Germany

Germany travel guides — Berlin’s history and nightlife, Bavaria’s mountains and beer culture, the Rhine Valley’s castles, Christmas markets, and everything in between.

What you will find in this section

• City guides: Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Dresden
• Bavaria: Oktoberfest, Neuschwanstein, Munich’s beer gardens
• The Rhine Valley and the Black Forest
• Practical info: Deutsche Bahn, ICE trains, Eurail, car-free travel
• Language basics and dining etiquette
• Christmas markets: which cities do it best

Seasonal highlights

• Spring — Easter markets, cherry blossoms in Bonn
• Summer — beer gardens, lake days, Berlin’s open-air scene
• Autumn — Oktoberfest (late September), wine harvest on the Rhine
• Winter — Christmas markets in Nuremberg, Dresden, Cologne; Alpine skiing

For the drinking age and alcohol rules specific to Germany, see the Drinking Laws section.

FAQ

What is the best city in Germany for a first visit?

Berlin for history, nightlife and museums; Munich for Bavarian culture, beer gardens and proximity to the Alps; Hamburg for maritime port atmosphere and modern architecture. First-time visitors typically start with Berlin + Munich or do a Romantic Road drive from Munich through Bavaria.

When is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest runs mid-September through the first Sunday in October in Munich. In 2026: 19 September to 4 October. It is not actually in October — the name comes from the first edition in 1810. Book accommodation 6-12 months ahead; prices triple during the festival.

When do Christmas markets run in Germany?

Most open on the last Sunday before Advent (around 25 November) and run until 23 December; some stay open through New Year in larger cities. Highlights: Nuremberg (Christkindlesmarkt), Dresden (Striezelmarkt — Germany’s oldest), Cologne (seven distinct markets), Munich (Marienplatz) and Aachen.

How does the Deutsche Bahn Eurail/Interrail pass work?

Most international rail passes include Germany. The domestic Deutschland-Ticket (€58/month in 2026) gives unlimited travel on regional trains (not ICE) — a great deal for slow travel across the country. ICE high-speed trains require separate tickets but no reservation fees on most routes.

Is Germany expensive?

Mid-range. Daily budgets €80-120 per person for mid-range hotels, restaurant meals and transport. Berlin is cheaper than Munich or Hamburg. Compared to Switzerland, Germany is roughly 40% cheaper for similar quality; compared to Poland, Czech Republic or Spain, Germany is 30-50% more expensive.