Germany
First Time
Planning your first trip to Germany can feel overwhelming — we get it.
Where should you start? What’s really worth seeing? How do you figure out public transport, cash, tipping, or even simple things like when shops are open?
As Germans, we’ve had the joy of helping many friends from around the world plan their first adventures here, and we’d love to help you, too.
In this guide, you’ll get:
✅ A clear starting point for planning your trip
✅ Realistic tips based on what first-timers actually need to know
✅ Help to build an itinerary that fits your time, interests, and budget
Let’s take the overwhelm out of planning, so you can look forward to your trip — and enjoy every moment once you’re here.
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When is the Best Time to Visit Germany?
Honestly? Germany is a great destination year-round — but what you want to experience will shape the best time for your trip.
Here’s a quick look at what each season offers:
| Season | Months | Highlights | Pros |
| Spring | March to May | Flower-filled parks, Easter celebrations, cozy cafés | Mild weather, fewer crowds, colorful landscapes |
| Summer | June to August | Open-air festivals, hiking, lake days, “Rhine in Flames” fireworks | Long daylight hours, outdoor life everywhere |
| Autumn | September to November | Fall foliage in forests & vineyards and Oktoberfest in Munich (starts in late September) | Crisp air, harvest festivals, beautiful colors |
| Winter | December to February | Christmas markets snowy castles, skiing in the Alps | Cozy holiday vibes, magical winter wonderland |
Quick Tips:
- Spring and autumn are our personal favorites: fewer tourists, more relaxed vibes, and still plenty to do.
- Summer is buzzing and beautiful — but expect higher prices and bigger crowds, especially around famous spots like Neuschwanstein Castle or Berlin.
- Winter is pure magic if you love Christmas markets, festive food, and cozying up with mulled wine (Glühwein).
There’s no wrong time to visit Germany — just plan around the kind of experience you want!
Detailed Overview
Winter (December to February): Germany transforms into a winter wonderland with festive Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and fairy-tale snowy landscapes. Cities like Nuremberg, Dresden, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber come alive with lights and seasonal treats. This is also peak season for skiing in the Bavarian Alps.
Spring (March to May): This is the season for nature lovers and those who enjoy exploring with fewer crowds. Flower-filled parks and the famous cherry blossoms in Bonn are at their peak. Temperatures are mild, making it ideal for city tours and countryside walks.
Summer (June to August): Perfect for outdoor activities, summer is Germany’s busiest season. Enjoy open-air festivals, beer gardens, and lakeside getaways. However, be prepared for large crowds, especially in popular areas like Neuschwanstein Castle or Berlin.
Autumn (September to November): If you love fall colors and wine festivals, this is your time to visit. Forests and vineyards turn golden, and traditional events like Oktoberfest and regional harvest festivals bring a lively, cultural vibe. Keep in mind that temperatures can vary.
Germany
best places to visit for the first time
When coming for the first time, you may want to put these top attractions on your bucket list:
Itinerary Planning
If there’s one thing that trips up most first-time travelers, it’s building the perfect itinerary.
You want enough sightseeing to feel like you’ve seen Germany—but not so much that you end up stressed, exhausted, and lost between cities.
Getting the right balance between “must-sees,” local experiences, and enough time to actually enjoy the moment is an art — and we’re here to help you nail it.
First thing: Where will you start and end your trip?
Major Airports in Germany
✈️ Frankfurt (FRA) – Germany’s busiest hub and often the cheapest option for international flights
✈️ Munich (MUC) – Ideal if you’re dreaming of Bavaria (think castles, Alps, and cozy beer gardens)
✈️ Berlin (BER) – Perfect starting point for city vibes, history, and culture
✈️ Hamburg (HAM) – Great if you want a northern Germany adventure (harbor, coastline, big city feel)
💡 Our tip:
For a first trip to Germany, consider flying into Berlin and out of Munich (or the other way around).
That way you save time (no looping back) and get to experience two of Germany’s most iconic regions—northern culture and Bavarian traditions.
Germany Itinerary Ideas for First-Timers
▶️ Short Trip (7 Days) – Focus on Bavaria as a region
- Munich (2 days) – Start with the capital of Bavaria
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber (half-day to 1 day) – Fairy-tale old town
- Nuremberg (1 day) – History, bratwurst, and medieval vibes
- Bamberg (1 day) – UNESCO old town + smoked beer
- Neuschwanstein Castle (day trip) – Iconic castle inspiration for Disney
▶️ Longer Trip (10–14 Days)
- Berlin (2-3 days) – Urban culture, WWII history, East/West vibes
- Dresden (1 day)
- Nuremberg (1 day) – History, bratwurst, and medieval vibes
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber (half-day to 1 day) – Fairy-tale old town
- Munich & Bavaria (3–4 days) – End with food, nature, and cozy Bavarian charm
- Optional: Salzburg, Austria (1 day) – Easy side trip from Munich
We’ve put together this 10 day itinerary that you can use as a sample to help you plan your journey.
💬 Need Help Planning Your Itinerary?
Feeling a little overwhelmed? No worries — we’ve helped tons of travelers craft their perfect Germany trip.
Reach out to us here → We’re happy to help you plan a smooth, fun, and unforgettable first-time itinerary!
How to get Around in Germany?
Germany has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trains, and trams.
The Deutsche Bahn (German Rail) offers extensive train services that connect cities and towns, while the U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (commuter trains) are perfect for navigating within cities.
You can purchase tickets at ticket machines located at most stations or online. If you are taking the local trams, it is important to validate your ticket BEFORE boarding and to keep it with you throughout your journey.
If you prefer driving, Germany’s autobahns are famous for having sections with no speed limit. Personally, we prefer renting a car because it gives us more flexibility with our itinerary.
If you plan on driving in Germany, you may need to obtain a valid and international driver’s license/permit.
If you are from the US, it is important to note that we do not count in miles but in kilometers.
We’ve put together a comprehensive guide about getting a rental in Germany: Renting a car in Germany
What Travel Budget do you need?
Traveling in Germany can accommodate various budgets, from luxury stays to more economical options.
Accommodation costs can vary widely depending on the city and time of year, while food and transportation are generally affordable.
Budget-conscious travelers can save by using public transportation, eating at local bakeries or beer gardens, and taking advantage of free attractions.
What to prepare for your first trip to Germany?
Before embarking on our trip to Germany, there are a few essential things to consider. This section will cover getting your visa, booking your accommodation, and packing essentials.
Visa Requirements for Germany
Before you pack your bags, make sure you’re aware of the visa requirements for entering Germany.
Depending on our country of origin, you may need a visa to enter Germany as a tourist. It is important to check the visa requirements and apply for the appropriate visa well in advance of our trip. Your embassy or consulate in our home country can provide you with the necessary information and application forms.
German Food and Drink you need to try
No trip to Germany is complete without indulging in its rich culinary offerings. From pretzels and sausages to hearty stews and world-famous beer, German cuisine is as diverse as it is delicious.
Be sure to try regional specialties like Sauerbraten (pot roast) in the Rhineland or Weisswurst (white sausage) in Bavaria.
Here are some dishes you could order in a local restaurant:
Beverages you need to try
Germany is famous for its beer, and trying a variety of local brews is a must-do when visiting.
However, there are also other beverages to try, such as Apfelwein (apple wine), Glühwein (mulled wine), Radler (lemon beer) and Riesling wine.
For non-alcoholic options, try the refreshing Almdudler or the classic German hot chocolate, known as Heiße Schokolade.
What to pack for Germany?
Germany’s climate is generally temperate, meaning warm summers and cold winters — but also plenty of unpredictable days in between.
We recommend:
- Lightweight and versatile clothing for summer
- Warm layers, a good coat, and boots for winter
- Transitional layers (think sweaters, scarves, rain jackets) for spring and fall
Other essentials you’ll want to pack:
- A power adapter for your electronics* (Germany uses the European 230V/50Hz system with type C and F plugs)
- Comfortable walking shoes (cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg are best explored on foot!)
- A waterproof jacket or a small travel umbrella
- A travel-sized toiletry kit for convenience
- A small backpack or daypack for daily outings
- Wash Cloths (it is very uncommon in Hotels to hand out wash cloths – beware!)
Good news: If you forget something, don’t stress. Germany has plenty of shops where you can easily pick up clothing, toiletries, or gear.
👉 Need a little more help?
We’ve put together detailed seasonal packing lists to make it super easy:
Where to Stay? Booking Your Accommodation in Germany
Booking our accommodation in advance can save us time and money. There are many options available, from hotels and hostels to apartments and vacation rentals (= “Ferienwohnungen”). Websites like Booking.com*, Airbnb, and Expedia can help us find the best deals and reviews from other travelers.
When choosing our accommodation, it is important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and price. You may want to stay in a central location to be close to the main attractions, or in a quieter neighborhood for a more peaceful experience.
Please note that air-condition is not a standard in Germany. So if you want an air-condition (=Klimaanlage) you need to clearly check if your hotel room has one.
We book all our hotels in Germany with booking.com* →
Experiencing German Culture
Germany has a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. Some of the best ways to experience German culture include:
Festivals in Germany
Germany is famous for its festivals, with Oktoberfest being the most well-known. However, there are many other celebrations throughout the year, such as Karneval (Carnival) in Cologne and the Christmas markets across the country. Attending a festival is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in German culture and traditions.
Discover more about the top events in our Festivals in Germany guide.
more Tips for your first trip to germany
When traveling to Germany for the first time, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Germany Travel Safety Tips
Germany is generally a very safe country for travelers, but it’s always wise to stay vigilant. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas such as train stations, so keep your belongings secure.
Also, be aware of local laws, such as the ban on smoking in many public places, and always carry your ID with you, as it’s required by law.
For those driving, understanding the rules of the road is crucial, especially regarding speed limits and parking regulations.
German Language Basics
While many Germans speak English in touristic areas, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in German.
Some useful German phrases to know:
- Guten Tag (Good day)
- Danke (Thank you)
- Bitte (Please)
- Entschuldigung (Excuse me)
- Sprechen Sie Englisch? (Do you speak English?)
If you’re still having trouble communicating, consider downloading a translation app such as Google Translate or carrying a pocket dictionary with you.
Cash is king in Germany
Germany uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. While credit cards are accepted in larger cities, it’s always a good idea to carry cash with you, especially if you plan to visit smaller towns or rural areas. ATMs are widely available, but be aware that some may charge fees for withdrawals.
It’s also important to note that tipping in Germany is generally less common than in other countries. While it’s always appreciated, it’s not expected to leave a large tip at restaurants or for taxi rides. A small tip of around 5-10% is usually sufficient.
And as Germans we can say, we only tip when we have been satisfied with the service, if there have been hick-ups with the service crew, it is ok that you do not leave a tip.
But please consider giving feedback to the staff if something happened which made you unsatisfied.
Etiquette and Customs
Germans value punctuality (A LOT!). German punctuality means that you are actually not on time but rather 10 minutes early. In fact it is a matter of respect to show up on time for appointments and meetings.
Also Germans value personal space. You will probably notice that people in public do not stand very close to each other.
When greeting someone, it’s customary to shake hands and make eye contact. It’s also polite to say “Guten Appetit” (enjoy your meal) before eating, and “Prost” (cheers) before drinking.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a successful and enjoyable trip to Germany.
About Us
Anna and Anne are the founders of Germany Things To Do. They grew up in Germany and have traveled all 16 states in Germany from North to South and East to West.
They share their local tips with you to explore the authentic and beautiful parts in Germany.