Germany is a country of order, and its apps are the same: precise and functional. Let us go over what to install to get around easily, order food and not get lost in German transport bureaucracy.
Transport — key in Germany
German trains are a world of their own, run by the DB Navigator app (Deutsche Bahn). You buy intercity rail tickets, check timetables and platforms through it. Tickets are cheaper booked in advance. Each city has its own app for local transport (e.g. BVG in Berlin), but Google Maps shows metro, tram and bus routes well nationwide.
Taxis
Uber exists in Germany, but FreeNow is more popular — you hail both regular taxis and private cars through it. Bolt also works and is often cheaper.
Food
Food delivery in Germany is held by Lieferando — orange couriers on bikes in every city. It is the main app with the most restaurants. The alternative is Wolt, with a nicer interface and faster delivery in big cities.
Money
Germans, unlike many, still love cash — keep some, especially for small cafés and markets. But cards and phones are accepted almost everywhere. For good rates use Revolut or N26 (a German online bank). Google Pay works in most shops.
Connectivity and language
WhatsApp is the main messenger in Germany. Menus and signs are translated by Google Translate via camera. If you stay long, Duolingo helps with basic German — Germans appreciate even a few phrases in their language.
Checklist
Essential: DB Navigator for trains, Google Maps for the city, WhatsApp for contact, Google Translate for language. Add taxi and delivery on arrival.