Germany Travel Guide

A journey to Germany can be a truly captivating adventure. From its enchanting landscapes to its iconic landmarks, historic castles, delicious food and unique cultural heritage, Germany offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that appeal to every type of traveller. 

Here are some great ideas of activities and attractions you might want to include on your Germany itinerary to ensure your upcoming trip is nothing short of unforgettable. 

• Take in the history of Berlin – Berlin has had such a rich and interesting history which has left behind numerous landmarks and attractions that deliver a glimpse into what was. Explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall, take a walk along the open-air East Side Gallery, admire the neoclassical design of the iconic Brandenburg Gate, pay a visit to Checkpoint Charlie or delve a little deeper into the past with a visit to Museum Island. 

• Cruise the Rhine River – The Rhine River, winding through the picturesque Rhine Valley, offers a captivating journey with medieval castles, charming vineyards and quaint villages. If cruising isn’t your thing, a scenic drive along the Rhine can be an equally spectacular way to explore everything this enchanting region has to offer. 

• Stroll through the streets of Rothenburg – One of the most charming and well-preserved Medieval towns in Europe, Rothenburg is a picturesque town filled with half-timbered houses and cobblestone lanes. Providing inspiration as the setting for numerous fantasy films including Disney’s Pinocchio, Rothenburg allows you to step into a seemingly magical world from a bygone era. If you’re lucky enough to visit during December, you’ll also be able to enjoy Rothenburg’s famous Christmas market! 

• Tour one of Germany’s fairy-tale castles – While you can find castles in many parts of Europe, the castles in Germany stand in a league of their own. From the Hohenzollern, Cochem and Burg Eltz Castles to the spectacular Neuschwanstein Castle which inspired the story of Sleeping Beauty, Germany is home to so many breathtakingly beautiful castles that it’s almost a crime not to visit at least one. 

• Explore Hamburg – Germany’s second largest city, Hamburg offers a slightly different flavour to other German cities. With its more modern disposition and numerous canals flowing through the city, explore the many facets of the city with a stroll along the bustling harbour, catch a performance at the Elbphilharmonie, take in the wonder of the Speicherstadt or soak in the nightlife and vibrant atmosphere at the famed Reeperbahn. 

Climate 

Germany experiences a temperate seasonal climate, characterised by distinct seasons throughout the year.  

Winters are generally cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in the eastern and southern regions where snowfall is common. Spring brings milder temperatures and blossoming landscapes, while summers are pleasantly warm, with average highs ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Autumn is generally marked by cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.  

Culture and language 

The official language spoken in Germany is German, with the majority of people speaking German as their primary means of communication.  

English is commonly spoken and understood throughout Germany, particularly in urban centres, by younger generations and in the tourism industry. However, it’s always helpful to know a few basic German phrases to help you get by and enhance your overall experience. 

German culture is characterised by a blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting a deep appreciation for arts, literature and music. Known for their precision and efficiency, Germans value punctuality, orderliness and a strong work ethic, while also embracing a variety of regional traditions, festivals and cuisine. The culture places importance on social responsibility, education and environmental consciousness, contributing to a dynamic and diverse society. 

Getting around 

Germany has an excellent public transportation system, including trains, buses, trams and subways. The Deutsche Bahn (German Railway) network is extensive, providing fast and reliable train services between cities and regions. Renting a car is also a popular option, especially if you plan to explore rural areas or smaller towns where public transportation may be less frequent. 

Local public transport in cities is well-developed, making it easy to navigate urban areas. Many German cities are also bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.  

Accommodation 

You’ll find various accommodation options throughout Germany including hotels, traditional guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, private holiday home rentals, backpacker hostels and even castle and manor stays. 

Accommodation can be expensive in some locations in Germany, so it’s worthwhile doing your research to find the most suitable option/s. 

Entry requirements 

Germany forms part of the Schengen Area, a group of European countries which allows Australians to travel freely for tourism purposes without a visa for up to 90 days. 

It’s always a good idea to visit the Australian government’s Smartraveller website and the website for your closest German embassy before your trip for the latest information and updates about travelling to Germany. 

All set for your trip to Germany?  

Make sure you’ve ticked these items off your checklist before you head off: 

• Check your passport is valid with at least 6 months of validity left from the date you plan to leave the country 

• Ensure you meet the visitor entry requirements for Germany 

• Speak to your doctor to find out if you require any travel vaccinations. Tick-born encephalitis is a risk in Germany, particularly in southern forest areas, with many travellers opting to be vaccinated in advance of their trip 

• Arrange a travel currency card or another method of payment to cover expenses while you’re away. It’s also a good idea to take some Euro (EUR) with you as some places may prefer cash payments 

• Notify your financial institution of your plans to travel 

• Contact your phone provider to ensure your phone plan will cover you while you’re away or purchase a pre-paid international sim card 

• Arrange accommodation for each location you plan to stay in 

• Consider booking any tours or activities you want to do in advance 

• Provide details of your travel plans to a family member or close friend not travelling with you so you can be contacted in case of an emergency 

• Research the local laws to ensure you’re aware of what is and isn’t acceptable in Germany 

• Save the details of how to access emergency consular assistance in case you need it 

• Organise your travel insurance with PassportCard.