Introduction
Credit cards with cashback rewards are becoming increasingly popular in Germany, where historically debit cards and direct bank transfers (SEPA) have dominated. In 2025, German consumers are finally embracing cashback credit cards as a smart way to earn rewards on everyday spending — especially with rising inflation and a growing number of online transactions.
In this guide, we’ll compare the top cashback credit cards available in Germany, examine their features, fees, and cashback potential, and help you pick the one that fits your lifestyle.
What Is a Cashback Credit Card?
A cashback credit card gives you a percentage of your purchases back as money or statement credit. Unlike travel cards or point-based systems, cashback is simple and transparent.
💡 Example:
Spend €1,000/month on a card with 1.5% cashback → get €15/month back → €180/year in passive rewards.
What to Consider When Choosing a Cashback Card in Germany
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Cashback Rate | The higher the rate, the more money you get back |
| Monthly/Annual Fees | A free card might offer less cashback than paid ones |
| Spending Categories | Some cards give more cashback on groceries, fuel, etc. |
| International Use | FX fees and global acceptance (Visa/Mastercard) |
| Integration | Apple Pay, Google Pay, digital onboarding |
Best Cashback Credit Cards in Germany (2025)
1. American Express® Payback Card (Germany)
Best for: Everyday shopping and loyalty points
Annual Fee: €0
Cashback: 1 PAYBACK point per €2 spent (can be redeemed as cash or vouchers)
Highlights:
- Partnered with over 600 retailers (Rewe, dm, real, etc.)
- Online and in-store cashback
- Apple Pay and Google Pay enabled
- High-level security
Why it’s great:
Amex’s partnership with PAYBACK makes this card incredibly valuable for regular shoppers. Points can be turned into cash or used for discounts. Plus, it’s free to own.
2. Barclays Visa Card (Germany)
Best for: Flexible cashback and travel benefits
Annual Fee: €0
Cashback: 0.5% on all purchases
Highlights:
- No FX fees on international purchases
- Free cash withdrawals worldwide
- Strong mobile app and card control features
Why it’s great:
A truly global-friendly cashback card with no hidden charges. Ideal for travelers, freelancers, or digital nomads based in Germany.
3. Deutschland Kreditkarte Classic
Best for: Simple cashback with no annual fee
Annual Fee: €0
Cashback: Up to 1% in promotional campaigns
Highlights:
- Issued by Hanseatic Bank
- Includes shopping insurance
- Instant online application
- Works well with Apple Pay
Why it’s great:
This card is straightforward and reliable. You get basic cashback features with minimal red tape — perfect for first-time credit users in Germany.
4. Revolut Metal (Germany)
Best for: International cashback and premium perks
Monthly Fee: €13.99/month
Cashback: 0.1% (Europe), 1% (outside Europe)
Highlights:
- Crypto and stock trading available
- Travel insurance included
- Up to €1,000/month in free FX transactions
- Premium card design
Why it’s great:
This is more than a credit card — it’s a full digital finance ecosystem. Great for frequent flyers and those who want extra benefits like airport lounge access and free trading.
5. N26 You / Metal
Best for: Cashback combined with lifestyle features
Monthly Fee:
- N26 You: €9.90/month
- N26 Metal: €16.90/month
Cashback: Not direct — but through partner offers and perks
Highlights: - Global travel insurance
- Fee-free foreign transactions
- Stylish metal card
- Direct budgeting tools
Why it’s great:
While it doesn’t offer standard cashback, N26 gives you access to rotating partner discounts and exclusive deals — valuable if you frequently shop online or travel.
Comparison Table
| Card | Cashback | Annual Fee | Best For | FX Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amex PAYBACK | ~0.5%–1% equiv. | €0 | Everyday shopping | Yes |
| Barclays Visa | 0.5% | €0 | Global purchases | No |
| Deutschland Kreditkarte | 0.5%–1% promo | €0 | Simplicity | Low |
| Revolut Metal | 0.1–1% | €168/year | International + tech lovers | No |
| N26 You / Metal | Perk-based | €118–€202/year | Travel and lifestyle perks | No |
How to Maximize Cashback in Germany
- Use the card for all daily expenses — groceries, fuel, online shopping.
- Pay off your balance in full monthly to avoid interest charges.
- Look for cashback promotions or special partner offers (e.g., Amex + Rewe).
- Combine with loyalty apps like PAYBACK or Shoop.de.
- Avoid cards with FX fees if you travel or shop internationally.
Are Cashback Cards Safe in Germany?
Yes — especially if they are issued by banks licensed under BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority) or are part of trusted global brands like Visa, Mastercard, or Amex. Features to look for:
- Two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Card freezing from the app
- Real-time notifications
- EMV chip security
Conclusion
In 2025, cashback credit cards in Germany are no longer a rarity — they’re a smart financial tool. Whether you’re looking to save on groceries, earn rewards while traveling, or just want a better deal than your traditional Girokonto, there’s a great option available.
For most users:
- Amex PAYBACK and Barclays Visa offer excellent value with no annual fee.
- Revolut Metal is great if you travel frequently and want cashback outside Europe.
- N26 and Deutschland Kreditkarte are strong digital-first options with extra features.
Start earning money while you spend — and make your credit card work for you.
