Germany
Germany is a Western European country with a landscape of forests, rivers, mountain ranges and North Sea beaches. It has over 2 millennia of history. Berlin, its capital, is home to art and nightlife scenes, the Brandenburg Gate and many sites relating to WWII. Munich is known for its Oktoberfest and beer halls, including the 16th-century Hofbräuhaus. Frankfurt, with its skyscrapers, houses the European Central Bank, Bavaria has a series of castles, and you can ski in the Alps during the winter months.
It’s one of the safest countries in Europe and a large part of the population speaks English, making your travels easy and stress-free! Whether you’re looking to eat and drink your way around the country or you want to immerse yourself amongst churches, castles, or museums, Germany has something for every traveller.
Below you will find comprehensive guides to the country.
Best Time To Visit
In Germany, the “peak season” runs roughly from May through September. Summer has its advantages: the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, very long days (light until after 21:00), and the busiest schedule of tourist fun. Pack light clothing and expect large crowds if you visit during the summer months.
Travel during spring and fall is easier and can be less expensive.
As for festivals, Oktoberfest takes place from late September to early October, and the famous Christmas Markets begin at the end of November, where you can treat yourself to a German Sausage or some hot Mulled Wine.
For a month by month look, click here
What To Expect
Capital: Berlin
Language: The official language of Germany is German. You will find that most Germans can speak English very well. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in German: “Hallo” and “Danke”
Currency: The currency of Germany is the Euro (EUR). Euro (click here for current conversion rates)
Visa: 90-day Schengen visa on arrival for most nationalities (click here for more info)
Credit Cards & ATMs: Germany is a predominately a cash-focused society, you will have no problem using your credit card when in Germany. ATMs or Cash Machines in Germany are known as Bankomat. Use Google Maps to find ATMs by searching “Bankomat”. DO NOT USE Euronet ATMs, these will charge you a ridiculous amount of commission and a give you a poor exchange rate.
Plugs: For Germany there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type F is the plug which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Germany operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz I recommend buying a Universal Power Adapter
Safety: Germany is one of the safest countries to visit in Europe. You can feel safe going out at night. Safety Rating: Ranked 22 on the Global Peace Index with a score of 1.55
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Germany, reasons to visit Germany, and how to travel Germany on a budget.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Germany
(Note: Germany is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
Tucked away in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle seems straight out of a fairy tale. Commissioned by the reclusive King Ludwig II in the 19th century, this Romanesque revival palace is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Its ornate towers, sprawling balconies, and dramatic mountain backdrop make it one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, visitors can traverse opulent rooms, grand corridors, and admire the king’s vision of a medieval dreamworld. The nearby Hohenschwangau Castle and serene Alpsee lake add to the allure of this enchanting region.
Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate stands as a symbol of unity and hope. Built in the late 18th century and once a symbol of division during the Cold War, it now embodies the spirit of a reunited Germany. Walking beneath its grand neoclassical arches, one is transported back to pivotal moments in history. Nearby, the poignant Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe offers a sobering reflection on the past. The bustling Unter den Linden boulevard, lined with historic buildings and modern cafes, makes for a perfect continuation of a Berlin exploration.
When autumn arrives in Munich, the city bursts into a jubilant festival spirit with Oktoberfest, the world’s most famous beer festival. Thousands gather in traditional Bavarian attire to revel in merriment, with beer mugs in hand, sausages on plates, and folk music in the air. Sprawling tents host enthusiastic crowds where they toast, sing, and dance. Beyond the beer, there are colourful parades, thrilling amusement rides, and artisanal craft stalls. While Oktoberfest is emulated worldwide, nothing quite matches the authenticity and zest of celebrating it in its homeland.
The Rhine River, with its meandering course, is the essence of romantic Germany. A cruise along this river offers unparalleled views of medieval castles, terraced vineyards, and quaint villages. The Lorelei Rock, a steep slate rock on the river bank, is enveloped in legends and provides a dramatic highlight to the journey. Along the way, stops in historic towns like Rüdesheim and Koblenz offer delightful detours, with local wines, cobblestone streets, and regional folklore adding to the charm.
The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, is a vast expanse of wooded hills in southwestern Germany. Its dark fir trees, misty valleys, and folkloric tales make it a mystical destination. Hiking or cycling through its scenic trails often leads to serene waterfalls, secluded lakes, and traditional farmhouses. The region is renowned for its cuckoo clocks, cherry cakes, and thermal spas. A stay in towns like Baden-Baden or Freiburg, with their half-timbered houses and bustling markets, encapsulates the timeless appeal of the Black Forest.
Our Favourite Experiences
Check out our favourite experiences in Germany that should be on your list!
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