How do you pay for public transport in Cologne?

You can pay for Cologne public transport (KVB) using the KVB app, ticket machines (cash/card), Tourist Info, kiosks, or sometimes directly on buses with contactless bank cards, but always validate paper tickets in machines before or upon boarding to avoid fines. Options include single tickets, day passes, or the KölnCard for discounts, with app purchases offering a small discount.

How to pay for public transport in Cologne?

You can buy the ticket as follows:

1. via app (with 3% discount)
2. on the Internet (Online TicketShop)
3. in 5 KVB customer centers and sales offices.
4. in over 100 private sales offices (kiosks) and.
5. at ticket machines in buses, trains and at stops.

How to pay for public transport in Germany?

Tickets can be purchased from ticket machines around the clock. As a rule, you will find ticket machines at every major stop, especially at railway stations and public transport interchanges. Transdev Vertrieb GmbH ticket machines offer long-distance tickets as well as local transport tickets.

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.

How do tourists get around in Germany?

Getting Around: Trains, buses and flights are plentiful and affordable in Germany – my best tip is to use Omio to compare options easily. Having a car is ideal for visiting smaller towns, more remote locations and numerous destinations in a short amount of time, but is otherwise not needed for big cities.

How to use public transport in Cologne (TOURIST GUIDE)

What is the 183 rule in Germany?

According to this rule, if an individual spends more than 183 days in a calendar year in Germany, they may be considered a tax resident and subject to German taxation on their worldwide income. Period Calculation: The 183 days can be cumulative and do not need to be consecutive.

Can I use my UK debit card in Germany?

You can use your debit card to spend or withdraw cash worldwide. Just use it in the same way you do at home, wherever you see the Visa symbol. We convert card transactions into pounds using the Visa exchange rate. When using your card abroad, you should select to pay in the local currency in order to get this rate.

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 buy a koln card?

You can get the KölnCard on site at our Tourist Information, via the KVB app or at the ticket machines of Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe (KVB) and Deutsche Bahn (DB) in the area of validity.

How do you get around in Cologne?

Public transport in Cologne

KVB runs the city's transport network, spanning trams, buses and trains. The same tickets can be used across all three, bought on the app or at ticket machines. Single tickets start at €2.50, but if you're taking more than three journeys, it's worth getting a 24-hour pass (€8.50).

What is the 49 euro ticket in Germany?

Travellers can use the €49 ticket on the following routes to Germany's neighbouring countries, for example for a weekend trip, business trip or workation. Since 1 May 2023, people have been able to use local and regional transport throughout Germany for 49 euros a month with the Deutschlandticket.

What all is free in Germany?

Education is free up to PhD, and families receive around €250 per month per child until they turn 18. Healthcare is fully covered for all residents, and public transport is heavily subsidized.

Is public transport free in Germany for tourists?

Is public transportation in Germany free? Public transportation is not currently free in Germany, although this is something the government are considering as a way to help combat air pollution.

How do I go from Cologne airport to city centre?

The best way to get from Cologne Bonn Airport to Cologne (Germany) is by taking a train. Trains offer a quick, comfortable journey taking just 9 minutes on the quickest services, with frequent departures throughout the day.

Do and don'ts in Germany?

Having a loud conversation, talking loud on the phone, or listening to loud music are considered very impolite as you will disturb other people. German people love to have their privacy. If you see a closed door, it doesn't mean that the person inside does not want you to come in.

How to pay for a bus ride in Germany?

Ideally, you should purchase your ticket via the RMVgo app, at the RMV ticket machines or in one of our RMV Sales offices. But, you will also get a small selection of our range of tickets from the driving staff in the bus. Our driving staff can directly provide you with single fare and short distance tickets.

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. 

Is it better to have cash or card in Germany?

Cash for smaller amounts

A closer look at payment amounts shows that cash is preferred in Germany, especially for small sums.

Should I buy euros before going to Germany?

Resist the urge to buy foreign currency before your trip.

Wait until you arrive to withdraw money. I've yet to see a European airport that didn't have plenty of ATMs.

What are the rules for foreigners in Germany?

Generally speaking, all foreigners require a visa for stays in Germany. A visa is not required for visits of up to 90 days in an 180 day period for nationals of those countries for which the European Community has abolished the visa requirement. Indian citizens require a visa.

Is 3000 euro a good salary in Germany?

Single person: You'll likely need €1,200 to €1,800 per month to cover basic living expenses, including rent, food, utilities and transportation. Couple: A couple can expect to live comfortably on €2,500 to €3,000 per month combined.

What do you need to declare when leaving Germany?

Goods to declare

Goods intended for commercial or trading purposes must always be declared regardless of their value. This also applies to goods subject to restrictions (e.g. narcotics, weapons, ammunition and protected plant and animal species, parts thereof or goods produced using such species).