How to Say “Go on Vacation” in German

In this guide, we will explore various ways to express the phrase “go on vacation” in German. We will cover both formal and informal ways of saying it, with a focus on standard German. While some regional variations exist, we will only mention them if necessary. So, let’s dive in and discover how to express the excitement of going on vacation in the German language!

Formal Ways to Say “Go on Vacation” in German

If you want to express the idea of going on vacation in a formal context, these phrases will come in handy:

1. Urlaub machen – This is the most common and straightforward way to say “go on vacation” in German. It is widely understood and used in both written and spoken language. For example:
   
   

   Ich mache Urlaub in diesem Sommer. – I am going on vacation this summer.

2. In den Urlaub fahren/gehen – This phrase literally translates to “drive/go on vacation.” While it implies using a mode of transportation, it is commonly used even if you’re not actually driving. Here’s an example:
   
   

   Meine Familie und ich fahren nächste Woche in den Urlaub. – My family and I are going on vacation next week.

3. Eine Auszeit nehmen – This phrase means “to take a break” but is often used interchangeably with “going on vacation” in formal contexts. It implies taking time for oneself to relax and recharge:
   
   

   Nach all der harten Arbeit werde ich mir eine Auszeit gönnen. – After all the hard work, I will take a break.

4. Sich entspannen – Although it directly translates to “to relax,” it can also be used to convey the idea of going on a vacation to unwind:
   
   

   Ich werde mich einige Wochen entspannen. – I will relax for a few weeks.

Informal Ways to Say “Go on Vacation” in German

If you want a more casual or informal way to express going on vacation among friends or in relaxed settings, these phrases are perfect:

1. In den Urlaub düsen – This expression is similar to “go on vacation,” but with a playful tone. It suggests the excitement and enthusiasm associated with vacationing:
   
   

   Nächste Woche düsen wir ab in den Urlaub. – Next week we’re off on vacation.

2. Den Alltag hinter sich lassen – Literally meaning “to leave everyday life behind,” this phrase signifies getting away from routine and enjoying a change of scenery:
   
   

   Ich will den Alltag hinter mir lassen und einfach mal abschalten. – I want to leave everyday life behind and just relax.

3. Abhauen – This slang expression is commonly used among friends to say “to escape” or “to run away.” It perfectly captures the idea of going on vacation to get away from it all:
   
   

   Lass uns für eine Weile abhauen und dem Stress entkommen! – Let’s escape for a while and get away from the stress!

4. Verreisen – This term means “to travel away,” and while it can be used to express any kind of travel, it is commonly associated with going on vacation:
   
   

   Endlich kann ich mal wieder verreisen und neue Orte entdecken. – Finally, I can travel away and explore new places.

Regional Variations

German is spoken in various regions, and some dialects might have specific ways of expressing “go on vacation.” Here are a few examples of regional variations:

• In Bavarian German, you might hear “in Urlaub gehn” or “in Urlaub fahren.”
• In Swiss German, “Ferien machen” is commonly used.
• In Austrian German, “in Urlaub fahren” or “Ferien machen” are typical expressions.

Remember that these variations may not be universally understood, and it’s generally safer to use the standard German phrases mentioned above.

Conclusion

Now you are well-equipped with a diverse range of phrases to express “go on vacation” in German. Whether in a formal or informal context, standard German provides several options to share your plans and excitement with others. Remember to adapt your choice of phrase based on the situation, and enjoy your well-deserved break!