Free Stuff

In Germany, VISA and Mastercard credit cards are generally the most widely accepted forms of payment, except for debit cards. While American Express is accepted at major chains, not all shops accept it.

Several credit cards are available with no annual or monthly fees, which is not the case with many banks. These offers include free credit cards without any obligation to use them. To learn more about the terms and conditions, click on the offer that interests you. We recommend considering the offers from TF Bank, which offers a free Mastercard Gold.

Here are the Top Credit Cards in Germany

Credit Card Comparison Germany

In the following Credit Card Comparison you can provide your requirements to get the best Credit Card for you in Germany.

As this calculator is in German Language, let me share some tips on how to use it.

STEP 1: Jahresumsatz im Euroland / Annual turnover in Euroland : Put the approximate amount of money you would use in a Year within the Euro zone

STEP 2: Jahresumsatz im Nicht-Euroland / Annual turnover in Non-Euroland : Put the approximate amount of money you would use in a Year outside the Euro zone

STEP 3: Kartengesellschaft / Credit Card Provider : Select the credit card provider from the drop down list if you have a preference between Mastercard, Visa and American Express

STEP 4: Select Kreditkarten Vergleichen to compare Credit Cards in Germany based on your requirements.

You can also read my guide on The Best Free Credit Card in Germany if you want to find out which Credit Card I use in Germany.

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More on Credit Cards in Germany

What is a credit card?

The credit card is a cashless means of payment in card form. It can be used to pay for goods or services. You can also use the credit card for various financial transactions.

An important feature is that the cards are internationally recognized. Depending on the bank and credit card company, they are equipped with different functions. As a rule, the credit cards give you a kind of short-term, interest-free loan that is billed monthly. The money spent is then debited from the checking account. There are also alternative models, for example the prepaid credit card. 

The credit card is a cashless means of payment in card form. It can be used to pay for goods or services. You can also use the credit card for various financial transactions.

An important feature is that the cards are internationally recognized. Depending on the bank and credit card company, they are equipped with different functions. As a rule, the credit cards give you a kind of short-term, interest-free loan that is billed monthly. The money spent is then debited from the checking account. There are also alternative models, for example the prepaid credit card. 

Revolving credit cards in Germany


Revolving credit card is a “real” credit card. The special feature of the revolving credit card is the installment facility. This means that the credit can be paid off in installments.

If you use the installment option, you will have to pay high interest on the outstanding amount. In some cases, the interest rate is over 20%. Therefore, you should settle the outstanding amount directly if possible.

With some credit cards you can set the amount of the installments flexibly, so that a complete settlement by direct debit is also possible.

Some revolving credit cards can also be used for credit balances, so you can also avoid high interest rates. If neither of these is possible, you will have to settle the amount due yourself by bank transfer.

Advantages and disadvantages of the revolving credit card

✅ High acceptance for deposits
✅ Credit card usually free of charge
⛔ Complete automatic settlement often not possible
⛔ Credit check
⛔ Little overview of expenses
⛔ Partial payment can lead to debt

The revolving credit card enjoys a high level of acceptance when a deposit is to be made. Therefore, it is suitable for booking rental cars. In addition, you are granted a credit. This way you can bridge financial bottlenecks.

The biggest disadvantage of revolving cards, however, is the very high debit interest. Compared to a classic instalment loan, the interest rate is much higher. Therefore, you should build up financial reserves so that you do not have to rely on a more expensive loan. This will also prevent you from getting into debt.

Who is the revolving credit card suitable for?


Unlike the charge credit card, the revolving credit card is more suitable for you if you need credit. The revolving credit card can be used in case of financial bottlenecks. However, you should check in advance whether an instalment loan is a more favourable option.