Local Transport in Germany
Germany offers one of the most reliable, affordable, and student-friendly public transport systems in Europe. From metros and trams to regional trains and cycling infrastructure, getting around is seamless for students in both big cities and smaller university towns.
🚆 Student Transport in Germany
1️⃣ Student Semester Ticket (Semesterticket)
Most universities in Germany include a Semester Ticket in their student registration fees (typically €150–€300 per semester). This ticket allows unlimited travel within a specific region on:
- S-Bahn (suburban trains)
- U-Bahn (underground metro)
- Regional trains (RE/RB)
- Trams and buses
✅ This is a cost-effective way for daily commute to university and within the city.
🔗 DAAD – Transport in Germany for Students
🔗 BVG Berlin Student Ticket Info
2️⃣ City-Specific Public Transport Networks
Each region or major city operates its own local transport authority:
- Berlin – BVG: https://www.bvg.de/en
- Munich – MVV: https://www.mvv-muenchen.de/en/index.html
- Stuttgart – VVS
- Hamburg – HVV: https://www.hvv.de/en
- Cologne/Bonn – VRS: https://www.vrs.de/
You can use their journey planners to check routes, ticket prices, and timetables.
3️⃣ €49 Deutschlandticket (Germany-Wide Monthly Pass)
The Deutschlandticket, launched in 2023, offers unlimited travel across all local and regional transport networks in Germany for just €49/month. It excludes ICE/IC/EC trains but includes:
- S-Bahn, U-Bahn
- Trams and buses
- Regional trains (RE/RB)
It’s ideal for students who need to travel beyond their semester ticket zone.
🔗 Deutsche Bahn – Deutschlandticket
🔗 BVG Subscription Info
4️⃣ Deutsche Bahn (DB) and Intercity Travel
For national and intercity travel, students use Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany’s national rail operator. Train categories include:
- ICE – InterCity Express (high-speed trains)
- IC/EC – InterCity/EuroCity
- RE/RB – Regional Express/Bahn
Students can get discounts using the BahnCard 25 or 50.
🔗 DB Official Site
🔗 BahnCard Info
🔗 DB Navigator App
5️⃣ Cycling – Germany’s Bike-Friendly Culture
Germany is extremely cycle-friendly, with bike lanes, parks, and rental schemes in almost every city. Many universities offer free or subsidized bikes to students.
Top cities for cyclists: Münster, Freiburg, Bremen, Karlsruhe.
Bike sharing platforms:
6️⃣ Ride-Sharing & Carpooling Options
Carpooling is a popular and eco-friendly way to travel between cities.
💡 Tip: Always read driver reviews and confirm details before booking.
7️⃣ Useful Apps for Student Travel in Germany
- DB Navigator – Train bookings and live schedules
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/de/app/db-navigator/id343555245
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.hafas.android.db - BVG FahrInfo – Berlin city transport planner
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/de/app/bvg-fahrinfo-berlin/id405924950 - Nextbike – Bike rentals
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/app/id336070001
Android - BlaBlaCar – Long-distance ride-sharing
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/app/id341329033
Android
8️⃣ Tips for New Students Using Public Transport
- Always carry your student ID and validated ticket.
- Use Google Maps or local apps to check real-time schedules.
- Validate paper tickets using ticket machines before boarding.
- Fines for traveling without a valid ticket can be €60 or more.
- Group tickets are often cheaper for weekend trips with friends.
- Use translation tools like DeepL to understand signage and announcements.