In Germany businesses and shops can't be open as long as they please. There are strict regulations set up on the hours they can be opened. Before 9 or 10 am almost the only shops that are open are Bakery's. (So you can pick up fresh bread for breakfast) All businesses are also required to close for an hour or two during lunch in order for families to go home and have lunch with one another. (Also see a typical day in the life page for more information on this) They reopen at about 1 or 2 and remain open until about 6. Restaurants and different eating establishments are allowed to be open for a longer time. And, pubs and disco's usually close at 3am. Saturdays are usually half days and so things close up early. And on Sunday there is almost nothing open.

At a Restaurant

Sharing a table in Germany isn't uncommon. The lack of space makes it acceptable to eat with complete strangers. Although don't expect them to start up a conversation with you. It's typical just to ask if you can sit there, and then when their food arrives to say "Guten Appitite" and that all. Some more interesting observations about dining out are noted below.

• Outdoor eating in Germany is very popular, and it's not unusual or unacceptable to find someone's dog that they've brought along, lying underneath their table.
• German waiters and waitresses aren't bothered with everyone at the table to have separate checks. It's common practice (when out with friends) to pay for yourself.
• It's rare to get a check at a German Restaurant. Instead, after they have taken your plate, the waiter or waitress will ask you what you ate, and then you pay right there. They carry a money pouch with them to accept your money and to make change.
• Tips are already included with the price of food in Germany. Although it's customary to round up to the nearest Mark when you pay your bill.