Germany on a Shoestring
Web Article by Paul Katz
As the world’s third-largest economy and Europe’s most prosperous country, Germany may not seem like a budget traveler’s paradise. And on some levels, it’s not—the price of food and entertainment is high, and transportation can be pricey. But don’t let the challenge of budget travel to Germany deter you. Deutschland abounds in freebies and hidden deals, and with a little bit of effort (and some help from Let’s Go) you can see more of the country for less of your cash.
Getting to Germany
With dozens of major airlines offering hundreds of direct flights, travel to Germany can be highly convenient—and extremely expensive. If you’re willing to be a little bit flexible and endure a bit of inconvenience, though, you can get yourself to Germany for much less than Delta or American Airlines would have you believe. Start your search online, focusing on the special youth and student rates offered by specialized agencies like STA and Student Universe. Don’t just search for flights to major German hubs; with low-cost flights on RyanAir and easyJet connecting Europe’s cities, you can get from London—or Madrid, or Dublin, or Rome—to Munich or Berlin for virtually nothing. Also consider joining a reputable air courier association; by giving up your luggage space and escorting a third party’s packages to Germany, you can get yourself on a transatlantic flight for 50%-85% less than commercial fares. And if you can be flexible, plan to fly standby. You won’t be able to specify your exact dates of departure and return, but you will be able to conserve something even more precious than time—your travel funds.
Sleeping Cheap
Don’t even consider booking a hotel room. Germany—birthplace of the youth hostel—has the world’s most comprehensive hostelling network, and Hostelling International (HI) hostels exist in every city, town, and outdoor area you could ever want to visit. Consider joining HI for a small fee to save on every night’s accommodation. Or, keep your eyes peeled for even cheaper options. Accommodations with ground-floor pricing punctuate Germany’s cities and its countryside. Sleep at Munich’s non-traditional hostel, “The Tent,” or find a €10 dorm bed in bustling Berlin. Let’s Go: Germany lists these and hundreds of other budget finds; pick up a copy before you take off. Finally, if you have a tent, bring it; campgrounds are ubiquitous and very cheap, especially for groups traveling together.
Cut-Rate Culture
Germany’s museums are world class, and many of them charge world-class admissions fees. But if you go on the right day, you won’t pay a (Euro)cent. Berlin’s entire Museumsinsel complex—home to the awe-inspiring classical treasures of the Pergamonmuseum—is free on Thursday evenings, and Sunday entitles you to €1 admission to Munich’s three world-renowned Pinakotheken. No matter when or where you go, don’t pay to check your coat or bags—virtually every museum features free automated lockers, which will return your €2 coin deposit at the end of your visit.
The churches and cathedrals of Germany are some of the country’s premier cultural assets, and as a budget traveler, they’re your best bet for economical enlightenment. Virtually all of Germany’s churches are free to visitors, and many offer midday tours at no cost. For the few that charge admission, don’t despair—come during a Sunday morning service to soak up the architecture and enjoy the music for free, and still leave with a squeaky-clean conscience.
If live entertainment is your preference, Germany will suit your every taste without bankrupting your budget. Buy a standing room ticket in advance, or take advantage of special student offers on performance night. Either way, you can catch a play, sample a symphony, or indulge yourself at the opera—all for €10 or less.
Backwoods Bargains
Germany’s system of National Parks is among Europe’s finest, and the country’s outdoor areas offer hiking, biking, skiing, swimming, and adventure sports. Germany’s comprehensive rail network makes getting to even the most remote parts of the country a breeze. Check out Wattenmeer’s otherworldly mudflats in the north, scale Germany’s third-tallest peak in Bavaria, or trace Goethe’s footsteps through the Harz, all without paying a penny—National Parks charge no admission fee. Many also feature dirt-cheap accommodations, in both campgrounds and chalets, making it supremely affordable to lose yourself in the German wilderness.
However you choose to spend your time in Germany, a little bit of bargain-hunting will reward you with tremendous deals and unanticipated opportunities. Supplementing your own savvy sense with these tips and Let’s Go Germany, you’ll spend less and see more of one of the world’s quirkiest and most beautiful countries.