Nicotine vapes (e-cigarettes) are legal in Germany and there are 1.5 million vapers in the country, giving an adult vaping prevalence of 2.1%. There is a requirement to ensure vape packaging contains a health warning, and they can only be sold to those 18 and older.

It is not illegal to vape in Germany, but the practice is subject to strict regulations that align closely with traditional tobacco laws. As of 2026, vaping is generally permitted for adults over the age of 18, but it is prohibited in most public indoor spaces, including government buildings, schools, and hospitals. Regarding public transport, vaping is strictly banned on all Deutsche Bahn trains and within most railway stations, except in designated smoking zones. Restaurants and bars have the autonomy to set their own policies, though many follow the federal non-smoking laws that restrict vaping to outdoor seating areas. It is also important for travelers to be aware of the "Nicotine Tax" implemented in Germany, which has significantly increased the price of e-liquids. From a consumer standpoint, you can easily find "Vape Shops" in major cities like Berlin and Munich, and the sale of products is regulated by EU TPD (Tobacco Products Directive) standards, meaning tanks are limited to 2ml and nicotine strength is capped at 20mg/ml. While you won't get arrested for vaping in public, the social etiquette in Germany highly favors doing so in outdoor areas, away from non-users, to avoid "passive vaping" concerns.