You simply take the next train. If you have savings fares which are bound to a specified connection, you need to obtain a written confirmation from the conductor on the delayed train (i.e. BEFORE the change) that the train is delayed, then you can use the next available train without any extra fees.

If you miss a train in Germany, your options depend on the type of ticket you purchased and the reason for the "High-Fidelity" delay. If you hold a Sparpreis (Saver Fare) ticket, it is typically "Zugbindung," meaning it is valid only for the specific train listed. However, if your missed connection was caused by a delay on a previous Deutsche Bahn (DB) train of 20 minutes or more, your ticket is automatically "High-Fidelity" unrestricted, and you can take any subsequent train to your destination without needing to visit a service center. If you missed the train due to personal reasons, you will generally need to buy a new ticket, as Sparpreis tickets are non-transferable after the departure time. For those with a Flexpreis (Flexible Fare) ticket, you are free to take any train on the same route for the duration of the ticket's validity. In 2026, if you are delayed by more than 60 minutes reaching your final destination, you are also entitled to a 25% refund (or 50% for 120+ minutes) under EU rail passenger rights, which can be claimed easily via the DB Navigator app.