Germans use cash for most purchases, reserving checks for travel and for very large purchases. If you prefer to open an account, we recommend a “Girokonto”, which is similar to a basic U.S. checking account, while a “Sparkonto”, or savings account, accrues interest. However, German banking methods may take some time getting used to. If opening a “Girokonto”, ask for a Kundenkarte (debit card) with a PIN code which will allow you to pay for goods and services directly. Most of the stores in Germany will accept credit card payment only if the total is more than 20 €. You can access your German or home bank account through any ATM machine.

Although Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Eurocard are all widely accepted in Germany and throughout Europe, it is best not to rely only on credit cards; cash in manageable denominations for smaller purchases.