Good news for budget travelers: Germany is a relatively cheap country to visit, and Berlin ranks among the most inexpensive big cities in Europe.
And we have some advice for you that will make the Dollar go even further - without taking the fun out of your vacation: Have a look at our Germany budget travel tips and save money, from flights and hotels, to restaurants, public transportation, and sightseeing.
1. Save on Flights to Germany
David el Nomo
The earlier you book, the cheaper the flight; and you can lower your airfare even more by visiting Germany off-season.
The most expensive times to fly to Germany are in summer (June-August), and during the holiday season (December).
So how about traveling to Germany between January and May, or during October and November? Prices and crowds will be much smaller.
Compare prices for different airlines with our Flight Search Engine Kayak
2. Rental Cars and Train Passes on a Budget
Andreas Levers
If you want to rent a car in Germany, reserve it online while you are still in the U.S.; you will get much better deals if you get your rental car in advance.
- More About Renting a Car in Germany
- Check prices for rental cars in Germany with our Search Engine Kayak
Want to see Germany by train? Stretch the Euro with special passes and discount train tickets like the "Happy Weekend Ticket", which allows you to travel to your heart's content for a whole weekend (35 Euro).
3. Stay in a German Hostel
Renee Tümpel
Get a good night's sleep without worrying about money by staying in a German hostel. Most hostels offer simple single and double rooms (between 30 - 90 Euro) with private facilities.
When my inlaws visited Berlin, they stayed in the rooftop apartment of the Circus Hostel - they had a wonderful experience and were happy to learn that hostels are not only for backpackers...
If you don't mind sharing a dorm with other travelers, you can save even more money and rest your head for as little as 12 Euro a night.
- Hostels in Munich
- Motel One Review
- Berlin Hostel Review
-Compare prices for hotels and hostels with our Hotel Search Engine Kayak
4. Cheap Eats in Germany
Jennifer Dickert
Eating out in Germany doesn't have to break the bank; there are many inexpensive and delicious eateries, called "Imbiss". Try some German specialties like Bratwurst, Kartoffelsalat (potatoes salad) or Currywurst, a hot pork sausage, cut into slices and seasoned with curry sauce (2-3 Euro).
Some of my favourite "Imbiss"- snacks are Falafel and Döner Kebab, a rotisserie lamb or chicken, carved thin and packed in toasted Turkish bread with salad, tomatoes, and a sauce of your choice (3 Euro).
If you are craving fresh sandwiches, rolls, or pastries, make sure to stop by a local "Bäckerei" (bakery).
5. Get a City Card
Most German cities offer discount city cards; these special passes allow you unlimited travel on the public transportation system and get you discounts or even free entry to many landmarks, museums, restaurants, and events.
Ask at the Tourism Office or at the reception of your hotel/hostel.
6. Bring Your Student ID to Germany
If you have an international student ID, bring it! You'll be rewarded with discounts on everything from sights, shows, and museums, to movie theatres, swimming pools, and hostels.7. German Museums for Free
Dave Morris
Pay a visit to a German museum, but don't pay for the ticket: Many German museums have an entry-free day, so check the museum's website and don't miss this opportunity.
One of my favourite things to do in Berlin on a Thursday between 6 and 10 p.m.? Going to the museums on Museums Island when admission is free!
8. The Best Things in Germany are Free
Rene Erhardt
Many landmarks and attractions in Germany are free. Take our Berlin Walking Tour that leads you to the best (and free) sights of the city; stroll through the Old Town of Munich, visit the Hamburg Harbor, celebrate at local wine festivals and Traditional Christmas Markets, climb the Alps, hike in the Black Forest, and swim in the Baltic Sea – all without paying a single Euro.
Best Free Things to Do in Berlin
Best Free Things to Do in Cologne
