Find Cheap Flights to Germany to Start Your Trip in the Best Way

Colombian citizens do not need a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Germany is part of the Schengen area. Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure and that you have sufficient funds for your stay. Although a visa is not required for short stays, it is wise to carry proof of accommodation and a return ticket as evidence of your intention to leave the Schengen area.

The German public transport system is famous for its efficiency and punctuality. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt have extensive networks of S-Bahn (suburban trains), U-Bahn (underground/metro), trams, and buses. Buying a daily or weekly pass is usually cheaper than individual tickets if you plan to move around a lot. Remember to validate your ticket before boarding; inspectors are frequent, and fines are high. For intercity travel, the ICE train (Intercity-Express) is fast, although long-distance buses offer cheaper options, ideal for finding affordable air tickets to Germany.

Germany offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation apartments. In large cities, book in advance, especially if traveling during trade fairs or festivals like Oktoberfest. Consider staying outside the center to find better prices, as public transport is excellent. Compared to Colombia, prices might be higher, but quality and cleanliness are consistently good. Hotels in smaller towns are often cozy and family-run, offering a more local experience.

Germany is very safe, but always be mindful of your belongings in tourist areas. An important custom is punctuality; being late is frowned upon. Recycling is taken very seriously, so separate your trash correctly. In restaurants, tipping (Trinkgeld) is not mandatory, but it is customary to round up the bill or leave 5-10% if the service was good. Never leave the tip on the table; tell the waiter how much you want to pay, including the tip, when paying. Avoid speaking very loudly on public transport. For Colombians, the cold weather can be a big change, so pack appropriate clothing.

While 'Bratwurst' and beer are famous, German cuisine is varied. Try 'Schweinshaxe' (pork knuckle) in Bavaria or 'Currywurst' in Berlin. Bread is an institution, with hundreds of varieties. Lunches are usually the main meal. In the south, the influence is heavier, with dishes like 'Spätzle' (egg pasta). In the north, seafood is more common. Weekly markets are perfect for trying fresh local produce. A tip: look for smaller, family-run restaurants ('Gasthaus') outside tourist areas to taste authentic food at better prices.

Planning your itinerary in advance is vital, especially if you are looking for cheap flights to Germany. Germany has a rich history, so set aside time for museums and historical sites. For a less touristy experience, explore university towns like Heidelberg or Freiburg, or the wine regions along the Rhine. Instead of just visiting the major monuments, spend an afternoon in a local 'Biergarten' (beer garden), where people gather to socialize. This is a great place to observe local life and practice a few German phrases. TICKETS.COM.CO suggests visiting the Bastei Bridge in Saxon Switzerland at sunrise for incredible photos and an unforgettable view.