Majority Find Train Tickets Costly, According to Poll Results - Majority Perception: Nearly two-thirds of respondents find train ticket costs excessive
Long-distance train fares in Germany continue to be influenced by dynamic pricing strategies, with ticket costs varying based on demand and purchase timing. According to the Railway and Transport Union (EVG), this trend may lead to further price increases for passengers due to rising usage fees for rail infrastructure.
In mid-December 2024, Deutsche Bahn increased the prices for Flextickets by an average of six percent. With Flextickets, customers can take any train on their desired connection on the day, offering flexibility at a premium. However, savings and supersaver prices have remained unchanged.
Despite competition from offers like the Deutschlandticket for regional trains, long-distance fares have not seen comparable reductions or fixed-price models. Booking a trip on a Friday evening costs significantly more than during the week at midday, reflecting the increased demand for travel during peak hours.
Some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with Deutsche Bahn's long-distance service quality, reliability, and booking system, which may affect perceived value relative to price. Important commuter routes and the Bahncard 100 have also become more expensive.
Looking ahead, dynamic pricing and demand-based fare adjustments are expected to continue being the norm for long-distance services, with no immediate indication of significant fare reductions. The Deutschlandticket, a monthly subscription ticket initially priced at €49 in 2023, increased to €58 in January 2025, offering unlimited regional train travel throughout Germany per calendar month.
Subscription models like the Deutschlandticket focus on regional travel rather than long-distance; however, possibilities exist for employer or community subsidies to alleviate cost burdens for certain groups. Increased prices like the jump from €49 to €58 for the Deutschlandticket suggest a potential for gradual fare increases in the broader German rail network, particularly given inflation and operational cost pressures.
In summary, long-distance train fares in Germany continue to rely on dynamic pricing, often remaining expensive for spontaneous travel. The recent subscription fare increases indicate upward price pressure. The Deutschlandticket benefits regional travelers, but does not currently provide long-distance fare relief.
[1] Bundesverband Güterverkehr (BGV)
[2] Deutsche Bahn AG
[3] Railway and Transport Union (EVG)
[1] In an attempt to improve the affordability of long-distance travel, the Bundesverband Güterverkehr (BGV) could consider implementing community policies that subsidize vocational training programs for rail workers, potentially improving efficiency and reducing operational costs.
[2] To attract more customers and remain competitive, Deutsche Bahn AG might explore partnerships with finance institutions to offer financing options for vocational training in the automotive industry, supporting the growth of specialized workforce within the company and in the industry at large.
[3] Given the increased usage fees for rail infrastructure, the Railway and Transport Union (EVG) could advocate for the development of public transportation policies promoting vocational training in various sectors, ensuring a steady stream of skilled workers to keep costs low and services running smoothly.
