Recognized throughout the world for famous exports ranging from automobiles to beer, Germany has much to explore. If you're planning to discover all that Germany has to offer, make sure to protect your finances with travel medical insurance before you go.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in Germany – FAQs
Germany is a popular tourist destination and has excellent healthcare. However, public hospitals can be crowded, and you may need to seek treatment at an expensive private facility. In order to receive the best treatment available, be sure to have travel medical insurance.
Why buy travel medical insurance before traveling to Germany?
Germany travel insurance requirements depend on where you're traveling from. Visitors from certain countries must obtain a Schengen visa to enter Germany. If this is the case for you, then you will also need compliant health insurance.
Even if you don't require travel health insurance for Germany, it is still very much recommended. Consider that health insurance usually costs less than 10% of your total trip budget. If you were to require medical care at a private facility, or expensive emergency medical evacuation, you could easily get stuck with a bill many times that. It only makes sense to protect your finances with proper insurance.
What should I look for in my Germany travel medical insurance?
An accident could befall while hiking in the Bavarian hills, or you could fall ill due to the cold weather. There are many emergencies that might crop up. This is why its essential to get insurance that will provide sufficient coverage.
If you require Schengen visa insurance, make sure that it's compliant by providing at least €30,000 in medical coverage, plus coverage for repatriation of remains and emergency medical evacuation.
If you plan to go camping, take a river cruise, or participate in any adventure sports, it's important to get insurance that will provide coverage for those activities as well. Essentially, whatever activities you plan to participate in while visiting Germany, you want to make sure your insurance provides coverage for them.
Germany's Most Popular Places for Travel
Germany is known for its heritage, beautiful cities, varied landscapes, and delicious food. The River Rhine winds its way down the German countryside producing magnificent views dotted with monuments and castles. Discover some of the most popular cities to visit in Germany, so you can experience all the rich culture it has to offer.
Berlin
Germany's capital city might be best known for the famous Berlin Wall that once separated east from west, but over the last 30 years it has emerged as an amazing destination it its own right. Berlin is famous for its modern nightlife. Hip neighborhoods such as Kreuzberg have undeniable style, and the city has an avant-garde cultural presence. If you like fashion, take a stroll along Kurfürstendamm, with shops featuring luxury labels everywhere. The city's excellent public transport makes getting around a breeze.
Stuttgart
Stuttgart is the home of Mercedes and Porsche, two iconic German car brands. Founded in the 10th century, it is the capital of the province of Baden-Württemberg. The most obvious attractions are the two car museums associated with the brands. But it is also the jumping-off point for those who wish to explore the Baden-Württemberg region, known for the Black Forest and Lake Constance. Much of the region is wooded and scenic. Visit Königstraße for shopping and drop in at Kunstmuseum for a grand display of modern European art. The Carl Zeiss Planetarium is one of the finest in the world.
Munich
With a population of almost two million, Munich is one of the largest cities in Germany. It is located by the River Isar in Bavaria and is reputed for its industry, engineering, and financial institutions.
The city is synonymous with Oktoberfest, which is an autumnal festival that attracts millions of visitors. It is a pastoral carnival, but better known for its famous beer. For a cultural flavor, visit Munich Residenz, a fortified building that was built in the 14th century as a home for the local Wittelsbach nobility. The Royal Portrait Gallery is a showpiece of the small palace. Like all old German cities, Munich also has a charming center filled with old buildings and a huge town hall with 400 rooms.
Düsseldorf
Often referred to as the cultural center of Germany, Düsseldorf is replete with quaint homes and immaculate cobblestone roads. The promenade along the Rhine is spectacular and filled with tourists and locals alike in summer. If you want to spend an afternoon shopping, trendy Königsallee has what you're looking for. Dinner at the Rhine Tower restaurant is highly suggested. The 240-meter tower provides a spectacular view of the city below.
Hamburg
Hamburg is considered to be a traditional part of Germany. Located on the banks of River Elbe, the city has worked to preserve many of the buildings from its past. It has been a mercantile center since the 13th century and is currently the wealthiest city in the country. If you like nightlife, step out to Reeperbahn, a mile-long street known for dusk-to-dawn entertainment.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Germany
Validate your ticket
If you have a day travel pass, always remember to validate your ticket. Not validating and traveling is the same as not buying a ticket at all.
Be respectful of history
Germany's role in World War II is well-documented. Many tourists travel to the country to view monuments and memorials related to the war. It is essential to speak and act respectfully should you decide to visit any of these memorials or museums.
Carry cash
In spite of being one of the most modern nations, cash is surprisingly popular. Carry at least €100 with you in cash. Most small restaurants and pubs prefer cash.
Before You Travel to Germany - Do This
- Back up your travel documents. Make duplicate copies or digital backups of your passport, visa and drivers license and carry them separately in case the originals get lost.
- Learn a few German phrases and words to make it easier to communicate.
- Get insured. Purchase appropriate travel medical insurance to protect your finances.