Let’s talk about Sundays in Germany. Did you know most things are closed on a Sunday and many states have rules about the noise you can make?
You can’t go get the groceries or start mowing the lawn. It’s a day of rest and known as Ruhezeit or “quiet time”. But don’t let the quiet put you off. Instead, think of it as an opportunity to unwind and enjoy some of the country’s cherished traditions. Like Germans do!
So what do Germans do on a Sunday when everything is shut and you need to keep the noise down?
Join me as I explore the delightful calm of Sundays in Germany. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll discover that there’s plenty to see and do.
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Just because shops aren’t open, doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do. I am jealous of the more languid pace Sundays can have in Germany thanks to the less activity, but you can still be more active if you wish.
In the video below, you can watch what Michael Müller, an Average German, does on a Sunday. It provides an in-depth look at how Sundays are typically observed in Germany, emphasizing the cultural norms and traditions that make this day unique.
It’s much more fascinating than it sounds 🙂
Below the video is a summary. But I do urge you to watch the video. It’s incredibly well-made and super interesting.
The Average German Sunday by DW Euromaxx
The video walks you through everything Sunday in Germany including…
A Day of Rest and Tradition
In Germany, Sunday is traditionally a day of rest and relaxation. This cultural norm is deeply ingrained, with many businesses and shops closed, allowing people to focus on leisure activities and family time. The video highlights how this day is considered almost sacred, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of the workweek.
Kaffee und Kuchen
One of the quintessential Sunday activities is “Kaffee und Kuchen,” or coffee and cake. This tradition involves gathering with family or friends in the afternoon to enjoy a leisurely coffee break accompanied by a variety of cakes and pastries. It’s a cherished ritual that fosters social connections and offers a moment of indulgence.
Read all about German Kaffee und Kuchen here.
Church and Markets
For some Germans, attending church services is an integral part of Sunday, reflecting the country’s Christian heritage. The video also touches on the presence of local markets or flea markets, which are popular for leisurely browsing and socializing.
Quiet Rules and Regulations
The video explores some of the unique rules and regulations that characterize German Sundays.
For example, there are noise restrictions in place, meaning activities like mowing the lawn or doing loud home repairs are generally discouraged to maintain the peace and quiet of the day. These rules underscore the emphasis on rest and relaxation.
Leisure Activities
Aside from “Kaffee und Kuchen,” Germans often spend Sundays engaging in various leisure activities such as walking, cycling, or visiting parks and nature reserves. These activities promote a sense of well-being and provide an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
Overall, the video paints a picture of Sundays in Germany as a time for rest, reflection, and connection with loved ones, all while adhering to certain cultural norms that preserve the tranquility of the day.
If you are traveling in Germany on a Sunday, be aware that most shops will be shut. If you need essential items, look for gas stations (if you have a car) or train stations where you can find some shops open.
Read more about Sunday rules in our guide to 12 things you should never do in Germany here and how Americans react when they first go to Germany here. You can also find out what Germans do when they wake up in the mornings here, about typical German relationships here and all our guides to German culture here.
Well done Sharon. Hope to see you here again in the not too distant future.