Germany is a well-organised, efficient country that is generally easy to travel in. The transport network is excellent, English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas, and the infrastructure is first-rate. Here are the essential practical tips to help you get the most from your trip in 2026.
Currency and Money
Germany uses the Euro (€). Card payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but Germany has a stronger cash culture than most Western European countries — many restaurants, smaller shops, and market stalls are cash-only. Always carry some cash.
ATMs (Geldautomaten) are widely available. The best exchange rates are at ATMs on arrival or through your bank before travelling. Avoid airport exchange desks.
Tipping: see the tipping section below — cash tips are strongly preferred in Germany.
Getting Around Germany
By train (Deutsche Bahn) — Germany has one of the most extensive rail networks in Europe. ICE (InterCity Express) high-speed trains connect major cities at speeds up to 300km/h. Berlin–Munich takes about 4 hours; Frankfurt–Cologne about 1 hour. Book in advance at bahn.de for the best fares — Sparpreis (saver) tickets can be significantly cheaper than walk-up prices.
The Deutschland-Ticket — A monthly flat-rate ticket (€49/month) that gives unlimited travel on all regional trains, S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams, and buses across Germany. Excellent value for travellers spending a week or more in the country.
By car — Germany has the famous Autobahn motorway network, with no speed limit on many sections (though average speed limits are increasingly common). Driving is on the right. The road network is excellent. Parking in city centres can be expensive and difficult — use park-and-ride facilities.
In cities — All major German cities have excellent public transport networks (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, buses). Day tickets and multi-day passes offer good value. Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Cologne all have integrated ticketing systems.
Tipping in Germany
Tipping in Germany is customary but not as generous as in the US. The standard is to round up the bill or add 5–10% for good service.
Restaurants: Tell the server the total you want to pay (including tip) when they bring the bill — don't leave cash on the table. For example, if the bill is €23, say "25 bitte" (25 please) and they'll give you change from €25. Cash tips are strongly preferred.
Cafés and bars: Round up to the nearest euro.
Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro or add 5–10%.
Hotels: €1–2 per bag for porters; €2–3 per night for housekeeping.
Language and Culture
Language: German is the official language. English is widely spoken in cities, tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. In rural areas, particularly in eastern Germany and Bavaria, English proficiency may be lower. A few basic German phrases are always appreciated.
Punctuality: Germans take punctuality seriously. If you have a reservation, a tour, or a meeting, arrive on time. Being late without notice is considered rude.
Sundays: Germany has strict Sunday trading laws. Most shops (except restaurants, petrol stations, and some tourist shops) are closed on Sundays. Plan grocery shopping and errands for weekdays or Saturday.
Recycling: Germany has an extensive recycling system. Most plastic bottles and cans have a deposit (Pfand) of 25 cents — return them to supermarket machines for a refund. Separate your waste into the correct bins (paper, plastic, glass, organic, general waste).
Practical Germany Facts
Electricity: Germany uses the European two-pin plug (Type F). Voltage is 230V/50Hz. UK visitors need an adaptor.
Emergency number: 112 (Europe-wide emergency number). 110 for police.
Pharmacies (Apotheken): Recognisable by a red "A" sign. German pharmacies are well-stocked and pharmacists are knowledgeable. For minor ailments, a pharmacist is often the quickest solution.
Water: Tap water in Germany is safe to drink and of excellent quality.
Visa: EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa. UK citizens can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Germany is part of the Schengen Area.
