German train stations do not have platform numbers. They have track numbers. Typically track #1 is right outside the door of the main ticket hall. Other platforms are reached by tunnels or overhead walkways. The orientation is typically an old and even track at each platform, e.g., 2&3, 4&5, etc. Be at the door when your train arrives and you will have no trouble crossing the platform in 30 seconds if your tracks are adjacent numbers like so. There is no guarantee that trains will be on time. In fact German trains seem to me to be late as often as not. Often a train will be held if a train arriving on the other side of the platform is late. The Germans seem to have this figured out and strive for maximum efficiency, with flexibility.

There is no guarantee that trains will be on time. In fact German trains seem to me to be late as often as not.>

Look at overhead signs at heads of platforms to see if a train is running late - learn the German word for late - something like Spatlese + so many minutes.

The German word for late is "spät," with the umlaut over the a. "Spatlese" or, more correctly, "spätlese" refers to a late vintage of wine.

My German is still in the formative stage, but it's possible that the word should be "spätling," that is, "late arrival."

It takes some nerve to correct you, Pal, because you're so knowledgeable about all things train. A sort of second "man in seat_61."

thanks for the correcto!

>it's possible that the word should be "spätling," that is, "late arrival." <

Well, a "Spätling" is somebody who is born many years after his / her siblings. The overhead indicators will say, e.g., »10 Min. später«, literally »10 minutes later«.

Thanks, sla. Okay, "spätling" as a late-arriving sibling makes more sense than my offering.