Start Your Germany Trip Planning Here

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Planning a trip to Germany (and elsewhere in Europe) is exciting, but it can also feel like a lot. 

That’s why it helps to start your trip planning with the right questions. In this guide, we walk you through the 5 key questions you need to consider at each stage of your planning process.

These questions will get you started on clarifying your priorities, creating and then spotting any gaps in your itinerary, and ultimately put together a well-planned, stress-free trip to Germany. And if you need any help, we’re here for you!

Step 1: Do you know which cities and regions you most want to visit? And how many days to spend in each place?

Germany is bigger than most people realize! Because of the variety of destinations to choose from, it’s important to plot out an itinerary that maximizes your days without leaving you exhausted or wishing you’d planned your trip differently.

The best way to avoid post-trip FOMO is to invest time into researching your itinerary options and then prioritizing what matters most to you. Here are some things to consider:

• Big cities vs. small towns: Do you prefer the bustle of major cities like Berlin and Munich or would you rather explore smaller towns like Cochem or Rothenburg ob der Tauber?
• Types of experiences: Whether it’s castles, history, Christmas markets, history, scenery, festivals, nature, food and beer you’re interested in, there’s something for everyone. What are your must-do experiences?
• Geography and travel time: Getting from one region to another can take longer than expected. Have you checked if your destinations are realistic to visit within your timeframe?
• Seasons and holidays: The experience of Germany in winter (eg, Christmas markets, skiing) is vastly different from summer (eg, outdoor beer gardens, alpine coasters, street festivals). Do you know which season best matches the experience you want?
• Itinerary: Do you have an easy and organized way to plan out and edit your itinerary? Can you easily see your destinations, accommodations, transportation, and daily sight-seeing priorities at one time?

TIP: If you already have access to our DIY Germany Travel Planner, start with the video tour of Germany, browse the digital planning map, or read our city cheat sheets and region-specific planning guides to answer these questions. Then use our Germany travel organizer to map out and organize your entire itinerary.

Step 2: Do you know the best transportation options for your trip?

Many travelers get stuck in the decision-making process about whether to rent a car or use trains and public transit. Maybe you want the freedom and flexibility of driving a rental car…but you’re not sure whether driving in an unfamiliar country will actually be freeing or stressful. Or perhaps you’re leaning towards the train but you’re feeling lost trying to figure out schedules, routes, and which tickets or passes to buy.

When it comes to transportation, the key to a stress-free trip is investing a little time into understanding your options and the basics of how things work in Germany. We can’t stress this enough!

Here are a few things to think about when it comes to transportation:

• Train travel: Do you know when it’s worth getting a rail pass vs. booking individual tickets? Do you know which of the many ticket options will give you the travel experience you want that’s within your budget? Do you know what to do when you arrive at the station and board the train? And do you know if your train is delayed or canceled?
• Driving or renting a car: Do you know when it makes sense to rent a car vs. take the train? Are you aware of important differences in German traffic laws, approach to driving, and road signs (so many road signs!)? Do you know which car rental companies are best to book with? Or what to do if you want to drive a rental car into a neighboring country?
• Public transportation: Do you know which tickets or passes will work the best for your trip? Or how to navigate each city’s transportation network?

TIP: If you’re planning to drive in Germany, we highly recommend this driving tutorial. If you already have access to our DIY Germany Travel Planner, head over to our Transportation section. You’ll find how-to videos, train and ticket cheat sheets, tips, and “what to do if…” advice to help you feel prepared and confident to get around Germany.

Step 3: Do you know where to stay and what to look for in accommodations?

Where you stay can make or break your trip. You want to choose a accommodations that will be comfortable and make your holiday even more enjoyable, not add unnecessary stress by realizing the location, standards or price aren’t what you expected.

Here are things to consider when choosing where to stay:

• Location: Staying in the Altstadt (old town) is the perfect location for ambiance and easy walking to many top sights. Staying closer to the train station can be more convenient in some cities. Do you know the best and worst areas to stay in where you’re planning to go?
• Accommodation types: Many German hotels have smaller rooms than in North America. Air conditioning and parking aren’t a given. Double rooms are more common than rooms with 2 queen beds. Do you know which type of accommodations will best fits your needs and budget?
• Unique stays: Did you know that there are amazing castle hotels? Many of Germany’s dreamy medieval castles have been turned into family-run boutique hotels or romantic luxury stays! Do you know how to find the best castle hotels where you’re planning to travel?
• Amenities: There are some amenities you might expect but aren’t always available like elevators, air conditioning (especially in historic buildings), breakfast, 24-hour receptions or private parking. Have you decided which amenities are must-haves vs. nice to haves?
• Budget and seasonal considerations: Hotels in popular areas book up quickly, especially during peak season and popular festivals. Are you booking early enough to get the best options and prices?

TIP: If you already have access to our DIY Germany Travel Planner, use the digital planning map to find our recommended accommodations with our insider info, planning tips, and photos!

Step 4: Do you know what to see and do? Which tours to take? What to book in advance?

Germany has so many must-visit sites, engaging tours and guides, unique experiences, and easy day trip options. But with so much to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed! Or wonder if there’s a private guide, tour, off the beaten path gem, restaurant or experience you’d love…but don’t yet know about.

We recommend spending a good amount of time researching your options so you can fill your days with the best of the best. Then, be sure you’re aware of any important requirements like booking timed-entry tickets in advance.

To save yourself from disappointment or FOMO, make sure you can confidently answer these questions before you leave for Germany:

• Must-book attractions: Do you know which sights and experiences require advanced booking and which you can visit spontaneously? Or how to organize your sightseeing to maximize your time in each destination?
• Popular guided tours: Do you know which private guides and tours are the best fit for your trip?
• Food & Restaurants: Do you know what food and drink you want to try in each part of Germany? Do the restaurants you’re eyeing require reservations? Do you know how to find the best places to eat when out and about?
• Seasonal events: Events like Oktoberfest, concerts, Christmas markets, festivals, and sporting games attract large crowds. Do you know if any special events or holidays overlap with your trip dates and could impact your sightseeing plans?

TIP: If you already have access to our DIY Germany Travel Planner, check out the city cheat sheets and our digital planning map so you can quickly find the top sights and recommended experiences, tours, guides, and restaurants.

Step 5: Do you know what to pack and how to prepare for a smooth trip? 

Packing and preparing is all about taking care of the small key details so your trip goes smoothly! These details can make all the difference between a stress-free vacation and one filled with last-minute, avoidable complications that will leave you stressed, exhausted, and wishing you’d done things differently.

A little preparation now will help you focus on enjoying your trip later. Here are some things to consider as you pack and prepare:

• Packing and weather: You can’t go wrong with packing layers and comfortable shoes but keep in mind Germany’s ever-changing weather. Have you checked the weather forecast for the days you’ll be in Germany? Do you have the right luggage, clothing, shoes, and toiletries for your trip?
• Electrical adapters and converters: Germany uses a different plug type and voltage. Are you ready with the right plug adapters or converters for your devices?
• Cash vs. card: Germany is increasingly card-friendly, but credit cards aren’t accepted everywhere, and some places often prefer cash. Do you have a strategy for handling money?
• Arrival logistics: How will you handle arrival day? Have you planned for things like how you’ll use your phone, travel insurance, or knowing how to get from the airport to your hotel?
• Cultural info: A little cultural awareness can go a long way. Do you know basic German phrases to help you with greetings or asking for help? Are you familiar with tipping etiquette?
• Must-have apps and phone protection: Your phone is one of your most important travel tools so make sure you have the right apps and security measures in place. Have you downloaded essential apps for navigation and language translation? Do you know how to protect your phone from being lost or stolen?
• Documenting your trip: Keeping memories of your travels is part of the fun! Do you have a plan for documenting and sharing your adventures that will be fun and easy to do while in Germany?

TIP: If you already have access to our DIY Germany Travel Planner, check out the customizable packing checklist to make sure you’re not forgetting something important. And be sure to review the insider tips and cautions throughout so you’re prepared for every aspect of your trip from the moment you step off the plane.

Ready to start planning? Or are you feeling a bit overwhelmed?