Traveling to Germany: Tips and Advice

Germany is becoming more and more popular among international tourists as a travel destination. No wonder, the country has a lot to offer.

Germany features a wonderful variety of landscapes and scenery ranging from sandy coasts to Alpine mountains. Wherever you go, there is history, architecture, and local culture to delight any traveler. 

Grömitz Marina

Grömitz beach

Almost every town or city in Germany features interesting castles, palaces, churches, museums, and other historic attractions. They are filled with art treasures as well as fine dining and irresistible shops.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Frauenkirche Dresden

                           

Germany is also a very tourist and traveler friendly country. It is easy to travel in a safe and comfortable environment.

Carl's Square in Heidelberg

The People

The German people are polite and generous, and are also great hosts. They will try to help if they spot you are in any difficulty. They value order, privacy, punctuality, hard work and industriousness.

The Language

Obviously, German is the official language in Germany and the most widely spoken one as well. However, you should be aware that there are many different regional accents and dialects that are spoken throughout the country, although High German (Hochdeutsch) is understood everywhere. Many Germans especially in tourist areas speak English; still some basic knowledge of the language will be of great help during your stay in Germany.

The German Food

Though most people don’t go to Germany only for the food, there are delicious dishes to be eaten here. Germany is famous for its hearty and regional dishes. Each region has its own specialty dishes and traditional cuisine. Before you order at a restaurant, ask what’s local so you can try the regional dishes.

The Preparation

When preparing for travel to Germany, it is important to gather in advance all required documentations and other travel necessities for your trip. This will help your trip run smoothly. Here are some tips to consider:

1.       Documents

Visa requirements when traveling to Germany vary from country to country. Germany is part of the EU and the Schengen Area, and as such nationals from other EU member states do not need a visa to enter the country. For the other countries outside the EU and the Schengen Area, citizens of these certain countries are obliged to obtain a Schengen Visa in order to enter Germany and the Schengen Zone. It is advisable to get more information directly to the German Embassy located in your country.

It is important that you have your passport in order, identifiable picture according to the standard and health insurance that will cover the days of your stay in this country. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the arrival date.

2.       Money

Travelers should carry Euros or Credit Cards while in the country. International ATM machines are readily available throughout Germany, allowing most travelers to withdraw Euros. Money Changers are also available in the Airport and at the other main Train stations.

          

3.      Medications

If you are carrying an adequate supply of prescribed medicine with you while traveling to Germany, it is advisable to keep the drugs in the original prescription bottle or container with your name on it. It is better to have a written prescription from your Physician, for customs reason.

4.      Clothing

Depending on when your trip is scheduled, make sure to take warm winter gear or comfortable summer clothing. Temperatures during winter months average between 21 and 35 F, while summer typically sees temperatures in the mid to upper 60sF. Pack a light rain and wind-jacket for any visit, as rain and wind is common occurrence year round.

5.       Other Items

You may need an electrical adapter for your cellphone charger or laptop computer brought from your country, if you wish them to bring and use them in Germany. The electric current here is 230 volts and 50 hertz.

Getting to Germany

There are a number of ways to get into Germany. From neighboring European countries, a drive with the car or a train ride is feasible; visitors from further away will probably be using air travel.

Germany’s major airports are in Frankfurt, Munich and Düsseldorf, with flights arriving from all over the world. Most direct flights arrive in Frankfurt in west-central Germany. Travelers can also fly into Berlin, Hamburg and a number of smaller airports around the country.

Once in Germany, visitors can easily travel through the country on the Deutsche Bahn’s (Germany’s railway system) extensive network of stations.

Traveling around Germany

Germany has an excellent public transport system. The network of trains, trams, subways and buses takes you everywhere. The railway system is very well developed and reliable. You can reach almost every city in Germany and neighboring country by train. However, this is also the most expensive option.

If you’re on a budget, buses can also be a great way to see the country. They are cheap, comfortable and a good option.

Top Destinations in Germany

Heidelberg - is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. The picturesque ensemble of the castle, the old Town, and the river Neckar, surrounded by hills, fascinates millions of visitors from all over the world.

Dresden – a beautiful city rich in art treasures, history and legend. The city was known as the Jewel Box, because of its baroque and rococo city centre.

Lake Constance (Bodensee) – an extremely beautiful corner of Central Europe, it boasts water sports and beautiful towns and villages to be seen by the visitor.

The Baltic Coast (Ostseeküste) – miles of sandy beaches and resorts with picturesque islands such as Rügen.

 Bavarian Alps (Bayerische Alpen) – home to the world famous Neuschwanstein Castle, and Germany’s best skiing and snowboarding resorts, endless hiking and mountain biking.

The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) – a region with wide mountain peaks, panoramic views, it is a heaven for tourists and hikers.