Getting around Germany is one of the first things you figure out as a visitor or expat. Taxis, metro lines, buses and the unwritten rules locals follow shape your daily routine more than any guidebook.
In Germany, getting around comes down to a few things: the deutschlandticket, trains are... sometimes late, and cycling is serious infrastructure.
For €49/month, ride any local and regional public transport across the entire country. Buses, trams, S-Bahn, regional trains. It's one of Europe's best transit deals.
Tip: It doesn't cover ICE or IC long-distance trains. For those, book on bahn.de well in advance for Sparpreis fares.
Deutsche Bahn's reputation for punctuality is outdated. Delays happen regularly, especially on long-distance routes. Build buffer time into connections. The DB Navigator app is essential.
Most cities have dedicated bike lanes, and cycling is a genuine commuter option. Berlin, Munich, and Münster are especially bike-friendly. Obey traffic rules — cyclists get fined too.