Last updated: March 2026
Smoking on Trains and at Stations in Germany: Rules, Fines, and Tips
If you travel by train in Germany and smoke, you know the challenge: long journeys without a cigarette, unclear rules at stations, and the question of whether e-cigarettes are allowed. This article summarizes Deutsche Bahn's current policies, explains the legal situation, and gives you practical tips for managing long train rides without smoking.
Is Smoking Allowed on ICE and Other Trains?
The short answer: No. Since September 1, 2007, a complete smoking ban has been in effect on all Deutsche Bahn trains — whether ICE, IC, EC, or regional trains. The legal basis is Germany’s Federal Non-Smokers’ Protection Act (Bundesnichtraucherschutzgesetz), which designates public transport as smoke-free zones.
Before 2007, many long-distance trains still had smoking compartments. These were phased out gradually. Today, there is no smoking area in any train in Germany — not in vestibules, toilets, or between carriages. The ban covers cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and heated tobacco products like IQOS. Smoke detectors on modern trains can trigger an emergency stop — with significant consequences for the person responsible.
Smoking at Train Stations: Where Is It Allowed?
Smoking is generally prohibited on Deutsche Bahn platforms and inside station buildings. However, DB has set up designated smoking areas at many stations — clearly marked with floor markings and signs, usually at the ends of platforms.
At major stations like Frankfurt Hbf, Munich Hbf, or Berlin Hbf, there are typically several marked zones per platform. At smaller stations, these areas are often absent — meaning the ban applies to the entire premises. Smoking outside the marked areas violates Deutsche Bahn’s house rules and can result in a fine.
Fines for Smoking on Trains and at Stations
Smoking on a train violates Deutsche Bahn’s house rules (Section 1004 BGB, EVO). Train staff can impose a fine and remove the smoker from the train — without a fare refund.
- 1Smoking on a train: fines starting at 100 euros, higher for repeat offenses
- 2Outside designated platform areas: fines starting at 50 euros
- 3Triggering a smoke detector: costly train delays — up to several thousand euros
- 4Repeat violations: possible ban from specific stations or routes
Tips for Smokers on Long Train Journeys
A multi-hour train ride without a cigarette can be a real challenge for heavy smokers. These strategies will help you get through the journey comfortably:
Nicotine gum or lozenges
Available without prescription at any pharmacy. They deliver nicotine without smoke and reliably bridge multi-hour journeys. Best to stock up before departure.
Nicotine patches
Apply a patch before departure — it releases nicotine steadily over several hours and prevents strong cravings. Ideal for journeys of three hours or more.
Plan for layovers
On long trips with transfers: deliberately schedule a 10-to-15-minute buffer at the connecting station and use the designated smoking area on the platform.
Distraction and activities
Podcasts, audiobooks, movies, or working on a laptop — targeted distraction not only shortens the travel time but also helps you ride out cravings.
E-Cigarettes on Trains: Also Banned?
Yes — Deutsche Bahn also prohibits vaping e-cigarettes and vaporizers on all trains. Although e-cigarettes are not legally covered by Germany’s Federal Non-Smokers’ Protection Act, DB’s house rules apply. The terms of carriage explicitly prohibit the use of e-cigarettes and similar devices.
The reason: e-cigarette vapor can trigger smoke detectors and disturb other passengers. Train staff also cannot distinguish between a conventional and an e-cigarette at a glance. At stations, vaping is generally tolerated in designated smoking zones on platforms but prohibited in enclosed buildings and smoke-free areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fine for smoking on a train in Germany?
Fines start at 100 euros. Triggering a smoke detector can cost several thousand euros. You may also be removed from the train without a fare refund.
Are there smoking areas at German train stations?
Yes, many larger stations have designated smoking areas on platforms, marked with floor markings at the platform ends. Smaller stations often lack these areas.
Can I use an e-cigarette on an ICE train?
No. DB prohibits e-cigarettes and vaporizers on all trains. Vaping is banned under the terms of carriage, even though e-cigarettes are not legally classified as tobacco products.
Enjoy Train Rides Without Cravings?
Calculate how much money and life you'll gain by quitting smoking — and make your next train journey your first as a non-smoker.
Sources: Federal Non-Smokers' Protection Act (BNichtrSchG), Section 1(1): Smoking ban in federal institutions and public transport. Deutsche Bahn AG: Terms of Carriage for Passengers, 2025 edition. Railway Transport Regulations (EVO), Section 3(1).