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Today
4:59 am
+1h from you
Weather in Germany
Germany
13°
Slight rain showers
Wed
5
13
Thu
2
9
Fri
-1
10
Sat
1
9
Sun
4
11
SPF level in Germany
Recommended: SPF 30
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 30
Autumn
SPF 15
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Germany
Language in Germany
Tipping in Germany
Tipping is customary in Germany for good service. It's usually expected to round up the bill or add a small percentage.
Restaurant
5-10% of the bill, or round up to the nearest Euro.
Bar/Café
Round up to the nearest Euro or add a small tip.
Taxi
5-10% of the fare, or round up to the nearest Euro.
Hotel Porter
1-2 EUR per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
1-2 EUR per night, left in the room.
Tour Guide
5-10 EUR per person for a good tour.
Safety in Germany
Tips for British travellers
Germany is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Be vigilant against pickpocketing and bag-snatching in crowded places like airports and stations.
Only change money at banks or official ATMs and check your cash carefully for counterfeits.
If asked by police for ID, you will need to show your passport or risk being escorted to retrieve it.
Illegal drugs carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences, even for possession at airports.
Ensure your travel insurance includes mountain rescue and repatriation for dangerous sports like off-piste skiing.
Bonus tips:
If driving a vehicle that is not yours, carry written permission from the registered owner.
Check if you are entering a low emission zone, as your vehicle may be restricted.
Driving in Germany
A valid UK driving licence is accepted in Germany. If you are staying for more than 6 months, you may need to register your vehicle and exchange your UK licence for a German one.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
Unlimited (recommended 130 km/h)
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: Germany drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
110
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Germany
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Germany uses 230V, 50Hz electricity with Type C and Type F plugs. UK travellers will need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Germany, especially in larger establishments, hotels, and tourist areas, though cash is still preferred by many smaller businesses.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Germany
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns throughout Germany.
Local name
Geldautomat
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
Using ATMs is a convenient way to access cash. Ensure you know your PIN and inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, the EU's 'roam like at home' policy no longer automatically applies to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider before traveling to understand roaming charges in Germany. Some providers may still offer inclusive roaming packages.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 25 EUR (~£21)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Vodafone Germany, Telekom Deutschland, Telefonica Germany (O2)
WiFi & internet
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public areas in cities. Coverage may be less extensive in rural areas.
Average speed
50 Mbps
Germany has good internet connectivity, making it easy to stay connected. Many establishments offer free WiFi to customers.
Health & vaccinations in Germany
As a UK resident, you can use a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for state healthcare in Germany. However, it's advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance for medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unforeseen events. Ensure your insurance covers all planned activities.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Generally, no specific vaccinations are required for travel to Germany from the UK. However, ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Tap water is safe to drink throughout Germany. Medical facilities are of a high standard.
Calling Germany
Country code
+49
To call Germany from the UK, dial 00 49 followed by the area code (without the leading zero) and the local number.
To call a Berlin number (030 1234567) from the UK, you would dial 00 49 30 1234567.
The country code for Germany is 49. The exit code from the UK is 00.
UK Embassy in Germany
British Embassy Berlin
Wilhelmstrasse 70-71, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Airports in Germany
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.