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Germany on a budget: a guide with the best tips and the cheapest places to visit

The ultimate guide to traveling Germany on a budget! Includes budget travel tips, cheap places to visit, interesting work exchanges to try, and more!

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Apr 08, 2024

Germany is one of the best places to visit in Europe ! With plenty of history, architecture, culture, food, and nature to experience, there is no shortage of things to do in Germany.

From festive Christmas markets, to majestic castles, to cosmopolitan cities, to beaches, forests, charming towns, and more, there is something for everyone in Germany.

And due to its central location in Europe, it is very easy and convenient to visit while backpacking around the continent . Being a country that's wedged right in the center of Europe, the cost to travel there is pretty average. The affordability is great!

Because Germany is centrally located on the continent, it is more expensive than eastern countries like Romania or Bulgaria, but it is cheaper than pricey western countries like France or Spain .

If you want to travel Germany on a budget, it can definitely be done! You just have to know the right budget travel tips to make your stay cheaper. That’s where this article will come in handy!

We will cover everything you need to know for how to travel Germany on a budget! From cheap places to visit, to affordable accommodation and work exchanges , to extra budget travel tips, you can easily plan a visit to Germany with very little money.

How to travel to Germany on a budget?

Despite Germany being one of the most expensive countries in Europe, it is very possible to explore this fascinating country cheaply.  

Here's a quick overview of traveling to Germany on a budget and how you can make the most of your time with little money.

Find cheap transport with budget airlines and rail passes

Europe is full of budget airlines that offer incredibly cheap flights around the continent. Airlines like Ryanair, Wizzair, Norwegian, and Easyjet have flights around Europe for as cheap as 20 Euros one way! If you’re flying into Germany, check budget airlines to see if they have any cheap flights.

If you’re traveling Europe by land, you can enter Germany by train or bus . Germany has an amazing public transport system, and buses are really cheap for traveling to Germany. Trains are a bit more expensive, but if you book your train tickets a week in advance the prices may be cheaper . Also, look into Eurail passes if you’re going to be doing a lot of train travel!

Visit Germany in the winter

The months of December, January, and February are winter in Germany, and they are the cheapest time to travel! 

Winter can get very cold and there may be snow! Because of the cold, sightseeing is slightly less enjoyable and therefore fewer people visit Germany in winter .

Since  winter is off-season for travel , flight prices drop significantly during this time. Accommodations and tours may also offer cheaper prices. Just avoid the school holidays times around Christmas, as everything gets really crowded. 

So just pack warm clothes, book a cheap winter flight, and get ready to explore Germany on a budget!

Stick to mainly free or cheap attractions

One of the best ways to enjoy Germany on a budget is by prioritizing the free or cheap attractions. There are lots of fun things to do in Germany that cost very little money, or no money at all ! 

Exploring nature is one of the best things to do for seeing Germany on a budget. Hiking, cycling, or even just hanging out in a city park are all great ways to enjoy Germany for free.

In bigger cities, you can also often find free walking tours ! Many landmarks are free, and many museums have free admission on certain days or times so definitely look into that. If you’re visiting Germany in winter, wandering around Christmas Markets is an affordable activity. 

Find cheap accommodation or do a work exchange

Another essential way to save money in Germany is finding cheap accommodation! Hostels are located in most major tourist cities around Germany, such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Cologne. They are also in smaller cities like Leipzig, Nuremberg, Dresden, Heidelberg, and Dusseldorf. Hostels in Germany cost around 16-30 Euros per night for a dorm bed.

For even cheaper accommodation than a hostel, consider a work exchange ! Working in exchange for accommodation not only saves you money, but it also allows you to stay in one place for longer. That way, you can meet and bond with locals, learn some valuable skills, learn more about the culture, and just have a unique and memorable experience.

Some examples of work exchanges in Germany include:

• Learning about organic farming at an eco-village in Sammatz 
• Helping with gardening on a potato farm-hotel in northern Germany
• Working on restoring a winery in the Middle Rhine Region
• Volunteering at an organic cafe at an eco-village in northern Germany 

Cheapest places to visit in Germany

There are lots of amazing and cheap places to visit in Germany, from small towns to big cities. For travelers who are new to Germany, here are a few of the top cities to visit in Germany. These places are generally cheap for travelers because they have lots of budget accommodation options and free attractions.

When traveling Germany on a budget, you will most likely begin your journey in Berlin, the nation’s capital city. If you’re flying into Germany, there are lots of cheap flights into Berlin, so this is a great place to begin. This city is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines!

Berlin truly has so much to see and do , and many of the best attractions are free. From seeing the colorful murals at the Berlin Wall , to seeing majestic landmarks like the Berliner Dom and the Brandenberg Gate , to visiting historic sights, memorials, and parks , you can explore much of Berlin for very little money!

This charming city in western Germany is another incredible place to visit if you’re looking to save money. Cologne is a gorgeous place with some stunning landmarks such as the impressive Cologne Cathedral . Climb up to the top for the best views of the city! Also check out the Old Town for delicious food , fun bars, and lots of colorful, antique architecture.

A fun and unique work exchange you can try in Germany is volunteering at a small hostel that needs help taking care of its alpacas! That’s right, this hostel in Boppard, just 1.5 hours away from Cologne, has 4 alpacas and they need help from travelers to take care of them!

Another wonderful place to visit in Germany on a budget is Frankfurt. This city is famous for having one of Germany’s best skylines , and it’s also a city of great diversity. There is modern industry that includes shopping and entertainment, but there is also a historic side with an Old Town and lots of museums and galleries.

The best way to stay in Frankfurt on a budget is by working in a hostel! You can volunteer in this hostel and work in exchange for free accommodation. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get an in-depth experience in the city and get to live like a local.

Munich is a gorgeous area of Germany that is located in the scenic state of Bavaria. Most travelers head here during the world-famous Oktoberfest so they can dress up in fun outfits and drink beer! 

This festival is on many travelers’ bucket lists, but if you want to visit Germany on a budget it would be wise to avoid this time as many accommodations and flight prices increase dramatically.

Outside Oktoberfest, Munich is actually quite affordable, and it’s one of Germany’s most beautiful cities . There are lots of accommodation options to choose from that may suit your budget. Wander through the Old Town and admire the intricate, historic buildings, or indulge in some hearty Bavarian cuisine at a local restaurant.

Located in eastern Germany, Dresden is another city that is amazing for touring Germany on a budget. 

Dresden is the capital city of the state of Saxony, and it’s one of the country’s most populous cities. The city was destroyed by bombings in WWII, but the historic city center has been rebuilt and nowadays there are lots of gorgeous buildings of Baroque and Rococo architecture to check out.

To save money while traveling in Germany, consider this work exchange which is in Forst, about 1.5 hours away from Dresden. You can work for a nonprofit local project and help out with content writing, photography, videography, and more. In exchange, you will get free accommodation and free meals !

If you’re going to Germany on a budget, stop in Dusselsorf! This city in western Germany is located on the Rhine River and has lots of art, music, and culture to offer travelers. The east bank of the Rhine is home to the picturesque Old Town, whereas the west bank of the river is home to the more modern part of the city.

Most travelers hang out in the Old Town, also known as the Altstadt. Here you can find an abundance of cool sights and attractions, as well as countless pubs, bars, clubs, and entertainment venues that will keep you entertained for days.

Hamburg is a fun and affordable city that is often skipped by tourists in Germany. But that means it’s full of locals and you can have a cheap and authentic experience here. Visit the museums, stroll along the canals, check out the historic landmarks, and live it up at the many clubs, bars, and restaurants.

For a peaceful cultural experience that will also save you money on accommodation, you can volunteer at a yoga retreat . Test your cooking skills by helping out in the kitchen with preparing healthy meals. This work exchange is located in Göhrde, a town about 1 hour away from Hamburg.

Extra tips for budget travelers in Germany

Here are some extra tips that will help you save money in Germany. If you travel to cheap cities, try some work exchanges to get free accommodation, and follow these tips, you can easily have an epic adventure through Germany on a budget!

Choose the bus over the train

Train travel is often much more attractive than bus travel, but in reality, it is much more expensive. Trains in Germany can be pricey, and buses are cheap , so travel long distances by bus if you want to save money.

Take public transport

When you’re staying in a city, avoid taking taxis as they can be super expensive. Public transport such as metros, trams, and public buses are all very reliable and modern in Germany. But always remember to validate your ticket before you get on the train or bus , otherwise, you could get fined!

Get a city pass

If you’re a huge fan of museums and galleries, it’s worth buying a city pass for places like Berlin or Hamburg. Entry fees for museums can add up, so paying for a city pass can save you money on attractions in the long run.

Bring your student ID card

If you’re a student , always have your student ID card with you! Many attractions throughout Europe offer discounted entry fees for students if they have a valid ID.

Eat and drink like the locals

For eating and drinking out in Germany, stick to the less-touristy, local restaurants and bars. The touristy areas often have overpriced food and drink that is catered towards foreigners. Ask around to some of the locals about the best places to eat and drink on a budget!

Thanks for reading our guide to Germany on a budget!

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Germany

Best budget-friendly things to do in germany.

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What travelers are saying

The Cost of Travel in Germany: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

Germany is one of my favourite European countries, and I’m fortunate to have visited a whopping four times so far. What can I say? I love regularly dipping in and out of this country on a mission to discover a brand new region, and I’m determined to explore as much of it as possible.

What I love about Germany is its stunning gothic architecture, the rolling hills of its countryside, the festive vibes that emerge during Christmas and Oktoberfest, the picturesque castles that leave you in awe, and the incredibly welcoming locals. I fell in love with the bustle of Berlin, the buildings of Frankfurt, the romance of Heidelberg, the arts scene of Munich, the beer of Cologne, and so much more.

And that’s just the cities! You can’t visit Germany and not venture out to some of the small villages. Seriously — they look as though they’ve emerged straight from the pages of a fairy tale. Throw some seriously beautiful castles into the mix, and you’ll be pinching yourself on a daily basis, wondering if Germany is even real .

In short, Germany is a world-class destination with so much to offer its visitors and explorers. Whether it’s partying the night away at one of Berlin’s most infamous nightclubs, sipping Gluhwein while wandering through cosy Christmas markets, or hiking the soaring mountains of Bavaria, in this country, there truly is something for everyone.

I’ve been recording every single cent I spend in the countries I travel through because I want to give my readers a realistic and accurate look at how much you can expect to spend in each country you visit.

Today, it’s Germany’s turn.

I visited Germany first of all on a high-end vacation with my partner, where I stayed in five-star hotels and dined in Michelin-starred restaurants. Next, I travelled there as a solo backpacker on the tightest of budgets, and then finally, just a few months ago, I took a trip to Germany as part of a couple on a mid-range budget. In other words, I have enough German travel experience to be able to tell you exactly how much you can expect to spend on a trip to this wonderful country, whatever your style might be.

So, let’s get started! Here’s how much it costs to travel in Germany:

How to Save Money on Flights To/From Germany

My fellow Europeans will already know that scoring an affordable flight on this continent is rarely too much of a problem. Thanks to the vast range of budget airlines, getting to and from a different country in Europe is unlikely to break the bank. As always, I recommend heading to  Skyscanner  to snag yourself a bargain on flights.

If you’re flexible with your itinerary, you’ll find the best deals by searching to flights to “Germany” rather than assuming that Berlin will be cheapest. You may find it costs far less to fly into Frankfurt or Cologne, for example.

Speaking of flexibility, one of the Skyscanner features I use all the time is setting my departure date to be across an entire month rather than a specific day. This shows the cheapest dates to fly: often just switching things around by a few days leads to some surprisingly big savings!

In general, you’ll find that it’s cheapest to fly to Germany outside of high season, which coincides with typical European summer vacation dates (late-June to late-August) as well as December, when Christmas markets reign supreme, and mid-September to early-October, when tourists pour into the country to celebrate Oktoberfest.

If you do have the freedom to visit outside of high season, I highly recommend it, as it’ll mean spending less on flights and accommodation while having to deal with fewer tourists. I’ve visited Germany in early-June, early-September, and mid-November, and found all three to offer up great prices and few crowds.

What if you’re not European?

Fortunately, getting to Europe from North America is surprisingly cheap these days, and I wouldn’t expect you’d need to pay more than around $400 for a return ticket. Allow me to introduce you to one of my favourite websites in the world:  Secret Flying ! I’d estimate that 80% of the flights I book these days are due to a deal I’ve found on Secret Flying.

If, however, none of the deals on Secret Flying work for you, that’s when Skyscanner  comes in! I mentioned them earlier: they check flights with practically every single airline in the world to ensure that if there’s a bargain out there, you’ll find it.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Germany

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Housesitting  is a great option for  free  accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year.

If you  do  have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are  hostels . Germany was the home of the very first youth hostel back in 1912, and there are now hundreds of hostels spread right across the country. While the original-style youth hostels ( jugendherberge ) often have an under-25 age limit, there are many other kinds that cater to backpackers, families, flashpackers and other travellers of all ages. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Germany  are on a par with the rest of Western Europe, and you can expect to spend around  €30-35 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel in most parts of Germany, with the price increasing to about  €50 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around  €80 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find it costs little more to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.  €110 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel or hotel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which usually come in at around  € 110-170 a night  for a good, clean, mid-range property in a central location. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Cost of Accommodation in Germany

Munich – Jugend- und Familienhotel Augustin ( €133 per night) : Where do I even start with this fantastic hotel? I originally chose it because of its great reviews, but even then it exceeded my expectations. It’s in a great location, right in the heart of the Schwanthalerhöhe district, easily walkable to Theresienwiese for Oktoberfest and nice and close to downtown. It’s clean and modern without feeling generic or sterile, which isn’t easy, and the staff always seemed only too happy to give advice or help with any queries I had. The bed was super-comfortable, and I loved the view over the garden from my room: it was very quiet and peaceful, especially considering the area. The complimentary breakfast was tasty and filling, and the bar and restaurant were relaxed and well-priced when I didn’t feel like going out one evening. Unsurprisingly, I’ll be staying there again next time I’m in Munich!

Frankfurt – The Flag Oskar M. (€164 per night) : Everything, and I mean everything, in this stylish hotel felt modern and fresh. The studio honestly seemed more like a mini-apartment, complete with its own kitchen and fridge, living room, and balcony to sit out on and enjoy the sunshine after a big day out in the city. Not that it was exactly difficult to get out and explore, mind you: the hotel is right in the heart of Frankfurt’s Old Town, so I spent most of my time walking or biking around. The breakfast options were good, but if they’re not included in your room rate, there were loads of great restaurants to choose from nearby instead.

Berlin – Numa Nook Apartments ( € 167 per night ): If you want to live like a local during your visit, Numa is the way to go. In fact, the chic décor and simple pops of colour will have you living like a classy local, and in a great area to boot. This spacious self-contained apartment is clean, modern, and bathed in natural light thanks to all of the floor to ceiling windows. I loved having a kitchen to use when I didn’t feel like going out to eat, and made heavy use of the large balcony whenever the sun came out! While there’s a metro station nearby, I often found myself walking between attractions: it’s only a couple of minutes’ to the designer shopping hotspot of Hackescher Markt, and a 15-minute stroll to the famous TV Tower. Along the way, there were so many cafes and restaurants that I found it hard to choose between them all!

Heidelberg – Hotel Heidelberg Astoria ( € 125 per night) : What a jewel! This cozy bed and breakfast is in a restored turn of the century villa that’s full of old-fashioned charm. There are only a few rooms, and mine was super-clean and comfortable, with freebies like Wi-Fi and parking that many hotels charge for. It’s in the lovely upscale neighbourhood of Neuenheim, which is safe and quiet while still being close to both the city center and Heidelberg Castle (they’re both less than a half-hour walk away). One end of the famous Philosophers’ Way is just a two minute stroll from the hotel, and the river is barely a minute further: I found its banks to be a lovely, peaceful place to wander in the evening. There’s an excellent onsite bar as well, with a great terrace that offers up unreal views of the city!

Cologne – Zur Guten Quelle ( € 102 per night): An easy walk to the city’s bridges, cathedral, and old town, but with plenty of places to eat and drink nearby, this charming family-owned hotel is the kind of place I really like to stay. The huge rooms felt elegant and sophisticated, but not old-fashioned: all of the fixtures were modern, from the TV to the bathroom and shower. I really liked the food in the restaurant: breakfast is included and was more than enough to set me up for the day, but it’s worth visiting later in the day as well to try out the cider. It comes from the owner’s own orchard! The location was perfect for my three days in the city, and I’d return to this hotel in a heartbeat!

The Cost of Transportation in Germany

In Germany, public transportation is easily accessible and available in many forms, whether you’re travelling in small towns, large cities, or across the country. The modern infrastructure and easy-to-follow connections help ease the nerves of any newbie exploring the country. It certainly did for me.

I was all about the public transportation during my time in Germany. Except for biking around in cities like Munich and Berlin, which was, let’s be honest, more fun (and cheaper!) than sitting on a bus or a train. 

In fact, cycling is arguably one of the most used forms of transport by locals, and the country’s bike-friendly vibe makes it easy for visitors to join in the fun. Berlin on Bike offers rentals starting at €15 for 24 hours, for instance, while Pedal Helden in Munich has a great collection of city bikes starting at €18 for eight hours or €25 for 24 hours. 

Buses and trams are easy to use and a cheap, reliable way to see a city. Each city runs its transportation system slightly differently, but prices are fairly consistent throughout the country. In Munich you can get Munich Card that includes unlimited public transport within one of two zones, reduced admission fees at various attractions, and a range of other discounts. Passes last between one and five days: I went for a two-day pass and found it very convenient and a definite money saver. Prices start at €18.90 for a 24-hour pass that includes transport within the main metro area.

The Frankfurt Card is even cheaper, costing just €12 for an unlimited 24-hour public transport pass with various discounts on museums, zoos, and tours as well. It’s €19 for two days, and includes travel to/from the airport.

Railway System

S-Bahn, or Stadtschnellbahn (‘rapid train’ in German), is independently owned and services the central and metro areas of large cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich. A single-trip ticket in Berlin is €3.50 , a 24-hour pass is €9.90 , and a 7-day pass is €41.50 . 

U-Bahn, or underground railways, are the fastest way to get from place to place within big cities, and I’ve found the BVG apps and website to be the easiest way to plan journeys and buy tickets for them. Pricing in Berlin is the same as for the S-Bahn above.

When it’s time to leave one city and venture to the next, the process will likely be a smooth one. Intercity Express (ICE), Intercity (IC), and EuroCity (EC) all connect larger urban areas in a clean and safety environment. I usually use Trainline to quickly filter through the options to find the best way to get from A to B: helpfully, it automatically highlights the cheapest fare. Below are a few example prices for routes I’ve travelled in the past.

• One-way from Munich to Berlin – €69.90 
• One-way from Berlin to Frankfurt – €37.90 
• One-way from Cologne to Munich – €36.25 
• One-way from Munich to Frankfurt – €35.90

The Cost of Food in Germany

If I was to pick two words to describe traditional German food, they’d be “simple” and “hearty”! Germans love their meaty and dense foods, with some of the most popular dishes including schnitzel, smoked pork, bratwurst, brezels (pretzels), Käsespätzle (their take on macaroni and cheese), and Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes). Oh, and of course, don’t forget the beer!  

Although you can find many inexpensive options in restaurants and cafes, the cheapest way to eat in Germany is by doing your own shopping at the grocery store. You can get a litre of milk for about a euro , a dozen eggs for €2.50 , and a loaf of bread for €1.80 . If you drink alcohol, grocery stores are the cheapest place to buy it: expect to pay €7 for a mid-range bottle of wine and €1.50 for a 500ml beer. 

Of course, if you’re looking to explore the culinary scene, not every meal should be prepared in your hotel room! German eats are too good to ignore. Bear in mind that in Germany, hosts and hostesses at a restaurant don’t typically seat patrons; you seat yourself, and sometimes that means dining at the same table as strangers.

Breakfast: A basic breakfast costs between €5-9 and might include a cappuccino ( €3.50 ) and a croissant or other pastry ( €2-4 ). For something larger, expect to pay around €14 for bread with ham, cheese, and/or boiled eggs, €7 for muesli or porridge, and €10 for a Bauernfrühstück (farmer’s breakfast) with a hearty mix of potatoes, bacon, and egg.

Lunch is traditionally the main hot meal of the day in Germany, and while there’s been a bit of a trend towards smaller options like sandwiches and wraps in recent years, you’ll find many people still tucking into a three-course meal in the middle of the day. It’s usually made up of a soup, a main dish, and a dessert, but the detail varies a lot depending on the restaurant and where you are in the country.

This is where you’ll often find the schnitzel, bratwurst, and other meaty dishes I mentioned earlier, although fish and vegetarian options aren’t uncommon. Each dish is typically offered a la carte, so you can pick and choose depending on your budget and hunger levels.

To give an idea of price, for one of my recent meals I paid €6 for a starter of tomato cream soup, while the main course of pork and potatoes cost €15 and a piece of cake to finish was €4.50 . If you budget around €25-30 for your meal (not including drinks), you shouldn’t be far off.

Traditionally, dinner is usually quite light, and not all that different from some of the breakfast options. It’s often made up of sausages, bread and cheese or cold cuts, and a small dessert, and averages around €14 .

While it’s traditional for locals to have a large meal at lunchtime and a smaller meal for dinner, that doesn’t mean that everyone does it, or that you have to! You’ll find plenty of places offering hearty dinners or light lunches, so if you prefer to move your mealtimes around to suit your schedule, go for it!

One German food tradition that I just have to mention is Kaffee und Kuchen . In the late afternoon, friends will often meet up at a cafe or bakery for, as the name suggests, coffee and cake! For locals it’s often a social occasion as much as a snack break, but feel free to incorporate it into your own travel experience. I mean, how can stopping for coffee and cake ever be a bad decision? It’ll probably set you back about €6-10 , depending on where you are and how many delicious slices of cake you consume!

When it’s time to drink, Germany knows how to get it done. While it’s known for overflowing steins, bars and restaurants don’t limit their offering only to beer. At a decent midrange bar, expect to pay €8-12 for a cocktail (look out for happy hours!), and about €6 for a glass of wine or a bottled beer. The cheapest way to drink is to limit yourself to the (often excellent) local beers that are on tap: they’re usually substantially cheaper, at around €3-4 a pint in pubs throughout the country. 

And finally, don’t forget to tip! Rules about tipping in various European destinations are fuzzy, but in Germany good service should be reflected with a 15% tip at the end of the meal. 

The Cost of Activities in Germany

The types of activities you’ll do in Germany will likely change a bit depending on what time of year you visit. No matter when that is, though, there’s a lot to see and do, and the countryside is stunningly beautiful in any season.

Let’s start with the castles. There are something like 25,000 of them in the country, and they stand as powerful reminders of Germany’s history and heritage. You’ve almost certainly seen photos of Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, for instance — there’s one earlier in this article if you missed it! It looks like something out of a fairytale, and it’s hardly surprising that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry costs €20.50 : book well in advance , as tickets sell out quickly during busy periods. Day trips also run from various nearby cities that usually include a visit to other castles in the area as well: it’s not the easiest place in the world to get to, so these can be a good option.

Heidelberg Palace is one of the largest surviving castle ruins in the country, and it transforms during the summer months with its renowned Castle Festival. The historic fortress becomes a magnificent open-air stage, hosting theatre and orchestral performances under the stars. Ticket prices are relatively affordable, starting at €16: the ticket is also valid for public transport in the area up to four hours before the show. If you want to visit the castle at other times, entry costs €9 , plus €6 for a guided tour which is the only way to see the interior.

If you are a lover of Christmas, plan your trip during the month of December and the first week of January- the official Christmas season in Germany ends on January 6. Christmas markets pop up all over the country in honour of the holiday, offering sweet treats, hot cider, beer gardens, gifts, games, and rides. It’s free to roam the markets, but I guarantee you’ll spend some money while you’re there. If you can resist a lebkuchen (gingerbread biscuit/ €3 ) and a steaming mug of glühwein (traditional mulled wine/ €4.50 ) on a cold winter’s night, you have a lot more willpower than me!

This list of must-dos wouldn’t be complete without the mention of Oktoberfest. Despite the name, it actually kicks off in September of every year, and takes over Munich for 16 days. Six million people come for the festivities during the two-week span to celebrate the German tradition with music, games, rides, Bavarian eats and an all-around great time. There’s no cost to attend Oktoberfest itself, but beware: a single beer stein can cost up to €15 !

If you aren’t able to make it during Oktoberfest, don’t fret, the legendary Hofbraeuhaus Munich is open year-round. Marketing itself as “the most famous tavern in the world”, if you have a vision of what a Bavarian beerhall might look like, this place doesn’t disappoint. Overflowing steins, gigantic shared wooden tables, and traditional German songs abound in this oversized restaurant, making it basically impossible to do anything but clink the stranger’s stein beside you. Spilt beer is a thing here, but it’s totally worth it.    

The Berlin Wall is one of the nation’s biggest tourist, attractions but don’t expect to find much of it left. Much of it was knocked down and carted away in the chaotic days after the border reopened, and what’s left has morphed into a canvas for artists and taggers alike. If you’re a history buff, though, don’t write it off just yet: the importance of this place can’t be overstated.

The East Side Gallery is the largest remaining segment of the wall, and is easily accessible for tourists to stroll along and take in the significance. While you can visit by yourself for free, virtually all city tours include some time here in their itinerary, and you’ll learn a lot more from a local guide than just wandering around by yourself. You don’t have to pay a lot: a half-day walking tour will only set you back €20.

Germany is a country that is a delight to visit, with cities full of personality, a countryside full of heritage, and prices that by the standards of other nearby countries, are relatively affordable. Combine that with an extensive public transport system, and you’ve got no excuse not to explore this amazing country widely and well.

The Cost of Travel Insurance in Germany

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Germany. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Germany?

Accommodation:  €140 per day for double rooms ( €70 per person) Transportation:  € 27 per day Food:  € 39 per day Activities:  € 43 per day

Total amount spent per day: €179 per person

Related Articles on Germany 🌈 15 Best Things to Do in Berlin, Germany 🧭 23 Things to Do in Frankfurt, Germany 🏰 The Absolute Best Things to Do in Munich, Germany ⛪️ The Best Things to Do in Cologne, Germany 💣 Exploring a Berlin Air Raid Shelter as a New Zealander

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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25 comments.

Great post! It looks like Germany is very affordable for Western Europe, which is lovely to hear. And the photos are stunning! Who knew that Germany had such beautiful countryside? I didn’t! Right, time to look at some flights ;-)

Flights to Germany? If so, yay! You’re going to have the best time , Amelia! Visit all the castles and eat all the food :-)

Nice post. Finding the balance between ultra budget and ideal comfort isn’t always easy but it looks like you’ve nailed it with those hotel recommendations. I spent three months living in Berlin and your price ranges are spot on.

I’m so happy to hear that! It always makes my day when a local, or semi-local, confirms that everything I say is legit, haha.

Perfect timing. Berlin is one of my oversights in Europe and I really want to visit it next year. I’m relieved to find out it probably isn’t going to be as expensive as my recent trips to London and Paris.

You can continue to relax — Germany is inexpensive in comparison to much of Western Europe, and definitely not as expensive as either London or Paris! Have a wonderful trip, Erica!

Berlin is definitely on my list of top places to go in Europe so I’m glad to hear that you like it a lot. I’m a Cold War-era buff and so it’s definitely a place I have to go – the lower prices are just an added bonus.

In that case, you’re going to love it! There’s so much history to dive into and learn about. And when you’re not in the museums, you can sip cold beer in the sunshine, which makes it a winning destination in my eyes.

I have a question about your backpacking days! I’m planning on spending two weeks in Germany while spending as little money as possible… where are the cheapest destinations for me to go?

To be honest, I find the big destinations to have the lowest prices because there’s simply more options available. So the bigger the city, the cheaper you can travel! In Berlin, for example, you’ve got dozens of hostels to choose from, across a whole range of prices (and quality, haha), and so many restaurants in the city — again, so many options that you can find much cheaper prices.

In the more remote areas, where you don’t encounter tourists, you’d expect prices to be lower, but it’s usually the opposite.

So I’d recommend hopping from city to city and eating all of the street food while staying in the cheapest hostels.

That makes sense. Thanks Lauren!

What a useful resource! It puts my travel blog to shame. Love Germany though and especially hiking around the Black Forest. I prefer the scenic countryside to the cities I think.

Thank you! That’s a tough call! I think I’d go for the cities over the countryside, but ask me again tomorrow and I’ll probably have changed my mind.

Nice post! It’s always fun and interesting reading your reflections, and I’m glad that you enjoyed your time in Germany. I have been to Berlin six times over the last decade and always had a fun time. As always, looking forward to reading more :)

That’s so kind of you to say! Thank you :-)

I have a fun tip for you. I recommend trying blablacar.de in Germany. It’s similar to Uber – it’s a rideshare with locals app – but so affordable, and with it, you’ll be able to travel from one city to another for roughly €20-25. I used it all over my time in Germany and saved a lot of money while bringing more comfort to my life. I recommend checking for rides while you’re already in the city, as most of the offers are last-minute ones. It’s a great way to meet the locals and so much fun!

That’s a great tip, Garcia! I’ll add it to my blog post to ensure my readers see your advice.

Dear Lauren First, I must say that I love your blog and your writing style! It inspired me to start a blog of my own (once I find the right topic to write one on^^) . I am from berlin, so I was happy you wrote something on my country! Germany is really great for budget travelers, in fact, it’s one of the cheapest Western European countries to travel to. And Berlin, especially, can give travelers all the flair for half of what you would pay in Paris or London or Rome.

I wholeheartedly agree! What a wonderful and inexpensive country. You’re lucky to call it home!

Good for you! It sounds like you loved your time in Germany. Will you write about what you did in Berlin?

Yep! I’ve already published a huge post on the best things to do in Berlin , which covers all of my favourite activities in the city!

Just a note to say I’m so glad you didn’t sell out and get a comped hotel stay in Germany like 95% of other travel bloggers would have done! The fact you always pay for everything out of your own pocket gives your blog so much more integrity. Thank you!

Thanks so much, Sam! I always want to show my readers that travel is affordable and attainable and I can’t do that if I don’t pay for everything myself :-)

Hi Lauren! I am from Berlin and I am so happy that you enjoyed your many trips in Germany. Next time you’re in Berlin, I recommend you to just stroll around Prenzlauer Berg especially Kastanienallee and enjoying a beer in a Biergarten. Recommend you the very girly pink beer which actually tastes more like rasberries than beer, its called Berliner Weiße (i love it :) ), or a Radler, beer mixed with sprite.

I’ve definitely had a Radler before, but the raspberry beer sounds right up my alley! I’ll have to make my way back soon :-)

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Germany Budget Travel Guide: 50 Ways to save on your trip

Jan 4, 2020

Rebeccah Dean

Are you planning a trip to Germany ? No wonder. The country has a lot to offer, from castles and storybook villages to vibrant metropolises, like Berlin, Munich and Hamburg . And don’t leave out the sausages, pretzels, and beer!

Here’s the good news: In general, Germany is not a particularly pricey tourist destination in western Europe, especially when compared to countries like France or Italy. However, you can still find plenty of ways to save and avoid tourist traps and bad deals along the way. To help you plan a fun, budget-conscious trip, we’ve listed our 50 best budget tips for visiting Germany.

Related: • 10-Day Itinerary in Germany: Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, Munich & Neuschwanstein • 10 Easy ways to save on your trip to Munich • 10 Reasons for budget travelers to visit Germany this year

Budget Travel Germany: 50 tips to help you save

This is a “Cheapo Checklist.” We’ve included links through to more in-depth articles, where possible. Be sure to check out the comments at the end for additional tips, and please add your own in the comments at the end!

Germany lights up in the holidays with famous Christmas markets. Photo: Rene S.

Trip timing

Before you hit book on your tickets to Germany, pull out your calendar and follow these tips to guide you through the best time of year to visit.

• “SHOULDER SEASON” SAVINGS: If you can, try to visit Germany in June or September. You’ll find better deals during these months and the weather is still usually very pleasant. If you’re coming for the winter holidays, New Year’s tends to be pricey and full. Instead, why not come in early December and enjoy the Christmas markets  that Germany is rightfully famous for.

• KEEP AN EYE ON SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: Public school in Germany has five main school holidays: winter holidays, spring break, summer holidays, autumn holidays and Christmas holidays. Summer vacation is usually six weeks and the other school holidays range from a week to two weeks.

During school holidays prices are higher and the Autobahn is jam-packed, particularly at the beginning and end of the vacation period. The actual dates of school holidays are different in each state, so before you go, take a look at the school schedule for the area you plan to visit. A list of the school holidays in each German state can be found here .

• WATCH OUT FOR TRADE FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS: Frankfurt, Hanover, and Leipzig are all big trade fair towns, so if you’re planning to visit any of these cities, be sure you check the trade fair schedule online. If you’re accidentally there during a major one, like the Frankfurt Book Fair , you’ll have trouble finding a hotel room and will pay far more if you do find one.

Most of Berlin’s major trade fairs take place at the Messe ICC in Charlottenburg , so if you’re visiting Berlin when a big exhibition is in town, consider staying in a different part of the city.

• AVOID OKTOBERFEST IN MUNICH.   Oktoberfest is fun but it attracts huge crowds. Hotel prices in Munich at this time also go through the roof. To enjoy the Bavarian art of brewing paired with a soft pretzel or a Weisswurst with sweet mustard, you’d be better off visiting a beer garden in the summer when the weather is at its best. But the beer garden doesn’t have to be in Munich. Pretty much every town and village in Bavaria has at least one open in the warmer months, so take your pick.

Flying to Germany

Although flights are not super cheap from the US to Germany these days, there are deals out there if you know where to look. First off, sign up for these airline newsletters to get good deals to Europe.

• CHOOSE YOUR AIRPORT WISELY: If you’re flying from North America, you’re likely to find the best flight deals into Frankfurt , home to Germany’s largest international airport. However, Frankfurt is five hours away from Berlin and almost four hours away from Munich.

Since train tickets can be pricey and gas is expensive, it may be worth paying a little extra to fly closer to your destination. Be sure to also check out the airports of cities not too far away. For example, you might snag a deal on a flight to Hamburg, which is only two hours away from Berlin and well worth a visit on its own.

Related: Layover in Munich? Hit the beer garden!

• OPEN JAW TICKETS SAVE TIME AND MONEY: Consider flying into one city and home through another. (For example, into Berlin and back home from Munich.) Since you don’t have to circle back to your point of arrival to fly home, “open jaw” tickets can help you save both money and time. Best of all, the flight tickets are often about the same price as simple round-trip tickets.

• TRY A LOW-COST AIRLINE: Consider low-cost airline options from the US to Germany, including Norwegian Airlines .

• “HUB IT” FOR SAVINGS: Not finding cheap airfare to Germany? Try “hubbing it,” by flying first to any cheap European destination (for example, finding a cheap flight to Dublin on Aer Lingus) and then catching a budget flight from there to Germany (for example, on Ryanair). If your schedule is a bit flexible, you could find some savings.

• AVOID TAXIS INTO BERLIN: Taxis from the airport into Berlin are usually not as expensive as they might be in other European cities. In most cases, you should be able to get where you need to go for under €40. However, that’s a lot when you compare it to the price of a simple public transportation ticket.

Both Tegel and Schönefeld Airport are centrally located, with great public transport connections that should easily get you to your destination. So unless you’ve got a big family or lots of luggage, consider hopping on the bus, which will take you straight to the city or a nearby U-Bahn or S-Bahn station.

Want to see the world’s most famous castle? Make sure to plan a visit to Neuschwanstein! Photo: Ole

Building an itinerary

Before you add every city in Germany to your “to-do” list, take a deep breath and come up with a plan that’s as fun as it is reasonable.

• SLOW DOWN FOR SAVINGS (AND SANITY): To get more out of your vacation, especially if you’re not in the country for very long, it’s best to choose a region to focus on and come back some other time to see the rest.

For example, nearly every tourist visiting Germany says they want to visit “that castle,” meaning Neuschwanstein , made famous by Walt Disney. But if you’re planning to spend your vacation in Berlin, Neuschwanstein is nearly seven hours away (and speaking of Neuschwanstein, Germany has at least 20,000 castles to choose from, and most are not nearly as crowded or expensive as the famous Neuschwanstein!)

• THINK “DAY TRIPS”: Rather than driving to a new destination every day, consider spending two or three nights in each spot and taking day trips. For example, if you’re in Munich, you can easily drive into the Alps, hop up to Nuremberg or cross over into Austria for a visit to Mozart’s hometown, Salzburg .

• GO EAST: Sure, Munich is beautiful and Heidelberg is quaint, but both these cities are also on the pricey side. In many cases, you’ll find better deals in former East Germany rather than the former West.

For example, Erfurt is every bit as quaint as Heidelberg, and the historic Jena and Weimar are both nearby. Berlin is less expensive than Munich, but so is Leipzig , a city with a vibrant arts scene which easily rivals Berlin’s, but provides a more laid back atmosphere than you’ll get in Germany’s capital city.

• CHECK OUT THE NORDSEE AND THE OSTSEE: In the summer, many Germans head off to the Nordsee (North Sea) or Ostsee (Baltic Sea) coast to spend their holidays. Berlin and Munich are always swarming with tourists from around the world, but most of them never make it up to the coast.

If you want to see how Germans like to spend their summer vacation, as well as go off the beaten path, head up to the coast and islands, like Rugen . Although you can still find good deals in the high season, be sure to book far in advance because places fill up fast. And be sure to pack a rain jacket and a sweater or two, even if you’re there in August. The weather on the German coast is famously unpredictable.

Trains and transportation

We love the high-speed trains in Germany, but you can also take regional rail or opt for a budget bus line and even rideshare options.

• BOOK ICE TICKETS IN ADVANCE: If you plan to take the ICE , Germany’s high-speed train, book those tickets as far in advance as possible for the best rates and to take advantage of sale fares. The closer you get to the travel date, the more expensive the seats.

• CONSIDER A GERMAN RAIL PASS: A single-country German Rail Pass is a good choice for many travelers in Germany. This pass gives you four day’s travel anywhere within the country as well as a few select routes outside of Germany, such as Salzburg.

• BOOK TICKETS THROUGH THE RAILWAY: Book your ICE tickets like the locals, through Deutsche Bahn’s official website . There’s no need to go through a third-party retailer or agency back in the United States. Book tickets directly for the lowest prices, and print off your tickets at home before leaving for Germany.

• BUY REGIONAL TRAIN TICKETS AT THE STATION: Taking slower, regional trains? Unlike the ICE, there’s no need to book those tickets in advance online. Just buy them at the train station. You can also purchase special deals such as the regional day ticket, the weekend ticket and regional day tickets.

• KIDS TRAVEL FREE: Some savings are already there for you to enjoy: Children 15 and under travel free on the ticket of their parents or grandparents.

• GET TO KNOW SOME LOCALS WITH A RIDESHARE: Ridesharing is an inexpensive way to travel in Germany, and a great way to get to know some locals. To see who might be heading towards your destination, take a look at BlaBlaCar .

• BUSES CAN BE CHEAPER THAN TRAINS: Take a look at Flixbus for super cheap fares for travel around Germany — and just about everywhere else in Europe. Perk: Flixbus coaches are equipped with free Wi-Fi and electrical outlets. Sample fare: €9 for Hamburg-Berlin; €22 for Frankfurt-Zurich.

Rental cars and driving

Before you hop in your rental car for a cruise down the Autobahn, take a quick look at our tips for driving safely and saving on your car reservation. You can also  search for dates and compare car rates at European rental agencies.

• BOOK CARS EARLY FOR DEALS: As with train tickets, booking early is a safe bet for finding the best car rental prices.

• CANCEL IF YOU FIND A BETTER DEAL: Nearly all car rentals are flexible and able to be canceled. So, did you find something cheaper after you booked it? Cancel and rebook!

• WATCH THE START DATE: Your car reservation shouldn’t necessarily start on the first day of your trip. It should start on the first day you’re leaving the city you fly into! Pick up your car when you’re ready to drive off from Berlin, not when you arrive.

Related: How to calculate the real rate of a rental car in Europe

• BE SMART ABOUT AUTO INSURANCE: Does your car insurance or credit company cover overseas car insurance? Call before taking off to double-check. You’ll be getting the hard sell from the rental car agency, so know in advance. You might also want to consider travel insurance for your trip.

• WATCH YOUR SPEED: When driving around Germany, pay attention to the posted speed limits, as well as to the “speed camera” signs. Yes, you have to pay speeding tickets on rental cars!

• KNOW THE RULES OF THE AUTOBAHN: Many tourists have dreamed of barreling down the Autobahn at break-neck speeds, but it’s important to know a few basic rules, like not passing on the right. Contrary to popular belief, there is also sometimes a speed limit on the Autobahn (For example: near cities or construction sites). Tickets can be expensive, so watch for signs. Check out our top tips for driving on the German Autobahn.

• PARKING IS HARD TO FIND IN THE CITY CENTER: If possible, try to avoid parking in the center of German cities. Parking can be hard to find and be expensive. In some cities, you can find parking in a parking garage, but more often you will need to pay for a Parkscheine , which can be purchased from a large gray box located somewhere near the parking areas marked with a blue square and a white “P.” Make sure to have some coins on you, because these boxes don’t usually accept bills or credit cards.

• LEARN A FEW BASIC TRAFFIC SIGNS: Traffic signs in Germany can be baffling for those who didn’t grow up there. Many have lines and shapes and colors that make no sense at all if you don’t know how to read them. If you plan to do a lot of driving during your trip to Germany, you might want to learn a few first by taking a look at the information provided by ADAC, the German AAA. Check out this guide to signage .

The view from a private balcony at Hotel Pension Bella

Hotels and accommodation

Germany has one of the lowest price points for hotels in Europe. The average rate still averages to under $100 per night! Hotels are our specialty. Check out the best budget hotels in Berlin , Frankfurt , Cologne , and Munich . Looking for other cities? Search for great rates at over 47,000 hotels across Germany .

• BOOK EARLY FOR POPULAR HOTELS: The best (and most affordable) accommodation options tend to go first, so try to book as far in advance as possible, especially if you’re traveling in the high season.

• ROLL THE DICE WITH LAST-MINUTE BOOKINGS: Flexible with your hotel options? If you’re willing to gamble a bit, you can often find great deals at the very last minute. This is especially true if traveling during the low season or to less touristy destinations. Here are tips on when to book for the best hotel deal.

• RENT A FLAT: Hotels are not your only option, of course. Renting an apartment or staying with locals (through homestays) can offer much more room, kitchens, laundry facilities — and even save cash.

• CONSIDER A HOSTEL: Although hostels sometimes have a party reputation, you can find some good deals at quieter places, especially in Berlin. If dormitories aren’t quite your thing, many offer inexpensive private rooms. Discover the best hostels in Berlin.

Free and cheap things to do

Germany is an easy place to find entertainment and culture on the cheap, whether you love art, going to the movies or just wandering around a city.

• SPEAK WITH PROFESSIONALS: Get guidance from the source! Stop by the tourist information center first thing when you arrive in a city. Pick up maps and find out about museums, events, walking tours, day trips and more. You’ll find them in the heart of every city on the tourist radar: For example, in Berlin , there are six, including one at both airports. In Munich and Heidelberg there is one in the city center and one at the main train station.

• SOME OF THE BEST STUFF IS FREE: There’s no ticket necessary to explore city streets or hang out in the park, of course. However, don’t forget that some attractions are free, too. Ask at the tourist information center for free activities, free (or discounted) museum admission, and free walking tours. In Berlin, for example, there is plenty of free music and several free museums , while Munich also has plenty of free things to do .

• AVOID THE MULTIPLEX IN BERLIN: In Berlin, Sony CineStar Multiplex on Potsdamer Platz plays movies in English, but prices for admission and snacks are much higher than in the smaller movie theaters in town.

Instead, check out a  Yorck Kinogruppe movie theater. This small cinema chain plays many films in OmU ( Original mit Untertiteln , which means in the original language with German subtitles). Prices for both tickets and snacks are lower and the atmosphere is more charming. However, they tend towards art-house fare, so if more in the mood for a Hollywood blockbuster, you’ll have to head to Sony CineStar.

• CHECK OUT THE BOX OFFICE: If you’d like to check out an opera or a play, it’s worth dropping by an hour before the performance starts. If any tickets are remaining for the performance, you can often purchase them at a heavily discounted price at the Abendkasse (box office).

• CULTURE JUNKIE? CONSIDER A PASS: If you’re staying for a few days in a city and want to hit up a lot of museums and attractions, consider buying a tourist sightseeing card or pass. These passes often include free (or highly discounted) admission to popular museums, public transit access, and other discounts. Some popular passes include the Berlin Museum Pass , the KölnCard for Cologne , and the Munich CityTourCard .

Of course, there’s beer (and lots of it), but Germany also has a variety of cuisines, from classic German to international flavors. Eating out can be affordable, and there are plenty of places to grab cheap snacks.

• AVOID YOUR HOTEL’S MINIBAR: That stocked minibar in your hotel room will cost you. Instead, head straight to the nearest grocery store for basics, like water, fruit, picnic supplies, and toiletries. In Germany, look for supermarket chains like Aldi and Lidl .

• FEAST AT LUNCH: If you’re in the city center, many restaurants offer business lunch deals which get you a lot of food for less dough. However, if you’re in a very touristy part of town, seek out places on side streets rather than the main drag to avoid getting had by a tourist trap.

Related: Simples ways to save on dining and restaurants in Berlin

• HIT UP THE BAKERIES: In Berlin, dinner prices don’t necessarily go any higher than lunch prices at most restaurants. A good tip: Pick up a sandwich on the go for lunch at one of the scores of bakeries you’ll pass, then go out for dinner in a less touristy neighborhood. Here are 5 bakery treats to try in Munich.

• CHECK OUT FARMER’S MARKETS ON SATURDAYS: In many places in Germany, Saturday is still the traditional market day, and sometimes Wednesday too. You’ll usually find these markets on the main squares in towns and every neighborhood in cities. These farmer’s markets are nice for a stroll and fresh produce as well as a tasty, inexpensive lunch.

• BE SURE TO ASK FOR “LEITUNGSWASSER”: Unless you specifically ask, it’s not common to get tap water automatically delivered to your table during a meal. If you’d like to have some, be sure to ask for Leitungswasser (tap water), otherwise, the waiter will likely bring you pricey mineral water.

• BEER IS NICELY PRICED: Germany is famous for its beer, and it’s always the least expensive alcoholic beverage on the menu. Different regions have different brewing traditions, so try different local brews while you travel around. But don’t forget to sample a glass of German wine, especially if you’re in the Rhine valley, which is famous for delicious Rieslings.

• GO EASY ON THE TIP: Know when to tip in Germany. For small stuff (coffee, beer at the bar, etc.) no tip is necessary. In general, you should tip 10% in restaurants — hand the waiter or waitress the tip directly when paying the bill, don’t leave it on the table. Taxi drivers and tour guides should also be tipped around the same amount.

• WINTER AND SUMMER SALES: Take advantage of the city-wide annual sales (“ Schlussverkauf ”) that are held throughout Germany in January and July. These events stretch for weeks in the winter and heat of summer, and nearly every retailer gets in on the action.

• FLEA MARKETS: Both Berlin and Munich are well known for their flea markets, which take place all over the city on the weekend. You can find everything here from clothes to vintage toys to DDR memorabilia ( in Berlin ). Flea markets tend to have their own special flair and sometimes are only held on Saturdays, so be sure to do your research to find out which ones you’re interested in.

Related:  Tips for saving big on shopping in Berlin

Staying in touch

It’s easier than you think to call and email friends and family back home when you’re in Germany. You don’t even need a special calling plan from your carrier!

• SIM SAVINGS: Planning to use your smartphone? We recommend buying a SIM card if you have an unlocked smartphone handy. Calls, emails, and the web will be much, much cheaper. Even if you don’t own an unlocked phone, you can purchase one cheaply in Germany or before you leave. Here’s how it works.

• CALL YOUR CARRIER: Not planning to make a lot of calls with your phone? At least call your carrier before leaving home to know how much calls, text, and emails will cost you. Consider getting a special international package to avoid surprises (like AT&T’s “Passport” package ). Plus, be sure to set up your phone to avoid data drains.

Related: How to use your iPhone in Europe and avoid a billing surprise

• GET ONLINE FOR FREE: Use free Wi-Fi whenever possible. Many cafes and international chains (like McDonald’s and Starbucks) offer free Wi-Fi in Germany, as well as municipal buildings, libraries, parks, and some museums. The BVG , Berlin’s public transportation system also now offers free Wi-Fi. Ask at the tourist information center about free Wi-Fi hotspots in town.

Banks and money

Don’t forget to bring your favorite credit card with you to earn points. Try to get one without any fees!

• USE ATMS: To get the best deal on getting money in Germany, avoid all currency exchange counters and sketchy looking ATMs. Instead, use official bank ATMs to get the best exchange rates.

• CALL YOUR BANK BEFORE LEAVING: First, tell your bank and credit card company that you’ll be traveling (to ensure that your card will work abroad). Ask how much you’ll be charged for ATM withdrawals and purchases. You may find that one of your cards has no foreign surcharge.

Related: Should you buy euros before your trip to Europe?

More information

Want to read more? Check out our top-rated budget hotels in Berlin and Munich , or search hotels in hundreds of cities throughout Germany .

For more tips, visit our Germany guide  or read more about 12 easy ways to save in Berlin .

Do you have additional ways to save money on your trip to Germany? Share with us in the comments section below!

About the author

Rebeccah Dean is a freelance writer, translator and self-proclaimed bargain hunter based in Berlin. She has already traveled through most of Europe on a shoestring and hopes to soon add Asia to the mix. Read more on her blog, rebeccahtravels.com .

Related Posts

• 10-Day Germany Itinerary: Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, Munich and Neuschwanstein
• 10 Reasons to visit Germany in 2017
• Best budget hotels in Munich for 2022
• Munich: 10 simple ways to save on your trip

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4 thoughts on “Germany Budget Travel Guide: 50 Ways to save on your trip”

Great tips and guide. For me, traveling is tied in with looking for new experiences. Furthermore, these experiences become considerably more fun when you can share them with an old buddy.

In many cities in Germany you can arrange meeting a “greeter”. These are highly motivated guys who love their cities and really show you around during a private guided tour as they would show the city to a friend. They work as volunteers, strictly non-profit, no tips, just for fun. Before you go, check if the city that you want to visit is part of the greeter network. By the way, this is a worldwide organisation, not limited to Germany.

What a comprehensive list of ways to save money when visiting Germany! Thank you!

I’m not sure if I understand all the ins and outs of transportation passes in Bavaria and the rest of Germany. But it seems you can buy passes for groups of 5 that travel together. That’s a great savings!

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The Ultimate Guide to traveling Germany on a budget! (2024)

So, you’re headed to Germany but you want to do Germany on a budget? Well, good news because you’re in luck! Germany, a popular destination in Western Europe, is actually a very economical place to travel to!

In this article we’ll discuss proven ways to save money on your next trip so you can spend less time worrying about money and more time enjoying beautiful, amazing Deutschland!

Table of Contents

It’s probably cheaper than what you are used to!

I’m by nature a frugal person but I skip my way around Germany (and many other European countries) saying “wow, this is cheap!” From food to accommodations, to attractions, things are just less expensive. If you are traveling from the United States, you’ll find this to be especially so.

A while back I did a price comparison and created some illustrations to show just how much more reasonable prices are for tourists to European Countries. Of course, there are some exceptions to this, like Norway and Switzerland but Germany is not one of them!

Let’s compare one of the most recognizable sites in all of Europe: Neuschwanstein Castle, with the Laura Ingalls Wilder House in Missouri. Guess which was more???

Traveling soon? Rookie mistakes people make when traveling in Germany

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. 

Here are the absolute best proven tips and tricks for traveling to Germany on a budget:

My top tip for getting the cheapest flights, and the best deals on car rentals and accommodation is to book early. Last-minute deals are a thing of the past and if you wait too long, you may miss out on the best deals. I try to book at least 6 months out.

Pro tip: DON’T stop there! Once booked your airfare rate is probably locked in but you can still monitor the prices on your accommodations and rental cars! I try to always book options that offer free cancellation. Once a month I will go back and check rates on my rental car and rooms and if the rates go down, I rebook!

The cheapest time to travel to Germany

The short answer: the best time for travelers who are on a budget to visit Germany is during the off-season.

Summer is considered high season in Germany and that’s when you will experience the highest rates on everything from rental cars to accommodations to flights, although comparably still not bad!

Winter, (apart from the Christmas market season) is off season. This is when you will find the best rates on flights, hotels, and rental cars HOWEVER, many attractions close for winter.

( Winter in Germany is a magical time, but get your itinerary set early and carefully check your everything on your itinerary to be sure that everything you want to see will be open.)

shoulder season

If you are looking for a happy medium then shoulder season is your best bet. It’s the perfect balance between lower prices and finding attractions open. Shoulder season in Germany is approximately April and May and again in September and October.

Other benefits of shoulder season:

• fewer crowds: you’ll find fewer tourists and crowds compared to high season
• temperate weather: the weather tends to be better than in the heat of the summer and chill of the winter months!

destination matters

Bigger cities tend to be more expensive than small towns. Budget minded travelers can save more by skipping big cities like Munich and Berlin in favor of small historic cities like the fairy tale town of Rothenburg or small towns in the Black Forest .

The city center of German cities tends to be more expensive than outlying neighborhoods. Pick a place outside of the city center and use inexpensive buses, subways, and trams to get around affordably. main cities.

The small town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a destination all in itself! Their Imperial City Festival just happens to occur during shoulder season and best of all it’s free!

transportation

When it comes to traveling in Germany on a budget, transportation is a significant factor to consider.

Airfare is often one of the most expensive travel expenses. Here are some strategies for saving money on flights:

Flights to Germany: My strategy for finding good deals on airfare is to search flight options on Google Flights. Be sure to set up a price tracker and they will let you know when prices change.

Pro tip : Once you have found a cheap flight and are ready to book, go to the official website of the airline and book there to avoid any issues with 3rd party booking.

In my experience, Frankfurt International Airport is generally the cheapest place in Germany to fly into.

cheap flight notifications

My TOP TIP for snagging flight deals is to sign up for GOING (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights.) You simply give them your email address, tell them your home airport, and they will periodically email cheap flight deals to your inbox! Simple AND Free! sign up now !

FREE FLIGHTS !

We fly to Germany for free with points. Find out how you can fly to Germany for free !

Cheap flights in and around Europe: There are many low-cost airlines that operate in Germany, such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Eurowings. These airlines offer affordable fares to various destinations in Germany and other parts of Europe. However, it is crucial to note that budget airlines often charge extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and other services.

public transportation

Another way to save money while traveling to Germany is to take advantage of public transportation . Germany has an extensive rail network and bus system that is efficient and affordable. Perfect for a day trip to the European cities of your choice! Seamlessly plan your bus and train routes in German with either the Deutsche Bahn app or Rome2Rio .

Trains The German railway system, Deutsche Bahn, offers several types of train services, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains. Regional trains are the most affordable option, but they are slower than intercity and high-speed trains. High-speed trains zip you around in a flash but they cost more. Travelers can save money by booking their train tickets in advance and by purchasing a German Rail Pass, which allows for unlimited train travel if they plan to travel extensively.

Buses Traveling by bus is the most affordable way to get around Germany. Bus tickets are often cheaper than train tickets, but travel times can be longer. Flixbus is the most popular bus company in Germany, and they offer services to various destinations across the country. Some bus companies may charge extra fees for baggage.

Taxis are affordable in Germany. Companies are heavily regulated, so you don’t need to worry about getting ripped off or short changed.

If you’re a free spirit like me and don’t like to be tied to a schedule, you may want a car. I find that car rentals in Germany are typically cheaper than other European countries. The motorway in Germany is called the autobahn and it is toll free.

Potential extra costs for driving:

• Insurance: Some credit cards offer rental car insurance when you book your rental on the card. Check with your card provider. If not, you will need to purchase insurance. (Our Chase Preferred covers this)
• International Driving Permit: you may need an International Driving Permit to drive in Germany, get one at your local AAA office around $30
• other drop off locations : there are significant fees for dropping off a car at a different location
• boarder crossing fee: there is generally a small fee associated with crossing a country border in a rental car.
• navigation system: Most companies charge if you want to use the GPS navigation system. If you don’t have any other way to navigate, I highly recommend it for convenience. We have this Garmin Unit , that we bring when we travel. (European maps cost extra)
• DO NOT BREAK TRAFFIC LAWS. There are cameras everywhere and the drivers license that the rental car company requires you to show is associated with the license plate of the rental car. If you break a traffic law while driving in Germany, you may get a ticket in the mail after you return home!
• Parking in larger cities: This is one place where Germany is right on par with the rest of the world. Parking in a busy city center is expensive, around $25 per day. If you plan to spend most of your time in an area like this, skip the car.

accommodation

Your two biggest expenses when planning a trip to Germany are generally going to be airfare and accommodations. There are a few ways for the budget minded to save on accommodations. (and don’t forget to book early!)

Get outside of the tourist core

Sometimes you only have to get a few blocks away from the busy tourist core of a town to find cheaper rates. Look for accommodations just outside of town that are on the bus route into the city center.

I often consider my accommodations part of the experience. I like to book unique options like castle stays, historic buildings, places with old world charm. I try to avoid chains and sterile accommodations (some of you consider that modern decor and clean lines ha ha.) You get the idea. For that reason, I’m kind of a middle of the road girl, willing to pay a bit more for the experience. That considered, I don’t usually pay more than $250 a night for even my favorite stays! Most places we stay at are about $150 per night based on double occupancy but you can find better rates.

If you want to check the best rates you can find them on Booking.com. Simply sort your results by the lowest prices, but don’t forget to check guest ratings and reviews because a bad experience may not be worth the money you save on a cheap stay!

Solo travelers

Something you almost NEVER find in the US and something I really love about Germany is that single travelers get a break on hotel room rates! Generally, you can get a private room for a solo traveler for a discount off the regular rate! WUNDERBAR!

Hostels are very popular in Europe and a popular option with travelers on a tight budget. Hostels can be a significant savings over a hotel and aren’t just for young people either. There are often private rooms available with a range of amenities such as shared kitchens, laundry facilities, and common areas. Be sure to read the hostel policy (as well as reviews on places like Booking.com and Google Reviews) carefully to be sure it’s something you will be comfortable with. They aren’t for everyone. Hostels in Germany typically charge between €20-€40 per night, depending on the location and time of year.

Some of the most popular hostel chains in Germany include A&O Hostels, Meininger, and Generator Hostels. These chains have multiple locations throughout the country and offer a consistent level of quality and service. My favorite hostel option is located in a castle !

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are great options for larger families or groups, or travelers looking to save money by cooking their own meals. You can book anything from a private room to an entire house.

Check vacation Rental rates on VRBO now !

I hear a lot of negative feedback on Airbnb. I wouldn’t recommend them or personally use them unless I really wanted to stay at a property and Airbnb was the only place it was being offered. I don’t really hear any negative feedback on VRBO so it would be my first option for vacation rentals.

Vacation Rental prices in Germany vary depending on the location and type of accommodation. In general, prices are higher in major cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. However, travelers can often find affordable options in smaller towns and rural areas.

IMPORTANT: READ THE REVIEWS: always read the reviews on a property before you book and choose a host with a good reputation. Search options on VRBO

Search Hotels, Hostels, Vacation Rentals now!

(if you use this link to book your hotels I’ll get a small commission that helps me fund this website!)

Camping is another budget-friendly option for travelers in Germany. The country has a well-developed network of camping sites, ranging from basic tent sites to fully-equipped caravan parks. Camping is particularly popular in the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny.

Camping fees in Germany vary depending on the location and facilities provided. Basic tent sites can cost as little as €5-€10 per night, while fully-equipped caravan parks can cost up to €30-€40 per night.

House and Pet sitting

Sign up for services like Trusted House sitter and you can stay for free! These services match up people who are looking to house and or pet sit and in return you get a free place to stay.

Food and Drink

Germany is known for its delicious food! And in general, I find it quite inexpensive! However, it can add up if you’re eating out every night. Here are a few ways to save on food and drink.

First time in Germany and don’t know what to eat??? Check out my article on the Best Mouthwatering German Food !

it’s cheaper than almost everything else including water and cola.

free breakfast

Many of the hotels and Gasthauses, my favorite type of stay in Germany, offer a free breakfast. German breakfasts are HEARTY! If I fill up on breakfast, I often find I’m not hungry until well after noon. By that time, I can have an affordable meal like Schnitzel and won’t need to eat again that day! We’re talking around €10-€15. ($13 USD) per day for one meal! CHEAP!

Street Food

You don’t want to miss the street food from street vendors in Germany. It’s so good! And is a great option for shoe-string budget travelers. Here are some of my favorite street foods:

• wurst : In Germany, wurst is where it’s at! There are literally hundreds of types of wurst or sausages. My favorite is Currywurst is a popular street food in Germany, made of a sliced sausage covered in curry ketchup. It’s a filling and delicious meal that can be found for around €3-€5.
• Doner kebab is another popular street food in Germany, made of meat cooked on a vertical spit and served in a pita bread with salad and sauce. It’s a great option for a quick and cheap meal, costing around €3-€4.

supermarkets

Supermarkets and grocery stores are a great option for budget travelers who want to save money on food. Aldi and Lidl are two popular discount supermarket chains in Germany, offering a wide variety of food and drink at affordable prices. Visitors can find bread, cheese, cold cuts, and other snacks for a fraction of the cost of eating out. It’s also a great way to try local specialties, such as German beer and sausages, without breaking the bank.

Sightseeing: inexpensive and free things to do

In general, most of the attractions in Germany are quite affordable so don’t let your desire to save money prevent you from doing the fun stuff! I mean you really do only live once, and you’ve been dreaming of being here so just enjoy!

Some of the best things to see and do in Germany are free! Here are some ideas for inexpensive and free things to do to fill out your itinerary:

free attractions

• Find a beer garden and enjoy some live music. Did I mention that beer is cheap? Plus, food at these places is cheap too, think pretzels and brats.
• Churches, Cathedrals, and Abbeys: Germany has some of the best in Europe and they are most often free!
• Museums can be a great way to learn about Germany’s history and culture, but they can also be expensive. However, many museums in Germany offer free admission on certain days or during specific hours. It’s important to check the museum’s website or call ahead to confirm their free admission policy.

Famous Landmarks: many of the most famous landmarks in Germany are reasonably priced or free. Here are just a few ideas but be sure to check out my full list of Famous Landmarks in German y!

• Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
• English Garden in Munich
• Porta Nigra in Trier

The Parish Church of St. Sebasian Ramsau is one of my favorite Landmarks in Germany and it’s FREE

It’s free to explore! take in the architecture in Germany’s most beautiful medieval towns , or head to the city for some of the worlds best modern architecture! Make your way down a winding trail, perhaps in the Black Forest and soak up the atmosphere that inspired fairy tales from the Brothers Grimm.

To find information about both guided and self-guided tours check the local Tourist Information office.

Guided Tours A Guided tour can be a great way to learn about a new city, but they can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are many free walking tours available in Germany. These tours are typically led by a local knowledgeable tour guide who is passionate about their city and its history.

Self-guided tours In addition to free walking tours, there are also many self-guided tours available. These tours can be found online or in guidebooks and can be a great way to explore a new city at your own pace. Download free audio guide tours before you leave home.

money matters

Credit cards.

Call ahead to be sure that your credit card doesn’t access foreign transaction fees on purchases. We use our American Airlines card to earn points for free flights, but I also like the Chase Preferred cards because not only does it not have any foreign transaction fees, it also has built in travel protection.

Getting money (ATM)

The easiest and best way to get Euros for your Germany trip is at a reputable ATM. I usually hit one at the airport upon arrival. If I need more, I look for an ATM either in or attached to a bank during business hours. That way if the machine snatches my card I have a good chance of getting it back. This is how you’ll get the best exchange rate and ATM fees are minimal. Don’t forget to refuse the Dynamic Currency Conversion. You want to be charged in Euros not dollars because they will charge you more to convert the money.

Note: Be sure you use your debit card to withdraw money from an ATM. Credit cards consider this a cash advance and that can be very costly!

How much cash do I need?

Really that depends on you. We use our credit cards for almost everything because that’s how we earn free flights. You should have some Euros on you at all times… if nothing else so you have money to use the bathroom because you often have to pay to use the restroom!

Euro to dollar / dollar to Euro exchange rate

Check current exchange rates here.

protect your investment

If your budget minded then you probably don’t relish the thought of losing money! Travel Insurance is a good way to protect yourself. While it is an extra expense, if really pays off if something goes awry. I shop at Travel Insurance for the best policy for my needs.

shopping for gifts and souvenirs

As with most things in Germany, your average souvenirs are reasonable. Consider saving up for a quality purchase in Germany, like an authentic handcrafted cuckoo clock or nutcracker.

I have a whole guide to help you choose the very best Germany Souvenirs but here are some ideas for dirt cheap things to buy in Germany :

• Food items (like Chocolate and other candies)
• Postcards, pretty postcards, are very inexpensive. Start an album when you get home!

where to shop for inexpensive gifts and souvenirs

For bargain shopping search out:

• Flea Markets
• Farmers Markets

staying connected on a travel budget

It’s important to be able to stay connected when we travel. Most cell phone companies offer rates for international travel, but it can be costly, around $10 per day. Check your provider for rates and policies on using your phone in Europe and to find out exactly what your charges will be.

These are some low cost or free options for staying connected:

getting free wi-fi

You’ll either need cell phone service or wi-fi to use these options. Most hotels offer free wi-fi and you can find it at different places around town, such as near the Tourist Information Center.

Is an app where you can make calls, send texts, and video chat through a wi-fi connection. Your contact will need to download Whatsapp so that you can connect.

Facebook messenger

Make calls and video chat with your friends at home who are also on Facebook.

Purchase a phone or a SIM card upon arrival

You can pick up an inexpensive phone when you get to Germany. Alternatively, you can purchase a SIM card to replace the one in your phone. This is an inexpensive option, you can probably get by for under $30 for your entire trip. There are cell phone stores in airports, and almost every town on your itinerary, that can assist with these options.

Wi-fi calling

Find the “allow wi-fi calls” setting on your cell phone. Even though we don’t have cell service in Germany, we are able to make and receive phone calls from the US when connected to wi-fi. We were not able to get this to work for calls within Germany though.

Guest cards and discount passes

Inquire at your hotel, guesthouse, or other accommodations about discount passes and guest cards that may be available to you.

Guest Cards

Often overnight visitors to a town or region are eligible for discount passes that offer free or reduced admission to many area attractions as well as free use of local public transportation.

Discount Passes

You may be able to purchase a single or multi day pass that could save you money depending on how many attractions you plan to visit. To be certain this will save you money, add up the cost of a single ticket entry fee for each attraction and compare it against the cost of the discount pass. It may not be cheaper.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to travel in germany.

The best option for cheapest way to travel in Germany is generally by bus. You may be able to save even more by purchasing day, week, or month passes.

How much should a trip to Germany Cost?

The cost of a trip to Germany can vary greatly depending on your travel style and itinerary. On average, budget travelers can expect an average cost of around 50-70 euros per day on accommodation, food, and transportation. However, this can be reduced by staying in hostels or signing up for house or pet sitting opportunities.

What are the cheapest months to travel to Germany?

The cheapest months to travel to Germany are typically during the winter months of January and February. However, be prepared for colder weather, reduced opening hours or attractions that have temporarily closed, and shorter daylight hours.

What is the cheapest way to get from the US to Germany?

The cheapest way to get from the US to Germany is by booking in advance and being flexible with your travel dates. Budget airlines such as WOW Air and Norwegian Air offer affordable flights to Germany from major US cities. Alternatively, consider booking a flight with a layover or flying into a nearby European city and taking a train or bus to Germany. I’ve found that there are often good deals to fly into Paris.

How can I travel around Germany by train on a budget?

Consider purchasing a rail pass if you plan to travel extensively throughout the country. Purchase online or at the train station. Regional trains are cheaper than high-speed trains and can be a good option for shorter distances. Booking in advance and traveling during off-peak hours can also help save money.

trip planning resources

Planning a trip to Germany? The first thing you should do is purchase a Germany Travel Guide from Rick Steves . It’s the ultimate guide for planning travel anywhere in Europe ! You’ll get the scoop on the best places worth visiting, from big cities to hidden gems!

check out my Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Germany !

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Great Post, I am always amazed how cheap Germany can be. I agree with everything here. I always tell people that drinking wine and beer is nearly cheaper then water. I also am a fan of Döner Kebab, such a delicious and quick meal.

Hi there, this is a great article, thanks for much for the tips. May I also share some tips that is useful for travelling Germany on a budget, particularly with regards to ATMs and money. Hi there, great article, thanks, very very helpful. I also do these things when travelling on a budget: 1. Germany ATMs charge low to very high fees. So I try to find the low fee ATMs – I use the ATM Fee Saver mobile app for this – it gives a list of ATMs with its fees for foreign card holders along with withdrawal limits. May you can try it out too! 2. Get fee-free cards from home. I get a bunch of such cards because most of them have limits on how much you can withdraw free in 1 month. 3. Avoid withdrawing cash from credit cards as the cash advance fee is very high 4. Withdraw maximum amount ATM gives me in 1 transaction if I need it. Of course only from bank ATMs. 5. Book directly with hostels/hotels to avoid extra commissions

Thanks for sharing amazing information and tips for choosing cheap places to stay in Europe. Regards: Aston Apartments UK

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Germany Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Germany. The country is synonymous with beer, sausages, incredible hiking, majestic castles, serious people, and wild techno parties. It’s huge, diverse, and utterly amazing.

There’s a vibrant art and music scene in Berlin , beautiful forests in the west, majestic cathedrals and castles throughout the country, picturesque “Sound of Music” cities in the south, and overlooked historic cities and beaches in the north.

The more I visit Germany, the more I fall in love with it. Whether you are backpacking, traveling on a mid-range budget, or looking to splash out, traveling around Germany is wonderful.

That said, Germany is a huge country so don’t rush your visit. There’s more to the country than just Berin and those cross-country train rides are longer than you think.

This travel guide to Germany will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Germany

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in germany.

1. Get lost in Berlin

Germany’s hip capital has world-class museums, history, funky neighborhoods, and some of the best nightlife in Europe. From the museums to the art and music scene to the great bars and cheap food, Berlin is electric (and one of the cheapest European capitals). It’s a really amazing city that has grown on me with every visit.

2. See Munich

Berlin’s quiet, upscale cousin, Munich is a city steeped in history, lively beer halls, incredible food, lush parks, and a royal palace. It’s a beautiful destination and there are a lot of Bavarian towns nearby that make for scenic day trips.

3. Party at Oktoberfest

Held annually in September and October, the world’s largest beer festival is filled with huge steins and giant pretzels. I went there for 5 days and had the time of my life. Buy some lederhosen, raise a glass, and sing some German beer songs. Just make sure to plan your trip well in advance as things sell out fast!

4. Explore the Romantic Road

A string of historic cities in Bavaria, the “Romantic Road” is the name for the route through majestic Bavarian towns and their surrounding snow-capped mountains. The area can get quite touristy but it’s a beautiful area and a great choice for road trips and romantic getaways. There are a ton of tour options for the area that are worth checking out. For some of the more further afield attractions, the tours are a must as they are hard to visit without a car.

5. Hike the Black Forest

The Black Forest is so named because of the dark green pine trees that grow here. Spanning over 6,000 square kilometers (2,300 square miles), there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails worth exploring and you can spend some time stopping in towns that are famous for their cuckoo clocks and hearty German fare. If you want to go on a guided hike or adventure activity, you can find a lot here.

Other Things to See and Do in Germany

1. explore lake constance.

Lying along the country’s southwestern border with Switzerland and Austria , Lake Constance (known as Bodensee in German) is Germany’s largest freshwater lake and the third-largest in Central Europe. One of the lake’s main attractions is the island of Mainau, also known as Flower Island, which is home to many specialty gardens, a baroque palace, and one of the largest butterfly houses in Germany. Tickets to visit the island are 10.50 EUR. Be sure to visit the many picturesque medieval villages and castles nearby, enjoy water sports, and go hiking and biking along the 272-kilometer (170-mile) Lake Constance Trail.

2. Visit Hanover

This city was one of the hardest hit during World War II, leaving it with only a few historical landmarks. But what I loved about Hanover were its large green areas of forests and big parks, the River Leine winding through the city, and the Sprengel Museum. Not many people visit, but I think it is one of Germany’s most underrated destinations .

3. Hike Berchtesgaden National Park

This national park, located in the south of Germany along the Austrian border, is an alpine heaven of lush forests, steep rock faces, crystal clear lakes, sleepy villages, and rolling meadows. It’s just you, the chirping birds, and cows ringing their brass bells. Well-marked trails wind through the spectacular scenery, which brims with opportunities for hiking and cycling. While nature is the main attraction, the beautiful red-domed Church of St. Bartholomew (dating to 1697) is a worthwhile stop as well.

4. Check out Trier

Nestled in the Moselle River valley, picturesque Trier is the oldest town in the country. With a 2,000-year-old history, Trier was home to six Roman emperors and contains numerous UNESCO Roman ruins. The most outstanding example is the Black Gate, a monumental structure that was once part of the city walls. Other Roman sites worth visiting include the incredibly well-preserved basilica, the huge amphitheater, the bridge, and the baths. Trier is also home to several important Gothic and Baroque churches, a beautiful main square, and great wine due to its location in the Moselle wine region.

5. Visit Dresden

Dresden, the capital of the German state Saxony, is a vibrant city located along the majestic Elbe River near the Czech and Polish borders. During World War II, the city was subject to one of the most devastating bombings of the war. Tens of thousands of civilians died, and over 90% of the city was razed at the hands of British-American forces. After the war, the city was completely rebuilt. The famous Frauenkirche church, the Neumarkt historic district, the Zwinger Palace, the Royal Palace, and the Semper Opera House have all been restored to their former glory. Other must-see attractions include the Fürstenzug, a unique 102-meter-long (334-foot) porcelain mural dating to the 1870s; and the baroque Grosser Garten, the largest green space in the city.

6. Spend a day in Cologne

Cologne is a cool place to stop in West Germany on your way to or from the Netherlands . The cathedral is the most popular landmark in the city (and one of the most popular in the country), but there’s also a vibrant art scene, incredible international restaurants, and lots of riverside cafes and pubs. It’s an underrated stop worth exploring for a couple of days.

7. See Neuschwanstein Castle

This 19th-century Neo-Romantic palace is the model for the Disney castle and a must for any Germany itinerary. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Europe, with over 1.5 million visitors each year. Perched on a rugged hill in Bavaria near the town of Füssen, the palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and as an homage to Richard Wagner. Visitors can walk around outside and admire the stunning exterior for free, but the interior is only accessible by guided tour at specific times, which must be booked in advance. While the palace is 6,000 square meters (65,000 square feet) in size, only 14 of those rooms were ever finished. The finished rooms were fitted with very modern technology for the time, such as central heating, hot and cold running water, automatic flush toilets, and telephones. Admission is 15 EUR and guided tours are available . I think the guided tours add a lot of context and would really recommend taking one.

8. See Frankfurt

Often considered just a stopover city (there is a huge airport here), Frankfurt is home to a gigantic exhibition hall (one of the largest in the world so tons of events and conferences are held here), an excellent science museum, and a towering 14th-century cathedral. It’s less expensive compared to other cities in Germany and worth spending a day or two visiting.

9. Visit Olympia Park

Located in Munich, this massive complex was originally constructed for the 1972 Olympic Games. It is topped by the largest roof in the world, which spans over 700,000 feet. There is a really good restaurant here too. Tickets to the stadium cost 3.50 EUR while a ticket to the Olympic Tower costs 11 EUR. You can also skate in the ice arena, swim in the Olympic swimming pool, and reserve court time on the tennis courts. The BMW Museum is also nearby and worth a visit.

10. Tour to Schloss Colditz

Originally built to be a Renaissance palace, this interesting structure has a long, bizarre history. Located between Leipzig and Dresden in the region of Saxony, it’s been a hunting lodge, a poorhouse, and even a mental hospital. It is most famous for being a prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. There is a museum within the palace, with tickets costing 4 EUR. A two-hour guided tour through the castle (and escape tunnels built by prisoners) is 10 EUR. There is even a hostel within the castle (30.50 EUR per night).

11. Visit Hamburg

Located in northern Germany, Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city. This port city, home to the second-busiest port in Europe, is famous for its parks and canals. Near its core, Inner Alster lake is dotted with boats and surrounded by cafes. The city’s central boulevard connects the Neustadt (new town) with the Altstadt (old town) and is home to landmarks like 18th-century St. Michael’s Church.

12. See Tierpark Hagenbeck

Located in Hamburg, this zoo and aquarium spans over 60 acres and is home to more than 2,500 animals including polar bears, penguins, and walruses. In addition to the classic attractions, there is a petting zoo, a miniature railway, pony rides, a playground for kids, and a serene Japanese garden. Combination tickets for the zoo and aquarium are 40 EUR.

13. Take a break in Bremen

Located in the north (near Hamburg), Bremen is a smaller city worth exploring. The charming medieval Schnoor district makes for a great stroll, and there is a beautiful cathedral and opulent city hall in the historic market square. The medieval harbor has been converted into the Schlachte, a large pedestrian promenade along the banks of the Weser River lined with countless restaurants, beer gardens, and riverboats. Bremen is also home to several fascinating museums, including the Universum Bremen, an interactive science museum in a modern whale-shaped building. The museum also offers a Dining in the Dark three-hour dinner experience, where you learn to experience food with just four out of your five senses.

14. Explore the Rhine Valley

The longest river in Germany, the Rhine holds incredible importance both historically and culturally. The most popular area to visit is the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. This 67-kilometer (41-mile) stretch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with countless castles, ruins, villages, and vineyards. An extensive network of walking and cycling paths, as well as excellent public transportation, means you don’t even need to rent a car when visiting.

15. Step back in time in Bamberg

Located less than an hour from Nuremberg, Bamberg is one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval towns, home to Europe’s largest intact historic city wall. Founded in the 9th century, the town was important in both the 12th-century Holy Roman Empire and the 18th-century German Enlightenment. It’s an incredibly picturesque town so spend the day wandering around, seeing the old homes, visiting the 13th-century cathedral, the 17th-century palace, the 18th-century city hall, and the seven churches that sit atop each of the seven hills surrounding the village.

16. Take a river cruise

Many of Germany’s major cities lie along large rivers, making river cruises a popular way to see the country. While there are expensive multi-day cruises going from city to city, you can also take a day cruise for a more budget-friendly option . Generally, these are around 15-25 EUR for a 1-2 hour trip. They are super fun.

17. Ascend Germany’s tallest mountain

Located in the Alps along the German-Austrian border, the Zugspitze mountain measures 2,962 meters (9,718 feet) and is a popular destination for winter sports. Even if you’re not into skiing, you can still enjoy the trip up the mountain via one of three different cable cars and a 90-year-old rack railway line. At the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views and several restaurants with traditional Alpine food. Round-trip cable car tickets cost 24-63 EUR depending on the season and which cable car you take. If you don’t want to go solo, day trips are available from Munich and are the best way to get there and around without transportation.

  For more information on specific cities in Germany, check out these guides:

• Berlin Travel Guide
• Cologne Travel Guide
• Frankfurt Travel Guide
• Munich Travel Guide

Germany Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Germany is quite affordable compared to other Eurozone countries. Hostels are plentiful and range from 17-25 EUR per night for a dorm room with 6-8 beds. For a private room, expect to pay 40-60 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices begin around 45-65 EUR for a small double room with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is available everywhere with private rooms going for as little as 30-45 EUR per night and entire apartments or homes starting at 50-75 EUR. Book early though or prices will double (or triple).

While wild camping is illegal, there are a ton of campsites around the country. Expect to pay 5-20 EUR per night for a basic plot for two people without electricity.

Food – Food in Germany is very cheap (and hearty). Meat is a staple of most meals, especially sausages; there are over 1,500 different kinds of sausages in Germany (sausages here are known as “wurst”). Stews are also a popular traditional choice, as are potato dumplings and sauerkraut. Breakfast is usually composed of bread, cold cuts, cheese, and boiled eggs.

You can get sausages and bratwurst from outdoor vendors for around 3-5 EUR. Meals at many of the beer halls around the country cost 9-15 EUR. Pre-made sandwiches cost around 5 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8.50 EUR for a combo meal.

If you eat in the beer halls, a traditional German meal costs around 14-18 EUR. Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Asian food can be found for as little as 5 EUR, while a nicer meal at a sit-down restaurant costs around 25 EUR.

Beer costs around 4 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is around 3 EUR. Bottled water is around 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 40-50 EUR. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat. While they don’t always offer the most variety, the cheapest places are Aldi, Lidl, Penny, and Netto. Bring your own bag if possible.

Backpacking Germany Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Germany, my suggested budget is 55 EUR per day. This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, using local transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like hiking and taking free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add another 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 135 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat a few meals out, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, take the bus between cities, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and castles.

On a “luxury” budget of 245 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, travel between cities via train, eat out at restaurants for all of your meals, drink more, take taxis to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Germany Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Overall, Germany is not an expensive country to visit. Yes, river cruises are expensive. Yes, there’s plenty of high-end cuisine throughout the country. Visiting Frankfurt, the capital of finance, costs a pretty penny. But those are exceptions to the rule. Overall, Germany is quite affordable for a Eurozone country, with plenty of bargains throughout the country. Here are my best tips for saving money in Germany:

• Eat cheap – Throughout Germany, cheap outdoor sausage vendors offer quick eats for only a couple of euros. Additionally, some of the best and cheapest food in Germany is Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine. You can get meals for 5-8 EUR that are delicious and filling. It’s what I mainly eat while in Germany whenever I want to eat out.
• Drink cheap – In Germany, buying beer and walking around — known as a ‘Weg bier’ — is totally acceptable. Take advantage of good weather by sitting outside in Germany’s lovely plazas and lush parks and buy your own drinks from the Späti shops, street kiosks, and supermarkets to save money. Also, find the student areas by the universities as you’ll find the discounted places.
• Take the free tours – The bigger cities in Germany have free walking tours. They’re a good way to see the city, learn about the history, and get your bearings without spending money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Book your train early – Trains in Germany are expensive but you can get a saver ticket that is around 40-50% off the standard fare if you book at least a week in advance. These tickets have limited availability, so be flexible with your travel plans. Also, if you are more flexible with times, try Flixtrain instead, which has fewer routes between bigger cities sometimes at inconvenient times but is way cheaper than Deutsche Bahn.
• Take the bus instead of the train – While not as comfy or romantic, Flixbus or Postbus are two bus companies with super cheap prices. Download the app and you can get tickets last-minute but be aware that prices vary by time and availability so if you need to be somewhere by a certain time or day book in advance.
• Use rideshares – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). You save money and get to spend time with locals. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe (though sometimes rides don’t show up, which is why you need to be flexible). While the bus might be cheaper, this is usually faster (and more interesting). Just make sure to check where the pickup and drop-offs are as sometimes they are not exactly central places or main station.
• Stay with a local – While accommodation in Germany is pretty cheap, if you want to get some local insight into the country, you should Couchsurf. Not only will you save money on accommodation but you’ll meet locals who can help get you off the tourist trail and show you around! Plus, they have occasional meet-ups depending on the city so you can meet other travelers and locals
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Look out for free museum days – Most museums in Germany offer free admission on certain days or evenings. Check their website or ask the local tourism office to find out about discounts.
• Get transportation day passes – If you’re going to be using public transportation a lot in a city, get a day pass. Paying for single rides adds up quickly.
• Get city tourism cards – Most of the major cities in Germany offer city tourism cards. These include free admission to major museums and attractions, discounts on restaurants, and usually unlimited public transportation. If you plan on seeing a lot, these cards can save you money.

Where to Stay in Germany

There are lots of fun and social hostels in Germany. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• St. Christopher’s (Berlin)
• Circus Hostel (Berlin)
• Wombats (Munich)
• Jaeger’s Hostel (Munich)
• Five Elements Hostel (Frankfurt)
• Meininger (Hamburg)
• Generator Hostel (Hamburg)
• Station Hostel for Backpackers (Cologne)
• Black Sheep Hostel (Cologne)
• Lollis Homestay (Dresden)
• Hostel Mondpalast (Dresden)
• a&o Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof (Nuremberg)
• Five Reasons Hostel (Nuremberg)

How to Get Around Germany

Public transportation – Germany has some of the best public transportation in the world. All the cities and larger towns have public transportation that is reliable and efficient. In cities like Berlin and Munich, all the various networks are integrated: one ticket gives you access to buses, trams, U-Bahn (subway), and S-Bahn (above ground train). Fares are determined by zone, but generally, a one-way fare starts from 2.90 EUR. A one-day unlimited pass is generally around 7-9 EUR while a three-day pass costs 17-20 EUR.

Train – Train travel is an incredibly efficient way to get around Germany, though it’s not cheap. Germany’s main rail system is Deutsche Bahn, which has both high-speed trains and regular trains. The high-speed trains are a quick way to get around but are usually much more expensive.

Take advantage of regional group tickets that start at around 22 EUR. These regional discounted tickets are available in Bavaria, Brandenburg-Berlin, Baden-Wüttermburg, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westfalia, Hesse, etc. For example, the Bavarian Bayern Ticket is 58 EUR for a group of 5 tickets for any train in Bavaria from 9am to 3am.

Last-minute tickets from Berlin to Hamburg can cost 50 EUR, but advance bookings start around 20 EUR. Frankfurt to Cologne is also around 20 EUR. It’s always best to book in advance when possible, otherwise, you’ll pay the price for last-minute bookings. You can track schedules and fares on the Deutsche Bahn website.

Another great site for trains around Germany (and into neighboring countries), is Trainline .

A Eurail Pass, which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period, might also be a good option if you’re doing some country hopping. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how Eurail passes work and can save you money .

Bus – Aside from hitchhiking, buses are the cheapest way to get around Germany. They are punctual but slow, with comfortable seats, air-conditioning, rest stops, and usually free Wi-Fi.

I recommend Flixbus for the cheapest rates and most comfortable buses. You can get from Berlin to Dresden for as little as 10 EUR, or from Berlin to Munich for 20 EUR. Munich to Hamburg is around 22 EUR.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Ridesharing – Ridesharing in Germany is very common. Ridesharing means you travel as a passenger with someone in exchange for payment toward fuel costs. It’s usually not as cheap as the bus but it’s often faster and you’ll meet some interesting characters! BlaBlaCar and Mitfahren are the two most popular ride-sharing websites.

Car rental – German is a great country to explore by car. Car rentals start at 30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be at least 21 years old.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Germany

Germany is a year-round destination. Summer is the most popular time to visit as temperatures are hot and everyone’s outdoors enjoying the weather. People flock to beer gardens and to the lakes to swim. This is also the peak season, when prices are much higher than usual. During this time, average temperatures hover around 24°C (75°F) and can soar well into the 30s°C (high 80s°F). You’ll want to book accommodation and transportation early (especially in July and August).

Temperatures warm up fast in spring, and the season is marked by the arrival of cherry blossoms. By May it’s warm enough to walk around in t-shirts and shorts. May 1 (Der Erste Mai) is Germany’s Labor Day, and the country breaks out in full celebration. If you’re lucky enough to be here during this time, take to the streets with your fellow Germans and enjoy the live music, drinking, dancing, and general mayhem.

Thanks to the famous Oktoberfest, autumn is a very popular time to visit Germany (especially Munich). From the end of September to early October, millions of people flock here from all over the world to enjoy the most epic beer-drinking festival in the world. If you’re planning on attending Oktoberfest, book your accommodations in advance. Way, way in advance.

An autumn visit to Germany is overall a great idea, especially in Bavaria when the foliage in the hills and mountains makes for some amazing photography. Temperatures can sometimes be chilly, but with light layers, you’ll be fine.

Winter in Germany can be cold, with temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F), but Germany is known for its Christmas spirit and the holiday markets all over the country are well worth your time, especially in Munich, Berlin, and Dresden. Pack some warm clothes and let the delicious glühwein (mulled wine) warm you up.

Winter in Bavaria is a skier and snowboarder’s dream only around one hour outside of Munich. While people might not think of Germany first in terms of skiing in Europe, these slopes are pristine, truly breathtaking, and way cheaper than neighboring Switzerland. Check out Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Füssen, Kranzberg, Zugspitze, and Laber.

How to Stay Safe in Germany

Germany is an incredibly safe place to travel. However, due to a few high-profile terrorist attacks in the country, I often get asked if it’s safe to travel to Germany. I wrote a whole article about how Germany (and Europe) is safe to visit if that’s a concern of yours.

Generally, you just need to watch out for scams and petty crime as you would anywhere (especially in Berlin late at night). Keep an eye on your valuables when in large crowds and on public transportation. Violent crime is rare so as long as you keep your valuables secure you shouldn’t experience any issues.

Scams are rare but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should feel safe in Germany, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Germany Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Germany Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Germany and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Berlin: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Survive Oktoberfest

The 18 Best Things To Do in Berlin

Munich is Better than Berlin

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Germany on a Budget: Advice for Dirt-Cheap Travel + 4 Fantastic Tips

Posted on Last updated: November 1, 2023

Home » Destinations » Europe » Germany » Germany on a Budget: Advice for Dirt-Cheap Travel + 4 Fantastic Tips

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Are you planning a trip to Germany on a budget? Don’t miss out on the top advice for frugal Germany travel! Keep reading for all the details.

This post about planning a trip to germany on a budget was co-written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Guest post by Emma Erichsen of Emma Adventures

Germany is a fairytale-like country nestled in  Western Europe  that truly has something for everyone. It’s a family-friendly destination with plenty of things to see and do with so much history, art, culture, and good food.

There are castles and gorgeous little towns to explore, but it can be a little on the expensive side. The good news is that you can travel to Germany on a budget by being savvy!

Below I’ll share what I’ve learned during my extensive travels across Europe and give you my top 4 tips for budget travelers.

Priceless Advice for Traveling Germany on a Budget

Your money matters.

The currency in Germany is the Euro (EUR), much like most countries in the European Union.

Credit and debit cards are accepted most places these days. But it’s wise to always carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases, such as markets and food stalls.

ATMs are common in all central areas in Germany but be aware that some banks may charge fees for foreign transactions.

And it’s a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans before you leave. This way you’ll avoid annoying issues with your card being blocked for suspicious activity!

Getting Around on a Budget in Germany

Getting from place to place is often the most expensive part of traveling. All the expensive internal flights can add up! Instead, save money by using Germany’s great regional trains,  DB train line !

This is Germany’s excellent long-distance train system. They make getting around a whole lot cheaper and run between all major cities in Germany.

DB trains are cost-effective and time efficient too. You should book online in advance, and book standard tickets.

The carriages and seats have plenty of room and are comfortable. And for longer trips, just pick up some snacks from the local stores at the train stations.

Through the train system, you can do just about any route you like between major cities. For example, you could take Frankfurt to Cologne, Frankfurt to Munich, and Munich to Nuremberg.

Once you are in each city, there are plenty of options for getting around. Car rentals are popular but can be pricey. In the big cities, trams are the way to go! They’re fast, efficient, and only cost a few euros.

Trams are public transportation that runs on rails, similar to street cars in the US. Often tram stops are combined with bus stops in the cities and they’re easy to find.

They run frequently between the most popular spots and tickets are affordable. Plus, if you plan on using the tram to get between several places, you can buy multi-trip tickets to save some money.

In smaller cities, you’ll find most things are within walking distance. This is especially true if you opt to stay in accommodation that is centrally located. 

Dining Out in Germany

When you visit Germany, you realize really fast that food and drink can get pricey, especially if you don’t know where to go. Often, restaurants and cafes in major tourist hot spots are extremely overpriced, and it’s easy to get sucked into these traps.

The best way to save money on your next dine-in meal is to venture a little out of the major tourist areas. Find places that are slightly off the beaten path.

I guarantee you’ll still get an excellent meal! But you’ll be saving money while also enjoying a more authentic experience.

Street food and market food are also great ways to eat for less without missing out. Market eats in Germany are amazing and cheap. And can get all the German street food favorites for half the price you would in a restaurant. 

My suggestion is to make sure you book a hotel with breakfast included. Fill up on that before leaving your hotel in the morning and for lunch, stop for market food.

Then for a memorable dinner, pick a spot slightly out of the main tourist area!

Germany Accommodations

There’s just about any style of accommodation in Germany, with no shortage of options. Traditional hotels and hostels are the most popular, and you can find something at every price point!

If you’re looking for a legal vacation rental in Germany, you might be able to find them, but they’re rare. There’s been a debate for decades on whether it’s ethical to have short-term vacation rentals in the country because of housing shortages.

Even if the price is tempting, I don’t suggest them! Save yourself any potential headache! Especially when traveling with kids, go with a dependable hotel.

My recommendation for family-friendly accommodations without breaking the bank is a boutique-style hotel. They’re often just as nice as chain-style hotels, but cheaper. And they always have a breakfast included option. 

Budget Sightseeing by City

German cities all have amazing and unique things to do! They each have their own personality and they all have different ways to save money.

It can be hard to decide where to go in Germany, with so many spectacular cities to choose from. They’re all so beautiful with their own history and points of interest.

Below you’ll learn some of the best free and budget-friendly things to do in some of the most popular cities in Germany. 

Berlin on a Budget

The great thing about Berlin is that there are heaps of free things to do, as well as lots of ways to save money. Germany’s history-filled capital is incredible, and although it seems pricey, there are lots of ways to do it cheap.

Free things to do in Berlin include visiting East Side Gallery, Brandenburg Gate, the Holocaust Memorial, Berlin Wall Memorial and Check-Point Charlie.

You can also save money by opting to admire some of Berlin’s architecture without going inside and paying admission fees. The Berlin Cathedral is a great option here, being absolutely beautiful from the outside!

Berlin also has some incredible museums, many of which offer free entry for kids under a certain age. And many have free museum days at certain hours during the week.

The Germany History Museum offers free entry for kids under the age of 18. Hamburger Banhof and Martin-Gropius-Bau both offer free entry for kids under the age of 16. These are just some of the many amazing things to do in Berlin with kids .

Munich on a Budget

Munich is the heart of Bavaria, and a must on any Germany trip. But because it’s a tourist hot spot, prices can be quite high.

So, I recommend avoiding eating out in the central spots (such as Marienplatz and the area around Hauptbanhof) to avoid increased prices on meals.

Instead, wander a couple of streets away from these busier areas. If you take the time to walk out a bit further, you’ll find plenty of amazing dining choices for better prices. 

Munich is a larger city, so the cheapest way to get around without spending lots of money is to use local transportation, like train and trams.

The trams are cheaper for shorter distances. Plus, you can buy multi-trip tickets which will save you money if you plan to use the trams or trains frequently. 

Munich also has lots of amazing things to do that are free or budget friendly. For free things to do, check out Marienplatz, Englischer Garten, and Olympia Park.

You can also enter Asam Church for free to see the gilded baroque interiors. Or take a trip to Nymphenburg Palace. Although you have to pay to get in, it’s only a few Euros, and kids under 17 are free.

This is one of my favorite things to do in Munich. Plus, you can admire the architecture and gardens without entering the palace, which is just as good! 

Frankfurt on a Budget

Germany’s bustling transport and business hub is the heart of the action in west Germany. And it’s a great city with plenty of things to enjoy on a budget.

The city itself is a little cheaper than some of the bigger tourist hot spots in Germany. So, you’ll find that food and accommodation are slightly cheaper!

Frankfurt has excellent transportation systems in place. Both the tram system and train system in Frankfurt are great ways to get around quickly and cost less than if you used a car rental or cab. 

Some of the best things that Frankfurt has to offer are free! I recommend exploring Romerberg and Hauptwache. You can walk along the River Main and admire Frankfurt Cathedral.

For amazing views of Frankfurt from above, get a family ticket for less and go up to the Observation Deck of Main Tower. Or check out the Frankfurt Transportation Museum and see vintage trams!

Cologne on a Budget

Cologne is a beautiful historical city just an hour north of Frankfurt. It’s a great place to get a feel for a traditional German town without breaking the bank.

Most things in Cologne are really close together. This is a big plus because you can easily walk between all the main attractions without having to pay for transport. 

Cologne Cathedral is the city’s biggest attraction, and it’s incredible! Plus, it’s free to enter. Spend time admiring the cathedral from every angle outside before heading in to see the stunning interiors.

If you wish to climb to the top of the cathedral, the cost is only 3 Euro. However, you can definitely experience Cologne Cathedral without spending a cent!

You can also visit Hohenzollern Bridge (the famous love locks bridge), and explore the old town, both of which are completely free to do!

Nuremberg on a Budget

Nuremberg is a gorgeous medieval city with a whole lot of history. It’s located an hour north of Munich, which makes it worth a visit when you travel Germany.

Basically, all of the main attractions in Nuremberg are within walking distance of each other, so you’ll save tons of money on transport. The tram system is also excellent, and it’s cost-effective for traveling longer distances. 

One of the best things about Nuremberg is all the quality cultural experience you can soak up on a budget! The city is packed with medieval architecture, history, and that traditional German feel visitors want.

One of Nuremberg’s top attractions, Nuremberg Castle, is free to visit. And there are stunning views across the city from the top. You can also wander the Old Town and Bridges for free and walk the Way of Human Rights.

But I think one of the best things to do in Nuremberg is just wander the Old Town and surrounding areas. There are hidden gems are around every corner, and the best part is, it’s completely free to do!

My 4 Top Money-Saving Tips for Traveling in Germany

Now you have solid advice from someone who has been all over the Germany countryside! But to make things super simple, here are my 4 most essential travel tips for saving money in Germany.

• Travel between destinations by the DB Trains. Hands down, this is the easiest and most affordable way to travel Germany.
• For a cheaper accommodation, go with a boutique-style hotel slightly out of the city center. And when booking, make sure you choose a listing with breakfast included.
• For cost-effective (and the yummiest!) food options in Germany, eat street food and always explore the popular outdoor food markets.
• Check for free museum visiting hours. Also, look for museums that have free admission for kids. 
• When in doubt, look for historical sites. They’re the most likely attractions to be free. Historic squares in Germany are another great free option guaranteed to be full of German history and culture.

FAQ about Germany on a Budget

It’s true, flights to Germany can be mind-blowingly expensive! But there are a few ways to save. You’ll find the cheapest flights in the off-season, which is January through February and October through November. Also try to fly mid-week rather than the weekends for the best deals.

Frankfurt is definitely the most walkable big city in Germany! All the major sights you’ll want to see are around the Frankfurt Am Main, which can be easily walked. This city is great if you’re looking for free activities, like exploring historic squares. And the Frankfurt Cathedral is a must-see with the River Main close by.

Skip the car and save money by using the country’s quality public transportation system to get around. Most locals that live in the cities don’t even have a car! If you stick to the bigger cities, you can use trams and busses to get around. And the small towns are very walkable.

Visit Germany on For Less with Advice from a World Traveler

Germany really is the perfect travel destination, and I guarantee you’ll fall in love with it like I did! It’s both a family-friendly and budget-friendly place, if you know what to do.

For more ways to advice on what to do in Germany, check out these  Germany travel tips !

Emma writes the travel blog Emma Adventures. Follow her on or  Facebook .

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Exploring Germany on a Budget: A 15-Day Itinerary

Germany is a country that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a dream destination for many travelers, but it can also be quite expensive. However, with some careful planning, it is possible to explore Germany on a budget without missing out on its most famous attractions. In this article (Exploring Germany on a Budget), we will provide you with a 15-day itinerary that covers some of the best destinations in Germany while keeping the costs low.

Our 15-day itinerary (Exploring Germany on a Budget) covers some of the most popular destinations in Germany, including Berlin, Dresden, Leipzig, Munich, the Romantic Road, and Frankfurt. We have included travel costs, accommodation options, and suggested activities to help you plan your trip.

By following this itinerary (Exploring Germany on a Budget), you can experience the vibrant culture, delicious food, stunning landscapes, and historic landmarks that Germany has to offer without breaking the bank.

Table of Contents

Exploring germany on a budget.

Itinerary for a 15-day budget-friendly trip to Germany, including travel costs, places to visit, where to stay, and travel details. (Exploring Germany on a Budget A 15-Day Itinerary)

Day 1-3: Berlin

Berlin is the vibrant capital city of Germany, and a great place to start your trip. You can fly into either Tegel or Schönefeld airport and take public transportation or a taxi to your accommodation. The central Mitte district is a good place to stay, as it is close to many of the city’s landmarks and attractions. You can find a range of budget-friendly hostels and hotels in this area.

During your time in Berlin, you can visit famous landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Kreuzberg and Neukölln, and take a free walking tour to learn about the city’s history. Berlin is also known for its nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from.

Day 4-6: Dresden

Dresden is a beautiful city in the eastern part of Germany, known for its baroque architecture and cultural heritage. You can take a train from Berlin to Dresden, which takes approximately 2 hours. The Altstadt (Old Town) district is a great place to stay, as it is close to many of the city’s landmarks and museums.

During your time in Dresden, you can visit the stunning Frauenkirche church, explore the Zwinger Palace and its museums, and take a stroll along the river Elbe. The city also has many parks and gardens, such as the Grosser Garten and the Pillnitz Palace and Park.

Day 7-8: Leipzig

Leipzig is a hip and vibrant city in the eastern part of Germany, known for its music scene and cultural diversity. You can take a train from Dresden to Leipzig, which takes approximately 2 hours. The city center is a good place to stay, as it is close to many of the city’s landmarks and attractions.

During your time in Leipzig, you can visit the famous St. Thomas Church where Bach was the cantor, explore the trendy Plagwitz district with its street art and indie shops, and try the local specialty, Leipziger Allerlei (a vegetable and seafood dish). Leipzig also has many parks and green spaces, such as the Rosental Park and the Clara Zetkin Park.

Day 9-11: Munich

Munich is the capital city of Bavaria, in the southern part of Germany, and is known for its beer halls, museums, and historical landmarks. You can take a train from Leipzig to Munich, which takes approximately 4 hours. The Altstadt (Old Town) district is a good place to stay, as it is close to many of the city’s landmarks and attractions.

During your time in Munich, you can visit the famous beer halls such as Hofbräuhaus and Augustiner-Keller, explore the beautiful Nymphenburg Palace and its gardens, and take a stroll in the English Garden park. Munich is also known for its museums, such as the Deutsches Museum of science and technology, and the Pinakothek art museums.

Day 12-13: The Romantic Road

The Romantic Road is a scenic route through Bavaria, with many picturesque towns and villages to visit along the way. You can rent a car in Munich and drive along the route, which takes approximately 2-3 days. Some of the towns along the route, such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Dinkelsbühl, have budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses.

During your time on the Romantic Road, you can visit the charming medieval towns, such as Nördlingen and Harburg, explore the beautiful countryside, and sample the local cuisine and wine. You can also visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, which is said to have inspired the Disney castle.

Day 14-15: Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a bustling city in the western part of Germany, known for its skyscrapers, museums, and international airport. You can take a train from the Romantic Road or drive to Frankfurt, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. The Bahnhofsviertel district is a good place to stay, as it is close to the train station and many budget-friendly accommodations.

During your time in Frankfurt, you can visit the famous Goethe House and Museum, explore the modern art museum Städel, and take a walk along the river Main. Frankfurt also has many restaurants and cafes serving traditional German dishes, such as schnitzel and sausages.

Travel Costs: – Exploring Germany on a Budget

• Flight to Berlin: $500 (round trip)
• Public transportation in Berlin: $50
• Train from Berlin to Dresden: $50
• Train from Dresden to Leipzig: $20
• Train from Leipzig to Munich: $50
• Car rental for Romantic Road: $200
• Gas for Romantic Road: $50
• Train from Romantic Road to Frankfurt: $50
• Public transportation in Frankfurt: $30

Total travel costs: $1000

Accommodation Costs: – Exploring Germany on a Budget

• Berlin: $30-50/night
• Dresden: $40-60/night
• Leipzig: $30-50/night
• Munich: $50-80/night
• Romantic Road: $50-80/night
• Frankfurt: $30-50/night

Total accommodation costs: $900-1400

Food and Activities: – Exploring Germany on a Budget

• Daily food budget: $30-40
• Free walking tours: Berlin and Leipzig
• Museums: $10-15/entry

Total food and activities costs: $600-800

Overall, this itinerary offers a diverse range of experiences and sights throughout Germany, while still staying within a budget. By staying in budget-friendly accommodations, using public transportation or a rental car, and eating at affordable restaurants, you can enjoy all that Germany has to offer without breaking the bank.

Here are some additional tips to help you plan a budget-friendly trip to Germany:

• Book your flights and accommodations in advance to get the best deals.
• Use public transportation or rent a car to save money on transportation costs.
• Visit museums and other attractions during their off-peak hours or on free days to save on entrance fees.
• Look for free walking tours or other free activities to explore the cities on a budget.
• Eat at local markets or street food stalls to save money on food costs.
• Consider staying in hostels or Airbnbs to save money on accommodations.
• Purchase a travel card or pass for public transportation to save money on individual fares.

By following these tips and using the suggested itinerary (Exploring Germany on a Budget) as a guide, you can have a budget-friendly and memorable trip to Germany.

Conclusion – Exploring Germany on a Budget

Germany is a country that offers something for every type of traveler, from bustling cities to scenic countryside, from ancient history to modern art, and from hearty meals to world-class wine. By following our 15-day itinerary, you can explore some of the best destinations in Germany while staying within a budget. With some careful planning and a willingness to try new things, you can have an unforgettable trip to Germany that won’t break the bank.

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Ultimate travel guide to Germany

Welcome to the best travel guide to germany where I share all my best tips and germany travel guides, all in one page to make it easier to plan your holiday to Germany. Located in the heart of Europe, Germany is a fascinating country to visit. Known for its rich culture, diverse natural landscapes, rich food culture that includes world class beers and wines, there is something for everyone here. You have a lot of choice, from the capital Berlin with its dark but interesting history, world class museums and incredible nightlife scene to Hamburg with its rich musical heritage and rich harbourside architecture to Munich with its famous beer garden culture, beautiful gardens and world class art museums- there is a lot to choose from ( that is a just a handful of cities to give an example ) or maybe head east and checkout Leipzig , the most alternative cultural city in Germany or Dresden with its stunning architecture and amazing street art scene or maybe Gorlitz , one of Germany’s most best preserved cities- you have so much choice. In the end it all depends on how much time you have. It is such a huge country. I have lived in Germany for 6 years now and still haven’t seen some key cities or attractions like the famous Neuschwanstein Castle.

Why should you visit Germany?

I will dig a little deeper into what I think makes Germany unique and why you should consider visiting here.  

1.Incredible food culture

German food often gets a bad rap for being bland and boring but its is hearty, perfect comfort food. From traditional dishes like bratwurst and schnitzel to more modern dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. It can be also be quite unusual and interesting: checkout my guide to the strangest most unique dishes you can try in Germany . If you are a foodie, then definitely put Hamburg on your list and follow this hamburg food guide . Plus, if you are a wine lover and looking for a holiday that combines wine with picture postcard towns and culture, then you should checkout my guide to Germany’s smallest wine region , the Saxon Wine Route .

Staasgallerie Stuttgart

2. Rich Culture

Germany is blessed with an incredible range of historic castles that will offer you a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history. ( If you fancy staying in a castle without splurging, checkout my guide to the best castle hostels in Germany ) Germany is also home to some of the best museums in the world where you can discover world class art like Picasso, Kandinsky, Caspar David Friederich or if you are a fan of American pop art, a visit to the Staasgallerie Stuttgart is a must ( has an incredible collection of American Pop Art with Lichtenstein and Warhol prominently featuring ) If you are a street art lover, you will be spoilt for choice in Germany. Here is my guide on how to create your own streetart tour of Germany . Also, Germany is home to some incredible festivals : my favourite festivals in Germany are the Oldenburg Film Festival ( amazing platform for independent cinema ) and Vogelball in Hamburg ( read about this festival and other cool things to do in my introduction to Hamburg guide )

Sunset, Wyk Auf Fohr

3. Spectacular Natural Beauty

From the Black Forest to the Bavarian Alps and the North Sea, Germany is blessed with so much natural beauty. If you are looking to get off the beaten track and into nature, checkout my guide to the things to do in Fohr or maybe one of the North Frisian islands like Wangeroog e or if you are planning a trip to Bavaria, consider a visit to Garmisch Partenkirchen .

4. Affordable Travel

One of the reasons why I love Germany and made this country my base is that is really affordable for a Western European country, So if you are a budgettraveller like me, this country is perfect. PS Checkout all my Germany on a budget travel guides. 

  5. Friendly People

One of the biggest myths about Germany is that are cold, reserved people. I have found   Germans are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it easy to make new friends during your stay.

Planning Your Trip to Germany: 5 things to consider

While Germans speak excellent English, it also helps to learn some key German phrases when travelling through Germany.  

Here 15 basic German phrases to master

– Guten Tag: “Good day” or “hello.”  

– Auf Wiedersehen : “Goodbye.”  

– Bitte : “Please.”  

– Danke : “Thank you.”  

– Entschuldigung : “Excuse me.”  

– Ja : “Yes.”  

– Nein : “No.”  

– Gute Nacht : “Good night.”  

– Hallo : “Hi” or “hello.”  

– Bitte schön : “You’re welcome.”  

– Ich Liebe Dich : “I love you.”  

– Ein Bier : “A beer.”  

– Ein Glas Wein : “A glass of wine.”  

– Können Sie mir helfen ? Can you help me?”  

– Wo ist das Badezimmer ?: “Where is the bathroom.            

2. Currency

In Germany, the Euro is the main currency. There are plenty of ATM’s to withdraw cash at airports and train station but try to have some Euros handy with you before you fly. Ideally don’t leave this till the last minute and buy Euros at the airport where you will get the worst exchange rate. Always carry cash when you are in Germany. For a country as advanced as Germany, it is shocking how bad the country is when it comes to accepting card payments.  

3. Visa and Entry Requirements

Depending on your nationality, you may need to get a visa before entering Germany. Checkout the website of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany which has an excellent overview of visa requirements for visiting Germany.

The climate in Germany varies, depending on where you are visiting and the time of year. Summers can be hotter in the south then the north. The north tends to be wetter ( Hamburg for example ) also. With climate change and the lines blurring between seasons, it is always tough to predict so do check the forecast ( I recommend Accuweather ) before traveling and pack accordingly.

5. Mobile Internet in Germany

Here is my guide on how to get affordable mobile internet access in Germany.

 Radebeul Radeburg Steam Railway- One of Germany’s most unique train journeys is a must when visiting Germany

How to use Public Transport in Germany  

Germany has a fantastic public transportation system that allows you to travel at ease, no matter what your budget. The main train operator is Deutsche Bahn plus there are a few niche, low-cost train operators like Flixtrain . You can get some incredible deals on train travel booking 2-3 months in advance ( Super Saver Tickets) so do try to book these in advance. If you are travelling on a budget and looking to book more closer to your date of travel, definitely look into low cost bus companies like Flixbus who have some incredible fares ( Berlin to Munich for as little as €21.99 ) There is obviously airlines like Ryanair and easyJet but give the time, cost of travelling to and from airports in Germany plus the hassle of flying nowadays ( cost of luggage ) keep this as your last resort. Also worth noting that all key German cities have Uber and Bolt.

If you are a first time user of Uber, use my code: hywvm824pb5s which will give you €5 of your first 5 trips.

Circus Berlin Hostel

How to book accommodation in Germany

There is a whole range of accommodation options catering to all types of travellers and budgets.

If you are on a tight budget, Germany has a rich hostel scene. Some of my favourite independent hostels in Germany include the Circus Hostel Berlin , Superbude Hamburg , Die Wohnhgemeinschaft , Eden Hostel and Multitude Hostel Leipzig and the Dock Inn Warnemunde .

There is the Jugendherberge network of hostels in Germany – think of it as the equivalent of the YHA Hostels in UK and Australia. The Jugendherberge hostels are bit different from your average hostel: not so so big on the social factor but otherwise in terms of location, facilitates, location and value- they are unbeatable. From hostels on treetops  to all inclusive hostels by the North Sea in Neuharlingsiel to the abandoned holiday resort that Hitler built in Rugen ( subsequently converted into a youth hostel ) , there is an astonishing range of hostels to choose from.

In terms of budget friendly hotels, my go to site is booking.com

In terms of price, value for money, I am a big fan of Ibis Budget Hotels and also Motel One ( tend to be pricier depending on the city ) plus Moxy is popping up in some locations. There is also A&O Hostels/Hotels but there are the most bland, boring hostels/hotel brand in Germany and I would not recommend staying here.

Before you travel, just in case you are asked at immigration, keep a print out of your hostel or hotel booking ( In case your wifi does not work in Germany ) and also proof of your travel insurance.  

When you check in to your accommodation, by German law you need to show your ID so keep your passport / National ID ready. You will have a short form to fill in so keep a pen handy too. ( I always forget to carry a pen ) Payment ,unless done in advance a, is usually required at the time of check-in. The hotel may accept cash or credit cards, so be prepared with the necessary payment method.

Essential Germany travel guides

1. Things to do in Bautzen

2. 48 hours in Meissen , the porcelain city of Germany

3. 7 best things to do in Bochum

4. Best things to do in Dortmund

5. Perfect day trip from Berlin: Potsdam

6. Best things to do in Goslar

7. Self guided walking tour of Berlin Mitte

8. Free things to do in Berlin

9. Best budget places to stay in Berlin

10. 48 Hours in Bremen

11. 48 Hours in Nuremberg

12. Football break in the Ruhr Valley ( Piece for the iPaper )

13. Short break in Hamburg ( For Wanderlust Magazine )

14. Short break in Lubeck ( For Wanderlust Magazine )

How to Travel to Germany on a Budget: What to Know

Posted on Last updated: April 3, 2024

Germany is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but you must prepare properly to travel Germany on a budget . It’s a country of many different scenes, from big cities to wilderness and ski slopes, each with its own unique costs at different times of the year.

Whether you’re planning to visit Germany during the summer or the festive season, you’ll need to plan a good budget for Germany or at least inform yourself about different tendencies in Germany with money, costs, and spending as it can be different than what you are used to in other European countries

But that’s why I wrote this article – to help YOU be the most prepared to enjoy Germany to the fullest on a budget by planning ahead, knowing what to buy in advance, what transport to take, what accommodation to book, what to avoid, and knowing what cities are cheaper for anything from food to flights.

How To Budget For Your Trip To Germany

Below you’ll find some of the best tips and tricks to remember when planning a trip to Germany on a budget.

Consider The Cost Of A Tourist Visa

Germany requires most travelers to have a Schengen visa. The Schengen visa allows you to enter many countries and costs €80. However, if you’ve already obtained a Schengen visa for a previous trip, you will be able to use this visa for your trip to Germany (so long as the visa is still valid).

Applying for a Schengen visa is simple, and you can complete the application forms online for convenience. If you are not required to apply for a visa to travel to Germany, you may still require a visa waiver.

You will need to research the documents and information you need to fill in the correct forms, and you can find more information online to help you prepare for the application process.

Establish Your Budget Goals

Many people book their holiday based on recommendations before establishing their budget. However, you can find many unique places that could be cheaper than more famous spots.

So, establishing a clear budget for your German holiday will allow you to plan each facet of your trip with finances in mind. When choosing a hotel, destination, or flight, you will always be able to refer to your budget. 

Many people become enthralled with hotels and places to visit when planning their trips. Creating a budget before you search means you can’t simply create a budget around a hotel or destination slightly out of your price range and that you make sure to stick to your Germany budget.

Consider Planning Your Germany Trip During The Off Season

When planning your trip, it’s essential to know that European countries and especially Germany are generally cheaper for travel in the off-season. Typically, Europeans have a vacation season during the summer, which is when they prioritize travel.

Times to Avoid When Traveling to Germany on a Budget

Schools generally break up for the summer, allowing parents to take their children on vacation. So, July and August are pretty much always busier and more expensive. Traveling to Germany around Oktoberfest (September in Munich is INSANELY pricey) and popular music festivals in certain cities will also make your trip more expensive.

Certain cities with famous Christmas markets may be more expensive during the holiday season in December. But other than that, most other months in Germany will be more affordable.

Planning your trip during the off-season will ensure you get a better deal due to the lower demand – and you might even have a little more room for negotiation.

Transportation in Germany on a Budget

There are some VERY important things to know about getting around Germany if you want to stay on a budget. Here they are!

Trains Can Be EXPENSIVE: Book Early or Opt for Other Transport

That’s right, the Deutsche Bahn (DB) train system is incredible, efficient, and high speed… but it comes at a price. If you need to take the train during your time in Germany, book your tickets as far in advance as possible. Trust me on this!

If you need to travel by train at the last minute (but have some time on your hands), consider taking the slower, more local trains to get to your destination. The info booth should be able to help you find more budget routes to your destinations.

For example, instead of taking a 2-3 hour direct train from Nuremburg to Berlin once, we took THREE different, slower, crowded trains for 7-8 hours that cost 1/4 the price. It’s all about what you prioritize!

DB also offers weekend tickets and saver tickets at certain times. Check for these during your trip!

Get Transportation Day Passes or Tourism Cards in Each City

Many/most German cities offer some kind of discount card for transportation or a tourism card that includes many of the main city attractions and transportation for a reduced fare.

When you know your destinations, check if they have any kind of day pass (you can often buy 24h, 48, or 72h passes that include certain things) or tourism cards that include the public transport.

The Berlin Welcomecard is one of the best examples of this and helps you save LOTS on pretty much all Berlin transport and top attractions in the city. The Munich CityTourCard also gets you discounts on 80+ different attractions, restaurants, and transport.

Opt for the Bus

In the last decade, Deutsche Bahn’s hold over German public transport was released, and more room has been made for budget bus companies to fill a long-missing void of cheap German public transport. To truly travel germany on a budget, travel by bus!

FlixBus is the most reliable budget bus company that has many routes throughout Germany. In fact, it touches down in DOZENS of German cities! This may be the cheapest and most convenient way to get around.

Try Rideshares like Blablacar

Ridesharing is very common in Germany and one of the best ways to save money while traveling in Germany. The app Blablacar allows drivers to upload their trips, and riders to search for trips along their routes. Drivers set the price and riders agree to pickup and dropoff points.

Blablacar is so common in Germany that there are nearly always a few cars going between big German cities, and it is often a similar price to a bus (or cheaper). And you get to meet interesting new people!

Rent a Bike

Bike rental is a fantastic option to save money in Germany in pretty much every city (or anywhere)! Bikes are cheaper than nearly every public transport option as you pay one fee for the whole day and can get around anywhere!

Try and rent a bike for the day rather than renting by the minute/hour to save more money. This way you also get a workout in, save money, AND see more of the city!

Flights to Germany

The best way to fly to Germany on a budget is to get there with European budget airlines that fly from all over Germany to all over Europe and beyond. Carriers like Ryanair, Easyjet, and Eurowings provide low-cost flights to and from Germany.

As with any flight, booking them as early as possible guarantees the cheapest price. There is also research to suggest that February is the cheapest month to fly into Germany and that Frankfurt and Berlin are the cheapest cities to fly into. Of course, this is in the off-season, but it will make everything else cheaper too!

Choose Red-Eye Flights

Many people prefer to travel during the day and spare themselves an excruciatingly early start. However, choosing a red-eye flight could get you a better deal on your plane tickets. 

This option is particularly beneficial if you’re a solo traveler or your family sleeps easily on a plane. Many avoid traveling at night because they often arrive at their destination in the morning, having had no sleep. 

If you’re not afraid of an early start and can sleep well on a plane, you could save a lot of money by choosing a red-eye flight.

Get A Travel Credit Card

A travel credit card is a great way to make your trip affordable on short notice. You can spend on your journey now, then pay later. But the way most people use travel credit cards is to rack up points to get free flights or other benefits later. Some cards offer extra points on travel – look into certain airline credit cards, Amex, or Chase Sapphire.

Additionally, when you invest in a travel credit card, you get event more benefits when traveling. For instance, the card might grant you access to special lounges before your flight – which can be a godsend if you get stressed in the bustle of a busy airport. If this sounds attractive to you, consider looking into  Canadian credit cards with lounge access .

Some cards can also give you access to free travel insurance, giving you less to worry about during your trip planning!

Use Points + Miles

If you have ever wanted to give travel hacking a try, this would be the time! Many credit cards give you points and miles that you can redeem for travel or flights. Keeping track of and optimizing your points and miles is a great way to budget for Germany or anywhere else in the world too.

Food and Drink in Germany on a Budget

Here are some tips for saving money on eating and drinking during your trip to Germany.

Try to Eat Cheaply

Surprisingly enough, it is quite easy to eat cheaply in Germany and especially in cities such as Berlin. To make sure you are sticking to Germany on a budget, make sure not to eat out every night and to try and either cook your own food or buy cheap takeaway foods.

Surely Germany has some amazing restaurants which are worth trying, but you can get a 5-euro currywurst, doner kebab, or other cheap German takeaway meals on the fly to save money on most other nights. Also, hostels and airbnbs have kitchens, so you can go grocery shopping and cook your own food on other nights.

Drink Cheaply Too

It’s easy to drink cheaply in Germany, but it is also equally easy to spend tons of your Germany budget on drinks as well. Of course, the MOST cheap option would be to stop drinking alcohol if you are on a VERY tight budget for Germany.

But for those of us who want to try the local products (and the German bier of course), try to make sure to drink local products. Local German bier will be the most authentic and cheapest beer around, and there’s even German (and Austrian) wine that should be cheaper than wine from father away.

Head to the local pubs and try their tap beers, or explore around for happy hours in the cities (there are lots)! Drinking in Germany can be very affordable if you plan right.

Bring a Water Bottle: Tap Water Isn’t Free

Although tap water in Germany is very safe to drink, hardly any restaurants will serve it to you. Like many European countries, in Germany you will be charged for still or sparkling water at restaurants.

To get around this small charge that can add up over a course of days or weeks, try to bring your own water bottle everywhere with you while traveling in Germany. You can fill it up at any tap (even at taps in the restaurant if you want to be cheeky) and avoid paying for any water bottles.

Exploring Germany on a Budget

Here are some ways to make adventures a bit cheaper while traveling Germany.

Take the Free Tours in Bigger Cities

Most larger cities in Germany offer ‘free walking tours’ around the city where you can learn ALL about the city, its history, and things to do there and simply give the tour guide a tip at the end with what you thought the tour was worth. Free walking tours are one of the best ways to travel on the cheap and still learn a lot.

However, these guides live off tips, so make sure to tip them at LEAST 5 if not 10-15 euros, which is usually completely fair for a tour that lasts 2-3 hours.

Get a German SIM Card

Depending on where you are traveling from, you may want to get a German SIM card to save on international roaming and data charges. It’s always more convenient to have cell phone service, and getting a local SIM card with a prepaid data amount can help you save money on connectivity and make sure you have data at all times.

Check for Free Museum Days

That’s right, on certain days, many German cities offer FREE admission to museums. In Berlin, this is called ‘ museum Sunday ‘ on the first Sunday of each month, but the day varies depending on the city. Some Munich museums offer free admission on the first Thursday of every month.

Each city differs but usually has some great deals! Make sure to look them up before you go as you don’t want to miss out on a day of free museum admission that you would otherwise pay for.

Spend Time in the Parks

Germany is known for having AMAZING parks. Nearly every city has fantastic sprawls of nature even within the city, often with lakes, boat rides, remote-feeling trails, and grassy knolls. Make sure to spend some time exploring the beautiful parks in each city as it’s a completely FREE activity.

Accommodation in Germany on a Budget

Here are some tips for saving money on accommodation in Germany.

Stay in Hostels/ Budget Accommodation: hostel dorms 10-20 Eur up to 45-55 in peak X

The cheapest accommodation options in Germany are definitely hostels. In the off-season, you can get a hostel bed for as little as 10-20 euros per night! But keep in mind that the very same bed might increase by 3 or 4 times in the summer to 45-55 euros, which is another reason not to travel to Germany in summer.

Hostels are amazing for many reasons , and everyone has much to learn from communal living situations. I couldn’t recommend staying in hostels more for traveling in a budget-friendly and social way.

Book Hotels with Free Breakfast

If hostel life just isn’t for you, try to save money on accommodation in Germany by booking a hotel that includes free breakfast. Having the first meal of the day included in the price on your night’s stay saves you the cost of one whole meal.

Many German hotels offer free breakfast, so keep your eyes out for this as you travel and book.

Forego Housekeeping for Free Drinks + Snacks

Something that MANY German hotels have started doing recently is offering guests the ability to say no to housekeeping in their hotel room in order to receive a free snack or drink per person each day. This helps a LOT with traveling sustainably by saving power to wash lots of sheets and towels, and also gets you, the guest, free stuff!

Guest Houses Can be Cheaper and More Authentic

Oftentimes, guest houses are the most authentic places to stay in Germany as you stay with true locals hosting you in their properties. Guest Houses can also be cheaper than airbnbs as you save on crazy cleaning fees and unexpected charges!

Long-Term Stays in Germany

For those planning a long-term stay in Germany, considering alternative accommodation options becomes crucial. While hostels remain a cost-effective choice, especially during the off-season when rates can be as low as 10-20 euros per night, the dynamic pricing in summer and other peak times may pose a challenge for extended stays.

To ensure budget-friendly and social accommodations for an extended period, you might want to explore guest houses, which not only offer a more authentic experience by connecting with local hosts but can also be more economical than traditional lodging options like  Rentola.

Additionally, for those seeking both savings and added perks, some hotels in Germany now provide guests the option to decline daily housekeeping in exchange for complimentary snacks or drinks, contributing not only to a more sustainable travel experience but also to an extra layer of hospitality for long-term guests. As you plan your extended stay in Germany, considering these alternatives can enhance both the affordability and cultural richness of your accommodation experience

Save In Advance

To ensure you can afford the best possible trip to Germany, you must plan your trip. Having a long build-up to the holiday will allow you to make some penny-pinching moves to save for your holiday .

For instance, if you could save $300 a month in the six months leading up to your holiday, you would have a budget of $1800. The longer in advance your planning, the more time you will have to save money and ensure your trip is within your financial means.

If you didn’t save in advance, you might need to stay in some hostels or make sacrifices in your spending on dining and activities during your trip. But either way, you will make it work!

When you plan early for your trip to Germany on a budget, it allows you to save and have the best possible trip. Having a budget before you make your bookings can stop you from overspending. You can also make cost-saving choices, like flying at night to make your travel cheaper!

Make sure to check out Vorarlberg or Graz in Austria if you enjoy Germany!

Privacy Overview

Visit Germany On A Budget- 15 Important Things To Know

Despite being in Western Europe, Germany is a relatively cheap country to explore and even its capital Berlin is one of the most inexpensive metropolitan cities in Europe . And unlike stereotypes on the internet , Germany is much more than just beer, sausages, seriousness, castles, and wild techno parties. Germany is a country with a vibrant international art and music scene, beautiful nature, stunning cathedrals, picturesque small towns and overlooked historic cities . This article will give you some great tips about budget travel in Germany that will make your euro go even further without taking out the fun. With that being said, let’s go through our Germany on a budget guide.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Germany On A Budget?

Just like every other place on Earth, Germany is cheaper in the offseason and there’s a large variation between prices depending on the time you decide to visit. Generally, the offseason in Germany is between the months of November and April and this is usually the best time to visit Germany on a budget. You should keep an eye on the school holidays. In Germany, there are five main school holidays: winter, spring, summer, autumn, and Christmas Holidays. The summer holidays are, of course, the longest, lasting for six weeks. All other holidays range from a week to two weeks.

Related: why should you consider backpacking in Europe during the winter ?

During the holidays, prices are higher but the holidays vary in different states. You should also keep an eye for trade fairs and exhibitions if you’re visiting the big cities. Cities like Frankfurt, Hannover, Leipzig, and Berlin are known as trade fair towns. So, if you’re planning to visit make sure to check if there are any big trade fairs during the time you wish to visit. If you happen to be in town during one of these fairs, you’ll find it difficult to get hotel accommodation and even if you do, you’ll end up paying much more than you would normally.

Finally, you surely heard about the famous Oktoberfest in Munich. It’s an amazing event that attracts a lot of tourists but during the festival, prices in Munich and the surrounding towns go over the roof. If you want to enjoy the Bavarian art of beer brewing, you can do so during the offseason months. Almost every town and village in Bavaria has beer gardens which are open during spring, summer, and even autumn.

Finding A Cheap Flight To Germany

You will probably find the cheapest flights during the off-season, between November and March but you can also get some good deals in April and May too. If you’re flying from the US, you might consider flying to London or Dublin first, as flights to these cities are normally cheaper. After that, you can get a cheap flight (20-30 euros) with Ryanair, Flybe or Wizz Air or you can also get a train (from London). If you’re flying directly to Germany consider Frankfurt (the largest national airport) and Berlin.

The flight fares to these two airports are the lowest.However, if you’re looking for the cheapest direct flights to Germany, you can use our Qatar Airways link to get a special discount (yes, we earn a few cents on it but you get a discount too, so it’s a win-win).

Transportation In Germany

In Germany, it seems like the bus network and the national rail system are competing to provide a better service for passengers. This has resulted in a well-developed transportation network at an affordable price. And that’s certainly great news if you’re planning to travel around Germany for your vacation.

When it comes to buses, the two best budget options are Berlin Linien Bud and ADAC Postbus. The latter one is owned by the German postal service and is slightly cheaper. A trip from Berlin to Central Germany costs around 10 EUR and most busses have free Wi-Fi on board. However, buses in Germany generally cover only the major routes in the country. So, if you want to get out in the lush forests in the west or at some tiny village, you will need to use the German train system.

The trains in Germany cover every tiny town and village and if you want to get off-the-beaten-track, the train is the right way to do this. There are a few small towns which are exceptions, of course, but they are connected to the closest train station with extension bus services. If you’re traveling by train, it would be a good idea to book your tickets in advance to save a few euros. You can do that at the official German Railway website .

Before you book your train tickets, keep in mind that the cheapest way to use the German train system is NOT to book the route you want directly or to book last minute. If you know what route you want to take in advance, you can get big discounts on the ICE (express train service).

Finally, if you don’t want to be dependent on public transport and explore on your own while getting off the beaten track, consider renting a car. If you plan to do this, use this special offer to get up to 25% off on all car rentals in Germany.

Getting Discounts Using The German Train System

If you are traveling within a particular state, you can buy a state ticket for only 22 euros. This will allow you to use all non-express, second-class trains in the state for 24 hours. A rule of thumb is that every train that’s white should be a non-express one. If you are planning to get some sightseeing done, this ability to be able to hop on and off the train across the state is awesome.

Additionally, if you’re traveling with friends, they can actually use your day pass for an extra 4 EUR each. This will leave you with a lot more money you can spend on other activities. Finally, keep in mind that this is applicable for up to 4 passengers.

Even more, this same system is applicable nationwide. The Quer-durch-Lands ticket and the Schönes-Wochenende ticket allow you to take as many non-express trains as you need during the day. This way you can easily get from, let’s say Berlin to Munich if you don’t mind changing the train a few times along the way.

Finally, note the differences between the two tickets. The Schönes-Wochenende ticket costs 44 EUR and your friends don’t have to pay extra. With the Quer-durch-Lands ticket, every friend has to pay 8 extra euros and it’s only valid during the weekdays. By the way, if you’re traveling to Germany with children, don’t worry. All kids below the age of 15 can travel for free on the ticket of their parents. Additionally, check out these tips on how to use the Deutsche Bahn

As you can see, if you have a couple of friends to travel with you when traveling to Germany, that can save you quite a while. But what about.

Solo Budget Travel In Germany

If you’re a solo traveler in Germany, don’t worry: you can still take advantage of the group discounts. Even I was traveling alone during my first trip to Germany when I discovered Mitfahrgelegenheit (meaning lift in English). Despite being impressed by Germans’ ability to complicate every word I embraced this wonderful app that every traveler should be aware of. It allows travelers to connect with other solo travelers that have Schönes-Wochenende tickets.

Update: I found out that this app doesn’t work anymore but there are some apps like Mitfahren that allows you to find people traveling the country that can offer you a lift for a low price.

Accommodation In Germany

Fortunately for budget travelers, Germany offers a plethora of budget accommodation options. You can check out Urlaub am Bauernhof , offering more than 2,000 listings for farm stay in rural areas across Germany. You can also work on a German farm for a while in exchange for free accommodation via WWOOF.

Alternatively, you can find hostels ranging between 10 and 20 euros per night, 30 to 45 euros for Airbnb or Vrbo accommodation and up to 60 euros for a private hotel room. For some great discounts on accommodation in Germany, use my Booking link to get 15% off on all properties in Germany.

Another alternative is swapping your home with other holidaymakers from Germany and save big on your accommodation by using home swapping websites. If this isn’t an option, in most big cities you’ll find some amazing budget hostels, great for young travelers (but of course all age groups are welcome). However, keep in mind that everything is more expensive in the bigger cities. During the season, even dorm beds can go up to 30 euros per night. That’s why you should consider…

Eating & Drinking

This might come as a surprise but you can actually get a meal from the street vendors for 5-6 euros. Also, you can find traditional German (delicious) snacks like Kartoffelsalat, Bratwurst, and Currywurst, for around 3-5 EUR. Alternatively, Germany has a large Turkish minority, so you can count on finding delicious kebab, doner or Lahmacun. In Germany, you can get those even cheaper than German traditional food and oftentimes the only late night snack you can find is a Turkish doner kebab.

If you’re around the center area of a big city, you’ll find many restaurants that offer business lunch deals. During lunchtime, you can get a lot of food for less than it normally costs. Also, make sure to ask for “Leitungswasser”(tap water). If you don’t specifically ask for it, you will probably get a bottle of overpriced mineral water. Also, go easy on the tip as tipping and service are included in restaurant bills across Germany. A rule of thumb is to leave extra 5-10% of the bill if you’re satisfied with the service.

You can also find some amazing and cheap pastries in the bakeries. You can grab lunch in a restaurant and have dinner in one of the bakeries on the way, and vice-versa. It’s a great additional way to save a few extra euros. You can also cook by yourself if you’re staying in accommodation that has its own kitchen. In many places across the country, you will find farmer’s markets on Saturday. This is where you can find some fresh, inexpensive groceries to prepare your own meals.

Finally, if you want to try some of that famous German beer, try local beers. They’re cheaper than the internationally famous brands, and oftentimes- just as good.

Budget Activities In Germany

When you’re traveling anywhere, activities and attractions are the most expensive category when it comes to spending. If you’re looking for a guided tour or a cruise , that will cost you around 25-30 euros, which obviously isn’t cheap. However, Germany offers a plethora of free activities that you should definitely be aware of before visiting Germany .

Let’s start with free walking tours. This is a great way to learn your way around the city once you reach. Most cities have daily free walking tours and even some hostels offer it. In the end, you can leave (but don’t have to) a tip for the tour guide.

Furthermore, most museums in Germany have at least one day every week in which you won’t have to pay admission. So, make sure to check this information before planning to visit any museum.

The city pass is a great way to save money while using public transport but there’s even a cheaper option: renting a bicycle. This also allows you to move around the city freely without being dependent on the public transport routes and without getting stuck in the traffic.

Budget-Friendly Destinations In Germany

This guide to visiting Germany on a budget couldn’t be complete if we don’t make a quick rundown of Germany’s most affordable destinations…

Berlin: You can have a blast in the capital without spending much; there are many free historical spots, and there’s always a budget-friendly café or bar waiting around the corner.

Leipzig: Leipzig is all about affordable art spaces, cheap but tasty food, and overall affordable prices.

Cologne: Take a walk by the Rhine in Cologne, and you’ll see it’s not all about spending – the city’s laid-back and easy on your wallet.

Hamburg: Hamburg’s a treasure trove of street art and indie cafes, perfect for exploring without spending a ton.

Dresden: Dresden mixes old-world charm with wallet-friendly spots – great for anyone who loves architecture and a good deal.

Bremen: Bremen is one of Germany’s most underrated cities and it’s kind to your budget too.

Nuremberg: History buffs will love Nuremberg. It’s full of affordable medieval sites and cheap eateries and markets.

If you want to explore the outdoors, don’t go for guided tours. They are ridiculously overpriced. Go hiking yourself, or find a friend that could join you on Couchsurfing.

All cities in Germany have beautiful parks. Use this to get away from the crowded streets and restaurants and have a picnic while enjoying the nature. You will also find a lot of locals that do that.

If you ask me, the best things in Germany are free. Strolling through the streets of Old Munich, visiting the Hamburg Harbor, hiking the German Alps, exploring the Black Forest and visiting the Baltic coast. You can do all these things without paying a single euro.

A Few More Tips To Visit Germany On A Budget

Take Day Trips

Instead of visiting a new destination every day, consider staying in a bigger city and take several one-day trips. For example, if you’re visiting Munich, you can stay for 5 days, spend a couple of days in Munich, visit the Alps during the next day, take a trip to Nuremberg or even cross the border with Austria to visit Salzburg.

Don’t Forget About The East

The country that was once known as East Germany hides some of the most underrated destinations in the country. Additionally, most of the eastern towns are quite cheaper than their western counterparts; mainly because they went through 50 years of socialism. For example, Heidelberg is a major tourist attraction today because of its quaint architecture but Erfurt is just as beautiful. Munich and Frankfurt are amazing cities with a lot of fun activities but so are Leipzig and Jena and you will find some amazing things in Dresden too… The list can go on and on but you get the point.

Nordsee & Ostsee

The North Sea and the Baltic Sea is where Germans go for their vacations to get away from the tourist crowds in the summer. People from around the world visit Berlin and Munich but very few actually come to the coast. This is a great way to interact with locals, explore Germany off the beaten path and discover gorgeous hidden gems like Rugen Island. Finally, make sure to get a rain jacket even if you are visiting in the summer. The German coast is famous for its unpredictable weather.

Suggested Itineraries For 15-Day Budget-Friendly Trips

• Days 1-3: Berlin
• Days 4-5: Hamburg
• Days 6-7: Bremen
• Days 8-9: Cologne
• Days 10-11: Frankfurt
• Days 12-13: Stuttgart
• Days 14-15: Munich
• Days 1-3: Munich
• Days 4-5: Nuremberg
• Days 6-7: Leipzig
• Days 8-9: Dresden
• Days 10-11: Hannover
• Days 12-13: Düsseldorf
• Days 14-15: Berlin
• Days 1-3: Cologne
• Days 4-5: Bonn
• Days 6-7: Heidelberg
• Days 8-9: Freiburg
• Days 10-11: Augsburg
• Days 12-13: Regensburg
• Days 14-15: Nuremberg

Useful Tips For Visiting Germany On A Budget

Last but not least, we’ll conclude this guide with a few more tips and resources for visiting Germany on a budget.

For the cheapest flights to Germany, use this special offer by Qatar Airways .

If you plan to rent a car, my AutoEurope discount code gets up to 25% off on your car rental in Germany.

For the best travel insurance deals, this SafetyWing offers can help you save up to 20%.

For cheap accommodation rentals in Germany, this Booking code can get you a discount on all properties in Germany. Alternatively, if you’re a luxury traveler, this link gets you 10% off on all Radisson Hotels in Germany .

Finally, if you’re collecting miles, make sure you track all of your loyalty programs and save a lot on every trip with points.com .

So, that’s all, folks. As you could see, traveling to Germany on a budget is a completely possible scenario with these budget travel options and some good planning. Do you think I missed to mention something that’s important about visiting Germany on a budget? Let me know in the comments!

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Robert A. Workman

Thursday 22nd of December 2022

While in the army, I was stationed in West Germany from October,1969 to March,1971. I traveled some in Germany and other countries. I even learned to ski in the German Alps at Gar Meisch. At Berschetsgaden, something told me to look over my left shoulder. Of course, I saw Hitler's tea house. I couldn't visit it at the time because the road to it was closed due to heavy snow. Your website fuels my desire to revisit Germany, especially Bavaria. I am starting to get ready for my trip now. At this time, I am thinking about visiting Germany in May or possibly in April.

Passport Symphony

Saturday 31st of December 2022

Thank you for your comment, Robert, and for sharing your interesting experiences with our audience. I hope you have a nice time during your upcoming trip to Germany

Monday 25th of July 2022

I love Germany so much! I go there every year. I travel to different cities and every time this country never ceases to amaze and delight me. I also love Goa. It's so nice and peaceful there! You can rent a villa and enjoy the warm sea and beautiful views.

Thursday 28th of July 2022

I don't visit every year, but I do agree, Germany is a spectacular destination :)

Tuesday 12th of February 2019

I love this round up on how to travel through Germany on a budget. It's so fantastic to learn that Germanny has a fantastic transportation network with a great affordable 24-hour pass option, which you can even share with your friends!!! A farm stay would totally be quite an awesome experience indeed, and such a fantastic way to learn about the local rural culture. I also love that they offer free walking tours which is a great introduction to a particular place.

Thank you, Soraya- I'm glad you could find some useful information about traveling Germany on a budget and I hope they'll be of use when you decide to visit in the future.

Monday 11th of February 2019

I must say your post comes at the right time when I am planning my trip to Germany. The description of every season makes it helpful and your tips on Solo travel are great. I am saving all your tips to be used this summer when I head to Germany. Thank you so much for this

Thank you, Monica- I'm really glad to hear you found some useful tips in this article and I hope you have a great trip to Germany.

Shreya Saha

A great article on keeping an eye on the pocket while exploring the huge country of Germany. Taking the rail passes always help for intercities. I also love to take the travel cards that helps save bucks and includes public transport and cruise too. I did the same last time I was in Berlin. And I value the tip of visiting the country during low season. It does saves money in many cases.

Indeed, Shreya- visiting during the low season is so much better if you ask me. Thank you for commenting :)

8 of the best places to visit in Germany

May 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan your trip to Germany with this guide to the best places to visit © Westend61 / Getty Images

At the heart of Western Europe  is  Germany , a boundless feast for travelers.

Its endless variety of historic yet cutting-edge cities, romantic forests, and cultural riches can often make the task of planning a visit daunting. It would take a lifetime to see all of this fascinating country’s highlights, so take it slow and make a start with our guide to the very best places to visit in Germany.

1. The Middle Rhine Valley (the Rhine Gorge)

As the Rhine , Germany’s second-longest river, flows south from Koblenz , it cuts a gorge through a gasp-inducing landscape of vineyards and castles. The stretch between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, known as the Oberes Mittelrheintal (Upper Middle Rhine Valley) is so special it won UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2002.

A land heavily contested over the centuries, the Oberes Mittelrheintal harbors wonderful castles like  Pfalzgrafstein ,  Burg Rheinstein ,  Burg Reichenstein and Koblenz’s mighty Festung Ehrenbreitstein .

Planning tip:  Make time to visit some of the many wineries and wine bars here. We recommend Bingen’s Weingut Georg Breuer,   Alte Weinstube Zum Hubertus in Koblenz and Zum Grünen Baum in Bacharach.

2. Cologne 

Cologne (Köln) is known for its liberal climate and its wealth of historic sights. Taking its name from the Romans (who founded it in the first century CE as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium), it’s been a major center of German history for centuries.

The most tangible symbol of Cologne’s importance and the essential sight is its magnificent 13th-century Gothic cathedral. The Kölner Dom  is Germany’s largest church, and was also Europe’s highest building until eclipsed by the  Eiffel Tower . Other must-see historical and cultural attractions include the  Römisch-Germanisches (Romano-Germanic) Museum and the sublime collection of 13th- to the 19th-century European art at the  Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud . 

Planning tip:  Pick up a  KölnCard  at the  Cologne Tourist Board office (adjacent to the cathedral) or at any KVB or DB ticket machines. A 24-hour individual ticket (€9) gets you unlimited public transport and up to 50% off at many cultural attractions, restaurants and shops.

Looking for more budget tips? Here's our money-saving guide to visiting Germany

3. The Baltic Coast

Northern Germany’s Baltic Coast represents a side of the country not many visitors anticipate. The indented southern coast of the Baltic Sea hides great swathes of pure sand, susurrating pines and pristine nature sanctuaries. Highlights include the former Hanseatic power Stralsund, a classic of red-brick Gothic gabled architecture; the sheer cliffs of  Jasmund National Park  on Rügen Island ; and the birdlife and beauty of the Darss-Zingst Peninsula.

Driving in Germany? Here are the best road trips

4. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Perhaps the most enchanting village along the entire 400km (250 miles) of the Romantic Road ,  Rothenburg ob der Tauber (meaning “above the Tauber river”) is a wonderfully preserved example of a medieval German village. Strict heritage protection ensures that every turn reveals meandering cobbled lanes, glimpses of the intact city walls and venerable churches. See the local treasures collected in the  Reichsstadtmuseum , housed in a former Dominican convent, and the  Alt-Rothenburger Handwerkerhaus , where weavers, potters and other craftspeople ply their trade as they have done for over seven centuries.

5. Munich and the Bavarian Alps

Munich (München), the capital of the Free State of Bavaria (Freistaat Bayern) is the city most visitors associate with “classic” German culture – for while Germany is in fact a patchwork of cultures and dialects, it’s often the Bavarian model of Bierkellers , Bratwurst and Lederhosen that outsiders have in mind. Munich is no cliché, though: Germany’s third-largest city is a center of high-tech manufacturing and cutting-edge culture, as well as the gateway to the magnificent Bavarian Alps .

Essential sights and experiences include the  Residenzmuseum , the former palace of Bavaria’s ruling Wittelsbach dynasty; the museum-packed  Kunstareal district; and the gracious 17th-century Schloss Nymphenburg . An easy drive south of Munich lie the forested mountains, photogenic villages and ski- and spa-resorts of the beautiful Bavarian Alps.

Planning tip:  Oktoberfest  – the beer festival that starts each year in September – is synonymous with Munich, and is the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Accommodations are booked solid long in advance, so plan ahead.

Time your visit to Munich right with this seasonal guide

6. Erfurt and Weimar

The proximate central-German cities of  Erfurt and Weimar represent an astonishing concentration of cultural achievement and historic significance. Erfurt, capital of Thuringia , has one of Germany’s loveliest medieval centers, while Weimar stands tall as the capital of the eponymous 20th-century Republic, and before that the home of cultural luminaries such as Bach, Goethe, Schiller and Nietzsche.

Erfurt’s essential sights include its  cathedral , where Martin Luther was ordained, and the vast, baroque  Zitadelle Petersberg . In Weimar, make time for the Goethe-Nationalmuseum , in a building that was the author’s home of 50 years; the UNESCO-listed Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek ; and the modernist treasures of the Bauhaus Museum , which also originated here.

7. The Black Forest

Bordering France and Switzerland , the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a vast woodland of more than 6000 sq km (2316 sq miles). From its spruce-swaddled slopes to deep valleys broken by silvery lakes and traditional villages and farmsteads, this diverse rural playground just begs to be explored by car, cycle or foot.

If you’re pressed for time, a drive along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse ( Black Forest High Road ) from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt unfurls a series of gorgeous vistas. If you have more time, consider hiking the 40km (25-mile)  Panoramaweg or the 12km (7.5-mile)  Feldberg–Steig to the forest’s highest peak. Population centers you should definitely include on your visit include Triberg, with its waterfall and cuckoo clocks; the laid-back university town of Freiburg ; and Alpirsbach, with its 11th-century Benedictine monastery .

Planning tip: While travelers are naturally drawn to the Black Forest’s great outdoors, it would be a mistake to overlook the region’s excellent cuisine. There’s Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest gâteau), of course – while lesser-known specialities include venison Baden-Baden , smoked Schwartzwalder Schinken (ham) and skinless lange rote (long red) sausages from Freiburg.

Don't miss Germany's best flavors with this guide to food and drink

No list of German highlights would be complete without the country’s capital and dynamic cultural engine room. Germany’s most populous city,  Berlin is a bountiful beast of a place, with some of the country’s definitive museums, dining, art and – perhaps above all – nightlife.

Boisterous Berlin has long had a bohemian streak. While you should definitely make time to for cultural highlights like the Mies van der Rohe–designed Neue Nationalgalerie and the treasure trove that is Museumsinsel (Museum Island), those seeking a party will surely find it in iconic venues like  Berghain and  Pratergarten , where beer and bonhomie have flowed together since 1837. As ever, Berlin’s party people continue to innovate . 

Planning tip:  Before you hit town, get yourself a Berlin Welcome Card online. It's available for varying periods of time, from 48-hours to 6-days, and gives unlimited rides on public transport , free entry to more than 30 top attractions plus up to 50% off entry to over 150 more, as well as other benefits.

Explore Berlin one neighborhood at a time with our guide

This article was first published Jun 3, 2021 and updated May 9, 2024.

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5 Cheapest Places to Travel in Germany

Germany is one of the best countries to visit no matter what kind of traveler you are. From incredible metropolitan cities like Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Berlin, to gorgeous small and historic towns like Spenge, Hannover, and Bremen, this iconic European destination has something for every taste. Celebrations like Oktoberfest, Karneval, and German Unity Day are perfect for learning more about German culture and  getting closer to German people, who are typically friendly and open.

For those traveling on a budget, Germany offers amazing deals and hidden gems that will blow your mind. Some are mainstream and well-known, while others are a little more off the beaten track for travelers looking to dodge the crowds.

This great city is often overlooked by tourists and visitors who are not from Germany. However, Germans know good value when they see it and Hamburg is a one-stop place for a wonderful and exciting trip. As far as people looking for a great party and a lively nightlife, Hamburg is filled with clubs, bars, and restaurants for every taste and every budget. If you´re into culture, Hamburg is packed with historic sites and museums such as Kunsthalle Hamburg and the Internationales Maritimes Museum, among others. Finally, for entertainment for the entire family or an adrenaline rush, visit Miniatur Wunderland or Heide Park. All this can be done while staying at one of the many accommodations offered in the city that will cover all ranges of budgets.

Berlin is experiencing extraordinary growth as a vacation destination. This town has a rich history and culture that make it one of the can’t-miss stops on any Euro tour. When you arrive you’ll notice right away that Berlin is truly opening its arms to visitors. It offers a huge array of options to eat, sleep, and have fun that can work for every budget. The city’s transportation system and walkable areas are perfect for seeing sites under budget. For instance, historic landmarks like Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and Alexander Platz, among others, are easily accessible and great to visit.

Munich gets pretty crowded and incredibly fun during Oktoberfest and prices will go up significantly during these celebrations. However, Munich is so pleasant and liveable that visitors often decide to spend more days here and take advantage of everything it has to offer. The numerous hostels, hotels, and other types of accommodations give visitors plenty of options to find a place that fits their budgets,

leaving enough cash left to enjoy the culture, gastronomy, and lively nightlife the city has to offer. While in town, don´t forget to visit such sites like the stunning Allianz Arena, and the BMW Museum.

The city of Bremen is mostly known for its maritime trade and commerce, and for the famous fairy tale about the Town Musicians of Bremen. Visit the statue while in town for a great photo opportunity! The city is filled with picturesque buildings in the downtown area where there are also plenty of options to enjoy local food and culture at a reasonable price. Complement this with a wide variety of places to stay that includes hostels, hotels, apartments, and more.

5) Dusseldorf

Probably the best destination on this list for travelers looking for great deals that fit into their budget, Dusseldorf is filled with entertainment, dining, and sleeping options to accommodate even the tightest of budgets. For starters, one of the main features of the city is the abundant pubs, modern and ancient breweries, and clubs located in the Altstadt district. This option alone can provide fun activities for a few days. However, the town is also packed with museums, parks, and shops that are perfect for finding the best deals for all kinds of visitors.

Article contributed by Diego Garzon , a writer by day and a reader by night. He is also the author of the first Screenwriting Manual in Spanish. He has been a creative consultant for television series and films. He lives with “the wife”, ”the dog”, “the other dog” and occasionally wears pants. You can also visit his website www.diegopgarzon.com

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Best places to visit in germany.

Full of culture, lively locals and great beer, Germany is home to many captivating travel destinations. Whether you're looking to soak up art, architecture and history or imbibe at Oktoberfest, this country appeals to a variety of tourists. U.S. News weighed factors like sights, food, culture, accessibility and value, in addition to expert and traveler opinions, to create the best places to visit in Germany. Vote for the destinations you love below to help shape next year's ranking.

Neuschwanstein

Garmisch-partenkirchen, black forest, berchtesgaden, rüdesheim am rhein.

Germany's capital city is akin to Paris and London in that you just can't visit the country without going. Like many large cities, Berlin offers something for everyone, from a lively nightlife scene to restorative green spaces. Those looking take in the arts can explore the impactful East Side Gallery (on the Berlin Wall) or visit the more traditional art galleries at Museum Island. Berlin also pays homage to its ominous past with powerful and humbling attractions. Must-visit historical sites include the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.

Visitors flock to Munich every fall to take part in Oktoberfest, a two-week-long ode to Bavarian traditions featuring Germany's best beers and bratwurst. But Munich, one of the largest German cities, offers so much more than just this festival. The city is home to beautiful gardens, exquisite churches and engaging museums worth exploring. Wander around Munich's charming neighborhoods and spend some time in Marienplatz, a central square that's home to the world-famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel and hosts a popular Christmas market.

Though Neuschwanstein Castle was never meant for visitors, it has become one of Germany's most popular tourist attractions. King Ludwig II commissioned the castle as a place of refuge from public life. Today, more than 1 million people stroll through the property every year. The castle's Romanesque Revival-style is certainly romantic; in fact, it inspired Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. But what elevates this castle to bucket list status is its unbelievable setting, perched in the Bavarian Alps. From the castle, travelers can get an eyeful of the surrounding mountains, Alpine lakes and striking foliage (especially during fall).

This scenic mountain town in the Bavarian Alps calls to adventure-hungry travelers. In winter, Garmisch-Partenkirchen draws skiers looking to hit the slopes and learn about the Winter Olympics that were held here in 1936. In summer, hikers descend upon the town hoping to climb Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak (the summit is also reachable via cable car). Other can't-miss attractions include Lake Eibsee and Partnachklamm, a narrow gorge characterized by steep rock walls and roaring rapids. Meanwhile, if you're looking to unwind, take a stroll through Historic Ludwigstrasse or explore the grounds of Linderhof Palace and Park.

One of the best places to see Germany's natural splendor is the fairy-tale-inspiring Black Forest. This section of Baden-Württemberg encompasses more than 2,000 square miles of enchanting waterfall-filled forests, rolling hills and lengthy valleys dotted with half-timbered villages. A great introduction to the Black Forest is driving along its scenic namesake highway (Schwarzwaldhochstrasse); be sure to start or end your journey in the spa town of Baden-Baden to benefit from its thermal springs. You'll also want to save time for visiting gorgeous natural wonders like the picture-perfect Triberg Waterfalls, Lake Titisee and the Feldberg, the Black Forest's highest peak.

Dresden is made for architecture enthusiasts. The city, which is located in eastern Germany near the Czech border, features remarkable facades and edifices adorned with ornate architectural details. Though you'll have your pick of stunning structures, make sure you visit the Dresden Zwinger (a Baroque-style palace) and Dresden Royal Palace (a Renaissance landmark where the Fürstenzug, the world's largest porcelain mural, resides). If you prefer modern architecture, head to Kunsthofpassage to gaze at its quirky buildings, one of which has singing drainpipes. And those visiting during festive season can't miss Striezelmarkt, Germany's oldest and largest Christmas market.

For a memorable vacation in the Bavarian Alps, visit Berchtesgaden. This destination, which sits on the Austrian border, captivates visitors with its massive peaks, cascading forests, deep valleys and Alpine lake and river that make up Berchtesgaden National Park. Start your journey driving the scenic Rossfeld Panoramastrasse before traveling south to awe-inspiring Lake Königssee and the Eagle's Nest, a mountaintop beer garden. If you enjoy skiing, arrive in winter when Jenner Mountain is blanketed with snow.

First-time visitors to this historic German city should make a beeline for Cologne Cathedral – this breathtaking example of Gothic architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city's most popular landmark. Meanwhile, travelers with a sweet tooth should make time in their schedule for a tour of Cologne's Chocolate Museum. Other activities include relaxing on the lawn at Rheinpark, exploring Cologne's Old Town, cruising the Rhine River and taking in spectacular city views from a cable car. Visit in February or March when Cologne's annual Carnival celebration takes place, an event featuring festivities like masked balls, parades and parties.

Go off the beaten track on your next getaway by heading to this Bavarian city in southeast Germany. Boasting centuries-old architecture and a prime location along the Danube River, Regensburg is known as one of Germany's oldest and best-preserved medieval cities. Most of Regensburg's top attractions can be found in the city's UNESCO-listed Old Town, including landmarks like St. Peter's Cathedral, Haidplatz Square and the Stone Bridge. Other sights worth visiting include the Thurn und Taxis Palace and Walhalla, a hall of fame honoring exemplary German-speaking figures throughout history.

This city in southwestern Germany is well known for housing the country's oldest university. However, its good looks and superb location along the Neckar River also make it a great destination to enjoy old-world character and a small-town ambiance. To see as much of this beautiful city as possible, take a long stroll through Heidelberg's old town and across its picturesque Old Bridge. Then, ride the funicular railway to Heidelberg Castle, and continue on to Königstuhl for impressive views. Additional must-see sights to add to your vacation itinerary include the Philosopher's Walk, Heidelberg Zoo and the Student Prison at Heidelberg University.

Boasting elaborate churches and palaces around every corner, Würzburg is a photographer's paradise. From the Baroque-style Residence Palace to the Romanesque St. Kilian Cathedral, there are countless buildings worth exploring. Not only can travelers enjoy beautiful architecture, they can expect manicured gardens and parks, such as Ring Park and the University of Würzburg's Botanical Garden, along with numerous vineyards and estates offering wine tastings (Würzburg is located in Germany's Franken wine region). When you're not sipping on delicious vino, consider visiting the grand Marienberg Fortress or snapping a photo of Würzburg's iconic Old Main Bridge.

Primarily known for its winemaking capabilities, Rüdesheim am Rhein is a small village located at the base of Germany's Rhine Valley. While you'll surely want to spend the majority of your time here sampling Rüdesheim am Rhein's famous riesling, you should save time for other activities as well. The restaurant- and market-lined Drosselgasse alley is a perfect place to hear live music, and you'd be remiss to skip the one-of-a-kind Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet during your trip. Another worthwhile activity is a castle cruise along the Rhine River.

Frankfurt is best known as the financial capital of the eurozone thanks to it housing the European Central Bank, but don't assume the city is nothing more than a concrete jungle. Frankfurt doubles as a tourist-friendly destination with all kinds of attractions. Here, you'll find the Frankfurt Museum Embankment, a riverside perimeter that comprises more than a dozen museums, including the popular Städel Museum. Other noteworthy sights include the city's colorful old town, the Main Tower observation deck and the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden.

Located less than 22 miles southwest of bustling Berlin, Potsdam makes for a perfect daytrip. The city offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere complete with parks and eye-catching historical landmarks. The city's most popular attraction, Sanssouci Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so breathtaking that it is often compared to Versailles. The palace's name means "without a care," so plan on spending unhurried hours there taking in its splendor and the surrounding grounds. You'll also want to save time for visiting Cecilienhof Country House – where the historic Potsdam Conference took place – and strolling through the charming Dutch Quarter.

Home to Germany's largest cruise port, the Elbe river and hundreds of canals flowing through the city center, Hamburg is a great place to explore by boat. But for those on foot, many top attractions are clustered in the heart of the city, including the Alter Elbtunnel and Planten un Blomen park. Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth visiting, offers Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway system that enraptures visitors of all ages. Plus, Hamburg is a haven for music lovers with its impressive Elbphilharmonie complex, which features two concert halls and a plaza with sweeping city views.

The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is a must-visit destination due to its well-preserved history (both medieval and more recent). The city's darker World War II connections are on display at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rallying Grounds and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials museum. Go further back in time with a visit to the vast, all-encompassing Germanisches Nationalmuseum, which includes artwork from prehistoric times to today. Then, wind your way through old town's endearing streets, where you'll find half-timbered houses, a four-story fountain and the imposing Imperial Castle, which dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

Head to this small medieval city in northern Bavaria to feel as if you've stepped back in time. Bamberg is famous for housing notable Enlightenment-era writers and philosophers like E.T.A. Hoffmann and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Plus, Bamberg boasts a gorgeous location along the Regnitz river and a collection of exquisite architectural beauties, including the Romanesque Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. But no visit would be complete without seeing the dreamy rose garden at the New Residence palace.

Upon first glance, Lübeck might look like any other mid-size German city. However, this northern destination with Nordic beauty holds plenty of historical significance, so much so that UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site. Between the 12th and 16th centuries, Lübeck was considered one of Europe's most important trading ports. The city still remains a hub for maritime commerce with its location on the Baltic Sea. After learning more about Lübeck's maritime roots at the European Hansemuseum, travelers can check out the stately Holsten Gate in the city's charming old town or explore its many waterways during a boat tour.

Sitting on the banks of the Rhine River about 80 miles northwest of Frankfurt, Koblenz is overlooked by the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This idyllic setting is an added bonus to the city's strong cultural offerings, which range from institutions like the DB Museum Koblenz and the Ludwig Museum to monuments like the German Corner. You should also make time for a ride on the Koblenz Cable Car, which offers panoramic views of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Plus, with access to both the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is an excellent destination for a river cruise (many routes take travelers past vineyards, castles and more).

Situated about 10 miles east of Germany's border with Luxembourg, the country's oldest city draws history buffs in droves. Trier was founded by Romans in 16 B.C. and is filled with some of the best-preserved ruins from that era. Must-see Roman relics include St. Peter's Cathedral, Porta Nigra, the Basilica of Constantine and the Imperial Baths. When you need a break from learning about Trier's ties to the Roman Empire, explore old town's colorful Hauptmarkt square, visit Karl Marx's birthplace or take a scenic boat tour along the Moselle river.

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Low Budget Travel Destinations for Students in Germany

by Stella | Aug 24, 2022 | Destinations , Europe , Germany , Travel Bucket Lists , Travel Tips

We know that you are currently all sitting at home waiting to be able to travel again finally. Especially if you are a student doing nothing but taking online classes, you are probably wondering how to make better use of your time. We’ve got the answer: short trips within Germany! We made a list of our favorite travel destinations for students in Germany that you can explore on a tight budget. We will also give you some valuable travel tips to help you save extra money on the road.

Best places to visit for travel destinations for students in Germany

Mecklenburg lake plateau, elbe sandstone mountains, quedlinburg.

The Mecklenburg Lake Plateau attracts thousands of visitors every year that want to dive into nature, quite literally, and enjoy the tranquillity of this beautiful region. The many lakes and rivers, over 1000 to be precise, invite you to swim and cool down. Admire the beauty of nature from your own houseboat, or rent a sailing boat or kayak to go and explore the area a little further. The decision is yours, but if you are a student traveling on a budget, we recommend you rent a houseboat. Especially if you’re traveling in a group, this is a great way to combine accommodation and transport while splitting the cost.

There are many options to buy groceries in the villages along the shore and prepare your own food, which is a great way to save some extra money. Or, you can even bring the essentials from home because this region is very accessible by car or train. You can either take a road trip or get a group ticket for the train. The high season is during the summer months when the weather is best. If you are keen on saving a bit more, it might be worth coming out here during the low season for low-budget travel destinations for students in Germany.

You can find the Elbe Sandstone Mountains in Saxony, more precisely in Saxon, Switzerland. This destination is a great, and most of all much cheaper, alternative to real Switzerland. Saxon, Switzerland, has a breathtaking landscape and a remarkable mountain range. This is the perfect travel destination for nature lovers. That’s not all. This is also a great location to go hiking and explore the area . Even though some cable cars exist, real adventurers use their power to reach the top of the mountains!

Numerous free or low-budget activities in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains will make your trip unforgettable while not costing you a fortune. For example, hiking doesn’t cost you anything! If you visit during the summer, you can even look for little creeks to cool down in the water. Another great and affordable location to check out is the Königstein Fortress, right next to the Elbe river. You can currently visit the fortress from 10 am to 6 pm, with the entrance fee being 7€ per person. As you can see, there’s plenty to discover in the Elbe Sandstone Mountain area on a student budget. All you need now is the right group of TripMates for your travel destinations for students in Germany, which we can help you with; head to JoinMyTrip.

We know what you want, to be like Indiana Jones! You don’t have to travel into the jungle’s depths for that. The Spreewald in Brandenburg is perfectly adequate. In the interwoven arms of the Spree, you can experience true adventures as the primary means of transport here is the boat! If you are children of water, this is your place. The best thing? You can moor your boat and pitch your tents. This way, you can save a lot of money and travel with your travel mates at a low cost.

Knowing how economical your journey can be is especially important as a student. The Spreewald is less than 1.5 hours away from Berlin by car, so you can easily combine the city and nature. Thus, you don’t have to pay too much for a city hotel, but you can spend the second half of your trip in a tent or on a boat.

You’ve already seen these places and want to explore some student cities with your new travel mates? We are with you! We have put together the best student cities for you, which are not only attractive for studying but also for one of the best low-budget travel destinations for students in Germany.

Have you never heard of Quedlinburg? Well, you are going to now! This city is located in Saxony-Anhalt in the Harz Mountains and is a world heritage site as it was founded around 922 AD! Therefore, you will find a lot of cultural treasures from the early Middle Ages here, which you won’t see anywhere else. You will find not only exciting museums but also unique nature just outside the city gates. You can use two national hiking trails leading you through the mountain range.

Quedlinburg is not the typical city mentioned in the guidebooks as the most beautiful travel destination for students in Germany, but that’s precisely why you should go there! Culinary delights will not be missed out in this little town either. No matter what you want to eat, may it be “typically German,” Far Eastern, or Southeast Asian food, you will find what you are looking for here! Saxony-Anhalt is generally very inexpensive and popular with groups because hiking and experiencing the culture are fun. People like that are waiting for you in the JoinMyTrip community so you can travel together as students at a reasonable price.

Marburg is located in Hessen and is an excellent example of how students can travel on a small budget. This student city is in the shadow of its giant neighbor, Frankfurt am Main. However, it would be best if you took the time to leave Frankfurt behind and explore this medieval town. Like many southern cities, Marburg has a dazzling past, which you can experience through buildings and architecture, such as the Landgrafenschloss or the old university. The student scene is very liberal and open to beer with anyone friendly and open-minded. If you want to learn more about the German brewing culture, check out our 4 Best Brewery & Beer Tours in Germany!

If you are traveling with photography travel mates, you should check out the following photo spots, Weidenhäuser Straße, the Rosenparkbrücke, and the marketplace. At these spots, you can capture the beauty of the city. A popular meeting point for students is the Lahn stairs; a fun fact is that more than a third of the 70.000 inhabitants here are students.

Even though this city is popular with tourists, there are still very cheap corners and perfect for a student trip. No other city in Germany is so colorful, loud, diverse, and multicultural. You can still experience the history of Germany, especially regarding the inner-German wall and the Second World War, like nowhere else in Germany. In Berlin, there are many possibilities for planning cheap sightseeing. For example, if you take the number 100 bus, you can get to the Tiergarten, the Reichstag, Bellevue Palace, and the Victory Column. If you want to see the city from above and enjoy the view without spending a fortune on the television tower. Then, go accessible to the Teufelsberg, the Elsenbrücke, or the Oberbaumbrücke!

Berlin is also known for its numerous small restaurants and snack bars, which have maintained their low prices. Such places can often be found near flea markets. We like the flea market in Mauerpark best! Berlin will always be a top tip for travel destinations for students in Germany because this city lives from being more affordable than other big cities in Germany . That’s why the city remains true to itself and is recommended by us again and again, especially for the summer of 2020.

Dresden is always worth a trip. It couldn’t be cheaper! The city on the Elbe will enchant you with the imposing architecture of its venerable buildings. The beauty here is that you can find this culture on one side of the river, and on the other side is the Neustadt, which pulsates with innovative concepts and young people. You will feel like you are in Berlin, just a little smaller! Locals offer free city tours. Many of Dresden’s sights can also be admired for free, like the Zwinger, the Frauenkirche, and the Fürstenzug in Auguststraße. Importantly, all these buildings are within walking distance, so you don’t have to rely on transportation.

In Dresden, you can experience medieval culture and learn more about Germany’s history after the Second World War. The city was one of the places that were hit the hardest. It doesn’t always have to be the biggest because even half the way is enough to experience a nice short trip. At JoinMyTrip, you can easily upload your trip to Dresden and take cool people with you!

Tips for low budget travel destinations for students in Germany

Travel in the low season: For many places, summer is, of course, the best time of year. But many tourists have the same thought. Spring and fall can be beautiful, too, because you can experience nature in action!

Choice of transport: Bus or train? Plane or car? It would be best if you asked yourself these questions because the choice of vehicle makes a big difference. Don’t book too early or too late, and keep an eye on the prices. Also, make sure to talk to your tripmates. Maybe you come from the same direction and can travel together. Often there are group tickets that can save you a lot of money .

Choosing accommodation: Of course, hostels are often the cheapest way to stay in a city or region. But there are also often offers from hotels or vacation apartment providers who want to occupy their rooms in the low seasons.

Of course, we have provided more information about the Corona crisis. Click here for JoinMyTrip’s COVID-19 Guidelines .

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The 10 Most Affordable Cities in Europe to Visit This Year

By Olivia Morelli

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Inflation effects us all, but travel remains a high priority for many searching for some respite from home stresses. Ahead of the summer holidays, the United Kingdom Post Office has released their annual City Costs Barometer , showcasing the best destinations to visit that won’t break the bank.

For the 17th year running, the barometer takes data from 37 different cities across Europe, analyzing prices to calculate the most affordable city break destinations. The survey calculates the average cost for a two-night weekend stay, taking into account prices for a visit to a top heritage tourist attraction, a museum, a sightseeing bus tour, and a public transport travel card valid for the duration of the stay. Food and drink costs included in the sums range from a regular cup of filter coffee to a three-course evening meal for two people, including house wine.

The data from this survey should prove helpful to those looking to book a cheap destination holiday this summer. The interest in city breaks has grown this year in the UK, with two in five Brits opting for a city break for their next holiday, but the appeal is universal. And, this data shows that prices are down in 60 percent of cities featured, thanks to significant accommodation price drops around the continent.

Vilnius is one of Europe's most underrated cities for its Cathedral and epic hiking.

The winning city for 2024 is the Lithuanian capital. Vilnius previously held the crown of best value city in 2015, 2019, and 2020, but last year only just lost out on first place to Lisbon . Its fourth win is a result of low prices across the board—the cost of a weekend racks up to about $300, more than 10 percent lower than the runner-up city, and less than half the cost of 18 out of the 37 cities featured.

Vilnius has grown in popularity recently—we named it one of Europe’s most underrated cities to visit. There are plenty of hikes to take in the surrounding countryside, many of which offer epic vistas over the city (like Gediminas Hill), and don’t skip a visit to the Vilnius Cathedral or the secret St. James Church bell tower.

In second place comes last year’s winner. Thanks to a 26 percent rise in the average accommodation cost, Lisbon slipped down a rank for 2024. The average cost for two nights in three-star accommodation is $193 this year, compared to $150 last year, raising the total cost to $335. The city is one of just three in Western European to make the top ten.

Lille, France takes third place and is notable as an affordable alternative to Paris.

In more surprising news, Lille came in third place, shooting up seven places from 10 in 2023. This is largely due to a 30 percent fall in costs, seeing the average cost of accommodation drop from $235 to $166. Interest in the French city has surged in recent years as travelers from London seek a more pocket-friendly alternative to Paris —Lille is less than 90 minutes away from London via Eurostar.

Athens dropped from fourth to fifth place, while Riga, Budapest , Bratislava, Prague , and Warsaw fill in the rest of the top 10. The list of Europe’s most expensive cities is equally as interesting—Amsterdam retains its top spot for another year with an average cost of $850 per weekend, closely followed by Belfast ($800), Edinburgh ($765), and Helsinki ($745).

Krakow, Poland can, in parts, be mistaken for Rome.

Starting with the cheapest, the top 10 European cities for overall value in 2024 are:

• Vilnius, Lithuania
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Lille, France
• Krakow, Poland
• Athens, Greece
• Riga, Latvia
• Budapest, Hungary
• Bratislava, Slovakia
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Warsaw, Poland

A version of this story originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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How to Get the Best Car Insurance

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For a lot of people, buying car insurance is like buying sliced bread. It’s not the most exciting purchase, and the options all seem similar. So thrifty shoppers might simply reach for the cheapest thing on the shelf. But like cheap bread, cheap car insurance may leave you wishing you spent a little more on quality.

“The cheapest is not always the best,” warns Jessica McNally, an agency owner with Goosehead Insurance in Dallas. That’s because there are lots of factors that make up a car insurance company. And while price is one of them, it’s best to look at the bigger picture.

Here’s what to look for when picking the best car insurance company.

1. Choose a financially stable company

The best car insurance companies have plenty of money on hand to pay for customers’ claims. It’s important to check an insurer’s financial stability before buying a policy, especially if it’s a smaller insurer you’ve never heard of.

There are several independent agencies that evaluate the financial strength of insurance companies. One example is A.M. Best. You can use its online search tool to find an insurer’s financial strength rating. Companies with a rating of A or higher are considered to have an excellent ability to pay out customer claims.

2. Check customer satisfaction ratings and reviews

Not every insurer is customer-first. That’s why it’s important to research the customer satisfaction of insurers you’re considering.

You can turn to surveys from companies like J.D. Power to find insurers with the best customer satisfaction scores [0] J.D. Power . Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction Plummets as Rates Continue to Surge, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . Or, if you don’t mind doing a little detective work, you can compare customer complaints against insurers by using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ website . But take other people’s emotionally charged comments about companies or agents you might read online with a grain of salt, McNally advises.

3. Look for convenience

A great auto insurer should offer multiple ways to manage a policy. For example, some insurers allow customers to use a mobile app to file and track claims. But it’s hard to tell how simple it’ll be to file a claim or perform other essential tasks, like paying your premium, before becoming a customer.

Some telltale signs that an insurer will be easy to work with are high mobile app ratings, flexible customer service hours and an easy-to-use website with helpful content. Consider asking a company representative to walk you through the claims process to learn what you’ll need to do if you have to file a claim. And pay attention to how the company communicates with you. "If they don't properly communicate, well, that's a warning sign," says Michael DeLong, a research and advocacy associate for the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America.

4. Pick an affordable company

Car insurance premiums are stretching to record-breaking heights [0] U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS . Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources , and almost half of U.S. consumers shopped for a new car insurance policy in the past year, according to an April 2024 report by J.D. Power [0] J.D. Power . Half of Auto Insurance Customers Currently Shopping for New Policies, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . The best car insurance companies offer competitive rates and a variety of potential discounts.

It’s not hard to get car insurance quotes online from many companies. Make sure you compare the same coverage options throughout the quote-gathering process. And don’t forget to look for car insurance discounts, like breaks for being a good driver, paying your premium in full or driving a new car.

More tips to find the best car insurance

When shopping for the best car insurance, keep the following tips in mind.

Assess your needs. Before buying car insurance, take a moment to reflect on what’s important to you and your family. For example, maybe you prioritize affordability and a well-polished mobile app, but don’t need accident forgiveness .  

Consider small insurers. There are lots of small insurance companies you’ve probably never heard of. These regional insurers may provide lower rates and better customer service than the big companies you see advertised on TV.

Work with an independent agent. While it may be easy to get quotes yourself, independent car insurance agents and brokers can streamline the process. These experts vet companies and compile quotes from small and large insurers on your behalf. Independent agents and brokers can especially come in handy if you have a less-than-perfect driving record and can’t find insurance on your own.

Do your research. Search online for recent mentions of a company in the news before buying a policy, recommends DeLong. If you find a company has lots of recent lawsuits against it, you may want to think twice about signing on the dotted line. “And if they've had to pay out settlements, that's an even bigger red flag,” DeLong says.

Shop around once a year. Make a practice of shopping for car insurance every year — especially if price is important to you. Insurers adjust car insurance rates regularly, so what might have been the most affordable option last year may no longer be a bargain.

On a similar note...

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20 of the Best Places to Visit in Germany for Breathtaking Mountains, Medieval Towns, and Moving Historic Sites

From moving landmarks to charming villages, these are 20 of the best places to visit in Germany, according to experts.

Germany is filled with charming small towns, exhilarating cities, enchanting castles, historic landmarks, and famous festivities — notably Oktoberfest and the Christmas markets . With 16 states, from Bavaria to Bremen, there are a lot of different ways to vacation in Deutschland. That might look like bopping around to hilltop villages on a road trip or plopping down in a vibrant metropolis and going on some interesting day trips. Need some inspiration ahead of your first (or next) trip to the land of bratwurst and beer? We asked Liam S. Dunch, product manager, Europe at Abercrombie & Kent , and Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato , to share their top picks. Scroll on for the best places to visit in Germany.

Related: 12 Best Small Towns in Germany, From Charming Medieval Villages to Idyllic Mountain Escapes

1. East Side Gallery

Once a symbol of oppression — and an enduring reminder of Germany’s turbulent past — the concrete barrier that used to divide Berlin now serves a vastly different purpose thanks to the creation of the East Side Gallery. Artists transformed the largest remaining section of the Berlin Wall into an open-air art gallery with colorful, thought-provoking graffiti murals.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

One of the most beautiful small towns in the world , Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an endlessly charming village along Germany’s fabled Romantic Road in the Franconia region of Bavaria. Its cobblestone lanes, half-timbered houses, churches, medieval walls, and towers look like they were plucked from a storybook.

3. Courtroom 600

Many people who visit Germany want to gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events of the 20th century. “Not only does a trip to Courtroom 600 means the chance to step inside the room where Nazi leaders were tried for their unspeakable crimes, but visitors can also watch real footage of the Nuremberg trials and learn about the legacy of the verdicts,” explains Dunch.

4. Bach-Museum Leipzig

Dunch urges lovers of classical music to make the pilgrimage to Leipzig, where Johann Sebastian Bach composed most of his major works and spent the last 27 years of his life. The Bach-Museum Leipzig houses a collection of instruments, original manuscripts, and other memorabilia related to the German composer. 

5. Baden-Baden 

European aristocracy (including Napoleon III and Queen Victoria) have decamped to Baden-Baden, a historic spa town on the edge of southwestern Germany's Black Forest, since the 19th century. This Belle Époque resort town retains its glamorous reputation and wellness credentials, continuing to entice well-heeled travelers with thermal baths and high-class spa hotels such as Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa .   

6. Museum Island

“I always tell first-time visitors to Berlin to check out Museum Island,” says Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato . Situated in the middle of the Spree River, this architecturally stunning cultural complex houses five magnificent museums: Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and Pergamon Museum. 

7. Schloss Proschwitz

Schloss Proschwitz is a beautiful 18th-century, neo-baroque castle in the district of Meissen with elegant interiors and gardens. The estate also plays host to Saxony's oldest private winery, which invites visitors for cellar tours and tastings.  

8. Hofbräuhaus

The most famous of the many beer halls in Munich, Hofbräuhaus takes patrons back in time to an era when tokens were used to pay for steins and shares the tradition of gemütlichkeit (geniality) with visitors from around the world through live music, warm hospitality, and homemade Bavarian food.

9. Meissen's Porcelain Museum

“The medieval town of Meissen has produced fine figurines and crockery since 1710,” explains Dunch. The Meissen Porcelain Museum tells the story of Meissen porcelain through a collection of more than 2,000 objects — including ornate tables used in the royal courts of Europe in the 18th century, vases, candle holders, and intricate animal figurines. 

10. Neuschwanstein Castle 

One of Germany’s most famous and frequented attractions, Neuschwanstein Castle welcomes a whopping 1.4 million visitors each year. Travelers come from all over to gawk at the fairy-tale medieval palace and far-reaching views from atop a dramatic rocky hilltop in the Bavarian Alps. Quinn recommends booking timed-entry reservations to avoid waiting in lengthy lines.

11. Linderhof Palace

And you don't have to go far to see another stately residence. Instead of (or after) fighting the crowds at Neuschwanstein Castle, Dunch suggests visiting nearby Linderhof Palace. “It’s easy to see why this idyllic fantasy ‘hunting lodge’ was Ludwig II’s favorite getaway.”

Set on the shores of Lake Constance in Bavaria, Lindau attracts travelers with its harborfront charm and scenic views. On the itinerary? Catch sight of Switzerland across the water as you stroll the streets, check out the lighthouse, pause along Seepromenade to snap photos of the 12th-century Mangturm watchtower, and embark on a kayak excursion.  

13. Spreewald Biosphere Reserve

Tucked between Berlin and Dresden, the UNESCO-listed Spreewald Biosphere Reserve is a unique inland delta along the Spree with waterways and woodlands. It’s an idyllic setting for kayaking along the channels and soaking in the natural beauty of the area. 

14. Porsche Experience Center Leipzig

Sports car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Porsche Experience Center Leipzig , a state-of-the-art factory and test circuit. Ready to go full-throttle? After the tour and a brief history lesson, accelerate, brake, and drift on an adrenaline-pumping drive on the circular track.   

15. Zugspitze

Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, rises 9,718 feet above sea level and stands out as a top spot for high-altitude fun and year-round recreation. The Wankbahn cable car operates from April to October, bringing visitors to Mount Wank for a homemade breakfast at Sonnenalm and far-reaching panoramas. Hiking is also popular during the warmer months, while winter brings opportunities for skiing, tobogganing, and glacier tours.

16. Baiersbronn

Baiersbronn, a quaint village in southern Germany between Strasbourg, France and Stuttgart, is the culinary capital of the Black Forest with seven Michelin-starred restaurants and even more that have earned other culinary awards. “It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch on a drive through this scenic region,” says Quinn. 

17. Therme Erding

The largest thermal bath complex in Europe, Therme Erding , located just 30 minutes northeast of Munich, draws upwards of 5,000 visitors each day. The giant water slides, wave pool, and lazy river are a hit with kids. Prefer relaxation? There’s also a classic spa and sauna area just for adults. 

18. Titisee-Neustadt

Nestled within the Black Forest in southwest Germany, Titisee-Neustadt is a local’s getaway on the lakeshore that’s beloved for family fun and access to nature. During the summer, active types love to hit the scenic trails and climb Hochfirst Mountain, while winter means skiing and sledding. Bringing the kiddos? Head to Badeparadies Schwarzwald, an indoor water park with slides, mineral pools, and saunas. 

19. Europa-Park

Travelers of all ages will have a blast at Europa-Park , a theme park in Rust, Germany with over 100 rides — including 13 thrilling roller coasters — plus a water park, live shows, restaurants, bars, hotels, a camping site, and even a wellness spa. Looking for something unique? The resort area is also home to Eatrenalin , an experience that combines fine dining with theme park technology for a totally immersive meal.

There are plenty of naturally beautiful places to visit in Germany, but few are as stunning as Eibsee. Sitting at the base of the Zugspitze, this pristine lake is filled with crystal-clear water and surrounded by alpine peaks that make it a favorite destination for boating and hiking.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

General election latest: Tories accuse Labour of 'flip-flopping' on tax - as Abbott row 'blows up' more than Starmer expected

The Tories are going on the attack, aiming punches at Labour's "chaotic" economic policy and tax plans. Meanwhile, the row over whether Diane Abbott will stand for Labour rumbles on, with the veteran MP vowing to remain in parliament "by any means possible".

Thursday 30 May 2024 09:12, UK

• General Election 2024

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Election news

• Tories accuse Labour of 'flip-flopping' on tax and plotting VAT 'raid'
• Labour attacks Tory crime record - pledges to 'rebuild safety on Britain's streets'
• Abbott says she will stand in Hackney 'by any means possible'
• Politics at Jack and Sam's:  The Day... Labour finds a bit taxing
• Live reporting by Ben Bloch

Expert analysis

• Sam Coates: Abbott row blew up more than Starmer expected - and polling suggests trouble
• Matthew Thompson: Why polls don't tell full story for Lib Dems
• Ashish Joshi: Labour's key advantage in NHS battleground

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage: Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: What happens next? | Which MPs are standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency's changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

By  Faye Brown , political reporter

Rishi Sunak has been urged to de-select Liz Truss as a Tory election candidate after she appeared on a platform founded by a YouTuber who made comments about raping a Labour MP.

Labour's Jess Phillips has written to the prime minister saying that Carl Benjamin, founder of the Lotus Eaters, "has despicable views about violence against women".

Mr Benjamin claimed he was being "attacked and misrepresented" and said his previous comments were a "joke".

Mr Benjamin wrote on Twitter in 2016 that he "wouldn't even rape" Ms Phillips, the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley.

In 2019, when he was standing to be a UKIP MEP, he refused to apologise and later went on to say: "I've been in a lot of trouble for my hardline stance of not even raping her. I suppose with enough pressure I might cave. But let's be honest, nobody's got that much beer."

In her letter, Ms Phillips said: "The impact men like Benjamin have on politics cannot be understated. Men like Benjamin make female MPs live in fear, while discouraging women from standing in future, weakening our democracy in the process."

Mr Benjamin hit back on X: "It's hard to believe that parliamentarians live in fear of YouTubers making jokes, when the apparently real threat of terrorism looms over their head."

Read more here:

Rishi Sunak has been urged to de-select Liz Truss as a Tory election candidate after she appeared on a platform founded by YouTuber Carl Benjamin who wrote on Twitter in 2016 that he "wouldn't even rape" Jess Phillips, the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley.

Mr Benjamin, founder of the Lotus Eaters, has claimed he was being "attacked and misrepresented" and said his previous comments were a "joke".

After Ms Phillips called for his deselection, Mr Benjamin hit back on X: "It's hard to believe that parliamentarians live in fear of YouTubers making jokes, when the apparently real threat of terrorism looms over their head." ( read his full statement here ).

Sky's Kay Burley asks Chancellor Jeremy Hunt about Ms Truss appearing on the platform, and he replies that the comments were "pretty despicable" and the party "would certainly not condone them".

But he goes on: "I can't speak for Liz Truss. She makes her own decisions."

He then pivots back to the economy, saying: "What I did as chancellor was I reversed most of the big decisions that she had taken in a very short period of time in order to restore stability in the markets."

Mr Hunt does not respond to Ms Phillips' call for Ms Truss to be de-selected.

Rishi Sunak has done an interview this morning in which he said interest rates would fall under a government led by him.

But Sky's Kay Burley puts to the chancellor that it's the Bank of England's job to reduce interest rates, not the government's, which the chancellor agrees with.

"They decide the level of interest rates independently," Jeremy Hunt says.

But explaining why the PM said that, he says: "Labour have a not funded about £38bn of spending commitments, and if they had to fund that through borrowing more, then that puts pressure on the Bank of England to increase interest rates.

"And so what we're saying is that, you know, since Rishi Sunak and I have taken on the reins, we've taken very difficult decisions to put the public finances back on an even keel.

"That has made it possible to bring down inflation and for the Bank of England to bring down interest rates. And we don't want that to change."

The Tories have unveiled plans to unfreeze tax thresholds for retirees to ensure they never pay income tax on the state pension.

But analysis from the i newspaper suggests the move will save retirees relying on the state pension just £14.60 a year by 2028 - or around 28p per week.

We ask Chancellor Jeremy Hunt how 28p per week will help pensioners, and he replies that the number "is a nonsense".

He says the policy will "save the average pensioner £100 next year, or £1,000 over the course of the next parliament".

Sky's Kay Burley puts to the chancellor that the Institute for Fiscal Studies says pensioners used to have a higher tax-free allowance until it was scrapped in 2010/11 - and the allowance is now 10% lower than it was.

But Mr Hunt defends the government, saying that due to the triple lock, the state pension "has gone up by £3,700 since 2010".

The triple lock is a government promise to raise state pensions every year by the level of average earnings, inflation or 2.5% - whichever is the highest.

Mr Hunt says the government has "looked after pensioners, and we will continue to look after pensioners because we recognise that they are different from everyone else" because they cannot work more to earn extra money.

We are speaking now with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, and we start with the cost of living.

Sky's Kay Burley puts to him that 33% of households in the UK have a dog, and the price of dog food has gone up by 58% this year.

We ask if a Tory government would reduce the cost of pet food, and he replies: "We want to stop the cost of pet food going up."

But he added: "I can't make a commitment about reducing prices - they're decided in a market economy by lots of different actors."

But Kay Burley points out that there is VAT on dog food - something he could scrap.

He replies: "There are lots of taxes I'd like to bring down. The most important thing I can do for families at home is to stop prices going up by supporting the Bank of England to reduce inflation."

Mr Hunt notes that the International Monetary Fund upgraded its forecast for the UK economy last week - but also says wages have been going up faster than prices for the last 10 months, which eases the cost of living.

Pushed on if he would remove VAT from dog food, he declines to do so - but does commit to not increasing VAT, income tax, or national insurance, saying the Tories want to reduce taxes.

He attacks Labour, saying they have "no plan to bring down the tax burden".

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is taking questions from Sky's Kay Burley as he attacks Labour over tax and spending.

Watch live on Sky News, in the stream above, and follow updates here in the Politics Hub.

Sky News' deputy political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard with their daily guide to the election day ahead.

This is day 8 of the campaign. Jack and Sam discuss Labour trying to settle its position on taxation, the claims that Sir Keir Starmer is purging the left of his party and a day which has a double dose of Nigel Farage.

👉  Listen above then tap here to follow Politics at Jack at Sam's wherever you get your podcasts   👈

Email Jack and Sam: [email protected]

Confusion still swirls around whether veteran MP Diane Abbott will be able to stand for Labour - and senior party frontbencher Darren Jones was unable to provide clarity.

He told Sky News: "I don't think a decision has been made."

He said, as with any potential candidate, there will be need to be "a conversation with the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party if they wish to be endorsed and stand".

He went on: "As far as I'm aware, she's not been barred from standing. I mean, she had the whip given back to her, she's back in the Labour Party as a Labour MP.

"And as far as I'm aware, no decision has been taken about whether she's going to be the candidate or not. And presumably a conversation will therefore take place between Diane and the Labour Party."

He added that it will be resolved "pretty quickly".

Sky's Kay Burley also asked about Faiza Shaheen, who was not endorsed last night as Labour's candidate in Chingford and Woodford Green, despite local members choosing her, after being accused of liking antisemitic posts.

Asked if Labour is clearing house ahead of an election, Mr Jones said there is "always an accelerated process when a snap election is called because you've got to make sure that the candidates are sorted".

One of the big questions at this election is the future funding of public services, that are currently under heavy strain.

Amid spending constraints, we asked shadow Treasury minister Darren Jones if Labour will make any cuts.

He explains that some public services "have a kind of protected status", such as defence, where the budget moves depending on the size of the GDP, and healthcare, where the government is committed to the long-term workforce place.

But he went on: "We're going to have to do a spending review if we win an election on July the 4th, and it's going to be really hard because of the state of the economy and what we would inherit from the Conservatives - the worst fiscal inheritance since the Second World War."

Pushed on whether Labour is planning cuts, Mr Jones replied: "We're not planning to cut public services."

He pointed to Labour's "first steps" for government with some spending pledges around more teachers, police, and NHS appointments.

Mr Jones invited the Tories to publish the government's books so he can plan Labour's exact spending plans during this election campaign.

The Tories have pledged to unfreeze tax thresholds for those receiving the state pension to avoid them having to pay taxes.

We asked shadow Treasury minister Darren Jones what Labour's plans are around taxes on pensioners, and he replied that they are "in a bit of a tricky spot".

"The Conservatives have said they're going to make certain changes to their own policy on taxation that might affect pensioners with higher levels of income.

"But it's entirely unfunded - and Rachel Reeves has been very clear that we're not just going to kind of keep matching their unfunded, unsustainable policy offers in this election."

He accused the Tories of have "announced over £70bn of unfunded spending commitments in the first week of the general election alone".

He defended his use of big figures like £70bn, saying they come from Treasury analysis, and "people know what that means for their mortgages and their rent because they've had to do it because of Liz Truss not long ago, that's been a painful experience for people".

Mr Jones added: "There is a direct connection between unfunded Conservative policies and family finances."

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