U.S. warns travelers to ‘exercise increased caution’ while visiting this popular European country

Germany travel advisory

The U.S. State Department is warning travelers to "exercise increased caution" while visiting Germany due to rising terrorist attacks.Canva/Katherine Rodriguez

If you’re planning a trip to Germany anytime soon, you might want to take some extra precautions before you go.

The U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory to Germany, advising travelers to take extra precautions in the country due to terrorism.

Here’s what you need to know if you plan on traveling to Germany.

What does the latest travel advisory to Germany mean for you?

ItemDetail
Start DateMay 13, 2025
What’s changingUpdated travel advisory warning travelers to “exercise increased caution” in Germany due to terrorism risks
What will happen?Travelers should “be aware” of their surroundings in “tourist locations and crowded public venues,” follow instructions from local authorities and monitor local media.
Who will it affect?Travelers to Germany

The agency gave a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” advisory to Germany because of a terrorism risk in the country.

It says that terrorist groups continue to plot attacks in the country with little to no warning in highly populated locations, including tourist destinations, transportation hubs, markets, shoppings malls and local government facilities. This includes hotels, clubs and restaurants, as well.

“Terrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles,” the State Department says.

What is the highest travel advisory?

There are four levels of travel advisory, Level 1 through Level 4. When planning a vacation, you should check the current travel advisory for that destination.

  • Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions — This is the lowest level of advisory; it is advised that there is some risk in that area, and travelers should take precautions while on their visit.
  • Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution — There is a heightened risk for safety and security in that area, and travelers need to take extra caution.
  • Level 3: Reconsider Travel — There are serious risks to safety, and travelers are advised to reconsider their travel plans to this destination.
  • Level 4: Do Not Travel — This is the highest level of advisory, and it is strongly recommended not to travel to any destinations with a Level 4 advisory, due to many factors, one of which is that the U.S. government might not be able to provide travelers any assistance in the event of an emergency.
  • What should travelers to Germany do in light of this travel advisory?

    Travelers to Germany should be aware of their surroundings in “tourist locations and crowded public venues,” follow instructions from local authorities and monitor local media.

    The State Department also suggests to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency and purchase travel insurance.

    You can also remain aware of terrorism risks in the country by checking Germany’s Security Report and prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations using the Traveler’s Checklist.

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