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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.
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.
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.
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 Tickets from 19.90€
Super Saver Tickets
Deutsche Bahn are offering their Super Saver Tickets and you can book them 3 months in advance! Tickets are limited so be an early bird and get the cheapest tickets!
Terms and Conditions
- Tickets are limited.
- 2nd Super Saver Tickets from 19.90€, 1st Class Super Saver Tickets from 29.90€.
- Tickets are available on high-speed ICE trains and fast IC/EC trains.
- Children up to 14 can travel for free, name(s) must be added to the ticket at the time of purchase.
- Up to a further 25% off with a Bahncard.
- Tickets are non-exchangable and non-refundable.
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is the largest train company in Germany with their high-quality rail network making them one of the most popular ways to travel among locals and visitors. They are also a popular option as they offer connections between major cities that can often be faster than flying. As an authorized ticket seller, this page serves as a guide for international travelers about buying tickets and traveling with Deutsche Bahn, as well as outlining their services and routes.
The first step of traveling with Deutsche Bahn is by booking your train ticket. Where should you book your ticket, online on the company's website or directly at the train station in Germany? How cheap are Deutsche Bahn train tickets?
Deutsche Bahn: Buying Tickets
Best Time to Book
Booking in advance can save you time and money. The further in advance, you book your Deutsche Bahn train tickets, the cheaper they are. As the table below shows, tickets can fluctuate quite significantly when booking last minute. From these top connections, booking three weeks or one month in advance can save you 30 percent to 57 percent. So it’s worth planning ahead, especially with longer journeys where fares are generally more expensive.
Other advantages of booking early!
DB offers Super Sparpreis tickets for only 19.90€ one-way. Supply is limited. More info here .
| Route | Today | 1 day in advance | 1 week in advance | 2 weeks in advance | 1 month in advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frankfurt to Munich | 100€ | 91€ | 82€ | 38€ | 68€ |
| Berlin to Leipzig | 48€ | 34€ | 38€ | 36€ | 20€ |
| Frankfurt to Berlin | 123€ | 111€ | 82€ | 82€ | 63€ |
| Berlin to Hamburg | 78€ | 46€ | 41€ | 32€ | 25€ |
| Munich to Berlin | 142€ | 107€ | 127€ | 148€ | 84€ |
Ticket Types
- Super Saver: This ticket cannot be refunded nor exchanged. Super Saver fares can also be used on regional trains.
- Saver: This ticket is valid only for the selected train. For a 19€ fee, tickets can be exchanged for a voucher. However, tickets cannot be refunded nor exchanged on the departure date.
- Flexible: This fare is valid for any train on the selected date. Free refunds before the first day of validity. After the date of validity, the ticket can be cancelled for a 19€ fee.
Below are Deutsche Bahn ticket fares available on Omio:
Useful Info:
Limited on time but want to cram in as much of Germany as you can? Book a Deutsche Bahn flexible ticket and enjoy the freedom to explore hidden gems on the way to your final destination. Hop on and hop off anywhere you’d like!
Class Types
Deutsche Bahn offers first and second class seating. First class affords more space and comfort and seat reservations are included. Note: WiFi, food and beverage services are only available on ICE trains.
Anyone booking a longer journey will enjoy upgrading to a higher level of service as it affords more comfort. Book in advance as upgrades tend to be cheaper when purchased in advance to booking last minute.
-
Useful Info:
- DB chooses seats for reservations starting from the bistro location. Consequently, seats furthest away from the bar/cafe car are less likely to be reserved. Many stations display train configurations on platforms so plan wisely.
- Express or Comfort seats are labelled as such and are kept free for last-minute reservations or Comfort members. If no one claims them, they become available to everyone.
- It is often louder in the middle of a car on older Deutsche Bahn trains due to the location of the axis. The opposite is true for newer models.
Discounts and Special Offers
Deutsche Bahn offers deals regularly to help passengers save money. Have a look at the options below to see if you can save even more on travel with DB.
| Offer | Eligible if... | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| City Ticket Option | Public transport extension for those travelling more than 100 km with a Flexprice or Sparpreis ticket.
Available in 126 German cities. |
1€ to 5€ depending on the destination. |
| Ländertickets | Available only in conjunction with a Bahncard. | 15 to 30% |
| Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket | For German citizens only | 10% |
Buying Children's Tickets
Children under 5 can travel on all Deutsche Bahn trains within Germany, as well as trains to Austria and Swizerland, free of charge. They do not need a ticket to travel but to guarantee a seat then a seperate seat reservation must be bought. Children under 5 are allowed to travel for free with others who are not their parents or grandparents.
Children between 6-14 can also travel for free on all Deutsche Bahn trains within Germany, as well as Austria and Switzerland, but they must be accompanied with either a parent or grandparent. The name of the child(s) must be added to the main ticket at the time of purchase.
Children aged 15 and over must pay the full price fare.
Deutsche Bahn: FAQs
How far in advance do Deutsche Bahn tickets go on sale?
Usually, six months in advance. Timetables may change, so book accordingly.
Can I pay for Deutsche Bahn tickets in Dollars?
Although prices are in Euros, on Omio you can pay with dollars via all popular payment methods.
Changes and Cancellations
Is it worth reserving a seat on Deutsche Bahn?
Seat reservations are recommended for traveling during peak times. Seat reservations are included in all Deutsche Bahn 1st class tickets. Seats can be can be reserved on Deutsche Bahn trains using the Omio App.
Will there be a problem if more than one person is on our booking but just one name is on the ticket?
Only one passenger name is needed when making a booking for Deutsche Bahn.
What are the cancellation and exchange policies?
It depends on the ticket type purchased. Visit our ticket section for more details. If you need to amend your ticket, visit our help centre
Boarding and Amenities
What is the luggage policy?
You can travel on Deutsche Bahn with your luggage free of charge, no reservation required. Passengers can store larger items of luggage in the racks provided at each end of the carriages. Passengers are responsible for the safety of their own luggage during the journey.
Can you bring bikes on board?
On long-distance train trips, a reservation is required for bicycles, which costs an additional €9. More information can be found on bahn.de
What amenities are there on DB trains?
Food: 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. These are mostly found on the long-distance train journey.
WiFi: ICE Trains: Deutsche Bahn's ICE trains have free WiFi in both first and second class.
WiFi: ICE Trains: Deutsche Bahn's ICE trains have free WiFi in both first and second class.
How long are DB transfers? If I miss my connections will my ticket carry over to the next train?
Food: 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. These are mostly found on the long-distance train journey.
WiFi: ICE Trains: Deutsche Bahn's ICE trains have free WiFi in both first and second class.
WiFi: ICE Trains: Deutsche Bahn's ICE trains have free WiFi in both first and second class.
Can I bring my Dog onboard a Deutsche Bahn train?
Dogs under the size of a domestic cat are allowed onboard free of charge but must be kept in a carrier. Larger dogs will need to have a ticket bought for them, write the german word for dog "Hund" in the name box . Once on the train they must be muzzled and on the leash at all times. Guide or assistant dogs are allowed on board without a ticket and do not need to be muzzled.
Deutsche Bahn: Train Types
Deutsche Bahn has three major train types:
InterCity Express (ICE)
- Germany’s high-speed train, which reduces travel time by 34 percent to 42 percent on major routes.
- Recognised by its white colour and continuous red stripe on the side.
- Ideal for travellers short on time or travelling long distances. Great option for business travellers as outlets and WiFi are on board.
- Omio customers usually book ICE trains 30 days in advance.
InterCity (IC)
- Operates between large and medium-sized cities. Also travel to small cities that are located in important destinations.
- EuroCity (or EC trains) are cross-border trains running between major cities that operate at comparable speeds to DB's IC trains.
- Intercity trains are sometimes as fast as ICEs, but much cheaper.
Regional Express (RE) and Regional (RB)
- Trains that usually operate between locations inside of one of Germany's federal states.
- Many are double-decker trains, so passengers have more seats to choose from.
- Travellers oftens choose this train when travelling to smaller German towns.
Top Deutsche Bahn Routes
Deutsche Bahn's principal hubs are also the main train stations of Germany's larger cities:
International Deutsche Bahn Routes
Deutsche Bahn also offer rail services linking neighbouring countries in Europe:
More Information About Traveling by Train In Europe
Popular Deutsche Bahn routes
Hillerød to Copenhagen train
from €8
Direct trains available
0h38 average duration
4trains per day
Served by
- Regional
- Deutsche Bahn
Brussels to Bruges train
from €10
Direct trains available
0h54 average duration
13trains per day
Served by
- PKP Intercity
- Deutsche Bahn
- Renfe
- SNCB
Luxembourg to Brussels train
from €10
Direct trains available
3h17 average duration
9trains per day
Served by
- Deutsche Bahn
- PKP Intercity
- CFL
- Regionalbahn
- Regional-Express
Copenhagen to Hillerød train
from €8
Direct trains available
0h38 average duration
4trains per day
Served by
- Regional
- Deutsche Bahn
Eindhoven to Amsterdam train
from €3
Direct trains available
1h12 average duration
177trains per day
Served by
- Intercity
- NS International | IC Brussel
- Deutsche Bahn
- PKP Intercity
Munich Airport to Salzburg Hbf train
from €17
Direct trains available
2h02 average duration
9trains per day
Served by
- Deutsche Bahn
- Bayerische Regiobahn
Brussels to Luxembourg train
from €10
Direct trains available
3h16 average duration
9trains per day
Served by
- Deutsche Bahn
- PKP Intercity
- SNCB
Zurich Airport to Freiburg im Breisgau train
from €30
Direct trains available
2h08 average duration
18trains per day
Served by
- TGV
- ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
- ÖBB | ICE
- Deutsche Bahn
- ÖBB
- ÖBB | InterCity
- SBB
Bruges to Brussels train
from €11
Direct trains available
0h52 average duration
17trains per day
Served by
- Deutsche Bahn
- PKP Intercity
- SNCB
Amsterdam to Eindhoven train
from €3
Direct trains available
1h15 average duration
165trains per day
Served by
- Deutsche Bahn
- NS International | IC Brussel
- Eurocity Direct
- Intercity
- PKP Intercity
Deutsche Bahn FAQs
Everything you need to know to travel with Deutsche Bahn: amenities, cancellation policy, luggage allowance and more
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 equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Tickets for Deutsche Bahn can be canceled based on their fare conditions, as outlined in what type of train tickets are refundable.
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, as indicated by the available information.
Deutsche Bahn aims to process refund or compensation claims promptly, though exact processing times can vary.
With Deutsche Bahn, you can submit your compensation request for delays promptly as processing times can vary.
If your train with Deutsche Bahn is delayed, you may be eligible for compensation for the inconvenience.
For a train delay above 120 minutes, Deutsche Bahn compensates 50% of the ticket price.
For a train delay between 60 and 119 minutes, Deutsche Bahn offers compensation of 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.
Passengers on Deutsche Bahn trains can store their luggage in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Yes, Deutsche Bahn operates overnight trains.
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, are allowed onboard Deutsche Bahn trains for free if they fit in a transport box the size of hand luggage and remain in it throughout the journey. Large dogs require a separate paid ticket, need to be leashed and muzzled, and cannot sit on seats. Assistance dogs can travel free of charge without a muzzle or leash if medically not required and may 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.
Deutsche Bahn trains are equipped with USB plugs for charging devices.
Buying subway tickets onboard is not available with Deutsche Bahn.
Deutsche Bahn does not offer compensation for delays caused by weather or strikes.
Yes, Deutsche Bahn provides WiFi onboard their trains.
Deutsche Bahn offers quiet zones where travelers can enjoy a more peaceful environment during their journey.
station information and services
Most popular Deutsche Bahn train stations
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 07:00 - 22:00
- Sun: 08:00 - 22:00
Distance to city center
2 kmWifi
- Free WiFi (30 minutes limit).
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
Dining
- backWERK
- Burger King
- Costa Coffee
- Dunkin' Donuts
- Einstein Kaffee
- Le Crobag
- McDonald's
- Hans im Glück
- Pret A Manger
- Starbucks
- & many more
Accessibility
- Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof
- Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof
Information Desk
- Located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Lounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes.
Lockers
- The station has luggage lockers.
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 equipment, elevators, & mobility service. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- a&o München Hauptbahnhof
- IntercityHotel München
- Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Information Desk
- There is an information desk located on the main concourse near the food court.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 21:00
- Sat - Sun: 09:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located in the main hall.
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
- Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
- Hotel Cristall
- Grand Hotel Empire
- Hotel Carlton
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:
Other train journeys you might be interested in
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