1. DB's Frequent Delays, Cancellations, and Disruptions
Users widely criticize DB for chronic unreliability, especially long-distance trains, with passengers often stranded or rerouted.
"DB doesn't care about trains being late. It's absolutely normal to have an hour delay in Germany." (f6v)
"In Germany in 2025 it got worse with only 55% of trains being on time (defined very generously as being less than 6 minutes late)." (jansan)
Regional trains fare better: "regional trains are usually on time, long-distance trains usually are not." (flohofwoe)
2. DB vs. UK Rail: Cheaper but Less Reliable
Debate pits DB's affordability against UK's high costs and delays, with mixed views on which is worse.
"UK trains are terrible... I bet that UK trains 'win' by being far more expensive than German trains." (rwmj)
"When comparing to the UK you have to also factor in how absurdly expensive it is. Eg a monthly ticket... is 292 EUR." (hexbin010)
UK perks noted: "Delay Repay means you get up to 100% of your ticket back if you're delayed." (rjh29)
3. Bureaucratic Inflexibility and Poor Communication
Complaints focus on rigid rules preventing stops, lack of English announcements, and unhelpful staff.
"Apparently we were not registered at Troisdorf station, so we are on the wrong tracks." (article, echoed by manarth)
"in-train announcements are only done in Dutch... I have to constantly listen." (flexagoon, similar for DB)
"DB has gained its reputation... taking someone away into another federal state without giving them the option to get out." (jeroenhd)