August 20, 2026, 8:50 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Travelers without seat reservations often look for alternatives in crowded trains. The onboard restaurant seems like a convenient option for many passengers. But how long can you actually stay there if you haven’t booked a regular seat?
A similar scene unfolds daily at German train stations: overcrowded platforms, packed boarding areas, and numerous travelers searching for an available seat. Passengers without reservations often head straight to the onboard restaurant to avoid spending the journey in the aisle or on the floor.
This seemingly simple solution raises a question: Is it permissible to occupy a seat in the train’s dining area for an extended period, even if you order little or nothing?
Deutsche Bahn Relies on Consideration
A spokesperson for Deutsche Bahn explains: “The seats in our onboard restaurants are reserved for guests who wish to enjoy food and drinks there.”
However, according to the company, there is no required minimum purchase. Passengers are allowed to stay and take their time. At the same time, the railway points out the limited number of seats. Therefore, it continues: “But the seating is limited, and we ask for consideration of other guests who also wish to use the onboard restaurant.”
No Blanket Rule for the Onboard Restaurant
For some travelers, using the onboard restaurant without a reservation sounds like a practical money-saving tip. Others see it as a disadvantage for passengers who genuinely want to use the dining services.
If the staff determines that guests are occupying the area for too long, there is no strict guideline, according to the railway. Whether travelers need to vacate their seats or how the situation is handled depends on the individual case. The railway states: “We trust our onboard dining colleagues to make the right decision in each case.” If a seat is needed for guests wishing to order, staff would ask passengers without an order to change seats.