German train stations transfers

Navigating major German train stations can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re changing between long-distance trains, regional services, S-Bahn lines, or local transport. This guide provides clear steps, recommended transfer times, and station-by-station tips to help travelers make smooth connections across Germany.

Choosing suitable trains

Rail Europe search results show connections provided by the carrier. Connection times in Germany can vary widely, especially at larger stations. For major hubs like Munich Hbf, Berlin Hbf, Frankfurt Hbf, and Cologne Hbf, we recommend at least 10 - 15 minutes for platform-to-platform transfers.

Some results may show shorter connection times. These are provided directly by the rail carrier. If you prefer more time, you can adjust the connection time manually before booking via the “More options” function on our website.

Understanding German station layouts

Most major German stations have:
- Ground-level platforms for ICE/IC/EC and regional trains
- Underground platforms for S-Bahn (S-levels)
- Signage in German and English
- Clear colour-coded lines, escalators, and lifts
- Central concourse areas connecting all platforms

- Long-distance trains and S-Bahn services are usually connected by underpasses or central halls, with clear “S” symbols for the S-Bahn.

Transfer times in German stations

- 10 to 15 minutes: Comfortable for most platform changes
- 7 to 10 minutes: Doable if you are familiar with the station and have light luggage
- Under 7 minutes: Possible, but tight—prioritize quick movement and follow signage closely

When carriers offer short transfers (e.g., 5–7 minutes), it means the platform change is officially recognized as feasible.

Navigating Munich Hauptbahnhof (Hbf)

Munich Hbf is one of Europe’s busiest stations. Parts of the concourse are under renovation, which may cause temporary narrowing of walkways. Travelers should follow updated signs inside the station.

Overview:
- Long-distance trains (ICE/IC/EC): Platforms 11–26 (ground level)
- S-Bahn platforms: Platforms 1 & 2 in the ‘Hbf tief’ (underground) level, accessed via escalators or lifts near Platform 26
- S-Bahn signage: Large green circle with white “S”
- Wing platforms for regional trains:
- Holzkirchen Wing: Platforms 5-10
- Starnberger Wing: Platforms 27-36
- Transfers between wings and the main hall may take extra minutes.

Is an 11-minute transfer possible?

Yes, an 11-minute transfer from a Salzburg-Munich Hbf intercity train to the S-Bahn is realistic. Walking from most long-distance platforms to the S-Bahn entrance usually takes 3-6 minutes.

Step-by-step: From long-distance trains to S-Bahn:
- Exit the train and walk along the platform toward the central concourse.
- Look for green “S” signs pointing downstairs to the S-Bahn.
- Take the escalator or lift down to the S-Bahn level (“S-Bahn / Alle Richtungen” / “All directions”).
- At the bottom, you will see platforms for all S-Bahn lines (S1–S8).
- Check electronic display boards for:
* Next departing S-Bahn
* Platform
* Stops and direction
* Countdown in minutes

The underground S-Bahn area is compact, so movement is fast and straightforward.

Changing from long-distance trains to S-Bahn trains

Two lines operate between Munich Hbf and the airport:
- S1: via Munich West (slower)
- S8: via Munich East (faster, more direct)

Travel time:
- S8: approx. 38–42 minutes
- S1: approx. 41–45 minutes

Both lines run every 10 minutes, alternating every few minutes.

Which S-Bahn goes to Munich Airport

Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Hbf):
- A multi-level station with excellent signage.

Platform layout:
- Upper level (+2): Platforms 11–16 (east-west long-distance trains and some S-Bahn lines)
- Lower level (‘tief’): Platforms 1–8 (north-south long-distance and regional trains)

S-Bahn:
- Located on the upper Stadtbahn platforms (S3, S5, S7, S9)
- Escalators and lifts connect all levels
- Signage is prominently displayed in green
Transfer guidance: Allow 10–15 minutes between platforms.

Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Hbf)
Large terminal station with central concourse.

Layout:
- ICE/IC trains: Platforms 1–24 (ground level)
- S-Bahn: Underground B-level, accessed via escalators/lifts
- S-Bahn lines: S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S8, S9
Transfer guidance: 8-12 minutes is usually enough. Follow “U/S Hauptbahnhof” signage.

Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Hbf)

One of Germany’s busiest stations.

Layout:
- Long-distance trains: Ground level
- S-Bahn: Lower level
Transfer guidance: 7–10 minutes is sufficient; S-Bahn signs in green, U-Bahn in blue.

Cologne Hauptbahnhof (Köln Hbf)

Located next to Cologne Cathedral, easy to navigate.

Layout:
- Long-distance and regional trains: All ground level
- S-Bahn: Same platforms, usually short walks

Transfer guidance: 5-10 minutes; S-Bahn departures clearly marked

Transfers at Other Major German Stations

Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Hbf):
- A multi-level station with excellent signage.

Platform layout:
- Upper level (+2): Platforms 11–16 (east-west long-distance trains and some S-Bahn lines)
- Lower level (‘tief’): Platforms 1–8 (north-south long-distance and regional trains)

S-Bahn:
- Located on the upper Stadtbahn platforms (S3, S5, S7, S9)
- Escalators and lifts connect all levels
- Signage is prominently displayed in green
Transfer guidance: Allow 10–15 minutes between platforms.

Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Hbf)
Large terminal station with central concourse.

Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Hbf)

One of Germany’s busiest stations.

Layout:
- Long-distance trains: Ground level
- S-Bahn: Lower level
Transfer guidance: 7–10 minutes is sufficient; S-Bahn signs in green, U-Bahn in blue.

Cologne Hauptbahnhof (Köln Hbf)

Located next to Cologne Cathedral, easy to navigate.

Layout:
- Long-distance and regional trains: All ground level
- S-Bahn: Same platforms, usually short walks

Transfer guidance: 5-10 minutes; S-Bahn departures clearly marked.

German rail signage explained

- “S” (green circle): S-Bahn
- “U” (blue square): U-Bahn
- “Gleis” = platform number
- “Ausgang” = exit
- “Aufzug” = lift
- “Fahrplan / Abfahrt” = timetable / departures
- Arrow with time (e.g., 3 min): walking time to the next level

All major stations include English translations.

Station maps

- Most stations provide downloadable maps on their websites or at entrances.
- Deutsche Bahn (DB) station maps are recommended for up-to-date information on platforms, levels, exits, lifts, and facilities.