Germany Travel Preparation Guide
From ETIAS application to attractions, transportation, and festivals at a glance
Germany, the center of Europe where history and modernity coexist, is a very popular destination for travelers.
With ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) coming into effect in 2026, visiting Germany will become even safer and more convenient.
This article covers all the information you need for your trip, including ETIAS application methods, major tourist attractions in Germany, transportation, accommodation, and representative festivals.
Starting in 2026, the European Union requires citizens from Schengen visa-exempt countries to apply for ETIAS online before entering Germany, and after approval, travel within the Schengen area is allowed for up to 90 days.
ETIAS Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Non-EU citizens for short-term stays including tourism, business, and transit |
| Coverage area | 30 European Union countries including Germany |
| Validity period | 3 years from approval date or until passport expiry |
| Allowed stay | Up to 90 days within any 180-day period |
ETIAS Application Procedure
Required Documents
• Valid electronic passport (valid for at least 3 months from arrival date)
• Personal information: name, date of birth, nationality, etc.
• Security-related information: criminal history, immigration law violations, visits to specific countries, etc.
• Payment method: credit/debit card, some mobile payments supported
Application Method
1. Access the official ETIAS portal
2. Complete the application form (approximately 10 minutes)
3. Enter passport and personal information
4. Answer security questions
5. Pay the application fee (approximately 7 euros)
6. Receive results via email
* Most applications are approved within 24-72 hours. You must apply with the same passport you will use for entry.
Freedom of movement after entering Germany
After entering Germany with ETIAS approval, you can freely move within the Schengen area, including France, Spain, and Switzerland, where there are no internal border controls.
Top 5 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Germany
1. Berlin
Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, Museum Island - a cultural center and site of modern history.
2. Munich
Home of Oktoberfest. A city where Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and Bavarian traditions coexist.
3. Heidelberg
A medieval city on the Romantic Road. The scenery of the castle and the Neckar River is impressive.
4. Cologne
Home to a Gothic cathedral. Also famous for Rhine River cruises and the Cologne Carnival.
5. Romantic Road
A fairy-tale route featuring Rothenburg, Fussen, and Neuschwanstein Castle.
Major German Festival Schedule
| Festival | Location | Period | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oktoberfest | Munich | September - early October | World's largest beer festival |
| Cologne Carnival | Cologne | February - March | Street festival with parades |
| Leipzig Bach Festival | Leipzig | June | Classical music festival at Bach's birthplace |
| Berlin International Film Festival | Berlin | February | One of the three major European film festivals |
| Dresden Christmas Market | Dresden | November - December | Market filled with traditional German crafts and food |
Embassy contacts in case of visa loss while traveling in Germany
German Embassy in Seoul
Address: Seoul Square 8F, 416 Hangang-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
Phone: +82 2-748-4114
Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Germany
Address: Stülerstrasse 8/10, 10787 Berlin
Phone: +49 30 260 65 0
Consulates of the Republic of Korea
Frankfurt: +49 69 956 7520
Bonn: +49 228 943 790
Hamburg: +49 40 650 677 600
Final notes for traveling to Germany
Germany is a travel destination where history, art, nature, festivals, and cuisine all come together in harmony.
Prepare your entry with the convenient European ETIAS visa, and take your time savoring the charm of each region to create your own unique German travel experience!