Directions in German
Essential directions in German include der Weg (way/path), links (left), rechts (right), geradeaus (straight ahead), die Straße (street), die Kreuzung (intersection), die Ampel (traffic light), die Ecke (corner), der Platz (square), die Brücke (bridge), der Bahnhof (train station), die Haltestelle (stop), der Stadtplan (city map), abbiegen (to turn), and in der Nähe (nearby).
Navigating German-speaking cities requires a solid grasp of direction vocabulary. Whether you are asking for help finding a landmark or following spoken instructions, these terms form the foundation of wayfinding conversations.
This A2-level vocabulary covers the core words and phrases you need to understand and give directions. From basic directional terms like links and rechts to urban features like die Kreuzung and der Bahnhof, these words appear constantly in everyday navigation situations.
Word list
Tips
- When giving directions, Germans often use landmarks like die Ampel or die Kreuzung as reference points rather than street names alone.
- The verb abbiegen requires a direction: nach links abbiegen means to turn left, nach rechts abbiegen means to turn right.
- Remember that die Haltestelle refers to any public transport stop, while der Bahnhof specifically means a train or railway station.
FAQ
How do I ask for directions in German?
Use phrases like Wo ist...? (Where is...?) or Wie komme ich zu...? (How do I get to...?). You can also ask Können Sie mir helfen? (Can you help me?) before requesting directions.
What is the difference between die Straße and der Weg?
Die Straße specifically means a street or paved road in a town or city. Der Weg is more general and can mean any path, route, or way to get somewhere, including walking paths or the concept of a journey.
How do I say turn left at the traffic light in German?
Say Biegen Sie an der Ampel links ab or the informal Bieg an der Ampel links ab. The verb abbiegen is separable, so ab moves to the end in statements.