Drinking in Germany: A Guide for International Students

Germany is famous for its beer culture, Oktoberfest, and a relaxed attitude toward alcohol. For international students arriving in the country, navigating the drinking scene can be both exciting and overwhelming. From understanding local customs to staying safe, this guide covers everything you need to know about drinking in Germany.

Understanding Germany’s Drinking Culture

Beer: A National Treasure

Germany takes its beer seriously. With over 1,300 breweries and strict purity laws (Reinheitsgebot), German beer is some of the best in the world. As an international student, you’ll quickly notice that beer isn’t just a drink—it’s a social ritual.

• Pubs and Beer Gardens: These are central to German social life. Unlike in some countries where bars close early, German establishments often stay open late, especially in cities like Berlin and Munich.
• Beer Festivals: Oktoberfest is the most famous, but nearly every city has its own beer festival. Don’t miss smaller ones like Stuttgart’s Cannstatter Volksfest or Cologne’s Kölsch celebrations.

Wine and Schnapps

While beer dominates, Germany also produces excellent wine, particularly Riesling from regions like the Mosel Valley. Schnapps (fruit brandy) is another local favorite, often consumed as a digestif.

Legal Drinking Age and Rules

Germany has a more relaxed approach to alcohol compared to many countries:

• Beer and Wine: Legal at 16.
• Spirits: Legal at 18.
• Public Drinking: Unlike in the U.S., drinking in public spaces (parks, streets) is legal and common.

However, just because it’s legal doesn’t mean you should overdo it. German universities and employers take alcohol abuse seriously, and public intoxication can still lead to trouble.

Drinking Etiquette for International Students

Toasting Like a Local

Germans love a good toast ("Prost!" for beer, "Zum Wohl!" for wine). A few key rules:

• Eye Contact: Always maintain eye contact when clinking glasses—it’s considered rude not to.
• Don’t Toast with Water: It’s seen as bad luck.

Pace Yourself

German drinking is often a marathon, not a sprint. At beer festivals, servers (Kellners) will keep refilling your Maß (liter-sized beer mug) unless you place a coaster on top.

Staying Safe While Drinking

Know Your Limits

Binge drinking is a global issue, and Germany is no exception. Alcohol poisoning and unsafe behavior are real risks.

• Hydrate: Alternate between alcohol and water.
• Eat Well: German pubs serve hearty food like pretzels and sausages—take advantage.
• Watch Out for “Korn”: Cheap grain alcohol is popular among students but can be dangerous if overconsumed.

Getting Home Safely

Public transport in Germany is excellent, but night buses (Nachtbus) and trains may have limited schedules. Apps like DB Navigator help plan your route. Ride-sharing services like Bolt or Uber are also available in major cities.

Drinking and Social Responsibility

The Environmental Impact

Germany is a leader in sustainability, and this extends to drinking culture:

• Reusable Bottles: Many beers come in Pfand (deposit) bottles that you return for recycling.
• Local Breweries: Supporting small breweries reduces carbon footprints compared to mass-produced imports.

Alcohol and Mental Health

Studying abroad can be stressful, and some students turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism. German universities offer counseling services, and student groups provide peer support.

Final Tips for International Students

• Try Regional Specialties: From Berliner Weiße (sour beer) to Bavarian Helles, each region has unique flavors.
• Respect Non-Drinkers: Not everyone drinks, and that’s okay. Germany has a growing non-alcoholic beer market.
• Learn the Lingo: Phrases like “Noch ein Bier, bitte” (Another beer, please) will come in handy.

Drinking in Germany can be a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local culture—just remember to enjoy it responsibly.