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Yes. Vaping is legal in Germany for adults over 18, regulated under the EU TPD framework like the UK. The key thing UK visitors should know: Germany has the highest e-liquid duty in the EU at €0.32 per ml from January 2026. That makes a 10ml bottle considerably more expensive than at home, even after the UK's own duty starts in October.
Germany regulates vaping under the Tobacco Products Act (Tabakerzeugnisgesetz) which implements the EU TPD. The product rules are familiar to UK vapers. The difference is in how Germany taxes and where you can use vapes.
Germany imposed an excise duty on e-liquid in 2022 and the rate has risen each year. The current rate of €0.32 per ml took effect on 1 January 2026 under the Tobacco Duty Modernisation Act (Tabaksteuermodernisierungsgesetz).
A 10ml bottle of nicotine salt that costs £4 in the UK before VPD costs around €8 to €10 in Germany after duty and VAT. Once the UK's VPD starts on 1 October 2026 at £2.20 per 10ml, German prices may actually be competitive again, but only just.
For comparison: the UK's Vaping Products Duty starts on 1 October 2026 at £2.20 per 10ml (22p per ml). That is around €0.26 per ml, lower than Germany's €0.32. So Germany remains slightly more expensive even after the UK duty kicks in.
Germany has a federal structure with smoking and vaping rules set partly at federal level and partly by each of the 16 states (Bundesländer). The general picture: most German states treat vaping similarly to smoking for indoor public space bans.
Germany is moving toward a national disposable vape ban but it is not yet in force as of mid-2026. The Federal Council (Bundesrat) approved a proposal supporting a ban in late 2024, and the Bundestag has been considering the legislation throughout 2025 and 2026.
Germany is implementing a tax stamp system similar to what the UK is rolling out for the VPD. From mid-2026 all e-liquid sold in Germany must carry a tax stamp showing duty has been paid.
The German vape retail sector is mature. You will find dedicated vape shops in every major city, plus availability at tobacconists, kiosks and pharmacies.
Dedicated vape shops (E-Zigaretten Shops)
Found in all major German cities. Best selection and German-language advice. Larger chains include Vapor Berlin and Smoore-affiliated branded stores.
Tobacconists (Tabakwaren)
Most stock basic vape products. Limited range but conveniently located. Common at train stations and city centres.
Kiosks (Späti in Berlin)
Small convenience shops, particularly common in Berlin. Often stock disposable vapes and basic pod kits. Open late.
Online German retailers
Legal in Germany unlike Italy. Reputable online vape retailers ship to German addresses. Sometimes available to UK addresses too.
Tobacco shops at airports
Duty-free shops at Frankfurt, Munich and Berlin airports sell vape products. Range is limited but useful for last-minute supplies.
German e-liquid prices are higher than UK pre-duty prices due to the heavy excise duty. Once UK VPD takes effect in October 2026, prices in the two countries will be much closer but Germany remains slightly more expensive per ml.
Vaping is legal but expensive
EU TPD framework, same product limits as the UK. The €0.32 per ml duty makes Germany one of the most expensive places to vape in Europe.
Indoor rules treat vaping like smoking
Public transport, federal buildings, most workplaces and many restaurants ban it. Beer gardens are an outdoor exception.
Bring your own and use it sparingly
The combination of duty, restrictions and tax stamps makes German vape buying complicated. UK kit is automatically compliant. Buy at home where possible.
Part of our guide
UK vaping rules for transport and accommodation, plus country-by-country guides for popular destinations.
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