Using Buses & the Metro
Use these phrases to buy tickets, ask about routes, and ride buses and the subway with ease.
Key Phrases
Guten Tag, ein Ticket, bitte.
politeHello, one ticket, please.
Use this polite opening when buying from a driver or counter clerk.
Ein Ticket, bitte.
neutralA ticket, please.
A clear, standard request at any ticket counter or bus entrance.
Was kostet ein Ticket?
neutralHow much does a ticket cost?
Standard question to check the fare before you buy.
Was kostet das?
casualHow much is that?
Short, informal way to ask about the price.
Brauche ich hier einen Stempel?
neutralDo I need a stamp here?
Ask staff or a fellow rider if your ticket requires validation.
Entschuldigung, fährt dieser Bus ins Zentrum?
politeExcuse me, does this bus go to the center?
Polite formula to confirm the bus route before stepping inside.
Fährt diese U-Bahn ins Zentrum?
neutralDoes this subway go to the center?
Direct question on the platform to check the train's direction.
Fährt die Bahn direkt?
neutralDoes the train go direct?
Ask whether you can stay on the train or must transfer.
Wo ist die Haltestelle?
neutralWhere is the stop?
Use this to ask a passerby for the nearest bus or tram stop.
Ist der Platz frei?
casualIs this seat free?
Informal check before taking an empty seat beside another passenger.