Do’s & Don’ts in Germany – Cultural Tips Made Simple

Germans are friendly – but in their own way. If you’re used to small talk, high-fives, or casual everything, some German habits might feel cold or strict. Don’t worry – it’s not personal.

Here’s your no-nonsense guide to what flies in Germany – and what doesn’t.

✅ DO: Be on time

Punctuality isn’t just polite – it’s expected.

5 minutes early = on time

Showing up late without warning? Seen as rude
Even casual meetups run on clockwork.

❌ DON’T: Small talk with strangers

Germans aren’t into chit-chat.
No one talks in elevators or says “how are you?” at the checkout.
It’s not unfriendly – just private. Respect the quiet.

✅ DO: Bring cash

We said it before, but it matters:

Always have euros on hand

Smaller places often don’t accept cards, especially in rural areas

❌ DON’T: Expect free stuff

No free water. No free refills. No free ketchup.
Everything has a price – and Germans are okay with that. Just go with it.

✅ DO: Say hello and goodbye

Entering a shop? Say „Hallo“. Leaving? Say „Tschüss“ or „Auf Wiedersehen“.
It’s simple, polite, and expected.

❌ DON’T: Cross on red

Even if no cars are coming, don’t jaywalk – especially in front of kids.
Germans take pedestrian rules seriously. Fines are possible. Side-eyes are guaranteed.

✅ DO: Sort your trash

Recycling is a national sport.
You’ll see bins for:

Paper

Plastic

Glass

Bio (food waste)

Restmüll (everything else)
Just follow the colors – or ask.

❌ DON’T: Be loud in public

Public spaces = quiet zones.
No yelling on the train, no loud phone calls in restaurants. Keep it chill.

✅ DO: Respect quiet hours

Most buildings have Ruhezeiten (quiet times):

Weekdays: 10pm–6am

Sundays: all day
Don’t vacuum, hammer, or party loud during those hours – neighbors won’t like it..

❌ DON’T: Touch without asking

Germans keep personal space sacred.
No random hugs, backslaps, or touching strangers’ dogs. Always ask first.

✅ DO: Follow the rules – even the weird ones

Germany runs on Ordnung.
Rules are followed not because someone’s watching, but because they exist.
Crossing lines, skipping steps, or bending the system = frowned upon.

💡 Final Thought

Germans might not smile as much, but they’re helpful, fair, and direct.
If you show respect, speak clearly, and follow the basics – you’ll be just fine.