European Public Transport Secrets: How to Navigate Cities Like a Local

13. Station Shortcuts: Not All Exits Are Equal

European train and metro stations can be sprawling, with multiple exits that lead to entirely different neighborhoods. Locals know that choosing the right exit can save 15 minutes—or a lot of uphill walking. Stations like Rome’s Termini or Berlin’s Hauptbahnhof have layered exits, so always check platform signage for exit names, landmarks, or compass directions. Google Maps’ street view or local transit apps often show which exit leads to what. Mastering station exits can mean the difference between a confusing detour and a perfectly timed arrival.