Germany blends medieval castles, fairy-tale villages, and vibrant cities with world-class museums, beer gardens, and Christmas markets. From the Black Forest to Berlin's contemporary art scene, experience rich history, excellent public transport, and hearty cuisine in the heart of Europe.
Germany is one of Europe's safest travel destinations with a very low crime rate, efficient police, and excellent emergency services. Petty theft at tourist sites and train stations is the primary concern; violent crime against tourists is rare.
Current safety advisory
Low
Germany is considered a safe destination. Exercise normal precautions. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas, markets, and public transport.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions in Germany. Some areas have increased risk of terrorism.
Standard travel advice
Germany is generally safe. Terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out. Take sensible precautions.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Be aware of surroundings in crowded tourist locations and public venues
Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings
Monitor local media for breaking events
Watch for pickpockets in busy train stations and tourist areas
Keep valuables secure, especially in major cities
Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps
Be cautious of financial scams targeting tourists online
Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency notifications — the German emergency number is 112.
Carry your passport or a certified copy at all times; German police may ask for ID.
Jaywalking is technically illegal and frowned upon; always wait for the pedestrian green light.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Friendship bracelet / Free gift
Strangers at tourist sites tie a bracelet on your wrist or press a 'gift' into your hand, then aggressively demand payment. Common at Brandenburg Gate and major tourist squares.
How to avoid: Keep hands in pockets, firmly say Nein and walk away. The bracelet is not actually a gift.
Pickpocketing at Christmas markets
Crowded Christmas markets in Nuremberg, Cologne, and Munich attract skilled pickpockets who work in groups, with one distracting while another steals. Wallets in back pockets are primary targets.
How to avoid: Use front pockets or a money belt; keep bag in front; avoid taking phone out unnecessarily in dense crowds
Taxi overcharging at airports
Unlicensed or dishonest taxi drivers at airports charge tourists inflated prices. Frankfurt and Munich airports are known for this.
How to avoid: Use only white official taxis with illuminated roof signs; the metered rate is regulated; Free Now app shows fare estimate before booking
Fake police officers
Criminals posing as police officers ask to inspect your wallet for counterfeit currency. Real German police never ask to see your wallet on the street.
How to avoid: Real police carry badge and ID (Dienstausweis) - ask to see it and call 110 if uncertain. Never show your wallet.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Routine vaccinations up to date (MMR, DPT, flu, COVID-19)
- Water
- Safe
- Yes, tap water (Leitungswasser) is safe and high quality throughout Germany
- Notes
- Free tap water not automatically provided in restaurants - must request 'Leitungswasser bitte'. Sparkling water (Sprudelwasser) very popular
- Food
- Altitude
- None - Germany relatively low altitude except Alps
- Pollution
- Generally clean air. Some cities have environmental zones
- Sun
- Use sunscreen in summer, especially in Alps and at Baltic/North Sea
- Cold
- Winter can be very cold (below -10°C). Dress warmly Dec-Feb
- Facilities
- Excellent. Apotheken (pharmacies) in every neighborhood
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Germany is excellent for solo travel with very low crime, English widely spoken in cities, reliable public transport, and a well-developed hostel and budget hotel network. Solo travelers should take standard precautions in nightlife areas - stick to well-lit streets and use official taxis or ride apps after late nights.
Female travellers
Germany is generally safe for female solo travelers. German cities are progressive with a strong culture of personal space and direct communication that deters harassment. Standard urban precautions apply: avoid isolated areas after dark, keep valuables secured. Berlin and Hamburg have strong LGBTQ+ and feminist communities creating particularly welcoming environments.
Families
Germany is exceptionally family-friendly with safe cities, excellent infrastructure, well-maintained public spaces, high-quality medical facilities, and child-oriented attractions throughout. Food hygiene standards are among Europe's highest. Public transport is stroller-accessible. German playgrounds are free and well-maintained in every neighborhood.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Germany is one of Europe's most LGBTQ+-friendly countries. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2017. Berlin (especially Schöneberg and Kreuzberg) and Cologne (Christopher Street Day pride parade) are among Europe's most welcoming LGBTQ+ cities. Public displays of affection are generally accepted in cities. Rural areas are more conservative but rarely hostile.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 110
- Medical
- 112
- Embassy
- Tourist Police