Munich combines centuries-old traditions with a vibrant modern lifestyle, making it one of Europe’s most charming destinations. Whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer stay, it helps to know the local customs, practical rules, and a few insider tips before you arrive. This guide covers everything — from store opening hours and public transport etiquette to tipping culture and common mistakes to avoid — so your trip to Munich is smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.
1. What are Munich store hours?
2. What currency is used in Munich?
3. Where can I change money?
4. Are credit cards widely accepted and why do I need cash in Munich?
5. How do escalators work in Munich?
6. Is Munich tap water safe to drink?
7. What is the tipping etiquette in Munich?
8. Is it polite to finish my plate in Munich?
9. How does the Munich bottle deposit (Pfand) system work?
10. Can I shop late at night or on Sundays in Munich?
11. What are the customs and VAT regulations?
12. Do I need a valid public transport ticket in Munich?
13. How should I book a restaurant table in Munich?
14. What should I know about Munich bike lanes?
15. Where can I smoke in Munich?
16. Can I drink alcohol on Munich public transport?
17. Can I drink alcohol in public in Munich?
18. What are the key Munich safety and getting-around tips?
19. What do I need to know about visas, passports, and driving licenses?
20. What is the standard electricity voltage in Munich? Do I need a plug adapter?
21. What should I do if I lose property or if something is stolen?
22. Who should I contact in emergencies?
Most shops in Munich close around 8.00 pm, and nearly all are closed on Sundays and public holidays. Essentials like groceries are available at airport shops, train stations, and gas stations that stay open later.
The currency of Germany has been the Euro (EUR) since 2002.
When entering Germany from an EU Member State and when leaving Germany for an EU Member State, cash and equivalent means of payment with a total value of EUR 10,000 or more must be reported verbally to the customs control units when questioned.
Non-EU Member States:
Travellers to or from Germany with cash with a total value of 10,000 euros or more must declare this amount to customs. Equivalent means of payment must be shown verbally when entering Germany when questioned by customs officials.
In the centre of Munich branches of Sparkasse, ReiseBank and Santander as well as Ria Money Transfer & Currency Exchange branches can be found near the central station. You will find ReiseBank branches also directly at Munich Airport.
Banks and bureaux de change
Banks are open from 9 am to 4 pm on weekdays with late hours until 6 pm on Thursdays (closed Saturdays and Sundays). There are numerous cash machines throughout the city and the branches of Reisebank are open also during weekends.
In Munich, major credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, stores, cafes and restaurants in Munich. Be sure to bring your PIN code and a picture ID when using a credit card in Germany.
Lost or stolen cards
If your credit card gets lost or stolen while you are in Munich/Germany, call the German hotline on tel.: (+49) 116 116 to block your card.
ATMs/cash machines
ATMs offer a convenient way of withdrawing German money on a credit or debit card. Most banks have ATMs outside that are open 24 hours. All major cards are accepted.
Nevertheless, many smaller shops, market stalls, and bakeries prefer cash or EC cards over credit cards. Public transport ticket machines often require coins — always carry a few euros to avoid hassle.
Stand on the right side if you are not moving, and walk on the left side if you’re in a hurry. This keeps traffic flowing smoothly and is considered polite.
Absolutely. Munich’s tap water is among the cleanest in the world — perfect for refilling your bottle and staying hydrated.
Leave around 10% of the bill for good service. Rounding up is also common. In taxis and hotels, a small tip is appreciated. Always hand the tip directly to the server instead of leaving it on the table.
Yes. Finishing your meal is a sign of appreciation for the food and the effort of preparation.
When you buy drinks in bottles or cans, you pay a small deposit (Pfand). Return empties at supermarket machines to get your money back. At events like Christmas markets, cups and plates often carry a deposit too — return them to get your refund.
Late-night shopping is rare. Most shops close at 8 pm and remain closed on Sundays, except for airport or station shops.
German prices include a regular tax rate of 19% Value Added Tax (VAT). It is refundable to persons who are non-EU residents and who are travelling to a non-EU destination. Tax-free shopping is possible in many major shops and department stores in Munich.
There is also a reduced rate of 7% which is applied to the followig goods: e.g. groceries, books, newspapers, entry ticket for theatres, concerts and museum.
A guide to VAT refund for visitors to the EU can be found here.
Goods into Germany
The amount and types of goods you can import into Germany without customs duty depend on whether you arrive from an EU country or a non-EU country. For information about duty-free allowances, please visit the website of German Customs.
Yes! Even though there are no barriers, ticket checks are frequent. Fines for traveling without a valid ticket are steep and must be paid. Always buy and validate your ticket before boarding.
Popular restaurants are busy, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Bike lanes are clearly marked and often separate from sidewalks. Stay on pedestrian paths to avoid collisions and keep cyclists safe.
Smoking is prohibited indoors in most public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and public buildings. Always look for designated smoking areas.
No. Drinking alcohol is not allowed on Munich’s public transport network. At Munich’s Hauptbahnhof, the ban extends to the entire station and surrounding streets.
Drinking alcohol in public is generally permitted, but there are important restrictions. Alcohol consumption is prohibited on public transport, and carrying or drinking alcohol is prohibited at all times in the main railway station area. The city may also impose temporary bans on alcohol consumption in certain popular hotspots.
Munich is generally safe, but watch your belongings in busy areas. Learn how to use the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, and trams. Consider day passes for convenience, and know where to validate your ticket. A few basic German phrases will also make your trip smoother.
If you wish to visit Munich, you should inquire whether you will need a visa or not. If you do, make sure to file an application in due time.
EU citizens
If you are an EU citizen, you must either present a passport or an ID card valid for the duration of your stay in order to enter Germany for tourist visits of up to three months.
Non-EU Citizens
Citizens of other countries must have a valid passport. Some non-EU citizens are required to produce a visa. Please contact your travel agent or the nearest German diplomatic post for further information.
Foreign driving licences
In Germany, your foreign driving licence is valid up to six months. After this period, you'll have to apply for a German (temporary) driving licence. Please note that the information on your licence must be written with Latin letters. This does not apply to driving licences from EU countries.
Find more information at the website of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport.
Germany, like most other European countries, has 230-volt AC, 50Hz current and uses two-pin continental plugs.
If you visit from the UK and Ireland, you will need an adaptor for electric appliances, whereas North Americans often need a transformer in order to use their 110/125V appliances.
If your property is lost or stolen in Munich, here are the contacts and places you can reach out to for assistance.
Main lost property office
Lost property office of the city of Munich
Tel.: (+49) 89 23 39 60 45
E-Mail: fundbuero.kvr@muenchen.de
Web: www.fundbuero-muenchen.de
Opening hours: only by appointment
Airport
For lost luggage or possessions left behind on a plane, please contact the relevant airline. For lost luggage or possessions left behind at the Munich Airport please contact:
Lost & found office (Service Center) at Munich Airport
fundbuero@munich-airport.de
Opening hours: Daily 6 am – 10.30 pm
Public Transport (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses)
Please contact the transport company you travelled with as soon as possible.
In case of an emergency while you are in Munich, always dial 112. It is a free call which will connect you to the police, fire brigade or hospital. If you need a chemist or dentist, there are a few which are open 24 hours.
Police, fire brigade and ambulance
Call (+49) 112 for life threatening emergencies and ask for the fire department or ambulance service.
Call (+49) 110 for police
Call (+49) 116 117 for medical help and to speak to a nurse or doctor, or to go to a hospital emergency department. Speak slowly and distinctly. State telephone number and address.
On-call practice in Elisenhof (general practitioners, paediatricians, gynaecologists, ENT specialists, orthopaedics/surgery):
Mon + Tue + Thu: 7 pm – 11 pm
Wed + Fri: 2 pm – 11 pm
Sat + Sun, public holidays: 8 am – 11 pm
Call: (+49) 1805 19 12 12 (0,12 € / min.)
Paediatric and adolescent on-call service
The paediatric emergency practices (24h):
Paediatric clinic Harlaching, Sanatoriumsplatz 2, 81545 München, call: (+49) 89 6210 2717
Paediatric clinic Schwabing, Parzivalstrasse 16, 80804 München, call: (+49) 89 3068 2589.
24-hour chemist
Overview of the Bavarian Chamber of Pharmacists Emergency service pharmacies: medicines and hygiene products around the clock, even on Sundays and public holidays.
Missing children
Always contact the police. Call +(49) 110
