Traveler Information
for Germany, France & Switzerland
Our pilgrimages to Germany, France, and Switzerland emerge from several themes, both historical and spiritual. Many pilgrims are interested in exploring the history of the Protestant Reformation especially through Martin Luther, John Calvin, Ulrich Zwingli and others. Once each decade, Germany also offers the opportunity to experience the stunning Oberammergau Passion Play; the next one will be held in 2030. Some pilgrims to Germany have also explored themes related to Christian resistance to National Socialism in the Confessing Church and figures like Dietrich Bonhoeffer. In France, we've walked the historic labyrinth in Chartres, visited Black Madonnas in the country's southwest, and toured the iconic cathedrals of Paris.
Weather
The weather in these countries is generally temperate, though winters can be cold and snowy, particularly at higher altitudes. Summer days are generally moderately warm, though recent heatwaves have made some days less comfortable. January, February, November and December are generally the coldest and rainiest months. We rarely amend our itineraries for rain unless there is a torrential downpour or lightning storm.
Packing
One pilgrimage practice is simplicity, so we recommend packing light. You should also be able to manage your own luggage between the airport, bus, and hotels. You can wear clothes multiple times, do a little laundry in the sink, or send a few items out for laundry through the hotel. We recommend packing clothing that can be layered for warm days and cool nights. Unless specifically mentioned, you won't need to dress up for dinners or other occasions. One of the most important things you can pack is comfortable footwear for lots of walking. Some other things for your western European packing list include:
o Raincoat or umbrella
o Sun hat (in summer)
o C-type power adapters (round pins)
o Quick-drying washcloth (washcloths are often not provided at hotels)
Free Time
Our pilgrimages tend to be structured with few large blocks of free time for independent exploration. If your itinerary indicates a free morning or afternoon, you can expect to have at least 3-4 hours of time. We’ll do our best to clarify when that free time begins as the details of your itinerary become firm. You may wish to use this time to shop and explore independently or for some rest and reflection time. Outside of Paris, few museums or sites require pre-booking individual tickets, so you can be flexible with how you spend your free time. Here are some websites for pre-booking sites in Paris and a few suggestions in Germany and Switzerland.
Paris
Other Sites
- Notre Dame (Free to visit with timed entry)
- Sainte Chapelle
- Catacombs
- Louvre Museum
- L’Orangerie Museum
- Eiffel Tower
- If you are extending your stay, many operators offer day or overnight trips to Nomandy.
In the German and Swiss locales we frequent, few things need to be booked in advance. However, if you are extending your stay, you might consider these or similar day trips or tours.
- Chocolate tours in Geneva: Self-guided or with a guide
- Mont Blanc and Chamonix Day Trip from Geneva
- Sachsenhausen Museum & Memorial near Berlin
- Dachau Memorial near Munich
Money
Staying Connected
In western Europe, credit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases like a single beer, and tap-to-pay is very common. Check with your credit card provider about any international transaction fees, and let them know about your travel plans. In rural areas, some merchants may prefer cash.
ATMs are available at the airport and are ubiquitous in most cities. Avoid processing transactions at ATMs or other checkouts in dollars as you may be charged high conversion fees. Always process transactions in the local currency.
The Euro is the currency Germany and France. The Swiss Frank (CHF) is the currency of Switzerland.
In Europe, tipping is becoming more common but not at the rates most Americans expect. In a pub, leaving the coin change to the next Euro is common but not expected. A tip of 5-10% at a sit-down restaurant is generous but not expected. Only some restaurants will allow you to add a tip to a credit card payment.
Your pilgrimage includes all gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and meals taken together. Hotel gratuities are split among all staff, so if you want to tip a particular staff member, give them the tip directly. Housekeeping tips can be left in the room upon checkout.
Being disconnected from the constant onslaught of information and communication can be refreshing during a pilgrimage, so consider limiting your use of the internet during the day. You can expect wi-fi in all of your hotel accommodations but not usually on buses or coaches.
If you wish to have cellular or data connectivity during your pilgrimage, please contact your carrier to find out more about the cost of international roaming and the level of coverage you can expect. If your phone is unlocked you can also purchase a local SIM or eSIM for a less expensive option. Some SIM plans offer only data while others provide calling, too. SIMs purchased in the airport are generally over priced compared to visiting a neighborhood shop
All of our pilgrimages use WhatsApp to communicate with group members during your travels together. Be sure to download and install WhatsApp on your smartphone at least a week before departure so we can add you to the group for your pilgrimage.
WhatsApp is also a great way to stay connected with family and friends at home since it allows you to call and text over a wi-fi connection
Educational Resources
Travelers who do a little bit of preparation often have a richer experience on their pilgrimage. We send all our travelers a series of short articles about two months before your departure to help orient your journey in its historical and spiritual context. About a month in advance of the trip, we'll also send a print journal you can use during your pilgrimage. In addition to these resources, you might enjoy one or two selections from our extended reading lists.