How to see most of Germany as an international student
Are you already studying or planning to study abroad in Germany? Read on to find out how to see most of Germany as an international student!
An international study experience comes with a lot of benefits. Whether it’s being in a new country, learning a new language, or finding a great job, studying abroad is both an adventure and a gateway to an international career. Germany is a great destination as it is a multicultural education hub that welcomes all international students. It also offers students a lot of exciting places to visit. Today we are going to tell you how you can see most of Germany as an international student.
How to get around Germany
Public transportation
It is no secret that Germany has some of the best public transportation in the world. All the cities and larger towns are interconnected through reliable and efficient public transportation. In cities like Berlin and Munich, all the various networks are integrated, meaning one ticket gives you access to buses, trams, U-Bahn (subway) and S-bahn (above-ground train). The fares are determined by the zones but a one-way fare usually starts from 3 EUR.
Train
Travelling by train is an incredibly efficient way to get around Germany, although it is not the cheapest option. Germany’s main railroad system is Deutsche Bahn, which has both high-speed and regular trains. The high-speed trains are a quick way to get around but also much more expensive than the regular trains. When travelling by train, it is always best to book in advance when possible so you avoid paying the price for last-minute bookings. You can track schedules and fares on the Deutsche Bahn website.
Bus
Aside from hitchhiking, buses are the cheapest way to get around Germany. They are slow but punctual, with comfortable seats, air-conditioning, rest stops, and usually free Wi-Fi. Flixbus is considered to have the cheapest rates and most comfortable buses. You can get from Berlin to Munich for as little as 10 EUR, or from Berlin to Munich for 20 EUR.
Typical costs in Germany
Accommodation
When leaving your place of study to travel around, your best bets are hostels and airbnb. Accommodation in Germany is quite cheap compared to other European countries. You will find hostels around every corner and prices range from 10 EUR per night and up. You will get free Wi-Fi almost everywhere and many hostels also include free breakfast. Airbnb, on the other hand, is also available everywhere with private rooms going for 30 EUR per night and entire apartments or homes starting at 50 EUR.
Food
Food in Germany is very cheap and hearty. You will find vendors in every city selling a wide array of different street foods for as little as 2 EUR. Meals at many of the beer halls and canteens around the country cost 9-15 EUR. Pre-made sandwiches, which you can get from supermarkets and gas stations, cost around 5 EUR, and fast foods (like McDonald’s) around 10 EUR for a combo meal. You will also experience different cuisines like Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Asian for 5 EUR. Beer costs around 4 EUR, a latte around 3 EUR, and bottled water is 1 EUR. If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 50 EUR.
Activities
You can visit museums for 5-15 EUR. Bike tours and river cruises cost around 24-40 EUR, while most paid city tours are between 12-25 EUR. You can rent a bike for 5-15 EUR per day (prices vary in each city).
Money-saving tips
In general, Germany is not an expensive country to visit. Yes, high-end cuisine and river cruises are expensive but those are exceptions to the rule. Here are some money-saving tips to make sure you get the most out of travelling around Germany as an international student.
- Get transportation day passes - If you are going to be using public transportation as your main form of travel around a city, get a day pass. Paying for single rides adds up quickly.
- Book your train early - Yes, trains are not the cheapest option for travel but you can save up to 50% on a train ticket the earlier you book it.
- Eat cheap - Cheap sausage vendors can be found everywhere in Germany and offer quick eats for only a couple of euros. Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine is some of the best and cheapest food with delicious, filling meals for as little as 5 EUR.
- Go on free city tours - The larger cities in Germany have free walking tours which are a great way to discover the city, learn about the history and get your bearings without spending money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
- Look out for free museum days - Most museums in Germany offer free admission on certain days or evenings. Check their website regularly or ask the local tourism office for discounts.
- Get a city tourism card - Alternatively, you can buy a city tourism card in most of the major cities in Germany. These include free admissions to big museums and attractions, discounts on restaurants, and usually unlimited public transportation.
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on how to see most of Germany as an international student. And if you are interested in studying abroad at Berlin International, we offer a variety of bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes to choose from. Feel free to contact our Student Affairs team at any time via application@berlin-international.de.