Can you pay by card on German buses?
Yes, you can pay by card on many German buses, especially in larger cities and with regional transit authorities, where contactless (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Apple/Google Pay) is increasingly common. However, some smaller, regional, or older buses may still only accept cash, and it is crucial to check local rules.Can you pay with a card on German buses?
Enter at the front of the bus, and tap your phone or credit card to pay. You can't pay with cash. Buy tickets at S-Bahn and BVG service points.Can I use my bank card to pay on the bus?
Contactless payment cards issued for Visa, Mastercard and Maestro can be used. Pre-paid contactless payment cards can be used but please make sure they have enough credit on them before boarding. Payments can also be made using Apple Pay and Google Pay.Can I buy a bus ticket on the bus in Germany?
You can buy single, day and group tickets in the Online Shop or via the hvv Apps with a discount of 7%. Alternatively, you can simply buy tickets at a ticket machine or on the bus – in Hamburg and Lüneburg* you will need the hvv prepaid card (in German) and in the surrounding region you can still pay cash.Can I take a bus with a debit card?
Yes, you can use your debit card on most buses for contactless payment, just tap it on the reader like you would in a shop; look for the contactless symbol on your card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.), tap it on the reader when boarding ( telling the driver your destination if needed), and wait for the beep; ensure you use the same card or device for tapping in and out to avoid overpaying, and check your local transit provider's policy for specific details, as some (like American Express) might not be accepted.How to | Public Transportation in Germany | Bus, Tram, Train
Can I tap my debit card to get on the bus?
Easy. Simply tap your card or smart device at the start and end of your trip just like you would with your go card. Learn more about how to use contactless payments.How to ride a German bus?
Buses & trains within citiesTo use them, you have to buy a ticket. Ticket machines may look different in every city. In many buses, drivers sell tickets directly, but only for cash. In many buses, you can only pay with coins or small notes (€5 or €10).
What is the fine for not having a bus ticket in Germany?
In most cases, you will not have to pay if you can prove you have a valid ticket. Public transportation fines in Germany are usually around €60, but the exact amount is subject to change.What is a 49 euro ticket in Germany?
The Deutschlandticket takes travellers and commuters around Germany for 49 euros a month - or even cheaper as a job ticket. However, the 49-euro ticket can also be used to travel abroad: In Germany's border regions, there are routes on which ticket users can travel abroad by bus and train.Can I use my Visa debit card on the bus?
Payment methods acceptedWe accept contactless enabled Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay or American Express debit or credit cards. We also accept these cards in the digital wallet of your smartphone, smart watch or other smart devices such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay.
Are public buses free in Germany?
Public transportation is not currently free in Germany, although this is something the government are considering as a way to help combat air pollution. It is, however, heavily subsidized, and the cost of the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses in major cities is very cheap compared to London, Paris, and Zurich.How to pay in Germany as a tourist?
Debit cards and major credit cards (American Express, Visa, Mastercard) may often also be used, but smaller shops and cafés might only accept cash payments. Therefore, visitors should always have some euro bills and coins on hand.What is the bus etiquette in Germany?
Germany is known for its orderly and efficient public systems, and it's important to respect these norms. On public transport, such as trains and buses, keep your voice low and avoid making phone calls. Always queue in an orderly fashion and wait for passengers to disembark before boarding.How to pay in bus in Germany?
On buses, fares are paid to the bus driver. German girocards and major credit cards, the Apple or Google Pay digital services and the rechargeable BVG credit card can be used for payment. It is not possible to pay with cash on the bus. On trams, there are ticket machines for buying tickets on the spot.Can you go 300 mph in Germany?
Yes, you can legally drive very fast on certain unrestricted sections of Germany's Autobahn, and while 300 mph (approx. 483 km/h) is beyond most production cars, speeds over 200 mph (320 km/h) have been achieved, though it's rare and depends on your car's capability, clear conditions, and your skill. About half the Autobahn has no speed limit, but an advisory 130 km/h (81 mph) applies, and driving significantly faster increases liability in accidents.How to avoid tourist fines in Germany?
Germany is known for its high standards of road safety. You should always keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and be cautious of cyclists and pedestrians, especially in urban areas. Parking regulations are also strictly enforced, so make sure you park only in designated areas to avoid fines.What is considered impolite in Germany?
In Germany, rudeness often involves a lack of punctuality, being loud in public (especially on transport), ignoring rules (like red lights), disrespecting privacy (e.g., closed doors), and showing a disregard for cleanliness or order, with emphasis placed on directness, respect for elders, and proper address (using titles/formal "Sie" for strangers). Common taboos include haggling in supermarkets, leaving trash (especially Pfand bottles), interrupting, and overly familiar gestures like the "thumbs up" or "okay" sign.How to buy a German bus ticket?
Purchasing ticketsRMV tickets are available from RMV ticket machines, RMV sales offices and the agencies of public transport companies. Many types of tickets are available from the bus driver and from our online TicketShop - or buy the quick and easy way by mobile phone.