“Beautiful is everything one looks at with love.”
Christian Morgenstern, German author and poet
Top Five Destinations In Germany
- Hamburg Is a port city on the banks of the shimmering Elbe River. The town has deep maritime roots but also is a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant nightlife. The canals add to the mystique and make wandering fascinating.
- Oktoberfest Occurs throughout Germany, but the best experiences are in Munich. It is the largest Volksfest in the world that draws over 6 million visitors. It is about food, singing, dancing, and of course, beer.
- Heidelberg Old City Sitting on the lovely Neckar river is a charming, iconic city with a romantic atmosphere that captures the heart. The old town is a wonder to wander; it has one of Germany’s longest pedestrian areas. Heidelberg Castle has beautiful churches, monuments, rich cultural activities, and is known for its music events.
- Berlin and the Brandenburg Gate Built in 1791, Is an iconic monumental structure of sandstone, the Eiffel Tower of Germany. It was once part of the Berlin wall. The city of Berlin is the bustling capital of Germany that has vast ethnic diversity and fascinating history. The museums are world-famous, and there are historic structures throughout. It is home to the Holocaust Memorial.
- Neuschwanstein Castle Is a fairy tale we all imagine in our childhood. To add to its magic are the rugged hills it resides in southwest Bavaria. Its dramatic architecture comes with some tragic history with its owner. This was the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle.
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.
- Third, the 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.
- Highways and roadways are known to be excellent. There is good signage, and though Germans can drive, they are respectful drivers overall. 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 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.
- 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.
- Sunday is a day of rest; you will find stores, shops, supermarkets, and pharmacies closed.
- Music is classical, romantic to 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 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 of 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.
iTranslate Converse Found at your App Store. Turn your phone into a translation device.
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
© 2024 Wanderers Compass All Rights Reserved
Our Germany Photo Gallery
Our Top Recommended Travel Products and Services
Travel Insurance
Squaremouth.com
Our favorite travel insurance site!
We could not be stronger advocates of being well-insured—not just for the little stuff but for the big things like medical emergencies. We never leave home without it. Our go-to place is Squaremouth.com. It does a fantastic job with its user-friendly interface and uses top-rated and reputable insurance carriers. They also mediate on your behalf if you have problems.
To empower you as a consumer, we suggest you read our blog post on the importance of travel insurance and how to get the best coverage from top-rated companies for an affordable price.
MedjetAssist
Medical transport back home from anywhere in the world
They are the premier global air medical transport. One caveat to travel insurance is that medical evacuation usually gets you to the closest facility to care for you. Medjet gets you back to the U.S. to the hospital of your choice once you are stable enough to fly. A Medjet membership is only for medical transport. Medjet Horizon offers expanded coverage. They have individual trip policies starting at $99 and annual policies for around $300. Most of their policies limit the age to 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
Expedia and VRBO
Hotels, home rentals, BNBs, flights, and other transportation & tours
Expedia is a US-based company whose mission is to power global travel for everyone and everywhere. Wanderers Compass focuses on independent travel, and using sites like Expedia makes that possible. Every aspect of travel you need, from airfare, accommodations, rental car, and cruises to activities to do at your destination, can be booked on Expedia.
Booking.com
Hotels, Home rentals, BNBs, Flights, and other Transportation & Tours
Booking.com connects millions of travelers to memorable experiences, various transportation options, and incredible places to stay – from homes to hotels and much more. It is one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces for established brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes. It is our preferred booking site.
Transportation
Daytrip
Personalized city-to-city private car transfer service
Daytrip is an affordable private car service for city-to-city transfers around the world. We love their service, and it costs much less than renting a car. You can enjoy comfortable, stress-free travel with the added bonus of scenic sightseeing stops along your journey. For example, we used them between Budapest and Vienna, making some fantastic stops along the way. Their professional drivers and customizable routes ensure a smooth ride while allowing you to explore hidden gems and local attractions.
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 making memories is what travel is all about. And with 300,000+ experiences to explore—everything from simple tours to extreme adventures (and all the niche, interesting stuff in between)—making memories that will last a lifetime has never been easier. We use them often during our travels and love their liberal cancellation policy.
Communication products for seamless connectivity overseas
GigSky International eSIM Data Plans
Local Prices. No Roaming. Fastest Networks.
GigSky eSIM keeps travelers seamlessly connected worldwide without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards or facing unexpected roaming charges. With affordable data plans and instant activation, you can enjoy reliable internet access in over 190 countries, making travel more convenient than ever. They have a great offer, a 100 MB data plan for free, and no credit card is required. They are that confident you will love their product!
Enjoy 10% off all GigSky Plans (except cruise and inflight) with our discount code WCOMPASS10
To learn more about how GigSky, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.
Shopping
Wanderers Compass Amazon Storefront
An excellent source for all travel essentials and guides
Amazon is one of the most comprehensive online shopping sources in the world. Teams worldwide provide lower prices, better selection, and rapid delivery on behalf of customers. They offer a vast inventory, and their 1.7 million small and medium businesses worldwide selling on Amazon.com offer extensive options to customers.
This article contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!
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2 Comments
Diana Corbyn
June 11, 2024 atI loved the top 5 destinations and fun facts about Germany. I am glad I came across this post as I recently got my Germany Tourist Visa from UK. We’re all set to enjoy a wonderful trip to Germany. Your guide might just come in handy!
Joelle
June 13, 2024 atThank you very much for letting us know. We have come to love Germany and have been to many parts of the country. If we can give you any guidance before or during your trip please feel free to reach out to us at travel@wandererscompass.com.