German Phrase
Hast du einen Stadtplan?
Meaning
Literally, “Do you have a city map?” It is used to ask someone if they possess a map of the city, often when you’re looking for directions or want to explore on your own.
When to use
Use this informal question with friends, fellow travelers, or anyone you address with ‘du’. In more formal situations (e.g., asking a hotel clerk) switch to the polite form ‘Haben Sie einen Stadtplan?’.
✦Grammar Breakdown
HastdueinenStadtplan?
Verb‑Second (V2) in Yes/No Questions
In German yes‑no questions the finite verb moves to the first position, followed by the subject.
Accusative Masculine with Indefinite Article
‘Stadtplan’ is masculine; in the accusative case the indefinite article changes from ‘ein’ to ‘einen’.
Conjugation of ‘haben’ (to have)
‘du’ takes the form ‘hast’ in the present tense.
🗨In Conversation
Hast du einen Stadtplan?
Do you have a city map?
Ja, ich habe einen. Hier, nimm ihn.
Yes, I have one. Here, take it.
✕Common Mistakes
Hast du ein Stadtplan?
‘Stadtplan’ is masculine accusative, so the article must be ‘einen’, not ‘ein’.
Du hast einen Stadtplan?
In yes‑no questions the verb comes first; ‘du hast’ is a statement, not a question.
Hast du einem Stadtplan?
Using the dative ‘Stadtplan’ (e.g., ‘einem Stadtplan’) would change the meaning; the map is the direct object here.
↔Alternatives
Haben Sie einen Stadtplan?
Do you have a city map? (formal)
Könntest du mir einen Stadtplan geben?
Could you give me a city map?
Gibt es hier einen Stadtplan?
Is there a city map here?
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking cities free tourist maps are usually available at information desks, train stations, and hotels. When you’re speaking to strangers, the polite ‘Sie’ form is preferred. Also, many locals will gladly point you to a map even if they don’t have one themselves.