Ways to travel around Germany
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Last updated: Feb 2023
TL;DR: Public transportation is one of the most common ways to get around Germany. There are a number of options ranging from buses, trains and trams. The U-Bahn (subway) is usually only available in larger cities. Check the bus schedule ahead of time to ensure you’re on time. The S-Bahn is primarily located in bigger cities such as Munich. The ICE (InterCityExpress) is known to travel to a different state or country at high speed. This article helps you manage your travel around Germany.
If you’re worried about not having a car in Germany then it’s not a problem! Public transportation is easily accessible and a convenient way to get around. There’s a plethora of options ranging from buses, trains and trams. Here’s a quick explanation for some of the most used methods to travel around Germany. Some of the following options are more available in different towns and cities. The bigger the cities, the more options will be available, and the more frequent the trips will be.
Bus
The bus is a little slower than a train but still a pretty useful and convenient mode of travelling. The waiting times can vary across different cities so checking the bus schedule beforehand is always a good idea. When taking a ride, remember to pay for your ticket by getting one from the driver. If you’re planning to use the bus everyday, then a long-term bus ticket is recommended, in which some have a validity period of 6 months.
U-Bahn (Subway)
The subway is one of the most convenient ways to travel in a city. Travelling from one end of the city to the other so quickly is a luxury for some. The U-Bahn is usually only available in larger cities. Passengers will have to purchase tickets from the machines located at each station. The price of the tickets depends on the zone your destination is located at. There are also promotional prices such as the day pass, which offers an unlimited number of rides for a day.
S-Bahn (Tram)
Like the U-Bahn, the S-Bahn is primarily located in bigger cities such as Munich. The tram brings you around the busy centre while you enjoy the beautiful architecture around you. Different places have different systems, but usually the tickets can be bought from the machines located at bus stops, tram stations and subway stations.
Train ( ICE, IC, EC, RE)
Want to visit a different state or country? Trains like the IC (InterCity) and EC (EuroCity) can do just that. The EC trains allow you to cross borders to neighbouring European countries, bringing you to countries like the Netherlands or Luxembourg. The ICE ( InterCityExpress) is known to travel to the speed of 300km/h, saving you time when you’re on a long journey. Train tickets can be bought online or at the train stations themselves.
DB App
The DB app is a very useful way to check out the schedules of your buses or trains. Buying train tickets is made easy with online transfers or choosing the most appropriate departure date. You can also acquire discounted train tickets if you purchase a BahnCard, which is valid for one year. Discounts start at 25%! This is a handy app which helps you manage your travel around Germany.
If you live in Germany, what other ways do you know to travel around Germany? We are sure we missed out a few. Let us know by emailing info@germaneducare.com and we will add them to this article.
