Deutsche Bahn: Tickets, Timetables and Facilities

Fri 19 Dec
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Provider information and services

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn: Berlin to Paris Direct Train

Deutsche Bahn will soon launch a Berlin to Paris direct train in cooperation with SNCF. Covering 878 kilometres in 8 hours, the journey will start at €60. This route will pass through Frankfurt (South), Karlsruhe, and Strasbourg. Scheduled to begin in mid-December yet bookable from mid-October, this service enhances international rail connections and promotes eco-friendly travel between Germany and France.

Seize the weekend!

Make the most out of your weekends in Germany with DB’s flexible fares

Germany is filled with autumnal wonders. From the shifting foliage of the Black Forest to Berlin’s endless museums and galleries, you’ll never run out of great weekend activities.

Discover picturesque destinations such as Lake Constance and Freiburg, or jump on the train to bustling metropolises such as Hamburg, Munich and Dresden. With DB, it’s easy to hop on and hop off and enjoy all the scenic beauty the country has to offer.

This autumn, explore Germany with confidence and ease. Get there smoothly with Deutsche Bahn and seize every weekend before winter hits!

*Deutsche Bahn is committed to helping the planet by becoming climate neutral by 2040.

Get Inspired

Enjoy the Trip

Getting There

Super Saver Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Timetable
Deutche Bahn FAQs

Deutsche Bahn: Berlin to Paris Direct Train

Deutsche Bahn will soon launch a Berlin to Paris direct train in cooperation with SNCF. Covering 878 kilometres in 8 hours, the journey will start at €60. This route will pass through Frankfurt (South), Karlsruhe, and Strasbourg. Scheduled to begin in mid-December yet bookable from mid-October, this service enhances international rail connections and promotes eco-friendly travel between Germany and France.

Deutsche Bahn tickets can be booked directly with Omio
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✓ Omio is an official partner of Deutsche Bahn
✓ Download our free Omio app
✓ Consult our Customer Care whenever you need
✓ Including Saver Fare Tickets and Regional Tickets

About Deutsche Bahn

In just under 30 years, Deutsche Bahn, or DB for short, has become one of the most reliable train companies in Europe. Their tracks stretch the width and breadth of Germany and with their high-speed ICE trains connecting major cities—as well as international ones such as Amsterdam and Strasbourg—travelling Germany by train is easy with Deutsche Bahn.

Getting to know Deutsche Bahn

Train travel in another country can be daunting, especially if you don’t know what to expect from the train company. To make things clearer, we've compared Deutsche Bahn to the United Kingdom's Cross Country to help you get up to speed.

Like Cross Country, Deutsche Bahn tickets are cheaper the earlier you buy them. Both DB and Cross Country offer a generous baggage policy free of charge. Cross Country offers seat reservation for free whereas DB charges a small fee for 2nd class seats, DB trains have similar facilities to Cross Country including Wi-Fi, on-board catering, charging sockets and toilets.

Save Money with Super Sparpreis tickets from Deutsche Bahn

Information about Super Sparpreis Tickets from Deutsche Bahn
For train travel throughout Germany: from £18 (2nd class) or £27 (1st class).
Valid for long-distance travel for ICE, IC / EC and IC bus travel, RE, RB, IRE and S-Bahn travel at the departure and destination.
Discounted tickets available until June 30th. Holders of a Bahncard 25 or Bahncard 50 receive a further 25% discount.
Super Saver Tickets are valid only for the train selected at the time of booking. In order to also use RE, RB, IRE and S-Bahn at the departure and destination, the corresponding stops must be selected. Exchange and refund of the tickets are not possible.
There is also the Super Sparpreis Europe for various European connections, where the start or destination is in Germany. Tickets will be available for the following countries: Luxembourg, Belgium, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Austria, Italy, Switzerland and France.

 

Deutsche Bahn Ticket Types

To keep things simple Deutsche Bahn offers three main ticket types for its customers. Talk about keeping things efficient! To find out which ticket is best for you, take a look at the following options:

Saver ticket (Sparpreis Ticket)

2nd class tickets start from €29.90 and 1st class start from €35.90
- Valid only for the train originally booked
- Tickets can be cancelled for a €10 fee
-Valid on long distance ICE trains and regional trains

Saver Ticket (Sparpreis Ticket) + City-Ticket

- 2nd class tickets start from €29.90 and 1st class start from €35.90
- Valid only for the train originally booked.
- Tickets can be cancelled for a €10 fee.
- Valid on long-distance ICE trains and regional trains.
- City-Ticket: Valid on public transport to and from departure and arrival train stations. Available in 120 towns and cities in Germany .

Flexible Tickets (Flexpreis Ticket)

- Prices vary depending on route and travel date.
- Available for any train on the day of your ticket
- Refunds and exchanges are free of charge if done the day before departure.
- Valid on all long-distance ICE trains and regional trains.
- City-Ticket included for journeys more than 60 miles, available in 120 towns and cities across Germany.

Book and Choose Your Deutsche Bahn Seats on Omio!

Introducing a much-requested new feature on Omio. You're now equipped to book and choose your seats when travelling with Deutsche Bahn! Take it easy, knowing your number one seat is secured upfront.

Elevate your reservation experience now on Omio by choosing the optimal seat for a laid-back, high-speed train journey!

Deutsche Bahn - Schedules and Timetables

Deutsche Bahn's principal hubs are the main train stations of Germany's larger cities, such as Frankfurt, Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Dusseldorf. It has rail links to other European countries, including Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg and The Netherlands. Its trains and buses cater for all levels of travel; local commuting, business travel and tourism.


Trenitalia
Frankfurt to Munich Trains
Trenitalia
Berlin to Leipzig Trains
Trenitalia
Frankfurt to Berlin Trains
Trenitalia
Berlin to Hamburg Trains
Trenitalia
Munich to Berlin Trains

Changes in the price for Super Sparpreis tickets

With the introduction of the Super Sparpreises there are also some changes for the normal economy price. From the 1st of August 2018 you can book discounted tickets from €23.90 for 2nd class and from €35.90 for 1st class. Savings rates can be refunded for a travel voucher. In addition, a cancellation fee of €10 will be charged.

The new extended City Ticket Option

For travellers who travel more than 100 km with Flexprice or Sparpreis tickets, the City Ticket is included from August. Previously, the City Ticket was only included when booking with a BahnCard. The City Ticket allows the use of buses, subways, trams and commuter trains in 126 German cities—if this is the starting point or destination of the train connection. However, the use of public transport may be limited to the city centre.

Deutsche Bahn offers

Throughout the year, Deutsche Bahn releases limited “Super Saver Tickets” (Super Sparpreis) that allow for low-cost travel on high-speed ICE trains across Germany. They're pretty popular so you'll have to act fast if you want to take advantage! If you’re looking for a more spontaneous affordable trip then the Quer-land-durch-ticket is the way to go. Find out more about them below:

Super Saver Ticket (Super Sparpreis ticket) Available for a limited time throughout the year Valid only for the train originally booked 2nd class tickets start from €19.90 and 1st class start from €29.90 Limited availability Non-exchangeable and non-refundable Valid on long-distance ICE trains and regional trains


Cross Country Ticket (Quer-durch-Land-Ticket) Day return for up to five people Flat rate: One person=€44, two persons=€52, three persons=€60, four persons=€68, five persons=€76 Available Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–3 a.m.
 or Saturday–Sunday (and national holidays) 00 a.m.–3 a.m. (the following day) Travellers must provide names and have a valid government-issued photo ID Travellers must travel together Tickets can be bought up to six months in advance Only available for regional trains Non-refundable or exchangeable

Most Popular Trains to Berlin


Deutsche Bahn Train Types


Intercity Express (ICE)

InterCity (IC)

Regionalexpress (RE)

InterCity Express

InterCity Express (ICE) trains are the most comfortable and efficient way to travel by train in Germany. ICE trains are the fastest high-speed trains on the DB network, capable of travelling at speeds up to 200 mph. ICE trains travel to nearly 180 train stations in Germany. All InterCity Express trains have a restaurant and WiFi on board for your comfort and convenience. Popular routes that utilize ICE trains include: Berlin to Munich, Hamburg to Frankfurt and Munich to Cologne

InterCity

Like ICE trains, InterCity (IC) trains also travel long distances throughout Germany. While IC trains tend to travel at lower speeds than ICE services, they stop more frequently and reach more train stations in Germany. EuroCity (EC) trains are similar to InterCity services; however, they tend to operate on international routes between major European cities like Berlin to Prague. These train types are often referred to as Intercity Nights (ICN), EuroNight (EN) and CityNightLink (CNL) trains when offered overnight.

Regional Express

Shorter distance train routes in Germany usually use Regional Express (RE) and Regional Bahn (RB) trains, while smaller destinations outside of major cities are often connected by Stadt Express (SE) or S-Bahn (suburban train) services.

Deutsche Bahn FAQs

When does Deutsche Bahn require a seat reservation?

A seat reservation is recommended for travelling during peak times when a lot of commuters and business customers are travelling. Seat reservations are included in all Deutsche Bahn first class adult train tickets if a child is also on the ticket then a seat must be purchased. Seats can be can be reserved on Deutsche Bahn trains using the Omio App.

When does it make sense to travel in 1st class?

Travelling long-distance in DB's first class provides a completely different, more relaxed atmosphere, with a higher level of comfort and service. If you have to work while travelling on the train, a first class ticket is definitely worth the higher price.

When do I have to reserve a space for my bicycle?

On most long-distance train trips, a reservation is required for bicycles, which costs an additional €9 (£8). Also double check before you travel if your

Deutsche Bahn's food: How is the food on a Deutsche Bahn train?

Deutsche Bahn offers food in both the Bordbistro and Bordrestaurant on-board. The menu is varied from Chilli con Carne, to roast pork with dumplings, to a variety of salads.

How long are Deutsche Bahn's transfers? If I miss my connection will my ticket carry over to the next train?

Depending on the train station, Deutsche Bahn transfer time usually lasts between 4-10 minutes depending on the internal negotiations between individual trains and railway companies. If a Deutsche Bahn train is at least 20 minutes late at thedestination train station, it is possible to use all other trains to reach your destination station.

Which Deutsche Bahn trains have WiFi and how good is the reception?

ICE Trains: Deutsche Bahn's ICE trains have free WiFi in both first and second class.

What assistance does Deutsche Bahn offer for mobility-impaired passengers?

Deutsche Bahn offers various assistance to passengers with reduced mobility. In order to make a barrier-free journey possible without complications, one should at least one day before the trip the offers avail.
  • Mobility service centre: Here disabled persons can book the required service in advance. This works both online and under the telephone number 0180 6512512
  • Porters: Train and station personnel help you get started with the trains. Ramps and other devices are available for this purpose.
  • Seating: Restricted passengers have extra seats near the train doors. These can be booked in advance as well as all other places.
  • Travelling companions and Seeing-Eye Dogs: Wheelchairs are always carried on-board. Accompanying persons receive free seat reservations.
  • Services at Train Stations: The larger railway stations of Deutsche Bahn are equipped with various auxiliary functions. Many of them are equipped with elevators. In addition, acoustic signals and announcements facilitate orientation.

Popular Deutsche Bahn Destinations

Train Travel with Deutsche Bahn

Deutsche Bahn has two main subsidiaries. DB Fernverkehr AG operates the InterCity and InterCityExpress trains in Germany. It also operates EuroCity trains throughout Europe. These services are aimed at business travellers and tourists. Passengers can also reserve seats, purchase travel insurance and make use of a courier luggage service.

Deutsche Bahn FAQs

Everything you need to know to travel with Deutsche Bahn: amenities, cancellation policy, luggage allowance and more

FAQs
Deutsche Bahn offers extensive rail connections throughout Germany, including major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt, and international services to destinations such as Paris, Zurich, and Amsterdam.
Deutsche Bahn trains are accessible for passengers with reduced mobility, featuring facilities such as wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Train tickets with Deutsche Bahn can be canceled according to the fare conditions specified for each ticket type.
Deutsche Bahn does not have a formal check-in process; passengers can board the train with a valid ticket and find their reserved or available seat.
Yes, Deutsche Bahn offers compensation if you miss your connection due to a delay.
With Deutsche Bahn, processing times for refunds or compensation can vary, but the company aims to process claims promptly.
Compensation requests with Deutsche Bahn should be submitted as they are processed promptly, though specific submission periods are not detailed.
If your train with Deutsche Bahn is delayed, you may be eligible for compensation for the connection delay.
If a Deutsche Bahn train is delayed by more than 120 minutes, passengers are entitled to 50% of the ticket price as compensation.
For a train delay with Deutsche Bahn between 60 and 119 minutes, compensation amounts to 25% of the ticket price.
Deutsche Bahn operates from various major train stations across Germany, including popular hubs such as Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, and Munich Hauptbahnhof.
On Deutsche Bahn trains, passengers can store their luggage in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
When traveling within Germany with Deutsche Bahn, a passport is not needed for identification; a valid government-issued ID or residence permit suffices. However, for international travel, carrying a passport is recommended.
Small pets, such as cats and small dogs, can travel for free on Deutsche Bahn trains if they fit in a transport box no larger than hand luggage and stay inside for the journey. Large dogs require a separate paid ticket, typically half the price of a second-class ticket, and must be leashed and muzzled; they are not allowed on seats. Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not need a muzzle or leash if not medically required, and they can accompany the passenger at all times.
If Deutsche Bahn cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Deutsche Bahn offers refundable train tickets, including the "Flexpreis" tickets, which allow cancellations and changes until before departure, but fees may apply.
Yes, Deutsche Bahn trains are equipped with USB plugs, allowing passengers to charge their devices during the journey.
It is not possible to buy subway tickets onboard a Deutsche Bahn train.
Deutsche Bahn does not offer compensation for delays caused by weather or strikes.
Deutsche Bahn offers WiFi onboard its trains, enhancing the travel experience for passengers.
Yes, Deutsche Bahn offers quiet zones where passengers can enjoy a more peaceful journey.

station information and facilities

Most popular Deutsche Bahn train stations

Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 07:00 - 22:00
  • Sun: 08:00 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free WiFi (30 minutes limit).
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
Dining
Dining
  • backWERK
  • Burger King
  • Costa Coffee
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • Einstein Kaffee
  • Le Crobag
  • McDonald's
  • Hans im Glück
  • Pret A Manger
  • Starbucks
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
  • IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
  • Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes.
Lockers
Lockers
  • The station has luggage lockers.
Dining
Dining
  • Cantina Estación Mediterrano
  • Rischart Bakery
  • Ditsch Pretzels
  • backWERK
  • Cafe-Shop
  • Le Crobag
  • Yorma's
  • Coffee Fellows
  • Dunkin Donuts
  • McDonald's
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Accessibility equipment, elevators, & mobility service. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • a&o München Hauptbahnhof
  • IntercityHotel München
  • Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • There is an information desk located on the main concourse near the food court.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 09:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located in the main hall.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Burger King
  • Ciao Bella
  • Coffee Fellows
  • Crepes de France Express
  • dean&david
  • Starbucks
  • Uddin's Sky Sportsbar
  • McDonald's
  • Dunkin Donuts
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Cristall
  • Grand Hotel Empire
  • Hotel Carlton
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.

Deutsche Bahn destinations

Not sure where to begin your Deutsche Bahn adventure? Check out these popular Deutsche Bahn destinations for travel details and nearby attractions:

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