German Churches

No real protocol. Nobody will likely raise an eyebrow unless you wear something blatantly offensive.

I don't know about Germany, but for sure, you can't wear shorts at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Maybe German Catholics are not as strict?

This is based on living in a German city (Mainz) with a Catholic cathedral for six years, and not official (Jo will pop in with a good opinion). ITA with the not blatantly offensive advice. We would pop in to our cathedral all the time during all times of the year and as Americans and kids at the time, we were often wearing shorts, and there was no formal dress code. No need to cover shoulders, knees, etc.

Some churches don't want you to take pictures, and of course, please be respectful of those who are in there worshiping. Please watch the level of your voice, especially.

Hi Cate!
The Catholic churches here in Frankfurt are pretty laid back, no one at the door checking outfits or anything. They will usually have a sign out in the foyer or entrance telling you if services are going on - so no entry, to not eat or drink in the church, to turn your phone off. I haven't seen one yet that said no photos, but I am sure there might be one. The volunteers, caretaker or nuns in the church sometimes tell loud or rowdy folks to settle down, or if they are taking inappropriate photos, not to touch stuff, or guys to take their hats off.

Cate, I had to laugh when I read your comment about being disrespectful. Not just because I've never been disrespectful in a church in my life but because the group I'm taking is from our church and includes our pastor and organist. I'm used to visiting Catholic churches in Italy where shorts are forbidden. American Lutheran churches are pretty laid back as far as dress is concerned but I wanted to be sure we wouldn't be inappropriately dressed in any of us wore shorts.Thanks for the responses! I won't worry about anyone showing their knees now.