Germany’s cities and larger towns have efficient public-transportation systems. Bigger cities, such as Berlin and Munich, integrate buses, trams, U-Bahn (underground, subway) trains and S-Bahn (suburban) trains into a single network.Fares are determined by zones or time travelled, sometimes by both. A multi-ticket strip (Streifenkarte or 4-Fahrtenkarte) or day pass (Tageskarte) generally offers better value than a single-ride ticket. Normally, tickets must be stamped upon boarding in order to be valid. Fines are levied if you’re caught without a valid ticket.Buses are a ubiquitous form of public transportation and practically all towns have their own comprehensive network. Buses run at regular intervals, with restricted services in the evenings and at weekends. Taxis are expensive and, given the excellent public-transportation systems, not recommended unless you’re in a real hurry. They can actually be slower than trains or trams if you’re stuck in traffic. Cabs are metered and charged at a base rate (flag fall) plus a per-kilometre fee.