Transfers don't have to be stressful. With the right preparation and our tips, you'll master every platform change with ease – and know exactly what to do when delays occur.
🚉 Transfer Essentials
How Much Transfer Time Do I Need?
The required transfer time depends on the station size and your personal situation:
| Station Type | Minimum | Recommended | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small station | 5 min | 8 min | Fulda, Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe |
| Medium station | 8 min | 12 min | Hannover, Nuremberg, Leipzig |
| Large hub station | 10 min | 15 min | Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin Hbf |
| Complex station | 12 min | 20 min | Hamburg Hbf, Cologne Hbf |
⚠️ Allow more time for: Mobility restrictions, lots of luggage, bicycles, strollers, unfamiliar stations, or your first transfer of the journey.
Before Your Journey: Proper Preparation
1. Install the DB Navigator App
The app shows live platform information, delays, and alternative connections. Push notifications alert you to changes.
2. Save Your Connection
Save your journey in the app. This gives you all information offline and automatic updates about your connection.
3. Check Station Maps
At bahnhof.de you'll find detailed platform maps for all German stations. Know your way before you arrive.
4. Use the Coach Position Display
Book a seat near the exit toward the stairs or escalator – it saves time when transferring.
During the Transfer
✅ What You Should Do
- • Check platform number in the app or on displays
- • Pay attention to announcements (platform changes)
- • If delayed: inform the train conductor
- • Stay calm – the train often waits
- • Use escalators/elevators for quick platform changes
❌ What You Should Avoid
- • Running in panic (risk of accidents)
- • Headphones at full volume
- • Starting without checking the platform
- • Using old platform info from your ticket
- • Blocking doors
Tips for Major Hub Stations
These stations are central transfer points in Germany:
Frankfurt Hbf
MediumNote the underground station: Platforms 21-24 for S-Bahn
Munich Hbf
ComplexLong walks between platforms 1-10 and 27-36
Berlin Hbf
ComplexTwo levels: upper for East-West, lower for North-South
Cologne Hbf
MediumMany through trains, short stopping times
Hamburg Hbf
ComplexNarrow platforms, often crowded
Hannover Hbf
EasyWell-organized, short distances
Mannheim Hbf
EasyImportant ICE hub, all platforms on one level
Leipzig Hbf
MediumLargest terminus station, long walks possible
Missed Your Connection: What Now?
💡 Good news: If you miss your connection due to a delay of your first train, you can take the next train for free – even without a reservation and even with Saver fares!
Step 1: Stay Calm
Your ticket remains valid. The train-specific binding for Saver fares is automatically lifted in case of delays.
Step 2: Find the Next Connection
Use the DB Navigator app or visit the service point to find the next connection to your destination.
Step 3: Board and Inform
Board the next train. Inform the conductor about the delay of your previous train.
Step 4: Apply for Compensation
If arriving 60+ minutes late: Fill out the passenger rights form (online or at the service point).
Your Rights in Case of Delays
| Delay | Your Rights |
|---|---|
| 20+ minutes expected | Take another train (even IC instead of RE) |
| 60+ minutes arrival | 25% ticket price refund |
| 120+ minutes arrival | 50% ticket price refund |
| Night after midnight, 60+ min | Taxi/hotel up to 80 EUR (conditions apply) |
Transfer Assistance (Mobility Service)
Deutsche Bahn offers free assistance with boarding, alighting, and transfers:
📞 Contact Mobility Service
- Phone: 0800 5 99 66 33 (free)
- Online: bahn.de/mobilitaetsservice
- Notice: Register at least 1 day in advance
- Cost: Free of charge
✅ Services Provided
- • Help with boarding/alighting
- • Accompaniment to connecting trains
- • Lift platform for wheelchair users
- • Luggage assistance
- • Station orientation
🚄 Find Connections with Good Transfer Times
Plan your journey with sufficient transfer time – we'll show you suitable connections.
Compare Connections →More Travel Tips
📱 DB Navigator App
All features of the train app
♿ Accessible Travel
Traveling with a wheelchair
🧳 Luggage on Trains
What can you bring?
💰 Passenger Rights
Compensation for delays
Frequently Asked Questions
How much transfer time should I plan?
When booking via bahn.de, only connections with sufficient transfer time are shown. As a rule of thumb: small stations 5-8 minutes, medium stations 8-12 minutes, major city stations 10-15 minutes. Plan more time if you have mobility restrictions or lots of luggage.
What happens if I miss my connection?
If you miss your connection due to a delay of the first train, you can take the next train for free – even without a reservation. For Saver fares, the train-specific binding no longer applies in this case. Inform the train staff about the delay.
How do I quickly find the right platform?
Use the DB Navigator app for live platform information. At the station, yellow departure boards and blue arrival boards show current platforms. For last-minute platform changes, announcements are made and app notifications are sent.
Can I get help with tight transfers?
Yes, the train staff can inform the connecting train about delays. For critical transfers, speak to the conductor. For passengers with mobility restrictions, Deutsche Bahn offers a mobility service.
How are platforms numbered at the station?
Platforms are numbered consecutively, with low numbers usually on one side and high numbers on the other. Platforms with letters (e.g., 4a/4b) are directly adjacent. Through stations have platforms on two levels.
What should I do if delayed by more than 20 minutes?
If your expected arrival delay is 20+ minutes, you can take a different, even faster train. From 60 minutes delay, you're entitled to 25% refund, from 120 minutes 50%. Keep your tickets and apply for compensation online.