Frankfurt, Germany-travel-tips
Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Frankfurt, Germany
General Tips
- Learn a few German phrases: While many locals speak English, making an effort to learn basic phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Danke” (thank you), and “Auf Wiedersehen” (goodbye) will be appreciated.
- Respect local customs and traditions: Germany has a rich cultural heritage; be respectful of historical sites, museums, and public events.
Public Behavior
- Follow traffic rules: Frankfurt’s streets can be busy; obey pedestrian signals, follow bike lanes, and avoid jaywalking.
- Be mindful of noise levels: Germans value quiet spaces; keep noise levels down in parks, libraries, or residential areas.
- Dress modestly for churches and mosques: When visiting places of worship, dress conservatively to show respect.
Cultural Etiquette
- Greet locals with a handshake or “Hallo”: This is a common way to greet people; avoid hugging or kissing as it’s not customary in Germany.
- Use formal titles (Herr/Frau) until invited to use first names: Germans tend to be formal, especially when interacting with strangers.
- Tipping culture: Round up the bill or leave 5-10% at restaurants and bars.
Additional Tips
- Download public transportation apps: Frankfurt’s public transport system is efficient; download apps like Moovit or Google Maps to navigate easily.
- Explore local markets and food stalls: Try traditional German cuisine, such as currywurst or schnitzel, at street food vendors or markets.