Essential Travel Tips for Visiting the German Alps
Planning your first trip to the German Alps? Here are some useful tips to help you make the most of your adventure:
Manuela Palmberger
Bavarian Alps including Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Berchtesgaden & the Allgäu, Germany
Currency & Payments:
Germany uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns, hotels, and supermarkets. However, some mountain huts, small shops, and rural areas may only accept cash – always carry a bit with you, especially when hiking.
Language:
The official language is German, but many locals – especially in tourist areas – speak very good English and are happy to help.
Airports & Transport:
Major international airports near the Alps include Munich (MUC) and Innsbruck (Austria). Rental cars are available at all airports and are a convenient way to explore the region.
Getting Around:
The best way to explore the German Alps is by car, as it gives you the most flexibility to reach remote valleys, scenic roads, and trailheads. Public transportation is available and reliable in towns and between major sights, but it can be quite limited in rural or mountainous areas.
Road Rules:
Drive on the right side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory. Highways (Autobahns) are free for cars in Germany, but neighboring countries may require a toll sticker (Vignette).
Water & Food:
Tap water in Germany is of excellent quality and safe to drink almost everywhere – even in mountain villages. However, when visiting remote mountain huts, always ask if the tap water is safe to drink, as it may not be potable in some locations. Local food is hearty and delicious, with many traditional alpine dishes. Vegetarians will also find good options.
Connectivity:
Most hotels, cafes, and guesthouses offer free Wi-Fi (called “WLAN” in German). In remote areas or high in the mountains, signal can be limited – be prepared to disconnect now and then!
In Case of Emergency:
The general emergency number in Germany is 112. Mountain rescue is well-organized, but consider getting travel insurance that includes mountain sports.
Other Tips:
Shops in small towns often close early and may not open on Sundays. Bring layers for the weather – even in summer, it can get chilly in the mountains. And don’t forget to check hut opening times and make reservations if you plan to stay overnight.
