Germany
Central Europe · German · Euro
Be five minutes early, never jaywalk in front of children, and carry cash because half of Berlin still refuses cards.
Today in Germany
No Germany stories in today's wires — read the global briefing.
5 phrases you need in Germany
- HelloHalloHAH-loh
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehenowf VEE-der-zayn
- PleaseBitteBIT-tuh
- Thank youDankeDAHN-kuh
- Excuse meEntschuldigungent-SHOOL-dee-goong
The Trovlr app drills all 8 Germany phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
money
Plenty of restaurants, bakeries, and kiosks are still cash-only or EC-card-only; keep euros on you and do not assume your credit card will work.
tipping
Tip by rounding up 5 to 10% and say the total you want to pay when handing over the card or cash; leaving coins on the table is not the custom.
transport
The Deutschlandticket gives unlimited regional trains and city transit nationwide for one monthly price; for ICE high-speed trains, book early for Sparpreis fares.
etiquette
Sundays are legally quiet: shops are closed and noisy chores annoy neighbors, so plan groceries on Saturday and keep Sunday for museums and walks.
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