What are the costs of traveling to Germany and how much does it cost to travel to Germany, how much does a trip to Germany cost, how much is a trip to Germany
how much does it cost to visit Germany? Find out in detail with Living Nomads to plan and prepare for your upcoming trip to Europe!
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When talking about Europe, many people often dream of ancient castles, peaceful villages and modern cities mixed with history. Among them, Germany is always a destination that makes people curious because of its unique blend of tradition and modernity. However, before packing their bags, one of the issues that most people worry about is the cost. Is traveling to Germany as expensive as rumored? How much budget do you need to prepare for a complete trip?
Let’s find out specifically the necessary costs of traveling to Germany so that you can easily plan your journey to this beautiful country!
How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a German Tourist Visa?
Currently, the cost of applying for a German tourist visa includes mandatory and optional fees, depending on your age and the service you choose. The total basic cost for applying for a German tourist visa is about 2,993,000 VND/person, including visa fees and VFS service fees. If you use additional optional services, the total cost can range from 3,000,000 to 5,000,000 VND.
Below are the fees that you are required to pay when applying for a visa, including visa fees and service fees at the VFS Global application center.
| Category | Fees (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Visa Fees – People 12 years and older | 90 EUR |
| Visa Fees – Children 6 to under 12 years old | 45 EUR |
| Visa Fees – Children under 6 years old | 0 EUR |
| VFS Global service fees | 28,13 EUR |
In addition to the mandatory fees, you can also consider using some additional support services to make the application process faster and more comfortable. Depending on your needs and budget, you can completely choose the service that suits you.
| Additional support services | Fee (VND) |
|---|---|
| Premium lounge | 1.334.000 VNĐ |
| Submit application outside of business hours | 999.000 VNĐ |
| Visa application support | 311.000 VNĐ |
| Document translation into English | 165.000 VNĐ |
| Passport express delivery | 137.000 VNĐ |
| SMS to track application status | 62.000 VNĐ |
| Take photos at the center | 62.000 VNĐ |
| Photocopy documents | 3.000 VNĐ |
Note that all of the above fees are non-refundable, even in case your visa is refused. Therefore, prepare your documents carefully and consider choosing a service that suits your personal needs to increase your chances of getting a visa and save time.
How much does German travel insurance cost?
When planning a trip to Germany, purchasing travel insurance is mandatory if you need to apply for a Schengen visa. This type of insurance must have a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR (about 750 million VND) and is valid for the entire stay in Schengen countries.
The cost of German travel insurance depends on the length of stay and the insurance package you choose. For example, according to Bao Viet’s fee schedule, the fee for a 7-10 day trip ranges from 240,000 VND to 530,000 VND, depending on the Silver, Gold or Diamond program. Similarly, at VISANA, the 8-day insurance package costs from VND 340,000 to VND 849,000, depending on the insurance category.
How much does it cost to buy a 4G SIM card to travel in Germany?
Traveling to Germany without an internet connection is like getting lost in a maze without a compass. To make your trip complete, you need to prepare a “key” to open the door to information and flexible communication. One of the popular options is the 4G SIM card to travel to Europe, priced from VND 500,000 to VND 700,000 on Klook. With just a small step before departure, you can easily use the internet as soon as you set foot in Germany.
If you like convenience and modernity, a travel eSIM will be the perfect companion, starting from only VND 150,000 with the ability to activate quickly without having to install a physical SIM. If you are traveling with a group of friends or need to connect multiple devices at the same time, renting a 4G Wi-Fi transmitter for about 170,000 VND per day will help you share the internet comfortably without worrying about interruptions.
How much does it cost to buy a plane ticket to Germany?
The cost of a plane ticket to Germany is not fixed but depends on many factors such as the airline, flight time, and departure point. Round-trip airfare from Vietnam to Germany usually ranges from about 23,800,000 VND to 45,000,000 VND, depending on the departure point and flight time.
For example, from Ho Chi Minh City to Frankfurt, the cost of a flight is about 14,800,000 VND with airlines such as China Southern or Air China, usually with a stopover in China. From Hanoi to Munich, round-trip airfare is usually around 13,000,000 VND, with airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways or Turkish Airlines. You should fly in June or November to get cheaper airfares than in peak months like August or December.
How much does it cost to travel to Germany for independent travelers?
Independent travel in Germany is quite diverse and suitable for many needs, from economical to convenient. If you like convenience and flexibility, the public transport system in Germany is the top choice. Major cities like Berlin or Munich have an integrated transport network including buses, trams, underground trains (U-Bahn) and overground trains (S-Bahn).
Eurail Global Pass – 33 European Countries
One-way fares usually start from around 3.50 EUR (103,000 VND). If you travel a lot during the day, an unlimited day pass for 9 to 12 EUR (about 265,000 – 354,000 VND) will be very reasonable, but if you stay longer, a 7-day pass ranges from 30 to 45 EUR (about 884,000 – 1,325,000 VND).
Trains are a fast and convenient way to travel between cities. The Deutsche Bahn system is famous for its high-speed and regular trains. A high-speed train ticket from Berlin to Munich takes around 4 hours and costs between 42 and 71 EUR. You can also take advantage of regional group tickets such as the Bayern Ticket, which costs 29 EUR for 5 people to travel across the state of Bavaria in one day.
If you want to save money, buses are the most reasonable option. Flixbus offers very competitively priced trips, for example, Berlin to Dresden from just 14 EUR, Berlin to Munich around 20 EUR. Buses are slower but comfortable and have free wifi.
How much does it cost to stay in Germany?
Accommodation costs in Germany vary widely, to suit many different budgets and needs. If you want to save money, staying in a hostel is a reasonable solution, with prices ranging from 35-70 EUR (from 1,030,000 to more than 2,060,000 VND) per night for a bed in a dormitory room. This is a popular choice for those who like to meet and interact with other tourists.
For mid-range hotels, prices usually range from 75 to 185 EUR (about 2,210,000 – 5,445,000 VND) per night for a double room. This is a common price in many big cities such as Berlin, Hamburg or Munich, with good room quality and service, suitable for couples or small groups. The Locke at East Side Gallery from 2,594,000 VND per night and Adina Apartment Hotel Leipzig from 2,840,000 VND per night are suitable options for you in Berlin.
If you prioritize comfort and high-end amenities, luxury hotels will cost between 150 and 280 EUR (about 4,420,000 – 8,246,000 VND) per night. During peak season, prices can increase significantly, especially in big cities or popular tourist areas.
A small tip to save on accommodation costs is to book early and avoid peak tourist seasons. In addition, you can also consider choosing hotels with kitchenettes so you can cook for yourself, helping to reduce the overall cost of living. You can try Gorki Apartments Berlin which costs from 6,757,000 VND per night and KPM Hotel & Residences which costs from 6,175,000 VND per night.
How much does it cost to eat when traveling to Germany?
Germany is famous for its rich traditional dishes such as bratwurst sausages, pretzels, and delicious grilled meats. Therefore, the cost of eating when traveling here is something you need to prepare carefully so as not to miss this unique culinary experience. If you want to enjoy a quick snack or street food, the price is around 5 to 10 EUR (147,000 to 295,000 VND).
For cheap restaurants or local eateries, the average cost for a meal is around 10 to 20 EUR (295,000 – 590,000 VND). You will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional dishes such as bratwurst (German sausage), accompanied by potatoes or vegetables, which are very popular and delicious.
If you want to experience more luxurious cuisine, mid-range restaurants cost from 20 to 40 EUR per meal (590,000 – 1,180,000 VND). Here, the menu is diverse with many sophisticated European dishes and a comfortable space. For those looking for a high-class culinary experience, luxury restaurants will cost from 50 EUR or more (1,472,500 VND), suitable for special occasions.
In addition, supermarkets and convenience stores are also reasonable choices if you want to save money. You can buy fresh food for about 5-10 EUR (about 147,000 to 295,000 VND) for a meal.
Cost of Visiting Famous Places in Germany
Discover the Berlin Half-Day Walking Tour
It can be said that the purpose of traveling to Germany is to visit and have fun at famous places, so you definitely cannot ignore this cost! The cost of visiting Germany is quite diverse, depending on the places you want to explore and the experiences you choose.
Many famous churches such as Cologne Cathedral or Berliner Dom often allow you to enter for free. However, in some places such as St. Peter’s Church in Munich, the entrance fee is around 3 to 5 EUR (from 88,000 to 147,000 VND).
Museums and galleries such as the Berlin Museum Islands or Neuschwanstein Castle have ticket prices ranging from 5 to 20 EUR (147,000 to 589,000 VND). If you prefer theme parks, like Europa-Park or Phantasialand, tickets are usually around 40 to 50 EUR per person.
If you prefer theme parks, like Europa-Park or Phantasialand, tickets are usually around 40 to 50 EUR per person. Alternatively, experiential tours such as cycling, river cruises or food tours cost between 20 and 100 EUR depending on the type and length of the tour.
Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour in Berlin
Many nature parks, like the Black Forest or Bavarian Forest, are usually free to enter. However, some special activities, like guided walks, may incur a small fee. If you come to Germany during the festive season, don’t miss the Christmas markets with their bustling atmosphere and completely free entrance. You only need to pay for food or souvenirs.
How Much Does It Cost to Shop in Germany?
Traveling to Germany without buying some souvenirs is a mistake! From cute handicrafts to delicious specialties, you will easily find something to keep as a souvenir or as a gift for friends and relatives.
Popular souvenirs include porcelain beer steins priced around €10–20, or cute cuckoo clocks from €50 and up. If you go during the Christmas season, don’t miss the sparkling decorations priced from €5–15 at the extremely lovely Christmas markets.
In addition, German chocolates, Haribo sweets or local craft beer are also super easy to buy and give as gifts. Prices are very reasonable, only from €2–5 (58,900–147,250 VND) for candy and from €5–15 (147,250–441,750 VND) for wine or beer.
Visit supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl or flea markets to hunt for unique, strange items at “cheap” prices. If you go during the late summer sale season or after Christmas, you can also buy many quality items at extremely affordable prices!
Tips for Saving Money in Germany for Self-sufficient Travelers
Madame Tussauds Admission in Berlin
Traveling in Germany on your own is both fun and flexible, but if you don’t calculate carefully, you can easily “burn a hole in your pocket”! Save these “tips” for saving money in Germany below to freely travel without worrying about costs.
- Traveling by public transport: Prioritize trains, buses, trams and buy day tickets or group tickets.
- Eat like a local: Avoid tourist restaurants, choose supermarkets, bakeries, street food.
- Take advantage of free activities: Visit free day museums, parks, old town, voluntary walking tours.
- Plan ahead: Book tickets, accommodation early and find out about deals before you go.
FAQs About Germany Travel Costs
What is the average daily cost of independent travel to Germany?
- Travel costs in Germany depend on your style and spending level:
- Savings budget: About €72/day (2,120,000 VND).
- Average: About €177/day (5,210,000 VND).
- High-end: About €427/day (12,570,000 VND).
Do you need to tip when eating or using services in Germany?
Yes, tipping is common in Germany, especially in restaurants and cafes. Usually, you should tip around 5–10% of the total bill if you are satisfied with the service.
Is it more economical to choose a package tour or to travel independently in Germany?
Traveling independently is often more economical if you plan carefully and flexibly. You can choose accommodation, transportation and schedules to suit your budget. However, package tours are convenient and suitable for those who do not want to organize their own trip.
What documents do you need to prepare for independent travel to Germany?
To travel independently to Germany, you need to prepare:
- Passport: Valid for at least 3 months after the date of departure from Germany.
- Schengen visa: If you are not exempt from visa, you need to apply for a visa before going.
- Travel insurance: Required when applying for a Schengen visa, with a minimum insurance coverage of €30,000.
- Proof of financial means: To ensure you have enough money to pay for your stay.
- Itinerary: Including accommodation, round-trip airfare and sightseeing plans.
Hopefully, after reading the above information, you will have a clearer view of the costs of traveling to Germany. Germany not only has beautiful scenery and unique culture, but is also very friendly to tourists who know how to plan their spending wisely. With these saving tips and specific cost information, you can fully enjoy your trip without worrying about the cost.
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Berlin you can refer to
- Berlin Welcome Card with Optional Museum Island Pass
- East Berlin Half Day Walking Tour
- Berlin TV Tower Ticket
- German Spy Museum in Berlin with Skip the Line Ticket
- Neues Museum Admission in Berlin
- Madame Tussauds Admission in Berlin
- Berlin 24-Hour Transportation Ticket
- Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour in Berlin
- Berlin WelcomeCard
- Berlin Icebar Ticket with free drinks
- Eurail German Rail Pass
- LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Ticket in Berlin
- Berlin Red Buses Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Bus
- Berlin Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
- 4G WiFi (SG Delivery) for Europe
- 3G/4G SIM Card for Multiple European Countries (HK Airport Pick Up)
How to get around Berlin? Read more: How to get around Berlin cheap? — 5 best way to get around Berlin & how to travel around Berlin. Are you looking for more top things to do in Berlin: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.
