Planning a trip to Germany? Well, first of all, lucky you. Germany is a wonderful destination.
However, there may be a few things that surprise you- from cash culture to Sunday closing and the famously efficient and very German style of service
Germany is a big place, in geography and character. The range of destinations is astounding, from city breaks to mountain resorts and just about everything in-between.
Having lived in Germany for several years, I’m sharing the things to know before you go that will help you make the most of your time in Germany, especially if you are a first time visitor. So, in no particular order, 7 things I think you need to know.
Cash is Still King In Germany (Don’t Rely on Cards)
Although credit and debit cards are used in Germany, you will need to keep a small amount of cash on you.
Not everywhere takes card, especially in smaller towns and villages. It’s not unusual for markets to be cash only, be it a local market or part of a larger event like the Christmas and Easter markets.
Additionally, you’ll need some small change to use the toilets. Free public toilets are few and far between, expect to pay between €0.70-1.50 to use the facilities. Yep, spending a penny costs…well more than a penny!
If you’re at motorway services or rail station, use the toilets first. You are usually charged to use the toilets but given back a coupon to use towards any further spend.
Germans and Small Talk ( Friendliness Feels Different Here)
Stereotypes about Germans, we’ve all heard them: frostily polite , sticklers for the rules. I don’t think that’s true, but don’t expect warm and fuzzy, or lots of small talk. Germans do tend to be more direct and formal, especially at first.
Germany is a wonderful country and people are generally very helpful, but that initial reserve could be mistaken for frostiness if you’re used to a different way. Which brings me neatly to…
Customer Service in Germany is Different
Service in Germany can feel more direct and less chatty than we might be used to in the UK or USA. The emphasis is on being professional. Think efficient, but not effusive.
A German server won’t necessarily ask or try to guess what you need. If you want a high chair, an English menu, a kids menu…you need to let them know.
There is some variation on this- in tourist heavy areas, or areas with a high number of English speaking military families, for example, you’ll probably see a different service than you’d get in a small town off the tourist trail.
Tipping Culture in Germany
One of the most commonly asked questions by first time visitors: Should I tip in Germany?
Is tipping expected in Germany? No, not really. There isn’t the same tipping culture there is in the USA, for example.
Most restaurants include service in the bill, so it’s up to you if you want to tip any further. Around 5-10% for good service is fine.
If you’re out for coffee or ice cream, custom is to round the bill up. If language isn’t a problem, you can tell the server how much to take and they’ll change accordingly. If you aren’t sure, pay the bill and leave the difference.
Germany Has A Deposit System- The Pfand
Deposit / Pfand in Shops & Supermarkets
The Pfand is the deposit you pay on most bottles and cans when you buy a drink. Bottles with pfand will carry the deposit symbol and can be returned via the machines located in most stores. Worth noting not all stores display the deposit as part of the price. It’s usually around 25c
Deposit / Pfand on Christmas Market Mugs
German Christmas markets are famous for the Glühwein, or German mulled wine, mugs. Each city designs its own and some people collect them. You’ll pay a deposit on each one, usually around €2-5. You’ll get it back when you return the mug.
Don’t be shocked in your glühwein seems expensive, it just includes the deposit.
You Need to Validate Your Ticket on Public Transport
Public transport in Germany is brilliant- it runs regularly, is generally clean and safe and is a budget friendly way to get around. But there is one mistake that too many visitors make: failing to validate their ticket and ending up with a fine.
If using regional rail, S-Bahn and U-Bahn, tickets need to be validated on the platform. Look for the ‘Entwerter‘: usually a red or yellow machine with a slot for the ticket On buses and trams, tickets are validated on board.
When you validate your ticket, you’ll hear a click. Check the ticket is stamped with a clear and readable stamp. Take a quick snap using your phone as a back up. Being caught with no ticket or an unvalidated one could land you a €60 fine.
Shops Close on Sundays in Germany
Not quite everything will be closed, but it certainly won’t be business as usual. In Germany, Sunday is a rest day. This isn’t just culturally respected, it’s written into German law under the Ladenschlussgesetz or Shop Closing Law.
As a rough guide you’ll find shops, retail stores, banks and other commercial places closed. Cafés, museums, cultural venues, parks and tourist attractions will be open. Bakeries will usually be open until midday.
Unless you were planning a shopping day, Sunday is a great day to explore in Germany. Lots of wonderful places are open, the daily hustle and bustle much reduced.
Really need to buy something on a Sunday in Germany? Head to the train station. Shops in the station are exempt from Sunday closing laws, you’ll usually find all the basics.
Looking for more inspiration or information about travelling in Germany? I’ve lived in Germany for several years and have written many posts you might find useful. I’d love you to read one of them next:
10 Things To Do With Kids in Germany.
Things to do in Hamburg on A Sunday
7 Things to Do in Leipzig: Perfect for A Short City Break
Travemunde: The German Seaside Resort You Shouldn’t Miss
Helen x
Hi Helen
it’s interesting to see ‘my country’ through your eyes – this was a good read. Thank you.
Thank you so much, that means a lot from a German reader!