ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
**Please check your own country's international travel advice as well as the airline requirements before travel.**
For guests travelling from the UK please see the FCDO advice regarding entry requirements and the prevailing entry rules in response to coronavirus: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/germany
PASSPORTS
Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay. Please be sure to fill out the "Emergency Next of Kin" section in your passport
VISAS
Germany is a party to the Schengen Agreement. This means that U.S., Canadian, Australian and European citizens may enter Germany for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. All other nationalities must check the visa entry requirements before your departure. You need sufficient funds and a return airline ticket.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
All passengers must have valid travel insurance before traveling, including health and cancellation insurance. Please ensure you have a copy of your insurer’s 24-hour emergency telephone number and your policy number.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS & PERSONAL MEDICATION
Please advise us before travel if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip. If you have a specific medical condition, it is wise to carry the relevant doctor’s prescription with you.
TRAVELLING WITH CPAP OR OTHER MEDICAL DEVICES
If you require CPAP or similar medical equipment, please notify The Big Journey Company at the time of booking. If distilled or ionised water is required, please let us know in advance so that our ground agents can prepare. Additional charges may apply.
LUGGAGE
What to Pack and Wear:
We would recommend comfortable clothes and shoes for this tour. Feel free to include a smart-casual outfit for dinner if you wish, however there is no pressure to follow a dress code.
Travelling in summer, the weather should largely be warm and sunny throughout the journey, however it is always good to be prepared for every eventuality, so make sure you pack a light jacket in case of rain and the fact that it may be cooler in the evening. Insect repellent and sun cream are also essential items. Don't forget your camera, with charger/spare batteries and memory cards.
Travelling in winter, be prepared for the cold and to wrap up. Good boots, jumpers, winter coats, as well as hats, scarves and gloves are recommended.
River cruises – For river cruises passing through Switzerland, please see the specific dress code information provided in your travel pack.
Luggage Allowances:
International airlines are often strict about the size and weight of checked in baggage and carry-on luggage. Prior to your departure, please contact your airline or visit their website for specific luggage requirements, as size and weight limitations may vary according to the airline and destination.
LANGUAGE
The main language of Germany is German, though English is spoken widely across the country by younger generations.
TIME ZONE
The time zone in Germany is GMT+1, 1 hour ahead of London GMT.
WEATHER
The weather in Germany is generally pleasant and warm over the summer months. Spring and Autumn often have good weather, but in the mountains, temperatures can remain cool, especially at night-time. Winters however can are quite cold, with lots of snow especially in the mountain or rural areas.
ELECTRICITY
In Germany, the standard voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. You will need a European plug adapter, and/or converter depending on which electrical appliances you bring with you.
MOBILES & INTERNET COMMUNICATION
Germany has a well-developed communications infrastructure. A number of cellphone/mobile phone providers offer national coverage and there are well-established landline phone networks. In populated urban areas, there should be good mobile signal but as we head into rural areas, signal may fluctuate. Internet and Wi-Fi are easily accessible in most urban areas and most hotels and restaurants provide free WIFI. Please check data roaming charges for Germany with your service provider before leaving home as these can quickly become very expensive.
MONEY
Currency:
The currency of Germany is the Euro € (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted at mid-high range establishments, but it is advisable to carry money in cash with you as well. ATMs are widely available in cities, but not so in smaller villages.
Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards however many places do not accept cards such as Diners Club or American Express. If you intend to use any of your debit or credit cards whilst away, please make sure that you contact your bank before you leave to inform them that you will be travelling in order not to cause any problems using your cards or whilst on the trip.
Important Note - European countries use chip-and-pin credit cards, so cards with magnetic strips on the back (commonly used in North America) may not work with certain automated machines. You might want to carry some extra cash in your wallet to use in these situations just in case. You may be asked to provide ID if you cannot pay by chip and PIN.
Gratuities:
After feedback from previous guests, we offer a group tipping package for this tour, more information on this will be shared in the 'Pre-Tour Emails'.
WATER
The tap water in Germany is generally of excellent quality. Unless otherwise advised, you can drink the local tap water. It is not advisable to drink the tap water on board the train nor boats. Bottled water can be bought at supermarkets, kiosks and many shops.
SAFETY & SECURITY
As visitors, tourists may be more vulnerable to petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams, so we recommend staying aware and taking simple precautions.
RELIGION
Germany is mostly Christian. In the north it is predominantly the Protestant divisions of the faith, whilst in the south, especially Bavaria, it is Catholic. There is also a large Muslim population in Germany from the Turkish community.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Germany offers photo opportunities one after another. You will return with many photos that can never be repeated. Remember to pack your camera, along with the charger, spare batteries and a spare memory card!
ARRIVAL IN GERMANY
Please note, standard hotel check-in is around 3pm. If arriving earlier than this, your room may not be available upon arrival. For those arriving early morning, we do everything we can to work with the hotel to get you an earlier check-in subject to availability.
For further questions, contact us at: info@thebigjourneycompany.com
Disclaimer: The above information is provided as a guideline only. The Big Journey Company assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in this document.
Updated May 2025