Credit Cards
Credit cards in Germany have a low level of usage compared to other European countries; most Germans prefer to pay in cash.
The most common credit cards are the worldwide recognized Eurocard / Mastercard and Visa with which you can make regular monthly payments like rent, telephone and utilities. Larger department stores and hotels accept credit cards, but smaller shops and restaurants generally do not. Restaurants and cafes never take credit cards and many don't accept debit cards either.It is a good idea to keep cash on hand.
Modern cash machines accept a variety of German and international debit and credit cards. The airports and major railway stations have electronic currency changing machines which can be used to exchange foreign currency for euros.