Germany - Info & Facts

Suggested length of stay

Regarding the suggested length of holiday in Germany, it depends on what you want to see and do. A week might be enough if you’re interested in exploring just one or two cities. However, if you want to see more of the country and its attractions, you may want to plan a more extended stay of 2-3 weeks to make the most of your time there.

Modes of transport

Road
Driving in Germany can be a great way to see the country and its attractions. The road network is well-maintained, and you can easily rent cars. However, it’s important to note that Germany has strict traffic laws and regulations, and speeding or other traffic violations can result in hefty fines. It’s also important to know the various driving rules and regulations, such as the autobahn speed limits and the requirement for winter tires during certain months. Overall, if you’re a confident and experienced driver, driving in Germany can be a convenient and enjoyable way to get around.

Rail
Rail travel is a popular and efficient way to get around Germany, with a well-developed network of trains and stations. The Deutsche Bahn (DB) is the primary rail operator in Germany, offering a range of ticket options, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains like the ICE (InterCity Express). Train travel in Germany is generally reliable, comfortable, and affordable, with many routes offering scenic countryside views. It’s also a great way to connect to other European cities, with connections to neighbouring countries like France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. If you plan on travelling by train in Germany, booking tickets in advance is recommended, as prices can increase closer to the travel date.

Air
Domestic air travel is another option for getting around Germany, but it’s not as popular as rail travel due to the country’s well-developed rail network. Several airlines, including Lufthansa, Eurowings, and Ryanair, operate domestic flights in Germany.

Ferry
Ferry services in Germany are an essential mode of transportation, especially in coastal areas. Some of the popular ferry routes include the Baltic Sea, the North Sea, and the Rhine River. The major ferry companies operating in Germany are FRS, Stena Line, and TT-Line. The ferry services are comfortable and offer beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding landscapes. They are often used by tourists and locals alike, providing a convenient and enjoyable way to travel.

River Cruise
Germany is known for its picturesque rivers, and a river cruise is one of the best ways to experience the country’s beauty. The Rhine, the Main, the Moselle, and the Danube are some of Germany’s most famous rivers for cruising. The cruises allow passengers to explore historic towns, vineyards, castles, and stunning landscapes. Some of the well-known river cruise companies operating in Germany are Viking River Cruises, AmaWaterways, and Scenic. With comfortable accommodations, fine dining, and a range of activities onboard, a river cruise in Germany is a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

Food

German cuisine is diverse and has a rich culinary history. Some of the popular dishes include Bratwurst (sausage), Schnitzel (breaded cutlet), Sauerkraut (fermented cabbage), Spätzle (egg noodles), and Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes). Germany is also known for its bread and beer, with over 1,000 types of bread and more than 5,000 different brands of beer. Each region in Germany has its own specialty dishes, such as the Weisswurst (white sausage) in Bavaria and the Labskaus (corned beef dish) in Northern Germany. Overall, German cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and often accompanied by a cold beer.

Drinking water

Germany’s tap water is safe to drink.

Visas

Germany is part of the Schengen area, meaning you can enter Germany without a visa in some cases.

Money

Germany’s currency is the euro.

Inoculations & health precautions

Health risks in Germany are broadly similar to those in Australia.

Embassy Contacts for Germany

Australian Embassy, Berlin
Wallstrasse 76-79
10179 Berlin
Federal Republic of Germany
Phone: (+49 30) 880088 0
Fax: (+49 30) 880088 238
Website: germany.embassy.gov.au
Email: consular.berlin@dfat.gov.au

Electricity

In Germany the power plug sockets are of type F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Getting there

The best way to fly to Germany from Australia depends on your preferences and budget. Flights are available from major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to major German cities such as Frankfurt, Berlin, and Munich. Some of the popular airlines that operate flights between Australia and Germany include Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines.

Time Zone

Berlin, Germany Central European Time UTC+1