Germany holidays

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

Germany offers lively nightlife with Berlin known for its techno clubs like Berghain and rooftop bars. Munich features traditional beer halls and contemporary lounges, whilst Hamburg offers live music venues and waterfront bars along the Reeperbahn with varied entertainment until late.

Germany offers diverse shopping experiences. In major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt, you'll find high-end boutiques and department stores. For unique finds, explore local markets and charming shopping streets. Many cities have outlet centers for brand-name bargains. If you're staying at a resort, you'll often find convenient on-site shops for essentials and souvenirs.

Tipping in Germany is appreciated but not obligatory. It is common to leave 5 to 10% of the bill by rounding up at restaurants, and hotel staff and taxi drivers typically receive a small amount. Leaving a small tip is a nice gesture to show appreciation for good service.

For Germany, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and a light waterproof jacket for unexpected showers. Bring layers for variable weather, including a warm sweater or fleece. Don't forget a day bag for sightseeing and a universal adapter for your electronics.

Germany offers lovely beaches along its northern coast. You'll find beautiful stretches of sand on the islands of Rügen and Usedom in the Baltic Sea. The North Sea islands of Sylt and Norderney are also popular for their wide, sandy beaches and dune landscapes. Many coastal resorts provide excellent facilities for a relaxing beach holiday.

Traditional German cuisine is widely available. Look for restaurants called 'Gasthäuser' or 'Brauerigaststätten' for authentic dishes. In Bavaria, beer halls offer hearty meals. Many cities have historic restaurants serving regional specialties. If you're staying at a resort, the on-site restaurants often include German dishes on their menus. Local markets are great for sampling traditional snacks and street food.

When visiting Germany, you'll need a European-style plug adapter with two round pins. Most sockets are Type F, which also accept Type C plugs. We recommend bringing at least one adapter for your devices, as UK-style plugs are not commonly found in German hotels.

When visiting Germany, greet locals with "guten tag" for good day, and punctuality is highly valued, so arrive on time for any appointments. Dress modestly when visiting churches by covering shoulders and knees. Germans appreciate orderly queuing in public places and polite behaviour in shared spaces.