Transportation in Germany: Trains, Buses, and the Deutschlandticket
A guide to navigating Germany’s public and private transportation systems, detailing the different types of Deutsche Bahn (DB) trains, the role of Flix services, and the cost and coverage of the essential €49 Deutschlandticket.
Transportation in Germany
Germany offers a comprehensive public and private transportation network, primarily centered around its extensive rail system.
Train System
Trains (Züge) are the main mode of transportation connecting cities across Germany. The network is primarily run by Deutsche Bahn (DB), though private operators also exist.
Types of Deutsche Bahn (DB) Trains
| Train Type | Abbreviation | Function and Speed |
|---|---|---|
| InterCity Express | ICE | High-speed trains connecting major cities. They are the fastest option. |
| InterCity | IC | Regular long-distance trains stopping only at major cities, faster than regional trains. |
| EuroCity | EC | Long-distance trains connecting German cities with other European countries. |
| Regional Express | RE | Regional fast trains connecting larger towns and cities. They skip some smaller stops. |
| Regional Bahn | RB | Local and regional trains that stop at virtually all stations, including small towns and villages. They are the slowest service. |
Flix Train (FLX)
Flix Train is a low-cost, privately run train service.
- Speed: Runs approximately as fast as IC trains.
- Reach: Its routes are generally less frequent and less extensive than those run by Deutsche Bahn.
- Alternative: Provides a good, often cheaper, alternative on specific major routes.
The Deutschlandticket (€49 Ticket)
The Deutschlandticket (or "D-Ticket") is an essential monthly subscription ticket for travelers in Germany.
- Cost: As of February 2024, the ticket costs €49 per month.
- Coverage: It allows travel on all local public transportation (buses, U-Bahn/subway, S-Bahn/city rail, Straßenbahn/trams) throughout Germany.
- Train Access: Crucially, it is valid on RE and RB trains (regional services). It is generally NOT valid on high-speed trains (ICE, IC, EC), though rare exceptions exist.
- Purchase: The ticket can be purchased through the DB Navigator app (requires a German IBAN) or through various third-party regional apps like RMVgo (which often accept international cards like VISA and Mastercard).
- Cancellation: The subscription must usually be canceled before the 10th of each month to avoid being charged for the next month.
Busses
Buses are another widespread form of transport. While local buses are typically run by regional public companies (and covered by the Deutschlandticket), inter-city buses are run by private companies. They serve as an excellent alternative during rail strikes or severe weather disruptions.
Private Inter-City Bus Companies
| Service | Operator | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Flix Bus | Flix | Run by the same company as Flix Train. Offers one of the most extensive inter-city bus networks within Germany, with numerous routes connecting to other EU countries (e.g., France, Czech Republic, Netherlands). |
| BlaBlaCar Bus | BlaBlaCar | A major alternative to Flix Bus, though generally with fewer routes. |
Published on: 10/2/2025