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Whether you are studying, working or traveling abroad in Germany, there is always something to do. Are you interested in...
- Visiting Bavarian castles?
- Sightseeing Berlin and Munich?
- Medieval European architecture?
- Skiing the Bavarian Alps?
- Exploring the Rhine valley?
Popular Destinations
- Berlin—city life, transportation hub, museums
- Munich—city life, transportation hub
- Frankfurt—transportation hub, museums
- Hanover—museums, gardens, cultural center
- Cologne—cathedrals, museums, architecture
- Dusseldorf—museums, parks, nightlife
- Rhine river—waterways, scenic views
- Lake Constance—boating, beaches, scenic views
- Heidelberg—museums, historical landmarks
- Bavarian Alps—skiing, scenic views
- Leipzig—art galleries, markets, museums
- Dresden—cathedrals, architecture, museums
Currency
Like eleven other European countries, Germany uses the Euro. The exchange rate from the US dollar to the Euro is around US $1= € 0.81, but varies. ATMs are available and accept US bankcards. Traveler's checks are accepted at most banks and money exchanges and there is typically a fee to cash them.
Travel Discounts
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is available in the Learning Abroad Center for $22. This card provides discounted or free admissions to museums and sights, inexpensive meals in various restaurants , and discounts on numerous modes of transportation (airfare, train tickets etc.). The ISIC card also provides minimal health insurance. Your University of Minnesota identification card will not work as an international student ID.
Transportation
Airplane
Travel by air is a quick and efficient means of getting to different destinations. During certain times of the year, air travel within Germany can be inexpensive, especially during the summer. Air travel is not extremely popular to destinations within Europe because of the extensive train network and the relatively cheap deals that are offered by trains.
Train
Trains are extremely popular in Germany and Europe. The network of trains interconnects most European cities and countries. Eurail and other German rail passes are available for purchase at the Learning Abroad Center and offer relatively cheap prices for tickets. Germany has fast and efficient domestic train service, which connects to most cities and towns. Germany also has a good metro train system in the larger cities like Berlin and Munich. Group fares can be purchased, which will save money.
Bus
Buses in Germany are not very popular because of the train network in Germany and Europe. There is no national bus system. Buses are an efficient way to travel between large cities, but are not as quick as trains. Also, buses run less often than trains, especially during the weekends. Discounts are available for students and travelers under 26 years old.
Taxi
Taxis in Germany are very expensive and not recommended. In some cases it is quicker to take the train than a taxi.
Automobile
Although Germany is known for its famous autobahn and road system, driving in Germany is not recommended. Driving in Germany is very dangerous due to the fast pace roadways and is unnecessary. The extensive rail system is sufficient for providing service to most destinations in Germany and Europe. The Learning Abroad Center highly discourages students from renting a car while abroad.
Accommodation
Camping
Camping is popular in Germany, especially in the summer. Most camping facilities offer amenities such as bathrooms and showers at a fairly cheap price. Book ahead of time, because some places fill up quick, especially popular campsites in national parks and lake reserves.
Hostel
Hostels are extremely popular in Europe, with over 600 hostel operators in Germany. Hostels offer fair prices for the budget traveler. Hostels are a good way to meet new people and learn new cultures, while saving money in your pocket.
Guesthouse
Guesthouses and holiday flats are popular in Germany and can be relatively cheap compared to a hotel. Most are located outside the city in farmhouses or remote areas. Tourist offices have lists of holiday flats available for rent.
Hotel
Hotels in Germany are ranked from one to five stars. The cheaper hotels may only provide a room and a communal bathroom. The more upscale hotels offer more privacy, but cost more. Also some hotels occupy historic castles and offer an aesthetic and historical value.
Seasons
The climate in Germany is very similar to the US. The weather is warm in the summer and cold in the winter. The weather does not get too extreme, but gets fairly cold in the winter, so pack warm clothes if traveling in the cooler months.
Travel Insurance
Many people make the mistake of assuming their existing health insurance covers them wherever they go, when many times it does not provide coverage outside of their home country.
The Learning Abroad Center includes comprehensive medical insurance for international travel that is available for those who study abroad, and offers insurance for those participating on non-academic programs such as work, intern, volunteer, or travel abroad.
Guide Books
Lonely Planet guidebooks are available at the Learning Abroad Center. These guides provide valuable information to assist in planning a trip that will be both educational and enjoyable.
Guides to look for while traveling throughout Germany:
- Germany
- Berlin
- Europe
- Europe on a shoestring
- German Phrasebook
There are numerous accommodation guides in Germany, but bias is sometimes questionable because places pay to be listed.
Travel Web Sites
- Student travel service
- Cheap airfare for students
- Bus service in Germany
- Low rates on airfare in Europe
- Airfare to and within Germany and Europe
- Train schedule and service in Germany
- Listing of youth hostels in Germany
- Information about Berlin and discounts
Travel Gear
Available at the Learning Abroad Center (prices reflect student/non-student pricing):
- Money belt-$10/12
- Adapter Set-$8/9
- ISIC-$22
- Sleep Sack-$14
- Lonely Planet Germany-$24.60
- Eurail and other train passes
Last modified on June 8, 2009 |