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How to Plan a Trip to Germany (Your Step by Step Germany Trip Planner for Traveling to Germany for the First Time!)

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best time to travel to germany 2023

You’ve decided to visit Germany. Hooray! Whether you’re looking for bustling cities, sandy beaches, alpine hiking, intriguing history, fairytale castles, delicious food, fun festivals or friendly people, Germany is the perfect European vacation destination.

lake and alps in Germany

Not only is there a tremendous amount to do, see, eat, and experience in Germany, you can easily combine a visit to Germany with other European destinations. Germany is easy to get around in by train, bus, car or bike, and many people speak English.

You’re probably wondering…where do I even begin with planning my dream-come-true vacation to beautiful Deutschland? 

Where should I go? Is it better to take the train or rent a car? What are the must-see cities and attractions? Which ones should I skip? Where’s the best place to stay? What should I eat and drink?

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Don’t worry! We’re here to help you narrow down your travel options, plan your itinerary , and book your trip with ease. It’s actually quite easy to plan a trip to Germany by yourself with the information in this article, on this site and with some help of some online booking engines.

To reduce overwhelm and help you plan your ideal vacation, we cover everything you need to know to get started planning your trip to Germany . And if you have any questions, you’re welcome to ask us in our free Germany travel Facebook community or send us  an email . 

Ok, let’s begin!

  • 1 Meet Your Germany Travel Guides
  • 2 Overview of Regions
  • 3 Where to Go in Germany: Itineraries and Planning
  • 4 Want more itinerary ideas? Are you a big city person? Check out… 
  • 5 Prefer smaller historic, picturesque cities? Check out…
  • 6 What about cute little villages with “Fachwerk” (half-timber) architecture? There are so many! Here are a few ideas…
  • 7 Looking forward to visiting fairytale castles?
  • 8 Like islands and water? Take a look at…
  • 9 What about nature, hiking, and national parks? Consider…
  • 10 Passports & Visas
  • 11 What’s the Best Time to Go to Germany?
  • 12 Germany Booking Timeline
  • 13 What’s the Weather in Germany Like?
  • 14 What Time is it in Germany Right Now?
  • 15 What’s the Best Way to Get to Germany?
  • 16 Where to Stay in Germany
  • 17 Getting Around Germany
  • 18 What to Wear in Germany
  • 19 My Absolute Favorite Travel Clothing Items
  • 20 What to Eat in Germany

Meet Your Germany Travel Guides

Aaron and Cate

Hi, we’re Cate and Aaron, and we love helping people plan amazing trips to Germany. While Aaron has visited Germany several times (and is our chief rental car driver!), I lived there for 4+ years, have spent nearly 30 years of my life going back and forth between the US and Germany, and have traveled to all corners of the country.

I also taught German for several years and have a PhD in German Applied Linguistics, which means I’ve gotten to know Germany from several different angles. We’re so excited to help you plan your dream trip to Deutschland! 

Overview of Regions

northern Germany

Northern Germany  – Hamburg is the largest city in this region but there are other must-visit smaller cities like Lübeck , Stade, Bremen, and Lüneburg. Northern Germany also has the beautiful beaches of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, the Wadden Sea national park, and the islands of Sylt, Flör, and Heligoland. Northern Germany is flat and great for biking. It looks so different from Bavaria! Combine a trip to Denmark with a visit to northern Germany.

Saxon Switzerland

Eastern Germany  –  Berlin is of course the feature city in this region, but Dresden, Leipzig, Magdeburg, Quedlinburg, Bautzen, Erfurt, and Weimar are smaller must-see cities. There’s also the Harz mountains, Swiss Saxony national park , Saalfeld Fairy Grottoes in Thuringia, Wernigerode castle, the Schwerin Palace, and Sansouci in Potsdam. Combine a trip to eastern Germany with a visit to Poland or the Czech Republic.

Karnival

Central Germany  – This region offers bustling cities like Cologne , Düsseldorf, and Frankfurt , smaller cities like Aachen, Wiesbaden, Koblenz, and plenty of cute villages. There’s also the Rhine and Mosel river areas, vineyards, the Eifel national park, castles , and beautiful rolling hills. Combine a visit to central Germany with a trip to the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, or France.

Hohenzollern castle

Black Forest/Baden-Württemberg  –  Stuttgart is the largest city in this region, and smaller cities like Baden-Baden, Heidelberg, Freiburg , Tübingen, and Ulm also warrant a visit. Vineyards and wineries, spa towns, castles (such as Hohenzollern or Lichtenstein ), waterfalls, Lake Constance, cute villages, and hiking are also features of the Black Forest /Baden-Württemberg region. Combine a trip to France or Switzerland with a visit to southwestern Germany.

Munich

Bavaria/Alps  – Munich is the feature city of Bavaria ( Oktoberfest! ), along with smaller cities like Regensburg, Nuremberg, Würtzburg, Bamberg, and Passau. There’s also the famous Zugspitze, Eagle’s Nest, Neuschwanstein castle , and Chiemsee lake, as well as lovely alpine towns like Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden . Combine a trip to Bavaria with a visit to Austria, Czech Republic or Switzerland.

Click here for what to do in Munich!

Where to Go in Germany: Itineraries and Planning

There’s so much to see and do in Germany! Here’s some info to get you started on your itinerary (you can also check out this article with 10-14 day itinerary ideas ). 

If you have just a few days,  I recommend focusing on one city and a day trip (e.g., Hamburg with a day trip to Lübeck or Munich with a day trip to Neuschwanstein ).

If you have a week,  you could visit 2 cities (plus 2 day trips) in different parts of Germany and allot one day for travel between cities (e.g., a few days in Munich with a day trip to Chiemsee, travel day to Berlin, then a few days in Berlin with a day trip to Potsdam). Or you could spend a week touring one region of Germany (e.g. the Black Forest or the Rhine and Mosel areas).

If you have two weeks,  you can see a lot of Germany! You could, for example, start in Berlin, then visit Hamburg, take a day trip to Lübeck , then visit the Rhein river area, stop in the Black Forest , and end your trip in Munich. You could easily do this trip via train or car. Take a look at a couple 10-14 day itineraries we’ve outlined to give you a sense of how much you can do in that amount of time.

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

German train

How long does it take to travel around Germany by train? 

It’s quick and easy to travel around Germany by train. Here are some sample travel times to give you an idea: 

  • Berlin to Hamburg – 1 hour 45 minutes 
  • Berlin to Munich – 4 – 4 1/2 hours
  • Hamburg to Lübeck – 1 hour 
  • Hamburg to Cologne – 4 hours 
  • Hamburg to Munich – 5 hours 40 minutes 
  • Frankfurt to Nuremberg – 2 hours 
  • Stuttgart to Munich – 2 1/4 hours 
  • Munich to Berchtesgaden – 2 hours 

I use and recommend the official German rail system website to check travel times and book train tickets (point-to-point, saver tickets, and discounted regional tickets). I book all of our train tickets here!

Want more itinerary ideas? Are you a big city person? Check out… 

  • Cologne / Düsseldorf

Prefer smaller historic, picturesque cities? Check out…

  • Lübeck
  • Würtzburg
  • Tübingen

What about cute little villages with “Fachwerk” (half-timber) architecture? There are so many! Here are a few ideas…

  • Wernigerode
  • Quedlinburg
  • Dinkelsbühl
  • Rothenburg Ob der Tauber
  • Berchtesgaden

Looking forward to visiting fairytale castles?

  • Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau (the “Disney castle”)
  • Castles near Frankfurt
  • Castles near Cologne
  • 16 castles to visit in Germany

Like islands and water? Take a look at…

  • Husum (North Sea)
  • Timmendorferstrand (Baltic Sea)
  • Lake Constance (Bodensee)
  • Titisee 

What about nature, hiking, and national parks? Consider…

  • Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park
  • Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park 
  • Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park
  • Jasmund National Park
  • Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park
  • Müritz National Park
  • Lower Oder Valley National Park
  • Harz National Park
  • Kellerwald-Edersee National Park
  • Hainich National Park
  • Eifel National Park
  • Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park
  • Saxon Switzerland National Park
  • Bavarian Forest National Park
  • Berchtesgaden National Park
  • Black Forest National Park

How about a road trip? Why not drive the…

  • German Timber-frame Road (northern to southern Germany)
  • Romantic Road (Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, north/south)
  • Castle Road (Bavaria to Baden-Württemberg, east/west)
  • Wine Road (Palatinate wine region, north/south)
  • Fairytale Route (from Hanau to Bremen, south/north)
  • Black Forest High Road (Baden-Württemberg, north/south)
  • Alpine Route (Baden-Württemberg to Bavaria, east/west)
  • Volcanic Route (Rhein River and Eifel mountains, north/south)

Passports & Visas

If you’re from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries, you do not need a visa to enter Germany (at the time of publishing this article). You do, however, need a valid passport with at least 3 months validity AFTER your planned departure date.

Play it safe and have MORE than 6 months validity on entrance to Germany! You also need at least 2 blank passport pages at the time of your arrival. Check your passport NOW so you have plenty of time to renew it if needed. Do not wait until the last minute to do this (been there, done that – it’s expensive and stressful)!

Germany is part of the Schengen zone, which means you can stay in Germany for up to 90 days without a visa. If you visit other countries in the Schengen zone before or after Germany, that counts towards your 90 days and reduces the amount of time you can spend in Germany. While on the automatic 90-day tourist visa you may not work but you can engage in business.

What’s the Best Time to Go to Germany?

The best time to visit Germany is whenever you can get there! No, seriously! There’s no best time of year for your  Deutschland   tour because there’s no bad time of year to visit. I’ve traveled all over Germany in spring, summer, fall, and winter and enjoyed every single season (Cate here, writing this article, by the way).

When should  you  travel to Germany? Well, it just depends on what you’re looking for…

Cruise boat on river in Germany

Summer  is when you’re most likely to have warm (even hot) sunny weather. But it’s not guaranteed. I’ve had hot steamy summers in Germany (like last summer when we traveled during a heat wave), cold rainy summers, and everything in-between.

Fortunately, even if you encounter rain in the summer it likely won’t last more than a few hours or at most a couple days before you’ll see the sun again. The benefit of summer travel is that you’ll have nice long days for sight-seeing because the sun doesn’t fully set until about 10pm. If you’re interested in beaches or mountains, summer is a great time of year to visit.

Note, however, that not all hotels, cars, and restaurants use A/C. If you really hate hot weather, play it safe and avoid Germany in the middle of the summer. (Although, to be honest, in all of the summers I’ve spent in Germany, there have only been a few days in the summer that I’ve found truly unbearable without A/C.) If you  must  have A/C, be sure to confirm that your room or rental car has it.

Summer can also be a more crowded time to travel, since so many families make use of summer break. Book accommodation early for the most options and best prices!

Neuschwanstein castle

Winter  travel in Germany can be cold but beautiful. One of my favorite times of year to travel in Germany is during the four weeks of advent at Christmas.

Yes, it gets dark early (by 5pm or a bit earlier) but the lights, decorations, and Christmas markets more than make up for it. Plus, you can go skiing and enjoy other winter activities.

I was just in Germany for a couple weeks in December and the weather was perfectly fine 90% of the time. There was only one day where the weather was truly miserable and even on that day there were enough breaks in the weather to enjoy my day trip exploring a new town and a new Christmas market. 

Germans don’t let winter keep them from enjoying outdoor activities, hiking to strolling through a Christmas market or enjoying a coffee at an outdoor cafe. Don’t let it stop you, either! Just bundle up, grab a mug of Glühwein, and you’ll be fine!

Würzburg

Fall and spring  are also great times to visit Germany. In the fall you’ll enjoy crisp mornings and cool evenings and seeing the leaves change color.

In the spring you’ll experience the joy everyone feels when they can once again sit outside at cafes and restaurants. The weather can vary quite a bit day to day but if you travel late in the fall or early in the spring you can score great deals and will find smaller crowds.

Germany Booking Timeline

I’ve booked flights, accommodations , and tours and tickets a few weeks before my arrival, and I’ve booked them several months in advance. Book early if you:

  • Are traveling during peak summer, Christmas market or ski season
  • Have very specific travel dates or lodging, transportation, sight-seeing needs
  • Are visiting big cities
  • Are on a tight budget
  • Are visiting during a special event, such as Oktoberfest 

I usually start looking at my options as early as possible so I can figure out what a good deal looks like for my travel dates. I then set up flight alerts and start earmarking AirBnB’s and hotels. I begin booking whenever I find something that meets my needs and fits my budget. 

Here’s a general booking timeline to get you started:

6-12 months in advance:

  • Research and book your international flights
  • Research travel insurance
  • Plan your travel itinerary and dates
  • Research and book flights within Germany or Europe
  • Research travel options within Germany (rental car, train bus, etc)
  • Research accommodation options (book if you find great deals or if availability is limited)
  • Make sure your passport is up-to-date (you need at least 6 months left on it when you enter Germany) and apply for a new one if it isn’t

3 – 6 months in advance:

  • Book accommodation
  • Book trains or busses (usually 90 before your travel dates is the earliest you can book but always check if you can book earlier – the best deals go fast)
  • Book rental car
  • Book tours, events, and tickets
  • Book travel insurance 
  • Review your travel wardrobe and gear and purchase the items you need  

1 month in advance:

  • Book any remaining attractions and tours
  • Book airport transfers or plan how you will get to your lodging
  • Purchase a sim card for phone or check how you can use your current phone service in Germany (e.g., I can use my Verizon phone service for a $10/ a day fee)

1 week in advance: 

  • Print out or ensure that you can easily access all bookings, tickets, and travel info on your phone (make sure you can access everything without data or wifi!)

1 day in advance:

What’s the Weather in Germany Like?

What will the weather be like when you visit Germany? Well, it depends on the time of year and where you are. Weather in Germany can be somewhat unpredictable no matter the time of year.

I recommend being prepared by wearing layers, packing an umbrella or rain jacket, and remembering that the weather will likely change soon. And, as I said earlier, don’t let any kind of weather stop you from enjoying Germany! 

cobblestone street

Summer.  Germany comes alive in the summer with everyone and their dog (literally, there are dogs everywhere) outside enjoying the nice weather. Average high in the summer is 80F.  

Be warned…it can rain in the summer but it doesn’t usually last that long. It can also be super hot in the summer…but again, scorching temperatures doesn’t usually last that long.

Munich English Garden

Fall.  Such a beautiful time of year in Germany with the leaves changing colors and cool, crips mornings and evenings and warm days. One of my favorite times of year in Germany! In September, the average high is 67F and by November it’s around 47F.

Christmas market

Winter.  Bring your scarf, hat, and mittens because German winters can get cold! Average temps hover around freezing with warmer days in the 40s/50sF. While it can snow anywhere in Germany, you’ll find the most snow in southern Germany. Winter weather doesn’t mean everyone hides inside, though. On the contrary! Do what the Germans do – bundle up and enjoy the outdoors.

Freiburg Cathedral

Spring.  I love being in Germany on the first spring day because  everyone  heads outside to enjoy the sun and everyone is in such a good mood! Early spring will see a high around 47F but by late spring it’s more like 67F.

What Time is it in Germany Right Now?

Germany is in the Central European Time zone (CET) or UTC+2. It’s 6 hours ahead of the US EST, 7 hours ahead of CST, 8 hours ahead of MST, and 9 hours ahead of PST.

Daylight savings in Germany in 2020: time “falls back” on October 25 and “springs forward” on March 29. Write these dates in your calendar so you don’t accidentally miss any flights or trains (been there, done that)!

What’s the Best Way to Get to Germany?

It depends on where you’re coming from and where you’re going.  When flying from outside Europe, many people fly into Frankfurt (FRA), the largest airport in Germany and one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe.

The benefit of flying into Frankfurt is that it has a ton of direct flights, and once you reach Germany you can easily take a commuter flight, train, bus or rental car to your final destination.

The downside? The airport is huge, busy, and I’ve noticed prices into Frankfurt have been higher than regional airports in Germany.

I used to  always  fly into Frankfurt , and then take a train, bus or rental car to my final destination. But recently? I’ve found that it’s easier (and sometimes cheaper) to bypass FRA and fly into other German cities, such as Munich , Hamburg , Berlin , Düsseldorf ( Cologne ) or Stuttgart .

You might even be able to find a direct flight from the US (I’ve flown direct Atlanta – Stuttgart and Washington DC – Munich, for example). Otherwise, you’ll change planes somewhere in Europe and take an easy 1-3 hour flight to Germany. We’ve changed planes in London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Paris, and Vienna, for example. You could also fly into another European city and then take a train, bus or rental car into Germany.  

Lufthansa plane

A Few Notes About Flying Into FRA (Frankfurt Airport) and Traveling Onwards

If you take a commuter flight from Frankfurt  (FRA) to your final destination in Germany, you’ll go through passport control in FRA and then to your connecting gate. Super easy. Most flights from FRA to elsewhere in Germany are an hour or less in duration.

If you’re traveling onward by train from Frankfurt,  you can transfer to the train right at the airport below Terminal 1. If your train leaves from the main station in Frankfurt, you can either take the S-bahn or a regional train from the airport to the Hauptbahnhof (main station) in about 10-15 minutes.  

Important:  you’ll find cheap “savings fare” train ticket prices if you book your ticket online well ahead of your arrival. Be sure to book your ticket for  at least  a few hours after your flight’s arrival time into FRA.

Be warned: getting through passport control, customs, picking up your checked luggage, and making your way to the train station can take longer than you think. And if your plane from the US (or elsewhere) is delayed…well, it’s easy to miss your train and have to buy a new, much more expensive ticket on the spot. Personally, I would book a saver fare train ticket for a train that leaves 3-5 hours after my international flight’s arrival time – at the minimum. And that’s still cutting it close if there’s any kind of delay!

Tip: If you want maximum flexibility and peace of mind, buy a “flex ticket.” You’ll pay more but these tickets aren’t tied to a specific train. So if your flight is five hours late, you can take a train later in the day without changing your ticket or losing money.

These tickets also you to stop somewhere en route to your final destination for a couple hours, and then get back on a different train (e.g., stop in Stuttgart for a couple hours on your way to Munich). So if you arrive on time, you can work in a short excursion on the way to your final destination (store your luggage at a locker in the train station). If your flight is late, just go directly to your destination. These tickets are also refundable before the first day of travel.

For ultimate flexibility and peace of mind, spend the night in or around Frankfurt and book a saver fare train for early the next morning. 

Autobahn

You can also easily pick up a rental car at FRA  and drive to your final destination. Aaron and I have done this a few times and never had any problems.

The one problem we do have? Staying awake long enough to drive to our destination! We usually keep the driving distance to an hour or two on the day of our arrival and drink a lot of coffee. Sometimes we pull over at rest area and take a nap. 

If you want to rent a car at the airport and are concerned about driving while jet lagged, consider picking up the car and then spending the night in nearby town, such as Wiesbaden (I spent an enjoyable few days there before catching my flight home a few years ago). 

If you’re catching a bus  from the city center to travel onwards, S-bahn 8 or 9 will zip you into town quickly and cheaply in about 10-15 minutes. Buy tickets at any of the ticket machines before you board the S-bahn.  

You can also catch busses  into Frankfurt and elsewhere in front of Terminal 1 (arrivals level) and Terminal 2 (level 2).

You’ll find taxis  in the same general area. It takes about 20 minutes to get into downtown Frankfurt by taxi.

Flying to Germany from Elsewhere in Europe

These days it’s super easy and generally inexpensive to fly to Germany from all over Europe. Here are a couple tips:

When booking your international flight, you might be able to include a stop-over in the city where you’ll transfer to your Germany flight. I used to do stopovers in London, and a couple years ago I did an awesome stopover in Iceland. TAP also offers free stopovers in Lisbon or Porto.   

I highly recommend looking into both flying and taking a train (or bus) into Germany, especially if you’re arriving from a neighboring country and not on a stopover. Of course, if you’re flying from cities like London, Barcelona, Rome or Oslo, flying is the best option. But if you’re traveling from Paris, Vienna, Copenhagen or Prague, for example, a train might be the better way to go.

Even if the actual flight is only an hour, you have to factor in the time it takes to travel to the airport, go through security, potential flight delays, and then traveling to your lodging once you land. A 5- or 6-hour train ride might actually take less time than a 1-hour flight when you total it all up!

Traveling to Germany By Train, Bus or Car

Traveling to Germany from other European countries by train, bus or car is easy. Train travel is generally simple, comfortable, and quick. Most train stations in Germany are located in the city center, so it’s easy to get to your lodging via taxi or public transportation. 

If renting a car in another country, just double check that you’re authorized to take the car out of the rental country. If you are, you’ll have no problems crossing the boarder and driving around Germany. 

Busses tend to cost less than trains, and you can find some amazing deals, but to be honest, I still prefer taking trains over busses. Trains are more comfortable, you can get up and walk around, and they’re almost always faster than busses. Plus, they don’t get stuck in traffic.

Tips for Booking the Best Flights with Cash or Miles: 

  • Start looking for flights early,  especially if you’re traveling during peak season. I booked our mid-June flights in late January. While we found low mileage flights for very specific weekend travel dates, we could have found better flight times had we booked even earlier. 
  • Track flights  through google or look at options in Hopper so you’ll know a good deal when you see one.  
  • Look for last-minute deals.  When I decided to go to Germany in December I didn’t start looking for flights until early November (the trip was a last-minute decision). Because I was flexible on travel dates and went early in the month, I found excellent tickets using miles. This doesn’t always happen, but it never hurts to look for deals, even if your travel dates are right around the corner. 
  • Fly in or out of smaller regional airports  (e.g., Berlin , Hamburg , Stuttgart , Munich , Düsseldorf). When I booked our flights for mid-June I couldn’t find anything into Frankfurt using miles. But I did find flights into Berlin and out of Stuttgart, and that actually worked even better for that trip ! For my recent December trip , I found that flying in and out of Stuttgart used the lowest amount of miles and had the best schedule. I’ve also flown into Hamburg and Munich airports.

Where to Stay in Germany

Germany has so many options for lodging:

  • Vacation rentals (e.g., VBRO, AirBnB)
  • Hip boutique hotels
  • Quirky hostels
  • More traditional HI hostels
  • Large hotel chains
  • American-styles hotels (Hilton, Marriott, etc)
  • Family-run Pensionen (bed and breakfast)
  • Camping (RV and tent)

When we’re in Germany we typically opt for AirBnB (I like having a kitchen to make breakfast) or a smaller family-run Pension or boutique hotel. We used to stay in hostels when we was younger (they’re pretty nice in Germany) but even then I found Pensionen to be very affordable – sometimes  more  affordable than hostels – especially when traveling with one or two other people. If we’re spending the night near an airport or train station and want convenience and ease we’ll stay at a larger chain hotel .

Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget accommodations, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Germany! To help you get started, check out our Germany hotel guides.

flowers

Breakfast  is often included with lodging in Germany (but not always). Sometimes breakfast will feature fresh bread or Brötchen (delicious German rolls), cold cuts and cheese, butter and jam, and tea and coffee. Other times there will be an extensive breakfast buffet that includes things like yogurt, museli, a variety of breads, meats, cheeses, and even hard-boiled eggs. You’re unlikely to find things like omelets, bacon, pancakes, waffles, and hot oatmeal.

If you’re looking to save money on lodging,  book rooms with a shared bathroom. (This is typically only an option in smaller or older hotels and not an option I come across as often anymore.) Sometimes that will mean sharing a full bathroom with other guests on your floor, and other times you’ll have a sink and/or shower in your room and will share a toilet located in the hallway. Shared bathrooms are more common in smaller Pensionen than in hotels.

These days I prefer the convenience of having a full bathroom in my room but I’m not averse to sharing a hall bathroom when needed (takes me back to my younger backpacking days – ha!). I’ve never had to wait to use a shared bathroom or had any trouble with them. Sometimes there are two or more bathrooms per floor. If you do opt for a shared bathroom, bring flip-flops!

Hostels can be a great option for families,  as many offer family rooms. Hostels typically offer a simple breakfast and sometimes dinner. While accommodations are simple, some hostels can be in spectacular locations. The hostel in Bacharach, for example, is in an old castle on a hill and offers a gorgeous view of the town below and the Rhine river!  

Getting Around Germany

One of the benefits of traveling in Germany is that it’s super easy to get around the entire country. You have so many transportation options.

You can rent a car and drive from place to place. Or you can stick to trains and busses. Or ride a bike – there are tons of bike paths throughout Germany.   

If I’m primarily visiting big cities I prefer taking the train or a bus to get from one city to another. When I spend more time in smaller cities or want to take day trips to harder to reach places, I prefer having a car.

For our recent summer trip to Germany, we rented a car at the Berlin airport and returned it to the Stuttgart airport. We didn’t take trains or busses at all. We got a car so we could go to places that aren’t as easily (or quickly) accessible by train. We didn’t use the car every day, though. We walked and used public transportation when exploring cities.    

German train

Speaking of public transportation, Germany’s is one of the best! It’s super easy to get everywhere you want to go via the S-bahn (above ground metro), U-bahn (underground metro), Strassenbahn (street car), and city bus. Taxis (and Uber/Lyft, where available) are also convenient options, though more expensive than public transport.

There are also car-share programs that you can look into. I haven’t used any of them and don’t know how convenient they are for travelers but it doesn’t hurt to check them out.

German cities are very walkable, so it’s easy to get around by foot. And, if you’d like to bike around like a local, there are lots of places to rent bikes (or scooters!) around town or maybe even at your hotel or AirBnB. If you’re more interested in just one afternoon of biking, try a city bike tour!

A few transportation tips:

  • For the best train ticket prices book your ticket via the official German rail system website in well in advance. I book all of our tickets there. Note: if you pre-purchase your ticket at the lowest price you have to take the specific train you booked. If you miss that train, you have to buy another ticket. 
  • If you don’t mind taking slower regional trains you can get some really cheap tickets and regional day tickets. You may not want to use these tickets to go from Munich to Hamburg, but they’re great for day trips, whether traveling solo or with others.
  • Busses are often less expensive than the train (though not quite as comfortable and often slower).
  • There are Eurail options for Germany, and they’re a great choice if you value flexibility and ease or if you want to make stops while traveling (eg., stop in Cologne for a couple hours while traveling from Hamburg to Munich).
  • If you plan to rely on public transportation in the cities you visit, buy a day pass (or perhaps a multi-day or week pass) rather than individual tickets. Also check to see if there are group day tickets or if young kids can ride free. Note: there’s often a small additional fee to bring a bike or a large amount of luggage on public transportation. There are often less expensive day passes for travel starting after 9am. 

What to Wear in Germany

Check out my packing list for Germany!

Layer, layer, layer!  The weather in Germany is often unpredictable so your best bet is to bring layers so you can customize your wardrobe on the fly. Since rain is a possibility any time of year, you may want to bring a light rain jacket or an umbrella.

Bring comfortable shoes.  You’ll no doubt walk all day long (often on cobblestone), so bring your most comfortable, supportive shoes. Be sure to break in your shoes  before  you travel. There’s nothing worse than realizing a day into your trip that your shoes pinch your toes or give you huge blisters. (Bring along moleskin, just in case. I always have  this kind  in my day bag!) I typically bring a good pair of walking shoes appropriate for the season (e.g., boots in the winter) and a nicer pair of flats (sandals in the summer).

You can wear jeans.  Some people say  never travel with jeans  but I’m not one of those people. I love traveling with jeans! They’re comfortable, I can wear them a few times without having to wash them, and I feel less like a tourist wearing them because everyone wears them. If you like jeans, wear jeans.

Scarf, hat, gloves.  If you’re traveling in the winter or even late fall or early spring, definitely bring a warm scarf, hat, and gloves or mittens. Or buy them in Germany and take them home as a souvenir! Almost all of my winter accessories are from Germany. Even if you’re not traveling in colder weather, I recommend a  travel scarf with a hidden pocket  for ease and security.

You can wear shorts in the summer.  Shorts are more popular in Germany than they used to be, so if you like them and are comfortable in them, wear them. That said, do also bring summer dresses or skirts and or lightweight pants to wear when shorts are too informal.

Bring a comfortable day bag or purse.  When you’re out and about all day you want a comfortable bag or purse to hold your travel essentials – wallet, phone, camera, ipad/kindle/book, umbrella, journal, etc. For peace of mind, you may even want one with special security features.  Click here to read my guide for buying the best travel purse.

My Absolute Favorite Travel Clothing Items

Merino wool camisole/tank  – These camisoles are the BEST for travel! They’re soft, comfortable, easy to hand wash, and they never stink. This might be TMI but a few years ago, when I was traveling solo around Europe, I wore the same merino wool tank each day for 14 days in warm spring weather. It never smelled bad! Since that experiment I don’t typically go that long without washing my tanks, but I like knowing that I could!  Click here to read more reviews and buy a merino wool camisole/tank.

Foldable flats  – I splurged on a pair of foldable leather flats a few years ago, and after I broke them in I started really liking them. I wouldn’t recommend them for a full day of walking (especially on cobblestones) but I like to bring my foldable flats along for a change of pace or when I want the option of wearing a cute pair of shoes but don’t want them to take up much space in my suitcase.

Merino wool shoes  – I bought a pair of dark grey merino wool walking/tennis shoes a couple years ago and I LOVE them! I can wear them barefoot in the summer, and not only do my feet stay relatively cool, my shoes don’t stink when I take them off at the end of the day. I can throw them in the wash if they get dirty (though mine still look great 2 years later), they pack flat and don’t take up much space in my suitcase or travel backpack, and the heel is thick and cushioned. You can also buy replacement merino wool insoles without having to buy a new pair of shoes.

What I don’t like: the pair I have doesn’t have enough arch support for me and there’s not enough padding under the ball of my foot. The first few times I wore them they were uncomfortable after walking all day and I was super disappointed! But after adding an arch support and a gel insert under the ball of my foot (I like  this one ) I loved them and now wear them all the time while traveling and at home. Many people love them from the start!  Click here to to read reviews and check out merino wool shoes.   

What to Eat in Germany

You’ll never go hungry while traveling in Germany! While you can always find traditional items like Schnitzel, Spätzle, Rouladen, and Bratwurst, there are plenty of healthier options, including those that are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.

Many restaurants now cater to special diets and accommodate allergies, as do some specialty grocery stores. Aaron has a meat allergy and frequently eats gluten-free and has never had a problem finding delicious food in Germany.

These days Germany has a wide variety of restaurants to ft all budgets featuring cuisine from all over the world (except Mexican…I’ve yet to find good tacos in Germany). So you won’t be stuck eating Schnitzel every day – unless you want to!

We usually eat breakfast at our AirBnB or hotel, enjoy a nice lunch at a restaurant we’ve stumbled upon, and then grab a Döner, salad or pizza for dinner. We also often picnic using ingredients from the bakery and grocery store or farmer’s market.

Traditional German dishes to try:   Schnitzel, Spätzle, Rouladen, Bratwurst, Sauerbraten, Schweinehaxen, Maultaschen, Currywurst, Leberkäse, Flammkuchen, Sauerkruat, Kartoffelsalat (potato salad), Quark, all kinds of German breads.

Quick lunches and snacks on the go:  Döner, Falafel, Bratkartoffeln (fried potatoes), Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), Bratwurst, Currywurst, salads, Brötchen filled with meat and/or cheese, fresh pretzels, pastries, cakes. Click here to see the best German street food!

Desserts & sweet treats:  Schwarzwälderkirchtorte (Black Forest Cake), Bienenstich (Bee Sting Cake), cheesecake, Stollen, Frankfurter Kranz, cake, Donauwellen cake, Berliner, Lebkuchen, Pflaumenkuchen (plum cake), all kinds of pastries and chocolate – just to name a few! Click here to see the 10 must-try German desserts and sweets.

Beer:  every kind you could ever imagine! I usually just ask for the local beer unless there’s a specific one I know I want to try.

Christmas: This is the best time of year to be in Germany, partly because of the many delicious holiday treats like Lebkuchen, Stollen, Glühwein, and so much more. Click here to read more about what to eat in Germany during the Christmas season.

Want to try German food now? Click here to see where to buy delicious German food online!

Got a question about traveling in Germany? Join our free Germany trip planning community or  send us an email!

Rottenburg

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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Here’s how we can help you plan your perfect trip in 2024.

GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

TICKETS & TOURS:  For guided tours, day trips, private tours, and skip-the-line tickets,  Get Your Guide  is our go-to!

TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

69 Comments

I enjoyed reading this information. My husband and I would like to stay in Germany for 2 to 3 months in 2022. I am interested in staying in the area of Bamberg with the plan of visiting other regions in Germany via a rental car. Either at the end or beginning of our stay we would like to visit France (especially Paris). I have so many questions. But our hope is to have basically our last trip on our own and experience more of the everyday lifestyle. Up to this point we have only traveled via being guest of Viking River Cruise and tours.

Hi Donna! 2-3 months in Germany sounds awesome! Since you’ll be there so long, you might want to consider spending 1 month in 3 different regions or 1.5 months in 2 regions. Otherwise you’ll be doing a lot of overnight or multi-night trips if you want to see other regions. Are you thinking about renting an AirBnB? If you want to experience the everyday lifestyle, I highly recommend it. Feel free to email me if you have questions as you start planning. 🙂

Hi! Thank you for this awesome post. It’s very useful. I wanted to ask you a question. I’m planning to travel to Germany as soon as the pandemic starts to be less dangerous. I want to go to Germany for 2 months, how many cities do you think is possible to visit? And also how much money do you think is possible to use everyday for food if my budget is small? Thank you very much!

Hello! Two months is a good amount of time to visit Germany, and you should be able to see and do quite a lot! Just how many cities depends on how quickly you like to travel and what you want to do in each place (e.g., just see the highlights or live like a local). If you want to stick to big cities you could spend 1-3 weeks in each and take lots of day trips to see the surrounding area.

If that’s the case, you could rent an Airbnb (or similar), which would not only save you money on lodging (they’ll often give discounts for stays of 1 week or longer) but also make it easier to make some inexpensive meals at the Airbnb (and it’s easy to make German dishes “at home”!) and maybe even do laundry for free.

If you want to be on the go the whole time, moving from city to city (big, medium, and small), it will be more expensive unless you stay at hostels (or super cheap hotels). And remember to factor in the constant packing and unpacking, time getting to/from the train station (or airport)…that gets tiring when traveling for a couple months!

I recommend coming up with a budget, then looking at what kind of lodging fits that budget (hotels, hostels, longer Airbnb stays, Couchsurfing, etc). Then think about what you most want to do in Germany (live like a local, just spontaneously explore, see specific sights, have specific experiences, etc) and what you want your daily experience to be like (e.g., do you want to feel relaxed each day and get to know fewer places or be on the go, packing and unpacking, moving from place to place). Neither is better than the other, it’s just important to get clear on what kind of experience you want!

A few ways to reduce your budget: – Eat in fewer sit-down restaurants. Eat breakfast at “home”, buy snacks and drinks at the grocery store and bring them with you each day, cook some meals each week at “home”, pick up lunch from a grocery store or bakery and eat in a park, etc. Make eating dinner in a sit-down restaurant a special occasion. Doing these things will save you money and you’ll eat healthier!

– Take busses or slower trains to travel around Germany. There are regional train passes you can purchase that allow travel in a specific area very inexpensively. Travel will be slower and there are some restrictions on when you travel (often not during rush hour) but you’ll save money and often you’ll see some out of the way sights. You can also get good deals on flights but once you factor in travel to the airport (time and cost), time to check in, waiting to board, potential delays, and then getting from the airport to your final destination, it’s often just easier to take the train.

– Buy standard train tickets in advance. You can get nice discounts on faster train tickets if you book far enough in advance.

This might be more info than you wanted but I hope that helps you start planning your trip! Let me know if you have any other questions. 🙂

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Great post full of detailed information on all aspects of travel in Germany. When travel reopens in Europe we’re planning on a 2 week trip in Germany with our adult son. He’s an avid soccer fan so we’ll need to plan the trip around the soccer schedule so he can see as many games as possible. We are considering Eastern Germany with a short trip into Poland or Northern Germany with a few days in Denmark. We’d really appreciate your expertise and suggestions. Although we’ve traveled extensively in many western and eastern European countries, we have not spent a great deal of time in Germany. Thanks. J.

Hello! I’m back working on this site now and am happy to help. I’ve got more articles and resources coming but let me know if you have any specific questions!

Hi Both The Ueckermann family 9-10 adults and 2 little once to experience Germany in Oct 2023. Central G and Netherlands will be awesome. We need to do all planning and funds estimates please assist. We live in South Africa and hopefully COVID 19 not a factor any more. Plan 2-3 weeks depending on the funds regards Engela

Hi Engela! Let me know if you have any specific questions about planning your trip to Germany. Happy to help!

HI, I was having trouble with your email 🙂 so sorry I am just replying here. I was hoping you could help us and I wasn’t sure if you offer buying tickets and guidance of our specific places we would like to visit. Anxiously wanting to hear back from you, Anne

Hi Anne! I just sent you an email. 🙂

Hello Cate! Such a well written article with great info! My husband and myself would like to travel to Germany in Oct. of 2022, possibly with my then 16 year old son as well. We want to go in October so we can also experience Octoberfest. I cant have beer because I have celiac’s. IS THERE OTHER ALCOHOL DURING OCTOBERFEST OTHER THAN BEER? WHAT IS THE WEATHER IN OCTOBER AND DOES OCTOBERFEST RUN THE FULL MONTH? IS THERE A CERTAIN AREA WE SHOULD STAY TO REALLY EXPERIENCE OCTOBERFEST AND ANY POTENTIAL ISSUES TO AVOID DURING OCTOBERFEST? We are overwhelmed with planning our trip because we don’t even travel within the US and I feel like there’s so much we want to experience in such a short period. We would like to go for 2 weeks. We want to go because both our families are from Germany. My family comes from Nuremburg (sp) and my husbands family Bavaria but we are unsure which part. This trip is important for us to try to learn about our family roots. DO YOU KNOW WHERE WE COULD GO IN GERMANY TO LEARN ABOUT OUR GENEOLOGY? We would like a more of a laid back approach to experiencing Germany. I dont want to necessarily feel rushed every single day but I do understand that some events and places we would want to visit would need to be scheduled and we are ok with that. I would like to do the Air bnb but know nothing about them. I would like less stress worrying about transportation such as missing busses. We are interested in castles, picturesque views, experiencing floating on the Rhine River perhaps. ANY SUGGESTIONS ON AIR BNB’S THAT PROVIDE BREAKFAST AND ANY IDEAS ON AREA’S TO VISIT BASED ON EVERYTHING I’VE PROVIDED? P.S……our last name literally translates to “the German”. We have had so many Europeans tell us that when they hear our name…LOL

CORRECTION: This is Lisa Nemec. My hubands family is Bohemian. We believe his family crossed over from Czech.

Hi Lisa! There are plenty of other drinks at Oktoberfest, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding something. The weather at that time of year can vary but in late September to early October it’ll likely be warm during the day and cooler in the evening. Oktoberfest is mostly held in late September but I believe it goes until Oct 2 in 2022. There are a lot of hotels and AirBnB’s within walking distance of Oktoberfest (also walking distance to downtown) but book early because they fill up quickly! You’ll also pay a premium at that time of year. Some people prefer not to stay near the main train station but other people don’t mind it.

As to where you could go in Germany to find out about your genealogy, I’d start by searching the genealogy sites online and get as much specific info as you can. You can then try a site like http://www.genealogienetz.de/index_en.html (I haven’t used it, just found it).

If you have 2 weeks, you could fly in and out of Munich and focus on Bavaria. While in Munich you could take a couple day trips to Salzburg, Berchtesgaden, Neuschwanstein, the Alps, etc. You could see a lot at a laid-back pace in 2 weeks!

AirBnB’s are great if you’re going to be somewhere for at least a few days, want a little extra space, a kitchen, etc. Even just being able to make breakfast, coffee/tea, and keep drinks cold for when you come home in the evening is so nice. But you don’t typically get hotel-like services like a prepared breakfast, new towels each day or linen changes. If you want to be walking distance to lots of things in Munich, a hotel near downtown could be a great option. If you’re ok with being in a neighborhood, an AirBnB could be a good choice. There are so many great neighborhoods in Munich so you really just need to look at price, amenities, and distance to the things you want to see. I’ve stayed at hotels near Marienplatz and in an AirBnB further away (maybe a 10-15 minute walk + U-bahn ride to Marienplazt) and I enjoyed both.

I hope that helps!

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HELP……I have been put in charge of coming up with an itinerary for my hubby and 4 of our friends for travel in July 2022. I truly have no idea what I am doing. What we are looking for are castles, beautiful scenery and history (although I have been told that they do not want to go to concentration camps). The following is the tentative itinerary I have come up with. We are looking also, for moderate priced Inns/quaint hotels and castle stays centrally located. Any changes/suggestions/comments would be GREATLY appreciated. We will be renting 2 cars. 1 night Munich drive to Nuremburg 3 nights Nuremburg – drive to Fussen 1 night Fussen – drive to Ettal 3 nights Ettal – drive to Unterwossen 1 night Unterwossen – drive to Salzburg Austria 3 nights Salzburg Austria drive to Munich 1 night Munich – fly home

Hi Linda! Your itinerary looks good for a 2-week trip. Here are few suggestions:

-If you’re flying into Munich, you could drive right to Nuremburg on the first day, since it’s only a couple hours drive from Munich airport. If you pick up your car, drive into Munich, settle into a hotel, and then drive to Nuremburg the next day, you’re using a lot of time for driving/checking in/unpacking/packing and you won’t get to see much of Munich. If you go right to Nuremburg on arrival day and stay for 3 nights, you could add a night to the end of your trip so you have 2 nights in Munich or add a day to Salzburg and keep Munich at 1 night.

-Fussen and Ettal are pretty close to each other so you could stay 3-4 nights in one and then take a day trip to the other. I like to reduce the number of one night stays as much as I can during 1 and 2 week trips for the reasons I mentioned above. You could also stay in Ettal and make day trips to both Fussen and Unterwossen and cut out 2 1-night stays.

-If you don’t want to see Munich, I’d keep that at 1 night and stay near the airport at the end of your trip. If you do want to see Munich, I’d give that 2 nights minimum.

I hope that helps! I think you’ll really enjoy your itinerary!

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Thankyou for all the wonderful suggestions! I’m visiting Germany closer to Christmas for two weeks.

That’s my favorite time to be in Germany! Everything is so beautiful and festive. You might be interested in my Stuttgart Christmas Market article – even if you won’t be near Stuttgart, it will give you an idea of what you can do, see, and eat at any Christmas market. I also talk about 6 other nearby Christmas markets that are super fun to visit. 🙂 Enjoy your trip!!

I had all but given up on our delayed 25 yr Wedding Anniversary(07/28/2020 delayed to Sept 2021, due to covid) trip to Germany. Then I found your website! It reinvigorated our desire to NOT CANCEL our plans! We have a son in Kaiserslautern(rhein main air force base) , and want to split a 2 week trip between seeing 7-8 days traveling in Germany( Berlin, Munich, Cologne, and Stuttgart) and Paris. And then 6 to 7 day visiting our son. We had all but given up, until I read your article. Thanks! I wish that there were some way to have everything planned for us in advance! But, your post at least has assured us that we can make this happen on our own. Thank you very much!!

Definitely don’t cancel your plans, even if you have to postpone! (We had to postpone our anniversary trip, too – such a bummer!) You can definitely make your trip to Germany happen. Here are a few ideas for you…

You could fly into Paris, then travel to Kaiserslautern to see your son and do a day trip to Stuttgart (visit the Christmas market if you’re there in December or nearby Esslingen any time of year) and then either visit Munich and the area around there (fly out of Munich) or travel up to Cologne and over to Berlin (fly out of Berlin).

It’ll be a lot to try to see Paris, spend several days in Kaiserslautern, and also see Cologne, Stuttgart, Munich, and Berlin but if you can combine things – like if your son can go with you to visit Stuttgart and Munich or Cologne and Berlin, you could see a lot of the places you’re interested in. Flying into one city and out of another will help a lot, too.

You could also fly into Munich, then go to Kaiserslautern via Stuttgart, take a short trip to Paris, then go to Berlin via Cologne and fly out of Berlin. Or do the same but start in Berlin and fly out of Munich.

You’ll have a great time no matter your itinerary! 🙂

Your website is a such a great resource! I have a ton of questions about planning a trip, I’m just going to send you an email.

Thank you Komal

Got it and replied 🙂

What is a good budget for 2 adults in Germany for two weeks?

It’s nearly impossible to give a guideline because it depends on so many things – your travel style, what kind of transportation you want to use, your accommodation & restaurant preferences, etc. I know that’s not very helpful in the short-term but it would be less helpful for me to give you a specific budget not knowing any specifics about you or your trip plans. Plus, most travelers like to splurge in one area and cut back in another but that’s so different for each traveler.

What I recommend is this: start looking at flights, transportation, and accommodations well before you want to book them in order to get an idea of what each costs for your travel dates. Add everything up for 2 weeks and then decide if you’re ok with that amount so far, keeping in mind you’ll still need to add on food, souvenirs, tickets/tours, insurance, and anything you need to get before you leave (clothes, luggage, passport, etc). I like to do this research before I book flights/transport/accommodations. That way I get an idea of what will be my splurge and where I will need to reduce costs to keep within the budget that’s right for me. Everyone’s ideal budget is so different!

hi i am planning to travail to Germany in December 2021 with my family , any idea

My big tip for Germany in December: visit the Christmas markets (if they’re open this year)! You’ll find one in nearly every German city, town and even small villages. They’re outdoors so dress warmly and enjoy the food, drink, and stalls. They’re a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts, too.

Days are short in December, and some touristy sites do shut down in winter, so keep that in mind. But you’ll still find plenty to do after dark, especially if you’re in bigger cities. As long as you take these two things into consideration, you’ll have a great visit no matter where you go!

Hi, my partner and I are wanting to visit Germany in January 2022. I have previously stayed in Wurzburg for 3 weeks and dream of taking my partner there.Seeing as I went with school a few years ago we didn’t really have a chance to look around other parts of local Germany. Where would you recommend us to go whilst in that area? We like architecture (but not too much…) we’re in our 20’s so we also want to have fun 🙂 we’ll either be driving (we live in France) or we’ll be going by train. Will the Christmas markets still be on? I doubt it but you never know… Thanks

Also, we are wanting to go with our dog. Would that be possible or too complicated?

You could easily go to Munich and spend a few days there – lots to see and lots of places to have fun. (I had a great time there in my 20s!) There are also a lot of day trip options – Berchtesgaden, Salzburg, Neuschwanstein, Passau, Regensburg, etc. You could also stop in Nuremberg on your way to Munich. All of that is easy by car or by train – and if you go by train, you could probably do those day trips using a regional train pass. Or you could do guided day trips and not have to plan anything! I’ve got some listed in my Munich guide – https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/munich-travel-guide/

It looks like the Christmas markets are on for 2021 but they could always get canceled in the coming weeks. Most have their last day on Dec. 24 so unfortunately, you won’t get to see them if you visit in January. That just means planning another trip to Germany for December 2022! 🙂

Germany is pretty dog-friendly so it’s probably do-able. But there are likely museums and other sites that might not allow dogs inside. If you mostly want to spend time outdoors, and your dog is ok with possibly very cold/wet/windy weather, or if you can leave the dog at your lodging for part of the day, it might work ok.

Hope that helps!

Hi Cate, you have put together a terrific planning guide. Thanks. Our 4 children just gave us a trip back to Germany in celebration of our 50th wedding anniversary. We lived in Erlangen from Aug 1972 – 1973. We are excited to go back but we are debating between a Rhine river cruise or going on our own. We’ll probably go sometime in May/June or Sept/Oct 2022.

How exciting!! It’s so fun to go back and revisit where you used to live in Germany. Aaron and I did that in 2019 and had such a good time seeing what had/had not changed. I’m excited for you!

I’ve heard people say great things about Rhine river cruises. If you don’t have time to or don’t want to do much trip planning, that’s a great option. The downside is that you’re more limited to what you can do and see. If you have time and interest in planning your own trip, you can definitely do it. And since travel is coming back, I’ll be focusing on this site a lot more in the coming months and helping people plan their trips, so I’ll be here to help you, too. 🙂

Hi Cate, We have wanted to visit Germany (from the US) for a few years now and have finally decided to make it happen, but had no idea where or how to start. Your article is full of valuable information. Thank you. At least we now have a starting point. Our trip isn’t for another year, but it will go quickly. So excited and thank you for all the information.

You’re welcome! I’m so excited for you already. 🙂 The next year will fly by and you’ll be on a plane bound for Germany before you know it. Now that travel is coming back, I’ll be focusing on this site a lot more so be sure to come back when you’re ready to plan your trip. I’m working on lots of guides and helpful resources! 🙂

Hello. My grandfather expressed interest in going to Germany in 2022. More specifically, he wants to go to ‘The Battle of the Bulge’ where his older brother passed away in World War II. We would also like to go to the Holocaust Memorial. I have been trying to research/plan this trip but would be open to suggestions. We are from the US and could spend about a week out there. I am grateful that I stumbled across your blog as it is very informative and interesting! 🙂

Hello! That sounds like it will be a wonderful trip for your grandfather! If you’re talking about visiting the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin (highly recommended), you could fly right into Berlin (their new airport!) and spend half of your time seeing the city, then head to Brussels and take a Battle of the Bulge day tour! I found one here that you can look at (aff link): https://www.getyourguide.com/bastogne-war-museum-l35043/bastogne-battle-of-the-bulge-tour-from-brussels-t169657/?partner_id_Y5UOFLS It looks like it also goes into Luxembourg so you could get 3 countries in one trip. 🙂 If you have enough time, you could take a day trip to Brugges or Ghent – both are 30-60 minutes from Brussels. You could then fly out of Brussels back to the US. To get from Berlin to Brussels you’d probably want to fly but it’s a short flight and you could probably get an early morning or a late afternoon flight so it wouldn’t take up your whole day. Hope that helps with your planning!

Hi, your site is wonderful and has some great information! I am traveling (solo) to Germany in late April and will be there for one month. I have been to Munich/Bavaria/Salzburg before so I’d planned on focusing my trip on the rest of Germany. I’m flying into Berlin and was planning on staying there 4-5 nights, then I’m not sure where to go. I was thinking of spending a week in an area and going on day trips; for example, the Black Forest, the middle Rhine area, maybe Harz Mountain. But I also want to see some cities like Cologne, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Trier, and Hamburg. So maybe a bit of both cities and countryside? Do you have any thoughts? Thanks!

I definitely recommend choosing 3-4 locations where you can stay for a week or so and then take day trips. You could do longer stays in Berlin and Hamburg – there’s tons to do and see in each city, as well as lots of day trip options. You could also do Cologne or try a smaller town on the Rhein or Mosel and explore that area in more depth. For the Black Forest you could stay in the university town of Freiburg and day trip to towns/hiking in the Black Forest, as well as Basel and Colmar/Strassbourg). You could also choose 3 locations for longer stays (e.g., Berlin, Hamburg and Freiburg) and then do a couple of 2 or 3-night stays as you travel between cities, e.g., a short stay in Wernigerode or Quedlinburg (Harz mountains), Trier, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, or Tübingen on your way to Freiburg. Tip: if you want to do a lot of day trips, make sure you stay where it’s fairly quick and easy to get to the train/bus station! Since you’ll be there for a month you have lots of flexibility and plenty of time to do and see a lot of the areas you mentioned!

@Cate, Thank you so much! I’m really enjoying going through your site, too!

Looking for a good travel guide book for Germany any recommendations?

Rick Steve’s is always a good one! I’ve used his guidebooks a ton. You can get his Germany guidebook on Kindle or as a hard copy (aff link): https://amzn.to/33z7d59

@Cate, Thanks

So excited to find your site! My husband and I will travel from Texas to Bavaria for 7-10 days in September. I am in charge of all the planning. I’m thinking Munich & surrounding area and Salzburg. Do you have any suggestions? I’m also pondering some organized day tours..

Munich is a wonderful home base for seeing lots of great sites in Bavaria! You could easily spend 1-3 days in Munich (especially if you’re there during Oktoberfest) and then take day trips to places like Neuschwanstein, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Salzburg, Linderhof, Chiemsee, Berchtesgaden, Nuremberg…just to name a few! You can easily do all of that by train and mix it up with some organized day tours here and there. I’ve been working on a Munich guide that will have ideas for day trips and tours so keep an eye out for that!

Hello Cate, Your blog is very helpful. Like to seek your help and guidance. I am from Singapore and not familiar with Germany. Both me and my wife intend to fly to Amsterdam where my daughter is attending university and spend 18 days vacation with her in Europe during her break. Am planning 7 days touring Germany. Tentatively looking tourist site at hamburg, Berlin, Stuttgart and then off to another country eg. france, switzerland or Italy for another 7 days. then travel back to Amsterdam to fly home. Any advise how we can optimize the traveling as we are not familiar with these region? Appreciate your kind assistance. regards, Perry

It will be so much fun to travel with your daughter! It might be difficult to fit Hamburg, Berlin and Stuttgart into 7 days. On the train it takes about 6 hours from Amsterdam to Hamburg, 3 hours from Hamburg to Berlin, and over 8 hours from Berlin to Stuttgart. While all three of those cities are amazing, I recommend choosing either northern or southwestern Germany, rather than trying to hit all three (or make the Germany part of your trip 10 days).

You could, for example, travel from Amsterdam to Hamburg, then to Berlin, and fly from Berlin to France or Italy. That would give you plenty of time for travel, city exploring and day trips.

Or take the train from Amsterdam to Stuttgart and explore that area. Stuttgart is close to France, so you could spend several days seeing both southwestern Germany (Stuttgart, villages in the Black Forest, Freiburg, Baden-Baden, etc) and French cities like Strassbourg, Colmar and Mullouse. You could also very easily go to Basel in Switzerland! It’s a long train ride from Amsterdam to Stuttgart so I’d look into flights. Stuttgart is a great airport to fly into!

Hi, my family and I would like to visit Germany this summer. My husband and I have two teenagers (15 and 13), and one of them is reads a lot and it is very interested in history. We would like to visit german cities but also, some concentration camps. Our plans is to spend two weeks there. Any suggestions?

You’re going to have so much fun in Germany! Everywhere you go there’s so much history, so it just depends on what kind of history you’re looking for. For a 2-week stay you could easily visit 2 (maybe 3) different parts of Germany without feeling like you’re spending your whole vacation on the train or in the car. You could, for example, fly into Munich, visit the city and Dachau concentration camp, take a few day trips to Salzburg, the Alps, Neuschwanstein, Nuremburg, etc – there are so many options!…then visit the Black Forest area, the Rhein/Mosel area, the Hamburg area or the Berlin area and fly out of that second city (Stuttgart, Cologne/Düsseldorf, Hamburg or Berlin). If you want to focus on 2 main areas, say Munich and Berlin, you could do a 1-2 night stopover in a city in-between. Hope that helps you get started on your planning! 🙂

@Cate, We are from USA planning on attending next years NfL game if possible. We are a large group 10-15people who would also like to see the culture and history. Open to staying in Berlin, munich, or anywhere else as long as accessible to get to game. We want to fly out wed night from BOS be there Th F S Su (game in Frankfurt) leave M. Anything you would recommend?

Hi! I just now saw your question. If you’re flying into FRA and have Th, F, and S to do some sight-seeing, I’d stick to the Frankfurt area and do day trips. If you go to Berlin or Munich you’ll spend most of your time in transit and checking in/out of hotels. We’ve got a Frankfurt guide on our website and also a castles guide – so you could spend a day exploring FRA, then a day visiting a castle, and then 1 day visiting a nearby city like Heidelberg, Nürnberg or Rothernburg ob der Tauber. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. We’ve also got a Germany Trip Planner and one-on-one travel consults, too. And lots of info on this website. We’re happy to help!

I just found your great website! We have just drafted a 3 week trip plan to Germany and Austria and I would love your thoughts about it!. Is late May better than June? (I really can’t do heat without AC!)

– [ ] 2. Land in Vienna- 2 nights… – [ ] 3. Take tour or just Spend a day in the sprawling Schönbrunn Palace, – [x] 4. Rental car to Take KM 29 for about an hour to Burg Liechtenstein drive an hour to Melk Abbey Then Steyr From Melk, Steyr 1 night stay – [x] 5. Spend a little time, touring the Steyr Mannlicher! – [x] 6. Wake up early and bike 15 minutes to spend the morning exploring more of Halstatt before the day-trippers.. Sky Walk salt mine – [x] 7. After lunch, enjoy more the beauty of Salzkammergut area! on to Salzburg in time to return the rental car. we will stay in the old town (Salzburg 3 nights) – [ ] 8. See Salzburg – [ ] 9. Take guided tour to Eagles nest – [ ] 10: To Munich by 2 hour train.. taxi to hotel, Sleep Munich 2 nights … – [ ] 11. Guided tour all day— Dachau and Munich sites – [x] 12 Slow morning to rest, checkout, cab, 1.5 hour train to Oberarmagau for lunch and stroll. Rent car in Garmish and Drive another hour to Sleep in Hohenschwangau 2 nights Maybe take 30 minute Schloss Hornschwangau Castle tour before closing if time – [x] 13 Visit Neuschwanstein! (Hohenschwangau castle first if not last evening) then rent a bike and go a mile -7 minutes to Tegelberg luge ride – [x] 14 drive 2.5-4 hours but first stop for lunch and see Ulm Cathedral. Going Opposite the crowds arrive in afternoon to stay in nearby Rothenburg 3 nights. See stunning Rothenburg – [x] 15 After coffee and quiet streets, walk the medieval wall. If crowds arrive, leave and drive a short way and tour the Bad Weinsheim Frankonian Open Air Museum – [x] 16 Drive 30 min to Ansbach, park and Take 30 min train and10 min cab into Neuremburgfor day. – [x] 17. leave in early morning and drive 3-5 hours through To St Goar take B9 along the Rhine from Bingen arrive in time to tour Burg Eltz and then maybe return car in Emmelshausen this day or next. Take cab back down to nearby St Goar for 3 nights. – [ ] 18 See Burg Eltz castle if not seen yesterday and then see Marksburg castle – [ ] 19 REST maybe just board a boat for a relaxing Rhine River cruise from Sant Goar. We will disembark to visit small Bacharach and back again by train. – [ ] 20 Depart by 70minute train to Frankfurt airport Or would it be better to do the trip in reverse, starting with Germany first? Thank you!!

It’s not usually super hot in May but it can be hot in mid-late June. The last time we were there in June (2019) it was incredibly hot and there isn’t as much a/c there…but you never know, I’ve had cold and rainy June visits, too. If you want to be more sure of not-super-hot weather, I’d go in mid-late May or early to mid-June — as long as you’re ok with the possibility of some not-so-warm days. If you go in mid-late June and don’t love hot weather, book hotels with a/c, rent a car with a/c, and plan to buy a lot of cold drinks. No matter the weather, it’s always fun to travel around Germany! 🙂

You could easily do your itinerary either way so I’d just look at whether flights are better into Vienna/out of FRA or vice-versa. Check the hotels you want to stay in to make sure they have availability — I’ve actually reversed my itinerary before due to hotel availability!

You’re planning to cover a lot of ground in 3 weeks and be on the go go go, which some people find more tiring than expected…but if you know your travel style, then go for it! 🙂 3 nights in one place gives you 2 full days, which is a good amount of time for most places. 2 nights means 1 full day, which can be enough in some locations but if you do many in a row, it can feel like you’re constantly checking in/unpacking/packing/checking out, and can get super tiring if you’re doing a lot of day trips.

Be sure to plan in time for getting ready, eating breakfast, packing, checking out of the hotel, getting to the train station/car rental – it often takes up more time than you’d expect. Trains aren’t as punctual as they used to be, so keep that in mind for what you plan on arrival after a train trip.

An idea — instead of taking a train to Oberammergau, then to Garmisch to rent a car, then driving to Hohenschwangau, I’d rent a car in Munich and drive to each place. It will probably be less expensive to rent in Munich and easier than doing the train and car pick-up (especially with luggage!).

For the longer drives, plan on them taking longer than what’s estimated in google maps because there’s often traffic! If you miss the traffic and arrive early, it’ll be a nice bonus!

Your idea to add in some guided day tours is a good one – it’s a nice change from having to figure everything out yourself and can feel like a mini vacation from your vacation.

Overall, you’ve got a really fun trip planned!

Hi Cate! I love your clear way of describing and explaining. My husband and I are invited to a wedding outside of Berlin the last weekend in April. From there we would love to head to the spas in Baden-Baden .. what else would you suggest to see in the Baden-Baden area and without driving the best transportation option? We can stay up to about 10 days. Thank you!

Thank you for your nice comment! 🙂 I’d take the train from Berlin to Baden-Baden. It’s about 6 hours and you can relax and see the sights along the way. You could fly from Berlin to Stuttgart but by the time you travel to the airport in Berlin (the new one is further out than Tegel was), check in, wait to board, fly, and then take the train from Stuttgart to Baden-Baden, it’s at least as long as – if not longer – then taking the train.

When in Baden-Baden you could visit Gengenbach, the Black Forest, Triberg (cuckoo clocks & waterfalls), Tübingen, Stuttgart/Esslingen, Lichtenstein Castle, Hohenzollern Castle, Freiburg, Basel (Switzerland), Strassbourg (France), Colmar (France) — just to name a few! You should be able to reach all of these places via train/bus. The Black Forest Open Air Museum is also a lot of fun! I’m working on guides to several of these locations – and some are already on the site – so check back soon for new ones. 🙂

You should be able to get a free KONUS train pass, which enables you to travel throughout the Black Forest region for free. I don’t think it works for every place I listed but it will get you to several of them. Here’s more info about the KONUS card: https://www.schwarzwald-tourismus.info/planen-buchen/konus-gaestekarte (you can switch to English if it’s in German).

You could fly out of Stuttgart airport or travel up to Frankfurt and fly out of there. Strassbourg or Basel might work, too.

@Cate, that really does! Thanks again,

You’re very welcome!

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I am planning a trip with my husband, 18 year old daughter, mother in law and myself. We will have 8 nights total flying Munich to Amsterdam or vice versa. Interested in the Christmas markets, of course, castles (would love if we could stay the night in a castle if that’s possible), and just getting an authentic German experience. My mother in law found family ancestry in Stuttgart, so she would like to stop there. The other areas that we have an interest in are Frankfurt, Cologne (wonder if there is such thing as a day cruise on the Rhine River), and maybe Hamburg (for the canals, but I’m not sure December is the best time of year for that). Although, I’m not sure we’ll be able to see all those cities in just 8 nights, as we would also like 1-2 nights in Amsterdam.

We plan to rent a car and I will be doing the driving. We live in Colorado so I’m familiar with winter driving, but wonder if I can use Google maps while traveling through Germany.

Would love your thoughts or suggestions on this.

Thank you, Lea Ann

Hi Lea Ann, you’ve got the makings of a magical winter trip! All of the places you mentioned will be beautiful in December because of the Christmas markets. Stuttgart, for example, has a huge, old Christmas market (plus there are 2 other really beautiful ones nearby) and there are 2 nearby castles you can visit. Hamburg and Cologne and also wonderful cities (Frankfurt too but I’d skip it on a short trip unless you have a specific reason to go there).Amsterdam is also a lot of fun and a great place to fly in or out of.

It’s a lot to fit into 8 nights so you’ll definitely need to hone in on just a few places, otherwise you’ll spend your entire trip packing/unpacking/driving. 🙂

You can use google maps in Germany and that’ll make getting from place to place easy. But unless you want to stop at specific sights between cities, you could easily take the train, since you’re going to big cities (you don’t need a car in any of the cities you want to visit). If you don’t mind parking the car at each hotel in the city, a car can give you more flexibility.

You can also stay in a castle in Germany! We’ve got a guide for that right here so you can see which one you like best.

It’s hard to get more specific about an itinerary here in the comments without taking to you and getting a better sense of your interests and needs but we’ve got lots of resources to help you — Christmas market guides (definitely take a look at the Stuttgart one!), city and hotel guides , and we’ve also got a Germany Travel Bundle with an interactive Germany Travel Map, City Cheatsheets, and other resources, and I do one-on-one trip planning consults .

And be sure to join our travel planning Facebook group !

@Cate, thank you for your quick response and feedback! I’ll check out the links you shared and I’ve joined your Facebook group.

You’re welcome! Glad you joined the group! 🙂

Hi Cate , I have visited Germany but only Düsseldorf for my sugery. I will like to take my wife and kids with me this time I have an appointment in December might use the opportunity to take them for Christmas holiday . I have 12’night in total . 5 night in Düsseldorf can you please advise which city we can visit for the rest days and we are not leaving Germany until 26th. So I want them To enjoy the Christmas but I don’t know which city to choose .I will you to please give me where the kids can enjoy the trip age 8 ,6 and 3 . Do we fly back from Düsseldorf or from Another city ? Thanks for your help.

If you’d like to fly out of the Düsseldorf airport, you could spend the second part of your trip in Cologne so you could visit the markets there, in Bonn, and surrounding area (e.g. a day trip to Aachen).

If you’re ok with flying out of a different airport, you could go to Stuttgart (good Christmas markets in the area and a couple castles), Munich (good markets and day trips) or Berlin (good markets and day trips) and fly out of any of those airports.

Most everything will be closed on Dec 25 and the latter half of Dec 24 so keep that in mind when doing your daily planning.

Hope that helps with your planning!

Hi, Thank you for the detail page. I and my family will be visiting to watch a NFL game in Frankfurt and had some travel ideas outside of the city that I have not found solutions for. First, are US citizens allowed to rent cars without a permit? We want to travel to Stuttgart and Munich for some museums and possibly Berlin, but I’ve yet to figure how time and distances for the trip as these do seem to be quite a distance from each other. Then, we would end the trip back in Frankfurt to travel back to the US, unless we find an airline in Berlin. Do you have suggestions? This would be a 7-14 day trip, depending on cost. Thank you

Hi Marco! Yes, you can rent a car with just your US driver’s license. While not required, an int’l driver’s license can be helpful if you get pulled over or in an accident (you can get on at AAA). You can check distance between those cities via google maps (it’ll show you both driving and trains). I always add 25% to the times they suggest because there’s a good chance you’ll encounter traffic somewhere. We use google maps for all of our road trips in Germany. You could definitely do Frankfurt – Stuttgart – Munich – Berlin – Frankfurt (stay near airport on the last night) in 14 days. If you don’t want to drive from Munich – Berlin – Frankfurt, you could return the car in Munich and then take the train to Berlin and back to Frankfurt. Hope that helps you get started on your trip planning!

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Best Time To Visit Germany

Famous Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany, Europe

A guide to Germany’s many seasons

Given the variety of things to do in Germany – from festivals and events to forest treks and hiking, the ideal time for a German vacation depends just as much on the weather as it does your preference for particular activities and adventures. Whether you want to visit only the cities or admire the beauty of the  Rhine Valley in Germany , you should keep in mind that timing is everything.

The German climate follows a predictable central European pattern – warm between April to August and cold from September to March. If you want to increase your chances of a dry holiday, then visit between July and September. Temperatures during this period fluctuate within the 68°F – 86°F range.

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

  • Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in winter – a fairytale setting
  • Go museum-hopping in Berlin
  • Ski down world-class slopes at Garmisch-Partenkirchen
  • Try out cross country skiing in the Black Forest
  • Movie buffs can head to the Berlin International Film Festival – one of the biggest in the world
  • Have a good time at the Fasching or Carnival in Cologne
  • Sample delicious Easter goodies at the Nuremberg Easter Market
  • The Leipzig Book Fair is a must-visit for all bibliophiles
  • Welcome pleasant weather with the Frankfurt Spring Fair
  • Walk through a tunnel of cherry blossom trees in Bonn
  • Sample some of Germany’s finest beer at the Frühlingsfest in Stuttgart
  • Head to Beelitz for the Spargelfest and find out why the asparagus is a national obsession
  • Hike the Elbe Sandstone Mountains
  • Celebrate Bach in his hometown of Leipzig at the Bach Festival
  • Explore charming Dusseldorf
  • Enjoy beachside bliss at Rügen Island
  • Indulge in water sports in Bodensee
  • Enjoy a picnic by the Elbe River in Dresden
  • Stroll around Lübeck – a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Cruise down the Rhine River
  • Drive down the Romantic Road from Wurzburg to Fussen
  • Tour the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
  • Be part of the merriment that surrounds the Oktoberfest in Munich
  • Cycle around the picturesque town of Potsdam
  • Enjoy the scenic landscape as you drive down Germany’s Wine Road
  • Witness the migration of cranes at the East Frisian Islands
  • Watch Berlin’s iconic buildings light up at the Festival of Lights
  • Delight in brilliant fall foliage at the Black Forest
  • Try out a spin or two at an ice skating rink
  • Be part of the country’s oldest fair at Bremen
  • Walk under a million lights at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, Berlin
  • Get into the festive spirit at one of Germany’s many Christmas markets
  • Welcome the New Year at the ‘Party Mile’ in Berlin

Seasons in Germany

Best Season  – The best season in Germany occurs over three periods through the year. You will find the highest number of visitors in the country during these times: June to August, Oktoberfest in September, and the Christmas period from mid-November to mid-December. With the Christmas markets opening across Germany between the 22nd to 29th of November, this is one of the best times to visit Germany. Three of the biggest and most popular markets take place in Berlin at the Charlottenburg Palace, in Leipzig at the Marktplatz (market square), and in Nuremberg at the Nuremberg Market Square.

Off Season  – The colder German weather kicks off in November and lasts until March/April. Snow is a common occurrence in the South and East across the likes of Dresden, Stuttgart, Augsburg and Munich, with temperatures dropping as low as 33.8°F. By March, snow is less of an issue and intermittent rain is more common.

Beautiful postcard view of the famous historic town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber on a sunny day with blue sky and clouds in summer, Franconia, Bavaria, Germany best time to visit Europe

Best Time for Sightseeing

Before you finalize your  Germany trip plan , it’s a good idea to be aware of when popular festivals and events are on. The German summer is packed. The Schützenfest Hannover, the Freiburg Wine Festival and the Berlin Culture Festival all take place in July. The Frankfurt Apple Wine Festival is in August. Oktoberfest in September brings huge numbers to every city, particularly Munich. Large crowds and extensive queues are typical during the peak summer months of July to September, so if you prefer it less busy, this might not be the best time to visit Germany despite the great weather. Early summer and October are best if you wish to avoid queues and crowds.

Girl enjoying beautiful panorama of Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany, Europe

What to Pack for Germany

  • Good Walking Shoes  – You will get a much better taste of each city by walking. It’s advisable to bring with you at least one good solid pair of walking or running shoes.
  • Travel adapter plug  – This is a must. And remember–the German one is the two-pronged cylindrical version.
  • Rainwear and Sunwear  – It’s best to wear comfortable loose clothing and pack a light raincoat and compact umbrella, just to be on the safe side.
  • Mobile phone  – Check your mobile phone network and have it set up before arrival. It’s also advisable to carry a backup battery or battery pack with you.
  • Passport  – Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of departure from Germany. You will need about two blank pages in your passport for each country that you visit in Europe.

Our experts are happy to advise you further on when to visit Germany, packing for your trip, and all other essential details. Get in touch with us to plan a private Germany tour tailored to you.

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Best time to visit Germany

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Alte Hofburg, Vienna, Austria

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Grand castles, opulent palaces, stately churches, and more are on the cards as you travel through the historically rich cities of Vienna, Salzburg, and Munich. Art and architecture are the main themes as you visit the most famous buildings and monuments of Vienna. Views of rolling hills and vineyards keep you company as you drive…

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Explore the highlights of Germany, right from Frankfurt, the hub of trade and commerce, to the historic university town of Heidelberg, and the delightfully vibrant capital, Berlin. Traveling in comfort by rail, also visit Saxon stronghold Dresden and the charming Bavarian village of Nuremberg, where World War II history comes alive. End your tour in…

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Discover the must-visit destinations in Germany on this short vacation. Explore Berlin, the hub of modern-day art and culture which boasts a rich and unique history. Iconic Nuremberg in the south offers glimpses into Germany’s heritage with its picture-perfect vistas, museums, and architectural sites, as well as World War II history. End your tour at…

German Christmas market

Bavaria's Christmas Markets

Spend your holidays exploring the festive Christmas markets in the heart of Bavaria! Experience the spirit of Christmas on a guided tour of Munich’s traditional markets like Christkindlmarkt, Old Town and Christmas village, where you sample delicious cakes and goodies. Enjoy a romantic boat journey in the Bavarian countryside as you hop from one market…

Authentic beautiful towns of Germany - Wurzburg, view with vineyrds and castle, Europe

Road Trip: Bavarian Countryside and Romantic Road

Take a drive through the meandering Romantic Road in the Bavarian countryside, where fairytale castles rub shoulders with pastel-colored, preserved villages, historic sites, and spa destinations. Framed by the distant Alps and ringed in by lush forests, this overland tour will take you deep into the heart of Southern Germany, famed as much for its…

Best Places To Visit

Best time to visit Germany

The Bavarian town of Augsburg is a historic palimpsest come alive. Dating back to 2000 years ago when it was founded by the descendants of Emperor Augustus, Augsburg came into its own in the medieval period as a free city and thriving center of the textile trade.

Best time to visit Germany

The elegance of Belle Époque comes alive with a contemporary pulse in Baden-Baden, thanks to palatial dwellings, colonnaded public buildings, ornamental gardens by the babbling Oos, hilltop castles, and opera galas.

Baden-Baden

Best time to visit Germany

It’s tough to not think of beer in Bamberg, located in northern Bavaria and a town known to have the highest concentration of brewpubs in the world! Home to nine breweries, the region is known for its unique Rauchbier (smoked beer).

Best time to visit Germany

Berlin, the nation’s capital, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Associated with famous personalities such as Marx, Bismarck, and Einstein, Europe’s second-most-populous city offers you a peek into its past at every corner.

Best time to visit Germany

Known as the Jewel Box for its baroque and rococo city center, Dresden is also home to the largest green diamond in the world. The city is known for its dainty porcelain figurines that have a unique identity across the globe.

Best time to visit Germany

Concealed behind the gleaming glass and steel buildings of Frankfurt is a traditional and charming city. With a past that goes back centuries, this global hub of commerce, culture, and tourism has plenty to offer visitors.

Things To Do

From medieval castles to fairy tale forests, churches, historic cities and Oktoberfest, discover the top ten things to do in Germany from our destination experts.

Despite its excellent safety record, it’s still a good idea to be savvy when visiting Germany’s cities and if you’re out and about at night, especially on your own. Here are the top safety tips from our destination experts.

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Home » Europe » Best Time to Visit Germany – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Best Time to Visit Germany – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Germany is a land of deep forests, medieval towns, and hearty cuisine. Narrowing down the many options of things to see and do is almost as hard as choosing the best time to visit Germany.

Whether you’re planning an Alpine escape among half-timbered houses, a city tour to take in the culture and architecture, or party up a storm at Oktoberfest, Germany offers something to suit all tastes.

Of course, like most destinations, different seasons bring a different perspective, and it’s good to know these before you begin planning your German vacation. While summer brings great weather for sightseeing, it’s also the most popular time for travel, so prices are inevitably higher and crowds are much larger.

Choosing the best time to visit Germany will largely depend on the experience you’ve been dreaming of – visiting historis sites? Hitting the Christmas markets? We’ve gathered all the info to make your decision easier.

Best Time To Visit Germany – April and May, September and October

Best Time To Go To Berlin – April and May, September and October

Best Time To Go To Munich  – Autumn (September and October)

Best Time To Go To Oktoberfest  – September and October

Best Time For Sightseeing – Spring (April, May)  and Autumn (September, October)

Cheapest Time To Visit Germany – January

When is the Best Time to Go to Germany?

When to visit germany – a month by month breakdown, faq about the best time to visit germany, final thoughts on the best time to visit germany.

Germany is a country of contrasts – from abundant natural beauty to thriving cosmopolitan cities, from hard-hitting history to contemporary cool. There’s such an abundance of experiences to be had, that whenever you choose to travel to Germany , you won’t leave disappointed. 

The summer months (between May and September) are the best months to visit Germany in terms of weather. Wherever about in Germany you stay, the weather will be pleasant. The later in the season you visit, the higher the chances are that you’ll experience some rain, but from May to June conditions are ideal for sightseeing.

While this is the best time to visit Germany in terms of weather if you’re hoping to avoid large crowds and peak season pricing on flights and accommodation, it’s probably best to plan your trip for the shoulder seasons in spring and autumn.

Spring (April to June) is a good option if you want to find that sweet balance between fewer crowds and lower pricing, while still enjoying pleasant weather. The weather in the spring can be somewhat unpredictable, sometimes offering you a glimpse of all seasons in just one day.

Man walking towards Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne, Germany in winter clothes wheeling a hand luggage suitcase behind him.

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But if you’re not deterred by that, you can pick up some really good deals on flights and accommodation, and will enjoy a much more laid back experience without long queues.

Autumn (September to mid-October) starts off warm and mild in September but by October the cold is moving in and the weather can be slightly gloomier. Dazzling Autumn colors blanket the landscape, crowds are few, and you may even pick up a good deal on your room.

Winter is the quietest time to travel to Germany unless you’re hitting the Bavarian Alps for some winter sports or hoping to take in one of the many renowned festive markets. Germany gets fairly cold in winter, with snow and rain and grey skies. Dress warmly and check out our Germany packing list for insider info.

While it’s technically low season, the Christmas period does see a spike in tourism, so expect bigger crowds and inflated pricing around that time. November is very quiet, but be warned that a lot of hotels close at this time for maintenance before the Christmas rush, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Best Time to Go to Berlin

The edgy and the contemporary exist alongside historical monuments and reminders of the city’s tumultuous past. There is a lot to do in Berlin offers an abundance of museums, architecture, art, and nightlife, enough to warrant more than one visit to fully explore this enchanting city.

If you are wanting to sample Berlin’s raucous Techno and nightlife scene – then you will not be disappointed at it is one of the best parties in Europe .

Brandenburg Gate in Berlin with sunset behind

Between May and October, you’ll enjoy great weather that’s perfect for being outdoors. It can get muggy and humid in June and July, with rain possible at any time. From July onwards, the air dries out as does any potential for rain. Temperatures hover in the low 20s (Celsius) so it’s not overwhelmingly hot.

The city really comes alive in the summer with loads of events and festivals across Berlin. This is the peak season in Berlin, so expect crowds of tourists, longer queues, busier streets, and high pricing on everything from rooms to flights, and taxis.

Winters are particularly grey and rainy and can get quite chilly. It does snow occasionally but usually not more than a light dusting. Low prices and crowd-free experiences are the order of the day in winter, except over the Christmas holidays when tourism spikes. The Christmas markets are a real treat at this time, renowned as some of the best in Europe.

Spring and autumn offer mild and warm conditions with the added benefit of great pricing and fewer tourists. The weather can be a little variable at this time, so pack for all seasons.

The city is popular so maybe book your Berlin accommodation ahead of time.

Best Time to Go to Munich

Beer, BMW, and oodles of quirky Bavarian charm make Munich a popular destination with tourists. With a history dating back to the Roman Empire, the city features ornate architecture that will appease art lovers, while history buffs head out on a World War II walking tour. Each Munich neighbourhood has its own character.

A great year-round destination, Munich sees its peak tourist season in September and October as a result of the famous Oktoberfest. If you’re looking to avoid those crowds and still enjoy pleasant weather, early September is the ideal time for a visit, and you may find some good deals on rooms and flights too.

2 women posing at the camera in warm clothes front of the Rathaus in Munich

Winter is very quiet in Munich in terms of tourists. The days are short, grey, and wet, but the city is blissfully free of tourists and rates are good. The only exception is over the Christmas period when the city sees a peak in visitors coming to enjoy the festive markets.

Summer is when the city sees its peak rainfall, with June and July receiving the most precipitation. However, the temperatures are pleasant, lingering in the low 20s (Celsius) – perfect for sightseeing. The only downside is that it’s a busy time for tourism so expect long waits, queues at attractions, and heftier pricing – book your hostel in Munich early to lock in the best prices.

Best Time to Go to Oktoberfest

Giant frothy mugs of beer and tasty German delicacies are the star of the show at this famous two-and-a-half-week-long festival in Germany . This celebration of Bavarian culture has been in existence since the early 1800s and has grown into a world-renowned and heavily-bucket-listed event.

Contrary to what the name would suggest, the festival begins in mid-September and ends in the first week of October. Due to its popularity, it’s essential to plan thoroughly and book well in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Munich oktoberfest in germany

Large crowds and pricey accommodation are to be expected, but careful planning can still help mitigate the costs. 

The best time to go to Oktoberfest is as early as possible in the day. Weekends can get very busy, especially later in the day, starting from just before lunch.  Weekdays are fairly quiet and pick up after 18:00 when it can get very busy. 

It’s a good idea to book a table – this saves you having to hover and wait in extremely long lines for a drink. 

Best Time for Sightseeing in Germany

Sightseeing in Germany is best enjoyed in the summer months when the weather is warmer. However, this is the peak season when prices are higher than at other times of the year. Expect long lines at popular tourist attractions and jostling crowds wherever you go.

Late spring is a good time to enjoy pleasant (if a little variable) weather before the major crowds hit in summer. This will mean a much more enjoyable sightseeing experience without long queues. April and May can also yield some good deals on hotels and flights. 

Similarly, October can be a very good time for sightseeing once the Oktoberfest crowds have departed. It’s still warm and mild, with rain becoming more frequent towards the end of the month. Sightseeing at this time will be much more laid back without the throngs of other tourists. 

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Best Time for Visiting Munich

Munich can get quite warm during the summer with temperatures in the mid-to-high-20s. While this would ideally be a good time to visit Munich, the crowds of peak season will be at their largest, making it slightly less appealing. 

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer visitors the chance to enjoy relatively uncrowded sightseeing while still enjoying mild and pleasant weather. Of course, the chance of rainfall is an ever-present reality, but April and October both offer slightly less chance that your plans will be rained out.

Munich oktoberfest

The first week of October in Munich is still very much Oktoberfest, and likely to be very busy. Accommodation and transport will likely come at a premium during this popular time. 

The winter season is cold and wet and gloomy. Occasional snow is possible, but usually, it doesn’t stick around for too long. While this isn’t the kind of weather that lends itself to pleasant outdoor sightseeing, it does offer you the chance to see the sights without fighting through thick crowds of other tourists. 

The Christmas period is an exception to this. Tourism peaks over this time, raising prices and filling the cities up. The famous festive markets attract visitors from all over Europe at this time. While this is a lovely time to be in Munich, if you’re not up for crowds, maybe give it a miss. 

Cheapest Time to Go to Germany

The incredible variety of things to see and do in Germany make it a popular destination all year round. There’s rarely a time during the year when you won’t be among other visitors, but there are most certainly times of the year when you can visit Germany at a lower cost.

Generally, the winter months are the cheapest time to visit – unless you’re headed to the mountains for some winter sports, or hitting the cities over Christmas. This is also the least crowded time on the calendar to visit.

Summer is always more expensive as throngs of tourists make their way to Germany for their summer vacation.

Booking well in advance for peak season and event-related travel is always advisable, and a good way to try to keep costs down. If you’re heading to Germany in the low season, you could change your luck and hold out for a last-minute deal. The low season is the best time to visit Germany for good value.

Busiest Time to Visit Germany

The peak summer season (June to August) is the busiest time to visit Germany. Hordes of tourists flock to the many attractions and sights, making sightseeing sometimes very difficult. While the weather at this time is ideal, it comes with the downside of long waiting times and jostling for a glimpse of the sights. 

Outside of the high summer, Germany sees a spike in tourism over mid-September and October for the annual Oktoberfest. Large (very jolly) crowds and higher pricing are expected over this period, and anyone wishing to attend should book well in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Germany’s cities are well known for hosting some of Europe’s best Christmas markets . As a result, tourism sees another healthy spike over the December and early January period. This is a magical time to visit for a healthy dose of Christmas spirit, but if you’re wanting to avoid crowds, think twice.  It can also be dammed cold so dress up warm in order to stay healthy in Germany !

More tourists always guarantee elevated pricing on rooms and airfare, as well as much longer queues and waiting times at popular attractions. 

Weather in Germany

Germany’s weather is generally quite temperate and mild. The summers are warm and not overly hot, and the winters are cold but not too icy. Of course, parts of the country lie at much higher, Alpine elevations, causing temperatures here to plummet in the winter. 

The east of Germany generally experiences cooler conditions – winters are harsher here and summers milder – while the southwest of the country is warmer all-round, feeling decidedly Mediterranean.

Staying in a Castle in Germany

Rain falls throughout the year, but the rainiest season is by far the high summer. Between rainy days, the summers are characterised by warm and sunny days, reaching the mid-to-high-20s (Celsius). 

Winters are gloomy and cold and wet for the most part. The further east one travels in Germany, the harsher the winter conditions become. The Alpine regions in the south also see harsher winter conditions due to altitude. 

Between March and April, temperatures warm steadily with occasional afternoon thunderstorms becoming more frequent. The autumnal month of September can still offer lovely warm weather, but this peters off significantly towards late October when the first hints of winter start to make themselves known. 

Where is the Best Weather in Germany?

Germany’s weather is impacted by a number of factors – the cool coastal currents in the north, Siberian cold waves coming from the east, and Alpine altitudes in the south.

The mildest weather in the country is found in the south-west. This is the prime wine-growing region of Germany as a result, with the climate feeling distinctly Mediterranean and warm.

Summer, while warm and mild, is also the peak rainfall season in Germany. While rain can be expected throughout the country at all times of the year, the northernmost regions of Germany expect more frequent rain. In the rest of the country, summer rain arrives in the form of late afternoon thunderstorms which can serve to cool things down.

September is considered a lovely time to visit Germany – not only is the autumn foliage at its most spectacular, but there’s less chance of rain while still being pleasant and warm.

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Festivals in Germany

In a country with such a proud beer-drinking tradition, any reason to come together and celebrate over a beer is welcomed. Celebrations include historic festivals, age-old traditions, and more contemporary celebrations, enough so that there’s something to suit just about any traveler. 

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  • Oktoberfest :

The most well-known of all German festivals is the age-old Oktoberfest. This festive gathering has been going since the early 1800s and continues to draw large crowds of over six million visitors each year.

Traditional food, authentic beer, and a great vibe are the order of the day, along with amusement rides, stalls, and games.

  • Christmas Markets:

Germany’s Christmas markets are renowned as some of the very best in Europe. Across the country, quaint town squares are lit up with twinkling lights and adorned in decorations to create the perfect winter wonderland. Visitors come from far and wide to shop for gifts, enjoy a gluhwein as they browse, and soak up the festive cheer. 

Minature German houses on a tiered display at Christmas Markets in Europe

Berlin, in particular, is a treasure trove of over 60 markets. 

  • Frankfurt Spring Fair :

This medieval market has been in existence since the 14 th  century and is a popular Easter-time event that attracts almost three million visitors annually. The fair does in fact take place twice a year – once in April, and again in September. 

What started as a market where potters would come to peddle their wares, the event gradually expanded to include carnival rides and booths and is now known for its high-tech fairground rides. Don’t miss the rollercoaster and the amazing view of Frankfurt from the top of the Ferris Wheel.

  • Berlin Culture Festival and Carnival :

This vibrant and colorful celebration takes place over four days in Berlin in the spring.

Celebrating cultural diversity and the many ethnic groups that come together in this dynamic city, the carnival includes parades, street festivals, dancers, and musicians.

  • Jazzfest Berlin:

One of the world’s top Jazz festivals, the Berlin Jazzfest attracts top musicians, big bands, and ensembles from all over the world to delight jazz lovers over four days.

Running since 1964, the festival is the longest-running of its kind in Europe. Performances are staged at a number of venues throughout the city and are usually filled to capacity. 

Meaning ‘free market’, the Freimarkt is one of the oldest fairs in Germany. Every year since 1053 AD, the fair has taken place in Bremen over October and November. Today, the celebration includes a street party, carnival rides, a street parade, and fragrant stores selling pastries and treats. 

Every month of the year offers something slightly different for travelers to Germany. If you haven’t yet settled on the ideal time to travel, we’ve broken things down by month to further assist you with choosing the best time to visit Germany that will give you the experience you’ve been dreaming of. 

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January in Germany

January is usually the coldest time of year in Germany. The northern parts of the country are more likely to experience steady rain instead of snow, while in the southern regions of the country, towards the higher altitudes, snow is more common. 

Days are generally grey and gloomy, and only feature on average less than eight hours of daylight. Of course, this does have the pleasant side effect of attracting fewer tourists, which means you’re more likely to snag a good deal on rooms and flights. 

February in Germany

The weather in February is similar to that in January – cold and wet, although slightly warmer. It’s likely that the sun may peek out more often too. If you’re visiting the east or the south, you’ve more chance of seeing snow. 

It’s still low season, so you’ll have some relief from the crowds and expense of the peak, but you’ll need to dress warmly.  

March in Germany

The beginning of the month will still feel decidedly wintery, but this changes gradually towards the end of March. The days get steadily longer, and the temperatures can frequently surpass the single digits (Celsius).

You can expect rainfall during March, and still, the occasional chilly snap – dressing in layers is highly recommended. 

April in Germany

By April, there’s no doubt that spring has arrived.  Temperatures rise to the mid-teens, and while there’s still some rainfall about, outdoor sightseeing is far more pleasant. The summer crowds haven’t yet arrived in full force so you’ll be spared the long queues and throngs of peak season. 

Sunny, warm days are more dominant, but the occasional rainfall is to be expected. Nights and early mornings can still be a bit chilly. This is the ideal time to head to one of Germany’s National Parks .

May in Germany

From a weather perspective, May is the best time to visit Germany. The landscape is in full bloom, the mercury is hovering in the low 20s, and sunny skies are plentiful. There is a high chance of rainfall, but usually in the form of an afternoon shower. 

With the good weather, tourism starts to pick up. This means larger numbers of other tourists and an increase in hotel prices. If you’re planning to visit Germany in May, book well in advance.

June in Germany

Summer in Germany is fairly mild with temperatures in the mid-20s. It’s not too hot, but it can, depending on where you are, get somewhat humid. Southern Germany experiences much warmer summers, while the north can still get chilly on occasion. 

Tourists are everywhere, and things can start to feel crowded. If you’re visiting in June, make sure to plan well in advance.

Germany landscape

July in Germany

Lovely hot days cooled by a nice breeze are common in July. Temperatures hit the high 20s, and if you’re visiting inland, expect higher humidity. Occasional rainfall is possible but serves to cool things off pleasingly. 

July is the peak season, so you’ll almost always be among crowds of other tourists. Expect long waits, seemingly endless queues, and heavier prices on airfare and accommodation. 

August in Germany

August is one of the rainiest months of the year in Germany. While this doesn’t decrease the average temperature too much, it increases the humidity, meaning it can start to feel warmer than it is. 

It’s still high season in Germany, so attractions will still be busy and bustling.

September in Germany

Temperatures drop into the low 20s – still pleasant and warm – and rainfall tapers off slightly. It’s a great time to do some sightseeing in the first half of the month as it still feels very summery and most of the summer crowds have departed. 

Mid-September gets busier again as the Oktoberfest crowds begin to stream in. If you’re planning an Oktoberfest holiday in Germany, make sure to research where to stay during Oktoberfest well in advance to avoid disappointment. 

October in Germany

The leaves begin turning and autumn colors transform the landscape. Days are getting noticeably shorter, and the temperatures dip to the low teens. While rain isn’t all that common at this time, the mornings and evenings can be quite fresh. Pack for all seasons and dress in layers to ensure you’re comfortable all day. 

In addition to the lovely autumnal landscape, this is the best time to go to Germany as there aren’t too many crowds about, and you can enjoy great value on hotels and travel. 

November in Germany

Grey skies and temperatures in the single digits herald the arrival of winter. It’s cold and occasionally, you can expect snow. The daylight hours are short, so you’ll need to factor that into your sightseeing plans. 

Many hotels do their maintenance in November in preparation for the Christmas rush, so you may experience limited availability. Book well in advance even though this isn’t technically a peak period. 

December in Germany

Germany transforms into a Christmas winter wonderland. It’s cold and grey, but the streets are adorned with decorations and the festive markets bring a magical element. Temperatures are likely to dip into the negatives, snow is likely, and the days are short. 

The renowned Christmas markets attract many tourists, so expect peak season conditions with longer queues and pricier hotel options. 

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When is the Best Time to Go to Oktoberfest?

From mid-September to the first week of October, visitors flock to Munich to join in the revelry of the famous Oktoberfest. This celebration of Bavarian culture welcomes around six million attendees every year and has been in existence since the early 1800s.  With so many people attending over only two and a half weeks, knowing when to go to avoid or join (depending on your preferences) the crowds can be helpful.  Weekends are, of course, the busiest time at Oktoberfest. The middle weekend of the festival is a themed weekend and can get particularly busy, especially in the late afternoon and evening. During the week, mornings are the quietest time to enjoy the food and beer without the crowds, but pick up in the early evening in time for dinner. The last weekend of Oktoberfest is usually very busy and can get quite chaotic as visitors soak up the last of the merriment.

When is the Rainy Season in Germany?

Rain can fall throughout the year in Germany, but the peak of the rainy season is during the high summer months of June and August. This can cause an increase in humidity that makes things feel hotter than they are and muggy.  Because of the influence of the ocean currents along the coastline, you’re likely to experience more rain further north, while the chances of snow in winter increase towards the south-east and the higher, Alpine regions. 

When is the Coldest Month in Germany?

With temperatures in the low single digits, January is by far the coldest month of the year in Germany. Rainfall is not uncommon, and snow is very likely, especially in the south and in the mountains. The days are very short at this time, yielding only around eight hours of daylight for travelers to do their daytime sightseeing. Cold weather gear is a must for this time of year, especially if you want to make the most of the crowd-free conditions and great travel deals. 

When is the Worst Time to Visit Germany?

If you wish to avoid crowds and peak season pricing, then the worst time to visit Germany is in the high summer between May and September. The weather is great at this time, if a little rainy, but you’ll be among the throngs at every turn.  In addition, mid-September to early October is equally crowded with Oktoberfest attendees. If you’re not planning a Beerfest experience this time of year should be avoided – accommodation is scarce and pricey, and things can feel crowded. 

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Germany’s rich offering of incredible landscapes, turbulent history, abundant art and architecture, and soulful cuisine make a trip here something truly memorable, no matter when you choose to visit. 

Each season delivers a unique experience of this fascinating country and may leave you wanting to return to explore more. 

If you’re planning a visit in the peak seasons, it’s advised to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. If you’re wanting to enjoy a low season adventure, consider holding out for some really great last-minute offers. 

Either way, there’s always something to see, experience, taste, and explore in Germany at any time of year.

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  • Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our  backpacking Germany guide .
  • Check out the best hostels in Berlin to kickstart your German adventure.
  • Be prepared for anything with our guide to staying safe in Germany .
  • Widen horizons and deepen your experience and impact as a volunteer in Germany .
  • Prepare to drink a beer, or two, or three at one of Germany’s best festivals .
  • Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our Netherlands travel guide .

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Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Visit Germany

best time to travel to germany 2023

TripSavvy / Lisa Fasol 

There really is no bad time to visit Germany , but we think the best time to visit Germany is May when the weather has finally warmed, crowds of tourists have yet to arrive, the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and Berlin has exploded into festival season.

However, there are several factors that could influence when you visit  Germany . While the end of a long cold  winter  seems to drag, it is also best for  winter sports . When the world awakens in  spring  festivals, it is often accompanied by thunderstorms. The country is most crowded in summer before it chills to  fall  when it is time for  Oktoberfest . And when  snow begins to hit the ground, Germany is at its most charming with its many  Christmas markets .

Here is a complete guide to the best time to visit Germany with a month-by-month breakdown of weather, events, and festivals.

Popular Events and Festivals in Germany

The German calendar is full of events , but two major festivals draw the biggest international crowds.

Oktoberfest in Munich:  Oktoberfest in Munich is acclaimed as the biggest beer festival in the world. Liters of beers, miles of brats , and Bavarian culture for days, this is quintessential Germany for many visitors. The festival takes place over two weeks from late September to early October and attracts over six million visitors each year.

Christmas in Germany:  Christmas in Germany is when everything is a bit more magical. You might not realize how many Western Christmas traditions root from Germany. Along with occasional blankets of snow, the whole of Germany sparkles as weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets) open in every small town and city from late November through New Year's Eve .

Weather in Germany

Germany's four seasons are clearly marked by changes in weather.

Winter Weather in Germany:  While winter officially begins in late December, temperatures have already dropped dramatically by November. Average lows dip down to 23 degrees F with highs only hitting the low 40s. Snow is fairly common, though most places miss out on the white Christmas. One thing that is for certain is rain, wind, and freezing temperatures. Invest in quality winter gear to survive the cold, particularly if you want to engage in winter sports .

Spring Weather in Germany:  After a long, cold winter, Germany wakes up refreshed in the spring ( frühling ). The air is still cool, but sunshine breaks between the clouds and temperatures rise to 40 to 65 degrees F. Rain is still frequent, and with the warmer weather in late spring, there can be epic storms of thunder and lightning. Don't forget your umbrella ( regenschirm )!

Summer Weather in Germany:  All of Germany rejoices in summer . Temperatures are usually between 65 to 75 degrees F, but can get downright hot. On days that peak 100 degrees F with high humidity, everyone enters the water— lake , beach , water park , or open-air pool ( freibad ). This is crucial as almost nowhere in Germany has air conditioning.

Fall Weather in Germany:  Autumn ( herbst ) offers a welcome cool down from the warmth of summer. Temperatures range from the low 40s to high 50s F until late November when the temperatures really start to plummet. Be prepared for early snow, windy days, and more rain.

Peak Season in Germany

Summer in Germany is peak travel season. While many Germans go on holiday over the warmer months, often coinciding with the summer school break, this is the high time for visitors. Transportation will be more crowded, accommodation prices skyrocket, and airfare is at its highest.

That said, it is still a great time to visit. The weather is at its most enjoyable and festivals abound. Hiking , swimming, and enjoying the country's many biergartens   are a key to summer fulfillment in Germany.

There are two more mini-peaks that occur along with the prime festivals of Oktoberfest and Christmas. Be prepared for similar crowds and higher hotel prices during those dates.

January in Germany

The after-Christmas slump is real in Germany and this is a quiet, if cold, time to visit. However, it still has its attractions. Prices during the off-season (which continue until about May) are quite low so this can be a great discount time to visit.

Events to check out:  Three Kings Day ( Dreikönigsfest ) or Epiphany is on the 6th for Bavaria, Baden-Wuerttemberg, and Saxony-Anhalt. Berlin Fashion Week is another major event mid-month. 

February in Germany

Winter hibernation largely continues outside of the ski slopes and Berlin's international film festival, Berlinale . But the biggest party is for Carnival in Cologne . Men, women, and children don silly costumes and party for a week of events before Lent.

March in Germany

Though the first day of spring happens this month, it is still chilly. However, some people are already stepping back into the outdoors with the help of strong beer.

Events to check out:  Starkbierzeit (strong beer season) in Bavaria has been described as the “insider's Oktoberfest" and offers many of the same elements at half the price with a fraction of the tourists.

April in Germany

Spring fairs mean that it is starting to feel like spring as the weather finally warms. 

Events to check out:  Cannstatter Wasen  in  Stuttgart  and  Dippemess  in  Frankfurt  are two of the biggest spring fairs.This is also the month Easter usually occurs so look for hand-decorated eggs (sometimes hanging on trees) and lots of chocolates.

This month ends with a bang for Walpurgisnacht when the witches come out to dance around the bonfire.

May in Germany

Germany sings when the cherry blossoms appear in bloom. Visitors and locals walk the flower-filled paths and enjoy one of the most beautiful months in Germany. This is just before peak season so prices have yet to spike and crowds are still fairly low.

Events to check out:  There are some premier events like Erster Mai 's chaotic celebrations of labor, the fireworks of the Rhine in Flames , rowdy parties for Father's Day, and the foodie delights of white asparagus ( spargel ) and fruit wines . 

June in Germany

Sommer is in session by June. Enjoy warm temperatures, long, sunny days, and maximum relaxation. Biergartens are now fully open, as are outdoor pools and lake-side beaches . Also remember that summer pleasures translate to the highest airfares and hotel rates as well as long lines for major attractions. 

Events to check out:  Karneval der Kulturen, Berlin's large festival of cultures, usually occurs this month.

July in Germany

July brings more summer festivals and sunshine fun.

Events to check out:  Christopher Street Day (Gay Pride) usually happens this month with the biggest celebrations in Berlin and Cologne.

August in Germany

Laid-back summer vibes continue, including unexpected closures of businesses. Many people leave on vacation and simply shut down while they are away.

That doesn't seem to stop millions of people from flooding into the country. Crowds are at a peak during this month so expect museums , public transportation and events to be quite crowded.

September in Germany

Herbst (fall) begins with the changing of the leaves and many local wine festivals . And as temperatures drop, so do airfares and hotel rates.

Except for the dates of Oktoberfest . If you visit Munich during Oktoberfest , be prepared for high prices on all accommodation . 

Events to check out:  The highlight of fall in Germany is undoubtedly Oktoberfest when more than six million visitors from all over the world flock to Munich to drink beer and eat sausage. If you like wine, make sure to stop in the town of Bad Dürkheim, which hosts the ​ Wurstmarkt, the world's largest wine festival, each September. For something by the sea, Kieler Woche is one of the largest sailing events in the world.

October in Germany

It is all about the pumpkins and Federweisser   (feather wine) this month.

Events to check out:  The Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival  includes giant pumpkin carving and boats made out of massive gourds.  Tag der deutschen Einheit (Day of German Unity) is a national holiday every October 3rd. Also try and attend the Festival of Lights in Berlin and the Frankfurt Book Fair .

November in Germany

November temperatures and crowds are at an all-time low before the rush of Christmas.

Events to check out:  St. Martin's Day ( Martinstag ) is a celebration for children where they decorate their own lanterns and parade through the night. The earliest Christmas markets open by the end of the month.

December in Germany

Winter is here and Christmas is in the air in December. Among the many traditional events and markets, Germans celebrate each advent quietly at home with family. Check out Dresden and Nuremberg for two of the most historic Christmas markets .

Events to check out:  Round out the year with an all-out New Year's Eve ( Silvester ) party. Official celebrations take place in most cities with professional displays, but that doesn't stop revelers from lighting their own fireworks on every street corner. If you prefer something quieter, try to escape to the countryside .

May is a great month to visit Germany because the weather is getting warmer, but the tourists crowds have not yet arrived.

The name of this famous beer-loving festival is deceptive, because Oktoberfest usually begins in late September and continues into early October.

Summer is the peak season for tourists in Germany with many Germans going on holiday during the school break and the warm weather encouraging more people to get outside.

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Kate Mann

May 8, 2024 • 3 min read

best time to travel to germany 2023

Head to spots like Lake Konigssee in the fall for fewer visitors and colorful vistas © canadastock / Shutterstock

Germany is a country that embraces its seasons, with events and celebrations spread across the calendar.

With a balmy south west, a cool northern coast and a mountainous south, the weather is by no means uniform between the states, so check the region you plan to visit for more detailed information; including which festival is next. This seasonal guide can help you plan the perfect time for your visit to Germany .

Danube cycle path in Germany in summer with a bike standing alone

May to September is the best time for warmer weather 

Germany’s warmest period is sandwiched between cherry blossoms in the spring and golden leaves in the autumn. July and August normally see the highest temperatures, but can also bring moody thunderstorms, sudden downpours and even hail.

Those heading for the cooler coast should still aim for these hottest months (despite the crowds), while those planning on hiking , cycling , or other outdoor activities might want to plan something during the more stable conditions either side. School holidays are staggered by state in Germany but run from June through to September.

Oktoberfest, Munich: Overview over the big beer tent. In the background is the band.

September and October are the best times for a beer festival 

Munich ’s Oktoberfest kicks off in late September and runs until the start of October. During this time, hotel prices rise steeply and places are booked up months in advance. If you’re not interested in the event, then this is not the best time to visit the city. To experience something similar, with fewer people, there’s the Starkbierfest (strong beer festival) in spring or a number of other folk festivals throughout the year. 

Elsewhere in the country, late summer is the peak season for wine-related celebrations such as the Stuttgart Wine Festival, the Rheingau Wine Festival in Frankfurt and the Wurstmarkt in Dürkheim.

March to May and October to November are the best times for budget travelers

The weather during these months can be unpredictable, but should no longer feel like the depths of winter. These off-peak shoulder seasons are a great time for budget travel thanks to lower rates for accommodation and lower demand. Expect quieter inner-cities and old towns, as well as top sights without the crowds. Be prepared to adapt your itinerary and wardrobe according to the forecast.  

Christmas themed aachener printen- lebkuchen. They are similar to gingerbread, originally sweetened with honey, but for two centuries the tradition is to use a syrup made from sugar beets.

December is the best time for Christmas markets 

Opening towards the end of November and running all the way up to Christmas, Germany’s markets bring hot mulled wine and smoky sausage grills to towns, villages and cities up and down the country. 

A trip during this time will help get you in the festive mood and might even offer some snow, but you won't be the only one with the idea. Popular with locals and international visitors alike, this time could see an increased demand for accommodation, especially in hot spots such as Nuremberg and Dresden .

Two men in the Bavarian alps ski trekking

January to March is the best time for skiing 

The skiing season starts in earnest after Christmas, with the Alps and resorts such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen between a one to two hour drive from Munich airport. In places without a good covering of snow, this time of year can feel cold and dark. The cafe culture in cities such as Berlin can help take the edge off with cozy candle-lit hangouts, but beware of the icy streets outside. Pack a heavy-duty jacket. 

In some parts of the country, including cities such as Mainz , Dusseldorf and Cologne , the start of the year sees the build up and culmination of Fasching or carnival ahead of Lent. Expect colorful processions and a party atmosphere – a good way to forget about the weather. 

This article was first published Jul 28, 2023 and updated May 8, 2024.

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Only In Germany

Best Time to visit Germany (2023)

From High Season to Low Season find out in this post when it’s the best time for you to visit Germany and see from month to month what Germany has you to offer.

High Season – July and August 

  • Congested traffic and long waits at popular attractions 
  • High costs and scarce vacancies in resorts 
  • Festivals honor everything from wine to sailing and samba to music

Shoulder Season (April –June, September–October) 

  • Fewer people and cheaper costs, excluding on holidays 
  • Spring brings blooming flowers 
  • Autumn brings brilliant foliage 
  • Sunny, comfortable conditions are perfect for outdoor activities 

Low Season (Nov–Mar) 

  • Fewer hours and seasonal closures at popular attractions, but no lineups 
  • Theatre, concert, and opera season is in full swing
  • January and February are the busiest months for ski resorts

The dome of Bode Museum in Berlin, Germany

The Germans essentially have the entire nation to themselves this month, with the exception of the ski resorts. This is a fantastic time to visit cathedrals and museums because the days are short and chilly. 

Call of the Mountains

At resorts that range from glam, like Garmisch-Partenkirchen, to family-friendly resort in the Bavarian Forest, grab your skis or board and hit the slopes. There is a track for everyone, whether you’re a black diamond daredevil or a Sesame Street newbie.

February 

Even though it’s not as hot as Rio, the German Carnival is nevertheless a valid reason to celebrate. Make arrangements before you leave home because ski resorts are crowded because of the school holidays. 

Film Festival in Berlin 

At the Berlinale, one of Europe’s most prominent film festivals, stars, starlets, directors, and critics sashay down the red carpet for two weeks of screenings and glamorous parties.

Carnival/Fasching 

Parades, humorous performances, and costumed street parties mark the beginning of Lent. The main celebrations take place in Düsseldorf , Cologne , and Mainz along the Rhine, while Munich and the Black Forest also have their own customs.

RELATED: Carnival in Germany – 2023 Ultimate Guide

March 

The first signs of spring are in the air as the days start to become longer. meals made with Bärlauch (wild garlic) and fresh herring are featured on menus, especially in coastal districts. 

April 

This month, the Easter Bunny can’t be avoided. The first harvest of white asparagus, in particular, marks the beginning of spring. It’s a huge hit in Germany. 

Walpurgisnacht 

Harz villages come alive on April 30 for the paganic Witches’ Sabbath celebration as children and adults alike dress as witches and warlocks and dance and sing through the streets.

On April 30, residents of Maifest Village stage a festive celebration complete with traditional costumes, singing, dancing, and the cutting down of a tree for a Maibaum (Maypole). 

One of the most romantic months, frequently pleasantly warm and sunny, and ideal for welcoming beer-garden season. Numerous official holidays, which Germans stretch into long weekends, cause congested highways and a lack of accommodations. 

Carnival of the Cultures

A colorful parade of flamboyantly attired dancers, DJs, artists, and musicians perform as hundreds of thousands of revelers celebrate Berlin’s multicultural tapestry with parties and unusual food. 

Working Day 

Germany observes a public holiday on May 1 and some cities stage political protests in support of labor rights.

Wave-Gotik-Treffen 

For one of the greatest Goth gatherings in the world, thousands of Goths descend upon Leipzig over the lengthy Whitsuntide/Pentecost weekend.

Gourmets can rejoice in the abundance of fresh, local goods in the markets as Germany’s festival pace picks up. In the summer, when the sun doesn’t set until around 9.30 p.m., life takes place outside. 

Vatertag 

Celebrated on Ascension Day, Father’s Day is also referred to as Männertag (Men’s Day), giving men a reason to binge drink with the wife’s approval.

Keler Week 

With hundreds of regattas, ship parades, historic vessels, and constant partying, Kiel hosts the largest boat party in the world every year, drawing more than three million salty types to the Baltic Sea. 

Christopher Street Day

Regardless of your sexual orientation, attend the major gay pride events in Berlin, Cologne, and Hamburg to paint the town pink.

Summer break from school ushers in the busiest travel season. Regardless of whether you’re going to the seaside or the highlands, make reservations in advance. 

Festival de Samba 

Up to 200,000 people travel to Coburg for this song and dance festival, which features 3000 performers from a dozen different countries and about 100 bands.

Festival of Music in Schleswig-Holstein 

This festival is held in the northernmost state of Germany in castles, churches, warehouses, and barns, and features performances by renowned international musicians as well as promising new artists. It lasts from mid-July until the end of August.

August 

Although August is usually the hottest month, afternoon thunderstorms can bring some relief from the heat. Fresh berries and Pfifferlinge (chanterelle mushrooms) are in season right now.

Shooting Competitions 

At marksmen’s festivals, more than a million Germans (mainly men) demonstrate their shooting prowess. Hanover is home to the largest and Düsseldorf to the oldest. 

RELATED Best Hotels in Hanover Best Hotels in Dusseldorf

Wine Festivals

The wine festival season, which features tastings, folkloric parades, fireworks, and the selection of wine queens, begins when the grapes develop to a luscious sweetness. One of the largest and most renowned is the Dürkheimer Wurstmarkt. 

Kinderzeche 

This 10-day event is held in Dinkelsbühl along the Romantic Road and features young actors portraying historical figures, a pageant, and general fun.

September 

Frequently a fantastic month for weather – not too hot, but plenty of sunshine. Although the peak travel period has passed, September is still very busy because of numerous wine and autumn events. Toward the end of the month, trees may start to explode with color. 

Run in Berlin 

In Berlin , join the 50,000 other runners in Germany’s largest street race, which has seen nine world records set since 1977, and compete with them or simply support them.

RELATED: Best Boutiques Hotels in Berlin

October 

As the days grow shorter, colder, and wetter, everyone is undoubtedly returning to work or school. The peak trade-fair season affects hotel rates and supply in Frankfurt , Berlin , Hamburg , and other large cities. Visitor centers, museums, and attractions operate on a limited schedule. 

Frankfurter Buchmesse 

With 7300 exhibitors from more than 100 countries, Frankfurt hosts the biggest book market in the world.

November 

The majority of life occurs indoors. On the plus side, there are many theater, concert, opera, and other cultural events to choose from, and lines at tourist attractions are minimal. Bring rain gear and warm clothing. 

St. Martinstag

With a lantern parade and a recreation of the well-known event in which St. Martin rips his coat in two to share with a beggar, this festival, held on November 10–11, honors the 4th-century saint noted for his humility and generosity. Then there is a substantial roasted goose feast.

December 

The four weeks of celebrations leading up to Christmas, known as Advent, are enhanced by illuminated streets, markets, calendars, wreaths, and home-baked cookies. Typically, the first coating of snow falls on ski resorts. 

Related: German Christmas Traditions: What to Do in Germany for Christmas

Nikolaustag 

German kids leave their shoes outside the door the night before Christmas in the hopes that St. Nick will fill them with candy and tiny presents. Children who misbehave might only find the prickly rod that Knecht Ruprecht, St. Nick’s servant, left behind. 

Christmas Markets

The majority of German Christmas markets are held from late November to 24 December, and they typically offer mulled wine, spicy gingerbread cookies, shimmering ornaments, and many other charming elements. The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is particularly well-known.

Silvester 

The name “Silvester” for New Year’s Eve honors the fourth-century pope who made Christianity the state religion of Rome. Thousands of amateur pyromaniacs light off pyrotechnics to welcome the new year.

Water Parks Germany

About the Author: Elle Johnson, travel writer living in Germany, an avid explorer fueled by wanderlust, uncovers Germany's hidden treasures. From mountains to luxury hotels, spontaneous trips to meticulous planning, she embraces diverse experiences. Join her in unraveling Germany's wonders and creating lifelong memories.

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Best time to visit Germany : A Comprehensive Guide

Best time to visit Germany

Germany, the heart of Europe, offers travelers a diverse and captivating experience throughout the year. Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, scenic landscapes, vibrant festivals, or culinary delights, Germany has something to offer every kind of traveler. Choosing the right time to visit this enchanting country can significantly enhance your experience. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best time to explore Germany, whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, a budget-conscious traveler, or an adventurer seeking outdoor thrills.

Best time to visit Germany

Understanding Germany’s Four Seasons

Germany boasts four distinct seasons, each with its own unique charm. Winter sets the stage for snowy adventures in the Bavarian Alps, while spring brings blooming cherry trees and picturesque landscapes. Summer lures visitors with warm days, and autumn is synonymous with the world-famous Oktoberfest. This section delves into what each season entails, from temperature variations to the activities and attractions that await you.

Best Time for Sightseeing and Cultural Exploration

For cultural explorers and city enthusiasts, there are prime times to soak in Germany’s rich heritage and vibrant urban life. Spring and summer are ideal for sightseeing, walking tours, and outdoor activities. You’ll discover why spring offers a unique experience with blooming landscapes, while summer provides extended daylight hours for exploring iconic cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg.

Peak Tourist Season in Germany

Summer is the peak tourist season in Germany, attracting crowds and setting the stage for memorable festivals. July and August are the busiest months when clear skies and warm temperatures grace the country. This section highlights the factors that contribute to the surge in tourists, provides insights into iconic summer events like Rock am Ring, and emphasizes the importance of booking accommodations early.

Best time to visit Germany

Off-Peak Travel: Cost-Effective Seasons

Travelers looking to save on expenses will find valuable insights in this section. The article identifies the cheapest times to visit Germany, which include the winter months of January to March. It also explores the advantages of late spring (March to May) and late autumn (October to November), such as lower costs and reduced crowds. You’ll discover tips to make the most of these budget-friendly seasons.

Year-Round Festivals and Local Events

Germany’s festival scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with events throughout the year. From the Berlin Festival of Lights in October to Stuttgart’s Canstatter Volksfest in late September to mid-October and Rhein in Flammen (Rhine in Flames) from May to September, you’ll get an in-depth look at the diverse cultural celebrations that await.

Seasonal Highlights: Where to Go

This section offers detailed recommendations for travel destinations during each season. Winter invites you to Nuremberg’s Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas markets) and Bavaria’s ski resorts. Spring showcases Bavaria’s medieval castles amid blooming landscapes and hiking excursions in the Bavarian Alps. Summer beckons you to the wine region of Bad Dürkheim and Berlin’s Gay Pride celebrations. Autumn transforms Munich during Oktoberfest, while September in Hamburg sees the Reeperbahn Festival.

Best time to visit Germany

Monthly Breakdown: When to Visit Germany

Germany’s charm evolves with the changing seasons, and each month offers unique experiences for travelers. Here’s a detailed monthly breakdown to help you choose the best time to visit Germany :

January–February (Winter Wonderland)

The months of January and February herald winter’s magic in Germany. On the off chance that you love snow-covered scenes and winter sports, this is an ideal opportunity to go. The Bavarian Alps beckon with opportunities for snowboarding and skiing. Nuremberg hosts its extravagant Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas markets) during the holiday season. Despite cold temperatures, these months offer a quieter and more budget-friendly experience.

March–April (Spring Awakening)

As March rolls in, Germany awakens from its winter slumber. Spring blossoms start to carpet the landscapes, making Bavaria’s medieval castles even more picturesque. By mid-April, the Bavarian Alps provide excellent hiking excursions for nature lovers. If you prefer milder weather, April is cooler, with temperatures in the afternoon typically climbing to the upper 50s. It’s a great compromise between the high tourist season and the more unpredictable weather of early spring.

May–June (Summer on the Horizon)

May marks the start of spring’s transition into summer. Bavaria’s landscapes are in full bloom, creating breathtaking photos, especially when wildflowers carpet the fields. It’s an ideal time for open-air exercises like climbing and setting up camp, and you’ll track down numerous archaic palaces, especially along the Rhine Stream. May also marks the beginning of Germany’s wine festivals, with Bad Dürkheim offering an excellent wine region to explore.

Best time to visit Germany

July–August (Summer Splendor)

July and August are the heart of summer, the best time to visit Germany, it basks in warm, sun-drenched days. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg are buzzing with life. Summer is the peak tourist season, offering clear skies and perfect weather for open-air music festivals like Rock am Ring and Berlin’s Pride Parade. However, it’s also when you should book accommodations and flights well in advance.

September–October (Oktoberfest and Beyond)

Early pre-winter in Germany brings one of the world’s most well-known brew celebrations, Oktoberfest, to Munich. Theresienwiese Fairground transforms into a massive celebration with Bavarian beer, food, live bands, and games for three weeks as it is the best time to visit Germany. The celebration goes on for a long time, from late September to early October, yet a lot of lager nurseries and breweries in different urban communities stay open until the beginning of winter.

Activities, Events, and Must-Visit Places in Germany

Germany is an all-year objective, and there’s no deficiency of exercises, occasions, and places to investigate. Here’s a selection for each season:

Winter Activities

Skiing and snowboarding.

Winter sports enthusiasts can head to the Bavarian Alps for excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Christmas Markets

Experience the magic of Germany’s Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas markets) in cities like Nuremberg, where beautifully decorated stalls offer mulled wine, wooden toys, and festive decor.

Spring Delights

Castle tours.

Explore medieval castles, particularly along the Rhine River, when the landscapes burst into bloom, creating picturesque settings.

Wine Festivals

Late April and May are perfect for wine enthusiasts. Attend open-air wine festivals that feature wine tasting and a variety of entertainment.

Summer Adventures

Hiking and camping.

The Bavarian Alps offer excellent hiking excursions. Enjoy the stunning scenery as wildflowers carpet the fields.

Wine Regions

Visit the wine region of Bad Dürkheim, where temperatures range between 20°C and 27°C. Discover Germany’s rich wine culture.

Berlin’s Gay Pride

Join the festivities during Berlin’s Gay Pride with street parades, open-air concerts, and exhibits dedicated to the LGBT community.

Autumn Festivities

Oktoberfest in munich.

Experience the world’s largest beer festival with endless supplies of Bavarian beer, delicious food, live bands, and games for three weeks.

Reeperbahn Festival in Hamburg

September sees the Reeperbahn Festival, featuring hundreds of music concerts, art exhibitions, conferences, and film screenings in and around the St. Pauli district.

Year-Round Attractions

 Attend the Berlinale in mid-February, one of Europe’s most prominent film festivals, showcasing over 400 movies and documentaries.

Cologne Karneval

Join the 6-day festivity in Cologne, where massive crowds dress up in wacky costumes and enjoy lively music throughout the city.

Munich and the Theresienwiese Fairground

Apart from Oktoberfest, Munich and other German cities transform into massive celebrations, offering endless supplies of Bavarian beer and food, live bands, and games.

Vineyard Exploration

Germany boasts numerous vineyards, especially in the wine-growing southwest. Explore vineyards where you may even spot lavender, Mediterranean pine, almond, and lemon trees.

Germany is home to a portion of the world’s most dazzling palaces, like Neuschwanstein Palace and Heidelberg Palace. Tour these architectural wonders for an enriching experience.

Art and Culture

Germany’s cities have vibrant art and cultural scenes. Investigate elite historical centers, displays, and theaters that have exhibitions and presentations lasting through the year.

In summary, the best time to visit Germany varies depending on your preferences. Cultural explorers might prefer the pleasant spring and summer months, while budget-conscious travelers can take advantage of late spring and late autumn. Germany’s year-round festival scene ensures there’s always something exciting happening. This article emphasizes that Germany offers something for everyone and encourages readers to consider their travel priorities and interests.

Read more : The Best Time to Visit Switzerland: A Comprehensive Guide 

The most financially accommodating opportunity to visit Germany is during the pre-spring, a very long time from January to spring. Be that as it may, you’ll have to battle with cold temperatures and more limited light hours. Then again, pre-summer (Walk to May) and late harvest time (October to November) offer a milder climate and fewer groups.

The ideal length for an excursion to Germany generally depends on your inclinations. To investigate significant urban communities and experience the way of life, seven days (7–10 days) is a decent beginning. Nonetheless, to dive further into explicit locales or enjoy open-air exercises, think about a more extended stay.

The pinnacle travel season in Germany is throughout the mid-year stretches of July and August. This is when costs for convenience and flights are at their highest because of clear skies and warm temperatures. Moreover, in the event that you intend to go to Oktoberfest in late September or the Christmas markets in December, costs may likewise be raised.

Seven days can give you a balanced encounter with Germany, permitting you to investigate notorious urban communities, test nearby cooking, and visit key attractions. Nonetheless, Germany’s different locales offer plenty of encounters, so on the off chance that you have explicit interests or wish to investigate more inside and out, consider expanding your visit.

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best time to travel to germany 2023

Best Time to Visit Germany

  • April 5, 2023

Jack Baumann

heidelberg germany

Germany is a fascinating country that offers a variety of experiences, from natural beauty and cultural heritage to modern cities and festive events. But when is the best time to visit Germany and enjoy all that the country has to offer?

The answer depends on what you are looking for and what you are willing to compromise on. Germany has four distinct travel seasons, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip to Germany.

Spring is a lovely time to visit Germany, as the weather starts to warm up, the flowers start to bloom, and the festivals start to kick off. The average temperature ranges from 41°F in March to 59°F in May, but it can vary depending on the region and altitude. 

You can expect some rain and thunderstorms, especially in late spring, so pack an umbrella and a waterproof jacket.

Advantages of visiting Germany in Spring:

Fewer crowds: Spring is not as busy as summer, so you can enjoy the attractions without long queues and high prices. You can also find some good deals on flights and accommodation, especially in March and April.

Beautiful scenery: Spring is when Germany comes alive with color and fragrance. You can admire the cherry blossoms, tulips, daffodils, and other flowers that decorate the parks, gardens, and streets. You can also enjoy the greenery of the forests, mountains, and lakes.

Festive atmosphere: Spring is when Germany celebrates many festivals and events, such as Easter, Carnival, May Day, and Berlinale. You can join the locals in dancing, singing, eating, drinking, and having fun.

Disadvantages of visiting Germany in Spring:

Unpredictable weather: Spring weather can be changeable and sometimes unpleasant. You might encounter cold snaps, rain showers, or even snow in some areas. You might also need to pack for different temperatures and conditions.

Limited activities: Some attractions and activities might not be available or open in spring, especially in the mountains or rural areas. For example, some ski resorts might be closed or have limited snow cover. Some hiking trails might be muddy or inaccessible.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Germany, as the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging around 68°F but sometimes reaching up to 86°F or more. 

The days are long and bright, with up to 16 hours of daylight in June. Rainfall is moderate but can be heavy at times.

Advantages of visiting Germany in summer:

Ideal weather: Summer weather is perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and enjoying the scenery. 

You can explore the cities, visit the castles, hike in the mountains, swim in the lakes, or bike along the rivers. You can also relax in the many beer gardens found in each city.

Disadvantages of visiting Germany in summer:

Most crowds: Summer is the peak season for tourism in Germany, so you can expect to encounter large crowds and long queues at the popular attractions and destinations. You might also face some difficulties in finding accommodation or transportation, especially during weekends or holidays.

Highest prices: Summer is also the most expensive time to visit Germany, as the demand for flights and accommodation is high. You might need to book well in advance and pay more for your trip. You might also find some higher prices for food and drinks, especially at touristy places.

Fall is another great time to visit Germany, as the weather is still mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 59°F in September to 41°F in November. 

The rainfall is low and the skies are clear. The landscape is transformed by the changing colors of the leaves, creating a stunning contrast with the blue sky.

Advantages of visiting Germany in fall:

Less crowds: Fall is not as crowded as summer, so you can enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed experience. You can also find some lower prices on flights and accommodation, especially in October and November.

Harvest season: Fall is when Germany celebrates its harvest and culinary traditions. You can taste the fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and mushrooms that are abundant in this season. 

You can also join the famous Oktoberfest in Munich, which is the world’s largest beer festival that takes place from late September to early October. Other food and drink festivals include wine festivals, apple festivals, and pumpkin festivals.

Cultural events: Fall is also a time for cultural events and celebrations in Germany. You can witness the Day of German Unity on October 3rd, which commemorates the reunification of Germany in 1990. 

You can also enjoy the Berlin Festival of Lights in October, which illuminates the city’s landmarks with colorful projections and installations. You can also celebrate Halloween on October 31st, which is becoming more popular in Germany.

Disadvantages of visiting Germany in fall:

Cooler weather: Fall weather can be cool and sometimes chilly, especially in November. You might need to pack some warm clothes and layers for the evenings and mornings. You might also encounter some fog or frost in some areas.

Shorter days: Fall days are shorter than summer days, with only 8 hours of daylight in November. This means you have less time to explore and enjoy the scenery. You might also need to adjust your schedule and plan your activities accordingly.

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Winter is the coldest and darkest time to visit Germany, as the weather is freezing and snowy, with temperatures averaging around 32°F but sometimes dropping below 14°F. The days are short and gloomy, with only 6 hours of daylight in December. Rainfall is high and can be mixed with snow or sleet.

Advantages of visiting Germany in winter:

Christmas markets: Winter is when Germany shines with its festive spirit and charm. You can visit the many Christmas markets that open in every town and city from late November to New Year’s Eve. You can shop for handmade crafts, ornaments, and gifts. You can also sample the traditional food and drinks, such as gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and hot chocolate.

Winter sports: Winter is also the best time to enjoy winter sports in Germany. You can ski, snowboard, sled, or ice skate in the many ski resorts and ice rinks that are available throughout the country. You can also admire the snow-covered scenery and cozy up by the fire.

Cultural events: Winter is also a time for cultural events and celebrations in Germany. You can celebrate Christmas on December 25th, which is a family-oriented holiday with religious services, gift exchanges, and festive meals. You can also celebrate New Year’s Eve on December 31st, which is a lively party with fireworks, music, and champagne. You can also celebrate Carnival in February or March, which is a colorful and fun celebration with costumes, parades, and dancing.

Disadvantages of visiting Germany in winter:

Harsh weather: Winter weather can be harsh and unpleasant, especially if you are not used to cold and snow. You might face some difficulties in transportation, such as delays or cancellations of flights or trains. You might also need to pack a lot of warm clothes and accessories to stay comfortable.

Limited activities: Some attractions and activities might not be available or open in winter, especially in rural areas or islands. For example, some castles might be closed or have reduced hours. Some hiking trails might be dangerous or inaccessible.

And That’s A Wrap!

Germany is a wonderful destination that can be visited all year round, depending on your preferences and expectations. Each season has its own pros and cons that you should consider before booking your trip. Here is a summary of what each season offers:

Spring: Good for sightseeing, scenery, festivals; unpredictable weather; fewer crowds; lower prices.

Summer: Good for sightseeing, outdoor activities; ideal weather; most crowds; highest prices.

Fall: Good for sightseeing; scenery; harvest season; cultural events.

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When is the best time to visit Germany?

The info on this page is based on historical averages and might not reflect current conditions. Check with local authorities for the latest travel advice.

The best time to visit Germany is between May and September . Despite the occasional showers, warm weather, and long days make these months the ideal time to explore all that Germany has to offer.

The weather is usually mild and pleasant in the late spring, before average temperatures move towards the 70s and higher in June , July , and August . You’ll get the hottest weather in cities like Frankfurt and Offenbach , while Berlin enjoys warm—if often rainy—days in the summer. Weather aside, there’s plenty worth celebrating in Germany between May and September . Whether it’s the Hafengeburtstag festival in Hamburg , Karneval in Berlin , or Munich ’s world-famous Oktoberfest, you’ll find more than enough going on to keep you entertained during your visit here.

More about the best time to visit Germany

  • Weather and temperature
  • Month-by-month cost
  • Places to visit
  • Germany reviews
  • Travel articles

Monthly weather and travel tips for Germany

January is the coldest and darkest month in Germany , with short days and temperatures scraping just above the 32°F mark. It’s not all doom and gloom though. The cold climate makes for nice ski conditions up in the mountains and is a great excuse for staying indoors and making the most of Germany ’s museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants.

While not as popular among skiers as some of its next-door neighbors, Germany still has numerous top resorts that should put it on your slope map, including Garmisch-Partenkirchen , the Harz Mountains , and Allgäu . The capital won’t be quite as cold as up on the busy slopes, but you’ll still need to bundle up – do it in style at the January installment of Berlin Fashion Week.

The weather across most of Germany in February is ever so slightly warmer than January – but you’ll still need to pack warm clothes to ward off the 30–40 degree temperatures. Though it’s particularly chilly near Hamburg and the Baltic Sea coast, the good news is that February is also one of the country’s driest months.

The cold, dry weather and the February school vacations mean the ski slopes and resorts are at their busiest at this time of year. While the ski season is in full swing up in the mountains, there are plenty of parties down in metropolitan areas too. The “Karneval” period begins in November , but reaches its festive peak during the week before Lent. During this time, you’ll see main roads in cities like Cologne , Mainz , and Bonn turn into walkways for parades, carnival processions, and crowds of partygoers in costumes.

Germany in March can feel a bit chilly to start with, but there’s a fresh, spring feel towards the end of the month. Despite climbing temperatures and more appearances from the sun, it’s a good idea to pack plenty of warm clothing – maybe even some sunglasses for the occasional bright spring afternoon.

The events calendar and the crowds are pretty quiet in Germany in March , except for a surge of tourists visiting Berlin for the Internationale Tourismus Börse (ITB) – the world’s biggest travel exhibition. Another event worth noting is Hamburg ’s Hamburger Dom. Not only is it one of the oldest fairs in Europe —dating as far back as 1329—it’s one of the biggest too, so expect roller coasters, rides, food, and fun for the whole family.

Spring is in full swing in Germany by April . While the sun is in the sky and Germany ’s average temperature comes in at around 50°F for the month, weather conditions can still be a little unpredictable. With sunshine one second and rain the next, packing an umbrella and raincoat is a good idea.

Come rain or shine, it’s a busy month for events and activities, with Easter festivities happening up and down the country. April in Berlin is a time to celebrate the arts, with film events, classical music galas, and weekend art galleries. With Oktoberfest feeling a little too far away for some, cities like Stuttgart and Munich crack open the kegs early for the traditional Spring Festival celebrations. You can keep the lederhosen and dirndls on to mark Maifest’s end of winter festivities, or swap them for witch and warlock costumes for the Halloween-like Walpurgisnacht parades in Harz Mountain villages.

Average temperatures hover around 60°F in Germany in May . You’ll get slightly cooler weather by the North Sea and Baltic Sea coasts, while more central and southern regions like Berlin and Bavaria boost the average temperatures back up. There are occasional showers too, so bring an umbrella just in case.

The warmer weather comes just in time for locals who enjoy plenty of public holidays and parties in May , beginning with Labor Day on the first of the month. Berlin gets particularly busy on this day, with street parties and demonstrations taking over much of the city. Later in the month, Berlin channels its inner Rio de Janeiro during the Carnival of Cultures—a 4-day celebration of the city’s diversity—while Hamburg puts on concerts, fairs, and fireworks during their Hafengeburtstag party. For something a more low-key, head over to Göttingen to watch the International Handel Festival’s opera performances and classical concerts.

June in Germany tends to be warm and sunny, with daylight hours often stretching past 9:00 pm. Locals make the most of the weather by swimming in lakes and north coast seas, so pack swimwear and sunscreen if you want to join them for a dip. You’ll want to save space in the suitcase for an umbrella as well, since June is Germany ’s rainiest month.

The events calendar is well warmed up by June , a particularly big month for music. There’s something to suit every taste, be it infectious rhythms at Africa Festival in Würzburg , heavy-hitting riffs at Nürburgring ’s Rock am Ring, or time-honored classical music at Leipzig ’s Bachfest. If none of them get your toes tapping, look out for free concerts in cities across Germany as part of the international Fête de la Musique. Another highlight is Kieler Woche, a week-long sailing festival in Kiel , and the biggest of its kind anywhere.

Warm weather and long days make July one of the best times to visit Germany . It’s peak travel season in the country, as locals escape to lakes and coasts to cool off from temperatures that can get as high as 85°F. The hot climate means there’s a chance of thunderstorms too, so pack a raincoat alongside plenty of shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear.

Partywear is also an essential for visits to many German cities in July – particularly with some of Europe ’s biggest LGBTQ+ pride parades happening here. These celebrations—known locally as Christopher Street Day—attract hundreds of thousands of people to cities like Berlin , Munich , and Cologne . You can join the party in other parts of Germany too. The city of Coburg comes alive for the Samba Festival, while Hamburg gets its 70s disco outfits on for the Schlagermove street parade. There are also some more relaxed events around, like opera concerts during Munich ’s Opernfestspiele, classical music at the Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival, and new trends at Berlin Fashion Week.

Average temperatures of around 68°F make August one of the hottest months in Germany . You’ll need to pack clothes to help beat the heat, but a raincoat is a good idea too in case you get caught in the occasional afternoon thunderstorm.

Many locals head up to the northern coastal regions to make the most of August ’s summer weather. Besides enjoying the beaches and a cool Baltic Sea breeze, it’s also worth stopping by Rostock to see fleets of magnificent sailing ships during Hanse Sail. Down south in Stuttgart , the city center transforms for 4 days of music, entertainment, and food during the Stuttgarter Sommerfest. And come the end of the month, Berlin plays host to Lange Nacht der Museen – a very special evening on which the capital's museums, castles, and planetariums open all their halls, terraces and archives to the public.

While September technically marks the start of autumn in Germany , the warm weather spills over from the summer, offering pleasant temperatures and long days. With the sun in the sky and local kids back at school, September is a great time to explore Germany and visit some of the world-famous events happening here.

One of the most well-known events is Oktoberfest, which, despite the slightly confusing name, does in fact begin in September . Munich is home to the original and biggest Oktoberfest celebration in the world, but you’ll also find beer festivals—and their accompanying fairgrounds and traditional German food—in cities like Hannover , Stuttgart , Frankfurt , and Berlin . If you want a break from the beer tents, the (hopefully) sunny September weather should provide perfect conditions for watching the Berlin Marathon.

The weather in Germany in October can be a little unpredictable, but stays fairly mild in general. You’ll still get some sunny days, but a cool and crisp climate means you’ll need a couple of layers when going out and about in Germany . If you want to layer up like the locals, don your dirndl or lederhosen to see out the end of September ’s Oktoberfest celebrations in style.

There’s still plenty to do in Germany once the beer-filled festivities are over. Munich packs up the beer tents and stows away the steins to make way for the city’s annual marathon in early or mid- October . Over in Frankfurt , literature lovers can indulge at the largest book fair in the world, while Berlin is the place to see famous landmarks illuminated during the Festival of Lights.

You’ll get early signs of winter in November in Germany . The average temperature drops to the single digits, so the weather tends to be cold, wet, and windy. The grey skies do have their benefits though. Most of the earlier months’ crowds have thinned by November , so you can make the most of shorter lines for some of Germany ’s top tourist attractions.

Between visits to sites like Brandenburg Gate , the Reichstag , and Berlin ’s Museum Island , there are a couple of events to check out if you’re in the area. JazzFest Berlin puts on a show with live concerts, films, and talks, while later in November , Munich hosts the Tollwood Winter Festival – a cultural gathering with music and arts, food and markets, and an eco-friendly focus.

The winter chill sets in come December in Germany . Pack warm for temperatures hovering just above the freezing mark – or below it in some of the Alpine regions. If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, there’s potential for some snow in Bavaria in December , with chances increasing the higher you move up into the mountains.

Despite the cold weather outside, crowds flock to famous Christmas markets all over the country. Town squares are taken over by rustic wooden huts, selling traditional Christmas food, handcrafted gifts, and plenty of warm mulled wine. Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg , Striezelmarkt in Dresden , and Gendarmenmarkt in Berlin are among some of the biggest and best Christmas markets in Europe . Once you’ve had your fill of Christmas festivities, get ready to celebrate New Year’s Eve—known locally as Silvester—with fireworks and parties all across Germany .

Weather and temperature in Germany

The best weather in Germany comes between May and September . The temperature and conditions change during this season, but in general you can look forward to a warm climate and long days, particularly in July and August , the two hottest months in Germany . Temperatures in cities like Berlin and Frankfurt can get up to the high 80s during this time. May and June offer milder weather made for exploring the great outdoors, while September remains surprisingly warm as summer turns into autumn. The weather forecast between May and September should make for pleasant reading, but an umbrella is a good idea too in case of spring showers and summer thunderstorms.

Weather data provided by Forecast.io

Cost of stay in Germany

Want to travel smart? Here you can check out the average cost of accommodations per night in Germany.

  • Vacation Homes
  • Bed and Breakfasts

The best places to visit in Germany

Check out some of the most popular cities, places to visit, and things to do in Germany!

Berlin

Popular in May

History, Sightseeing, Museums

Munich

Popular in August

City Walks, Beer, Old Town

Hamburg

Popular in July

Harbor, City Walks, Sightseeing

Frankfurt

Popular in June

City Walks, Shopping, Old Town

Cologne

Popular in December

Cathedral, Old Town, City Walks

Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf

Old Town, Shopping, City Walks

Ready to book a trip to Germany?

Enter your dates to find the perfect place to stay in Germany!

What other travelers say about their trips to Germany

Cochem is really beautiful place. Recomended more for to visit during summer. A lot italian restaurant around with good price.

Shuttle to Airport was not convenient to me to walk 150 meters with two heavy luggage's. Overall room is clean and comfortable. Staff is very friendly.

best time to travel to germany 2023

wonderful town for walking and sightseeing. Close to Nuernberg and many other historic towns. We used Fuerth as our base to travel around for day trips throughout the area. Did all our travel via train, no need for car.

Nice city but stay away from the street where drug users are. The old Frankfurt city is very pleasant. Souvenirs shops and restaurants are nice. A nice place for two hours spent there taking nice photos.

Loved Augsburg! I discovered so much more than I expected and was happily surprised by the long, deep history of this 2000-year-old city.

I came to Ruhpolding to watch the World Cup Biathlon race held there. The town is beautiful and easy to get to via auto or train. My hope is to return in the summer sometime and enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities.

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Great blend of city size and attractions. The Residence and Fortress tours were amazing!

best time to travel to germany 2023

A very loveable town,full of breathtakinglly beautifull historic buildings.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Quaint walking town with a lot to do and see. Fantastic Mexican restaurant.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Don't rely on your car - the traffic is OK, but parking is problematic. If necessary, use underground parking garages. The public transportation is first-class, and in good weather the preferred get-around is by bicycle. The buildings in the city offer a nice stay, many opportunities for a good beer and views.

We have made us of organised tours from Munich which were very good. As always we visited Karlplaz and Marienplaz and the surrounding which offered a lot historical sites. It is a fantastic city. The only drawback if you travel by train is the language. Announcements are ONLY done in German which is very difficult to follow. I am sure if the authorities make something about this more travellers make use of the overland trains. It's a pity that this is so.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Although there was not a lot of snow, some areas were still open as they provided fake snow for people to ski. This was perfect for my partner and me as we were still beginners with skiing. Therefore, I would highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to start learning to ski. Also, things were quite cheap there regarding food/ groceries and also leisure such as going to a wellness center.

There’s so much more to Munich than Oktoberfest. Public transportation can get you anywhere you need to be at a reasonable price. Take walking tours, learn about the history or just get shopping done.

Very clean city. Good air quality. Little or no rubbish, cleaned promptly. Clean underground. Felt safe. Reassuring police presence. Amazing architecture.

It has for sure many things to see and to do,it will be great to visit it with kids as it has many parks and amazing zoo,yummy ice cream and a big variety of food.

Visiting Wagner's opera house was key for me. A tour of the opera house was excellent (even though it was all in German). The centre of town is ok (not as good as Bamberg) but we were there on a cold rainy day so it was not ideal for sightseeing.

I rode my bicycle from Belgium to Aachen. I arrived in the evening so I did not do much exploring. I did walk through the old city before going on to the next destination.

I rode my bicycle around the lake it was paved and scenic.

It is volkswagen town, but not only. trains, river barges makes industrial trial very intresting.

mooi stadje vriendelijke ontvangst overal twee dagen is voldoende om de stad te ontdekken wel mooie plaatsen rond heidelberg gevonden auto nodig

Beautiful city, has a lot of green areas - huge botanical garden with free entrance, quite a few parks (Nord Park, Sudpark, Hofgarten), also big and beautiful, easy to navigate the city by the tram. Altstadt is worth seeing as well, beautiful old architecture, churches, allees. Going up the Rheinturm for the city view is definitely worth it too - but go before noon to get a cheaper ticket.

The city is nice to walk in. Bare in mind the evening closes around 5pm except restaurants. There is a castle on top of the hill. Nice tour. You can spend about 90 minutes there. The entry costs 9€. It is a great starting point for hiking in the Harz Nation Park area.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Having traveled around the world numerous times over the past 30 years, Berlin has now become my favorite city (although things slow down considerably from 10 pm to 5 am)! There is so much to see and so much to do. People are great! I love Berlin!

it is a city break place. You can see a lot of relaxing people to chill and just enjoy the wine and the peace. Make sure you budget well before you come.

Nice big beautiful city with such amazing park and square, a lot of stores for shopping, restaurants and bars. Everyone can find what they need !!

best time to travel to germany 2023

Konstanz is an interesting city with a nice view of Bodensee.

There is a potato restaurant in the market. It serves incredible portions of potato-related food.

Cologne is a beautiful city, great food, Gaffel beer was amazing...so much to do and see. We did hop on bus, to tour city, went to flora gardens, skyride and Catheral...enjoyed great food and beer!

Unfortunately we only stayed one night to make our connection back to the US. This was one of the most quaint towns we visited on our trip. Wish we could have stayed longer!

I was born in Lindau and it’s been 26 years that I have been back the next time it will be longer. My husband and I loved the food and ate outside every Day. Be prepared to do a lot of walking forget about high heels because cobble stones everywhere.We took a Boot trip around the Bodensee but missed Mainau.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Not much to say about Berlin that many others have said. Great spot for a tourist, lots of history and culture, never a dull moment.

It's an excellent hotel to stay in to catch a plane.

parks are so nice, Such as Nerotal, Biericher Scholss Park, Kurpark, Kirche,zB. Glockenspiel Musik. wonderful restaurants, chez Mamie, Schwarzbach, Nepal Restaurant near Biericher Schlosspark, ect…

It is worth going to Stuttgart just for the Mercedes and Porch museums. These are outstanding.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Go drink the beer there. Beautiful city. Make sure to do the walking tour and eat their locals. Its amazing

If you are fan of Japanese/korean/chinese food, you have to visit little Tokyo. And Dusseldorf is great for thai massages. Please do visit.

Eine wunderschöne, historische, alte Stadt, mit Kuranlagen, und wunderbaren Wanderwegen. Ich hatte mir ein e-Bike geliehen, und so war das Herumfahren sehr einfach.

Very clean, modernized. Would have liked a hair dryer. No breakfast. I know the area and walked to get croissants. Very friendly staff. No check in desk. Check in at restaurant. Great value for solo travelers that aren’t looking for luxury. Across from bus and train station.

Wittenburg is a delightful little town, with historic buildings and beautiful wooded walks along a river

Beautiful and quite countryside. Place of Catholic prayer and devotion to the Blessed Virgin.

A visually stunning small city. The city was not bombed during WWII--the old, historic buildings are gorgeous. We walked and walked!

best time to travel to germany 2023

Nürnberg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany

Really liked how many activities there are for families. Sealife, legoland, arcades and easy access to neighboring town children museum and zoo. Also easy to get to movie park if you traveling by car. Very affordable accommodation offers for traveling in summer. Surprisingly good Indian and Asian food options, particularly for those with a tolerance for spicier foods. Lots of halal options and supermarkets.

Many places to visit, either by boat, train, on foot, bike. Never bored with travelling and staying there. It always great fun to take a rest and enjoy Bodenlake summer.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Enjoyed the harbour and the large cathedral. Loved all the little shops and the seagulls. My daughter and granddaughter took the harbour trip. As I am unsteady on my feet I found the round cobblestones annoying but nearby was always a flat stone way. Also enjoyed the conversation with a gentleman at the tiny museum who was a member of the gang who played in Soko Wismar....a favorite of mine.

I love Senckenberg Naturmuseum and German Film museum (DFF)! Zeil street is also good to cross by. I have enjoyed my 2-day trip in Frankfurt!

Beautifil medieval village with lots of traditional buildings.

Very nice European city with history and relaxing atmosphere. Recommend to visit the History Museum of Leipziq.

best time to travel to germany 2023

I stayed only one night in this city but I felt the Frankfurt vibes strongly.

A nice city. may be the second nicest after Stockholm in the world.

One of the best city with many beautiful historical places. I will re visit again.

best time to travel to germany 2023

We were pleasantly surprised by the beautiful city center. Many historic buildings. A nice view of the castle and the surrounding mountains. Nice shops and cozy terraces.

We loved the overall experience of Dresden. It was very walkable from our hotel and public transportation was readily available for our time in Neustadt. We highly recommend Dresden!

best time to travel to germany 2023

It was dirtier than I imagined or remember Germany ever being.

I was looking for a halfway point between Berlin and Munich so I picked Bayreuth. I was unaware how the old part of town would be historical and charming.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Nice hotel on town square. This is the town of my grandfather’s birth in 1885, so wanted to visit because of that. Was able to gather a little information on the history. It fit the bill.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Very Nice to run along the Rin River, very quit place

Great Luxury shopping. Friendly Staff. Great location. Good coffee store. Great for every age. Dog friendly

This area of Germany is a MUST to see. The Basilica is an amazing place to see. I have been here two times and would go back again. I would LOVE to hear the pipe organ play.

Have been in Erding several times and always enjoy it. It is a nice little town with good food and friendly people. There is a path to walk along the stream. There are parking lots. Good place to stay outside the big city.

best time to travel to germany 2023

great place to sight see as well as short day trips to other cities within Bavaria, as well as Salzburg Austria.

Hoppegarten is a place (?) near or a part of Berlin. Not sure. It has grocery stores, gas station, McDonalds and restaurant. A few (2-3) km in the direction of Berlin it has an enormous shopping mall. The place is "crowded) with beautiful houses in different styles. Great to look at.

Nice city with both history and a lively lifestyle. Easy travel around the city as well as from/to city thanks to frequent trips. Visit Brandenburg gate, Reichtag, old Berlin wall (east side gallery), checkpoint Charlie. Bicycle for one day and try public transport on another one.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Heidelberg is my favorite "small city" in Europe, so I'm biased... Loved every moment, but mostly wandering in the Old Town, the Philosophenweg and Ziegelhausen. Can't get enough of it :-)

One more comment about the Altstadt apartment: check-in is not allowed until 4p.m. And you don't find that out til after you have paid. We had to while away an hour in a coffee shop, surrounded by our suitcases, as we had already arranged to arrive about 3, which has been the latest check-in time everywhere we've stayed before.

it is my favorite place in Germany since i like small cities , also it has super location among France , Belgium and Netherlands . Transportation to , through and out is easy and good. It shows a good cultural diversification which is appealing to everyone's taste. Beautiful landscapes and a great university .

Central location convenient for visiting the two castles. There is nothing there apart from a series of hotels and a few restaurants. Even so, much more conventient than staying further out and paying for parking etc. For more amenties and activities apart form the castles try Fussen, 15 minutes away

Great Christmas Market by the lake and beautiful town hall. World class shopping

First time in Berlin and we loved it ! Great transit, all the major landmarks are stunning. Jewish museum is one of the best I've attended. Potsdam was a great day trip. Trip to the Reichstag was very interesting- beautiful building a tour- the lunch was overpriced and I would not recommend it.

Overall very nice city. I walked a lot in a city center, also visited Panometer 360(that's absolutely "must see"). Have been there just for a day, so I need more, but not at winter.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Very windy and rainy. Better to visit as a tourist in a different season. The Christmas markets were not open yet.

Walking around and visiting the market and wine on the bridge was perfect.

Munich is a nice city to stay in for just 3-4 days max. Any more is alright only if you book day trips to nearby tourist attractions or cities. But realistically you can see the city in 2 days if that's all the time you have. Overall nice city with some old architecture but a lot of it is already modernized and average looking.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Nuremberg is a very nice town with the best Christmas market. Loved our stay and people were very welcoming.

Scenic, beautiful destination, with a variety of wonders to visit and explore.

it is ideally located close to the Chiemsee. You reach the shore of the lake in few minutes by car or quarter of an hour brisk walk and are directly on a walking trail. Close by is also a thermal bath, in the next town.

Was there for about two days and all were at a conference. So I have to go back on holiday to indulge. I cannot say much this time, except on the train which made getting around easy.

Fantastic & Spectacular Scenery. The Hotel supported by a fabulous ,superb Team of utmost caring Individuals. I work for Delta and this Hotel honores Aviation to it‘s fullest🇺🇸

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best time to travel to germany 2023

Happy to Wander

The Only Germany Travel Guide You’ll Ever Need

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

best time to travel to germany 2023

While most commonly associated with beers, bratwursts and tight leather pants, Germany is a country full of delightful finds that extend far beyond the stereotypes.

From dreamy castles and fairytale towns to awe-inspiring nature and sprawling cities, Deutschland has a little something for every kind of traveler… although I’ll admit the leather pants are also great.

I first visited Germany on a 6 week backpacking trip across Europe, and as I sipped my comically large beer under the toasty Berlin sun, I felt a strange sense of calm and belonging.

Spurred by this hunch, I moved to Munich. One study abroad, and 5 years later, I’m still here, with so much giddy enthusiasm for this country that I’ve become a thoroughly insufferable dinner guest.

But my social life’s loss is your gain, my friend… because today, I’ve decided to channel all my Deutschland fangirl tendencies into this concise Germany travel guide filled with all my top tips, itineraries, and recommendations.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Save this Germany travel guide for later!

I promise it’ll come in handy!

I hope you find it helpful, and of course, feel free to ask any more questions in the comments section or on Instagram here.

Traveling to Germany Basics

Currency: Euro

Language: German, although accents and dialects vary wildly! In larger cities and tourist hotspots, most Germans also speak excellent English.

Getting Around: Trains, buses and flights are plentiful and affordable in Germany – my best tip is to use Omio to compare options easily. Having a car is ideal for visiting smaller towns, more remote locations and numerous destinations in a short amount of time, but is otherwise not needed for big cities.

Germany Highlights (By the Season)

  • Winter: Christmas markets, skiing & alpine sports, Karneval and Fasching season (Carnival), Starkbier (Strong beer) season
  • Spring: Cherry blossoms in Bonn , Frühlingsfest (Springfest) in Munich
  • Summer: Hiking, Beer Garden season, summer festivals/celebrations
  • Fall: Oktoberfest and other Volksfests, the world’s biggest pumpkin festival in Ludwigsburg, the Wurstmarkt (world’s largest wine festival)

My Favourite Places in Germany

Let’s get my mega-biased opinion out of the way first – Munich is the city I now call home, and I couldn’t recommend it more… especially if you’re obsessed with beer like I am. This is the birthplace of Oktoberfest after all!

There are lots of fun things to do in Munich , like hopping around the city’s sprawling museum district (many only cost 1 euro on Sundays!), eating up the best Bavarian food that Munich has to offer or soaking in the wealth of historical sites scatered around the city.

It’s also an ideal base for many epic day trips. Going from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle (AKA the real life Sleeping Beauty castle) takes only 2.5 hours. Or, if you want to visit glorious Salzburg from Munich (AKA the birthplace of Mozart and setting of Sound of Music), that’s only 1 hour by train.

Why visit Munich when you travel Germany:

  • Amazing beer & beer festivals
  • The English Garden – one of the largest city parks in the world
  • Beautiful palaces and museums
  • Easy base for amazing day trips to the Alps

best time to travel to germany 2023

Berchtesgaden National Park

If it’s natural beauty you’re after, Germany’s Berchtesgaden National Park (near the border to Austria) is a must-visit.

Everything here is breathtaking – from the shimmering turquoise lakes and snow-flecked mountains to the adorable Berchtesgaden town center.

And, if you’re up for it, this is the ideal place to enjoy a typically Bavarian wellness weekend.

Why visit Berchtesgaden National Park when you travel Germany:

  • Stunning hikes and scenery
  • The glorious boat ride on Königssee to see the equally stunning Obersee
  • Historic sights like Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest

best time to travel to germany 2023

Hands down one of my favourite places to visit time and time again is Berlin.

This endlessly fascinating city is home to incredible museums, delicious food, and a unique culture that makes it distinct from the rest of the country, despite its status as capital!

Whether you’re a history nerd, an avid partyer, or a famished foodie, Berlin has plenty to offer.

Why visit Berlin when you travel Germany:

  • Fascinating history
  • World-class museums and attractions
  • A thriving nightlife and food scene

best time to travel to germany 2023

Franconia is a glorious region in northern Bavaria that is divided into Lower, Middle, and Upper Franconia.

To me, it’s one of the most underrated regions in Germany for international visitors, with an abundance of fairytale half-timbered houses, amazing beer, and unique natural landscapes.

Here are some places in Franconia that are absolutely worth visiting:

  • Franconian Switzerland
  • Würzburg (still haven’t been yet!)

best time to travel to germany 2023

Perhaps the most idyllic entry of this list is Monschau, a sleepy but gorgeous village found near the border to Belgium.

I was lucky enough to come here for Christmas markets a few years ago, and I loved it so much, I skipped the train I’d pre-booked just so I could spend a few more hours there. 

Picturesque half-timbered houses clustered around a roaring central river… oh, and a castle on a hill. Because of course they have one.

Why visit Monschau when you travel Germany:

  • Super friendly locals
  • Picture-perfect scenes at every turn
  • Christina might cry if you don’t

best time to travel to germany 2023

Hamburg is an amazing city I’ve had the chance to visit a few times now. It’s a lifestyle city that reminds me a lot of my hometown, Vancouver.

Home to a mix of classic and modern architecture (including the coolest opera house in the world!), as well as Germany’s #1 attraction – the adorable Miniatur Wonderland, Hamburg has a lot to offer tourists, but perhaps the best way to enjoy it is with a nice beer and sunset along the Elbe.

Why visit Hamburg when you travel Germany :

  • Amazing architecture like the Elbphilharmonie
  • Fresh and tasty seafood (and a booming foodie scene!)
  • A fun, vibrant vibe

best time to travel to germany 2023

Dresden is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, and its beauty is all the more astounding when we consider that much of the city was destroyed completely in WWII.

After decades of reconstruction however, Dresden once again shines with its former glory, establishing itself as one of the most important cultural hotspots in Germany.

… and all only a stone’s throw from Saxon Switzerland, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country!

Why visit Dresden when you travel Germany :

  • Stunning architecture and sights
  • World-class museums and culture scene
  • Its jawdropping Christmas market (the oldest one in the country!)

best time to travel to germany 2023

Stuttgart (and its Surrounding Area)

Stuttgart is the biggest city (and capital) of the German state Baden-Württemburg. 

It’s perhaps best known as the ‘cradle of the automobile industry’, which explains why it’s home to not just one, but two car-centric museums: one belonging to Mercedes-Benz, and one to Porsche.

Besides cars though, the area around Stuttgart offers up some of the cutest small towns you can find in Germany, all easily reachable by public transport, meaning you get the best of all worlds during a visit here.

Why visit Stuttgart and the surrounding area when you travel Germany:

  • Fairytale towns like Esslingen, Ludwigsburg, and Tübingen
  • Stuttgart’s Stadtbibliothek, one of the most unique and beautiful libraries in the world
  • Lots of fun events like Stuttgart’s Christmas Market and the Cannstatter Volksfest 

best time to travel to germany 2023

Thuringia is a state often overlooked by international tourists, but if you’re looking for a truly charming German escape, its capital Erfurt makes an excellent choice.

This beautiful city is famed for its unique Krämerbrücke, which is a gorgeous medieval bridge lined with residential buildings.

But that’s not all – there’s also an impressive cathedral, an imposing fortress, and surprises waiting on every corner… quite literally, because Erfurt is the HQ of the German children’s channel KiKA, and there’s plenty of fun statues of famous characters scattered around town.

Why visit Erfurt when you travel Germany:

  • Krämerbrücke, the longest inhabited bridge in Europe
  • Quirky and fun children’s channel sculptures all over the city

best time to travel to germany 2023

Cologne, to me, is a city synonymous with fun and celebration. While at first glance, it might not rank among the “prettiest” places to visit in Germany (much of it was destroyed in the war), it still boasts several impressive landmarks and sights, like the epic Cologne Cathedral.

Where Cologne really shines though is during special events – the Christmas markets here are some of the best I’ve been to in my entire life, and the Karneval celebrations… well, those are truly epic!

Why visit Cologne when you travel Germany:

  • Bucket list events like the Cologne Christmas Market and Kölner Karneval
  • The iconic Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), one of the most famous churches in the world 
  • Fun-loving locals who are among the friendliest I’ve ever encountered in Germany

best time to travel to germany 2023

Last but not least, we have Hannover, a city which (in my opinion) is one of the most underrated cities in Germany where tourism is concerned.

Locally, people often joke that Hannover is one of the most boring cities in Germany, but I don’t think that’s true at all. One quick look and you’ll find a stunning palace within the city, an architecturally impressive Town Hall (with a unique elevator offering epic views), and a cool laidback vibe that many compare to what Berlin was like decades ago.

Here are some awesome things to do in Hannover.

Why visit Hannover when you travel Germany:

  • Its gorgeous New Town Hall
  • The stunning Herrenhausen Palace and its gardens
  • A fun, laidback city vibe

best time to travel to germany 2023

Bucket List Experiences in Germany

Germany is full of incredible bucket list experiences. Here are a few of my favourites:

Christmas Markets

German Christmas markets are the stuff of bucket list dreams.

If you adore Christmas, a German Xmas market trip needs to make it on your bucket list, because nobody captures Christmas coziness and joy quite like the Germans do.

The best part (besides the droolworthy assortment of German Christmas Market foods ) is that you’ll find Christmas markets in just about every city, town, and even the smallest of villages, each with their own unique take on traditions.

Trust me, you could never get bored of visiting these.

Here are some full guides to the Christmas markets I’ve visited in Germany:

  • Munich’s Christmas Markets
  • Berlin’s Christmas Markets
  • Cologne’s Christmas Markets
  • Esslingen Christmas Market
  • Ludwigsburg Christmas Market
  • Karlsruhe Christmas Market
  • Düsseldorf Christmas Market
  • Nuremberg Christmas Market
  • Essen Christmas Market

best time to travel to germany 2023

Oktoberfest

Trust me – Oktoberfest , AKA the world’s largest beer festival, is reason enough to make a trip to Germany.

Typically celebrated annually in Munich, this is one of the most incredible events in the world, with millions of people attending, millions of beer served, and a guaranteed recipe for making memories to last a lifetime.

… If you can remember anything after 5L of beer that is.

Read my full Oktoberfest guide for more details.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Visiting Fairytale Castles

If you love castles, I recommend avoiding Germany……. because you might just combust from sheer fangirl joy.

Seriously, Germany is every castle lover’s kryptonite, with elegant palaces and fairytale castles in the thousands. If you’re a Disney gal like me who grew up dreaming of happily ever afters, pack a ballgown and head to Germany ASAP.

I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Here are some castles that you must visit in Germany:

  • Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Nuremberg Castle

best time to travel to germany 2023

The Cherry Blossoms in Bonn

The cherry blossoms in Bonn (also the birthplace of Beethoven and gummy bear legend, Haribo) are absolutely spectacular, and 100% worth visiting in Spring time. In fact, I’d even say they’re one of the best things to see in Europe at Spring time.

Yes, you, too, can come frolic in these tunnels of pink! Here is my guide on where to find cherry blossoms in Bonn.

best time to travel to germany 2023

Karneval, Fasching, Etc.

Carnival Season is one of the best times to visit Germany if you’re looking for a party.

The grandest celebrations take place just before Lent, and are celebrated throughout the country, although the festivites in North-Rhine Westphalia are probably the best known.

My top recommendation? Go celebrate in Cologne, where the Kölner Karneval draws millions of visitors every year.

best time to travel to germany 2023

My Recommended Germany Itineraries

Germany is a huge country with a massive diversity in sights… so how can you organize your time efficiently and make the most of your trip? Here are some German trip itinerary ideas…

Germany itinerary ideas for a taste of everything:

  • Southern Germany Classic: Munich, the Allgäu (for Castles!), Garmisch Partenkirchen, Berchtesgaden National Park, Stuttgart & Area, Black Forest
  • Eastern Germany Classic: Berlin, Dresden, Saxon Switzerland
  • Western Germany Classic: Aachen, Monschau, Eifel National Park
  • Northern Germany Classic: Hamburg, Bremen , Lübeck, Kiel, Sylt
  • The Rhine River Classic: Mainz, Koblenz, Burg Eltz, Cochem, Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf
  • The Harz Mountains Experience: Harz Mountains, Goslar, Wernigerode, Quedlinburg

best time to travel to germany 2023

Germany itinerary ideas for city breakers and culture hunters:

  • The Big City Tour: Berlin and Munich (a 4 hour express train connects them)
  • The BaWu Special: Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, Tübingen, Esslingen, Heidelberg
  • The Bavaria Special: Munich, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Bayreuth
  • The Saxony Special: Leipzig, Görlitz, Dresden
  • The Rhine City Hop: Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf
  • The Romantic Villages Hop: Würzburg, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Füssen

best time to travel to germany 2023

Germany itinerary ideas for nature lovers:

  • Southern Germany Nature Itinerary: Berchtesgaden National Park, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the Black Forest and Lake Constance (Bodensee)
  • Bavaria’s Best Nature Itinerary: Berchtesgaden National Park, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Munich’s Lake Region, Franconian Switzerland, Danube Gorge
  • Eastern Germany Nature Itinerary: Dresden and Saxon Switzerland National Park

best time to travel to germany 2023

My Top Germany Travel Tips

  • If you’re overwhelmed by transport options, Omio is a great resource for comparing trains, buses and flights in Germany at the same time.
  • If travelling by train, look into group discount tickets like the Bayern Ticket which give you unlimited train travel for one day on regional trains. It can save you a TON of money.
  • If you are traveling to multiple countries nearby (i.e. Switzerland), a Eurail pass might save you money.

Accommodation:

  • Booking.com is a great place to search up hotels, and filtering by Free Cancellation allows you to book without paying upfront
  • Airbnb can be a very affordable alternative for longer stays/bigger groups

Attractions and Tickets:

  • GetYourGuide is a great site for finding tours and attraction tickets
  • City passes like the Munich City Pass , Berlin Pass , and the Cologne Card can save you a LOT of money if you plan to visit many tourist attractions in a short time
  • If you’re trying to find specific info about a place, try using Google Translate to search in German because German versions of sites always have more info

If you’re past the planning stage and heading to Germany soon, make sure you read this before you go:

  • Hilarious must-knows before you visit Germany

More Germany Travel Reads

Feeling inspired to visit Germany after reading all that?

As you can (probably) tell, I’ve written extensively about Germany.

So, here are some more articles that might pique your interest:

  • Unique Things to do in Germany (That You Can’t Do Anywhere Else)
  • The Best Christmas Markets in Germany
  • Hilarious Must-Knows Before You Visit Germany

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

4 thoughts on “The Only Germany Travel Guide You’ll Ever Need”

i found myself reading almost every post in your website for days and days and i ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT and adore and thank you for spending so much time and effort to make it so helpful, informative and fun to read. you have helped me plan my trip to munich in december and i cant wait to visit just because of your enthusiasm 🙂

We would like to Thank you for sharing such a beautiful blog! Very informative.

This Germany Travel Guide truly captures the multifaceted beauty of Deutschland, a country that has something to offer to everyone, from culture enthusiasts to nature lovers. Your personal anecdotes from living in Munich make it come alive, making me yearn for a taste of that amazing beer you’ve mentioned, and a wander around the English Garden! The varied seasonal highlights emphasize how Germany is a year-round destination, offering uniquely charming experiences, from the festive winter Christmas markets to the lively summer festivals. It’s heartening to know that navigating around the country is convenient, making it possible to explore its picturesque small towns and vibrant cities. This guide is a treasure trove for anyone planning to travel to Germany – it gives a well-rounded view of the country, infused with personal insights, which makes it even more valuable. I’m particularly intrigued to visit Munich, the city you so passionately call home.

As a Berliner, I can’t agree more with this guide. Germany truly is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation, natural beauty and urban charm, hearty cuisine and diverse cultures. Moving around in Germany is indeed quite convenient thanks to the well-organized public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams. And yes, English is widely spoken in major cities, so communication shouldn’t be a problem for travelers. As for the varied dialects across regions, it just adds to the unique charm of exploring this beautiful country. Safe travels, fellow adventurers!

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Wingin’ It! Paul Lucas (Video)

Wingin’ It! Paul Lucas (Video)

Flying Lufthansa's ICONIC 747-400: Palma to Frankfurt in 2023!

Posted: June 1, 2024 | Last updated: June 4, 2024

Get Surfshark VPN at <a href="https://surfshark.deals/winginit">https://surfshark.deals/winginit</a> - Enter promo code WINGINIT to get 83% off + THREE EXTRA MONTHS for free! Enjoy the beauty of the 747-400 Jumbo Jet as I fly it on a rare opportunity from Palma Mallorca to Frankfurt in Germany. I'm on the top deck of the Jumbo and I hope you enjoy me sharing this unusual privilege with you! Follow me on Twitter: @paul_winginit ¦ <a href="https://twitter.com/paul_winginit">https://twitter.com/paul_winginit</a> Follow me on Instagram: paul_winginit ¦ <a href="https://www.instagram.com/paul_winginit">https://www.instagram.com/paul_winginit</a> Merch store: <a href="https://wingin-it.teemill.com/collection/all-products/">https://wingin-it.teemill.com/collection/all-products/</a> 0:00 Intro, flight explainer 1:48 PMI Airport 3:19 some face time 4:13 747 landing and arriving 5:25 Surfshark 6:56 Boarding our 747 in business class 9:00 Taxi and takeoff 11:56 inflight incidentals 14:12 Lufthansa business class meal 14:49 scenery over Europe 16:21 landing, and conclusions! My website: <a href="http://www.winginit.me">www.winginit.me</a> Date of Travel: 16 APRIL 2023 Airline: Lufthansa Livery: Lufthansa "old" standard Route: PMI-FRA Aircraft: Boeing 747-400 Flight Number: LH 1159 Miles: 778 Airborne time: 1h49m Join me on PATREON where you'll get perks like AD-FREE EARLY ACCESS viewing of all my trip report videos, my tips and tricks for hacking fares, my "best of the month" airfare rundown, and MORE...support me: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/winginit">https://www.patreon.com/winginit</a> If you want to find out more about my future plans and join in conversations I have about travel, follow me on Twitter: @paul_winginit. Make sure you have your notifications set! _____________________________________ Do you have any ideas for future trip reports? Something you've never seen on YouTube before? Why not suggest it to me in the comments? I read every single one! Enjoy the video, and thanks for watching. If you subscribe, then thanks for being part of the channel! #paulstripreports #vlog #review #flying #travel #aviation #avgeek #trains I use Epidemic sounds; give it a try: <a href="http://share.epidemicsound.com/paulwinginit">http://share.epidemicsound.com/paulwinginit</a> ***DON’T FORGET TO SUBSCRIBE!***

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best time to travel to germany 2023

Best time to visit Hamburg , Germany

Our verdict

The best time to visit Hamburg is September

In the height of summer, temperatures in Hamburg can reach a maximum of 26℃ (79℉). The average low temperatures in winter float around -1℃ (31℉), while the coldest it gets down to is about -5℃ (23℉).

If you’re keen to see the sights of Hamburg during the day, the sun stays up the longest around August. July sees the most amount of rain in a month if you’re ok with chancing getting drenched, so if you’re looking to stay dry, visit in April instead.

By the time you finish reading below, you’ll know everything you need to know about the best time to travel to Hamburg. Once you’re ready, we’ve even provided all the tools you’ll ever need to help you book your travel!

Quick links: Fast facts / Seasons / Average temperatures / Monthly climate / FAQs / Map

Warmest month

Least rainfall, most daylight, check your travel options, need a place to stay.

*Support us by clicking the links above and making a booking with our partners. It's completely free for you, and it helps us make this site even more awesome! We'll <3 you for it.

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Hamburg seasons

Before you continue, it’s important to know when the seasons are in Hamburg as they might be different to yours depending on where in the world you’re travelling from. Hamburg is in the Northern Hemisphere, so the seasons fall during these months:

Average temperatures in Hamburg

If the temperature is a big factor for you to help you decide when to visit, the chart below shows the average minimum and maximum temperatures in Hamburg for each month side-by-side so you can easily see the difference in weather throughout the year. To see the temperatures in both Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F), hover or tap the shaded boxes on the graph.

Hamburg climate by month

If you already have a rough idea about which months you might want to travel, the section below shows a detailed breakdown of the climate in Hamburg for each month so you can see if it all suits your wants and needs. Scroll down, or use the quick menu below to jump to your preferred month.

Hamburg in January

  • Average temperature: 1℃ (34℉)
  • Average high temperature: 3℃ (37℉)
  • Average low temperature: -1℃ (31℉)
  • Average humidity: 89%
  • Average sunny days: 11 days
  • Average rainfall: 43mm (2") over 14 days
  • Average snow days: 7 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in January, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Add visitor or local insider tips >

Hamburg in February

  • Average temperature: 2℃ (35℉)
  • Average high temperature: 4℃ (39℉)
  • Average humidity: 87%
  • Average sunny days: 10 days
  • Average rainfall: 39mm (2") over 12 days
  • Average snow days: 6 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in February, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Hamburg in March

  • Average temperature: 5℃ (41℉)
  • Average high temperature: 8℃ (47℉)
  • Average low temperature: 1℃ (35℉)
  • Average humidity: 81%
  • Average sunny days: 14 days
  • Average rainfall: 32mm (1") over 13 days
  • Average snow days: 2 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in March, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Hamburg in April

  • Average temperature: 9℃ (49℉)
  • Average high temperature: 14℃ (57℉)
  • Average low temperature: 5℃ (40℉)
  • Average humidity: 76%
  • Average rainfall: 22mm (1") over 13 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in April, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Hamburg in May

  • Average temperature: 13℃ (55℉)
  • Average high temperature: 17℃ (62℉)
  • Average low temperature: 7℃ (45℉)
  • Average humidity: 79%
  • Average rainfall: 38mm (1") over 18 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in May, make sure you pack a warm jacket or coat.

Hamburg in June

  • Average temperature: 16℃ (60℉)
  • Average high temperature: 20℃ (68℉)
  • Average low temperature: 11℃ (51℉)
  • Average humidity: 80%
  • Average rainfall: 40mm (2") over 17 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in June, make sure you pack a warm jacket or coat.

Hamburg in July

  • Average temperature: 18℃ (64℉)
  • Average high temperature: 22℃ (72℉)
  • Average low temperature: 13℃ (56℉)
  • Average humidity: 78%
  • Average rainfall: 43mm (2") over 18 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in July, make sure you pack a light jumper or hoodie for the evenings and some light clothes for the daytime.

Hamburg in August

  • Average humidity: 77%
  • Average rainfall: 41mm (2") over 17 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in August, make sure you pack a light jumper or hoodie for the evenings and some light clothes for the daytime.

Hamburg in September

  • Average temperature: 14℃ (58℉)
  • Average high temperature: 18℃ (65℉)
  • Average rainfall: 32mm (1") over 15 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in September, make sure you pack a warm jacket or coat.

Hamburg in October

  • Average temperature: 10℃ (50℉)
  • Average high temperature: 13℃ (56℉)
  • Average humidity: 85%
  • Average sunny days: 12 days
  • Average rainfall: 37mm (1") over 15 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in October, make sure you pack a warm jacket or coat.

Hamburg in November

  • Average temperature: 6℃ (42℉)
  • Average high temperature: 8℃ (46℉)
  • Average low temperature: 4℃ (39℉)
  • Average rainfall: 36mm (1") over 15 days
  • Average snow days: 1 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in November, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

Hamburg in December

  • Average temperature: 3℃ (37℉)
  • Average high temperature: 4℃ (40℉)
  • Average low temperature: 1℃ (34℉)
  • Average humidity: 90%
  • Average sunny days: 8 days
  • Average snow days: 4 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Hamburg in December, make sure you pack a thick snow/winter jacket, thermals and some extra layers as it's always very cold.

😎 When should I go to Hamburg for the hottest weather?

☀ when does it rain the least in hamburg, ☔ when does it rain the most in hamburg, 🌤 when should i go to hamburg if i want the most daylight, hamburg map.

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  • X/Twitter: Countries with the largest audience 2024

Social network X/Twitter is particularly popular in the United States, and as of April 2024, the microblogging service had an audience reach of 106.23 million users in the country. Japan and the India were ranked second and third with more than 69 million and 25 million users respectively. 

Global Twitter usage

As of the second quarter of 2021, X/Twitter had 206 million monetizable daily active users worldwide . The most-followed Twitter accounts include figures such as Elon Musk, Justin Bieber and former U.S. president Barack Obama. 

X/Twitter and politics

X/Twitter has become an increasingly relevant tool in domestic and international politics. The platform has become a way to promote policies and interact with citizens and other officials, and most world leaders and foreign ministries have an official Twitter account . Former U.S. president Donald Trump used to be a prolific Twitter user before the platform permanently suspended his account in January 2021. During an August 2018 survey, 61 percent of respondents stated that Trump's use of Twitter as President of the United States was inappropriate .

Leading countries based on number of X (formerly Twitter) users as of April 2024 (in millions)

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Values use midpoints of published ranges, rounded to the nearest 10,000.

Figures include only countries and territories with total population of 50,000 or more.

Other statistics on the topic X (formerly Twitter)

  • Global social networks ranked by number of users 2024
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  • U.S. market share of leading social media websites 2024
  • X/Twitter: number of monetizable daily active users worldwide 2017-2022

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Statistics on " X (formerly Twitter) "

  • X/Twitter: global revenue 2010-2021
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  • X/Twitter: distribution of annual revenues 2010-2021, by segment
  • X/Twitter: annual ad spend 2014-2021
  • X/Twitter: sales and marketing spending 2010-2021
  • X/Twitter: annual net income/loss 2010-2021
  • X/Twitter: quarterly revenue 2011-2022
  • X/Twitter: quarterly revenue 2013-2022, by segment
  • Gender distribution of social media audiences worldwide 2024, by platform
  • Net worth of the richest social media entrepreneurs 2024
  • Workforce of leading global online companies 2014-2023
  • Global social media subscriptions comparison 2023
  • Leading social apps for users in the U.S. 2023, by weekly usage hours
  • Leading social apps in the U.S. 2023, by active user reach
  • Twitter users worldwide 2019-2028
  • X/Twitter: number of monetizable daily active international users 2017-2022
  • X/Twitter: number of monetizable daily active U.S. users 2017-2022
  • X/Twitter Premium subscriber count 2023
  • Global X/Twitter user growth 2022, by region
  • X/Twitter: distribution of global audiences 2024, by gender
  • Total global visitor traffic to Twitter.com 2023
  • Distribution of Twitter.com traffic 2023, by country
  • Monthly time spent on leading social media apps worldwide 2022
  • X/Twitter: favorite types of posts for global users 2022
  • Social media sites frequently used for news U.S. 2020-2023
  • X/Twitter app user engagement in selected markets 2020-2022
  • Tweets containing emojis 2013-2023
  • X (formerly Twitter) advertising revenue worldwide 2017-2027
  • Media companies: ad revenues 2022
  • Digital advertising revenue of leading online companies 2012-2023
  • Social media platforms used by marketers worldwide 2023
  • Most important social media platforms for marketers worldwide 2023
  • Social media platforms used by marketers worldwide 2022, by target group
  • Changes in spending on digital platforms by marketers worldwide 2023
  • U.S. adults who have a favorable impression of Twitter 2022
  • U.S. adults who have a favorable impression of Elon Musk 2022
  • X/Twitter: U.S. users on the likelihood of using the platform in the future 2023
  • X/Twitter: U.S. users on taking a break from the platform 2023, by gender
  • Reactions to new X/Twitter logo according to global users 2023
  • Approval of Elon Musk buying Twitter amongst U.S. citizens and Twitter users 2022
  • U.S. adults approval of Elon Musk as CEO of Twitter 2022

Other statistics that may interest you X (formerly Twitter)

  • Premium Statistic X/Twitter: global revenue 2010-2021
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: annual revenue 2010-2021, by segment
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: distribution of annual revenues 2010-2021, by segment
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: annual ad spend 2014-2021
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: sales and marketing spending 2010-2021
  • Premium Statistic X/Twitter: annual net income/loss 2010-2021
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: quarterly revenue 2011-2022
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: quarterly revenue 2013-2022, by segment
  • Basic Statistic Global social networks ranked by number of users 2024
  • Premium Statistic U.S. market share of leading social media websites 2024
  • Premium Statistic Gender distribution of social media audiences worldwide 2024, by platform
  • Premium Statistic Net worth of the richest social media entrepreneurs 2024
  • Premium Statistic Workforce of leading global online companies 2014-2023
  • Basic Statistic Global social media subscriptions comparison 2023
  • Premium Statistic Leading social apps for users in the U.S. 2023, by weekly usage hours
  • Premium Statistic Leading social apps in the U.S. 2023, by active user reach

Users and demographics

  • Premium Statistic Twitter users worldwide 2019-2028
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: Countries with the largest audience 2024
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: number of monetizable daily active international users 2017-2022
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: number of monetizable daily active users worldwide 2017-2022
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: number of monetizable daily active U.S. users 2017-2022
  • Premium Statistic X/Twitter Premium subscriber count 2023
  • Basic Statistic Global X/Twitter user growth 2022, by region
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: distribution of global audiences 2024, by gender
  • Basic Statistic X (formerly Twitter) accounts with the most followers worldwide 2023
  • Premium Statistic Total global visitor traffic to Twitter.com 2023
  • Basic Statistic Distribution of Twitter.com traffic 2023, by country
  • Premium Statistic Monthly time spent on leading social media apps worldwide 2022
  • Basic Statistic X/Twitter: favorite types of posts for global users 2022
  • Premium Statistic Social media sites frequently used for news U.S. 2020-2023
  • Premium Statistic X/Twitter app user engagement in selected markets 2020-2022
  • Basic Statistic Tweets containing emojis 2013-2023

Advertising and marketing

  • Premium Statistic X (formerly Twitter) advertising revenue worldwide 2017-2027
  • Premium Statistic Media companies: ad revenues 2022
  • Basic Statistic Digital advertising revenue of leading online companies 2012-2023
  • Premium Statistic Social media platforms used by marketers worldwide 2023
  • Premium Statistic Most important social media platforms for marketers worldwide 2023
  • Premium Statistic Social media platforms used by marketers worldwide 2022, by target group
  • Premium Statistic Changes in spending on digital platforms by marketers worldwide 2023

Public opinion

  • Basic Statistic U.S. adults who have a favorable impression of Twitter 2022
  • Basic Statistic U.S. adults who have a favorable impression of Elon Musk 2022
  • Premium Statistic X/Twitter: U.S. users on the likelihood of using the platform in the future 2023
  • Premium Statistic X/Twitter: U.S. users on taking a break from the platform 2023, by gender
  • Premium Statistic Reactions to new X/Twitter logo according to global users 2023
  • Premium Statistic Approval of Elon Musk buying Twitter amongst U.S. citizens and Twitter users 2022
  • Premium Statistic U.S. adults approval of Elon Musk as CEO of Twitter 2022

Further related statistics

  • Premium Statistic Canada: Twitter user penetration 2012-2020
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  • Basic Statistic Latin America: Twitter user share 2016-2018
  • Premium Statistic Indonesia: number of Twitter users 2014-2019
  • Premium Statistic Twitter: number of users in the United States 2017-2022
  • Premium Statistic Number of Twitter users Philippines 2014-2019
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  • Premium Statistic Vietnam: number of Twitter users 2014-2019
  • Premium Statistic Twitter: number of users in Asia Pacific 2012-2018, by country
  • Premium Statistic Number of Twitter users Thailand 2014-2019
  • Premium Statistic Twitter: annual user growth rate in South Korea 2012-2018
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  • Premium Statistic Twitter: annual user growth rate in India 2013-2019
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  • Premium Statistic Frequency of Twitter usage by gender in France 2019
  • Basic Statistic Number of Twitter followers of players competing in Euro 2021, by team

Further Content: You might find this interesting as well

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  • Number of Twitter users Philippines 2014-2019
  • Twitter: number of users in Asia Pacific 2012-2018
  • Vietnam: number of Twitter users 2014-2019
  • Twitter: number of users in Asia Pacific 2012-2018, by country
  • Number of Twitter users Thailand 2014-2019
  • Twitter: annual user growth rate in South Korea 2012-2018
  • Twitter: annual user growth rate in Indonesia 2012-2018
  • X/Twitter: annual user growth rate in the United States 2021-2026
  • Twitter: annual user growth rate in India 2013-2019
  • Twitter: annual user growth rate in Russia 2012-2018
  • Twitter brand index score India 2021, by region
  • Frequency of Twitter usage by gender in France 2019
  • Number of Twitter followers of players competing in Euro 2021, by team
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IMAGES

  1. The Best Time to Visit Germany in 2023

    best time to travel to germany 2023

  2. The ONLY Germany Travel Guide You'll Need for 2023 (Read Before You Go!)

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Plan a Trip to Germany (Your Step by Step Germany Trip Planner

    The best time to visit Germany is whenever you can get there! No, seriously! ... The Ueckermann family 9-10 adults and 2 little once to experience Germany in Oct 2023. Central G and Netherlands will be awesome. We need to do all planning and funds estimates please assist. We live in South Africa and hopefully COVID 19 not a factor any more.

  2. Best Time to Visit Germany (2024)

    You will find the highest number of visitors in the country during these times: June to August, Oktoberfest in September, and the Christmas period from mid-November to mid-December. With the Christmas markets opening across Germany between the 22nd to 29th of November, this is one of the best times to visit Germany.

  3. Best Time to Visit Germany

    From a weather perspective, May is the best time to visit Germany. The landscape is in full bloom, the mercury is hovering in the low 20s, and sunny skies are plentiful. There is a high chance of rainfall, but usually in the form of an afternoon shower. With the good weather, tourism starts to pick up.

  4. Best Time to Visit Germany: Weather By Month and Season

    The best time to visit Germany is in the late spring and early autumn, particularly May and early October. Both of these months fall within the country's tourism shoulder season, offering respite from the summer crowds and its hot & humid weather. Still, travelers will enjoy comfortable temperatures and less rainfall than in the summer and ...

  5. The Best Time to Visit Germany

    Jillian Dara. TripSavvy / Lisa Fasol. There really is no bad time to visit Germany, but we think the best time to visit Germany is May when the weather has finally warmed, crowds of tourists have yet to arrive, the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and Berlin has exploded into festival season. However, there are several factors that could influence ...

  6. Best Time to Go to Germany by Rick Steves

    By Rick Steves. In Germany, the "tourist season" runs roughly from May through September. Summer has its advantages: the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, very long days (light until after 21:00), and the busiest schedule of tourist fun. Travel during "shoulder season" (spring and fall) is easier and can be a bit less expensive. Shoulder ...

  7. The best times to visit Germany

    March to May and October to November are the best times for budget travelers. The weather during these months can be unpredictable, but should no longer feel like the depths of winter. These off-peak shoulder seasons are a great time for budget travel thanks to lower rates for accommodation and lower demand. Expect quieter inner-cities and old ...

  8. Best Time to visit Germany (2023)

    May. One of the most romantic months, frequently pleasantly warm and sunny, and ideal for welcoming beer-garden season. Numerous official holidays, which Germans stretch into long weekends, cause congested highways and a lack of accommodations.

  9. Best time to visit Germany

    Best time to visit Germany. For more settled weather with sunshine and comfortable temperatures, late springand early autumn- May, September and early October - are the best time to visit. The Germans don't call the harvest season "goldener Oktober" for nothing. The ski season in the Alpsruns between Christmas and the end of March.

  10. Best Time To Visit Germany 2024

    10 mm. precipitation. 6h 24m. daylight duration. The month of May, especially its second half, is considered one of the best times to visit Germany. It is when the first truly warm days come to the country. The pleasant temperatures hover around upper teens, sometimes reaching the lower 20s (60-70°F).

  11. Travel Germany 101: Ultimate guide on traveling to Germany for the

    time zone: Germany is usually anywhere from 6-9 hours ahead of the US, depending on where you are located. They have one time zone and participate in Daylight Savings Time. They move the clock forward 1 hour on the last Sunday of March, and back on the last Sunday in October.

  12. Best time to visit Germany : A Comprehensive Guide

    July-August (Summer Splendor) July and August are the heart of summer, the best time to visit Germany, it basks in warm, sun-drenched days. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg are buzzing with life. Summer is the peak tourist season, offering clear skies and perfect weather for open-air music festivals like Rock am Ring and Berlin's ...

  13. 5 Things Americans Should Know Before Traveling To Germany In 2023

    Germany Is Well Worth A Visit. While some of the above differences in culture or rules may be a worry for some travelers, Germany is absolutely worth a trip in 2023. Bavarian traditions like Oktoberfest, gorgeous castles like Neuschwanstein, and intriguing historical attractions make Germany one of the most unique destinations in Europe.

  14. Best Time to Visit Berlin: Weather by Month and Season

    By Ryan O'Rourke / Last updated: November 9, 2023. The best time to visit Berlin is in the late spring (May) and in the early autumn (September). In the late spring and early autumn shoulder seasons, travellers will enjoy mild to warm temperatures and relatively dry weather conditions. These months also avoid the height of Germany's high ...

  15. Best Time to Visit Germany

    Winter is the coldest and darkest time to visit Germany, as the weather is freezing and snowy, with temperatures averaging around 32°F but sometimes dropping below 14°F. The days are short and gloomy, with only 6 hours of daylight in December. Rainfall is high and can be mixed with snow or sleet. Advantages of visiting Germany in winter:

  16. Best time to visit Germany

    The best time to visit Germany is between May and September.Despite the occasional showers, warm weather, and long days make these months the ideal time to explore all that Germany has to offer.. The weather is usually mild and pleasant in the late spring, before average temperatures move towards the 70s and higher in June, July, and August.You'll get the hottest weather in cities like ...

  17. The Only Germany Travel Guide You'll Ever Need

    Here are some German trip itinerary ideas…. Germany itinerary ideas for a taste of everything: Southern Germany Classic: Munich, the Allgäu (for Castles!), Garmisch Partenkirchen, Berchtesgaden National Park, Stuttgart & Area, Black Forest. Eastern Germany Classic: Berlin, Dresden, Saxon Switzerland.

  18. Germany Weather And Best Time To Visit Germany

    The average day temperature hovers between 17-18°C and drops to 10 come nightfall. Autumn is also the major season of rain in the country so even though the leaves are drying, it is still raining. One of the best reasons to visit Germany during October is the iconic Oktoberfest held in Munich that starts in September-end and goes on until ...

  19. Best Time To Visit Frankfurt, Germany

    > Best time to visit Germany > Best time to visit Frankfurt. ... cost of flights and hotels, and peak travel periods, September is the best time to go to Frankfurt. Don't just take our word for it though… We've put together loads of information below to help you decide, such as a monthly breakdown of the weather, what to pack, when to fly ...

  20. Best Time To Visit Germany, Europe

    Best time to visit the top destinations in Germany We've put together a breakdown of the average minimum and maximum temperatures by month, as well as the best times to visit for each. To learn more about these destinations including detailed climate breakdowns and much more, click or tap the city/destination name below.

  21. Best Time to Visit Sylt: Weather and Temperatures. 7 Months to Avoid

    Here's some information to help you in your decision: The best months for good weather in Sylt are June, July, August and September. On average, the warmest months are July and August. February is the coldest month of the year. The rainiest months are August, September and October. The best months for swimming are July, August and September.

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    Caroline Lupini has been traveling the world with the help of credit card rewards since 2011. She has visited over 110 countries and is able to utilize her knowledge of credit cards and to make ...

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    Get Surfshark VPN at https://surfshark.deals/winginit - Enter promo code WINGINIT to get 83% off + THREE EXTRA MONTHS for free! Enjoy the beauty of the 747-400 Jumbo Jet as I fly it on a rare ...

  24. Best time to visit Munich , Germany

    The best time to visit Munich is April-May. While Munich is a popular destination to visit all year round, April-May is the ideal time to go due to a number of factors such as the climate, cost of travel and accommodation, as well as avoiding peak holiday periods. In summer, the temperature in Munich can rise as high as 26℃ (79℉).

  25. Germany is making it easier for foreign workers to move to ...

    Germany requires around 400,000 new skilled employees a year to cover the shortage, especially in the fields of engineering, IT and healthcare. Germany's new work permit lets you job seek for a year

  26. Best time to visit Hamburg , Germany

    Hamburg can be visited year-round, but based on the ideal climate conditions, cost of travel, and avoiding peak holiday periods, September is the best time to go. In the height of summer, temperatures in Hamburg can reach a maximum of 26℃ (79℉).

  27. X/Twitter: Global audience 2024

    Monthly time spent on leading social media apps worldwide 2022 X/Twitter: favorite types of posts for global users 2022 Social media sites frequently used for news U.S. 2020-2023

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