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Social Life in Germany

Learn about daily rules and customs, discover German food culture and build new friendships.


Paula Kümper - Updated September 21, 2026 | 7:00 AM

2 Minutes
People sitting at a table raising their glasses of coffee and orange juice

A new country means not only a new job and new surroundings – the social side of life can also feel unfamiliar at first. Germany has its own rules, customs, and a distinctive mentality that is worth getting to know early on, to settle in well and find connections quickly.

Everyday tips

Germany has some clear rules for living together that play an important role in everyday life. These include designated quiet hours and waste separation – things that are taken seriously in Germany and that can even result in fines. Knowing these rules makes a good impression from the start. Further tips and important information can be found here.

Eating habits

In Germany too, meals are often shared – whether with family, friends, or colleagues. Bread plays a particularly important role in German food culture, and there are many regional dishes waiting to be discovered. Many people also eat lunch in the workplace canteen, which is a great opportunity to get to know colleagues better. All information on German eating habits can be found here.

Friendships

Making new connections can be a challenge at first. Germans can sometimes seem a little reserved at first glance but are generally very open and warm once you get to know them. There are some typical places and situations where Germans form new friendships, as well as some distinctive aspects of the German mentality that are worth knowing about so as not to feel put off. Further information on making friends in Germany can be found here.

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