What to know before going to Munich?

Munich, the Bavarian capital, is a safe, walkable city where you should keep cash handy, respect Sunday quiet hours (most shops are closed), and beware of fast-moving cyclists. Key to the experience are punctuality, using the MVV public transport system, and enjoying beer gardens, which require knowing the difference between table service and self-service.

Is Munich friendly to tourists?

Munich is known for being tourist-friendly, offering a welcoming atmosphere to visitors from around the world. The city prides itself on its rich cultural heritage, well-maintained tourist sites, efficient public transportation, and helpful signage in multiple languages.

What I wish I knew before going to Germany?

Always carry cash in Germany

In fact, there are now some places that don't take cash at all. Be prepared for both. It's not a cheap destination, but it is possible to travel in Germany on a budget.

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.

Is English widely spoken in Munich?

Munich is a thoroughly international city and you'll find plenty of people can speak English.

Visiting Munich? Here are the Must-Knows!

How do you say hello in Munich?

Hello in German

1. 1 – Hallo. ...
2. 2 – Hi. ...
3. 3 – Servus. ...
4. 4 – Moin. ...
5. 5 – Grüß Gott / Grüß dich. ...
6. 6 – Grüezi. ...
7. 7 – Jo. ...
8. 8 – Guten Morgen.

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.

Should I get euros before going to Munich?

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.

Do and don'ts 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.

What is the 183 rule in Germany?

According to this rule, if an individual spends more than 183 days in a calendar year in Germany, they may be considered a tax resident and subject to German taxation on their worldwide income. Period Calculation: The 183 days can be cumulative and do not need to be consecutive.

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 it safe to walk at night in Munich?

Safety? I've never felt unsafe waking around at night in Munich. Just use the same common sense you'd use in any other big city. Our hotel was over near the Deustches Museum and never felt unsafe walking to and from the markets.

Are there no go zones in Munich?

To make things short: In Munich there are no “no go areas”! As a tourist take the basic precautions like everywhere, especially where masses of people meet such as tourist places or festivals (Oktoberfest, Christmas market).

What do visitors to Germany have to be careful about?

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').

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.

How much money for 3 days in Munich?

It costs around €48-€85/day to visit Munich comfortably as a budget traveler. If you want to upgrade your accommodations, add another €60-€150/night depending on your level of accommodation.

Why is Munich water so hard?

Water Hardness

Because it comes from groundwater reserves near the foothills of the Alps, the water in Munich contains plenty of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can contribute to a stronger taste. Hard water can also cause limescale buildup, which will cause your kettle or coffee machine to clog up.

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.

Why is tap water not served in Germany?

Answer: It is uncommon to be able to ask for a glass of tap water from a restaurant due to unique Germany's tap water culture. Many Germans prefer the taste of bottled water (sparkling and still), therefore businesses will just not offer it!

How do you respond to Danke?

To respond to "Danke" (Thank you) in German, the most common reply is Bitte ("You're welcome"), but you can also use Bitte schön/Bitte sehr (You're very welcome), Gern geschehen/Gerne (My pleasure/Gladly), or Kein Problem (No problem), depending on the formality and context.