Train strikes and construction work happen in Germany. When they do, it's easy to panic — especially if you're a tourist and don't speak German. Check the DB Navigator app for real-time updates and learn about your passenger rights. Here's a step-by-step guide to handle disruptions calmly.
Quick Answer: What to Do First
🚨 If There's a Strike or Construction
- Check live updates (DB Navigator app or bahn.de)
- Don't buy a new ticket immediately — check if your ticket is valid on alternatives
- Keep your original ticket and documentation
- Look for alternative routes or transport options
- Consider flexible travel plans
How to Check for Strikes
Where to Check
- • DB Navigator app: Shows live updates and cancellations
- • bahn.de: Official website with strike announcements
- • News sites: Usually report major strikes in advance
- • Station boards: Show cancellations and alternatives
What to Do During a Strike
Check What's Running
Not all trains stop during strikes. Some regional services may still run. Check DB Navigator or station boards to see what's available.
Find Alternative Routes
Use DB Navigator to find alternative routes. Your original ticket may be valid on alternative trains or routes — check official guidance before buying a new ticket.
Keep Your Ticket
Don't throw away your original ticket. You may be entitled to a refund or can use it on alternative routes. Keep all documentation (screenshots, receipts, ticket numbers).
Consider Alternatives
If trains aren't running, consider buses, car rentals, or flexible travel plans. Some routes may have replacement bus services — check station information.
Refunds & Compensation
💡 Your Rights During Strikes
- • Full refund: If your train is cancelled due to a strike, you're usually entitled to a full refund
- • Alternative routes: Your ticket may be valid on alternative trains or routes
- • No compensation: Strikes are usually considered "force majeure", so compensation rules may not apply
- • Check official guidance: Rules can vary, so always check current DB policies
Construction Work
Construction work is usually planned in advance and announced on DB Navigator and bahn.de. Here's what to know:
- Route changes: Your route may be altered, but your ticket is still valid
- Replacement buses: Some routes may have replacement bus services (Ersatzverkehr)
- Longer journey times: Construction can add time to your journey
- Check in advance: Always check for construction work before traveling
Common Scenarios
🚨 My Train is Cancelled Due to a Strike
Check for alternative routes using DB Navigator. Your ticket may be valid on alternative trains. If no alternatives are available, you're usually entitled to a full refund.
🚨 There's Construction on My Route
Check DB Navigator for route changes and replacement buses. Your ticket is still valid, but your journey may take longer or require a bus connection.
🚨 I Need to Travel Urgently
If trains aren't running, consider alternative transport (buses, car rental, flights). Check if your travel insurance covers strike-related costs.
Pro Tips
- • Check before you travel: Always check for strikes or construction before heading to the station
- • Download DB Navigator: The app shows live updates and alternative routes
- • Keep documentation: Screenshots, receipts, and ticket numbers help with refunds
- • Be flexible: Consider flexible travel plans when strike news appears
- • Ask for help: Station staff can help you find alternatives — many speak English
Need to Find Alternatives Quickly?
If you need to compare transport options and book alternatives, Omio can help you search routes in English and book quickly.
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