According to forum posts, for cost-effective travel in Germany, booking early on the official German railway website (www.bahn.com) is recommended to access discounted tickets. Some travelers mentioned finding saver fares as low as €14.90 for routes like Frankfurt to Stuttgart. Prices vary and increase closer to the travel date.

Travelers have called out the Bayern Ticket and Länder Tickets as good options for regional travel. These tickets offer unlimited travel on regional trains and local transport within certain German states at a flat rate. The Bayern Ticket, for example, costs €36 for two persons, providing affordability.

For those needing flexibility, the German Rail Pass was highlighted by some users as a beneficial choice, allowing unlimited travel on most trains across the country. This pass is particularly valuable for tourists planning to visit multiple cities over a few days.

Some travelers have recommended the Romantic Road, which connects scenic towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, and Nördlingen, offering a picturesque drive through Germany. Additionally, the route from Munich to Berlin is highlighted as culturally rich, passing through numerous World Heritage Sites.

According to forum posts, Germany offers various themed roads that appeal to different interests. The Fairytale Road is popular for families, while the Castle Road connects numerous castles and is a favorite among history enthusiasts. Another noted route is the German Alpine Road, appreciated for its stunning mountainous views.

Travelers have called out specific areas worth visiting during road trips, such as the Bavarian Alps near Garmisch and Füssen, which are renowned for their natural beauty. The Black Forest area, although not directly on some mentioned routes, is also a significant attraction mentioned by road trippers.

For those interested in detailed planning, some users recommended purchasing the discontinued Shell Regional Map Series of Germany, which provides in-depth information on over 2000 tourist sites across the country, including lesser-known attractions and scenic roads.

According to forum posts, Munich offers a rich blend of historical and cultural sites. Some travelers highlighted the Deutsches Museum for its extensive exhibits on science and technology. Others recommended visiting the Nymphenburg Palace, which also houses the Museum of Man and Nature.

For many users, Munich's outdoor activities are a significant draw. The Olympiapark, site of the 1972 Olympics, is popular for both its historical significance and recreational opportunities, including swimming in the Olympic pool. Additionally, the Englischer Garten is noted for unique attractions like watching surfers on the Eisbachwelle wave and slackline walkers.

Travelers have called out several family-friendly attractions in Munich. The Transport Museum was particularly recommended for families, offering interactive displays and a children’s play area. Moreover, the numerous public playgrounds around the city provide ample space for children to play and explore.

According to forum posts, Motel One Sendlinger Tor is highly recommended due to its proximity to the Hauptbahnhof and Marienplatz, making it convenient for accessing public transportation and Christmas markets. Additionally, the Haus Im Taus is praised for its central location near Marienplatz, with amenities like nearby pharmacies and grocery stores, even though some reviews mention it can be noisy.

For travelers looking for budget options, forum users suggest checking hostels near Munich's main station. Meininger hostels in Berlin were specifically mentioned as a decent choice, emphasizing the importance of reading reviews before booking.

Travelers have called out the Altstadt area near Marienplatz as a prime location to stay due to its centrality and array of nearby attractions and amenities. The area is well-connected by public transport, making it an ideal base for exploring Munich.

According to forum posts, the markets in Nuremberg and Dresden are frequently highlighted for their authenticity and historic atmosphere. These markets are some of the oldest and most well-known in Germany, offering a mix of traditional handmade decorations from the nearby Ore Mountains.

Some travelers have recommended the Stuttgart area, which includes Esslingen with its medieval theme and Ludwigsburg with its baroque style. These markets are noted for their unique themes and extensive offerings that attract both locals and tourists.

For those looking for a diverse experience, the Rhine-Main area, including Frankfurt, Mainz, and Wiesbaden, has been mentioned for its wonderful markets. Munich is also a favorite, with its market at Marienplatz praised for its large Christmas tree and festive atmosphere.

Travelers have called out smaller, less crowded markets like those in Seiffen or Annaberg-Buchholz in the Ore Mountains for a more atmospheric and quaint experience, ideal for those looking to escape the more commercialized markets.

According to forum posts, a recommended itinerary for a trip to Germany includes visiting major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Nuremberg, with potential side trips to smaller towns like Bamberg or Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Travelers have called out the importance of allocating adequate days in each city to fully explore the sights and not feel rushed.

Some users suggested using trains for intercity travel, highlighting Germany's efficient rail system. For exploring rural areas, renting a car was recommended. One traveler noted that Munich can serve as a good base for several day trips, including a visit to the Panzermuseum in Münster, which is accessible by train.

For those planning to travel around Easter or during the Christmas season, it's important to consider public holiday schedules as they may affect shop opening hours and public transportation services. Travelers have shared that during these times, some attractions may be closed, and planning ahead is crucial to ensure a smooth trip.

According to forum posts, Germany offers several types of car rental insurance. The basic mandatory insurance is Haftpflicht (liability insurance), which covers damages to other parties involved in an accident but not to the rental car. Optional insurances include Teilkasko (partial comprehensive), which covers certain damages to the rental car not caused by the driver, and Vollkasko (full comprehensive), which covers all damages to the rental car, including those caused by the driver.

For many users, it's advisable to opt for full comprehensive insurance with no deductible (Vollkasko ohne Selbstbeteiligung), especially since rental companies in Germany are known for their strict scrutiny of the vehicle upon return. Minor damages can lead to significant charges; hence, opting for zero deductible can offer peace of mind.

Some travelers said that informing your bank about potential contactless payments for services like car charging (if renting an electric vehicle) could prevent payment issues while abroad. This is crucial as some rental and charging services may block a significant amount on your credit card during the rental period.

Travelers should know that BahnCards, like BahnCard 25 and BahnCard 50, offer discounts on long-distance train travel in Germany, including routes to Vienna. The BahnCard 25 is recommended for non-flexible tickets booked in advance, potentially saving more than 25% on fares, while the BahnCard 50 is better for flexible ticket purchases on the spot.

It is important to note that BahnCards operate on a subscription basis. Travelers must remember to cancel the subscription 6 weeks before renewal to avoid automatic renewal charges. This detail is crucial to manage costs effectively.

Travelers can purchase BahnCards upon arrival in Germany or online, receiving a temporary paper version or a print@home version valid for two months. They can also load the BahnCard into the DB Navigator app, eliminating the need for a physical card as long as the smartphone is charged.

While BahnCards offer significant savings on long-distance trips, they are less useful for local public transport. Regions like Frankfurt, Berlin-Brandenburg, and Munich have their specific transport associations and cards, which might be more beneficial for local travel depending on the itinerary.