Practical Information: Bonn

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Telekom, Vodafone, and O2 are Germany's main mobile network operators, offering good coverage.

Purchasing & Activation

Purchase SIM cards at supermarkets, electronics stores, or mobile provider shops.
German law mandates passport or ID registration for SIM card activation.
Consider an Airalo eSIM for immediate connectivity.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi Availability

Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and many public buildings in Bonn.

Connectivity Options

Mobile data with a local SIM or Solis Wi-Fi (portable device) offers reliable access.
Deutsche Post is Germany's national postal service, with yellow post boxes throughout the city.
Look for network names or ask staff for Wi-Fi login details.

Language Barriers & Translation Resources

German is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.

Language Aids

Google Translate or DeepL are recommended; download offline German language packs.
A German phrasebook serves as a companion for basic phrases.
Consider Rosetta Stone for deeper language learning.

Essential German Phrases

Basic Greetings & Requests

Hello: Hallo (HAH-loh)
Goodbye: Auf Wiedersehen (OWF VEE-der-zay-en) / Tschüss (CHYOOSS)
Please: Bitte (BIT-tuh) / Thank you: Danke (DUNK-uh)

Money & Banking

Currency & Cards

The currency is the Euro (€).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments.
Smaller shops or cafes may prefer cash, so carry some euros.
Mobile payment options are gaining popularity.

ATM Access

ATMs (Geldautomat) are widely available 24/7, outside major bank branches.
Check with your bank about international transaction fees before traveling.
Avoid currency exchange counters at airports; ATM withdrawals are typically better.
Always choose to be charged in EUR to get the best exchange rate from your bank.

Communication Insight

For smooth interactions, a few German phrases or a translation app prove helpful, even where English is spoken.

Operating Hours & Accessibility

Familiarize yourself with local business hours, public holidays, and accessibility features.

Retail & Dining

Shops operate Monday-Friday (9/10 AM - 6/8 PM), Saturday (9/10 AM - 4/6 PM). Most retail shops, including supermarkets, stay closed on Sundays.

Financial Services

Banks typically operate Monday-Friday (9 AM - 4 PM). ATMs (Geldautomat) are widely available 24/7 at bank branches and public locations.

Holiday Schedules

On public holidays, shops, banks, and many businesses stay closed. Public transport may run on a reduced Sunday schedule. Plan accordingly for groceries.

Seasonal Closures & Limited Schedules

Some attractions may adjust hours or close during the low season (November to February).

Seasonal Adjustments

Always check websites or call in advance, especially for smaller venues.
The Christmas market period usually sees extended festive opening times.
Winter months may mean earlier closures for outdoor attractions.

Airport Services

Take advantage of services available at airports to enhance your travel experience.

Benefits for Travelers

Priority Pass grants lounge access for frequent flyers.
Compensair assists with flight delay or cancellation compensation.
These services try to make airport time more comfortable or recover losses.

Navigating Local Customs

Embrace local customs and etiquette for a respectful and enjoyable experience in Bonn.

Greeting Customs & Attire

Handshakes with direct eye contact are common for formal greetings. "Guten Tag" is a standard greeting.

Social Interactions

Use "Herr" or "Frau" with surnames in formal settings until invited otherwise.
Attire is generally casual and practical; smart casual for nicer venues.
Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) suits church visits.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Refer to specific dining and tipping customs (often around 5-10% rounding up).

Restaurant Etiquette

In many restaurants, await staff to seat you.
When paying, state your order to the waiter and pay your share directly.
Tipping is customary by rounding up or adding 5-10% for good service.

Photography Permissions & Restrictions

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in public spaces.

Visual Respect

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, notably children.
Check for signs prohibiting photography in museums, galleries, or religious sites.
Flash photography is often prohibited in sensitive areas or for certain exhibits.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Awareness of sensitive subjects helps avoid cultural missteps.

Cultural Sensitivities

Nazism/WWII: A highly sensitive topic; avoid making light of it or using related symbols.
Privacy: Germans value privacy; avoid overly personal questions or staring.
Punctuality: Highly valued; being late without notice is considered rude.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+ Information

General Acceptance

Germany is generally progressive and accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Same-sex marriage is legal.
Public displays of affection are common and generally accepted.

Local Environment

Bonn, as an university city, is generally very open-minded and welcoming.
Resources for LGBTQ+ travelers are available through local community groups.
Specific neighborhoods may have a more pronounced LGBTQ+ presence.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure

Bonn increasingly has accessible public buildings, museums, and transport hubs.
Older city parts with cobblestones may present challenges for wheelchair users.
Many places have ramps, elevators, or accessible toilets.

Attractions & Transportation

Major museums like Haus der Geschichte are designed for accessibility.
An increasing number of low-floor buses and trams make public transport more accessible.
The VRS website details accessibility for specific lines and stops.

Important Cultural Note

Punctuality is highly valued in Germany, so arrive on time for appointments or reservations.

Detailed Accessibility Guide

Bonn continuously strives to make the city welcoming and accessible for everyone.

Infrastructure & Transport

Bonn increasingly offers accessible options for visitors with mobility needs.

Accessible Public Services

Many public buildings, museums, and transport hubs have ramps and elevators.
A growing fleet of low-floor buses and trams operate on public transport routes.
Accessible toilets are found in many public facilities and attractions.

Services for Impaired Travelers

Dedicated features are available to assist visually or hearing impaired individuals.

Support Features

Some public spaces and transport systems feature tactile paving for the visually impaired.
Auditory signals are present at many pedestrian crossings and on public transport.
Information is generally available online for specific services catering to various impairments.

Resources & Organizations

Information Hubs

Bonn Tourism's official website often dedicates a section to accessible travel.
VRS (Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Sieg) website offers detailed accessibility information for routes.
Local organizations like "Rollstuhl-Sport-Club Bonn e.V." can offer local insights.

Bonn continually works on improving urban infrastructure for better accessibility.
Visitor feedback greatly aids in identifying areas for further enhancement.
The city aims for inclusive tourism experiences for all.

Accessibility Commitment

Bonn's dedication to accessibility seeks to make your visit comfortable and manageable, regardless of mobility needs.

Practical Information