Germany Travel Safety

Road safety

Roads and public transportation are excellent. Bicycles are numerous throughout the country and often have dedicated pathways between sidewalks and roadways. You should exercise caution when crossing these paths, as bicycles have right of way. Dial 110 in the event of a traffic accident.

Identification

Carry adequate identification at all times, such as a passport or residence permit, as police have the right to ask to see it. Keep a photocopy of your passport, in case it is lost or seized.

Rail transportation

Rail service is widely available and reliable.

Women's safety

Based on the crime situation of the Germany, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Women may be subject to unpleasant male attention, sexual harassment and verbal abuse. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of caution during travel. Numerous incidents of sexual assaults have occurred during large gatherings in Cologne and other German cities after 2015.

Crime

Violent crime is low. Petty crime (pickpocketing and purse snatching) occurs in major cities and train stations, airports and Christmas markets. Pickpockets often work in teams and target people on trains and at railway stations and airports. Their methods include distracting a victim who is boarding or exiting a train or surrounding a victim in line-ups or at check-in counters. Numerous incidents of muggings and sexual assaults have occurred during large gatherings in Cologne and other German cities. Exercise normal security precautions and be particularly vigilant if attending events drawing large crowds. There have been reports of individuals being harassed or attacked for reasons of race or foreign-looking appearance. Arson attacks on parked vehicles have occurred.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. In Germany, previous incidents have resulted in injury and death. They include random violent assaults in public areas and a truck driven into crowds at a Christmas market in Berlin. Further attacks in Europe are likely. Targets could include: government buildings, including schools, places of worship, airports and other transportation hubs and networkspublic areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners.

LGBT

Germany has frequently been seen as one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world. Recent polls have indicated that a large majority of Germans support same-sex marriage. Mostly young Germans are liberals and believed that homosexuality should be accepted by society. Berlin has been referred to by publications as one of the most gay friendly cities in the world. The laws of Germany do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, be mindful when visiting rural areas.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Illegal or restricted activities

Using or displaying Nazi symbols or material, such as flags or memorabilia, is illegal. It is illegal to cross German pedestrian crossings when the red pedestrian light is on. Offenders risk a fine and payment of all costs in the event of an accident

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended. You must be at least 18 years old to drive a vehicle in Germany. You must always carry your driver's licence, insurance and vehicle documents, as well as written permission from the registered owner if the vehicle does not belong to you. Observe traffic laws and regulations, particularly rights-of-way and speed limits. Exercise caution. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05 percent. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, and driver's licences may be confiscated immediately. The use of cellular telephones while driving is prohibited, unless they are fitted with a hands-free device. Penalties for drinking and driving are strict.