Germany is in central Europe, bordered by Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, and France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands to the west.

Germany is in the Central European Time (CET) zone, which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). During daylight saving time, Germany switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

The weather in Germany varies throughout the year and by region. Generally, the summers are mild to warm with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) and occasional heat waves. Winters are cold with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) and occasional snowfall. The weather can be rainy throughout the year, but the rainiest months are usually from May to August. In some regions, such as the Bavarian Alps, the weather can be more extreme with colder winters and more snowfall.

The official language of Germany is German, and it is spoken by all of the population. German is a West Germanic language and is also spoken in Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. There are also several regional dialects of German spoken in different areas of the country. In some regions, such as Bavaria, the local dialect can be quite different from standard German. Additionally, many Germans also speak English as a second language, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

English is widely spoken in Germany, especially among younger generations and in larger cities and tourist areas. It is a mandatory subject in German schools, and many Germans learn English from a young age. In addition, many Germans watch English-language movies and TV shows, listen to English-language music, and use English-language websites, which helps them to improve their English skills. Therefore, you should be able to communicate with most Germans in English, although it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic German phrases to show respect for the local language and culture.

This depends on your country of departure so you must always check before you fly.

Christianity is the largest religion in Germany, with most of the population being either Roman Catholic or Protestant. The Roman Catholic Church is the largest religious group in Germany, accounting for about 28% of the population, while the Protestant Church (including Lutheran, Reformed, and United churches) accounts for about 25% of the population. Other religions in Germany include Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism, among others. Additionally, there is a growing number of people who identify as non-religious or atheist in Germany.

Tourists in Germany can use the German health system, but they must have health insurance that is valid in Germany. If you are an EU citizen, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access medical care in Germany. If you are not an EU citizen, you will need to check with your travel insurance provider to see if you are covered for medical expenses in Germany.

The German health system is generally of high quality, and medical facilities and staff are well-trained. However, medical treatment in Germany can be expensive, so it is important to have adequate health insurance coverage. It is also a good idea to research medical facilities and providers in advance, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or require specialized treatment.

As with any country, there may be travel warnings or advisories issued for certain areas or situations in Germany. However, Germany is considered a safe country for travellers.

Travellers should always exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Pickpocketing and other petty crimes can occur in these areas. It is also important to follow any local laws and customs, particularly when it comes to alcohol consumption and driving.

Currency – Euro

You can change money in Germany at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Banks are generally the most reliable and secure option for exchanging money, and they may offer better exchange rates than exchange offices. Most banks in Germany have ATMs that accept foreign debit and credit cards, which allows you to withdraw cash in Euros.

Exchange offices are another option, but they may charge higher fees and offer less favourable exchange rates than banks. Some exchange offices may also have minimum or maximum exchange amounts.

It’s important to note that some businesses in Germany, particularly smaller ones, may only accept cash payments. Therefore, it’s a good idea to have some Euros on hand when traveling in Germany.

Yes, you can pay by credit card in Germany, although not all businesses accept credit cards. Larger hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas are more likely to accept credit cards, while smaller businesses and those in more rural areas may only accept cash payments.

It’s also worth noting that some businesses may charge an additional fee for credit card transactions, and it’s always a good idea to check with your bank or credit card company to see if there are any foreign transaction fees or exchange rate fees associated with using your card in Germany.

Overall, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand when traveling in Germany, especially for smaller purchases or in case credit card payments are not accepted.

In Germany, shops are generally open from Monday to Saturday, with Sunday being a day of rest. However, there are some exceptions and variations depending on the type of shop and the region of Germany.

Most shops are open from around 9:00 or 10:00 in the morning until 6:00 or 8:00 in the evening, although some larger department stores and shopping centres may stay open later, until 9:00 or 10:00 at night.

On Saturdays, many shops close earlier, around 2:00 or 4:00 in the afternoon. Some shops may also be closed on public holidays or have reduced hours during holiday periods.

It’s important to note that in some regions of Germany, particularly in smaller towns or rural areas, shops may close for a lunch break in the early afternoon. Additionally, some shops may have different opening hours during the summer months or during special events.

Overall, it’s a good idea to check the opening hours of individual shops and businesses in advance, especially if you have a specific shopping or sightseeing itinerary planned.

There are many traditional dishes and specialties that vary by region.

Some popular German dishes include:

– Schnitzel: a thin, breaded and fried cutlet of meat, typically made with pork or veal

– Bratwurst: a type of sausage, typically made with pork and seasoned with spices like nutmeg and caraway

– Sauerkraut: fermented cabbage, often served as a side dish with meat dishes

– Spätzle: a type of soft egg noodle, often served with a creamy sauce or as a side dish with meat dishes

– Currywurst: a type of sausage, typically served with a spicy ketchup and curry powder sauce

These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes you can try in Germany. Each region of the country has its own specialties and local ingredients.

Unmissable Things to do and experience.

Germany has a lot to offer visitors, with many unique and unmissable things to see and do. Here are some suggestions:

1. Visit Berlin: Germany’s capital city is a must-visit destination, with a rich history, vibrant culture, and many famous landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Berlin Wall.
2. Explore Bavaria: This region of Germany is known for its stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and traditional culture. Don’t miss the picturesque town of Rothenberg ob. der Tauber, the fairy tale Neuschwanstein Castle, and the lively city of Munich.
3. Experience the Christmas markets: Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, which take place in cities and towns across the country from late November to December. These markets offer a festive atmosphere, with traditional food, drinks, and crafts.
4. Visit the Rhine Valley: The Rhine River is one of the most scenic areas of Germany, with picturesque towns, castles, and vineyards. Take a river cruise, hike the Rheinsteig trail, or visit the town of Rüdesheim.
5. Learn about German history: Germany has a complex and fascinating history, and there are many museums, memorials, and historic sites that offer insight into the country’s past. Don’t miss the Holocaust Memorial and Berlin Wall Memorial in Berlin, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial.
6. Enjoy German cuisine: German food is hearty and delicious, with many regional specialties to try. Don’t miss the sausages, schnitzel, sauerkraut, and beer.

These are just a few suggestions for things to do in Germany. The country has much more to offer, including beautiful natural landscapes, world-class museums and galleries, and lively festivals and events throughout the year.

Germany is a diverse country with many interesting and beautiful places to visit. Here are some top destinations to consider:

1. Berlin: Germany’s capital city is a must-visit destination, with a rich history, vibrant culture, and many famous landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Berlin Wall.
2. . Munich: Bavaria’s capital city is known for its lively beer gardens, charming old town, and world-class museums, including the Deutsches Museum and the BMW Museum.

3. Hamburg: Germany’s second-largest city is a major port and cultural center, with many museums, theatres, and music venues. Don’t miss the iconic Elbphilharmonie concert hall and the Miniature Wunderland model railway exhibit.
4. The Rhine Valley: The Rhine River is one of the most scenic areas of Germany, with picturesque towns, castles, and vineyards. Take a river cruise, hike the Rheinsteig trail, or visit the town of Rüdesheim.
5. The Black Forest: This region of southwestern Germany is known for its dense forests, rolling hills, and charming villages. Don’t miss the spa town of Baden-Baden, the cuckoo clock shops of Triberg, or the scenic drive along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße.
6. Neuschwanstein Castle: This fairy tale castle in Bavaria is one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
7. The Romantic Road: This scenic route through Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg takes you through charming towns and villages, including Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, and Augsburg.

These are just a few of the many destinations to consider when planning a trip to Germany. The country has much more to offer, including beautiful natural landscapes, world-class museums and galleries, and lively festivals and events throughout the year.

Germany is a Christian country which tolerates all other religions.

Here are some things to do and not to do when traveling to Germany:

Things to do:

1. Respect local customs and traditions: Germans value their customs and traditions, and it’s important to be respectful of them. This includes things like greeting people with a handshake, being punctual, and following proper dining etiquette.
2. Visit museums and cultural sites: Germany has a rich history and culture, and there are many museums, galleries, and historic sites to explore. Don’t miss the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Neuschwanstein Castle, or the Museum Island in Berlin.
3. Learn some basic German: While many Germans speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak some basic German phrases.
4. Follow the rules: Germany is a country that values order and following the rules. This includes things like not jaywalking, not littering, and not smoking in public places.

Things not to do:

1. Don’t be late: Germans value punctuality, and being late is considered rude and disrespectful.
2. Don’t tip too much: Tipping in Germany is not as common as it is in some other countries, and it’s not necessary to leave a large tip. It’s customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.
3. Don’t make Nazi references or jokes: Germany has a complex and difficult history, and references to the Nazi regime or Holocaust are not taken lightly.
4. Don’t assume all Germans are the same: Germany is a diverse country with many different regions and cultures. It’s important to avoid making assumptions or stereotypes about Germans based on one’s experiences or preconceptions.
5. Don’t ignore the environment: Germany is a country that values sustainability and protecting the environment. It’s important to be mindful of this and to follow proper recycling and waste disposal practices.

As a Christian country Germany celebrates all the Christian landmark days such as Easter and Christmas and there is a total of 9 National bank holidays a year that are observed nationwide. These are:

1. New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag) – January 1st
2. Good Friday (Karfreitag) – the Friday before Easter Sunday
3. Easter Monday (Ostermontag) – the Monday after Easter Sunday
4. Labour Day (Tag der Arbeit) – May 1st
5. Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt) – 39 days after Easter Sunday
6. Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) – the day after Pentecost Sunday
7. Day of German Unity (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) – October 3rd
8. Christmas Day (1. Weihnachtsfeiertag) – December 25th
9. Boxing Day (2. Weihnachtsfeiertag) – December 26th

Please note that some of the public holidays are celebrated on different days in some of the German states. Additionally, some regions may have additional public holidays that are specific to that area.

It is relatively easy to arrange car hire in Germany. There are many international car rental companies that operate in Germany, including Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt. You can book a rental car online or at the airport upon arrival. However, it’s important to note that driving in Germany can be challenging, especially in cities with heavy traffic. Additionally, parking can be difficult and expensive in some areas. We would always recommend arranging car hire in advance to ensure the car of your choice and to get a better deal.

Other transport options in Germany include:

1. Public transportation: Germany has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and trams. The Deutsche Bahn (German Rail) is the national railway company, and it operates trains throughout the country. Many cities also have efficient local transportation systems, such as the U-Bahn (subway) in Berlin and the S-Bahn (commuter rail) in Munich
2. Cycling: Germany is a bike-friendly country, with many dedicated bike paths and lanes. Renting a bike is a great way to explore cities and countryside areas.
3. Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Germany, and they can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. However, they can be expensive, especially for longer trips.

4. Ride-sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in some German cities, although they are not as widely used as they are in other countries.
5. Domestic flights: Germany has several domestic airlines, including Lufthansa and Air Berlin, which operate flights between major cities. However, flying within Germany is often more expensive than taking the train or bus.

We always advise travellers to consider booking their travel before arrival because it is normally easier to get a better deal and all the details are sorted out in advance.

The best transport options for getting around the German capital city of Berlin are:

1. Public transportation: Berlin has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, U-Bahn (subway), and S-Bahn (commuter rail). The city is divided into three zones, and tickets can be purchased for single trips or for a day pass. The public transport system operates 24 hours a day, with reduced services during the night.
2. Cycling: Berlin is a bike-friendly city, with many dedicated bike lanes and paths. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city, and there are many bike rental shops and bike-sharing services available.
3. Walking: Berlin is a relatively flat city, and many of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city and get a feel for its unique neighbourhoods and districts.
4. Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Berlin, and they can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. However, they can be expensive, especially during peak hours or at night.
5. Ride-sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in Berlin, although they are not as widely used as they are in other countries.

Overall, the public transportation system is the most convenient and cost-effective way to get around Berlin, especially for longer journeys or when traveling to areas outside of the city centre.

One fun fact about Germany is that it has over 1,000 different types of sausages, which are known as “wurst” in German. Germans take their sausages seriously, and each region has its own unique recipes and specialties. Some of the most popular types of German sausages include bratwurst, currywurst, and weisswurst. Sausages are a staple of German cuisine and can be found in many traditional dishes, such as sauerkraut and schnitzel.

One amazing fact about Germany is that it is home to the world’s largest science museum, the Deutsches Museum. Located in Munich, the museum covers an area of over 66,000 square meters and houses over 100,000 objects related to science and technology. The museum has exhibits on a wide range of topics, including astronomy, energy, transportation, and communication. It also features interactive displays and hands-on experiments that allow visitors to learn about science in a fun and engaging way. The Deutsches Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in science and technology, and it attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year.

The best tip for tourists visiting Germany is to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Germans value punctuality, orderliness, and efficiency, so it’s important to be on time for appointments and follow rules and regulations. Additionally, Germans are generally reserved and may seem unfriendly to outsiders, but this is simply a cultural difference and not a reflection of their true feelings. It’s also important to try to speak some German, even if it’s just a few basic phrases, as this shows respect for the local language and culture. Finally, be sure to try the local cuisine and explore the country’s rich history and culture, as Germany has much to offer visitors in terms of art, music, and architecture.