Germany Security Briefing
United States: Department of State International Travel Information
Latest advice,
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits
Exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism.
Country Summary: Terrorist groups keep planning attacks in Germany. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target tourist locations and transportation hubs. They also target markets/shopping malls and local government facilities. They target hotels, clubs, and restaurants. They also attack places of worship, parks, and major sporting and cultural events. They target schools, airports, and other public areas.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Germany.
If you decide to travel to Germany:
- Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities.
- Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Report for Germany.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Australia: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Travel Advice
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not issue travel warnings for specific countries, but issues travel advice for every country. The information below is excerpted from its summary assessments of Germany
Current as of: 16 December 2024
Last Reviewed: 16 October 2024
Latest Advice: Exercise a high degree of caution in Germany.
Terrorist attacks can occur at any time.
Germany has security measures in place, including at airports and major train stations.
Authorities continue to arrest and charge suspected terrorists.
Recent attacks include knife and vehicle attacks in city centres and on trains. There was a suspected terrorist attack in Solingen on 24 August.
Terrorists may plan more attacks that could happen anywhere at any time.
Recent attacks in European cities have targeted:
- planes and airports
- public transport and transport hubs
- places of worship
- sporting venues
- festivals
- other major events that attract large crowds
Christmas markets and New Year's celebrations are also potential targets for attacks.
To protect yourself from terrorism:
- be alert to possible threats
- be cautious around known targets, including in crowds and public places
- report suspicious activity or items to the police
- monitor the media for new threats
- take official warnings seriously
- follow the advice of local authorities
If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.
If you visit Christmas markets, avoid busy times. Have an exit plan if there's a security incident.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
More information:
- Terrorism
Violent crime isn't common, but criminal attacks unrelated to terrorism can occur.
Monitor the media for news on crime.
Petty crimeStreet crime, such as pickpocketing and theft from unattended vehicles, can occur. Bags and personal items can be stolen on trains.
To protect yourself from petty crime:
- pay attention to your personal security, particularly at night
- secure your valuables when visiting the central districts and larger city train stations
Racially motivated attacks have occurred. These occur more often in urban areas and the former East Germany.
Drink and needle spikingDrink and needle spiking can occur at popular nightclubs and markets, often leading to sexual assault.
To protect yourself from drink and needle spiking:
- don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks alone
- stick with people you trust in bars and nightclubs
You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.
Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.
More information:
- Cyber security when travelling overseas
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.
More information:
Demonstrations and civil unrest
Severe weather can affect your travel overseas. If you're visiting an area affected by severe weather:
- Monitor local media for updates
- follow the advice of local authorities
- confirm your plans with your tour operator or travel provider
- check the condition of infrastructure and facilities with local tour operators and hotels
United Kingdom: Foreign and Commonwealth Office Foreign Travel Advice
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