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Train station prep
German phrases for the train station
A practical sheet for the Bahnhof desk: departures, delays, platform sections, and the short confirmations that save time under pressure.
Content verified June 2026
Interactive practice
Rehearse this conversation with choices, feedback, and grammar notes — not just the phrase sheet.
Bring
- Ticket or booking confirmation on your phone
- Destination city and train number, if you have it
- Departure time from your original ticket
Expect
- Wohin möchten Sie fahren?
- Der Zug hat Verspätung.
- Sie müssen umsteigen.
- Der Zug fährt von Gleis ... ab.
- In welchem Abschnitt hält Ihr Wagen?
Useful phrases
Ask one precise question at a time
When a connection is slipping, short questions about Gleis, Verspätung, and Abschnitt sound more prepared than broad confusion.
Entschuldigung, wann fährt der Zug nach München?
Excuse me, when does the train to Munich leave?
Von welchem Gleis fährt der Zug nach München ab?
From which platform does the train to Munich depart?
Der Zug hat zehn Minuten Verspätung.
The train is ten minutes late.
In welchem Abschnitt hält Wagen 12?
In which section does coach 12 stop?
Rescue phrases
- Können Sie das bitte wiederholen?
- Ist die Unterführung von hier aus geradeaus?
- Vielen Dank für Ihre Hilfe.
Common questions
FAQ
Short answers for the questions people ask before this appointment.
How do I ask for a departure platform in German?+
Use Von welchem Gleis fährt der Zug nach [city] ab? instead of asking which platform is correct.
How do I talk about train delays in German?+
German often uses Der Zug hat [number] Minuten Verspätung rather than a literal English translation.
What if I need to find my coach on the platform?+
Ask In welchem Abschnitt hält Wagen [number]? to locate the right section quickly.
What should I say when leaving the service desk?+
A short Vielen Dank für Ihre Hilfe is enough and sounds natural.
Take it with you
Print or save the offline pocket card with the key lines for appointment day.
Open pocket cardKeep preparing
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