Thousands of Passengers are stranded as Berlin U-Bahn, Hamburg S-Bahn, and Munich Trains Disrupted in Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, Nuremberg, Frankfurt and More causing chaos in Germany Now

Published on February 26, 2026

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Travelers in Germany are facing significant disruptions as a 48-hour strike begins this Friday, February 27, 2026. Workers from various public transport sectors have walked off the job in protest over stalled salary and working condition negotiations. The industrial action is expected to cause widespread travel chaos, particularly for those relying on local buses, trams, and U-Bahn trains in major cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, and many others.

This strike follows a similar action earlier in February that already led to severe disruptions across the country, with Verdi, the union representing approximately 100,000 workers across 150 transport companies, demanding immediate improvements. While long-distance railway services (such as ICE and IC trains), as well as air and road travel, are expected to run as usual, passengers should still be prepared for ripple-effect disruptions.

Impact on Tourists: Local Public Transport Services Disrupted Nationwide

For tourists visiting Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, and other German cities, the timing of the strike could pose a challenge. Local public transport services, including buses, trams, and U-Bahn lines, will be significantly impacted. Travelers planning to explore popular attractions like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag Building, Miniatur Wunderland, or Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg may face longer travel times, crowded stations, or even complete cancellations of their routes.

The strike will begin early on Friday morning, continuing through Saturday, February 28, and in some locations, the impact may extend beyond the planned two-day walkout. Visitors should expect widespread delays, particularly during peak travel times. Those relying on city buses, which typically serve as a vital link to airports, train stations, and key attractions, will find it difficult to navigate the city efficiently during this period.

What Travelers Can Expect: Limited Disruption to Long-Distance and Air Travel

While the majority of public transport services within cities are set to be affected, it’s important to note that long-distance services operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB), including S-Bahn, regional trains, and high-speed trains (ICE), are not expected to be interrupted by the strike. Passengers traveling between cities or using long-distance train services can still expect a relatively smooth journey.

Airports are also set to continue operating as normal, so travelers arriving in or departing from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), Hamburg Airport (HAM), and other major airports should not face disruptions in flights. However, it is recommended to monitor flight schedules for any indirect delays caused by the ongoing transport strike.

Tourism and the Wider Economic Impact of the Strike

Germany’s transport strike poses challenges not only for tourists but also for locals and the economy. Germany is one of Europe’s leading tourism destinations, drawing millions of visitors each year. Popular attractions such as the Berlin Wall Memorial, Nuremberg Castle, and Cologne Cathedral rely on smooth public transport access to bring tourists from all corners of the globe.

As local transport is a vital component of day-to-day travel for visitors, the strike has the potential to affect the overall tourism experience in key cities. From sightseeing and city tours to attending events and conferences, tourists may need to adjust their plans or account for extra time to reach destinations.

Additionally, the timing of the strike—coinciding with spring travel—could coincide with a busy period for tourism in Germany, potentially creating longer-than-usual wait times and increased pressure on other forms of transport, such as taxis or ride-sharing services. City cycling and electric scooters could provide alternative travel options for shorter distances, but these may also face higher demand.

What Travelers Should Do to Prepare

Travelers heading to Germany during the strike period should take a few steps to minimize disruption:

1. Check public transport schedules regularly: Keep an eye on updates from local transport services like Berlin BVG or Hamburg Hochbahn, as well as announcements from Deutsche Bahn for any last-minute changes.
2. Use alternative transport methods: Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or taxi services, particularly for short trips between stations or to and from popular tourist spots.
3. Allow extra time for getting to and from the airport or train stations. Plan to arrive earlier than usual to avoid delays and crowded transport hubs.
4. Explore walking or cycling options: In cities like Berlin and Munich, you can also use bike rentals or walk to many of the major attractions, making the most of the beautiful architecture and public spaces in the city.
5. Consider guided tours: If your plans are tightly scheduled, booking a guided tour or private transport could be a practical way to avoid delays and still make the most of your time in the city.

The Future of Transport Strikes in Germany

The ongoing strikes in Germany reflect broader issues in the country’s transport system, including salary negotiations and the working conditions for public transport workers. Unions like Verdi have argued that the industry needs significant improvements to continue providing effective services to millions of commuters and tourists. While strikes like these can cause immediate disruption, they also highlight the importance of ensuring the long-term sustainability of public transport systems.

As the dispute continues, tourists heading to Germany in the coming weeks should be prepared for possible further industrial actions, especially during busy travel seasons. Regular updates from transport providers and tourism boards will be essential to navigating any upcoming challenges.