Greifswald

How to Get to Greifswald

The most convenient gateway for international visitors is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). From there, you can easily reach Greifswald by train.

From Airport (Berlin Brandenburg - BER)

• The Route: Take a regional train (e.g., FEX, RE8, or RB23) to Berlin Hauptbahnhof (approx. 30–45 minutes). From there, transfer to a direct Intercity (IC) or Regional Express (RE) train to Greifswald.
• Journey Time: Total travel time is typically 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your connection.
• Tickets & Pricing: Expect to pay between €35 and €90 for a one-way ticket, depending on how far in advance you book.
• How to Buy: Purchase tickets at the red Deutsche Bahn (DB) machines located at the airport train station. These have an English language option and accept both credit cards and cash. You can also book via the DB Navigator app.
• Important: Ensure your ticket is for the destination station "Greifswald." Do not get off at "Greifswald Süd."

From City Center

• Walking: The historic city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly. You can walk to the central bus station (ZOB) or the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) from most downtown hotels in about 10–15 minutes.
• Local Bus: Stadtwerke Greifswald operates several bus lines (e.g., Lines 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7) that connect various parts of the city to the ZOB and train station. Most journeys within the city take 5–10 minutes.

By Taxi

• Cost & Time: A taxi from the train station to hotels in the city center typically costs €6–€9 and takes about 2–5 minutes. Always confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Greifswald station is a straightforward through station that serves as a vital transit point in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Unlike major metropolitan hubs, this station features a compact, easy-to-navigate layout consisting of just three tracks, served by one island platform (tracks 2 and 3) and one side platform (track 1). Because the station is quite small, you will find it very difficult to get lost; the entire platform area can be traversed in under two minutes, even with luggage.

All train services, including regional lines (RE 3, RE 7, RE 30) and long-distance ICE connections, operate from these three tracks. There are no complex levels or confusing "wings" to worry about. Think of the station as a simple, single-level corridor where every platform is accessible from the main station building. When you arrive, you will find clear signage directing you to your specific track. If you are traveling with heavy luggage or require step-free access, the station is equipped with elevators that connect the platform area to the main station level.

The most common point of confusion for first-time visitors is not the layout itself, but rather the live departure board. Because the station handles both regional and ICE trains on the same tracks, ensure you check the digital departure displays upon arrival to confirm which track your specific train is departing from. While the station is small, it is not always staffed, so it is best to rely on the digital screens or the Deutsche Bahn app for real-time updates regarding any potential platform changes.

To manage your time effectively, simply arrive at the station 5–10 minutes before your scheduled departure. This provides more than enough time to walk from the main entrance to any of the three tracks. If you are transferring between trains, you will rarely need more than three minutes to move between them, as the platforms are situated right next to one another. Keep your platform number in mind, follow the signs toward the tracks, and you will find navigating Greifswald station to be a stress-free experience.

Greifswald is a charming, manageable station, but it pays to be prepared to avoid unnecessary stress. I wish someone had told me these things before my first trip!

Before You Arrive

• Download the DB Navigator app: This is essential. It provides real-time updates on platform changes and delays, and it’s the easiest way to purchase tickets digitally so you don’t have to fumble with machines upon arrival.
• Buy tickets online: Purchase your tickets via the app or the Deutsche Bahn website in advance. It’s often cheaper, saves you from waiting in queues at the station, and keeps all your travel details in one place.

At the Station

• Cash is king: While the station is modern, always carry some euro coins. Station toilets often require a fee (typically €1), and machines may not accept cards for small amounts.
• Finding food: If you need snacks, look for a SPAR Express or similar convenience shop within the station area. It’s significantly cheaper and faster than searching for a restaurant if you are on a tight schedule.
• ATMs: You can generally find ATMs from banks like Sparkasse in or near the station area for your cash needs.
• Navigation: The station is relatively small and accessible, but always look for the elevator signs if you have heavy luggage rather than struggling with stairs.

Common Mistakes

• Don’t trust the platform too early: A common mistake is checking your platform an hour before your train and assuming it’s set in stone. Platforms can change due to operational needs. Check the departure boards again 20–30 minutes before your train is due.
• Follow the train number, not the destination: Multiple trains can head toward the same city, but they may take different routes or have different stops. Always match the train number on your ticket to the number on the departure board.
• Payment pitfalls: Don't assume every ticket machine accepts international credit cards. Some older machines only take cash or specific local debit cards (EC cards). If you’re struggling, the DB Navigator app is your best backup.

Through station serving Greifswald, Germany. Originally opened in 1863, this station remains a vital transport link for the region of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. It is served by a combination of regional train lines and select long-distance services, connecting travelers to major hubs like Berlin and nearby coastal destinations.

For first-time visitors, the station features a straightforward layout with three tracks—comprised of one island platform and one side platform—making it much easier to navigate than larger, multi-level metropolitan hubs. It is a fully accessible facility, well-signposted with clear digital displays that provide real-time information in German and frequently updated schedules.

Is this station huge and confusing? Not at all. It is compact and manageable, though travelers should always remain attentive to the platform displays, as track assignments can sometimes change 30 to 60 minutes before a scheduled departure. Because the station is relatively small, you will not need to arrive hours early; however, allowing 15 to 20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart will ensure a calm and stress-free boarding experience. By keeping an eye on the overhead boards as you arrive, you will easily find your way to the correct platform for your journey.