Frankfurt Germany Travel Tips

Frankfurt Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips:

Getting Around:

  • Public Transportation: Frankfurt boasts an excellent public transportation system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, buses). Buy tickets before boarding from machines or kiosks. Validate your ticket immediately upon entry.
  • Walking: Frankfurt is a very walkable city, but be prepared for cobblestone streets and occasional hills.
  • Taxis: Readily available, but more expensive than public transport.

Etiquette:

  • Greetings: A handshake is customary upon meeting someone. Use “Guten Morgen” (good morning), “Guten Tag” (good day) or “Guten Abend” (good evening).

  • Punctuality: Germans value punctuality. Be on time for appointments and meetings.

  • Direct Communication: Germans are direct communicators. Don’t be offended by their straightforwardness. They appreciate honesty and clarity.

  • Tipping: Round up the bill at restaurants (5-10%) or leave a few Euros in cash. Tip taxi drivers 5-10%.

  • Noise Levels: Keep noise to a minimum, especially in public spaces and after 10 pm.

  • Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in most indoor public places.

Cultural Tips:

  • Respect for Authority: Show respect for authority figures such as police officers and teachers.

  • Recycling: Germany has strict recycling regulations. Separate your trash into designated bins (glass, paper, plastic, etc.).

  • Sunday Closings: Many shops and restaurants are closed on Sundays.

  • Cash vs. Card: While credit cards are widely accepted, smaller establishments may prefer cash.

Learn Some Basic German Phrases:

  • Hello: Hallo
  • Thank you: Danke
  • Please: Bitte
  • Excuse me: Entschuldigung
  • I don’t understand: Ich verstehe nicht

Enjoy your trip to Frankfurt!