Germany is a country that draws millions of travelers each year. While places like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt usually dominate travel guides, seasoned explorers know the real charm of Germany lies beyond the big cities. The cobblestone streets of smaller towns, the rolling countryside of regions like Lower Saxony, and the cultural vibrancy of lesser-known university hubs offer a unique look at German life.
To truly appreciate these hidden gems, it’s not just about where you go—it’s about how you get there. Moving around like a local can completely transform your experience. Instead of being limited to tourist-heavy areas, you gain access to authentic bakeries tucked away on side streets, local events that never make it into English-language brochures, and neighborhoods that reveal the real soul of Germany.
In this guide, we’ll explore not only the places worth visiting but also the best ways to get around Germany as if you lived there. From regional trains to bicycles, from car-sharing apps to reliable taxi services, transportation is the key that unlocks hidden treasures.
Why Go Beyond the Tourist Hotspots?
When you stick to the well-known cities, you get a surface-level impression of Germany. You see the Brandenburg Gate, enjoy Oktoberfest, and maybe cruise the Rhine. While these are unforgettable experiences, they only scratch the surface of what the country has to offer.
The true charm of Germany emerges when you wander through half-timbered towns, stop at family-run breweries, or cycle through vast networks of countryside trails. For example, Osnabrück, a smaller university city in Lower Saxony, offers historical architecture, vibrant cafés, and a deep sense of community. Nearby Münster is famous for its cycling culture, while Bamberg feels like stepping into a medieval fairytale.
The beauty of these destinations is accessibility. Germany’s infrastructure is built for efficiency, making even small towns surprisingly easy to reach and navigate.
Public Transportation: Germany’s Backbone
For anyone who wants to travel like a local, public transportation is the obvious starting point. Germany has one of the most reliable and interconnected systems in Europe.
Trains
The Deutsche Bahn (DB) network is extensive and efficient, linking big cities with smaller towns. Regional trains, such as the RB (Regionalbahn) and RE (Regional-Express), are affordable and surprisingly punctual. A day ticket often covers unlimited rides within a state or across specific regions, making it perfect for spontaneous adventures.
Locals often rely on special offers like the "Deutschlandticket," a monthly subscription that allows unlimited travel on regional trains and buses nationwide. It’s a game-changer for travelers who want flexibility without breaking the bank.
Buses & Trams
Most mid-sized towns have robust tram or bus systems. For example, Freiburg, Leipzig, and Dresden are all cities where trams glide through picturesque streets, offering scenic rides for just a few euros. Locals typically use mobile apps to check real-time schedules, and travelers can do the same.
Regional Bus Lines
In rural areas where trains don’t go, regional buses step in. They connect tiny villages with nearby towns, ensuring even remote spots remain accessible. This network is particularly helpful for reaching castles, hiking trails, or small cultural sites.
Cycling: The German Way of Life
If you want to blend in with locals, hop on a bicycle. Germany is a cycling nation, and in many towns, bikes outnumber cars.
Münster is often called the "bicycle capital" of Germany, but cycling isn’t limited to one city. Dedicated bike lanes stretch across urban centers and countryside alike. Long-distance cycling routes connect cities, passing through vineyards, forests, and river valleys.
Many train stations have bike rentals, and bike-sharing apps make the process even easier. The beauty of cycling is that you see Germany up close—passing bakeries with the smell of fresh pretzels, pausing by a local market, or riding past centuries-old churches.
Walking: Slow Travel at Its Best
One thing visitors quickly notice is how walkable most German towns are. Narrow medieval streets were never designed for cars, and many centers are pedestrian-only zones.
Walking allows you to stumble upon hidden treasures. In Bamberg, for instance, the best views of the famous “Little Venice” are found while strolling along the riverbank. In Heidelberg, meandering through the Old Town offers surprises like tiny courtyards, tucked-away bookstores, and artisanal shops.
Walking is also how locals enjoy their cities—slowly, with plenty of time to stop for coffee or chat with neighbors.
Car-Sharing and Ride-Hailing Apps
While public transport and cycling are ideal, sometimes flexibility calls for a car. Germans have embraced car-sharing platforms like Share Now, Cambio, and Miles. These services allow you to rent a car for as little as 15 minutes or as long as a few days, all via smartphone.
For younger locals, this is often cheaper and more practical than owning a vehicle. Tourists can also take advantage of these services, particularly if they want to explore rural attractions like the Harz Mountains or the Moselle wine region.
Ride-hailing apps like Uber are available in major cities, but not as widespread as in other countries. In smaller towns, taxis remain the go-to solution.
Taxis: Reliable and Convenient
Taxis in Germany are more regulated than in many countries, ensuring consistency in pricing and service. They’re especially valuable late at night, during bad weather, or in smaller towns where public transport runs less frequently.
For example, if you’re exploring Lower Saxony and find yourself in Osnabrück, a convenient option to reach your hotel or explore the city comfortably is Taxi Osnabrück. Services like these bridge the gap between public transportation schedules and the flexibility visitors often need.
Most taxis can be hailed on the street, booked via phone, or through apps like Free Now. Drivers are usually professional, cars are clean, and payment options include both cash and card.
Festivals, Markets, and Local Events
Part of getting around like a local is knowing where the locals go. Germany is famous for its festivals, but beyond Oktoberfest, there are countless regional events worth attending.
Christmas Markets: From Nuremberg’s iconic Christkindlesmarkt to smaller town versions, these markets are best explored on foot or by tram.
Wine Festivals: Regions like the Rhineland and Baden-Württemberg host lively celebrations where locals gather for wine tastings, music, and parades.
Cultural Events: In Osnabrück, the annual May Week festival fills the streets with music, food, and performances.
Being mobile and flexible allows you to participate in these events as locals do—arriving early, staying late, and enjoying every detail.
Tips for Traveling Like a Local
Use Apps Wisely: Download DB Navigator for trains, Free Now for taxis, and regional transport apps for buses and trams.
Learn a Few Phrases: While many Germans speak English, simple greetings in German can make your experience more authentic.
Travel Off-Peak: Locals know trains and buses are less crowded midday and early afternoon.
Carry Cash: Many small-town cafés and taxis still prefer cash over cards.
Stay Flexible: Hidden gems are often found when you wander without a strict plan.
Final Thoughts
Germany’s true beauty isn’t limited to its famous landmarks. The real magic happens when you dive into the everyday rhythm of smaller towns, local events, and authentic neighborhoods. And the way you travel plays a huge role in shaping those experiences.
By using public transportation, cycling, walking, or even relying on trusted taxi services, you open yourself to discoveries that most tourists never see. Exploring Germany’s hidden gems is less about ticking off a list of attractions and more about moving through the country as if you belong there.
