Cologne Germany Travel Tips

Title: Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Cologne, Germany

  1. Greetings

    • Germans are formal in their greetings. Use “Guten Tag” (Good Day) or “Hallo” (Hello). When meeting someone for the first time, shake hands firmly but politely and look the person in the eye. Address people using “Sie” (formal you), unless invited to use the informal “Du”.

  2. Punctuality

    • Germans value punctuality. Arriving late is seen as disrespectful, so aim to be on time for all appointments and meetings.

  3. Public Transportation

    • Cologne’s public transportation system is efficient and reliable. Always validate your ticket before boarding. Fines are hefty if caught without a valid ticket.

  4. Recycling

    • Germany takes recycling very seriously. Separate waste into the appropriate bins (Papier/Paper, Glas/Glass, Metal, Müll/Garbage) and follow local recycling rules.

  5. Public Decorum

    • Germans are respectful in public spaces. Keep a low voice on phones and avoid loud conversations. Be mindful of personal space when standing in lines or crowds.

  6. Tipping

    • Tipping in restaurants is customary, but service charges are often included in the bill. A tip of 5-10% is appreciated by waitstaff if no service charge has been added. For taxis, round up to the nearest euro.

  7. Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

    • When visiting the Cologne Cathedral, remember to dress appropriately (cover shoulders and knees). Remove hats when entering churches out of respect.

  8. Respect Local Customs

    • During Oktoberfest, traditional Bavarian clothing is worn. Don’t be afraid to join in the festivities but ensure your outfit is authentic and tasteful.

  9. Avoid Political Discussions

    • Politics can be a sensitive subject in Germany, especially regarding World War II history. It’s best to avoid discussing politics unless you know the people well.

  10. Cycling Culture

    • Cologne is bike-friendly. Rent a bicycle and explore the city like a local! Always follow traffic rules when cycling, as fines for violations can be high.