Check the line before boarding
Look at the display on the front of the train or bus: the final stop is shown there. It tells you whether you are going in the right direction.
Phrases and vocabulary for tickets, connections, delays, and questions at machines or counters.
Short cues that help immediately in a stressful real-life moment.
Look at the display on the front of the train or bus: the final stop is shown there. It tells you whether you are going in the right direction.
During works or cancellations, conductors often know the fastest workaround — ask them rather than only checking the app.
Inspectors can ask to see your ticket even at the end of the journey. Without a valid ticket you risk a sixty-euro fine.
Short scripts for common moments you are likely to face on site.
You want to buy a ticket for a specific connection.
I need a ticket to Cologne for the two p.m. train, please.
One-way or return?
You are not sure whether you have to change trains.
Do I have to change to get to Leipzig, or does the train go direct?
If so, where is the best place to change?
You have missed your connection and need a new option.
My train was delayed and I missed the connection. What options do I have now?
Can I get a refund for the delay?
Short, useful lines you can actually say out loud.
Where can I buy a ticket?
Excuse me, where can I buy a ticket for the S-Bahn here?
Does this train go to Berlin?
Excuse me, does this train go directly to Berlin or do I have to change?
How long does the journey take?
Roughly how long does the journey from here to the main station take?
I need a one-way ticket to Hamburg.
I need a one-way ticket to Hamburg for the next train.
I missed my connection.
I missed my connection. When does the next train to Munich leave?
Is this train delayed?
Is this train delayed, or is it leaving on time?
Which platform does the train leave from?
Which platform does the ten o clock train to Frankfurt leave from?
May I bring my bicycle?
May I bring my bicycle on this train, or do I need an extra ticket?
Core nouns and terms that come up again and again in this situation.
ticket
The ticket is valid for two hours only.
station
The station is only a five-minute walk away.
platform / track
The train is leaving from platform seven today.
connecting train
The connection in Hannover does not wait long.
delay
Because of the delay, you will not catch the connecting train.
timetable
The new timetable applies from December.
ticket machine
You can pay by card at the machine too.
route / line
Fewer trains run on this line at the weekend.
Natural wording for the follow-up questions people ask all the time in this situation.
Use the verb umsteigen: I have to change in Hannover. Or as a question: Where do I have to change?
Say: How much does a ticket to Bremen cost? Or shorter: What does the ticket cost?
Say: My ticket is not working. Can you help me? Staff can then check on the spot.
Essential language for appointments, forms, queue numbers, documents, and follow-up questions at government offices.
Phrases and vocabulary for ordering, allergies, special requests, and paying at a restaurant or café.
Phrases and vocabulary for signing contracts, changing plans, cancelling, and follow-up questions with mobile and internet providers.