Best Travel Insurance for Germany in 2025
- The best travel insurances for Germany
- Current Travel Safety in Germany
- Is travel insurance required for the visa to Germany?
- Why take out travel insurance for Germany?
- The coverage included in travel insurance for Germany
- The cost of travel insurance for Germany
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Germany
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Germany?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Germany: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Germany covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage during your visit.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not required for US citizens, but it protects you from high unexpected medical costs.
3. Healthcare cost: German healthcare is excellent but costly; a hospital night can average around $1,500 for visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Germany typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: US citizens are not covered by Germany's public health system, making private insurance essential.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Germany.
The best travel insurances for Germany
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Top coverage for Germany. - very high medical limit - broad evacuation cover - modern online claims |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Reliable for medical needs in Germany. - strong 24/7 medical helpline - good cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $0.55M | Practical for tourism in Germany. - decent medical ceiling - emergency assistance included - straightforward pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.77M | Balanced contract for international stays. - useful for Schengen trips - repatriation - flexible duration options |
| Globe Partner | $0.33M | Essential cover for most trips. - medical costs abroad - repatriation - civil liability included |
| Globe Traveller | $0.55M | Good value for short or low-risk travel. - core medical cover - fast claim process - lower ceiling |
- very high medical limit
- broad evacuation cover
- modern online claims
- strong 24/7 medical helpline
- good cancellation cover
- no deductible
- decent medical ceiling
- emergency assistance included
- straightforward pricing
- useful for Schengen trips
- repatriation
- flexible duration options
- medical costs abroad
- repatriation
- civil liability included
- core medical cover
- fast claim process
- lower ceiling
Current Travel Safety in Germany
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Germany due to the ongoing risk of terrorist attacks and the general security context. The overall security level does not discourage travel, but heightened awareness is essential, especially in urban centers and at large events.
- Security risks: terrorist groups and individuals continue to pose a threat in Germany, particularly in tourist areas, transport hubs, popular markets, and during large gatherings such as Christmas markets and sporting events.
- Health risks: no special vaccinations are required for entry. Public health standards are high, but medical care may be expensive for non-residents. Seasonal air quality can be poor in winter, especially in cities like Berlin.
- Legal constraints: German law strictly regulates the use of drones in public spaces. For example, flying a drone near government buildings can result in fines or confiscation.
- Urban risks: pickpocketing is reported on public transport networks in cities like Munich and Frankfurt, especially at main stations. Travelers should keep valuables secure and be alert in crowded locations.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Germany.
Is travel insurance required for the visa to Germany?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for travelers from the US to obtain a visa for Germany for stays under 90 days.
While not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended because medical care in Germany can be expensive and your US health insurance may not be accepted abroad. Carrying robust coverage for medical emergencies, hospital stays, and repatriation is advised for all visitors to ensure financial protection and peace of mind during your trip.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Germany. This is mainly because, although Germany is a safe country, healthcare costs for non-residents can be significant without proper coverage.
Why take out travel insurance for Germany?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Germany.
In Germany, medical care is high quality but can be very expensive for foreigners treated in private hospitals such as Charité in Berlin or University Hospital Munich. Outpatient consultations and emergency services, especially in large cities, can cost several hundred euros per visit, and hospital stays or surgeries often reach thousands.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation, and repatriation costs to the US in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Germany.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Charité Berlin | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | €2,300 (approx. $2,500) | Up to €2,300 or 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | €1,600 (approx. $1,750) | Up to €1,600 or 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | €30,000 (approx. $32,800) | Up to €30,000 or 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | €7,000 (approx. $7,650) | Up to €7,000 or 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
The coverage included in travel insurance for Germany
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency healthcare, consultations, medication, and surgery. We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000 for Germany. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for air ambulance or transfer to the US if treatment cannot be provided locally. Aim for at least $100,000 of coverage. |
| 🏨 Hospitalization | Includes costs of overnight stays, intensive care, and treatments. Recommended reimbursement: $75,000 or higher. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Refunding prepaid, non-refundable travel costs if you have to cancel due to illness, injury, or serious incident. Recommended coverage: $5,000–$10,000. |
| 💼 Luggage & belongings | Compensates for loss, theft, or damage to baggage and valuables. A minimum limit of $1,500 is advised per trip. |
| 💊 Prescription drugs | Reimburses medically necessary medications purchased in Germany. Look for policies with no or low sub-limits on medicines. |
| ☎️ 24/7 assistance services | Gives access to emergency help, legal advice, translation, and medical referrals at any time. Round-the-clock hotlines are vital in Germany. |
| 🚗 Personal liability | Protects against claims for property damage or injury to others in Germany. Recommended minimum: $100,000 in liability coverage. |
We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000 for Germany.
Aim for at least $100,000 of coverage.
Recommended reimbursement: $75,000 or higher.
Recommended coverage: $5,000–$10,000.
A minimum limit of $1,500 is advised per trip.
Look for policies with no or low sub-limits on medicines.
Round-the-clock hotlines are vital in Germany.
Recommended minimum: $100,000 in liability coverage.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards usually has limited coverage, low reimbursement limits, and many exclusions. To avoid gaps in protection, choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive benefits. You can easily compare leading plans on HelloSafe and buy online for immediate proof of coverage.
The cost of travel insurance for Germany
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $28 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $41 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $55 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $120 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance is influenced by several key elements: your age, the length of your trip, your destination, desired coverage levels, and any add-ons like trip cancellation. It's important to keep these factors in mind when comparing policies to find the best fit for your budget and travel needs.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Germany
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Germany while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧳 Trip duration | Premiums increase with longer stays, and trip length impacts claims eligibility for delays or cancellations. | Buy just enough coverage for your actual travel dates, avoiding policies with extra unused days. |
| 👤 Traveler's age | Insurers often raise premiums for seniors, which influences the total cost more as the traveler ages. | The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, so check for age-neutral options. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Germany has high-quality, accessible healthcare, but policies with high medical limits can be costly. | Choose the lowest coverage limit that still meets your needs, especially for medical and personal liability. |
| 🧑🤝🧑 Number of travelers | Group or family policies are usually cheaper per person compared to individual plans. | Look for family or group discounts and compare the price to separate single policies for each traveler. |
| ✈️ Activities planned | Extra coverage for activities like skiing or adventure sports can make premiums higher in Germany's resort areas. | Select only the specific activity cover you require, not a “catch-all” option for activities you will not do. |
| 💳 Deductible amount | Higher deductibles lower the premium but increase your out-of-pocket risk for a claim while in Germany. | Balance saving money with your risk tolerance, as higher deductibles result in a much lower annual cost. |
| 🌐 Policy type (single/multi) | Annual multi-trip plans are only cost-effective if you plan several trips to Germany or elsewhere in the year. | Pick a single-trip policy if Germany is your only trip abroad, as multi-trip plans may cost more unnecessarily. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Germany?
It is completely reasonable to consider whether your current coverage, such as credit card insurance or your U.S. health plan, will protect you during a trip to Germany. Unfortunately, these forms of insurance are often limited or insufficient when abroad, particularly in Europe. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Germany? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for hospital or medical expenses abroad. No support for repatriation or emergencies. | Travel insurance covers up to $500,000 for medical care, hospital stay, and full repatriation assistance. |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical may be covered, but limits vary. Routine care and evacuation often excluded ($50,000 max). | Travel insurance covers $500,000+ medical costs and emergency evacuation, plus 24/7 multilingual support. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical up to $2,500–$5,000, usually excludes trip cancellation/delay and high limits. | Travel insurance offers $100,000+ in medical, plus $5,000 trip cancellation, $1,500 baggage, missed connection. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Premier) | Yes, partly | Medical emergency up to $50,000–$100,000, some trip delay/baggage, but limited evacuation. | Travel insurance covers medical care up to $500,000 and offers trip cancellation, major evacuation, and 24/7 help. |
Example
While skiing in the Bavarian Alps, Mark tore his ACL. The helicopter rescue and surgery cost $25,000. His American Express card's travel benefit was limited, and his US health plan deemed the mountain rescue 'out-of-network,' leaving him with a shocking $21,500 bill for what was supposed to be a fun trip.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Germany?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourism or business visits to Germany of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. You must have a valid U.S. passport that remains valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. No prior application is required for entry.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Germany?
To purchase travel insurance for Germany, first compare plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check plan coverage and exclusions, paying special attention to medical, luggage, and trip interruption protections relevant for Germany. Buy your chosen policy online and obtain your insurance certificate immediately by email.
What medical coverage should I look for when traveling to Germany?
Look for travel insurance that offers at least $50,000 to $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, as private healthcare costs in Germany can be high for visitors. It is also prudent to include emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage, which typically costs under $60 for a two-week trip.
Will travel insurance cover adventure or winter sports in Germany?
Most travel insurance plans exclude higher-risk activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or mountain biking unless you purchase a specific sports add-on. If you plan these activities, check that your policy specifically lists them in covered risks, or add the appropriate upgrade for complete protection.
How quickly can I get confirmation of my travel insurance?
Once you purchase travel insurance online, confirmation and your policy certificate are usually delivered instantly by email. This certificate is your proof of coverage and can be presented at immigration, medical facilities, or when requested during your travels in Germany.
What should I do if I need to use my travel insurance in Germany?
If you have an emergency or need medical treatment in Germany, contact your insurer’s claims hotline as soon as possible. Save all receipts, hospital reports, and documents, as you will need them to submit your claim for reimbursement or assistance. Most insurers offer 24/7 multilingual helplines.
Do I need a visa to travel to Germany?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourism or business visits to Germany of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. You must have a valid U.S. passport that remains valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. No prior application is required for entry.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Germany?
To purchase travel insurance for Germany, first compare plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check plan coverage and exclusions, paying special attention to medical, luggage, and trip interruption protections relevant for Germany. Buy your chosen policy online and obtain your insurance certificate immediately by email.
What medical coverage should I look for when traveling to Germany?
Look for travel insurance that offers at least $50,000 to $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, as private healthcare costs in Germany can be high for visitors. It is also prudent to include emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage, which typically costs under $60 for a two-week trip.
Will travel insurance cover adventure or winter sports in Germany?
Most travel insurance plans exclude higher-risk activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or mountain biking unless you purchase a specific sports add-on. If you plan these activities, check that your policy specifically lists them in covered risks, or add the appropriate upgrade for complete protection.
How quickly can I get confirmation of my travel insurance?
Once you purchase travel insurance online, confirmation and your policy certificate are usually delivered instantly by email. This certificate is your proof of coverage and can be presented at immigration, medical facilities, or when requested during your travels in Germany.
What should I do if I need to use my travel insurance in Germany?
If you have an emergency or need medical treatment in Germany, contact your insurer’s claims hotline as soon as possible. Save all receipts, hospital reports, and documents, as you will need them to submit your claim for reimbursement or assistance. Most insurers offer 24/7 multilingual helplines.
