Useful Things to Know About Supermarkets in Germany
- Opening hours: Most supermarkets open around 7:00 or 8:00 AM and close around 8:00 or 9:00 PM. Almost all stores are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping in advance.
- Pfand system (deposit on bottles): In Germany, when you buy drinks in bottles or cans, you pay an extra deposit (usually €0.25). You can return the empty bottles to machines in the supermarket and get your money back.
- Speed at checkout: Cashiers in Germany work very fast. Be ready to pack your groceries quickly or move to the side table to pack after paying.
- Payment options: Most supermarkets now accept debit and credit cards, but some small locations still prefer cash. It’s good to always carry a bit of cash with you.
- Self-checkout: Some Lidl and Netto stores now have self-checkout machines for faster shopping.
- Reusable bags: Supermarkets don’t give free plastic bags. Bring your own or buy one at the store.
Quick Comparison of the Four Supermarkets
- Lidl: Low prices, good fresh produce, weekly deals, best for fruits, vegetables, bakery, and international products.
- Aldi: Very low prices, simple stores, weekend specials, best for staples, frozen food, and eco-friendly products.
- Netto: Low prices, moderate variety, weekly promotions, special theme weeks, good mix of brands.
- Penny: Low prices, convenient locations, quick shopping, discounted fresh food near closing time, best for everyday essentials.
Fun Facts About German Supermarkets
- Some Lidl or Aldi stores sell small furniture, electronics, and seasonal items at huge discounts.
- German supermarkets are very organized, so you can find everything quickly if you know the layout.
- Buying fresh bread in the morning from Lidl or Aldi is cheaper and fresher than in bakeries.
- Some Netto stores have a small selection of international products, perfect for trying new foods without spending a lot.
- Penny often offers discounted drinks and snacks for local events or holidays, which can be fun to explore.
- Aldi is split into Aldi Nord and Aldi Süd (North and South Germany). Both are cheap, but sometimes they carry slightly different products.
Shopping in Germany can be easy and cheap if you know the right supermarkets. Lidl and Aldi are best for the lowest prices, Netto offers variety with cheap prices, and Penny is perfect for quick essentials. Combine smart shopping, weekly deals, store-brand products, and small tricks like shopping at the right time, and you can save a lot while enjoying good food.
