Explore Germany
Efficiency, tradition, and warmth — discover a country where precision meets hospitality.
Germany blends rich history, world-class engineering, and a vibrant cultural scene. From fairy-tale castles to bustling beer halls, travelers will find a country that values efficiency, directness, and quality craftsmanship in everything it does.
Quick facts
Essential phrases
All phrasesCultural norms
All tipsShake hands firmly
GreetingsGermans greet with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. Limp handshakes are considered weak. Use "Guten Tag" (good day) for formal settings and "Hallo" for casual ones. First names are only used once explicitly invited — stick to "Herr" or "Frau" with the surname until told otherwise.
Punctuality is non-negotiable
PunctualityBeing on time in Germany means being 5 minutes early. Lateness — even by a few minutes — is considered disrespectful in both social and professional settings. If you are going to be late, always call ahead. This applies to dinner invitations, appointments, and meeting friends.
Say "Prost" with eye contact
DiningWhen toasting in Germany, always make eye contact with each person as you clink glasses and say "Prost!" (cheers). Failing to make eye contact during a toast is said to bring seven years of bad luck — and Germans take this tradition seriously.
Tipping guide
Full guideTipping is customary but not obligatory. Rounding up the bill or adding 5–10% is standard at restaurants. Say the total you want to pay when handing over cash.
Restaurants
5–10%
Tipping at restaurants is done by telling the server the total amount you want to pay (including tip) when handing over cash. Saying "stimmt so" means "keep the change." Card tipping is less common but increasingly accepted.
Taxis
Round to nearest euro or 5–10%
Rounding up to the nearest euro or adding 5–10% is standard. Simply state the total amount you want to pay.
Hotel housekeeping
€1–2/night
Not widely practiced but appreciated, especially at longer stays. Leave on the pillow or nightstand.
Bars & beer halls
Round to nearest euro
At beer halls and bars, rounding up is standard. For table service at traditional beer gardens, tip similarly to restaurants.
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