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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT and disabled travellers

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Can I go to Germany? Rules for travelling from the UK

By Sarah James and Becky Lucas

In England , international travel for leisure has been permitted since Monday 17 May 2021. Germany was previously on the UK 's green list – but what are the rules for travelling there now? 

What are the entry requirements for Germany?

Fully vaccinated travellers – those who received their final dose at least 14 days before travelling – may enter Germany from the UK for any purpose. Anyone aged 12 or over must possess either proof of vaccination (find out the acceptable forms on the German government website ), proof of recovery from Covid for at least 28 days and no more than 90 days, or a negative Covid test prior to arrival. 

Those who are not considered fully vaccinated can only enter Germany if they are a resident or citizen, a spouse or other family member of a resident, serve in an important role or have ‘an urgent need to travel’, and they must have proof of a negative Covid test taken before entry (within 48 hours before departure for Germany if it's a PCR test, or 48 hours before the time of arrival if it's a rapid antigen test). Unvaccinated children up to the age of 11 are allowed to enter Germany from the UK, as long as they travel with at least one fully vaccinated parent. Children aged 12 to 17 can only enter if they are fully vaccinated, a resident (or the child of a resident), or have an urgent need to travel.

If you are fully vaccinated and have spent any of the previous 10 days in a country designated high-risk by the German government, you must complete pre-departure digital registration . If you have done so and are not fully vaccinated, you must quarantine for 10 days – with test and release available after five days. For more details, go to the UK government website . 

Can I travel to the UK from Germany?

As of 18 March 2022, there are no Covid travel rules in the UK, which means that anyone returning to the country does not need to test, quarantine or fill in a passenger locator form , regardless of their vaccination status. The government is also no longer managing any quarantine hotels in the UK, as of the end of March.

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Current information for travelers

The Ordinance on Coronavirus Entry Regulations (Coronavirus-Einreiseverordnung – CoronaEinreiseV) regulates a uniform, nation-wide obligation to test, quarantine and furnish proof, as well as a ban on carriage from areas of variants of concern. The goal of the Ordinance on Coronavirus Entry Regulations is to reduce the risk of infection with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, since travel movements and border traffic can introduce infections and lead to new hot spots of infection.

The Ordinance on Coronavirus Entry Regulations ( CoronaEinreiseV ) expires on 7 April 2023. After that date, entry into Germany will again be possible without coronavirus-related entry restrictions while observing the general entry requirements under the law of residence and relating to the border police (information from the Federal Ministry of the Interior " Lifting of COVID-19-related restrictions ").

CoronaEinreiseV - Overview and download of all versions of the regulation (German)

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Germany to ease Covid travel restrictions on UK travellers from Wednesday

Travellers from UK who are double-vaccinated or have recovered from an infection will no longer require quarantine

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Travel restrictions for arrivals from the UK to Germany will be eased from Wednesday, after Germany’s disease control agency announced plans to downgrade the “virus variant area” status of the UK alongside Portugal, Russia, India and Nepal.

UK travellers who have either received two doses of a Covid-19 vaccine, or can prove that they have recovered from an infection with the virus, will no longer be required to quarantine upon their arrival.

Those who are not vaccinated or have received only one shot will be required to quarantine for 10 days, but can leave quarantine from the fifth day after arrival with a negative test result.

Travellers from Germany arriving in the UK currently still face a quarantine of 10 days, with an option to test to release on day 6. The German foreign office has warned football fans who plan to travel to the UK for Euro 2020 that they will be turned away at the border if they have tickets for matches before the end of their quarantine period.

Rising infection rates and the wide spread of the more contagious Delta variant had led Germany to drastically tighten restrictions on travel between the two countries from 23 May. Currently travellers must still quarantine for 14 days, irrespective of their vaccination status.

But following a meeting with the British prime minister, Boris Johnson, last Friday, the German chancellor, Angela Merkel, hinted that quarantine rules could be relaxed as the Delta variant became more dominant in Germany. The health minister, Jens Spahn, also hinted at a change in policy last week.

Most recently available data, for the week of 14-20 June, shows the Delta variant makes up 37% of cases detected in Germany, up from 17% the week before. The variant of the virus, which was first detected in India, already makes up about 95% of cases in India.

Even though the rate of coronavirus infections in Germany has dropped steeply since the end of April, with the Robert Koch Institute recording 419 cases on Tuesday, the Delta variant has been a cause for concern.

In view of Delta’s higher transmissibility, the institute on Monday revised upwards the recommended level of vaccination required to prevent a fourth wave of the virus in the autumn, to 85% of 12-59-year-olds.

“If this level of vaccinations can be reached in time,” a paper published by the German disease control agency said, “a pronounced fourth wave in the coming autumn/winter looks unlikely.”

As of Monday morning, 56.5% of the German public have received at least one dose of a vaccine, while 38.9 % of the population are fully immunised.

Following the UK’s downgrade to a “high-incidence area” for coronavirus infections, 11 countries remain on Germany’s virus variant area list, namely Botswana, Brazil, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Uruguay, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

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Information on entering germany, covid-19-related restrictions for entry into germany lifted with effect as of saturday, 11 june 2022.

Since Saturday, 11 June 2022, all COVID-19-related restrictions on entry into Germany have provisionally been lifted. Since that date, travel from the United Kingdom to Germany is permitted for all purposes (including tourism and visits). For entry into Germany proof of vaccination, recovery or testing is no longer required.

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More travel information for Germany

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Germany

• Eating and drinking in Germany
• Culture and Etiquette in Germany
• Getting around Germany: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Germany
• Shopping tips for Germany
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Germany
• Travelling with children in Germany
• Best time to visit Germany

German weather can be a real mixed bag at any time of year, thanks to the way in which continental and maritime air masses collide in this part of Europe. That said, those used to British variability and poor weather are likely to find German weather much better; while those used to the searing summer heat of much of North America will also be pleased. Summer temperatures rarely hit 30°C and temperatures tend to stay comfortable well into the evening, allowing beer gardens and outdoor cafés to bustle as darkness falls as late as October. Winter tends to be cold enough to be a very different season, unlike the UK, but not so savage that many activities have to halt entirely, as in much of the US or Canada.

Crime and safety

Electricity, emergencies, entry requirements, gay and lesbian travellers, left luggage, living in germany, money and banks, opening hours and public holidays, tourist information, travellers with disabilities, bin there, done with that: recycling in germany, tailor-made travel itineraries for germany, created by local experts.

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Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites across different German states. This self drive trip allows you to design your own days with recommendations stated for each day.

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Explore Berlin and Potsdam in depth

The German capital Berlin has plenty to offer: from historical sites to world-class museums and a vibrant nightlife. Enjoy this private tour to explore a wide range of activities in Berlin and Potsdam, including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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Explore Northern Germany on Your Own

From Bremen to Stralsund - Northern Germany offers plenty of gems to explore. With well-developed public transportation links, this itinerary is suited for everyone wanting to explore on their own - getting lost on the cobble-stoned streets of many UNESCO World Heritage Highlights.

Tailor-made trips for   Germany

By European standards, prices in Germany are reasonable; Berlin, for example, is well short of the excesses of Paris and London and with quality to match. Nevertheless, the country has the potential to become expensive, especially if you’re set on flashy nightspots, swanky restaurants and smart hotels. There can also be large differences in prices between regions and cities – Cologne is noticeably cheaper than near-neighbour Düsseldorf, for example.

Assuming you intend to eat and drink in moderately priced places, use public transport and stay at hostels, the bare minimum living-cost you could get by on is around €40 (£35/US$58) a day, including a hostel bed (around €20), snacks and an evening meal (€10), and a little for museums and entertainment. Make lunch the main meal of the day and you may save maybe €5 per day; but overall a more realistic typical holiday budget is about twice that of shoestringers, at €80 per day.

Student discounts

Full-time students can expect discounts at almost all sights and attractions – often around thirty percent – as well as being able to save money on transport such as rail travel. In general you’ll need to be under 27 to qualify for many of the discounts, and in possession of some kind of proof of your status. The International Student Identity Card (ISIC; isic.org), available from student travel agents, is the most widely recognized way to prove your status.

Crime is low by Western standards, but not nonexistent, and standard modern tensions exist. Statistically, crime is more prevalent in eastern states of the former GDR, fuelled by rising prices and depressed economies. Small-minded attitudes also often exist here, and xenophobic neo-Nazi thugs can target those who look “foreign” – non-white. Paradoxically, east German city centres, and German cities in general, are safer in comparison with other European cities. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching in shopping precincts or busy U-Bahns are the most likely crimes you’ll encounter.

As far as personal safety is concerned, even the rougher city neighbourhoods feel more dangerous than they actually are. Those run-down U-Bahn stations or train stations with a crowd of drunks look alarming when compared to the rest of the country, but wouldn’t stand out in most other European cities. The situation in city suburbs is a little trickier, in Berlin, for example. With caution it’s fine, but muggings and casual violence do occur, particularly to those who stand out.

If you do have something stolen (or simply lost), or suffer an attack you’ll need to register the details at the local police station: a straightforward, but inevitably bureaucratic and time-consuming process. Note the crime report number – or, better still, get a copy of the statement itself – for your insurance company.

The two offences you might unwittingly commit concern identity papers and jaywalking. By law you need to carry proof of your identity at all times. A driver’s licence or ID card is fine, but a passport is best. It’s essential that you carry all your documentation when driving – failure to do so may result in an on-the-spot fine. Jaywalking is also illegal and you can be fined if caught.

Supply runs at 220–240V, 50Hz AC; sockets generally require a two-pin plug with rounded prongs. Visitors from the UK will need an adaptor; visitors from North America may need a transformer, though most of those supplied with electrical equipment – like cameras, laptops and mobile phones – are designed to accommodate a range of voltages.

Fire and ambulance:112

British and other EU nationals can enter Germany on a valid passport or national identity card for an indefinite period. US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens do not need a visa to enter Germany, and are allowed a stay of ninety days within any six-month period. South Africans need to apply for a visa, from the German Embassy in Pretoria, which will cost around R260 depending on the exchange rate. Visa requirements vary for nationals of other countries; contact your local German embassy or consulate for information.

In order to extend a stay once in the country all visitors should contact the Ausländeramt (Alien Authorities) in the nearest large town: addresses are in the phone books. For embassies in Berlin. Some countries have consulates in major cities elsewhere in Germany.

German embassies abroad

UK 23 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8PZ, 020 7824 1300, london.diplo.de.

Ireland 31 Trimelston Ave, Booterstown, Blackrock, Co Dublin, 01 269 3011, dublin.diplo.de.

US 2300 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20037, 202/298-4000.

Canada 1 Waverley St, Ottawa, ON K2P 0T8 , 613/232-1101, ottawa.diplo.de.

Australia 119 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, Canberra 2600, 02 6270 1911, canberra.diplo.de.

New Zealand 90–92 Hobson St, 6011 Wellington, 04 473 6063, wellington.diplo.de.

South Africa 180 Blackwood St, Arcadia, Pretoria 0083, 012 427 8900, pretoria.diplo.de.

Germany has a legendary gay and lesbian culture in its major cities and gay pride event Christopher Street Day is celebrated throughout the nation. Along with the two metropolises of Berlin and Hamburg, Cologne is one of the world’s great gay cities, with one in ten of the population either gay or lesbian. The scene in Berlin – home to the world’s first gay organization in 1897 and ruled by openly gay mayor, Klaus Wowereit – centres around the districts of Schöneberg, Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg. That of Hamburg is in St Georg, and in Cologne there are two main gay districts – around Rudolfplatz and close to the river around Alter Markt and Heumarkt. Other thriving gay centres are in Munich and Frankfurt. Details of local scenes are provided in the sections on relevant destinations. Otherwise newsstand listings magazines have information on gay and lesbian clubnights and events.

Small-town Germany is inevitably more socially conservative – staunch Catholic towns of Bavaria can be hostile and physical assaults are not unknown in depressed towns of eastern Germany.

The standards of healthcare in Germany are world-class. For immediate medical attention, head for the 24-hour emergency room of a major hospital ; details are provided in major destination listings. In the event of an emergency , phone 112 for an ambulance ( Krankenwagen ). If you simply need a doctor call 01805 32 13 03 ( calladoc.com ; calls cost €0.14 per minute) for an English-language service that will discuss your symptoms and refer you or send an English-speaking doctor. Doctor surgery hours are 9am to midday and 3 to 6pm weekdays except on Wednesday afternoon.

As a European Union member, Germany has free reciprocal health agreements with other member states, whose citizens can apply for a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC; www.ehic.org.uk), which will give you free, or cut-rate treatment, but will not pay for repatriation. The EHIC is available from post offices in the UK. Without this you’ll have to pay in full for all medical treatment, which is expensive – currently €30 for a visit to the doctor. Non-EU residents will need to insure themselves against all eventualities, including medical costs, and are strongly advised to take out some travel insurance.

Staff at Apotheken (pharmacies) provide over-the-counter advice, often in English, and basic medicines for minor health upsets. Marked by a green cross, pharmacies are generally open on weekdays 8.30am to 6.30pm and on Saturday mornings. They also operate late opening hours (24hr in cities) by rota – a list of the current incumbent and its address is displayed in windows. For prescription medicines you must provide a Rezept (prescription) from either your home doctor or a local one.

Since pre-Roman days, Germany has sworn by the curative powers of spa waters , a fixation which peaked in the mid-1800s. Towns with a “Bad” prefix to their names, or which include Baden (baths) in their titles (spa doyenne Baden-Baden or Wiesbaden) still offer extensive spa facilities.

Even though EU healthcare privileges apply in Germany, an insurance policy is a wise precaution to cover against theft, loss and illness or injury.

If buying a policy check small print for waivers on “danger sports” – common activities such as mountain biking can be classed among the likes of skiing and rock climbing. A supplemental payment provides cover. If you need to make a claim, keep receipts for medicines and medical treatment, and in the event you have something stolen, obtain an official statement ( Anzeige ) from the police.

Germany has fully embraced the internet. Most German towns operate a municipal website with good tourism information and helpful databases of festivals and events as well as accommodation booking engines. Larger cities provide an English-language version. Many museums, hotels and even restaurants also have a web presence. Be aware when hunting addresses that letters with an umlaut are rendered with an e – ä becomes ae, ü becomes ue and ö becomes oe.

Online access is good in medium-sized towns and cities, where internet cafés cost about €1–4 per half-hour. “Callshops” – discount international call centres – often in the streets around the main train station, usually have computers. Most backpacker hostels also provide a connection, often free. Larger hotels and a growing number of cafés have free wi-fi hotspots. Even a national laundry chain has started offering free wi-fi .

Larger hotels generally provide a laundry service – but at a cost. Most hostels offer a cheaper wash-and-dry service for around €5 a load. Launderettes are a little cheaper still, with an average load costing around €4 to wash and dry.

Hours tend to be daily 7am to 10pm; addresses can be found listed under “Waschsalon” in the Yellow Pages ( GelbeSeiten ). One popular nationwide chain is Schnell und Sauber which sometimes have bars and free wi-fi.

Left-luggage lockers at the large main train stations allow storage for time periods of 24 to 72 hours. Charges for lockers are around €2 for 24 hours. Many hostels provide free storage for a few days if you have stayed or intend to.

Berlin and to a lesser extent Hamburg are magnets for young people from Germany and all over Europe. The capital’s reputation as a politicized, happening city with a dynamic arts scene and tolerant attitudes means there is a large English-speaking community: something that will work to your advantage for jobs and housing, and to your disadvantage in competition. Work permits ( Arbeitserlaubnis ) aren’t required for EU nationals working in Germany, though everyone else will need one – and, theoretically, should not even look for a job without one. Long-term permits are a world of complicated and tedious bureaucracy. It’s essential to seek advice from an experienced friend, especially when completing official forms. The best official place for advice is the Auswärtiges Amt (German Federal Foreign Office; auswaertiges-amt.de), whose website has the latest information – in English – on entry into Germany and local contact details.

All those who want to stay in Germany for longer than three months – including EU citizens – must technically first register their residence ( Anmeldung ) at an Einwohnermeldeamt . For non-EU nationals – North Americans, Australasians and everybody else – finding legal work is extremely difficult, unless you’ve secured the job before arriving in Germany. The best advice is to approach the German embassy or consulate in your own country. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand and Canada between 18 and 30 can apply for a working holiday visa, enabling legal work in Germany for 90 days in a twelve-month period: contact German embassies for details.

For long-term accommodation , while newspapers advertise apartments and rooms, it’s much quicker and less traumatic to sign on at one of the several Mitwohnzentralen , accommodation agencies that specialize in long-term sublets in apartments. When you find a place to live, you need to register your residence as explained earlier. The form for this requires a signature from your landlord.

Post offices of Deutsche Post (deutschepost.de) and their unmissable bright yellow postboxes pep up the streetscape. Post offices are often located near (or with a branch inside) the main train station. Standard post office opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm, although the main office will operate longer hours. These often have separate parcel offices (marked Pakete ), usually a block or so away; and you can also buy stamps from the small yellow machines next to some postboxes and at some newsagents.

Mail to the UK usually takes three days; to North America one week; and to Australasia two weeks. A postcard or letter under 50g costs €0.75 to send worldwide. When posting a letter, make sure you distinguish between the slots marked for various postal codes. Boxes marked with a red circle indicate collections late in the day and on Sunday.

Your best bet for a country map is the companion edition to this guide: the Rough Guides Map: Germany (£5.99/US$9.99/CAN$13.99) produced on rip- and waterproof paper. Town maps are available from tourist information offices, usually free of charge, otherwise for a nominal sum. Larger bureaux in cities or tourist regions – the Rhine valley, Harz mountains or Black Forest, for example – also provide free regional maps. Both are generally adequate for orientation, though don’t rely on the latter for touring. Commercially produced maps available at larger bookshops are a joy. Falkplan and motor organization Allegmeiner Deutscher Automobil Club (ADAC) are consistently excellent, with distances indicated for the smallest lanes and clear town plans. Kompass (kompass.at) publish a full range of walking and cycling maps.

Germany uses the euro as its currency, which divides into 100 cents. There are seven euro notes – in denominations of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 euros, each a different colour and size – and eight different coin denominations, including 2 and 1 euros, then 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. Euro coins feature a common EU design on one face, but different country-specific designs on the other. All euro coins and notes can be used in twelve countries that share the currency (Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands). At the time of writing, €1 was worth £0.88/$US1.44/AUS$1.32/ZAR9.70; for current rates go to xe.com.

Banks are plentiful and their hours usually weekdays 8.30am to 5pm and no later than 6pm. It may be worth shopping around several banks, as the rates of exchange vary, as can the rate of commission. The latter tends to be a flat rate, meaning that small-scale transactions should be avoided. In any case, the Wechselstuben (bureaux de change) at the main train stations in cities, offer better rates, as well as being open outside normal banking hours and weekends, usually daily 8am to 8pm, a couple of hours longer on either side in the nation’s principal travel hubs.

Debit and credit cards , once a foreign concept, are becoming a part of everyday life, though their use is not as widespread as in the UK or North America. Cash is still the currency of choice, particularly in bars and restaurants. Major credit and debit cards (such as American Express, MasterCard and Visa) are good in department stores, mid- to up-market restaurants, and an increasing number of shops and petrol stations. Should you want to get cash on your plastic, the best way is from the many ATMs . You can withdraw as little as €20; however they do charge a minimum fee, often around €2.50, and charge two to four percent of the withdrawal as commission. In addition to credit cards, most bank debit cards, part of either the Cirrus or Plus systems, can be used for withdrawing cash, and carry lower fees than credit cards; your home bank will almost certainly levy a commission for use of the card abroad. Various banks will also give an advance against your credit card, subject to a minimum of the equivalent of £60/$100 – stickers in bank windows indicate which cards they’re associated with. Make sure your personal identification number (PIN) will work overseas.

Shops and markets : Business hours are generally Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm, although some bakeries open on Sunday mornings, and department and chain stores will stay open till 8pm on weekdays and till 4pm on Saturday, both legal closing times. Conversely, many shops in smaller towns still close for lunch, generally from midday to 2pm. Outside of trading hours, small supermarkets in train and petrol stations supply the basics. Produce markets (usually weekdays in towns) operate between 9am and 1pm.

Tourist information : Typically Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 2pm, closed Sunday; but consult relevant chapters.

Museums and tourist attractions : Tend to open Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 6pm, though occasionally some open on Mondays too. Many museums close from November to March, particularly in very tourist-orientated regions like the Rhine and Mosel.

Restaurants : Generally 10am to midnight, although smarter restaurants tend to take Sunday or Monday as Ruhetag (closing day).

Churches : Access is generally excellent, usually open all day and all week, though respect services.

Opening hours on public holidays generally follow Sunday hours: most shops will be closed and museums and other attractions will follow their Sunday schedules. Public holidays fall on January 1, Good Friday, Easter Monday, May 1, Ascension Day (40 days after Easter), Whitsun, October 3, November 3, and December 25 and 26.

You can make local and international calls from most phone boxes in the city – marked international – which are generally equipped with basic instructions in English. Another option is to use one of the many phone shops offering cheap international calls and calling cards, usually alongside internet services, which can be found throughout the city. The cheapest time to call abroad is between 9pm and 8am.

Most British mobile phones should work in Germany, but if you haven’t used your phone abroad before, check with your phone provider whether it will work in Germany, and what call charges are. Unless you have a tri-band phone, it is unlikely that a mobile bought for use in the US will work outside North America.

If you are in Germany for a while, consider buying a local SIM card for your mobile phone. These are available through the phone shops and even corner stores and tend to cost around €15, often including some credit. Technically German SIM cards are only available to German residents and you will be required to register it at an address in Germany. In practice you can supply the address of your accommodation for this.

To use a different SIM card in your phone, it will need to be unlocked, if it isn’t already, to accept the cards of different providers. The phone shops will be able to advise where this is possible locally. Expect to pay around €10 for this instant service. Top-up cards can be bought in supermarkets, kiosks and phone shops.

Calling Germany from abroad the international code is 49. For directory enquiries in English call118 37; the service costs an initial €0.20, then €1 per minute.

Germany is in the Central European Time Zone, one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time: one hour ahead of British time, nine hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time and six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. Daylight savings time (summer time) applies from the end of March to the end of October, when clocks are put forward one hour.

In a word, excellent. The national tourist board (germany.travel) produces stacks of brochures on regions and holiday themes; its website is great for ideas and planning and you can order a range of free brochures. Most regional tourist boards, cities and small towns also maintain an online presence, the majority with pages in English. On the ground, you’ll find a walk-in tourist office almost wherever you go, even in many villages; details are provided in the guide. These typically stock a good spread of pamphlets and brochures – usually in English in larger towns and cities, where one member of staff will be near-fluent. Tourist information offices will reserve accommodation, either for free or for a nominal charge.

Access and facilities for the disabled ( Behinderte ) are fair to good in large towns and cities: most major museums, public buildings and much of the public-transport system are wheelchair-friendly, and an active disabled community is on hand for helpful advice. Nearly four hundred Deutsche Bahn train stations have lifting aides or ramps. The company also offers assistance to travellers with disabilities upon reservation; call 01805 99 66 33, daily 8am to 10pm. Under certain conditions, the disabled and their escorts travel by train free or at reduced rates. For full information check on their English-language website, bahn.co.uk, under “Services” and “Barrier-Free Travel”.

The German Tourist Board website has links to dedicated state providers. NatKo (Nationale Koordiationsstelle Tourismus für Alle; National Tourism Coordination Agency for All; natko.de) handles enquiries concerning accessibility issues, supported by the main German disabled associations. Its German-language website publishes information and addresses for state travel-advice centres for tourists with disabilities as well as a list of tour operators with suitable programmes. For formal, in-depth information in Berlin, try disability activist group Mobidat (mobidat.net). They provide information on wheelchair-accessible hotels, restaurants, city tours and local transport services. Finally if you speak German, you might like to browse the online version of quarterly magazine Handicap (i-motio.de), for its hundreds of articles and active forums.

Travel anywhere in Germany by train and you’ll see an array of coloured bins on the platform, evidence that Germany takes recycling seriously. The recycling industry turns over around €50 million annually and Germans, who have a long tradition of social consciousness, recycle more of their rubbish than most other European nations. Using the Grüne Punkt (Green Dot) icon that indicates material can be recycled, they now recycle up to seventy percent of some materials, including 41 percent of plastics. In Bavaria, only one percent of rubbish goes to landfill. Visitors are expected to do their bit – novices placing items in the wrong container may be quietly reprimanded.

Bins – of which there are up to five – are colour-coded. One, usually green or blue, is for paper ( Papier ) and cardboard, including waxed cartons; boxes should be flattened and emptied of any plastic wrappers. Plastic goes into the yellow bin, along with milk cartons, cans, polystyrene and aluminium (marked with the Green Dot icon of two interlocking arrows). Straightforward enough, so long as you don‘t stuff different materials inside each other; this stuff gets sorted by hand, so a plastic cup hidden inside a tin is strictly verboten . There’s no need to rinse items but most Germans empty cans and plastics. Glass is usually collected in hostels to be taken to bottle banks, commonly in supermarket car parks. However, most bottles – glass and plastic – usually have a deposit ( Pfand ) on them of around €0.30–0.50 per item to be cashed at specified re-collection centres, most conveniently supermarkets. It’s standard practice to return items in bulk rather than singly. Biodegradables – including coffee grounds and teabags – go in another bin, usually brown, after which there‘s hardly anything left over. What is goes in the one bin that takes genuine Müll (rubbish) – grey or black and usually empty.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Germany - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Germany due to  terrorism .

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Germany. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Germany.

If you decide to travel to Germany:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Germany.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area including transit (strictly enforced) .

Not required for stays under 90 days.

 10,000€ (euros or equivalent).

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. EMBASSY BERLIN  Clayallee 170 14191 Berlin Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Email: [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL FRANKFURT  Giessener Str. 30 60435 Frankfurt am Main Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (69) 7535-0 Fax: +(49) (69) 7535-2252 Passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and Citizenship:  [email protected]  All other questions:  [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL MUNICH   Koeniginstrasse 5 80539 Munich Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (89) 2888-575  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) 89-2888-0 Fax: If you need to send a fax, please email first to obtain a one-time use fax number.  Email:  [email protected]

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL DUSSELDORF Willi-Becker-Allee 10 40227 Duesseldorf Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (211) 788-8927 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (211) 788 - 8938 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt. 

U.S. Consulate General Hamburg Alsterufer 27/28 20354 Hamburg Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (40) 411-71-100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (40) 411-71-222 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.

U.S. Consulate General Leipzig Wilhelm-Seyfferth-Str. 4 04107 Leipzig Federal Republic of Germany Telephone: +(49) (341) 213-84-0 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin: +(49) (30) 8305-0 Fax: +(49) (341) 213-84-75 Consular services are provided through the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Germany for information on U.S. - Germany relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Traveling Through Europe :  If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.   

• Your passport should be valid for  at least three months beyond the period of stay  if you plan on transiting a Schengen country review our  U.S. Travelers in Europe page .     
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds  and a  return plane ticket .   
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the  Schengen Visa page.   
• For transit through Germany to another Schengen country, passports must be valid for three months beyond the length of your visit to Europe.

Credit cards are not as widely accepted in Germany as they are in the United States; however, ATMs are widely available throughout Germany. 

Carry identification with you at all times.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Germany.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  

Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.  

Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack –including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:  

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)  
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists  
• Places of worship  
• Schools  
• Shopping malls and markets  
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.   

Demonstrations:

Demonstrations occur regularly in Germany.  Large, public demonstrations take place for a variety of political and economic issues.  Demonstrations tend to take place on politically significant holidays like German Labor Day (May 1) and during international summits hosted in Germany.  Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants.     

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.   
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.   
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.   

International Financial Scams:

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Germany.  Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters.  Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.  Common scams include:    

• Romance/Online dating  
• Transit flight issues related to romance scams 
• Immigration, and Detention issues related to romance scams

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.  

Violent crime is rare in Germany, but can occur, especially in larger cities or high-risk areas such as on large metropolitan subway systems and in train stations, primarily during late night or early morning hours. Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing.  Theft and pickpocketing primarily take place at train stations, on public transportation, at tourist attractions, and at large public events.  Always pay close attention to your valuables! 

Be cautious and aware of your surroundings. 

U.S. citizens should exercise caution when congregating in known expatriate hangouts. 

Hooligans, most often drunken “skinheads,” have harassed and attacked perceived foreigners or members of rival groups. Seemingly racially motivated assaults (because of a “foreign” appearance) against U.S. citizens have occurred. 

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. They are illegal to bring back into the United States, and you could also be breaking local law. 

Victims of Crime:

Report crimes to the local police: in an emergency dial 112 for ambulance and 110 for the police and contact the U.S Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate (see contact details above) . 

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . 

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys 
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.  
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation and support in Germay
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

We also maintain information on our website on how to report  child abuse situations to the local authorities.

Domestic Violence: 

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or the Consulates in Frankfurt or Munich for assistance.  Call 110 if you are in immediate danger.  

The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.  

Germany sometimes experiences extreme weather conditions including floods, long periods of drought, and unusually harsh winters with vast amounts of snow even in urban areas. Numerous injuries and deaths occur every year in Germany’s Alpine and coastal regions. Most of the emergencies relate to the following sports:  skiing, hiking, snowboarding, mountain biking, sledding, rock and mountain climbing, paragliding, and swimming. Those engaging in Alpine sports are strongly encouraged to register with  German “Alpen Verein”  .

In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.   

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances:  Germany has strict customs regulations concerning:

• Temporary importation or exportation of firearms
• Military artifacts (particularly those of World War II)
• Medications/pharmaceuticals
• Business equipment

Under German law it is also illegal to bring into or take out of Germany any literature, music, or paraphernalia that glorifies fascism, the Nazi past, or the “Third Reich.”

Contact the German Embassy in Washington or one of the German consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Faith-Based Travelers : See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers :  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Germany. Same-sex marriage is available in Germany. The LGBTI community is protected by federal anti-discrimination laws and LGBTI Pride events are officially encouraged by most large city governments, including those in Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Munich. 

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our   Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:

The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States.  The law in Germany prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in some older public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure especially outside major cities, but common in most urban infrastructure. Some older buildings and public transportation systems are less adapted to individuals with disabilities.

Check your hotel or destination to learn more about options to accommodate disabled traveler needs before visiting Germany.

The German National Tourist Board maintains information about accessibility and disability-friendly travel .

All German airports and  Lufthansa  offer services for disabled travelers.

The German National Railway,  Deutsche Bahn , maintains a mobility resource webpage.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Vaccines:   The German government has authorized  several vaccines  , including the Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, and Novavax vaccines.  Visit the FDA's website to   learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Germany has generally high-quality medical care and facilities. Prescript ion and over-the-counter medicines are widely available although brands and drug names differ from those available in the United States.

For emergency services in Germany, dial 112.  

Ambulance services are widely available.  

Payment for medical services in Germany:

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.   Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.  If you are not a resident of Germany, doctors and hospitals may expect immediate payment in cash. Credit card payment is not always available.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas or purchase travel insurance for this purpose.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.  See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.  Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.  We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates maintain lists of doctors and medical services in Germany .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery 

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on Medical Tourism.   
• Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Germany.  
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.   

Pharmaceuticals 

• If traveling with prescription medication, visit the  German customs website  to ensure the medication is legal in Germany. For medications that Germany classifies as narcotics, you may only carry a 30-day supply.  A comprehensive list of these medications can be found   here.   If your medication is on that list, there is an additional requirement for your doctor to complete a certification form .  You will see part E asks for the endorsement of an “issuing authority.”  As there is no such authority in the United States, travelers may have the doctor self-certify the form and enter the information of his or her practice in part E, ideally with a stamp or seal from their office. Due to Germany’s strict customs regulations, you are not allowed to receive prescription medication by mail without special permission.  Always, carry your prescription
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.   Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.   
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States.  Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.    

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy   

If you are considering traveling overseas to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .  

• All surrogacy arrangements, as well as IVF procedures involving the use of donated eggs, are illegal in Germany.  For additional information, see this webpage of the German Foreign Ministry (German language only).

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC) 

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .  

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in general are excellent but can differ from those in the United States, but driver error is a leading cause of accidents involving U.S. citizen motorists in Germany.  

If you hold a valid U.S. driver’s license you can drive in  Germany for up to six months  without acquiring a German driver’s license.  Many German traffic laws and traffic signs differ significantly from those in the United States. For more information, please visit the U.S. embassy’s webpage on  driving in Germany .

Speed limits are posted on large stretches of the highway, on the Autobahn in urban areas and when the road has many curves. While high speeds are permitted on the Autobahn, adverse weather conditions and unfamiliar road markings pose significant hazards.  Speed limits are strictly enforced. Use of seat belts is mandatory in front and back seats. Do not park on bike paths or sidewalks. Your vehicle registration, insurance policy, a first-aid kit, a reflective vest and a reflective triangle must be in your vehicle at all times. In snowy or icy conditions, your vehicle must have snow tires or all-season tires (indicated by M+S marking) or you will be subject to a fine.

Bicycles: German streets and sidewalks have dedicated bike lanes. Bicycles have priority use of bike lanes over pedestrians and automobiles. Bicyclists also have priority over cars when turning onto side streets. If you are driving, check whether a bicyclist is approaching from either direction before attempting to enter side streets, even when the light is in your favor. You will be held responsible for any injury or damage caused if you turn into a side street and hit a bicyclist using a marked bike lane. If you are walking, watch for bicyclists before crossing or stepping into bike lanes. 

Traffic Laws:  If you are involved in a traffic accident in Germany, even a minor fender-bender, you MUST stay with your vehicle and do not leave the scene until police arrive to take a report.  It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Germany. Except on priority roads, vehicles coming from the right have the right-of-way. It is generally illegal in Germany to pass vehicles on the right. Germans strictly observe the ‘slower traffic keep right’ rule. It is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol level is 0.05% or higher. You may be fined and your driver’s license may be suspended for specified periods of time depending upon the gravity of each violation. 

Public Transportation:  Germany has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, trains, and subways. Metered taxis are also prevalent throughout Germany, although some taxis do not accept credit cards. Uber and other rideshare companies are available in most cities in Germany. Use common sense safety practices such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings on all public transportation. 

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Germany’s  Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMVI) , the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Germany’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Germany’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Germany should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Germany . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.”

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Germany: The perfect destination with beautiful nature and cultural attractions for every taste

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• Inspiring Germany
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The latest trend: travelling out into the countryside by train.

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Classical Art Museums: Genuine Masterpieces

A 48-hour trip is full of possibilities, castles and palaces: fairytale film settings, enjoy vegan and eco-sustainable city getaways, old towns with unesco world heritage status, 52 unesco world heritage sites and so much more, must-see museums, 16 highlight natural landscapes, read our latest articles here, excellent hiking experiences in quality regions, creative and refreshing: the 'workation' travel trend, children are welcome: where the little ones take the main stage, off the beaten track: 12 insider tips for distance hikers, 10 palaces and castles off the beaten path, slow travel by train: 9 gorgeous rail routes, 250 years of caspar david friedrich: pathways of history, university cities: youthful vibes and colorful atmosphere, capitals of culture: a grand entrance on the european stage, hotspots of automobile history, baroque cities: travel back in time to the 17th and 18th centuries, bauhaus: follow in the footsteps of this world-famous art school, nightlife cities: paradise for night owls, football hotspots: cities with an extra kick, action and adrenalin: tours for adventurers.

Aerial view of the Dauner Maar in the Volcanic Eifel ©AdobeStock (RalfenByte) Geological time travel: land of volcanoes To the overview

Experience nature and national parks as completely accessible

Pilgrimage: slow down, meditate, reflect, along the magic of peaceful lakes and wild river landscapes, romantic or fairytale: german holiday routes, the world of german animals: more than fox and deer, top spots for astronomy fans: starry skies, 16 highlights in germany, from medieval banquets to the song of the nibelungs, a journey back in time to the baroque era, top tips for special holiday experiences, where world history was written, dine and sleep in regal style, this is the taste of germany, wine experiences from the ahr to württemberg, craft beer: hop heroes everywhere, germany has a (wine) queen, an a to z of health and wellness, health spas and health resorts - a little time out, wine hikes: 5 regions for connoisseurs, discover german originality, 52 unesco world heritage sites, summer of football: germany 2024, caspar david friedrich, simply feel good, germany’s top 100 survey, journey of discovery by train, travel from austria to germany with öbb, travel from switzerland to germany with sbb, from france to germany at high speed, barrier-free, experience germany barrier-free, all four seasons enchant in their own way.

The sun is warming the air, the days are getting longer, everywhere things are budding and blossoming: it's spring in Germany - time for getaways, blossom festivals, asparagus feasting and popular Easter traditions.

Summer At Last: Beer Gardens, Swimming Fun, Strawberry Ice Cream

Golden sunshine, colourful forests: the Indian summer can also be found in Germany. An ideal time for active holidaymakers and wellness fans. And for epicures, since this is harvest time.

Winter is the favourite season for any romantic. Outside, snowed-in forests and frozen lakes beckon. Inside, it feels cosy with baked goods, mulled wine and candlelight.

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Wander In Germany: Travel to Germany is a travel podcast full of practical tips and advice to help you plan your trip to Germany with ease. LeAnna Brown, Germany Travel Expert and US Expat living in Germany, helps you plan your trip to Germany with ease! While we’ll of course highlight the major destinations of travel in Germany, we also love to share off the beaten path secrets, as well as give you real, honest, genuine, and practical advice and tips for you to plan your own memorable trip. ~ From interviews with special guests to answering YOUR questions I’m here to make sure that you feel excited, confident, and prepared for your own trip to Germany. 🏰 Learn how to create an amazing itinerary that includes enchanting castles, fun beer halls, quaint towns, and plenty of delicious food! My goal with WanderInGemrany is to provide you with every single detail possible from my own experience of living in and exploring Germany for the past 10 years so that you can plan the perfect trip for YOUR travel style and needs. I hope that you fall in love with the beauty and culture of Germany the same way myself and my family has! 🥨Grab that Lederhosen, crank up the polka music, and pour yourself a beer. It’s time to Wander In Germany with LeAnna Brown! *And Don’t Forget to Subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode of insider tips and tricks for traveling to Germany.* 👉Find more at WanderInGermany.com

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UK Foreign Office travel advice: Urgent warning about increased risk in 18 countries including popular holiday destinations

The Foreign Office has issued a new travel warning about increased risk in 18 countries including popular holiday destinations

The Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel warning to UK holidaymakers about increased risks in 18 countries including popular Mediterranean holiday destinations. The government issued its latest advisory overnight as tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Iran and Israel, escalate. 

The tensions in the region could potentially impact the safety of destinations around the southern Mediterranean and the Middle East. The Foreign Office cautioned: "There is rising tension between Iran and Israel. 

“Any military action could escalate quickly and could pose risks for the wider region. If you are in the region, or considering travel to the region, monitor news updates and continue to check FCDO travel advice for updates."

Holiday hotspots in the warning are the United Arab Emirates, which includes Dubai, Morocco, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Algeria and Tunisia. Also included in the alert are Bahrain, Kuwait, Libya, Yemen, Qatar, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Oman and Lebanon.

The UK government has expressed particular concern for British nationals visiting these areas, stating: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times. UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad."

The Foreign Office said a terror attack was ‘likely’ and added that attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. The statement added: “Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. These include references to attacks on western interests, including against UK citizens. Targets may include: residential compounds, military sites, oil, transport, aviation interests, crowded places, restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres, places of worship.” Holidaymakers and travellers alike are advised to check the latest advice for the country they are planning on travelling to.

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

I spend £8,500 a year to live on a train

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Uch . TRAINS. They’re a necessary evil in many of our lives. Horrible big tin cans full of smelly people that never turn up on time and make you late for everything. The less time spent on them the better. At least for most of us in the UK, anyway.

Not so for digital nomad Lasse Stolley. This German teenager can’t get enough of them. He’s not a trainspotter, though. He’s more of a train squatter .

Okay, ‘squatter’ isn’t really accurate. While the 17-year-old does indeed live on trains, he does so entirely legally. And with a surprising amount of comfort.

Lasse travels 600 miles a day throughout Germany aboard Deutsche Bahn trains. He travels first class, sleeps on night trains, has breakfast in DB lounges and takes showers in public swimming pools and leisure centres, all using his unlimited annual railcard.

The self-employed coder technically has no fixed abode and appears to really enjoy his unusual way of life, something which he chronicles regularly on his blog, Life on the Train .

Embarking on an unusual journey

‘I’ve been living on the train as a digital nomad for a year and a half now,’ Lasse told Business Insider recently. ‘At night I sleep on the moving Intercity Express (ICE) train and during the day I sit in a seat, at a table and work as a programmer, surrounded by many other commuters and passengers. I travel from one end of the country to the other. I’m exploring the whole of Germany.’

‘I decided to live on a train when I was 16 years old. My school days were behind me and the whole world was open to me. So in the summer of 2022, I decided to give in to my wanderlust, leave my parents’ house in Schleswig-Holstein behind and embark on a huge adventure.’

‘If I feel like travelling to the sea, I take the train north in the morning. If I long for the hustle and bustle of the big city, then I look for a connection to Berlin or Munich. Or I take the express train to the Alps for a hiking trip.’

‘I use the app to organise the next connection in the evening and sleep while I race along the tracks towards my destination. I don’t have a place to retreat to. My home is the train.’

‘The early months were tough and I had to learn a lot about how it all worked. Everything was different than how I’d imagined.’

Costs, overnights and The Parent Question

Lasse says that, all things considered, it costs him around €10,000 (£8,500) a year to live the way he does.

‘I have a lot of freedom and can decide every day where I want to go, whether it’s to the Alps, to a big city or to the sea. I’m completely flexible.’

He’s forced to keep on the ball, though. You know how it is with trains. Even the unsurprisingly much more efficient German rail system. ‘Every night I have to make sure that I catch the night train and sometimes I have to reschedule very quickly because it suddenly doesn’t arrive.’

What do Lasse’s mum and dad think of his decision? ‘I had to do a lot of convincing,’ he says. Once he’d done that convincing, his parents checked out the legal side of it and agreed. They helped him sell off the majority of his possessions and now fully back their son’s decision.

Keeping luggage to a minimum

Luggage is, obviously, something of an issue. Lasse has to travel light.

‘The most important thing is my laptop and my noise-cancelling headphones, which at least give me a little privacy on the train.’

‘An important aspect of minimalism on the train is the reduction of material possessions,’ Lasse says. ‘Since the available space is very limited, you have to choose carefully what you really need. It means getting rid of unnecessary items and limiting yourself to the bare essentials.’

‘The challenge of not accumulating more and more things is a central component of minimalist living. Especially with a backpack, you quickly reach a space limit.’

Reflecting on an hectic 18 months

‘This life means a pretty restless existence. To switch off, I just look out the window and watching the scenery. That calms me down a lot. Then I just let my thoughts wander.’

‘My favourite route leads through the Middle Rhine Valley between Mainz and Bonn. Here the trains always travel very slowly along the river. It’s a beautifully picturesque route that stretches at the foot of the vineyards. The view outside is wonderful.’

Last month, Lasse worked out that he’d travelled a total of over 500,000 kilometres (310,000 miles) since he started living on the train – the number will now, of course, be even higher.

‘I don’t know how much longer I want to travel through Germany and wake up somewhere different every day, though,’ he says.

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