Germany: Travel guide, visas and free housing · 2026

Major hotels, supermarkets, and transit ticket machines accept international credit cards and mobile wallets. Many smaller venues, including bakeries, small cafes, traditional kiosks, and public toilets, prefer cash or local debit cards, and some take cash only. Carrying paper currency remains necessary for everyday small purchases.

Tipping is customary for table service but remains modest. Guests typically round up the bill or state the intended total directly to the server before paying. Leaving loose coins on the table is uncommon.

The pass provides nationwide access across urban public transit and regional train lines. It does not cover long-distance high-speed services such as Intercity Express or regular Intercity routes. Passengers using high-speed rail must buy separate tickets for those trips.

Kaltmiete covers only the base rent for the physical apartment space. Warmmiete adds recurring building operating costs, which include heating, water, and trash disposal. Household electricity and internet connections are almost never included in either rate and require separate private contracts.

Every registered household must pay the mandatory broadcasting fee regardless of television or radio ownership. The billing letter arrives by postal mail after completing municipal address registration. Disregarding the letter triggers administrative debt collection procedures.

Imbiss stalls offer quick foods such as sausages and fries in central areas. Neighborhood bakeries sell freshly made sandwiches, savoury snacks, and coffee. Many butcher shops maintain hot service counters that provide warm meat rolls and hot lunches for takeout.