Travelling through Germany

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.

Bus Fahren, Bild: DAAD

Germany has an extensive public transport system. You will find bus, metro and underground routes in most German cities. For a detailed overview of the public transport network in your town or city, check out the town's website.

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.

Right across Germany – the most popular travel methods

Deutsche Bahn
Travelling by train (Deutsche Bahn) 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.

Flying
Flying is another alternative for travelling in Germany and Europe. So-called cheap airlines fly in all directions to major towns and cities. Here too: Early birds get the best discounts. Which means a return ticket between Cologne and Berlin costs just 50 euros for a good deal. www.billigairlines.de

Car sharing
If you not only want to save some money when travelling, but also want to get to know some nice people, try out a car sharing agency. The driver offers a place in the car for an agreed route. Those offering these rides generally leave their name, phone number and email address so you can contact the driver direct. It costs between five and six euros per 100 kilometres.
You see, being on the move in Germany is easy. Wherever the trip takes you, we wish you a pleasant journey!

Tip: www.verkehrsmittelvergleich.de - the website offers a comprehensive overview and comparison of all available means of transport.