Europe
Germany
Heads up before you go
Germany is heavily cash-preferred. Many restaurants, bakeries and small shops still do not accept cards — carry euros in cash.
Payments1
Apple Pay
Use instead: Cash (euros)
Apple Pay works at chains, but many small shops and restaurants are cash-only. Carry euros.
Messaging1
No direct substitute
WhatsApp is universal in Germany — how you'll reach hotels, hosts and tour operators.
Maps & Navigation1
Google Maps
Use instead: DB Navigator
Google Maps works well; the DB Navigator app is best for national rail tickets and delays.
Ride-hailing1
Uber
Use instead: FREE NOW / Bolt
Uber operates in big cities but mainly dispatches licensed taxis. FREE NOW is widely used.
Internet Access1
US carrier roaming
Use instead: Local eSIM (Airalo / Holafly) or Telekom / Vodafone / o2 SIM
Roaming works but a travel eSIM is far cheaper; note German mobile coverage can be spotty on trains and in rural areas.
Social Media Access1
Instagram / Facebook / X
No direct substitute
All major social apps work normally.