Germany
Germany, located in Central Europe, is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and economic prowess, being the fourth-largest economy in the world. The country boasts a plethora of iconic landmarks, from the historic Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate to the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, alongside scenic landscapes like the Black Forest and the Bavarian Alps.
Germany is globally recognized for its contributions to art, philosophy, science, and engineering, and is celebrated for its traditions such as Oktoberfest, its delicious cuisine, and its influential music and literature.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Guten Morgen" - Good Morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Berlin
morning:Start your day with a visit to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of Berlin's unity. Then, head to the historic Berlin Wall Memorial. Don't miss out on a hearty breakfast at the charming Cafe Einstein.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon strolling through the vibrant neighborhood of Kreuzberg, known for its street art and diverse culture. Stop by Markthalle Neun for a variety of international cuisines and local delights.
evening:In the evening, experience Berlin's legendary nightlife at the lively bars and clubs in Friedrichshain. 🍻
Cultural Day in Munich
morning:Embark on a sightseeing tour of Munich, starting with the majestic Nymphenburg Palace and its beautiful gardens. Enjoy a traditional Bavarian breakfast at the historic Victuals Market nearby.
afternoon:Explore the rich art collections at the Alte Pinakothek and the modern art at the Pinakothek der Moderne. Indulge in a delicious Bavarian lunch at the Hofbräuhaus.
evening:Dine at a cozy beer garden like Augustiner-Keller to savor authentic Bavarian cuisine and lively atmosphere. 🍺
Historic Day in Nuremberg
morning:Begin your day with a guided tour of the Nuremberg Castle, offering panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a brunch at the quaint Bratwurst Röslein, known for its traditional sausages.
afternoon:Visit the Documentation Center and learn about Nuremberg's history during the Nazi era. Discover the charming Old Town with its medieval architecture and visit the Albrecht-Dürer-Haus.
evening:For a cozy evening, relish a delightful dinner at one of the local restaurants serving Franconian specialties. 🍽️
Nature Day in the Black Forest
morning:Start your day with a hike through the scenic trails of the Black Forest, surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls. Take a break at a local bakery for some Black Forest cake.
afternoon:Embark on a scenic drive along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße, with stunning views of the forest and charming villages. Enjoy a picnic with local produce from the region.
evening:Experience the tranquility of the Black Forest by dining at a cozy inn, offering homely dishes and a warm ambiance. 🌲
Germany's Famous Food
Delicacies in Germany you must try!
Sauerbraten
A pot roast marinated in a blend of vinegar, water, and various seasonings, usually served with red cabbage and dumplings. To try authentic Sauerbraten, visit Zum Schinkel in Berlin.
Must-Try!
Currywurst
Sliced pork sausage smothered in a special curry ketchup sauce and often served with fries. For a classic taste, head to Curry 36 in Berlin.
Wiener Schnitzel
A breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet, typically accompanied by potato salad. Enjoy a delicious Wiener Schnitzel at Figlmüller in Vienna.
Attractions in Germany
Nice places to capture memories
Neuschwanstein Castle
Located in Bavaria, this fairytale-like castle offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Brandenburg Gate
An iconic symbol of Berlin, providing a great backdrop for photos and an important historical site.
Black Forest
Known for its picturesque landscapes, including dense forests, rolling hills, and charming villages perfect for photography.
Cologne Cathedral
One of the largest cathedrals in Europe, offering breathtaking aerial views of Cologne from its twin spires.
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring
The best time to visit Germany is in the spring, from April to June. During this time, you can expect pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various outdoor festivals and events.
Summer
Summer, from July to September, is another popular time to visit Germany. The weather is warm, and you can enjoy outdoor activities, visit the beaches along the North Sea and Baltic Sea, and explore the countryside.
Autumn
Autumn, from October to November, offers beautiful fall foliage and milder temperatures. It's a great time for wine festivals and exploring the countryside.
Winter
Winter, from December to February, brings the festive Christmas markets, skiing in the Bavarian Alps, and the opportunity to experience traditional German Christmas celebrations.
Outdoor Activities in Germany
Fun outdoor pursuits
Hiking
Germany offers a wide range of scenic hiking trails, including the Black Forest, Bavarian Alps, and Harz Mountains.
Cycling
Explore the German countryside on well-maintained cycling paths, such as the Romantic Road or along the banks of the Rhine River.
Skiing
During the winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the various ski resorts, including Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Oberstdorf.
Watersports
Engage in watersports activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking on the picturesque lakes and coastal areas.
Camping
Experience the natural beauty of Germany by camping in its many national parks and idyllic countryside locations.
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Germany, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is common to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip for good service.
Payment
In Germany, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular. It is important to have a chip-and-pin card for transactions in Germany.
Local Etiquette
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punctuality
Germans highly value punctuality, so it is important to be on time for appointments and social gatherings.
Respect for personal space
Germans appreciate their personal space, so it is important to maintain an appropriate physical distance when interacting with others.
Formality in communication
Germans tend to be more formal in their communication, using titles and last names when addressing others until a closer relationship is established.
Things to do in Germany
Unique local experiences...
Safety
Safety in Germany is generally regarded as high, with low crime rates compared to many other countries. The country boasts a well-organized police force and effective laws that contribute to public safety. Violent crimes are relatively rare, and most cities are considered safe to walk in at night. Traffic safety is also taken seriously, with strict regulations and a well-maintained road system. Public transportation is efficient and safe, making it a popular choice among residents and tourists alike. In terms of emergency services, Germany has a comprehensive emergency response system that includes fire services, medical emergencies, and police assistance. The public is encouraged to report incidents and cooperate with authorities. While the overall safety is reassuring, visitors are advised to take common precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and securing personal belongings, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots, where pickpocketing can occur. Additionally, Germany is prepared for various natural disasters, with systems in place for emergency management and disaster response. The country also emphasizes health and safety regulations in workplaces and public spaces, contributing further to the sense of security among its inhabitants.
Nightlife in Germany
Nightlife in Germany is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone, from pulsating nightclubs to laid-back bars and cozy beer gardens. Cities like Berlin are internationally renowned for their eclectic and avant-garde club scenes, particularly in districts such as Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain where venues often stay open until well past sunrise. Berlin's techno clubs, such as Berghain and Watergate, are legendary, attracting both locals and tourists for their world-class DJs and unique atmospheres. Munich, known for its traditional Bavarian charm, offers a blend of old and new. Visitors can enjoy traditional beer halls like Hofbräuhaus for a more cultural experience, or head to modern clubs and cocktail bars in the city center. Hamburg's Reeperbahn district, often referred to as the "sinful mile," is famous for its nightlife, featuring a mix of live music venues, nightclubs, and theatres, making it a hot spot for both music lovers and party-goers. Frankfurt, while primarily known for its financial hub, also boasts a dynamic nightlife scene with stylish clubs, hip bars, and upscale lounges, particularly in the Sachsenhausen area. Smaller cities and towns throughout Germany also offer unique nightlife experiences, often centered around regional breweries, local festivals, and community events. In addition, the country's policy on public drinking and the presence of 24-hour public transportation in major cities contribute to a lively and accessible nightlife culture. Whether you are looking to dance until dawn, enjoy a quiet drink, or explore local music and arts, Germany's nightlife scene has a multitude of options to suit all tastes and preferences.
Costs of Living
The cost of living varies significantly depending on the city and region. In general, larger cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Here are some typical price ranges for common expenses: 1. **Housing:** - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: 1,000 to 1,700 EUR per month. - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: 700 to 1,200 EUR per month. - Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage): 200 to 350 EUR per month. 2. **Groceries:** - Milk (1 liter): 0.80 to 1.10 EUR. - Bread (500g loaf): 0.80 to 2.00 EUR. - Eggs (12): 2.00 to 4.00 EUR. - Chicken breast (1kg): 7.00 to 12.00 EUR. - Apples (1kg): 2.00 to 4.00 EUR. - Potatoes (1kg): 1.00 to 2.00 EUR. 3. **Transportation:** - Monthly public transport pass: 70 to 120 EUR. - Single ticket (public transport): 2.50 to 3.50 EUR. - Gasoline (1 liter): 1.50 to 2.00 EUR. 4. **Dining Out:** - Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 12 to 25 EUR per person. - Fast food meal: 7 to 10 EUR. - Dinner for two at a nice restaurant: 50 to 100 EUR. 5. **Health Insurance:** - Monthly health insurance premiums: 200 to 400 EUR (for students or those with lower income, this could be lower). 6. **Internet and Mobile Phone:** - Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): 25 to 40 EUR per month. - Mobile phone plan: 10 to 30 EUR per month. 7. **Entertainment:** - Movie ticket: 10 to 15 EUR. - Gym membership: 30 to 60 EUR per month. - Concert ticket: 30 to 100 EUR, depending on the artist and venue. These prices are estimates and can vary based on location, personal preferences, and lifestyle choices.
Pet sitters in Germany
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!