“Beautiful is everything one looks at with love.”
Christian Morgenstern, German author and poet
Top Six Destinations In Germany
- Berlin: The vibrant capital city is known for its rich history, from the remnants of the Berlin Wall to iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate. Berlin is also a hub for modern art, music, and nightlife.
- Munich: Renowned for its annual Oktoberfest celebration, Munich is a city where tradition meets innovation. The Marienplatz and the stunning Nymphenburg Palace are must-see highlights.
- Hamburg: Germany’s major port city boasts a lively harbor area and the picturesque Speicherstadt district with its historic warehouses. The Elbphilharmonie concert hall is an architectural marvel and a cultural hotspot.
- Cologne: Home to the impressive Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this city on the Rhine River offers a rich medieval history and vibrant cultural scenes. The annual Cologne Carnival adds a lively touch to the city’s atmosphere.
- Heidelberg: Known for its romantic, fairy-tale charm, Heidelberg is famous for its picturesque old town and the Heidelberg Castle overlooking the Neckar River. The city’s university adds a youthful vibrancy to the historic setting.
- Dresden: This city, often called the “Florence on the Elbe,” is renowned for its stunning baroque architecture, including the rebuilt Frauenkirche and the Zwinger Palace. Dresden’s art collections and cultural events make it a cultural treasure.
If you are looking for an informative and fun activity, we recommend exploring the best of Germany with Free Walking Tours! With their passionate local guides, you can discover history, culture, and hidden gems.
Did you know?
Country Stats
- Population: 83.8 million
- Capital City: Berlin
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Government type: Federal Parliamentary Republic
- Chancellor: Angela Merkel
- Ethnic groups: German 87.2%, other 12.8%
- Languages: German (official)
- Religions: Roman Catholic 27.7%, Protestant 25.5%, Muslim 5.1%, other 5.9%, none 37.8%
- U.S. State Department Risk Level: 2 Terrorism
- Terrorist groups: Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sam (2019)
- GDP 3.846 trillion Ranks #1 Europe
- Germany has 16 constituent states.
- Germany has the largest population in Europe.
- It is one of the largest car producers in the world.
- Germany is the second most popular ex-pat destination in the world.
- Nine countries share borders with Germany.
- The legal drinking age is 16
- Most highways do not have speed limits.
- Germany has high levels of employment.
- German is the third most widely taught language in the world.
- Public consumption of alcohol is permitted, but NO smoking in public spaces.
- Major industries include automotive, healthcare, and medical industries, electronics, eco-energy, I.T., machinery, and aviation.
- Germany invented the light bulb, calculator, automobile, insulin, pocket watch, motorcycle, jet engine, walkman, contact lenses, printing press, clarinet, and electron microscope.
- Germany has one of the lowest birth rates in the world.
- Life expectancy is 81 years old.
- The literacy rate is 99%.
Fun Facts
- Germany is the world’s biggest consumer of meat per capita.
- Germany was the first country to adopt daylight savings time in 1916.
- The capital of Berlin has more bridges than Venice.
- The popular European drink Fanta originated in Germany.
- Prison escape is not punishable by law as it is a basic human instinct to be free.
- A college education is free to all, even international students.
- Germany is referred to as the land of poets and thinkers.
- 86% of adults have completed some form of secondary education.
- Germany is the second-largest beer consumer in Europe. More than 1,200 breweries are producing over 5,000 brands of German beer.
- Munich Oktoberfest is the world’s biggest folk festival.
- Germany leads in Climate and Energy policies.
- It is illegal to run out of gas on the autobahn. Keep your tank fueled!
- 104 Nobel laureates have been from Germany.
- Albert Einstein was born in Germany.
- Football (soccer) is the main sport.
- The Christmas tree tradition came from Germany.
- In 2017, Amazon.com accounts for 50% of Germany’s online retail sales.
- The most popular food is sausage.
- The Black Forest in Southern Germany is home to the Cuckoo clock.
- Beethoven was born in the city of Bonn in 1770.
- Germany surrendered in 1945 during WW2.
- There are over 20,000 castles in Germany.
- The first book ever printed came from Germany.
- Germany shares a rich history with the Holy Roman Empire.
- Hamburgers came from the city of Hamburg.
- Chinese checkers were invented in Germany.
Germany Map
Good to know before you go
Tipping in Germany is varied. In restaurants, round up to the nearest euro or add a few euros for good service. Cash is the preferred way to leave a tip. In hotels, it is customary to tip the porter and housekeeper. 1-3 euros per bag, and for housekeeping, 3-5 euros per night. If the concierge provides service, you can tip 10-20 euros. Taxi drivers round up to the next euro. Tips are not required, but 5% is customary.
Cash is the main form of currency. 74% of payments are in cash, so have plenty! This is unique to Germany compared to other European nations.
Overall, the clothing is stylish and well-kept. They typically dress Western, and jeans are common. Men and women wear simple dark suits for business. Each region has its traditional costume.
Driving and the Roads
Highways and roadways are known to be excellent. There is good signage, and though Germans can drive fast, they are respectful. If you go slower, stay to the right.
There are many traffic and street cameras around, though this is not a country that issues many speeding tickets.
In Germany, you can order a beer with your fingers. A thumb raised is one beer, a thumb and index finger two, and so on.
Beer is German life. It is a beer-loving nation.
Germany has terrific bread. It plays a cultural role in their lives. There are over 300 varieties.
Germany has over 400 zoos, more than any other country on earth. The most famous Zoo Berlin is well worth a visit.
German culture
German culture is rich in literature, arts, cuisine, and architecture. It has the most cultural activities than any country in the world. Much of the influence comes from their strong Christian values and philosophies. Seek these out when in any city or community.
This is a country that plays by the rules. Respect the rules.
When crossing streets, do so at the lights and only when green. Rule breakers are not welcome.
Know your transport zone. If you cross a different zone, your ticket must account for that. Ticket checkers will not have sympathy for tourists.
Be punctual; timekeeping is important to the German people.
This is a nation that strongly encourages recycling.
I’m going to repeat this to emphasize that cash is king. Carry lots. However, in 2023, we used our credit cards a lot, so times are changing.
Sunday is a day of rest; you will find stores, shops, supermarkets, and pharmacies closed.
Music is classical, romantic, and modern. The world’s greatest composers come from Germany: Beethoven, Bach, Brahms, and Handel Schubert. There are music festivals throughout Germany year-round. They draw international guests to their Opera houses.
Germany’s strongest trait is they take care of each other.
Most Germans speak excellent English, but we encourage you to learn the basic words out of respect.
It is a very safe country. Crime rates are low, and the law is respected.
When to go to Germany
Germany is a top-rated destination for bordering nine E.U. countries as well as international tourists. It is primarily landlocked in western Europe. The country has two major climatic regions: the maritime north and the Continental south. There is a good climate overall, which makes it a year-round destination: peak tourist season, June-August, which can be crowded. The shoulder seasons are spring and fall season.
Summers stay mild, which draws many people there in the summer. It does rain in the summer months, so plan rain gear accordingly. The Winter months are the low season, and some areas could be challenging to get to or closed, but the Christmas markets and festivals draw many visitors. The best time to visit is from April to June and September/October. You will find fewer crowds, lovely weather, and easy access to most sights. Germany is known for its beautiful fall colors and its vibrant spring colors. The Black Forest and Bavarian Forest’s coniferous alpines are spectacular, along with fantastic flora and fauna.
Spring and Fall can still be cool, but a jacket takes care of that. Germany is a more affordable country, especially in peak travel months. Traveling during the non-peak months when the weather is still mild will result in much better pricing overall.
- Summer 5-77 °F (12-25 °C)
- Spring 34-67 °F (1-19 °C)
- Fall 37-67 °F (3-19 °C)
- Winter 29-41 °F (-1-5 °C)
Our Favorite German Resources
This resource section contains some Amazon affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!
Travel Books/Guides
Germany was part of a seven-country trip, so we only used one guide for most countries. Rick Steves has always been our go-to, and Germany was the case as well.
Lonely Planet’s Germany (Country Guide) by Lonely Planet
A passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice, the highlights Germany has to offer, and what hidden discoveries await you. Explore the wonder of Berlin, tour some of the most beautiful castles in Europe, and sail along the gorgeous Rhine – all with your trusted travel companion. Detailed info to plan your visit to this amazing country. Discover this travel guide here.
Rick Steves Germany 2020 Illustrated 2019 Paperback
We cannot recommend this book enough; it is the perfect German resource. The guide is full of great info and detailed strategic guidance to help you both plan every detail. For history buffs, it provides just the right amount of background to tickle your fancy. With Germany being so rich in castles, it does a nice job describing the best ones to visit. It guides you to authentic experiences in quaint villages, forests, and modern cities. Discover this wonderful travel guide here.
Our Favorite Websites
2. U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs German Country Info
We cannot encourage you enough to visit this website as you plan and prepare for your trip. This is the U.S. Federal Government addressing the safety, security, travel risk, entry, exit, visa documents mandates, emergency U.S. and Embassy contacts, health, local laws, special circumstances, threats, traveler vulnerabilities, government warnings, and transportation in Germany. This is your best and most reliable resource for all this important info. Check back often before you go, as things can change quickly. Being prepared is essential in all travel, but especially internationally.
Germany International Travel Information (state.gov)
3. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers Health Resource
This CDC travel resource provides essential health info for your specific destination. Using their tool, you can determine which vaccines, medications, and health advice recommendations are needed for Germany.
CDC’s Travelers Health Page for Germany
Our Favorite Maps
Germany National Geographic Map 3312
This is a great map. It’s easy to read and has practical road and travel information. Castles and all major destinations were marked. Though we default to Google Maps, this came in handy when service was poor or during construction detours. It is waterproof and tear-resistant. Find this essential map here.
Our Favorite Apps
Rome2rio: Trip Planner Trip and Holiday Organizer. Enter any address, landmark, or city in the App will instantly display all your travel options, booking info, accommodation providers, and things to do. Find it on your local App Store.
Rick Steves Audio Europe This App includes a vast library of Rick Steve’s audio content. Get cultural and travel info. Includes self-guided tours of top attractions and historic walks. A must-have. Find it on your local App Store.
Google Translate We often use this to practice the proper pronunciation of German words. As we always encourage, learning the basics of greeting and thanking people in the local language is essential. Google Translate was an easy app to use. If needed, you can enter text in English, which will speak back in German to aid in communicating with locals. Furthermore, it came in very handy to translate text into images instantly.
Learn German Phrases for Travel. Found at your app store. Easily practice basic phrases needed during travel.
Do you have a favorite German travel resource? Share your favorites in the comments section at the bottom of this page or
Flights, Accommodations, and Everything You Need to Book in One Place
Are you planning a vacation this year? Start your research early to explore your options and find what fits your budget. By booking your own travel, you’ll uncover great deals and have complete control over your itinerary. The links below can be used for all elements of your trip, not just accommodations.
It is essential to price out accommodations on various sites. Expedia is a US-based company, whereas Booking.com is Europe-based. Not all properties appear on both, so it is ideal to check both out. Our personal first choice is Booking.com. If the establishment has a website, check the price there as well. Click the link below to check out hotels and vacation homes in the area. It may be just the motivation you need to start planning that next grand adventure.
© 2025 Wanderers Compass All Rights Reserved
Our Germany Photo Gallery
Our Top Recommended Travel Products
Travel Insurance
Squaremouth.com
Our favorite travel insurance site!
We strongly advocate for comprehensive travel insurance, not only for minor inconveniences but also for major, unexpected events like medical emergencies. We never leave home without it. Our go-to resource is Squaremouth.com. which offers a user-friendly platform that connects you with top-rated, reputable insurance carriers. Plus, they’ll mediate on your behalf if you run into any issues.
To empower you as a consumer, we recommend you read our blog post on why travel insurance is essential and how to secure the best coverage from leading companies at an affordable price.
MedjetAssist
Medical transport back home from anywhere in the world
Medjet is a leading provider of global air medical transport. Unlike traditional travel insurance, which typically covers medical evacuation to the nearest facility, Medjet goes further by ensuring you’re transported back to the U.S. to the hospital of your choice once you’re stable enough to fly. Medjet offers membership plans that focus on medical transport, while Medjet Horizon provides expanded coverage for broader protection. Individual trip policies start at just $99, and annual policies are available for around $300. Most policies have an age limit of 74.
To learn more about how Medical Evacuation membership with Medjet Assist works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.
Accommodations and Airfare
Booking.com
Hotels, Home rentals, BNBs, Flights, and other Transportation & Tours
Booking.com connects millions of travelers to unforgettable experiences, a wide range of transportation options, and incredible places to stay—from homes to hotels and beyond. As one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces, it supports well-known brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes. For its convenience, variety, and reliability, it’s our preferred booking platform.
Transportation
Expedia and VRBO
Hotels, home rentals, BNBs, flights, and other transportation & tours
Expedia is a U.S.-based company with a mission to make global travel accessible to everyone, everywhere. At Wanderers Compass, we embrace independent travel, and platforms like Expedia are essential to making that a reality. Expedia allows you to book every aspect of your trip—from flights and accommodations to rental cars, cruises, and activities—making it a one-stop shop for all your travel needs.
Daytrip
Personalized city-to-city private car transfer service
Daytrip provides an affordable private car service for city-to-city transfers worldwide, and we absolutely love their service. It’s a cost-effective alternative to renting a car, providing comfortable, stress-free travel with the bonus of scenic stops along the way. For example, we used Daytrip for travel between Budapest and Vienna, enjoying some fantastic detours to local attractions. With professional drivers and customizable routes, Daytrip ensures a smooth ride while allowing you to explore hidden gems and unique sights along your journey.
To learn more about how Daytrip, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.
Travel Experiences
Viator
The leading marketplace for travel experiences
Viator believes that travel is all about creating unforgettable memories. With over 300,000 experiences to choose from—ranging from simple tours to extreme adventures, plus a wide array of unique, niche activities—it’s never been easier to make lasting memories. We frequently use Viator during our travels and especially appreciate their flexible cancellation policy, which adds peace of mind to every booking.
Communication products for seamless connectivity overseas
GigSky International eSIM Data Plans
Local Prices. No Roaming. Fastest Networks.
GigSky eSIM effortlessly connects travelers around the globe, eliminating the need to swap physical SIM cards or deal with surprise roaming charges. With affordable data plans and instant activation, you can enjoy reliable internet access in over 190 countries, making your travel experience more convenient than ever. Plus, they offer a fantastic deal: a free 100 MB data plan with no credit card required. They are so confident that you will love their service!
Enjoy 10% off all GigSky Plans (except cruise and inflight) with our discount code WCOMPASS10.
To learn more about how GigSky works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.
Shopping
Wanderers Compass Amazon Storefront
An excellent source for all travel essentials and guides that we have vetted ourselves
Amazon is one of the world’s most comprehensive online shopping platforms, offering lower prices, a wide selection, and fast delivery through teams worldwide.
This page contains affiliate links. When you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your ongoing support!
Want to learn about Wanderers Compass?
Check out some of our most recent posts.
