Are you planning a trip to Germany and wondering what information you should know about the country? You’re on the right page! Here, you’ll find out everything there is to know about Germany.  

• When you should go
• Money currency
• What to eat
• How to use your phone / SIM card
• Some facts
• Insurance
• Different accommodation options
• Essential apps to have

When you should go

I didn’t experience Germany during autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). However, I know they also are the perfect low seasons. There are fewer tourists, so the prices are still cheaper than during the summer. It may be colder than in the summer, but still a hotter option than the winter. 

As for the summer (June-August), I know for a fact it’s the same thing as in most countries in Europe. It’s the high season, so the prices are higher, and there are a lot more tourists. However, the nightlife is always better in the summer!

Money currency

Germany is one of the many countries in the eurozone. Therefore, their currency is the Euro (€). Unlike Canada, there is no tax. Every price you see is the final price. Also, tipping is not expected. It is never mandatory, but it is always nice to leave a tip if you feel like the person deserves it. 

There is usually a big fee when getting money out of an ATM. You should always try to pay by card. Go get Euros at your local bank in your country before traveling. You will save a lot on ATM fees. 

What to eat

In Germany, lunch is the big meal of the day, and it is typically between noon and 3 pm. Dinner is a lighter meal between 6 pm and 7 pm. Most of the time, the dinners consist of bread, sausages, cheeses and ham. 

I hope I don’t surprise you when I say the typical food to try in Germany is:

How to use your phone / SIM card

The most affordable and easy way to have access to your phone is to buy an E-card / pre-paid SIM card. You can buy them online, they are way cheaper than anything at the airport! I bought mine 2 days before I left and it was perfect. The company I used was Holafly and you have multiple options depending on what you want. For example, it’s €34 for 10 days or €47 for 15 days.  

If you don’t want to pay for a SIM card, don’t worry, there’s Wi-Fi everywhere. Most of the time, when I go to Europe, I don’t pay for a SIM card. Instead, I download the maps before I go there (either on Maps.me or Google Maps). If I really need WI-FI, I stop at a McDonald’s, a grocery store or a mall.

Some facts

Here are some fun facts about Germany:

• If you like gummy bears, you are in the right country. This candy was invented by a German.
• There are over 20,000 castles in the country. 
• Berlin is the largest city in Europe, being nine times larger than Paris.
• Guess what is the most popular drink in Germany? Beer! Germany is the second highest consuming country in Europe.
• October 3rd is the National Day celebrating the German Unity Day.

Insurance 

Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.

By booking your insurance through our link, we are able to earn a small commission, allowing us to keep inspiring people to travel.

Different accommodation options

Villas/Apartments: Renting a villa/apartment is definitely the most eye-pleasing option. You can find some crazy original stays! Most of the time it is equipped like an apartment, so you will have a fridge and a cooking space. It will be pricier, but you can save on eating out if you cook at your villa. It is a good option for families or if you are a big group of people. You can split the price, and it can be more fun than being all separate in hotel rooms. 

Hotels: Hotels are a classic. There are plenty of them with a huge price range. You will be well welcomed and have access to services you don’t get in a villa. Some hotels have spas, some have yoga classes and so much more. Your room will get cleaned every day, and you will have access to room service. If you are an anxious person, hotels are your best option. You will definitely feel more secure since there is always someone working nearby.

Hostels: If you are a backpacker, this is the cheapest option for you. It is less luxurious, less comfortable, less a lot of things. But it is an amazing experience to live while you are young. You will have one bed in a shared room with others. This is the best way to meet people if you are traveling solo. Some hostels have group activities to help with that. You are young, your back is not broken yet, and you can sleep in a less comfortable space in exchange for living an incredible experience.

Essential apps to have

Transport: Having access to transport in Germany is so easy! 

• Download Omio

Gives you the best & cheapest way to travel in Europe comparing the bus, car (shared rides), train, and plane. You can book everything directly on the app. I find the prices are always the same or sometimes cheaper than on the websites of the companies.

• Download Uber

You order your car knowing already the price it will cost. You know when your driver will be there, and you have the option of paying cash or directly with your card on the app. I always prefer to pay cash. This way I could always round up the amount and leave a tip. They deserve it! You can even order food on Uber Eat! 

Others:

• Maps.me: You can download any maps and use them without Wi-Fi.
• WhatsApp: It’s a classic. Everyone in Europe uses WhatsApp to text and call. 
• Too Good To Go: You can buy food from restaurants and stores for cheaper prices that would otherwise have been thrown away at the end of the day.