Missed connections, waiting, knock-on costs
What passenger rights cover when a trip goes wrong, and what they do not.
Missed connection: the delay at your destination counts
With one ticket for the whole trip, the delay at your final destination counts, even if a missed connection caused it. Several tickets, e.g. Deutschlandticket plus a long-distance ticket, are assessed separately. DB: missed connection, DB: several tickets Check your delay
The 20-minute rule
From 20 minutes announced or foreseeable delay at your destination you may take another train that needs no reservation. Not with heavily discounted tickets: no IC/ICE on a Deutschlandticket, except in the night or last-train cases. Claim extra costs with receipts from the Servicecenter Fahrgastrechte. DB: 20 minutes, DB: higher-class train, DB: Deutschlandticket
Assistance while waiting
From 60 minutes of delay: meals and refreshments if available or reasonably obtainable, plus a hotel if needed. If DB books no hotel and cannot be reached, claim the documented costs. BMV: passenger rights, DB: hotel, DB: other expenses
Missed flight or appointment
Rail passenger rights generally do not cover knock-on costs such as missed flights or appointments; according to DB, arriving on time for an appointment is not part of the transport contract. No automatic compensation from DB. Check the airline's or tour operator's Rail&Fly terms; claims there may exist under their conditions or package-travel law. DB brochure (PDF, German)
Passenger information on the general rules, not legal advice. Your case is decided by DB or your contract partner; in a dispute, söp can help.