Train in Germany. Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK Germany's national rail operator, Deutsche Bahn, is introducing a nationwide ban on alcohol consumption at all its train stations, marking the first time the company has implemented such a measure across its entire network.
The new rule will be rolled out gradually and is expected to cover all 5,400 Deutsche Bahn stations by October 15, 2026. The company says the decision is aimed at improving safety for both passengers and employees following a rise in alcohol-related incidents.
"We are taking decisive action: We are banning alcohol consumption from our train stations," Deutsche Bahn CEO Evelyn Palla said in a statement.
"Too often we have seen that where there is too much alcohol, violence also increases. The brutal and senseless attack last Friday demonstrated this most recently. That is why we are now implementing an alcohol ban at train stations. We are serious about safety. It is about protecting our employees and passengers."
Deutsche Bahn said the ban will be implemented under its rights as the operator of the properties, although local station regulations will need to be updated in cooperation with municipalities and relevant authorities over the coming weeks.
The move builds on existing restrictions already in place at 30 stations across Germany, including major transport hubs in Cologne, Munich, and Hamburg.
"The experience there is clear," Palla said. "Alcohol-free means less violence and less litter."
The next locations scheduled to introduce the ban are Berlin Central Station, Berlin Gesundbrunnen, Kiel, and Braunschweig on September 1. Remaining stations will adopt the policy in phases through mid-October.
The ban applies specifically to the consumption of alcohol in station areas. Travelers will still be allowed to carry sealed alcoholic beverages in their luggage or shopping bags. In addition, restaurants, cafés, and bars located within stations will remain exempt from the restrictions.
Passengers who violate the new rules may be removed from station premises. Repeat offenders could face formal bans preventing them from entering Deutsche Bahn stations.
The announcement represents a significant shift for Germany's railway network, where alcohol consumption has traditionally been commonplace, particularly at larger stations and during major sporting events.
With millions of passengers using Deutsche Bahn services every day, the operator hopes the nationwide measure will create safer and cleaner environments while reducing incidents involving intoxicated individuals.