Let’s keep this simple: don’t count on using your credit card at German Christmas markets.
Yes, Germany has modern trains, self-cleaning public toilets, and you can tap your card to pay for an iced latte in Berlin. But when it comes to Christmas markets — especially the traditional ones — Germany is still very much a cash country.
If you show up with just a credit card, you’re gonna miss out on a whole lot of Glühwein, bratwurst, and handmade ornaments.Here’s what you really need to know about paying at Christmas markets in Germany — plus a few money tips we swear by.
Will Vendors at Christmas Markets Take Credit Cards?
Some do. Most don’t.
We’ve seen more stalls start accepting cards in bigger cities like Berlin or Munich — especially food chains or stalls run by big companies. But the cute wooden huts, the ones selling handmade ornaments, cookies, or Glühwein mugs? Cash only.
💬 “Don’t depend on card payments. Even in Cologne, I had to use cash at nearly every stall.” – Traveler from the US💬 “We got caught with no cash in Rothenburg. Never again.” – Another one who learned the hard way
💡 Rule of Thumb
| Market Size | Card Friendly? |
| Big cities (Berlin, Munich, Cologne) | Sometimes — but not always |
| Medium towns (Nuremberg, Heidelberg) | Mostly cash |
| Small villages (Rothenburg, Regensburg) | Almost always cash only |
How Much Cash Should You Bring?
Good question. Depends how much you like to eat and shop (which, let’s be honest, is the whole point of these markets).
Here’s a quick breakdown for one person per day:
We recommend ➡️ €40–60 per day in cash if you’re spending a full day at the marketsAnd yes — keep some coins handy for the toilets!
Getting Cash in Germany: Tips from Locals
1. Use ATMs (Geldautomaten) in city centers or inside banks
They’re usually safer and cheaper than airport kiosks or sketchy machines.
2. Use a debit card or travel card with no foreign transaction fees
We use Wise, Revolut, or Charles Schwab — but check what your bank offers.
3. Tell your bank you’re traveling so they don’t block your card
4. Avoid exchange booths — bad rates and hidden fees
5. Withdraw enough, but not too much
Markets are generally safe, but don’t carry hundreds of euros in one go.
Can You Pay by Card at Hotels, Trains, or Restaurants?
Yes — in hotels, train stations, and most restaurants, credit and debit cards are fine.
💡 Always ask: “Kann ich mit Karte zahlen?” (Can I pay by card?)
If they say “Nur Bar”, that means cash only.
But I Want Points on My Travel Card!
We get it. We love travel points too. But the truth is — the best experiences at German Christmas markets don’t care about your AmEx.
Bring cash, collect mugs, buy ornaments directly from artisans, and don’t stress over not hitting your minimum spend.
Final Thoughts: Bring cash when going to the Christmas Market
If there’s one thing you should take away from this:
Bring cash — and enough of it.
Don’t wait until you’re standing in front of a steaming mug of Glühwein only to realize your card’s useless and the ATM is three blocks away. You’ll miss the moment. And that’s the last thing we want.
Enjoy your trip!
What’s Next?
→ Pack smart: Packing List for Germany in Winter
→ Overwhelmed with planning? We’ve got you – here’s How to plan a trip to Germany’s Christmas markets.
→You Travel with Kids? Read more: How Kid-Friendly Are Christmas Markets in Germany?
