Once you’ve spent some time in Germany, you will soon want to go out, research and discover. There are plenty of opportunities for travelling, and only at first sight may they seem complicated.
Germany has an extensive public transport system. You will find bus, metro and underground routes in most German cities. Besides cycling, the quickest route to your destination is probably by bus or rail. The rail system is easy to understand. There are various tram lines that travel along a given route. Timetables are displayed at each stop and are easy to understand.
Tip: Info desks at the railway station or tourist office often have free timetables for you to take so that you can find your way around.
Travelling without a ticket costs 40 euros
Make sure you buy a valid ticket before you get on the train or bus. You can buy tickets at the bus stop, the station or the ticket counter. If you’re spending the whole weekend in a town, ask about special weekend tickets. You have to validate the ticket before using it. Whatever the means of transport, you will find little red boxes near the doors of the bus, tram, train, etc. All you have to do is insert the ticket into the slit to validate the ticket. Date and time are then printed on the ticket and it’s ready for use.
If you travel without a ticket in Germany, you will be seen as a fare dodger –”Schwarzfahrer” – in German. It will cost you a fine of 40 euros. Some cities like Cologne also prohibit eating and drinking in trains and platforms.
Above all, make sure you know exactly when your bus, tram or train departs. Be on time at the station or stop, because train and bus drivers are generally on time and don’t wait. But: Don’t be surprised if you have to wait a bit longer for your train at the weekend. Different times apply on Saturdays and Sundays. Fewer trains travel at night than during the day.
Deutsche Bahn: Travelling by train is the easiest but also the most expensive option. Although high-speed express trains (Intercity Express – ICE) get you to the nearest city quickly, spontaneous trips can be really expensive. If you want to save money, book your ticket well in advance on the internet or, even better, travel with some friends at the weekend with a special group ticket: The “Schönes-Wochenende-Ticket” is valid for up to five people and costs just 37 euros per day.
Tip: www.verkehrsmittelvergleich.de – the website offers a comprehensive overview and comparison of all available means of transport.
Ela 