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Traveling to Germany with EF Ultimate Break
Germany is always a good time
History meets the present: From medieval castles to cutting-edge cities, Germany offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary culture that keeps travelers coming back.
Beer, brats, and beyond: Germany’s food and drink scene is legendary. Think massive pretzels, world-class beer gardens, and Oktoberfest celebrations that turn entire cities into one big party.
Fairytale castles: Neuschwanstein Castle isn’t just Instagram gold—it’s the real-life inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, and it’s just one of many stunning landmarks.
Cultural powerhouse: Germany’s contributions to art, music, philosophy, and science have shaped the world. Walking through Berlin or Munich feels like stepping into a living history book.
Easy navigation: Germany’s public transportation is reliable, clean, and makes getting around a breeze—perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring.
Year-round destinations: Whether you’re strolling Christmas markets in winter or sitting in the sun at a beer garden in summer, Germany delivers unforgettable experiences no matter the season.
Language
German is the official language, spoken by over 95 million people worldwide. While many Germans speak English—especially in cities and tourist areas—learning a few basic phrases goes a long way in showing respect and making connections.
Currency & tipping culture
Germany uses the Euro (€), and while credit cards are increasingly accepted, cash is still king—especially at smaller restaurants, bakeries, and markets.
Germany uses the Euro (€).
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500. Coins: €0.01 to €2.
Credit cards are accepted in most places but always carry cash for smaller purchases.
ATMs are common—just keep an eye on those pesky fees. Tipping is totally voluntary, but many people will round up their bill or leave 5-10% if they’re happy with their service.
Tipping tips:
Restaurants & cafes: Round up or leave 5–10%. Hand the tip directly to your server when paying.
Bars: Rounding up to the nearest euro is standard.
Taxis: Round up the fare or add a euro or two.
Hotels: €1–2 per bag for porters; €2–5 per day for housekeeping.
Tour guides: Around €5–10 per person for a day tour.
Transportation
Getting around Germany is incredibly easy thanks to its world-class public transportation system. Trains, buses, and trams are clean, punctual, and connect cities and towns seamlessly. For longer distances, Germany’s high-speed trains (ICE) are fast and comfortable.
Cities like Berlin and Munich have efficient metro (U-Bahn), tram, and bus systems. Tickets are affordable and available at stations or via apps.
Deutsche Bahn operates Germany’s extensive rail network. Book in advance for the best prices on intercity travel.
Taxis are metered and reliable. Apps like Uber and Bolt are also available in major cities.
Great for exploring rural areas or the Romantic Road. An international driving permit may be required.
Many German cities are bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and rental options everywhere.
Germany’s iconic destinations
We can’t get into all of the million reasons to visit Germany, but here are a few of our top spots.
Can’t-miss German experiences
Clink steins at Oktoberfest
Join millions of people from around the world for the ultimate beer festival in Munich. Massive tents, traditional Bavarian music, lederhosen and dirndls, and steins the size of your head—Oktoberfest Germany is a bucket-list experience you won’t forget.
See Brandenburg Gate
Stand beneath one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks, a symbol of German reunification and European unity. This neoclassical monument has witnessed centuries of history, from Napoleonic wars to the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Visit Neuschwanstein Castle
Perched high in the Bavarian Alps, this 19th-century castle looks like it belongs in a storybook. Explore the ornate rooms, learn about King Ludwig II’s eccentric vision, and take in views that’ll make your camera roll very happy.
Explore Nuremberg’s medieval old town
Wander cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses, visit the Imperial Castle towering over the city, and soak in the atmosphere of one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities. Don’t skip the Hauptmarkt square and its famous fountain.
Reflect at the Berlin Wall Memorial
Visit the East Side Gallery, the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall, now transformed into an open-air gallery covered in powerful murals. It’s a moving reminder of the city’s divided past and hopeful future.
Sip beer at Hofbräuhaus
Step into Munich’s most famous beer hall, where locals and travelers alike gather for massive steins, hearty Bavarian food, and live oompah music. It’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s quintessentially Munich.
Stroll through Englischer Garten
One of the world’s largest urban parks, Munich’s English Garden is perfect for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or watching river surfers ride the Eisbach wave. Yes, river surfing in the middle of a city—only in Munich.
What’s the weather like in Germany?
May–September
Warm temps and sunshine make Germany in summer perfect for beer gardens, outdoor exploring, and soaking up the long daylight hours. Expect bustling cities, packed beer gardens, and peak prices—especially during Oktoberfest in late September.
April–May & September–October
The sweet spot for travelers: Mild weather with fewer crowds. Perfect for sightseeing, castle tours, and enjoying Germany’s cities without the summer rush. Oktoberfest runs mid-September to early October, so plan accordingly if you want in on the action.
November–March
Cool to cold days, but Christmas markets transform cities into Germany winter wonderlands. Fewer tourists and a magical atmosphere make winter travel special. Pack layers and embrace the gemütlichkeit (that cozy, warm feeling Germans do so well).
When is the cheapest time to visit Germany?
If you want to experience Germany without draining your bank account, timing is everything.
What to eat in Germany?
Sausages, sauerkraut, Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (say that five times fast)—German food is hearty, delicious, and perfect fuel for sightseeing. Here are some staples you need to try:
Safety in Germany
Germany is one of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates and well-maintained infrastructure. Major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Nuremberg are generally safe for travelers, with visible police presence in tourist areas. Violent crime is rare, though petty theft—especially pickpocketing—can happen in crowded places like train stations, Christmas markets, and popular attractions. Keep your belongings secure, stay aware of your surroundings, and you’ll be fine.
Your safety is our top priority
Traveling with EF Ultimate Break means you’re not exploring Germany alone—you’ve got a full support system making sure you feel comfortable, informed, and protected every step of the way.
Traveler photos from Germany
Germany travel reviews
Our travelers love visiting Germany, and they aren’t afraid to tell us.
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