how our visitors interact with the website. It helps us understand the number of visitors, where the visitors are coming from, and the pages they navigate. The cookies collect this data and are reported anonymously.

Preference cookies are used to store user preferences to provide them with content that is customized accordingly. This includes the language of the website or the location of the visitor.

The Man in Seat 61

A beginner's guide to

Train travel in germany.

• Buy train tickets
• Buy ferry tickets
• Book a hotel
• Privacy & cookies
•   Home

Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, inter-city train tickets from €12.90.

Deutsche Bahn (German Railways) high-speed IC and ICE trains are easily the best way to travel between major town & cities all over Germany, in comfort at ground level.  DB's ICE trains travel at up to 186 mph from city centre to city centre, and if you pre-book direct with the operator you can find some really cheap fares.

International trains to/from Germany

Station guides, general train travel information, useful country information, how to check train times & buy tickets.

To check times & prices and to buy tickets in advance go to the German Railways website int.bahn.de ( on a mobile device, use this link ).

Anyone from any country can use bahn.de, all international credit cards accepted, you print your own ticket or can simply show it on your laptop or phone.

Tip:   I recommend registering when prompted, so you can log in, check all your bookings and re-print your tickets at any time.

Do you need to book in advance?

When does booking open.

Booking now opens up to 6 months ahead for German domestic tickets.

It was increased to 6 months from the previous 92 days in 2016.  However, the booking period is often less than this for dates immediately after the timetable changes at midnight on the 2nd Saturday in December.  Bookings for dates after the mid-December timetable change, including the Christmas period, usually open in mid-October.

Flexpreis or Sparpreis?

If you use int.bahn.de to book a long-distance train it initially shows the cheapest fare available against each train.

If you click on that fare, you'll then see a range of fares, Super Sparpreis , Sparpreis & Flexpreis .

Flexpreis is the full-price flexible fare.  A Flexpreis ticket can be bought online or at the station on the day of travel, the price in fact varies slightly on different dates, but not by a huge amount.  They are refundable, good for any train that day, just hop on and find any empty unreserved seat, seat reservation on long distance IC, ICE & EC trains is optional for a small extra charge, €5.20 in 2nd class, €6.50 in 1st class.

Sparpreis & Super Sparpreis fares are limited-availability advance-purchase fares, from €12.90, €19.90, €29.90, €39.90 and so on, the price varies significantly depending how far ahead you book and how popular that date, day and train is.  Spar is German for save .  Sparpreis & Super Sparpreis fares only allow travel on the specific train you book, although if your journey involves a connecting regional train you can use any regional train on the regional part of the route.  Prices vary like air fares, rising as departure approaches and the cheaper tickets are sold.  They disappear a few days before departure, leaving only the Flexpreis fare.

Super Sparpreis = no refunds, no changes.   Sparpreis fares are refundable (although for a DB credit voucher, not cash) up to the day before departure with a small fee deducted, no changes or refunds allowed from the day of departure onwards.

• Children go free!   On DB trains, children under 6 go free, no ticket needed.  Children over 6 but aged under 15 also go free if they travel accompanied by a fare-paying adult, a great offer.  Book your tickets at int.bahn.de and it will work all this out for you.

Only one passenger name is needed

Only one name is necessary as I.D. to support a print-at-home ticket, even if that ticket covers several passengers.

If you buy hard copy tickets at a station, no name at all is needed.

Incidentally, until 2016 you had to show the credit/debit card used for the booking when using print-at-home tickets. I'm glad to say that this changed in October 2016, all you now need is a passport or other recognised ID to support a print-at-home online ticket.  You may or may not be asked for it by the conductor.

Tips for using int.bahn.de

Stopovers .  If you'd like a stopover en route, but still want a cheap saver fare from end to end, no problem.  Go to int.bahn.de and enter your start and end point, simply click Stopover , enter the place where you want to stop off, enter the number of hours stopover and off you go.  Maximum 2 days validity with a Sparpreis fare.

Alternatives to using bahn.de:   Bahn.de is one of the best train operator sites, but if for any reason you want an alternative site which can also book DB trains at DB prices, try these two:

Raileurope.com has a direct connection to DB's ticketing system so it sells the same trains, same prices, same print-at-home tickets at Bahn.de, but with a small booking fee.  It accepts all international credit cards so can be used by anyone from any country.  Raileurope.com also connects to the French, Italian & Spanish ticketing systems so can easily book multi-operator journeys such as Munich to Naples (which involves DB and Trenitalia) or Frankfurt to Bordeaux (which involves DB and SNCF).  Raileurope.com is also capable of splitting the booking to book some cross-Germany journeys (for example, Brussels to Poland) for which you'd have to manually split the booking at some logical point within Germany if you wanted to use bahn.de.

Thetrainline.com also has a connection to DB's system, so can sell print-at-home tickets (but not those which need to be posted) for DB train at the same prices as DB, but with a small booking fee.

Competing lo-cost operator:  Flixtrain

Almost all long-distance trains in Germany are operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB), the State-owned German Federal Railways.  But there is now one other long-distance operator worth mentioning.

Buy tickets by phone in the UK

If you live in the UK you can buy German train tickets direct from Deutsche Bahn on their English-speaking telesales line, 00 49 (0)30 311 68 29 04 .  Lines open 08:30-20:00 Monday-Friday, 09:00-13:00 Saturday & Sunday UK time, 1.5% fee for phone bookings.

Custom-made tours of Germany by train

Railbookers are a train travel specialist who can put together a tour of Germany for you as a package, including rail travel, hotels & transfers.  On their website you'll find a range of suggested tours & breaks which can be varied or customised to your own requirements.  And as you're booking a package, they'll take care of you if anything happens to one part of the itinerary such as a strike or delay.  They now have offices in the UK, USA & Australia.

Tailor Made Rail can arrange tours of Germany by train, they have suggested itineraries or they can organise a trip based on your own requirements, they welcome complex itineraries!  As it's a package, they'll take care of you if anything happens on one part of the trip, for example, a national strike.  They're TTA-protected - like ATOL, but not only for agencies that sell air travel.

Call their dedicated seat61 phone line 020 3778 1461 and quote seat 61 when booking.  From outside the UK call +44 20 3778 1461.  Lines open 09:00-17:30 Monday-Friday.  Their website is www.tailormaderail.com/destinations/germany .

Back to top

DB's discount card:  Bahncard

What are bahncards.

You get the discount on German domestic journeys, and on international journeys to, from or across Germany.

However, for international journeys the discount will not normally be the full 25% or 50% as the reduction is not necessarily applied to the part outside Germany (test it before buying a Bahncard to see what actual effect a Bahncard has - see my top tip below).

Man in Seat 61's top tip:   Before buying a Bahncard, run an enquiry for the journeys you actually plan to make, using int.bahn.de (a) as normal and (b) with a Bahncard 25 or Bahncard 50 discount added.  See what it does to prices.  If you see no difference, the discount may not apply to your particular journey.  If you see a difference, do the savings justify the cost of the card?

Types of Bahncard

Each type of Bahncard comes in a 2nd class version and a more expensive 1st class version, except Youth which is only available as 2nd class.

Check prices & buy a Bahncard

Special regional tickets.

These one-day unlimited travel passes are well worth knowing about, even though they're not valid on fast long-distance trains, only on slower regional trains.  If you want a railpass valid on all trains, including high-speed and long-distance ones, see the German Rail Pass section below .

Deutschland ticket

Unlimited travel on regional transport nationwide for €49 a month

From 1 May 2023 Germany offers unlimited travel on regional transport nationwide for €49 per month.  This is the successor to the popular (but temporary) €9 ticket created after the pandemic to address the cost-of-living crisis.  Unlike the €9 ticket, the Deutschlandticket will be a permanent product.

The Deutschland ticket is good for all regional trains run by DB and by other operators across the whole of Germany ()marked R, RE, RB, IRE or S-Bahn in the timetable) and other types of local & regional transport including local buses, city buses, trams & U-Bahn.

It's even valid on the famous Harz Railway , including steam-hauled trains, but not on the branch line up the Brocken.

It's not valid on long-distance ICE & IC trains or similar long-distance trains classified EuroCity, Eurostar, TGV, Railjet, Westbahn, Flixtrain or Snälltåget.  So yes, you could cross Germany with it if you wanted, but only using slower regional trains.

The Deutschland ticket covers journeys wholly within Germany, with a few exceptions:  For example, it's valid on cross-border regional trains to/from Salzburg in Austria, to/from Venlo, Arnhem, Hengelo & Enschede in the Netherlands, to/from Basel Bad Bf & Basel SBB in Switzerland, and to/from Zgorzelec in Poland.  But remember, only on the regional trains (marked R, RE, RB, BRB and so on), not EC, RJ, RJX, IC or ICE long-distance trains or privately-run Westbahn (WB) trains.

Valid from the 1st of the month to the end of the month

Unlike normal passes or season ticket which can start on any date you choose, each month's Deutschland ticket is valid from the 1st of the month to the last day of the month.  So if you bought one on 30 May, that would be a 'May' Deutschland ticket valid from 1 to 31 May and you'd only get 2 days use out of it, 30 & 31 May - but it would still cost €49!

Usually only sold as a rolling monthly subscription

It's aimed at commuters not tourists, so most vendors only sell Deutschland tickets as a rolling monthly subscription.  You can cancel this subscription it at any time, even after paying for only 1 month, but most vendors require you to cancel before the 10th of the month to avoid paying for the following month's €49 Deutschland ticket.  But read on...

If you only want a Deutschland ticket for one month

To enjoy a one month's unlimited travel on regional trains across Germany, you could set up a subscription and then cancel it before the 10th of the month, but it's easier to buy from the vendors suggested in options 1 or 2 below.

These two vendors sell Deutschland Tickets as a one-off payment with no need to cancel any subscription, so no danger of forgetting to cancel or missing the cancellation deadline and accidentally buying another month's ticket.

As it's aimed at commuters, there's no child version and no provision to add children to your account.  However, a child can travel on an adult ticket (just not the other way around).  If you want to buy Deutschland tickets for yourself and your children, use RMVgo app at sites.rmv.de/en/deutschlandticket , the Rhein-Main Lander, because this (unlike other Landers' apps) allows one person to open an account and buy Deutschland tickets for multiple people including children, with a credit card in one transaction.  The catch?  It may not accept non-German addresses, my correspondent had to use the address of his German hotel but successfully bought tickets for himself and his kids.  Feedback would be appreciated .

How to buy a Deutschland ticket:

Here's the problem: There are dozens of vendors, but most only sell Deutschland Tickets as a subscription requiring a direct debit from a German bank account.   A few accept credit cards, but that's still no good if only German credit cards work or their website isn't in English or it only works with German addresses.  But here are three options which tick all the boxes for non-Germans wanting to buy a Deutschland Ticket:

Option 1, buy from Tranzer - easiest, with small booking fee

The easiest way to buy a one-month Deutschlandticket is to use europe.tranzer.com/ticket-product/73 .

You can buy a Deutschland Ticket in English for a specific month, either the current month or the following two months, without a subscription, simply a one-off payment with a normal credit card (or Apple Pay or Google Pay), overseas cards accepted.

There's no need to remember to cancel anything afterwards, no risk of missing your subscription cancel-by date and accidentally paying for two months.  They will email you later asking if you want to pay for another month when your current month expires, if you do you'll have to make another payment, if you don't reply they assume you don't want to continue and won't take any further payment.

It's far simpler than any other option, there's a small convenience fee of around €2.70 but it's worth it.

Option 2, buy from Germanytransitpass - also easiest, with no booking fee

You can also buy a Deutschland Ticket in English for a specific month, either the current month or the following two months, in English at germanytransitpass.com .  And in this case there's no booking fee.

By changing Usual monthly subscription to Immediate termination - no further payments , you don't need a subscription, it becomes a one-off payment.  No danger of forgetting to cancel or missing the cancellation deadline.

You should enter the German postcode they suggest, 98701.  You'll be able to input your actual postcode (including UK postcodes) at the payment stage.

The only reason I have listed this as option 2 rather than 1 is I have not yet had much feedback from users.  So far, one correspondent reports a successful purchase.  He saw Automatische Verlängerung aktiv on his account management page after buying it, but the retailer has confirmed that this is an error, when Immediate termination - no further payments is selected when buying, you will not be charged again.   Feedback appreciated .

Option 3, buy from Bremen area transit authority VBN

The next easiest way for foreign visitors to buy a Deutschland ticket is to buy from Bremen area transit authority VBN using their FahrPlaner app because (a) it accepts payment by credit card, (b) it's in English, and (c) it has no problem with overseas users, overseas addresses or UK postcodes.  But it's still sold as a subscription which you'll have to cancel afterwards if you only want a Deutschlandticket for one month.

Step 1, download the FahrPlaner app for iPhone or MFahrPlaner app for Android (please let me know if those links stop working).

Step 2, the app should open in English.  Click the menu icon top left and go to Tickets .  Then select Deutschlandticket.

Step 3, click the red PROCEED TO LOGIN button at the bottom.  Then click Sign up for free and register, it lists most countries including United Kingdom and United States and has no problem with UK postcodes.

Step 4, select Credit Card and buy your Deutschland ticket.

This is a rolling subscription which you can cancel at any time.

You show the Deutschland Ticket as a QR code in the app on your phone.  Easy!

If you only want one Deutschland ticket for one month, buy it before the 10th of the month then cancel your subscription also before the 10th of the month.  That prevents payment being taken for the following month.

To cancel the subscription , you must open the order confirmation email they sent you when you bought it and click on the cancellation link.  You cannot cancel your subscription from the app.

If you have children, you'll need to use the RMVgo app instead, see the paragraph about children above.

Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket

Unlimited regional off-peak train travel, €46.

The Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket ( Day Ticket for Germany ) gives a day's unlimited travel from 09:00 weekdays or from 00:00 Saturdays & Sundays, until 03:00 the following morning on all regional & regional-express trains (RE, RB, IRE, S-Bahn) throughout the whole of Germany.

The first traveller pays €46, each additional passenger pays just €9 to be added to the same ticket, up to a maximum total of 5 passengers.

You can't use fast IC, ICE or EC trains, only slower regional trains, so a long-distance journey which could be made on a fast direct IC or ICE train could be very slow and involve several changes if made using purely regional trains.  But it can be a very cheap way to go, especially if you haven't been able to book a cheap advance-purchase ticket for an ICE or IC train.

For more information, see int.bahn.de/en/offers/regional/day-ticket-germany .

To buy a ticket online and print it out yourself, see int.bahn.de/en/offers/regional/day-ticket-germany .

Alternatively, these tickets can be bought on the day of travel from the self-service ticket machines at German stations, although it costs €2 more if you buy from a staffed counter.

Lander tickets

Bayern ticket, schönes-wochenende-ticket :  discontinued, railpasses for germany, interrail germany pass:  click to check prices & buy online, german rail pass, maps of the german rail network, what are german trains like , intercity express (ice).

InterCity Express high-speed trains, usually known as ICE, are German Railways' front-rank trains, travelling at up to 200 km/h (186 mph, ICE3), 280 km/h (175 mph, ICE1 & ICE2) or 250 km/h (155 mph, ICE4).  They have 1st & 2nd class, a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about ICE trains .

InterCity trains (IC)

InterCity trains travel at up to 200 km/h (125 mph), usually using a locomotive and conventional carriages.  Some InterCity trains cross borders into neighbouring countries and these may be classified EuroCity (EC) rather than InterCity.  Power sockets at all seats, and usually some sort of refreshment service.  More about IC trains .

A German Intercity train at Amsterdam Centraal .

2nd class seating on an Intercity train.  Larger photo .

Regional trains

Regional trains are shown as R, RB, RE and so on, where RE is a faster regional express.  Some are operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB, German Railways), others are outsourced to private operators such as Abellio, Metronom, Erixx, but still run as part of the national network with tickets sold by DB at int.bahn.de .  They come in many different shapes and sizes, some single-deck, some double-deck.  No  catering, so bring your own food & drink.  No seat reservation necessary or possible, you sit where you like.

Sleeper trains

There are several German domestic routes where a sleeper is an option.  These are now run by ÖBB (Austrian Railways) and branded Nightjet:

Düsseldorf, Cologne, Koblenz < > Munich, see the Nightjet page .

Hamburg, Hannover < > Munich, see the Nightjet New Generation page .

Seat numbering plans : Click here

Travel tips.

Language problems?

First-time visitors often think this will be a problem, but it hardly ever is.  At stations, signs are usually in English as well as German, or they use easy-to-understand pictograms.  On-train announcements on long-distance trains are often made in English as well as German.

Food & drink on German trains

Most long-distance trains have at least a bistro car serving tea, coffee, wine, beer & snacks from a counter, with some tables nearby if you'd want to eat and drink in the bistro car rather than take it back to your seat.  See sample ICE bistro menu .  Many German long-distance trains have a proper sit-down waiter-service restaurant car.  In first class on ICE you'll often be asked if you want to order food or drink, and it will be brought and served at your seat.

Alternatively, feel free to bring your own food and drink (even a bottle of wine, if you like) onto the train, there's no rules against that on the rails.

Luggage on trains

There are no baggage fees or weight limits, and you don't check your bags in, you simply take them with you onto the train, placing them on the racks at the end of each car or amongst the seats, or above your head.  It's usually possible to keep all your bags in sight.  More about luggage on trains .

Should you reserve a seat or not?

Reserving a seat is optional on most German trains.  You can add a reserved seat to your booking for €5.20 in 2nd class, €6.50 in 1st class.

If you don't reserve, you simply sit in any empty unreserved seat.  Small LED displays above each seat show which seats are reserved between which stations, and which seats are free.  Travelling alone, middle of the day, mid-week in February, you'll have plenty of seats to choose from.  But a family group, travelling on a Friday afternoon in July would be well advised to reserve seats.  And for any long journey it's best to be on the safe side and reserve. 

You can make a seat reservation separately (i.e. after buying your ticket) by going to int.bahn.de , clicking in the from or to field to open the parameters panel, set up an enquiry and run it by clicking Book seat only .

On the seat reservation display for each seat:

ggf. reserviert - this means the train's on-board reservation system hasn't been updated with the latest information from the main DB reservation system.  Usually all of the seats show this message if this happens.  Seat reservations are still valid, but cannot be shown on the LED displays, so you can sit in these seats but you could be asked to move if someone shows up with a reservation.

ggf. freigeben - this is a last-minute reservation seat.  You can sit in it if you like, but will have to move if someone shows up with a reservation.

bahn.comfort - travellers holding a frequent traveller BahnCard have priority for these seats. You can sit in these seats but someone with a BahnCard may show up and claim it.  Though how they'd know you didn't have a BahnCard and so ask you to move is another question!

Schwerbehinderte means that seat is reserved for people with disabilities.

First class lounges at stations

There are lounges for holders of certain types of first class ticket at Berlin, Bremen, Dresden, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt Main Airport, Hamburg, Hanover, Cologne, Leipzig, Mannheim, Munich, Nuremberg, Stuttgart. Follow the signs to the DB Lounge .  They're typically open 07:00-21:00 daily, search int.bahn.de for details.  The lounges offer complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer & snacks.  Unfortunately, only holders of expensive 1st class Flexpreis tickets get lounge access, you don't get access with 1st class Sparpreis or Super Sparpreis fares or 1st class Interrail or Eurail passes.

Left luggage at stations

All German stations except the smallest have left-luggage lockers in various sizes, up to suitcase-sized.  More information on left luggage lockers & prices .

Bikes can be carried on all German trains if semi-dismantled & placed in a bike bag, they then travel as ordinary luggage. 

Undismantled bikes are carried on most suburban & regional trains, you need a Bicycle Day Ticket ( Fahrradtageskarte ) which you can buy online at int.bahn.de (use the site search to find it) or at stations for a few euros.

Undismantled bikes are also carried on most InterCity trains , ICE-T & ICE4 trains for a fee as these have been fitted with bike racks, prior reservation required.  Undismantled bicycles are not carried on high-speed ICE trains other than ICE-T & ICE4 .

To find a train that takes bikes, go to int.bahn.de , click in the from field to open the details panel and select Bicycle transport possible .

To book yourself and your bike on a train in Germany, go to int.bahn.de , click in the from field to open the details panel, click on Passenger, bicycles and add a bicycle to the booking.  For more information, see the bicycles by train page .

Dogs & pets

Dogs can be taken on all German trains, sometimes free, sometimes for a small fee.  For more information, see the dogs & pets page .

Places not served by the main rail network

Neuschwanstein, Germany's fairytale castle:   See details here .

Eagles's Nest:   See details here .

Take a good guidebook.  For independent travel, the best guidebook is either the Lonely Planet or Rough Guide.  Both guidebooks provide an excellent level of practical information and historical and cultural background.  You won't regret buying one!

Buy in the UK from Amazon.co.uk

Or buy in the usa from amazon.com.

Or buy the Lonely Planets from the Lonely Planet website , with shipping worldwide.    Alternatively, you can download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

Holidays & breaks by train

Railbookers, railbookers.co.uk.

If you want to tour Germany by train, with all your train reservations and hotels sorted for you, contact rail travel specialists Railbookers and they'll create the best rail holiday for you, hassle-free.  They take good care of their clients and get a lot of repeat business.  They have offices in the UK, USA & Australia.

Byway, byway.travel

Byway ( byway.travel ) is a UK-based eco-holiday firm with a 5-star TrustPilot rating .  If you're nervous about booking train travel yourself, they'll book a London-Germany trip for you as a package, including hotels, starting from any British station you like.

To see pre-configured packages from London to Germany, use the journey planner on their website .

Or they can build a trip to your requirements, call 0300 131 7173 (open 09:00-17:00 Monday-Friday, from outside the UK call +44 300 131 7173) or email them or use this contact form .  Please say you heard about them from Seat 61.

Byway includes package protection, a 100% Covid refund guarantee, free disruption & re-planning and on-demand WhatsApp support while you're away.

Tailor Made Rail, tailormaderail.com

Tailor Made Rail can arrange tours of Germany by train based on your own requirements, they welcome complex itineraries.  As it's a package, they'll take care of you if anything happens on one part of the trip, for example, a national strike.  They're TTA-protected - like ATOL, but not only for agencies that sell air travel.

Recommended hotels

Here are my suggested hotels conveniently located for arrival by train in key German cities, all with good or great reviews.  You are unlikely to be disappointed by any hotel scoring over 8.0 out of 10 on Booking.com .

In Frankfurt

If you walk out of Hamburg Hbf's main eastern exit, you'll find a row of good hotels lined up in front of you on the opposite side of the Kirchenallee.  The pick of these is the excellent 4-star Hotel Reichshof Hamburg , across the road and to the left with art deco-based design and great reviews.  It has its own restaurant for lunch or dinner, although I'd still be tempted to try the beer & traditional German food at Nagel's bar, 150m south along the Kircheallee, restaurant-kneipe-hamburg.de .

The Hotel Europaischer Hof is another good choice and directly in front of you across the road when you walk out of the station.  Other hotels next to Hamburg Hbf with good reviews include the 5-star Hotel Continental Novum (to the right of the Europaischer), Hotel Furst Bismarck (to the right of the Continental Novum), and the Hotel Atlantic Kempinski .

If you'd prefer a hotel right in the city centre, the Henri Hotel Hamburg Downtown is 5 minutes walk from the station on the city side, and gets really great reviews.

If you're on a budget, private rooms in the A&O Hotel start at around £33 for one person or £49 for two people booked at www.hostelworld.com .  The A&O is an 11-minute 900m walk south of Hamburg Hbf, see walking map .  Also try the innovative Cab20 capsule hotel , a 550m 6-minute walk from the station, see walking map .

Affordable hotels right next to Munich Hbf with good or great reviews include the reliable Eden Hotel Wolff or the NH Collection München , both directly across the road from the station's north side exit, ideal for an overnight stop between trains.  I've used the Hotel Wolff myself.

Also consider the more upmarket 25 Hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian , Excelsior by Giesel or Mercure München City Center , all a stone's throw from the station with great reviews.

If you want to push the boat out, the luxurious 5-star Sofitel Munich Beyerpost is right outside the station's south side exit, located in the former Royal Bavarian Post Office building dating from 1896-1900.  It comes complete with a spa with massage service and sauna.

If you're on a budget, the Wombat's Hostel Munich is close to the station's south side exit with private rooms & dorm beds, with good reviews.

Booking.com for hotels

I generally use Booking.com for hotels for 3 reasons:

(1) It keeps all my hotel bookings together in one place;

(2) I've come to trust Booking.com 's review scores;

(3) Booking.com usually offers a clearly-marked Free cancellation option.

Free cancellation means you can secure hotels risk-free even before trains open for booking, and if necessary change those bookings if your plans evolve.

If I'm only staying a night or two, I look for a hotel near the station to make arrival & departure easy.  You can enter the station name (e.g. Berlin Hbf ) as search location.  If staying longer, I look for a hotel close to the sights, entering the name of a city attraction as the search location, then using map view.

AirBnB:  Airbnb.com

www.airbnb.com began in 2008 when two designers who had space to share hosted three travellers looking for a place to stay.  AirBnB is a platform which connects hosts with guests, so you can now book a room in people's homes, or an apartment, flat or house which people want to rent out.  It can be nicer than a hostel, cheaper than many hotels.

Backpacker hostels: Hostelworld.com

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in Paris and most other European cities at rock-bottom prices.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer.  It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit.  These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here .  Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  There's no need to buy a physical SIM card!  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.  And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone.  You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities?  Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa.  They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities.  My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

Back to home page

The Ultimate 2 Week Germany Itinerary

Embark on a two-week German adventure, from Cologne’s cultural heart to Munich’s Bavarian spirit, discovering historic sites and vibrant cities.

Everyone has a different idea of what the perfect Germany itinerary entails. Maybe it’s spending the day exploring Nürnberg’s medieval history. Or perhaps it’s knocking back a few liters of beer and devouring a couple of pork sausages at Oktoberfest. With 2 weeks in Germany, you can do it all!

You’ll shop for fish in Hamburg, channel your inner hipster in Berlin, and folk dance your way through Munich.

Although Germany is small in size, it has a huge population made up of very different cultures. For example, Bavaria in the south feels like a whole different world compared to the north.

With this Germany itinerary, you’ll get to experience the full range of what Germany has to offer. Here’s how to spend 2 weeks in Germany the right way.

How to Get Around Germany

Germany is a relatively small country, and most cities can be easily reached within just a few hours of each other. For this reason, traveling by train is one fastest and most reliable option during your Germany itinerary.

If you’re booking a high-speed train, it’s recommended that you book as early as possible. Ticket prices tend to increase as the date gets closer, which means prices could double if you wait too long.

A long-distance bus is another option for traveling 2 weeks in Germany. Although the travel duration may be longer, coaches are much cheaper than trains. And unlike the trains, bus tickets can be purchased last minute or even the day of your journey.

Train and bus tickets for Germany can be purchased directly with omio.com up to 6 months before your departure date.

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Germany

Germany is one of Europe’s largest and most powerful countries. And while 2 weeks in Germany will give you a broad overview of the country, more time will allow you to soak in the culture.

If you have more time to add to your Germany itinerary, you can always stay longer in each city. This allows you to visit more attractions and gain a deeper appreciation for the country.

Day 1-3: Get Cultural in Cologne

As the cultural center of Germany’s Rhineland, Cologne is teeming with beautiful parks, world-class museums, and trendy neighborhoods.

But as one of the most bombed cities during WWII, Cologne’s tumultuous past has compromised much of the city’s cultural landscape. Unlike other places in Germany, Cologne’s skyline is mainly made up of reconstructed post-war buildings. However, this bustling city is an ideal first stop on your Germany itinerary.

Step Inside the Cologne Cathedral

Nestled on the bank of the Rhine River is the city’s most iconic landmark, the Cologne Cathedral. Standing over 500 feet tall, it’s also the tallest twin-spired church in the world.

Inside, you’ll see the impressive Shrine of the Three Holy Kings: a 13th-century golden sarcophagus. And on the southern side of the cathedral, don’t miss the modern stained glass window. This unique masterpiece was designed by German artist Gerhard Richter and is the only modern window in the cathedral.

Drink Kölsch in Old Town

Step back several hundred years as you stroll through the Cologne’s charming historic city center. Lined with narrow, cobblestone alleys and traditional old houses, the Old Town is the beating heart of Cologne, and one of the most idyllic towns on this Germany itinerary.

Stop by a Brauhaus, or brewery, to sample Cologne’s most famous beverage, the Kölsch. This light beer is served in skinny 20-centiliter glasses which preserve the temperature and freshness. Once the Kölsch is empty (it only takes a few sips), a new one will be automatically brought to you.

Soar Above the City in the Cologne Cable Car

For sweeping views of the city, hop aboard the Cologne cable car. Built in 1957, the cable car was the first gondola to cross a river, which makes it one of the most unique methods of transportation in Germany.

The scenic ride takes you over the Rhine River, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Old Town and the Cologne Cathedral.

Shop and Dine in Ehrenfeld

The vibrant community of Ehrenfeld is easily the trendiest and most diverse neighborhood in Cologne. Filled with coffee shops, independent boutiques and gourmet restaurants, Ehrenfeld is buzzing at all hours of the day.

If you want to experience the city like a true Kölner, spend the day wandering the lively neighborhood of Ehrenfeld.

Where to Stay in Cologne

From the historic city center to the modern high rises in central Neustadt, Cologne is filled with hotels and hostels for every type of traveler.

If you’re looking to stay close to most major attractions, we recommend finding a hotel in the Old Town. There are several international hotel chains along the Rhine that offer unobstructed views of the river and surrounding areas.

For a more authentic experience, stay in one of the smaller neighborhoods around the city center. Ehrenfeld, Belgisches Viertel, and Nippes are just a few places where you can see traditional daily life.

• art’otel cologne by park plaza
• Hotel Santo
• CityClass Hotel Residence am Dom
• Radisson Blu Hotel Köln
• Boutique Hotel 026 Köln St. Michael
• Black Hotels Köln
• 25hours Hotel The Circle
• The LIV. – Central Station
• Holiday Inn Express – Cologne
• Leonardo Hotel Köln
• Hotel Park Consul Köln
• Motel One Köln-Neumarkt
• Die Wohngemeinschaft
• Cologne Downtown Hostel
• Station Hostel for Backpackers
• A&O Köln Neumarkt

How to Get from Cologne to Hamburg

The easiest (and fastest) way to travel from Cologne to Hamburg is by train. Leaving from Cologne Main Station, the high-speed train only takes roughly 3.5 hours.

On the other hand, you can also take a one-hour nonstop flight to Hamburg. But between driving to the airport, check-in, and security, you won’t be saving much time compared to taking the train.

Day 3-6: Explore Hamburg Like a Local

With winding canals and a sparkling modern skyline, Hamburg is a unique city to visit on your Germany itinerary. As the country’s second-largest city, this port-side town is filled with centuries of maritime history. Known for its impressive harbor, Hamburg has transformed from a sleepy fisherman’s town to a busy economic and commercial hub.

Marvel at the Elbphilharmonie

Located on the peninsula of the Elbe River, Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie concert hall is one of the tallest and most impressive buildings in the city. The modern glass structure is built on top of a mid-century brick warehouse and resembles a ship sailing through the ocean waves.

Elphie’s unique architecture is worth visiting on its own. However, it’s the interior acoustics that has made this concert hall world famous. Built with 10,000 sound dispersing drywall plates, the concert hall can fit over 2,000 visitors.

Party in the Reeperbahn

As the heart of Hamburg’s nightlife scene, the vibrant Reeperbahn district is bustling late into the night.

As you walk through the streets, you’ll see why locals have nicknamed Reeperbahn “the most sinful mile.” Not only is the neighborhood overflowing with bars and nightclubs, but it’s also home to several strip clubs and brothels.

But despite its once seedy reputation, Reeperbahn is still one of the coolest entertainment districts in Hamburg.

Eat Your Way Through the Hamburger Fischmarkt

Every Sunday morning, the Hamburger Fischmarkt comes to life as farmers, fishers and food vendors set up shop. This outdoor market has been a German institution since 1703 and continues to attract visitors throughout the entire year.

Here, you can shop for locally caught salmon, dine on fresh oysters, and even listen to live jazz music. Besides seafood, you’ll also find stalls selling fruits, vegetables, clothes, and of course, traditional souvenirs.

Walk Through Speicherstadt

No trip to Hamburg would be complete without a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Speicherstadt. Connected by canals, bridges, and narrow streets, Speicherstadt is 260,000 square meters of harborside brick warehouses. Inside the old warehouses, you’ll find museums, restaurants, and coffee shops to keep you entertained.

Whether you’re exploring the Hamburg Dungeon, taking a ride on the miniature railway, or indulging in gourmet gastronomy, you’ll find something fun to do in Speicherstadt.

Where to Stay in Hamburg

As the second-largest city in Germany, Hamburg is in no shortage of accommodation. You can find everything from charming Airbnbs to luxury boutiques and everything in between.

For historic architecture and culture, consider staying in the Altstadt (Old Town). If you’d rather mingle with hipsters and artists, check out the quirky neighborhood of Schanzenviertel. And if you want to party until the sun comes up, then look no further than the bustling St. Pauli district.

• Luxury Hotels : GINN Hotel Hamburg Elbspeicher , Ruby Lotti Hotel Hamburg , Scandic Hamburg Emporio , Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg ,
• Boutique Hotels : Volksshule , Hotel Alsterblick , Hotel Europäischer Hof Hamburg , Adina Apartment Hotel Hamburg Speicherstadt
• Mid-Range Hotels : Best Western Plaza Hotel Hamburg , Apricot Hotel , IntercityHotel Hamburg Dammtor-Messe , Novum Hotel City Apart Hamburg
• Hostels : MEININGER Hamburg City Center , Backpackers St. Pauli , a&o Hamburg City , Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel

How to Get from Hamburg to Berlin

After spending a few days in Hamburg, your next stop on your Germany itinerary is Berlin. If you take the high-speed train, you’ll arrive at the Berlin central station in just two hours. From there, you can easily make your way to the different neighborhoods around the city.

If price is a factor, then traveling by bus is also possible. FlixBus offers nonstop routes from Hamburg to Berlin for just a few euros per person. Best of all, the entire trip only takes three hours.

Day 6-9: See Berlin’s Alternative Side

There’s no place quite like Berlin. In fact, Berlin is so unique that many people don’t even consider it to be part of Germany. This progressive, edgy city oozes coolness out of every pore and welcomes visitors and travelers from all over the world.

Whether you’re a history buff, creative artist or late-night party goer, you’ll find what you’re looking for in mesmerizing Berlin.

Admire the Street Art

Berlin is a creative city, and colorful street art is a testament to its unique and alternative lifestyle. Although you can find these larger-than-life masterpieces on most street corners, some places are more famous than others.

With over 100 international artists, the East Side Gallery of the Berlin Wall is the city’s most recognized graffiti area. Don’t forget to also visit Dircksenstrasse, Factory 23, and Lake Tegel Art Park for more amazing street art.

Cruise Down the Spree

To see Berlin from a unique perspective, hop aboard one of the many boat cruises down the Spree River. Snaking through Berlin Mitte, the Spree River is surrounded by the city’s most iconic buildings, including the parliamentary quarter, Museum Island, and the Berlin Cathedral.

Choose between a historic city tour, city lights night cruise, or even a hop-on-hop-off catamaran.

Uncover Berlin’s History

Berlin’s history is, to say the least, complex. However, the city is filled with landmarks and remnants of Germany’s separation, as well as its unification. If you’re looking to learn more about Berlin’s history, then there are a few sites you need to visit.

Of course, no trip to Berlin would be complete without a visit to the Berlin Wall (especially at the East Side Gallery) or the striking Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Checkpoint Charlie and Brandenburg Gate are two other iconic places that have left their mark on German history.

Dance the Night Away

The club scene in Berlin is, to put it gently, insane. Since most clubs don’t open until midnight, dancers, ravers, and party-goers arrive after 2 or 3 am. And since there are no fixed closing hours, many people stay until the next morning.

For a high-end nightlife experience, visit the clubs in Mitte or Prenzlauer Berg. But if you’re looking for something more underground and alternative, then visit ://about blank (yes that’s the name) in Friedrichshain or Arena Club in Kreuzberg.

Where to Stay in Berlin

Unlike most cities in the world, Berlin doesn’t have a city center per se. That just means that you can find accommodation in one of the many trendy neighborhoods scattered around the city.

For first time visitors, we recommend staying in the Mitte, which is close to Berlin’s main attractions. If you’re sticking to a budget, you can find alternative hostels in the funky districts of Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg.

• Luxury Hotels : Hotel ZOE by AMANO Group , RIU Plaza Berlin am Kurfürstendamm , The Dude Berlin Mitte , Hotel am Wasserturm
• Boutique Hotels : the nui HIDE , Garden Living Boutique Hotel , Honigmond Boutique Hotel , Mondrian Suites Berlin am Checkpoint Charlie
• Mid-Range Hotels : MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof , Hampton By Hilton Berlin City East Side Gallery , Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz , Crowne Plaza Berlin – Potsdamer Platz
• Hostels : St Christopher’s Berlin Alexanderplatz , Heart of Gold Hostel , PLUS Berlin , Grand Hostel Berlin Classic

How to Get from Berlin to Dresden

Located just 120 miles from Berlin, Dresden can be reached by train, car or bus. The Eurocity (EC) train is the most efficient option and takes two hours from Berlin.

You can also rent a car (and speed down the world-famous Autobahn) to get from Berlin to Dresden. The drive also takes around two hours.

Finally, the cheapest option is to take a bus. It takes slightly longer than a train or car, but you can’t beat the ticket price. Some buses also come with wifi, electrical outlets, and snacks.

Day 9-11: Explore History in Dresden

The affluent and historic city of Dresden is a hidden gem on this Germany itinerary. Although it was heavily destroyed during the war, the German government invested time and money to rebuild the center after the reunification. Nowadays, Dresden’s skyline is a mix of Baroque spires, royal palaces, and grandiose cathedrals.

But Dresden isn’t only art and architecture. It’s also home to quirky neighborhoods and eclectic restaurants that are sure to delight any traveler.

Admire the Frauenkirche Dresden

Considered the signature icon of Dresden, the Frauenkirche Dresden is a remarkable church located in the center of the city. Although it was initially built in the 11th century, WWII air-raids burned the entire church to the ground. It was recently rebuilt in 2005 and stands as one of the city’s most popular attractions.

It’s free to enter the Frauenkirche Dresden, but we recommend spending the extra cost to climb to the top of the dome. From there, you’ll have unobstructed views of Dresden and the riverfront.

Wander Around the Neustadt

Situated across the river from the historic city center is Neustadt, Dresden’s funkiest neighborhood. Start your day in the Baroque Quarter, which is situated in the inner part of Neustadt. This elegant street is home to cute cafes, trendy boutiques, and independent restaurants.

From there, make your way to the off-the-beaten-path Kunsthofpassage area. This complex of courtyards is covered in graffiti and art installations, which makes it one of Dresden’s best-kept secrets.

Get Cultured at Semperoper

For a taste of luxury, head to the Semperoper Opera House. Located on the banks of the Elbe River, the Semperoper was also part of the city’s reconstruction effort. It was rebuilt in the 1980s and is now home to Saxon State Orchestra and the Saxon State Ballet.

Although you can book a guided tour of the building, the best way to visit Semperoper is by attending a live performance. You’ll have the opportunity to walk the same grounds where Richard Wagner and Richard Strauss made their debuts.

Where to Stay in Dresden

Ideally, the best place to stay in Dresden is either in the Altstadt or Neustadt.

If you’re looking for a luxury boutique or high-end hotel, then you’ll have no problem finding accommodation in the beautifully restored neighborhood of the Altstadt. But if you prefer something more unique, then consider a hip hostel or alternative hotel in the Neustadt.

• Luxury Hotels : Hotel Indigo Dresden – Wettiner Platz , Romantik Hotel Bülow Residenz , Hotel Suitess , Gewandhaus Dresden, Autograph Collection
• Boutique Hotels : Hotel Kipping , Heinrich Schütz Residenz , Penck Hotel Dresden , Star Inn Hotel Premium Dresden im Haus Altmarkt, by Quality
• Mid-Range Hotels : ibis Dresden Zentrum , Motel One Dresden – Palaisplatz , CityHotel Stadt Dresden , Hotel Am Terrassenufer , Holiday Inn Express Dresden City Centre
• Hostels : Lollis Homestay , Hostel Mondpalast , a&o Dresden Hauptbahnhof , Grand Hostel Berlin Classic

How to Get from Dresden to Munich

After Dresden, it’s time to make your way down south to Bavaria, your last stop on your Germany itinerary. Although train travel is easy and efficient, the average journey time is around four to five hours. You’ll also need to transfer in Leipzig, which can add time to your trip.

The fastest way to get to Munich is by plane. Flights are under an hour, but you’ll need to allow extra time to get through check-in and security.

If time isn’t a concern, then you can save money by taking the bus. This six or seven-hour journey only costs a few bucks and goes directly from Dresden to Munich.

Day 12-14: Experience Bavaria in Munich

Home to lederhosen, liters of beer, and traditional Oom-pah music, Bavaria is what most people think of when they imagine German culture. And in its capital city of Munich, you can explore centuries of fascinating German culture and history.

Snack Your Way Through Viktualienmarkt

Located in the heart of Munich’s Altstadt, Viktualienmarkt is a foodie’s paradise and a must-see stop on your Germany itinerary. The oldest market in the city is a hub of fresh produce, mouth-watering meats and cheeses, and tons of classic Bavarian snacks.

Although the market is open every day, we recommend visiting in the morning or during lunch. Grab a pint of German lager and a hot bratwurst and sit down in the outdoor beer garden. You won’t find a better people-watching spot than Viktualienmarkt.

Relax in the English Garden

Stretching down the banks of the Isar River is Munich’s largest park, the English Garden. Filled with dense forests, crystal clear lakes, and grassy fields, the sprawling English Garden is the best way to spend a warm day. In fact, you’ll often find sunbathers and picnic-goers scattered throughout the park.

And for something different, head to the Eisbachwelle to catch amateur and professional surfers. Donning wet suits, these surfers ride through the artificial waves of the river every day of the year.

Drink in a Classic Beer Garden

Bavarians take their beer culture very seriously in Munich. And if the weather is beautiful, there’s no better place to enjoy a fresh liter of beer than in one of the many beer gardens.

Serving up ice, cold glasses of Helles (pale German lager) or Weissbier (wheat beer), the beer gardens are packed at all hours of the day. You can bring your own picnic, or purchase traditional dishes like schnitzel, giant pretzels, and sausages.

Some of our favorite beer gardens are all within walking distance from the city center. Check out Augustiner Keller, The Chinese Tower in the English Garden, and of course, the famous Hofbräuhaus.

Explore Olympiapark

When Munich hosted the 1972 Summer Olympics, they built an entire park and village that can still be visited today. Located on the northern end of the city, Olympiapark is a great way to spend a free day in Munich.

Catch a concert in Olympic Stadium, visit the sea creatures in the sea life center, or ride to the top of the Olympic Tower. If you happen to come during the summer, you can also attend one of the many festivals that take place in the park.

Where to Stay in Munich

Munich has a variety of accommodation types for every kind of interest and budget. Luxury and international hotels are located mainly in the Altstadt (Old Town). If price is a concern, then you’ll find cheaper hotels and hostels dotted around the central train station, Hauptbahnhof.

For a more authentic experience, stay in a hotel or hostel in one of Munich’s other neighborhoods. Schwabing, Maxvorstadt and Haidhausen are just a few trendy districts within walking distance of the city center.

• Luxury Hotels : Parkhotel Rothof , Hotel im Hof , Hotel Lifestyle , Inspire Hotel
• Boutique Hotels : Bavaria Boutique Hotel , Boutique Hotel Splendid-Dollmann , Steigenberger Hotel München , Eurostars Book Hotel
• Mid-Range Hotels : Holiday Inn Munich City Centre , Hotel Munich City , ArtHotel Munich , Hotel ADRIA München
• Hostels : Euro Youth Hostel , Wombats City Hostel Munich , MEININGER Munich City Center , Smart Stay Hostel Munich City

Ending Your Trip in Munich

After spending a whirlwind 2 weeks in Germany, it’s time to head back home. This action-packed Germany itinerary took you across the country and through some of its most amazing sights and cities.

Munich International Airport is just 20 miles outside the city and serves many direct routes back to the US. If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. The lines to check-in luggage can be long and may take anywhere from 15 – 45 minutes.

Your 2 weeks in Germany may have gone by in the blink of an eye, but you’ll have lasting memories of your time in Deutschland for years to come!

How Much Will 2 Weeks in Germany Cost?

Despite what you may think, traveling for 2 weeks in Germany doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. In many ways, the cost of your trip will depend on how you choose to travel.

Transportation

Flying into Germany will probably be the most significant expense of your trip. Frankfurt, Cologne, and Munich are the three largest international hubs for getting to and from the US. Depending on what time of the year you travel, seats can cost between $400 – $1000 each.

If you’re traveling between different cities in Germany, you can take trains or buses. Train travel is the most efficient way to travel, and if you book early enough, you can score a great deal on tickets. But if you wait until the last minute, train tickets can cost upwards of $170 each way.

Traveling by bus, like FlixBus or BlaBlaBus, is the most affordable way to get around Germany (and Europe in general). Tickets can be booked the same day and range anywhere between $5 – $40. Use Omio to plan your trip!

Accommodation

The cost of staying for two weeks in Germany will depend significantly on the type of accommodation you choose.

German hostels are some of the cleanest in Europe and will cost anywhere from $30-$50 a night in a shared dorm room. If you want more privacy, then you can also opt for a mid-range hotel, which will cost around $100 in Germany.

It’s also important to note that hotel prices will increase during special events. If you go to Cologne during Carnival, or Munich during Oktoberfest, you can expect to pay a pretty penny. It’s not uncommon for hotels to cost triple or even quadruple what they normally would.

Food and Drink

In Germany, the cost of food and drink will greatly depend on the type of restaurant you choose. For example, a meal in a traditional German pub and restaurant can cost between $10-$20 per entree.

If you want to save money, then cooking your own meals is another option. Fresh produce and groceries are far cheaper in Germany than they are in the US.

The cost of alcohol can also be cheaper in Germany. Although you’ll find swanky lounges that sell cocktails for $10-$15 a pop, German beer is actually pretty affordable. You’ll pay under $2 a bottle of beer in the grocery store, and around $3 in a restaurant.

What to Pack for 2 Weeks in Germany

No matter where you go in the world, you’ll want to make sure you have the latest travel accessories. Here are a few gadgets that will make your 2 weeks in Germany easier (not to mention more fun)!

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Comfortable sneakers are crucial for walking through the cobblestone old cities of Germany. And there’s no better brand to rock than Germany’s own Puma . These stylish sneakers can be dressed up or down, which means you can easily hit the bars after you’ve been touring the city all day.

They come in a whole assortment of colors and styles too. Take your pick!

Germany Travel Adapter

When packing for 2 weeks in Germany, don’t forget to add a German power adaptor to your list. The VINTAR International Power Adaptor coverts your American plugs into European Type C outlets. Plus they come with USB slots for charging your extra devices.

These might look bulky, but they’re very mini at just 2.8×2.6×2.3 inches! If you don’t want to fry your electronics, these adapters are vital.

Packing Cubes

Are you an over-packer? To keep your clothes and accessories organized, invest in a durable set of Eagle Creek packing cubes. Nothing is more frustrating than digging around in your carry-on luggage for a clean pair of undies!

And if you decide to pick up a dirndl or lederhosen, then packing cubes will help you save space in your suitcase.

Portable Charger

While traveling, it’s easy to drain your phone battery by looking up restaurant reviews or snapping photos. That’s why it’s handy to have a portable charger, like the Anker PowerCore 5000 . It can charge your smartphone up to two full times, so you’ll never be stuck without power during your 2 weeks in Germany.

This charger’s tubular ultra-compact shape also makes it easy to slip into any pocket, bag, or purse.

Tile Tracker

Generally speaking, petty theft is relatively uncommon in Germany. But if you do happen to lose your wallet or camera, you’ll be able to track them down with Tile . It has integrated Bluetooth so that you can easily ring your Tile to locate the last place you put it, and it’s small enough to slide into a wallet or luggage pocket.

Another fun feature: if you’ve lost your keys, and your Tile passes within range of anyone else in the Tile community, they’ll get notified!

German Pocket Dictionary

Although English is spoken in larger cities in Germany, it’s still a good idea to learn a few common phrases. It’s also just a nice sign of respect to attempt speaking basic German with the locals, even if the conversation quickly switches to English.

With Rick Steves’ German Phrase Book and Dictionary , you’ll feel comfortable saying “Guten Tag” to everyone you meet! It offers key phrases for everyday use, complete with phonetic spelling.

Travel Insurance in Germany

Even if it is safe to travel to Germany it’s crucial to have travel insurance to protect you. If your cross-country train is canceled or if you get sick from one too many sausages, you’ll be thankful to have coverage from one of the best travel insurance companies .

Don’t believe me? Here are 7 Reasons You Need Travel Insurance in Germany.

Generally speaking, travel insurance covers the cost of medical bills and any other travel mishaps you may encounter on your 2 weeks in Germany. And if the airline loses your luggage or your iPad gets stolen on your way back from the beer garden, then travel insurance covers that too.

Final Thoughts

Between the charming old towns to the harborside villages, your Germany itinerary has something intriguing for every type of traveler.

And although this Germany itinerary focuses on the most popular attractions in each city, there’s still so much to explore. You can always customize your own Germany itinerary by venturing off the beaten path. Take the advice from locals, try out that cool new restaurant, and have an open mind wherever your journey takes you.

• Is it Safe to Travel to Germany?
• How to Stay in Europe for Longer Than 90 Days (Legally & Illegally!)
• What’s the Best Backpacker Travel Insurance?

Germany Itinerary FAQs

How many days is enough for germany.

I recommend taking at least 10 days for a trip to Germany.

Is 7 days enough in Germany?

7 days is enough to enjoy much that Germany has to offer, but you can get a more immersive experience by staying longer.

What months are best to travel to Germany?

September is the best month to travel to Germany. You can warm weather and can be immersed in German culture during Oktoberfest.

What is the cheapest time to go to Germany?

Late winter months (between January and March) are the cheapest times to travel to Germany.

What is the cheapest month to fly to Germany?

January is usually the cheapest month to fly to Germany.

Tara Burgess

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search our latest articles, reviews and gear guides

• TravelFreak on Instagram
• TravelFreak on Facebook
• TravelFreak on Twitter
• TravelFreak on Pinterest

Sign up now and get the best gear, travel tips, deals and destinations, straight to your inbox.

Thank you for signing up!

How to Get Around Germany: An Easy Guide to Transportation in Germany

This post contains links which earn me a small commission at no cost to you.

Ali Garland, Berlin expert & long term resident Getting Around

For planning a trip to Germany to multiple cities, you’ll need to understand how transportation in Germany works. It’s a big country, but it’s very well connected through the train system.

Bus options are also good to consider, especially for budget travelers. Take a look at our guide to how to get around in Germany .

It helps to look at how long it takes to get from one part of the country to another, and to compare trains and buses. That way you can decide how much time you’re willing to spend in transit when planning your Germany itinerary.

And if you’re on a budget, sometimes a slightly longer option can save you a lot of money.

Where to stay in Berlin

Berlin has lots of great neighborhoods for you to stay in and explore. If you’re visiting Berlin for the first time, it might be best for you stay somewhere central.

Many of the attractions are in Mitte or easily connected to Mitte by Berlin’s public transport , so you should stay somewhere in that region. Here are a few hotels we recommend.

BUDGET: Circus Hostel Popular hostel with a bar/brewery downstairs

MIDRANGE: Circus Hotel Centrally located near restaurants & transport

UPSCALE: Westin Grand Centrally located, can chisel off your own piece of the Berlin Wall

UPSCALE: Westin Grand Luxury hotel where you can chisel off your own piece of the Berlin Wall

APARTMENT: Adina Apartment Hotel Kitchenette; near grocery stores, shopping, Museum Island

For a more detailed look at the different neighborhoods and our hotel recommendations, check out our guide to where to stay in Berlin .

Or read my full review of the 25Hours Hotel in Charlottenburg with fantastic views of the Zoo and Tiergarten.

What you'll find here

Getting around Germany by train

Germany’s national rail company is Deutsche Bahn . Their website is excellent, available in English, and easy to use for planning routes throughout the country. This is your key to planning your Germany bucket list vacation without a rental car.

FlixTrain is another new option for trains in Germany. They are the same company as FlixBus, a popular bus company throughout Europe. Their bus site will even show you train routes, where available, alongside the bus options.

Whether you’re planning out your Germany itinerary or scouting locations for weekend trips from Berlin , trains are an excellent option.

>>Make sure you know what to pack for traveling in Germany .

Deutsche Bahn fast train transportation in Germany

Traveling long distances from one region to another is easier and more efficient using Deutsche Bahn ‘s fast trains.

ICE are the fastest trains, and IC or EC, are still fast but stop more often. These trains are best booked ahead of time.

The ticket prices are more expensive if you book last minute, so if you know when and where you want to go, you can save money.

For reference, ICE means Inter City Express, IC means Inter City, and EC means Euro City. So usually the ICE trains are slightly faster and/or have slightly fewer stops than the IC trains. EC usually means the train is traveling to a city in another country.

To give you an idea of distances, here’s how long it takes to get between Berlin and some of the major cities in Germany:

• Berlin to Munich or Munich to Berlin : 4 to 5 hours
• Berlin to Hamburg : 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours
• Berlin to Heidelberg: 5 to 6 hours
• Berlin to Freiburg (Black Forest): 6 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours
• Berlin to Frankfurt or Frankfurt to Berlin : 4 to 5 hours
• Berlin to Cologne: 4 hours 40 minutes
• Berlin to Leipzig : 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes
• Berlin to Dresden : 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes

As you can see, there aren’t too many short journeys there. So every time you change cities, you will spent half or even a full day in transit. Be sure to work this into your planning.

>>Read: How Many Days in Berlin Do You Need?

Deutsche Bahn regional train transportation in Germany

Germany has several regions or states. Traveling short distances, especially within one state, can often be really affordable when you take the slower regional trains.

Each state has a day ticket that allows you to travel on the regional trains and city public transportation with up to five people traveling together. This can save you a lot of money if you’re traveling within one state.

These tickets are valid from 9am to 3am the next day on weekdays, and from midnight on weekends and official holidays. You pay a base fare for one person and an additional rate for each person up to five, and you can book the day you want to travel.

For example, there’s a Brandenburg-Berlin regional train ticket that you can use to travel within the states of Berlin and Brandenburg in one day. Depending on where you’re going, it could save you money.

There are some variations depending on the state so be sure to check the rules first.

>>Read: 1 Week in Germany Itinerary: Berlin and Munich

Booking tickets

Deutsche Bahn train tickets are easy to book online since the website is also available in English. But you can also book tickets at machines, which also switch to English, in any train station.

Most train stations will also have a ticket counter if you want to buy from a person. But they might not always speak English and sometimes there are extra charges involved.

Certain tickets, usually savings fares, called Sparpreis in German, will bind you to a specific train. You must travel on the exact time and route you have booked.

The only exception is if you have a connecting train and your first train is late, causing you to miss your connection.

If you want more flexibility, book the Flexpreis fare which allows you to travel on a particular route but you are not bound to an exact time. You must still ride the same class of train as the ticket you have booked.

I will usually only buy the Flexpreis ticket if I’m flying and I don’t want to risk missing my train in the event that the flight is delayed. A great example is if you’re flying into Frankfurt and want to take the train from Frankfurt Airport to Berlin .

You don’t validate train tickets in Germany. But someone will come through and check your ticket almost every time, so don’t ride without a ticket.

You used to be able to buy a ticket on the train, but recently rules have changed, eliminating this as an option in most cases. Always buy a ticket before boarding the train.

>>Check ticket prices and routes on Deutsche Bahn .

Join our Facebook group!

Have questions about planning your trip to Berlin?

Join the Facebook group here to chat with Ali (she runs this site) and other people who have been to Berlin for tips.

Buying Deutsche Bahn tickets online

If you’re planning out your trip, I usually find it easier to use the website on my laptop. The app is great, but if you’re not used to booking train tickets, the normal website might be easier, and it’s a little easier to see more details.

Here are screenshots of the website. I’m going to walk you through searching for routes so you can buy tickets on Deutsche Bahn for your trip to Germany.

The picture above is the Deutsche Bahn homepage. This is where you’ll start your search by putting in your starting and ending cities and your date and time of travel.

Now you can see what the screen looks like once you’ve entered all your info. Note that even on the English version, dates are still written in European format, which means the date shown in this screenshot is May 11th.

Also, make sure you put in the number of people you’ll be booking for. This is less important early in the planning process when you just want to see what the route options are, but when you’re looking for prices and getting ready to book, put in the correct number of people.

Usually using the “fastest connections” option is best since it’ll get you from A to B in the quickest amount of time. But if you’re traveling on a budget and you only want to use regional trains, uncheck that box and check the “local transport only” box.

The screenshot above shows the search results with train routes starting with the time you put in. There’s always an “earlier” and “later” button you can hit if you want to see more options.

See the blue circle I put on the image? I’m showing you where there’s a sprinter train. The sprinter train is faster than a normal ICE train and has fewer stops, so it can save you time.

You won’t see it on every route, but there are a few per day on the Berlin to Munich route I’m using for this example. In this case, it saves you about a half hour.

Note how inexpensive these trains are. This is because I’m searching for routes roughly 3 months into the future, so if you can plan ahead, you can usually save money. The same route only a few days in advance is showing me almost 4 times the price.

If you’re flexible, check trains for different times of the day. Using that same May 11th example, I did see one route that was about 4 times as expensive as the other options, so I personally wouldn’t choose that one.

On each route, you’ll see a line that says “show details” and you can click on that to expand it. It’ll give you some more details about the route, and then you can click on the “further information” option in the route to show you the stops.

Now you can see in the picture above where this route stops between Berlin Hbf and Munich Hbf.

Interested in seeing the whole route? That train number, ICE 1003, is a clickable link.

Once you click the train number, you can see something like the screenshot above. Now you know that this route starts in Hamburg Altona and ends in Munich Hbf.

I mostly like to look at this to see if the train goes to a more convenient train station in Berlin. In this case, chances are Berlin Hbf is the best one for you, but if you’re staying near the East Side Gallery, for example, and the train you want stops in Ostbahnhof, that is closer.

Once you select a route, you’ll see a screen like the picture above. As you can see, there are several options, each with a different price. So what’s the difference?

Types of train tickets

Super Sparpreis : Basically, this is the super savings price. This is the cheapest option because it comes with no extras and you’re bound to the exact train you book. You can’t change your ticket later if you decide to go on a different day or even at a different time on the same day.

Sparpreis : This option also binds you to the exact train you book, but it does come with the option to cancel before the day of travel for a fee. The Sparpreis ticket also comes with a city ticket, which means you can use it to ride local public transportation before and after your train. (Doesn’t work outside of Germany.)

Flexpreis : The Flexpreis ticket gives you more flexibility but at a much higher price. It comes with the option to cancel for a fee before the day of travel, and it comes with a city ticket, but it also lets you travel on any train that runs that route on the same day. So if you book an 8am train and decide to sleep in, you can get the 10am train.

Flexpreis Plus : This ticket is just like the normal Flexpreis ticket, except you can travel 1 day before 2 days after the day you booked. This is the ultimate in flexibility, but it comes at a price.

1st class : You’ll also see an option to upgrade to a 1st class ticket. This comes with a seat reservation and a bit more space. I generally don’t bother with 1st class unless there’s a sale or the price is almost the same as the cheapest 2nd class ticket, but booking in advance, this actually looks tempting.

Note that either Flexpreis option still restricts you to the route you’ve booked. So if you booked Berlin to Munich, you can’t change your mind and use that ticket for Berlin to Frankfurt.

Seat reservations on Deutsche Bahn

Deutsche Bahn train tickets don’t automatically assign you a seat. If you want to reserve a seat, there’s an option in the booking process to do so.

It costs 4.50 euros per leg, and it’s only available on the long distance (IC, ICE, EC) trains. You can’t reserve seats on the regional trains.

Reserving a seat means you know exactly where to go and you don’t have to stress about searching for an empty seat or get split up from your traveling companions. There’s even a map on the platform telling you where to stand based on where your seat is.

If you don’t reserve a seat, when you board the train, look above the seats next to the seat numbers to find one that isn’t reserved. On rare occasions on popular routes at busy times, there could be no seats available.

In 11 years of living in Germany, I’ve only been stuck completely without a seat once, but it was enough for me to almost always reserve seat now. The small fee is worth it to avoid the stress, especially when I have lots of luggage.

>>Check out: When is the Best Time to Visit Berlin?

FlixTrain transportation in Germany

FlixTrain is a fairly new option in Germany, but it’s one that could save you money. They are good for medium to long distance travel.

Even though they don’t have as many routes, they do have the most popular routes you are likely to be interested in as a tourist.

Some example routes include Berlin to Cologne, Cologne to Hamburg, Berlin – Frankfurt – Heidelberg – Stuttgart, Hamburg – Berlin – Leipzig – Munich, and Munich to Frankfurt. These routes have other stops as well. FlixTrain also has one route in Sweden.

Train tickets on FlixTrain come with a guaranteed seat. You don’t have to worry about getting stuck standing. Most trains have free wifi and outlets at your seat.

FlixTrain also uses the normal train stations, so you don’t have to go someplace different to catch the train.

It’s definitely worth comparing FlixTrain with Deutsche Bahn since they could save you money on the same routes.

>>Read out guide to saving money while traveling to Berlin on a budget .

Getting around Germany by bus

FlixBus can be a great option for getting around in Germany since it is usually cheaper than the train. But you do have to weigh the cost savings with the amount of time it takes.

For some routes, the timing is similar, while others are much longer. Shorter distances are usually similar, while longer routes are usually faster with the train than the bus.

FlixBus is definitely worth checking out when you’re planning your routes. Their buses are modern, clean, and safe, and I’ve used them dozens of times, so I would recommend them for any type of traveler.

The FlixBus website also tells you when they have a FlixTrain option for the route you’re searching for, so if the bus takes too long, the train might be good.

For example, Berlin to Hamburg takes about 2 hours by train on Deutsche Bahn . If you look at FlixBus to compare with the bus prices, you’ll see that the bus takes 3 to 4 hours, which is not ideal.

But they tell you it’s faster with the train, and you’ll see that the FlixTrain option takes about 2 hours.

When I’m traveling around Germany, I always check the FlixBus site before I book my transportation. If it’s cheaper and similar timing, I’ll use FlixBus.

>>Check prices and schedules on FlixBus .

Book a tour for your trip to Berlin

• Private Tours of Berlin with Matti : As a lifetime Berlin resident and local Rick Steves guide, Matti really knows Berlin. Tell him you heard about his tours from Berlin Travel Tips!
• Third Reich Berlin Walking Tour – Hitler and WWII : Learn about Berlin’s WWII history with an expert guide.
• Berlin TV Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket : Offering some of Berlin’s best views.
• Discover Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour : See Berlin’s highlights with a knowledgeable tour guide.

Berlin Travel Resources

I want you to have the best trip to Berlin, and hopefully this guide to transportation and getting around in Germany is helpful. But there are lots more tips on the site!

• 101 Best Things to do in Berlin
• 23 Impressive Castles in Berlin (And Nearby)
• 27 Best World War II & Cold War Sights in Berlin
• 29 Fun Day Trips From Berlin
• 75 Things to Know Before Visiting Berlin: Essential Berlin Travel Tips
• What to Wear & What to Pack for Berlin, Germany: Your Ultimate Berlin Packing List
• How to Get Around in Berlin: An Easy Guide to Berlin Public Transportation

Check out my favorite travel planning sites and resources

These are the sites I like for travel planning, plus items I like to travel with.

Planning Booking.com : Find a Berlin hotel here.

Rick Steves and Lonely Planet : My favorite guidebook resources.

Tours, Activities, Tickets Viator : Great site for finding tours and other activities.

GetYourGuide : Another good option for tours and activities.

Transport Welcome Pickups : No stress option for airport pickups.

Discover Cars : Find a rental car for Germany road trips.

Deutsche Bahn and FlixBus : Best options for getting around Germany.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for German & EU.

Collapsible water bottle , plug adapter , and stuff bag : Small things that will make your trip a little easier.

Packing Orange SIM & eSIM : Great option for SIM & eSIM cards for Germany & EU.

Book a local photographer Flytographer : Hire an amazing local photographer anywhere in the world.

Related Posts

Getting Around

How to Get From Berlin to Vienna: Train, Bus, Flight Options

How to Get From Vienna to Berlin: Train, Bus, Flight Options

How to Get from Prague to Berlin: Train and Bus Options

Hi Ali, very informative blog. It would help if you can please list the trains on each of the long routes that are included in 9 Euro deal. And what I will really love would be few sample itineraries by public transportation and small, majestic places to see, rather than age old tourist traps big cities, museum and attractions. Thank you.

Thanks, San, I’m glad you’re finding the site helpful! I can’t really list all the trains that are included in the 9 euro ticket because it’s almost all of them. You can use the 9 euro ticket on all public transport, so all of Berlin’s Ubahns, Sbahns, trams, buses, and 99.9% of public transport in the rest of Germany.

You can also use it on most regional trains. The exceptions are trains that appear to be regionals but are not – and I know that’s confusing! Rest assured there are not many of those. In the Berlin area, those trains are the RE 56 (Potsdam-Berlin-Cottbus), the RE 17 (Elsterwerda-Berlin), and the RE 28 (Berlin-Eberswalde-Prenzlau). If you look at routes on Deutsche Bahn, in the details of a route, if you see “9-Euro-Ticket nicht gültig” or you see “Operator: DB Fernverkehr AG” then you can’t use the 9 euro ticket for that train. Those routes aren’t frequent – there are normal regional trains that run those routes, and when I look, I really have to dig to find those trains that are not eligible.

You can NOT use the 9 euro ticket for fast/long distance trains, so if the train number starts with IC, ICE, or EC, your 9 euro ticket is NOT valid.

I’m definitely working on more info for less touristy attractions and other places to visit. But most of my round ups include the popular and not-so-popular places. For example, in my day trips from Berlin post, you’ll find the classics, like Potsdam, but also lesser known places like Cottbus. In my castles in Berlin post, of course I’ve included Charlottenburg Palace, but many people don’t know about places like the Peacock Island castle or the Spandau Citadel, which are both super interesting. And I’ve put together a list of places where you can see remains of the Berlin Wall , which obviously includes the East Side Gallery, but also has interesting places even I didn’t know about until a few months ago when I started researching the article. So hopefully I’m helping first time visitors who want to see the big attractions, but also people like you who want some lesser known places!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Getting Around Germany: Transportation Tips

Independent Traveler

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

With so many cities, landscapes and attractions to explore in Germany, you’ll want to pack as much as you can into your visit. Luckily, frequent international air service and one of Europe’s most efficient transportation systems make it easy to see a lot, even in a short time. High-speed trains and excellent highways cover the country, and scenic routes are available via riverboat, bus and bike, as well as by car. Read on for our complete guide to getting around Germany.

Flying to and Around Germany

Lufthansa offers the most flights to Germany with regular service from dozens of cities in the U.S. and Canada. If you fly Lufthansa to Frankfurt, its central hub, you’ll find quick connections to other cities via air or train directly from the airport. Frequent Lufthansa service is also available to Munich, a convenient destination for southern Bavaria and the Alps, and to Dusseldorf, a business center.

If Berlin is your destination, Air Berlin offers flights from the U.S. and serves Dusseldorf as well. American, Delta and United also fly to German cities including Berlin and Hamburg. With so many options, it pays to compare fares carefully.

Once you arrive, Air Berlin has domestic service between all major German cities, as do budget airlines such as Eurowings and TUI fly. If you are arriving from other cities in Europe, you may find attractive fares from these lines as well as European budget airlines like easyJet and Ryanair. A good source for comparing costs is WhichBudget.com .

Germany Air Travel Resources: Eurowings.com Lufthansa.com TUIfly.com WhichBudget.com

Renting a Car in Germany

If you plan to spend most of your time in cities, think twice about renting a car, as it can prove to be more hindrance than help. Parking rules are strict, spaces may be scarce and hotel parking is quite expensive. You will find excellent public transportation available in town, and trains are the quickest way between cities. Even scenic byways and highways often can be enjoyed via bus or boat (see below) while you sit back and let someone else do the steering.

Another thing to consider is cost. Car rentals are expensive, gasoline can be double or triple the price at home, and insurance, which is required by law, is costly.

However, if you are traveling with several people, you love to drive or you want to explore the countryside on your own, a car may make sense. Hertz, Avis, Sixt and Europcar are a few of the most popular rental agencies. Rates are cheaper if you reserve in advance before your trip. If you can drive a manual transmission, that will save you money too. U.S. licenses are accepted, but you might be more comfortable with an International Driving Permit, available from any AAA office in the U.S.

Driving in Germany is not for the faint of heart, especially on the Autobahn super highways, where some sections have no official speed limit. If you do drive the Autobahn, the best advice is to stay firmly in the right lane. The Bundesstrassen , two-lane highways, are calmer, but finding your way in a strange country still can be stressful, especially on narrow winding rural roads.

Should you want to do some driving with someone else at the wheel, your travel agent or hotel front desk should be able to recommend reliable companies for renting a private car for touring with an English-speaking driver. This is an expensive option but can be a very pleasant way to travel.

Whether you rent a car or hire a driver, Germany offers several exceptional drives. You can do all or part depending on your location and time schedule. Here are some of our favorite options.

The Romantic Road: About 220 miles from Wurzburg to Fussen; takes in charming medieval villages.

The Burgenstrasse or Castle Road: About 193 miles from Mannheim to Bayreuth (for a longer trip you can continue to Prague); passes dozens of castles and palaces.

The Weinsgrassse: About 50 miles through vineyard country near the French border; exquisite in fall.

The Alpenstrasse: Nearly 300 miles; offers dramatic scenery along the Bavarian Alps.

The Maerchenstrasse or Fairy Tale Road: 370 miles from Hanau to Bremen; links regions and tourist attractions related to the Brothers Grimm.

Germany Car Resources: Avis.com Europcar.com Hertz.com Sixt.com

Germany by Train

Deutsche Bahn (DB), the German rail service, is reliable and speedy. InterCity Express (ICE) high-speed trains are among Europe’s fastest, whizzing along at nearly 199 m.p.h. InterCity (IC) trains run between major cities, with schedules as frequent as every hour between popular destinations. Eurocity (EC) trains connect German cities with destinations in neighboring countries. See Bahn.com for more information.

A German Rail Pass, good for three to 15 days of travel over a one-month period, may be a good value if you are spending more than a few days in Germany and plan to travel long distances by train. The days do not have to be consecutive. Discounts are available for more than one person traveling together and for travelers under age 26. Children age 6 – 11 ride free (limit: two children with each adult). The pass comes with some nice bonuses such as reduced-price boat rides, hotel and hostel discounts, reduced rates on buses and more.

Various multi-country rail passes are also valid in Germany. All passes must be purchased in before you leave home. See RailEurope.com .

If you are traveling a fair distance, an overnight train with sleeper accommodations can save time and a night’s charge at a hotel. Special Schones-Wochenende Tickets (weekend tickets) are another money saver, offering rail travel for up to five people on a Saturday or Sunday.

Rail passes do not reserve your seat; you must pay an additional fee for a reserved seat. Reservations are less expensive if you make them when you purchase your pass, but they can be made online up to 10 minutes before departure.

You will pay as much as 50 percent more for first-class tickets that provide luxuries like extra legroom and meals delivered to your seat, so be aware that second-class seats are perfectly comfortable too. Book in advance to avoid a surcharge for buying tickets onboard the train.

Major cities have good local transportation via bus, tram, electric railway (S-bahn) or subway (U-bahn). U-bahn tickets are purchased from vending machines in the station or from clerks in larger cities. You’ll find route maps posted in every station, and printed maps are usually available where there is a ticket office. Multi-ticket strips or day passes are less expensive per ride than single fares. They should be stamped when you first board to be valid.

Germany Train Travel Resources: Bahn.com RailEurope.com

Germany by Bus

Bus service is slower than trains, but may be more economical. Eurolines Touring has service between many German cities and on to other international destinations.

Within large cities like Munich, Berlin or Frankfurt, “hop-on, hop-off” bus tours are a good way to cover a lot of ground when your time is limited. With fleets that operate every hour or half-hour, they provide an overall city tour and allow you to get off and stay as long as you like at sights that interest you, then pick up the next bus. The local tourist office or your hotel can help you find these services. Senior discounts may be available; be sure to ask.

Germany Bus Resources: Eurolines.de/en

Germany by Bicycle

If you like to bicycle, join the Germans, who absolutely love to bike. There are more than 40,000 miles of bike trails in cities and the countryside, and many scenic rides along the Rhine and Danube Rivers, through vineyard country and around Lake Constance, near the Austrian border. BicycleGermany.com has a long list of bicycle rental firms by city, with address and contact information.

Within cities, bike sharing programs allow you to borrow a bike inexpensively for a short time. These include Call a Bike (operated by a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn) and Next Bike, both found in various German cities.

Germany Bike Travel Resources: BicycleGermany.com CallaBike.de (German only) NextBike.de

Germany by Boat

The castle-studded Rhine and Mosel Rivers are among Europe’s most famous. KD Rhine offers day trips along both rivers. Many companies, including Viking, Grand Circle, Uniworld, AMA Waterways and Avalon offer cruises of several days that include the German portion of the Rhine. Viking also offers rewarding cruises on the Elbe River in East Germany.

Germany Cruise Resources: AMAWaterways.com AvalonWaterways.com GCT.com KDRhine.com Uniworld.com VikingRiverCruises.com

You May Also Like Where to Stay in Germany: Lodging Tips Planning a Trip to Europe: Your 10-Step Guide The Best Way to Carry Money Overseas The Best Uber Alternatives Around the World

–written by Eleanor Berman

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

10-Nt United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman...

Poconos: 2-Nt, All-Incl. Stay at Upscale...

ResortsAndLodges.com

Rome & Etruria Cruisetour

Norwegian Cruise Line

Trending on SmarterTravel

• Getting around Germany: Transportation Tips

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• getting-around
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Planes, trains and automobiles, not to mention buses, boats and bikes: Germany deals in the full deck of options for travel within the country, with one of the finest public transport systems in Europe. Unusually for a largely landlocked nation, it also affords considerable opportunities for travel on its arterial rivers – slow travel at its best in which the getting there is as much a reason to travel as the destination. Services operate on arterial rivers such as the Rhine, Mosel and Elbe, generally from April to October; details are provided in relevant destinations. Prices are more expensive than those for rail, but that’s not really the point.

Taxis and car shares

City transport, travel ideas for germany, created by local experts.

A self drive exploration of UNESCO Sites in Southern Germany

Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites across different German states. This self drive trip allows you to design your own days with recommendations stated for each day.

Explore Berlin and Potsdam in depth

The German capital Berlin has plenty to offer: from historical sites to world-class museums and a vibrant nightlife. Enjoy this private tour to explore a wide range of activities in Berlin and Potsdam, including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Explore Northern Germany on Your Own

From Bremen to Stralsund - Northern Germany offers plenty of gems to explore. With well-developed public transportation links, this itinerary is suited for everyone wanting to explore on their own - getting lost on the cobble-stoned streets of many UNESCO World Heritage Highlights.

Capitals of Europe - Berlin, Prague, Vienna and more

This trip is ideal for all city & culture lovers: the Reichstag in Berlin, the castle in Prague, historical Cesky Krumlov, St Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, the fortress above Salzburg and Schloss Neuschwanstein near Munich - these are just some of the highlights of this incredible roundup trip.

Castles across Austria and Czechia

Austria and Czechia are home to some of the world's most beautiful architecture and culture gems, such as Schloss Schönbrunn in Vienna, Prague castle, the fortress above Salzburg and many more. Finish your tour with a visit to Schloss Neuschwanstein before flying out of Munich.

Best of Germany

Germany has a lot to offer to visitors: history buffs will enjoy guided tours in Berlin and Dresden, children (and those at heart) will marvel at Schloss Neuschwanstein, scenery lovers will appreciate Rothenburg and the Black Forest. This trip truly has something for everybody!

Alongside national carrier Lufthansa, budget airlines such as Air Berlin and Hapag-Lloyd Express offer daily routes throughout the country, with single fares for as little as €30 including taxes. Lufthansa flights are more expensive but still good value, with the greatest number of routes and the most frequent departures. These can be hourly between popular destinations such as Hamburg–Munich, a route that saves five hours compared to the same journey by train. Advance bookings – at least two weeks prior – provide substantial discounts.

The much-lauded national rail system operated by Deutsche Bahn is superb, but not quite as faultless as you might think. Trains can be a few minutes late and strikes are not unknown. Nevertheless, trains remain the workhorse of public transport and the nation has good reason to be proud of its efficient privatized system. Its 43,900km of track is the most extensive in Europe; trains are frequent – generally hourly, with extra services at rush hours; invariably clean; and prices are fair, with weekend, regional and other discounts often helping to sweeten the deal.

Kings of the rails are the flagship Intercity-Express (ICE) trains, which travel at speeds up to 300km/hr and offer the most comfort, including a bistro. When making a reservation you can also request a seat in areas with boosted mobile-phone reception or none at all. Not as fast or flash are Intercity (IC) and international Eurocity (EC) trains, though these hurtle along at 200km/hr, and still have electricity terminals throughout and a buffet carriage. Local trains come as swift InterRegio-Express (IRE), the steady Regional-Express (RE) trains then the slowish local Regionalbahn (RB), which tend to stop at every station en route. In cities, Stadt-Express (SE) trains or the commuter S-Bahn trains also operate.

Standard tickets ( Fahrkarten ) – not restricted to any particular train and refundable for a small charge – are priced according to the distance travelled, so returns cost twice as much as singles. Reservations (€4 per journey) are worthwhile for peak long-distance trains, especially the popular Friday late-afternoon getaway.

You can buy tickets over the counter at the Reisezentrum (travel centre) of larger stations or, at all but the rural stations, from touchscreen vending machines with English instructions. You can also buy tickets on board for a nominal service charge – all trains now accept major credit cards. Telephone reservations are on 01805/99 66 33; registered users can buy tickets online at bahn.com at no surcharge up to ten minutes before departure – you’ll require a print-out of the ticket and your credit card as proof of purchase.

Flexible standard tickets are reasonably priced, though the use of ICE trains can be a little expensive – an ICE Hamburg–Berlin ticket costs €70; an ICE Hamburg–Munich €129. But it’s worth taking advantage of discounted fares by booking in advance: Sparpreis 25 tickets give 25 percent discounts on return journeys for a specified day and train and must be bought three days in advance – weekend restrictions apply. Sparpreis 50 tickets have further restrictions in that the return trip cannot be sooner than the following Sunday unless your outward journey is on a Sunday, in which case you can return on the following Saturday; at weekends same-day returns are permitted. Group tickets for up to six people are called Gruppe&Spar and save between fifty and seventy percent of the fare depending on availability – this type of ticket needs to be bought at least an hour in advance.

The greatest bargain in Germany – and one worth arranging your holiday plans around – is the Schönes-Wochenende-Ticket (“Nice Weekend Ticket”). It permits up to five people (or one parent/grandparent travelling with any number of children aged under 14) one day’s travel on a Saturday or a Sunday until 3am the following day. All for just €39, making savings on long-distance travel substantial. The weekday equivalent is the Länder-Ticket . Again valid for up to five people, this permits one day’s unlimited second-class travel within one federal state from 9am until 3am the following day; most Länder-Tickets are also valid on Saturday and Sunday, and some can be used for overnight travel on weekdays. It can be used on all local trains (IRE, RE, RB, S-Bahn). Regulations and tariffs also vary by state, but are typically about €30 with a €2 discount if bought through ticket machines. Things get messy for city transport on both the Länder-Ticket and the Schönes-Wochenende-Ticket , with some states happy to accept it, others not. Check as you buy or consult the Deutsche Bahn website.

Finally a note on overnight trains. Deutsche Bahn’s City Night Line (CNL; www.citynightline.de) trains to the Netherlands, Austria and Switzerland and destinations throughout Germany offer travel in reclining seats, couchette or comfortable sleeper carriages, with soothing curved corridors, soft lighting, shower and toilet or a wash-basin inside compartments. Ticket prices are calculated as additional charges to regular fares and range from €4 for a reclining seat, through €40 for a four-berth couchette to €100 for a single-occupancy sleeper.

Rail passes

If you are staying in Germany for long it may be worth picking up an annual national rail pass, the BahnCard . The BahnCard 25 (€114 first class, €57 second class) provides 25 percent discount on all tickets; the BahnCard 50 (€460/230) provides fifty percent off and comes at half-price to students under 27 and seniors over 60; or the BahnCard 100 (€6400/3800) provides free travel for a year. Non-European residents (or those who have been out of Europe for six months) qualify for the month-long German Rail Pass . This provides free rail transport – plus free travel on Rhine and Mosel boats of the KD Köln–Düsseldorf line – for three (€175) to ten days (€308) in second class. First class is around a third more expensive, as are twin tickets for two adults. Second-class Youth tickets for under-25s cost £140–214.

German bus services exist primarily to supplement Germany’s trains, so you’ll only need them for the final leg of journeys or in rural areas such as the Harz, the Thuringian Forest, the Black Forest or the Bavarian Alps where the rail network is thin. Regional companies operate local services that vary in frequency from every twenty minutes or so to daily or even fewer, with most routes scheduled to serve commuters from early morning to early evenings. Services can dry up at weekends. In addition, buses need not adhere to strict schedules, so may leave earlier than times published – use the printed timetables as a guide only and arrive early. The exception to this is from the terminus, known in cities as a Busbahnhof or Zentral Omnibus Bahnhof (ZOB) and ubiquitously located near the train station. Tickets are bought either from kiosks or from the driver. If you intend to travel widely in a region ask about a day-card ( Tageskarte ) or week-card ( Wochenkarte ).

Holders of any home national – or international – driving licence are permitted to drive in Germany provided they have this to hand. If driving your own car you will also require vehicle registration documents and a valid third-party insurance certificate. If bringing your own car, be aware, too, that a growing number of cities – 32 as of 2010 – have implemented Low Emission Zones to reduce exhaust fumes. Vehicles in a central “Green Zone” must display an “Emission Badge” ( Umwelt Plakette ), which is bought for around €10 from repair centres, dealers and MOT ( Tüv ) stations, or via websites www.tuev-nord.de (northern Germany) and www.tuev-sued.de (southern Germany). In practice this means pre-’93 petrol models and pre-’97 diesels will not pass unless retro-fitted with a catalytic converter. In theory, vehicles entering a Green Zone without a badge will be fined, though there is still some leniency for foreigners.

Germany’s most celebrated principal roads are its three- or four-lane Autobahnen (motorways), indicated with blue signs and an A prefix. Famously, there are no overall speed limits, though many stretches, particularly near towns and cities do have speed limits imposed (white sign with red edge). If you pass a round white sign with three diagonal stripes, that means you’re entering a section with no speed limit though 130km/hr is often the recommended limit. But even here you can often forget fantasies of barrelling along at 200km/hr in your BMW, since traffic is often heavy, with east–west pan-European routes particularly packed with truckers. Major roadworks and accidents also often frequently seem to be problems, helping to explain the national obsession with traffic jams ( Staus ). All this is perhaps just as well, since if you have an accident at what your insurer regards as an excessive speed they may not pay out; and the police will take speed into account when apportioning blame.

Secondary B routes ( Bundesstrassen ) are usually dual carriageway, with three lanes on heavy sections, and have a speed limit of 100km/hr. Speed limits in urban areas are 50km/hr. All routes are toll free.

On-the-spot speeding fines are issued on a sliding scale depending on the speeds involved. Traffic police are fair but determined – don’t expect to weasel out of a fine with pleas of innocence. The maximum blood alcohol limit is 0.5mg/l. Penalties for those over the limit are severe – fines are steep, licences can be revoked – and even those involved in an accident but under the limit can have licences and vehicles confiscated temporarily. The use of mobile phones while driving is forbidden except with a hands-free set.

On Autobahnen, emergency telephones are located every 1.5km for breakdown services; ask for Strassenwachthilfe . Phones connect to Germany’s principal automobile organization, Allegmeiner Deutscher Automobil Club (ADAC; breakdown line 01802/22 22 22; adac.de), affiliated to the British AA, American AAA and Canadian CA, though check the extent of cover with your own breakdown service.

On the road

Driving is on the right, overtaking on the left, and seatbelts compulsory for all, including those on back seats – whoever isn’t wearing one will be fined, a law which extends to taxis though isn’t rigorously enforced. Some states request (but not demand) that headlights are always on when driving. Carrying a reflective hazard-warning triangle is mandatory and should be set up 100m behind the vehicle on the hard shoulder if required. In southern Germany snow chains are a good idea if you intend to venture onto Alpine backroads, but most routes are kept snow-free with grit, salt and snowploughs.

For first-time foreign drivers, remember that anything approaching from the right commands respect and you will be safe – until cities . Here trams have the right of way regardless of their direction. Since tramstops are at the roadside, overtaking stationary trams is forbidden. Pay special attention for pedestrians and cyclists in cities – you might receive a green light to pull away from a junction, but the road you turn into is often green for a pedestrian crossing. So treat every junction with caution and double-check before you turn. Signs for Stadt Mitte (city centre) or Altstadt (old town) lead you to a town’s heart; orange signs announce an Umleitung (diversion), which can lead you a merry dance but gets you there in the end.

Car parks ( Parkhaus ) are generally on the edge of pedestrianized centres, and marked by a blue “P”. While most car parks offer flat-rate overnight parking, some spring surprises – check to avoid a shock in the morning. Street parking is either pay-and-display or free for a specified time beneath a blue P, in which case cardboard “clocks” bought from petrol stations are left on the dashboard to indicate the time of arrival.

Petrol – all Bleifrei (unleaded) and either Super Plus (98 octane) or Super (95 octane) – is available every 50km or so on Autobahnen, where major players are open 24 hours a day. All petrol stations are self-service.

Car rental ( Autovermeitung ) is widely available, with multinational chains operating desks at all airports and either in or around the Hauptbahnhof of most cities. Rack rates are steep – around €80 a day without a promotional deal or a fly-drive deal – and, if you don’t care about the car’s looks, smaller local outfits can be better value.

Taxis – nearly always cream-coloured – will only save money over well-priced public transport if you are in a group; even then savings will be minimal. Available cabs have rooftop lights lit, though it’s rare to hail one on the street. Most gather at city centre ranks, at the edge of the pedestrian centres and inevitably outside the Hauptbahnhof. Fares are metered, priced per kilometre and rise slightly between 11pm and 6am and on Sunday. Some drivers may charge a nominal fee for large items of luggage.

Eco-aware Germany has a shared-car system called Mitfahrzentralen that operates as a form of organized hitchhiking (which is otherwise not recommended). Agencies in cities connect drivers with passengers, who usually split fuel costs. Most agencies publish searchable online journeys lists, many of them international – and since all drivers are required to provide details of addresses and registration numbers, the ride should be safe. Prices vary according to passenger numbers, but you can expect to pay around €35 from Hamburg to Berlin. Check websites mitfahrzentrale.de, www.blablacar.de, mfz.de and drive2day.de for rides.

Cyclists have an easy ride in Germany: many small roads have dedicated cycle-paths, as do cities where cycle lanes are often built into the pavement. When you are forced onto the road in towns you will be treated with respect by drivers rather than rammed into the curb. A network of long-distance cycle-paths, often following major rivers, such as the Elbe, Danube or Rhine, make cycling between destinations an appealing prospect were it not for the distances involved – Germany is deceptively large by European standards. However, all trains bar ICE services, accommodate bikes so long as you have purchased an additional Fahrrad-Karte (bicycle ticket), which costs €9 (or €6.50 with a rail card) on IC and EC services, which generally have a dedicated carriage, and €4.50 or free on local services and the S-Bahn, depending on the state. You’ll also find bike racks on the buses in popular touring areas such as Rügen or Sylt, and bikes are permitted on just about all ferry services. All cyclists must ride with front and back lights at night.

Bike rental is widely available in cities, usually from the Hauptbahnhof; the Deutsche Bahn website lists contact details for fifty Fahrrad-Vermietstationen (bike rental stations). A highly convenient innovation introduced and run by DB is CallBikes. Silver-and-red bicycles can be rented at any time of day for €0.08 per minute (up to €15 per 24hr period), with no deposit or minimum charge. Users need to register a credit card (0700/05 22 55 22, callabike.de). Once you’ve registered, it’s just a matter of calling the individual number on the side of a bike and receiving an electronic code to open the lock; the obligatory registration of your mobile phone means your account will be automatically debited when you call. To drop the bike off you can leave it on any street corner then ring up for a code to lock the bike and leave its location as a recorded message. Participating cities are Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, Munich, Stuttgart and Karlsruhe. Otherwise, hostels are an excellent source of bike rental, or many cycle shops offer rental for around €10–15 a day; enquire at local tourist offices.

Municipal transport in Germany is almost always efficient and fairly priced. The cornerstones of most systems in major cities are two rail systems, supplemented on the streets by buses and trams. Once on board any of them, illuminated signs and announcements ensure it’s easy to find the right stop. Tickets are available from machines at stations, on trams or from bus drivers – but be sure to validate them by punching the ticket when you travel. An un-validated ticket is as good as no ticket at all and will result in a fine at spot-checks.

The mainstay of most city-centre systems is the U-Bahn , which is clean, punctual and rarely crowded. Running both under- and overground, these cover much of the centre: trains tend to run from 4am to around 12.30am, and all night on Friday and Saturday in the metropolises. Out of these hours, their routes are usually covered by night buses – denoted by a number with the prefix “N”. The S-Bahn systems are a separate network of suburban trains that run largely overground, and are better for covering long distances fast, with generally larger distances between each stop. Within small and medium-sized towns, the tram or bus replaces the U-Bahn as the heart of city transport, operating a network of circuits. Otherwise, the modus operandi remains the same, the only exception being that you may have to buy tickets direct from the driver rather than from a vending machine at your stop.

Transport networks are usually divided into zones – A, B, C or 1, 2, 3, etc – and ticket prices vary according to their reach. Basic singles are called Einzeltickets , or you can usually buy a cheaper Kurzstrecke , a short-trip ticket that permits travel for a limited number of stops (no return journeys or transfers). Buying a day-ticket ( Tageskarte ) will generally work out cheaper still – look out for group tickets ( Gruppenkarten ). Another possibility for short-term city visitors are the cards promoted by city tourist offices that provide 48 or 72 hours’ unlimited travel alongside discounted entry to city sights. If not named after its city, it is often called a Welcome Card.

The Rough Guides to Germany and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Germany

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Germany

• Eating and drinking in Germany
• Travel Tips Germany for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in Germany
• How to get to Germany
• Shopping tips for Germany
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Germany
• Travelling with children in Germany
• Best time to visit Germany

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 27.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Germany?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice
• Where to stay

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Newsletters
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides
• Labor Day sales

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Female attacker injures six in stabbing attack on bus in Germany

At least six people have been injured, three of them critically, in a stabbing on board a bus in the western German city of Siegen, police said on Friday evening.

A 32-year-old female suspect has been arrested, police said.

Another person suffered serious injuries, it said.

At least 40 people were on the bus travelling to a city festival in Siegen, located some 75 kilometres east of Cologne, when the attack occurred at around 7:40 pm (1740 GMT), according to the police statement.

Several passengers alerted the police and officers arrested the suspect, a German national.

The motive of the crime remained initially unclear. Police said there was no indication of a terrorist attack.

Germany's Bild tabloid reported that the attacker may have been suffering from mental health issues.

The incident comes exactly one week after the fatal stabbing in the western German city of Solingen, where a knife-wielding attacker killed three people and injured eight.

The suspected perpetrator, a 26-year-old Syrian citizen, is in custody. The Islamic State terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the crime, although German authorities are still investigating the credibility of the claim.

Police in Siegen appealed to citizens "not to spread false reports on social networks or other channels, and in particular not to make any reference to a terrorist attack."

There was no information suggesting such a motive, they added.

Police were still on site on Friday evening. The crime scene has been cordoned off, evidence is being secured and witnesses are being questioned, according to the statement.

The bus was part of a special service to allow more people to travel to the festival marking the city's 800th birthday this weekend.

Organizers expressed concern about security after the attack in Solingen. The existing security concept and operational planning had been scrutinized once again, Siegen Mayor Steffen Mues was quoted as saying on the city festival website. "Not cancelling the city festival is also a sign of democracy and freedom," he said.

Visitors to the city festival are not allowed to carry knives, according to the city's website.

Recommended Stories

Michigan head coach sherrone moore still not under contract 7 months after promotion: report.

Sherrone Moore will reportedly make his debut as Michigan's full-time head coach without a contract.

US Open 2024: Frances Tiafoe defeats Ben Shelton in thrilling US Open rematch

The veteran took the All-American rematch at the US Open.

Clippers C Ivica Zubac agrees to 3-year, $58.6 million extension: Report

Zubac has quietly been one of the NBA's better centers over the past few years.

Aptly named Peace Vans ready to build the 2025 ID.Buzz you're looking for

Peace Vans has worked with Volkswagen for six months to develop three camping kits for the 2025 ID.Buzz, the options serving weekenders and overlanders.

Top court orders ban on Elon Musk's X in Brazil

A top court in Brazil ordered an immediate, country-wide suspension of the X platform on Friday after a months-long legal battle with Elon Musk's social media company over content moderation, according to Bloomberg. Earlier this month, X closed its operations in Brazil in protest against court orders asking it to remove accounts that allegedly spread misinformation. At the time, the company said Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes "threatened our legal representative in Brazil with arrest if we do not comply with his censorship orders."

Trump continues to tinker with his stance on abortion and IVF

Former president Donald Trump has shifted his messaging on reproductive rights issues in recent days. Here's a look at his recent flip-flopping.

Amazon's Labor Day sale: Grab an Apple iPad at its lowest price ever and more amazing deals

Plus, score rare markdowns on an iRobot Roomba, Ring video doorbell, kitchenware, fall fashion and more.

California AI bill SB 1047 aims to prevent AI disasters, but Silicon Valley warns it will cause one

Outside of sci-fi films, there's no precedent for AI systems killing people or being used in massive cyberattacks. A California bill, known as SB 1047, tries to stop real-world disasters caused by AI systems before they happen. It passed the state's senate in August, and now awaits an approval or veto from California Governor Gavin Newsom.

Best credit cards for cruises for September 2024

Ready to set sail? Make sure you have one of these best credit cards for booking cruises in your wallet first.

Amazon's popular Fire TV Kids tablet is $55 — that's 40% off — for Labor Day

Calling parents and grandparents! Designed for ages 3-7, this is a ridiculously good deal — and not just because of the amazing warranty.

This rich mom-style sweatshirt 'rivals Lululemon,' but it's $20 (over 60% off)

Effortless, frugal style on the go: This on-trend half-zip pullover costs nearly 6 times less than its splurgier counterpart.

Best Chase credit cards for September 2024

Chase offers some of the most competitive credit card rewards and benefits today. These are our top picks for the best Chase credit cards.

Best American Express credit cards for September 2024

Whether you’re looking for cash back, travel rewards, an intro 0% APR, or anything in between, the best Amex cards have something for almost everyone.

Best hotel credit cards for September 2024

Planning your next vacation? Earn rewards, free nights, elite status, and more with these top hotel credit cards.

The org behind the dataset used to train Stable Diffusion claims it has removed CSAM

LAION, the German research org that created the data used to train Stable Diffusion, among other generative AI models, has released a new dataset that it claims has been "thoroughly cleaned of known links to suspected child sexual abuse material (CSAM)." The new dataset, Re-LAION-5B, is actually a re-release of an old dataset, LAION-5B -- but with "fixes" implemented with recommendations from the nonprofit Internet Watch Foundation, Human Rights Watch, the Canadian Center for Child Protection and the now-defunct Stanford Internet Observatory.

Never stare at ugly cords again, with this $24 gadget from Amazon

More than 50,000 five-star fans say it clears cable clutter and makes plugs easier to access in tight spaces.

Fundraising is a lot easier when you have traction

Now one of its proposed new backers, The London Fund, has been found to be scrubbing its web page, and the saga is likely not over. Board pressure: Ailing startup Fluid Truck, a Zipcar for commercial trucks, saw its board oust its sibling co-founders amid allegations of mismanaging funds, sources said. Exec shuffles: AI expert Andrew Ng stepped down as CEO of Landing AI, the computer vision company he co-founded, which will now be headed by ex-COO Dan Maloney.

'Sneakers look like new': Save your soles with these No. 1 bestselling sponges

Fans say the 'Shark Tank' doodads, just $12 for a 10-pack, return grimy shoes to their fresh-from-the-box glory.

Best Labor Day mattress sales: Save up to 50% on Nest, Casper, Serta and Purple

Don't sleep on these deals: $1,200 off a cooling top-seller from Nectar, up to $700 off Tempur-Pedic and more back-saving buys.

Labor Day sale discounts a four-pack of AirTags to $75

Labor Day sale discounts a four-pack of AirTags to $75. That’s around 25 percent off.