How to ask for directions in English

Start with Excuse me, name the place, then use one of four short questions: How do I get to …?, Is it within walking distance?, Which way is … from here? or Am I going the right way for …?. Naming the place clearly matters more than perfect grammar — Excuse me, how do I get to the train station? will be understood even with a strong accent.

If nobody is nearby, a shop is often the easiest place to ask: staff expect the question and can usually point at a map or a door. Two follow-up lines worth rehearsing are Sorry, could you show me on the map? and Is it better to walk or take the metro?

When you are the one being asked and you genuinely do not know, I'm not sure, sorry — I'm also visiting is a complete and polite answer. Only add but I think it's that way when you are reasonably sure of the direction.

Travel English Phrases: Directions, Hotels and Restaurants →