Best VPN for Germany in 2025

After testing multiple providers in-house, NordVPN, Surfshark, and TotalVPN stood out as the best VPNs for Germany in 2025 due to their exceptional performance and comprehensive feature sets. ProtonVPN's free version also ranked among the top five for those seeking a free Germany VPN.

In Germany, safeguarding your online security and privacy is essential. Despite the robust protections offered by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) since 2018, using a VPN remains strongly advisable, especially when connecting to public WLAN hotspots. A VPN encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, ensuring your online activities remain private.

Beyond enhancing security, a Germany VPN allows you to bypass censorship and access geo-restricted content. This means you can connect to Germany VPN servers to access local websites and services abroad. Additionally, given Germany's stringent P2P file-sharing laws, a VPN will help you stay compliant while accessing content. Discover the best VPNs for Germany in 2025 with my detailed analysis below.

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Top 5 Germany VPNs: paid and free

1. NordVPN

   The best VPN for Germany with high-speed servers for secure streaming
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   A top VPN in Germany offering unlimited device connections
   9.5
3. TotalVPN

   Reliable Germany VPN with optimized servers for bypassing geo-restrictions
   8.2
4. Proton VPN

   The best Germany VPN with a free plan providing secure access to local content
   8.6
5. Bitdefender VPN

   A Germany VPN with a robust no-log policy and seamless streaming capabilities
   8.2

How to choose the best VPN for Germany?

VPNs are completely legal in Germany, and using one is highly recommended for enhanced online privacy and security. A reliable VPN encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address, thus ensuring your data remains private and secure at all times. However, to get a 100% working VPN for Germany, it must meet specific criteria.

• Consider your priorities when choosing a VPN. The best VPN for Germany should have native servers to ensure fast speeds and strong encryption. Additionally, servers in other European countries would help you access sites blocked in Germany, while US servers are essential for unblocking American content. For example, NordVPN offers over 1970 servers in the US for streaming. It also provides the most servers in Germany (over 250 in Berlin and Frankfurt) for accessing local content.
• Look at privacy and security features. A reliable Germany VPN must also offer robust encryption, IP address protection, and prevent data leaks. My hands-on testing confirmed that all the shortlisted VPNs effectively hide IP addresses, encrypt data, and prevent leaks, ensuring a fully secure browsing experience.
• Check unblocking capabilities and speed. To truly understand how well a VPN works, testing is essential, which is exactly what we did for you. When it comes to accessing geo-blocked sites, I tested streaming platforms, such as Netflix US, Peacock, Hulu, Youtube TV, Hotstar, and BBC iPlayer, and (with a few exceptions) all the listed VPNs provided seamless access without detection. My speed tests showed minimal speed losses, thus ensuring smooth streaming and browsing. However, you can also test it yourself by using a VPN's free trial.
• Set a budget. If affordability is your priority, Surfshark stands out as the cheapest VPN for Germany, offering plans starting at as little as $2.19/month. For those seeking a completely free German VPN, ProtonVPN is a reliable option, though its free version has limitations like fewer servers and slower speeds.

Best VPNs for Germany in 2025: comprehensive list

1. NordVPN - best overall Germany VPN, free for 30 days
2. Surfshark - fastest VPN for Germany, free for 30 days
3. TotalVPN - VPN for a German IP address, free for 30 days
4. ProtonVPN - free German VPN with a great paid version
5. Bitdefender - secure VPN to use in Germany, free for 30 days

I tested more than 20 providers to find the best VPN for Germany, focusing on server availability, speed, security, and unblocking capabilities. NordVPN, Surfshark, and TotalVPN excelled with their high-speed servers, strong encryption, and ability to access German content seamlessly. Each of these services ensures full privacy, solid streaming access, and optimized performance for users in Germany and abroad.

1. NordVPN - overall best VPN for Germany

NordVPN is the best VPN for Germany, thanks to its vast server network, robust security features, and excellent website unblocking capabilities. With over 250 servers in Germany, located in Berlin and Frankfurt, NordVPN ensures reliable access to local content and services. Whether you’re streaming German TV shows or safeguarding your connection on public Wi-Fi, NordVPN delivers fast, secure, and private browsing.

Servers in Germany and globally. NordVPN operates more than 7100 servers in 118+ countries, including 259 in Germany, allowing you to obtain a Germany IP address effortlessly. This makes it easy to access local content like ARD, ZDF, and Deutsche Welle from abroad. Additionally, its extensive global network ensures smooth streaming and browsing for international platforms like Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.

Speed and performance. When I tested NordVPN’s Berlin server, download speeds reached 475 Mbps, while uploads clocked at 436 Mbps—ideal for streaming in HD or gaming. Sites like Netflix US, Peacock, Hulu, Youtube TV, Hotstar, and BBC iPlayer all worked seamlessly without buffering or interruptions.

Top-tier security features. NordVPN employs AES-256 encryption, a military-grade standard that protects your data from hackers and surveillance. Its independently audited no-log policy ensures your online activities remain private. Additional features like Double VPN (routing traffic through two servers) and Threat Protection (blocking ads and malware) make NordVPN a standout choice for security-conscious users.

Streaming German content. During my tests, NordVPN stood out for its ability to unblock popular German platforms like ARD Mediathek and Deutsche Welle. The connection was consistently fast, allowing me to stream German news and dramas in HD without buffering. Its vast server network in Germany ensures reliable access, even during peak hours. NordVPN also passed my DNS and WebRTC leak tests, maintaining privacy while streaming. Features like obfuscated servers make it a great choice for bypassing restrictions in more challenging environments.

Pricing and free trial. While NordVPN doesn’t offer a free plan, it provides a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test its features risk-free. Subscriptions start at just $3.39/month when you opt for a two-year plan, making it a cost-effective choice for a premium VPN.

Overall, NordVPN combines speed, security, and reliability, making it perfect for users in Germany and abroad. Whether you need to access German content from abroad, unblock international websites, or protect your data, NordVPN’s robust features and affordable pricing make it a top contender.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark - cheapest and fastest Germany VPN

Surfshark is the cheapest and fastest Germany VPN, offering excellent value with its affordable plans and high-speed servers. With 3200+ servers globally, including multiple locations in Germany, Surfshark provides a seamless experience for streaming, browsing, and unblocking geo-restricted content. Whether you’re accessing German platforms like ARD or international ones like Netflix US, Surfshark delivers speed and reliability at a budget-friendly price.

Servers in Germany and globally. Surfshark operates servers in Berlin and Frankfurt, making it easy to obtain a Germany IP address for local content access. These servers ensure smooth streaming of German TV channels and services, such as ZDF and RTL, while bypassing restrictions abroad. Surfshark’s global network spans 100+ countries, offering optimized connections for international platforms like Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime. The availability of servers across Europe and the US also ensures flexibility for accessing region-specific content.

Speed and performance. Surfshark stands out for its impressive speed, especially on its German servers. During testing, the Berlin server delivered download speeds of 469 Mbps and upload speeds of 434 Mbps, making it ideal for HD streaming, online gaming, and video calls. Surfshark easily unblocked platforms like Netflix US, Peacock, Youtube TV, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more, with no buffering or lag, even during peak hours.

Streaming German content. I found Surfshark to be an excellent budget-friendly option for accessing German streaming sites. It worked seamlessly with RTL+ and Joyn, where I streamed shows like Germany’s Next Topmodel without interruptions. Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature blocked ads effectively during my sessions. Unlimited device connections were a bonus, letting me test it on multiple devices simultaneously. Its speeds were consistent, making it ideal for families or groups.

Security features. Despite its low cost, Surfshark offers robust security features. It uses AES-256 encryption to protect your data and (just like NordVPN) has an independently-audited no-log policy to ensure complete privacy. Its CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, while Camouflage Mode hides your VPN usage from ISPs. Surfshark also supports unlimited device connections, allowing you to secure your entire household with a single account.

Pricing and free trial. Surfshark’s plans start at just $2.19/month for a two-year subscription, making it the most affordable VPN for Germany. While it doesn’t have a free plan, the provider offers a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you test the service risk-free.

With unbeatable pricing, lightning-fast speeds, and robust security, Surfshark is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a reliable and budget-friendly Germany VPN.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. TotalVPN - secure VPN with servers in Germany

TotalVPN stands out as a secure VPN with servers in Germany, prioritizing user privacy and offering unique features tailored for security-conscious individuals. With its German servers located in Berlin and Frankfurt, TotalVPN provides seamless access to local content while maintaining robust protection against data breaches. It's an excellent choice for users who value security as much as performance.

Servers in Germany and globally. TotalVPN’s servers in Berlin and Frankfurt allow users to obtain a Germany IP address, thereby enabling access to local platforms like ARD, ZDF, and Deutsche Welle. The provider’s network spans 35+ countries, offering diverse server options for bypassing geo-restrictions worldwide. Unlike many competitors, TotalVPN includes specialized servers optimized for privacy-focused tasks, such as torrenting and secure file sharing. It enhances anonymity without compromising the speeds.

Speed and performance. TotalVPN delivers steady speeds on its German servers, with tests showing download speeds of 450 Mbps and upload speeds of 341 Mbps on the Frankfurt server. This is more than sufficient for streaming, gaming, and video conferencing. While Total’s speeds are slightly lower than Surfshark’s, TotalVPN compensates it with exceptional reliability, even during peak hours. It successfully unblocked Netflix US, Peacock, Hulu, and YouTube TV during testing, providing consistent performance for both local and international platforms.

Security features. TotalVPN is designed with privacy at its core. It employs AES-256 encryption and offers advanced features like Perfect Forward Secrecy, which ensures that encryption keys are regularly changed to prevent data interception. Its double-hop servers route traffic through two locations for added anonymity, a feature not commonly found in budget VPNs. Additionally, TotalVPN provides a stealth mode to bypass VPN blocks, making it ideal for restrictive networks or countries with censorship.

Streaming German content. During testing, TotalVPN worked well with ProSieben, but I encountered login issues with some platforms, such as ARD Mediathek, which were resolved by switching server locations. Speeds were moderate, sufficient for SD streaming but not ideal for HD. It’s a decent choice for occasional streaming but lacks the reliability and features of top-tier VPNs.

Pricing and free trial. TotalVPN offers plans starting at $1.59/month for long-term subscriptions. While it doesn’t include a free plan, its 7-day free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee give you ample opportunity to test its features risk-free.

For those who prioritize security and reliable performance, TotalVPN offers a compelling package with features that go beyond the basics, making it a strong contender for the best VPN in Germany.

For a deeper investigation of TotalVPN, read our TotalVPN review.

4. ProtonVPN - reliable Germany VPN with a free version

ProtonVPN is a reliable Germany VPN that offers a unique combination of robust security and a free plan. With 332 servers in Germany and a privacy-focused approach, it’s an excellent choice for users seeking secure and unrestricted internet access. ProtonVPN’s free tier offers servers in the US, Netherlands, and Japan, making it a good option for basic browsing and streaming. However, it does not include servers in Germany, so it won’t work for accessing German content. For faster speeds and advanced features, upgrading to a premium plan is necessary.

Servers in Germany and globally. ProtonVPN operates multiple servers in Germany, including Frankfurt and Berlin, thus enabling you to obtain a Germany IP address for accessing local platforms, such as Sky Deutschland, DAZN Germany, and more. Proton's immense global network of 9900 servers spans 117+ countries, ensuring smooth performance for streaming and browsing across regions. The Provider’s strategic server placement, particularly in Europe, enhances connection reliability and speed, making the VPN suitable for bypassing geo-restrictions on platforms like Netflix, BBC Player, and Hulu.

Speed and performance. ProtonVPN offers consistent speeds on its German servers, with premium users benefiting from faster connections. During testing, the Frankfurt server delivered download speeds of 464 Mbps and upload speeds of 321 Mbps, more than sufficient for HD streaming and gaming. However, the free plan’s speeds are throttled, making it less ideal for data-heavy activities. Despite this, the free version reliably unblocked local German content and provided stable connections for general browsing.

Streaming German content. ProtonVPN’s free plan impressed me with its ability to unblock ZDF, providing access to German news and live events. However, speeds were slower than premium VPNs, and its free servers sometimes struggled with high traffic. While great for basic streaming needs, it lacks advanced features like ad-blocking. For unblocking a wider range of German content, its paid plans are more suitable.

Security features. ProtonVPN excels in security, offering AES-256 encryption and a strict no-log policy, audited independently. Unique to ProtonVPN is its Secure Core feature, which routes traffic through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries before reaching the internet, providing an extra layer of protection. It also includes a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and support for Tor over VPN, making it a top choice for users in Germany who prioritize privacy.

Pricing and free plan. ProtonVPN’s free version is one of the best on the market, offering unlimited bandwidth on servers in 5 countries (The Netherlands, Romania, Poland, Japan, and the US). However, the speeds and features are limited compared to its premium plans. Proton VPN’s subscriptions start at $3.59/month for the Plus plan, with a 30-day money-back guarantee available.

For users seeking a free Germany VPN option and excellent security features, ProtonVPN is a reliable choice. Upgrade to its premium plans for faster speeds and full access to advanced tools.

For a deeper investigation of ProtonVPN, read our ProtonVPN review.

5. Bitdefender VPN - great streaming VPN to use in Germany

Bitdefender VPN is a great streaming VPN for Germany, offering seamless access to geo-restricted platforms and a strong focus on user-friendly security. Integrated with Bitdefender’s cybersecurity suite, this VPN is ideal for users who want to combine antivirus protection with reliable VPN services.

Servers in Germany and globally. Bitdefender VPN operates servers in key German locations, which makes it easy to obtain a Germany IP address for accessing local content on platforms like ProSieben, VOX, and Sat. 1. Its global server network spans 50+ countries, ensuring reliable connections for unblocking international content such as on Hotstar, Youtube TV, Hulu, Netflix US, and others. This wide coverage allows users in Germany to enjoy unrestricted access to region-specific content worldwide.

Speed and performance. Bitdefender VPN delivers consistent speeds on its German servers, which makes it an excellent choice for streaming and gaming. During testing, the Berlin server achieved download speeds of 458 Mbps and upload speeds of 335 Mbps, thereby enabling HD streaming without buffering. It effectively unblocked popular platforms, including Netflix US, and YouTube TV, while maintaining stable connections during peak usage times.

Streaming German content. In my testing, Bitdefender VPN managed to unblock ARD Mediathek, allowing me to stream German content reliably. However, it struggled with more demanding platforms like Sky Deutschland, where advanced unblocking capabilities are required. Its straightforward interface is user-friendly, but limited customization options and server coverage make it better suited for casual users.

Security features. As part of the Bitdefender ecosystem, this VPN benefits from robust security measures, including AES-256 encryption and a strict no-log policy. Bitdefender VPN also features a kill switch to protect your data if the connection drops, and automatic Wi-Fi protection for secure browsing on public networks. If you prioritize online privacy, its seamless integration with Bitdefender Total Security adds an extra layer of defense against malware and phishing attempts.

Pricing and free trial. While Bitdefender VPN doesn’t offer a free plan, it provides a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test its features risk-free. Subscription plans start at $2.92/month when bundled with Bitdefender’s security suite, making it a cost-effective option for those seeking comprehensive protection. Be sure to look for Bitdefender VPN coupons to get even better deals on your subscription.

For anyone in Germany looking for a VPN optimized for streaming and online security, Bitdefender VPN offers an excellent combination of speed, reliability, and privacy. Its integration with top-tier antivirus tools makes it a standout choice for users who value both entertainment and cybersecurity.

For a deeper investigation of Bitdefender, read our Bitdefender VPN review.

Germany VPN services comparison

Why do you need a VPN in Germany?

A VPN in Germany is essential for several key reasons: primarily for privacy, security, and access to foreign content. Germany is part of the 14-Eyes alliance, meaning your online activities could be monitored and shared with other countries. A VPN, however, encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult (if not impossible) for third parties to access your personal data, and ensuring privacy, especially when on public networks.

While Germany has minimal or no internet censorship, geo-blocks on streaming services like Netflix and Hulu can limit your access to content. A VPN allows you to mask your IP address and virtually change your location, giving you access to region-specific content. Additionally, although torrenting isn't outright banned, it is heavily restricted in Germany. Downloading copyrighted material without permission can lead to legal issues. Using a VPN, you can hide your IP address and encrypt your data, making torrenting safer. In essence, a reliable VPN helps you protect your privacy, bypass geo-restrictions, and access content without limitations.

Get NordVPN for Germany

Is VPN legal in Germany?

Using a VPN in Germany is legal, for as long as it is not used for illegal activities. The German government does not restrict VPN usage, and individuals are free to use them to protect their online privacy, encrypt their data, and access websites from anywhere without legal concerns. VPNs are commonly used for security purposes, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi, as they help to protect yourself against hacking and data theft. However, using a VPN to engage in criminal activities, such as accessing illegal content or conducting cybercrime, is very much against the law.

Additionally, while using a VPN to stream content from services like Netflix or BBC iPlayer is legal, streaming copyrighted content without permission is illegal in Germany (regardless of whether a VPN is used). It's important to remember that while a VPN provides privacy and security, it does not shield users from engaging in illegal activities. For as long as you use a VPN responsibly, you can enjoy safe and unrestricted internet access in Germany!

How to get a Germany IP address with a VPN

A reliable VPN is one of the simplest methods to swap your actual IP address for one in Germany. By connecting to a VPN server, your internet traffic is routed through a server in Germany, allowing you to appear as if you're browsing from Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich. Leading VPN providers, such as NordVPN, offer extensive server coverage, including multiple server locations across Germany. Here’s how to get a Germany IP address step-by-step:

1. Choose a reliable VPN Provider. NordVPN is a great option, providing 259 server locations in cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich.
2. Sign up and download the VPN app. Choose a plan that suits your needs, then download and install the VPN app on your device.
3. Launch the VPN and log In. Open the VPN app and log in using your account credentials.
4. Connect to a Germany server. Choose a server in your preferred German city.
5. Start browsing with a German IP address!

Change your IP address to German using a NordVPN

Can I get a Germany VPN for free?

Unfortunately, no free VPN currently offers servers in Germany, including ProtonVPN. While ProtonVPN’s free plan provides servers in the US, Netherlands, Romania, Poland, and Japan, it does not have German servers, meaning it cannot provide a German IP address or access to local content.

However, a free VPN like ProtonVPN can still be useful for ensuring online security, encrypting your internet connection, and protecting your data while browsing or using public Wi-Fi. If your primary goal is to hide your real IP address and enhance your privacy, ProtonVPN’s free tier can meet those needs.

For accessing German servers or streaming local content, a premium VPN is the better choice. Providers like NordVPN and Surfshark offer fast, secure servers in Germany and advanced features like unblocking geo-restricted platforms. Both services include free trials and money-back guarantees, allowing you to test them risk-free.

German content you can stream with a VPN

Using a VPN with Germany servers allows you to stream popular German platforms and shows that may be restricted outside the country. During my tests, NordVPN and Surfshark consistently unblocked streaming sites like ARD Mediathek and ZDF, offering access to German news, dramas, and live broadcasts. ProSieben and RTL+, known for entertainment shows like Germany’s Next Topmodel and Let’s Dance, also worked flawlessly with these VPNs.

I used NordVPN to access Deutsche Welle (DW) for German documentaries and international news, and Surfshark for Joyn, which streams German TV series and films. ProtonVPN performed well with most platforms, though its free plan had speed limitations.

Bitdefender VPN had issues with some German sites during testing, such as Sky Deutschland, which requires advanced unblocking capabilities. For the most reliable access to German content, NordVPN and Surfshark remain top choices.

Stream German content with NordVPN

Final thoughts

Using a VPN in Germany is essential for ensuring your online security and privacy. By encrypting your internet connection and masking your IP address, a VPN safeguards your personal information from prying eyes. Beyond protecting your identity, a German VPN helps you unblock websites, bypass censorship, and access German content or sites when traveling abroad.

After thorough testing, NordVPN stood out as the best VPN for Germany in 2025 due to its exceptional speeds, advanced encryption features, and extensive server network, including optimized servers in Germany for seamless access to local and global content.

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FAQ

Can you use a VPN in Germany?

Yes, you can use a VPN in Germany. VPNs are legal and widely used to enhance privacy, bypass geo-restrictions, and secure internet connections there. However, it's important to ensure that you comply with local laws and don’t engage in illegal activities while connected.

What is the best VPN for torrenting in Germany?

NordVPN is the best VPN for torrenting in Germany. It offers strong security features, fast speeds, and a strict no-logs policy. With servers optimized for P2P traffic, it ensures smooth and secure torrenting experiences without compromising privacy.

Can you watch YouTube TV in Germany?

No, YouTube TV is not available in Germany due to geo-restrictions. However, you can access it by using a reliable VPN. It will allow you to connect to a server in the US, bypass the restrictions, and access your YouTube TV account.

Can I watch German TV in the USA?

Yes, you can watch German TV in the USA using a robust VPN like NordVPN. By connecting to a server in Germany, you will be able to access German TV channels and streaming services like ZDF, ARD, or RTL, as if you were in Germany.