Planning Your Trip to Germany
By Birge Amondson, About.com Guide
Planning your trip to Germany? Start here: our basic and useful planning tips will help you prepare your Germany vacation from A to Z.
Basic Information
Let's get started with some basic information you should know before traveling to Germany. Learn interesting facts about the country, check out visa and passport requirements, and get advice on what to pack.
When to Go
When is the best time of year to visit Germany? This section gives you information about Germany in all four seasons and helps you decide when to plan your Germany travels.
Where to Go

Do you already know which part of Germany you want to visit? Germany has a lot to offer and you can choose between exciting cities, old-world towns, and pristine landscapes. Let's have a look at some destinations:
- The Best 10 German City Destinations
- The Best Underrated German Cities
- The South of Germany
- The North of Germany
- The East of Germany
- The West of Germany
- Berlin Travel Guide
- Munich Travel Guide
- Frankfurt Travel Guide
- Hamburg Travel Guide
- Cologne Travel Guide
- Heidelberg Travel Guide
- Trier Travel Guide
- Weimar Travel Guide
- Black Forest Photo Gallery
- Rugen Island Guide
Where to Stay

There is a variety of lodging and accommodation in Germany and you'll find everything from basic hostels, and boutique hotels, to vacation rentals, and luxury resorts. Whatever you choose, it is always a good idea to reserve your room in advance.
- The Best Castle Hotels in Germany
- Unique Hotels in Germany
- Best Hotels in Germany Under 100 Euros
- Hotels in Munich
- Hotels in Berlin
- Hotels in Frankfurt
- Hotels in Cologne
- Hotels in Hamburg
- Hotels in Dresden
- Hotels in Heidelberg
- The Best Hotels in Germany
- Hostels in Munich
- Hostels in Berlin
- Hostels in Frankfurt
- Hostels in Cologne
- Hostels in Hamburg
Budget Travel Tips

Check out how to make the Dollar go further and save money on your travels in Germany - from flights and hotels, to restaurants, public transportation, and sightseeing.
- Budget Travel Tips for Germany
- Best Hotels in Germany Under 100 Euros
- Money Matters: ATMs, Credit Cards, and Banks
- Discount Train Tickets
- The Best Designer Outlet Stores
- Free Things to Do in Munich
- Free Things to Do in Berlin
- Free Things to Do in Cologne
Getting Around in Germany

There are many ways to explore Germany, depending on your itinerary, personal taste, and budget. Find out what options you have, from renting a car and flying down the Autobahn, to enjoying a relaxing train ride.
Learning the Language

Most Germans speak English, so you probably won't have any difficulties getting around. Still, a little German is always appreciated. Have a look at some useful German phrases that will be helpful for any traveler.
