touch and travel deutsche bahn

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Ticketdienst touch&travel stirbt in wenigen wochen.

Die Bahn AG hat angekündigt, wann der für seine Nutzer durchaus praktische Service fürs Bus- und Bahnfahren eingestellt wird. Alternativen mit ähnlicher Bequemlichkeit fehlen.

Touch&Travel auf einem iPhone in einer älteren Version.

(Bild: Telefonica / PR)

Dass Touch&Travel bis zum Ende des Jahres 2016 eingestellt werden würde, hatte die Deutsche Bahn AG bereits im August angekündigt. Nun steht der endgültige Abschalttermin fest, wie das Unternehmen seinen Kunden per E-Mail mitteilte. Die Verfügbarkeit wurde dabei nochmals verkürzt: Bereits am 30. November endet demnach der Betrieb.

Grund für das Ende des universellen Ticketdienstes, mit dem man sich auf dem iPhone sowie Android-Geräten Fahrkarten sowohl für zahlreiche Nahverkehrsverbünde als auch für den Fernverkehr besorgen kann, ist die – so jedenfalls die Bahn AG – offenbar zu schlechte Kundenannahme. "Unsere Marktforschungen haben jedoch gezeigt, dass unsere Kunden im Nahverkehr eine "Alles-aus-einer-Hand"-App mit Informationen und zusätzlichen Services von ihren jeweiligen Verkehrsverbünden/- unternehmen erwarten", schreibt das Unternehmen. Häufig böten diese ihren Kunden eigene Apps an, die durch deren Kunden bereits genutzt werden. "Vor diesem Hintergrund teilen wir Ihnen bereits heute mit, dass Touch&Travel zum 30. November 2016 eingestellt wird."

Zurück zum digitalen Papierticket

Echte Alternativen zum bei Touch&Travel verwendeten Check-in- und Check-out-Verfahren gibt es bundesweit allerdings nicht. Stattdessen müssen Nutzer beispielsweise in Berlin nun zu den Apps von BVG, S-Bahn oder VBB greifen. Diese erlauben den Kauf von Tickets auf dem Mobilgerät zwar, allerdings sind diese Fahrkarten weniger intelligent: Sie lösen schlicht den Papierfahrschein ab, auf Tarif und Kosten muss der Nutzer achten.

Touch&Travel erfasst dagegen Einstiegs- und Ausstiegspunkt und berechnet dazu automatisch den günstigsten Tarif. Fährt man mehrfach, werden vergünstigte Fahrkarten wie Tagestickets selektiert. Abgerechnet wird einmal im Monat mit E-Mail-Rechnung und Einzug über das hinterlegte Zahlungsmittel. Einzig nervig: Manchmal vergisst man den Check-out, doch kann man sich automatische Erinnerungen setzen. Zudem gibt sich die Hotline nicht selten kulant.

Holpriger Start wegen Funkzellenabfrage

Touch&Travel hatte anfangs allerdings das Problem, dass nicht alle Mobilfunkanbieter abgedeckt wurden, weil das System nach einer ständigen Ortung per Handyfunkzelle verlangte. Doch seit 2013 wurden dann endlich alle Mobilnetze und alle Handys mit iOS und Android unterstützt. Datenschutzbedenken gab es zum Start ebenfalls, doch betonte die Bahn AG, dass nur Check-In und Check-Out letztlich gespeichert würden. Anfangs wurde die Station per NFC lokalisiert, später dann schlicht per GPS und Handyfunkzelle.

Laut Bahn AG will man die Technik aus Touch&Travel nun anderen Verkehrsunternehmen anbieten. "[Wir] erarbeiten wir mit Verbünden Lösungen, um die komfortablen Check-in/Check-out-Funktionalitäten in bestehende Verbund-Apps zu integrieren", heißt es in der Abschiedsmail ohne Angaben von Details oder Zeitplänen.

[Update 12.10.16 11:15 Uhr:] Touch&Travel hat eine FAQ-Seite veröffentlicht, auf der verschiedene Alternativ-Apps gelistet werden. Bei einigen heißt es, dass dort die Check-in/Check-out-Funktionalität "in Vorbereitung" sei. ( bsc )

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Touch and Travel

Area of transport

Deutsche Bahn startet Touch & Travel: Das Handy als Fahrkartenautomat

Deutsche bahn startet touch & travel das handy als fahrkartenautomat.

Das Handy als Bahnfahrkarte kennen wir, jetzt wird das Smartphone auch zum Fahrkartenautomaten. Nach mehrjähriger Testphase öffnet die Deutsche Bahn ihr Projekt Touch & Travel für alle Kunden. Mit dem Smartphone soll es ab sofort möglich sein, Bahntickets zu erwerben - und zwar mit minimalem Aufwand für den Kunden: keine Warteschlangen am Automaten, keine Daten im Internet eingeben, einfach den Zug nehmen. Die Abrechnung erfolgt erst nach der Fahrt, die Arbeit übernimmt das Smartphone.

So funktioniert eine Bahnfahrt mit Touch & Travel

Die Kunden müssen sich vorab einmal online registrieren . Neben Angaben zu Name, Adresse und eventuell vorhandener Bahncard muss auch die Bezahlmethode festgelegt werden. Außerdem wird eine App für das Smartphone benötigt, diese ist bisher für Apples iPhone und Android-Geräte verfügbar. Zum Start können nur Kunden von Telekom und Vodafone teilnehmen, Anfang 2012 folgt O2.

Touch & Travel

Weitere Infos über das neue eTicketing-Verfahren unter www.touchandtravel.de>

Ist die Registrierung abgeschlossen, kann es losgehen. Alle deutschen Fernbahnhöfe sind inzwischen mit sogenannten Touchpoints ausgestattet, die mit der Smartphone-App Kontakt aufnehmen können. An einem solchen Punkt bucht man sich beim Start der Reise ein und am Zielort wieder aus. An Bord des Zuges zeigt man bei der Fahrkartenkontrolle einfach sein Smartphone vor, auf dem ein Ticketcode beim Einchecken gespeichert wurde.

"Die Idee ist, dass ich irgendwo einsteige und irgendwo wieder aussteige, ohne dass ich mich um irgendetwas kümmern muss", sagt die zuständige Bahn-Managerin Birgit Wirth der "Financial Times Deutschland" . Aus Start und Ziel und den während der Fahrt durchfahrenen Funkzellen des Handynetzes - deshalb müssen die Mobilfunkanbieter mit im Boot sein - errechnet die App die gefahrene Route. Die daraus resultierenden Fahrtkosten werden automatisch bargeldlos bezahlt.

NFC - noch nicht so weit verbreitet

Touch & Travel soll nicht nur der Bahn neue Vertriebswege erschließen, es ist auch eines der größten Projekte in Deutschland, das die Übertragungstechnik NFC (Near Field Communication) voranbringen soll. Dieser Kurzstreckenfunk übermittelt schnell und - anders als Bluetooth - ohne komplizierte Anmeldeprozedur Daten zwischen mobilen Geräten und Empfangsstationen wie dem Touchpoint. Mit NFC soll das Smartphone mittelfristig zum Bezahlmittel werden. Die Technik ist längst fertig , doch es gibt kaum Geräte auf dem Markt. Bisher ist kein iPhone mit dem Chip ausgestattet. Im Gegensatz dazu gibt es entsprechende Android-Telefone bereits, doch die wenigsten sind in Deutschland erhältlich. Immerhin: Das Anfang November auf den Markt kommende Samsung Galaxy Nexus wird NFC-fähig sein.

Die Touchpoints der Bahn sind für NFC konzipiert, doch der Mangel an Geräten hat die Bahn gezwungen, weitere Anmeldemöglichkeiten einzubauen. Zurzeit kann man außerdem einen QR-Code am Touchpoint abfotografieren oder dessen Nummer per Hand eintippen. Außerdem kann die Touch-&-Travel-App die eigene Position per GPS bestimmen.

Seit 2008 nutzen laut Bahn-Angaben inzwischen 15.000 Testkunden das System. Neben den Fernstrecken sind auch Busse und Nahverkehrsbahnen in Berlin und Potsdam und Frankfurt angeschlossen.

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Deutsche Bahn displays Touch&Travel NFC mobile payment system

Germans may soon use mobile phones and RFID technology to pay for various transportation expenses, such as buses, subways and trains. At a press conference held today, German national railway company Deutsche Bahn (DB) and German mobile phone service provider Vodafone demonstrated Touch&Travel-a system that combines RFID technology and mobile phones, which can be used to replace the paper currently used by the national public transportation network. ticket.

In the next two years or so, these two companies and some software and hardware companies will install Touchpoints terminal equipment at public transport stations in Germany. Touchpoints will contain passive 13.56 MHz RFID inlays that comply with the near field communication standard. Using a mobile phone with a built-in NFC RFID chip, users can directly pay for transportation instead of buying paper tickets.

It is a huge project to build an RFID network that uses mobile phones to pay for transportation. Germany is one of the largest bus markets in Europe. Deutsche Bahn transported more than 2.6 billion people last year. At today’s press conference, DB Chairman Hartmut Mehdorn showed the working process of Touch&Travel in front of the news media.

Passengers first activate the NFC chip by pressing a button on a mobile phone that supports Touch&Travel, and then wave the mobile phone in front of the Touchpoint at the starting site. The specially designed SIM card in the mobile phone stores the data of the passive RFID tag in Touchpoint, turning the mobile phone into an electronic ticket, which can be read at will during the journey.

Then, passengers can freely combine different modes of transportation to reach their destination. Along the way, the conductor holds an RFID reader to check the electronic ticket stored in the passenger’s mobile phone. When arriving at the terminal, passengers will wave their mobile phones again before a Touchpoint to finally confirm their journey. The system then sends the data to a central computer, which calculates the distance and time spent on the journey, and automatically deducts the cost.

“Mobile phones are already one of the must-haves for people to go out,” said Friedrich Joussen, head of Vodafone Germany. “Mobile phone charges have a huge advantage: first, everyone has a mobile phone; in addition, the mobile phone itself is a very useful intermediary.” The main partner of Deutsche Bahn in this project, Vodafone has developed a SIM card that stores Touchpoint RFID tag data, which can be regarded as an electronic ticket in transportation applications.

One of the main advantages of the Touch&Travel system, Mehdorn said, is that it has the potential to combine multiple transportation networks. At present, if a passenger needs to reach a certain destination, he may need to take different means of transportation, such as trains and buses, then he has to buy different tickets. This process is so complicated that many people prefer to drive by themselves.

Touch&Travel can greatly simplify the travel process. Mehdorn said it can attract more passengers to abandon their own driving and take the Deutsche Bahn train. “Our goal is to provide customers with a comfortable and simple transportation network so that they can use public transportation facilities in any part of Germany,” he explained.

Deutsche Bahn announced at a press conference that the company will launch a pilot project this year. A total of two hundred people will participate in the pilot project. The scope of the project is limited to the urban area of ​​Berlin.

In the early stages of the pilot project, participants will still buy paper tickets. If the pilot project is successful, then this system will be tested in the actual application environment this fall, passengers do not need to buy paper tickets, but receive the total transportation expenses of the month at the end of the month. It is estimated that Touch&Travel will not be fully launched in Germany until 2010 at the earliest. One of the reasons is that NFC mobile phones have not yet been launched on the market on a large scale.The mobile phone used in the test is manufactured by Motorola, and Motorola hopes that the development of this kind of project can speed up the promotion of NFC mobile phones

“Because the market demand is not yet mature, most mobile phones do not contain chips,” said Olaf May, general manager of Motorola’s mobile devices in Germany. “When the market matures, every mobile phone will be equipped with a chip.” According to May, it is not complicated to integrate the chip into a mobile phone. NFC will definitely become one of the essential functions of mobile phones in 2010, just like text messaging.

Currently, a total of 1,500 Touchpoint units have been installed in Berlin bus stations. Project participants include NXP (providing Touchpoint terminal equipment) and Atron Electronic (providing project software).

In 2007, Rhein-Main Verkehrsverbund (RMV), the bus network operator in Frankfurt, Germany, expanded the application of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology in the area’s transportation so that passengers can use mobile phones to purchase, store tickets and view travel arrangements. Rhein-Main has installed NFC tags on the platforms of 700 buses, trams and subways, including airports in the city, giving Frankfurt the largest NFC transportation network in Germany.

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DB Navigator 4+

Timetables & tickets, deutsche bahn.

• 3.7 • 920 Ratings

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Tickets, real-time information, coach sequence and much more The DB Navigator is your ideal travel companion for regional and long-distance travel as well as for underground, tram and bus and offers the proper service for you in every situation.  What to expect from the DB Navigator: - Book long-distance as well as local transport - digital tickets for yourself, your bike or your dog  - Find the lowest prices with the Best Price Search  - Real-time information with push notifications and the travel preview  - Your favourite connection always at a glance - with the commuter widget  - Relaxed boarding with train information on the current coach sequence  - Use the self check-in service „Komfort Check-in“ and travel without disturbance  - Easy to use bottom navigation with the sections Booking, Journeys and Profile  - Modern design - dark mode available  Download the DB Navigator here in the App Store and start your journey digitally!  We look forward to receiving your feedback in the store!

Version 24.16.0

What´s new? · Stay up to date as a frequent traveler - with the digital travel assistance for regularly used connections · In addition to stations, you can now also save a route as a favourite in your app · Find stations and more in your area - with the new area map

Ratings and Reviews

920 Ratings

Good with some delay

Very happy with the application's scheduling and ticket storage. But there is a delay of updates on train delays which can and have left me hanging with difficulties to reach my destination. For example, an additional delay of 15 minutes (on top of another 10 minute delay) made me miss a bus service that could have been planned for if the application updated the train's arrival sooner. While the information, i found out later is viewed on train station screen can take some 5-10 minutes before appearing on the application.

Terrible app

App doesn’t handle train delays or departure delays well. First it doesn’t update the time change in real-time. E.g. at Paris Est the train said 1 hour delay 35 minutes before the train was originally scheduled to leave. DB Navigator didn’t update until it was after the scheduled departure time. Then it had maintained the wrong arrival time. Then it offers no options or alternative trains to take since it would be late for the connection in Stuttgart. Further you still cannot change trains or reserve your seat on another train (because your train is late in arriving) and it still cannot provide any information on open seats on your next train. This app is only good for storing your e-ticket and maybe for searching train schedules. It is useless for anything else. Any other travel company app (e.g. airline) especially US airlines are so much better at helping you with your trip. And from reading other comments, many of these concerns were made 3-5 years ago and the app has not been updated with any of these suggestions. It appears DB software engineers really don’t care about their customer’s experience. “Just pay us lots of money and you get whatever you get” is how the seem to be. And with no alternatives it will probably never change.

Keeps getting worse smh

Everything about the Deutsche Bahn is corrupt and stupid. Avoid if you can, if you can’t I understand your pain. The trains are always late, unreliable and dirty like they are cleaned once a year. The tickets are way overpriced and non-refundable (unless you pay almost twice as much) which is a scam. Don’t expect any of this to get better, I’ve been here 6 years and it just keeps getting worse. Developer response reply: The concrete suggestion I have in improving your app is to actually improve your business model as a whole because it is trash. I take the trains each day and for years every day it has been late, which is pathetic (the train is over 20 min late as I am writing this now smh). The trains are always dirty, late, and most of the ticket collectors are in bad moods. With all of that you still overcharge us for subpar services, it is frustrating and unreliable having to depend on the DB for travel. Which wasn’t the case 10 years ago because it was always on time. As I said before it continues to get worse each year so it’s obvious there is a need for new leadership there.

Developer Response ,

Hello Mike, thank you for your feedback. Unfortunately you don't seem to be completely satisfied with the app. Do you have a concrete suggestion for improvement that will help us to optimize the app? Greetings from the Next DB Navigator Team

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Lightweight, parasitic services

Touch and travel is a German pilot scheme (one of many ) that is testing NFC for ticketing on public transport. One of the partners in the trial Giesecke and Devrient describe it:

“With the new eTicketing System Touch&Travel from Deutsche Bahn (DB), the mobile phone serves as an electronic ticket on trains, buses, streetcars, subways, etc. The SIM cards inside the phones are provided by Giesecke & Devrient. The Touch&Travel project is initiated by Deutsche Bahn, the German railway, and the mobile operator Vodafone.”

This trial shows one of the ways that NFC changes the infrastructure required for a ticketing or payment service. In this case it is a lightweight, parasitic infrastructure that can fairly cheaply be added to other ticketing methods. The service relies on three elements:

• Passive NFC tags at stations that contain a unique identifier or geographic information for that location. In this case they are embedded inside what must be a cheap container of aluminium, a printed surface and glass. This doesn’t require power or a network connection, and serves the same function as a large, powered, and networked ticket machine.
• The mobile phone is the window into the service; it interprets the location/identification data, connects to the ‘cloud’ and provides an interface. This interface could show location, ticket prices, ticket options, time of journey, routes, transaction history, etc. Here there is the opportunity to create a service that offers more utility, value and experience than traditional ticketing.

More details on the service/interaction design:

• By waving your NFC mobile handset over the so called Touchpoint before entering the train, located at the platforms, the system registers the beginning of a trip.
• The ticket is stored on the SIM card inside the mobile phone
• The conductor checks the ticket by scanning the phone with a portable reader.
• Having arrived at the destination, the handset is waved over the Touchpoint again. The system registers the end of your trip. The system processes the data and calculates the correct cost for the distance traveled.

Of course the service requires that NFC handsets are easily available, or that the service is sold through SIM add-ons for existing mobiles (perhaps as an alternative to a contactless card like Oyster/Suica).

I wonder how a service that relies so heavily on an ad-hoc infrastructure will be accountable to failure and who holds responsibility and the problem-solving ability for errors and misunderstandings?

Thinking also about the parasitic ; might multiple services compete with each other for approachable station space? In a de-regulated environment (I’m thinking of the UK here) who you touch might define what service you get…

Related things:

• Nokia releases first mass-market NFC handset Nokia today announced the 6131 NFC phone, the first integrated NFC handset that will (operators willing) be available to the public. Previously NFC had been confined to ageing handsets like the 5140 and 3220......
• Touchable services: Art Server In March 2006 Fourth year interaction design students at AHO conducted intense one-week investigations into Near Field Communication in a project called Touchable services. See more student projects. Anna Daniell, Castilnano Simoons, Stig Skjelvik......
• Touchable services: Underskog In March 2006 Fourth year interaction design students at AHO conducted intense one-week investigations into Near Field Communication in a project called Touchable services. See more student projects. Anette Andersen and Jørn Knutsen worked......
• Touchable services: local interactions In March 2006 Fourth year interaction design students at AHO conducted intense one-week investigations into Near Field Communication in a project called Touchable services. See more student projects. Einar Sneve Martinussen, André Borgen, Paolo......
• Local applications and services This is a design brief, one of many themes that the Touch project is investigating. One of the most important features of NFC is that it only works at a very short range. This......

3 Trackbacks

[...] post by Timo Arnall on the new eTicketing System Touch&Travel from Deutsche Bahn: “More details on the service/interaction [...]

[...] card and can be checked although the batteries have run down.? NFC Project ?Touch&Travel? via Touch by Timo [...]

[...] Touch - Lightweight, parasitic services Via Yaz. By waving your NFC mobile handset over the so called Touchpoint before entering the train, located at the platforms, the system registers the beginning of a trip. The ticket is stored on the SIM card inside the mobile phone [...]

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Touch is a research project that investigates Near Field Communication (NFC), a technology that enables connections between mobile phones and physical things. We are developing applications and services that enable people to interact with everyday objects and situations through their mobile devices. More...

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An Easy Guide to Deutsche Bahn – Navigating German Train Travel

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Train travel in Germany is one of the easiest, fastest, and most comfortable ways to get around the country. When given the choice, I always try to go by train. I find it much more relaxing, quite scenic, and stress-free. However, navigating German train travel the first few times can be a bit confusing! There are multiple types of trains, varying ticket prices, and lots of secret hacks to make the process as smooth as possible. Here’s an easy guide to Deutsche Bahn – breaking down everything you need to know to be an expert on German train travel!

Deutsche Bahn is the official name of the German train system. You will also see it abbreviated a lot of the time as “DB” for short. It has a unique financial make-up as it is a private joint-stock company yet its only shareholder is the German government. As a transportation company, it is the most extensive in Europe with a wide array of operations and infrastructure. Additionally, by revenue, Deutsche Bahn is the largest in the world. It carries around 2 billion passengers annually.

It’s important to note that Deutsche Bahn owns all of its train tracks – meaning that its trains don’t have to stop and pull over for other freight or incoming trains. This is a big contrast to Amtrak in the United States, which rents most of its train tracks from freight and private companies.

Looking for train journeys to take in Germany? Check out these locations:

• A Weekend on Sylt, Germany’s Swankiest Island
• 6 Historical Things to Do on Rügen
• A Delightful Day Trip to Helgoland
• If you’re headed to Hamburg, make sure to check out these 25 Things to Know Before Visiting Hamburg and make a stop at Miniatur Wunderland .

Types of Train

As part of this guide to Deutsche Bahn, it’s important to know the difference between the different kinds of trains and connections offered by them. Knowing the type of train you’re taking dictates its speed, amenities, and costs. Here’s a brief overview of the most popular types of DB trains.

High-Speed Trains

ICE (Intercity-Express) – ICE trains are the fastest trains in Deutsche Bahn’s fleet! With a speed of almost 200 mph (320 km/h), ICE trains are high-speed long-distance trains used to connect major cities in and around Germany (these routes can also be international). Because there are only stops in major cities, trains can travel much more efficiently. ICE trains are also the most luxurious trains with air conditioning, wifi, in-seat charging, and food options (usually a restaurant and the BordBistro). The newest version of the ICE – ICE 4 – came into use in late 2017/early 2018. These ICE 4’s are modernized and offer more high-tech options. If possible, I always prefer to travel on an ICE train.

• There is also an ICE Sprinter classification. These routes only run a few times a day but they might only make one or two stops. For instance, on an ICE Sprinter, you can get from Berlin to Munich in less than 4 hours.

IC (InterCity) – IC trains are a step below ICE trains. They are considered semi-high-speed long-distance trains with a top speed of 135 mph (220 km/h). These trains tend to make more stops, especially in smaller cities. While they will have similar amenities as ICE trains, it is hit or miss whether they have wifi. Additionally, they usually only have a BordBistro and no restaurant option. While IC trains are perfectly fine, they do tend to be on the older side and not as modern as ICE trains.

EC (EuroCity) – EC trains are similar to IC trains but run between international borders. The type of carriages and amenities on EC trains varies depending on which rail company is operating the train. Because these are running between international borders, it’s not uncommon to get a train from the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, etc. Some of these trains will have additional amenities such as wifi.

• Train Tip: If you’re taking a train from Hamburg to Prague (or any other international route), make sure to check the train prices not just on the Deutsche Bahn website but also on the equivalent train website for the other country (in this case for the Czech Republic, make sure to check České dráhy). I’ve found cheaper train tickets offered on other train websites for the same route and time.

Local or Regional Trains

IRE (Interregio-Express) – These regional trains cover longer distances but at a much slower speed and with very few amenities. A step below the IC trains, IRE trains are rarely used these days. You can find them running the Hamburg-Berlin route as well as several different routes in Baden-Württemberg.

RE (Regional-Express) – RE trains are commonly confused with RB trains (see below). There are no amenities on these trains, including no seat reservations. Because these trains connect stations in a specific region, they’re commonly quite filled. Additionally, the tickets are quite cheap, making them accessible to all. Unlike RB trains, RE trains don’t necessarily stop at every station on a regional route. However, they’re still quite slow-moving trains.

RB (Regionalbahn) – Compared to RE trains that only stop at bigger stops along a regional route, RB trains stop at every stop along a route. They’re the most basic train service offered by Deutsche Bahn and have no amenities. Additionally, they’re the cheapest option with no seat reservations. During morning and evening rush hour, as well as on the weekends, these trains can be packed.

S-Bahn – The S-Bahn is a combination of a metro and train system. Similar to the London Underground, it’s usually just a city train that connects stations within a city. Most S-Bahns don’t operate that far beyond the city limits. They’re a high-frequency train that can go every 5 to 10 minutes, especially during morning and evening rush hour.

Night Trains

While Deutsche Bahn does offer overnight trains via their ICE and IC trains, they don’t have beds or any additional amenities. In this sense, they aren’t traditional overnight trains (and they’re not very common). However, Deutsche Bahn does offer overnight trains with sleepers and couchette coaches via some of their partner railway companies.

• From Hamburg , there are connections to/from Hannover, Freiburg, Basel, Zurich, Munich, Innsbruck, Passau, Linz, and Vienna. I’ve taken the overnight train a few times from Hamburg to Innsbruck. It leaves late in the evening and arrives around 9:00 the next morning.
• See all routes and ticket prices .
• See all routes.
• Please note that you’re unable to book this train online.

Partner Trains

As mentioned above, when DB trains are crossing international borders, it’s not uncommon for the train to be run by a different company. Similar to airline alliances, many train companies in Europe have partnerships along certain routes. Deutsche Bahn works with the following rail companies: ÖBB Railjet in Austria, DSB Train in Denmark, SNCF’s TGV in France, České dráhy in the Czech Republic, Trenitalia in Italy, and more.

Types of Deutsche Bahn Train Tickets

There are different categories of train tickets depending on the type of train you’re taking. As a basic principle, the earlier you book your ticket, the cheaper it is. ICE, IC, and EC trains run on a sliding scale – if you book any of these trains the day of, you’ll pay the maximum fare for the route. On the other hand, all local and regional trains can be booked the day of – they have set fares that don’t change. This makes it a bit confusing when trying to figure out if you should book in advance or not. Just to recap:

• High-speed trains (ICE, IC, and EC): you should book these tickets in advance as the fare gets more expensive the closer you get to the date
• Regional trains: you can book these tickets the day of as it is a set fare.

When it comes to booking IC, IC, EC tickets, there are several options including Super Sparpreis, Sparpreis, and Flexpreis.

• Please note : if you buy a Super Sparpreis ticket and part of the journey is on a regional train, you’re allowed to take any regional train (not just the one assigned to you on your ticket). However, you’re always bound to the ICE, IC, or EC on your ticket!
• Please note : if you buy a Sparpreis ticket and part of the journey is on a regional train, you’re allowed to take any regional train (not just the one assigned to you on your ticket). However, you’re always bound to the ICE, IC, or EC on your ticket!
• Flexpreis (Flexible Fare) : While this is the most expensive fare offered by Deutsche Bahn, this option offers the most flexibility and is particularly nice when you don’t know your exact departure time (a great example of this is arriving in Germany on an incoming flight). When you’re buying a Flexpreis ticket, you’re just buying the starting destination and the final destination – this means you can hop on/hop off and explore other cities along your route. You’re able to take any train on the day of your ticket’s validity. Additionally, refunds and exchanges can be done free of charge before the first day of validity. Lastly, this fare also includes a City-Ticket, allowing you to use the public transportation of your starting destination to get to the train station and allowing you to use the public transportation of your end destination to get to your hotel/house (as long as the trip is over 100 km). These fares can be booked up to 6 months in advance.

Each of the above tickets is offered as a 2nd class ticket option and a 1st class ticket option. Depending on your level of comfort and amenities required (and ultimately, the price you’re willing to spend!), you can choose which class you’d like to book. Here are some of the main differences for ICE trains (for regional trains, there isn’t that big of a difference):

• 2nd Class: Within 2nd class, there are 4 seats per row and no at-seat food and beverage service. However, there still is a trolley that comes around with bottled drinks, coffee, and small snacks to buy. Additionally, seat reservations are not included in the ticket price and you’re not able to access the DB lounges at train stations. However, I find 2nd class carriages still quite comfortable! There is free Wifi available (with a data limit) and outlets for charging your devices between the seats.
• 1st Class : Traveling 1st class on Deutsche Bahn is quite a luxury! However, if you’re savvy enough, you can find reasonably priced 1st class tickets. As most families tend to travel 2nd class, the 1st class carriages are always so quiet. Along with the lack of noise, there are only 3 seats per row, and your seat reservation is included in your ticket price. Additionally, there is in-seat food and beverage service from the Bordrestaurant along with free daily newspapers. Wifi in 1st class is unlimited and depending upon the type of ticket you buy (Super Saver vs. Saver vs. Flexible), you also get access to the DB Lounges located at select train stations.

Additional Deutsche Bahn Ticket Prices

City mobil : If your fare doesn’t include the City-Ticket, you can pay extra to get the City mobil ticket (fares depending on the destination). This allows you to use the public transportation of your starting destination to get to the train station and allows you to use the public transportation of your end destination to get to your hotel/house.

Seat Reservation : While 1st class tickets include a seat reservation, 2nd class fares don’t. However, I highly recommend booking a seat reservation, especially on longer routes or busier routes. All ICE, IC, and EC trains have seat reservations and some regional trains in Bavaria, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, and Schleswig-Holstein offer it. A seat reservation costs 4.00 Euros and can be booked either during your initial ticket booking or at a later date as a separate purchase.

Bikes : Bikes are only allowed on certain train connections. All IC and EC trains can accommodate bikes but only certain ICE trains allow it (it will be noted at the initial stages of reserving the fare whether a bike is allowed or not). Additionally, the bike must be stored in a bike space on the train. The bike fare can cost up to 9 Euros, depending on whether it is an international trip or just locally within Germany. Bikes are permitted on all regional trains – pricing differs depending on the state.

Dogs : There is an extensive list of rules for traveling with dogs. Depending on the size of the dog, how it travels (with or without a crate), and the type of train (high-speed trains vs. regional trains), the pricing and regulations differ. Here are the full guidelines (only in German).

Children : As a general rule, children under the age of 15 ride for free. Children from 0 to 5 years old travel for free and don’t need their own ticket. Children between the ages of 6 and 14 who are traveling with parents or grandparents travel free of charge. However, they must be noted on the reservation at the time of booking. If they are traveling with other individuals or alone, they must pay 50% of the ticket price. Anyone who is 15 or older must pay full price for their ticket.

Deutsche Bahn Train Passes

There are several passes or annual options that can help decrease the cost of individual fares. While the annual options only make sense for individuals either living in Germany or traveling in Germany frequently, short-term travel passes can make sense when traveling on the weekends or with a group.

Deutsche Bahn Card

If you live in Germany and/or plan on using Deutsche Bahn at least once or twice a month, it makes sense to look into buying a Deutsche Bahn Card. There are three main options for each class:

• Bahn 25 : This card gives you 25% off super saver fares, saver fares, and flexible fares. If you’re not so spontaneous with your travels, book in advance, and/or don’t use Deutsche Bahn a lot, this is a great option for you! It is 55.70 Euros for 2nd class and 112 Euros for 1st class. The card is valid for a year. You can book the Bahn 25 card here .
• Bahn 50 : This card gives you 50% of flexible fares and 25% of super saver fares and saver fares. If you tend to book your travels more spontaneous (and thus have flexible fares), this is the perfect card option for you! It is 229 Euros for 2nd class and 463 Euros for 1st class. The card is valid for a year. You can book the Bahn 50 card here .
• Bahn 100 : This is the card for the seasoned Deutsche Bahn traveler! It covers the cost of all Deutsche Bahn fares as well as other private train companies and bus companies. Additionally, it includes a City-Ticket for all locations where it is offered. You can either pay a flat rate of 4,027 Euros for 2nd class and 6,812 Euros for 1st class, or you can pay a monthly subscription of 372 Euros for 2nd class and 632 Euros for 1st class. You can book the Bahn 100 card here .

There are also special Bahn card offers for youth travelers between the ages of 6 and 18, travelers between the ages of 19 and 26, travelers over the age of 65, and business travels. You can see all the specific offers here .

Deutsche Bahn Passes

Depending on when, where, and how you plan to travel on Deutsche Bahn, they offer an extensive list of passes to decrease costs. It’s important to note that the Bahn card 25 and 50 can not be applied to these passes.

• Germany Day Ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket) – starting at 42 Euros : With the German Day Ticket, you’re able to travel on all Deutsche Bahn 2nd class regional trains (and some other partner trains). This ticket is valid Mondays through Fridays from 9 am to 3 am the next day or on weekends and public holidays all day until 3 am the next day. Up to 5 people can travel on this ticket. The base price for the first person is 42 Euros with each additional person costing 7 Euros. You can take as many journeys as you’d like during this time period, provided it is only on regional trains. This is a great option for groups of up to 5 individuals and/or individuals wanting to travel by regional training and requiring flexibility or spontaneity. You can find out all the specifics here .
• Regional Day Ticket (Länder-Ticket) – starting at 22 Euros : Each German state offers its own version of a day ticket that can be used within its borders on all Deutsche Bahn 2nd class regional trains. Some states, especially city-states such as Hamburg, Bremen, and Berlin, include the bordering states. The specific base price and price increase per person varies from state to state but the rules are the same – the ticket is valid Mondays through Fridays from 9 am to 3 am the next day or on weekends and public holidays all day until 3 am the next day. You can take as many journeys as you’d like during this time period, provided it is only on regional trains. Once again, this is the ideal option for groups of up to 5 individuals that plan on spontaneously traveling through just one German state. You can find out the specifics of each regional day ticket here .
• German Rail Pass – starting at 156 Euros : This pass allows you to take as many journeys as you’d like within a certain time period. You can either choose 5, 10, or 15 consecutive days of travel or 5, 10, or 15 days of travel within a one-month period (but the days don’t have to be consecutive). This pass is only valid for travelers who live outside the EU, Turkey, and Russia. Unlike the German Day Ticket, this rail pass allows you to use all types of Deutsche Bahn trains, including ICE trains! Additionally, this rail pass is valid on a few routes outside of Germany in Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and Italy. If you’re coming from overseas and looking for an economical way to book all of your transportation, definitely check out the German Rail Pass .
• Group Passes : If you’re traveling with 6 or more people (up to 30 people), Deutsche Bahn offers group travel prices that include a seat reservation. Unlike the Germany Day Ticket, the group passes are valid on high-speed trains as well as regional trains. There’s an option to book group passes in Germany or within Europe (if your train goes beyond Germany’s borders). You can book group passes up to 6 months in advance and, depending on the type of pass you buy, you can change your reservation up to 21 days in advance. Find out more about group travel passes .

Europe-Wide Rail Passes

There are two Europe Rail Passes offered – one for residents of the EU, Turkey, and Russia and one for individuals living outside the EU. This allows you to travel around Europe affordably while seeing as many places as possible.

• Interrail – starting at 51 Euros : With the Interrail pass, you can either buy a one-country pass or a global pass (allowing you to travel to up to 33 countries). This pass is only available to residents of the EU, Turkey, and Russia. Travel periods vary from 3 days to 3 months. You can find out more information about Interrail here .
• Eurail : Similar to the Interrail pass, you can either buy a one country pass or a global pass (for travel to 5 countries or more) with the Eurail pass. This pass is only available to those individuals living outside the EU. Depending on the fare you select, travel either has to be taken within a certain time period (flexible) or on consecutive days. You can find out more information about Eurail here .

Buying a Deutsche Bahn Ticket

There are multiple options to buying a Deutsche Bahn ticket – online, at a ticket machine in a train station, or at a Deutsche Bahn Travel Center in a train station. I prefer booking all of my tickets online as it is quick and easy. The online system accepts all major credit cards as well as Paypal – making it easy to pay even if you live abroad. Additionally, the Deutsche Bahn website is available in not only German and English but an array of other languages. The English version of the website is a slimmed-down version of the German website. However, it still has everything you need!

• Here’s a step-by-step guide to buying your ticket online
• Hint: If you’re trying to travel on a specific day but you’re not tied to a certain time, you can also search for the cheapest option by clicking on “Saver fare finder”. This will sort the fares of all the trains from that day from cheapest to most expensive.

The advantage of buying a ticket at a Deutsche Bahn Travel Center is the can help you find a more empty train, optimize your train connection, etc. However, the Deutsche Bahn website does such a great job presenting all of your travel options that I only use the Deutsche Bahn Travel Center when I’ve had a delayed or canceled train.

DB Navigator App

I highly recommend downloading the DB Navigator App . It’s available in multiple languages in app stores around the world. Not only can you buy tickets on the DB Navigator App (which are automatically downloaded and saved to your phone) but you can also check connections, see if your train is on time, get alternative connections, etc. Additionally, you see whether your specific train route is busy depending on the time of day. I always rely on my DB Navigator App when traveling by train.

Not Buying a Train Ticket

There are heavy fines for riding the train without a ticket. It varies depending on the route, type of train, and the exact situation but riding a regional train without a ticket can occur a fine of 60 Euros. I will admit that it is hit or miss whether they check tickets on a regional train. However, it isn’t worth the hassle of paying the fine – just buy yourself a ticket!

When it comes to an ICE, IC, or EC train, the fines can be hundreds of Euros depending on the route. They check tickets on these high-speed trains 99% of the time so don’t be caught without a ticket. Not only will they fine you but you’ll also be kicked off the train at the next stop. Instead of a fine, they might make you pay for a ticket right on the spot. As the ticket is a day-of ticket, you will be charged the maximum amount for that route.

Deutsche Bahn Seat Reservations

As mentioned above, seat reservations can be made on all high-speed trains as well as select regional trains in Bavaria, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, and Schleswig-Holstein. If purchasing a 2nd class ticket, a seat reservation is an additional 4.00 Euros at the time of booking. If purchasing a 1st class ticket, a seat reservation is included in the fare price if you select it at the time of booking. To reserve a seat in 1st class at a later time, it costs 5.30 Euros. Regional train seat reservations, if offered, are usually only an additional Euro. Deutsche Bahn also has special seat reservation offers.

If you’re reserving a train on an ICE via Deutsche Bahn’s online reservation system, you can pull up the train plan and decide whether you want a window seat, aisle seat, compartment seat (compartments are for 6 people – perfect if you’re traveling in a group), etc. Also, if you’re prone to motion sickness, they’ll sometimes even tell you the direction the train is going!

Quiet Carriages

Within 1st class and 2nd classes, there are specific carriages marked as “Quiet Carriages” (German: Ruhebereich). If you choose to sit in one of these carriages, please note that you’re not allowed to have loud conversations, talk on the phone, listen to loud music, or make any other loud noises. These are especially for travelers who want a quiet atmosphere on their journey.

Family Areas and Toddler Compartments

Deutsche Bahn has a lot of fun opportunities and programs for families and children! They have specific Family Areas and Toddler Compartments on ICE trains and select IC/EC trains. Additionally, childcare is also offered in German on select ICE routes on Saturdays and Sundays. No reservation is needed beforehand. Unfortunately, this service is currently suspended.

• Family Areas: These areas are suitable for families with kindergarten children or children in elementary school. You’ll be around other families as well so no need to be concerned about noise levels!
• Toddler Compartments: These special toddler compartments are the ideal situation for children up to 3 years old. They fit up to 5 people total and offer enough space for toddlers and babies to crawl around and play. Additionally, there are parking areas for strollers nearby, childproof sockets, a specific place to plug in a bottle warmer, and a changing table. #

Luggage Storage

Along with a seat reservation, luggage storage is another question that comes to mind! If you book either the first row or last row in a carriage, you’re usually able to store your suitcase behind your seat (there is a bit of a crack between the seat and the glass – a perfect storage space for luggage!). Each carriage also has a luggage rack for large pieces of luggage and storage space above each seat for smaller pieces of luggage.

I’ve never had any issues storing my luggage on a Deutsche Bahn train. However, I wouldn’t recommend bringing 2-3 large suitcases and expecting to be able to easily manage them. Just like on a plane, only bring what you’re able to manage (and be respectful of the other people in your carriage!).

While I’ve never had any theft happen to me on Deutsche Bahn, it does happen! I always keep my luggage within my eyesight. Additionally, when a train is pulling into a station, I never leave then to go get food or go the bathroom. You never know who could just snatch your suitcase and leave the train. If I do happen to leave to go the bathroom or to go get food, I might ask someone near me to watch my luggage. I also never leave my purse and/or wallet at my seat! It’s all about using common sense and being smart about the situation.

No Seat Reservation

If you decide not to make a seat reservation (living life on the edge!), you might still be able to find a seat – especially if the train is during an off-peak time or on a low-traveled route. Above every seat and/or located on the side of every seat, it will tell you whether the seat is reserved. If it says nothing on it, then the seat is free. If it says “Hamburg – Frankfurt”, then the seat is reserved from Hamburg to Frankfurt. However, if you get on in Frankfurt and are headed to Stuttgart, you can still sit in that seat because it is no longer reserved.

Quite often, people will just sit down in seats, even if they say they are reserved. If someone is sitting in your reserved seat, don’t feel bad kicking them out – you paid for it! It’s important to note that if you don’t claim your seat within 15 minutes of boarding, then anyone can take the seat. However, I’ve never really seen this happen and most people are respectful of the reservation system.

Reading the Deutsche Bahn Timetables

Being able to properly read the Deutsche Bahn timetables is critical to booking the correct train. The timetable information is listed both online and at the train stations. As I mentioned above, I mostly book and reserve all my tickets online. However, it’s still important to be familiar with the signage at the train stations and know how to properly read the in-person timetables.

The above timetables show every train departing and arriving through the entire day. It’s important to note that Deutsche Bahn updates these timetables every 6 months depending on which routes are/aren’t heavily frequented. If you take an up-close look at the timetables, they look like this:

All ICE, IC, and EC trains are labeled in red to make it easier to distinguish long-distance trains from the regional trains. The trains are all in chronological order. Here’s an example of how to read the timetable correctly:

• At 20:00, ICE 524 is departing from platform 6. It will make stops in Würzburg at 20:52, Aschaffenburg at 21:32, Frankfurt/M (Frankfurt am Main – there are multiple Frankfurts in Germany) at 22:04, Köln Messe/Deutz at 23:37, and Düsseldorf at 23:58 with its final destination Dortmund at 0:49 the next morning.

Below some of the times are Mo. – Fr. or Sa., So. – this just means that this train only operates either Monday through Friday or only on Saturday and Sunday. A great example is the train at 20:08. It’s the same train (RB 58531) but from Monday through Friday, it departs from platform 19 and on Saturday and Sunday, it departs from platform 20.

Reading an arrival timetable is the same as reading a departure timetable, just in reserve! It’s important to note that I took this photo at the Nürnberg main train station. Here’s an example of how to read the timetable correctly:

• At 20:54, ICE 522 arrives at the Nürnberg main train station at platform 7. This train started in München Hbf at 19:48 and made a stop in Ingolstadt at 20:25 before arriving in Nürnberg.

Being able to read the timetable is especially helpful if you’re going on a day trip and trying to coordinate the best time to come back. These timetables are located on every platform. Additionally, you can find them at the Deutsche Bahn Information Center.

When booking a Deutsche Bahn ticket online through their website, they show you all the train options for your route. This makes it easier to see the time that trains are arriving and departing. Here’s an example:

Looking at the online timetable above, it’s showing me the Hamburg to Frankfurt connections at 9:00 am on April 30th. Here’s how to read the timetable:

• Journey 1: There’s a train that leaves Hamburg at 9:28 and arrives in Frankfurt at 14:00. The duration of the journey is 4 hours and 32 minutes with 0 transfers (meaning you’re on the same train the entire time). It’s an ICE train and the demand for this route is expected to be low, meaning that the train should be quite empty. The Saver Fare is 38.90 Euros and the Flexible Fare is 95.40 Euros.
• Journey 2: Below the above example is a train that leaves Hamburg at 10:01 and arrives in Frankfurt at 14:44. The duration of the journey is 4 hours and 43 minutes with 1 transfer. I’ve opened up the reservation so you can see the transfer route. This not only gives more information about the transfer but gives additional information about each train including the specific train number, whether bikes are allowed on the train, whether there is a Bordrestaurant, and any other specific details or regulations (such as having to wear a mask). The train transfer happens in Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe and there is 15 minutes between the arriving train and the departing train. Luckily the 1st train arrives on platform 4 and the 2nd train departs from platform 4 (pure luck!). Both trains are ICEs and the demand for both train routes is expected to be low. The Saver Fare is 59.90 Euros and the Flexible Fare is 95.40 Euros.

In the above case, I would always choose Journey 1 – the duration of the journey is shorter and I wouldn’t have to switch trains, making it less likely that something goes wrong. Additionally, Journey 1 is cheaper and arrives in Frankfurt earlier than Journey 2.

Navigating the Deutsche Bahn Train Station

The final step to navigating German train travel is figuring out where to go and what to do in the train station! Especially if you’re traveling through a larger station, it can be confusing to find the right platform or even the right section of the platform!

Announcements

Almost all announcements at the train stations are done in German and English. If you’re unsure about something, either ask a Deutsche Bahn employee (all over the station) or ask a fellow traveler near you. I find that people are really helpful and willing to assist you.

Each train is announced on the platform two times before it arrives at the station – the first time is a few minutes before it arrives and the second time is when it is about to pull into the station. It’s not common to have a platform change but it also isn’t uncommon. This usually happens if another train is running late (and platforms need to be switched around) or if your train is running late. If there is a platform changing, it will announce it. Additionally, on the platform’s electronic board, it will show a platform change. If you don’t catch the announcement, your first clue to a platform change will be the mass exodus of people – this is usually a pretty good clue that something’s up!

Main Departure Board

The first thing you’ll see when you get to the train station is the massive Departure Board near the entrance. I always stop to read this and orientate myself. Not only will it show your train’s platform but it will also indicate any delays, train changes, etc.

It’s important to note that the Departure Board will only show the upcoming trains for the next 30 minutes to an hour. If your train leaves later than that, don’t be worried if you don’t immediately see it on the board! While the headers above are in English, I find that the notes on the far right are not always translated.

• Example: the first train route shown leaves at 12:50 and is ICE 1521. The train’s final destination is München with a stop in Ingolstadt. It is leaving from platform 9 and has no additional notes.
• Example: if you go down to the sixth train route that leaves at 13:05, you see it is a regional train (RE 58218). The train’s final destination is Würzburg with stops in Fürth, Neustadt, and Kitzingen. It departs from platform 13 and there are additional notes. Because it is a regional train, it won’t take up the entire length of the platform. The notes are probably telling you what section of the platform to find the train.

The Main Departure Board is usually above a Deutsche Bahn Information Center so if you have any issues with your train or any questions, they should be able to help you!

If your train fare allows access to the DB Lounge at the train station, I’d highly recommend taking advantage of it. Only the bigger train stations have DB Lounges. I’ve been in them a few times and they’re a great way to relax from the hustle and bustle, especially if you’re quite early to the station. They’re very similar to an airport lounge with sofas, coffee, newspapers, and food.

Finding Your Platform and Seat

This is the most important part – making sure you find your platform, the correct train, and your seat on the train (if you’ve reserved one). After checking the Main Departure Board, head to the platform that is indicated next to your train.

Each platform is divided in half with a train arriving on each side. However, each side is given a different number so there’s no confusion. In the background, I can see the signs pointing to platforms 1 and 2 as well as 5 and 6 so I can infer that the electronic board on the right is for platform 3 and the electronic board on the left is for platform 4. There are also numbers above the platform that have been cut out of this photo!

So how exactly do you read these electronic boards!? It’s important to note that the next train arriving/departing will always be at the top of the board. Here are a few examples below to help you:

• Underneath all the information for the Frankfurt train are two more trains – these are the next two trains to arrive/depart after the train to Frankfurt. The first train is ICE 801 that is headed to München at 14:24. However, the note next to it indicates that it has been canceled (“Zug fällt aus”). At 17:22, ICE 1020 is arriving (Ankunft) from Regensburg Hbf. This is an arriving train, not a departing train – you’re unable to board this train!

This is another electronic board on a platform in Nürnberg. The layout is slightly different but gives the same information.

• Example: In the above example, the train is leaving Nürnberg at 13:09 and it’s final destination in Hamburg-Altona station. It’s ICE 788 with stops in Würzburg, Fulda, and Hannover (remember, not all stops are listed so it’s best to go by the train number if unsure!). 1st class is located in section A, the Bordrestaurant / Bordbistro is located in section B, and 2nd class is located in sections C through F. After this train departs, there is a regional train (RE 4022) arriving at 14:49 from Ingolstadt and another regional train (RE 4027) departing for Ingolstadt at 15:09.

When in doubt, the German train stations have good signage and present most information in English and German. At bigger train stations, there are Deutsche Bahn employees stationed on almost every platform willing to help. As I’ve explained multiple times, I’ve always found other passengers to be super helpful and willing to help when I’m unsure where to go or which train to board.

Typically, the same trains arrive and depart from the same platform. Thus, Deutsche Bahn has carriage plans on every platform indicating the arrangement of the carriages (usually in numerical order), the direction of the train, the setup between 1st class and 2nd class, and where to stand on the platform to be closest to your carriage.

It’s really easy to use this chart – find your train and departure time, find your carriage number, and then scroll up or down to see what letter it best aligns with on the platform. Green carriages indicate 2nd class, red carriages indicate the Bordrestaurant or Bordbistro, and yellow carriages indicate 1st class. In the above photo, there is a red vertical line going through all the trains. This red line signals where you’re standing at the moment (in this instance, somewhere between letters C and D). The purpose of this is just to help you orientate yourself.

Finding your seat and carriage is pretty straightforward. On the side of the carriage, it will always indicate with a big number whether the carriage is for 1st class or 2nd class. Depending on the type of train you have, the specific carriage number whether either be written on the side directly or will be shown on an electronic monitor.

• Example: In the photo on the left, it is a 1st-class carriage and the carriage number is 14. Additionally, it shows a seat with the numbers 11-76. This means that anyone who has a seat reservation in carriage 14 and their seat is number 11 through 76 should enter at this door. Lastly, it has a cell phone visual (hard to see!) – this means that this carriage can be used for phone calls, surfing the internet, etc. Pretty much, it’s the opposite of a quiet carriage!
• Example: In the photo on the right, it’s a second-class carriage and the carriage number is 21 (on the electronic board on the left). Anyone with a seat reservation in carriage 21 and a seat between 11 and 88, should enter at the door right outside the frame on this photo.

This carriage is similar to the one on the left above. However, this is a quiet carriage, indicated by the “shhh” symbol and the cell phone with the line through it. Remember – if you’ve booked a seat reservation in one of these carriages, you should not be making noise in them!

When it comes to finding your seat on board the train, it’s quite simple. The numbers are denoted either above the seats or on the seat sides, depending on the type of train that you’re taking. The two photos above are taken from regional trains in Schleswig-Holstein. Each regional train looks slightly different depending on the German state and whether the train is updated or not.

The above photo is from the 1st class section of an ICE train. When booking, I specifically like getting the single seats on the right as it gives me room to stretch out. A 2nd class carriage looks very similar to this. The main difference is the number of seats. There are 2 seats on each side of the aisle, meaning that the seats are closer together.

German Terms to Know for Navigating Deutsche Bahn

While there is an English version of Deutsche Bahn’s website as well as English signage at train stations and on the trains, here are some German words to know that will help make navigating Deutsche Bahn a bit easier!

• Hauptbahnhof: Main Train Station
• Bahnhof: Train Station
• Über: Via. In terms of Deutsche Bahn, this means “Via” – these are the destinations between the starting point and end destination.
• Ziel: Destination. In terms of Deutsche Bahn, this means “Destination”. This is the final destination of the train
• Gleis: Platform
• Verspätung: Delay. This is usually followed by a number indicating how late the train is going to be.
• Minuten: Minutes. This usually followed a “Verspätung” message indicating how late the train is going to be.
• Wagenreihnung: Wagon Order or Carriage Order. Usually, you will see this word when the carriage order is different than what is indicated at the train station or online (maybe it’s missing a carriage or there are different carriage numbers).
• Ankunft: Arrival
• Anreise: Departure
• Folgezüge: Next Train. This is usually on the individual platform boards to indicate which train will be coming to the platform after the current train.
• Von: From. This will be on a ticket and indicates where you’re catching the train.
• Nach: To. This will be on a ticket and indicates where you’re getting off the train.

• Sitzplatz: Seat. If you’ve reserved a seat, this is where you can find it.
• Klasse or Kl.: Class. This indicates whether it is a 1st or 2nd class ticket.
• Zugtyp: Type of Train. This indicates whether it is an ICE, IC, EC, etc.
• Zug: Train Number . This indicates the train number. It’s important to make sure you’re getting on the correct train because sometimes you’ll have trains to the same destination leaving around the same time (especially if one train is delayed).
• Wagen: Carriage number. This is usually about your seat reservation and indicates which carriage to find it.
• Fahrplan: Timetable
• Gültigkeit: Validity
• Hinfahrt: Outward Journey
• Rückfahrt: Return Journey
• Auftragsnummer: Order Number. This is what Deutsche Bahn considers your reservation number.
• Umsteigezeit: Transfer Time. If you have to switch trains, this is the amount of time you have between your first train arriving and your second train departing.
• Abfahren (or fährt ab): To Depart (verb)
• Einsteigen: To Board (verb). A lot of times, you’ll see “Bitte nicht einsteigen” or “Bitte nicht mehr einsteigen” – this means you’re not allowed to board the train or you’re not allowed to board the train anymore. This usually flashes on the screen right before the train is departing the station.
• Ausfallen (or fällt aus): To Be Canceled (verb). You’ll mostly see this written as “Zug fällt aus” meaning that your train has been canceled.
• Hinweis: Please Note. This is to give you a heads up about a unique situation (maybe the train schedule is off, the carriages are in a different arrangement, etc.)

Deutsche Bahn Delays, Missed Connections, and Cancelations

It’s a running joke in Germany that Deutsche Bahn is always delayed. However, after using Deutsche Bahn considerably over the past 5 years (including almost 50 long-distance trains one year), I can only count on one hand severe delays on cancelations I encountered. In those instances, it was out of Deutsche Bahn’s control – bad weather, a WWII bomb was found near the train station (very common in Germany!), or someone was on the tracks (unfortunately, this is usually due to someone committing suicide). However, if you do face a delay, missed connection, or cancelation, it’s important to know your rights and what you’re entitled to going forward.

If your train is delayed, you might be eligible to receive compensation. For a train delayed more than 60 minutes, you’re entitled to receive a 25% refund of the fare paid for a single journey. For a train delayed more than 120 minutes, you’re entitled to receive a 50% refund of the fare paid for a single journey. You can claim your refund here as well as free postage here . I’ve always found the refunds to be paid out quickly and promptly. Additionally, you can get this form from the conductor (if the train is severely delayed, they’ll usually pass them out to all passengers) or from a Deutsche Bahn Travel Center.

If your train has more than a 20-minute delay, you have a few options according to Deutsche Bahn’s website:

• continue driving on the same route or another route at the earliest opportunity, or
• continue the journey at a later point in time if this can reduce the arrival delay at the destination station or
• use another train that does not require a reservation.

If you’re booked on a regional train that’s more than 20 minutes delayed, you can switch and take a high-speed train. However, you must buy a new ticket for the high-speed train and then retroactively apply to claim back the money ( through this form ). You can always go from a high-speed train to a regional train for no additional cost.

Lastly, if your train is delayed more than 60 minutes, you can cancel the trip and have the full fare reimbursed. Once again, you’ll need to fill out the above form to get your money back.

Missed Connection

There’s no worse feeling than seeing your next train pull out of the station while your train is still pulling into the station! On an adventure to the Harz Mountains during the winter months, my train was caught in a heavy snowstorm, delaying its arrival at the next train station (where I had a connection). I ran to the other platform and got there just as the train was pulling out of the station. Because it was a small station with only a few platforms (and it was 9:00 pm), my next available train didn’t come until 11:00 pm. Thankfully, there was a McDonald’s open where I could sit for the next 2 hours. If that hadn’t been there, I would have been standing in the snowstorm for those 2 hours!

In instances of a missed connection, you’re allowed to take the next available train to your destination. Once again, if you’re scheduled to be on a regional train and the next available train is a high-speed train, you’ll need to buy a new ticket for the high-speed train and then retroactively apply to claim back the money ( through this form ). Additionally, if you miss your connection and it is the last train to that destination for the delay, you will be reimbursed for hotel costs through the form above.

Cancelation

In the unlikely event that your train is canceled, the steps forward are similar to a missed connection. You’re allowed to take the next available train to your destination. If you’re scheduled to be on a regional train and the next available train is a high-speed train, you’ll need to buy a new ticket for the high-speed train and then retroactively apply to claim back the money ( through this form ).

Passenger Rights

When in doubt or you’re not sure what you’re allowed/not allowed to do in the event of a delay, missed connection, or cancelation, I recommend talking to someone at Deutsche Bahn’s Travel Center or Information Desk. They tend to be helpful and have found me train connections that I didn’t realize existed.

Make sure to read this article from Deutsche Bahn so you know all your rights as a passenger.

Travel Tips for Deutsche Bahn

Besides the above information, here are some tips for making your train journey smooth and comfortable.

• Bring your own water and food, especially if your train doesn’t have a Bordbistro. If you do plan to buy food on the train, I highly recommend the Currywurst – so good!
• Try to get to the train station 20-30 minutes before departure, especially if you’re headed to a big train station like the Berlin Hauptbahnhof (it’s quite a few floors). If you’re not familiar with a larger train station, they can be a bit overwhelming and confusing.
• Most trains will announce the upcoming destination in both English and German. This will happen about 5-10 minutes before the train enters the station. Be prepared to leave the train right when it pulls into the station because most trains only stay at the platform for a few minutes. Usually, there is an electric board in each carriage showing the next destination. However, when in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask someone! I found the most passengers are really nice and helpful.
• Everything is done in military time so don’t get confused when you see times such as 15:24 (3:24 pm) or 18:36 (6:36 pm). Also, remember that dates are written differently in Germany versus the USA. If it’s March 6, 2021, the date will be written in Germany as 06.03.21 (date.month.year).
• The doors for trains close about 30 seconds to a minute before the train departs the station. If you’re cutting it close getting to the station, remember to get to the train a minute or two ahead of time so the doors don’t close on you.
• In terms of getting on and off of the train, make sure to let all the people get off the train before getting on it yourself. It’s seen as rude and impolite to immediately rush onto the train. Plus, it makes it more orderly getting a bunch of people on and off the train in a quick and timely manner.
• Download the DB App – it’s a great way to see if your train is on time, look at other connections, plan your trip, etc.

Further Reading...

The Must-See UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Germany

Traditional German Food You Must Try When Visiting Germany

18 Famous Landmarks in Germany That Shouldn’t Be Missed

11 comments.

This was a super helpful overview of the trains. Thank you!

hamburgandbeyond

I’m just seeing this comment – so sorry! Thank you so much for the sweet comment :)

Hey, this was a super detailed and fantastic article. I mean this is the complete guide one should always refer to when looking for info. However, I couldn’t see one thing. And this is about trains split up at some stations. If you don’t know German and you are on the wrong side of the train, you may end up traveling somewhere else. Especially, the train splits up in the middle of the night and you are sleeping. This might be the worst case. I would be appreciated it if you have any suggestions or stories about such a case. Is there a way to know when it will split up beforehand? Thanks a lot again. Love from Bochum.

Hey Jordan, Thank you so much for this complete guide. This is a lot of work. I think Deutsche Bahn should share this article on their website. Do you have any suggestions or stories about trains splitting up at certain stations? I mean, especially, if it splits up in the middle of the night and you are sleeping. You may end up traveling to the wrong city. Is there any way to know when/where the train will split up? Love from Bochum

Witthaya Loetwiriyakul

We are 2 to buy tickets to Strasbourg from Frankfurt airport, when i go to DB app, register and problem is ? can I buy tickets for 2 travelers me and my friends in my account’ s name, or have to buy in separate account? Registration comes from the Input the county but my home country is not in the selected drop down , So how can i do ?

Anyway to change my seat reservations once they are made?

Hi Frank! You can change your seat reservation here: https://reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en?start=1&existOptimizePrice-deactivated=1&S=&REQ0JourneyStopsSID=&Z=&REQ0JourneyStopsZID=&date=Di.%2C+15.11.2022&time=19%3A23&timesel=depart&returnDate=&returnTime=&optimize=0&auskunft_travelers_number=1&tariffTravellerType.1=E&tariffTravellerReductionClass.1=0&tariffClass=2&externRequest=yes&HWAI=JS%21js%3Dyes%21ajax%3Dyes%21&rit=1

Even on this site we can find ZERO “factual” information about the following: #1 – The HUGE price variation in Railjet tickets on German, Austrian & Hungarian State Railway sites, as well as Omio, Trainline & Rail Europe? #2 – ZERO information on HOW to reserve a seat on a Railjet train “IF” the ticket was purchased on one of the same rail sites listed above.

Hi Robert! Sorry, you’re unable to find the information you’re looking for online. I always recommend booking Railjet tickets (and anything with the ÖBB) directly through Austria’s ÖBB website! It tends to be much cheaper than booking through Germany’s Deutsche Bahn website. Unfortunately, I haven’t booked Hungarian train tickets in years so I don’t have experience. I also usually don’t ever book through third-party websites. If you need to reserve a Railjet seat, you can do that directly on the ÖBB website here: https://shop.oebbtickets.at/en/ticket (just enter your route, date/time, etc. and under “Find Services” click on “Seat reservation only (no ticket)”. Hope that helps!

Can you please assist me, I have booked DB ICE tickets online from Amsterdam to Stuttgart for travel in June. Since booking I have received an email from DB advising of a Timetable change from Amsterdam and advising “find alternative connection”. A link in the email takes me to Bahn website and showing a different ICE train departing at the same time as my booking with a slight variation in the route but arriving at the original time in Stuttgart. Can I travel on my original ticket or do I need to purchase another ticket and somehow claim the fare? I have tried to call DB ‘English’ helpline which does not answer promptly and also sent an email with no response to date?

Hi Philip! You can travel on your original ticket – no problem at all! I just had this happen to me as well :) They changed the departure time by 5 minutes, but everything else stayed the same. If DB changes the timetable on you, you’re allowed to take whichever other train you’d like that day!

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GERMANY – For those that travel on the Deutsche Bahn in Germany, you’ll now be able to buy e-tickets through your Symbian Anna or Nokia Belle smartphone, using the Touch&Travel app from Nokia Store

We’ve all been there. You jump onto a bus and realise you’ve not got enough small change in your pocket to pay for the fare. This usually means you need to find an ATM and withdraw some money in order to pay for the bus ride. Now, all you need is your phone, which is something you never leave home without.

In order to travel in a cashless way on a bus or train, you’ll need to download the Touch&Travel app from Nokia Store. Remember, this is a service only available in Germany, so you might not find the app in the store if you’re not in that region.

Users are required to register at www.touchandtravel.de to create an account. This is where you’ll add your bank details so you can make payments on the go.

Each and every time you wish to travel on a Deutsche Bahn train or bus, you must check-in using the app. You can do this in a variety of ways. The GPS on your phone will locate you quickly and simply, you can enter the touchpoint (station meter) serial number or request a QR code from your phone. This can then be scanned.

Once you’ve finished your trip, simply check-out and your phone will display the price for your entire journey.

Available for Symbian Anna and Nokia Belle phones, such as the Nokia N8, Nokia C6-01, Nokia C7, Nokia E7, Nokia X7, the Touch and Travel app makes travelling around Germany a very simple, effortless task.

Have you tried Touch&Travel yet? Would you like to see this type of technology wider available? Do let us know, in the comments section below.

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Deutsche Bahn travel planner for iPhone

Deutsche Bahn has a free iPhone app in the App Store. If you have an American iPhone, it installs the English version.

I assume it also works with the iPod Touch.

I also found an SNCF (French Railway) app. In French only.

I would also mention that there is one for the UK for what they call National Rail Enquiries but it is $7.99 plus tax[INVALID]it includes both a journey planner and live departure board information as well.

Boy, this is the ultimate toy for the train buff! The Germans are so efficient! If you put in Berlin hbf, for example, it shows real-time departures for every train, bus, U-Bahn, and S-Bahn. To get the right times, however, you need to change your iPhone time setting to Central European Time.

Tyler, I have the DB App and used it in Germany recently with my IPod Touch and it worked well (except when the Wi-Fi connection "crashed" due to a lightning storm)! SBB Rail in Switzerland have a similar App. Cheers!

There's also a BlackBerry version. It's in App World.

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DB Reisezentrum

Your COMPLETE Guide to Using the Deutsche Bahn in Germany

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I might make a little extra spending money, at no extra cost to you. As always, all opinions are my own and these products/services have been found useful during our travels and come highly recommended to you from yours truly!

One of the greatest things about living in Europe is the ease at which one can travel nearly the entire continents without a car. But before you can go and hop on any train, you need to know the ins and outs of using the Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s most powerful train service. You will be hard pressed to find another train in Germany which offers high speed trains throughout the entire country as DB is the ONLY option. So, please allow me to give you some tips for using the Deutsche Bahn in Germany!

In case you’re interested, PIN IT FOR LATER!!

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Learning how to use the Deutsche Bahn can be quite stressful, but having tips from a local on how to use the railways services always helps. From secret train deals to helpful suggestions, I’ve included a lot of vital information for the German rail system based for beginners on my personal experience as an expat living in Germany. Hopefully, you’ll find these train tips useful and help save you time and money while traveling in Germany! 

Types of Trains in Germany

First and foremost, you should know there are two types of trains by which you can travel in and around Germany which are the ICE & RB trains, but there are also variations of the regional trains. The following list excludes all other non-Deutsche Bahn trains.

• ICE – Germany’s high-speed train and it the fastest and most comfortable way to travel. This is for long distance travel between destinations like Munich to Berlin, Munich to Frankfurt etc. They are also used for traveling to other countries, but you can find more about traveling Europe by train using the Interrail pass or Eurail pass here.
• Discount tickets are not accepted
• Seat Reservations are possible
• Wifi on board
• Food & beverages on board
• Train restaurant
• Regional Trains – (Regio-DB or RB) slower trains which connect you to smaller cities within Germany and tend to be painted red. These trains are noted by all abbreviations other than “ICE”.
• Discount tickets accepted
• Seat Reservation only possible in First Class
• No Train Restaurant
• Stop in every.single.station
• RE (Regional Express) lines are for slightly longer distances than the RB. You can travel throughout the entire country using only RE lines, but it will take you a while. RE trains are also painted red.
• IC (Inter City) trains – IC trains are between the RE and ICE trains.  They are typically mostly white with red stripes, like the ICE trains, and they are generally faster than the RE trains.

Buying a Ticket and Booking Tickets Online

There are three ways in which you can purchase your ticket. You can either head straight for the nearest train station, find a ticket machine or the ticket counter and purchase your ticket, OR you can book online .

How to Use the Deutsche Bahn Ticket Machine

Every train station in Germany has red Deutsche Bahn ticket machines, where you can simply pick your language, choose the date of travel, your destinations and what kind of ticket you would like. Then pay for your ticket and print the schedule and the ticket.

Each state in Germany offers a special discount ticket . For example, in Bavaria, that ticket is called the “Bayern Ticket” , which allows up to 5 travelers to ride the rails with one ticket. The ticket is a standard price of 23 € for one person and increases by 5 € per person. Seems like a lot of money, but when you divide the total cost by the number of people in your party, it’s can help making traveling in Germany more affordable! You don’t have to break the bank when using public transportation in Germany!

• ALL PASSENGERS must sign the ticket!
• The ticket is good for 24 hours as many times as you want
• The ticket is ONLY VALID for any and all regional trains (NO ICE TRAINS!)
• The ticket is also valid for SOME city buses & S-bahns

**Hint: If you are traveling alone, look for people standing near the ticket machine asking if you’re headed towards Munich , Nuremberg , Frankfurt or Berlin. Generally these people are looking for people to share a ticket with!

Booking a Ticket Online

Head on over to Bahn.de , type in your destination, the day and time you prefer to travel, the type of train you prefer to travel with (ICE or Regional) and how many people are in your party. A list of train options will appear and you can check out the different prices, types of trains and changing times. Consider looking for an earlier or later train time to get the best deals (Bayern Ticket excluded).You will first choose your outward journey ticket and if you plan to return to a destination, you’ll click the “return journey” button.

You can make seat reservations for German high-speed (ICE) and night trains with the Deutsche Bahn up to 3 months in advance. You will need a reservation for sleeping accommodation on most night trains. Making a seat reservation for ICE trains are optional, but not required, however, during peak seasons, generally from May to September, it is highly recommended to reserve a seat to ensure you have a seat. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself standing until a free seat opens up.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to make an online reservation on trains traveling internationally to and from Germany . For those reservations, you will need to either call the Deutsche Bahn (+49 180 699 6633) or preferably going to an international ticket office located at all larger German train stations. 

After purchasing your ticket, you can either have the ticket mailed directly to you via Post (for an extra fee), download the ticket yourself and print it or to your phone as a QR code.If you book a ticket online, you will also need to choose how you will be identified on the train when the conductor checks your ticket (which can be your passport or your credit card).

You MUST travel with your chosen ID otherwise you risk paying for a new ticket and a fine, or being kicked off the train!

• The earlier you book, the better the deal you get.
• CHECK the notification box to receive updates about any changes to your train!!
• Pay attention to transfer times if you need to change trains. Give yourself enough time to get from one track to another! (Especially in larger cities!!)
• Booking a regular ticket implies that you have a specific time and train, which means you CAN NOT take any train you wish.
• There are first and second class options (You CAN NOT sit in first class without a first class ticket)
• Should one of your trains be cancelled (which can happen if there are union strikes), the restriction is revoked but you MUST have a train staff member confirm this before embarking on the train.

Understanding Your German Train ticket

How to Save Money Using the Deutsche Bahn!!

We have already discussed the special discount tickets (above). Now it’s time to talk about other ways to save money on the Deutsche Bahn!

If you plan to stay in Germany for a couple of months and travel extensively, you should consider the option of a German ‘ Bahncard ’. There are trial deals for a 3 month period and allows you to save 25% or 50% off the normal ticket price in addition to using local transport in combination with your tickets (only in combination, this is not meant for everyday public transport within cities).

You can also consider going the extra mile and purchasing the 3 month trail for the Bahn 100 card , which allows you to “pay once and travel with Deutsche Bahn wherever you like, whenever you like and as often as you like – without having to buy tickets for each trip”.

Deutsche Bahn App

For the most up-to-date info, download the user-friendly Deutsche Bahn App for free. You can search all Deutsche Bahn trains as well as private train times, including buses, U-Bahn (underground) and S-Bahns (Cable Cars).

Other Helpful Tips for Using the Deutsche Bahn

If you’re a first time traveler to Germany, you need to learn about the possibility of your train being cancelled or rearranged due to the reoccurring strikes and protests between the employees of Deutsche Bahn and the company. This is an annual thing which results in many delays and frustrated travelers.

Before traveling, be sure to check your wagon arrangement in advance. You can do this by going straight to the train station and looking for the big YELLOW POSTER , next to the train platforms which has the regular schedule of the train. However, should your train be cancelled, looking in advance will not help.

If you booked your ticket online and if you checked the box to receive notifications to your email if changes to your train should occur (which you should have done as mentioned above!), you will receive an email if changes, delays or cancellations have been made regarding your booking!

Worst case scenario, head to the train station at least an hour early, check with the Deutsche Bahn help desk and speak to a member of staff who can help you out!

Navigating the Train Station

Every town and city has a ‘ Bahnhof ‘ (train station) while in larger cities they have a ‘ Hauptbahnhof ‘ (Main Train Station).

For the smaller Bahnhof stations, they will generally be quite empty and you will be hard pressed to find a member of staff to help you! Should you need help, try finding a local who *might* be able to help you. Otherwise, simply look for TV monitors with updated train info (usually at the platform) or look for the yellow or white posters for schedule plans.

For the large Hauptbahnhof, these are generally open 24 hours and finding a member of staff is easy. There will be a big Departures/Arrivals board as soon as you walk into a station with all the most updated train info.

Should your train be delayed, announcements will be made over the microphone, but considering you likely don’t speak German, simply head to your platform or back to the main Departures/Arrivals board and look for a highlighted note at the top of the board.

Train Station Vocabulary You Should Know!

• Arrivals –  die Ankunft
• Departures – die Abfahrt
• Arrival Time – Ankunftszeit
• Departure Time – Abfahrtszeit
• Schedule or timetable – der Fahrplan
• Train ticket – der Fahrschein
• Track or platform – das Gleis
• Later – Sp äter 
• Earlier – Früher

More train vocabulary

Finding Your Seat with Class!

Once you have reached your platform, look for the compartment you will be seated on. If you bought your ticket and printed it out online, your ticket will tell you which wagon and which seat you will be. If. for example, your ticket says that you are in Wagon 23, simply look for the train layout board, which will tell you exactly how your train should look. Then you know to go to sections A, B, C, D… and so on. ( Understanding Your German Train Ticket ).

The trains are clearly marked with a big 1 or 2 on the outside, as well as before each compartment to indicate which wagons are specifically First Class and Second Class . If you do reserve seats on the ICE train, your seats will be clearly marked on an electronic display above the seat. If the display is blank, there is no active seat reservation and you can sit there.

If you will be traveling on the Regional Trains, assigned seating is not possible. So, you can sit wherever you would like in Second Class, UNLESS you specifically bought a ticket to sit in First Class.

Dealing With Luggage on Board

Let’s admit it, traveling with luggage is the worst part of traveling and trains don’t make it any better.

Both regional and ICE trains have *some* overhead space, but this is really only for small bags and suitcases. Large suitcases CAN be squeezed above, but I would ONLY recommend this if there is absolutely no other option.

For ICE trains, there is always a luggage compartment/rack where you can stow your luggage, but it is mixed with luggage from other passengers and it is not always visible from your seat in order to keep an eye on your belongings. Store your luggage there at your own risk. However, if you are so lucky to find seats which are not occupied near the entrance doors to the wagon, you can find extra space behind the seats and plop down. I highly recommend this. Otherwise, if the train is not full, you can put your small luggage on the seat next to you and the suitcase in the foot space.

If you are on Regional trains, there are no luggage compartments/racks, so you will need to have your luggage on the seat next to you, or if your suitcases are too large, I recommend sitting either in a 4-person section where there is plenty of leg room, if the train is not crowded or head to the bike wagon and sit on a pull down chair where there is plenty of room for your luggage.

Other Rail Passes

The DeutscheBahn has a similar rail pass to the Eurailpass, but for only travel within Germany, called the German Rail Pass . With the purchase of the German Rail Pass, you can avoid the hassle of buying tickets and save money! However, should you be interested in the German Rail Pass, you’ll need to pop over to a DB ticket window at any Hauptbahnhof to purchase them and make reservations. (If you so not make reservations during peak season, you risk not having a seat on board.) Tickets for a second-class ticket, (for travel on any 5 days in a month) start at $191 (for travelers under the age of 25). While for an adult ticket with the German Rail Pass begins at $319. (Prices may vary.)

Please keep in mind that these special rail passes must be purchased in advance and typically come with many restrictions. For example, a Eurailpass can ONLY be purchased in North America PRIOR to arriving in Germany. If you would like to travel to Germany’s neighboring countries, for a fee, you can get an extension for the German Rail Pass which will allow travel to neighboring countries, however, Austria and Switzerland have their own special rail passes.

Final Tips for Riding the Trains

• Try not to book trains that are during high peak hours where people are commuting to/from work, usually between 7-9am and again around 4-6pm. This is when the trains are at their fullest, and many times, STANDING ROOM ONLY!
• Don’t be surprised if somewhere along the way, if you’re heading to the big cities, you have to stand wherever you can.

If you’re interested in visiting Germany and are looking for more information, I highly recommend using the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide! Without these guides, I would be lost! This is my travel Bible!

For more posts about traveling in Germany/Europe:

Your ESSENTIAL Guide to Europe

An Expats Guide to Living in Germany

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Replies to Your COMPLETE Guide to Using the Deutsche Bahn in Germany

Yes! I really needed this post. 🙂 We’re headed to Germany (Cologne) next week and will likely be using DB. Super useful post. Thank you for sharing on #weekendwanderlust.

Oh good! Hope this helps! Have fun!

This is great. Germany is high on my list. Great tip on the special discount ticket. Pinning for later! #WeekendWanderlust.

I’m hoping that our next European trip will be to Germany. When we go, I know that we will definitely be riding the rails. It’s always a bit nerve-wracking when I’m unfamiliar with a system — and in a foreign language, too — so this guide will be helpful.

Glad I can be of service! I know exactly how you feel because getting used to the German system took me a while to get comfortable too!

Number one on my husband’s travel wish list is a return to Bavaria – I’ve never been – so this will be helpful when we do. Bookmarking this – thanks for sharing!

Whoa, this is VERY good info, am going to bookmark this post for future reference. Incidentally, a fellow travel blogger from Malaysia will be travelling to Berlin next month, I will share this post with her for her info. Thanks, cheers! 🙂

Hope she can find it useful!

Great guide, it is the only way to get around Germany besides renting a car. We spent three weeks exploring the divergent sides of Germany and snapped over 5k in photos! It is truly a beautiful country to visit.

Couldn’t agree more!! Sounds like you had a wonderful visit! ??

Headed to Germany for 2nd time, I will be using the rails a lot, just to remind me, I was a bit apprehensive on getting on the train that stopped at the platform I was on, If I remember correctly the destination of the train is above the engine car. And the Train number is beside the door of the car you are getting on? I know it is posted on the platform sign indicating Train number, when it arrives, delay time, etc.. I plan buying a Bayern ticket and traveling the country side of lower Germany.

Thanks for the info, great site

So if you’re worried, just remember if you’re buying a Bayern ticket, even if you get on the wrong regional train, you can hop off and on to another however many times you need. However, train numbers are always on the platform sign and usually on the outside of the train it tells you where it’s going. Have fun!

Great job, thanks!

Thanks for the post! Very helpful as we are heading to Germany in a couple weeks. Can you explain the different reserved seating options – “compartment, open saloon, and open saloon with table”. Thanks!

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Deutsche Bahn

Find relevant information about the cooperation of, deutsche bahn & w2.

Rail&Fly  (QYG)  can be used from any DB station and allows passengers to use Deutsche Bahn’s trains as a flexible and hassle-free way of traveling between their selected railway station and the airport that they will depart from or arrive at.

The product can be booked only in combination with an international flight.

The offer covers all German airports in addition to the airports Basel, Salzburg, Amsterdam, Brussel and Zurich.

Even after selecting a specific train during the check-in, the  Rail&Fly ticket  can be used flexibly on the selected day of travel  on the  selected route  without being restricted to a specified train.

The rail segments can be checked-in directly after ticket issuance.

Rail&Fly tickets are valid on regional and long-distance trains as well as on selected non-federally owned railways (NE-Bahnen). Moreover, the tickets can  be used with selected airport transfer partners, if the airport is not having a  railway station. More information can be found on  www.bahnanreise.de/geltungsbereich .

The airline sets the prices and conditions, which are specified in the fare notes. The ticket will be validated on airline stock.

To facilitate the booking possibilities for the travel agents, fictitious placeholder connections to/from QYG to to/from the airports have been added in all major GDSs. This code serves only for ticket issuance in GDS by IATA Agents. Schedules in the GDSs for any route that includes QYG are not corresponding to an actual train schedule but allows you to choose the suitable connection. Final start resp. destination, final day of travel and exact train departure time will only be selected upon online check in steps (further explained in the Online Check-in section).

All train segments will be published in the GDS under the 2 letter code W2.

W2/FXT 365 FLEXFLIGHT

W2 6200-6629

Searching and booking the flight connection plus Rail&Fly segment is done in the same way as a “standard” flight booking process.

If you create a group booking with Rail&Fly, you generate a regular group and  add the Rail&Fly segments. The segments will get confirmed automatically  within 24 hours. As usual, passengers must check-in to receive their Train Ticket.  If several passengers booked on the same PNR use the same rail connection,  these passengers (max. 5 people) can check-in together and then receive a joint  ticket. This means that bigger groups need to check in separately in groups of  max. 5 passengers each.

Passengers automatically get the feeder service that is best suited to their flights.

Valid on the DB trains booked.

The ICE trains are given a flight number and represent real train connections with real schedules.

Automated mapping of airport and rail station codes (e.g. a flight request to STR also displays connections to ZWS).

Interline/Codeshare can only be booked in combination with an international flight. The airline sets the prices and conditions, which are specified in the fare notes. The tickets are issued on partner airline stock.

Query the flight connection in the same way as for a “normal” flight booking. Example: AN15AUGCGNBKK

If you would like to make a Codeshare booking, select the desired carrier – that has a Codeshare Agreement with DB – directly in the flight query. The rail segments are displayed under the selected Codeshare carrier Code.

Flight range for Codeshare/Interline: W2 6630 – 7248.

Thanks to the cooperation between FLEXFLIGHT/W2 – and Deutsche Bahn, travel agents now also have the possibility of issuing ONLY train segments in a PNR without connecting it necessarily with a flight segment.

You will find train segments filed under the below flight range: W2 6630 and until W2 7199

The booking process is identical to a flight booking process (as shown in previous descriptions).

There are no point of sales restrictions – all IATA travel agencies around the world can issue the train segments in the GDSs.

The website where to process the online check-in,  www.rail-checkin.com , is provided as an SSR element in the flight booking  process.

At the time of the booking, please inform the passenger to keep the PNR locator or e-ticket number handy to facilitate the online check-in.

Ahead of travel, passengers must check-in for each Rail segment separately and get their Train Tickets from the above mentioned website.  Check-in is open immediately after ticketing and closes before train departure for  interline  and codeshare  destinations and at 23:59 of the departure day for QYG stations.

It is recommended to make the check-in as early as possible.

Online check-in process:

1. Open the website  www.rail-checkin.com . 

2. Insert first and last name(s) as they are in the ticket, including any possible spaces between parts of the name. Also insert all additional name elements, such as JR/SR/DR/PROF, after the first  name but do NOT insert MR/MS/MRS elements. You can use both small as well as capital letters.

In the Booking Reference field insert the GDS or W2 record locator consisting of six digits. You can also use the 13 digits ticket number instead, if needed, without hyphen.

3. Click on “Login”. If all data is correct and the segment is subject to check-in, a new page will open with a “Check-in” button that is actively displayed. In case the PNR contains also a return segment, both will be displayed at this step.

4. Click on “Check-in”. You will proceed to the next step, the Passenger selection.

Name changes are not allowed. If there is only one traveller in the PNR proceed with “Continue”. If there are more people travelling with the first passenger on the same train, you can use the “Add Passenger” feature and create one joined ticket for all of them.

Up to 5 passengers can check-in together at the same time. If there are bigger  groups a separate check-in process is required for the rest of the group.

Only the first passenger’s name will be printed on the Train Ticket.

5. After clicking on the “Continue” button, a new page with the train selection will open.

a) For the QYG segment you will need to select the train destination/departure, by inserting a city name manually in the blank field. It can be any destination within Deutsche Bahn’s network, including transit connections.

The airport field and travel class are not possible to select. Departure time and day will be taken from the ticket but you can adjust it easily to a different one within the departure day or day before resp. arrival day or day after in order to meet your desired connection.

Click on “Continue” to proceed.

You can navigate between departure hours using the arrow buttons on the left and right sides of the hours bar. If you click on each hour, all existing trains departing within the next 60 minutes will be listed below. You can check the train details by clicking on the “Info” button to the right. You need to select a connection by clicking on it, before clicking “Continue”.

b) For an interline and codeshare segment you will not need to select a train. Destination/departure, as they are stored in the ticket cannot be changed. Instead, the summary page will open, displaying all connection details. 

6. To accept and continue, insert your email address and click on the “Check-in” button.

7. The online check-in will now be completed and a PDF document with Deutsche Bahn tickets is now generated and ready for download and printout. It will also be sent by email to the inserted email address. Use the “Download Ticket” button or “Re-send Ticket” to retrieve your travel document. After you logout you will still be able to login again and retrieve the stored ticket for reprint (possible until train departure)

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• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

29 April 2024

Welcome aboard the saf journey.

In line with its decarbonisation roadmap, Airbus is joining forces with airlines to increase the use of sustainable aviation fuel for employee business travel.

Over the last decade, Airbus has gradually introduced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) into its company operations. In 2023, Airbus reached its goal to reach 10% SAF in its fuel mix. By using the alternative fuel in aircraft deliveries to customers, in test flights, for Beluga transport and employee business travel, Airbus was able to reduce its 2023 CO 2 emissions by 23,587 tonnes. 

Still, there is a considerable amount that can be achieved to develop the SAF market. Airlines are supporting the effort by proposing SAF in business travel procurement. Airbus is taking advantage of the growing offer to make corporate travel flights powered with SAF available to employees. 

Zooming in on employee travel

With the aim to reduce the CO 2 footprint of employees, Airbus is working with several airlines to purchase SAF for business travel. It’s a strategic move that aligns with Airbus’ ambitions to reduce the company’s Scope 3 emissions. 

Thanks to such innovative SAF incentive programmes, we are able to walk the talk in reducing the environmental impact of our business travel and empower employees to take part in the effort of meeting Airbus’ CO 2 emission reduction goals.

Raphael DUFLOS, Head of Corporate Services General Procurement

  In 2022 and 2023, Airbus signed agreements with airlines Volotea and Air Corsica to have SAF onboard for internal charter flights connecting Toulouse to Finkenwerder, Germany, and Toulouse to Nantes and Saint-Nazaire in France. 

In order to further develop this practice, Airbus and Air France-KLM signed a first agreement in late 2023 adding routes between Paris and Toulouse as well as Paris and Marseille. 

But as SAF is not yet available at every airport, Airbus uses a Book and Claim process. This means that the flights are not necessarily powered with SAF. Rather, the purchased SAF goes into the fuel system at an airport close to a SAF production facility. This process ensures a more efficient lifecycle. The SAF purchased by Airbus is tracked and verified to allocate the correct carbon emissions factors.

New routes, more SAF with Air France KLM

After a successful pilot in 2023, Air France-KLM and Airbus are pursuing their collaboration with a 2024 “SAF fares agreement”. Airbus will now purchase SAF options for employee business travel connecting Hamburg, Madrid, Marseille, Munich and Toulouse to Paris. 

The airline will provide Airbus with a comprehensive report of SAF consumption and an estimation of the CO 2 footprint of Airbus’ employee travel on the five selected routes.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel at Airbus

A proven alternative fuel for immediate CO2 reduction

• Air France-KLM
• Sustainability
• Decarbonisation
• Sustainable Aviation Fuel - SAF

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Paving the way for sustainable aerospace in Latin America

More From Forbes

Mother’s day gift guide 2024: the best travel haircare products.

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Give mom hair as shiny as Jennifer Aniston's with LolaVie, the star's own award-winning line of ... [+] haircare products.

Travel can be a hair-raising experience. Or a hair-flattening one.

Give mom good hair days every day – even in the most tropical climates – with these hard-working products that help keep her hair looking healthy and shiny and styled just like she wants it to.

Sure, most hotels provide guests with shampoo and conditioner but why sacrifice style for convenience when she can just throw these travel-sized versions of her favorite brands into a carry-on?

These all make such great traveling companions, you may want to give yourself a gift, as well.

Act+Acre Cold Processed Travel Shampoo + Conditioner

Act+Acre knows that a clean and healthy scalp is the key to great looking hair and the results of their natural, cold processed method prove they’re on to something. Give mom these travel-sized versions of the brand’s bestselling shampoo and conditioner and watch her shine. Price: $36

Microsoft Warns Windows Users Of Ongoing Russian Hack Attack

Apple id password resets are hitting iphone ipad mac users, new ios 18 ai security move changes the game for all iphone users.

Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo Coconut Colada Scent Travel Size

Drybar has the solution for pretty much any hair issue, including not wanting to deal with it. They know mom has more important things to do during her travels so they’ve created this TSA-approved dry shampoo that, with just a spritz or two, makes her hair look freshly washed. Plus, it smells like a beach vacation. Price: $15

Saltair Moisture Bound Shampoo

Moisturizing and masterful at leaving hair looking and smelling great, Saltair’s mini shampoo – like all of their full size versions – is as pretty in a hotel bathroom as it is at home. Add the Moisture Bound Conditioner to complete the award-winning, best-selling regime. Price: $6.00

LolaVie Restore & Protect Travel Kit

For all the moms who wish they had hair as glossy and gorgeous as Jennifer Aniston’s (*raises hand*), here’s the secret. Proving she really is a friend, the star has developed her own line of plant-based products designed to de-tangle, de-frizz and improve hair health and appearance. The travel kit comes with four bestsellers: Restorative Shampoo, Restorative Conditioner, Glossing Detangler and Perfecting Leave-In. Price: $40

I.C.O.N. Hydrating Shampoo Bar

A win win all around, this salon-quality alternative to liquid shampoo means no spills in her luggage and no plastic waste for the environment. Because it’s made with shea butter and amino acids, it will leave her hair feeling clean and healthy. Notes of bergamot, lemon and orange will make it smell great. Price: $28

Kerastase Nutritive Essentials Luxury Hair Gift Set

Perfect for dry hair, this travel trio features three Kerastase favorites: Bain Satin Riche Shampoo, Lait Vital Conditioner and Nectar Thermique Heat Protecting Cream. They’ll leave her hair hydrated, nourished and full of shine even after a fun-filled day in the sun. Price: $50

John Masters Organics Daily Essentials Trial Kit

This trio of the brand’s bestsellers sells out quickly so, if it’s not available, just treat her to the full size bottles of Deep Moisturizing Shampoo , Deep Moisturizing Conditioner and Hydrate & Protect Hair Milk along with a set of TSA-approved bottles she can fill herself. Price: $34

Pureology Mini On-The-Go Hydrate Hair Kit

A favorite of salon professionals – and probably mom – Pureology comes to the rescue of travelers who have color-treated hair with this four piece set that includes TSA-friendly versions of their Hydrate Shampoo, Hydrate Conditioner, Color Fanatic Leave-In Conditioner and Style + Protect Soft Finish Hairspray. Price: $30

Arey The Travel Kit

Arey bills itself as “The Wrinkle Cream of Haircare” and they take a science-based approach to aging hair. They’ve curated this travel kit to ensure mom’s hair isn’t showing the effects of aging as her vacation days go by. It includes their Wash & Smooth Shower Duo along with their Live In Mist, which is clinically proven to protect against gray-causing UV rays. Price: $44

Clairol Root Touch-Up by Nice’n Easy Temporary Hair Coloring Spray

No need for her to panic if she can’t get into her hairstylist before vacation because she can simply spray away the gray with this temporary fix. Available in five shades, it’s lightweight, fast-drying and looks natural. It’s a little too big to pass through TSA but does such a good job, it’s worth checking a bag. Price: $9.47

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Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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Vince McMahon's life after WWE: Kittens, vacations and staying in touch with Trump

As he faces a mountain of legal woes, former WWE leader Vince McMahon is traveling, eating out and keeping in touch with friends and associates — including former President Donald Trump.

McMahon resigned as executive chairman of World Wrestling Entertainment’s parent company almost three months ago after a former employee, Janel Grant, accused him in a bombshell lawsuit of sexual abuse and trafficking. He denied the allegations. McMahon, 78, is also facing a federal criminal investigation , although he hasn’t been charged.

NBC News and CNBC talked to 11 people familiar with McMahon and WWE about how he’s been spending his time — and how the global brand he built over more than four decades is moving on without him. These people, including close personal associates and company insiders, declined to be named, citing ongoing legal cases and the confidential nature of internal corporate communications.

Multiple WWE insiders said he hasn’t had any contact with company leaders and figureheads since he resigned. Mark Shapiro, the operating chief of WWE parent company TKO Group Holdings, said in March that McMahon “doesn’t work for the company, doesn’t come into the office, and he’s not coming back to the company.”

That also means McMahon hasn’t talked to his son-in-law, WWE creative chief and former superstar Paul “Triple H” Levesque, or daughter, Stephanie McMahon-Levesque, regarding company matters, sources said. While she introduced WWE’s WrestleMania event earlier this month, McMahon-Levesque, who worked beside her father for more than 20 years and played roles in storylines, currently has no involvement with the company, according to people familiar with the matter. Levesque and McMahon-Levesque declined to comment through a spokesperson, as did a WWE representative. 

McMahon is nonetheless indelibly linked with the wrestling outfit, which he bought from his father 42 years ago. Still, he seems to have moved on, according to multiple sources. McMahon has kept up his other routines, and it’s as if he’s unfazed by his legal fights, two sources said.For instance, on an afternoon in late March, McMahon returned on a private plane to the United States from the sunny Turks and Caicos Islands -- but he wasn’t alone, according to a person close to him. He had with him seven kittens and a puppy, all of which he brought back to be adopted by his friends, this person added. 

“If anything, he’s enjoying life,” said the person, who added that McMahon had also taken a trip to Italy. 

Jessica Rosenberg, an attorney for McMahon, declined to comment regarding the aspects of the former WWE chief’s life reported in this article. In an emailed statement Tuesday, however, she criticized Grant’s suit: “The lawsuit’s claims are false, defamatory and entirely without merit. We intend to vigorously defend Mr. McMahon and are confident that he will be vindicated.”

Life amid litigation

The details of McMahon’s life after his WWE reign present a stark contrast to Grant’s accusations, which paint a graphic portrait of a violent and controlling man. In the federal lawsuit, filed Jan. 25, Grant’s attorneys said that she was “the victim of physical and emotional abuse, sexual assault and trafficking at WWE,” naming McMahon and former WWE executive John Laurinaitis. Both men have denied the accusations in the suit. The lawsuit also named WWE as a defendant. WWE and its parent company, TKO, have said that they take Grant’s allegations “very seriously.” 

“Vince McMahon raped, trafficked and physically assaulted Janel Grant as part of his decades-long normalization of treating women within the WWE as objects. He might have thought that Janel would just walk away, but that wishful thinking couldn’t be further from the case,” Ann Callis, an attorney for Grant, said in a statement Wednesday. “Every day we are focused on adding to our mountain of evidence, speaking with other victims, hiring renowned experts on sex trafficking/coercive control and preparing to vociferously litigate this case.”

Federal investigators seized a phone from McMahon and have been trying to determine whether federal law was broken in the conduct surrounding Grant’s allegations, NBC News reported in February . WWE had disclosed last summer that investigators served McMahon with a federal grand jury subpoena and executed a search warrant in July.McMahon is cooperating with authorities, according to one of the people close to him. McMahon believes officials won’t bring any charges against him and that Grant’s civil case will be settled out of court, said a person close to the former wrestling executive.

Nicholas Biase, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, declined to comment.

A spokesperson for Grant’s attorneys said that there have been absolutely no settlement talks with McMahon.

While his legal battles persist, McMahon is often ferried by a private driver from his posh Connecticut home to Manhattan, according to one of the sources close to him. There, he eats with friends at restaurants such as the old-school Italian spot Il Tinello East on 46th Street, sees his longtime barber for biweekly haircuts and works with his personal trainer multiple times a week, the source said.  Two other sources, however, say McMahon has otherwise been “quite guarded” and often on the phone with his lawyers to map out plans since Grant’s lawsuit was made public.

Staying in touch

McMahon has also talked to Trump, according to two of the people close to the wrestling impresario. The two billionaires have been in touch regularly, according to a person close to McMahon, although it isn’t clear what they’ve discussed.

Trump and the McMahon family go way back: The former president hosted two WrestleMania events in Atlantic City in the late 1980s, engaged in a wrestling “feud” with McMahon in 2007 and is a member of the WWE Hall of Fame. Linda McMahon, McMahon’s wife, served as the Small Business Administration’s head in Trump’s Cabinet, led a pro-Trump super PAC and is now on the board of the publicly traded Trump Media and Technology Group.

In 2022, The Wall Street Journal reported that McMahon paid $5 million in previously unrecorded expenses to the since-dissolved Donald J. Trump Foundation during two of the years Trump appeared on WWE programming.

Trump, who’s running for a second term as president, has also been accused of sexual assault and is facing his own costly pile of civil and criminal legal troubles, including four separate indictments. Trump has denied wrongdoing in his various cases, pleading not guilty in each criminal proceeding, including a New York trial that started Monday. Another person close to McMahon said that the two men don’t discuss their legal problems and that Trump doesn’t provide legal advice.

Hours after the publication of this story, a spokesperson for McMahon pushed back.

“Mr. McMahon has not been ‘staying in touch’ or ‘been in touch regularly’ with former President Trump. He has spoken with Mr. Trump once in the past several years and that was for about a minute or so after Mr. McMahon’s back surgery. Other than that, there have been no communications between the two,” the spokesperson said.

A representative for Trump declined to comment.

Since he resigned, McMahon has been in touch with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena, sources said. Johnson and Cena, both Hollywood superstars, are two of WWE’s biggest success stories.

Publicly, Johnson has thanked TKO and WWE executives regarding his addition to the TKO board earlier this year. In February, Cena told the radio host Howard Stern that “the whole thing is super unfortunate and it sucks,” while noting that he loves McMahon and has a “great relationship” with him. “But in the same breath,” he added at the time, “I’m also a big advocate of accountability.”

Cena and Johnson are both represented by the William Morris Endeavor agency, which is part of Endeavor Group — the majority owner of TKO.A spokesperson for Johnson declined to comment. A representative for Cena didn’t respond to requests for comment. 

WWE in transition

This isn’t the first time WWE has had to contend with controversy stemming from its former longtime leader. McMahon was acquitted of federal criminal charges in the early 1990s related to the steroid scandal that engulfed the wrestling world at the time. 

In 2022, he briefly stepped down as WWE’s leader after the Journal reported that he paid millions of dollars to multiple women to cover up his alleged extramarital affairs. The Journal also reported that other women had come forward with sexual misconduct allegations . WWE amended its financial reports to reflect the payments. McMahon denied all wrongdoing. 

His daughter helped take over leadership of the company in the interim, but McMahon-Levesque resigned when her father, who owned a controlling stake in WWE, returned in early 2023 . McMahon then engineered a deal to merge the company with Endeavor Group’s UFC to form TKO. Longtime Hollywood super agent Ari Emanuel is the CEO of both Endeavor and TKO. 

That deal, announced in April 2023 , made McMahon the executive chairman of the new company, and he gave up majority control of WWE. At the time, he told CNBC he wouldn’t be “in the weeds” with creative decisions but he would weigh in on big decisions. That marked a big shift for McMahon. His family has been in the business dating back to the early 20th century. After buying the company from his father, who was known as “Vince Sr.,” the younger McMahon then employed flamboyant superstars such as Hulk Hogan and the Rock, staging glitzy pay-per-view events like WrestleMania, to build it into an international sensation. And while WWE is still defined in part by the family, McMahon’s daughter and son-in-law are publicly attempting to push the brand into the future.  

At WrestleMania 40, held earlier this month in Philadelphia, McMahon-Levesque surprised the crowd with an appearance and hailed her husband’s leadership. “Every Wrestlemania is special for its own reason, but I think WrestleMania 40 might be the one I’m most proud of, because this is the first WrestleMania of the Paul Levesque era,” she said . (Linda McMahon joined her daughter backstage, according to an Instagram photo posted by wrestling star Charlotte Flair.) Levesque himself proclaimed a “new era” for WWE. 

It was a significant moment for the brand, coming during the first WrestleMania since the Grant lawsuit -- and it’s the first one under TKO’s management. Still, some rank-and-file WWE employees have griped that the company hasn’t done more to address the situation, according to an insider. After McMahon quit, Shapiro told a global town hall for both TKO and Endeavor employees “in no uncertain terms” that the former wrestling boss wouldn’t return, according to another insider. Shapiro also assured employees that Levesque and WWE President Nick Khan have his support, this person said. 

Otherwise, WWE is more relaxed since McMahon resigned in January, sources said. When McMahon was still running things, he would come in late in the afternoon and often stay until around midnight or beyond, two current employees said. (His office at WWE headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, is unoccupied but otherwise intact, according to an executive, who called it “spooky.”) He had a reputation for being capricious and quick to fire employees, which generated fear and created a chilling effect, according to sources. 

Now there’s more levity and freedom to make a mistake or suggest an idea, some employees said.

The current leadership operates more conventionally, giving underperforming employees a standard progress report and opportunities to improve before taking action, they added. 

Some McMahon loyalists remain, but one employee said: “WWE is actually a really great place to work, and Vince distracted from that. It’s been much better since he left.” Another said: “People feel like they’re on steadier ground.”The company, meanwhile, is charting its post-McMahon course with the help of lucrative media rights deals. In September, WWE signed a $1.4 billion deal with NBC News’ parent company, NBCUniversal, for domestic rights to “Friday Night SmackDown.” In January, it inked a 10-year, $5 billion pact with Netflix to move its flagship “Raw” show and other programs to the streaming giant next year. WWE announced both agreements after it became part of TKO and McMahon ceded much of his official control over the brand.

There’s yet another sign suggesting that McMahon’s distance from WWE is more than temporary: He has sold hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of shares in TKO since November, a sizable chunk of those sales coming after he resigned in January. That’s different from when he briefly stepped down in 2022.  

“This time, it’s like, OK, now, it’s over -over,” one of the insiders said.

A version of this story was published on CNBC.com .

Chloe Melas is an entertainment correspondent for NBC News. 

Alex Sherman covers media for CNBC.