Augsburg City Guide

Try local dishes like Spätzle, Käsespätzle, and pork knuckle. Good variety of international food, with more vegan and vegetarian options appearing. Late-night food options are limited outside center.

Decent nightlife mainly near the city center and university, including bars and some clubs.

Growing coffee culture mixing traditional and modern specialty coffee shops.

Tipping is customary but optional. Usually rounding up or 5-10% in restaurants and taxis.

SIM cards are sold at Telekom, Vodafone, O2 stores, and electronics shops like MediaMarkt. Registration with ID is required by law. Telekom, Vodafone, O2 offer good coverage and speed.

Generally clean with efficient waste and recycling systems.

Limited 24/7 services. Some petrol stations have mini-marts open all night, but pharmacies and clinics rarely open 24/7.

Big supermarkets like Edeka, Rewe, Aldi, Lidl, and Netto have international items. Stadtmarkt sells fresh local produce. Shops close Sundays and holidays.

Most big shops and restaurants accept cards, but small places may only take cash. Carry some cash for small purchases.

ATMs from major banks like Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, and HypoVereinsbank are common. Check your bank about foreign card withdrawal fees.

Offers German schools and Augsburg International School with IB curriculum. Early application is advised.

Smaller community than major German cities, with some networking at co-working spaces and expat groups.

Good access to parks, the Siebentischwald forest, Botanical Garden, and river areas for outdoor activities.

Good running paths along the Lech River, Siebentischwald forest, and Kuhsee lake. Safe and with local running groups.

Several gyms available with varied options.

Tennis courts at various clubs; booking needed. Equipment rental may be available.

Padel is less common but slowly growing in Augsburg.

Several yoga studios with different styles. Some have English-speaking instructors.

Various dojos for Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, BJJ, Muay Thai with different drop-in policies.

Ski resorts like Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Oberstdorf are 1-2 hours away. Season runs December to March/April with options for all skill levels.

Kayaking and paddleboarding available on Lech River and nearby lakes such as Kuhsee, mainly seasonal.

No ocean surfing as Augsburg is inland.

Limited diving in nearby lakes like Starnberg and Ammersee, but not a main diving destination.

Quality public and private healthcare with English-speaking staff in major hospitals like Universitätsklinikum Augsburg. Pharmacies have regulated hours; some open for emergencies.

Tap water is safe to drink and high quality.

Many playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés with play areas. Attractions include the puppet theater, zoo, and botanical garden.

Generally accepting with legal protections, inclusive venues, and pride events.

Pet-friendly city with many parks allowing dogs on leash. Veterinary services and pet supply stores are common.