Public Transportation

In this article, you’ll learn how public transport works in general. For more detailed information about specific cities like Frankfurt, Hamburg, Berlin, Cologne, Stuttgart, or Munich, check out the local guides linked at the bottom.

Tram (Straßenbahn) in Berlin.

1. What counts as public transport?

Public transport in Germany (called ÖPNV) includes:

  • Bus (Buses) – available everywhere
  • U-Bahn (subway) – underground trains in large cities
  • S-Bahn (suburban trains) – trains that connects city centers and outer areas
  • Straßenbahn (Trams)– above-ground light rail, common in some cities
  • Regionalzüge (Regional trains) – connect cities and nearby towns
  • ICE/IC – high speed train/ Intercity train
  • Fähren (Ferries) – for example in Hamburg, included in the public transport ticket

2. Where can I buy tickets?

  • Ticket machines at stations and some tram stops
  • Apps – often the easiest way (each city has its own, I will show you at the bottom)
  • Counters – at large stations or transport centers
  • Sometimes in buses – but not in every city

Always check the local rules when you arrive in a new place.

Ticket Machine Hamburg.

3. Types of tickets

Most cities offer these options:

  • Single ticket – one ride in one direction
  • Short trip ticket – for very short rides (usually a few stops)
  • Day ticket – unlimited rides for one day
  • Weekly/monthly ticket – good if you travel regularly
  • Deutschlandticket (58-Euro-Ticket) – a monthly flat rate for public transport across Germany (except high-speed trains- IC/ICE)

4. Important rules

  • You must buy and validate your ticket before boarding.
  • Mobile tickets are usually ready to use after few seconds or minute.
  • Ticket checks are common – if you don’t have a valid ticket, the fine is usually 60€.
  • Children under 6 travel for free.
  • You may need an extra ticket for bicycles or dogs.

5. Local differences

Germany’s transport system is organized regionally. That means:

  • Zones, prices and rules differ from city to city.
  • Each area has its own ticket app and customer service.
  • In some cities, paper tickets are no longer sold in buses.
Some cities offer special Night Bus lines.

6. Useful transport apps in each City

RegionApp Names and Download Link
All of Germany„DB Navigator“ Apple, Google
Berlin„BVG Fahrinfo“ Apple, Google
Hamburg„hvv-Hamburg Bus & Bahn“ Apple, Google
Frankfurt„RMVgo“ Apple, Google
Munich„MVV-App“ Apple, Google
Cologne„VRR & eezy.nrw Ticket“ Apple, Google
Stuttgart„VVS Mobil“ Apple, Google

7. Local Transportation Websites

Each city has its own rules, systems, and quirks. To get familiar with public transport in your city, check the local transportation website: