Thinking of moving to Germany, visiting, or just trying to understand the culture better?
Germany is known for its efficiency, beer, and stunning landscapes, but it also has some unspoken rules. Breaking them won’t get you arrested—but it will make you stand out as a foreigner.
Here are 10 things you should absolutely avoid if you want to blend in and avoid those awkward German stares.
🚫 1. Crossing the Street on Red (Even if No One Is There)
In Germany, jaywalking is a crime. It’s not just about rules—it’s about setting an example for children. If you cross on red, expect glares from elderly Germans… or even a fine if the police see you.
Instead: Wait for green—no matter how impatient you are.
🚫 2. Wishing Someone “Happy Birthday” Early
In Germany, it’s bad luck to say “Alles Gute zum Geburtstag” before the actual birthday.
Even if you’re excited for your friend’s big day, don’t say it beforehand. Germans take this superstition seriously.
Instead: Wait until the day of or after.
🚫 3. Forgetting to Separate Your Trash
Germany is obsessed with recycling and waste separation. If you just throw everything into one bin, expect judgment.
Most homes and public places have multiple bins:
♻ Gelbe Tonne (yellow) – plastic & packaging
♻ Bio (green/brown) – organic waste
♻ Papier (blue) – paper
♻ Restmüll (black) – everything else
Instead: Follow the bin system—it’s serious business.
🚫 4. Asking “How Are You?” as a Greeting
In English, we casually say “Hey, how are you?” without expecting a deep answer. In Germany, this is weird.
If you ask “Wie geht’s?” to someone you barely know, they might assume you actually want a detailed answer about their life.
Instead: Just say “Hallo” or “Guten Tag” unless you’re ready for a long conversation.
🚫 5. Sitting at an Empty Restaurant Table Without Asking
In many German restaurants, you don’t just sit down at any empty table. Some are reserved, and in busier places, you might be expected to share a table.
Instead: Ask the waiter first: “Ist dieser Platz frei?” (Is this seat free?)
🚫 6. Making Too Much Small Talk
Germans don’t do small talk like Americans or Brits.
Talking about the weather, asking how someone’s day is going, or making casual conversation with strangers (like in an elevator) feels forced to Germans.
Instead: Stick to direct, meaningful topics.
🚫 7. Trying to Pay With a Credit Card Everywhere
Germany is weirdly cash-friendly for such a modern country. Many places (especially small shops, bakeries, and even some restaurants) don’t accept credit cards.
Instead: Always carry some cash (Bargeld) just in case.
🚫 8. Expecting Sunday to Be a Normal Shopping Day
In Germany, Sunday is a quiet day (Ruhetag).
- No shopping (except in train stations & airports)
- No loud activities (mowing the lawn, vacuuming, etc.)
- No unnecessary work
Instead: Plan your grocery shopping before Sunday—supermarkets will be closed!
🚫 9. Calling Someone by Their First Name Too Soon
In Germany, formality matters. If you don’t know someone well, use their last name with “Herr” (Mr.) or “Frau” (Mrs.).
- Du = informal (for friends, family, and colleagues you know well)
- Sie = formal (for professionals, strangers, or older people)
Instead: Wait until they invite you to use “du.”
🚫 10. Not Tipping at Restaurants
Unlike the US, tipping isn’t mandatory in Germany, but it’s still expected.
Servers are paid better than in other countries, but leaving 5-10% is standard. If your bill is €18.50, just round up to €20 or say “Stimmt so” (keep the change).
Instead: Always tip—just not excessively.
Final Thoughts: Germany Loves Rules, but It’s a Great Place to Be
Once you understand these unwritten rules, life in Germany is pretty smooth. Germans value respect, order, and efficiency, and if you follow these cultural tips, you’ll blend in much faster.
Which German cultural habit surprised you the most? Drop a comment below! 🇩🇪✌️