Travel to Germany

Germany, a country that masterfully blends centuries of history with cutting-edge modernity, offers a travel experience as varied as its landscapes. From the bustling metropolises of Berlin and Hamburg to the fairytale castles of Bavaria and the picturesque Rhine Valley, Germany invites exploration at a pace that suits you. Whether you prefer a city-hopping adventure focusing on culture and nightlife, or a scenic road trip through rolling hills and vineyards, Germany delivers. Its efficient infrastructure makes navigating between distinct regions – each with its own dialect, traditions, and culinary specialties – a breeze. While known for precision and order, Germany also boasts a vibrant, creative spirit and a surprisingly good value for money compared to some of its Western European neighbours, especially when venturing beyond the most tourist-heavy spots.

Cities to explore in Germany

Pively covers multiple cities in Germany. Click a card for the full guide — flights, hotels, budget and multi-destination itineraries.

Which city to pick

For first-time visitors, Berlin is unmissable, offering a deep dive into 20th-century history, a thriving arts scene, and legendary nightlife. If culture and tradition are your focus, Munich offers magnificent architecture, world-class museums, and iconic beer halls. For a taste of modern flair and a vibrant fashion scene, Dusseldorf is your go-to, while Cologne charms with its magnificent cathedral and friendly atmosphere. Hamburg, with its maritime charm, Speicherstadt, and lively Reeperbahn, appeals to those seeking a unique urban experience. Frankfurt, a major financial hub, also boasts a surprisingly rich cultural scene and a beautiful reconstructed old town (Römerberg). Stuttgart, often overlooked, is the heart of Germany's automotive industry and offers excellent museums for car enthusiasts.

Regions to know

Bavaria

Home to the Alps, fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein, and vibrant cities like Munich, Bavaria is the quintessential image of Germany for many. Expect stunning mountain scenery, traditional beer gardens, and a strong sense of regional identity. Recommended duration: 3-5 days, focusing on Munich and surrounding attractions.

North Rhine-Westphalia

Germany's most populous state, this region is a dynamic mix of industrial heritage and modern urban life. Cities like Cologne, Dusseldorf, and Aachen offer a rich history, lively arts scenes, and famous Karneval celebrations. Recommended duration: 2-4 days, exploring 1-2 key cities.

Berlin & Brandenburg

The capital region is a hub of history, art, and nightlife. Berlin itself is a sprawling metropolis with countless museums, galleries, and historical sites. Brandenburg offers a greener escape with lakes and forests surrounding the capital. Recommended duration: 4-7 days for Berlin alone, plus day trips.

The Rhine Valley

Famous for its dramatic castles perched on hillsides, vineyards producing crisp Riesling wines, and charming medieval towns. This scenic stretch between Bingen and Koblenz is ideal for a leisurely exploration, perhaps by boat or train. Recommended duration: 2-3 days.

Suggested itineraries

7j — Classic German Cities

A 7-day journey hitting key urban centres. Start in Berlin (3 days) exploring its history and culture, then take a high-speed train (ICE) to Hamburg (2 days) for its harbour and nightlife. Finish in Cologne (2 days), marvelling at its cathedral and enjoying the Rhine.

10j — Southern Charm & Fairytales

Ten days exploring Bavaria and beyond. Begin in Munich (4 days) for its culture and day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle. Travel south-east to Salzburg, Austria (2 days, optional border crossing), then head west to Stuttgart (2 days) for automotive history. Conclude in Heidelberg (2 days) for its romantic castle and old town, accessible by train.

14j — North to South Explorer

A comprehensive 14-day loop. Start in Hamburg (3 days), travel south to Berlin (4 days), then take the ICE train to Frankfurt (2 days). Continue to Cologne (2 days) for its cathedral, before heading to Munich (3 days) for Bavarian culture and alpine views. Utilise Germany's extensive rail network (DB Bahn).

Best time to go

The shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October, offer a fantastic balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn boasts vibrant foliage and harvest festivals, particularly in wine regions. Summer (June-August) is warm and ideal for outdoor activities, but also the peak tourist season, with higher prices and more crowds, especially in popular cities like Berlin and Munich. Winter (November-March) is cold, but magical for Christmas markets (late November to December), with cities like Cologne and Hamburg offering festive cheer. Expect temperatures ranging from 0-5°C (32-41°F) in winter and 15-25°C (59-77°F) in summer. Major events include Oktoberfest in Munich (late Sept-early Oct) and Karneval in Cologne and Dusseldorf (February/March).

Practical tips

Visa: Most EU, UK, and US passport holders can enter Germany visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Other nationalities should consult their local German embassy or consulate for specific visa requirements well in advance of travel.
Currency: The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is recommended for smaller shops, markets, and some rural areas. ATMs (Geldautomat) are plentiful.
Language: The official language is German. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger generations, making communication relatively easy for travellers. Learning a few basic German phrases like 'Danke' (Thank you) and 'Bitte' (Please) is always appreciated.
Transport: Germany boasts an excellent public transport system. Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains (ICE, IC, EC) are fast and efficient for intercity travel. Long-distance buses (e.g., FlixBus) are a budget-friendly alternative. Within cities, trams, U-Bahns (subway), and buses are common. Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas like the Black Forest or Romantic Road.
SIM / eSIM: Consider an eSIM from providers like Airalo for convenience, or purchase a prepaid SIM card from operators like Telekom, Vodafone, or O2 upon arrival. Expect to pay around €10-20 for 5-10GB of data, with deals varying by provider and package.

Culture & etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated; state the total amount you wish to pay when ordering. Punctuality is highly valued; be on time for appointments and reservations. Germans generally appreciate directness and honesty. Avoid overly loud behaviour in public spaces. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Do not take photos where signs prohibit it. Germans also value their privacy, so avoid intrusive questioning or overly familiar behaviour upon first meeting.

Daily budget

Germany offers a range of prices. A frugal traveller might spend €60-80 per day (hostel dorms, self-catering/cheap eats, free activities). A standard budget of €100-150 per day covers mid-range hotels, restaurant meals, public transport, and museum entries. Comfort travellers can expect €200+ per day for upscale hotels, fine dining, private tours, and premium experiences. A typical mid-range hotel in Berlin or Munich might cost €100-150/night, a simple meal €15-20, a local beer €4-5, and a museum ticket €10-15.