Do you need to carry cash in Berlin?

Important: whether you are shopping, in a restaurant or at the club, Berliners prefer to pay with cash. Debit cards and major credit cards (American Express, Visa, Mastercard) may often also be used, but smaller shops and cafés might only accept cash payments.

Does Berlin prefer cash or card?

Reasons to use cash in Germany

Cash is widely used in Germany and it's often the preferred payment method. Even in big cities, some cafes and restaurants only take cash payments. This also applies to taxis, which don't always accept all kinds of payment cards.

How much cash should I carry in Berlin?

Berlin has places that either prefer, or only accept, cash. I always recommend having an emergency 20 or 50 euros in your phone case, as well as your spending for the day in your wallet. However, it is never a good idea to travel with lots of cash on your person or in your luggage.

Is it best to carry cash in Germany?

Most absolutely, Germans prefer to deal in cash. No doubt about that relative to other European countries. Always have cash on you even when you can pay with an US credit card. You might even be asked to pay in cash when the establishment posts the Visa/MC logo.

Can I use my UK debit card in Berlin?

This means you should be fine to use your UK-issued card in Germany. You'll just need to check with your bank whether it has any charges for overseas transactions. You can confirm if a German ATM is compatible with your card by checking whether your card network's logo is on the machine.

Expats Interview On Working & Living In Berlin: How Much Can You Earn In Germany? | The Movement Hub

Is Germany cashless?

Payment trends in Germany

When deciding between cash and card, people in Germany often choose cash. One reason for the country's low acceptance of cashless payment transactions is the strong desire for privacy protection and the rejection of controllable financial data.

Is tipping expected in Germany?

You can tip if you are happy with the service, but it's optional. When there is table service, you can round up your bill, or tip 10%. For example, if a beer costs €4.50, you can give €5. When there is no table service, tipping is not expected.

Should I put cash in my luggage?

It's accessible to you but not visible to anyone else. In this case, I'd keep a few small notes in my D-pocket, a day's allowance in my wallet inside my backpack and the rest in The Envelope deep inside my main luggage.

Should I pay in euros or pounds on a debit card?

Always select to pay in local currency

It could cost you more than paying in the local currency. Point-of-sale currency conversion rates are set by the retail outlet and they're usually less favourable. For example, if you are in the eurozone then select to pay in euros, not pounds, at the card machine.

Why do Germans like using cash?

But the real point isn't that Germans love cash. It's that—for the same historical reasons—they loathe debt. (Armchair anthropologists have also long noted that German word for debt—Schulden—comes from the word for guilt, Schuld.) Levels of consumer debt in Germany are remarkably low.

Is Berlin cheap or expensive?

The short answer: Berlin is surprisingly affordable compared to other European capitals—but with caveats. While everyday living costs such as housing and dining can be budget-friendly, certain tourist areas and niche experiences might push your spending higher.

Do I need cash in Berlin in 2025?

Berlin is a modern, contactless-friendly city — but cash is still convenient, especially: For tipping. Buying water or snacks from pop-up stalls. Making small purchases at food markets.

Do you really need to carry cash?

Still, financial planners tell CNBC Make It that it's worth keeping some on hand — particularly for situations when digital payments fall short. Whether it's a power outage, a dead phone, a vendor with a card minimum or just the need to get home, cash can bridge the gap.

Does toothpaste count as a liquid?

Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion.

What is considered impolite in Germany?

Having a loud conversation, talking loud on the phone, or listening to loud music are considered very impolite as you will disturb other people. German people love to have their privacy. If you see a closed door, it doesn't mean that the person inside does not want you to come in.

Can you drink tap water in Germany?

As a rule, the quality of tap water in Germany conforms to strict regulations, is checked very thoroughly, and is perfectly drinkable without any treatment. In fact, its quality is comparable to most commercially available drinking waters in many places.

Do you tip taxi drivers in Berlin?

Tipping taxi drivers in Berlin

It's common to tip 10% in Berlin for a longer journey, and if you were helped with your luggage.

Should I bring cash to Berlin?

Important: whether you are shopping, in a restaurant or at the club, Berliners prefer to pay with cash.

Can you use an UK debit card in Germany?

You can use your debit or credit card at shops, restaurants and cash machines while you're away. Fees may apply when using your card outside the UK.

Should I tell my bank I'm going abroad?

It's not essential, but it helps our fraud detection systems to know in advance that you're travelling abroad. Find out how to get it at How do I get the mobile banking app?

Is Tesco credit card free abroad?

Making purchases: We'll charge you an additional 2.75% of the cost of your purchase on each transaction in a foreign currency. Clubcard Plus Credit Card holders will not be charged the additional 2.75% Foreign Exchange fee on any transactions.

Is Monzo or Revolut better abroad?

Choosing between a Revolut and Monzo account comes down to the features you want to better manage your money. Both are expanding their offerings for 2025, but if you want an account with international payment features and investment and savings options, then explore Revolut's plans.