Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Europe country brief
Germany travel essentials
Deutschland
Germany uses Type C / Type F power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 112. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed
Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
Quick answer
Germany uses Type C / Type F power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 112. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
P
Power and plugs
- Plug types
- Type C, Type F
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Germany runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
E
Emergency numbers
General
112
Police
110
Ambulance
112
T
Travel notes
Tipping
Tipping is modest and usually given by rounding up or adding about 5-10% in restaurants. Tell the server the final amount when paying; leaving coins on the table is less common than in some countries.
Best season
May to September is best for city trips, outdoor dining and festivals. December is popular for Christmas markets, while spring and early autumn usually have better hotel value than peak summer.
Visa basics
Germany is in the Schengen Area. Many non-EU visitors can stay visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, while others need a Schengen visa. Check German mission guidance for your nationality before travel.
✓
Before you go: Germany checklist
- Pack a Type C/Type F plug adapter for Germany.
- Germany runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
- Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in Germany is generally safe.
- Save the emergency number 112 in your phone before you arrive.
- If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the right in Germany.
Tool
Check adapter needs for Germany
Compare your home country with Germany for plug and voltage compatibility.
Reference
Emergency numbers by country
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Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I drink tap water in Germany? ⌄
Yes. Tap water in Germany is considered safe to drink.
What power plug and voltage are used in Germany? ⌄
Germany uses Type C, Type F plugs running at 230V, 50Hz. Germany runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
What is the emergency number in Germany? ⌄
Dial 112 for general emergencies in Germany. Police: 110. Ambulance: 112.
When is the best time to visit Germany? ⌄
May to September is best for city trips, outdoor dining and festivals. December is popular for Christmas markets, while spring and early autumn usually have better hotel value than peak summer.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Germany? ⌄
In Germany, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the left.
What is the country calling code for Germany? ⌄
The international dialing code for Germany is +49. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a Germany number from abroad.
S
Sources
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