What to know before traveling to Munich, Germany?

Prepare for a mix of modern city life and traditional Bavarian culture in Munich by packing layers for unpredictable weather, carrying cash (Euros) for small shops and restaurants, and utilizing the efficient U-Bahn/S-Bahn system. Key tips include respecting quiet hours, not jaywalking, avoiding bike paths as a pedestrian, and visiting during spring or autumn for better prices.

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.

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.

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.

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.

MUNICH TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS | 40+ Must-Knows Before Visiting Munich + What NOT to Do!

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.

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 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.

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.

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').

What is the biggest problem facing Germany?

Immigration was seen as the most important issue facing Germany in November 2025, selected by 24 percent of people as a problem that month. The Economy was seen by 22 percent of people in Germany as a major issue, and was the second most-common response in the most recent survey.

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 not to bring into Germany?

Restrictions

• Medicinal products and narcotics. You must observe certain requirements if you are bringing medicinal products as normal travel requisites. ...
• Cash. ...
• Fireworks. ...
• Instruments of torture. ...
• Dangerous dogs. ...
• Publications or media likely to harm minors and unconstitutional publications. ...
• Cultural assets. ...
• Food and feedstuffs.

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.

Is it better to have cash or card in Germany?

Cash for smaller amounts

A closer look at payment amounts shows that cash is preferred in Germany, especially for small sums.

Should I inform my bank I'm going abroad?

If you intend to use your personal debit or credit card abroad it is best that you let us know. Telling us in advance that you're travelling will notify our transaction monitoring systems you will be using your debit or credit card abroad. This will help us to reduce the likelihood of your transactions being blocked.

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.