Which payment method do Germans and French prefer?

Apr 30
3 min read

The preferred method of payment in Germany may come as a surprise to many French people travelling across the border. Although the two countries are neighbours, their payment habits differ. In France, bank cards have become the norm in most daily situations, whereas in Germany, cash still plays a central role. These differences can lead to unexpected situations for travellers, and understanding them helps to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Germany: cash remains widely used

The preferred method of payment in Germany still largely relies on using cash. Despite the rise in electronic payments, cash remains highly prevalent in everyday life.

In 2023, 51% of all transactions in Germany are made in cash. This represents a high proportion compared with other European countries. The trend is even more pronounced for small amounts: 76% of payments of €5 or less are made in cash.

Bank cards are widely used, but often in different contexts. Card payments account for 27% of transactions, mainly for larger amounts. Mobile payments remain limited at around 6%

Across Europe, the disparity is clear: in Germany, in 2023, there were 138.9 card payments per person per year, placing the country among those where card use is less widespread. For comparison: in France, each person makes 283.7 card payments per year.

If you’re planning a trip to Germany, this means simply one thing: it’s best to carry some cash with you.

France: paying by card is second nature

In France, habits are quite different. Paying by card has become second nature, often even for small everyday purchases.

It is common to pay for a coffee, a subway ticket or a baguette by card. Contactless payment is very popular, particularly for amounts up to €50.

Cash payments are still permitted, but are now subject to restrictions. Payments in cash are limited to:

€1,000 for French tax residents
€1,000 for French tax residents

These rules reflect a stronger focus on traceable payment methods.

Why these differences?

There are several potential explanations for these differences in payment practices. In Germany, the preference for cash is often linked to a strong emphasis on privacy. Paying in cash allows people to maintain a degree of anonymity and to keep better track of their spending, which remains important to many consumers.

On the other hand, in France, the widespread acceptance of bank cards can be attributed to a desire for simplicity and speed in everyday transactions. The payment infrastructure is also highly developed there, with cards accepted almost everywhere, even for small amounts. Finally, regulations also play a role: limits on cash payments in France indirectly encourage the use of electronic payment methods.

Thus, these differences reflect two distinct attitudes: an approach based on control and caution in Germany, as opposed to one based on flexibility and digitalisation in France.

Examples from everyday life

Travelling in Germany: card payment refused

When visiting Germany, a French person may encounter unexpected situations linked to the Germans’ preferred method of payment:

Buying a drink or a snack from a food truck on the beach. . . and discovering that only cash is accepted
Going to a small café or bakery where you can't pay by card

These situations are common, particularly in small shops or in certain regions. They reflect the continued importance of cash in local habits.

As a result, without cash, certain everyday purchases can become difficult.

Travelling in France: a surprise for Germans

Conversely, a German travelling in France may be surprised by how widespread card payments are:

Paying for a coffee or a baguette by card is no problem at all
Contactless payments are used almost everywhere for small amounts

Conclusion

The preferred method of payment in Germany can sometimes hold unpleasant surprises for French people. Whilst Germany remains attached to cash, particularly for small amounts, France has largely adopted bank cards in all everyday situations.

For travellers, these differences manifest themselves in practical terms: having to withdraw cash in Germany or, conversely, being able to pay for everything by card in France. Understanding these habits allows you to better anticipate your needs and make the most of your business or leisure trip, without any unpleasant surprises when it comes to paying.

Sources Euronews : Bargeld in Europa: In diesen Ländern zahlen die Menschen noch am liebsten bar Zentrum für Europäischen Verbraucherschutz e.V. : Tipps und Unterschiede beim Bezahlen in Frankreich Stripe : Modification du comportement de paiement : Espèces ou carte en Allemagne ?