German Phrase
Gibt's einen Plan für die U-Bahn?
Meaning
This question asks whether a map or schematic of the underground (U‑Bahn) system is available. It can refer to a printed map, a wall poster, or a digital plan that shows lines, stations, and connections.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are in a German‑speaking city and need to orient yourself on the subway network – for example at a ticket counter, a station information desk, or when asking a local for directions.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Gibt'seinenPlanfürdieU-Bahn?
Gibt's = Gibt es
The contraction "Gibt's" combines the verb "gibt" (from geben) with the dummy subject "es"; it's informal and common in spoken German.
Accusative after "für"
"für" always governs the accusative case, so "einen Plan" (masculine accusative) is required.
Gender of "Plan"
"Plan" is a masculine noun, therefore the indefinite article changes to "einen" in the accusative.
U‑Bahn (feminine)
"U‑Bahn" (short for "Untergrundbahn") is feminine, so the definite article is "die".
🗨In Conversation
Gibt's einen Plan für die U‑Bahn?
Is there a map for the subway?
Ja, hier drüben an der Wand. Und Sie können die App "DB Navigator" nutzen.
Yes, there’s one on the wall over there. You can also use the "DB Navigator" app.
✕Common Mistakes
Gibt einen Plan für die U‑Bahn?
The dummy subject "es" is required; without it the sentence is ungrammatical.
Gibt's ein Plan für die U‑Bahn?
"Plan" is masculine, so the accusative indefinite article must be "einen", not "ein".
Gibt's einen Plan für die Ubahn?
The correct spelling includes a hyphen and capital "U‑Bahn".
↔Alternatives
Gibt es einen Stadtplan für die U‑Bahn?
Is there a city map for the subway?
Haben Sie einen U‑Bahn‑Plan?
Do you have a subway map?
Können Sie mir einen Fahrplan für die U‑Bahn geben?
Can you give me a timetable/plan for the subway?
Cultural Tip
In most German cities the U‑Bahn stations display large wall maps that are free to copy. However, many locals prefer using smartphone apps (e.g., DB Navigator, BVG FahrInfo) because they provide real‑time updates. When asking for a map in a formal setting (e.g., at a ticket office), use "Haben Sie…" rather than the informal contraction "Gibt's".