Visiting Germany, Austria, or Switzerland? Whether you are bound for those charming Berlin streets, the scenic Alps, or even the Rhine’s historic castles, the trip will be easier and much more pleasant with a smattering of German. A majority of Germans speak English, but speaking their language is seen as a sign of appreciation, and one experiences things in a more realistic manner this way.
Here are 25 common German phrases that will come in handy as you make your travel plans, try to make new friends, and just feel more at home on the road.
- Hallo! (Hello!) – Simple and universal, this is a great way to greet someone in Germany.
- Guten Morgen! (Good morning!) – Use this to wish someone a good morning until about midday.
- Guten Tag! (Good day!) – A formal greeting perfect for the afternoon and early evening.
- Guten Abend! (Good evening!) – Say this when the day cools down.
- Wie geht’s? – A more casual question about how someone is doing.
- Mir geht’s gut, danke! – If someone asks how you are, this is a polite and common response.
- Tschüss! – This is an informal way of saying goodbye.
- Auf Wiedersehen! (Goodbye!) – A more formal way to say goodbye, usually used in professional or formal settings.
- Entschuldigung! (Excuse me! / Sorry!) – You can use this word to apologize or to get someone’s attention in a polite manner.
- Sprechen Sie Englisch? (Do you speak English?) – If you struggle speaking the German language, this will be helpful in finding someone who can help in English.
- Ich spreche nur ein bisschen Deutsch. (I only speak a little German.) – That’s convenient if you want to let someone know you are not fluent but doing your best.
- Können Sie das bitte wiederholen? (Can you please repeat that?) – If someone speaks too fast, or you didn’t quite get it, this will come in handy.
- Wie viel kostet das? (How much does this cost?) – Handy if you plan to go shopping or buy souvenirs.
- Wo ist die Toilette? (Where is the bathroom?) – A good question to know wherever you go!
- Ich hätte gern… (I would like…) – How you can place your order for food or drinks in a restaurant or café.
- Die Speisekarte, bitte. (The menu, please.) – You can use this to ask for the menu at a restaurant.
- Ein Bier, bitte! (A beer, please!) – Germany is famous for its beers, and you’ll likely be using this often!
- Prost! (Cheers!) – Say this when making a toast, raising your glass.
- Können Sie mir helfen? (Can you help me?) – If you need help, this is how you ask politely.
- Ich habe mich verlaufen. (I’m lost.) – In case you get lost, this phrase will help you ask for directions.
- Wo ist der Bahnhof? (Where is the train station?) – If you are traveling by train, this question will help you find your way.
- Ich brauche einen Arzt. (I need a doctor.) – Hopefully, you won’t need this one, but it’s always better to be prepared!
- Das ist lecker! (This is delicious!) – Praise the chef or restaurant personnel if you enjoy your meal.
- Ich verstehe nicht. (I don’t understand.) – If you haven’t quite grasped what someone is saying, this phrase can get someone to repeat things for you in a different way.
- Haben Sie WLAN? (Do you have Wi-Fi?) – Essential in today’s world—especially when you need to contact your friends or look up travel details.
Tips for Practicing German
- Start small: Learn these phrases and use them as much as possible while traveling. Germans surely appreciate tourists trying to use their language.
- Use apps: Practice with language learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel before you go.
- Speak slowly: Germans are generally patient with beginners, so don’t be afraid to speak slowly or to ask them to slow down.
Final Thoughts
Master these 25 phrases, and you’ll find that you’re far more confident and comfortable on your trip to Germany or any other German-speaking country. Language is a door to culture; even the tiniest effort to converse in German will open you up to rewarding conversations and unforgettable moments.
So pack your bags, brush up on these phrases, and get ready for the time of your life!
Gute Reise! (This means “safe travels” in German.)
