Where alcohol is already banned at train stations in the East

Deutsche Bahn is planning to ban alcohol at all train stations in Germany. Such a ban is already in place at several stations in Saxony and Thuringia, but not yet in Saxony-Anhalt. According to Deutsche Bahn, in response to a dpa inquiry, alcohol is banned at the stations in Freiberg and Flöha (Mittelsachsen district) in Saxony. In Thuringia, alcohol is prohibited at the Altenburg station (Altenburger Land district). 

In Saxony-Anhalt, beer, wine, and spirits are not yet prohibited at any train stations. Alcohol bans are also in place primarily at stations in major cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Munich. 

No ban on trains

According to a report in “Bild,” Deutsche Bahn plans to impose a ban on alcohol at all German train stations. According to the report, Deutsche Bahn CEO Evelyn Palla hopes this will lead to greater order and safety. According to the report, it will be prohibited in the future to drink beer, wine, schnapps, or other alcoholic beverages at 5,400 train stations nationwide. The nationwide implementation is scheduled to be completed by October 15, 2026. Deutsche Bahn confirmed the plans when asked by dpa.

Consumption within licensed station restaurants will be exempt from the ban. Carrying alcohol in sealed bags or from purchases will also remain permitted. There is currently no mention of bans inside trains either. Deutsche Bahn also sells alcohol itself on its long-distance trains.