Travelling to a German-speaking country is an exciting adventure. Knowing some key German phrases can help you make the most of your journey. Whether you’re navigating public transportation, ordering delicious food, or asking for directions, having these phrases at your disposal can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

This blog post will explore essential German phrases for travellers while helping you review some key vocabulary, as the episode that inspires this lesson marks the 20th lesson of Coffee Break German Season 1. Listen to the podcast below to improve your pronunciation skills!

Why learn German phrases before travelling?

Many Germans are proficient in English, particularly in larger cities, but learning some basic German phrases for travellers can truly enrich your next adventure. It demonstrates respect for the local culture and can be invaluable in areas where English isn’t commonly spoken. 

Additionally, knowing a few key expressions can make navigating daily situations much smoother. Whether you’re ordering a meal in a restaurant, asking for directions, or engaging in small talk at a local market, these interactions can become highlights of the language learning journey. Speaking even a little German can make you feel more confident and comfortable, allowing you to immerse yourself in the country’s rich traditions and vibrant lifestyle. 

Key German phrases for travellers

In this section, we will not cover the basics, like saying hello in German or using the numbers in German. Instead, this quick review will focus on more day-to-day interactions, such as asking for information about transport, ordering food or drinks, and asking for prices.

By preparing ahead and practising these phrases, you’ll not only feel more confident but also leave a positive impression on the locals you meet. Let’s have a look: 

Phrases for navigating public transportation

Germany’s transportation system is world-class, but understanding how to ask questions and read signs will make your journey even easier. Here are some key sentences for you to memorise and feel more comfortable when asking and understanding answers:

• Wann fährt der Zug ab? When does the train leave?
• Ich möchte bitte eine Hin- und Rückfahrt nach Dortmund kaufen. I would like to buy a return ticket to Dortmund, please.
• Wo ist die Bushaltestelle? Where is the bus stop?
• Wie komme ich zum Hauptbahnhof? How do I get to the main train station?
• Der Zug nach Graz fährt um 13:54 ab. The train to Graz departs at 1:54 PM.
• Die Fahrt dauert ungefähr zwanzig Minuten. The ride takes about 20 minutes.

Phrases for ordering food and drinks

Germany is famous for its hearty cuisine and beer culture. Make sure you’re ready to enjoy the delicious offerings by knowing how to order confidently. You can say:

• Ich nehme einen Wurstsalat. I’ll have sausage salad  (or other beverage or food name). 
• Können Sie mir bitte die Rechnung bringen? Can you bring me the bill, please?
• Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch? Do you have a menu in English?

When dining out, knowing a few polite phrases can help you enjoy your meal while leaving a good impression on the staff.

Shopping and asking for prices

These German phrases for travellers will help you get by with the basics for asking for prices. 

• Wie viel kostet das? How much does that cost?
• Ich möchte Briefmarken kaufen. I would like to buy stamps.
• Haben Sie das in einer anderen Größe? Do you have this in another size?
• Kann ich mit Karte zahlen? Can I pay by card?

Asking for directions

Understanding basic directions plays a crucial role in helping you comprehend how to get to places. Also, it is really helpful to know some basic directions, as they can make it easier to ask questions and boost your communication skills overall. Check it out: 

• geradeaus straight ahead
• nach rechts to the right
• nach links to the left
• neben next to
• vor in front of
• hinter behind
• zwischen between

So, when you are wandering through picturesque streets or trying to locate notable landmarks, here are some useful phrases:

• Können Sie mir bitte sagen, wo das Schloss Schönbrunn  ist? Can you please tell me where the Schönbrunn Palace (or other place name) is?
• Das Kino ist zwischen der Schule und dem Schwimmbad. The cinema is between the school and the swimming pool.
• Nehmen Sie die zweite Straße rechts und dann immer geradeaus. Take the second street on the right and then continue straight.
• Gibt es einen Park in der Nähe? – Is there a park nearby?

There you go! Having these few German phrases for travellers under your belt can transform your next adventure into a more enjoyable experience. Whether you’re exploring cities like Berlin or Munich, visiting historic sites or savouring delicious German cuisine, knowing the language basics will make everything smoother. 

We hope this tiny review of some basic vocabulary you probably learned if you’ve been following the podcast for Coffee Break German. If not, there is still time to catch up and continue learning more important vocabulary for beginners! Check out the blog post we prepared on how to talk about the weather and time in German!