We'll review the best credit cards in Germany for car rentals, focusing on those with built-in rental insurance to save money and reduce hassle. It compares top options like Barclays Platinum Double, Santander Bestcard Premium, and Amex Platinum, highlighting their key benefits and drawbacks. A credit card comparison tool is recommended to help travelers find the best fit.

This article reviews the best current accounts in Germany for salary earners, highlighting key features, fees, and benefits of five popular options: C24 Smart, Santander 1|2|3, N26 Standard, DKB Girokonto, and ING Girokonto. It covers aspects like free account management, interest rates, overdraft conditions, card offerings, and cash withdrawal options. The guide helps readers compare accounts based on their income and banking needs, emphasizing digital services, loyalty bonuses, and fee structures.

The Amazon Visa credit card is back with new features after a year off the market. It offers 1% cashback on Amazon.de purchases, 0.5% on other purchases, and up to 2% cashback for Prime members on select days. The card has no annual fees and can be used in two modes: charge (no interest if paid in full monthly) and revolving (high interest at 20.13% p.a.). The optional Travel+ package (€7.99/month) waives foreign currency fees and ATM withdrawal fees, making it useful for occasional travelers. While the card has some app issues and high cash withdrawal fees, it’s a solid choice for regular Amazon shoppers.

The C24 Smart account offers a free, feature-rich banking experience with 1.75% interest on balances, free instant transfers, Girocard, Mastercard, virtual cards, and 0.05% cashback. It also includes free worldwide ATM withdrawals and no currency conversion fees. The account lacks long-term savings, trading options, and credit products. Overdraft is available after three salary deposits, and services are in German. Despite these, the reviewer highly recommends C24 Smart for its modern features and rewards.

Openbank has strengthened its presence in Germany by introducing local IBANs and credit offerings. Announced on January 27, 2025, the changes allow customers to receive salaries, manage direct debits, and benefit from German deposit protection guarantees. Additionally, Openbank now offers personal loans up to €24,000 with competitive rates, alongside an upgraded mobile app for enhanced user convenience. The move underscores Openbank's commitment to expanding in Germany and delivering secure, innovative digital banking solutions.

N26, the Berlin-based digital bank, eliminates trading fees for stocks and ETFs starting January 27, 2025, making investing more accessible and affordable. Customers can trade over 3,500 U.S. and European stocks, invest in ETFs, and set up free automated savings plans. This move aims to attract new investors, simplify financial tools, and position N26 as a leader in the fintech industry by removing barriers and fostering confidence in financial markets.

C24 Bank has launched a new joint account in January 2025, offering a convenient way for couples, families, or groups to manage shared expenses. The account features shared access to main and PocketPLUS sub-accounts, the ability to link a C24 Mastercard to different accounts, and seamless financial management through the C24 app. It also includes an interest rate of 1.75% per annum on balances up to €50,000, four free Pockets, and one free virtual card. While the account is free with no minimum deposit, ATM withdrawals beyond four per month incur a €2 fee. This initiative strengthens C24 Bank’s position in digital banking by providing a flexible and transparent financial solution.

C24 and N26 are lowering their interest rates to 1.5% and 0.75-2.25% per year respectively on current accounts and savings pockets starting February 1, 2025 (C24) and February 5, 2025 (N26). This change follows the ECB's recent decision to set the deposit facility rate at 3.00%, with C24 and N26 adjusting their rates accordingly. Other banks are also expected to drop their savings rates.