Germany is a captivating destination, known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, modern cities, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the cosmopolitan streets of Berlin, enjoying the fairy-tale castles in Bavaria, or sipping beer in a traditional Biergarten, Germany offers a diverse array of experiences. However, it’s important to understand the country’s unique cultural norms and practices before you go. Here are 15 key things Americans should know before visiting Germany, including a few things to avoid to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
1. Germany Is Made Up of Diverse Regions
Germany is a country with 16 federal states, each with its own identity, traditions, and even dialects. The cities of Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Cologne offer vastly different cultural experiences. For example, Bavaria in the south is known for its traditional customs, hearty food, and world-famous Oktoberfest, while Berlin is a more eclectic, multicultural city with a rich history and vibrant arts scene.
As you travel across the country, you’ll notice that each region has its own specialties. Whether it’s food, architecture, or local traditions, taking the time to explore different regions will give you a deeper appreciation of Germany’s diversity.
2. Learn Basic German Phrases
While many Germans speak English, especially in major cities, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak a few basic German phrases. Simple words like “Guten Tag” (Good day), “Bitte” (Please), and “Danke” (Thank you) go a long way in showing respect for the local culture. Even asking, “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” (Do you speak English?) in German is more polite than jumping straight into English.
In smaller towns and rural areas, English may not be as commonly spoken, so having a translation app or phrasebook can be helpful.
3. Cash Is Preferred in Many Places
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in large hotels, department stores, and international chains, cash is still the preferred payment method in many smaller businesses, restaurants, and cafes across Germany. It’s common to carry Euros for day-to-day purchases, particularly in rural areas or local markets. Make sure to have enough cash on hand when visiting smaller towns, where card payments may not be accepted.
ATMs (referred to as Geldautomaten) are widely available, and withdrawing Euros from an ATM is generally the easiest and most cost-effective way to access cash. Be aware that some smaller restaurants and cafes may only accept EC cards (European debit cards), so always ask before assuming they accept your American credit card.
4. Public Transportation Is Efficient and Reliable
Germany boasts an excellent public transportation system, especially in cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. Trains, subways (U-Bahn), commuter trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses are all reliable, clean, and well-integrated. When using public transportation, make sure to buy your ticket in advance and validate it at the station, as inspectors check tickets regularly and fines for riding without a valid ticket can be high.
Traveling between cities is convenient thanks to Germany’s efficient Deutsche Bahn train system. High-speed trains (like the ICE) can take you from Berlin to Munich or Frankfurt in just a few hours, making it easy to explore the country.
5. Tipping Is Different from the U.S.
While tipping in Germany is appreciated, it’s more modest than in the U.S. In restaurants, rounding up the bill is common, and a tip of 5-10% is sufficient for good service. Instead of leaving the tip on the table, tell the server the total amount you wish to pay, including the tip. For example, if your bill is €25, you could say “€27, bitte” when handing over your payment.
It’s also polite to tip taxi drivers, hotel staff, and other service providers a small amount, typically rounding up or giving €1-2. Tipping is not as obligatory as in the U.S., but it is always appreciated for good service.
6. Sunday Is a Day of Rest
In Germany, Sundays are seen as a day of rest, and most stores and businesses are closed, including supermarkets. Exceptions include restaurants, cafes, and some bakeries that open for a few hours in the morning. If you need to do shopping, make sure to plan ahead and visit stores on Saturday, as you won’t find many open on Sunday.
However, Sundays are a great day for outdoor activities like walking in parks, hiking, or visiting museums, which generally remain open. Germans take Sundays seriously as a time for relaxation, family, and leisure.
7. Respect Quiet Hours
Germans value their personal space and quiet time. In many residential areas, there are designated quiet hours (known as Ruhezeit) during the evenings (typically between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM) and on Sundays. During these times, it’s considered impolite to make loud noises, such as playing loud music, vacuuming, or doing construction work.
Being mindful of quiet hours is especially important if you’re staying in an apartment or a residential neighborhood. It’s part of the culture to respect others’ space and maintain a peaceful environment.
8. Don’t Expect Ice in Drinks
If you’re used to receiving a glass of water with ice at a restaurant, be prepared for a different experience in Germany. Cold drinks are typically served without ice, or with just one or two cubes, even during the summer. If you prefer ice, you can ask for it, but it’s not a standard practice. Germans generally prefer their drinks chilled, but not icy.
Additionally, tap water is safe to drink across Germany, but in restaurants, you’ll often be served mineral water (either still or sparkling), and it’s common to be charged for it. If you prefer tap water, you’ll need to specifically request it, but even then, some restaurants may only offer bottled water.
9. The Concept of Personal Space
Germans tend to be more reserved when it comes to personal space, especially with strangers. While friendliness is appreciated, being overly familiar or engaging in small talk with strangers—such as in an elevator or on public transportation—might feel awkward for locals. In public settings, Germans value their personal boundaries, so keep a polite distance when interacting.
Additionally, hugging or touching during greetings is less common in Germany than in the U.S., unless you’re with close friends or family. A firm handshake is the standard form of greeting in formal and business settings.
10. Germans Are Punctual
Punctuality is highly valued in Germany, whether it’s for a business meeting, social event, or simply catching a train. Arriving on time, or even slightly early, is considered polite, while being late is often seen as disrespectful. Public transportation, including trains and buses, also run on precise schedules, so be prepared to arrive at the station with time to spare.
If you’re meeting someone socially, arriving a few minutes early is the norm. If you’re going to be late, even by a few minutes, it’s courteous to send a message or call ahead to let the person know.
11. Avoid Jaywalking
In Germany, jaywalking is frowned upon, and pedestrians are expected to follow traffic signals. Even if the street appears clear, crossing against a red light is not only illegal but also seen as irresponsible. Traffic rules are strictly adhered to, and you may even be fined for jaywalking if caught by police.
Germans take pedestrian safety seriously, and it’s common to see people waiting patiently at crosswalks, even when there’s no car in sight. Set a good example, especially in family areas, as locals may view it as setting a bad precedent for children.
12. Avoid Loud and Obnoxious Behavior in Public
Germans generally value a calm and orderly atmosphere in public spaces. Being excessively loud, particularly in restaurants, on public transportation, or in museums, is considered rude. Speaking at a moderate volume is the norm, and disturbing others with loud conversations or excessive noise will draw disapproving looks.
If you’re in a restaurant or pub, it’s fine to laugh and enjoy yourself, but be mindful of the volume, especially in quieter establishments or late at night. Germans are often direct, and it’s not uncommon for someone to ask you to keep it down if they find the noise excessive.
13. Don’t Bring Up Germany’s Nazi Past Casually
Germany is a country that has worked hard to confront and acknowledge the atrocities of its Nazi past, but it is a topic that must be approached with sensitivity. Making casual or inappropriate references to World War II, Nazis, or Adolf Hitler is deeply offensive, and making jokes about it is unacceptable.
While it’s perfectly fine to discuss history in the context of visiting memorials or museums, be respectful and mindful of how you engage in these conversations. Germans take their history seriously, and the country has many monuments and memorials to the victims of the war, which should be treated with reverence.
14. Driving on the Autobahn
The Autobahn is famous for its stretches with no speed limits, but driving on it requires caution and understanding of the rules. While some parts of the Autobahn allow for high-speed driving, many sections do have speed limits, especially in urban areas or near construction sites. It’s crucial to always check the signs.
If you’re driving at high speeds, stay in the left lane for passing only and return to the right lane afterward. It’s illegal to pass on the right, and cars can approach quickly from behind. Be mindful of the speed of other vehicles and drive responsibly.
15. Cultural Respect for Recycling
Germany has one of the most organized and thorough recycling systems in the world. You’ll notice that in public areas, homes, and businesses, there are separate bins for glass, plastic, paper, and general waste. There’s even a deposit system for bottles and cans, called Pfand, where you can return bottles to stores and get a refund.
It’s important to be respectful of these practices, as Germans take environmental conservation seriously. If you’re staying in an apartment or home, be sure to ask about the proper way to separate and dispose of your trash.
Conclusion
Germany is a country filled with history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, but navigating it requires an understanding of its customs and cultural norms. From being punctual to respecting recycling practices, small cultural differences can enhance your trip and make your experience in Germany smoother. By avoiding common pitfalls, such as being overly loud in public or jaywalking, and embracing local etiquette, you’ll have a more immersive and enjoyable time in this fascinating country. Whether you’re exploring historic cities or enjoying the natural beauty of the Bavarian Alps, Germany has something for everyone to discover.
