October 15, 2026, 8:10 am | Read time: 3 minutes
A beer after work or a glass of champagne before a train journey has been a tradition for some travelers. But that’s now over at Deutsche Bahn platforms: Since October 15, 2026, a new nationwide alcohol consumption ban is in effect at around 5,400 stations. However, alcoholic beverages won’t completely disappear from travel life–different rules apply for luggage, station gastronomy, and trains.
In recent weeks, Deutsche Bahn has introduced a nationwide alcohol consumption ban, effective today (Oct. 15) at more than 5,000 stations across the country. The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on station premises, including platforms.
The railway can enforce the new rule through its property rights. According to DB, those who drink alcohol despite the ban will initially face a warning to leave the premises. Repeated violations may result in a ban from the premises.
Alcohol can still be carried in luggage
The ban does not mean travelers can no longer transport alcoholic beverages through a station. Sealed bottles or other alcoholic drinks can still be carried, for example, in a suitcase or backpack. This also applies to previously purchased drinks.
The key issue is consumption: Drinking alcohol at the station is prohibited, not carrying it.
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Restaurants and bars at the station are exempt
Station gastronomy is an exception. According to Deutsche Bahn, consuming alcohol in a restaurant or bar there does not automatically fall under the ban.
However, if you order an alcoholic drink there, you may not continue drinking it on the platform or in other public areas of the station.
Different rules apply on trains
The new alcohol ban applies to stations. On the trains themselves, the rules depend on the respective transport conditions and house rules. For example, alcohol is still offered in the DB onboard restaurant. However, many regional trains have long-standing alcohol bans.
The background to the nationwide new regulation, according to the railway, is safety. Railway CEO Evelyn Palla stated in July that the alcohol ban at all stations aims to enhance protection. “It’s about the safety of our employees and passengers.”
Palla also cites experiences with stations where a similar ban has been in place for some time: “Alcohol-free means less violence and less trash.”