Grilling in public

When you do not have braai facilities at home or want to have more space while meeting your friends for a braai, you can use the grills/fireplaces at a public Grillplatz/grill area.
These are usually in bigger parks or around lakes.
Grilling in the forest is generally prohibited, with some exceptions.
Personally, I would refrain from grilling in the forest even if there is a Grillplatz.
The trees and other plants can be very dry in summer, and there is always a fire hazard.

My first public grill was at the Grillplatz in Lonetal near Ulm.
It is part of a hiking trail. We walked back after dark and there was a beautiful full moon. The woods were full of glowworms, it was really magical.

Why can I not grill where I want?

In Germany, rules are not there to spoil your fun—they’re there to prevent chaos and wildfires
Main reasons:

Disposable grills burn and damage grass
Dry lawns = high fire risk
Fires can spread quickly in summer

👉 If it doesn’t clearly say grilling is allowed, assume it’s not allowed.

Finding a designated grilling spot

Finding a place to braai in Germany is not difficult—but it does require a little planning.
A simple online search will usually point you in the right direction:

“Grillplätze in öffentlichen Grünanlagen”
“Grillplatz + [Your Town]”

Many cities have their own official pages with rules and locations. Here are some examples: Berlin, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Munich, Frankfurt, Leipzig, Ulm
These often include local regulations, which can differ from one city to another.

Common rules

As with most things in Germany, grilling in a public space is regulated.
These rules are based on common decency and respect.
Rule of thumb – if it doesn’t explicitly say grilling is allowed, you can assume it is not allowed.

Each federal state (Bundesland) or town has its own rules, so please make sure you know what the rules are for the area in which you want to grill.
Violations of these rules of the “Police Ordinance on Public Security and Order” are considered an administrative offence and may result in a warning or fine (see how much here).

Here are some common rules:

You cannot reserve a grill area/braai. Most public grills are big enough to be shared by groups.
Only grill in designated areas. Do not dig your own grill pit or damage the lawn.
Make sure you know if you are allowed to bring along your own grill or whether you are only allowed to use the permanently installed fireplaces/grills. Take note you are not allowed to use disposable grills or Einweggrills.
The fire must be supervised by a suitable person at all times.
The fire must be extinguished completely after you finished grilling.
Dispose of all waste, this includes ashes. Most grill areas will have a bin designed for hot ashes.
Grilling under trees or in the immediate vicinity of woody plants and on horticultural surfaces is not permitted (in the interest of protecting trees and birds). The grass must not be damaged.
Only commercially available charcoal and lighters may be used.
Flames may not exceed a height of one meter.

Tips

You might need to register at the town hall to make use of a grill area.
Please leave the area clean and take all food scraps with you
Do not make any fire on the lawn or in the gardens
The number for the Fire brigade is 112

Can You Grill While Camping?

Having a braai while camping is usually allowed, but only in designated grill areas.
There might also be restrictions to only use gas or electric grills
Fire bans may apply in summer
Open Fires are almost always prohibited.

🔥 Always check the campsite rules beforehand—know where you can braai, what type of grill is allowed, and whether any fire bans apply, so your trip stays relaxed and trouble-free.

Music

Playing music in parks and green spaces in the city is generally permitted.
It should not disturb anyone.
Most parks have a quiet period from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am

Terminology

Wild-Grillen – meint hier das unerlaubte Grillen auf Flächen für die laut Parkverordnung oder Naturschutzgesetz ein Grillverbot gilt.
– means unauthorized grilling in areas where grilling is prohibited – according to the Park Ordinance or Nature Conservation Act.
Grillen verboten – Grilling not allowed
der Grillplatz – Grill area

Swimming in Germany

Dive Into Summer: Swimming in Germany From peaceful forest lakes to lively public pools and sunny seaside beaches, Germany offers more ways to swim than you might expect. Whether you’re after a quiet dip, a family day out, or a full-on summer picnic by the water, here’s how to make the most of it—like a local. Swimming options Public Pools (Schwimmbäder & Freibäder) These are the heart of summer in Germany. Outdoor pools (Freibäder) are where families, friends, and entire neighbourhoods gather when the sun shows up. Expect sunbathing lawns, diving boards, snack kiosks, and that unmistakable hum of summer chatter. Indoor pools are open year-round and perfect if you just want to swim lengths without the crowds and chaos. 👉 Good to know: Freibad doesn’t mean free—you’ll still pay a small entrance fee. Lakes (Badeseen) For something a bit more playful—or a bit more indulgent. Scattered across the country, these “Badeseen” are often clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly accessible. Some are natural, others are man-made—but all of them offer that easy, unhurried kind of summer day. A special mention goes to Baggerseen—former gravel pits that have filled with water over time. Many of these are now some of the clearest, most popular swimming spots around. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and don’t rush. This is slow summer living at its best—where a quick swim quietly turns into an entire afternoon. The Sea (Nordsee & Ostsee) When you need a proper change of scenery, head north. The North Sea (Nordsee) is wild and dramatic, with tides that come and go like clockwork. The Baltic Sea (Ostsee), on the other hand, is calmer, with sandy beaches and gentler waters—perfect for relaxed swimming days. Water Parks (Freizeitbäder & Thermen) For something a bit more playful—or a bit more indulgent. Water parks offer slides, wave pools, and family fun, while Thermen lean toward relaxation: warm mineral pools, saunas, and a slower pace. Think of it as swimming… with a touch of luxury. Rules for swimming in Lakes Check Before You Jump Shallow water is common near the shore. Always check the depth before diving or jumping in. Sun & Shade Bring sunscreen and some shade like an umbrella — a long lake day can sneak up on you. Protect Your Feet Wear flip-flops or swim shoes. Not every lakebed is soft or safe. Watch the Cold Lakes stay cool, even in summer. Take breaks and keep an eye on children. Children sometimes don’t realise how cold they are Come Prepared Pack towels, warm clothes, and a blanket. Facilities vary from lake to lake. Watch for Insects Sweet drinks and snacks attract bees and wasps—keep things covered. Follow Local Rules Smoking and alcohol are often allowed—but always check the signs. Stay Safe in the Water Some lakes have currents or sudden drop-offs. Stay close if unsure. No Substitute for Supervision Inflatables are fun—but they are not safety devices. Eyes on Kids No lifeguards at many lakes. Your kids = your responsibility. Emergency Call 112 immediately if something goes wrong. Drink Responsibly Alcohol and open water don’t mix well. Stay aware, know your limits, and never swim under the influence. Good to Know Before You Dive In Pool Etiquette & Rules Nude sunbathing is allowed in designated FKK areas Swimwear is required at public pools Shower before and after swimming No toys allowed in public pools Some areas are reserved for non-swimmers What to Expect Freibad doesn’t mean free Sommerbad = open only in summer Pools are often busy in summer Indoor pools are better for actual swimming Food and drinks are usually available Practical Tips Bring coins for lockers Hairdryers are often available (not free) Wear flip-flops around pools Grass near lakes can be damp—use a lined blanket Related content Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email

From Forests to Lakes: The Joy of Camping in Germany

From Forests to Lakes: The Joy of Camping in Germany Camping in Germany is a beautifully organised, rule-driven experience — less wild bushveld, more well-kept nature with structure. Whether you’re pitching a tent, towing a caravan, or travelling by motorhome, Germany offers stunning landscapes, excellent facilities, and a culture that values order, respect, and shared space. Real Stories from the Road If you’d like a more personal, boots-on-the-ground perspective, take a moment to read Camping in Germany by DeWet Herselman. He shares his own journey into camping life here—practical, honest, and with just enough humour to remind you that you don’t need much to get started… just a bit of courage and a decent cup of coffee. Ways to Camp in Germany Whether you’re a minimalist with a tent or someone who prefers a few more comforts on wheels, camping in Germany offers something for every style. It may look a little different from what you’re used to — but that’s part of the adventure. Tent Camping For those who love the simple life — a tent, fresh air, and the sound of nature all around you. German campsites are well-equipped, clean, and often set in beautiful locations near lakes, forests, or rivers Motorhome Camping Freedom on four wheels. Travel at your own pace and stay in designated motorhome spots known as Stellplätze. These are found all across Germany — from small villages to scenic nature areas. Caravan Camping A home away from home. Caravan camping is perfect for longer stays, with spacious pitches and full hookups available at most campsites. What to Know Before You Go Camping in Germany comes with its own rhythm — a little more structured, a little quieter, and wonderfully well-organised. Once you understand the flow, it becomes part of the charm. Wild Camping Isn’t Really a Thing If you’re used to pulling off somewhere scenic and setting up camp, Germany will feel a little different. Wild camping is generally not allowed, especially in forests, nature reserves, and near lakes. But here’s the good news:There are plenty of beautiful, well-maintained campsites and dedicated motorhome spots, often in exactly the places you’d want to be anyway. Stopping Overnight — Yes, Camping — Not Quite You can sleep in your vehicle overnight if you’re resting — for example, during a long drive. But setting up a full campsite (chairs, tables, awnings) outside designated areas? That’s where the line is drawn. Quiet Evenings, Respectful Spaces Camping here isn’t loud or crowded — it’s calm, respectful, and shared. Quiet hours usually start around 22:00 People value personal space A friendly “Hello” goes a long way Braai… But Make It German Open fires are often restricted, especially in forests and during dry seasons. Many campsites allow grilling — but only in designated areas or with proper equipment. No, it’s not quite the same as a bushveld braai…But with the right setup, you’ll still get your fix. Camping Etiquette Camping in Germany isn’t just about where you stay — it’s about how you stay. There’s a quiet rhythm to campsite life here: a respect for space, for nature, and for the people around you. It may feel a little more reserved than what you’re used to, but once you settle into it, you’ll find it creates something quite special — calm mornings, peaceful evenings, and a sense that everyone is looking out for one another. Respect quiet hoursMost campsites observe quiet time from around 22:00 to early morning. Think soft voices, no music, and a gentle winding down of the day. Give people their spaceEach pitch is someone’s little home for a while — avoid walking through other people’s areas, even if it seems like a shortcut. Keep things clean and tidyLeave your spot as you found it (or better). Recycling is taken seriously, so sort your waste where required. Greet your neighboursA simple “Hallo” or friendly nod goes a long way. You don’t need a full conversation — just a touch of friendliness. Stick to designated areasWhether it’s for grilling, washing up, or disposing of waste — use the proper facilities. It keeps everything running smoothly for everyone. Be mindful of shared facilitiesKitchens, bathrooms, and washing areas are communal — leave them clean for the next person. Keep pets under controlIf you’re travelling with a dog, make sure it’s supervised and doesn’t disturb others. Arrive and depart consideratelyLate-night arrivals or early departures should be as quiet as possible — others may already be enjoying that peaceful sleep. Motorhome & Caravan Practical Info You can drive most motorhomes with a standard licenceIf the vehicle is under 3.5 tonnes, a normal Category B licence is enough — no special permit needed. Motorway tolls for private vehiclesUnlike some other European countries, Germany does not charge tolls for private motorhomes on highways. Use designated motorhome spots (Stellplätze)These are found all over Germany — from small towns to scenic areas — and are perfect for short stays. Electricity connections are commonMost campsites offer hookups — just make sure you have the correct adapter (CEE plug). Water and waste disposal facilities are availableStellplätze and campsites usually provide fresh water and proper disposal points — and it’s expected that you use them. Parking rules still applyA motorhome is still a vehicle — so always follow local parking signs and restrictions. Time to Gear Up Getting started with camping doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune or know everything upfront. Germany has excellent stores — from budget-friendly basics to high-end outdoor gear — so you can find what suits your style and grow into it over time. Decathlon A favourite for beginners and casual campers. You’ll find everything in one place — from tents to cooking gear — at very reasonable prices. Globetrotter A premium outdoor store with a huge range of high-quality gear. Ideal if you’re ready to invest a bit more or want expert advice. Fritz Berger The go-to store for caravan and motorhome equipment, plus plenty of general camping essentials. Plan Your Trip

Meat

🇿🇦 Meat the Difference: A South African’s Guide to Buying Meat in Germany 🇩🇪 Looking for proper boerewors? Wondering why German Rindfleisch doesn’t taste quite like home? Or scratching your head at all the unfamiliar beef cuts? Get to know the difference between German and South African beef cuts, learn the right words at the butcher, and discover where to find quality meat that feels like home. German beef cuts German Cut English Equivalent Notes Rinderhals / Kamm / Nacken Chuck steak / Neck Good for stews and minced beef; flavourful but needs slow cooking. Querrippe Short ribs Rich and meaty; great for slow cooking or braising. Rinderbrust Brisket Ideal for corned beef, smoked brisket, or pot roast. Hochrippe / Fehlrippe Standing rib roast Tender and marbled; excellent for roasting or steaks. Vorderrippe Front rib section Leaner part before the rib-eye; good roasting cut. Flaches Roastbeef / Rostbraten Sirloin / Striploin Classic steak cut; tender and flavourful. Filet Fillet / Tenderloin Most tender muscle; minimal fat. Dünnung / Bauchlappen Flank steak Flat, lean, and full of flavour; slice across the grain. Falsches Filet / Schulter / Bug / Schaufel Shoulder / Chuck tender Good for biltong or stews; lean but firm texture. Oberschale Topside / Inside round Excellent for biltong; lean and uniform texture. Unterschale Silverside / Outside round Ideal for biltong; dries evenly and slices beautifully. Nuss Knuckle / Sirloin tip Lean and versatile; used for roasts or schnitzel. Hüfte / Hüftsteak Rump / Top sirloin Tender and tasty; good for grilling or roasting. Schwanzstück / Tafelspitz Rump tip / Tri-tip Austrian favourite; excellent for boiling or roasting, pricier cut. Hesse / Wade Beef shank / Shin Full of collagen; great for soups and slow-cooking. Fricandeau Lean roast (upper leg) Old-fashioned French term; overlaps with Nuss or Oberschale. Schwanz / Ochsenschwanz Oxtail Used for rich stews and soups; gelatinous and flavourful. Source: Wikipedia: Cut of beef 📄 Download the German Beef Cuts poster (PDF) Pork (Schweinefleisch) German Name English Name Description Schweinenacken Pork Neck Juicy, marbled, and full of flavour — ideal for slow roasting, pulled pork, or hearty chops. Schweineschulter / Schaufel Pork Shoulder Perfect for long, slow cooking, stews, or mincing for sausages. A robust and versatile cut. Schweinerücken / Schweinelende Pork Loin Lean, tender, and similar to a South African pork chop. Available bone-in or boneless. Schweinefilet / Schweinelende Pork Tenderloin / Fillet Extremely lean and delicate. Best for medallions or quick pan-frying to keep it juicy. Bauchfleisch Pork Belly Rich and full of flavour, used for streaky bacon, crackling, or slow-roasted belly. Schweinebauch mit Schwarte Pork Belly with Skin Skin-on cut, often rolled or flat — perfect for making crispy crackling or roasting joints. Haxe Pork Knuckle / Shank Eisbein (boiled, northern style) or Schweinshaxe (crispy roasted, Bavarian style) — a true German classic. Kotelett Pork Chop Traditional bone-in cut from the loin. Often served with a rim of fat for flavour and moisture. Oberschale Topside / Inside of Leg Lean and perfect for schnitzels, thin roasts, or tender escalopes. Unterschale Silverside / Bottom Round Lean and slightly firmer — ideal for roasts or curing into ham. Schweinerippchen Pork Ribs Meaty ribs perfect for slow cooking, smoking, or glazing with sticky BBQ sauce. Nuss Eye of the Leg / Knuckle Small, round, lean muscle — great for schnitzels or thinly sliced roasts. Lende Loin or Tenderloin Depending on the butcher, can mean either loin or tenderloin — clarify before purchasing. Kassler Cured / Smoked Pork Chop Lightly smoked and salted, typically from the loin or shoulder. Delicious with sauerkraut and potatoes. Speck Bacon / Cured Fat Cured, sometimes smoked, thick-cut pork fat. Used for frying, flavouring dishes, or as lardons. Where to buy meat Most people buy lamb at their local Turkish butcher, or at Italian Food stores that have a butchery.You can try Selgros or Metro (need a customer card) or support your local butchery for lamb and other meat cuts.Shops like Rewe and Edeka have their own butchery section, and if you want a specific cut you can pre-order it from them. You can also buy meat online. I found the following online shops, but have not personally used them so I can only add them as suggestions. Most of these also sell Venison Ihr Online Metzger Tellermitte Don Carne Gourmet Fleisch Otto Gourmet MeinMetzger Mein Bauernhof – direct from farmers in your region. Beef, Lamb, Veal, Chicken and Fish. Also milk, eggs and vegetables Waldgourmet (Venison) Grüne Bauern – Bio Meat delivered to your home. They also sell Lamb Waldfleisch – App to buy Regional Venison Vocabulary Here is a list of translations, along with some additional information about meat in Germany. Product Substitute & Translation Lamb Shank Die Lammhaxe. Lamb is less common in Germany and often milder than Karoo lamb. You’ll find imported New Zealand lamb (fresh or frozen) at larger supermarkets, Italian delis, or specialty butchers. Lidl occasionally stocks frozen lamb shanks, though availability is seasonal. Mince Das Hackfleisch. Available as Rinderhack (beef), Schweinehack (pork), or Gemischtes Hack (a mix). Ground lamb is rare but can be found in Turkish or Middle Eastern stores. Ribeye Steak Entrecôte or Rib-Eye-Steak. Occasionally labelled Scotch Fillet. Usually available at butcher counters, Metro, or larger Edeka stores. Cuts of Beef German butchers use different regional terms for cuts. South African and British cuts are closely aligned — consult comparison charts to match names correctly when ordering from a German butcher. Cuts Good for Biltong Silverside (Unterschale) or Topside (Oberschale) are the best options. Tafelspitz (rump tip) also works well but is leaner and typically pricier. Offal / Afval Die Innereien. Includes liver, kidneys, heart, tripe, and tongue. Usually pre-ordered from butchers. Caul Fat / Netvet Das Fettnetz or Netz vom Schwein. Ask at the butcher; often used for pâtés or meatballs. Kidneys Die Nieren. Beef and veal kidneys are more common than lamb; soak before cooking to mellow the flavour. Liver Die Leber. Widely available from pork, beef, or veal. Best when freshly sliced — look for

Braai Season

Summer has finally arrived in Germany — and with it, that unmistakable itch to light the fire, gather your people, and kuier around the braai.But before you strike the match, there are a few German rules and realities you need to know… because here, even a braai comes with regulations. Am I allowed to grill on the Balcony? As a tenant, you are generally allowed to grill on the balcony, terrace or in the garden.There is no law prohibiting it.However, landlords can explicitly allow, restrict or prohibit grilling in your rental agreement.They can also specify if you are allowed to use charcoal. When am I not allowed to grill? When it is stipulated in your rental agreement that you are not allowed to grill on your balcony or in the garden. When the smoke from your fire or grill goes into the apartment or home of your neighbours. When this happens, you are committing an administrative offence, and you can be fined for it. What can I do? First of all, read your rental contract and make sure you know what the stipulations are. You should always be considerate towards your neighbours,<l/i> Electric grills make less smoke than a charcoal grill If possible, work with aluminium trays. Adhere to the applicable quiet periods (Ruhezeiten) More info on Ruhezeiten These rules are governed by the German Tenants’ Association (DMB). Anyone who disregards these rules risks being warned or even given notice.It can also result in the termination of your rental contract. A case that went to court was in 2002 in the district of Essen. The tenant disregarded the rules and ignored warnings and had to move out as a result. (LG Essen, judgment of 07.02.2002, Az .: 10 S 438/01).Another in Düsseldorf – “A barbecue party with a total of seven guests was organized in the garden of an apartment building. As a result, smoke penetrated through the windows of the neighbouring apartment. Their residents saw themselves on the one hand disturbed by the smoke, on the other hand by the additional noise level. The tenant, who was responsible for the grilling, was consequently fined (OLG Düsseldorf, judgment of 26.05.1995, ref .: 5 Ss (OWi) 149/95 – (OWi) 79/95 I).” What else do I need to know? If you are allowed to grill at your home, the smells and noise from a grill party should be tolerated by your neighbours to some extent. Take notice of the quiet periods and make sure to keep noise levels acceptable. These rules are governed by the local municipality Wood and charcoal Hardwood that produces a lot of embers with little smoke is the best to grill with. This includes: Beech (Buche) and Birch(Birke) wood are suitable for meat and fish dishes. It gives food a smoky flavour. Oakwood (Eiche) can also be used; it burns hotter and does not flavour the meat Maple wood (Ahornholz ) is suitable for vegetables and fish Wild Cherry wood (Wildkirsche) is particularly suitable for pork, veal, poultry and fish Notice!! Do not use soft wood like Spruce(Fichte), Fir (Tanne), yew (Eibe), larch (Lärchen) or pine(Kiefer) as these have a high resin content and can make the food bitter. Also, avoid using oily wood such as Cedar (Zeder), Eucalyptus, and Thuja (Arborvitae as they can cause health problems. These release compounds that can cause respiratory or digestive issues and are not safe for cooking Never use wood that has been treated, for example, telephone poles or railway sleepers. These may contain creosote, heavy metals, or other toxic substances. Vuur en Rook in the Netherlands is an online shop that sells Sekelbos and other wood Ons gaan braai, also in the Netherlands, sells Sekelbos and more Charcoal in Germany is made mostly from Beechwood (Buche). During the summer season, most grocery and hardware shops sell charcoal. Boeries, Biltong and Braai spices Looking for some tasty South African treats and drinks for your next braai? Check out these businesses selling Boerewors, Biltong, and braai spices. Some even have your favourite SA beverages available! Meat and fish German and South African meat cuts don’t always match up, which can make following familiar recipes a bit tricky.On our Meat page, we break down the German cuts and share a selection of trusted online shops where you can find the right meat. Where to shop for a grill and accessories Some of the most popular brands are Campingaz, Weber, Burnhard and Grill Fürst You can buy equipment and accessories at shops like OBI, Hornbach Vuur en rook in the Netherlands Ons gaan Braai in the Netherlands Potjie The following online shops sell Potjies: Die Spens Ons gaan Braai and Vuur en rook in the Netherlands Amazon.de Recipes Jan Braai References Mieterbund Rechtstipps Bussgeldkatalog Related content Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email