Germany is a European country with the official name of the Federal Republic of Germany. It is located in the central-west portion of Europe with Denmark bordering it on the north, Poland and the Czech Republic in the east, Austria and Switzerland in the south and France, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands in the west.
Germany consists of 16 federal states with a population of around 82.8 million. Whether for weekend trips, city breaks or longer vacations – Germany has something for everyone.
From the North Sea with its idyllic islands to the majestic Alps in the south, Germany is a paradise for nature lovers. Hikers love the Black Forest and Saxon Switzerland, while cyclists can cycle along the Moselle.
Fancy a city break? Berlin with its hip art and music scene, Hamburg with its maritime flair, Munich with its Bavarian coziness or Cologne with its impressive cathedral – each city has its own charm and offers unforgettable experiences.
The history of Germany can be felt in places such as the Berlin Wall, Neuschwanstein Castle or the medieval alleyways of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Numerous museums and galleries, such as the Museum Island in Berlin, offer endless cultural treasures.
Germany is not just the land of beer and pretzels! You simply have to try the regional specialties such as Bavarian Weißwurst breakfast, Swabian Maultaschen or North German fish dishes. Not forgetting the world-famous Christmas markets with mulled wine and gingerbread!
Highlights that a vacationer should not miss are, for example:
Romantic Road: A picturesque route through charming towns and villages.
Black Forest: Ideal for hikers and nature lovers.
Oktoberfest: Experience the Bavarian joie de vivre!
Berlin cultural scene: Museums, street art and exciting history.
Wine regions: Enjoy excellent wines in the Palatinate or on the Rhine
Destinations in Germany sorted by federal state
Holiday in Baden-Württemberg
Baden-Württemberg, Germany's sunny south, is a state full of diversity that has something to offer every type of traveler. Vacations in Baden-Württemberg are varied and relaxing.
Bavaria is one of the most popular vacation regions in Germany. A vacation in Bavaria is an experience at any time of year. From sightseeing to hiking through the imposing mountains, from a vacation by the lake to a vacation on a farm - traditional customs meet trendy vacation offers, everyone will find their favorite…
Berlin is not only the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany, but also an independent federal state. Around 3.4 million people live here in the area of the Spree and Havel rivers. Many visitors are enthusiastic about a city trip to Berlin every year.
Brandenburg, the federal state surrounding the German capital Berlin, is a true paradise for anyone looking to relax in nature, discover historic cities or simply enjoy a break from everyday life.
The federal state of Bremen, consisting of the cities of Bremen and Bremerhaven, is the smallest federal state in Germany, but offers an impressive variety of experiences. Both cities are surrounded by the federal state of Lower Saxony.
Hamburg is a city that has a lot to offer visitors. With its mix of culture, history, music, cuisine and nature, it is a versatile destination that is suitable for both short city breaks and longer stays.
In the heart of Germany, surrounded by 6 federal states, lies the federal state of Hesse with the state capital Wiesbaden. With its mix of vibrant cities, idyllic landscapes and historical sights, Hesse offers something special for every type of vacation.
Lower Saxony, a state full of contrasts and unforgettable experiences! Here you will find authentic experiences and people who are passionate about their homeland. Let yourself be inspired and experience a vacation that you will remember for a long time to come.
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is located in the north-east of Germany. The region delights travelers with its diversity. Whether you are looking for the tranquillity of nature, want to discover cultural treasures or simply want to relax on the beach - everyone will find the right experience here.
North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), the most populous federal state in Germany, is an incredibly diverse travel destination. The state borders Lower Saxony to the north and north-east, Hesse to the south-east, Rhineland-Palatinate to the south and Belgium and the Netherlands to the west.
The federal state of Rhineland-Palatinate is located in the southwest of Germany with the state capital Mainz. The state is one of the most diverse and beautiful regions in Germany and offers something special for every type of vacation. Whether nature, culture, wine or history - there are numerous reasons why a vacation in Rhineland-Palatinate…
Saxony is one of the most culturally and scenically diverse regions in Germany. Whether it's impressive architecture, fascinating museums, delicious food or breathtaking nature - Saxony has it all.
Saxony-Anhalt is a multifaceted travel destination that combines nature, history, culture and enjoyment in a unique way. For anyone who enjoys hiking, cultural sights, good food and wine, Saxony-Anhalt is an absolute insider tip.
Schleswig-Holstein is the northernmost federal state in Germany. Nestled between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, this region offers a unique mix of coastal landscapes, cultural highlights and culinary delights. Whether beach vacation, active vacation or cultural discovery trips - Schleswig-Holstein has something for everyone.
By plane
Germany has several international airports that are well connected worldwide. The largest airports are
Frankfurt am Main: One of the largest hubs in Europe.
Munich: Perfect for traveling to the south of Germany.
Berlin Brandenburg: Ideal for the capital and the east.
Düsseldorf and Hamburg: For the west and north of Germany.
There are numerous direct flights to Germany from the east coast of the USA, e.g. from New York (JFK) or Boston (BOS) to Frankfurt or Munich.
By train
Germany is known for its excellent rail network. Thanks to its central location in Europe, you can travel comfortably on high-speed trains such as the ICE or international trains such as the Eurostar or Thalys.
By car
For travelers from Europe, arriving by car is a flexible option. Germany is well connected by highways (including the famous sections without speed limits).
By bus
International long-distance buses such as FlixBus connect Germany with many European cities. This option is often cheaper than train or plane and offers a direct connection to many German cities.
By ferry
For travelers from Scandinavia, there are ferry connections to Germany, e.g. from Sweden or Denmark. Ports such as Kiel, Travemünde or Rostock are important ports of call.
Entry, Visa
Entry requirements
Entry and visa requirements for Germany for EU citizens
As an EU citizen, you can enter and stay in Germany without a visa or special formalities. This also applies to citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) and Switzerland.
You need a valid passport or identity card. The document must be valid on the day of entry.
There is no time limit for your stay in Germany, as EU citizens enjoy the right to freedom of movement.
Entry requirements for non-EU citizens
The entry requirements for non-EU citizens depend on which country you come from and how long you plan to stay:
Short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days)
Citizens of certain countries (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia, Japan) can enter Germany for tourism or business purposes without a visa as long as their stay does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
Citizens of many other countries require a Schengen visa to enter the country. This visa allows you to stay in Germany and other Schengen states for up to 90 days.
Long-term stays (more than 90 days)
For longer stays (e.g. study, work, family reunification), non-EU citizens generally require a national visa, which must be applied for at the German embassy or consulate before entering the country.
Travel documents: A valid passport is required. As a rule, the passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the planned date of departure.
On the way in...
On the road in Germany
By train
The rail network in Germany is one of the best in Europe and seamlessly connects cities, villages and regions.
Deutsche Bahn (DB): Deutsche Bahn operates high-speed trains such as the ICE (Intercity Express), which connects major cities such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt and Hamburg in just a few hours.
Regional trains: Regional trains and suburban trains are available for shorter distances or trips to rural areas.
By car
Germany is known for its highways, many of which have no general speed limit.
Highways and country roads: The road network is excellently developed and enables fast connections between cities and regions.
By plane
For longer distances within Germany, such as from Munich to Hamburg or Berlin to Cologne, domestic flights are a quick option. Major cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich and Düsseldorf have international airports that also offer domestic flights.
By bus
Long-distance buses are an inexpensive alternative to trains or cars.
FlixBus: The largest provider in Germany, connecting almost all cities and many smaller towns.
By bike
Germany is a bicycle-friendly country with many cycle paths and well-signposted routes. The Elbe Cycle Path, the Moselle Cycle Path and routes along the Baltic Sea are particularly popular.
Best time to travel
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May)
Spring is ideal for exploring cities and nature. The temperatures are mild and the landscape awakens with blooming flowers and green meadows. The cherry blossoms in Bonn or the blossoming fruit trees in southern Germany are particularly beautiful.
Temperatures: 5-15 °C on average (March: 5-10 °C, May: 10-20 °C).
Rainy days: Around 10-15 days per month.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the most popular time to travel in Germany. Temperatures are pleasantly warm and there are long days of sunshine.
There are longer periods of fine weather, especially in the east and south-east.
Temperatures: 17-25 °C on average (up to 30 °C in some regions).
Rainy days: Around 8-12 days per month, occasional thunderstorms.
Autumn (September to November)
Temperatures: 10-18 °C on average (September: 15-20 °C, November: 5-10 °C).
Rainy days: Around 10-15 days per month.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is cold, especially in the Alps and low mountain ranges, where snow falls frequently. In the cities it can be rainy and gray, but the Christmas markets bring a special atmosphere.
Temperatures: On average -1 to 5 °C (January: coldest month with 0-1.5 °C).
Rainy days: Around 12-18 days per month, often snow at higher altitudes.
Language
Language
German is spoken.
Money
Money
Germany is part of the eurozone.
Plug
Travel adapter
The following socket types are used in Germany:
Type C (Euro plug): This flat plug is used for devices with low power consumption (e.g. chargers for smartphones).
Type F (Schuko plug): This plug has two round pins and is equipped with earthing. It is used for devices with higher power consumption, such as laptops, hairdryers or kitchen appliances.
Who needs a travel adapter?
EU citizens: Travelers from most European countries do not need an adapter, as many countries also use socket types C and F.
Non-EU citizens:
USA/Canada: In these countries, type A or B is used and the voltage is only 110 V. You will need a travel adapter and possibly a voltage converter if your devices are not designed for 230 V.
Great Britain: Type G is used here. An adapter is required.
Australia/New Zealand: These countries use type I. An adapter is also required here.
