How to Call Germany
Complete guide to dialing Germany (country code +49)
Whether you're planning to contact family, arrange business meetings, or book accommodations, knowing how to call Germany is essential for smooth international communication. Calling Germany from abroad might seem complicated at first, but with the right dialing instructions, you'll be connected in no time. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about making calls to Germany, including step-by-step dialing sequences, country and area codes, and cost-saving tips. We'll also highlight common mistakes that could prevent your call from going through, share important German phone etiquette to help you make a positive impression, and provide a list of useful numbers for emergencies, customer service, and essential services. By the end, you'll feel confident calling Germany from anywhere in the world.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
Understanding the International Dialing Format
When calling Germany internationally, you'll use the country code +49. The basic structure is:
Exit Code + 49 + Area Code (without leading 0) + Local Number
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
1. From the United States:
- Dial 011 (US exit code) + 49 + area code + local number
- Example: To call Berlin landline (030 1234 5678): 011-49-30-1234-5678
2. From the United Kingdom:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code) + 49 + area code + local number
- Example: To call Munich landline (089 7654 321): 00-49-89-7654-321
3. From Other Countries:
- Most countries use 00 as their exit code, though some use + directly from mobile phones
- Example using + symbol: +49-30-1234-5678
Important: Dropping the Leading Zero
German phone numbers begin with a 0 when dialing domestically, but you must remove this zero when calling internationally.
- Domestic format: 030 1234 5678
- International format: +49 30 1234 5678
Specific Examples for Different Number Types
Calling a Berlin Landline (030):
- From USA: 011-49-30-1234-5678
- From UK: 00-49-30-1234-5678
Calling a German Mobile (015x, 016x, 017x series):
- Example mobile: 0172 9876543
- From USA: 011-49-172-9876-543
- From UK: 00-49-172-9876-543
Calling Frankfurt Landline (069):
- From USA: 011-49-69-8888-9999
- From any mobile worldwide: +49-69-8888-9999
Quick Tips
- Mobile phones typically allow using + instead of exit codes
- Save German contacts with +49 format for universal compatibility
- Area codes vary in length (2-5 digits)
- German mobile numbers don't have separate area codes; the digits after 0 identify the carrier
Remember: Always remove the leading 0 from German numbers when dialing internationally.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Germany, avoid these common mistakes:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero from the area code
German area codes start with 0 when dialing domestically (like 030 for Berlin), but you must omit this zero for international calls. Dial +49 30, not +49 030.
2. Using incorrect exit codes
Many people use outdated exit codes instead of the universal + symbol. While 011 works from the US and 00 from most European countries, simply using + (available on mobile phones by holding 0) works everywhere.
3. Confusing the country code with the area code
Germany's country code is +49, not to be confused with area codes like 30 (Berlin) or 89 (Munich). Always dial +49 first, then the area code without the leading zero, then the local number.
4. Adding unnecessary spaces or hyphens
While spacing like +49 30 1234 5678 helps readability, phone systems need continuous digits. If a call fails, try removing all spaces and special characters.
5. Not accounting for time differences
Germany is in the CET/CEST timezone. Check the current time difference to avoid calling during nighttime hours.
Cultural Etiquette
When calling someone in Germany, proper phone etiquette reflects respect and professionalism. Germans value directness and formality, especially in business contexts.
Always begin calls with a clear greeting, stating your full name: "Guten Tag, this is [First Name] [Last Name]." In business settings, use formal titles like "Herr" (Mr.) or "Frau" (Mrs.) followed by the surname until invited to use first names. Personal calls among friends allow for casual greetings like "Hallo."
Timing matters significantly. Avoid calling before 8 AM or after 9 PM, as Germans highly value their private time. Business calls should occur during standard working hours, typically 9 AM to 5 PM. Weekend calls are generally reserved for close friends and family.
Germans appreciate concise, purpose-driven conversations. State your reason for calling early and avoid excessive small talk, particularly in professional contexts. This directness is considered efficient, not rude.
Voice messages should be clear and structured. Leave your name, number, reason for calling, and preferred callback time. Germans often prefer voicemail to unexpected calls, so don't be discouraged if calls go unanswered initially.
In business environments, punctuality extends to phone appointments—call exactly at the scheduled time. Being even a few minutes late without explanation is considered disrespectful.
Finally, mobile phone use in public spaces like restaurants or trains should be discreet. Germans value quiet public environments and may view loud phone conversations as inconsiderate.
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Emergency Numbers
112 – Emergency number for fire department and ambulance (medical emergencies). This is the main EU-wide emergency number, available 24/7 with English-speaking operators typically available.
110 – Police emergency number for crimes in progress, accidents, or immediate threats requiring police assistance. Available 24/7, with English-speaking operators in most regions.
116 117 – Non-emergency medical assistance for urgent but non-life-threatening situations outside regular office hours.
0800 111 0 333 – Medical on-call service (Ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst) for after-hours medical advice.
All emergency numbers work from mobile phones, landlines, and public phones without requiring a network connection or area code. Calls to 112 and 110 are completely free of charge. When calling, clearly state your location, the nature of the emergency, and how many people need assistance.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 11833 or 11880: Directory assistance for finding phone numbers and addresses throughout Germany
- 11834: International directory assistance for numbers outside Germany
Operator Services
- 0180-200-1033: International operator for assistance with overseas calls
Tourist Services
- Germany Travel Hotline: +49-69-974640 (English-speaking tourism information)
Embassy Contacts
- U.S. Embassy Berlin: +49-30-83050
- British Embassy Berlin: +49-30-204570
- Canadian Embassy Berlin: +49-30-203120
Other Helpful Numbers
- 116 117: Medical non-emergency helpline
- 115: General government services hotline
- +49-30-4050-4050: Poison control center
- 0800-111-0-111: Telephone counseling (crisis support)
- 01805-996633: Train information (Deutsche Bahn)
Save these numbers in your phone for convenient access during your stay.
Tips for Calling Germany
When calling Germany, keep in mind the country operates on Central European Time (CET/UTC+1) or Central European Summer Time (CEST/UTC+2). To avoid inconvenient hours, calculate the time difference carefully before dialing.
For business calls, aim for 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM German time, Monday through Friday. Always schedule important business calls in advance—Germans highly value punctuality and preparation. Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:30-2:00 PM) when many offices close.
Peak calling rates typically apply during business hours, while evenings and weekends offer cheaper rates if you're concerned about costs. However, business contacts won't appreciate off-hours calls unless pre-arranged.
Avoid calling on German public holidays including New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labour Day (May 1), German Unity Day (October 3), and Christmas (December 25-26). Regional holidays vary by state.
For clear communication, speak slowly and articulate well, especially if language barriers exist. Many Germans speak English, but asking "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" (Do you speak English?) shows respect. Keep connections strong by using quality calling services to minimize dropped calls or poor audio quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Germany is +49. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when calling Germany from another country. Always start with + or your country's international access code, followed by 49.
To dial Germany from your cell phone, start with the + symbol (press and hold 0 on most phones), then dial 49 (Germany's country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and then the local number.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the German area code when calling from abroad. For example, Berlin's area code is 030 domestically, but you would dial +49 30 when calling from outside Germany.
The cheapest way to call Germany is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Germany.
In Germany, dial 112 for emergency medical services and fire brigade, and 110 for police emergencies. These numbers are free to call from any phone, including mobile phones, even without credit or a SIM card.
Yes, you can call Germany directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credit to your account, enter the German phone number, and start calling—no downloads or additional software required.
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