The DB Navigator app is the official app from Deutsche Bahn. It's your best friend when traveling by train in Germany — especially if you don't speak German. Before booking, familiarize yourself with German ticket types and learn how to validate regional tickets.
Quick Answer: Why Use It?
- Live updates: Real-time delays, platform changes, cancellations
- Buy tickets: In English, on your phone, anytime
- Find platforms: See which platform (Gleis) your train leaves from
- Navigate stations: Maps and directions within stations
- Claim compensation: If your train is delayed or cancelled
Step 1: Download the App
Where to Get It
- • iOS: App Store (search "DB Navigator")
- • Android: Google Play Store (search "DB Navigator")
- • Free: The app itself is free; you only pay for tickets
Step 2: Set It to English
The app is available in English, which makes it much easier for tourists than the German-only website.
💡 Pro Tip
When you first open the app, it may detect your phone's language. If it's in German, go to Settings (Einstellungen) → Language (Sprache) → English.
Step 3: Create an Account (Optional but Recommended)
You can browse routes without an account, but you'll need one to buy tickets. Creating an account is free and takes 2 minutes.
- Tap "Register" or "Sign Up"
- Enter your email and create a password
- Verify your email (check your inbox)
- Done! You can now buy tickets
Key Features You'll Use
Search Routes
Enter your departure and destination cities. The app shows all available train types, prices, and journey times. You can filter by departure time, price, or duration. Planning a scenic route? Check our Rhine Valley guide.
Buy Tickets
Select your train, choose ticket type (Sparpreis or Flexpreis), and pay with credit card or PayPal. Your ticket appears in the app immediately — no need to print anything.
Check Platforms (Gleis)
The app shows which platform your train leaves from. This is especially useful at large stations where platforms can change at the last minute.
Get Live Updates
The app shows real-time delays, platform changes, and cancellations. If your train is delayed, you'll see alternative connections automatically.
Common Tourist Questions
📱 Do I Need Internet?
You need internet to search routes and buy tickets. Once you have a ticket, you can view it offline. But for live updates and platform changes, you'll need internet at the station.
🎫 Do I Need to Print My Ticket?
No! Digital tickets in the app are valid. Just show the ticket on your phone to the conductor. Make sure your phone is charged and the ticket is visible.
🔋 What If My Phone Dies?
Always keep your phone charged when traveling. If your phone dies and you can't show your ticket, you may be asked to buy a new one. Consider bringing a power bank.
DB Navigator vs. Omio
Both apps work well, but they serve slightly different purposes:
DB Navigator
- ✅ Official DB app
- ✅ Shows all DB routes
- ✅ Live updates and platform info
- ⚠️ Can be confusing for first-time users
Omio
- ✅ Very tourist-friendly (English-first)
- ✅ Compares multiple transport options
- ✅ Simple checkout process
- ⚠️ May not show all regional routes
Prefer a Simpler Booking Experience?
If you find the DB Navigator app confusing, Omio offers a simpler English-first booking experience with clear comparisons and easy checkout.
Book with OmioTrademark Notice: Trainvave is an independent information portal and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Deutsche Bahn AG, ÖBB, or any other railway company. All brand names, product names, and logos mentioned (including but not limited to ICE, IC, EC, DB, Deutsche Bahn) are trademarks of their respective owners and are used here solely for informational purposes.