How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Germany in 2024

BBC iPlayer is the best way to enjoy Call the Midwife, Doctor Who, and other hit shows for free. You also get various documentaries, reality TV, and game shows, along with streams of live BBC channels. Bad news, though - you can’t watch BBC iPlayer in Germany due to rights issues.

Even if you already have an account, if you travel outside the UK, you won't be able to stream anything. Thankfully, you can get a UK IP address with a VPN to mask your true location and trick iPlayer. This will bypass any geo-restrictions.

Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to unblock BBC iPlayer in Germany. You'll also learn why you need a VPN and which providers work best with the streaming platform. Plus, we include a watch guide, several fixes in case your VPN stops working with iPlayer, and answers to some FAQs on the topic.

How to Watch BBC iPlayer in Germany

You'll need a VPN if you want to stream BBC iPlayer in Germany. First, you have to connect to a UK server and sign up for a free account on the iPlayer website. Full guide below:

1. Subscribe to a BBC iPlayer VPN for Germany (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download the VPN app and connect to a UK server.
3. Access the BBC iPlayer website and click “Sign In.”

4. Select “Register now” to begin.

5. Click on one of the two options according to your age.

6. Add your birthday (only really relevant for the “Under 16” option).

7. Create your account (look up “UK postcodes” online and enter any one), and click “Register.”

8. Select a title to watch and click, “I have a TV License. Watch now.”

9. Choose whether to enable parental controls or not.



10. That's it! Now you can press "Play" and start streaming.

BBC iPlayer is totally free as long as you sign up for an account with an email address. It technically requires a UK TV license, but it doesn't actually check if you have one.

Will You Need a VPN for Streaming BBC iPlayer in Germany?

Yes, if you want to access BBC iPlayer in Germany, you'll need a VPN because iPlayer is a UK-exclusive service. Interestingly enough, not even residents can watch iPlayer outside the UK, thanks to pesky licensing issues.

The website is a bit misleading, as you can access it and browse BBC iPlayer's content with no geo-block errors in the way. However, once you try to play a video, a message will pop up saying: “BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues. In the UK? Here’s some advice.”

To bypass the BBC’s geo-blocks, you need to use a VPN to obtain a UK IP address. That way, the streamer won't be able to tell your true physical location, and you can watch BBC iPlayer abroad for free. You'll also need a VPN if you want to download BBC iPlayer's app outside the UK.

Of course, the BBC is well aware that people get around their filters with a VPN. As a result, they block VPN IPs, so only a handful of providers can unblock the platform. This means you need the best BBC iPlayer VPN to avoid any difficulties. NordVPN is the best choice because it has hundreds of UK servers and supports blazing-fast streaming speeds.

The Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in Germany

The VPN you choose should provide an easy way to unblock BBC iPlayer in Germany. That means it needs to offer an extensive global and UK server network, complete with obfuscation, so you can bypass any potential VPN blocks on other streaming services.

Find a VPN with fast speeds and impressive performance worldwide, since no one likes annoying buffering. It should also have a kill switch so your IP isn’t exposed when disconnected. Moreover, you need a VPN with a strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy, plus all the latest protocols available with strong encryption to boot.

Naturally, you’ll want a VPN app that works on all popular platforms (from Windows to Linux and mobile to smart TVs), with plenty of simultaneous connections for your streaming needs. Finally, get a VPN with reasonable pricing, 24/7 live chat, and a solid money-back guarantee in case of any trouble.

Based on these criteria, here are the 4 best VPNs to stream BBC iPlayer in Germany:

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Germany
2. Surfshark - Stream BBC iPlayer in Germany with High-Speed Servers
3. ExpressVPN - Fast VPN for Unblocking BBC iPlayer from Germany
4. CyberGhost VPN - Get BBC iPlayer in Germany on Any Device

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in Germany

NordVPN is the best VPN to unblock BBC iPlayer in Germany thanks to its hefty set of features, including SmartPlay, that masks your DNS queries to keep you hidden online. It comes equipped with 6,300+ servers in 111 countries (including 440+ UK servers in 4 locations - Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and Manchester). This allows it to unblock any other streaming services, too.

And with NordVPN’s obfuscated servers, you can bypass any VPN filters when you’re abroad, at work, or on school Wi-Fi networks. As with any top-notch VPN, you can expect excellent speeds and consistent performance both locally and internationally. You won’t encounter any buffering issues on BBC iPlayer or other UK services (like Channel 4), whether you’re watching from Germany or elsewhere.

If there's a disruption in the VPN connection, NordVPN’s advanced kill switch can disable specific apps (say, the BBC iPlayer app) to prevent such services from discovering your true location. Plus, its strict no-logs policy has been audited by an independent third party.

NordVPN features all the best protocols, including its proprietary NordLynx (built on WireGuard) with ChaCha20 encryption, as well as the standard OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec options with AES-256-GCM encryption.

When it comes to device support, NordVPN can be installed on every major system nowadays, such as macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, smart TVs, and more. You can use it on up to 10 devices at the same time.

NordVPN is one of the most affordable VPNs, offering a 2-year plan for as little as $3.09 per month. In case you change your mind, NordVPN offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Of course, there’s always 24/7 live chat to resolve any issues before you get to the point of cancellation (which we don't think you will).

2. Surfshark - Stream BBC iPlayer in Germany with High-Speed Servers

Surfshark is another great choice because it easily unlocks access to BBC iPlayer. This is thanks to its 212 UK servers in 4 locations (Glasgow, London, Edinburgh, and Manchester). Its overall network is wide, spanning 100 countries with 3,200+ servers. This gives it the ability to unblock any other streaming services as well.

These unblocking capabilities are enhanced by network-wide obfuscation and Surfshark's Nexus technology, which rotates your IP without interrupting your connection. It also helps improve speeds and stability.

When it comes to speed, you won't be disappointed with Surfshark. It delivers blazing-fast speeds with reliable performance and easily supports 4K streaming on various platforms. During our tests, we connected to servers both nearby and far away from us, and they all performed impressively.

Surfshark comes with a powerful kill switch to prevent data leaks and an audited no-logs policy to guarantee your privacy. On top of that, it offers the latest and greatest protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 with AES-256-GCM or ChaCha20 encryption, depending on the protocol you choose.

You can install Surfshark on all popular streaming devices, like computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and many more. One super-handy perk of this VPN is it allows unlimited simultaneous connections. That means you can share a subscription with friends and family.

Surfshark is super affordable, with a 2-year plan for just $2.29 monthly. It also offers an iron-clad 30-day refund policy, so you can test its services thoroughly. Lastly, if you need any help you can contact its customer support 24/7 through live chat.

3. ExpressVPN - Fast VPN for Unblocking BBC iPlayer from Germany

ExpressVPN made our list because it unblocks BBC iPlayer effortlessly due to its high-powered servers in 5 UK locations (East London, Docklands, London, Midlands, and Wembley). Its entire network spans thousands of servers in 105 countries, all of which are equipped to deal with any geo-blocks, thanks to the built-in obfuscation technology. This allows it to unblock other streamers around the world.

Despite this technology (which can often slow down connections), ExpressVPN consistently shows dependable performance and super-high speeds. We had no issues watching BBC iPlayer shows at maximum quality or live streaming BBC programs on its various channels.

On top of that, ExpressVPN comes with a reliable kill switch that turns off your Internet if you happen to disconnect at any point. That way, your IP won’t be exposed online. Speaking of which, the provider’s no-logs claims have been audited to ensure your privacy.

Furthermore, the VPN uses all the latest protocols and encryption to protect against hackers. Its in-house Lightway protocol (with WolfSSL) strikes a good balance between security and performance, making it a great option for streaming. But you can also choose from AES-256-enabled OpenVPN and IKEv2.

Naturally, ExpressVPN has easy-to-use apps on every platform, including Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, and more. Install it on your router, and your entire household gets the benefits of a VPN, including unsupported devices like Roku, smart TVs, and others. You also get 8 simultaneous connections to use as you see fit.

One downside is ExpressVPN is on the expensive side - its annual plan will cost you $6.67 per month. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and the provider offers 24/7 live chat customer support for troubleshooting.

4. CyberGhost VPN - Get BBC iPlayer in Germany on Any Device

CyberGhost VPN comes with thousands of servers in 100 countries (including 1,100+ UK servers in 3 locations - Berkshire, London, and Manchester). This allows it to unblock BBC iPlayer and 40+ more services in Germany. Moreover, many of its servers are streaming-optimized for better performance.

While CyberGhost doesn’t have any obfuscated servers, we’ve had no trouble streaming on any of its reportedly supported services. You get decent speeds and stable performance, although highly remote servers may be a tad slower than others. Still, 4K streaming wasn't an issue for us.

CyberGhost includes an always-on kill switch, so you never accidentally disable your main defense against IP leaks. Its no-logs claims have also been recently audited to show the provider never records your browsing activity.

In addition, CyberGhost offers top-shelf protocols like WireGuard (with the ChaCha20 cipher), as well as OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec with AES-256-GCM encryption to protect your data. WireGuard delivers the best performance for streaming BBC iPlayer. 

With a single subscription, you can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously, making it ideal if you have lots of gadgets lying around. CyberGhost’s apps are compatible with Windows, iOS, macOS, Linux, Android, some smart TVs, and other devices.

CyberGhost is excellent if you're on a budget because its 2-year plan is as low as $2.03 per month, depending on the promotions running. Needless to say, you can rely on their customer support via 24/7 live chat for help with any issues. Finally, you get a 45-day refund period on longer plans, which is among the most generous we’ve seen in the industry.

What Can I Watch on BBC iPlayer in Germany?

BBC iPlayer has a ton of excellent options for binge-watching or movie nights with the family. Now that the series has ended, you’re right on time to watch Peaky Blinders on iPlayer, along with classic BBC shows like Doctor Who or Blackadder. Or, why not delve into its movie library - with old-school classics like Henry V or modern thrillers like Relic.

And if you’re a sports fan, BBC iPlayer provides extensive coverage on NBA, MLB, Formula 1, football, boxing, athletics, and much more. Otherwise, feel free to try out one of their many live channels, including BBC One to BBC Four, CBBC/CBeebies, BBC Scotland, BBC News, BBC Alba, S4C, and BBC Parliament if you want to stay updated on current events.

Here’s a handy watch guide for more recommendations on what to stream on BBC iPlayer:

BBC iPlayer Series	BBC iPlayer Movies	BBC iPlayer Reality TV	BBC iPlayer Sports	BBC iPlayer Channels
The Woman in the Wall	Aftersun	The Traitors UK	FA Cup	BBC One
Blue Lights	The Martian	Glow Up	Women’s Super League	BBC Two
Boiling Point	Moonlight	Strictly Come Dancing	World Boxing Cup	BBC Three
Death in Paradise	The Power of the Dog	Brickies	BKL Kabaddi Tournament	BBC Four
The Way	Sicario	Race Across the World	Africa Cup of Nations	Radio 1
Luther	Superbad	The Graham Norton Show	Premier League	CBBC
The Gold	The Secret Life of Pets 2	RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs the World	Masters Snooker	BBC News

Why Is BBC iPlayer Not Working in Germany with a VPN?

There are a few causes for why BBC iPlayer might not be working in Germany, such as your VPN server or protocol being blocked or browser cookies giving away your location. Here are some potential solutions to try and get your VPN working with BBC iPlayer:

• Reboot Your Equipment – Sometimes the easiest solution is the right one. Restarting your device and VPN can actually resolve a lot of problems, so always try this first.
• Test Your Connection – If your Internet connection isn't strong or stable enough, it can affect your VPN's functionality. For obvious reasons, it negatively impacts streaming abilities as well. Try using a different Internet connection (like mobile data) to see if things start working.
• Try a Different Server – As mentioned earlier, streaming sites tend to block VPN IPs to maintain region exclusivity. Most top providers have servers in multiple UK locations, so simply connect to a different one to see if it helps.
• Change Protocols – This tends to be a problem if you’re trying to stream BBC iPlayer on a network that blocks VPNs (college Wi-Fi, for example). Changing your protocol might help solve the issue.
• Clear Your Cache/Cookies – Unlike the snacks they’re named after, cookie files help save your website preferences, including the location you’re accessing them from. Delete them along with your cache, then try accessing iPlayer while connected to a VPN again.
• Update Your VPN App – If your VPN is out of date, it could be missing important updates and patches that may prevent it from working properly. Make sure it's updated to the latest version.
• Disable Your Firewall Temporarily – It's possible your firewall is interfering with the normal operation of your VPN. Try disabling it and see if that fixes the issue.
• Uninstall Other VPN Apps – Having multiple VPNs installed at the same time can create conflicts. Try uninstalling all of them except the one you want to use.
• Contact Customer Support – Sometimes customer support can have some helpful suggestions, so check with them to see if they can offer tips.
• Change VPNs – If nothing else works, and you’ve already contacted customer support about it, it might be time to switch to a different provider.

Final Thoughts

BBC iPlayer contains a lot of popular content, but it's only available in the UK, so you can't use it from Germany. Even if you live in the UK and watch iPlayer regularly, if you travel anywhere else, your access will be blocked. Luckily, all you must do is change your IP to a UK one with the help of a capable VPN. This will trick iPlayer into giving you access from anywhere in the world.

NordVPN is our recommendation as the best VPN for watching BBC iPlayer in Germany. Not only do you get 440+ high-speed servers in the UK, but many of them come equipped with obfuscation to hide your VPN activity anywhere. This is why NordVPN can easily unblock BBC iPlayer no matter where you are located.

And that’s everything you need to know about how to watch BBC iPlayer in Germany! Thanks for reading, and leave a comment below if you’d like some more pointers.