Money
Germany uses the euro (€). Card payment is widely accepted, but Germany has historically been a cash-heavy society — smaller restaurants, markets, and rural guesthouses often prefer or require cash. Carry some euros for day-to-day use. ATMs (called Geldautomaten) are found everywhere.
Language
German is the official language. English is widely spoken in cities, tourist areas, and among younger people. In rural eastern Germany, English is less common. A few words of German go a long way — locals appreciate the effort.
Tipping
Tipping is expected but not rigidly structured. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or adding 5–10% is standard. Tell the server the total you want to pay rather than leaving cash on the table ("Das stimmt so" means "keep the change"). Taxi drivers also expect a round-up.
Accommodation
Germany has a well-developed hostel network. The DJH (Deutsches Jugendherbergswerk) operates over 450 official youth hostels as part of the Hostelling International network — membership is required and easy to obtain online. Independent hostels in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Dresden are often more relaxed and don't require membership.
Opening Hours
Shops are generally open Monday to Saturday, with limited Sunday opening. Many smaller shops still close for lunch in smaller towns. Supermarkets in larger cities tend to stay open until 10pm.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (Apotheken) are well stocked. Outside business hours, a notice on the door will point you to the nearest duty pharmacy (Notdienstapotheke).
Emergency Numbers
Police: 110. Fire and ambulance: 112. Both work from any phone.
Electricity
230V / 50Hz, with standard European two-pin round plugs (Type F). Visitors from North America and the UK need an adapter.