Traveling to Germany, the land of precision, efficiency, and fairy-tale castles, doesn’t mean you have to spend a fairy-tale fortune. This article is your guide to keeping your wallet as full as your suitcase while exploring Deutschland’s delights.
How did I compile such a foolproof list of money-saving tips? Well, it involved channelling my inner ‘Sparfuchs’ (that’s a thrifty fox), countless hours of research, and learning some hard lessons about the difference between being a savvy traveler and a spendthrift tourist. My trial and error is your golden ticket to saving Euros.
Now, you may think traveling on a budget is as thrilling as watching paint dry on the Berlin Wall, but trust me, it’s all about knowing where to cut costs without cutting the quality of your experience.
From planning your excursion with the meticulousness of a German train timetable to mastering the art of public transportation that’s as efficient as a freshly tuned BMW engine, I’ve got your back.
When it comes to lodgings, who says you can’t have comfort on a budget? Forget the Ritz – let’s make your stay in Germany as cozy and affordable as a local Biergarten. Let’s turn your German dream holiday from ‘nein’ to ‘ja’ on a budget!
Traveling to Germany? Click here to download your free Germany Trip Planning checklist. We’ll help you get ready for your trip!
How To Save Money In Germany
1. Plan and Book in Advance
Planning ahead is a game-changer when saving money on a trip to Germany. From my experience, booking flights and accommodations early can snag you significant discounts. For instance, I once scored a charming hotel at half-price, simply because I reserved a few months ahead.
Additionally, early birds often get the worm with transportation deals. Reserve your train or bus tickets in advance, and you could cut travel costs significantly. This approach left me with extra euros to savor Germany’s delectable bratwursts and beer.
Approach your German adventure with foresight and watch the savings stack up. Securing key bookings ahead of time isn’t just about lower prices, it’s about peace of mind, giving you one less thing to worry about as you explore enchanting castles and bustling marketplaces.
2. Embrace Off-Peak Travel
Traveling off-peak can significantly cut costs, and I’ve seen the benefits firsthand on my trips to Germany. By visiting during the shoulder season, I skipped the summer crowds and high prices, finding that accommodation rates often dropped by as much as 20-30%. Not only was it easier on my wallet but also allowed for a more serene experience visiting attractions.
Want to save even more money? Visit in low season and see Germany in winter (although note that December is not low season – try February). Accommodation and transport can be a lot cheaper at this time.
You’ll find that cities like Berlin and Munich are just as charming in the off-peak months, with the added advantage of mingling more with the locals than with tourists. Restaurants, too, tend to offer specials to attract business during slower times. Embrace off-peak travel, and you’ll discover a more authentic Germany while enjoying the savings that come with it.
Click here to read about the best time to travel to Germany – month by month.
3. Use Public Transportation
Public transport in Germany is great and can significantly cut down expenses. Trains and buses are not only punctual and efficient but also very cost-effective. When you opt for public transport over rental cars or taxis, you’re choosing a travel method that locals embrace for its economy and network.
You’ll find that navigating the U-Bahn or S-Bahn is straightforward, even for newcomers. I was able to reach all my desired destinations without the stress of traffic or high parking fees. Plus, the day or group tickets can save you a considerable amount over single fares. So, when you travel through Germany, consider public transportation as your wallet-friendly companion.
The best way to save money on this is with the 49 Euro Deutschland ticket which lasts a calendar month and can get you all over Germany. Read all about it here.
4. Stay in Budget Accommodation
Staying in budget accommodation can significantly cut your travel expenses in Germany. From my experience, opting for hostels or budget hotels over pricier options left more in my wallet for experiences. You’re not just saving money; you’re embracing an ethos of travel that’s as much about adventure as it is about frugality.
As you plan, remember that Germany’s budget accommodations often come with surprising perks. I’ve enjoyed free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and the chance to meet fellow travelers. So go ahead, book that affordable room.
5. Eat Like a Local
Eating like a local is one of the most effective ways to save money while traveling through Germany. From my own experience, stepping off the beaten path allowed me to enjoy heartier meals at a fraction of tourist-area prices. Local eateries, rather than tourist hotspots, offer authentic cuisine that is typically less expensive and more filling.
You’ll find that markets and street vendors sell fresh, regional fare that’s easy on the wallet. I remember savoring a bratwurst from a bustling market in Berlin, which not only cost a couple of euros but also gave me a taste of the city’s vibrant culture.
You can save even more money by shopping at supermarkets and self-catering. Some buget accommodation offers shared kitchens, and this can be an easy way to save money. Or travel with a bowl and spoon and make your cereal for breakfast in your room. Grab some of the delicious local bread and make a sandwich for lunch. There are many easy ways to save money in Germany with food.
6. Take Advantage of Free Activities
When traveling in Germany, embracing free activities is a must for frugal adventurers. Museums, historical sites, and walking tours often offer days or times when admission is waived. On my last trip, I reveled in Berlin’s street art culture without spending a penny, walking among history and creativity that was as great as any premium attraction.
I encourage you to scour local event calendars and websites before your journey; you’ll frequently find festivals, open-air concerts, and markets that offer rich experiences at no cost. Take it from me, discovering these gems not only saves money but also gives you a richer, more authentic connection to the German culture, making your trip memorable without straining your wallet.
There are also “free” walking tours available in many of the bigger cities. You pay what you feel the tour was worth. This not only supports local guides but also gives you control over your spending. Sandemans is a company you can check out for this.
Click here for our guide to awesome free things to do in Germany.
7. Look for City Tourist Cards
When you’re exploring Germany, one of the savings strategies is to look for City Tourist Cards. These cards, available in major cities like Berlin and Munich, offer free or discounted entry to museums, attractions, and even public transportation. On my last trip to Frankfurt, the city card saved me a lot on museum fees and river cruises.
You’ll find that these cards not only cut down on costs but also encourage you to discover more of what the city has to offer. They often include deals at restaurants and shops as well. Remember, the more you explore, the more value you get, so plan your itinerary around the attractions covered by the card.
8. Use Flight Comparison Tools
Using flight comparison tools is a game-changer when planning a trip to Germany. These tools offer a transparent view of different airlines, dates, and connecting flights, letting you pinpoint the most cost-effective options. I remember snagging a deal that was hundreds less than the standard fare by simply tweaking my travel dates, all thanks to a nifty comparison site.
By comparing, you’re not just saving money; you’re also gaining control over your itinerary. Last year, a quick search led me to a lesser-known carrier with great service but without the hefty price tag. It’s about being savvy: Use these tools, and you can see significant savings.
Click here to take a look at Skyscanner now.
9. Travel Slowly
One of my biggest tips for saving money when traveling in Germany is to travel slowly. This saves money in so many ways.
Firstly, it can save money on accommodation. Often there are better deals when you stay longer. Like a week in a holiday rental can cost the same as 4-5 nights. You also save money on transport when you are staying put for longer.
The longer you stay somewhere, the easier it is to find travel deals too. You can time your attraction visits for days it is free (if this is an option) and work out the best restaurant deals.
I also recommend you stick to one region. Dashing across the country can get expensive – keeping to a small region can significantly reduce your transportation expenses.
10. Get Travel Insurance
Getting travel insurance should be a top priority when planning your trip to Germany. You might think it’s an extra expense, but it’s an investment in peace of mind. For me, having insurance was a lifesaver when I lost my luggage during a layover; the insurance covered the replacement of my essentials without a hassle.
Picture this: you’re about to embark on a scenic Rhine river cruise, but a sudden illness means you can’t go. If you have travel insurance, you could be reimbursed for those non-refundable expenses. It’s not just about health emergencies — from canceled flights to stolen cameras, insurance keeps you covered, ensuring your savings remain intact for enjoying the wonders of Germany.
11. Utilize Rail Passes
Utilizing rail passes in Germany can be a real budget saver. The country’s extensive and punctual rail system connects not just major cities but also quaint towns, making travel seamless. On my last trip, investing in a rail pass significantly cut down my transportation costs.
With a rail pass, you’re not paying for each journey individually, which means savings are inevitable, especially if you’re an avid explorer like me. Your travel days don’t have to be consecutive, granting flexibility to roam at your own pace. Just remember to check if your pass requires seat reservations, as planning ahead can avoid extra fees, making your trip to Germany both memorable and affordable.
Check out the Deutsche Bahn (German Railways) site here.
12. Avoid Currency Conversion Fees
On my travels to Germany, I quickly learned that avoiding currency conversion fees is key to saving money. Using your home bank to get euros can rack up fees that you might not even notice until you’re home reviewing your statements. Instead, I opt for using local ATMs for withdrawals, ensuring I have a bank that charges minimal or no fees for international transactions.
You, too, can do the same. Before your trip, scout out bank accounts or credit cards that boast no foreign transaction fees. Paying with a card whenever possible also sidesteps the high costs that often come with exchanging cash. Small steps like these add up, leaving you more to spend on a hearty German meal or that extra castle tour.
BONUS TIP: Visit Cheaper Destinations
We have a list here of the cheapest places to visit in Germany (that are still awesome) to help your holiday money go further.
There are many ways to save money on your trip to Germany from taking it slow to staying in budget accommodation and self-catering. No matter how much you spend, you’re sure to love your time in Germany.
Excited to visit Germany now? You can find all our planning guides here. Want to know the most beautiful cities to visit? Click here for our list 🙂
I am planning using the traIn over three days as follows: frankfurt to lohr (day 1), lohr round trip to partenstein (day 2), lohr to Heidelburg (day 3). What is my best option? A pass or individual trip tickets. This will be my first time on the German train system.