The most common method of payment in Berlin is cash. Germany uses the Euro (EUR), with small bills and coins being both handy and appreciated, and the exchange rate varies.
Some shops and restaurants in Germany accept credit/debit cards, as indicated by logos displayed on their door or window, and very few welcome mobile payment systems, such as PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Where to get cash
The easiest way to get cash in Germany is to use a cashpoint/ATM or Geldautomat, which can be found via navigation apps, such as Google Maps. Each is marked with what networks are supported, including STAR, PLUS, Maestro, Cirrus, MasterCard, and Visa.
We advise selecting ATMs connected with official bank buildings, such as Sparkasse, Volksbank, Postbank, Deutsche Bank, and Commerzbank; or monitored locations at subway stations, petrol stations, and shopping malls. Bank buildings are often closed after hours, but you can gain access to a self-service area with your credit/debit card using a card reader near the doors.
Shops in Germany rarely provide a cashback option, where the customer can withdraw cash whilst making a card purchase.
Your bank may charge a fee for withdrawals, plus an exchange rate adjustment if your account is not in EUR, so be sure to enquire.
Tipping
Service charges and VAT are included in the menu price in restaurants, cafes, and bars in Berlin. However, it is typical to add 5-15%, and it is polite to round up the amount to the nearest Euro if you can spare the change for any service received.
Bus/tram tickets
Ticket machines on trams and buses only accept small change. Check out Getting Around Berlin for more information.
Taxi cabs
The majority of taxi cabs only accept cash, unless you ordered one by app and connected another method of payment when registering.