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German Culture: Facts, Customs and Traditions

Some common stereotypes about Germans include their love for beer, their reputation for being hardworking and punctual, and their affinity for cars (Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Porsche are manufactured here so that’s kind of a given). 😊

But there’s so much more to explore about German culture and way of life, and we’re here to take you on a tour. Before we do so, here are some quick facts about Germany:

But before we do so, here are some quick facts about Germany:

Germany: Quick Facts

Germany has a population of approximately 84.6 million people.
Germany is a federal parliamentary republic and comprises 16 federal states . Consequently, cultural characteristics are shaped by its different regions and cities.
The native language and the most spoken language is German .
Germany’s capital is Berlin . Other major cities include Hamburg, Munich, and Cologne.

Table of Contents

When we think of a country’s culture, language is often one of the first things that comes to mind. As you may have guessed it, German is the primary language spoken in Germany, spoken by 95% of the population.

The German language is known for its long words (the longest is 79 letters) that are a result of joining nouns together. The alphabet consists of 26 Latin alphabet letters, plus its characteristic umlauts (ä, ö, and ü).

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While there are regional German dialects like Bavarian and Saxon, the German state officially recognizes four minority languages:

Upper and Lower Sorbian
North and Saterland Frisian

Apart from minority languages, you’ll hear plenty of other languages spoken by the various communities with a migrant background. Plenty of people in Germany speak Turkish, Kurdish, Ukrainian, Russian, Arabic, Romanian, or Albanian as their first language.

Everyone can freely practice their faith in Germany, as this is guaranteed by Article 4 of the Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany.

According to a 2024 IPSOS survey , Christianity is the predominant faith, with 47% of the population identifying with this religion. Within this religion, around 20% of the respondents identified with the Catholic church and 24% with the Protestant or Evangelical church.

A significant portion of the population—35%—identify as having no religion or describe themselves as agnostic, while 9% percent preferred not to disclose. At 4%, Islam is the second-largest religion in Germany. The remaining 5% belong to smaller religious groups in the country.

While religious affiliation is declining, religious traditions and practices shape Germany to this day. You’ll notice religious influence the most during holidays like Christmas, Easter, Pentecost, etc.

Cuisine & Food

Crispy Pork Roast Germany Cuisine (Schweinekrustenbraten)

Traditional German cuisine is all about hearty and comforting meals. Specialties vary regionally, but succulent meats such as pork and veal are often the star.

Some typical German meat dishes include Bratwurst (a type of sausage), Schweinshaxe, (pork knuckle), Schnitzel, and Frikadellen (German meatballs). These are often paired with sides such as a potato salad, fermented cabbage, or Spaetzle (soft egg noodles). For depth and flavor, these classic dishes incorporate cabbage, dairy products, and different spices and herbs such as cayenne pepper and thyme. Rich gravies and sauces such as the Rahmsoße (Rahm Sauce) elevate them even more. Beer often plays a role in cooking to enhance the taste of dishes like the beer-marinated Sauerbraten.

And let’s not forget the country’s love affair with bread and pretzels—they’re one of the food items Germans miss the most when they travel abroad . There are nearly 10,000 master bakeries across the country. All you have to do is follow the delicious scent of freshly baked rye bread (Roggenbrot), whole wheat rye bread (Vollkornbrot), rolls (Brötchen), or small pastries (Kleingebäck) to find them.

There are plenty of delicious desserts you can find in Germany as well. Sweet delights such as the Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest cake), Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), Lebkuchen (gingerbread-like cookies), and Stollen (Christmas fruit-bread) are a must-try!

German Drinking Culture

Beer is the undisputed king of beverages in Germany. There are, after all, entire festivals dedicated to it. To put it in perspective, visitors consumed a staggering 6.5 million liters in just 18 days of the Oktoberfest beer festival of 2023. You can choose from countless varieties of the drink, from pilsners to wheat beers.

The country also has a long tradition of wine production, particularly in regions like the Mosel Valley, best known for its Rieslings. If you’re into spirits, you’ve likely heard of Jägermeister, the famous German herbal liqueur.

If you don’t drink alcohol, fret not. Most establishments offer non-alcoholic drinks, including the refreshing Apfelschorle, a mix of apple juice and sparkling water. There is also a considerable coffee culture around the country, especially in large cities where can find both quaint cafés and international chains.

Fashion and Clothing

Each region in Germany has its unique traditional costumes, such as Bavaria’s Lederhosen for men (leather trousers ending just above the knee) and the Dirndl dress for women (featuring a bodice, blouse, full skirt, and an apron). These traditional outfits are typically worn during carnivals and festivals.

In their day-to-day, Germans usually opt for casual and comfortable outfits. These can include the jeans and T-shirt combo or a casual dress paired with sneakers or some other comfortable footwear.

During winter, most like to layer with a sweater or hoodie and a thicker jacket. The casual dress code often extends to office wear, with most office dress codes being business casual in non-costumer-facing jobs.

Woman and Two Kids with Traditional Bavarian clothing worn during the Allgäu Viehscheid (Cattle Drive)

Germans dress more formally and conservatively for important events and formal settings. These can include funerals, work dinners, weddings, business meetings, etc. The event and season will determine what to wear, but generally speaking, men wear suits and women wear skirt suits, pantsuits, or dresses.

Holidays and Traditions

There are nine public holidays celebrated nationwide in Germany. The majority are Christian celebrations that are observed by religious people (and enjoyed as a day off from the rest), but there are also some historical and cultural holidays as well.

New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag). As in many countries, January 1st marks the new calendar year. Germans celebrate this day with fireworks, parties, and family gatherings. They wish each other “Frohes Neues (Jahr)!” (Happy New Year!).
Good Friday (Karfreitag). This holiday is observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Germany, people attend church and spend their time in silent reflection.
Easter Monday (Ostermontag). This is the day after Easter Sunday, known for family gatherings, Easter egg hunts, and festive meals.
Labor Day (Tag der Arbeit). This holiday is celebrated each year on May 1st to honor workers’ rights. It is marked with demonstrations, rallies, and other public events.
Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt). 40 days after Easter Sunday marks Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven, a holiday which is observed by Catholics through church services and family gatherings. This day also marks Father’s Day (Vatertag), celebrated by many German fathers by getting together for walks in nature while carrying handcarts (Bollerwagen) full of beer.
Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag). Whit Monday is another Christian holiday, celebrated the day after Pentecost. Since it always falls on a Monday, many people take advantage of the long weekend to spend time with their families, usually enjoying picnics and other outdoor activities.
Day of German Unity (Tag der Deutschen Einheit). On October 3rd each year, Germans celebrate the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. This historical day is marked by patriotic events around the country, including a three-day festival in Berlin around Platz der Republik and the Brandenburg Gate.
Christmas Day (Weihnachtstag). This Christian holiday falls on December 25th each year and is one of the most popular festivities in Germany, even among the non-religious. Germans usually spend the day with loved ones, exchanging gifts and eating delicious meals.
Boxing Day (Zweiter Weihnachtstag). Translating as the second Christmas Day, the 26th of December is a day of relaxation, recreation, and spending time with loved ones.

Additionally, you may stumble upon holidays that are only celebrated in specific states or regions. Some of them include Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige), Corpus Christi (Fronleichnam), Reformation Day (Reformationstag), and All Saints’ Day (Allerheiligen).

Sports and Leisure

Germans absolutely love sports and outdoor activities. A 2017 DOSB survey estimates that there are around 90,000 sports clubs and 27.4 million club memberships in Germany. A significant portion of the population—about 33.2%—actively participates in such clubs.

Among sports, football (soccer) reigns supreme as the nation’s favorite, especially on a professional level. The German Bundesliga—the professional association football league—draws massive crowds and enthusiasm. However, basketball, handball, volleyball, tennis, ice hockey, and athletics are also quite popular.

Walking and hiking are other favorite pastimes, to the point that many foreigners poke fun at German people’s idea of a ‘short walk’ . Plenty of people also enjoy cycling and skiing, thanks to the country’s beautiful landscapes and well-developed infrastructure.

Festivals and Celebrations

Whether it’s a traditional folk festival or a modern event, people in Germany love to come together to celebrate with music, good food, and dancing. Festivals frequently include live music performances, traditional cuisine, colorful parades, and busy street markets.

Here are some of the most popular festivals and events in Germany:

Beethovenfest – Bonn. Beethovenfest in Bonn is an annual celebration of classical music. Ludwig van Beethoven’s birthplace honors the composer’s legacy with around 80 diverse events.
Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) – Berlin. Another annual event, Berlinale is a major film festival that showcases around 200 films of different genres and formats. It gathers film professionals and enthusiasts from all over the world.
Cannstatter Volksfest (Stuttgart Beer Festival) – Stuttgart. This three-week folk festival in Stuttgart is one of Germany’s largest, taking place around late September until mid-October. There are a lot of beer tents, a spectacular parade on the first Sunday of the festival, trader’s market stalls, live music, and more.
Carnivals (Karneval/Fasching) – nationwide. Carnivals are a long-held tradition in Germany, dating back to the Middle Ages. The festivities were later adopted into the church calendar to celebrate six weeks before Easter, before the period of fasting (Lent). You’ll find these festivities across each region of Germany, each with its unique costumes, colorful parades, and traditions. The Rosenmontag parade in Cologne is one of the largest and most popular carnival celebrations.
Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) – nationwide. Very few countries do Christmas markets like Germany. Taking place each year from the end of November to the last days prior to Christmas, the colorful stalls are famous for their festive ambiance, delicious Glühwein (mulled wine), roasted almonds, Bratwurst, and more. Many of them sell handicrafts that make for lovely gifts. Some of the most-visited markets are those in Nuremberg, Dresden, and Munich.
Easter Markets (Ostermärkte) – nationwide. A week or two leading up to Easter, markets open nationwide to welcome the holiday with handmade crafts, Easter eggs and candy, flowers, and more. Berlin’s Easter Market at Alexanderplatz and Stuttgart’s Easter Market at Schlossplatz are popular destinations
Oktoberfest – Munich. Indisputably the most popular even in Germany, the Oktoberfest in Munich is the largest beer festival in the world. Millions of visitors each year visit the festival for the local beer, Bavarian cuisine, and carnival rides.
Reeperbahn Festival – Hamburg. One of Europe’s largest club festivals, the Reeperbahn Festival in Hamburg is the place to be for music acts, conferences, and art exhibitions combined into one.
Rhein in Flammen (Rhine in Flames) – multiple locations. This series of fireworks festivals offers spectacular displays against panoramic backdrops in multiple locations along the Rhine River.
Walpurgis Night (Walpurgisnacht) – Harz Mountains. Each year on the 30th of April, people dress up in costumes, light up bonfires, and make loud noises to welcome spring. It is a night rooted in pagan folklore and tradition.

German Social Etiquette

From knowing how to politely greet elders to choosing an appropriate gift, it’s nice to know the dos and don’ts of a new culture. Here are some tips on social etiquette in Germany:

Greetings and Politeness

However, if you don’t really know the person, small talk is not necessary, as Germans are not very fond of it.
When you’re leaving a place, it’s nice to say “ Auf Wiedersehen ” (formal) or “Tschüss” (informal) for goodbye .
“Du” is informal, used to address friends and family, while
“Sie” is the formal option, used with strangers or to convey respect.
Using “ Bitte ” (please) when making a request and “ Danke ” (thank you) when expressing gratitude is expected and appreciated in everyday exchanges.

Check out our Guide to Learning German for other useful phrases and daily expressions.

German Work Culture

German work culture is all about precision, efficiency, and maintaining a professional attitude. The country has a reputation for strong work ethic and fairly strict workplaces, however, it also has some of the best work-life balance and social security policies among European countries.

Germans set clear boundaries between their work and home lives. They even have a special word—“Feierabend”—to denote the end of the work day.

On average, people in Germany work around 40.5 hours per week, which is somewhere in the middle compared to other European countries. They treasure their personal time, making use of generous vacation days. All employees in Germany working a 5-day week are entitled to a minimum of 20 vacation days per year.

Gift-Giving

Gift-giving is common in Germany, especially on occasions such as birthdays, Christmas, and other special events.

Gifts are usually wrapped with a nice wrapping paper and a bow. As for the actual gifts, German’s love for practicality comes through. Most people prefer receiving something modest and thoughtful rather than an extravagant gift.

Flowers are a popular and well-received gift in Germany, especially when visiting someone’s home. Other ‘safe’ gifts include chocolates, alcoholic beverages, and food delicacies (especially if you’re coming back from traveling).

You still need to be mindful of the recipient and your personal relationship to them, just like in other countries.

Dining Etiquette & Tipping

Dining out is somewhat expensive in Germany, so many only go out to eat once in a while rather than every day. Most people prepare food and eat in the comfort of their homes. If you’re eating with someone, you typically kick off the meal with a “Guten Appetit” (enjoy your meal).

If you are invited to someone’s home for dinner, it’s polite to wait for the host to start eating before you do. Meals are usually family-style, so you can expect to share some courses and pass around plates. After finishing your meal, a simple “Danke” (thank you) is enough to show your appreciation.

As for dining out, you might wait to be seated in fancier places, but in casual spots, feel free to choose your table. When you’re ready to order, a raised hand or “Entschuldigung” (excuse me) gets the server’s attention. To pay, both cash and cards work, but cash is more widely accepted. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving an extra 5-10% is common for good service.

If you’re invited to a wedding in Germany, be sure to RSVP promptly when you get the invite–it’s a big help for the couple planning it.

When it comes to wedding guest outfits, Germans lean towards formal attire. Women often go for dresses (any color but white), and men typically wear suits. If you’ve been to a U.S. wedding, the style is quite similar.

The most common gift for newlyweds in Germany is cash, often put in a nice envelope or creative packaging (look up “Geldgeschenke Hochzeit” for ideas).

During the festivities, embrace the fun by raising your glass with a cheerful “Prost!” for toasts. And don’t be shy to hit the dance floor–Germans love to dance at weddings. When the festivities wind down, take a moment to personally thank the couple for inviting you.

Funerals are dignified (and highly regulated) rituals in Germany. Depending on the deceased’s and their family’s wishes, the funeral follows Christian or secular traditions.

Christian funerals include a church service, often with an open casket, followed by burial or cremation. Secular funerals follow similar procedures, without the religious elements.

Germans wear dark and conservative clothing at funerals. If you want to offer condolences to the grieving family, saying “Mein Beileid” (my condolences) is appropriate.

You can also bring flowers such as a wreath or a bouquet to show your sympathy. During the service, maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, ensuring your phone is on silent mode.

Behavior in Public Spaces

Here are some cultural aspects to consider when you’re out in public in Germany:

Strong sense of community. Germans have a strong sense of community and look out for one another. For instance, if you spot a lost item hanging from a tree, it was probably a thoughtful gesture by someone who put it there so its owner could see it.
Priority seats are reserved for those in need (elderly, pregnant, disabled, and injured persons, so it’s expected to offer them your seat.
Order. In public spaces and queues, Germans value order and quiet. Whether you’re waiting for the train or you’re in the library, try to keep noise levels down and respect personal space. This is especially important in residential areas. In fact, Germans have specific quiet hours to ensure peaceful living (on weekdays and Saturdays from 10 pm until 6/7 am and on Sundays for the whole day).
Recycling. People in Germany are very environmentally-conscious and recycling is taken very seriously (there are fines if you sort trash improperly!). Each household and public space has specific bins for paper, plastic, glass, and more, so remember to sort trash and recycle responsibly.
Supermarket checkouts. Navigating supermarket checkouts in Germany is like a mini workout for your packing skills. Unlike some countries, there’s no dedicated bagger, so you’ll need to pack your items quickly into your bag or reusable totes after they’re scanned (plastic bags are banned; other bags are available for purchase). Payment options include cash and cards.

Although not as popular in the age of technology, reading is still a cherished pastime for many Germans. In 2022 alone, 64,000 new book titles were published in Germany. The country is home to the world’s largest book fair, the Frankfurt Book Fair, which attracts publishers and literary enthusiasts from all over the world.

Plus, did you know the first-ever magazine was printed in German? The “Erbauliche Monaths-Unterredungen” was issued monthly from 1663 to 1668.

German and German-speaking authors have also gifted us with timeless classics such as Goethe’s “Faust”, Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”, Mann’s “The Magic Mountain”, and Hesse’s “Siddhartha”, to name a few.

Some of the world’s most influential thinkers and philosophical discourses originated in Germany. Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) was one of the central figures of the Age of Enlightenment, whose ideas centered around transcendental idealism and reason as the source of human morality.

Later on in the 19th century, Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel was a prominent thinker of German Idealism, known for adopting a triad philosophy system: the Science of Logic, the Philosophy of Nature, and the Philosophy of Spirit. In the mid-1840s, Friedrich Engels and Karl Marx authored several works in which they developed their theories of historical materialism and the critique of capitalism.

In the 20th century, the Frankfurt School drew from Marxism, critical theory, and psychoanalysis to further critique the capitalist system & the change brought by it. Martin Heidegger was another important figure of this period, best known for his theories on hermeneutics and existentialism.

German Brass Band Marching During Oktoberfest, German Music

Traditional German music and dance vary from region to region, but two prominent genres include Volksmusik (literally: music of the people) and Oompah. You’ll be able to enjoy this type of music at most folk festivals (including Oktoberfest) and fairs.

Volksmusik is typically associated with the Alpine regions of Germany, also known as the Bavarian Alps. Songs often have lyrics pronounced in thick regional dialects, accompanied by instruments such as guitars, mandolins, accordions, and flutes.

Oompah music, on the other hand, is characterized by a steady beat (Oompah being the word describing the sound) of a deep brass instrument such as clarinet, trombone, trumpet, or tuba, together with other instruments such as accordions, drums, and clarinets.

Schlager is another “typisch Deutsch” music style that, perhaps due to its popularity, is often considered as folk music. However, its simple and catchy melodies and lyrics are more representative of pop music. It is a festival favorite, as everyone gets wasted and belts out the lyrics, despite many Germans finding it cheesy.

Traditional music certainly holds a special place in German culture, but classical music from the country’s legendary composers truly changed musical history. Germany was home to composers like Beethoven, Bach, Schumann, and Strauss, to name a few. You can listen to performances of their work on the many concert stages and opera houses across the country, such as the Berlin Philharmonic or the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg.

In their day-to-day, Germans listen to a wide range of modern music genres, from electronic beats and catchy pop tunes to gritty rock anthems. Each city has its own music scene. Berlin, for example, is known for its edgy techno music culture and clubs.

German art has developed alongside the history of the nation. Each piece of work from periods ranging from the Middle Ages to Renaissance, Romanticism, and Modern Art Neo-Expressionism has left traces of the past.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, the German Renaissance produced some of the most influential artwork and artists. Albrecht Dürer is considered the greatest German Renaissance artist. He was known for exploring and perfecting various forms of art, including oil painting, printmaking, engraving, and writing.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, German Romanticism reflected an attempt at escaping an increasingly industrialized world. Paintings often portrayed natural landscapes and incorporated mystical elements. It’s impossible to talk about this period without thinking of masterpieces such as Caspar David Friedrich’s “Wanderer above the Sea of Fog”.

Germany is also home to influential art movements like the Bauhaus, Expressionism, and Dadaism. These revolutionized design, challenged artistic norms, and left a lasting impact on the global art scene.

Here are some of the most famous paintings by German artists:

“Christ Among the Doctors” – Albrecht Dürer (1506)
“Rhinocerus” – Albrecht Dürer (1515)
“The Ambassadors” – Hans Holbein the Younger (1533)
“Wanderer above the Sea of Fog” – Caspar David Friedrich (1818)
“The Monk by the Sea” – Caspar David Friedrich (1818)
“Street, Berlin” – Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (1913)
“The Elephant Celebes” – Max Ernst (1921)
“The War” – Otto Dix (1929-1932)
“1024 Colours” – Gerhard Richter (1973)

Architecture

Half-Timbered Houses in Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg.

From ancient Roman structures to modernist architecture, Germany is a dream destination for architecture enthusiasts. There are 52 UNESCO-protected sites in Germany, many of which are architectural structures.

You’ll find several of these sites in Trier, Germany’s oldest city, founded around 16 BC during the reign of Roman Emperor Augustus. The Porta Nigra (city gate), Römerbrücke (Roman Bridge), and the Trier Imperial Baths are just a few of the Roman traces left in the city.

The later Romanesque style is seen in the sturdy structures of the many religious buildings of this period. The Speyer Cathedral is a perfect example and the largest remaining church of this architectural style.

Speaking of large cathedrals, the Cologne Cathedral is among the largest in Europe. The construction of this 157-meter (515 ft) tall Gothic architectural structure dates back to 1248, however, it took until 1880 for Germans to see its completion. Its twin towers and spires are typical of this style.

Gothic architecture is one of the most prevalent styles in many regions around the country. Brick Gothic is especially popular in the northern part of Germany, as seen in Lübeck’s Marienkirche (St. Mary’s Church) and the Holsten Gate. Timber-framed houses are another characteristic of this late-medieval style. There are more than 1,300 such houses in Quedlinburg, one of the many German towns that adopted this type of architecture.

The Renaissance inspired majestic castles and palaces like Heidelberg Castle and the Munich Residenz. The Baroque style also left behind remarkable buildings characterized by their beautiful frescoes. The Würzburg Residence and Dresden Zwinger’s complex are a must-see to explore this style.

Other Neo-classical, Modern, and Post-modern architectural structures harmoniously coexist with the ancient. Below, we have highlighted some buildings and structures that are a must-see in Germany:

Reichstag Building – The building of the prior legislative government turned seat of the Bundestag is a mix of Renaissance, Neo-Renaissance, and Baroque/
Elbphilharmonie – Must see for its flowing roof & vineyard-style halls (Postmodern architecture).
The city of Rottenburg ob der Tauber – For postcard-worthy medieval architecture and half-timbered houses.
Cologne Cathedral – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a perfect example of Gothic architecture.
Aachen Cathedral – This Roman catholic cathedral dating back to the year 805 is a mix of Carolingian, Romanesque, and Gothic styles.
Unité d’Habitation of Berlin – Brutalist apartment building (1958) by the famous Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier.
Berlin’s Museum Island – This amazing complex connecting five museum buildings is a treat for city planners (and all art enthusiasts).
Würzburg Residence – This German Baroque-style palace is a feast for your eyes.
Brandenburg Gate – This Neoclassical monument in Berlin was inside the border of the former Soviet sector during the Cold War. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, this former symbol of division now represented freedom and unity.

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German flag representing living in Germany

Germany is home to over 80 million people – as well as a diverse array of religions, customs, and traditions that make up the rich national psyche. Germany is known for its long and rich history, one that has put it at the forefront of European thought, politics, and art for over 1,000 years. This history has shaped a culture that combines predominantly Christian values with literature, art, philosophy, logic, reason, and, of course, a love of beer and sausages.

Consider this article a handy overview of German culture that will touch on the most notable points and facts regarding German values, lifestyle, customs and traditions, and will help you understand Germans better.

German People, Traditions and Facts

The German people face their fair share of stereotypes...

...such as how they like to save their space on a deck chair with a towel whilst on holiday or ensure that public transport (and, well, everything) runs on time. These things should be seen as a testament to their dedication to good planning and time-keeping . Secondly, there is, of course, a bit more to this nation’s populous than this.

What are the characteristics of German people?

It is true that many Germans tend to place punctuality as a high priority . Hence the global observation that German trains often run perfectly on time. German people tend to be thrifty, be sensible, and respect one another’s privacy, and they typically respect the structure and laws of society to an above-average degree. There is no place that this sense of ‘order’ is more apparent than in German business culture.

Traditionally, German people tie a lot of importance to notions of family and community . Regarding the latter, this is partially where the well-known ‘rule-following’ and orderly nature of the German people comes from: if everyone in the community follows the rules and does things the right way, the neighborhood/town/city/country will be a nice place for all residents to live, hence why many might seem like sticklers when it comes to correct recycling and late-night noise - they take it seriously for the sake of everyone .

Directness of German People

If you’re coming to Germany from the US, the UK, or Latin America, you may initially be surprised by the ‘directness’ of German people. But do know that in pretty much all cases, this is not meant to offend or be rude. You will soon become more comfortable with this cultural trait that encourages honesty, openness, and sincerity when communicating with one another and that avoids polite superficiality.

What is the culture of Germany?

Considered a country of thinkers, poets, and, nowadays, businesspeople, German culture and people are, to a large extent, all about reason and logic . Germany shares a lot of culture and tradition with neighboring countries, especially the Germanic-speaking Austria and Switzerland.

An important thing to know about German culture is that residents are expected to respect order and structure . It’s important to be on time, not just for work but for social events too, and to follow rules that are in place for the greater good of everybody who lives there.

German culture has been shaped over thousands of years. It was originally a pagan country , and then an important seat of the Holy Roman Empire . It was also the birthplace of the Protestant reformation . Today, Christians, Catholics, and Muslims coexist happily in Germany - you can read more about the religious diversity of the country on our Religions in Germany page .

What is German Culture known for?

Some of the key characteristics of German culture that the nation is famously known for include the aforementioned timeliness and order that is apparent in most parts of German society. From an onlooker’s viewpoint, good beer (and Oktoberfest ), delicious sausage, hiking, traditional ‘Oom-Pah’ folk music , and holiday-making make-up a key part of the country’s identity.

At closer inspection, there is a larger array of food, drink, history, and leisure activities that are also important aspects of their culture. And on a more serious note, in the modern era, Germany has grown to become a large and stable economy that contributes to global development and peace.

A quick list for getting a grip on the basics:

Official Language : German (most would consider High German, or Hochdeutsch, to be the most ‘official’ version of the language)

Population : 82 million

National Anthem : Nationalhymne

German culture symbols

As a historically Christian country, many cultural symbols have emerged from religion. This includes obvious symbols such as the crucifix and indirect symbols such as the shape of a pretzel (said to represent the Holy Trinity). With a large Muslim population, the Moon and Star of Islam is now also considered an important culture symbol in Germany.

Other symbols of German culture are famous names from the arts, politics, and philosophy such as Goethe , Beethoven , Klee , Kant and Marx (and David Hasselhoff probably belongs on this list, too – quite seriously). Modern culture symbols include both the German flag and the flag of the European Union.

Values in Germany

Generally, Germans tend to balance traditional Christian values with progressive, liberal, and inclusive attitudes

Germany can be considered a modern and advanced society in lots of ways. The nation has some of the most progressive policies regarding gender equality , LGBT rights , and immigration . In recent years policies to allow more immigrants to enter the country have come about as more German people have begun to value the benefits of a diverse multicultural society.

75% of Germany’s population are urban dwellers , and it is in these urban areas where you will find the most liberal attitudes towards homosexuality, gender equality, and refugees.

German people traditionally have strong family values , and even today, it is not uncommon to find several generations of a family all living in or around the same town or city - even in the larger or more transient cities like Berlin - who meet up often and celebrate or go on vacation together. Generally, they are also quite neighborly, and most will invest in their neighbors by getting to know them and creating a sense of community - again, not just in the smaller towns.

For decades, Germany has shown its commitment to renewable energy and protecting the environment . It has long been at the forefront of pioneering new technology to help in the war against fossil fuels, CO2 emissions, and pollution, and its dedicated garbage recycling system is one of the most thorough in the world. This should certainly be lauded as one of the country’s most impressive values.

When it comes to school and work, it seems to be ingrained in most German people that they should be conscientious and hard-working , which is probably why the country can boast impressive economic development and one of the best education systems in the world.

Garbage bins

The first thing to check out when you arrive in your new German apartment: the garbage bins. Learn how to separate your garbage at home and which colour communal bin it should go into outside. A very important thing to get right to ensure that everything can be recycled properly!

German Lifestyle

Most German’s neither live to work nor work to live

But a lot of Germans find that the two can be enjoyed harmoniously (the rest of the world should probably take note). The average working week in Germany is around 35-40 hours , one of the lowest in Europe. Productivity, however, is high, and whilst at work, most Germans take pride in doing a good job. And when not at work, they partake in a range of leisure activities and pastimes.

Board games

Germany is one of the world’s biggest producers of board games and has been responsible for the invention of many of the biggest names in the realm of so-called Eurogames (strategy-based board games). German-invented board games also include Carcassonne, The Settlers of Catan, and Ticket to Ride although you will also find German versions of most top games in local game shops, such as Trivial Pursuit, Monopoly, and Cluedo.

Most German households will have a number of board games at their disposal, and playing them is considered an excellent way to spend time with friends of all ages .

Many Germans are passionate about international travel , and taking foreign holidays is an important part of the lifestyle . In fact, Germany spends more per capita on international travel than any other country in Europe.

The biggest holiday destinations for Germans are Italy, Spain, and Austria, but thanks to the country sharing nine land borders with other countries, it’s really easy to take a European trip from Germany .

Sport is an integral element of German society , both in terms of participation and spectating. A third of all German residents belong to a sports club or organization and hundreds of thousands watch football, ice hockey, and handball games every week.

Find out more about the most-played and -watched sport in Germany on our German Sport page .

With three quarters of all Germans living in cities, urban gardening has become very popular and even those who live in high-rise apartments will find a way to add greenery to their apartment.

Many Germans have their own plot in a communal garden (similar to an English allotment), known in Germany as a Schrebergarten , that city dwellers travel to during the holidays or weekends.

Food and Drink

German food culture revolves around the preparation of hearty meals. Meat in Germany is very popular and is typically eaten with most meals, along with bread and potatoes . German cooking includes national dishes such as Rouladen , German noodles ( Spätzle ) and Schnitzel .

On a day-to-day basis, a cooked breakfast, a cooked lunch, and a dinner of bread, ham, cheese, and pickle could be considered typical. Dining out is popular , and cities and towns are all home to a range of fast food stops, bakeries (namely German or Turkish), deli outlets, and German and international gourmet restaurants as well as (increasingly in the bigger cities) food markets, pop-ups, and street food.

Alcohol consumption is fairly high and is enjoyed in both bars and at home. By far the most popular drink is beer , followed by wine, schnapps, and brandy. Get a better idea of German food and drink culture on our German Food page .

As the country that invented the modern motor car and the birthplace of Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW, it’s little wonder that Germans take great pride in their motor vehicles .

Many Germans view driving as a relaxing pastime as much as a means of getting from A to B. And you can often get from A to B quickly, thanks to the lack of a national speed limit on the Autobahn (motorway) and an excellent road network.

Car fans in Germany can enjoy the BMW Welt & Museum in Munich, the Porsche or Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, the Volkswagen’s Gläserne Manufaktur (Transparent Factory) in Dresden and much more all over the country.

German customs and traditions

There is a wide number of historic and traditional German customs. There are also a number of customs that have emerged in the modern postwar era

What are some of Germany’s traditions?

As a Christian country there are many protestant and catholic traditions which are observed and celebrated throughout the year. To make sure you are familiar with Germany’s calendar of national and regional holidays and celebrations, make sure to take a look at our German Holidays and Celebrations page .

Contemporary German traditions include ‘ Kaffee und Kuchen ’, the equivalent of an English Afternoon tea whereby families and friends stop working to come together in the afternoon for coffee and cake. The annual Munich Beer Festival, known the world over as Oktoberfest , is also a key tradition.

Tradition and Holidays

If you’re planning to move to Germany, it’s worth becoming familiar with the traditions and holidays for many practical reasons: so you know when shops will be closed, when you can expect days off work/school, and what your children will have to bring to school on certain days. Make sure you are familiar with the holiday plan and customs to avoid last-second stress!

Traditional clothes

Traditional clothing in Germany includes the world-famous Lederhosen , an outfit once worn by rural men, traditionally those undertaking farm work or manual labor. A knee-length set of breeches complete with braces, worn over a short sleeve shirt, Lederhosen are traditionally associated with Bavarian and Tyrolean culture.

For women, traditional German clothes include the Dirndl , a dress made from a bodice, pinafore and full skirt. The shirt underneath is usually low cut and made with short puffy sleeves. Today these clothes are no longer seen on farm workers but on the staff and partygoers at beer festivals.

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Integration in Germany

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German Culture and Traditions

A Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) in Bavaria, Germany.

Germany has an extensive culture that spans among almost all of the nations that speak German. Historically, the German culture has been influenced by great minds and intellectuals that led to the nation earning the description of a nation full of poets and thinkers. Some of the internationally recognized cultures from Germany include festivals like Oktoberfest and Weihnachten. As a modern society, Germany has made leaps in things like gender equality, same-sex marriage, and the promotion of rights for disabled people. The nation’s perspective about immigrants has also changed considerably in the last decade. The government is making more of an effort in recognizing immigrants.

The German Language

The official language of Germany is German , which is also among the 23 official languages used by the European Union. In addition, German is one of the working languages of the European Commission together with French and English. Other minor languages also spoken in Germany include Danish, North Frisian, Sorbian, and Saterland Frisian. All of these minor languages are under the umbrella of the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages (ECRML).

Close relatives of the standard German include English, Frisian languages, and Dutch. The language is also related to a smaller degree to North and the now extinct East Germanic languages. Standard German is easily distinguishable from the various dialects, which are mostly local languages. This distinguishability comes from the fact that the dialects use different syntax, lexicon, and phonology.

In total, about 100 million people around the world can speak German natively with about 80 million speaking it as a second language. Within the EU countries, about 18% of the population (around 90 million people) can speak German.

Religion in Germany

The dominant religion in Germany is Christianity. Data shows that about 59.4% of the population practices Christianity. Of this percentage of Christians, 30% are Roman Catholics while Protestants account for a slightly lesser percentage of 29%. Geographically, Protestants dominate the northern and eastern regions of Germany while the Roman Catholics are dominant in the southern and western regions. In recent times, however, there has been a growing number of non-religious groups in parts such as Hamburg. At some point, however, there was a time that the whole of Germany was almost wholly under the Holy Empire of the Roman Catholic Church.

Religion has heavily influenced German culture and traditions with Weihnachten ( Christmas ) being the largest holiday. Several events lead to the Weihnachten celebrations. On the fourth Sunday before Christmas, an Advent wreath adorned with four candles is hung up. Each Sunday, one of the candles is lit while Christmas carols are sung. An Advent calendar is given to children with 24 little door, each filled with a small treat, to count down the days to Christmas. Nikolaustag, another Christmas tradition, takes place on December 6th. On the eve of Nikolaustag, a boot is placed at the front door to be filled with treats by Nikolaus. Almost every town has a Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) leading up to the holiday. On Heiligabend (Christmas Eve) a Weihnachtsbaum (Christmas tree) is either bought or cut down and brought into the house to be decorated. The family attends a church service, which usually contains a Krippenspiel (nativity play) and afterwards returns home to open the presents placed under the tree.

German Cuisine

German food varies in the various regions of the state. For example, the southern regions of Swabia and Bavaria are known for similar foods with nations like Austria and Switzerland. The main types of meat eaten in the larger Germany include pork, poultry, and beef although the most popular one is pork. The meat is not usually eaten directly but mostly in the form of a sausage. In fact, there are more than a whopping 1,500 varieties of sausages that come from Germany.

Breakfast is usually a serious affair since it includes an assortment of bread, honey, boiled eggs, cheese, and other foods. Unlike other European cultures, the consumption of cereal is not widespread. Bread is more popular with at least 300 varieties.

The population of immigrants has also been able to integrate their cuisines into the culture as well. For example, Italians have been able to introduce pasta and pizza while the Turkish and the Arabs introduced foods like falafel and doner kebabs. The national drink in Germany is beer despite the growing popularity of wine in recent years. In fact, the nation has one of the highest figures of beer consumption per individual. Data shows that, among drinkers, one person drinks a whopping 30 gallons of beer every year. Oktoberfest is the world's largest beer festival. It is held annually in Munich from late September to early October. The festival has inspired similar festivities around the world.

German Philosophy

Germany has produced some great philosophers including Albertus Magnus from the Middle Ages, Leibniz in the 17 th century, and the famous Immanuel Kant. In the 21 st century, Germany has been key in developing analytic philosophy in Europe together with nations such as France, Scandinavian states, Switzerland, and Austria. These great minds from Germany have come up with interesting questions such as the relationships between faith and other ways of viewing the world. In addition, there have been great minds of sociology such as Marcuse, Adorno, Weber, and others.

German Architecture

Some of the most known architecture styles from Germany include the Ottonian and Carolingian architectures, both of which came before Roman architecture. Other significant styles include Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles. Germany was also crucial in early modern styles and developments through movements like the Bauhaus and the Deutscher Werkbund. In contemporary times, however, most people have come to shun German architecture due to its lack of aesthetic appeal.

Sports in Germany

Sports are popular in Germany with about 27 million Germans being members of a sports club. An additional 12 million people pursue sports individually. With a little over six million members, football (soccer) is the most widespread sport. In fact, among all the national sports organizations in the world, the German Football Association is the biggest. The German football team has won the World Cup a number of times and the local Bundesliga is globally popular. Germany is also a global leader in motorsports such as Formula One, which is dominated by German companies like Mercedes Benz and BMW.