Summer in Germany is something special. If you’re new to Germany or just curious, here are some of the favorite things that Germans love to do in summer. You might want to try some of them too! Here are 13 things Germans absolutely love to do when the sun finally shows up from beloved traditions to charming little rituals you’ll only understand once you live it.
1. Reconnecting With Nature (Because Everyone’s a Little Wild at Heart)
Ask a German what their plans are on a sunny Saturday, and you’ll hear one of these:
- “We’re going for a hike.”
- “We’re taking the bikes out.”
- “We’re off to the forest.”
From the Alps in the south to the Baltic coast in the north, Germany is full of natural escapes and Germans use them. Whether it’s forest bathing (yes, that’s a thing), hiking with Nordic poles, or simply walking for hours, nature isn’t an occasional getaway here. It’s part of life.
Popular spots for nature-lovers:
- Saxon Switzerland (Sächsische Schweiz) – dramatic sandstone cliffs and epic hiking trails.
- The Harz Mountains – dense forests and charming towns.
- Teutoburg Forest – especially loved for long weekend strolls.
Many Germans carry small picnic gear in their backpacks.. yes, even cutlery and a thermos.
2. Biking Everywhere (Not Just for Commuting)
Biking is a national passion. Even in cities, you’ll see people in dresses, suits, or full spandex gear cycling to work, cafés, lakes, or even festivals.
But summer is when biking becomes a lifestyle event:
- Day trips: Long scenic routes through wine regions, along rivers like the Elbe, Main, and Danube.
- Bike + Bahn: Many bring bikes on regional trains for weekend adventures.
- Beer garden routes: Yes, they exist a cycling tour with pit stops for beer and bratwurst.
If you’re visiting, rent a bike and join the flow, it’s the best way to feel like a local.
3. Swimming in Lakes, Rivers, and Forest Ponds
Public pools are nice, but natural water is the real summer stage.
- City lakes (like Berlin’s Müggelsee, Hamburg’s Stadtparksee, or Munich’s Feringasee) are buzzing with activity.
- In smaller towns, locals swim in forest ponds they’ve known since childhood.
- River floating is a summer ritual, especially in places like the Isar in Munich or the Lahn in Hessen.
Some places are quiet and family-friendly, others feel like beach parties with music, snacks, and volleyball courts.
Watch for signs:
- “FKK” = nude bathing area
- “Nichtschwimmerbereich” = non-swimmers’ zone
- “Hunde verboten” = no dogs
4. Spending Golden Hours in Beer Gardens
Beer gardens are Germany’s version of a living room during summer. But bigger. And with trees.
- The vibe is casual, communal, and delightfully old-school.
- Kids run around freely while adults sip cold drinks.
- You’re encouraged to stay for hours. No one rushes you.
- Many allow you to bring your own food, which makes it perfect for budget travelers or picnickers.
Must-try drinks:
- Radler – beer mixed with lemonade (so refreshing)
- Apfelwein (in Hessen) – tart, lightly alcoholic apple cider
- Spezi – cola + orange soda (weirdly addictive)
How to ask for a seat? Just say: “Ist hier noch frei?” (Is this spot free?) and smile.
