If you're thinking about driving in Germany, here are some tips for you. Germany has some fantastic roads and stunning scenery, not to mention the famous autobahn. But, there are a few things you need to know before getting behind the wheel, especially if you're not a local.

First, let's chat about speed limits. They're pretty similar to what we're used to here in the UK, with signs telling you the limit depending on the type of road. In towns and cities, you're looking at around 50 km/h (31 mph), and on country roads, it's between 80-100 km/h (50-62 mph). But here's the fun part – on some sections of the autobahn, there's no enforced speed limit! However, it's worth noting that there's still a recommended limit of 130 km/h (80 mph) for safety.

Now, be aware of speed cameras or "Blitzer" as they call them. They're dotted around the place, mainly in areas with a high risk of accidents or where speeding's a problem. And trust me, the fines can be a bit steep, so stick to the limits. German police also set up speed traps now and then, so watch out for those.

In general, Germans are pretty disciplined when it comes to driving and sticking to speed limits, especially in urban areas and on rural roads. On the autobahn, though, things can get speedy, especially on unrestricted sections. Just make sure you're aware of the limits and drive safely.

Now, let's talk about a few quirks of German roads. First off, they drive on the right, so that'll take a bit of getting used to for us Brits. At intersections without signs or signals, you'll need to give way to vehicles coming from the right. Roundabouts are becoming more popular in Germany, so you'll need to give way to vehicles already in the roundabout, just like back home.

You'll also need to get familiar with some unique German traffic signs. And when overtaking, make sure you do it on the left. Overtaking on the right is a big no-no and could land you a fine.

Germany's got strict drink-driving laws, with a limit of 0.05% BAC for most drivers, and 0.00% for new drivers with under two years of experience or under 21. So, it's best to avoid alcohol altogether if you're driving. Seat belts are a must for everyone in the car, and kids under 12 or shorter than 150 cm (4 ft 11 in) need to use a proper child restraint system.

Many German cities have "Umweltzonen" or environmental zones to help reduce pollution. If you're driving into one of these, you'll need a sticker showing your car's emissions rating. And when it comes to parking, make sure you're in a designated area, and be prepared to pay at meters or use an app.

Now, what about electric vehicles (EVs) and charging points? Germany's got a growing network of EV charging stations, making it easier for drivers to find a place to charge up. You can use apps like ChargeMap and PlugShare to find charging points, check their compatibility, and plan your route.

Remember to use your headlights when visibility is poor, and although it's not a legal requirement, it's a good idea to have them on during daytime hours outside of urban areas, too.

So, to sum up, driving in Germany can be a blast, especially with those unrestricted autobahn sections. Just make sure you know the rules and stay safe on the road. With the growing support for electric vehicles and the increasing number of charging points available, it's becoming even more convenient for EV drivers as well.

Make sure you're aware of the unique traffic features in Germany, like giving way to vehicles coming from the right at intersections and forming emergency corridors on multi-lane highways during traffic jams or accidents. This helps emergency vehicles get to the scene quickly – so move left if you're in the left lane and right if you're in any other lane.

When it comes to pedestrian crossings, always yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks (zebra crossings) and be ready to stop if someone's waiting to cross. Keep a safe distance from the crossing and never overtake another vehicle that's stopped for a pedestrian.

You will also find that the toilets at most service stations require a cash payment - ensure you've got some coins, as many don't take cards or electronic forms of payment.

In a nutshell, driving in Germany can be a fantastic experience, especially if you're prepared and aware of the unique features of their roads. By understanding the rules and driving safely, you'll be well on your way to enjoying all the incredible landscapes and charming towns Germany has to offer. And with the growing support for electric vehicles and a more extensive charging network, you can feel even better about exploring this amazing country in an eco-friendly way.