GermanyThings to Know

Germany is located in Central Europe and has 16 Bundeslander (states), with Berlin as its capital. A country brimming with history and culture, Germany is one of Europe's most popular destinations. Its rich history and internationalism make it unlike anywhere you've ever been. Its turbulent history brings a wealth of historical attractions, like the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, Bundestag, and Cologne Cathedral, and stunning natural landscapes such as the Black Forest and Rhine Valley.

How much does a Germany vacation typically cost?

A vacation in Germany can vary in cost, depending on factors such as the length of the trip, location, type of transport and level of accommodation. For instance, despite being the capital, Berlin has long been regarded as one of the more affordable capital cities in Europe, whereas cities such as Munich or Hamburg are generally more expensive. 

For a 7-day trip to Germany, travellers can expect to spend between $50 - $200 per day, depending on their particular budget. Goway's Destination Specialists can help create the perfect German vacation for any budget.

Is Germany LGBTQ+ friendly?

Germany is considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Europe, with cities such as Berlin and Cologne being renowned as hubs for German LGBTQ+ culture, from vibrant nightlife to pride parades and cultural events as well as activism. While rural areas of Germany may still be more traditional, pride events can be found throughout most German cities, and same-sex marriage is legal across the country.

Can I drink the tap water in Germany?

Yes, tap water is perfectly safe to drink in Germany, however, most Germans prefer to drink bottled sparkling water. If you ask for water at a restaurant, you should specify tap water, which will be free; otherwise, you will have to pay. Most restaurants in Germany will serve sparkling water by default, so you should also specify that you would prefer still water. 

What currency does Germany use?

Germany is a member of the Eurozone, so it uses The Euro (EUR). The exchange rate between The Euro and USD is around €1 to $1.10, though this can fluctuate, so it makes sense to monitor the exchange rate before your trip to Germany. 

Cash is still considered king in Germany, and while card payments have become more popular over recent years, it is still recommended that you carry around some cash, around $200, particularly if you are travelling in more rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout the country, and large dominations of bills, such as 100 and 200 euro notes, are more commonly used in Germany than in other Eurozone states.

Do I need to tip in Germany?

Tipping in Germany is not mandatory but generally seen as a sign of appreciation for your experience. There are no general percentage guidelines, however, the local custom around tipping in Germany is to add the tip onto your bill as you pay - for example, you may hand your server €70 for a €50 bill and request that they take €60 as the final amount and receive €10 in change back.

Do many German people speak English?

Yes, English is one of the most popular foreign languages taught in German schools, and as a result, most Germans will have at least a decent grasp of the language, particularly younger people. English is widely understood and spoken in major cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Cologne and Munich. That said, learning simple phrases such as Danke (thank you), Hallo (hello) or Bitte (please) will go a long way in making your trip to Germany easier.

What to wear on vacation in Germany?

When travelling to Germany, it is important to pack based on the seasons, regardless if your trip includes urban or rural destinations. Warm layers are a necessity for German winters, as are a sturdy pair of waterproof boots. During the summer, temperatures in Germany can easily reach upwards of 90 F (32 C) and even go as high as 104 F (40 C), so it's best to wear light clothing and plenty of sunscreen.

Where to go on vacation in Germany

Germany offers a wide variety of sights and experiences to globetrotters of all ages, from the meandering vineyards of the Middle Rhine Valley to the jovial communal spirit of a Bavarian beer garden, to the captivating fairytale scenery of the Black Forest, to the history-drenched streets of Berlin and the brisk, fresh air of the North and Baltic sea coasts. Germany offers numerous exciting experiences for both city explorers and nature lovers.

Public transport throughout Germany is excellent, with numerous transport links between major cities and smaller towns, from trams to subways, buses to high-speed trains. Renting a car in Germany is very accessible and can offer the experience of the world-famous Autobahn, the highway system without an official speed limit for large sections.