Living in Germany

By: Simon Heinrich – Last updated: 03/2026 

Are you new to Germany or have you been living here for a while and want to better understand everyday life? On this page, you’ll find practical information about everything that makes up life in Germany – from bureaucracy to shopping, healthcare, leisure and travel.

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Bureaucracy and Documents

In Germany, you need official documents and proof for many things. Here we explain which ones are important and how to get them.

  • Identity Verification – How to officially identify yourself in Germany (link to /en/living/identity-verification/)
  • Registration – How to register your residence (coming soon)
  • Tax ID – What it is and why you need it (coming soon)
  • SCHUFA – The German credit score explained (coming soon)
  • Broadcasting Fee – TV and radio fees in Germany (coming soon)

Healthcare in Daily Life

Sick in Germany? Here you’ll learn how the healthcare system works in everyday life – from doctor’s appointments to pharmacies.

  • Being Sick in Germany – What to do when you’re ill, doctor visits and sick notes (coming soon)
  • Pharmacies – Buying medication in Germany (coming soon)
  • Online Pharmacies – Ordering medication conveniently (coming soon)
  • Drugstores – dm, Rossmann, Müller & Co. explained (coming soon)
  • Opticians – Glasses and contact lenses in Germany (coming soon)

Shopping and Supplies

Germany is more than bureaucracy. This section is about friendships, clubs and how to spend your free time.

  • Making Friends – Tips for building social connections in Germany (coming soon)
  • Clubs & Associations – Understanding German “Verein” culture (coming soon)
  • Sports & Fitness – Gyms, sports clubs, outdoor activities (coming soon)

Leisure and Social Life

Supermärkte, Discounter, Lieferdienste – hier lernst du, wo und wie du in Deutschland einkaufst.

  • Supermärkte – Rewe, Edeka, Kaufland und mehr (kommt bald)
  • Discounter – Aldi, Lidl, Penny, Netto erklärt (kommt bald)
  • Lieferdienste – Lebensmittel online bestellen (kommt bald)

Travel and Holidays

Want to explore Germany or travel on a budget? Here you’ll find tips on trains, travel providers and destinations.

  • Holidays in Germany – Destinations, tips and providers (coming soon)
  • Travelling by Train – Using Deutsche Bahn (coming soon)
  • Budget Travel – Discount fares, long-distance buses and alternatives (coming soon)

Typically German

What do you need to know to really understand everyday life in Germany? Here we explain cultural quirks and unwritten rules.

  • Recycling – Why and how Germans sort their rubbish (coming soon)
  • Quiet Hours – When you need to keep the noise down in Germany (coming soon)
  • Punctuality & Rules – German everyday culture explained (coming soon)

This Section is Growing

We’re continuously working on new content. If you’re missing a topic or have a suggestion, feel free to reach out.