Germany is a renowned European destination that many dream of visiting at least once in their lifetime. But one lingering question for travelers is: how much does it cost to travel to Germany, and is it expensive? To ensure a smooth trip filled with unforgettable experiences, understanding travel costs is essential. Let’s plan a detailed trip to Germany and break down the expenses for exploring this beautiful country together!
Cost of Traveling to Germany Solo
With its prime location, the Federal Republic of Germany boasts diverse natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Majestic ancient castles, splendid landmarks, and lively street festivals are just some of the highlights travelers rave about. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder people often wonder how much a trip to Germany costs. Check out the suggested itinerary and cost breakdown for a solo trip below.
Suggested Itinerary for Solo Travel in Germany
Here’s a 10-day itinerary exploring northern Germany:
Day 1: Frankfurt
Arrive at Frankfurt Airport and head to the city center to visit attractions like Römerberg Square, the Main Tower, and the Palmengarten botanical gardens.
Day 2: Bonn
Travel from Frankfurt to Bonn, Germany’s former capital, by train. Perfect for history buffs, must-see spots include Bonn Minster (a Roman Catholic church), the Old Town Hall, and the Museum of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Day 3: Schloss Drachenburg
Take a day trip to the enchanting Schloss Drachenburg, a late 19th-century castle south of Bonn.
Day 4: Münster
Journey from Bonn to Münster. Explore Münster University, Aasee Lake, Prinzipalmarkt Square, the Historic Town Hall, and Münster Cathedral.
Day 5: Hanover
Travel from Münster to Hanover, Germany’s largest federal city. Visit the New Town Hall, Marktkirche, Herrenhausen Royal Gardens, and Maschsee Lake.
Day 6: Hamburg
Head to Hamburg and check out the Town Hall, the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt warehouse district, the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and St. Pauli Piers.
Day 7: Lübeck
Visit Lübeck, famous for its delicious marzipan. Don’t miss the Holstentor gate, Marienkirche (Church of St. Mary), and the historic Heilig-Geist-Hospital.
Day 8: Flensburg
Explore Flensburg in northern Germany, with stops at the Maritime Museum, Historischer Hafen harbor, Flensburger Schifffahrtsmuseum, and Museumsberg Flensburg.
Days 9 + 10: Berlin
Wrap up your trip in Germany’s capital, Berlin. This vibrant hub won’t disappoint with iconic sites like the Brandenburg Gate, the historic Reichstag, and the East Side Gallery art exhibit.
Expenses for a Solo Trip to Germany
How much does it cost to travel to Germany? Budgeting is crucial before your trip. Here’s a breakdown of basic expenses based on a solo journey.
Visa Costs
A passport and visa are must-haves for international travel. So, how much does a German visa cost? Here are the fees:
- Adults (12 and up): $70
- Children (6–12): $40
- Children (under 6) and EU citizens: Free
You can pay in Vietnamese dong or euros. A tip: pay in VND with exact change, as the embassy won’t provide change for larger euro bills.
Flight Costs
Getting from Vietnam to Germany by air is straightforward, with airlines like Vietnam Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines operating this route. Here’s a sample price list:
| Airline | Departure | Destination | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qatar Airways | Hanoi | Frankfurt | $540 |
| China Southern Airlines | Hanoi | Frankfurt | $610 |
| Vietnam Airlines | Hanoi | Frankfurt | $620 |
| Turkish Airlines | Ho Chi Minh City | Frankfurt | $600 |
| Cathay Pacific Airways | Ho Chi Minh City | Frankfurt | $600 |
| Etihad Airways | Ho Chi Minh City | Frankfurt | $615 |
| Qatar Airways | Da Nang | Tegel | $900 |
| Vietnam Airlines | Da Nang | Tegel | $750 |
| Emirates | Da Nang | Tegel | $680 |
Transportation Costs in Germany
Public transport in Germany is well-developed, offering several options:
- Trains: Popular for comfort and affordability, prices vary by distance: $22, $33, $44, etc.
- Trams and Buses: Convenient and cheap, costing around $2.3–$3 per person.
- Bicycles: Ideal for sightseeing, rentals are about $1.7/hour or $17/day.
Accommodation Costs
Hotel rooms in Germany aren’t cheap. To save money, consider hostels, budget guesthouses, or dorm-style rooms. Prices typically range from:
- Hotels: $80–$85/night
- Private guesthouse rooms: $45/night
- Dorm-style guesthouses: $23/night
Food Costs
How much does eating in Germany cost? It’s more affordable than you might expect. An average meal ranges from $9–$18, while upscale dining is about $18–$40.
Sightseeing and Entertainment Costs
Some attractions in Germany charge fees, while others are free. On average, expect to spend $40–$62 per day on sightseeing and activities.
Summary: So, how much does a trip to Germany cost? It depends on your plans, trip length, and spending habits. Here’s an estimated daily breakdown:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $45/night |
| Transportation in Germany | $22/day |
| Food | $39/day |
| Sightseeing | $62/day |
| Total | $168/day |
Cost of a Guided Tour to Germany
Solo travel in Germany offers unique experiences, but families with kids or elderly travelers often prefer all-inclusive guided tours. Here’s a suggested tour itinerary and cost breakdown for a worry-free trip.
Suggested Itinerary for a Guided Tour in Germany
Here’s a 9-day, 8-night European tour covering four countries: France, Belgium, Netherlands, and Germany:
Day 1: Hanoi – Paris
Depart from Noi Bai Airport to Paris. Overnight on the plane.
Day 2: Paris
Arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport and visit the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre Hill. In the afternoon, explore Place du Trocadéro, the Eiffel Tower, and enjoy a sunset cruise on the Seine River.
Day 3: Paris – Louvre Museum
Morning visits include the Louvre Museum, Alexandre III Bridge, Les Invalides, and the National Assembly building. Spend the afternoon strolling and shopping at Galeries Lafayette.
Day 4: Paris – Brussels
After breakfast, travel to Brussels, Belgium. Afternoon sightseeing includes the Atomium, Manneken Pis statue, Grand Place, and Brussels Town Hall.
Day 5: Brussels – Zaanse Schans – Amsterdam
Head to Amsterdam, Netherlands, after breakfast. Afternoon stops include Zaanse Schans village, windmills, the Wooden Shoes Shop, and Catharina Hoeve cheese farm. Enjoy a free evening exploring the nightlife.
Day 6: Amsterdam – Giethoorn Village
Visit Giethoorn, dubbed the “Venice of the Netherlands,” in the morning. Return to Amsterdam in the afternoon for Coster Diamonds, Dam Square, and more.
Day 7: Amsterdam – Cologne – Frankfurt
Begin your German adventure with a trip to Cologne, visiting the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral and shopping areas. After lunch, travel to Frankfurt to see the Dom Cathedral, Römerberg Square, the Euro symbol, and the Old Town Hall.
Day 8: Frankfurt – Hanoi
Enjoy a final breakfast in Germany before flying back to Hanoi.
Day 9: Hanoi
Arrive at Noi Bai Airport, concluding the tour.
Included and Excluded Costs:
| Included | Excluded |
|---|---|
| Flight tickets, European visa fees, 3–4* hotel stays, meals per itinerary, daily water, transportation, entrance fees, professional guide, travel insurance, small gifts. | Passport fees, single room surcharges, extra sightseeing, personal expenses (shopping, laundry, SIM cards), tips for guide/driver, visa fees for non-Vietnamese citizens. |
Cost of Joining a Guided Tour to Germany
How much does a guided tour to Germany cost? For a 9-day, 8-night European tour (France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany), including visa, flights, meals, entrance fees, and transportation:
- Adults: 52,900,000 VND (~$2,100)
- Children (2–11): 47,610,000 VND (~$1,890)
Note: Prices apply to groups of 25 or more; smaller groups may incur higher costs.
Should You Travel to Germany Solo or with a Tour?
After reading this, you might be torn between solo travel and a guided tour. Both have their pros and cons.
Itinerary
Solo: Flexible—you decide your plans and can adjust anytime to visit your favorite spots.
Tour: Pre-set by the company, sticking to fixed destinations.
Time and Transportation
Solo: Requires time to research and plan, plus arranging your own transport—challenging for first-timers abroad.
Tour: Saves time with everything arranged, though it may feel restrictive for adventure seekers.
Preferences
Solo: Ideal for young, freedom-loving explorers who enjoy new challenges.
Tour: Suits those who value safety, group travel, and a structured experience.
In short, your choice depends on factors like itinerary, time, transportation, preferences, and age. Young adventurers might prefer solo travel to Germany, while families, busy individuals, or older travelers may opt for a tour for peace of mind and safety.
Germany is a destination worth visiting at least once. This article has covered the costs and options for traveling there. Hopefully, this helps you plan your dream trip to Germany and beyond!
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Germany
When’s the Best Time to Visit Germany?
May to September offers warm, pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing.
Is Traveling to Germany Expensive?
Compared to other European countries, Germany isn’t overly pricey. With smart budgeting, a trip is entirely doable.
