Germany’s Transportation System: A Quick Guide

If you are planning to stay in Germany and at the same time, explore the country, you have a wide array of choices to do that. 

Public transportation in Germany is usually excellent and practical, connecting cities with other cities, and smaller towns. In addition, they have a reputation of being relatively fast and reliable. 

Here’s a quick guide to Germany’s transportation system, and the different modes of transportation you can use during your stay there. 

For Short Distances

Bicycle

Aside from walking, the best way to go around your host city, or explore your immediate surroundings is through cycling. In fact, not only is cycling a popular recreation activity in the country, but it’s also a popular way to commute. 

In addition to the exercise it gives you, cycling also helps you avoid getting stuck in traffic or waiting for a bus or train. In addition, most cities in Germany have allocated parking spaces for bicycles. 

Also, there are bike-sharing providers in Germany that you can usually access through apps or websites, such as Call a Bike or Nextbike. 

Public Transport 

Buses and Trains

If you only want to go around town, you can take either buses or trains. Information sheets, including timetables, bus or train stops, maps, are always available to the public. So, if you need that information, you can check online, at the railway station, bus stops, or even at tourist information offices. 

You can usually purchase a ticket via ticket machines or bus stops. Some trams and busses, however, still allow passengers to directly buy from the driver. 

Railway

If you want to explore other cities in Germany, and have limited time to do that, railways are often a good way to travel fast and comfortably. However, using this mode of transportation is not usually cheap. 

In fact, faster trains, such as the Intercity Express, or Eurocity cost more than local railway lines, such as the Regional Express, or the Regional Bahn (RB). Probably, the best way to save money when buying a railway ticket is to purchase one earlier, at the railway station, or online. For frequent travelers, you can purchase a card, such as the BahnCard 25 or 50, to reduce your fare every time you travel. 

Coaches

If you want to travel to other cities in Germany or other parts of Europe, coaches are a cheaper option than railways. You can usually purchase tickets for coaches online. 

Other Types of Transportation Modes

Taxis

If you are in a hurry and do not have enough time to wait for the next bus or train, riding a taxi can be your option. However, Taxis are expensive in Germany, and usually require a minimum fare of EUR 2.50, even if it’s just a short trip. 

Moreover, to lessen your taxi fare, you can ride them and split the fare with friends. 

Car-Sharing

Car-sharing is a popular mode of transportation for many students because it is much more economical than riding a taxi. In addition, since you can ride a shart through apps and websites, it is also more convenient than buying tickets.

Knowing Germany’s transportation system is not only important for students who will be staying there for a long time,  but also for individuals who are only staying there for a few weeks to a few months. 

Learn more practical tips and information about Germany by checking our articles at MSM Unify.