Germany Money

What are the payment methods you can use in Germany? Are there ATMs in Germany just like in other countries?

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Debit card

• Debit cards (both bank cards and credit cards) are accepted almost everywhere.
• Using a bank card is usually cheaper than using a credit card. If the bank or credit card company charges a fixed amount per transaction, frequent use of a debit card (both bank card and credit card) for small amounts is not recommended.
• There is usually a limit per day; the limit can be adjusted on request by the bank or credit card company.
• Banks and credit companies provide information about the use options and costs of debit cards.

Cash

• Germany has enough ATMs (Geldautomat, Bankautomat).
• Please note: withdrawing money with a bank card is not always free in the euro zone. ATM vendors may charge costs per transaction, both a fixed amount and a percentage. That should be indicated on the cash machine or on the screen, however, only a few ATMs state the exact costs before the PIN is entered. Ask your bank which ATMs are free of charge. In some stores it is possible to include a sum of money when paying at no extra cost, often depending on the amount of the payment.
• Withdrawing money with a credit card is not free. The costs vary per bank and per credit card. If the bank or credit card company charges a fixed amount per transaction, frequent use of a credit card for small amounts is not recommended.

Particularities

Due to the high costs that can be charged in Germany when using a debit card (bank card and credit card), it is convenient to have sufficient cash.

Price level

Budget stay: from € 35.
Mid-stay: approximately € 90.
Simple meal: from € 10.
Dinner 3 courses: from € 22.
Taxi ride (about 3 km.): From € 8.
Cup of coffee: from € 2.50.
Beer: from € 2.50.

Tipping

• Service fee is included in the hotel or restaurant bill. It is customary to round up the amount upwards or to leave the small change. Give a 5% tip for excellent service.
• You can round off the amount with taxi drivers.

Here you will find more information about Germany.