In Germany, the "tourist season" runs roughly from May through September. Summer has its advantages: the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, very long days (light until after 21:00), and the busiest schedule of tourist fun. Travel during "shoulder season" (spring and fall) is easier and can be a bit less expensive.

In 2026, May and September are widely considered the best months to visit Germany as they offer the perfect balance of mild weather and lower tourist density. May marks the peak of spring, where cherry blossoms blanket cities like Bonn and Berlin, and beer gardens begin to open their doors for the season. September offers the "Golden Autumn" with crisp air and the start of world-famous harvest festivals, including the iconic Oktoberfest in Munich (which usually begins in late September). While the summer months of June to August provide the warmest temperatures for hiking in the Black Forest or the Bavarian Alps, they also bring peak crowds and higher hotel prices. Conversely, if you are a fan of traditional holiday magic, December is unbeatable for the atmospheric Christmas markets that transform every town square into a festive wonderland, provided you don't mind the brisk winter chill.