Destination Guides
Germany
By Erin Baker, Certified Travel Associate
Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria
Germany offers remarkable range in one country, from Bavarian alpine towns and Munich's beer halls to Berlin's modern history and the fairy-tale castles of the Rhine Valley. Spring and fall bring comfortable weather, while December's Christmas markets are a draw of their own. A 10-14 day trip allows a proper north-to-south route, well connected by an efficient train network. Because Germany's regions feel so different from one another, an advisor's help sequencing a route (rather than trying to see everything in one rushed loop) makes for a far better trip.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
German culture values punctuality, directness, and following stated rules.
Friendly greetings: A firm handshake and direct eye contact, use last names until invited otherwise.
Dress respectfully: Neat, practical clothing works almost everywhere, dress up slightly for finer restaurants.
Dining times: Lunch 12:00-2:00pm, dinner 6:00-9:00pm, earlier than in southern Europe.
Local customs: Recycling and sorting trash correctly is taken seriously, follow posted bin labels.
Transportation and timing: Trains are generally punctual and efficient, validate tickets where required.
Practical tip: Sundays are quiet, most shops are closed, plan groceries and errands for weekdays or Saturday.
Souvenirs
For the Foodies: A stein of German beer or a jar of authentic sauerkraut from a regional producer.
For the Fashionistas: A piece of Bavarian dirndl or lederhosen-inspired clothing.
For the Home: A hand-carved cuckoo clock from the Black Forest region.
Suggested Gratuities
Rounding up is the standard practice, more modest than US norms.
Private Tour Guides: €10-15 per person for a half-day tour
Shared Group Tour Guides: €5 per person
Taxis: Round up the fare
Restaurants: 5-10%, told directly to the server rather than left on the table
Private Drivers: €5-10 per trip
Housekeeping: €1-2 per night
Porters: €1-2 per bag
Spa Staff: 5-10% of the service cost
Practical Travel Notes
Currency: Euro (€), cards widely accepted though cash is still common for small purchases
Language: German, English common in cities and tourist areas
Transportation: Trains connect the country efficiently, a car is useful for the countryside
Weather: Cold winters, warm summers, pleasant spring and fall
Walking: Cities are walkable, comfortable shoes needed for cobblestone old towns
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Last Reviewed
9/21/26