Key things to know before you go to Germany

30.07.2023 - 06:19 / lonelyplanet.com

Germany is the world’s fourth-biggest economy, has a history that’ll take you a lifetime to unpack, a capital city that seems to be crawling into the future and a population of more than 80 million people, almost one-fifth of whom have an immigrant background – that makes it almost impossible to form any generalisations about a singular Germany. Instead, expect a country full of bewildering contradictions, quirky social norms and, in the capital especially, stereotypes turned on their head.

Bike riding is a beloved mode of transportation in Germany, and there are many dedicated bike lanes in cities and along popular cycling routes in regional areas. Bike-sharing schemes are common, and in some cities you might even find shared cargo bikes – a popular way to get around with kids. Always err on the side of caution and lock your bike whenever you leave it unattended (especially in Berlin). Motorists are generally aware and cautious of cyclists, though you should always remain alert and many people in urban areas wear a helmet (though it is not required by law). 

Things are set to get even better for two-wheeled commuters, with the implementation of the federal government’s National Cycling Plan 3.0, which aims to double the number of cyclists on the roads by 2030. Cycling infrastructure will be improved, extended and made safer – and help to cut carbon emissions.

Traveling around Germany is relatively quick and easy if you take the high-speed ICE trains run by the Deutsche Bahn. Tickets can be expensive, especially for last-minute travel and over major holidays, but the trains are comfortable and generally arrive on time. It’s almost always worth paying extra to reserve a seat, otherwise you could find yourself sitting on the floor in the bike storage carriage for the duration of your journey. That, or drinking a beer in the onboard restaurant.

If you’re traveling with kids, try to reserve seats in the Familienbereich (family area) to save yourself sideways stares for if – or when – your kids go wild or lose their cool. The Kleinkindbereich is a closed compartment suitable for those traveling with babies and toddlers – it even has a carpeted space to crawl around!

Shopping is generally a no-no on Sundays, when supermarkets and retail outlets are closed in accordance with the law. If you’re in desperate need of something, your best bet is to head to a major train or bus station where there might be a supermarket and Apotheke (pharmacy) open. Otherwise, almost everything else runs as usual – museums, tourist attractions, bakeries, cafes etc – including Spätis (small convenience stores) but with limited opening hours. Locals, instead, spend their Sundays indulging in simple pleasures like hanging out in the