11 Things Not to Do in Germany (If You Don’t Want the Side-Eye)

Germany is where trains whisper instead of screech, bakeries smell like heaven, and rules run tighter than a drum. Before booking your cheap flight to Frankfurt, Germany, it’s worth learning the things not to do in Germany because, honestly, the country runs on an invisible code of respect and efficiency.

You’ll notice it within minutes of landing: nobody crosses on red, everyone queues in perfect silence, and even dogs seem to obey traffic lights. It’s not about being uptight, it’s how the place hums in harmony. But for travelers, missing these cues can turn you into that tourist.

1. Don’t Cross on Red, Even If It’s Just You
2. Recycling Is Serious Business
3. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English
4. Don’t Forget Your Visa or Documents
5. Shops Are Shut on Sundays (Really Shut)
6. Don’t Be Late, Like Ever
7. Tipping Is Simple
8. Don’t Skip Planning Your Route
9. Don’t Disrespect Quiet Hours
10. Steer Clear of Certain Historic Topics
11. Keep Greetings Simple
Best Time to Visit Germany for Indian Travelers
Closing Note
FAQs – Things Not To Do In Germany

1. Don’t Cross on Red, Even If It’s Just You

Roads of Munich
Image Credit: AVRORACOON/Shutterstock

We all love that moment back home when you jaywalk and cars slow down for you. In Germany? Nope. The red light is sacred here. Cross on green or face some bewildered looks. You might feel like “Are you seriously judging me over a pedestrian light?” but hey, it’s part of German etiquette, and you’ll get used to the patience part.

2. Recycling Is Serious Business

Back home, separating trash is still sometimes a hassle, but here, recycling is like a national sport. Don’t toss bottles or wrappers carelessly; they have their own color-coded bins everywhere. You’ll notice locals treating it like almost an art form, maybe unlike the chaotic packet toss in roadside dhabas! This is one of those things not to do in Germany, that’s easy once you get it right.

Also Read: Stop Scrolling! Here’s The Ultimate List Of Things To Do In Germany

3. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English

Most Germans do speak English, but assuming they must is one of those subtle Things not to do in Germany. Try a simple “Guten Tag” or “Danke.” It’s appreciated and might even earn you a smile. It’s small gestures like this that turn strangers into guides and meals into memories.

4. Don’t Forget Your Visa or Documents

It’s tempting to rush the planning when wanderlust hits, but Germany’s not a “wing it” destination. Make sure your paperwork’s spotless before flying. Getting a Schengen Visa or Germany visa online is straightforward, but German immigration loves precision, mismatched dates or missing hotel proofs can delay you.

5. Shops Are Shut on Sundays (Really Shut)

Indian malls buzzing on Sundays? Not in Germany. Most stores are closed, and streets turn mellow. So, if you planned a shopping spree, better keep Sunday free for parks, museums, or just wandering. It’s one of the biggest things tourists should never do in Germany: expect Sunday shopping.

6. Don’t Be Late, Like Ever

This one hits close home because, well, we get it, traffic, tea breaks, aunties on call. But here, if your meet-up or train is at 3 p.m., it’s 3 p.m. sharp. Being five minutes late is basically frowned upon. It’s not harsh, just part of German rules that keep everything ticking perfectly.

7. Tipping Is Simple

While tipping, don't leave coins on the table — While tipping, don’t leave coins on the table
Image Credit: Sam Dan Truong/Unsplash

Surprisingly, cash still rules in Germany. Many cafes, taxis, or small hotels prefer euros over cards. Always carry some. And when tipping, round up the bill or add around 5-10%. Leaving coins on the table isn’t common; instead, tell the server the total amount while paying. It’s a small German etiquette gesture that shows you’re aware.

Also Read: 10 Fun Things to Buy in Germany: Pack This, Not That

8. Don’t Skip Planning Your Route

Germany’s train network is a dream, but it’s also massive. Some routes are faster, others scenic, and some downright confusing. Before hopping around, check a few curated Germany tour packages that help balance history, food, and those fairy-tale villages that look stolen from a painting.

Also, there are places to avoid in Germany, crowded beer tents late at night or sketchy train stations after midnight. Stay smart and stick to well-lit, lively spots.

9. Don’t Disrespect Quiet Hours

Most German towns have Ruhezeit (quiet hours), typically after 10 p.m. on weekdays and all day Sunday. No vacuuming, loud music, or noisy balcony chats. It’s one of those unspoken Things not to do in Germany that keeps neighborhoods peaceful.

10. Steer Clear of Certain Historic Topics

It’s natural to be curious about Germany’s intense history, but be careful discussing WWII or related topics casually. Jokes, comparisons, or stereotypes about these topics are one of the strict things not to say to a German. It’s a sensitive chapter, and most locals wouldn’t want it joked about. Just respectful silence or a nod is best.

Instead, ask locals about modern culture, art, or football. They’ll open up faster than you’d expect.

11. Keep Greetings Simple

Don’t expect the bear hugs or cheek-kissing like with old friends back home. Germans like a good handshake or small nod as hello, especially to strangers. It’s part of the friendly but respectful German Etiquette.

Best Time to Visit Germany for Indian Travelers

Spring and autumn are the golden times, less crowded airports, colorful streets, and that perfect crisp air you didn’t know you missed. Winters are magical for Christmas markets but bundle up! Get a good deal on the best hotels in Frankfurt early to avoid last-minute price spikes.

Closing Note

In the end, the things not to do in Germany aren’t scary rules; they’re quiet lessons in respect. Once you tune into the rhythm, you’ll fall for those smooth trains, delicious bread, polite street crossing, and even the quiet Sundays. And when the clock hits 10 p.m., you’ll notice how the country seems to exhale, music fades, chatter softens, and the cities slip into a peaceful hush that feels almost sacred. Embrace the little dos and don’ts in Germany, they’re the cultural dance steps to your best trip ever!

So, walk on green, recycle right, and speak softly. Germany isn’t about chaos or flash; it’s about balance. Get that right, and you won’t just visit, you’ll belong.

FAQs – Things Not To Do In Germany

What are some do’s and don’ts in Germany?
A big “do” is being on time for everything, because Germans are super punctual. A big “don’t” is to be loud in public, especially on trains or in your apartment building.

What are some strict rules in Germany?
You really have to follow the traffic lights when crossing the street, even if there are no cars. Also, a big no-no is downloading movies or music illegally, and you need to separate your trash properly for recycling.

What is the 10pm rule in Germany?
The “10 p.m. rule” is when things are supposed to get quiet for the night, so that’s a good time to stop making loud noise. Sundays are also generally treated as a quiet day.

What are the unspoken rules in Germany?
A couple of unspoken rules are not bothering people with too much small talk and using formal titles, until you’re told otherwise. Respecting the quiet hours.

What cannot be taken into Germany?
You can’t bring certain things in, like some illegal drugs or specific types of fireworks. You should also be careful with fake designer goods and some plants or animals.

Is German culture strict?
It can seem a bit strict because people really value rules, order, and being on time. This isn’t because they’re unfriendly, but because they believe it helps everything run smoothly.

What do visitors to Germany have to be careful about?
Visitors should be careful about privacy; don’t take pictures of people without asking, especially if you plan to use them publicly. You should also carry some cash, as some smaller spots don’t take credit cards.

How do you say “hi” in German?
You can just say “Hallo” to say “hi.” For a more formal greeting, you can say “Guten Tag,” which means “good day.”

Is Germany a friendly country to visit?
Yes, Germany is very friendly once you get to know people, though they might seem a bit reserved at first. Many people speak English, so you can easily get around, and they appreciate it when you make an effort with their language and culture.

Don’t Stop Here, There’s More To Read:

10 Reasons to Visit Germany (And Why You’ll Never Forget It)
Ultimate German Food Guide: From Pretzels to Black Forest Cake
10 Places To Visit In Germany: Sip, Stroll, And Explore Like A Local

Akbar Travels Services

Best Flight Deals

Domestic Flights

International Flights

Best Hotel Deals

Apply Visa Online

International Tour Packages

Domestic Tour Packages

Packages by Themes

3 Comments

Pingback: 20 Things Not to Do in Canada (and the Funny Reasons Why)
Pingback: 10 Cool Things to Do in Berlin - From Street Art to Secret Bars
Pingback: Things Not to Do in New Zealand Unless You Want Trouble!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Don’t Cross on Red, Even If It’s Just You

2. Recycling Is Serious Business

Also Read: Stop Scrolling! Here’s The Ultimate List Of Things To Do In Germany

3. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English

4. Don’t Forget Your Visa or Documents

5. Shops Are Shut on Sundays (Really Shut)

6. Don’t Be Late, Like Ever

7. Tipping Is Simple

Also Read: 10 Fun Things to Buy in Germany: Pack This, Not That

8. Don’t Skip Planning Your Route

9. Don’t Disrespect Quiet Hours

10. Steer Clear of Certain Historic Topics

11. Keep Greetings Simple

Best Time to Visit Germany for Indian Travelers

Closing Note

FAQs – Things Not To Do In Germany

Don’t Stop Here, There’s More To Read:

Akbar Travels Services

Best Flight Deals

Domestic Flights

International Flights

Best Hotel Deals

Apply Visa Online

International Tour Packages

Domestic Tour Packages

Packages by Themes

3 Comments

Leave a Comment Cancel

First Step to your Holiday….

Categories

Recent Posts

UK Visa Processing Time for Indian Passport Holders

Step-by-Step Guide to the UK Visa Process for Indians

How to Check UK Visa Status Online?

How Long Does It Take to Get a UK Visa?

Malaysia Travel Guideline 2025: Visa, Flights, and Safety Rules Explained

Don’t miss out on our Blog updates.

Travel

Key Things to Know About Navi Mumbai International Airport