Germany Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism . Terrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles. Such attacks may occur with little or no warning and target: Tourist locations Transportation centers (airports, train, or bus stations) Markets and shopping malls Local government facilities Hotels, clubs, and restaurants Places of worship and educationa...

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Germany safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Access: easy Hours: Most pharmacies open 8:30am-6:30pm weekdays, 9am-4pm Saturdays. Some pharmacies in major cities have late-night hours. An 'Apothekennotdienst' (emergency pharmacy) is always available nearby — check online or ask any pharmacy for the nearest on-duty pharmacy. Prescription rules: EU prescriptions are accepted. Non-EU prescriptions require a German doctor's verification. Germany has strict prescription rules — many antibiotics and medications require a prescription. 💡 Tips Pharmacies (Apotheke) are widely available. Most medications require a prescription. Pharmacists are highly trained and can advise on minor ailments. Look for the red 'A' sign.

Insurance: ⚠️ Strongly recommended Average cost: $40-70/week 💡 Tip Hospitals will treat emergencies without payment upfront in most cases, but you may be billed later. Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and 24/7 assistance is essential. German hospitals are excellent but costs can be high without insurance. 💡 Tip Hospitals will treat emergencies without payment upfront in most cases, but you may be billed later. Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and 24/7 assistance is essential. German hospitals are excellent but costs can be high without insurance.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Germany follows EU Schengen rules for medication imports. Travelers from outside the EU may bring up to 3 months' supply of prescribed medications in original packaging with a doctor's certificate (ideally translated into German or English). For narcotics and psychotropic substances covered by the German Narcotics Act (BtMG), carry a Schengen certificate signed by your doctor and stamped by your national health authority. CBD products with any THC content are controlled.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Prescription-only medications covered by the Betäubungsmittelgesetz (BtMG). EU/EEA travelers need a Schengen certificate; non-EU travelers need a doctor's attestation certified by health authority, for up to 30 days' supply.
• Adderall / amphetamines — RESTRICTED: Amphetamines are BtMG Anlage III (narcotic, prescribable). Adderall is not commonly prescribed in Germany (dexamphetamine is available as Attentin). Travelers MUST have a Schengen certificate (EU) or certified medical attestation (non-EU). Max 30 days' supply.
• Cannabis / CBD — CAUTION: Germany legalized recreational cannabis in April 2024 (CanG) for adults 18+. Legal to possess up to 25g in public, 50g at home. Cannabis social clubs allowed. CBD products with <0.2% THC are legal. However, do NOT import cannabis — cross-border transport remains illegal under EU/international law.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: BtMG Anlage III narcotic, available by prescription. Same import rules: Schengen certificate (EU/EEA) or certified attestation (non-EU). Max 30 days' supply.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Codeine is prescription-only. Stronger opioids fall under BtMG with strict prescribing rules. Travelers need proper documentation. Schengen certificate required for EU travelers.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Round up restaurant bills or leave 5-10% for good service — tell the server the total you want to pay when settling. Don't leave cash on the table. Tip taxi drivers 5-10% by rounding up. Not obligatory but appreciated.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Being late — punctuality is considered basic respect in Germany
• Jaywalking — Germans wait for the light even on empty roads
• Making Nazi references or jokes — illegal and deeply offensive
• Talking loudly in public spaces, especially public transport
• Shopping on Sundays — most stores are closed (Ladenschlussgesetz)

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in Germany: