2 Weeks Solo in Germany: Essential Lessons from a First-Time Visitor

Just got back from a 2 weeks solo trip to Germany, and along the way, I picked up a few valuable lessons that every traveler should know.

Lessons from the Road

Friendly Faces, Familiar Energy
The German people were incredibly welcoming, their warmth reminiscent of home. I found their energy more akin to Americans than the French, who I encountered on a previous trip. It was comforting, especially traveling solo.

Language Adventures
English isn’t as widespread as I anticipated, but that only added to the adventure. Younger Germans were more confident in their English, but everywhere I went, people were patient and eager to help. A few phrases in German went a long way, and I wore my struggles as a badge of honor.

The Soundtrack of Germany
Despite the language barrier, the air was filled with the familiar beats of Lady Gaga and R.E.M. It was an unexpected connection to home, blending seamlessly with my journey.

Culinary Comforts
German food is hearty and delicious, though a bit repetitive. I embraced the Franconian sausage as my go-to comfort food, while the Mandelrolle became my sweet indulgence. And the beer? Augustiner Edelstoff stole the show, with Ayinger Bräuweisse and Augustiner Lagerbier Hell close behind.

Navigating the Unknown
Public transport in Germany is a marvel, even if the rules sometimes left me scratching my head. I learned to embrace the confusion, knowing that every question led to another interaction with a friendly local.

The Unexpected Warmth
Despite visiting in May, the nights were warmer than I expected. I quickly adapted, though the lack of window screens meant sharing my space with a few uninvited guests. A small price to pay for the experience.

Smoking Culture Shock
Smoking is more common in Germany than I anticipated, especially among the youth. It was a surprising cultural difference that I noted as I continued my journey.

Biking Bravery
Germany’s bike culture is strong, and while I admired the efficiency, the bikes whizzing through public squares had me on high alert more than once.

Construction Everywhere
If there’s one thing Germany is serious about, it’s construction. It seemed every street had some sort of project underway, a testament to the country’s commitment to progress.

Cities That Captivated My Soul

Frankfurt
The city’s skyline is a mesmerizing blend of modernity and history. Standing beneath the towering Messeturm, gazing up at the Commerzbank, and finding tranquility in the shadow of St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, I felt the pulse of a city that never stops moving, yet always makes space for reflection.

Tübingen
This town is like stepping into a fairy tale, with its brightly-colored medieval buildings lining the Neckar River. Despite the unexpected graffiti, which adds a modern twist to its ancient charm, I found peace strolling along the riverfront, where history and present-day coexist in a fascinating contrast.

Munich
Munich is a city that wraps you in warmth and welcomes you with open arms. The Residenz Palace and Theatine Church took my breath away, but it was the energy of the city—lively yet meticulously kept—that kept me in high spirits the entire time.

Nuremberg
Walking through Nuremberg’s old town feels like wandering through a living history book. From the poignant exhibits at the Nazi Documentation Center to the solemn halls of the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, this city demands your attention and leaves you with a deeper understanding of the past.

Dresden
Dresden is elegance personified. The city’s architecture, especially the Frauenkirche and Royal Palace, left me in awe. Knowing that so much of it was rebuilt after the devastation of WWII only added to the sense of resilience that permeates the streets.

Berlin
Berlin is the beating heart of Germany—bold, eclectic, and unapologetically itself. From the historic Reichstag to the vibrant East Side Gallery, this city offers an experience like no other. It’s a place where every corner holds a story, and every story beckons you to listen.

Day Trips That Stole My Heart

Mainz
Mainz was a perfect escape from the hustle of bigger cities. I found serenity in its beautiful churches, especially the Mainzer Dom and Christuskirche. This charming city was a much-needed pause in my whirlwind adventure.

Hohenzollern Castle
This castle is what dreams are made of. Perched high on a hill, its turrets and towers transport you to another time. The interior was far more inviting than I expected, and I couldn’t help but imagine the lives lived within those walls.

Neuschwanstein Castle
A fairy tale brought to life. The castle’s stunning design set against the backdrop of the Bavarian Alps left me speechless. Exploring the eccentric mind of King Ludwig II was a whimsical bonus to an already magical experience.

Final Thoughts

Germany is a land of contrasts—verdant countryside and bustling cities, ancient history and modern innovation. From the mountains of Bavaria to the hills of Saxony, and the castles that line the Rhine Valley, every part of this country offered something new and exhilarating. As a solo traveler, I felt both empowered and inspired by the journey, and I can’t wait to see more of this incredible country.