What to know before traveling to Munich, Germany?

Munich, Germany, is a safe, walkable city best explored via efficient public transport (U-Bahn/S-Bahn). Key tips include planning for Sunday shop closures, respecting strict bicycle lane etiquette, carrying cash for smaller vendors, and booking popular restaurants in advance. The city offers year-round events, from Christmas markets to Oktoberfest, with fluctuating weather requiring layered clothing.

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.

What do UK citizens need to enter Germany?

Passports & Visas

British citizens don't need a visa to enter Germany but must have a valid passport. You can check your passport's valid for Germany using our handy tool.

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.

24 HOURS in Munich | What to do: Top Sights, Food & Shopping Tips 🇩🇪

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').

Is tap water safe to drink 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.

How much money do I need to enter Germany?

Taking money into Germany

You must declare any amount above 10,000 euros in cash or other payment types.

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 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 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 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 Munich tap water from the Alps?

Munich's drinking water is one of the best in Europe. It comes fresh from the source in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps.

What country has the safest drinking water in the world?

Countries With the Safest Tap Water

• Iceland. Pristine natural resources, including glacial melt, make Iceland's tap water exceptionally pure and contaminant-free.
• Norway. ...
• Switzerland. ...
• Japan. ...
• Australia, Germany, Finland and Canada. ...
• Singapore. ...
• New Zealand. ...
• India, Mexico, Nigeria, Indonesia and Egypt.

Is it okay to speak English in Munich?

Munich has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and hosts a significant international community, making it an easy place for English speakers to integrate.

Do you need to carry your passport in Germany?

According to German laws, everyone aged 16 and above should have a valid ID when traveling in Germany, regardless of nationality. In most cases, the passport is the only acceptable ID for Americans. However, the police may also accept documents such as driver's licenses and passport cards when performing random checks.

Are there no go zones in Munich?

Overall, Munich has no areas you should avoid living in. The residents of 3rd safest city in Germany have a high quality of life and social security, leading to low crime rates. Yet, some areas are less safe than others, where you should be more mindful of your belongings or avoid being alone at night.

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.