Taxis in Germany are generally considered moderately expensive compared to other European countries, primarily because the rates are strictly regulated by local municipalities. In 2026, a typical "base fare" starts between €3.50 and €5.00, with a per-kilometer rate of roughly €2.00 to €2.50. For example, a short 5-kilometer trip in a city like Munich or Berlin will likely cost you around €15 to €18. Taxis from airports to city centers are particularly costly; a ride from Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to the city center can easily exceed €50. To avoid surprises, look for the official "Tarif" sticker on the taxi window. While expensive, German taxis are world-renowned for their quality, usually consisting of high-end Mercedes-Benz or Audi sedans that are spotlessly clean and driven by professional, licensed drivers. For a more budget-friendly alternative, many travelers use the "Free Now" app or integrated public transit (U-Bahn/S-Bahn), which is incredibly efficient and much cheaper. Unlike in some other countries, tipping is not mandatory but rounding up to the nearest Euro or adding 5-10% for good service is the standard social etiquette.