Expat in Germany: 9 Real Lessons You Only Learn by Living Here 🇩🇪✨

Having lived and worked in Germany for the past six years, We’ve gained several insights, habits, and reflections throughout my experience. Some lessons were gradual and subtle, while others were as unmistakable as a Monday morning delay on the Deutsche Bahn. These key takeaways are drawn directly from our own journey and are based on our personal experiences, not general views. Here are the lessons that left the strongest impression on us:

• Being On Time Is Non-Negotiable ⏰🚫
  In Germany, being even a minute late is not considered “fashionably late” but rather a serious breach of etiquette. Punctuality is regarded as a fundamental virtue. Arriving late doesn’t go unnoticed; it often leads to negative judgment. (Of course, delays on German trains are a well-known exception—That’s a different story. Ha!) 🚆😅
• Respect for Privacy Is Fundamental 🔒🤫
  Regardless of your employment status, marital situation, lifestyle changes, or late-night routines, these personal details remain strictly private. In Germany, personal matters are respected as truly private—there is little expectation of inquiry or gossip. This approach can feel both refreshing and, at times, somewhat isolating.
• Dealing with Paperwork Is a National Routine 📄🖊️
  If you believe you have submitted all the necessary documents, it’s worth reconsidering. Europe—particularly Germany—places great emphasis on maintaining extensive paper records. If something isn’t documented on paper, it is often considered nonexistent. Digital copies are viewed as optional, while bureaucracy remains a constant and enduring presence.
• Work-Life Balance: A Core Principle to Uphold🧑‍💼⚖️🏖️
  There is no celebration of hustle culture here. Once the workday concludes, it is respected as final. Evenings and weekends are valued as essential personal time. Employees are encouraged to fully utilize their holidays, and burnout is neither expected nor admired.
• Cash Holds Its Ground in a Digital Age 💶👑
  In Germany, it is advisable to always carry cash. Despite it being 2025, many establishments, including local cafés, may not accept card payments. In some cases, requesting to pay by card can even be met with resistance.
• The Comfort of Calm: Appreciating Silence in Everyday Life🤫🍽️
  Silence isn’t uncomfortable; it signifies tranquility 🤫. Restaurants, trains, and Sunday strolls are often peaceful, as many people value calm over constant chatter 🛤️🍽️🚶‍♂️. While this stillness might feel unfamiliar at first, it quickly becomes comforting. Of course, silence doesn’t quite fit in lively spots like beer gardens or pubs—there, the vibrant buzz is part of the experience 🍻😂
• Sacred Silence on Sundays: Restoring Mind and Spirit 🙏🌿
  No errands. No chores. No lawnmowers running in the background. With most shops closed, Sundays are dedicated to rest, reflection, or attending church—depending on personal preference. Regardless of how one spends the day, Sundays offer a much-needed pause, a time of quiet and rejuvenation. It’s a moment to honor and respect the calm that this day provides.
• Weather Apps: The Ultimate Tool for Daily Planning🌦️📱
  Weather can change abruptly, turning from clear skies to storms in a short time. Making a habit of checking the forecast is essential for staying prepared. Always carry an umbrella to stay protected from sudden rain—being proactive ensures you face the day with confidence and ease. ☂️
• Rethinking Age in the Context of Wisdom👵🧓❌
  One important lesson I learned in Germany is that wisdom isn’t automatically tied to age. Not all older individuals possess insight, just as not all young people lack understanding. Some elders focus more on holding onto their youth than offering meaningful perspective. True wisdom should be recognized where it is genuinely earned—not simply assumed based on age.

Living in Europe has been a journey full of humility, humor, challenges, and valuable insights. These experiences have left a lasting impact, shaping my perspective on the world and how I engage with different cultures. Whether you’re planning to move, travel, or simply want to learn more, consider this your insider’s guide to life in Germany—offering authentic reflections to help you better understand what to expect and appreciate.