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Can I go to Germany? Rules for travelling from the UK

By Sarah James and Becky Lucas

In England , international travel for leisure has been permitted since Monday 17 May 2021. Germany was previously on the UK 's green list – but what are the rules for travelling there now?

What are the entry requirements for Germany?

Fully vaccinated travellers – those who received their final dose at least 14 days before travelling – may enter Germany from the UK for any purpose. Anyone aged 12 or over must possess either proof of vaccination (find out the acceptable forms on the German government website ), proof of recovery from Covid for at least 28 days and no more than 90 days, or a negative Covid test prior to arrival.

Those who are not considered fully vaccinated can only enter Germany if they are a resident or citizen, a spouse or other family member of a resident, serve in an important role or have ‘an urgent need to travel’, and they must have proof of a negative Covid test taken before entry (within 48 hours before departure for Germany if it's a PCR test, or 48 hours before the time of arrival if it's a rapid antigen test). Unvaccinated children up to the age of 11 are allowed to enter Germany from the UK, as long as they travel with at least one fully vaccinated parent. Children aged 12 to 17 can only enter if they are fully vaccinated, a resident (or the child of a resident), or have an urgent need to travel.

If you are fully vaccinated and have spent any of the previous 10 days in a country designated high-risk by the German government, you must complete pre-departure digital registration . If you have done so and are not fully vaccinated, you must quarantine for 10 days – with test and release available after five days. For more details, go to the UK government website .

Can I travel to the UK from Germany?

As of 18 March 2022, there are no Covid travel rules in the UK, which means that anyone returning to the country does not need to test, quarantine or fill in a passenger locator form , regardless of their vaccination status. The government is also no longer managing any quarantine hotels in the UK, as of the end of March.

The Man in Seat 61

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Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, london to germany by train.

It's easy to travel from the UK to Germany by train. Take Eurostar from London to Brussels in 2 hours and switch to a high-speed ICE train to Cologne taking 1h57, then take another luxurious ICE train to Munich, Berlin, Hamburg or anywhere in Germany. London to Brussels starts at £52 one-way or £78 return, Brussels to Cologne at €18.90 each way, Brussels to Berlin or Munich at €27.90, city centre to city centre, no airports, no flights. Children under 4 go free, there's free WiFi and you can bring your own bottle of wine if you like. This page explains the best routes, times, & how to buy tickets.

Choose your destination: London to: Augsburg Berlin Bielefeld Bochum Bonn Bremen Colditz Cologne (Koln) Dortmund Dresden Duisburg Dusseldorf Essen Frankfurt Hamburg Hannover Heidelberg Koblenz Leipzig Mainz Mannheim (via Brussels) Mannheim (via Paris) Munich Neuschwanstein Castle Nuremberg Osnabruck Regensburg Saarbrucken Stuttgart Ulm Train times, fares & tickets

Train travel within Germany

International trains to & from germany, station guides, other useful information, interactive map : click a destination or route, useful country information, london to hannover & berlin, which route to choose.

Which option is cheapest? You have to go online and see, because each option involves several tickets and the price of each ticket varies like an air fare. However, at short notice, the ferry options are usually cheaper than Eurostar.

Can you go out one way, back another? Yes! Almost all European train fares are priced as one-way, so you can book one-way out on one route and one-way back on another. Eurostar is the exception where a return fare is cheaper than two one-ways, so book London-Paris or London-Brussels as a round trip if you can.

Can you stop off? Of course! Simply book trains either side of the stopover on whatever dates you want. Each part of these journeys is ticketed separately in any case (for example, the Eurostar and the sleeper train), so it's no problem to stop off on the way at any of the main interchange points.

What if you're not starting from London? See this advice about starting your journey from elsewhere in the UK .

Option 1, London to Berlin by daytime trains

This is the fastest & most direct option. Take a morning Eurostar to Brussels, a high-speed ICE3 train to Cologne, then a luxurious ICE2 train to Berlin, with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Treat yourself to lunch with a beer or glass of wine in the restaurant, I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier and DB's choice of German red wine. An overnight stop in Brussels or Cologne can make for a time-effective journey as shown by the shaded journeys in the timetable below.

Timetable outward 2024

Timetable inward 2024, notes for the timetables.

Always check these train times using int.bahn.de , as they can vary. About the 20-minute connection in Brussels .

t = Eurostar (formerly Thalys) , not ICE

How much does it cost?

London to Brussels by Eurostar starts at £52 one-way or £78 return in standard class, £97 one-way, £140 return standard premier (1st class).

How to buy tickets

Buy tickets from London to Berlin or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Anyone from any country can use www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , in plain English, in €, £ or $, international credit cards accepted. There's a small booking fee.

You print your own ticket, or you can load the Eurostar ticket into the Eurostar app and show the DB ticket on your laptop or phone.

When does booking open?

Booking for Eurostar opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes up to 11 months. Onward trains to Germany open up to 6 months ahead, less when the mid-December timetable change intervenes. Journeys involving a Brussels-Cologne Eurostar (formerly Thalys) open 4 months ahead. I recommend waiting until all trains are open before committing to a non-refundable Eurostar ticket. More about when booking opens .

Booking tips

It helps to specify Brussels as a via station if you want to see journeys with an easy same-station change in Brussels, rather than also seeing journeys via Paris. Using www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Brussels (any station).

Is it a through ticket?

There are no through tickets from London to Germany, DB's Sparpreis London fares were discontinued in March 2020 . But www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com will seamlessly sell you a Eurostar ticket from London to Brussels plus an onward ticket from Brussels to anywhere in Germany. The connection between tickets in Brussels is protected by the Railteam Promise/HOTNAT .

One-way or round trip?

On most European trains, a return fare is simply two one-ways, but on Eurostar , return fares are cheaper than two one-ways so always book round trips involving Eurostar as a return. For more control over the booking, book London-Brussels as a return journey, add to basket, book Brussels to Berlin one way, add to basket, then Berlin to Brussels one-way, add to basket & check out.

Seat reservations

About that 20-minute connection at Brussels Midi

The slick 20-minute connection in Brussels between Eurostar and an ICE to Germany, sometimes 18 or 19 minutes, is a recognised connection. It's not usually a problem, especially if you use the Brussels Midi short cut between platforms , if it's open.

You are protected by the Railteam Promise/HOTNAT , so if the Eurostar is delayed you can travel on later onwards trains at no extra charge.

The system knows whether a connection is acceptable or too tight. If you plan to book your Eurostar & ICE tickets separately, first run a London-Cologne enquiry at int.bahn.de to check that the system recognises that Eurostar as connecting with that ICE, on that specific date.

Travelling from the UK regions: See the advice here .

Another way to buy tickets

This is a little more work, but there's no booking fee and int.bahn.de lets you select your seat from a seat map on German ICE & IC trains.

First check that your outward Eurostar & ICE are a recognised connection by running a London to Cologne enquiry at int.bahn.de and confirming that your chosen Eurostar & ICE appear together as one journey. See the bit about 20-minute connections in the previous section.

Step 1, book the Eurostar from London to Brussels (and back, if returning) at www.eurostar.com .

Eurostar return fares are significantly less than two one-ways, so if you're coming back, always book Eurostar as a round trip.

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes more. You print your own ticket or can load it into the Eurostar app on your phone.

After booking you can use the Eurostar Manage Booking system to select an exact seat on Eurostar .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Berlin at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

A round trip is ticketed as two one-ways, so you can book one way at a time if that's easier.

You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone. I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.

How to buy tickets by phone

Using an interrail pass.

Pass or point to point?

Let's be clear, a pass will not save money over the cheapest point-to-point advance-purchase fares you might see if you book a few months ahead. But when point-to-point fares are expensive (for example, at short notice) OR you want flexibility, for example the ability to change your mind, re-route or reschedule as necessary, a pass might be what you need.

If flexibility is what you want, buy the pass. If it's about saving money, you'll have to check point-to-point prices and do the maths.

It's worth doing the maths if you are under 28, if you have kids (kids get a free pass when accompanying an adult but still need to pay reservation fees) or if you live a long way from London (as a pass covers you from your home station to London). Passes are available in 1st & 2nd class.

How to use a pass for a trip to Germany

Step 1, buy a 4-days in 1-month Interrail pass from www.raileurope.com (click Rail passes and select Europe ) or www.interrail.eu for €283 adult, €212 youth or €255 senior. You load the pass into the Railplanner app on your phone. See pass prices on the Interrail page .

A 4-day pass is enough to get from almost anywhere in mainland Britain to anywhere in Germany & back again.

A 4-day pass gives you unlimited train travel on any 4 dates you choose in an overall 1 month period. The first travel day can be any date you select in the 11 months after buying the pass, the overall 1 month period starts from that date. Learn about how Interrail passes work here .

Step 2, make a Eurostar passholder reservation from London to Brussels & back, €30 each way. See prices & how to make Eurostar passholder reservations online . Tip: Eurostar passholder availability is limited, so check availability before buying a pass .

Step 3, reservations between Brussels and Berlin are usually optional , but recommended. You can make seat reservations for around €5 each way at int.bahn.de by entering Brussels to Berlin and clicking the Book seat only link under the red search button.

By all means go out one way, back another, with an Interrail pass you can use almost any of the trains & routes to/from Germany shown on this page, find out how to reserve the relevant trains using the Interrail reservations guide .

Holidays & breaks

Railbookers are a train travel specialist who can arrange a tour or short break by train as a package, with rail travel, hotels & transfers. On their website you'll find suggested tours & holidays which can be customised to your own requirements. One of their most popular trips is a short break by train from the UK to Cologne & Berlin , customisable to add extra nights. Another top seller is their holiday to Berlin & Prague , also with travel to & from London by train. Finally, have a look at their Ultimate Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest - this is by train on the outward leg from the UK, but can easily be customised to include train travel from Budapest back to London.

Tailor Made Rail can also organise a trip to Berlin & Germany by train, with hotels and transfers. Call their dedicated seat61 phone line 020 3778 1461 and quote seat 61 when booking. From outside the UK call +44 20 3778 1461. Lines open 09:00-17:30 Monday-Friday. Their website is www.tailormaderail.com/destinations/germany .

Escorted tours: If you'd like to travel with a convivial group of travellers escorted by a professional tour guide, the operators to check are Great Rail Journeys ( www.greatrail.com , in the UK call 01904 527 120) and Rail Discoveries , www.raildiscoveries.com , 01904 730 727. Both have various escorted tours from the UK to Germany by train, with departures on a variety of dates.

What's the journey like?

1. London to Brussels by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph). There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi. Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00). There's a 30-minute minimum check-in at London St Pancras (45 minutes minimum at Brussels Midi) as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train. More about Eurostar & check-in procedure . St Pancras station guide . Brussels Midi station guide & short cut for changing trains in Brussels .

2. Brussels to Cologne by ICE3

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. 50 minutes after leaving Brussels the ICE calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava. As you approach Cologne Hbf you'll see the twin towers of Cologne Cathedral on the right, next to the station. More about ICE3 . Brussels Midi station guide . Cologne Hbf station guide .

3. Cologne to Berlin by ICE2

ICE2 trains have a restaurant car, bar car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine. It passes through the industrial Ruhr via Wuppertal & Hamm. After leaving Hannover, the train passes non-stop through Wolfsburg - look out for the original Volkswagen factory on the left, built in 1938. The train then travels at up to 280 km/h (174 mph) on the high-speed line to Berlin Hbf , where it arrives at the low-level platforms. More about ICE2 . Cologne Hbf station guide . Berlin Hbf station guide .

Option 2, London to Berlin by Eurostar & European Sleeper

This is shown on the European Sleeper page .

Option 3 , London to Berlin by Eurostar & Nightjet sleeper

From 10 December 2023 there are not one but TWO different sleeper trains from Brussels to Berlin, both running 3 times a week on different days, the existing European Sleeper ( see the European Sleeper page ) and a new Austrian Nightjet sleeper train , shown below. The Nightjet is expected to become daily from autumn 2024. So on 6 days a week you can hop on a lunchtime Eurostar to Brussels, have an early dinner, then sleep your way to Berlin.

London ► Berlin Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays

Eurostar has two cafe-bars, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Standard Premier & Business Premier fares include lunch with wine.

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There's a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers. The train has a couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and an ordinary seats car. See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

There's no restaurant car, but in sleepers or couchettes you can order drinks, snacks and hot dishes from a room service menu, served in your compartment. The sleeper & couchette fares include a light breakfast with tea or coffee, served in your compartment.

Berlin ► London Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays

Fares vary like air fares, book early for the cheapest prices. Return fares are twice the one-way fare.

On the sleeper train, berths are sold individually, so one ticket means one bed, the other beds in your compartment will be sold to other passengers. For sole occupancy, simply book 1 ticket in a 1-berth sleeper or 2 tickets in a 2-berth sleeper or 4 tickets in a 4-berth couchette and so on.

Using www.thetrainline.com allows you to book all your tickets in one place, in €, £ or $, international cards no problem, small booking fee. Booking opens up to 6 months ahead, less than this when the mid-December timetable change intervenes . Child under 6? See here .

Tip: After booking you can use the Manage booking facility at www.eurostar.com to choose an exact seat from a seating plan, see tips on choosing a seat on Eurostar .

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph). There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi. Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00). There's a 30-minute minimum check-in as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train. More about Eurostar & check-in procedure . St Pancras station guide . Brussels Midi station guide . In Brussels, I recommend using the Pullman Hotel bar as your VIP waiting room .

2. Brussels to Berlin by Nightjet

Option 4, London to Berlin with overnight stop in Amsterdam

This is a long way round so much slower than option 1, but there's only one change of train, it can be cheaper and what's not to like about some time in Amsterdam? It also allows an after-work departure from London so is time-effective. Take Eurostar from London to Amsterdam Centraal in around 4h, often with keener pricing than between London & Brussels, stay overnight, then take a German Intercity train from Amsterdam Centraal to Berlin Hbf next day in 5h52.

London ► Berlin

Day 1, travel from London to Amsterdam by Eurostar , leaving London St Pancras at 18:04 daily except Saturdays, arriving Amsterdam Centraal 23:11.

Eurostar has two cafe-bars, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, see the London to Amsterdam by Eurostar page .

Stay overnight in Amsterdam . The Park Plaza Victoria Hotel is directly opposite the station and gets very good reviews. The Ibis Styles Amsterdam Centraal is also opposite the station for a relatively inexpensive for overnight stop, or try the Hotel Luxer .

Day 2, travel from Amsterdam Centraal to Berlin Hbf by Intercity train on any departure you like.

The 05:59 from Amsterdam arrives Berlin 11:51, or there's an 07:59, 09:59, 11:59 and so on, see the Amsterdam-Berlin timetable .

All have power sockets at all seats & a refreshment trolley. More about Amsterdam to Berlin trains .

Berlin ► London

Day 2, travel from Berlin Hbf to Amsterdam Centraal by Intercity train leaving Berlin Hbf at 16:06 & arriving Amsterdam Centraal at 22:00.

Or book an earlier train if you like, trains leave Berlin Hbf at 06:06, 08:06, 10:06, 12:06, 14:06, see the Berlin-Amsterdam timetable .

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to London by Eurostar , leaving Amsterdam Centraal 07:47 Monday-Saturday, arriving London St Pancras 10:43.

Or on Monday-Fridays & Sundays you can leave Amsterdam Centraal at 13:47, arriving London St Pancras at 16:57.

Or spend a day in Amsterdam & take the afternoon Eurostar leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 16:47 daily except Saturdays, arriving London St Pancras 19:43, see the London to Amsterdam timetable here .

Eurostar has two cafe-bars, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

London to Amsterdam by Eurostar starts at £51 one-way or £98 return in standard class, £97 one-way or £168 return in standard premier (1st class).

Children under go 4 free, children under 12 pay a reduced fare.

Amsterdam to Berlin starts at €37.90 in 2nd class, €69.90 in 1st class.

Children under 6 go free, children under 15 also go free when accompanied by an adult.

Fares are dynamic, like air fares, so book ahead and avoid busy days such as Friday afternoons for the cheapest fares.

Step 1, buy a Eurostar ticket between London & Amsterdam at www.eurostar.com . You print your own ticket or can load it into the Eurostar app.

Step 2, buy tickets between Amsterdam & Berlin at the German Railways website int.bahn.de . You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.

London to Cologne , Düsseldorf, Dortmund

Cologne, or Köln in German from its Roman name, Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, was once the largest city in Germany. Its magnificent cathedral stands right next to Cologne's main station - the cathedral was consecrated in 1322, but its distinctive 512 feet high towers were only completed in 1880. You can climb them for a magnificent view over the city and the River Rhine. There are two good options for travel between the UK and Cologne or Düsseldorf.

Option 1, London to Cologne & Dusseldorf by high-speed train

Getting to Cologne from London is easy by train: Hop on a high-speed Eurostar train from London to Brussels in just 2 hours, then travel from Brussels to Cologne by high-speed ICE train in just 1h57 with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Frequent regional trains then link Cologne with Düsseldorf, Essen, Bochum & Dortmund. ICEs are run by Deutsche Bahn (German Railways).

Notes for the timetable

Buy tickets from London to Cologne, Düsseldorf or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

It can help to specify Brussels as a via station if you want to see journeys with an easy same-station change in Brussels, rather than also seeing journeys via Paris. At www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Brussels (any station).

Step 2, book from Brussels to Cologne or Düsseldorf at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Railbookers are a train travel specialist who can put together a tour or short break by train as a package, including rail travel, hotels & transfers. Their website has a range of suggested tours & holidays which can be customised to your requirements. One of their most popular trips is a short break by train from the UK to Cologne & Berlin , customisable to add extra nights, with train travel throughout.

Video guide: London to Cologne

Since I made this video, Eurostar has introduced new e320 trains, and the signage at Brussels Midi has been renewed. But the video still gives a good idea of the journey, and how to use the short cut from Eurostar platforms 1 & 2 to ICE platforms 3-6.

London to Bonn, Koblenz, Mainz

High-speed Eurostar trains link London with Brussels in just 2 hours. From Brussels, high-speed Eurostar (formerly Thalys) and ICE trains take 1h57 to reach Cologne - watch the London to Cologne video . Regular trains link Cologne with Bonn, Koblenz and Mainz.

How to check train times

Simply use the London-Cologne timetable above to find train times from London to Cologne, then use int.bahn.de to find connecting train times from Cologne to Bonn, Koblenz and Mainz.

Buy tickets from London to Bonn, Koblenz, Mainz or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Bonn, Koblenz or Mainz at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

London to Frankfurt

Option 1, by Eurostar to Brussels : This is the fastest and easiest option. Take a Eurostar to Brussels Midi in 2 hours, make a simple same-station change onto a high-speed high-speed ICE to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf in 3h15. Both Eurostar & ICE have power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. You arrive at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf in the heart of the city.

Option 2, by Eurostar to Paris : Take a Eurostar to Paris Nord in 2h20, it's then an easy 7-minute walk to Paris Est for a high-speed ICE to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf taking around 3h50. Apart from the 7-minute walk in Paris this is almost as easy as option 1, it takes only a little longer depending how the connections work. How about lunch in Paris ?

Option 3, by Stena Line overnight ferry from Harwich to Hoek van Holland : The ferry alternative! Leave London Liverpool Street by train at 18:45 or Cambridge at 19:47, sleep in a cosy private cabin on the Stena Line superferry from 21:00 to 08:00 with shower, toilet & satellite TV. Next day, take the metro to Rotterdam and onward trains to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf arriving at 14:31. This is a great option if Eurostar is expensive (for example, at short notice), if you live in East Anglia, or if you prefer a ferry to the Tunnel.

Option 5, by Eurostar to Brussels & the scenic Rhine Valley route . Similar to option 1, taking Eurostar to Brussels and an ICE onwards, but instead of staying aboard the ICE all the way from Brussels to Frankfurt, you change in Cologne onto a slower train running along the Rhine Valley to Frankfurt, past cliffs and castles and the fabled Lorelei Rock. It takes an hour longer, but it's worth it! If you want this option, use www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , entering 'Koblenz' as a via station. To enter a via station at www.raileurope.com , click More options . See the Rails Down the Rhine page .

Option 1, London to Frankfurt via Brussels

Check these train times at int.bahn.de . About the 20-minute connection in Brussels

Brussels Midi station guide . London St Pancras station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station

Buy tickets from London to Frankfurt or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Frankfurt at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

2. Brussels to Frankfurt by ICE3

Germany's superb ICEs have a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. The train calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava, and at Cologne Hbf , where you'll see Cologne Cathedral to the right as you approach, right next to the station. Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the long Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine before joining the 300km/h high-speed line to Frankfurt. More about ICE3 . Brussels Midi station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide .

Video guide: London to Frankfurt

Since I made this video, Eurostar has introduced ]new e320 trains, and signing at Brussels Midi has been renewed. But the video still gives a good idea of the journey, and how to use the short cut from Eurostar platforms 1 & 2 to ICE platforms 3-6.

Option 2, London to Frankfurt via Paris

Note for the timetable.

London to Paris by Eurostar starts at £52 one-way or £78 return in standard class, £97 one-way, £168 return standard premier (1st class).

How to buy tickets: Raileurope.com

The easiest way to buy London-Frankfurt train tickets is at www.raileurope.com .

Booking for the Paris-Frankfurt trains opens up to 6 months ahead, up to 6 months ahead for Eurostar & German domestic trains.

www.raileurope.com can book journeys to Frankfurt via both Brussels or Paris. If you want the Paris route, click More options and enter Paris Nord as a via station. It connects to both the French & German railways ticketing systems. There's a small booking fee.

Or buy using bahn.de & eurostar.com

It's also worth checking prices for the Paris-Frankfurt train on int.bahn.de , as this is the German reservation system so prices can vary from those on the French system. Furthermore there's no booking fee and child age limits are more generous: When booked through int.bahn.de , children under 6 go free and children under 15 can also go free if accompanied by an adult. Booking this way involves two websites, so do a dry run first on both sites to check prices and availability before booking for real.

Buy tickets by phone

1. London to Paris by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Paris in 2h20, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph). There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi. Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00). There's a 30-minute minimum check-in at London St Pancras (45 minutes minimum at Paris Nord) as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train. More about Eurostar & check-in procedure . St Pancras station guide . Paris Gare du Nord station guide .

2. Paris to Frankfurt by ICE3

In Paris it's an easy 7 minute 500m walk from the Gare du Nord to the Gare de l'Est for the ICE to Frankfurt. The superb German ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. More about ICE3 . Paris Gare de l'Est station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide .

Video guide : Paris-Frankfurt by ICE

London to nuremberg.

High-speed Eurostar trains link London with Brussels in just 2 hours. From Brussels, ICE high-speed trains run to Frankfurt in around 3h05, watch the video guide . Change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf for Nuremberg ( Nürnberg in German), taking just 2h05. Eurostar has a cafe-bar, ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, and both Eurostar & ICE come with power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Always check times for your date using int.bahn.de . About the 20-minute connection in Brussels

London St Pancras station guide . Brussels Midi guide . Cologne Hbf station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide . Munich Hbf station guide

Buy tickets from London to Nuremberg at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Nuremberg at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Nuremberg rail museum & rally grounds

London to osnabrück & hamburg, option 1, london to osnabrück, bremen, hamburg by train.

You can easily travel by train from London to Osnabrück, Bremen or Hamburg in a day, using Eurostar, a high-speed Eurostar (formerly Thalys) or ICE train to Cologne, then a comfortable German InterCity train from Cologne to Osnabrück, Bremen or Hamburg. For more information, read on.

You can check these train times at int.bahn.de . About the 20-minute connection in Brussels .

London St Pancras station guide Brussels Midi station guide & advice on changing trains Cologne Hbf station guide . Hamburg Hbf station guide

Buy tickets from London to Osnabruck, Hamburg or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Osnabruck, Bremen or Hamburg at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Step 3, reservations between Brussels and Hamburg are usually optional , but recommended. You can make seat reservations for around €5 each way at int.bahn.de by entering Brussels to Berlin and clicking the Book seat only link under the red search button.

Railbookers : For holidays or short breaks to Germany by train call rail specialists Railbookers. They offer custom-made holidays & tours to Germany with trains, transfers & hotels sorted for you in one place. As they're selling you a package they'll look after you if anything happens such as a strike or major delay. The trips you see online are examples which can be customised to include train travel to & from the UK with no flying necessary, or to add extra nights, just call them.

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. More about ICE3 . Brussels Midi station guide . Cologne Hbf station guide .

London to Stuttgart & Munich

There are several good options for travel between the UK and Stuttgart or Munich:

Option 1, by Eurostar & TGV via Paris : Take Eurostar to Paris, it's an easy 7 minute 500m walk from the Gare du Nord to Gare de l'Est, then take a direct 320 km/h double-deck TGV Duplex from Paris to Stuttgart or Munich. This is the fastest option.

Option 2, by Eurostar & ICE via Brussels : Take Eurostar to Brussels, a Eurostar (formerly Thalys) or ICE high-speed train to Cologne, then a high-speed ICE train from Cologne to Munich. This is the most frequent option with a range of services every day. It involves two easy same-station changes of train.

Option 3, by Eurostar & Nightjet sleeper train . A time-effective option, using either the Paris-Munich or Brussels-Munich sleepers.

Option 1: London to Stuttgart & Munich via Paris

London St Pancras station guide Paris Gare du Nord station guide Paris Gare de l'Est station guide Munich Hbf station guide

Buy tickets at Raileurope.com

The easiest way to buy London-Munich or London-Stuttgart train tickets for journeys via Paris is at www.raileurope.com .

www.raileurope.com can book journeys to Stuttgart or Munich via both Brussels or Paris. If you specifically want the Paris route, simply click More options and enter Paris Nord as a via station. There's a small booking fee.

Booking for Eurostar opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes longer, booking for Paris-Munich TGVs opens up to 4 months ahead, but I'd wait until all your trains are open for booking. More about when booking opens .

Other ways to buy tickets

It's worth checking prices for the Paris-Munich train on int.bahn.de , as this is the German reservation system so prices vary from those on the French system used by www.raileurope.com . In addition, there's no booking fee and child age limits are more generous: Using bahn.de, children under 6 go free, and children under 15 also go free if accompanying a fare-paying adult.

Booking this way involves two websites, so do a dry run first on both sites to check prices and availability before booking for real. Booking for Eurostar opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes longer, booking for Paris-Munich TGVs opens up to 4 months ahead, but I'd wait until all your trains are open for booking. More about when booking opens .

The results will show cheap Sparpreis fares (if available). You pay by credit card and simply print out your own ticket. Easy!

Tip: In the westbound Munich to Paris direction, I recommend changing Transfer time from Normal to at least 30 minutes before running the enquiry. That will avoid tight 7-minute connections into a Stuttgart-Paris train that only runs every 2-3 hours.

How to buy tickets by phone

See the Interrail pass section below

2. Paris to Munich by TGV Duplex

In Paris it's an easy 7 minute 500m walk from the Gare du Nord to the Gare de l'Est for the TGV to Germany. Sit back with a glass of red and enjoy the ride - book an upper deck seat for the best views. The train is equipped with power sockets for laptops & mobiles at all seats in both classes, and a cafe-bar serves drinks, snacks & microwaved hot dishes. The train soon leaves the Paris suburbs behind and speeds across a vast wide open plateau of woods & farmland at up to 320 km/h (199 mph), past picturesque French villages of the Champagne region. An hour or two later, the train leaves the high-speed line and slowly meanders through pretty wooded hills, the countryside eventually flattening out towards Strasbourg. On leaving Strasbourg, look out for Strasbourg cathedral on the left with its famously missing second tower. Minutes afterwards you rumble across the river Rhine into Germany, before heading on to Stuttgart & Munich. Paris Gare de l'Est station guide . Munich Hbf station guide . More about TGV Duplex . See TGV video guide .

Option 2: London to Stuttgart & Munich via Brussels

It's easy to travel by train from London to Munich in a day, using a morning Eurostar to Brussels, a high-speed ICE3 train to Frankfurt, then another luxurious high-speed ICE to Munich, all with power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Treat yourself to lunch with a beer or some wine in the ICE restaurant car. Alternatively, an overnight stop in Brussels can make it more time-effective, as shown by the shaded journeys in the timetable below.

Stuttgart, Ulm, Augsburg : You can travel to Stuttgart, Ulm or Augsburg on the same departures from London, with a different connection from Frankfurt. For simplicity, I only show the Munich times in the timetable below, but a journey to Stuttgart, Ulm or Augsburg is booked in exactly the same way as to Munich.

Buy tickets from London to Munich or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Stuttgart or Munich at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Step 2, make a Eurostar passholder reservation from London to Paris or Brussels & back, €30 each way. See prices & how to make Eurostar passholder reservations online . Tip: Eurostar passholder availability is limited, so check availability before buying a pass .

Step 3 if going via Brussels: Reservations between Brussels and Munich are optional, but recommended. You can make seat reservations for around €5 each way at int.bahn.de by entering Brussels to Munich and clicking the Book seat only link under the red search button.

Step 3 if going via Paris: Reservations on Paris-Germany trains are compulsory, seat reservations cost around €18 each way and can be made using the official Interrail reservation service .

Railbookers : Rail specialists Railbookers offer custom-made holiday & tour packages to Germany by train, with rail travel, transfers & hotels sorted for you. The trips you see on their website can be customised to your requirements, just give them a call.

Escorted tours: If you'd like to travel with a convivial group of travellers escorted by a professional tour guide, check Great Rail Journeys ( www.greatrail.com , call 01904 527 120) and Rail Discoveries , www.raildiscoveries.com , 01904 730 727. Both have various escorted tours from the UK to Germany by train, with departures on a variety of dates.

2. Brussels to Frankfurt & Frankfurt to Munich by ICE

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. The Brussels to Frankfurt train calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava, and at Cologne Hbf , where you'll see Cologne Cathedral to the right as you approach, right next to the station. Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the long Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine before joining the 300km/h high-speed line to Frankfurt. More about ICE3 trains . Brussels Midi station guide . Cologne Hbf station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide . Munich Hbf station guide .

Option 3, London to Munich by sleeper

ÖBB (Austrian Railways) run an excellent Nightjet sleeper train from Brussels to Munich 3 times a week, final destination Vienna, and another from Paris to Munich Ost on the same days of the week, also en route to Vienna (the Brussels-Vienna & Paris-Vienna trains are combined into one train between Mannheim and Vienna). ÖBB expect to make these trains daily from autumn 2024. It's a comfortable and time-effective option if you don't mind the early arrival.

London ► Munich (via Brussels)

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers. The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu. The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats. A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment. See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

London ► Munich (via Paris)

Munich ► london (via brussels), munich ► london (via paris).

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There's a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers. The train has a couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and an ordinary seats car. See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Tip: If you have a ticket for a sleeper, you can use the ÖBB lounge at Vienna Hbf with complimentary tea, coffee, snacks & WiFi.

How to buy a connecting ticket from other UK towns & cities: See the advice on special add-on tickets here .

1. London to Paris or Brussels by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, London & Paris in 2h20, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph). There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi. Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00). There's a 30-minute minimum check-in at London St Pancras as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train. More about Eurostar & check-in procedure . St Pancras station guide . Brussels Midi station guide . Paris Gare du Nord station guide .

2 . Brussels or Paris to Munich by Nightjet sleeper train

London to Leipzig & Dresden

There are several good options for travel from the UK to Leipzig or Dresden:

Option 1 , London to Leipzig or Dresden by daytime trains

This is the cheapest option, London to Leipzig or Dresden in a single day. Or break up the journey with an overnight stop in Brussels or Cologne if you like.

London ► Leipzig, Dresden

Option 1, leave London St Pancras by Eurostar at 07:04 on Mondays-Fridays, change at Brussels Midi & Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and arrive Leipzig Hbf 17:10 & Dresden Hbf 19:38.

Option 2, leave London St Pancras by Eurostar at 09:01 every day, change at Brussels Midi & Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and arrive Leipzig Hbf 19:10 & Dresden Hbf 21:38.

Option 3, leave London St Pancras by Eurostar at 11:04, change at Brussels Midi & Frankfurt (Main) Hbf and arrive Leipzig Hbf 21:10 or (change again at Leipzig) Dresden Hbf 23:38.

Option 4, with overnight stop in Brussels

Day 1, travel from London to Brussels on any afternoon or evening Eurostar you like. The last one leaves London St Pancras at 19:34, arriving Brussels Midi at 22:38, but by all means book an earlier one for more of an evening in Brussels.

Stay overnight in Brussels . I recommend the excellent Pullman Hotel Brussels Midi which is an integral part of Brussels Midi station itself, or the inexpensive Ibis Brussels Midi just across the road.

Day 2, travel from Brussels to Leipzig in around 6h58, or to Dresden in 8h11. Find times that suit you at int.bahn.de .

Option 5, with overnight stop in Cologne

Day 1, travel from London to Cologne on any of the services shown in the London to Cologne section . You can leave London St Pancras at 15:04 daily, change at Brussels Midi and arrive Cologne Hbf at 20:15.

Stay overnight in Cologne . The good & inexpensive Ibis Hotel Köln-am-Dom is ideal as it's part of Cologne Hbf itself, with an entrance to the left of the main station entrance - many of its rooms have a cathedral view.

Day 2, travel from Cologne Hbf to Leipzig in as little as 4h23, or to Dresden in 5h42. Find times that suit you at int.bahn.de .

Dresden, Leipzig ► London

Option 1, leave Dresden at 06:10 daily or Leipzig at 07:33, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & Brussels Midi arriving London St Pancras at 18:57.

Option 2, leave Dresden at 10:10 or Leipzig at 11:33 Mondays-Fridays & Sundays, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & Brussels Midi arriving London St Pancras at 21:57.

Option 3, with overnight stop in Brussels

Day 1, travel from Dresden or Leipzig to Brussels, check times at int.bahn.de . For example, you can leave Dresden at 12:10 or Leipzig at 13:33, arriving Brussels Midi at 21:35.

Stay overnight in Brussels. I recommend the Ibis Brussels Midi , just across the road from Brussels Midi station, or the Pullman Hotel Brussels Midi which is part of the station itself.

Day 2, travel from Brussels to London on any Eurostar you like.

The first one leaves Brussels Midi at 07:56 Mondays-Saturdays, arriving London St Pancras 08:59 or at 08:52 Sundays arriving 09:57.

Buy tickets from London to Leipzig, Dresden or anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Leipzig or Dresden at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .

Step 3, reservations between Brussels and Leipzig or Dresden are usually optional , but recommended. You can make seat reservations for around €5 each way at int.bahn.de , by setting up an enquiry and clicking the Book seat only link under the red search button.

Escape to Colditz?

Colditz has become part of WW2 folklore and it's well worth a visit. A train leaves Leipzig every hour for Grossbothen (or on some departures, Grimma) where a bus connects for Colditz. Journey from Leipzig about 1 hour 7 minutes. You can check train and bus times at int.bahn.de . In 1992, I made the whole journey from Leipzig to Colditz by train, as did many of the PoWs. See the Escape to Colditz page for more information .

2. Brussels to Frankfurt & Frankfurt to Leipzig or Dresden by ICE

Germany's superb ICE (InterCity Express) high-speed trains have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat. The ICE3 train from Cologne to Frankfurt calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava, and at Cologne Hbf , where you'll see Cologne Cathedral to the right as you approach, right next to the station. Immediately after leaving Cologne Hbf , the train crosses the long Hohenzollern bridge over the Rhine before joining the 300km/h high-speed line to Frankfurt. The train from Frankfurt to Leipzig & Dresden will be an ICE-T . More about ICE trains . Brussels Midi station guide . Frankfurt (Main) Hbf station guide .

Option 2, London to Dresden by European Sleeper

Option 3 , london to dresden by czech sleeper.

This is the most time-effective way from the UK to Dresden. From the timetable change on 11 December 2022, a new overnight service with sleeping-car & couchettes links Zurich with Prague, routed via Karlsruhe & Dresden. From London you can pick this new sleeper up in Karlsruhe. It's a comfortable option, some sleepers have an en suite toilet & shower, breakfast included.

London ► Dresden

The sleeper train has a Czech air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, and three 1, 2 & 3 bed deluxe compartments with en suite shower & toilet. There are toilets and a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in regular sleepers. There are also 4 & 6-berth couchettes. A light breakfast with tea or coffee is included in the sleeper fare.

Dresden ► London

This 320 km/h double-deck high-speed train has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Book an upper deck seat for the best views, any seat number >60 is upper deck.

Alternatively, if you don't fancy the 5am arrival at Karlsruhe and don't mind a later arrival in London .

You can book the sleeper from Dresden to Basel instead, it arrives at Basel SBB at the much more agreeable hour of 07:20. The 10:34 TGV-Lyria from Basel SBB reaches Paris Gare de Lyon at 13:40, cross Paris by metro and take the 17:03 Eurostar from Paris Nord to London.

How to much does it cost?

Step 1, book London to Karlsruhe at www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com , both easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee. Using one of these sites means you can book everything easily in one place. About Raileurope . About Thetrainline .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead for each of these trains, see more about when bookings open . I recommend waiting until all trains have opened for booking and times are confirmed before buying a non-refundable Eurostar ticket.

Tip: You can book from London to Karlsruhe all in one go if you like, but for more control over the connection in Paris, I'd book London-Paris first, add to basket, then book Paris-Karlsruhe and add to basket, ensuring at least an hour between trains. That way you can allow a more robust connection than the system would give you, and you can see if earlier Eurostars have cheaper prices.

Tip: If you are making a round trip, London-Paris return fares are significantly cheaper than two one-ways so it's cheaper to book this as a return. All other trains are one-way ticketed so it makes no difference how you book, and it can be easier to book one way at a time.

Alternatively, you can book the Eurostar at www.eurostar.com , then book the Paris-Karlsruhe TGV at int.bahn.de . This is more work and prices should be the same, but there's no booking fee.

Step 2, book the Karlsruhe-Dresden sleeper at the Czech Railways website www.cd.cz . Booking opens 2 or 3 months ahead .

Leave 2nd class selected. Do not select 1st class even if you want a deluxe sleeper, if you do the sleeper train won't show up.

The train will appear in the search results twice , both marked No transfers . The first appearance is the seats carriages marked EC (EuroCity), ignore this. Click the buy button against the second appearance of this train, with a sleeper & couchette symbol marked EN for EuroNight, and continue. Use the modify & edit features to adjust the type of couchette & sleeper. You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone. You can also try booking at the Austrian Railways site www.oebb.at .

What is the sleeper train like?

It has one modern Czech sleeping-car with 9 standard compartments with washbasin and 3 deluxe compartments with a compact en suite toilet & shower. Each compartment can be sold with 1, 2 or all 3 beds in use, as single , double and T3 . There are toilets and a shower at the end of the corridor, and each compartment converts from beds to a private sitting room for the daytime parts of the journey. There is a power socket for laptops and mobiles. All necessary bedding and towels are provided. The doors have card-key locks like hotels. A very safe, civilised and comfortable way to travel! Do not obsess about getting a deluxe - In the standard compartments the beds and the decor are exactly the same as the deluxe ones, the only difference is that the compartment floor space is a fraction smaller (though not so you'd notice) and there's a washbasin instead of an en suite toilet & shower. You can of course use the shower at the end of the corridor - you access it using the same card key that opens your compartment door. This train also has couchettes, basic bunks with rug & pillow, you can book a bunk in either a 6-berth or less crowded 4-berth compartment.

London to other destinations in Germany

You can get to just about anywhere in Germany by train from London. If your destination is a small place close to one of the big cities shown on this page such as Berlin, Hamburg or Munich, use the train times on this page to that city then use the German Railways website int.bahn.de to find train times onwards from that city to your final destination. The German Railways website will also give fares and sell tickets for journeys within Germany.

London to anywhere in Germany

If your destination isn't listed here , for example, London to Heidelberg, Regensburg or Konstanz to name just three, use this booking process to search for journeys:

Buy tickets from London to anywhere in Germany at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Anyone from any country can use www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , in plain English, international credit cards accepted and fares shown in multiple currencies. There's a small booking fee.

You print your own ticket, or you can load the Eurostar ticket into the Eurostar app, and show the DB ticket on your laptop or phone.

Tip: It can help to specify Brussels as a via station if you want to see journeys with an easy same-station change in Brussels, rather than also seeing journeys via Paris. At www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Brussels (any station).

About those 20-minute connections at Brussels Midi

The slick 20-minute connection in Brussels between Eurostar and an onward ICE , sometimes less than this, is usually a recognised connection which lots of people make. It's not usually a problem, especially if you use the Brussels Midi short cut between platforms .

Even though the system sells you separate tickets either side of Brussels, you are protected by the Railteam Promise/HOTNAT so if there's a delay and you miss the connection you will be allowed to travel on later onwards trains at no extra charge.

The system is programmed to know which connections are recognised/acceptable and which are too tight - if you intend booking your Eurostar and ICE tickets separately (which I often do to check prices for Eurostar and onwards trains separately, and to retain more control over the booking) it's wise to run a London-Cologne enquiry first just to check that the system does indeed recognise that specific Eurostar as connecting with that specific onward ICE, on that specific date.

How to buy a connecting ticket from other UK towns & cities : See the advice on special add-on tickets here .

Neuschwanstein : Bavaria's fairytale castle

See the Neuschwanstein page for a guide to reaching Bavaria's fairytale castle, including how to make an inexpensive DIY day trip from Munich by train, with photos of a visit to the castle.

By Harz steam railway to the Brocken

See the Harz railway page .

Escape to Colditz

See the Escape to Colditz page . Now part of WW2 folklore and well worth a visit! Colditz is easy to reach from Leipzig, or you can do it as a day trip from Berlin or Dresden.

Berchtesgaden, Obersalzberg & Eagle's Nest

Another site from WW2 which can be visited, the site of Hitler's country house, the Berghof, can still be seen at Obersalzberg on the mountain above Berchtesgaden, where Göring, Bormann, Speer and others also had houses. The ruins of the Berghof were demolished in 1952, all that can be seen now is an overgrown site with a large retaining wall. Hitler's impressive mountain-top tea house, the Eagle's Nest, is still standing and can be visited in summer. First, travel to Munich as shown above .

Travel from Munich Hbf to Berchtesgaden by regional train, these leave every hour through the day with one simple change at Freilassing, total journey time 2h35. int.bahn.de will give train times an sell you a train ticket - look for all-train departures that don't involve a bus. The regular fare is around €43 each way, so it's cheaper to buy a Bayern Ticket for €29 for the first passenger + €10 for each additional passenger, this gives unlimited travel for the day on regional trains after 09:00 on weekdays, any time at weekends so will cover a same-day round trip.

Although you can buy on the day at the station, buying online at int.bahn.de saves time and the system automatically shows the Bayern Ticket for journeys where this is cheaper than the regular fare.

Roughly hourly buses then link Berchtesgaden with Obersalzberg, journey time only 12 minutes, from where tourist shuttle buses go up to the Eagle's Nest. The bus operator is www.rvo-bus.de . Or take a tour - Eagles Nest Historical Tours ( www.eagles-nest-historical-tours.com ) do an Obersalzberg tour and an Eagles Nest tour, leaving from the tourist information centre directly across the roundabout from the station.

London to Germany via Harwich - Hoek

The ferry alternative! If Eurostar is expensive, especially at short notice, the ferry can be cheaper. If you live in East Anglia, the ferry can be more convenient, there's even a direct train from Cambridge to Harwich which connects with the night boat. If you want to avoid the Channel Tunnel or if there are strikes in France, this is also the route for you. Or you may simply prefer a leisurely cruise across the North Sea in a cosy private cabin with toilet, shower & satellite TV, after an excellent dinner in the ship's restaurant. The route via Harwich & Hoek of Holland is one of those shown in dark blue on the route map above . There are two departures a day, the day boat and the night boat.

Using the night boat

A convenient evening departure from central London by train and a good night's sleep in a cosy private cabin with toilet, shower & satellite TV on board the rock-steady 63,000 ton Stena Line superferry. Next morning, take onward trains to anywhere in Germany.

London, Cambridge & Harwich ► Germany

At Harwich, the station is right next to the ferry terminal and you walk off the train into the terminal, check in at the Stena Line desk and walk straight onto Stena Line's luxurious overnight superferry Stena Hollandica to Hoek van Holland.

The ferry sails at 23:00 and arrives at Hoek van Holland at 08:00 next morning, Dutch time.

All passengers travel in cosy private cabins with en suite toilet & shower & satellite TV. Deluxe Comfort class & Captains class cabins are also available, and there's free WiFi in the lounges, restaurants & bars on 9 deck. You can get on board the ferry around 9pm, have a late dinner in the restaurant and settle into your cabin.

German Intercity trains link Amsterdam Centraal with Osnabrück, Hanover & Berlin Hbf every 2 hours, change at Osnabrück for Hamburg.

For example, you can leave Amsterdam Centraal at 11:59 and arrive Berlin Hbf at 17:51, see the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train page .

Germany ► Harwich, Cambridge & London

Day 1, take a train from anywhere in Germany to Amsterdam or Utrecht.

You can check train times & buy tickets from any German station to Amsterdam or Utrecht at int.bahn.de .

Coming from Berlin, Hamburg, Bremen, Hannover or Osnabruck it's easiest to go via Amsterdam. For example, the 10:06 Intercity train from Berlin Hbf arrives Amsterdam Centraal at 16:00.

Coming from Munich, Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Frankfurt, Cologne or Düsseldorf it's quickest to go via Utrecht. The ICE train leaving Frankfurt (Main) Hbf at 13:29, Cologne Messe/Deutz 14:50 & Düsseldorf 15:12 arrives Utrecht Centraal at 16:59.

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam or Utrecht to London by Stena Line Rail & Sail .

Take the 18:35 train from Amsterdam Centraal to Schiedam Centrum or the 17:48 train from Utrecht Centraal to Rotterdam Alexander to connect with the frequent metro train to Hoek van Holland Haven. By all means take an earlier train/metro, there are departures every 15-30 minutes and the ferry starts boarding at 19:30.

At Hoek, the station is right next to the ferry terminal. Check in at the Stena Line desk and walk up the gangway onto the ferry and sail overnight in a snug private cabin to Harwich

The ferry sails from Hoek van Holland at 22:00 and arrives at Harwich International at 06:30 next morning (day 2), UK time.

All cabins have shower, toilet & satellite TV. At Harwich the station is integrated with the ferry terminal.

On day 2, Take a train from Harwich to London Liverpool Street arriving around 08:56, or from Harwich to Cambridge arriving 09:41 (10:39 on Sundays). See the Stena Line Rail & Sail page for full details .

Step 1, book from London or any Greater Anglia station to Hoek van Holland at www.stenaline.co.uk/rail-and-sail/to-holland .

This is a special Stena Line Rail & Sail ticket, see the Stena Line Rail & Sail page for more tips & information on how to buy one.

You buy the metro ticket from Hoek van Holland to Schiedam or Rotterdam at the metro station using the ticket machines or simply by touching in & out with any contactless bank card.

Step 2, now book trains from Schiedam Centrum or Rotterdam Alexander to anywhere in Germany at German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead . You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone. I recommend registering when prompted, so you can log in at any time and check or reprint tickets.

Step 1, London to Holland by train & ferry

A train takes you from London's Liverpool Street station directly to the ferry terminal at Harwich. You walk off the train, into the terminal, get your boarding card & cabin key at the Stena Line check-in desk and walk straight onto the overnight ferry to Hoek van Holland. The superferry Stena Britannica is the largest ferry of its kind in the world. Have a late dinner in the restaurant, retire to bed in a private cabin with en suite toilet & shower and satellite TV. At Hoek van Holland, you walk off the ship, through passport control and straight onto the station for the frequent metro train to Schiedam & Rotterdam. Change at Schiedam Centrum for a Dutch Railways (NS) train to Amsterdam Centraal (if heading for Hannover or Berlin), or at Rotterdam Alexander for a Dutch Railways train to Utrecht (if heading to Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt & southern Germany). The journey from London to Holland is explained in detail on the Stena Line Rail & Sail page . See the video .

The Stena Britannica at boarding at Harwich, a floating hotel with private cabins, restaurant, bar, lounges, shop & kennels.

Above left, a standard outside cabin. Larger photo . 360º photo . Above right, the Stena Plus lounge with complimentary red & white wine, tea, coffee & snacks.

Above left, the bar on 9 deck. Above right, a Captain's Class cabin with complimentary minibar, toilet & shower.

Step 2, Holland to Germany by ICE high-speed train or comfort InterCity (IC) train

You can pick up a German Railways ICE train to Dusseldorf, Cologne & Frankfurt either at Amsterdam Centraal (where they start) or at Utrecht Centraal (a bit quicker). More info about ICE trains . If you're heading for Hannover or Berlin, go to Amsterdam Centraal to catch an InterCity train there. More info about Amsterdam-Berlin InterCity trains .

Using the day boat

It's an early start from London, but Stena Line's Harwich to Hoek van Holland daytime crossing connects nicely with the 3-times-a-week European Sleeper from Rotterdam to Berlin, making this a good option for Berlin, Leipzig or Dresden if the days and times suit you.

London & Harwich ► Berlin, Dresden

Step 1, travel from London to Harwich by train.

You leave London Liverpool Street at 06:00 Mondays-Fridays, 06:36 Saturdays or 06:44 Sundays, check train times at www.nationalrail.co.uk .

At Harwich, the station is right next to the ferry terminal. You walk off the train and into the terminal, check in at the Stena Line desk and walk onto Stena Line's luxurious superferry to Hoek van Holland.

Step 2, cruise from Harwich to Hoek van Holland with Stena Line.

On Mondays-Saturdays the ferry sails at 09:00 arriving 17:15. On Sundays she sails at 09:00 arriving at 18:00.

The ferry has a bar, self-service restaurant, lounges, a premium Stena Plus lounge, children's play area & free WiFi. A private cabin is optional (but half price) on the day crossing, all cabins come with toilet & shower & satellite TV.

Step 3, hop on the metro from Hoek van Holland to Rotterdam.

On arrival at Hoek van Holland, walk off the ferry into the terminal and go through passport control. Walk out of the terminal to the adjacent metro station and hop on the metro from Hoek van Holland Haven to Eendrachtsplein in downtown Rotterdam, the metro leaves every 20-30 minutes, journey time around 30 minutes, see metro network map . Buy a ticket using the ticket machines or simply touch in and out with any contactless bank card.

From Eendrachtsplein it's an 850m 11-minute stroll to Rotterdam Centraal , see walking map , or you can change at Beurs onto metro line D or E and go 2 stops to Rotterdam Centraal .

You've time for dinner in Rotterdam, try Kaapse Maria ( www.kaapsebrouwers.nl ) for craft beer and good pub food, half way between Eendrachtsplein & Rotterdam Centraal, see location map . Check opening hours, it's open Monday & Friday but closed Wednesdays. Alternatively, Le Nord ( lenord.nl ), La Cazuela & Dunya are all good bistros 5 minutes walk north of the station, see walking map .

Step 4, travel from Rotterdam to Berlin or Dresden by European Sleeper .

The European Sleeper leaves Rotterdam Centraal at 21:21 on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, arriving Berlin Hbf 06:18 & (from 25 March 2024 onwards) Dresden Hbf 08:29.

The train has 4 & 6 berth couchettes & a sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin . A light breakfast is included in sleepers, extra in couchettes. More about the European Sleeper .

For Leipzig, change in Berlin. I'd allow at least 1 hour between trains, check times at int.bahn.de .

Dresden, Berlin ► Harwich & London

Step 1, travel from Dresden or Berlin to Rotterdam by European Sleeper .

The European Sleeper leaves Dresden Hbf at 20:30 & Berlin Hbf at 22:56 on Tuesdays, Thursdays & Sundays, arriving Rotterdam Centraal at 07:32 next morning. The train is extended to serve Dresden from 26 May 2024 onwards.

If you're coming from Leipzig, check times at int.bahn.de . I'd want at least 1 hour between trains in Berlin.

Step 2, hop on the metro from Rotterdam to Hoek van Holland.

Walk from Rotterdam Centraal to Eendrachtsplein metro station, 850m, 11 minutes, see walking map , or take metro line D or E 2 stops to Beurs. Then take metro line B from Beurs or Eendrachtsplein to Hoek van Holland Haven, it runs every 20-30 minutes, journey time 33-35 minutes, see metro network map .

Buy a ticket using the ticket machines or simply touch in and out with any contactless bank card. The ferry terminal is right next to Hoek van Holland Haven metro station. Walk into the terminal and check in at the Stena Line desk. You'll need to leave downtown Rotterdam around 12:00 Monday-Friday or 11:30 Sundays, allowing for travel time and ferry check-in.

Step 3, cruise from Hoek van Holland to Harwich with Stena Line.

The ferry sails at 14:15 Monday-Saturday or 13:45 on Sundays, arriving Harwich at 19:45.

Step 4, travel from Harwich to London by train.

Step 2, book the sleeper from Rotterdam to Berlin or Dresden at www.europeansleeper.eu .

1. London to Rotterdam by train & ferry

A train takes you from London Liverpool Street station directly to the ferry terminal at Harwich International. You walk off the train and into the terminal, get your boarding card at the Stena Line check-in desk and walk straight onto the ferry to Hoek van Holland. The superferry Stena Hollandica is the largest ferry of its kind in the world. There's a self-service restaurant, bar, lounges, a premium Stena Plus lounge, children's play area & free WiFi. At Hoek van Holland, you walk off the ship, through passport control and out of the terminal to the adjacent metro station for the frequent metro train to Rotterdam. See the Stena Line Rail & Sail page for full details, photos & travel tips .

The Stena Hollandica at Hoek van Holland, a floating hotel with restaurant, bars, lounges, shop, cabins & kennels.

Above left, the bar on 9 deck. Above right, the Stena Plus lounge with complimentary red & white wine, tea, coffee, soft drinks & snacks.

Above left, a Captain's Class cabin with complimentary minibar, toilet & shower. Above right, fresh sea air aft on 9 deck.

2. Rotterdam to Berlin by European Sleeper

Launched by two sleeper-loving entrepreneurs in May 2023, the European Sleeper has a sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, couchette cars with 4 and 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats. A light breakfast is included in sleepers, available at extra cost in couchettes. Light snacks and drinks can be ordered from the attendant, but there's no restaurant car so bring a picnic and maybe a bottle of wine! More about European Sleeper . Berlin Hbf station guide .

Above, the European Sleeper calls at Amsterdam Centraal. This is a 5-berth couchette car, beyond it is the stainless steel sleeping-car.

The European Sleeper arrived at Berlin Hbf .

Scotland & the North to Germany

If you live in the North of England or Scotland, option 1 is to take a train up to London and travel from London to Germany as described above. This may well be the quickest & easiest option. Here's some advice on buying connecting train tickets to London . If you live in Scotland, the Caledonian Sleepers will get you up to London in time for a morning Eurostar & onwards trains to Germany.

But consider option 2, by-passing London by taking a luxurious overnight cruise ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam run by DFDS Seaways or a similar overnight ferry from Hull to Rotterdam run by P&O Ferries , then onward trains to Germany. There are direct trains from Holland to Osnabruck, Hannover, Berlin, Cologne & Frankfurt. So why not by-pass London by taking the overnight ferry to Holland, perhaps spend some time in Amsterdam, then hop on a train to Germany?

Scotland & North of England ► Germany

Day 1, take a train to either Hull or Newcastle, whichever is most convenient for where you live.

In Hull, transfer to P&O ferry terminal and sail overnight from Hull to Rotterdam by P&O cruise ferry, with bus/train connection to Amsterdam Centraal. The ferry has bars, restaurants & cosy en suite cabins.

For details of schedule, fares & tickets from Hull, see the Hull to Rotterdam page .

In Newcastle, transfer to the DFDS ferry terminal at North Shields and sail overnight from Newcastle to Amsterdam by DFDS Seaways cruise ferry. The ferry has bars, restaurants & cosy en suite cabins.

For details of schedule, fares & tickets from Newcastle, see the Newcastle to Amsterdam page .

Day 2, travel by train from Rotterdam Centraal or Amsterdam Centraal to anywhere in Germany.

Use the German Railways website int.bahn.de to check train times & fares from Amsterdam to anywhere in Germany and buy tickets online.

For example, the 13:59 Intercity train from Amsterdam Centraal arrives Berlin Hbf at 19:51, or there are later trains.

A 12:38 ICE train from Amsterdam Centraal arrives Cologne Messe/Deutz at 15:09 & Frankfurt (Main) Hbf at 16:26, or there are later trains too. if you'd like to spend some time in Amsterdam.

Or you could spend the day in Rotterdam or Amsterdam, have dinner, then take the 3-times-a-week European Sleeper overnight to Berlin.

Germany ► Scotland & North of England

Day 1, take a train from Germany to Rotterdam Centraal (for P&O to Hull) or to Amsterdam Centraal (for DFDS to Newcastle).

You can check train times & fares from anywhere in Germany to Amsterdam & buy tickets online at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

For example, the 08:06 Intercity train from Berlin Hbf arrives at Amsterdam Centraal at 14:00.

The 09:29 ICE train from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & 10:50 from Cologne Messe/Deutz arrives Amsterdam Centraal at 13:29, or there are other trains. By all means travel earlier and have more time in Amsterdam.

Or you could take the 3-times-a-week overnight European Sleeper from Berlin to Amsterdam (for Newcastle) or Rotterdam (for Hull), spend the day there, then take the overnight ferry home.

Day 1, if going to Hull: Transfer by P&O bus from Rotterdam Centraal to Rotterdam Europoort and sail overnight from Rotterdam to Hull with P&O Ferries ( www.poferries.com ), arriving next morning (day 2). In Hull, transfer from the ferry terminal to Hull station by taxi or shuttle bus.

For details of schedule, fares & tickets, see the Hull to Rotterdam page .

Day 1, if going to Newcastle: Transfer from Amsterdam Centraal to IJmuiden ferry terminal by DFDS transfer bus and sail overnight from IJmuiden to Newcastle with DFDS ( www.dfds.com ), arriving next morning (day 2). In Newcastle, transfer from ferry to station by bus or taxi.

For details of schedule, fares & tickets see the Newcastle to Amsterdam page

Day 2, take a train home from Hull or Newcastle.

Fares & how to buy tickets

Step 1, start with the ferry. Go to www.dfds.com for Newcastle-Amsterdam, www.poferries.com for Hull-Rotterdam.

Step 2, now for the train from Amsterdam to Germany.

Book from Amsterdam Centraal (if you're arriving from Newcastle by DFDS) or from Rotterdam Centraal (if you're arriving at Rotterdam Europoort with P&O) to anywhere in Germany using the German Railways website int.bahn.de . Allow plenty of time for the port-station transfer.

Step 2, then check train times and buy train tickets to Hull or Newcastle as shown on the UK page or using www.nationalrail.co.uk . Allow plenty of time for the transfer from station to port, and for the ferry check-in.

Step 1, Newcastle to Amsterdam (DFDS) or Hull to Rotterdam (P&O) by overnight cruise ferry, with private en suite cabins, restaurants, bars, cinema, a floating hotel. If travelling with DFDS from Newcastle, a transfer bus takes you from IJmuiden ferry terminal to Amsterdam Centraal station next morning. If travelling with P&O from Hull, a transfer bus takes you from Rotterdam Europoort ferry terminal to Rotterdam Centraal , from where frequent Dutch trains run to Utrecht or Amsterdam.

Step 2, take an ICE train from Amsterdam or Utrecht to Germany. More info about ICE trains .

Holidays & tours to Germany

Railbookers, railbookers.co.uk.

Railbookers can custom-make a flight-free holiday or short break to Germany for you, with train travel & hotels, for however long you like, leaving on any date you like. If you tell them what you want, they'll advise you on the best trains, routes & hotels and sort it all out for you. They get a lot of repeat business! For example:

Short breaks to Cologne with train travel & hotel, check their website for prices.

Short breaks to Berlin, with train travel both ways & 2 or more nights hotel.

7-night holiday to Berlin & Prague by train.

Christmas Markets - Railbookers are experts in Christmas Market breaks by train

Byway, byway.travel

Byway ( Byway.travel ) is a new UK-based eco-holiday firm with a 5-star TrustPilot rating . If you're nervous about booking train travel yourself, they'll book a holiday to Germany for you as a package, including train travel from the UK and hotels, starting from any British station you like.

They can build a trip to your requirements, email them or use the contact form . Please say you heard about them from Seat 61.

Byway includes package protection, a 100% Covid refund guarantee, free disruption & re-planning and on-demand WhatsApp support while you're away.

Rail Discoveries, raildiscoveries.com

Rail Discoveries offers several train-based escorted tours to Germany, with 3* hotels and travel by Eurostar and onwards high-speed train. For example, they offer a 5-day tour to the Rhine Valley, or a 6-day Rhine cruise. Check prices & departure dates at www.raildiscoveries.com , then book online or call 01904 730 727.

Great Rail Journeys, greatrail.com

Rhine valley cruises.

There are two ways to cruise the wonderful Rhine Valley - as an inexpensive day trip on a scheduled KD Lines cruise, or as a multi-day trip on a full-blown cruise ship which you use as a floating hotel, staying on board in en suite cabins.

A day cruise down the Rhine Valley, an inexpensive short break

Buy train tickets from London to Koblenz, as explained above .

Buy a ticket for around €35 for the daily scheduled cruise from Koblenz to Rüdesheim run by the Köln-Düsseldorfer Line, www.k-d.com . Their scheduled day cruises run between April and October, there's usually a sailing from Koblenz around 09:00 arriving Rüdesheim around 15:15. You may also find an afternoon departure, leaving Koblenz around 14:00 and arriving Rüdesheim around 20:15. The cruise will take you past the Hostile Brothers' castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock. They have various other scheduled cruises starting as far north as Cologne and going as far south as Mainz, see www.k-d.com (select English top right then click ''KD Scheduled Cruises' top left).

Treat the timetable as a guide, and don't book any tight connections, the Rhine boats can run late!

Luxury Rhine cruises

River cruisers with private cabins, restaurants and bars cruise the Rhine on multi-day trips where you live on board and visit locations along the way.

Riviera Travel , www.rivieratravel.co.uk , offers 8-day Rhine cruises from Koblenz to Switzerland with train travel by Eurostar to and from London, from around £1,199 per person. The trips cover Koblenz, the Rhine Gorge and Lorelei Rock, Strasbourg, the Black Forest, Interlaken and Lucerne.

European Rail Timetable & maps

Traveller's Railway Map of Europe - buy online

Rail Map Europe is the map I recommend, covering all of Europe from Portugal in the west to Moscow & Istanbul in the east, Finland in the north to Sicily & Athens in the south. Scenic routes & high-speed lines are highlighted. See an extract from the map . Buy online at www.europeanrailtimetable.eu (shipping worldwide) or at www.amazon.co.uk (UK addresses).

Make sure you take a good guidebook. For independent travel, the best guidebook is either the Lonely Planet or Rough Guide. Both guidebooks provide an excellent level of practical information and historical and cultural background. You won't regret buying one!

Click the images to buy at Amazon.co.uk

Or buy the Lonely Planets from the Lonely Planet website , with shipping worldwide. Alternatively, you can download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

Recommended hotels

Here are my suggested hotels conveniently located for arrival by train in key German cities, all with good or great reviews. You are unlikely to be disappointed by any hotel scoring over 8.0 out of 10 on Booking.com .

In Frankfurt

If you walk out of Hamburg Hbf's main eastern exit, you'll find a row of good hotels lined up in front of you on the opposite side of the Kirchenallee. The pick of these is the excellent 4-star Hotel Reichshof Hamburg , across the road and to the left with art deco-based design and great reviews. It has its own restaurant for lunch or dinner, although I'd still be tempted to try the beer & traditional German food at Nagel's bar, 150m south along the Kircheallee, restaurant-kneipe-hamburg.de .

The Hotel Europaischer Hof is another good choice and directly in front of you across the road when you walk out of the station. Other hotels next to Hamburg Hbf with good reviews include the 5-star Hotel Continental Novum (to the right of the Europaischer), Hotel Furst Bismarck (to the right of the Continental Novum), and the Hotel Atlantic Kempinski .

If you'd prefer a hotel right in the city centre, the Henri Hotel Hamburg Downtown is 5 minutes walk from the station on the city side, and gets really great reviews.

If you're on a budget, private rooms in the A&O Hotel start at around £33 for one person or £49 for two people booked at www.hostelworld.com . The A&O is an 11-minute 900m walk south of Hamburg Hbf, see walking map . Also try the innovative Cab20 capsule hotel , a 550m 6-minute walk from the station, see walking map .

Affordable hotels right next to Munich Hbf with good or great reviews include the reliable Eden Hotel Wolff or the NH Collection München , both directly across the road from the station's north side exit, ideal for an overnight stop between trains. I've used the Hotel Wolff myself.

Also consider the more upmarket 25 Hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian , Excelsior by Giesel or Mercure München City Center , all a stone's throw from the station with great reviews.

If you want to push the boat out, the luxurious 5-star Sofitel Munich Beyerpost is right outside the station's south side exit, located in the former Royal Bavarian Post Office building dating from 1896-1900. It comes complete with a spa with massage service and sauna.

If you're on a budget, the Wombat's Hostel Munich is close to the station's south side exit with private rooms & dorm beds, with good reviews.

Booking.com for hotels

I generally use Booking.com for hotels for 3 reasons:

(1) It keeps all my hotel bookings together in one place;

(2) I've come to trust Booking.com 's review scores;

(3) Booking.com usually offers a clearly-marked Free cancellation option.

Free cancellation means you can secure hotels risk-free even before trains open for booking, and if necessary change those bookings if your plans evolve.

If I'm only staying a night or two, I look for a hotel near the station to make arrival & departure easy. You can enter the station name (e.g. Berlin Hbf ) as search location. If staying longer, I look for a hotel close to the sights, entering the name of a city attraction as the search location, then using map view.

I then look for a hotel with a review score of 8.0 or over, any hotel scoring over that won't disappoint.

AirBnB: Airbnb.com

www.airbnb.com began in 2008 when two designers who had space to share hosted three travellers looking for a place to stay. AirBnB is a platform which connects hosts with guests, so you can now book a room in people's homes, or an apartment, flat or house which people want to rent out. It can be nicer than a hostel, cheaper than many hotels.

Backpacker hostels: Hostelworld.com

www.hostelworld.com : If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels. Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in Paris and most other European cities at rock-bottom prices.

Compare 50 different car hire companies: www.carrentals.co.uk

The award-winning www.carrentals.co.uk compares many different car hire companies including Holiday Autos, meaning not only a cheapest price comparison but a wider choice of hire and drop off location.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer. It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit. These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself. Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here . Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected. Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list . There's no need to buy a physical SIM card! Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top. A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this. The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards. And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works: 1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android . 2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses. 3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card. 4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app. You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader. The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out). I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great. See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing. Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure. A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi. It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply. See VPNs & why you need one explained . ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription. I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone. You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet. I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over. Buy from Amazon.co.uk or Buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities? Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa. They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities. My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

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Update April 12, 2024

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Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Germany - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism .

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Germany. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Germany.

If you decide to travel to Germany:

Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
Follow the instructions of local authorities.
Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Germany.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area including transit (strictly enforced) .

Not required for stays under 90 days.

 10,000€ (euros or equivalent).

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. EMBASSY BERLIN Clayallee 170 14191 Berlin Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Email: [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL FRANKFURT Giessener Str. 30 60435 Frankfurt am Main Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (69) 7535-0 Fax: +(49) (69) 7535-2252 Passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and Citizenship: [email protected] All other questions: [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL MUNICH Koeniginstrasse 5 80539 Munich Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (89) 2888-575 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) 89-2888-0 Fax: If you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number. Email: [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL DUSSELDORF Willi-Becker-Allee 10 40227 Duesseldorf Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (211) 788-8927 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (211) 788 - 8938 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt.

U.S. Consulate General Hamburg Alsterufer 27/28 20354 Hamburg Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (40) 411-71-100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (40) 411-71-222 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.

U.S. Consulate General Leipzig Wilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4 04107 Leipzig Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (341) 213-84-0 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (341) 213-84-75 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Germany for information on U.S. - Germany relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Traveling Through Europe :  If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.  

Your passport should be valid for  at least three months beyond the period of stay  if you plan on transiting a Schengen country review our  U.S. Travelers in Europe page .    
You will need s ufficient proof of funds  and a  return plane ticket .  
For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the  Schengen Visa page.  
For transit through Germany to another Schengen country, passports must be valid for three months beyond the length of your visit to Europe.

Credit cards are not as widely accepted in Germany as they are in the United States; however, ATMs are widely available throughout Germany.

Carry identification with you at all times.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Germany.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  

Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. 

Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack –including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
Places of worship 
Schools 
Shopping malls and markets 
Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.  

Demonstrations:

Demonstrations occur regularly in Germany. Large, public demonstrations take place for a variety of political and economic issues. Demonstrations tend to take place on politically significant holidays like German Labor Day (May 1) and during international summits hosted in Germany.  Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants.   

Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.  
Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.  
Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams:

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Germany.  Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters.  Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.  Common scams include:   

Romance/Online dating 
Transit flight issues related to romance scams
Immigration, and Detention issues related to romance scams

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information. 

Violent crime is rare in Germany, but can occur, especially in larger cities or high-risk areas such as on large metropolitan subway systems and in train stations, primarily during late night or early morning hours. Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing.  Theft and pickpocketing primarily take place at train stations, on public transportation, at tourist attractions, and at large public events.  Always pay close attention to your valuables!

Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

U.S. citizens should exercise caution when congregating in known expatriate hangouts.

Hooligans, most often drunken “skinheads,” have harassed and attacked perceived foreigners or members of rival groups. Seemingly racially motivated assaults (because of a “foreign” appearance) against U.S. citizens have occurred.

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. They are illegal to bring back into the United States, and you could also be breaking local law.

Victims of Crime:

Report crimes to the local police: in an emergency dial 112 for ambulance and 110 for the police and contact the U.S Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate (see contact details above) .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

We can:

Help you find appropriate medical care
Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion
Provide a list of local attorneys
Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
Provide information on  victim’s compensation and support in Germay
Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
Replace a stolen or lost passport

We also maintain information on our website on how to report  child abuse situations to the local authorities.

Domestic Violence: 

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or the Consulates in Frankfurt or Munich for assistance. Call 110 if you are in immediate danger.

The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.

Germany sometimes experiences extreme weather conditions including floods, long periods of drought, and unusually harsh winters with vast amounts of snow even in urban areas. Numerous injuries and deaths occur every year in Germany’s Alpine and coastal regions. Most of the emergencies relate to the following sports:  skiing, hiking, snowboarding, mountain biking, sledding, rock and mountain climbing, paragliding, and swimming. Those engaging in Alpine sports are strongly encouraged to register with  German “Alpen Verein”  .

In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Special Circumstances: Germany has strict customs regulations concerning:

Temporary importation or exportation of firearms
Military artifacts (particularly those of World War II)
Medications/pharmaceuticals
Business equipment

Under German law it is also illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or paraphernalia that glorifies fascism, the Nazi past, or the “Third Reich.”

Contact the German Embassy in Washington or one of the German consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Faith-Based Travelers : See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers : There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Germany. Same-sex marriage is available in Germany. The LGBTI community is protected by federal anti-discrimination laws and LGBTI Pride events are officially encouraged by most large city governments, including those in Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Munich.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:

The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in some older public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure especially outside major cities, but common in most urban infrastructure. Some older buildings and public transportation systems are less adapted to individuals with disabilities.

Check your hotel or destination to learn more about options to accommodate disabled traveler needs before visiting Germany.

The German National Tourist Board maintains information about accessibility and disability-friendly travel .

All German airports and Lufthansa offer services for disabled travelers.

The German National Railway, Deutsche Bahn , maintains a mobility resource webpage.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Vaccines:   The German government has authorized  several vaccines  , including the Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, and Novavax vaccines.  Visit the FDA's website to   learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Germany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescript ion and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names differ from those available in the United States.

For emergency services in Germany, dial 112. 

Ambulance services are widely available. 

Payment for medical services in Germany:

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  If you are not a resident of Germany, doctors and hospitals may expect immediate payment in cash. Credit card payment is not always available.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas or purchase travel insurance for this purpose. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.  We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates maintain lists of doctors and medical services in Germany .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery 

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on Medical Tourism.  
Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Germany. 
We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals 

If traveling with prescription medication, visit the  German customs website  to ensure the medication is legal in Germany. For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply.  A comprehensive list of these medications can be found   here.   If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a certification form .  You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.”  As there is no such authority in the United States, travelers may have the doctor self-certify the form and enter the information of his or her practice in part E, ideally with a stamp or seal from their office. Due to Germany’s strict customs regulations, you are not allowed to receive prescription medication by mail without special permission.  Always, carry your prescription
Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.   Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.  
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy  

If you are considering traveling overseas to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 

All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany. For additional information, see this webpage of the German Foreign Ministry (German language only).

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel . 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States, but driver error is a leading cause of accidents involving U.S. citizen motorists in Germany.

If you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license you can drive in  Germany for up to six months  without acquiring a German driver’s license. Many German traffic laws and traffic signs differ significantly from those in the United States. For more information, please visit the U.S. embassy’s webpage on  driving in Germany .

Speed limits are posted on large stretches of the highway, on the Autobahn in urban areas and when the road has many curves. While high speeds are permitted on the Autobahn, adverse weather conditions and unfamiliar road markings pose significant hazards. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Use of seat belts is mandatory in front and back seats. Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks. Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest and a reflective triangle must be in your vehicle at all times. In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow tires or all-season tires (indicated by M+S marking) or you will be subject to a fine.

Bicycles: German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes. Bicycles have priority use of bike lanes over pedestrians and automobiles. Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets. If you are driving, check whether a bicyclist is approaching from either direction before attempting to enter side streets, even when the light is in your favor. You will be held responsible for any injury or damage caused if you turn into a side street and hit a bicyclist using a marked bike lane. If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes.

Traffic Laws:  If you are involved in a traffic accident in Germany, even a minor fender-bender, you MUST stay with your vehicle and do not leave the scene until police arrive to take a report. It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Germany. Except on priority roads, vehicles coming from the right have the right-of-way. It is generally illegal in Germany to pass vehicles on the right. Germans strictly observe the ‘slower traffic keep right’ rule. It is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol level is 0.05% or higher. You may be fined and your driver’s license may be suspended for specified periods of time depending upon the gravity of each violation.

Public Transportation:  Germany has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways. Metered taxis are also prevalent throughout Germany, although some taxis do not accept credit cards. Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany. Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Germany’s  Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMVI) , the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Germany’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Germany should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Germany . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.”

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Find cheap flights to Germany from £20

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united kingdom to germany departing on 29/5. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to germany.

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Best Germany Flight Deals

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Good to know - Cheap tickets to Germany

Faqs - booking germany flights, how can i hire a car at frankfurt airport.

If you wish for privacy, flexibility and freedom, consider car hire at Frankfurt Airport. The car hire centre at this airport is in the centre of Terminal 1, and some of the car hire companies include Enterprise, Europcar and Hertz. Alternatively to hiring a car when you arrive, you can book in advance through KAYAK to get a car ready for pick-up as soon as you land.

How do I get from Frankfurt Airport to the city centre?

Frankfurt Airport is Germany's main airport, approximately 9 miles (14.5 km) from the city centre. The primary transit options include a train, bus or taxi. You can catch the shuttle in front of Terminals 1 and 2, and it will get you to the city centre in about 30min. The train station, on the other hand, is at Terminal 1, getting you to the city centre in approximately 15min.

Which flights to Germany should I look at if I want to visit the Black Forest?

Stuttgart Airport (STR) is the nearest airport in Germany to the Black Forest region. An alternative airport nearby is EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL), even though it is actually located in France.

Which flights to Germany should I look at if I want to visit Neuschwanstein Castle?

You have a couple of airport options for visiting Neuschwanstein and the surrounding areas. While Munich is the main international hub and lies approx. 95 mi north east of Neuschwanstein, Allgäu Airport Memmingen is a hub for low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and is only 60 mi north west of Neuschwanstein Castle.

Are there festivals in Germany I should pay attention to when booking my flight?

Oktoberfest is one celebration you should pay extra attention to. If you plan to visit Munich during the festival, please note that airfares and hotels prices will rise during this period. Definitely check the availability of hotels before purchasing your flight, as they tend to be fully booked during this period.

What transport options are there at the airports?

Most of the major international airports in cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Frankfurt have great rail networks that connect the airports to the city and the wider metropolitan areas, while Bremen airport has a tram link direct to the city centre. Buses will often be the more affordable option, while taking taxi or arrange for a transfer may be the most convenient.

How long is the flight to Germany?

An average direct flight from the United Kingdom to Germany takes 2h 30m, covering a distance of 478 miles. The most popular route is London - Berlin with an average flight time of 1h 50m.

What is the cheapest flight to Germany?

The cheapest ticket to Germany from the United Kingdom found in the last 72 hours was £12 one-way, and £27 round-trip. The most popular route is London Heathrow to Berlin Brandenburg and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was £104.

Which airlines fly to Germany?

Lufthansa, British Airways & United Airlines fly the most frequently from the United Kingdom to Germany.

What are the most popular destinations in Germany?

The next most popular destinations are Frankfurt am Main (20%) and Munich (13%). Searches for flights to Düsseldorf (13%), to Cologne (6%) and to Hamburg (6%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travellers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Germany

Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Germany flight deals.
The main currency in Germany is the euro; hence you might need currency exchange facilities on arrival. There are foreign exchange facilities are located at Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in Terminal 1. The exchange facilities are also accessible throughout the city, in banks and train stations. It is, however, advisable to conduct your exchange in the city rather than the airport, as the rates are slightly more favourable.
Refresh after a long flight in the public showers at Terminals 1 and 2 of Frankfurt Airport. If you wish to nap on arrival, consider heading to the sleeping cabins in the Terminal B transit area. Alternatively, you can grab a snack at some of the onsite lounges, including Luxx Lounge on the upper level of Terminal 1, Premium Traveller Lounge near Gate 26 Terminal 2 or Sky Lounge on Terminal 2, Third Floor.
For passengers with reduced mobility, Frankfurt Airport has wheelchairs and accessible paths. If you travel with an assistance dog, it should be on a leash at all times. Ensure you notify your travel agent at least 48 hours before your flight if you are travelling with any mobility issues.
While many travellers fly to Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to visit Frankfurt itself, the airport is also a convenient hub for connecting flights and trains to other German cities and a lot of other countries. More than 170 trains stop at Frankfurt Airport train station each day, providing direct connections to many cities in Germany and abroad, like Vienna, Milan, Zürich and Amsterdam. Hence, Frankfurt Airport is a great place to fly to if you would like to venture around Germany and Europe. Another airport in the region is Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (HHN), which serves many budget carriers, however, it is approx. 75 mi from Frankfurt.
There are two main airports in Berlin: Berlin Tegel (TXL) and Berlin Schoenefeld (SXF). Both receive international flights to Germany, however Schönefeld mostly serves low-cost airlines like easyJet and Ryanair.
Munich Airport (MUC) serves as the primary airport in southern Germany and is the airport you should fly to if you are mainly visiting Bavaria and surroundings. The airport is located 28km northeast of Munich, which is convenient for visiting the Alps.
Konrad Adenauer Airport (CGN) located between Cologne and Bonn is a base for Eurowings and other budget airlines. Travelling from the airport railway station to Frankfurt Airport takes less than 1h by InterCity Express train. The train also provides easy access to other cities in Germany, with Intercity Express trains going from Cologne all the way to Frankfurt, Munich and Berlin.
As a British citizen, you currently do not need a visa to visit Germany. It is worth checking the government website for up-to-date regulations regarding travel to Germany and within the Schengen zone.

Top 5 airlines flying to Germany

Horrible experience. Nothing to give to kids to keep them entertained.

I think I have bruises on my kneecaps. Do the seats have to be so close together these days? And if they are so close they really shouldn’t recline. I think when the gentleman in front of me reclined, the back of his head was on my chin. That being said the crew were always caring and polite, and the flight was on time and very safe. So I’m grateful for that.

Made us check our car seat that could have been used on the 11 hour connecting flight, we explained we wanted to use it and they said we could. When we arrived at our connecting flight the car seat was at the bottom of the plane. This made our flight home 11+ hours pretty hard at times with our toddler. We wished we had our car seat which he had rode on the flight there earlier in the week. The air dolomiti staff were mixed- some were so nice while others (one in particular in Genoa) seemed bothered to be assisting us.

Our flight from Frankfurt to Newark was diverted to Boston. Lufthansa just dumped an entire 747 plane full of passengers in Boston with no support. No help with hotels, and telling us we would have to find our own way back to Newark or to our final destination. What a complete mess. The Lufthansa agent at the Boston airport would not help, nor would any Lufthansa agent via phone. Soooo angry!!!

I dropped my wallet under my seat on this flight with all of my money and credit card. I requested to be able to go back and retrieve it but Lufthansa denied my request. I went to the Customer Services and they called Lost and Found but I was told nothing found would be turned in until around 12:00pm. My next flight was leaving so I was unable to check to see if my wallet was turned in. I will never fly with Lufthansa again.

Dinner was good by air travel standards but breakfast was too light and heavy on carbs/sugar.

My tv didn’t work, crew had to reset it 6 times, it worked for 3 minutes and started acting crazy clicking random items on screen automatically. Plus only one side of earphones worked, blanket was too think and small.

Used to love Lufthansa, but Rowe are too close together in Economy and passengers are allowed to recline their seats so far back it is impossible for those behind them to even reach for carry-on essentials during flight - except for meal service when flight attendants ask for seat backs to be raised, we can’t sleep on planes so this flight was most uncomfortable ever! Rod Rose

Lufthansa used to be the best not any more , food is cheap, crew needs to be on retirement )) we really like to see old type of Lufthansa back to business

Never flown with LH before so all in all wasba good experience. Also good to know that approx 24hrs prior the flight opens up for being able to organise the seating free.

The trip itself was good. I have given only good as rating, because my first flight has been cancelled by a different airline and that caused disruption in my trip. I spent over ten hours in Luton airport and that caused me high tiredness, sickness, because of the very early initial trip. easyJet staff has been professional and friendly.

Very pleasant crew, working hard on a full plane. Delay by a broken seat. However crew made back 60% of the delay.

Delayed and then further delayed with no announcement made so that all the passengers (who were standing in the jetty) could hear. We stood there for well over 20 minutes. We were further delayed through weather but no one explained that to us until the pilot made an announcement when finally on board

easyJet need to ensure that whether pre-booking seats or not children aren’t split from their parents the crew spent the majority of boarding asking passengers to move to accommodate two families. Surely the system identifies minors on a booking !!!!! It was all very frustrating to watch and caused delays which I’m sure cost easyJet more in the long run rather that automatically allocating families with minors seats together automatically.

Not great! Rude staff in London and the worse baggage reclaim I’ve ever seen. Great staff in flight but doubt I’ll fly with them again

Staff had been really impolite at the boarding area and for both ways charged high extra fees without a reason. For the check-in luggage which was measured 3.5 kg and was confirmed by the stuff to cost 40 € , 60 Euros had been purchased from our credit card. When confronted staff did call us both liars and claimed to never have announced anything. Flight back , when not wanting to press a backpack in a measuring metal instead of hand measuring , staff got angry that one did not follow her order, which was than escalated by the team. Although carrying a baby anyways staff did not offer any help in the unreasonable process and than charged again extra money. Cabine crew has been friendly but this experience LL lead to not booking easy jet at all in the future. Check in process in Edinburgh anyways chaotic,to the family check-in and disabled check-in everybody else was guided for check in process, so people just getting in between each other, not possible to monitor your own stuff.

As you would expect from a budget airline Left and arrived on time, no frills, not even a glass of water offered But you get what you pay for

I had an emergency escape seat. The attendant gave the extrA briefing to my side of the aisle but didnt direct it at all to the other where my wife was sitting

Boarding great. Didn’t eat or drink so can not comment.

Total jobs worths over carry on bags, charged £96 extra for bags that were clearly hand luggage

We checked in 4 luggage and only got 3 back & lost our 4th luggage. Our flight was from berlin sept 22. We arrived Copenhagen but only received 3 luggage. Missing 1 still 24 hrs after our arrival and our Cruise will be leaving tomorrow 9/24/2023. This is the second time that our luggage gets lost/delayed in Copenhagen

No food on plane.. flights scheduled 55 min..everything is very expensive on aeroport

Filthy plane, obviously not cleaned properly between flights, food crumbles in seat and carpet

Smallest seat I have ever seen. And they had a label with more Legroom but in fact where really tiny.

No cancellations but one flight delayed due to arrival airport industrial action. Comfortable

I was held-up at boarding by rude employee who insisted that I had to wait until all other passengers had boarded the lane before issuing me a boarding pass so I can board the plane. I could not check-in earlier and get a boarding pass since I had flown directly from Dusseldorf.

Due to long security check and no last call announcements from Gate staff, my family and 12 other passengers missed the flight.

What can you say Ryanair get you there,no frills Not so cheap anymore ..... but what is now days! Would use again as always. Good flight times for us.

Very unpleasant staff, disgusting service, ignoring requests, refusal to help

Flights were on time. The crew was efficient and friendly.

Late again rude staff at gate bullying passengers made us stand in the cold 3degrees for 40 mins before they let us board

The usual average Ryanair flight, but we landed 20 min before due time, which was very good.

Enjoyed our flight with Ryanair to Arrecife. Flight boarded pretty much on time, crew were welcoming and very good. Generally good for a frequent low cost flight, Seats could however have been more comfortable.

I wouldn't like to fly with them anymore, I don't like their service, you can hardly take carry-on luggage because they charge you for everything, you can't ask for a glass of water, and the flight attendant tells you that they don't have any, that you have to Paying 3 euros for a bottle of water horrible, I don't recommend it, and they don't have anything low cost, because the plane ticket may not be expensive but what they charge you later for the rest, the flight becomes more expensive, it's the only airline that I don't like it so far, and I traveled a lot.

Staff were friendly and flight was on time. Free drink and snacks would have been appreciated.

The boarding process was fast and easy , but the airport sign was not up on the board, so it was hard to know the correct gate , on the airplane there was NO Snacks and NO water …. Everything needs to be purchase …. It’s not worthy for the price we paid !

Self check in Kiosk did not recognize that I had prepaid for my luggage. This caused a 40 minute delay even though I had my British Airways email receipt for the prepaid luggage.

Crew were very friendly and helpful. They explained to us in detail the delay in our takeoff due to the storm that rolled in from Belfast and did their best to make up the time. Always great to fly BA!

Staff were very helpful. The free WiFi for messages was also very useful to keep in touch

Crew was more interested on looking at their phones than welcoming passengers during boarding.

The crew was very attentive and kept busy serving a variety of treats!

Terrible. Missed my flight to final destination because of delayed British Airways flight. Had to spend 12 hours in airport and $1500 for new plane tickets

The crew on board were all very pleasant and happy to help. The flight had the old business class seats. The departure board in the business lounge did not update and kept on saying ' gate open' but never said boarding. When I got nervous about the departure time and walked to the gate I was told off rudely for being late.

Offered vegetable curry when it was actually tofu which I don’t care for.

British Airways planes are too old verses other airlines, followed by luggage not turning up, with a customer service team unhelpful in trying to locate or send to hotel was appalling. 3 days without suitcases on a leg that flies 2 x daily.

The flight was good the crew excellent…but take off delayed three hours!!!

Book Cheap Germany Plane Tickets

Cheapest flights to Germany from the United Kingdom found in 2024

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1. entry into the united kingdom for germans, 1a. what effects do brexit and the end of the transition period have in terms of entering and staying in the united kingdom.

Since 1 January 2021, new rules apply to EU citizens not already resident in the United Kingdom who wish to enter or stay in the United Kingdom.

All information on UK visa requirements for foreign nationals can be found on the UK government website .

1b. Do I need a visa for visits and/or business trips to the United Kingdom?

German citizens generally still do not need a visa for visits or business trips lasting up to 6 months.

Find out more, particularly on the distinction between a business trip (no visa required) and a stay where you undertake paid work (visa required): Visiting the UK after Brexit

1c. As an EU citizen, am I still allowed to move to the United Kingdom?

Freedom of movement between the EU and the United Kingdom ended on 31 December 2020. Anyone wanting to move to the United Kingdom after that date, for example in order to work or study in the United Kingdom or join family already living there, must apply for a visa beforehand. Certain set criteria must be met in order for a visa to be issued.

Find out more: Visas and Immigration

1d. What does the end of the transition period (31 December 2020) mean for German students?

EU students who had already taken up residence in the United Kingdom before 31 December 2020 had to submit an application under the EU Settlement Scheme to secure the rights associated with settled status or pre-settled status. They had to have taken up residence and been able to prove their physical presence.

EU students moving to the United Kingdom after 31 December 2020 to study must apply for a student visa (for which a charge applies) beforehand , even if their course started in 2020. It is not possible to enter the United Kingdom to begin a course of study without having obtained a visa in advance; EU students must apply (in advance) for a student visa if they are planning to stay for longer than six months. In these cases it is not possible to enter the United Kingdom to begin a course of study without having obtained a visa in advance. There have already been cases of students being turned back at the border or put on a flight back to Germany A student visa gives you considerably fewer rights than people who have acquired settled status or pre-settled status.

Further information on the situation as of 1 January 2021 from the UK Council for International Student Affairs can be found here and here and from Study UK/British Council here .

List of links relating to Brexit and higher education on the website of the London office of DAAD

1e. As an EU citizen, can I work as an au pair in the United Kingdom?

Since 1 January 2021, EU citizens are no longer permitted to take up work as an au pair in the United Kingdom.

1f. As an EU citizen, can I do a German university mandatory internship in the United Kingdom?

You may apply for a Temporary Worker - Government Authorised Exchange visa (T5) provided you meet the criteria. However, since 1 January 2021, it is virtually impossible in practice for EU citizens to do a German university mandatory internship in the United Kingdom.

1g. As an EU citizen, can I do a legal internship (administrative or elective stage) in the United Kingdom?

Under the British immigration legislation applicable to EU citizens since 1 January 2021, it is generally also no longer possible for Germans to undertake part of their legal training (“Referendariat”) in the United Kingdom.

1h. As an EU citizen, can I still enter the United Kingdom using my national identity card or passport after Brexit?

Since 1 October 2021, EU citizens are only able to enter the UK with a valid passport. This also applies to travellers in transit.

If you have settled status or pre-settled status, you are generally still able to enter the country using your national ID card. To provide extra proof of your status at border control, your national ID card should be linked to your immigration status online. From 2026, the British government is free to make biometric documents compulsory. Some airlines will only accept a passport (rather than a national ID card).

Find out more: Visiting the UK after Brexit

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UK’s Sunak hopes to deepen defence ties on trip to Germany

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visits Warsaw

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Better US-China ties but still deep disagreements as Blinken starts visit

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Shanghai on Wednesday with U.S.-China ties on a steadier footing, but with a daunting array of unresolved issues threatening the stability of relations between the global rivals.

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Coach service offers journeys across the UK for knockdown price of £2 each way

Hundreds of cut-price, sustainable intercity journeys are on special offer this week for trips across England, Scotland and Wales

A transport company is offering £2 tickets for coach trips across the UK to be taken up to May 12. With a £1 service fee, that means travellers planning journeys can book long-distance tickets from £3 on the FlixBus website or app.

In England there is a government-backed scheme capping local bus tickets at £2 until December 2024, but this offer opens up longer routes and also applies to journeys into and around Wales and Scotland, where the £2 cap doesn’t exist. So, if you fancy a trip through the blossoming valleys from Bristol to Swansea, or from Glasgow to Inverness via the Cairngorms, now is the time to book. The deal is available until Sunday 21 April.

The international travel tech company is celebrating three years of business in the UK. It runs in partnership with local coach companies using green, branded vehicles. Earlier this year FlixBus launched the first direct electric coach service between London Victoria station and Newport in south Wales two of around 75 UK destinations currently covered by the network.

FlixBus began as a German startup in 2013 and has grown exponentially since then to cover thousands of routes in more than 40 countries, entering the UK market in 2020. Last summer it launched the first ever regular routes from several UK cities, including Leeds and Cambridge, direct to Amsterdam. The buses aim to be cheap, sustainable, easy to book and comfortable, with free wifi and charging points on board.

The lowest-priced journeys include direct routes such as Manchester to Edinburgh, London to Bridgend, Bristol to Newcastle and hundreds more intercity connections. The whole FlixBus Scottish network is part of the £2 scheme with Inverness added as a new destination this month. In Scotland, National Entitlement Card and Young Scot cardholders can get free travel.

Andreas Schörling, managing director of FlixBus UK, said the network offers affordable tickets and “comfortable, modern vehicles” and is celebrating its third anniversary with “£2 travel around the vibrant cities and towns of the UK”. The company aims to “become the best-loved coach brand in the country”, he added, offering “reliable services to as many passengers as possible”.

Coach travel
Green travel

Politics latest: PM insists defence spending pledge 'fully-funded'; Angela Rayner labels Rishi Sunak a 'pint-sized loser'

The PM is in Germany for talks with Chancellor Olaf Scholz.; Oliver Dowden and Angela Rayner stand in for Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer at PMQs, with the police investigation into Labour's deputy leader featuring prominently.

Wednesday 24 April 2024 13:35, UK

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Sunak insists rise in defence spending is 'fully funded'
Beth Rigby explains how government arrived at 2.5% figure
Rayner presses Dowden on no-fault evictions - and raises Sky News report - after joke about 'obsession' with her living arrangements
Labour deputy leader labels Sunak 'pint-sized loser'
Former Labour minister Frank Field dies
Local elections: Sam Coates on why they matter | Who can I vote for? | What Sunak and Starmer will be hoping for
Live reporting by Charlotte Chelsom-Pill

As the press conference between the prime minister and German chancellor was taking place in Berlin, defence secretary Grant Shapps was giving a statement in the Commons about the government's pledge to increase UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030.

Mr Shapps says it represents the "biggest strengthening of our national defence in a generation".

He says the commitment will be "funded in full without any increases in either borrowing or debt".

As we enter a "much more dangerous period," Mr Shapps tells the Commons, "we increasingly need our armed forces and we increasingly are asking more of them".

Shadow defence secretary John Healey welcomes the statement, saying Labour shares the "same ambition as the government" to deal with growing threats.

He says Labour "will always do what's required, spend what's required, on defence".

But he says he wants the government's commitment to be "fully costed and fully funded and asks why it was not set out in last month's budget.

He asks: "If this 2030 plan had been in a budget, it would have been checked, openly costed and fully funded. So where is the additional money coming from?"

Giving her initial reaction to the news conference in Berlin, our political editor Beth Rigby says Rishi Sunak is a prime minister "back on the world stage".

Mr Sunak is committing to his defence budget and is arguing that funding it is in the interests of the UK's security, she adds.

"He's there making a political choice about how he wants to fund defence, lifting the target of defence spending to 2.5% from the current 2% by the end of the decade."

Beth says it is also a "political play" as a general election looms.

"He is saying in a campaigning way almost: 'this is my priority as prime minister' - challenging opponents to say why it would not necessarily be theirs."

"This is partly about framing an election as being a strong leader, if you like, a wartime prime minister prepared to defend the country," she adds.

Mr Sunak is appealing to the Tory party base who have been calling for an increase in defence spending, Beth says.

"Being strong on defence appeals to many lapsed Conservative voters."

The two leaders are asked now about the arrests of suspected Chinese spies in both Britain and Germany.

"What does it mean for relations to China and what consequences should be drawn from those cases?," they are asked.

Olaf Scholz says Germany "cannot tolerate" espionage against it "regardless of where it comes from", and adds that those responsible should be taken to court.

There should also be cross-border work to tackle spying, he adds.

Rishi Sunak says he cannot comment in detail while an investigation is live in the UK.

But he adds: "Defending our democracy, our democratic processes and institutions is an absolute priority and we won't tolerate any activity that undermines that."

He notes that a new law passed last year gave law enforcement agencies new powers to respond to threats from "hostile foreign actors".

The prime minister and his German counterpart are asked whether they believe the NATO defence spending target should increase to 2.5%.

It comes after defence secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News it would make a "real difference" if the defence spending target increased from the current 2% of gross domestic product to 2.5%.

While not answering the question directly, Mr Sunak says we do need to adjust to a "new paradigm".

"I do believe that we'll look back at this moment in time and recognise that this was an inflection point where the old paradigm is no longer the case and we have to adjust for the new paradigm," he says.

"It's clear that the world that we're living in is increasingly dangerous.... And I think it's right that in light of that we recognise that we need to do more."

He also praises Mr Scholz for the support Germany is offering Ukraine, saying he is also "very proud" of everything the UK has done.

"The key thing is we're united on wanting to support Ukraine for as long as it takes so that Putin is seeing that his aggression will end in failure," Mr Sunak says.

"And we're defending the values that are incredibly important to us.

LBC asks Rishi Sunak what is going to have to go from the government's plans to pay for the increase in defence funding, and whether tax cuts are off the cards.

The prime minister says that investment in schools is going to continue.

He goes on to say that prioritising defence is a "choice" that he has made - although he will not go into the details of what will be in the next manifesto.

Mr Sunak says he has a "strong" plan for the economy and this plan is working - and sticking to this will allow defence spending to go up.

Part of this involves cutting the civil service. These cuts will also fund investment in public services and tax cuts, the PM adds.

Mr Sunak again repeats that his plan is working and that's why he can make the commitments he has.

LBC also asked whether Germany has eyes on a plan like the Rwanda scheme to deport asylum seekers.

Mr Sunak says he and Olaf Scholz discussed law enforcement cooperation, as has been done with other EU members.

Mr Scholz says Germany and the EU have prepared legislation for a common European Asylum System - and does not mention a deportation scheme.

We're moving to a Q&A now, with the first questions each going to Olaf Scholz and Rishi Sunak.

Mr Scholz is asked whether he is "100%" convinced that Donald Trump is committed to the "central tenets" of NATO.

The prime minister is then questioned on whether he is "not entirely squaring with people" over how the projected 2.5% increase in defence spending by 2030 will be funded, and whether it will likely involve "pain" for taxpayers.

Mr Sunak says it is "not a fair characterisation", saying the plan announced yesterday is "fully funded" - predominantly with reduction in the civil service to 2019 levels.

"The chancellor has conducted a detailed exercise... that's what gives us the confidence that we can release the savings needed."

"We have an economic plan that is working," Mr Sunak adds.

Mr Scholz does not directly answer the question regarding Mr Trump, but says he is "confident" that the alliance between NATO nations "won't change" no matter who is president.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is speaking now.

He says the bond between Germany and the UK in this "dangerous moment" is "stronger than ever".

He goes on to congratulate the German chancellor for his leadership in taking the "historic decision" to increase Germany's defence spending.

"We stand here today together as the leading defence spenders in Europe. Unshakeable NATO allies and the two largest military supporters of Ukraine in Europe," the prime minister says.

"Together we will continue to provide unwavering support for our Ukrainian friends, as you [Mr Scholz] said, for as long as it takes."

He adds that the UK and Germany will continue to work closely together on other global challenges, including putting the Middle East "on a better path".

"Together, we have acted to meet this moment," he says.

"We've taken greater responsibility for our collective security.

"And today we're going even further, opening a new chapter in the security relationship between our two nations."

He concludes by saying the thing that "really unites us ... is our people", referencing the love that Liverpool has for Jurgen Klopp and that Munich has for Harry Kane.

Over to Berlin now, where Rishi Sunak and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz are holding a joint news conference during Mr Sunak's first visit to the country as prime minister.

In his opening comments, Mr Scholz marks more than two years of the Ukraine war, which he says has caused "immeasurable suffering".

He notes that Germany and the UK are Kyiv's largest supporters in Europe and should continue their support for "as long as it takes".

Mr Scholz says it is "encouraging" that US Congress has finally passed a huge security bill predominately aimed at aid for Ukraine - but that it "does not release us in Europe here from our task to further enhance our support".

Germany is deepening cooperation "in very practical terms" with the UK on a "range of projects" including a new artillery system and armoured vehicle, Mr Scholz adds.

"Both our countries, Germany and the UK, are making substantial contribution to Europe's defence industry base," he says.

To continue this, a task force will be set up to create a "well-structed" framework for security and defence cooperation, Mr Scholz announces.

He also says it's "very important" to him to create "stronger bonds" between the German and British people.

"We have many issues that we are discussing and I am delighted that we were able to do this today here in Berlin."

Oliver Dowden is now being asked whether he will apologise to unpaid carers who have been "failed" by the government.

Lib Dem MP Daisy Cooper asks whether his government will also commit to a full review of the system.

"Unpaid carers have shared heartbreaking stories of how they have been hounded by the DWP [Department for Work and Pensions] and told to pay huge fines for minor infringements on carers' allowance earning rules," she says.

"All because the government failed to do anything about a problem they have known about for years."

Mr Dowden pays tribute to those unpaid carers, saying "I know how hard they work".

He adds: "In respect of allegations of overpayment, of course appropriate discretion should be shown.

"But if it is the case that there have been erroneous overpayments, it's right on behalf of the taxpayer to be able to recuperate those."

PMQs turns to the Israel-Hamas war now, as the SNP's Mhairi Black asks Oliver Dowden if mass graves recently discovered at a hospital in Gaza constitute as a war crime.

She draws a parallel with the discovery of hundreds of bodies in graves in Ukraine in 2022.

"This house united in condemnation and rightly treated these [Ukrainian] graves as evidence of war crimes," she said.

Mr Dowden responds that the Israeli government is investigating the matter, but brands as "extraordinary" her comparison between Russia's actions in Ukraine and Israel's "legitimate war of self-defence".

Ms Black presses Mr Dowden, saying that even the risk of war crimes taking place could be reason enough to halt the sale of arms from the UK to Israel.

"We continue to urge the Israeli government to investigate any allegations of misconduct. The difference, though, is that we can trust the Israeli government -a democratically elected government, to properly investigate those things," he says.

"Of course, we keep the advice under review."

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8 Best Places To Travel In May 2024

Wondering where to travel in May? These top destinations in May are amazing during this month, from The Bahamas to the UK and beyond.

Explore Munich in vibrant May weather, which is not crowded like during the Oktoberfest season. Enjoy beer culture in peaceful beer gardens.
Brighton in the UK offers amazing weather in May, perfect for festivals and beach exploration without the summer crowds.
Enjoy comfort in the Algarve's pleasant May weather and explore beautiful beaches without peak season crowds.

The transition between seasons is always exciting, and May, which is right between winter and summer, might just be the perfect time to explore many of the world's most beautiful places.

Temperatures are beginning to get better, and summer crowds haven't checked in yet, which means travelers can enjoy the scenery, the cultural attractions, and the art, without rubbing shoulders with every other tourist.

From some of the beautiful cities in Italy to add to your bucket list to a handful of the most beautiful destinations in the US , plenty of places guarantee unforgettable adventures in May. Here are eight of the best places to travel to in May 2024.

7 International Vacations That Take No Planning At All

8 munich, germany, springfest, beer culture, quiet streets, and comfortable weather.

Munich, which is officially the most walkable city in the world , is one of the most vibrant cities in Germany. The city of Munich offers lots to do and see and is among the world's best May destinations, thanks to its incredible beer culture, which tourists can enjoy exploring at this time of the year. Beer has always been an integral part of the city's lifestyle, and nothing could beat gathering in one of its incredible beer gardens .

May is also when the SpringFest happens, which may scare away some tourists because the city's world-famous Oktoberfest gets so crowded. However, SpringFest doesn't get that crowded, and vacationers will definitely have fun.

Generally, the weather in May is very comfortable in Munich and the streets are also quieter and calmer than in the summer months.

7 Brighton, UK

Amazing weather, great beaches, and fun festivals.

An incredible blend of historical architecture, modern amenities, sandy beaches, and breathtaking countryside makes Brighton an ideal destination not to miss on the bucket list. May is when the weather starts to become much more comfortable to explore beautiful attractions, such as the Palace Pier and the Lanes .

The Great Escape Music Festival , which allows the public to appreciate more than 500 up-and-coming artists from different parts of the world, happens in May. Moreover, tourists can also attend the Brighton Fringe , England's biggest art festival, which comes with over 500 fun events to watch in the city's theaters, pubs, and unique spots, running between May 3 and June 2.

6 The Bahamas

Beautiful weather, fewer crowds, amazing beaches.

There are plenty of experiences in this part of the world, from the best cruises in the Bahamas to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

Winter (between late November and April) is when the island nation is busiest. However, visitors can avoid crowds by choosing to visit in May, which is also when temperatures are most comfortable.

Cable Beach, Gold Rock Beach, Half Moon, and Pink Sands Beach are some of the most gorgeous beaches in the Bahamas to enjoy at this time of the year.

5 Algarve, Portugal

Comfortable weather and beautiful beaches that you can explore without crowds.

Whether spending a perfect day in Portugal's Algarve or visiting the city for the weekend, this European destination is beautiful and full of fun adventures for any type of vacationer.

May not only brings comfortable temperatures for enjoying the great outdoors but also comes with fewer crowds without rubbing shoulders like in the peak season (June through September).

One of the best things to do in the Algarve is to explore its beautiful beaches, and there is no better time than May. Spend time in Praia de Marinha , which is one of the most pristine beaches in Europe, and Praia de Camilo , another spectacular stretch of sand.

When exploring Praia de Marinha , spare some time for Benagil Cave, a famous sea cave located only 10 minutes away.

8 International Vacations For Less Than $1,000 A Week

4 catalonia, spain, splendid weather, fewer crowds, and amazing events.

From visiting the National Museum of Art to seeing the Sagrada di Familia's Construction, there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona , which is great to explore in May, but there is more to Catalonia than its vibrant capital. Girona, which is known for being featured in the world-famous Game of Thrones , as well as Costa Brava and Tarragona are equally stunning.

Visiting Catalonia in May offers a lot of advantages, including splendid weather and fewer crowds. Furthermore, there are plenty of fun events to attend at that time of the year.

Try some of the tastiest vermouths at the Vermut & Soul Festival , which happens between May 3 and 5. The event features delicious food, drinks, music, and fun activities. One can also attend the Gargar Festival , which gives visitors a chance to marvel at the breathtaking street art in Penelles.

8 Trending Bucket List Destinations (& Cheaper Alternatives)

3 the grand canyon, usa, the temperatures are cool, crowds are thinner, and the travel cost is lower.

The Grand Canyon , one of the most beautiful national parks in the US , is famous for its unique geological features, rugged landscape, and incredible wildlife, which attract over 4 million travelers every year . Arizona's crown jewel is among the best places to travel in May 2024.

The summer heat can be unbearable, which is why exploring just before the summer season is a great way of making the most of one's trip to the canyon. The crowds are also thinnest at this time of the year, which gives tourists a chance to enjoy the trails and the scenic overlooks without many people hoping to enjoy the same adventures.

Surprisingly, the Grand Canyon is one of the US destinations to plan a vacation for less than $1,000 , and one can spend $1,174 for one week on average and as low as $509 on a budget .

The Grand Canyon is stunning, but Bryce Canyon , which is underrated, makes a perfect alternative national park getaway in May. The snow is almost all gone and the temperatures, in the 60s during the day, are perfect for enjoying the beautiful trails.

2 Paris, France

Mild weather, spring blossoms, fewer crowds.

The City of Love is famous for many things, including the Seine, which is among the most scenic rivers in Europe , the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre . Paris offers some of the most fun experiences in May, thanks to the mild weather, which makes it comfortable to explore the city's popular attractions as well as hidden gems.

The crowds are also thinner, and tourists will mostly experience quieter streets than in the peak summer season. This is also the time to see the cherry blossoms, and Jardin des Plantes in the city's 5th Arrondissement is the perfect spot for this adventure.

A trip to the French capital can't be complete without experiencing some of the best dinner cruises in Paris . Also, try some of the most unforgettable dining adventures in Paris .

10 Things To Buy In Paris If You're Visiting For The First Time

1 florence, italy, pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lots of things to do.

Florence, one of the best destinations in Europe for romantic city breaks , is among the best places to travel to in May, thanks to pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of things to do.

This is the time the blooming flowers transform Boboli Gardens into a scenic fairytale; it's a feast for the eyes. Another must-have experience is strolling under the wisteria archway in Bardini Gardens .

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Dear Deidre

Huge blow to Scotland supporters who can’t get to Germany as giant fan zone CANCELLED just weeks before Euro 2024

David Robson , Online Sports Reporter
Published : 17:17, 23 Apr 2024
Published : Invalid Date,

THOUSANDS of Scotland fans will invade Germany in June to see Steve Clarke's men kick off Euro 2024 against the hosts.

But for those who have been unable to get flights or accommodation will be wondering where they can tune in to the three group matches against Germany , Hungary and Switzerland .

Fan zones for Scotland supporters have been announced up and down the country

Many will be planning on getting tickets to fan zones around the country so they can cheer on their heroes alongside fellow Tartan Army supporters.

Whether you are in Glasgow , Edinburgh , Aberdeen or Dundee , several fan zones have already been lined up, giving supporters plenty of options.

But fans in and around Glasgow have been left with a bitter blow after one popular outdoor venue on the outskirts of the city has had to pull the plug on their plans.

M&D's Theme Park was due to showcase all three group games on the big screen but now the huge even is unfortunately cancelled, leaving those who had bought tickets now requiring a refund.

Scottish Cup Final 'kick-off time revealed' amid FA Cup TV clash prospect

Rangers & Celtic: Best free bets, bonuses and sign-up offers

The event was only announced on April 5 with three live music acts providing pre-match entertainment before the group fixtures.

The Shambolics, Connor Fyfe and Stevie McCrorie were all confirmed and the park teased that more acts would be announced.

But a statement today read: "Unfortunately, this event will no longer take place.

"However, all customers can still watch every Euro game including every Scotland match at the sports bar and in the sports bar beer garden."

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The reason for the event being cancelled is not known but customers are still invited to watch the games at the sports bar and beer gardens on site.

Announcing the plans for the fan zone earlier this month, they wrote: "Gear up for the ultimate Euro experience at our outdoor football fan zone!

"Join us for electrifying evenings filled with heart pounding action, as we bring the Euros to life on our gigantic screen!

"Plus, each night we bring you live music from some of Scotland’s top acts to get you in the mood!

"Immerse yourself in the Tartan Army roars, enjoy the live music pre-match and settle into the game with food and drink . Plus, there will be theme park rides open for all the family to enjoy!"

SunSport has contacted M&D's Theme Park for comment on the cancellation.

Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page

Scotland football team
Steve Clarke

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Euro 2024: How to follow England and Scotland in Germany this summer – and what to do in each city

Some bargain flights are still available, if you are prepared to fly into neighbouring countries, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Final countdown: Olympiastadion, Berlin, where the Euro 2024 final will be played on 14 July

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The stage is set for Europe ’s summer festival of football: the Euro 2024 finals in Germany . We now know all the teams who have qualified for the region’s greatest football tournament, and when and where they will play their opening matches.

England and Scotland qualified emphatically. Sadly, Wales went out on penalties to Poland, who along with Georgia and Ukraine were last to qualify.

Euro 2024 kicks off in Munich on Friday 14 June and ends with the final in Berlin on Sunday 14 July.

Many fans will want to travel to Germany. Whether you are planning a midsummer’s dream trip to support your team or just soak up the atmosphere, these are the key questions and answers.

The venues?

Berlin Olympiastadion (capacity 70,000)
Munich Football Arena (67,000)
Dortmund BVB Stadion (66,000)
Stuttgart Arena (54,000)
Gelsenkirchen Arena AufSchalke (50.000)
Hamburg Volksparkstadion (50,000)
Cologne Stadium (47,000)
Düsseldorf Arena (47,000)
Frankfurt Arena (46,000)
Leipzig Stadium (42,000)

Where and when are Scotland’s group-stage games?

14 June v Germany in Munich (the tournament’s opening match)

19 June v Switzerland in Cologne

23 June v Hungary in Stuttgart

Where and when are England’s group-stage games?

16 June v Serbia in Gelsenkirchen

20 June v Denmark in Frankfurt

25 June v Slovenia in Cologne

What are the basic travel mechanics?

Fortunately for supporters of England and Scotland, all the games – except for the opening match between Germany and Scotland in Munich – are in western Germany.

For Cologne, where England play Slovenia and Scotland play Switzerland, surface travel looks best: ideally a Eurostar train from London to Brussels and a connection from there.

But it will be much cheaper for groups of supporters to go by road. Many people will take cars across, and the Dover-Dunkirk or Harwich-Hook of Holland ferries are probably best – though Newcastle to Amsterdam and Hull to Rotterdam are also feasible, if expensive.

There’s a wide choice of flights on budget airlines from across England and Scotland to Germany , but they won’t be low-cost during the tournament for key games. It could be smart to fit to somewhere close to Germany.

For example, to reach Gelsenkirchen, venue for England’s first game against Serbia, Eindhoven in the Netherlands is an option. Remarkably flying out on 15 June, returning on 17 June, Ryanair has flights between London Stansted and Eindhoven for £15 each way.

For Scotland’s game against Hungary on 23 June in Stuttgart, you could fly on easyJet from Edinburgh to Basel in Switzerland and get a cheap train from there; out on 21 June, back on 24 June is currently £184 return.

Will travelling around the host nation be easy?

Yes, because German Railways has a vast, high-density network, with low fares if you don’t take the fastest expresses.

There is no real need to book anything in advance – you can buy tickets on the day. The network will feel the strain on match days, but trains will be supplemented by long-distance coaches.

If you’re driving your own car, the autobahns will be busy – and you will also find parking in cities and near venues difficult.

All ticket holders will get 36 hours of free local transport around each match.

Which brings us on to the thorny question of tickets …

All group match tickets have been sold, and the Uefa resale platform has now closed. The organisers say: “There will be no further opportunities to resell tickets.”

Uefa adds: “Tickets reserved for knock-out stage matches will be sold during the tournament upon the qualification of the teams for the respective matches.”

Or you can settle for the fan zones – which will be in attractive locations such as Cologne’s old town, the Altstadt.

What about accommodation?

Unlike the Paris Olympics, where hotel rates are steadily falling ahead of the Games , demand for rooms in and near host venues is rising – along with prices. For many fans, Germany is extremely accessible.

In Cologne on the night of Scotland’s group game against Switzerland, 19 June, many properties are sold out and basic budget hotel rooms are selling for £400.

But you can approximately half the cost by booking in Dusseldorf, about 20 minutes by train from Cologne. Go further, to Aachen (less than an hour away) and rates halve again.

While many Berlin hotels are sold out on the night of the final, a very good hotel room in Leipzig (the Amano Home ) is only €79 (£69) on the night of the final, with trains taking 75 minutes to reach the German capital.

Is it worth waiting until the knock-out stages?

Quite possibly. A valid strategy is to do nothing now to see if England and Scotland progress beyond the group stage. From then onwards everything becomes easier – pressure on transport and accommodation eases because lots of fans sadly go home.

Over the four-day spell of the quarter finals from 29 June to 2 July could be prime time to be in Germany.

And, if you are feeling optimistic, you could even book a cheap flight to Berlin for the final on 14 July. Ryanair is currently selling flights on 11 July, returning 16 July, for just £137 from Edinburgh to the German capital.

What shall I do between the matches?

This guide focuses on the England and Scotland host cities, in order of their matches. But the best of the rest follow.

Munich (Scotland v Germany, 14 June)

The Bavarian capital is the favourite German city for many travellers. The Altstadt, the old town, has beautiful Marienplatz – dominated by the neo-gothic Neues Rathaus (new town hall), stretched across the northern side. Shortly before 11am and noon each day, crowds gather for a glockenspiel performance that features a Bavarian knight beating a French challenger in a jousting tournament. For the best view of Munich (and, on a clear day, the Bavarian Alps), visit the tower of St Peter’s Church, just south.

Eat and drink

Warm summer evenings will mainly be spent on cafe terraces and in beer gardens, but the state-owned Hofbräuhaus is well worth visiting for the dizzying choreography of the well-attired waiting staff and the conviviality of the location – augmented from time to time with all the oompah you expect from a Bavarian band.

Gelsenkirchen (England v Serbia, 16 June)

The Ruhr is off many tourists’ itineraries, but the former coal and steel hub for Germany’s economic and military might is fascinating. Gelsenkirchen itself is actually little more than a northern suburb of Essen (don’t show this to any locals). The industrial archaeology is remarkable, with much of the former Zollverein coal mine handed back to nature – and visitors. You can clamber, carefully, around this a Unesco-listed gem. And the German Football Museum is just minutes away in Dortmund (see below).

Essen in central Essen: it is difficult to go wrong, but I like the Pfefferkorn Essen. South of the city centre, Il Pomodoro is a reliable Italian.

Cologne (Scotland v Switzerland, 19 June; England v Slovenia, 25 June)

Cologne is a city designed for walking. Start by climbing the bell tower of the Dom (cathedral); the 509 steps are challenging, though you can pause halfway up to admire the glocken (bells). From the public gallery at a height of 97m, you get a fine view of the old town - and some ungainly modern buildings, erected after the Second World War when 90 per cent of the city was destroyed. The Museum Ludwig, adjacent to the Dom, celebrates modern art by the likes of Dali and Warhol. For 19th-century works and earlier, the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum is a dramatic modern structure.

Eating, drinking and shopping are the main interests of the locals in what is arguably Germany’s friendliest big city. The local Kölsch beer – light and well-hopped – will cheer even losing fans. The tastiest brand is Gaffel, whose home ground is the Gaffel Haus on Alter Markt. But the atmosphere is even more convivial at the Brauhaus Sion, which also serves up sauerbraten: beef marinated for what seems like months, and which melts in your mouth in minutes.

Frankfurt (England v Denmark, 20 June)

Europe’s financial hub is far more rewarding than you might imagine. It has a traditionally restored old town, complete with the chance to ascend the tower of St Bartholomew’s (location for medieval coronations of Holy Roman Emperors), though with some questionable 1960s embellishments. Among the wealth of attractions in this wealthy city: Goethe’s House, where the national poet was born in 1749.

Goethe could have been talking to football fans when he wrote: “If you’ve never eaten while crying you don t know what life tastes like.” Cross one of the bridges to go south of the Main and sample ebbelwei – apple wine, a cousin of cider – in Ebbelwoi Unser, where you can also dine on sausage, dumplings and sauerkraut.

Stuttgart (Scotland v Hungary, 23 June)

The capital of Baden-Wurttemberg, the big, prosperous southwestern state, feels different to many other German cities: with hilly surroundings and a sense of space, it is a location for getting out and about. Top attraction: the Mercedes-Benz Museum. But if you want to be alone after the match, try Schloss Solitude, just west of the city.

Could this be Germany’s most amazing bar? Jigger & Spoon is a modern take on the speakeasy bar, two floors below the city streets in the vault of a bank, which you reach by going into the office block at Gymnasiumstrasse 33 and taking the lift down two floors. Somehow it includes a cigar lounge. For dinner, the Stuttgart Rathskeller in the basement of the city hall is unbeatable.

Best of the rest – Simon Calder’s top recommendation for each of the other host cities

The Wall may have come down in 1989, but 35 years on the scars of the division of the German capital are still evident. The Palace of Tears at Friedrichstrasse railway station, where people checked out of East Germany to the West, is now a barely unreconstructed museum, which provides a profoundly emotional experience.

Controversy drags on about England’s third goal in the 1966 World Cup Final: the German Football Museum even has a special investigation into the linesman’s questionable decision against West Germany, using an interactive media station. Unsurprisingly, there is rather more focus on the occasions when German players won the Weltmeisterschaft (in 1954, 1974, 1990 and 2014).

The Church of St Nicholas was built in 1874 by the great British architect Sir Gilbert Scott. It was devastated during the Second World War by Allied bombers, but the spire survived and remains one of Europe’s tallest church structures.. The crypt contains a small museum commemorating the wartime destruction of Hamburg and the victims of the Third Reich. Nearby, visit Altona Fischmark, the ornate fish market where the Beatles used to breakfast after their all-night shows on the Reeperbahn.

One of Germany’s most rewarding cities owes much of its beauty to the Rhine; a riverside highway is now confined to a tunnel. Take the Weisse Flotte €20 Panorama-Fahrt (no sniggering, please) to appreciate the setting and learn more about the monuments.

In this fine east German city, do mention the Cold War. The Zeitgeschictliches Forum focuses on four decades of state communism. You are taken through the whole sorry story from the Nazi era via the post-war carve-up of Germany decided in Potsdam and spy cameras disguised as cigarette packets, to the night in 1989 when the Berlin Wall came down.

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Lufthansa, Air Dolomiti and two other airlines fly from London to Frankfurt am Main every 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from London to Berlin via King's Cross St. Pancras station, London St Pancras Intl, Brussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi, Köln Hbf, and Berlin Hauptbahnhof in around 10h 53m. Airlines.
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Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.
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