Germany is beautiful. The castles. The bratwurst. The efficient trains. But nothing prepares you for the moment you really have to pee—and realize the bathroom has a bouncer.
Yes, it’s true. In Germany, many public restrooms charge a small fee to enter. It’s totally normal… and totally unexpected if you just stepped off the plane with a full bladder and no coins.
So let’s talk about why this happens, what to expect, and how to survive it—without doing the panicked dance of someone frantically searching for a 50-cent coin.
🚽 Wait, You Have to Pay to Pee?
Yup. Most public restrooms in Germany—especially those in train stations, gas stations (Autobahn rest stops), malls, and even some tourist areas—charge between €0.50 to €1 for entry. This fee helps pay for cleaning staff and maintenance, and honestly, most of them are really clean. Like, suspiciously spotless.
💰 The System: Turnstiles, Tokens, and Bathroom Vouchers
Most pay-to-use restrooms are equipped with:
- A turnstile or automatic gate
- A coin slot or card reader
- A printed voucher (in some cases) that gives you a small discount in the shop or café attached to the restroom
For example: At many Autohof (gas stations), you’ll pay €0.70 to use the restroom, and get a €0.50 voucher back to use at the food counter or convenience store. Think of it as paying for a bathroom snack bundle.
🪙 No Coins? Here’s What to Do
If you’re traveling and haven’t hoarded €0.50 coins like a squirrel preparing for winter, here are your options:
- Withdraw cash and get coins at the register.
- Ask for change when buying coffee or snacks.
- Some restrooms accept contactless cards, but don’t count on it everywhere.
- Plan ahead by keeping a few coins in your wallet, car, or jacket pocket at all times. Seasoned expats keep a stash just for this purpose—no shame.
🧼 Are They Really That Clean?
Honestly? Yes. German restrooms take hygiene seriously. Many are cleaned multiple times per day, have touchless features, and feel more like a spa bathroom than a gas station pit stop. You’re paying for peace of mind—and maybe a little mood lighting, if you’re lucky.
👶 Traveling With Kids? Read This.
If you’ve got toddlers in tow, some restrooms allow kids under a certain age in for free. Others… don’t. It’s hit or miss, but usually the staff is understanding. Still, be ready to drop a few coins even when you’re herding a 3-year-old who just couldn’t hold it.
✈️ At the Airport or Train Station?
Larger travel hubs usually have free restrooms somewhere, but they’re often hidden in a back corner. The more obvious ones (read: cleanest and most convenient) are usually pay-to-enter. It’s part of the experience.
🧻 TL;DR — Restroom Survival Tips in Germany
- 💶 Always carry coins—preferably €0.50 and €1 pieces
- 🧼 Expect a clean, well-maintained restroom
- 🎟️ Look out for vouchers to use in stores or cafés
- 💳 Some locations accept cards, but not all
- 👨👩👧 Don’t assume restrooms are free—ask first
- 🧠 Bonus tip: Use the restroom at restaurants and museums before you leave
🚻 Final Thoughts: Just a Part of Life Here
Paying for restrooms in Germany isn’t a scam or tourist trap—it’s just part of the culture. And honestly? After using one too many gas station bathrooms in the States, I’m okay with throwing a euro at someone to make sure it doesn’t smell like Dumpster Juice.
So embrace it. Keep your coins handy. And remember—when in doubt, just follow the Germans. They always seem to know where the clean restrooms are.
Ayla Ellison 