
Public Transport in Germany
Overview of German public transport
Germany has one of the world’s most comprehensive public transport systems. Cities offer U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (urban rail), trams, and buses. Regional trains connect smaller towns.
Ticket types and prices
Short-distance tickets
- Einzelticket: Single journey (€2-4 depending on city)
- Kurzstrecke: Short-distance ticket (cheaper for 3-4 stops)
Time-based tickets
- Tageskarte: Day pass (€6-10)
- Wochenkarte: Weekly pass
- Monatskarte: Monthly pass (€60-100)
How to buy tickets
Physical tickets
Available at station machines (English option available). Must validate before boarding using stamp machines on platforms.
Digital options
- DB Navigator app (national trains)
- Local transport apps (like VRS for Cologne)
- Contactless bank card payments in some cities
Important rules
- Always validate paper tickets before first use
- Keep ticket until end of journey – random checks occur
- Bikes/dogs often need extra tickets
- No eating/drinking alcohol on most transport
Discount options
- BahnCard 25/50 for train discounts
- Group tickets (often cheaper for 3+ people)
- Student/senior discounts