Let's Explore Germany

Germany Travel Guide, Transportation, Accommodations, Food, Dishes, Hidden Attractions, and much more...

Germany at a glance

A stop during a road trip from the Netherlands to Denmark took me through a small portion of Germany. I saw very little of the landscape and even less of the history that, perhaps, plagues the country. My interest in Germany is for its abundance of attractions for the dark tourist. Dark tourism has been defined as tourism involving travel to places historically associated with death and tragedy. More recently, it was suggested that the concept should also include reasons tourists visit that site, since the site’s attributes alone may not make a visitor a “dark tourist.” Landlocked, except for stretches of coast along the North and Baltic Seas, Germany has borders with 9 European countries. Situated at the crossroads of Europe, the country has been a power since the 8th-century, but Germany remained a patchwork of rival kingdoms until the late 19th-century when it united as one country. The price of nationalism was high. At the end of World War II, Germany lay in ruins, divided between the East and the West. It was split into two countries until the collapse of communism made reunification possible.

Germany Do's

Gentle haggling is common at flea markets; in all other instances you’re expected to pay the stated price. In hotels, you may get a better rate if you’re staying more than one night.
Approach conversations about the World Wars and the Cold War sensitively. Most Germans are open to discussing their history. However, some may prefer not to revisit the past, while others may simply be tired of speaking about it.
Ask a German’s permission before taking a picture or video of them.
Expect a German to be open and honest when they disagree with you. They are generally courteous, but are unlikely to deliver their opinion in an indirect way through ambiguous hints and understatements.
Try to get straight to the point at hand. Germans generally do not need much small talk to warm up the conversation. They often appreciate it when others are direct.

Germany Dont's

Avoid shouting across rooms or drawing attention to yourself in public. Unruly behavior may be viewed as a lack of self-control.
Never compare a German to Hitler or the Nazis of World War II or express anti-Semitic sentiments (even jokingly). There is a strong policy against Nazi symbolism and hate speech.
Do not refer to the era of the Third Reich as “Nazi Germany”. That is not what it was called.
Do not talk about the actions of the Germans in the World Wars as if your German counterpart was there. For example, avoid saying “You Germans did this…” as if they need to claim personal responsibility. Your German counterpart was likely born after these events and had no part in them.
Avoid canceling on a German at the last minute or being late. If you anticipate delays, give your German counterpart a fair warning of your tardiness.

Germany Quick Facts

SIM Card/Internet

Germany is a Go Roam in Europe destination which means you can use your data here at no extra cost. If you have an Add-on with a data allowance of 20GB or greater, a fair use limit applies, with use over 20GB subject to a small surcharge. There are currently locations all over Germany with Wi-Fi hotspots (free or for a fee). According to one website, there are over 500 free Wi-Fi locations in Berlin alone, mostly at cafes, restaurants, and hotels. The most common commercial Wi-Fi service in Germany is the Telekom HotSpot Network.

Germany Fun Guides

Transportation in Germany

There are many options for getting around Puerto Rico. With numerous flights connecting various airports around the island, including Culebra and Vieques; a ferry service from San Juan to various nearby destinations, including from Fajardo to Vieques and Culebra; to the train, bus, taxis, and públicos, you won’t have any problem reaching your destination or going out and exploring all that Puerto Rico has to offer.

By Taxi

Taxis are expensive and, given the excellent public transport systems, not recommended unless you’re in a real hurry. (They can actually be slower than trains or trams if you’re stuck in traffic.) Cabs are metered and charged at a base rate (flagfall) plus a per-kilometre fee. These charges are fixed but vary from city to city. Some drivers charge extra for bulky luggage or night-time rides. It’s rarely possible to flag down a taxi; more typical is to order one by phone (look up Taxiruf in the phone book) or board at a taxi rank. If you’re at a hotel or restaurant, ask staff to call one for you. Taxis also often wait outside theatres or performance venues. Smartphone owners can order a taxi via the Mytaxi app (downloadable for free via iTunes or Google Play) in more than 30 German cities.

By Bicycle

Cycling is allowed on all roads and highways but not on the autobahns (motorways). Cyclists must follow the same rules of the road as cars and motorcycles. Helmets are not compulsory (not even for children), but wearing one is common sense. Dedicated bike lanes are common in bigger cities.

By Bus

Cheaper and slower than trains and with a growing long-haul network. Regional bus services fill the gaps in areas not served by rail.

By Plane

Only useful for longer distances, eg Hamburg to Munich or Berlin to Munich. Most large and many smaller German cities have their own airports, and numerous carriers operate domestic flights within Germany. Unless you’re flying from one end of the country to the other, say Berlin to Munich or Hamburg to Munich, planes are only marginally quicker than trains once you factor in the time it takes to get to and from airports.

By Rental Car

To rent a car in Germany, you need a valid driver’s license from your home state or province. Visitors may also consider getting an International Driving Permit which is only about $15 and accepted in many places around the world.

By Train

Extensive network of long-distance and regional trains with frequent departures; fairly expensive but numerous deals available. Germany’s rail system is operated almost entirely by Deutsche Bahn, with a variety of train types serving just about every corner of the country. The DB website has detailed information (in English and other languages), as well as a ticket-purchasing function with detailed instructions.

By Ferry

Considering that Germany abuts two seas and has a lake- and river-filled interior, don’t be surprised to find yourself in a boat at some point. For basic transport, ferry boats are primarily used when traveling to or between the East Frisian Islands in Lower Saxony; the North Frisian Islands in Schleswig-Holstein; Helgoland, which also belongs to Schleswig-Holstein; and the islands of Poel, Rügen, and Hiddensee in Mecklenburg–Western Pomerania. The Romanshorn–Friedrichshafen car ferry provides the quickest way across Lake Constance between Switzerland and Germany. It’s operated year-round by Schweizerische Bodensee Schifffahrt and takes 40 minutes.

Best Dishes in Germany

The cuisine of Germany is made up of many different local or regional cuisines, as is typical for somewhat larger countries. Germany itself is part of a larger cultural region, Central Europe, sharing many traditions with neighboring countries such as Poland and the Czech Republic. Southern regions, like Bavaria and Swabia, share dishes with Austrian and parts of Swiss cuisine. German food is rich, hearty, and diverse. It’s comfortable eating with high-quality, often locally sourced ingredients. The cuisine of Germany has been shaped not only by the country’s agricultural traditions but by the many immigrants that have made the country home over the centuries. It’s definitely more than a mere mix of beer, sauerkraut, and sausage.

Wurst – There are an estimated 1,500 varieties of sausage in Germany; each with its own preparation, ingredients, and unique blends of spices. You will find these on street stalls almost everywhere across the country. One of the most popular varieties is Bratwurst, a pan-fried or roasted sausage made from veal, beef, or pork.
Rouladen – This typical German dish consists of bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles wrapped in thinly sliced beef or veal which is then cooked. Rouladen is also considered to be part of traditional Polish cuisine in the Upper Silesia region.
Käsespätzle – Germany’s answer to pasta, Spätzle is especially popular in the south of the country. These soft egg noodles are made from wheat flour and egg and are often topped with cheese (Käsespätzle) and roasted onions.
Eintopf – A steaming bowl of Eintopf will warm anyone up on a cold day. The name of this traditional German stew literally means ‘one pot’ and refers to the way of cooking rather than its contents. That said, most recipes contain the same basic ingredients: broth, vegetables, potatoes or pulses, and pork, beef, chicken, or fish. Eintopf is similar to Irish stew and you will find many different regional specialties throughout Germany.
Sauerbraten – Germans love their meat dishes, and Sauerbraten (meaning ‘sour’ or ‘pickled’ roast) is one of the country’s national dishes. You can make a pot roast by using many different types of meat, which you marinate in wine, vinegar, spices, herbs, and then season for up to ten days. This recipe is also ideal for tenderizing cheap cuts of meat.

Best Accommodations in Germany

Visitors to German-speaking Europe have a wide choice of overnight accommodations ranging from four-star luxury to economical hostels (Herbergen) or Zimmer (private rooms for rent, B&Bs). Whether you choose a ritzy four-star hotel or a modest hostel, you’ll enjoy clean, modern lodgings at a fair price. The only difference is the degree of luxury or economy you prefer. Even many small towns in Germany offer clean, quality accommodations in small hotels, B&Bs, or pensions.

Germans take pride in having neat and clean places for visitors to stay. Another advantage of small-town lodgings is lower prices. You will find many familiar hotel brands all across German-speaking Europe, as well as a few less familiar international brands. While Best Western, Hilton, Holiday Inn, Hyatt, InterContinental/Crowne Plaza, Marriott, Radisson, Sheraton/Westin, Wyndham/Ramada, and others may ring a bell, you will also find other respected international brands, including ibis, Kempinski, NH, and Steigenberger, that are less familiar. All of Germany’s principal commercial airports have airport hotels, and these can be convenient for travelers flying to or from Germany. The on-site hotels tend to be pricey but very convenient. Airbnb and other short-term rental outfits offer apartments and even houses for rent in Germany and other European countries.

Germany's Top Tourist Attractions

Neuschwanstein Castle, in Germany, is one of the greatest castles in Europe – and one of the world’s foremost tourist attractions. Part theatre, part fairytale, Neuschwanstein Castle embodies the soul of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, popularly known as ‘mad King Ludwig’.

The Bavarian Forest National Park is a national park in the Eastern Bavarian Forest immediately on Germany’s border with the Czech Republic. It was founded on 7 October 1970 as the first national park in Germany. Since its expansion on 1 August 1997, it has covered an area of 24,250 hectares.

The Berlin Wall was a guarded concrete barrier that physically and ideologically divided Berlin from 1961 to 1989. Construction of the wall was commenced by the German Democratic Republic on 13 August 1961. The Wall cut off West Berlin from surrounding East Germany, including East Berlin.

Germany's Hidden Gems

A memorial to the bombing of Hamburg in WWII: the main part is the ruins of the neo-Gothic Nikolaikirche church proper, of which little more than the church tower is still standing, which is, however, still a prime landmark of Hamburg’s skyline. Its dark, sooty silhouette now serves as a reminder of not only the building’s but also the city’s, destruction in the first Allied bombing raids aimed at major cities in July 1943 (named “Operation Gomorrah”). Tens of thousands of civilians perished in the firestorm brought about by a shower of explosive and incendiary bombs – and about half of the city’s buildings were destroyed or badly damaged. The church ruin today serves as a reminder of this darkest chapter in Hamburg’s history, and as a memorial is supplemented by a small museum, which has recently been upgraded and expanded.

Dachau concentration camp was set up only weeks after Hitler and the Nazi party came into power in Germany in early 1933. Its initial primary function was to intern political opponents in an effort to consolidate the Nazis’ grip on power. The site, near Munich, of the first (and longest-running) of the concentration camps set up in the Nazis’ Third Reich. Thus the name is almost synonymous with the whole concept of the concentration camp system. It is today one of the most visited dark tourism sites in Germany (and even worldwide).

A state-of-the-art medical facility from the Imperial era is now a derelict ruin. An empty, tumble-down, sprawling complex sits amidst handsome new apartment buildings in Berlin’s Weissensee neighborhood. Though an intrigued passerby probably wouldn’t guess it, this crumbling graffiti gallery was once a cutting-edge pediatric medical facility, abruptly banished almost 20 years ago to a bizarre limbo that continues to this day.

Germany Daily Costs

Budget: Less than $150

Accommodation:

Hotel or Hostel (single): $27
Double-occupancy room: $54

Food

Meals for one day: $13

Coffee: $2.92
Coffee at Impala: $9.50
Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich): $2.37
Restaurant dinner and beers for 2: $73
Currywurst: $2.43
2 Pho Noodles: $11
Turkish sandwich: $2.43
Sausage at Butcher: $5.22

Transportation

Taxis, local buses, train: $7.83
Intercity: $23

City transport day-ticket: $13
Single zone trip on the subway: $2.80
Inner district subway day-pass: $6.33
Short taxi ride: $24
Bahn ticket: $3.65
Short trip metro ticket: $1.70
Short distance Ubahn ticket: $2.07
Car rental: $61
Bayern day-pass for 2: $33
Bus to city center: $6.09

Entertainment

Entrance tickets & shows: $8.32

Mauer Park for 2: $13
Neuschwanstein Castle for 2: $29
Berlin Zoo for 2: $24
Schack Gallery entrance: $4.87
Munich Zoo entrance: $11
Pub crawl Munich tour: $17
Tower at St. Michael’s Church: $4.26
Formula 1 tickets for 2: $816

Tips & Handouts

Guides & service providers: $3.71
Scams, robberies, & mishaps: $13

Alcohol

Drinks for one day: $5.83

Hofbrauhaus: $15
Drinks at a show: $17
A night out drinking: $30
Beck’s beer: $2.43
Beer: $6.09

Water

Bottled water for one day: $1.22-2.43

Mid-range: $150-245

Accommodation

Hotel or rental home (single): $66
Double-occupancy room: $131

Food

Meals for one day: $34

Transportation

Taxis or Car rental: $21
Intercity: $61

Entertainment

Entrance tickets & shows: $22

Tips & Handouts

Guides & service providers: $12
Scams, robberies, & mishaps: $37

Alcohol

Drinks for one day: $15

Hofbrauhaus: $15
Drinks at a show: $17
A night out drinking: $30
Beck’s beer: $2.43
Beer: $6.09

Water

Bottled water for one day: $3.65

High-end (Luxury): More than $245

Accommodation

Resort or hotel (single): $153
Double-occupancy room: $306

Food

Meals for one day: $85

Transportation

Car Rentals or private driver: $55
Intercity: $168

Entertainment

Entrance tickets & shows: $58

Tips & Handouts

Guides & service providers: $45
Scams, robberies, & mishaps: $97

Alcohol

Drinks for one day: $35

Hofbrauhaus: $15
Drinks at a show: $17
A night out drinking: $30
Beck’s beer: $2.43
Beer: $6.09

Water

Bottled water for one day: $9.87

Germany Money-Saving Tips

Travel during the offseason – During the offseason, hotels and flights are often cheaper and the crowds are not as dense.
Explore free things to do – With the abundance of history beautifully displayed in a number of museums, there are a lot of free entrance fees and other free activities offered in many of the larger cities.
Take public transportation – With an extensive transportation system, getting around via bus or train is very reliable. Thanks to a slow progression toward a more modern-look, bicycling can also be very efficient.
Consider buying city-passes – City-passes can be great. They usually let you visit a number of attractions for free and/or use the transit system for a fixed number of days.

Useful Websites & Apps

Hotel booking – Booking.com via InteleTravel
Tours & activities – Viator or Shore Excursions Group
Ferry tickets & schedule – Scandlines
Bus Schedule – Wanderu
Translation – Google

10 Cool Facts About Germany

Germany has legal say on what babies can be named German law ban names that don’t denote a gender or use a family name as a first name. In 2014, the most popular children’s names were Sophie/Sofie for a girl and Maximilian for a boy.
It’s illegal to run out of fuel in the German Autobahn although not forbidden, motorists are only allowed to stop in the legendary highway for emergencies and having an empty tank of gas is not. Drivers can be fined and also have their licenses suspended for up to six months. Walking or running in the highway system is also illegal and is punishable by a fine of around EUR 90.
Fanta originated in Germany as a result of the Second World War due to a trade embargo that prevented importing Coca-Cola syrup into Germany, the head of Coca-Cola in the country decided to create a domestic product for the market using available ‘leftover’ products like whey and apple pomace. It’s the second oldest brand of the Coca-Cola Company and its second most popular drink outside of the United States. It’s consumed 130 million times every day around the world.
College education in Germany is free even for internationals tuition fees for bachelor’s degrees in public universities was abolished in 2014 due to politicians thinking that having to pay for higher education as ‘socially unjust’.
Munich’s Oktoberfest is the world’s biggest folk festival and there’s rather a lot of beer there, too. Despite its name, Oktoberfest festival actually starts in the last week of September and officially dates back to 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig threw a party to celebrate his wedding to Princess Terese on October 12.
Smoking is banned in public places but drinking is still legal smoking has been banned in public buildings, on public transportation and in other places since 2007 but you can drink alcohol openly.
Germany has more cultural activities and places than any other country it’s a cultured place, with 6,200 museums, 820 theatres, 130 professional orchestras, and 8,800 libraries in 2013. There are more museums, exhibition halls, and art galleries than in any other country (and not only in the big cities), with more people going to exhibitions than to soccer matches.
Germany was the first country in the world to adopt Daylight saving time DST, also known as summertime. This occurred in 1916 in the midst of WWI and was put in place to conserve energy.
Prison escape is not punishable by law in Germany German law maintains that it’s a basic human instinct to be free and therefore, prisoners have the right to escape jail. Escapes, however, rarely go unpunished because prisoners are held liable if they cause damage to property or inflict bodily harm against any individual upon their breakout.
Germany is one of the world’s leading book nations publishing around 94,000 titles every year. It’s also where you’ll find international book publishing’s most import event, the International Frankfurt Book Fair.