Is It Safe to Travel to Germany?
In this article
Before you decide to travel to a country for the first time, it is advisable to be
well-informed about it. A large number of tourists research history, culture, best
places to hang out, but they don’t examine the country’s safety. Especially among
younger travel enthusiasts, checking the safety of the country they are traveling
to can be a secondary thing to look into.
Researching the
best places to visit in Germany
is inevitable, but don’t neglect considering the safety of the locations you want to explore.
Our travel advice is that this should definitely be one of the first things you check because
in the last few years a number of countries have had problems with terrorist attacks, increased
crime rates, and of course the well-known coronavirus.
Germany has a large number of tourist attractions and is therefore very popular among
tourists. In this article you will get a detailed answer to the question “Is it safe to
travel to Germany?”, as well as tips to stay safe while traveling.
Is Germany Safe? The Country's Crime Rates
In general, the crime rate in Germany has been declining in recent years. This is
especially true after 2015. Here are some interesting statistics: last year was the year
with the lowest number of crimes committed in the last six years - exactly 6070 on
average for every 100,000 people.
For comparison, in the period from 2000 to 2004, that number ranged from some 7,600
to more than 8,000 crimes. The crime rate increased between 2010 and 2015, but finally after
2015 until today, the number of crimes in Germany is decreasing.
Safe Steps
To prevent pickpocketing, bag snatching, and muggers, take safety steps. At crowded public
events, railroad stations, and airports, be extra cautious. Never let personal belongings
stay unsecured. You must visit the closest local police station to file a police report if
your passport has been stolen.
Nightlife
When you're out at night, always keep an eye on your drink so that someone doesn't
spill something in it.
Political Situation and Social Tension
During Covid-19, in Germany, as in other countries, there were protests against the
isolation, movement restrictions and other measures we faced during the pandemic.
What Is the Best Thing to Do if You Find Yourself in Germany During the Demonstrations?
For starters, be sure to avoid the crowds and the protesters. Stay away from public
areas where protesters can be found in large numbers. If you do get into problems, call
the police immediately at 110 in Germany.
Monitor local media and travel advisors. The German government informs people
of potential dangers.
German Safety: The Risk of Terrorist Attacks
Unfortunately, Germany has been a target of terrorists in previous years.
So, if you are a tourist planning to visit Germany, be careful and stay updated on local news
so you know which places to avoid. Targets of attacks can be shopping centers,
Christmas markets, various public gatherings, restaurants, etc.
Road Safety, Driving, and Local Customs
First-time tourists to Germany will find the country's public transportation system to be
quite user-friendly. Prices are reasonable, there are seldom delays, and security officers
occasionally monitor trains at night for those concerned about doing lengthy rail rides alone.
There are a really large number of taxis in Germany, according to some estimates
even more than half a million. You will most often recognize a taxi vehicle by its
cream color and of course the black and gold taxi sign. Taxi drivers must be uniformed,
and turning on the taximeter is mandatory.
Travel advise if you drive yourself: be sure to respect the speed limits because
the fines are big. You can even get your driver's license revoked, and you must have
vehicle documents and your driver's license with you.
Relevant Local Laws and Customs
While in Germany, you do not need to keep your passport with you. However, if the police
or local authorities meet you on the street and ask for your passport and you haven't
brought it with you, they will escort you to the place where your passport is located
to show them.
Be careful when crossing the street. It is illegal to cross a pedestrian crossing while
the traffic light is red. If you do, you risk paying a fine as well as other costs
in the event of an accident.
Nazi symbols, salutes, emblems, and souvenirs like flags are all prohibited
from use or exhibition.
Regulations Around Illegal Substances
Even tiny amounts of illegal drug possession, usage, or trafficking are punishable
by steep penalties and lengthy jail sentences.
Climate and Natural Disasters in Germany
Your international travel may be impacted by severe weather. Keep an eye on local media for
information. Here are some tips If you are going to a place where there has been
a lot of bad weather:
- Follow local officials' guidance.
- Check your trip and itinerary details with your travel provider.
- Use the help of local travel companies and hotels to determine the state of the infrastructure and facilities.
Is Germany Safe to Travel Alone + The Take on Solo Female Travel
In general, safety for solo tourists is at a high level in Germany. As we have already mentioned,
the crime rate has constantly been decreasing in previous years, a large number of public places
are covered by cameras, and the policy covers a large number of streets. Even if you are a
female solo traveler, you shouldn't worry too much. According to some available sources of
information, Germany is ranked seventh on the list of the safest countries in the world for solo
female travelers. However, you should always be careful and take care of your safety. Here is some
travel advice to avoid awkward situations when traveling alone.
Check the Hotel/Hostel Where You Plan to Stay
Before booking accommodation for solo travel, make sure to read reviews about it. Check the
location, find out about the bus, taxi, or tram line, and try to avoid those that are too remote
and lonely, as well as those with low ratings.
Take Care of Your Things
If you have chosen a hostel to stay in, you probably know that many people stay there. Be careful
not to leave valuables in the room, especially money and documents, as things can get lost.
Be Careful With the People You Meet
When you travel alone, chances are high that you will make a new friendship. However, be
careful with people you've just met, because even though they seem cool and friendly, you
can't know what their intentions really are.
German COVID-19 Restrictions and Preventative Measures
Here are some of the measures against covid 19 in Germany that you should
know when planning your trip:
- Entry restrictions: Even if they have had a vaccination or have recovered, travelers from virus-variant regions must endure 2-week isolation in Germany (entry restrictions do not apply to people coming from non-viral variant countries)
- Until the end of January 2023, the 3G restriction (entry and exit requirements) on travel to Germany will be suspended. Travelers will no longer need to provide proof of vaccination, recovery or testing to enter Germany
Important Information You Need to Know During Your Stay:
- The German government has lifted almost all corona rules.
- Of the protective measures, you only have to wear masks on the bus and trains.
- If a new hotspot appears, the state government will pass new rules against Covid-19
- Of course, these rules can change, because the number of people infected with the coronavirus is increasing, so be sure to inform yourself before traveling.
- For further information, visit the website of the German federal ministry of Health
Travel Insurance
Be sure to get comprehensive travel insurance! Your travel insurance should cover absolutely
all medical expenses outside your country, even medical evacuation or medical care.
Travel advice - We recommend you not to skimp on travel insurance because if you need medical
assistance or health care, the overseas medical costs will be much higher than travel insurance.
Germany Entry Requirements
Germany is a popular destination for tourists across the world. In fact, it’s become an attractive
country for expats, including American citizens. Safety and healthcare are just some of the reasons
why Americans choose to live in Germany. Among
other perks,Germany is cheaper than the US.
If you want to read more on this subject, we’ve created a guide on
Immigrating from Germany to US.
So, if you decide to visit this European country - what are the requirements you must
meet to enter?
Non-European citizens who want to visit Germany must have a Schengen Visa or an
ETIAS visa waiver , while citizens from other Schengen
visa countries can move freely across the borders without the need for any type of visa.
Obtaining ETIAS is quick and easy compared to traditional visas, and as a plus, it can be
completed online. Please note that the ETIAS visa waiver will be mandatory by the end
of 2022 or early 2023.
The Verdict: Is Germany Safe to Travel?
In general, we can conclude that Germany is generally a very safe country. Finally, here
is our risk assessment of the most important things we mentioned in the article.
NOTE: If you need emergency consular assistance (consular services),
contact the nearest embassy.
Risk of danger in Germany: LOW
Travel to Germany is very safe. When visiting Germany, pickpockets and con artists
should be your top concerns.
Risk of terrorist attacks: MEDIUM
Unfortunately, as you could read in the article, there have been terrorist attacks
in Germany in recent years. No tourists were targeted, but extreme caution is advised.
Risk of pickpocketing in public transport: MEDIUM
As in any place with a large number of tourists, there is a risk of pickpocketing
in Germany, especially on public transport, so we advise you to be extra careful there
Risk of natural disasters: LOW
In general, apart from a couple of earthquakes that happen in Germany from time to
time, there are no major threats from natural disasters.
Risk of robbery and kidnapping: LOW
Although there is a minimal risk of being robbed or kidnapped in Germany, it is
advisable to exercise caution and stay away from darkened and isolated streets and regions.
Risk of potential problems when using a taxi: LOW
Taxis are very safe in Germany.
Risk for women traveling alone: LOW
Although the risk for female travelers is very low in Germany,
be careful, and avoid dark and isolated streets.
FAQs
1. Is it safe for a black person to travel to Germany?
Yes, Germany is generally safe for a black person.2. Is Germany safe for American tourists?
Yes, Germany is generally safe for tourists from America.3. Is it safe to travel to Berlin?
Berlin is generally a safe city, but avoid it during the May Day demonstrations, when the city may riot.4. Is Berlin safe for American tourists?
Yes, Berlin is generally safe for tourists from America.5. Is it safe to travel to Frankfurt, Germany?
Frankfurt, as well as all of Germany, is generally safe when the security index is considered. But if you have to compare it to some other european cities, Frankfurt is dangerous. Violent crimes don't happen too often, but still, if you're a tourist, be careful on the streets and at bus stops, especially at night.6. Is Munich safe for tourists?
Munich is one of the safest cities in Germany. On average, out of 100,000 people, only about 6,500 of them participated in some of the illegal or criminal activities.
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