The Indoor Etiquette Tourists Should Follow When Entering Locals' Homes In Germany

Many Americans may be accustomed to coming home from a long day of work and crashing on the couch before taking off their outdoor shoes. But in many countries around the world, including Germany, this common American habit can be considered very rude. Sure, there are several customs to keep in mind when visiting Germany, like recycling the clear and colored glass bottles separately from each other and refraining from jaywalking, but it is especially important to remove your shoes before entering someone's home in Germany.

In order to maintain a clean home, most Germans prefer to leave their shoes by the door. Shoes can track in all kinds of mud, germs, and diseases, which can get you and the people in the home sick. There is a high cultural importance placed on having an orderly home in Germany. So, when you visit, especially as a foreign tourist, it is a sign of respect and appreciation of culture when you follow this common shoe custom.

For people who hate being barefoot inside, you're in luck! While Germans expect you to remove your outdoor shoes when entering a home, they don't expect you to walk on the floor barefoot or in socks. It is common for Germans to exchange their outside shoes for comfy indoor house shoes, or Hausschuhe, a word to know before your trip to Germany. House shoes are similar to slippers and tend to be a clog or sandal shape with soft interior fabric. If you decide to bring your own pair, pack the right kind of shoes for the occasion and weather. For a formal visit, stick with a neutral color rather than bright pink, and if your visit is in the winter, make sure your house shoes are warm enough for the weather.

While you can certainly bring your own Hausschuhe, most hosts keep guest shoes for visitors, usually by the door. This is just part of German hospitality; after all, Germany is home to one of the friendliest cities to visit in Europe. Some younger Germans may not expect you to take off your shoes, especially at a dinner party, but if you are ever unsure, the best course of action is to take cues from the people around you.