Learn Hardcore German: Ich plane jetzt, in die Stadt zu gehen.

In German, you generally use the accusative case (in die Stadt) when you’re describing movement toward a place. If you were talking about already being inside the city, you’d use the dative (in der Stadt).

What does zu do in zu gehen?

Zu is used to form the infinitive clause in German (similar to "to" in English). When you have a sentence with a main verb like plane followed by another verb in the infinitive, you almost always use zu before that second verb.

Why do we place jetzt right after plane?

In German, adverbs such as jetzt (meaning "now") can appear in various positions, but placing it after plane emphasizes the time you’re planning. You could also see it in other positions, for example: Ich plane, jetzt in die Stadt zu gehen or Ich plane jetzt in die Stadt zu gehen.

Is the comma really necessary before in die Stadt zu gehen?

According to modern German punctuation rules, the comma before an infinitive phrase with zu is optional unless it helps clarify the meaning. Some style guides recommend using it if the part after zu is relatively long or complex. In simpler sentences, you can omit it if you want.

Are there synonyms for plane?

Yes, you could use other verbs like beabsichtige (intend), habe vor (intend/have planned), or möchte (would like). For instance: Ich habe jetzt vor, in die Stadt zu gehen, which has a very similar meaning.