Munich Travel Tips

Munich Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips:

General:

  • Greetings: A firm handshake is customary upon meeting someone for the first time.

    • Use “Guten Morgen” (Good morning), “Guten Tag” (Good day), or “Guten Abend” (Good evening) depending on the time of day.

  • Addressing People: Use formal titles like “Herr” (Mr.) and “Frau” (Mrs.) followed by their last name unless invited to use their first name.

  • Punctuality: Germans are known for their punctuality. Be on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.

Dining:

  • Reservations: Making reservations is recommended, especially for popular restaurants during peak season.

  • “Prost!”: It’s customary to say “Prost!” (Cheers!) when clinking glasses with others. Make eye contact while doing so.

  • Tipping: Service charges are usually included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving an additional 5-10% is appreciated for good service.

  • “Bitte” and “Danke”: Always say “Bitte” (Please) and “Danke” (Thank you) when ordering and interacting with staff.

Public Transportation:

  • Validate Tickets: Remember to validate your tickets before boarding buses, trams, or trains.

  • Quiet Zones: Be mindful of designated quiet zones on public transportation where talking loudly is discouraged.

  • Seat Etiquette: Offer your seat to elderly people, pregnant women, and those with disabilities.

General Etiquette:

  • Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in most indoor public places, including restaurants, bars, and museums.

  • Noise Levels: Keep noise levels down in residential areas, especially at night.

  • Litter: Dispose of trash properly in designated bins.

  • Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Enjoy your trip to Munich!