Verified Facts
To get around in Germany, you can choose from a variety of transportation options, including an extensive rail network, domestic flights, buses, and a well-developed road system, making it easy to explore the country.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Germany is easily accessible by air, with two major international airports, Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), offering direct flights to numerous destinations worldwide. Frankfurt Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving as a hub for Lufthansa and other airlines, while Berlin Brandenburg Airport is a major gateway to Eastern Europe. In addition to air travel, Germany can also be reached by land, with several overland entry points along its borders with neighboring countries, including Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The country's well-developed road network and extensive rail connections make it easy to enter Germany by car, bus, or train.
Germany's strategic location in the heart of Europe makes it a popular destination for travelers, with many neighboring countries offering direct train or bus connections. The country's border crossings are generally well-organized, and most major highways and roads are in good condition, making it easy to drive into Germany from neighboring countries. Several major bus companies, such as FlixBus and Eurolines, operate international routes to Germany, offering a convenient and affordable way to travel to the country.
Domestic Flights
Germany has an extensive domestic air network, with several airlines offering flights between major cities. Lufthansa, the national carrier, operates the largest network of domestic routes, with flights to destinations such as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Cologne. Other airlines, such as Eurowings and Ryanair, also offer domestic flights, often at competitive prices. When booking domestic flights, it's a good idea to compare prices across different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals. Approximate costs for domestic flights vary depending on the route and airline, but expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a one-way ticket.
Trains & Rail
Germany's rail network is one of the most extensive and efficient in Europe, with over 40,000 kilometers of track and more than 5,000 stations. The national rail operator, Deutsche Bahn (DB), offers a wide range of services, from high-speed InterCity Express (ICE) trains to regional and local trains. The ICE trains are the fastest way to travel between major cities, with speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour. Booking train tickets in advance is recommended, as prices tend to increase closer to the departure date. The DB website and mobile app offer a convenient way to book tickets and plan journeys.
Buses & Coaches
Germany has a well-developed network of intercity buses, with several companies operating routes between major cities. FlixBus is one of the largest and most popular operators, offering affordable fares and a wide range of destinations. Other companies, such as Eurolines and BerlinLinienBus, also operate intercity bus services. Bus travel is often cheaper than trains, but journey times can be longer. However, many bus companies offer onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and power outlets, making the journey more comfortable.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Cologne | $2-$3 | Efficient and extensive networks |
| City Bus | Most cities | $1-$2 | Frequent services, often with English announcements |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2-$3/km | Widely available, but more expensive than public transport |
| Ride-Hailing | Major cities | $5-$10 | Uber and Bolt operate in many cities |
| Bike Rental | Many cities | $10-$20/day | A popular way to explore cities, with many bike lanes |
Driving
- To drive in Germany, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driving permit.
- Germany's road network is well-maintained, with many highways and autobahns offering high-speed limits.
- Fuel costs are relatively high in Germany, with prices averaging around $1.50 per liter for gasoline.
- Car rental companies are widely available, with major operators such as Sixt and Europcar offering a range of vehicles.
- When driving in Germany, be aware of the country's strict traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits and right-of-way rules.
- Parking in city centers can be challenging, with many streets restricted to residents or requiring payment.
Transport Tips
- Always validate your train ticket before boarding, as fines can be imposed for unvalidated tickets.
- Consider purchasing a Deutschland Ticket, which offers unlimited travel on public transport for a fixed period.
- Be aware of peak hours and plan your journeys accordingly, as public transport can be crowded during rush hour.
- Download the DB Navigator app for easy train ticket booking and journey planning.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded city centers and tourist areas.
- Learn some basic German phrases, such as "danke" (thank you) and "entschuldigung" (excuse me), to help navigate public transport.
- Consider purchasing a BVG (Berlin public transport) or MVG (Munich public transport) app for easy navigation of city transport systems.