Getting to and away
REACHING THE COUNTRY
Get in Germany is usually quite simple. If you come from any of the countries included in the Schengen treaty, as Spain, the Netherlands and Austria, and regardless of the nationality of the traveler, there is no need to show your passport or go through the German customs.Passport
Passports must be valid at least six months after the end of the trip. The citizens of almost all Western countries do not require visas to enter Germany, according to the country of origin may be necessary to obtain a Schengen visa.
PLANE
Airports
Frankfurt International Airport (FRA, 4636 01805-372; www.frankfurt-airport.de ) is the main gateway for transcontinental flights, although Düsseldorf (DUS; 0211-4210; www.duesseldorf-international.de ) and Munich (MUC; 089-975 00; www.munich-airport.de ) also receive a portion of the transcontinental air traffic. Berlin(introduction and great information about berlin) has two international airports, Tegel (TXL, 0180-500 0186; www.berlin-airport.de ) and Schönefeld (SXF, 0180-500 0186; www.berlin-airport.de ). There are also major airports in Hamburg (HAM; 040-507 50; www.flughafen-hamburg.de ), Cologne / Bonn (CGN; 02203-404 001; airport-cgn.de ) and Stuttgart (STR, 94 80; www.flughafen-stuttgart.de ), and other smaller cities like Bremen, Dresden, Erfurt, Hannover, Leipzig, Münster-Osnabrück Nuremberg.
Some low cost, especially Ryan Air, can offer affordable rates because they fly to airports located far from major cities, some of which are former military courts. The largest of these is Frankfurt-Hahn (HNN; 06543-509 200; www.hahn-airport.de ), which is actually 110 km northwest of Frankfurt, near the Moselle river.
Airlines
The flag carrier of Germany is Lufthansa (LH; 01803-803 803; www.lufthansa.de ), a member of Star Alliance consortium. It offers a wide variety of domestic and international flights, and has one of the best safety records in the world. In Germany also operate a large number of domestic flights airlines and low cost, the most important are listed below, along with their cell information, reservation and ticket changes in Germany. To view information on the country of origin, we recommend visiting the websites of the airlines.
NATIONAL AIRLINES
Aeroflot (SU; 0180-375 5555; www.aeroflot.com )
Air France (AF; 01805-830 830; www.airfrance.com )
Air Lingus (EI; 01805-133 209; www.airlingus.com )
Alitalia (AZ, 01805-074 747; www.alitalia.com )
American Airlines (AA 5070 069-5098, www.aa.com )
British Airways (BA, 01805-266 522; www.britishairways.com )
Continental Airlines (CO; 0180-321 2610; www.continental.com )
Delta (DL; 01803-337 880; www.delta.com )
Iberia (IB; 01805-442 900; www.iberia.com )
KLM (KL; 01805-254 750; www.klm.com )
LAN Airlines (LA; 01805-340767; www.lan.com )
LOT (LO; 01803-000 346; www.lot.com )
Malev Hungarian Airlines (MA; 01805-363 586; www.malev.hu )
Olympic Airlines (OA 670 069-970; www.olympicairlines.com )
Qantas (QF; 01805-250 620; www.qantas.com.au )
Scandinavian Airlines / SAS (SK; 01805-117 002; www.scandinavian.net )
Swiss (LX; 01803-000 337; www.swiss.com )
Turkish Airlines (TK; 01805-849 266; www.turkishairlines.com )
United Airlines (UA; 069-5007 0387; www.united.com )
U.S. Airways (U.S.; 01803-000 609; www.usairways.com )
LOW COST AIRLINES
Air Berlin (AB, 800 01805-737, www.air-berlin.com )
Cirrus (C9, 0180-444 4888; www.cirrusairlines.de )
Condor (DE; 01805-767 757; www.condor.com )
easyJet (EZY, 0900-1100 161; www.easyjet.com )
Germanwings (4U, 0900-19 19 100; www.germanwings.com ) Calls cost € 0.99 / min.
Ryanair (FR, 0900-116 0500, www.ryanair.com ) Calls cost € 0.62 / min.
TUIfly (X3; 01805-787 510; www.tuifly.com )
Wizz Air (W6; 0900-120 4021; www.wizzair.com ) Calls cost € 1.03 / min.
Bills
Everyone enjoys a bargain, and to find a good rate is vital to start looking well in advance. Normally you can save real money if you book early and traveling midweek (Tuesday to Thursday) or season (October to March or April, in the case of Germany), or early or late in the day.
The best ally for finding deals is the Internet. You can start by consulting rates in www.expedia.com , www.travelocity.com , www.orbitz.com or www.zuji.com , then do the same search in metasearch as www.sidestep.com , www.kayak.com or www.openjet.com . If you have no specific travel dates, you can use the flexible dates option to search for the lowest fare, or check www.itasoftware.com .
Currently many airlines ensure that on your website you can find the best rates, so it's worth a look. An effective method to keep informed about the latest offers is to subscribe to the free weekly newsletters that send the airlines themselves.
From the U.S. and with flexible hours, departure date and airline, you can save a lot on www.priceline.com and its "Name Your Own Price". You must enter the price you want to pay, and expect them to accept an airline.
Should not be neglected travel agencies, which can be especially useful when you have to plan complex itineraries, and who know the system, options, specials, etc..
From Spain
On flights from Spain to Germany, there are discounts that make air travel more cost than by land. Airlines and Iberia ( www.iberia.es ) offers flights to various destinations at affordable prices, but you should buy them in advance and check the deals before traveling, especially last minute. A flight from Barcelona to Dusseldorf, for example, can cost, with Iberia, € 97 return.
The German company Lufthansa (902 220 101; www.lufthansa.es ) is the one that provides more frequent and varied between Spain and Germany, has deals to different German cities from € 99 return. Airlines and LTU, Hapag, Air Berlin and Ryanair operate cheap flights from various cities in Germany to Spanish towns, but need to book your ticket in advance.
Another way to get cheap flights is to visit online travel portals that present business and wholesale products with real bargains on tickets last minute, in some of them, like www.lastminute.com , www.terminala.com , www.atrapalo.com and www.despegar.com , you can find tickets with discounts on the official price.
From continental Europe
Lufthansa and other national companies connect all major cities in Europe with German destinations. The dominant airlines, Air Berlin, easyJet, Germanwings and Ryanair-flights to major and secondary airports in Germany from Europe. Some smaller airlines that operate routes less traveled are Norwegian Air Shuttle from Wizz Air from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.
From Latin America
The German company Lufthansa is one that has more frequent direct services between Germany and the Americas; joins Frankfurt direct flight from Mexico City, Caracas, São Paulo, Buenos Aires and São Paulo Munich. The Brazilian company TAM Airlines ( www.tam.com.br ) connects São Paulo to Frankfurt.
Other airlines freight flights to major cities in Latin America with stops in different European locations. Lan Chile ( www.lanchile.com ) fly from Frankfurt to Santiago via Madrid. Iberia offers services, via Madrid, from Frankfurt to Santiago, Bogota, Caracas, Lima and Quito, and from Berlin to Caracas and Lima. The company Air France ( www.airfrance.com ) fly, with a stopover in Paris, from Frankfurt and Berlin to Bogota and Caracas, and from Berlin to Sao Paulo and Buenos Aires. Also the Dutch KLM ( www.klm.com ) operates, with a stopover in Amsterdam, Berlin to Mexico City and Caracas, and from Frankfurt to Lima.
One option for getting to other German cities is to fly to Berlin or Frankfurt and from there, with an internal flight, to the final destination. To update this information you should consult the page of the CRS Amadeus ( www.amadeus.net ). The Uruguayan transatlantic travel Pluna ( www.pluna.aero ) and Colombia's Avianca ( www.avianca.com ) just come to Madrid; Aerolineas Argentinas ( www.aerolineas.com.ar ) flies to Madrid, London, Paris and Rome .
The agency ASATEJ Argentina ( www.asatej.com ) specializes in youth and student travel, and operates from Mexico, Spain, Chile and the U.S. through 33 branches, call centers and the Internet. Two very useful websites for rates and itineraries and make reservations from Mexico, Chile, Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay are www.viajo.com and www.rumbo.com .
From U.S.
All major U.S. airlines, plus Lufthansa flights from most major cities in the U.S. and Germany. Moreover, German companies and Condor Air Berlin flights in season, especially in summer, from some U.S. cities. Condor, for example, offers flights from Anchorage and Fairbanks.
Frankfurt Airport receives most of the flights from the U.S., but in recent years has significantly increased air traffic in Dusseldorf and Munich. Even if you land in Frankfurt and this is not the final destination, you can take a domestic flight connection or follow the path in the efficient German rail system.
The ticket prices go up and down following a cyclical pattern. The cheapest tickets are available from early November to mid-December and from mid-January until Easter, during the following months gradually increase. The high season is in July and August and then prices start to fall again. The cheapest tickets cost round about 600/450 U.S. $ in high season / low from New York, 850/550 U.S. $ from Chicago and 1000/650 U.S. $ from Los Angeles.
STA Travel (800 781 4040; www.statravel.com ) and Flight Centre (877-233-9999; www.flightcentre.us ) are two travel agencies that offer serious economic and internet booking and have branches throughout the country .
BY LAND
Border crossing
In the opposite direction clockwise, Germany shares borders with Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic and Poland. The Schengen Protocol eliminated customs formalities between Germany and all bordering countries.
Bus
The Spanish company ALSA (902 42 22 42; www.alsa.es ) connects cities such as Madrid, Bilbao and Seville with Bremen, Cologne, Dusseldorf or Frankfurt. A ticket from Madrid to Frankfurt costs way / return € 148/233, and spends 24 hours in transit.
Eurolines ( www.eurolines.com ), now covering 32 European companies bus, traveling at about five hundred European destinations, including major German cities. Their website has links to all pages of the national companies, with detailed information on prices and routes, promotional offers, phone numbers and, in many cases, an online booking system. Children between 4 and 12 years old pay half, and there is a discount of 10% for teenagers, students and retirees. In Germany, Eurolines is represented by Deutsche Touring (069-790 3501; www.touring.de ), and in Spain, by Travel Eurolines (902 40 50 40 933 674 400; www.eurolines.es ), which offers different connections and times on the route Málaga-Madrid-Barcelona-Hamburg-Frankfurt-Berlin-Dortmund.
If Germany is just one of the destinations on a trip across Europe, it is worth purchasing a Eurolines Pass ( www.eurolines-pass.com ). This pass allows unlimited travel between 41 cities over a period of 15 or 30 days. From late June to early September, costs 15/30 days € 310/410 for over 26 years and € 260/340 for those under 26 years. The rest of the year, the rates are cheaper, for more information see the website. The payment is available online and in travel agencies.
The company, based in Berlin Berlin Linien Bus (030-861 9331; www.berlinlinienbus.de ) is an umbrella organization for 55 national companies and the rest of Europe that offer services to 350 destinations around the continent. On some routes, Berlin Linien Bus and Eurolines offer the same service.
With the company for backpackers Busabout ( www.busabout.com ) the traveler can hop on and off as many times as you like on three intertwined European circuits (May to October). Germany is located in the northern circuit, with stops in Berlin, Dresden, Munich and Stuttgart. The circuits can be combined. In Munich, for example, the circuit with the circuit converges north south, heading towards Italy. The ticket costs € 419 for a circuit, € 719 for two and 879 € for three.
If the visitor does not like to travel on a predetermined route, you can purchase the Flexitrip Pass, which allows travel between cities in different circuits. It costs € 369 and includes six stops. On their website you can get detailed information and buy the bond. Can also be purchased at travel agencies like STA Travel and Flight Centre.
In many cities, the buses make stops at hostels downtown.
Car and motorcycle
To enter a car in Germany just need to have a valid driving license, registration certificate and a copy of the insurance. The foreign car must wear a badge of nationality, unless they have a formal European registration. It is also necessary to have warning triangle and first aid kit.
Hitch-hiking
Lonely Planet does not recommend hitchhiking. However, those who wish to do so, will find no trouble getting in or out of Germany by major autobahns and highways.
Train
The long distance trains linking major German cities with other foreign are Eurocity (EC). It is strongly recommended to book in advance, especially in summer and during holiday periods.
There are direct night trains (City Night Line CNL) to Germany from cities such as Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Belgrade, Budapest, Bucharest, Florence, Milan, Prague, Rome, Venice and Vienna. You can choose between Schlafwagen (sleeping cars; 40-100 € supplement), comfortable compartments with capacity for up to three people, Liegewagen (car-berth, 20 to 30 € of supplement), with seating for four or six people and Sitzwagen (cars seats; 4-10 € supplement), which offer spacious reclining seats. If you have a subscription, you just have to pay a fee in individual cases. When booking, women can apply for a berth on a sleeper car for women only, although it should do so in advance. For more information, please contact the night trains specialists (01805-141 514; www.nachtzugreise.de ) of Deutsche Bahn.
From Spain there are no direct routes to Germany, if you decide to go by train you need to change trains in France or Switzerland.
Eurail
To visit various places in Germany and around within a given period, the Eurail Pass ( www.eurail.com ) an option at a good price. Allows travel on national railways and some private lines, ferry and river boats. Valid only for non-European residents, must be purchased before leaving the country, although a limited number of distributors, which appear on the website, also sold in Europe. In Spain, Renfe refer ( www.renfe.com ).
Currently there are different types of bonds available Eurail. The Eurail Global Pass, for example, allows unlimited travel in first class in 21 countries over a period of 15 to 21 consecutive days, or one, two or three months. The Flexi Pass allows travel 10 days a month or 15 days in two months. The Eurail Select Pass travel limits to three, four or five bordering countries. Regional bonds, however, allow travel by two neighboring countries, such as Germany and France, and Germany and the Czech Republic. If you travel in groups of two to five people, you can save 15% on the adult rate. All children under 26 years have a 35% discount, but must travel in second class. Children 4-11 pay half the adult fare. All children under 4 travel free.
The website provides all the information and the opportunity to buy tickets, and you can pay in dollars and euros.
INTERRAIL
Any person who is a permanent resident of a European country (including Russia, Estonia, Turkey and others, see the website for more information) can acquire a bonus InterRail ( www.interrailnet.com ). As with Eurail, there are different options. The InterRail Global Pass allows unlimited travel in 30 countries for 22 days (469 €) or straight month (599 €), five days in a period of 10 days (€ 249) or 10 days within 22 (€ 359).
Another option is the One Country Pass, for example InterRail Germany, which allows travel for three, four, six or eight days in one month. It costs € 189/209/269/299 respectively. German residents are not entitled to this bonus.
Prices shown are for adults in second class. Prices vary for first-class tickets for children under 26 years. Children 4-11 years: 50% discount on the adult rate. All children under 4 travel free.
BY LAKE
The car ferry linking Romanshorn (Switzerland) to Friedrichshafen (Germany) is the fastest way to cross Lake Constance. Chartered throughout the year by Schweizerische Bodensee Schiffahrt (from Switzerland 071-466 7888; www.sbsag.ch ), takes 40 minutes and costs € 7.50 per person (children € 3.50.) Bikes cost 5 €, and automobiles from € 28,50.
BY SEA
The main ferry ports are Kiel and Travemünde Germany (near Lubeck) in Schleswig-Holstein, and Rostock and Sassnitz (Rügen Island), in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. All provide services to Scandinavia and the Baltic countries. A round-trip ticket is usually cheaper than two one-way tickets. Prices vary greatly depending on the season, day, departure time and in the night ferries, equipment cabin. All prices quoted below are for one-way trips. The auto transport price applies to a passenger car with a maximum length of 6 m, and includes all passengers. You can also refer to "How to get in and out" of the seaports in the specific chapters of this guide.
Denmark
GEDSER-ROSTOCK
Scandlines (01805-116 688; www.scandlines.de ) chartered ferries all year, at least eight times a day between Rostock and Gedser, 100 km south of Copenhagen. The journey takes 1 ¾ h costs 87 € per car in high season. The passenger ticket for no car costs € 7/5 for adults / children. The ticket for a passenger and a bike costs 16 €.
RØDBY-Puttgarden
Scandlines (01805-116 688; www.scandlines.de ) chartered a ferry every half hour from 64 € for a five-seater car, the journey takes 45 minutes. A single ticket (or return if returning the same day) to passengers without car costs € 6/4 for adults / children in high season. Those traveling by bicycle will have to pay € 13.
RØNNE-SASSNITZ
From March to October, Scandlines (01805-116 688; www.scandlines.de ) chartered three ferries daily to / from the city on the island of Bornholm. The crossing takes 3 ¾ h high season prices are from € 134 per car, € 26 per person (children 13 €) and 33 € if traveling by bicycle.
Finland
HELSINKI-TRAVEMÜNDE
Finnlines (04502-805 43; www.finnlines.de ) travels to Travemünde (Lübeck near) daily throughout the year (27-36 h). The bunks cost from 196 €, 60 € more food. The bikes cost 20 €, cars from 100 €.
Latvia
RIGA-TRAVEMÜNDE
DFDS Lisco (0431-2097 6420; www.dfdslisco.com ) offers this epic journey of 35 hours twice a week, with bunk beds from 75 €, with sleeper seats for 45 € and cars by 126 €.
VENTSPILS-ROSTOCK
Scandlines (01805-116 688; www.scandlines.de ) also takes this route, and costs from € 105 per car, € 40 per seat Pullman and 140 € per berth in cabin during high season. The bikes cost 10 €. Children pay half. The ferries circulate four times a week and make the journey in 27 hours.
Lithuania
KLAIPĖDA-KIEL
DFDS Lisco (0431-2097 6420; www.dfdslisco.com ) chartered ferries six times a week on this route, and takes 22 hours. Passengers pay from 70 € per berth or 35 € per seat. The cars cost from 73 €.
KLAIPĖDA-SASSNITZ
DFDS Lisco (0431-2097 6420; www.dfdslisco.com ) also makes this trip of 19 hours once a week in both directions. The bunks cost from 70 € in high season, seats € 35 and € 62 a normal car.
Norway
OSLO-KIEL
Color Line (0431 730 0300 in Kiel; www.colorline.de ) on this trip, 20 hours, almost every day. A simple place in a twin cabin costs € 225. Students pay half in low season. The cars cost from € 84.
Sweden
GOTHENBURG-KIEL
The daily overnight ferry chartered Stena Line (0431-9099, 01895-916 666; www.stenaline.de ) takes 14 hours and costs € 71 to passengers without a car (46 € Children, students and seniors). Travelling with car costs € 171 in high season, including passengers. It is mandatory to go in a litter, and costs from € 78.
MALMO-TRAVEMÜNDE
Finnlines (04502-805 43; www.finnlines.de ) makes the journey in nine hours. Is mainly aimed at passengers traveling with your vehicle. Tickets cost from 60 € to 120 € day night, including the car and a person.
Trelleborg-ROSTOCK
This service Scandlines (01805-116 688; www.scandlines.de ) runs up to three times a day (6-7 ½ h) in high season, and costs € 144 per car to all passengers. Passengers without cars pay 25 € (children 13 €) or 26 € if you travel by bicycle. The bunks cost from € 84.
TT-Line (04502-801 81; www.ttline.de ) makes the same trip in 5 ½ hours and charged € 95 per car with passengers. Adults without cars pay 30 €, children, seniors and students 15 €. Bikes cost 5 €.
Trelleborg-SASSNITZ
Scandlines chartered a fast ferry to Sweden, popular for day trips. Claw five times a day and takes 3 ¾ to 4 ½ hours. The high season rate is 114 € per car and € 16/8 for adults / children without car or bike € 23.
Trelleborg-TRAVEMÜNDE
TT-Line (04502-801 81; www.ttline.de ) chartered five daily ferries that take 7 ½ hours to make the journey and cost € 30/15 for adults / students, seniors and children. Transporting a passenger car with all costs from € 135 and € 5 bicycle transportation.
Getting around
PLANE
Almost all major German cities and some smaller, have their own airports. Also, many airlines on domestic routes. Lufthansa has the most extensive network of routes. Other companies offering domestic flights are Air Berlin, Cirrus Air and Germanwings.
Unless you fly from one end of the country to another, as in Berlin or Hamburg to Munich, the planes are not much faster than trains, taking into account the way to / from the airports and waiting time.
BICYCLE
Biking is allowed on all roads and highways, but not on motorways. Bicyclists must obey the same traffic laws as motorists. It is not mandatory to wear a helmet, not even the children, but it is advisable to wear it.
Rent and Purchase
Nearly all German towns have a bike rental outlet, usually located near a train station, or there. Most offer a range of city bikes, touring and mountain, with prices ranging between 9 and 25 € for a day and 35 and 85 € for a week. You only need to leave a deposit of at least 30 € (more if the bike is of higher quality) and present identification. In the sections "Getting around" of the various chapters of this guide lists numerous rental agencies. Some establishments also offer repair or bicycle storage facilities.
The hotels, especially in the tourist areas, often have bicycles for guest use, often free of charge.
If you are pedaling for several weeks or more, buying a second hand bike can be cheaper than renting and more comfortable than bring their own. You can get a simple bike for about 60 €, but if you want a quality model and in good condition, will have to pay a minimum of 200 €. Locals sometimes hire bikes sell used or can provide information about a good shop. You can also search the classified ads sections of newspapers and magazines, or check the bulletin boards of universities and hostels. On the site www.zweitehand.de deals are available second hand bikes.
Bicycle Transportation
In most of the trains can carry bicycles, but you must purchase a separate ticket (Fahrradkarte). Costs 9 € per ride long distance trains (IC and EC, reservations are required) and 4.50 € per day in local and regional trains (IRE, RB, RE and S-Bahn). Bicycles are not allowed on the high-speed ICE trains. On some trains there is no charge. For more information, please ask at the train stations or call 01805-151 415. Free lines are listed in the brochure, also free, Bahn & Bike (in German) of DB, and in the nearly 250 stations where you can rent bikes. The brochure can be downloaded at www.bahn.de / bahnundbike .
Many regional companies have buses with special holders for bicycles. You can also carry bicycles on almost all boats and ferry services from lakes and rivers.
BOAT
Being a country with two seas and an interior dotted with lakes and rivers, it is no wonder that the visitor is touring Germany sometime boat. The boats are mainly used as a transport for travel to or from the East Frisian Islands, Lower Saxony, Northern Frisian Islands and Helgoland, Schleswig-Holstein, and the islands Poel, and HIDDENSEE Rügen, in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. In some sections of the rivers Rhine, Elbe and Danube boats operate regular services. There are also ferry services in areas with few bridges, as well as major lakes: Chiemsee and Starnberg in Bavaria, and Konstanz in Baden-Württemberg.
From April to October lines organized tourist cruise boats on lakes and rivers Germans can last from one hour to all day.
BUS
Local and regional
Normally, if the journey can be done by train, it is advisable to opt for this option. The buses are usually much slower and less reliable and efficient than trains. However, in some rural areas may be the only option to move if there is no private vehicle. This is especially true in the Harz mountain range, in some parts of the Bavarian Forest and the Alpine foothills. Different bus companies operating in each of the regions, each with its own rates and schedules.
The frequency of buses passing is very variable depending on the area. Services designed for people who live far from their workplace usually do not work at night or on weekends, so this should be taken into account to avoid running the risk of getting stuck in a remote location on a Saturday night. It is recommended to always ask for the specials, such as daily or weekly bonuses, or tourist tickets.
In the cities, buses often converge in Busbahnhof or Zentraler Omnibus Bahnhof (ZOB; central bus station), which is usually near the Hauptbahnhof (central train station).
Long distance
Deutsche Touring (069-790 3501; www.touring.de ) operates daily evening services between Hamburg and Mannheim via Hannover, Frankfurt, Göttingen, Kassel and Heidelberg. If booked in advance, traveling between two of these cities only costs 9 €. Prices may rise up to 49 € in the full path Hannover-Mannheim if you buy the ticket on the bus. Children under 12 years pay half price.
Berlin Linien Bus (030-861 9331; www.berlinlinienbus.de ) connects major cities (mainly Berlin, but also Munich, Dusseldorf and Frankfurt) to each other, as well as Harz tourist destinations, the islands Rügen and Usedom and the Bavarian Alps . One of the most popular routes is the express bus to Hamburg, which makes the journey from Berlin in 3 ¼ hours 12 times a day (9 to 21.50 € single ticket).
Tickets can be purchased online and in travel agencies. Children under four travel free, and discounts are available for older children, students, seniors 60 years and groups of six or more people.
CAR AND MOTORCYCLE
Driving a car or motorcycle in Germany is a fun and flexible way to discover the country. The pride and joy of the country is the network of 11 000 km of autobahns (motorways, expressways). On motorways with no gas station service areas, restrooms and restaurants every 40 or 60 km, many are open 24 hours. Rest areas (Rastplatz) are even more frequent and often have picnic tables and restrooms. If the car breaks down, you can ask for help from emergency call boxes oranges, located every 2 km. You just have to lift the metal shield and follow the instructions (with pictograms).
In addition to the autobahns, there is an extensive network of Bundesstrassen (roads "B") and smaller Landstrassen (rural roads). They tend to be more scenic and enjoyable, because zigzag from town to town, and are ideal for a day trip by car or motorcycle. Do not allow running, but no matter. No tolls on public highways.
If the vehicle does not have a navigation system, it is essential to have a good road map or atlas, especially if you travel on the complicated network of roads. The maps are inexpensive and sold in bookstores, train stations, airports and gas stations, the best are those of Freytag & Berndt, ADAC, Falk and euromap. Those who offer free in tourist offices and rental agencies are not very useful.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the front and rear seats, the penalty for not making use of them is 30 €. If you have an accident and takes a seat belt, insurance can be canceled. Children need a child safety seat if they are under 4 years and a cushion if you are under 12 also can not travel in the front seat until they reach age 13. Motorcyclists must wear helmets. While driving is strictly verboten (forbidden) to use mobile phones.
Driving around town is not as enjoyable as in the field, by congestion and the cost and the general lack of parking. In the inner city, parking is usually limited to parking and private garages, which cost between € 0.50 and 2 hour. It should be noted that some garages and car parks close at night and charge nightly rate.
In many cities there are electronic systems that tell the driver the nearest parking and available places. Parking on the street runs almost always through the system of parking meters, and is usually limited to one or two hours. If you want to park the car overnight or for long periods, it is advisable to park outside the center in a Park & Ride (parking), which are usually free or very cheap.
Automobile associations
The main German motoring organization is the Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil Club (ADAC; 0180 222 2222 for roadside assistance from a mobile 222 222; www.adac.de ), with offices in all major cities and into smaller ones. This organization offers excellent roadside assistance program and also offers its services to members of other clubs associated. as the Royal Automobile Club of Catalunya (RACC; www.racc.es ) and automobile associations associated with American Federation of Touring and Automobile Clubs (FITAC; www.fitac.org ), among which are: the Royal Automobile Club of Spain (RACE; www.race.es ), U.S. AAA ( www.aaa.com ), the Automobile Club of Mexico (ANA; www.ana.com.mx ), the Automobile Club de Chile (ACCHI; www. automovilclub.cl ), the Automobile Club of Colombia (ACC; www.acc.com.co ), the Touring and Automobile Club de Venezuela (TACVZA; 0212 7940478), the Car Club do Brasil ( www.all.com.br ) The Automobile Club Argentino (ACA; www.aca.org.ar ), the Touring and Automobile Club of Peru (TACP; www.touringperu.com.pe ), the Automobile Club of Ecuador (Annetta; www.aneta.org. ec ) or the Automobile Club Boliviano (ACB; www.acbbolivia.com ).
Driving license
Drivers must possess a valid driving license. It is not necessary to submit a permit (IDP), but if you have one, will help to understand the German national license (must carry around) and simplify the process for renting cars and motorcycles. The IDP is valid for one year and is achieved, almost free, in national automobile associations. To this we must submit a photograph and national driving license.
Fuel and spare parts
Across the country there are a large number of gas stations, almost all self-service, except in sparsely populated rural areas. The fuel is sold in liters.
Find parts should be no problem, especially in the cities, but availability depends on the model and age of the car. It is recommended to have some roadside assistance insurance in case sustains damage.
Rental
As elsewhere, the rental rates vary considerably by model, date of collection and location, but generally you can rent an SUV for about 35 € per day, not including insurance and taxes. Supplements usually apply if picked up the car at an airport or a train station, if you join other drivers or if the vehicle is returned on a different point of collection. You can rent child safety seats for about 5 € per day, and must be booked in advance.
To rent a car in Germany you have to be over 25 years old, possess a valid driver's license and a credit card. Some companies charge a fee (12-20 € / day) to drivers of 21-24 years. Less fortunate have younger or those who do not have credit card, although some local companies accept deposits in cash or travelers checks. Often not allowed to enter a car rental in Eastern European countries such as the Czech Republic or Poland, so you should find out before you leave.
Leading international companies such as Avis (01805-217 702; www.avis.com ), Europcar (01805-8000; www.europcar.com ), Hertz (01805-333 535; www.hertz.com ) and Budget (01805 244 388; www.budget.com ), have offices at airports, train stations and major cities.
Reservations can be made by directly calling rental agencies, but it is advisable to contact local offices for details of special offers you can bypass the telemarketer, you can sometimes find good deals on smaller local agencies.
Packages booked and paid in advance at the traveler's home country typically cost much less than direct rents. The same applies to packages that include flight and rental car. It offers consulting in the Internet travel agencies, travel agents and car rental agents, as the U.S. company Auto Europe (from the U.S. 888-223-5555; www.autoeurope.com ).
Insurance
German law requires all registered vehicles to have liability insurance to third parties. If you drive without insurance or even with a scant, the traveler may have problems. If you intend to rent a car, make sure that the contract includes compulsory insurance. Rental agencies rarely include insurance to cover damage to the vehicle, called Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). This insurance is optional but recommended to hire. Some credit card companies include CDW / LDW for a certain period of time if the full rent payable by credit card. It is recommended that insurance coverage in Germany with the card issuer.
The Germans are very picky about their cars: a small bump on the bumper of another vehicle when leaving a parking space may be subject to payment of a new one.
Traffic rules
In Germany they drive on the right and used the international standard signaling. You have to respect traffic regulations and speed limits. Radars are common and fines are sent to the address given in the vehicle documents, whatever it is. If you rent a car, the police will get the address of the driver at the rental agency. There are many attitudes that are punishable by a fine, as using vulgar language or gestures, or running out of gas on the highway.
Speed limits are 50 km / h in urban areas and 100 km / h on highways, unless otherwise indicated. On motorways there is no speed limit, but there are numerous signs that require moderate speed (eg. Near villages or when road works). If the driver does not respect them, you're likely to go home with a fine. And it should be remembered that more speed, more fuel consumption and emissions.
Drivers who are not used to run a lot on motorways should pay special attention to advance as a car to 200 km / h in the rearview mirror only takes a few seconds to catch up. You have to advance as fast as possible and get right back into the right lane. The traveler should try to ignore those pesky drivers that give high beam or intimidate the front to drive faster or would give way, as it is an illegal practice, and pass on the right.
The maximum level of alcohol allowed is 0.05%, more or less the equivalent of a glass of wine or two small beers.
Pedestrians have absolute priority on pedestrian crossings. Likewise, rotating priority will be given to cyclists riding by bike lanes. You can only turn right with a red light if there is a green arrow that points in that direction.
TRAVEL AND SHARED AUTOSTOP
The hitchhiking (Trampen) is never quite sure in any country and in this guide is not recommended. However, in some rural areas of Germany, and in sections of the Alpine foothills and the Bavarian Forest that do not have adequate public transport, it is not uncommon to see people hitchhiking. If you choose to do so, we must keep in mind that you are taking a small but potentially serious risk, and that it is safer to travel in pairs and be sure to inform someone about the final destination. It is forbidden to hitchhike on motorways and in access input / output.
A safer way to travel, cheap and environmentally friendly is the carpool, which is riding as a passenger in a private car in exchange for gas money. Currently, most trips are organized through free websites, as www.mitfahrzentrale.de , www.mitfahrgelegenheit.de (in German) and www.drive2day.de . You can put an ad for a travel or contact a driver to go to the same destination. Citynetz (01805-194 444; www.citynetz-mitfahrzentrale.de ) has some staffed offices in large cities, but charges a small fee contact with another driver.
LOCAL TRANSPORTATION
Most localities have efficient public transport networks. Larger cities such as Berlin and Munich, integrate buses, trams, U-Bahn (underground) and S-Bahn trains (suburban) on a single network.
Prices usually depend on the areas or travel time or sometimes both. Fertilizers several trips (Streifenkarte) and day (Tageskarte) are more profitable than a single trip tickets. Normally, tickets must be validated upon boarding the public transportation issue. The traveler can be fined if you do not have a valid ticket.
Bicycle
The Germans love cycling, whether for errands, sport, travel or leisure. Many cities have bike lanes, to be used unless they are clogged. It is not mandatory to wear a helmet, even for children, but its use is recommended. Bicycles must have a white light on the front, a rear red and yellow reflectors on the wheels and on the pedals.
Bus and tram
Buses are the most common mode of public transport and almost all towns have their own network. Leave at regular intervals, with limited services at night and on weekends. Some cities have night buses that run the most popular routes for night owls arrive home safely.
Sometimes buses are replaced with streetcars, which tend to be faster, since they travel by their own means and are independent of traffic. In urban centers, sometimes travel underground. Normally, drivers of buses and trams only sell individual tickets.
S-Bahn
Metropolitan areas such as Berlin and Munich, have a commuter rail system called S-Bahn. They are faster and cover a wider area than buses and trams, but are usually less frequent. The S-Bahn lines are often connected to the national rail network and sometimes linking urban centers. The rail passes can be used for these services. The individual chapters of this guide, the S-Bahn lines are abbreviated with an "S" followed by the appropriate number (eg. S1, S7).
Taxi
Taxis are expensive and, because of the excellent public transport system are not necessary unless a hurry, but in fact, at peak times, may take longer than the direct trains or buses. Taxis are metered and apply a flag fall followed by a fixed amount per kilometer (different in each city). Some taxi drivers charge extra for baggage or night races. It is rarely possible to stop a taxi. It's best to ask on the phone (refer taxiruf in the phone book) or approach a taxi rank. The phone numbers of local cab companies are in the "Getting around" of the different chapters of this guide.
U-Bahn
In Germany, the subways (metro) are called U-Bahn and is generally the fastest way to travel in big cities. The route maps are in all seasons and sometimes you can get a copy at the box office. The frequency usually depends on demand, which means there are more trains during peak hours, for example, at noon. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines and must be validated before each trip. The individual chapters of this guide, the U-Bahn lines are abbreviated with a "U" followed by the appropriate line number (eg. U1, U7).
TRAIN
Deutsche Bahn
Virtually all German rail network depends Deutsche Bahn (DB; 01805-996 633, schedules free information 0800-150 7090; www.bahn.de ) with different types of trains to almost every corner of the country. DB The website contains detailed information in multiple languages and offers the opportunity to buy tickets, with detailed instructions. Tickets can be purchased by credit card up to 10 minutes before departure without penalty. You need to show the driver a ticket printout and the credit card used to purchase.
Another option is to buy tickets in vending machines and agents Reisezentrum (shopping trip) train stations. The agents charge a service fee, but may be helpful to plan an itinerary. Some small stations only have a few smaller lockers and usually only have slot machines. If you buy the ticket on board, often charged a fee, although it is possible regional trains (RE, RB, IRE) and the S-Bahn. Even inside the trains usually accept major credit cards.
Many train stations have lockers for luggage coin operated (1-4 € 24 h). Larger stations have luggage (Gepäckaufbewahrung), although more expensive than lockers. If left overnight luggage, charged two full days.
Classes
German trains are in both first and second class, both modern and comfortable. Not worth paying more to travel first class, except in the busiest days, when filled second class wagons (Friday, Sunday afternoons and holidays). The seats are distributed in compartments for up to six people or in open carriages with panoramic windows. ICE trains offer extras like reclining seats, tables, free newspapers and audio systems in the armrest. The new generation ICE trains also feature individual shots for laptops, uninterrupted mobile coverage in first class and, on some routes, Wi-Fi.
In all trains and stations are non-smoking. The trains ICE, IC and EC are air conditioned restaurant or bistro self.
Prices
The standard train tickets (undiscounted) are often expensive, but usually offer special deals and tickets at discounted prices. It is always advisable to consult www.bahn.de to see the latest offers train tickets are permanent offers Schönes-Wochenende-Ticket and Ländertickets.
SCHÖNES-WOCHENENDE-TICKET
It is the best railway in Europe. Allows the holder and up to four companions, or parents or grandparents with all their children or grandchildren under 14 years, traveling to germany for a day, from midnight on Saturday or Sunday until 3.00 am the next day, for just 37 €. But can only be used on trains IRE, RE, RB and S-Bahn, in second class, and includes local buses and other public transport.
LÄNDERTICKET
Change Schönes-Wochenende-Ticket, which costs 21 € but only valid on weekdays and is limited to travel within a single German state (in some cases also applies to other border states). For € 13 more, you can use IR and D trains (slower night trains). Prices vary slightly from state to state, but typically range between 22 and 27 €. Some states offer cheaper tickets for passengers traveling alone, with prices ranging between 18 and 25 €. Fertilizers night, valid from 19.00 to 6.00 the next day, you can buy in Berlin-Brandenburg and Bavaria. They always travel in second class, except in Berlin-Brandenburg and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, which offers versions first.
Reservations
For long distance travel is advisable to reserve a place, especially if traveling on a Friday or a Sunday afternoon during the holiday seasons or summer. There are different seat locations: window or aisle, in rows, facing each other or with a fixed table. Booking through an agent has a surcharge of € 4 in second class and 2 € per Internet or a vending machine (€ 5/3 in first class). Can be made through the Red and the ticket counters until 10 minutes before departure.
Fertilizers train
BahnCard
The Bahncard ( www.bahn.de ) is recommended for those planning a long stay or intend to return to Germany in the year of validity of the card. There are two versions: the BahnCard 25 offers a 25% discount on normal prices and costs € 57/114 in second / first class (additional cards for the couple or for children aged 6 to 18 years only cost 10 €) , the BahnCard 50 offers a 50% discount and costs € 225/450. The latter comes at half price for students under 27 and those over 60 years. They are available at all major railway stations and through the Web For more information, call 01805-340 035.
GERMAN RAIL PASS
With this subscription, reserved for persons not resident in Europe, you can travel without limit, in first or second class, of 4-10 days within a period of one month. The subscription is valid for all trains within Germany and to some river services in Cologne-Dusseldorf, in the rivers Rhine and Moselle. The bonus four days costs € 236 in first class and 180 € in second, and additional days are charged at € 32/22. Children 6-11 years pay half. All children under age 6 are free.
If the traveler has between 12 and 25 years can apply for German Rail Youth Pass, which costs $ 150 (125 €) and is valid for four days (only in second class). Each additional day costs U.S. $ 10 (€ 8.3). Two adults traveling together can apply for German Rail Twin Pass, which costs U.S. $ 270 (€ 225) in second class and 370 U.S. $ (309 €) in first (it is valid for four days). They charge € 30/42 per day extra.
Tickets can be purchased online ( www.bahn.de ), some lockers Germany and home country agencies. In the U.S., through www.raileurope.com .
Private Train
Several private companies provide rail services on regional routes such as Bayerische LausitzBahn Oberlandbahn Saxony and Bavaria.
In East Germany, Interconnex (01805-101 616; www.interconnex.com ) operates a daily train between the town of Warnemünde (near Rostock), on the Baltic coast, and Leipzig via Berlin, and another between Leipzig and Berlin. Online Tickets cost just € 12 for both the route Berlin-Warnemünde as the Berlin-Leipzig, and 21 € for journeys of Warnemunde to Leipzig. Prices are a little high (17/17/29, € 50) if purchased through the hotline or agents (please refer to the directions on the website), and even more if purchased tickets on board (20/20/35 €). Seat reservation costs 2.50 €.
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