Is Munich cash only?

Munich is not exclusively cash-only, but it is heavily cash-reliant, especially for small purchases, at independent cafes, bakeries, bars, and certain market stalls. While major retailers, hotels, and restaurants accept cards, carrying euros is highly recommended for convenience, as some smaller shops only accept cash or local "EC" cards.

Do I need cash in Munich?

Most banks have ATMs outside that are open 24 hours. All major cards are accepted. Nevertheless, many smaller shops, market stalls, and bakeries prefer cash or EC cards over credit cards. Public transport ticket machines often require coins – always carry a few euros to avoid hassle.

Do Germans prefer cash or card?

Do customers in Germany prefer to pay in cash or by card? Payment behavior in Germany has changed significantly in recent years. According to the study “Payment behavior in Germany 2023” by Deutsche Bundesbank, cash continues to be the most commonly used method for transactions.

Is Munich credit card friendly?

In Germany, credit cards—primarily Visa and Mastercard—are often accepted in urban and tourist areas, as well as at major retailers. Many businesses also accept contactless payments via digital wallets, though some may only accept linked debit cards rather than credit cards.

How much cash do I need in Munich?

Munich is not cheap. We recommend you budget around EUR80-EUR100 per day.

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Is tipping expected in Munich?

Do you tip in Munich? In Munich, like many popular travel destinations, tips and gratuities are discretionary and dependent on the service quality you've received. Sometimes it's appropriate to tip simply because it's customary - for example in a restaurant, hotel or cab.

Is it rude to not tip in Germany?

Most people tip in restaurants, but it's okay if you don't. The waiter won't be rude to you if you don't tip. German waiters don't need tips to survive, but it's a big part of their income.

Can I use contactless in Munich?

Although many places in Munich accept cards, and contactless payments are catching on, smaller stores, market stalls and local food shops such as bakeries and butchers still run on cash.

What is the 2/3/4 rule for credit cards?

The 2/3/4 rule for credit cards is a guideline, notably used by Bank of America, that limits how many new cards you can get approved for: no more than two in 30 days, three in 12 months, and four in 24 months, helping manage hard inquiries and credit risk. It's a strategy to space out applications, preventing too many hard pulls on your credit report and helping maintain financial health by avoiding over-extending yourself. 

Should I get cash before going to Germany?

Wait until you arrive to withdraw money. I've yet to see a European airport that didn't have plenty of ATMs. Avoid (or at least minimize) cash exchange. Exchanging money is expensive: You'll lose about 5 to 10 percent when converting dollars to euros or another foreign currency.

Can I use my UK debit card in Germany?

You can use your debit card to spend or withdraw cash worldwide. Just use it in the same way you do at home, wherever you see the Visa symbol. We convert card transactions into pounds using the Visa exchange rate. When using your card abroad, you should select to pay in the local currency in order to get this rate.

Can you drink the tap water in Munich?

The tap water in Munich is among the best in Europe, originating in the Alpine foothills of Bavaria. You can drink the tap water anywhere in the city (unless it is marked as not drinkable) and so skip the plastic bottles in the supermarket.

How many euros should I take to Germany for a week?

On average, as a couple, you can expect to spend between €1,880 and €2,350 ($2,000 and $2,500) for a one-week trip. As a solo traveler, it is about €1,220 – €1,320 ($1,300 – $1,400) for a one-week trip. Therefore, you can indeed start planning your trip and visit Germany on a budget.

What time is dinner in Munich?

Lunch in Germany is taken some time between 11:30 and 1:30p and dinnertime starts at 6p, so pretty much the same as in the US. It is not unusual to sit down for dinner in a restaurant over many hours, but most people would start at 8p the latest.

Is Munich safe to walk around?

Some say Munich is so safe, it borders on being boring. Still, there are a few things travelers should be aware of – namely jaywalking (it's illegal) and walking along bike paths, which sidle many of the roads or take up part of sidewalks and are for bikers only.

Is Munich a walkable city?

Munich now holds the title of the most walkable city in the world, gaining prestige and attention as a result. This title brings recognition and simultaneously creates great potential for a modern, effective marketing strategy.

What is considered impolite in Germany?

In Germany, rudeness often involves a lack of punctuality, being loud in public (especially on transport), ignoring rules (like red lights), disrespecting privacy (e.g., closed doors), and showing a disregard for cleanliness or order, with emphasis placed on directness, respect for elders, and proper address (using titles/formal "Sie" for strangers). Common taboos include haggling in supermarkets, leaving trash (especially Pfand bottles), interrupting, and overly familiar gestures like the "thumbs up" or "okay" sign. 

Is a $5 tip good for a $20 haircut?

This means for a $20 haircut, a tip between $3 and $4 would be considered the minimum acceptable amount, while $5 would be on the more generous end of standard practice. A $5 tip on a $20 haircut represents a 25% gratuity, which is above the standard rate.

What are some common German phrases to know?

10 Common German phrases

• Hallo (Hello)
• Tschüss (Bye)
• Bitte (Please)
• Danke (Thanks)
• Entschuldigung (Excuse me)
• Sorry (Sorry)
• Formal: Können Sie mir helfen?; informal: Kannst du mir helfen? (Can you help me?)
• Formal: Sprechen Sie English?; informal: In Sprichst du Englisch? (Do you speak English?)

What is the dining etiquette in Germany?

Etiquette rules in restaurants

During the meal, you should make sure to place your hands on the table, but not your elbows. With the first drink, it is customary to toast and look each other in the eye. After the meal, you can place the cutlery next to each other on the plate to signal that you have finished.

Can I drink in public in Munich?

Beer is an important part of German culture. The tax rates for alcoholic beverages in Germany are below average compared to the rest of Europe, and there are very few regulations governing availability. Drinking in public is generally legal and considered socially normal.

Is it safe to travel to Munich, Germany right now?

There's an ongoing threat of terrorism in Germany. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. There have been multiple attacks using vehicles or knives in the last year. Be alert in public places and report suspicious activity to the police (see 'Safety').