Do you need travel insurance for Germany?
Travel insurance is not a legal requirement. That said, travel insurance for Germany should be your number one priority. With it, you’re covered for medical costs, flight delays, lost luggage, and cancellations. No stress, no fuss, just travel insurance you can trust.
- Germany is listed among the 20 most peaceful countries in the world. However, theft can still be a problem in tourist-heavy areas like Berlin and Munich. Keep valuables out of sight and stick to well-lit areas at night.
- The Department of Foreign Affairs states that it’s illegal to cross German pedestrian crossings on a red light. Offenders risk a fine and payment of all costs in the event of an accident.
- The DFA also urges caution regarding potential scams. If stopped for assistance in a busy area, this could be an attempt to distract you while you are robbed. In the unlikely event of this happening, travel insurance can cover you for any lost or stolen belongings. You’d just need to make a claim.
Remember that Ireland and Germany are both part of the EU, so Irish holidaymakers can access emergency healthcare through the EHIC scheme. However, this scheme doesn’t cover private medical treatment, trip cancellations, or medical repatriation back to Ireland, which can cost thousands without insurance.
What does JustCover’s Germany trip insurance cover?
Knowing you’re covered for your trip to Germany can make all the difference. Explore the streets of Berlin and experience the culture of Munich or the Rhine Valley, knowing that medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings are all taken care of.
Always read our Policy Wording for full details of what is and isn’t included.
What's covered
Medical expenses in an emergency – If you’re sick or injured while away, get up to unlimited cover for emergency medical expenses. You’ll also be covered for medical repatriation.
Cancellation – Get protection for the cost of your trip if you have to cancel for certain reasons. This could include being called for jury duty or losing a loved one. You’ll also get curtailment cover if you have to cut your trip short in an emergency.
Lost, stolen or damaged belongings – Travel knowing your bags and belongings are protected. Taking away a laptop, phone, camera or tablet? Get additional gadget cover.
Personal liability – If you face legal expenses or liability while away, we could help. For instance, if you damage property or accidentally injure someone.
Legal protection cover – Need to claim damages or compensation due to something that happened on your trip? Get cover for certain costs.
Travel delays – Compensation to cover your time if your flight is delayed.
Access to our 24/7 emergency medical helpline – Help when you need it from our team.
What's not covered
Medical conditions that aren’t declared – You must declare any pre-existing medical conditions that fall within our medical warranty. Otherwise, you won’t be covered for costs linked to them.
Cancelling for reasons that aren’t covered – You won’t be covered when cancelling for reasons within your control, such as deciding you don’t want to go.
Taking part in activities or visiting a location not covered by your policy – It’s important to read your policy documents. These will explain the activities and places that are included. We offer additional cover if needed.
Going away for medical treatment or against medical advice – We cannot offer cover if you’re going away for planned medical treatment, or if you have been advised by your doctor not to travel.
Problems you knew might come up – If you knew you might make a claim before you booked your trip or bought your policy.
Claims below the excess – If your claim is less than the excess on your policy. You won’t be able to claim.
Choose the right level of cover
We offer different levels of cover to make your Travel Insurance as cost-effective as possible.
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Find the best travel insurance for Germany
Choosing the best travel insurance for Germany depends on how often you travel and what kind of trip you’re planning:
Annual multi-trip travel insurance
Perfect if you travel to Germany or other European destinations several times a year. You’ll be covered for every trip under one policy, saving time and money.
Single trip travel insurance
Best for one-off holidays, weekend breaks or business trips to Germany. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and delays.
Why choose JustCover for your Germany holiday insurance?
Having the right cover for Germany goes a long way. Getting covered is fast and simple and will protect you from the unexpected. Whether it’s a short city break or part of a longer European trip.
- 98% of our customers rate us as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Great’¹.
- 98% of our customers would recommend JustCover to family and friends².
- Get up to €10,000 cancellation cover³.
- We’re Ireland's most trusted travel insurance provider⁴.
- 100% of our customers would consider buying from JustCover again⁵.
Specialist travel insurance for Germany
Seniors travel insurance
Tailored for older holidaymakers who may need higher medical cover or help managing pre-existing conditions while abroad.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Covers holidaymakers who have ongoing or past medical issues such as heart disease, diabetes, or asthma, ensuring full protection if treatment is needed while in Germany.
Family travel insurance
Protects your whole family under one simple policy. Ideal for family holidays to cities like Berlin or Munich.
Cruise travel insurance
Get protection for the unique problems you might face on a cruise, including cabin confinement.
How much does Germany travel insurance cost?
The cost of your trip to Germany depends on a few factors. Every trip and holidaymaker is unique, and so is the cost of the insurance. As Germany is in Europe, it’ll typically cost less than a Worldwide Policy. This is because you’re able to use your EHIC.
A few other things that will affect the cost are:
- Your age. Senior holidaymakers usually mean higher premiums. This is simply because there’s a higher chance of something going wrong.
- How long you’re away. The longer you travel, the more insurance costs. A city break in Hamburg will typically cost less than two weeks in Munich.
- If you’re heading anywhere else. If you’re hopping around Europe, this can increase the cost of your insurance. Again, this is because it’s likely a longer trip and you’re more likely to make a claim.
- Your medical conditions. If you’re living with any pre-existing conditions, this can increase your premium.
- Any add-ons to your policy. Our travel insurance for Germany does include 100 activities as standard. But if you need additional cover for things like golf, cruise or skiing, this will raise your premium.
Do Irish citizens need a Schengen visa to visit Germany?
No, Irish citizens do not need a Schengen visa to visit Germany. Ireland is part of the EU, so Irish holidaymakers can enter and stay in Germany freely for any length of time. However, non-EU or non-EEA residents living in Ireland may need a Schengen visa to visit Germany. In that case, proof of valid travel insurance with at least €30,000 medical cover is a standard requirement for the visa application.
Germany travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s essential to declare it when buying travel health insurance. This ensures you’re protected if you need treatment while in Germany. Conditions such as diabetes, heart problems, asthma, or recent surgery should all be declared during the quote process.
Our quote process is quick and simple. You just need to complete our medical questionnaire honestly and accurately. Below are just a few of the 1,300 we can cover:
Will the EHIC cover you for your trip to Germany?
The EHIC allows Irish holidaymakers to access state-provided medical care in Germany at the same cost as local residents, often free or at a reduced rate.
However, it does not cover private healthcare, medical repatriation to Ireland, or lost luggage and cancellations. The DFA states that “the EHIC is not a substitute for proper travel insurance”. That’s why a travel insurance policy is still essential to cover unexpected costs.
Understanding healthcare in Germany
Germany has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. In fact, Germany continues to have the highest share of health expenditure in the EU. And, Germany has both public and private hospitals offering exceptional levels of care.
EU citizens, including Irish holidaymakers, can access public healthcare using their EHIC. However, if you need private treatment, emergency transport, or repatriation, these can be extremely expensive without insurance. Germany travel insurance ensures that, whether you fall ill, have an accident, or need to fly home early, you won’t face large out-of-pocket expenses.
A simple 3-step process to book your Germany travel insurance
Get your quote in seconds
You will only need to tell us some information about yourself and your holiday plans
Select and tailor your cover
Now all you need to do is to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs
Buy your cover and relax
Purchase your cover and you’re ready to go – we’ll take care of the rest!
Expert travel insurance advice from our team
"Germany is one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations with fantastic medical care. However, unexpected medical costs or travel issues can still catch you out. Whether you’re exploring Berlin’s history or skiing in Bavaria, having the right travel insurance goes a long way"
Peter Clark - JustCover Director
What our customers say
“Just purchased my annual travel insurance. Brian, who handled my phone call, was extremely patient in dealing with me. He was able to answer all of my questions. He is easy to talk to, and I really appreciate his help in making the transaction as easy as possible. He is a great asset to the company. Highly recommend this company for your travel insurance.”
see full reviewIs it safe to travel to Germany?
The DFA currently places Germany in the ‘Normal Precautions' rating. This is the lowest (safest) travel rating. Generally speaking, Germany has a low crime rate. It’s also ranked in the top 20 most peaceful countries. That said, as with any major city, there are things to be aware of.
Since 2021, the number of crimes in Germany has increased fairly substantially each year. This includes common crimes like theft, drug and property crimes. For these reasons, it’s important to remain vigilant, especially in busier cities and at night.
Travel insurance can help protect you in the unlikely and unfortunate event of theft, lost or stolen items.
Always check the DFA for updates before travelling to Germany.
Germany travel tips and recommendations
- Pharmacies (“Apotheke”) are widely available. Look for the red “A” sign. They can provide over-the-counter medicines, but for prescriptions, you’ll need a doctor’s note.
- Health emergencies. Dial 112 for ambulance, fire, or police services. Make sure you declare any pre-existing condition before you travel. Even if it’s minor.
- Bring cash with you. Many shops, bars and restaurants still prefer cash. Cards will work in some places, but cash is still more common.
- Getting around. Trains in Germany are efficient and punctual. If you’re using Deutsche Bahn, book tickets in advance for cheaper fares. Also, validate your ticket on trams, buses, or regional trains before boarding to avoid fines.
- Driving. For driving, carry your Irish licence (which is valid in Germany) and make sure your insurance covers European driving.
- Passport. Bring it and keep it safe! It’s also worth having a digital copy of your passport and insurance details in case you misplace either.
- Cycling. Cycling is common in German cities. Always use marked lanes and be aware of cyclists when walking or driving. You can find out more on our cycling travel insurance page.
- Sunday shopping. Don’t bother! Most shops and supermarkets are shut on Sundays. Stick to weekdays and Saturdays.
- No jaywalking. Germany takes jaywalking very seriously. Make sure you cross at designated crossings when the lights are green. It’s not uncommon to get fined if you’re caught jaywalking.
Frequently asked questions about travel insurance for Germany
Where is Germany for travel insurance purposes?
Germany is classed as a European destination for travel insurance purposes. This means Irish holidaymakers can choose European travel insurance rather than a Worldwide policy, which is generally more affordable. If you plan to visit other EU countries on the same trip, a multi-country European policy can cover them all under one plan.
What type of travel insurance is best for Germany?
The best travel insurance for Germany depends on your trip. A single trip policy is ideal for a one-off holiday, while an annual multi-trip policy suits frequent holidaymakers heading to Europe several times a year. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, make sure your policy includes full medical cover. Always check that emergency medical expenses, cancellations, and lost belongings are included as standard.
Is healthcare free in Germany for Irish citizens?
Healthcare in Germany isn’t free for Irish citizens, but you can access state-provided healthcare at a reduced cost if you hold a valid EHIC. However, these cards don’t cover private treatment or medical travel back to Ireland. Travel insurance does. It also covers private care, hospital stays, and the cost of getting you home if needed.
Do you need vaccinations to visit Germany?
No special vaccinations are required for most holidaymakers visiting Germany. If you plan to hike or spend time in rural areas during spring or summer, consider the tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine. Always check the latest advice on the HSE Travel Health website before travelling.
Are there age limits for Germany travel insurance?
Not with Just Cover. We have no upper age limit when it comes to travel to Germany. However, premiums typically rise with age due to higher health risks. Our seniors’ travel insurance is designed for holidaymakers over 65, 70, or even over 85. This ensures that older holidaymakers can still get full medical cover, including for pre-existing conditions. content here.
Is travel insurance a mandatory requirement for Germany?
For Irish citizens, travel insurance isn’t mandatory because Ireland and Germany are both EU member states. However, if you’re not an EU/EEA citizen and need a Schengen visa, valid travel insurance is a requirement. Regardless, it’s always strongly recommended, medical care, lost luggage, or flight cancellations can cost far more than the price of a policy.
When should you buy your Germany travel insurance?
You should buy your Germany travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. This way, you’ll be covered for cancellations or unexpected events before you travel. If you wait until closer to your departure date, you’ll miss out on that pre-trip protection.
Can you get last-minute travel insurance for Germany?
Yes, you can buy last-minute travel insurance for Germany even on the day you travel, provided your trip hasn’t yet started. However, keep in mind that cancellation cover only starts from the moment your policy is active, so buying early is always the safer choice. If you’re heading on a spontaneous trip, speak to us, and we can discuss your options.
2. Based on 128 responses, correct as of 27/08/2025.
3. Covers cancellation for certain reasons outside of your control and detailed in our Policy Wording. Amount of cover depends on the policy level you have purchased.
4. Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in Ireland within the Travel Insurance Company category - January 2025.
5. Based on 128 responses, correct as of 27/08/2025.
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