Logistics · Country Guide
Cold-water wreck vibes, alpine lakes, and quarry adventures in the heart of Europe
Updated Dec 7, 2025 • 11 sources
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Germany is easy to reach from almost anywhere in Europe, and well connected globally via major hubs. Choose your entry airport based on the water region you want: Hamburg and Berlin for Baltic logistics, Munich for alpine lakes, and Frankfurt for the widest international connections plus fast onward trains.
Hamburg Airport
HAM • EDDH
150 km • About 150 km drive
Best gateway for northern Germany, including Baltic shore days like Campingplatz Wallnau Fehmarn and quick inland options like Hohendeicher See, Hamburg.
Transport: S-Bahn and regional trains, Taxis and rideshares, Car rentals
Berlin Brandenburg Airport
BER • EDDB
250 km • About 250 km drive
Gateway for eastern Germany and onward trips toward the Baltic and inland lake regions. Good for combining city time with water days.
Transport: Airport Express and S-Bahn, Taxis and rideshares, Car rentals
Munich Airport
MUC • EDDM
110 km • About 110 km drive
Best gateway for Bavaria and alpine lake diving, including day trips to Walchensee, Am Hackl (VW Kaefer).
Transport: S-Bahn into Munich, Taxis and rideshares, Car rentals
Trains are excellent for city-to-city moves, but many dive sites are easiest with a car, especially lakes, quarries, and remote coastal entries. Use trains for long legs, then rent a car for the final region. Parking and access rules vary by site, so arrive early on summer weekends.
Germany is in the Schengen Area. Entry rules depend on your passport: many travelers can enter visa-free for short stays, while others need a Schengen visa in advance. ETIAS (a travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers) is planned to start operations in the last quarter of 2026, so it is not a requirement for trips in 2025. Always verify requirements for your nationality before booking, and ensure your passport validity meets Schengen rules.
Germany is a mature dive market with widespread fills, rentals, and service, but availability is regional.
Euro (EUR)
Cards work almost everywhere in cities and tourist hubs, but some small kiosks, rural restaurants, and lake entry points still prefer cash. Carry a small cash buffer for parking, day passes, and snacks at remote sites.
ATMs are common in cities and towns. On islands and small resort areas, there can be fewer options and higher fees, so withdraw before you travel out to the coast.
230V • 50Hz • C, F
Most travelers can use standard European plugs. Bring a power strip if you are charging multiple lights and camera batteries.
Communications
Germany has strong mobile coverage in cities and along major transport routes, with improving coverage in rural areas. EU residents can often use roaming plans; other travelers can buy prepaid SIMs or eSIMs. Download offline maps for lakes and remote coastlines where reception can be weaker.
Language
German is the national language. English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas, but some local dive briefings and signage can be German-only. Learn basic safety phrases and confirm hand signals and emergency procedures with your buddy team.
Insurance
Cold water, wrecks, and overhead environments make dive accident insurance a smart baseline. Carry proof of insurance and know how to contact your provider. EU travelers should also carry their health coverage documentation where applicable.
Packing list
Pack for cold water and changing conditions.